MacTech News

MacTech News

Aug 26
Apple, others sued for infringing an object orientation patent
Another day, another lawsuit. A case has started in the court of the Eastern District of Texas Marshall Division accusing a number of companies -- including Apple -- of breaching a patent relating to object orientation, reports "TechEye" (http://macosg.me/2/s5). Ganas claims the companies infringe on their patents for an "object oriented communication among platform independent systems across a firewall over the internet using HttP-SOAP and an "object oriented communications system over the internet." The company wants a jury to award it damages, costs, expenses, post-judgement interest and enhanced damages.
Aug 26
iPads hurting sales of other Apple products -- or maybe not
Is the iPad's popularity hurting sales of other Apple products? Yes. And no. As with many things in life, it depends on whom you ask. According to a survey by Alphawise, Morgan Stanley's internal research team, and investment bank Piper Jaffray, almost 44% of iPad owners would not be buying a notebook, and 24%said the notebook they wouldn't buy would have been a Macbook, while 20% said it would have been a PC, reports the "International Business Times" (http://macosg.me/2/s3). Meanwhile, a recent survey conducted by Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster of 448 iPad buyers found that 99% of respondents hadn't considered either an iPod touch or iPhone before making the purchase. However, stock analysis firm Trefis said the Apple tablet doesn't appear to be cannibalizing the company's Mac sales so far. He told "IBT" that he expects Apple to sell around 10 million iPads in all of 2010 even as the company gained 4.19% of the computer market in the second quarter of 2010, up from 3.49% in the...
Aug 26
Samsung releases new monitors with HDTV tuners
Samsung Electronics America (http://www.samsung.com/monitor) has announced two new lines of multi-function monitors (MFMs) offering consumers a computer monitor and HDTV in one. Ranging from 21.5 to 24 inches, the 30 and 90 display series allow viewers to switch from work to play with enhanced picture quality all in one space-saving device, according to Young Bae, director of display marketing Samsung Enterprise Business Division. Both the 30 and 90 series monitors can be used as a small TV with full HD resolution and also feature Picture in Picture (PiP) so multi-tasking users can simultaneously use their computer and watch TV without the need for a second monitor or additional connections. The monitors come equipped with two HDMI inputs for easy connection to multiple HD devices -- cable boxes, video game consoles, Blu-ray players, etc. Samsung’s Connectshare feature adds even more multi-media capabilities allowing users to instantly view and listen to music, movies and photos on...
Aug 26
Canon releases new EOS 60D digital SLR camera
Canon U.S.A. (http://www.usa.canon) has released the EOS 60D Digital SLR Camera. For the first time on an EOS camera, the EOS 60D DSLR boasts a three-inch Vari-Angle Clear View LCD screen, EOS Full HD video recording with manual overrides including audio level control, and in-camera functionality for RAW image processing -- plus Creative Filters to manipulate images after taking them. Designed primarily for advanced amateurs, the EOS 60D replaces the EOS 50D and boasts a broad array of new features designed to make it easier for photographers to add personal creativity to their images. With the camera you can do things like capture an overhead shot on the Vari-Angle screen at a graduation ceremony or convert a color image to black and white for a nostalgic look. The 60D camera features a LCD screen with 1,040,000 dot/VGA resolution plus anti-reflective and smudge-resistant coatings. Another first for the EOS system is the EOS 60D camera’s new Multi-Control Dial, which places a Multi-...
Aug 26
AppMakr.com integrates HTML 5
AppMakr.com, a free platform for building native mobile applications, has announced the integration of HTML5 to its features, allowing users to leverage advanced functionality within customized HTML tab. HTML5 is being developed as the next major revision of HTML (HyperText Markup Language), the core markup language of the web. It's touted as the next standard for HTML 4.01, XHTML 1.0 and DOM Level 2 HTML and is designed to to reduce the need for proprietary plug-in-based rich internet application (RIA) technologies such as Adobe Flash, Microsoft Silverlight, and Sun JavaFX. In addition to the HTML5-enabled tab, AppMakr.com has also implemented PhoneGap’s leading open source development framework for building cross-platform mobile apps. These features will give all users the ability to code their application using HTML and JavaScript and utilize those languages to take advantage of native, device-specific functionality allowing for the app to access the device camera, address book,...
Aug 26
Sonnet announces SDXC card support for memory card reader/writer
Sonnet Technologies has announced SDXC card support for its US$29.95 Multimedia Memory Card Reader & Writer ExpressCard/34 adapter, enabling users with MacBook Pro and Windows laptop computers equipped with an ExpressCard slot to use these extended-capacity cards designed for the latest high-megapixel digital cameras and digital video camcorders. The new format SDXC cards (starting at 64GB) surpass previous-generation SDHC cards 32 GB maximum capacity. Sonnet's Multimedia Memory Card Reader & Writer ExpressCard/34 moves files from memory cards to a notebook computer's hard drive, with no cables required. This handy device inserts flush inside a MacBook Pro or Windows notebook's ExpressCard slot so it can be carried inside the computer slot even when not in use. The Sonnet multimedia reader supports the most popular memory card formats used in digital cameras, cell phones, and other electronic devices, including Memory Stick, MMC (Multimedia Card), SDHC (Secure Digital High...
Aug 26
Red Giant Software to host free FCP SuperMeet workshops at...
Red Giant Software, publishers and developers of iPhone apps and software tools, will host free Final Cut Pro SuperMeet workshops as part of the Third Annual Amsterdam FCPUG SuperMeet, to be held on Sunday, Sept. 12, at the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky, in the heart of Amsterdam in Dam Square. The training will consist of three separate identical sessions to take place during the day prior to the SuperMeet, which will be the largest gathering of Final Cut Pro, Avid and Adobe editors, DSLR filmmakers, digital media makers and Gurus during IBC2010. Apple Certified Master Trainer Simon Walker will demonstrate how to quickly stylize shots, store favorite looks and tools, remove color casts and make primary and secondary corrections. Simon will also show how to use power masks and keyers to isolate areas, boost visual sharpness, smooth skin and repair cosmetic blemishes as well as adding instant Hollywood looks to footage whilst maintaining accurate flesh tones. All this without having to...
Aug 26
DataLore for Mac OS X gets over a dozen enhancements
XtraLean Software has released DataLore 1.1, an update to the front end to Spotlight hat makes it easier and faster to search and share files both locally on one's own computer, and on the network. This update adds more than a dozen enhancements to the interface to simplify browsing. Faster search algorithm and improved interface also make it faster to find and display files, and easier to narrow down and display the search results. A new Filters tab allows users to add more filters to their search in order to further narrow down and customize the search results to their specific needs. Other features new with this update include the ability to use DataLore as a Finder, and "exclude files" has replaced the former "exclude folders"feature for faster narrowing down of results. DataLore's developer, Hagen Kaye, says the app uses a "Search-as-You-Type" technology for finding files fast. It also employs "Text Shorthand" and "Special Characters" for highly defined or more complex search...
Aug 26
Codafy 1.0 RapidWeaver plug-ing enables native Firebug...
NimbleHost has announced Codafy 1.0 (http://rapidweaver.nimblehost.com/plugins/codafy.html), a plug-in for RapidWeaver that adds native "Firebug" functionality to the Mac OS X web site design application. It's free and enables web designers to see how the underlying HTML, CSS, and Javascript code of their web site relates to the actual design, improving workflow and reducing development time. Firebug lets content creators more easily understand how to make customizations and changes to their web sites, as well as simplify the search for any bugs and errors in the underlying code. For RapidWeaver users utilizing this Firebug/Firefox combination, the process of constantly switching between two applications quickly becomes a time consuming process. Codafy was specifically developed to enable the open source WebKit Web Inspector so that it can be accessed directly in RapidWeaver, thus removing the need to repeatedly refer to two separate applications, according to the folks at...
Aug 26
New credit card solution offered for the iPhone
Intuit (http://www.intuit.com) and mophie has released the Complete Credit Card Solution, an all-in-one product that enables small businesses to process credit card payments via theiPhone. It integrates Intuit’s GoPayment credit card processing app and quick-to-activate merchant account with the mophie marketplace iPhone credit card reader. This package is now available in Apple Retail Stores and soon on Apple.com. As part of this solution, Intuit GoPayment offers an application process designed to let merchants start processing credit cards on their iPhones in as few as 15 minutes, according to Chris Hylen, general manager of Intuit’s Payment Solutions division. As an option, GoPayment is also compatible with QuickBooks Mac to help save time in keeping business financial files up to date, he adds. GoPayment has been on the market for more than a year. This latest version offers the ability for customers to sign their bill via the iPhone touch screen. It’s also possible to now add...
Aug 25
Kubato Tools launches new Vintage Delish Lightroom presets
Kubota Image Tools has announced the availability of its latest package of presets for Adobe Photoshop Lightroom. Fully compatible with the recently-released Lightroom 3, the Kubota Lightroom Presets - Vintage Delish offers photographers pre-programmed short-cuts to create image effects. The tools were devised by photo industry veteran Kevin Kubota. This latest edition of the Kubota Lightroom Presets includes 42 custom Develop Presets for Lightroom 3 that include image adjustments for: color-toned black & whites; faded antique effects; burnt & rusty colors; touches of grain; softening and glowing; deep, bold vignettes; warming tones; cross-process styling; and more. Available for immediate online purchase, the Kubota Lightroom Presets Vintage Delish can be downloaded instantly. Immediate download is available for US$39 and can be ordered through at http://www.KubotaImageTools.com/VintageDelish.html . A minimum of Lightroom 2 is required, though some presets do require...
Aug 25
ErgoMotion Mouse scampers from SmartFish
SmartFish Technologies (http://www.getsmartfish.com) has released the ErgoMotion Mouse. It's an US$49.95 laser mouse ethat sports a patented swivel mechanism that promotes a fluid movement, allowing the mouse to adapt to the user’s hand position.  Smartfish’s ErgoMotion technology enables forward, backward and lateral wave-like movements for the wrist every time the mouse is in use.  This helps to relieve discomfort from repetitive stress injuries related to extended computer usage, according to Dr. Jack Atzmon, president and CEO of Smartfish Technologies.  The ErgoMotion Mouse boastsboth left and right click, four-way scroll wheel and a discreet wireless USB plug-in. The device is compatible with Macs and PCs, and features an ambidextrous design for both right and left-handed users. 
Aug 25
Propellerhead releases Record 1.5, Reason 5
Propellerhead Software (http://www.propellerheads.se) has released Reason 5 and Record 1.5, updates of the software for musicians that introduce new instruments, effects, sequencing, sounds, patches and more for composing, beatmaking, loop-mangling, vocal treatment, songwriting, remixing and music production. The new Kong Drum Designer and Dr. Octo Rex loop player extend Reason’s instrument arsenal. Reason 5 and Record 1.5 add a new take on sequencing: Blocks, in which you build songs parts like patterns and string them together for fast arranging with the ability to freely go back and forth between pattern and linear modes. Neptune is a pitch correction tool and voice synthesizer. You can play new harmonies on a MIDI keyboard for instant backing vocals. Live sampling into all sample capable devices means any musician can use samples in a new manner for creative sampling. The Expanded Factory Sound Bank has doubled in size; plus, there are added signature sound designers’ patches,...
Aug 25
Don't expect a revamped Apple TV to be a hit of iPad...
Apple CEO Steve Jobs doesn't expect any upcoming Apple TV refresh to be a hit of iPad proportions, because most consumers aren't ready to cancel their cable TV or stream content from iTunes, reports Peter Burrows of "Bloomberg Businessweek" (http://macosg.me/2/s0). Apple will hold a special media event on Wednesday, Sept. 1, but "look for CEO Steve Jobs to focus on the ability for customers to watch their favorite TV shows and movies on their iPads, iPhones, and iPod touches," the article adds, quoting a "person familiar with the plan." Burrows says that company will announce that customers can rent many TV shows for 99 cents. Also, look for Jobs to show off a new iPod touch that features a high-resolution screen like the one in the iPhone 4.
Aug 25
Apple to hold special event on Sept. 1
Apple has sent out invitations to the press for a special event to be held on Wednesday, Sept. 1. It's been widely rumored that the event would focus on a revamped Apple TV. However, the invitation shows a guitar with an Apple logo/cut-out indicating that the event will focus on music instead. Or perhaps in addition to Apple TV Take Three. The event will be held at 1 pm (Pacific) at the Yerba Buena Center in San Francisco. Doubtless, new iPods will be introduced. Beyond that, it's anyone's guess.
Aug 25
Knoll Light Factory update supports Adobe CS5
Red Giant Software (http://www.redgiantsoftware.com) has released Light Factory 2.7, an update of its plug-in that now supports Adobe CS5/64-bit processing along with new tools. Knoll Light Factory is a motion graphics tool best known for its high-fidelity simulations of light effects called flares, which simulate reflections from a bright light source as seen through a camera's lens. It was created by John Knoll, Photoshop co-creator and "Star Wars" effects guru. You can buy Light Factory 2.7 for US$399. If you own a license of Knoll Light Factory Pro version 2.5 or later, you qualify for a free update. Upgrades for registered users of prior versions are $99.
Aug 25
Barclays Capital reiterates 'overweight' rating for...
Barclays Capital reiterated its "overweight" rating on iPhone maker Apple Inc. with a price target of $340, as reported by "IB Times" (http://macosg.me/2/ry). “We continue to believe Apple's valuation is very attractive and believe shares can benefit driven by strong iPad demand, a new iPhone upgrade cycle, significant international expansion, and additional new products expected later this year,” said Ben Reitzes, an analyst at Barclays Capital. The analyst said Apple’s stock has been performing over the past month in-line with the market, which has brought questions from investors after such a strong June quarter.
Aug 25
Texas launches iTunes program for teachers, students
Texas students can now download podcasts, videos and other multimedia lessons directly from iTunes through a new online program aimed at providing free, supplementary coursework that can be accessed anywhere, state officials announced Tuesday. The Texas Education iTunes U channel allows teachers to upload material from their classes to help students understand new concepts or do more research in a specific subject area. Students and parents can access the material through home or school computers, and those with iPods can download the information to the handheld devices. The state first met with Apple about three years ago. The governor's office and the Texas Education Agency began working on the project in November, finding and culling existing teacher training videos and programs for students, said agency spokeswoman Debbie Ratcliffe. "A lot of that content may already be out there, but it's either overlooked or hard to access," Gov. Rick Perry told about 50 students at Sharpstown...
Aug 25
Apple removes Boot Camp support from Mac OS X server edition
Apple has removed support for Boot Camp from all new Macs shipping with the server edition of Mac OS X, notes "Hexus" (http://macosg.me/2/rr).  Boot Camp is designed to simplify Windows installation on a Mactel by providing a simple graphical step-by-step assistant application to dynamically create a second partition on the hard drive for Windows, to burn a CD with all the necessary Windows drivers, and to install Windows from a Windows installation CD. After installation is complete, users can choose to run either Mac OS X or Windows when they restart their computer. In a note (http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3307) at its support site, Apple merely says: "Boot Camp is not included with Macs that ship with Mac OS X Server pre-installed. This includes all Xserves as well as Mac mini and Mac Pro configurations that include Mac OS X Server." There's no explanation for the move. Of course, you'll still be able to install other operating systems on the Mac servers such as the server...
Aug 25
Apple will dominate tablet market through 2012
Even with a flood of rival products in the works, Apple's iPad is unlikely to face a viable competitor until 2011, allowing the company to maintain a dominant share in the tablet market at least through 2012, according to market research firm iSuppli Corp. (http://www.isuppli.com). The iPad will account for an overwhelming 74.1% of global tablet shipments in 2010, with the remaining 25.9% consisting of a mix of older PC-type tablet products and competitive slates, says the research group. Despite the arrival of the first real iPad competitors in 2011, Apple still will maintain a prevailing 70.4% share of shipments, iPad research from iSuppli bears out.  Even in 2012, the iPad will continue to control nearly two-thirds of shipments, at 61.7 % as the competition strives to develop ecosystems of tablet apps and content that can match up with those of Apple. “Although the iPad has been on the market for only a few months, powerful interests throughout the technology business are...
Aug 25
Apple excludes iPhone from UK green ranking scheme
Apple has said no to its iPhones being included in the UK's first-ever green ranking scheme for mobile phones, reports "The Guardian" (http://macosg.me/2/rq). The scheme gives phones a rating of zero to five based on their environmental footprint. Major manufacturers including Nokia, Sony Ericsson and Samsung have signed up. The network O2, which is launching the rating system Wednesday, said 93% of the devices its customers use will be covered. Launched in partnership with sustainability advisers Forum for the Future, the green ranking scheme scores handsets on the ecological impact of their raw materials, the manufacturing process, packaging, how long they are likely to last, energy efficiency and how easy they are to reuse or recycle. “We know that sustainability is important for many of our customers and for the first time they will have the whole picture from which to make a full and balanced purchasing decision,” says Ronan Dunne, O2’s UK chief executive. “Consumers are becoming...
Aug 25
Apple to hold Apple TV (iTV?) media event on Sept. 7?
Apple is expected to host a special event to introduce new products for music and television, including a 99-cent TV show rental service, as well as new iPods, reports "MacRumors" (http://www.macrumors.com). Rumors have it that the revamped Apple TV may be redubbed the iTV, cost US$99 and would allow users to stream video, such as rentals, to their TV sets. Customers currently can pay to download electronic copies of many cable and broadcast shows, often for $1.99 each for the standard version, to view on iPhones, the iPad, Apple TV or other devices. Kaufman Brothers analyst Shaw Wu told clients in a note on Wednesday that the revamped Apple TV would move to an ARM architecture processor running the same iOS software that powers the iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. The current version uses an Intel x86-based chip, running a "light" version of Mac OS X and its Front Row software. "Bloomberg" (http://macosg.me/2/rn) says the 99-cent rentals will help Apple fend off rivals such as Netflix...
Aug 25
Logitech announces THX certified speaker system
Logitech (http://www.logitech.com) has unveiled the THX Certified Logitech Speaker System Z623. With this 2.1 system, you’ll hear and feel immersive audio from 200 watts (RMS) of power whether you’re connecting the speakers to a computer or a TV. Logitech includes all the inputs and cables you need to get great sound from up to three audio devices, according to Mark Schneider, vice president and general manager of Logitech’s audio business unit. There are RCA and 3.5 mm inputs, in addition to the built-in headphone jack. Integrated controls on the right speaker satellite let you dial the volume and bass up or down to customize your listening experience. The Logitech Z623 speakers are THX Certified. To qualify for THX certification, the two-satellite-and-subwoofer Z623 speaker system has to meet strict performance standards, Schneider says. The Logitech Speaker System Z623 is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe in September for a suggested retail price of $149.99.
Aug 25
Keynote Zone releases Framework Keynote theme
Keynote Zone (http://www.keynotezone.com/) has released a new Framework theme for Keynote, the presentation component of Apple's US$79 iWork suite. The theme includes 40 layouts, custom designed charts and tables. Framework is available in both Standard and HD versions. The standard version theme comes in two sizes (800 x 600, 1024 x 768) and is available for US$16. The Framework HD version theme comes in five sizes ((800 x 600, 1024 x 768, 1280 x 720, 1680 x 1050, 1920 x 1080) and costs US$20. The Framework theme requires Mac OS X 10.4.10 or later and iWork '08 or iWork '09. The Keynote Zone Collection 9 is available for download for $69.
Aug 25
Better Finder Rename update adds path components to file names
Publicspace.net (http://www.publicspace.net/) has released A Better Finder Rename 8.6.5, an update of the renaming solution for the Mac. The new release allows users to insert file path components into existing file names in a variety of new ways. A Better Finder Rename costs US$19.95. Business, family and enterprise licensing is also available. Customers may chose to include a "forever upgrade" with their purchase. A Better Finder Rename requires Mac OS X 10.5 or 10.6. It's Universal Binary so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs.
Aug 25
Before Dawn Solutions acquires Braxton's Link Tester
Before Dawn Solutions (http://www.beforedawnsolutions.com) has acquired Braxton's Link Tester -- a Mac OS X link tester -- from its original author, Braxton Sherouse, effective immediately. BLT, renamed Better Link Tester, will join the skEdit editor in Before Dawn's development tools offerings. In fact, the company has already announced BLT 1.0.4. The main new features in the release are: an integrated error reporting mechanism; an integrated application updates; and a new licensing mechanism. All current users will receive a free upgrade; you will receive an email with instructions on how to update your license to work with the new version. For new users the cost is US$24.95. Starting immediately, use the bltsupport@beforedawnsolutions.com email address for support and purchasing issues and questions. Starting immediately, customers will contact Before Dawn Solutions directly for support and purchasing issues and questions. The BLT website has been integrated into the Before Dawn...
Aug 25
Vitamin-R 1.27 adds sound, voice notifications for timed breaks
Publicspace.net has announced Vitamin-R 1.27 (http://www.publicspace.net/Vitamin-R/index.html), an update of its Mac OS X compatible productivity tool for creative professionals. The new version adds sound and voice notifications for timed breaks. Vitamin-R is a collection of tools and techniques for managing attention and maintaining motivation. According to the folks at publicspace.net, it complements the task capturing and organizing features of modern to-do list managers by forcing you to concentrate fully on one task a time and keeping distractions at bay. It breaks down large, vaguely defined tasks into a series of short "time slices" of between 10 and 30 minutes, each with specific and actionable objectives. Vitamin-R provides you with the "Now & Later Board," complete with FastType magic, to give you a place to quickly dump all those things that go through your head and allows to get back to the task at hand. It requires Mac OS X 10.5 or higher. Vitamin-R may be...
Aug 25
Aestiva announces help desk software offering
Aestiva Software (http://www.aestiva.com) has debuted of a new web-browser-based help desk management software called Aestiva Help Desk. The software is designed to help organizations improve internal operations via improved controls over internal problems, according to the folks at Aestiva. The workflow tool allows requests to be submitted, approved and posted online from anywhere via the web or company intranet. Features include on-screen help ticket histories, automated email alerts with remind-until-done controls, issue prioritization and performance reporting to ensure issues are properly tracked and rapidly serviced. Installed on standard servers or hosted on the cloud, Aestiva Help Desk is 100% web-browser native and requires no special desktop software. It's scalable for deployment in global enterprises. Users can access the application via an Intranet or the Internet from any browser (Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer,, Opera, and others) running on any end-user computer...
Aug 25
Red Rock Software releases DeltaGraph 6 for Snow Leopard
Red Rock Software has released DeltaGraph 6 for Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard") and Windows 7. It's the latest version of the graphing application that offers 80+ scientific and business charts, analysis tools, complete chart customization capabilities and more. According to Craig Hopson, managing partner and lead engineer at Red Rock Software, DeltaGraph 6 highlights include: ° A cross-platform file format that lets you exchange files between Mac and Windows systems; ° Cross-platform support for international (Unicode) text; ° An updated rendering system; ° Support for transparent drawing; ° The ability to rotate text at arbitrary angles; ° Support for Pantone and other third-party spot colors in PDF and EPS exports. Designed with scientific, business, and creative professionals in mind, Red Rock DeltaGraph 6.0 helps researchers, analysts and managers working with complex sets of data to collect, analyze and present their findings in a visually compelling and memorable manner. Users...
Aug 25
Adobe debuts redesigned Photoshop Express apps
Adobe today announced the immediate availability of Adobe Photoshop Express Editor, Photoshop Express Organizer, and Photoshop Express Uploader, a free set of integrated online apps for editing, organizing, syncing, and sharing photos. Available atPhotoshop.com, these renamed and redesigned apps are faster and more intuitive to use for uploading and organizing photos for easy access anywhere, applying quick fixes and fun effects, and sharing albums and slideshows online with family, friends, and colleagues, according to Matt Domenici, director of product management for online and mobile digital imaging at Adobe. These online apps also integrate tightly with our recently released Photoshop Express apps for iPad, iPhone, and Android devices, so customers can truly interact with their photos anywhere they happen to be, he adds. While registering for a free Photoshop.com account is a requirement for storing photos online, creating and sharing galleries and albums, the Photoshop Express...
Aug 25
Monterey College of Law goes with iPads
Monterey College of Law, a California accredited law school located in Seaside, California, is the first law school in the US to adopt the iPad as an integral part of the law school curriculum. Law students at Monterey College of Law returned from summer break to the news that they're part of a pilot program that will provide iPads to each law student at the school. Through a program developed by the law school with BAR BRI, the country’s largest bar exam review company, each MCL law student receives an iPad when they enroll in the BAR BRI supplemental curriculum program that the students use while attending school and in preparation for the California Bar Exam "Law schools are rarely found close to the leading edge of technology,” says Mitchel Winick, president and dean of the law school. “However, it is clear to me that combining this technology with interactive, portable, timely content and harnessing the energy of on-line social networking provides a number of immediate...
Aug 24
Apple releases Security Update 2010-005
Apple has released Security Update 2010-005 for Mac OS X 10.5.8, Mac OS X Server 10.5.8, Mac OS X 10.6.4 and Mac OS X Server v10.6.4. According to Apple, it's recommended for all users and improves the security of Mac OS X. You can obtain it via the Software Updates component of the Mac OS X Systems Preferences app.
Aug 24
Upcoming iPad accessory very eMate-ish
A new third-party iPad peripheral coming soon to the U.S. will turn Apple's touchscreen tablet into more of a traditional laptop form factor, with a clamshell case that provides tactile input via an attached Bluetooth keyboard, reports "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com). It may bring the late, lamented eMate to mind for those of us who have been around Apple tech for several years. Created by Shenzhen Paoluy Silicone Technology Co., Ltd., the product dubbed "BL-BKB76" passed through the FCC last Friday and will likely be available for sale in the U.S. soon, the article adds. The clamshell design allows the iPad to be used in a laptop-style configuration, with the screen propped up and a flat keyboard to type on, says "AppleInsider" (from whence the top photo of the upcoming device comes). The eMate 300 (bottom photo) was a Newton with a built-in keyboard. The Newton was Apple's early, and fiscally unsuccessful attempt at a personal digital assistant. The eMate was...
Aug 24
Apple in 'advanced talks' with News Corps regarding TV...
Apple is in "advanced talks" with News Corp. to let iTunes users rent TV shows for US$0.99 cents and is in discussions with other media companies about similar deals, three people "familiar with the plan" told "Bloomberg" (http://macosg.me/2/rj). Purportedly, viewers would be able to rent programs from News Corp.’s Fox for 48 hours, said the people ("who declined to be identified because discussions aren’t public"), the article adds. CBS Corp. and Walt Disney Co., where Apple CEO Steve Jobs is a board member and the largest shareholder, also are in talks about joining the effort, says "Bloomberg." The article says Apple is counting on video content to increase the appeal of the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. The a la carte rental plan follows an abandoned effort to create a subscription television service and goes along with the rumored Apple TV revamp. Media companies didn’t want to endanger revenue from cable providers such as Comcast Corp. and Time Warner Cable, adds "Bloomberg."...
Aug 24
WD rolls out HomePlug AV compatible solution
Western Digital (http://www.wd.com) has introduced its new WD Livewire Powerline AV Network Kit, a HomePlug AV compatible solution that enables consumers to use their existing electrical outlets to extend high-speed Internet connections throughout the home. Complementing the WD TV line of media players, the WD Livewire Powerline AV Network Kit enables consumers to deliver HD video streams to the home theater, transfer large files or play multi-player online games, all without running network cables around the home. With four ports on each of two adapters included in the kit, the WD Livewire Powerline AV Network Kit offers users the ability to connect their router and up to seven additional devices to their high-speed network. Featuring HomePlug AV technology, the WD Livewire Powerline AV Network Kit purportedly provides users with data transfer speeds up to 200 megabits per second (Mbps), enabling glitch-free playback of Full-HD 1080p video streams on up to seven connected devices....
Aug 24
China Unicom to offer iPhone 4 on Sept. 16
China Unicom is set to launch Apple's iPhone 4 on the mainland September 16, a source from China Unicom told "Caixin Online" (http://macosg.me/2/rf). According to the source, customers that want to buy the iPhone4 from China Unicom will need to order the phone online ahead of the launch date. China Unicom, the exclusive provider of iPhone in China, launched the 8G version of the iPhone 3GS on Aug. 9. "Caixin Online" says the iPhone 4 is expected to suffer from the same issues related to signal reception in China. However, China Unicom will be offering iPhone cases to customers as a free gift.
Aug 24
iPads, Kindles better than books for the environment
According to the environmental consulting firm Cleantech, which aggregated a series of studies, devices such as the iPad and Kindle are better for the environment than printed books, reports the "Washington Post" (http://macosg.me/2/rd). How so? Cleantech says a single book generates about 7.5 kilograms (almost 17 pounds) of carbon dioxide equivalents. That's the value of all its greenhouse gas emissions expressed in terms of the impact of carbon dioxide. This figure includes production, transport and either recycling or disposal. According to Cleantech, the iPad generates 130 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalents during its lifetime, according to company estimates. Amazon has not released numbers for the Kindle, but Cleantech and other analysts put it at 168 kilograms. Those analyses don't indicate how much additional carbon is generated per book read (as a result of the energy required to host the e-bookstore's servers and power the screen while you read), but they do include the...
Aug 24
Apple exec hid $150,000 in shoe boxes
Federal agents found more than US$150,000 in cash when they searched the house of Apple manager Paul Devine earlier this month, prosecutors said in court Monday, according to the IDG News Service (http://macosg.me/2/r9). Devine, an Apple global supply manager, has been accused of trading confidential Apple information in return for more than $1 million in payments, bribes and kickbacks "He had over $150,000 stored in shoe boxes," Department of Justice Attorney Michelle Kane said, as she argued with a defense lawyer over the possible terms of Devine's release. Devine had a further $20,000 worth of foreign currency in his possession, she said, arguing that it was possible that the Apple executive might have other hidden sources of cash. "We have identified a significant number of accounts overseas and a significant amount of money," Kane said.
Aug 24
Iomega offers eGo drives with USB 3.0
Iomega (http://www.iomega.com) is moving to the new USB 3.0 interface for all Iomega USB 2.0 portable hard drives, beginning with the line of Iomega eGo Portable Hard Drives. And they'll sell at the same prices as their USB 2.0 versions, says Iomega. Iomega plans to move all eGo Portable Hard Drives in 500GB and 1TB capacities to the new USB 3.0 interface by early October. They'll be compatible with all USB 2.0 computers, which is good since Apple is dragging its feet in implementing USB 3.0. In the first quarter of 2011, Iomega plans to move the Iomega Prestige Portable Hard Drive line to USB 3.0 on all models. Shortly thereafter, Iomega will move the rest of its portable external hard drive models to the USB 3.0 interface.
Aug 24
JVC announces new pocket cameras
JVC (http://www.jvc.com) has announced two new pocket cameras for making and sharing videos and photos: the US$199.95 PICSIO pocket cameras, models GC-WP10 (US$199.95) and GC-FM2. Both feature Full HD video, low-light performance, a three-inch touch screen and compatibility with Eye-Fi cards for Wi-Fi connectivity. And the PICSIO GC-WP10 is waterproof. PICSIO’s CMOS image sensor captures stills at up to five-megapixel native resolution without interpolation. It also records up to 1920 x 1080p/30 fps Full HD video with image stabilization for enjoyment on an HDTV via the camera’s HDMI output. Users can select from four different recording resolutions: Full HD 1080 (1920 x 1080/30p), HD 720 (1280 x 720/60p), iFrame (960 x 540/30p) and Quarter High Definition (960 x 540/30p). The new PICSIO cameras also offer time-lapse recording.
Aug 24
Bango: web browsing from Androids grow 400% at the iPhone's...
According to new statistics released by Bango (http://news.bango.com), a mobile analytics and payment specialist, the volume of mobile web browsing from Android phones in the U.S. grew by 400% between quarter one and quarter two of 2010. In comparison the volume of growth from Apple devices was just 13% over the same period, representing an actual percentage market share decline of 16%. HTC and Sony Ericsson smartphones showed the largest volume growth of mobile web visits in the US during this period with an increase of 162% and 148% respectively, according to Bango. This represented a growth in market share between quarters of 94% and 84%. In the same period the percentage market share of LG, Motorola and Samsung grew by 48%, 45% and 26% respectively. BlackBerry smartphones continued to retain the highest volume of mobile web visits during Q2 2010, accounting for 37% of visits to mobile websites in the U.S., per Bango This represents a 20% volume increase over quarter one. In...
Aug 24
Former Apple manager to join Next Jump
Next Jump (http://www.nextjump.com), a company that specializes in ecommerce and advertising technology, has announced the appointment of Sandeep Gupta as vice president of Mobile Engineering, effective Sept. 7. Gupta, 41, will be responsible for overseeing all of Next Jump's mobile engineering efforts, including iPhone, iPad and Android applications. He will become a member of Next Jump’s Senior Engineering Leadership Team and report to Next Jump Chief of Engineering Tom Fuller. As part of the appointment, Gupta will be relocating from Silicon Valley to Next Jump’s New York City headquarters. Gupta brings over 18 years of application software engineering and technical leadership experience to Next Jump. Most recently, he served as senior director of Application Development at Yahoo!, and was responsible for overseeing every aspect from conception to delivery of mobile and tablet applications. He and his teams launched Yahoo!'s iPhone apps for Flickr, Fantasy Sports, Yahoo! Finance, ...
Aug 24
Ultimate Ears introduces new earphones
Ultimate Ears, a business unit of Logitech (http://www.logitech.com) has unveiled a line of new earphones -- the Ultimate Ears 500 Noise-Isolating Earphones, the Ultimate Ears 350 Noise-Isolating Earphones and the Ultimate Ears 200 Noise-Isolating Earphones. They have a retail price of US$69.99, $49.99 and $29.99, respectively. For mobile phone users, Ultimate Ears also introduced two headsets that are compatible with the iPhone, Blackberry and other phones with a 3.5mm headphone jack -- the Ultimate Ears 500vi Noise-Isolating Headset and Ultimate Ears 200vi Noise-Isolating Headset. They are $79.99 and $39.99, respectively.
Aug 24
Apple to open retail store in Pittsburgh on Aug. 28
Apple is set to open a new retail store in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, Aug. 28, at 10 am (Eastern). Apple Store Ross Park will be located at 1000 Ross Park Mall Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. Apple Store Haywood Mall will be the company's 303rd retail store. Apple plans to open another 185 or so during this fiscal year, with about half of those outside the U.S.
Aug 24
Virtual TimeClock update offers new payroll integration
Redcort Software has announced Virtual TimeClock '10 (http://www.redcort.com/timeclock/), the latest version of the time and attendance software for Mac and Windows computers. It brings payroll integration with payroll service providers, including SurePayroll, Paychex Online, Paychex Preview, PayChoice, AccountEdge, and CheckMark Payroll. The new Virtual TimeClock Pro release also integrates employee time and attendance with desktop payroll software, including Acclivity Software's AccountEdge for Mac and Windows computers. A fully functional free trial of Virtual TimeClock software is available directly from the Redcort Software web site in Basic, Pro and Network Editions at Redcort Software online. Pricing for Virtual TimeClock '10 starts at US$99. Discounted upgrade pricing is available for users of prior releases of Virtual TimeClock software. Full pricing details are available online at the Redcort Software store.
Aug 24
iTunes U downloads top 300 million
In just over three years, iTunes U downloads have topped 300 million and it has become one of the world’s most popular online educational catalogs, according to Apple. Over 800 universities throughout the world have active iTunes U sites, and nearly half of these institutions distribute their content publicly on the iTunes Store.
 New content has just been added from universities in China, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico and Singapore, and iTunes users now have access to over 350,000 audio and video files from educational institutions around the globe, according to Eddy Cue, Apple's vice president of Internet Services. "iTunes U makes it easy for people to discover and learn with content from many of the world’s top institutions," he says. "With such a wide selection of educational material, we’re providing iTunes users with an incredible way to learn on their computer, iPhone, iPod or iPad.: Created in collaboration with colleges and universities, iTunes U makes it easy to extend learning...
Aug 24
CheckUp 2.7 detects more common Mac problems
App4Mac (http://www.app4mac.com) has updated CheckUp, a Mac OS X tool for checking the health and monitoring the behavior of a Mac computer (even from a remote computer), to version 2.7. The upgrade can detect more common issues of Mac computer and display more details about how to fix them. CheckUp 2.7 also offers improved alerts management on disks or memory issues, support of recent Macs (Mac Pro, iMac, Mac Mini Server), a new tool to send feedback directly from the help menu, auto update functionality an an updated user interface. There's also improved documentation. A user license of CheckUp costs US$49 and can be installed on two computers. Version 2.7 is a free update for registered users. Discounts are available for education and volume licensing. CheckUp Requires Mac OS X 10.4 or higher. A trial version of CheckUp is available at app4mac.com. Some features are free and will stay free like the Tools that allows you to repair authorizations of Mac OS X or run maintenance...
Aug 23
iPhones, iPads growing in popularity among doctors
Smartphones and tablets such as the iPad are poised to play a greater role in health care as doctors and patients embrace the mobile Internet, panelists at a mobile health technology conference in Boston said last month, as reported by "Computerworld" (http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/351320/Doctors_Warming_Up_to_Mobi...). In a poll of 2,000 U.S. physicians by Manhattan Research LLC, 71% of the respondents said that a smartphone is essential to their practice, and 84% agreed that the Internet is critical to their jobs The iPhone is popular with many young doctors, and there are signs that the iPad tablet has a future in health care, the article adds. Kaweah Delta Health Care District in Visalia, Calif., already has 25 company-owned iPads and expects that number to grow to 100 in the next few months, according to Nick Volosin, director of technical services. In addition, he said that about 50 doctors have bought iPads themselves.
Aug 23
Security holes in iTunes accounts linked to PayPal
Reports are appearingÔøº about a major security hole in iTunes accounts linked to PayPal, reports "TechCrunch" (http://techcrunch.com/2010/08/23/paypal-itunes-fraud/). At least one group of scammers has found a way to charge thousands of dollars to iTunes accounts through PayPal. At least PayPal is aware of the issue, but it seems like the problem is on the iTunes side, says "TechCrunch."
Aug 23
Freeway 5.5 released with Showcase Gallery app
Softpress Systems has released Freeway 5.5 , a new version of its web design products, Freeway Express and Pro. Versions of both Freeway Express and Freeway Pro are available from the Softpress web site (http://www.softpress.com) According to Softpress Managing Director Richard Logan, alongside Freeway's extensive existing feature set, Freeway 5.5 has a range of new functionality including: ° Freeway Showcase: Showcase offers even absolute beginners thousands of fully-customizable options so that they can effortlessly build professional, feature-rich galleries and slideshows from scratch in just minutes, he says. You can import images for use into the application via drag and drop from the Finder, or from iPhoto/Aperture libraries displayed in the app itself), or by direct import. A variety of appearance and layout options are available including borders, shadows, reflections and more. Freeway Showcase supports common web image types as well as TIFF and native Photoshop files. ° ...
Aug 23
Buffalo refreshes its DriveStation line
Buffalo Technology (http://www.buffalotech.com) has announced a refresh of the DriveStation Duo and DriveStation Quad, formerly DriveStation Quattro, representing the latest generation of high-performance direct attached storage solutions. The new multi-drive external hard drives, equipped with NovaBackUp Business Essentials, are designed for small servers, creative professionals, offices and consumers requiring redundant and high performance external storage. Also announced today is the new DriveStation Axis, a single drive storage solution. The DriveStation Quad is a 4-drive, RAID enabled storage solution for small servers, creative professionals, offices and consumers requiring large, redundant and high-performance external storage. Equipped with four hard drives, DriveStation Quad supports RAID 0, 5, 10 and Normal modes, but ships configured in RAID 5 for a balance between data redundancy and available storage capacity. Additionally, DriveStation Quad supports USB 2.0 for...
Aug 23
Apress publishes 'iPhone 4 Made Simple'
The latest title in Apress's Made Simple series, "iPhone 4 Made Simple" (http://www.apress.com/book/view/1430231920) is a go-to guide for the latest and greatest version of the iPhone. This 750-page book includes over 1,000 screen visuals and instructions that illustrate both basic and advanced features of the iPhone 4. It costs US$29.99 for the print version and $20.99 for the ebook version. The authors are Gary Mazo and Martin Trautschold.
Aug 23
Yum update cooks up redesigned interface
Dare to be Creative has updated Yum, a recipe manager for Mac OS X 10.5 ("Leopard"), to version 4. The user interface was redesigned from the ground up by Apple Design Award winner Dietmar Kerschner. The new interface features a corkboard to browse recipes by photo, the ability to search recipes with simple text or advanced filters, and an option to view recipes in full screen. Yum is a recipe and cook book manager that allows users to organize recipes into categories, assign ratings, print with custom layouts and create shopping lists from a recipe's ingredients. Yum is Universal Binary so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs. It's US$29; a demo is available at the Yum web site (http://yum-mac.com/). Version 3.2 is a free update to registered users.
Aug 23
iWisdom grows wiser with version 2.10
PowerSurge Publishing has just released iWisdom 2.10 for Mac OS X and Windows. The new version adds the ability to import quotations from WikiQuote.org. This new feature can import quotations from both author and work (i.e., book and movie) pages, and supports multiple languages.    iWisdom is a program that manages a collection of quotations or other brief insights. The program tracks a set of data fields concerning each bit of wisdom, including author, source, year of publication, title and category. iWisdom allows you to view wisdom in a list view (with optional sort fields), a category view, an edit view, and a display mode, which you can use to randomly display a new quotation at set intervals. iWisdom stores its data in the wisdom XML format, and can publish a wisdom collection in HTML using a series of included XSL templates and cascading style sheets. A demo version of the program can be downloaded from the PowerSurge Publishing web site (http://www.powersurgepub.com)....
Aug 23
Flux web page creation app revved to version 3
The Escapers has released Flux 3.0 (http://theescapers.com/flux2), an update of the Mac OS X app that allows drag 'n drop creation of web pages without the need of knowledge of XHTMLICSS (though you can twiddle with the code if you like). Major new features include: ° Tab support in Page Designer, which lets you make the most of your screen real estate by viewing all your pages in tabs; ° List & tree views in File manager, for making the managing large and complex sites easier and quicker; ° Widget palette, for creating easy galleries, jQuery effects, using Dojo widgets and more; ° Rich HTML5 support (including HTML5 video); ° A new professional user interface with a minimal user interface; ° WebKit support for features such as transforms; ° Plug-ins (limited Coda Plug-in support): you can use not just plug-ins created for Flux 3, but for Panic's Coda too; ° Google font application interface support. Users of both Flux 1 & 2 are entitled to an upgrade for just £34.99, and new...
Aug 23
Analyst: multiple US carriers could be signed for the iPhone
Apple needs another carrier to maintain the iPhone's current rate of growth in the U.S., says Kaufman Bros.'s Shaw Wu in a note to clients Monday -- as reported by "Fortune" (http://tech.fortune.cnn.com/2010/08/23/verizon-and-apple-at-loggerheads/...) -- but it doesn't necessarily have to be Verizon -- though that's the company that most folks expect to become the second US carrier. According to Wu, Apple's share of AT&T's 90-million subscriber base is approaching saturation. Verizon, with 93 million subscribers, would be the logical next step. But between them, Sprint with 48 million and T-Mobile with 34 million, would get Apple into the ballpark. "From our checks with industry and supply chain sources and a recent SEC 10-Q filing by AT&T mentioning that exclusivity with "a number of attractive handsets" could end, we have conviction that the iPhone could likely finally be at another carrier besides AT&T here in the U.S. in 2011 and potentially at Verizon in 2011 or...
Aug 23
Mac government, enterprise, home sales surge in June
In June Apple scored its biggest gains in government, big business and the European home market, according to Needham analyst Charles Wolf, using using the second quarter number from the IDC research group. In a note to clients -- as reported by "Fortune" (http://tech.fortune.cnn.com/2010/08/23/mac-enterprise-sales-surged-in-june/) -- Wolf says: ° At 35%, Mac shipment growth in June easily exceeded the market's growth rate of 20.9%. ° Mac shipments grew 31.4% in the home market, topping the market's growth rate of 25.2%. ° At 49.8%, the Mac's growth in business was three times higher than the market's 15.7%. ° Mac shipments in government grew 200%, sixteen times faster than the market's 12.1%. ° In the European home market, Apple's unit share more than doubled between quarter one and quarter two (from 3.4% to 7%) and its dollar share more than tripled (from 4.6% to 15.4%).
Aug 23
90% of iPad buyers will be existing Apple owners
Only 2% of US homes which do not currently own an Apple device intend to buy an iPad during the next 12 months, compared to 18% of Apple-owning households, according to a new survey of 2000 US consumers by Strategy Analytics (http://www.strategyanalytics.com). The report, “Apple's iPad: Identifying Early Adopters and Intentions to Buy,” finds that ownership of another Apple product -- such as an iPod, MacBook or iPhone -- is the strongest indicator of intention to buy an iPad. For example, nearly a third of iPhone users in the US plan to buy an iPad during the coming year. In total 90% of iPad sales are expected to come from existing Apple device owners. “Apple’s iPad is preaching to the converted,” says the report’s author, David Mercer, principal Analyst at Strategy Analytics. “Many iPhone, Apple computer and iPod owners have snapped up their first iPad in the first few months since it was launched, and many of those who haven’t plan to follow suit over the coming year.” The study...
Aug 23
Snard launcher for Mac OS X updated to version 2.6.4
Gideon Softworks has updated Snard (http://www.gideonsoftworks.com/snard.html), the "the Swiss Army Knife of launcher programs" for Mac OS X, to version 2.6.4. It's a maintenance update that fixes a problem with orphaned files/folders. Snard can be used as a system menu or as a hot key activated pop-up menu. It also supports the use of hot keys. Snard provides many of the functionalities of the old Apple and Application menus, yet it can be customized. Snard 2.6.4requires Mac OS X 10.5 or higher. It costs US$10 for new users.
Aug 23
PortAuthority for Mac OS X adds Keychain support
Code by Kevin has updated PortAuthority (http://www.codebykevin.com/portauthority.html), an open-source application that provides a graphical user interface for the DarwinPorts package management system for Mac OS X, to version 3.1. It now uses the Mac OS X Keychain to store password.‚Ä® PortAuthority 3.1 also now supports clickable links in data display and native printing. You can now access the Services menu. Version 3.1 provides port searches as a service. Finally, the Satus icon in menubar show operations in progress.‚Ä® PortAuthority a command-line tool for installing and updating a variety of Unix-based applications for the Mac. The goal of the software, according to its developers, is to bring the power of DarwinPorts to the traditional Mac user by providing a user-friendly graphical interface to the DarwinPorts system. PortAuthority costs US$24.95, though version. A 30-day demo is available at the product web site. PortAuthority is a Universal Binary product so runs natively on...
Aug 20
OWC announces Mercury Extreme Pro 40GB SSD for $99.99
Other World Computing (http://www.macsales.com) has announced a new 40GB model to its OWC Mercury Extreme Pro SSD line. Designed and made in the U.S. from imported parts, the new OWC Mercury Extreme Pro 40GB SSD’s special introductory pricing of US$99.99 makes it the lowest priced SSD on the market, according to the gang at OWC. The 40GB has sustained read and write speeds over 260MB/second -- with peak speeds up to 285MB/second. It also touts best in class error correction (ECC) and SandForce RAISE™ redundancy with 7% over provisioning and SandForce DuraClass technology with block management and wear leveling for long term durability. The OWC Mercury Extreme Pro SSD line is available for immediate ordering in nine configurations from 40GB to 480GB starting at $99.99. All models are Mac and PC compatible and install into notebooks, as well as into desktops/towers with an OWC Multi-Mount adapter kit sold separately.
Aug 20
MediaBeacon, Aysling team up for 'author once, repurpose...
MediaBeacon (http://www.MediaBeacon.com), a provider of digital asset management and rich media solutions, has announced a relationship with Aysling Digital Media Solutions for an "author once, repurpose many" solution. WoodWing's Digital Magazine Tools coupled with Adobe's InDesign technology enable publishers to create content for the web, mobile and Apple iPad in almost the same way they produce content for print. Because these tools present themselves simply as new panels in InDesign, the layout staff is easily able to use them without special training, according to Patrick Becker, CEO of Asyling Digital Media Solutions. The Digital Magazine Tools are an extension to WoodWing's Enterprise publishing system, which is already being used by numerous publishers around the world for their print publications. With this initiative, MediaBeacon’s digital asset management platform is now integrated with the WoodWing Suite of products to better manage, search and re-purpose all types of...
Aug 20
REAL Software has 'back to school' sale for new REAL...
REAL Software, creator of REAL Studio, a cross-platform development environment for Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux developers, says REAL Studio and REAL Server will be on sale for a "back to school" weekend (Aug. 20-22). All new licenses will be discounted to 30% off of their original price. REAL Studio is available in three editions: Personal, Professional and Enterprise. REAL Studio Personal Edition, priced at US$99, is ideal for students and hobbyists, and those making software for themselves. REAL Studio Professional Edition is geared for the more advanced user and includes the ability to compile for all three platforms (Mac, Windows and Linux). REAL Studio Enterprise Edition is fully-charged for the professional, full-time software developer and allows developers to develop and deploy on all three platforms. Enterprise Edition is priced at $995. REAL Server is a multi-user database server that has a small footprint, is highly reliable and runs on all three platforms. REAL Server...
Aug 20
Akai Professional announces AkaiConnect SDK
Akai Professional has released the the AkaiConnect SDK (software development kit), which allows third-party developers access to put all the professional controls and capabilities of Akai Pro’s SynthStation25 keyboard controller to work in conjunction with their music apps for the iPhone and iPod touch. To coincide with the availability of the new SDK, Akai Pro also launched a special web site at http://www.synthstationapp.com with the latest information about the SynthStation25 keyboard, SynthStation app, and the new AkaiConnect SDK. App developers can also apply to become an Akai Pro developer free of charge. Akai Pro’s SynthStation25 is a 25-key MIDI keyboard, featuring a built-in dock for the iPhone or iPod touch. It gives users two octaves of velocity-sensitive, synth-action keys, pitch and modulation wheels, and physical buttons for the most commonly used controls, including octave up and down. The SynthStation25 also features a stereo pair of RCA line outputs and a headphone...
Aug 20
Apple online store now lets you Compare Macs
There's a new addition to the online Apple store called Compare Macs, which offers a three panel juxtaposition of the hardware, software, storage, environmental impact, communications and display of any Mac OS X machine sold by Apple. The option becomes available in the top menu bar once you select a Mac. "Although there’s nothing particularly revolutionary about the feature, as usual, Apple has managed to execute the new option with such perfection that the HTML5 seems to shiver," says "Cult of Mac" (http://macosg.me/2/r6) in reviewing the Compare Macs feature. "Each genre of juxtaposition -- Hardware, Software, Technical Specifications, And Configuration Summary -- is delineated into specific sections that collapse as you scroll down the page, with each point of comparison flushly horizontal with its comparable brethren. The pie charts under the Environmental Status Report section are particularly well rendered, using different patinas of oak and walnut to attractively convey the...
Aug 20
Optimus to release the iPhone in Portugal -- at a price
Optimus, Orange’s Portuguese brand, is getting set to release iPhone 4 but the price they want for a network-locked device will make it one of the most expensive places in the world to buy one, reports "TiPb" (http://macosg.me/2/r5). The iPhone 4 16Gb Black will cost 679,90€, and the iPhone 4 32Gb Black is 769,90€. That’s a 70€ price bump, notes "TiPb."
Aug 20
Logitech unveils new wireless headset
So you can make Internet calls and listen to music without the hassle of cords Logitech (http://www.logitech.com) has announced the Logitech Wireless Headset H760 for voice, video calls, music, movies and computer games. The headset purportedly lets you chat, roam, move and groove up to 40 feet away from your Mac, with up to six hours of battery life. The H760 also features a built-in equalizer, one-touch controls for volume, and noise-canceling technology. Itboasts quick-access audio controls -- compatible with iTunes and any audio -- that allow you to adjust volume, pause and navigate your playlist directly from your headset. The H760 also features a noise-canceling microphone that reduces background noise and automatically mutes when you move the mic out of the way. The Logitech Wireless Headset H760 is expected to be available in the U.S. and Asia in August and in Europe in September for US$99.99 .
Aug 20
Will $1 per gigabyte NAND resuscitate solid state drives?
After two years of inflated prices, NAND flash memory at the end of 2010 is set to return to the key US$1 per gigabyte level considered a key threshold to drive adoption of Solid State Drives (SSD), but the cost reduction may come too late to help the struggling SSD market, according to the market research firm iSuppli Corp. (http://www.isuppli.com). Pricing for 1GB of 3-bit per cell (TLC) NAND flash memory will average $1.20 for the entire fourth quarter and then decline to $1.00 at the end of the year. This represents a precipitous drop from the first quarter of 2010, when pricing for TLC averaged $1.80 per gigabyte and 2-bit per cell (MLC) flash was at $2.05, iSuppli memory pricing and forecasts indicate. It also marks the first time NAND flash pricing fell below the $1 threshold since the fourth quarter of 2008, when MLC pricing averaged 90 cents per gigabyte. “When NAND pricing first fell below the $1 level at the end of 2008, many observers opined that its would sound the...
Aug 20
Inkling launches digital textbook platform
Inkling (http://www.inkling.com) has launched its platform for learning content with immediate availability of its iPad app. It delivers interactive textbooks that feature powerful social collaboration, integrated multimedia, and instant learner feedback. Inkling is available in the Apple App Store for free, and users can buy individual chapters or entire books at a discount to the print price. Free previews are available for all titles, and prices start at US$2.99 per chapter and $69.99 per book. Rather than replicating a book on a screen, Inkling puts 3-D objects, video, quizzes, and even social interaction right at a student's fingertips inside the textbook, says Inkling founder and CEO, Matt MacInnis. Inkling's sync technology lets students collaborate in real time by sharing their notes and highlights with one another. Students can see comments from their friends and professors right alongside their own notes, making it easy to collaborate side-by-side or across campus....
Aug 20
Toon Boom Studio 6 to include a Bone Rigging System, more
Toon Boom Animation (http://www.toonboom.com) has announced the upcoming release of Toon Boom Studio 6, which offers, among other features, a Bone Rigging System for new bone rigging animation capabilities. Features in Toon Boom Studio 6 include: a Skeleton Effect Layer in the timeline; a Bone Level for segmenting an animating a character; setting of rotation, length and position of the bones; manipulation of the bones in the timeline; transformation of vector shapes; transformation of pixmap textures; more accurate region of influence to move objects; real-time preview of Bone Effect; full QuickTime Export of Bone Effect; SWF export of Bone Effect (vector shapes only); and software improvements and bug fixes. You can buy Toon Boom Studio 6 now at the special pre-launch price of US$299.99, instead of $329.99; this is valid until Sept. 1. The first 100 customers who place an order for a new Studio 6 license will receive Flip Boom Classic 4 as a bonus, a value of $49.99. Upgrades from...
Aug 20
Sanyo introduces pocket-sized dual camera
Sanyo (http://www.us.sanyo.com) has introduced a new Full HD (1920 x 1080 30p) Pocket-Size Dual Camera, model VPC-PD2BK, with embedded software for easy use and sharing on social networks. It will be available next month with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of US$169.99. The camera offers 10 MP photo shooting and 3x optical zoom in a form factor about the size of a deck of cards. With the VPC-PD2BK, shoot, you can connect, view and share both photos and videos on social networks like YouTube, Facebook, and Picasa. Two microphones on the sides of the camera record stereo sound. The VPC-PD2BK has a High Speed Sequential Shooting Mode. You can connect it using USB with either a built-in USB connector or with the included USB connection cable. Files can be saved to SD, SDHC or ultra-high capacity SDXC (up to 64GB) memory cards.
Aug 19
Sonoma Wire Works releases HigginsPac
Sonoma Wire Works (http://www.sonomawireworks.com) has launched the USS$79.95 HigginsPack DrummerPack for DrumCore. Terence Higgins, drummer for The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, brings DrumCore users New Orleans marching style drum loops, variations, fills and drumkit sounds with a dash of hip hop, funk, R&B, and soul. HigginsPack was recorded by the original Submersible Music team, and was pre-configured by them with metadata for use with the DrumCore search engine, which will help you find content based on feel (straight, shuffle, etc.), time signature, tempo and other criteria. Songwriter-friendly "GrooveSets” group related beats, variations and fills to serve as a construction kit for song creation. All audio is 48kHz/24-bit and created in a pro studio using digital (ProTools HD3) and analog (Neumann, Neve, etc.) recording equipment. DrumCore works with all the major audio applications and supports dragging audio and MIDI directly to tracks in applications such as Logic Pro 8 and...
Aug 19
MultiMode update for Mac OS X offers bug fixes
Black Cat Systems has updated MultiMode (http://www.blackcatsystems.com/software/multimodeOSX.html), a Mac OS X application that lets you Mac decode several different modes of non-voice communication often heard on shortwave, to version 6.1.5. This version includes several bug fixes. MultiMode is an US$89 application that lets your Mac decode and transmit several different modes of non-voice communication often heard on shortwave and ham radio. It allows you to decode and display morse code, RTTY, FAX, SSTV, ACARS, PSK31 and many other modes on your Mac, without any extra hardware. MultiMode now also allows you to transmit in most of the modes of operation. A lite version is also available which decodes CW, RTTY, and weather fax modes, which is ideal for the sailor and boating enthusiast. MultiMode Lite is also available, which offers reception of CW, RTTY, and FAX modes only. MultiMode Lite is ideal for sailors who need to be able to view weather charts and reports, but don't need...
Aug 19
MacCuff is mini mounter for Mac mini
Sonnet Technologies has updated its MacCuff mini (www.sonnettech.com/product/maccuffmini.html), the back-of-monitor mounting system for mini computers, has been updated for the latest Mac mini line. MacCuff mini provides users a practical way to mount the Mac mini to the back of an LCD display (or under a desk or table) while retaining full access to its power switch, the SD card and optical disc slots, and all of its ports.  Sonnet helps cut the cable clutter by providing a 13-inch HDMI to DVI-D monitor cable that connects the Mac mini to the monitor, without ever touching the desk. Included cable ties secure the power cord and other cables to the bracket to prevent accidental disconnects. The MacCuff mini can just as easily be installed under a desk or shelf, according to the folks at Sonnet. Regardless of the mounting method, MacCuff mini's design leaves the computer's Wi-Fi and Bluetooth® antennas uncovered to allow normal operation. MacCuff mini can also help secure the Mac mini...
Aug 19
'Unknown hardware' the next gen Apple TV?
Apple is internally testing the first material update to its iOS 4.0 mobile operating system against a handful of new devices, including next-generation iPod touches, an iPad revision, and an "unknown" product, according to "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com). Quoting "people familiar with the matter," the article says the latest beta of iOS 4.1, due to ship in the coming weeks, includes three new "Configuration Descriptors" within its USB configuration files -- all of which pertain to devices that list "Apple, Inc." as their "manufacturer." One is the fourth gen iPod touch, the second is (apparently) the second gen iPad and the third is "unknown hardware." So what's that? Who knows, but "AppleInsider" offers a prediction that makes sense: "It's possible that those place holders are related to an Apple TV reincarnation -- rumored to be dubbed iTV -- that will reportedly jettison its existing Mac OS X-based software platform for one built around iOS 4.0 and capable of...
Aug 19
"People" app for the iPad could be a turning point
This week's "People" app is the first to be free to subscribers, and "Time," Sports Illustrated" and "Fortune" are expected to follow, according to a "Fortune" article (http://macosg.me/2/qx). And it "signals the end of a four-and-a-half-month impasse that put the digital dreams of every major magazine publisher on hold," the article adds. Until now, the iPad versions of these mags have cost the same as the newsstand price -- US$3.99 for each issue of People, $4.99 to $5.99 each for the rest -- even if you were are already paying to get the paper edition in the mail. Now the "People" app is free to People subscribers, and the rest of Time Inc.'s flagship magazines are expected to adopt the same pricing structure within the next 30 days. "Now that Apple has made it possible, other magazine publishers will presumably follow suit," says "Fortune." "Now that Apple has made it possible, other magazine publishers will presumably follow suit. It's not clear what took so long. Publishers who...
Aug 19
Apple slowly shutting down Quattro Wireless
Apparently, Apple is winding down the Quattro Wireless ad network it bought earlier this year. According to "MacDailyNews" (http://macosg.me/2/qt), Apple has sent out the following email to iAd-using developers and advertisers:

 "Since the launch of the iAd Network just over a month ago, advertisers and developers have been telling us how much they love this powerful new way to reach iPhone and iPod touch users right in their favorite apps. "iAds are captivating viewers with high-quality video and rich media experiences, engaging customers like never before and already delivering dramatic results. Advertisers are seeing a huge spike in the amount of time customers spend watching and interacting with ads, making them more comparable to television advertising than traditional online ads, and developers are thrilled with this new source of revenue. 

'We believe iAd is the best mobile ad network in the world, and starting next month we're going to focus all of our resources on the iAd...
Aug 19
Aqua Connect exhibits remote access solutions
Aqua Connect (http://www.aquaconnect.net/), a provider of the only enterprise grade Mac terminal server, is at this week's FileMaker Developer’s Conference in San Diego, exhibiting their remote access solutions. Aqua Connect expands the capabilities of FileMaker Pro and FileMaker Server especially in lower bandwidth situations. FileMaker’s Volume Licensing Agreement program makes it easy to link FileMaker Server to Aqua Connect for robust remote connectivity, according to Renee Mehrian, executive vice president of Aqua Connect. This year marks the first time Aqua Connect will be demonstrating their solutions to increase the performance of FileMaker for remote users. Aqua Connect Terminal Server allows you to edit and manipulate databases without sending all of the data over the network. Aqua Connect will be demonstrating the latest release of the Aqua Connect Terminal Server 3.5. The Aqua Connect Terminal Server delivers MacOS X desktops to PCs, thin clients, legacy Macs and...
Aug 19
DaVinci Resolve 7 showcased at third annual Amsterdam FCPUG...
Blackmagic Design will again be supporting the Third Annual Amsterdam FCPUG SuperMeet (http://www.supermeet.com) as a platinum sponsor. The company will be introducing DaVinci Resolve 7 for Mac in a presentation by Warren Eagles, an international freelance color artist, at the event. The SuperMeet will be held at the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky in Amsterdam, Netherlands on Sunday, Sept. 12. The event will highlight Final Cut Studio collaborative editing workflows by high-level editors and color artists, and will for the first time, include color grading workflows on a Mac. The entire second half of the SuperMeet will be hosted by the lead instructor for Apple’s Pro Apps training program, Abba Shapiro, who will be joined by some of Europe’s best Final Cut Studio gurus to teach the audience in their “best of the best” FCS workflow tips and techniques. The event will also include a SuperMeet Digital Showcase featuring hardware and software developers providing workflow solutions for...
Aug 19
Conference program details announced for Digital Video Expo
NewBay Media, a publisher of digital content creation media, today announced conference program details for next month’s Digital Video Expo (http://www.dvexpo.com) being held at the Pasadena Convention Center Sept. 28-30. The event will gather thousands of content creation professionals for three days of comprehensive education sessions, training, networking, and exhibitions. Produced by the editors of "DV" and "Videography" magazines, along with partner publications "Broadcasting & Cable," "Multichannel News" and "TV Technology, "Digital Video Expo offers attendees a multi-tiered educational program that will focus on a number of key topics critical to the success of video professionals. Events include: Apple color training; a full day lighting workshop, a full day HDSLR filmmaking workshop; a full day digital cinematography workshop; a Web & Mobile Video conference track; a 3D Production conference track; "Where 3D Meets Hollywood," a television industry leadership session...
Aug 19
HoudahGeo update for Mac OS X adds EveryTrail publishing
Houdah Software (http://www.houdah.com/) has updated HoudahGeo, a geocoding solution for the Mac, to version 2.6. The new version adds EveryTrail publishing. HoudahGeo costs US$30 for a single-user license for new users. Version 2.6 is a free update for registered users. HoudahGeo requires Mac OS X 10.4.8 or higher.
Aug 19
Deafness increase linked to overloud music on devices like the...
Researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) in Boston have found that hearing loss in adolescents has increased dramatically over the past 15 years, and suggest that music and devices such as the iPod may be the reason, reports "TG Daily" (http://macosg.me/2/qq). "Some risk factors, such as loud sound exposure from listening to music, may be of particular importance to adolescents," say the authors. The researchers looked at data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys of 12- to 19-year-olds. They found that a fifth had some evidence of hearing loss, while one in twenty had at least mild hearing loss. Looking at the data from 1988, the team found there had been a 30% increase in the prevalence of any hearing loss, and a 70% increase in mild or worse hearing loss in the past 15 years.
Aug 19
Report blames WebKit for Safari, Chrome flaws
Cenzic's web application security report for the first half of the year blames WebKit problems and phone software bugs for Safari and Chrome flaws. WebKit is a layout engine designed to allow web browsers to render web pages. WebKit provides a set of classes to display web content in windows, and implements browser features. It was originally created as a fork of KHTML as the layout engine for Apple's Safari, but is now portable to many other computing platforms and is used in Google's Chrome Browser. The "Cenzic Q1,Q2 2010 Trends Report" (http://www.cenzic.com/downloads/Cenzic_AppSecTrends_Q1-Q2-2010.pdf) saw a reduction in web application related vulnerabilities as a percentage of total reported vulnerabilities in commercial products. Web vulnerabilities were at about 66% of total reported vulnerabilities of 4,019 that included web, network and other infrastructure vulnerabilities. The good news is that this is a positive trend compared to second half of 2009 when Web related...
Aug 19
Worldwide microprocessor unit shipments, revenues rise
Worldwide computer microprocessor unit shipments and revenues in the second calendar quarter of 2010 (2Q10) increased 3.6% and 6.2%, respectively, compared to the first quarter of 2010, according to the latest PC processor study from International Data Corporation (IDC). The average sequential change in unit shipments between a calendar year's first quarter and its second quarter is an increase of 1.6%. For revenues, the average sequential change is a decrease of -2.8%. So, these increases represent better performance than usual for a second calendar quarter. "Such a sequential increase in PC processor shipments alone would have been enough to conclude that the first half was strong for the market," said Shane Rau director of Semiconductors: Personal Computing research at IDC (http://www.idc.com). "However, a modest rise in revenues, too, points directly to a rise in average selling prices. System makers bought more and higher-priced computer processors in 2Q10 than in 1Q10. Digging a...
Aug 19
Canon introduces new digital cameras, photo printer
Canon USA (http://www.usa.canon.com) has announced three new high-performance PowerShot cameras -- the PowerShot S95, the SD4500 IS and the SX130 IS Digital cameras -- and a new photo printer. These cameras sport Canon’s HS (High Sensitivity) System for improved low-light shooting in the S95 and SD4500 IS cameras, High Definition (HD) video recording, High Dynamic Range (HDR) in the S95 camera and a more intelligent Smart AUTO mode, among a range of others. Scheduled to be available late August, the S95 camera retails for an estimated price of US$399.99. Due in early September, the SD4500 IS camera retails for $349.99. Scheduled to be available late August, the SX130 IS camera retails for $249.99. The new Selphy CP800 Compact Photo Printer features a new tilt LCD screen in addition to a new Shuffle feature. It prints a 4 x 6-inch, high-quality photo in approximately 47 seconds that's purportedly capable of lasting up to 100 years. Users can also print photos without connecting to a...
Aug 19
Knapsack 2 adds new maps with street-level detail
TinyPlanet Software (http://tinyplanetsoftware.com/) has updated Knapsack, a personal travel organizer for Mac OS X 10.5 ("Leopard") and 10.6 ("Snow Leopard"), to version 2.0. The new world map let's users view their trip's destinations at any level of detail. They can get an overview of their entire trip across countries and continents or zoom in to street level to see all the parking lots near their hotel. The new Map Search feature in Knapsack 2 lets users find places, addresses, and even points of interest anywhere in the world. Users can now locate cities, hotels, museums, airports, and more. Map Search uses an extensive online geographic database that is constantly improving. Knapsack gives users the tools to plan, organize, and relive their travel adventures with features such as map pins with location postcards, an itinerary planner, trip checklists, and printed itineraries. Knapsack 2 costs US$39.95 for a single-user license and $59.95 for a five-user family pack. A 30-day...
Aug 19
Intel to acquire McAfee
Intel (http://www.intel.com) has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire McAfee (http://www.mcafee.com) through the purchase of all of the company’s common stock at US$48 per share in cash, for approximately $7.68 billion. Both boards of directors have unanimously approved the deal, which is expected to close after McAfee shareholder approval, regulatory clearances and other customary conditions specified in the agreement. McAfee will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Intel, reporting into Intel’s Software and Services Group. The group is managed by Renée James, Intel senior vice president, and general manager of the group.
Aug 18
Verizon announces upcoming iPad app
Verizon has unveiled a series of new video application, including an upcoming iPad app that will allow FiOS subscribers to watch the same linear programming that's available on their TV screens on their tablet devices, reports "GigaOm" (http://macosg.me/2/qi). The new app is expected to be rolled out early next year and Verizon expects to have all of its content partners on board by the time the app launches, the article adds. At first, subscribers with an iPad will only be able to watch linear programming within their own home, which allows Verizon to authenticate and make certain that the users have access to whatever content they’ve paid for, notes "GigaOm." Verizon CIO Shaygan Kheradpir said in a press briefing that the iPad app takes advantage of Verizon’s architecture, which he characterized as “cloud TV.” The experience is reportedly similar to what’s available today on FiOS set-top boxes, and takes advantage of the same software that Verizon uses for its set-tops.
Aug 18
Apple looking for iTunes Pan-EU Label Relations head
Apple has posted a job listing at its "Jobs at Apple" site (http://jobs.apple.com/index.ajs?BID=1&method=mExternal.showJob&RID=59755...) for an iTunes Pan-EU Label Relations head to grow iTunes' business in key international markets by managing the relationships with our content partners: the record labels. Here's the details of the listing: "Possessing an ability to understand and work across a number of key European markets, among them Scandinavia and Spain, the candidate is ideally based in any of these countries. Reporting to Carl Ekdahl, head of Pan EU, the responsibilities will include: "Manage the growth of the overall business by securing comprehensive and innovative promotions around key releases; "Foster the relationship with the key account managers at the record labels, making iTunes the most important partner in helping the label to drive the digital market; "Make sure all key releases are communicated and set up for the iTunes Editorial team; "Help coordinate...
Aug 18
SmileOnMyMac changes name to Smile
SmileOnMyMac has changed its name to Smile. Originally a developer of software for Mac OS X exclusively, Smile now develops software for iOS devices as well. "We've developed software for the Mac for seven years," says founder Greg Scown. "Now that we have TextExpander touch for iPhone and iPad, we've outgrown the SmileOnMyMac name. The company website is now available at http://www.smilesoftware.com ; the company also has a new tagline: "Software that's just right."
Aug 18
A Better Finder Attributes 4.49 changes EXIF and creation date
publicspace.net has updated its "A Better Finder Attributes" utility (http://www.publicspace.net/ABetterFinderAttributes/) -- which can change Finder attributes, such as creation and modification dates -- to version 4..49. The upgrade adds the ability to simultaneously add or subtract time from both the EXIF photo date and the file's creation date. "A Better Finder Attributes" requires Mac OS X 10.4 or higher, and is a Universal Binary. This means it will run natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs. It costs US$14.95, though version 4.49 is a free update for registered users of version 4.x.
Aug 18
Wondershare updates Video Converter, DVD Ripper
Wondershare (http://www.applemacvideo.com/) has updated Video Converter and DVD Ripper for the Mac to versions 2.0. You can now convert DVDs, general video, video recorded from HD camcorder to files viewable on portable devices, including the Apple TV, Final Cut Pro, the Xbox 360, and mobile phones. A new Mac-style interface has been optimized with more efficient workflow. And the program's main codec libraries have been upgraded to support for SWF, 5.1 surround sound in AAC and AC3 output format. Support for atch conversion and multithreading has also been added. If you/re a registered user of Wondershare Video Converter or DVD Ripper for Mac, you can upgrade for free to version 1.9.5.9 by contacting sales-hm1@wondershare.com ; for new users the cost is US$39.95 per app.
Aug 18
Typinator 4.1 simplifies creation of text expansions with presets
Ergonis Software (http://www.ergonis.com) has released Typinator 4.1, the latest version of its tool for auto-typing text and auto-correcting typos system-wide across all Mac OS X applications. The new version allows to define set-specific presets for abbreviation options and speeds up the newly introduced QuickSearch function as well as the import of text files. Typinator 4.1 also improves the installation and upgrade experience by allowing to skip one particular version in the automatic update check and by displaying a more prominent warning when a new version is not covered by the current license. What's more, the new release solves a problem with composing Gmail messages in Firefox and improves compatibility with certain third party apps like Mail, aMSN, Kindle for Mac, and others. Typinator 4.1 requires Mac OS X 10.4 or newer, and Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard") is recommended. Typinator can be purchased on the Ergonis Software web site for $19.99 for a single user license. A...
Aug 18
Flickery update for Mac OS X beefs up sorting features
Eternal Storms (http://www.eternalstorms.at) has updated their flickr client, flickery, for Mac OS X 10.5 or higher to version 1.9.1.5. Items in photosets and galleries can now be sorted. "Key" images can now be set for galleries and photosets by dragging the wanted image onto the photoset or gallery. In flickery 1.9.1.5, comments now show users' buddy icons and these user's photostreams can be shown right from comments. The new version auto-detects crash logs for easy submission to Eternal Storms Software, and Location data can be changed any time after upload as well With flickry, you can browse flickr's photos, view and comment on pictures of your friends, or upload and manage your own photos and favorites. flickery offers three ways of viewing photos: the miniature-overview of the photos where you can see multiple pictures at a time; the full-window-view, which lets you view one photo at a time in detail; and the full-screen view. You can upload photos to your flickr.com account,...
Aug 18
iPad supply finally catching up to demand
The iPad supply is finally catching up to the pent-up deman with shipping delays shrinking from 5-to-7 business days to 3-to-5 business days, reports "Fortune" (http://macosg.me/2/qf). That's the prognosis of Susquehanna Financial analyst Jeff Fidacaro, who noted the "shrinkage" in a note to clients Wednesday. "iPad demand remains strong with production ramping above expectations," he writes. Fidacaro has revised his iPad build forecast for Apple's fourth fiscal quarter from six million to seven million units. His fourth quarter iPad shipment estimate now stands at 4.75 million units, a 45% increase from the third quarter.
Aug 18
KT receives 110,000 pre-orders for the iPhone 4 in nine hours
Korea Telecom (KT), the provider of the iPhone in South Korea, says it's received a total of 110,000 pre-orders for the iPhone 4 in nine hours. "MobileCrunch" (http://macosg.me/2/qe) notes that, by way of comparison, when the 3GS came out in Korea, the company reportedly registered just between 60,000 and 65,000 pre-orders in the first week. The iPhone 4 will launch in South Korea next month.
Aug 18
Apple getting 55% of mobile ad hits
Apple is still getting 55% of mobile ad hits, but the Android is gaining fast (up 690% since January), according to a report by Millennial Media, an independent mobile ad network. According to the report -- as noted by "Fortune" (http://macosg.me/2/q6): ° Android ad requests grew 47% month-over-month. Since January, the platform has grown 690%. ° iOS ad requests increased 24% month-over-month. Since January, the platform has increased 15%. ° RIM ad requests increased 18% month-over-month. Since January, the platform has increased 66%. ° iPad ad requests grew 327% month-over-month.
Aug 18
Apple's Logic, GarageBand in top 10 most popular music...
Digital Music Doctor has announced results of the "Music Software Internet Popularity Index (http://www.digitalmusicdoctor.com/reviews/musicblog/) for the second quarter of 2010. Apple Logic and GarageBand both place in the top 10 most popular music software apps. During the second quarter ImageLine FL Studio traded places with Steinberg Cubase for the second and third positions. Interest in Ableton Live decreased causing it to drop four positions to tenth place. Both Cakewalk Sonar and Adobe Audition showed upward trends, and Audition increased its standing by two positions to rank in the sixth slot. Both MOTU Digital Performer and Sony Sound Forge increased their showing by two positions to rank eighth and ninth respectively. The ten most popular music software products on the Internet, based on recent search engine activity, are: Avid Pro Tools, FL Studio, Steinberg Cubase, Cakewalk Sonar, Apple Logic, Adobe Audition, Apple GarageBand, Sony Sound Forge, MOTU Digital Performer and...
Aug 18
Logitech unveils new illuminated keyboard
Logitech (http://www.logitech.com) has introduced the rechargeable Logitech Wireless Illuminated Keyboard K800, which features ambient light and motion sensors. It's due later this month for US$99.99. The keyboard is designed to ensure that you have the right amount of backlight when you need it, while conserving battery life when you don’t, says Denis Pavillard, vice president of product marketing for Logitech’s keyboards and desktops. It includes the PerfectStroke key system and Logitech Incurve keys The Wireless Illuminated K800 backlighting automatically adjusts based on the amount of light in the room using ambient light sensors. Motion sensors detect your hands as they approach to turn the backlighting on and to turn it back off when your hands move away. As a result, you’ll enjoy up to 10 days of battery life without recharging, according to Pavillard. The Wireless Illuminated K800's micro-USB cable lets you recharge while you type. Due to the recharging, you’ll never need to...
Aug 18
SanDisk introduces world's smallest 64GB solid state drive
SanDisk (http://www.sandisk.com) has announced the first product in a new category of embedded solid state drives (SSD) that are smaller than a postage stamp and offer higher capacities and performance than existing storage solutions. The SanDisk integrated SSD (iSSD), the first product within this new category, is designed for use in fast-growing mobile computing platforms such as tablet computers and ultra-thin notebooks. And perhaps future iPads? The SanDisk iSSD offers 160MB/second sequential read and 100MB/second sequential write speeds for greater system responsiveness. With no moving parts, the tiny, robust drive is designed to deliver the durability needed by portable devices that are frequently dropped or jostled, says Doron Myersdorf, senior director, SSD marketing, SanDisk. The SanDisk iSSD is available now for sampling to original equipment manufacturers, and is being evaluated by top-tier manufacturers. Measuring 16mm x 20mm x 1.85mm and weighing less than one gram, the...
 
AAPL
$282.52
Apple Inc.
-1.23
MSFT
$24.38
Microsoft Corpora
-0.11
GOOG
$525.62
Google Inc.
-0.17
MacTech Search:
Community Search:

Introducing the App Hall of Fame!
App discoverability continues to be a real issue. With the fast churn of apps in the App Store, an app has only a few weeks of promotional life in it before it‚Äôs largely forgotten. There are a few things developers can do to fix that, but those... | Read more »
Gobliiins Are Coming
In the midst of the huge Q4 launch schedule, the cult classic, Gobliiins, as well as the rest of the trilogy, are being ported to the iPhone in all of their original glory. The Goblins trilogy was a quirky Atari/Amiga game series from the early 90‚Äôs... | Read more »
myPhoneDesktop – Chrome to iPhone Extens...
Anyone who has used myPhoneDesktop knows that it is a fantastic tool for streamlining your onscreen workflow. Instead of having to type line after line into your phone directly, you can use myPhoneDesktop to type from your computer directly into... | Read more »
Classes Review
Developer: Dustlab Price: $0.99 Version Reviewed: 2.4.7 iPhone Integration Rating: 3 out of 5 stars User Interface Rating: 4 out of 5 stars Re-use / Replay Value Rating: 3 out of 5 stars Overall Rating: 3.33 out of 5 stars | Read more »
AutoVerbal Talking Soundboard Pro helps...
Being able to speak and communicate with others is something that many of us take for granted. It‚Äôs not so easy for many folks though, in particular for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, as well as those who have suffered various brain... | Read more »
Pocketbooth Review
Developer: Project Box Price: $0.99 Version Reviewed: 1.0 iPhone Integration Rating: 4 out of 5 stars User Interface Rating: 4 out of 5 stars Re-use / Replay Value Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars Overall Rating: 4.17 out of 5 stars | Read more »
Get Your Roast Right With ‘Time To Roast...
Roasting meat, in the cooking world, is about as simple as it gets. The greatest roast recipe I‚Äôve ever found is from Michael Ruhlman‚Äôs website, with the recipe titled, ‚ÄúThe World‚Äôs Most Difficult Roasted Chicken Recipe.‚Äù | Read more »

All contents are Copyright 1984-2010 by Xplain Corporation. All rights reserved. Theme designed by Icreon.
Greetings, and welcome to the new MacTech web site! Our home page is designed to be your Industry Dashboard -- so you can have a snapshot of all that's relevant in the industry in one easy location. Many readers tell us that because the information is updated so frequently, they are now checking the site multiple times a day. Here's a quick run down of the features on the new web site, which can be subtle. We truly hope you register so that we can keep you up to date about new features as they are implemented. And, please use the BETA button in the top right to provide us any feedback, suggestions or bugs. We love to hear from you.