TechSmith Corp., a provider of screen capture and recording solutions, has released a new version of Jing (http://www.jingproject.com/), which offers a way to add screen-captured images and videos to any online conversation by sharing a link. Jing is compatible with Mac OS X 10.4.9 and higher. Jing Pro users can now switch back and forth between their screen video and their webcam video to add more personality, make a quick introduction, send a video postcard, record a video greeting, and more, according to Tony Dunckel, Jing product manager at TechSmith. With Jing, computer users can capture an image (screenshot) or create a screen recording (screencast) of what they see on their computer screen and share it instantly by pasting a link to the content in IM or email, posted on forums, and shared on Twitter and social networking sites like MySpace and Facebook -- or anywhere else a link can be pasted. When the link is clicked, the viewer sees the Jing-captured image or video...

Other World Computing (http://www.macsales.com) has announced the availability of new memory and data storage upgrade options and a US$200 price reduction on brand new units of the Axiotron Modbook, the world's only Mac-based tablet computer that lets users draw and write directly on the screen. OWC is an exclusive US-based distributor for Modbook, as well as being an Axiotron Authorized System Manufacturer (AASM) and fully certified to convert existing MacBooks into full-featured Modbooks via the Modservice program. OWC offers consumers a variety of Modbook "build to order" customization options. A new 13.3-inch Modbook tablet computer starts at US$1,899.00 (including instant rebate) and comes standard with a Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz processor, 2GB of memory, 120GB internal hard drive, an 8X Dual-Layer SuperDrive, and WAAS enabled GPS (while supplies last). Both base unit and custom configured orders with new performance upgrades like memory up to 6GB, internal hard drive storage up to...

Portrait Professional 9 (http://www.PortraitProfessional.com) is new portrait airbrushing software for Mac OS X (10.4 and higher) and Windows (2000/XP/Vista). For any given face, the software creates custom controls specifically to enhance that particular face. For example, if the face has a heavy jaw or double chin, Portrait Professional's "jaw slider" control will reduce the fatness of the jaw. On the other hand, if the jaw was rather weak or small, the slider would subtly enlarge it. The software contains over 100 "intelligent" sliders of this nature, plus an automatic touch-up brush to give the user fine control over the appearance of the face and hair, according to the developers. In addition, Portrait Professional 9 incorporates new patent applied for ClearSkinT skin beautifying technology. This enables skin defects such as acne, blotchiness, roughness, wrinkles, age spots, grease and other skin problems to be automatically removed leaving the skin looking natural and well...

Freeverse has updated Comic Life (http://plasq.com/comiclife/) -- software from developer plasq for creating comics, picture albums and instruction booklets, to version 1.5. The upgrade introduces features such as easy Single Page Comic creation with drag and drop ability, comic import capabilities, single-click page element adds, and much more. Version 1.5 also improves Comic Life Deluxe with easier page and image importing and resizing, translation and other minor bug fixes. Comic Life Deluxe costs US$29.95 and is available from Apple Stores and better Mac retailers worldwide. A 30-day demo is available for download. Comic Life requires Mac OS X 10.3.9 or higher.

Tiffen (http://www.tiffen.com) has introduced two new apps for the iPhone and iPod touch. Cool fx allows the user to select from 172 visual presets that simulate a variety of color and black & white film looks, diffusion, motion picture film stocks and optical lab processes. Cool fx is made up of customizable Black & White, Color, Diffusion, Grain, and Temperature preset groups. The app complements Tiffen's Photo fx software. Cool fx costs US$2.99 and is available at the Apple App Store. Photo fx software features 26 filters/effects with slider controls for a range of custom effects within five different groups and a range of 27 different film looks. It's available at the Apple App Store for $2.99, as well.

Timepodz (http://www.timepodz.com/) is a new iPhone/iPod app that offers "offers many interesting ways to celebrate age, anniversaries and other milestones." Ticking Timepodz can calculate age in seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks and months. They can also be used to calculate measurements of bodily functions such as heartbeats, breaths, blinks and sweat. The app can also track up to 10 friends. A Shaker feature displays random Timepodz. There's also a Funky Fact and Feature Finder that you access by using the accelerometer. Timepodz costs US$1.99 and is available at the Apple App Store. A subscription to Timepodz via the web is priced at $2.99 and includes extra features such as celebrity Timepodz, customizable Timepodz and free downloadable desktop app.

Spatial View, a developer of 3D image processing and autostereoscopic display technologies, has announced the introduction of Wazabee 3DeeInterlacing SDK and Wazabee 3DeeInterlacer to allow third party developers to create 3D games, applications and video content for the iPhone 3G. Combined with the Wazabee 3DeeShell and its current suite of applications, iPhone app developers will be able to create and view applications in vivid 3D. The 3DeeInterlacing SDK contains tools for developers to create 3D content for the iPhone, including a runtime component that allows games and applications to run in 3D when using the 3DeeShell. Additional elements include implementation examples, a user implementation guide, developer license, and end user licensing agreement. The 3DeeInterlacing SDK is compatible with the Mac operating system and is available to download for free at http://www.wazabee.net/sdk. The 3DeeInterlacer enables content creators, licensees and production houses to interlace...

Yenco has updated Finance (http://www.yenco.com/finance), a Mac OS X app for keeping track of your bank accounts and budgets, to version 6.0. It's designed to help you manage your checking, savings and credit card accounts, create a budget and provides time-saving tools for entering data such as repeating transactions, automatic budget distributions, and moving funds within accounts from a single transaction. It also includes fast searching of accounts as you type, a sidebar for quick access to accounts, and more. Finance 6 is a shareware application. You can evaluate it free for 15 times to try out its features and decide if you like it before you buy it. Finance 6 requires Mac OS X 10.4 or later. Registered Finance 5 users can enter their existing code into the registration window for a special discount.

Audrey Charm (http://www.audreycharm.com) has introduced Swarovski decor frames for the iPhone 3G. All Swarovski is handmade with Swarovski crystals. Made from silver, gold, or chromium plated metal, each frame features protective neoprene inner lining, cutouts for access to all ports and controls, as well as holes for attaching a lanyard or decorative charm, and either pink, clear, or black Swarovski crystals on the front. Audrey Charm's Swarovski decorative frames for the iPhone 3G is available now and are priced at US$66. Audrey Charm is in honor of actress Audrey Hepburn. In her later years, she worked as an ambassador for UNICEF to raise awareness about children in need. For every product sold, Audrey Charm will donate 10 percent of our income to the organization that selected for child as a respect and support to Audrey Hepburn's spirit.

Vemedio has released Snowtape (http://www.snowtape.com/) for Mac OS X. It enables users to listen and record live internet radio with the touch of one button. Snowtape provides a interface that enables the user to search, sort and organize radio stations and recorded audio tracks. Snowtape is able to store thousands of radio stations. Users can search for a particular station add it to the list and sort by, for example, genre and bandwidth. They can also be marked as favorites. Snowtape is able to cut the recordings at audio track boundaries automatically and it identifies potential commercials or interludes. With the built-in track editor users can cut out any interfering audio. When exporting to iTunes the audio track is encoded to high quality AAC audio and saved right onto an iTunes playlist. Album artwork and track titles are automatically exported as iTunes Audio Tags and get incorporated directly into the audio track during export. Snowtape can import .PLS and .M3U internet...

FUNDimensions has just released version 7.4 of their flagship fundraising product. FUNDimensions 7.4 includes several enhancements to the Event Management module. The enhancements is designed to make it easier to set up a new event, assign donors to groups, teams, tables or other seating, and track fundraising results in real-time. This is in addition to printing of tickets, name tags and placecards, thank you note facilities, and event reporting. The folks at FUNDimensions are offering an US$1,000 price drop on all new purchases of the software through Sept.1. This is the first time FUNDimensions has been put on sale: the price drop puts the starting price for FUNDimensions at just $1,500. The software is available for immediate download at the web site (http://www.fundimensions.com). This version is a free upgrade to licensees of version 7.0 or higher. A free working demo is also available for download.

touch. It's available at a special introductory price of US$0.99 at the Apple App Store (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=316983745). In Tankz you control one of three futuristic hover tanks in a non-stop battle against enemy towers and tanks, while you search for and collect all of the flags to complete the game. Enemy tanks patrol areas of each level, but if you get too close or shoot them from the distance, they will hunt you down and destroy you. Watch out for enemy proximity mines that get dropped around the level. Tankz features: ° Three differing hover tanks to choose from with varying speed and turn capabilities due to size and weight; ° 3D levels, including higher platform areas you can get onto; ° Particle effects and projectile trails; ° Single finger movement controls, including tilt to turn, forward and reverse, and sideways movement to strafe; ° Controls that can be set for left or right handed players; ° Two game play modes: Best Time...

Christian James (http://www.paygosaas.com), the makers of PayGo SaaS, have announced an upgrade to their Mac compatible, SaaS-based retail service that brings a speed increase to their real-time POS solution. The speed improvement is a result of PayGo's underlying technology, Servoy, which is an eclipse-based IDE, says Laura Haapala-Peterson, co-founder of the company. The newest release has vast improvements in compression and a reduction in round-trip communication between server and client. The company has provided a free demo on their website for people interested in test-driving a fully-functional solution. The pricing structure can be found here: http://www.christianjames.net/shop/home.php?cat=26

Native Instruments has released Deep Reconstructions (http://www.native-instruments.com/Deepreconstructions.info), a collection of multi-effects based on the sound processing features of the Kore platform. The new Kore SoundPack provides advanced effect configurations that can be used to tweak and transform audio material for direct use in Kore 2 and in the free Kore Player. Complementing the Deep Transformations library, the second multi-FX collection in the Kore SoundPack arsenal provides time-based effects configurations that can alter and rearrange beats, melody lines, vocals and any other audio material. Deep Reconstructions offers 150 effect patches with 1,200 sound variations, which draw on both the Kore effect algorithms and on the integrated engines of Reaktor, Absynth and Guitar Rig for their signal processing power. Through icombinations of delay, reverb, modulation, pitch shifting, resampling, filtering and dynamics processing, signals can be sliced, frozen and sequenced....

AUSTIN, Texas - May 28, 2009 - MacUpdate has kicked off its Spring 2009 software bundle, the most ambitious bundle the company has launched to date. Featuring 11 first-rate Mac applications including two major commercial titles, Micromat's TechTool Pro 5 and Parallels Desktop 4, the bundle delivers more than $500 worth of software for just $49.99. http://macte.ch/deals/ Included in the bundle: * TechTool Pro 5 ($98): Just released in January, TechTool Pro 5 is the newest version of Micromat's acclaimed disk utility. TechTool Pro 5 will keep your Mac running in top shape! Check the health of your RAM and hard drives, repair problems, optimize performance, and be ready in case disaster ever strikes! Buyers will receive a link to download a bootable DVD image of the software to burn, which can be used to boot and fix all but the newest March 2009 Macs. Notable Mentions: MacFormat Choice Award (5/5 rating), 4/5 rating from Macworld U.S., 4.5/5 rating from MacUser UK * Parallels 4 ($79.99...

Verbatim (http://www.verbatim.com/index.cfm) has added a new speaker keyboard and two new mice to its Mac accessory line. The new TuneBoard Speaker Keyboard integrates with iTunes for controlling music playback. It includes multimedia keys for muting, volume adjustment, play, pause, previous track and next track control. Two hot keys let you switch the enhanced bass on and off and switch on the backlit luminescence to improve key visibility and to set the mood. Equipped with a built-in mini-microphone, headphone and mic connection, the Verbatim TuneBoard is fully compatible with Skype and other VOIP software. Verbatim's new Bluetooth Notebook Laser Mouse and Desktop Wireless Laser Mouse include Mac software. The new mice also incorporate laser technology with "super-precise" tracking for smoother cursor movement on a variety of surfaces. And they have a laser sensor that can be switched to up to 1,600 dpi (dots per inch). Both models also offer tilt wheel navigation for four-way...

Scion (http://www.scion.com) today announced the Scion Radio 17 Beats Per Minute (BPM) Meter application for the iPhone and iPod touch. It's available on the Apple App Store (http:// www.itunes.com/appstore/.) for free. The app, developed by EpicTilt.com, automatically calculates the BPM of a song as users tap the screen to the song's rhythm. After recording the song's BPM, users can create playlists by genre and send their song lists with corresponding BPM info to themselves and others for use in the planning of live sets and recorded mixes. "Scion is always looking for ways to keep its customers engaged with the brand so we created the 'Scion Radio 17 BPM Meter' with unique create-and-share playlist abilities to appeal to our trendsetting and tech savvy audience of iPhone and iPod touch users," said Jeri Yoshizu, Scion sales promotions manager. "Additionally, given the fact that Scion has always worked with DJs and respected their culture, we wanted to give our audience a useful...

Luxology LLC is continuing its European Roadshow by hosting a modo 401 launch event in Paris on Wednesday, June 17, at 2:30 pm. The event will serve as a platform for Luxology to debut the newest version of the company's 3D modeling, painting and rendering software, modo 401. A modo 401 demonstration, using Roadshow sponsor Wacom's latest Intuos tablet technology, will be given by Andy Brown, Luxology's training division manager and Gregory Duquesne, a Luxology senior engineer. Representatives from game development leader Black Rock Studio will be speaking at the launch event to demonstrate how they use modo to create original games. Cedric Guibert of standardnonstandard will also demonstrate how modo fits within his workflow pipeline and Jacques Defontaine, modo 401 beta tester and independent graphic design professional with varied experience at Weta Digital, Grid and Casterman, will be on hand to answer questions about recent projects created using modo 401. Event location and date...

In-Poculis Mahjong (http://www.in-poculis.com) is a new Mahjong solitaire game freeware for the Mac. The US$15 game comes with 120 levels and six themes: Christmas, Halloween, Asian, Easter, Wonderland and Future. Here's how the game is described: "How to play: find matching mahjong pieces amongst the plethora and click them to get them off the screen. All of the mahjong pieces can be cleared, but it takes some discipline, strategy, and a little bit of luck to win the five medals of each theme."

The Enterprise Desktop Alliance has announced new webinar to help IT professionals learn how to integrate Macs into their Windows environment. "Integrating the Mac into a Windows Infrastructure -- 5 Case Studies" will be held on Tuesday, June 2, at 10 am (Pacific). Participants will see: ° Five case studies that demonstrate how your peers are deploying, integrating and managing Macs in their organizations; ° How to meet the needs of the business and the users when integrating Macs; ° Strategies and technologies that keep the total cost of Mac ownership comparable to Windows systems. Learn more by visiting the Enterprise Desktop Alliance web site at http://www.enterprisedesktopalliance.com/

Rod Cambridge today announced that his iPhone app Top-Tens (http://www.itunes.com/apps/top-tens) now tracks the top 10 rumors surrounding the third generation iPhone. The imminent release of the third generation iPhone has caused large amounts of speculation about the new hardware and software features and capabilities in the new handheld, making it difficult to get a clear picture of what to expect, he says. Top-Tens now keeps a constantly updated, consolidated list of the top 10 rumors -- including their probability -- and links to the various sources providing the information. "As with many people, I can't wait to see the third generation iPhone, and so I thought it would be cool to add a top 10 rumors section to my iPhone app," Cambridge, developer of Top-Tens says. "This now enables anyone who's interested in the upcoming iPhone to be 'on the pulse' with regard to rumors at all times. Any Top-Tens users who are excited about the next generation iPhone can now easily keep tabs...

Bluelounge (http://www.bluelounge.com) has introduced CableDrop, an adjustable cable clip that helps reconfigure one's desktop in a multitude of ways. Designed by emerging industrial designer Greg Fulco, the Bluelounge CableDrop can be fixed behind or onto any desktop or adjacent walls and furniture. CableDrop is offered in two different packs, either in muted colors (Off White, Rust, Warm Grey) or bright fun colors (orange, pink, lime green). They cost is US$9.95 for a pack of six, and is available for purchase right away through . CableDrop comes in a dual color scheme. The muted color set compliments and blends in with typical office & home furniture, while the bright lively color set allows one to make a personal statement, according to Greg Fulco, designer of CableDrop. CableDrop's contours are smooth and natural, as though hand-sculpted, he adds. CableDrop is made from Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU). A durable peel-off adhesive on the back of each CableDrop means it can be...

Zensify (http://www.zensify.com/) has released a free (for now) application for the iPhone and iPod touch, allowing users to aggregate, update, search and discover information across multiple social networks and web services. Zensify aggregates all your social networks into a single feed, which allows you to discover the trends and information across your entire social graph. A multi-functional product, Zensify enhances the social network "power-user" experience, by combining updates from the following services into one news feed: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, Digg, Delicious, Photobucket and 12seconds. A social network aggregator, Zensify allows you to simultaneously update both Twitter and Facebook. It allows you to share videos, pictures and music across your entire social graph, making it a "lifestreaming" solution, according to the folks at Zensify. A built-in web browser enables the viewing of web sites and integrated video playback is available without leaving the...

Speck has released the TechStyle Case for the iPod shuffle (second and third generations). It's designed to keep the iPod shuffle bruise and scratch-free and your earbud cords organized and ready for hassle-free listening, according to Bryan Hynecek, lead designer at Speck. When done listening to your tunes, place your iPod shuffle into the cradle, wind your earbud cords around the organizer, zip up the case and you're ready to go or attach it to a purse, briefcase or travel bag with the included metal carabineer clip. The TechStyle also allows you to enjoy your iPod shuffle while stored inside the casep simply route the earbud cord outside and zip back up. The TechStyle case includes a removable adapter that allows latest third-generation iPod shuffle owners to use the TechStyle with both second and third generation iPod shuffle models. The oversized zipper pull allows the case to be opened and closed. The case also features a removable metal carabineer clip for attaching the...

WebDNA Software Corp., a developer of Internet technology products, has released WebDNA 6.2, an update of the server-side scripting language that's designed to simplify the creation of complex e-commerce sites, web applications, and intranet office automation solutions. The new version introduces: ° A built-in database: you can create an unlimited number of RAM-centric WebDNA databases or interact with MySQL, Microsoft SQL, Oracle or PostGres databases; ° A single syntax system: database syntax is built-in to the WebDNA language; ° Multiple platform support: WebDNA runs on Mac OS X, Windows, Solaris and Linux; ° Enhanced security: automatic encryption option protects sensitive order information. WebDNA 6.2 for Mac OS X and Linux and OSX is available today at the WebDNA store: http://store.webdna.us. WebDNA 6.2 for Windows will be available in the third quarter of the year. The WebDNA 6.2 Developer Edition is available at no charge. This fully functional, single domain version allows...

LaCie (http://www.lacie.com) has announced three new lines of mobile and desktop hard drive bags -- the LaCie Cover, LaCie Coat and LaCie Cozy, all designed by Sam Hecht. They're made with different materials, for varying levels of protection. Designed for lightweight protection and mobility, the LaCie Cover provides a soft, thin, second skin for your hard drive. It also sports an inside accessory pocket mean for storing cables. Designed for versatility, the LaCie Coat offers a padded bubble pattern and a design that allows users to reverse the Coat, revealing the inner sueded fabric, for two bags in one. A hidden pocket allows users to keep their cables and accessories close. Alternately, for users who desire robust hard drive protection, the LaCie Cozy offers a sturdy outer layer. Made of EVA, it has a rigid exterior and a flexible outside pocket for carrying bulky peripherals, supplies, and accessories. The inside of the Cozy shows a softer side, lined with memory foam to protect...

Boris FX, a developer of integrated effects technology for video and film, has announced that Boris Continuum Complete 6 FxPlug (BCC 6 FxPlug) for Apple Pro Video Applications is now available. BCC 6 FxPlug brings over 200 filters to Apple Final Cut Pro, Motion, and Final Cut Express. In addition to new features included with the recently-released Boris Continuum Complete 6 AE for Adobe -- such as Extruded Text, Splines, and Shapes -- BCC 6 FxPlug takes advantage of Apple FxPlug's real-time architecture for simultaneous live previews of dozens of preset transitions, glows, and color and film look effects in a newly-designed effects browser window. The initial release of BCC 6 FxPlug features over a dozen new FxPlug Shaders. Many of the FxPlug Shaders draw on BCC strengths such as lights, keying, and 3D, according to the folks at Boris. FxPlug Shaders are unique to Final Cut Pro, Final Cut Express, and Motion, tying directly to each host application's render pipe. Boris Continuum...

Boinx Software has announced the availability of FotoMagico Remote to control a live FotoMagico 3 slideshow with iPhone or iPod touch. To help presenters with their live narration, FotoMagico Remote also includes a teleprompter that displays a thumbnail and the speaker notes for the currently displayed slide. FotoMagico Remote can be puchased exclusively at the iTunes App Store for $19.95. "Using the FotoMagico Remote on stage gives you unprecedented control and makes you look cool," says Oliver Breidenbach, CEO of Boinx Software. "Adding this to your iPhone or iPhone touch comes much cheaper than buying one of the less stylish and less useful hardware remote control devices on the market." A fullscreen presentation with FotoMagico 3 can now be remotely controlled with the "FotoMagico Remote" application on iPhone or iPod touch. FotoMagico Remote provides playback remote control and a teleprompter right in your palm. You can read your notes and get a visual feedback of the duration...

Toon Boom Animation Inc. today announced the release of Toon Boom Animate Pro, the high-performance animation software for professionals. Toon Boom Animate Pro is the most complete professional animation software for serious animators, offering award winning state-of-the-art content creation, animation and compositing toolset for any animation style within a single all-in-one desktop application. "At Toon Boom, when it comes to building a strong and tightly-knit animation community, we believe in giving more for less. This is why today we are releasing the most advanced animation software for professional animators at an incredibly low price. In addition this gives professional animators the opportunity to join the global Toon Boom community," shared Joan Vogelesang, President and Chief Executive Officer at Toon Boom. Here is what Adam Phillips, has to say about Animate Pro: "Animate Pro.. How can such a serious beast be so much fun? I'm finding it's as addictive as any game, so...

There's no lack of advice available for how to run a Mac efficiently and solve pesky problems, but it's scattered all over the Internet. A pair of new ebooks from TidBITS Publishing Inc. - "Take Control of Maintaining Your Mac, Second Edition" and "Take Control of Troubleshooting Your Mac" - help Mac users achieve peak performance from their Macs and handle any problems that might occur. The ebooks, both written by award-winning author Joe Kissell, are available individually for $10 or in a bundle for $16 at http://www.takecontrolbooks.com/ "Take Control of Maintaining Your Mac, Second Edition" looks at how to start on the right foot with keeping your Mac running smoothly, and then it explains weekly, monthly, and yearly tasks that help readers enjoy peak performance and avoid pesky problems. Along with telling reader what to do, it includes a section about what not to do, explaining several time-consuming tasks that don't provide any real benefits. Particular questions answered in...

Macte! Labs, a developer of extensions for Mac OS X, has released the Macte! Safari Toolbar. This extension increases functionality of the Safari web browser and features multi-engine search functionality (such as Google and Yahoo) and access to many web services. Other features will include email check, currency rates, stock prices, and web page translation. Macte! Labs also plan to provide an order service for custom branded toolbars for Safari. "With growing popularity, Safari is currently the world's third most popular browser," says Anton Vorobiev of Macte!. "However, although highly regarded for its stability, speed and simplicity, Safari lacks add-ons when compared with other popular browsers. For instance, Firefox users can take advantage of hundreds of available extensions. But for Safari there is no official extensions architecture, and it is generally believed that any Safari extension is a hack of Mac OS and the Safari browser. In order to overcome this problem, Macte!...

Syntext, Inc. (http://www.syntext.com) has released a free edition (http://www.syntext.com/products/serna-free/) of its Serna WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get XML editor. Serna Free provides a lightweight solution for students, open source developers, and other users to work with DITA, DocBook, and other popular XML formats. Together with the release of Serna Enterprise 4, Syntext has provided the XML community with Serna Free Edition that has all the essential features necessary for individual authors, says says Paul Antonov. The current Serna Free functionality makes it the most powerful free XML editor available, he adds. At any time, authors can upgrade their Serna Free to the Enterprise Edition, which enables enterprise-oriented features such as integration with content management systems, collaborative authoring, and customization APIs (application programming interfaces) and tools. Serna incorporates the on-the-fly XSL-driven technology for flexible presentation, profiling...

Class on Demand, a provider of professional educational products for creative markets, announced its next Adobe self-paced training title "Fundamentals of Adobe Photoshop Elements 7." The new training release is lead by one of Class on Demand's most sought after digital media designers, industry guru Sue Jenkins. An expert in Adobe tools for print and web, Sue is an accomplished designer and published author with years of experience developing exceptional Class on Demand self-paced training for Adobe products. The new Class on Demand self-paced training for Adobe Photoshop Elements 7 provides users of all levels an ideal guide for mastering the highly popular and feature rich application. "Our customers are always looking for ways to get the most out of their experience with Adobe products and the Class on Demand educational products are a great resource for people who want to work at their own pace," said Bob Gager, Group Product Manager for Photoshop Elements at Adobe. "The new DVD...

Epson America has introduced the Artisan 50, a single function ink jet printer designed for printing digital photos and everyday projects. Priced at US$99.99 (estimated street price), this compact printer lets users print their own images and text onto ink jet printable CDs and DVDs. It can also print documents, e-mails and itineraries at print speeds up to 38 ppm (pages per miniute) in color, and laser-quality speeds of 5 ppm black and 4.8 ppm color. The Artisan 50 includes Auto Photo Correction and red-eye removal. You can save paper with two-sided printing. The Artison users Epson's exclusive MicroPiezo ink jet technology. It offers better-than-lab-quality photos that are smudge, scratch, water3 and fade resistant, according to Steve Semos, product manager, consumer ink jets, Epson America. The Epson Artisan 50 will be available in June through major computer, office and electronic superstores, a variety of retail stores nationwide, mail order, PC manufacturers, the Internet, and...

Human Software (http://www.humansoftware.com) has updated HSC Edit for Aperture (Apple's software for pro photographers) to version 1.7.5. HSC Edit is an edit plug-in to Apple Aperture that offers more than 4,000 effects to apply on one or a set of images. Version 1.7.5 is now made of 17 modules that can be purchased separately or as a whole. HSC Edit also now features high quality image resizing without leaving Aperture. HSC Edit 1.7.5 is available for download at US$69.95 per module, $29.95 for the Multi-Curves module and $49.95 for the image enhancer -- or $299.95 as a bundle.

Landon Fuller posted a proof-of-concept exploit for an unpatched vulnerability in the Java Runtime Environment currently in use by OS X. While this particular proof-of-concept is meant to be harmless, the vulnerability itself currently affects OS X, including OS X 10.5.7, the latest shipping version of OS X. This vulnerability could be exploited to perform "drive-by-downloads" commonly used as a means to infect computers with spyware, or any arbitrary command with the permissions of the executing user. All a user has to do is visit a web page hosting a malicious java applet to be exploited. Until Apple patches their implementation of Java, we recommend that users disable Java applets in their web browser. Users can disable Java applets in Safari by opening Safari preferences, clicking the Security tab, and unchecking the "enable java" checkbox. Users should also disable the 'open "safe" files after downloading' option under the General tab of the Safari preferences. This vulnerability...

Visionaire Design has released its third iPhone application: Run From Hell. Run From Hell was designed specifically for the iPhone and iPod touch, taking advantage of the touch-screen, sound capabilities, and high-resolution graphics. In the innovative game, there is a little demon trapped in the bowels of Hell. You have to get him to Paradise by jumping on the falling rocks without getting squashed between them, dodging the devils shooting fiery pitchforks, and not fall into the fire of hell that rises higher and higher. There are five levels, with Paradise being at the end of the fifth level; A surprise waits in Paradise if you're good enough to make it there. The game keeps track of high scorers, so you can try to beat the top score. The game has a special introductory price of US$0.99. It's available at the Apple App Store.

QNAP Systems has announced a 2.5-inch SATA HDD, 4-bay, Intel Atom-based SS-439 Pro Turbo NAS dedicated to SMB and SOHO users. Designed with Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz CPU, 1GB DDRII memory, and DOM (Disk on Module) architecture, the SS-439 Pro is the most compact, powerful, and power-saving 2.5" 4-bay NAS that supports RAID 5/ RAID 6 for highly secure data protection. The NAS supports four 2.5-inch SATA hard drives which are featured with high stability, low power consumption, low vibration, and longer life expectancy. With excellent cooling and energy-saving design, the power consumption of the NAS with four hard drives installed is as low as 18W. Moreover, the SS-439 Pro supports 3 USB 2.0 ports and 2 eSATA ports for storage capacity expansion and backup destination, and advanced features such as built-in iSCSI target service (max 8 iSCSI devices) with Thin Provisioning, Online RAID Capacity Expansion, Online RAID Level Migration, AES 256-bit volume-based encryption, Wake on LAN,...

Objective Development Software has updated Little Snitch (http://www.obdev.at/products/littlesnitch/index.html), the Mac OS X software that provides a firewall to protect your Mac against unwanted guests, to version 2.1.3. The upgrade adds support for guest accounts, introduces global, computer-wide rules that are valid for all users, provides improved "Fast User Switching" support and improved support for network user accounts. The upgrade to Little Snitch 2.1.3 is free for all Little Snitch 2 licensees. The full version is available starting at $29.95. Little Snitch includes a free, full featured, time limited trial license.

Developer Andrew Alex and Paradigma Software have released Beezy 1.0 (http://beezy.org.uk) for the iPhone and iPod touch. It's available for US$2.99 at the Apple App Store. This price is good through June 8. Beezy is a time tracker for creative professionals. With it you can track time sessions of your work, interviews, concerts, sports exercises and more, using Before and After pictures instead of words. Beezy requires iPhone/iPod touch OS 2.1 or later. All updates are free.

QStar Technologies (http://www.qstar.com), a global leader in archiving, data protection and compliance solutions, today announced that its popular HSM archive platform is now available for Apple Mac OS X v10.5 (Snow Leopard). With an extensive global install base on other operating systems, HSM's advanced archiving and storage device management capabilities are now available for Apple Macintosh users, adding to QStar's list of supported operating systems and markets. For the first time, the HSM platform provides a sophisticated storage solution supporting mixed RAID, optical (Blu-ray) and tape (LTO, SAIT, SDLT) technologies within the Apple environment. Built for enterprise-level demands, HSM is a complete storage platform that automatically manages the migration and lifecycle of data across multiple tiers of storage. The HSM solution architecture is based on the resilient 3-2-1 model* with high performance RAID storage, backed by a secure optical or tape archive and complete...

SecureMac is pleased to announce MacScan 2.6.1, the latest version of its award-winning anti-spyware program. This new version of MacScan enhances protection against the latest threats for Mac OS X, adding usability enhancements and bug fixes. Additionally, MacScan 2.6.1 contains an improved user interface plus the latest spyware definitions and tracking cookie blacklist. Upgrades from previous versions of MacScan 2 are free, and can be obtained by either selecting "Check for Updates" under the "MacScan" menu, or by downloading the demo version from http://macscan.securemac.com and entering your serial number. The demo can be registered for $29.99 using Paypal or credit card, either through the built-in registration system, or via the MacScan webstore at http://macscan.securemac.com. MacScan Family Pack lets you install the popular MacScan antispyware software on up to three computers for only $49.99. Existing users of MacScan can upgrade the single license to the MacScan Family...

Project management consultants, ProjectWizards (http://www.projectwizards.net), has released: Merlin 2.7, an update of the professional project management solution for Mac OS X; Merlin Server 2.7, the dedicated server companion to Merlin enabling centralized project management; and Merlin iPhone 1.01, a new version of the official mobile companion product for Merlin. We've answered customers requests to offer centralized project management to ease the sharing of projects, thanks to Merlin Server, says ProjectWizards CEO Frank Blome. In addition to the new Merlin iPhone and Merlin Server companion products, Merlin 2.7 includes enhancements to increase stability, ease of use, and overall performance, he adds.

Case-Mate (http://www.case-mate.com/) has released the FUEL, an US$79.99 phone case and charger for the iPhone and Blackberry Bold. It charges your phone's battery while offering protection. Built into the soft-grip holster case is a certified, rechargeable lithium polymer battery. According to the folks at Case-Mate, talk time, standby time, and internet usage are all extended by 2.5 times for the iPhone and 1.5 times for the Blackberry Bold. There's an on/off button that makes the FUEL more efficient by only drawing power when you need it. This is the first-ever holster case with a built-in battery pack for the Blackberry BOLD, and the first-ever holster designed battery case for the iPhone, according to the Case-Mates.

Digipower (http://www.digipowersolutions.com), makers of mobile power solutions for electronic devices, has announced the Jumpstart family of universal chargers led by its flagship product, the $49.99 Jumpstart Sport. The devices provide portable power in a slim design. The Jumpstart Sport sports a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery pack that comes with cable and connectors for a series of popular cell phones, for smartphones including the iPhone or Blackberry, handheld game devices and even portable GPS devices. It can be recharged using a supplied AC wall charger or a USB cable. The Jumpstart Sport has a battery gauge on the device that shows instantly how much power is remaining. A fully charged Jumpstart Sport holds its charge for up to one year, and can charge a device in only 40 minutes, according to Maurice Mizrahi, president of Mizco, parent company of Digipower. The entry level Jumpstart emergency charger (US$14.99) provides instant power for cell phones, adding a couple...

Other World Computing (OWC) has announced the OWC Express USB 2.0 Enclosure (http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/USB2/OWC_Express), a pocket-sized, Mac and PC compatible USB 2.0 bus powered enclosure priced under US$20 that accepts a single 2.5-inch Serial ATA (SATA) I/II hard drive. The two-ounce, near iPhone-sized OWC Express USB 2.0 Enclosure offers bus powered personal storage performance in a portable design. No AC adapter is needed, and an USB connecting cable and carrying sleeve are included. The OWC Express USB 2.0 Enclosure is available in a choice of three colors: Discreet Black, Sleek Silver, and Smooth White. It's available now at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $19.99. It's compatible with Apple OS 8.6 to 9.2.2, OS X 10.0.x, and 10.2.8 or later, and Windows 98SE or later operating systems.

Coladia has released Cleopatra: a Queen's Destiny (http://www.coladia.com/en/cleopatra_mac) for Mac OS X. It's an US$29.95 point-and-click adventure game taking place in Alexandria, Egypt, 48 BC. Here's how the game is described: "The country is divided by civil war pitting Cleopatra's supporters against those of her brother and husband, Ptolemy, who is ravaging the country. In this climate of terror, Thomas, a young apprentice to Akkod, Cleopatra's astrologist and astronomist, falls in love with his master's daughter. One day, in horror, he discovers that both master and daughter have been kidnapped. "Thomas sets out on their trail and learns in the course of his investigations that Cleopatra herself had asked Akkod to make a specific divination, and that the partisan of Ptolemy are behind the kidnapping. Cleopatra promises Thomas that in exchange for the tablets required for the divination, her guards will find the master and his daughter. "Thomas's investigations lead him to the...

Virtual Programming (http://www.vpltd.com) has released Galactic Assault for the Mac. The US$29.95 game works with Mac OS X 10.4.11 or higher. It's Universal Binary so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs. Here's how the game is described: "Thrust yourself into a deep and harrowing story as four unique races battle for supremacy on the planet Saraksh. Each race possesses and can easily develop distinguishable technologies, leading to the presence of vastly different heavy armored units, transport units and aviation units on the battlefield. The battles take place among vivid extraterrestrial landscapes in 3D with day and night changes as well as dynamic weather conditions that affect the gameplay. In addition to the interesting story line, Galactic Assault offers a revolutionary tactical combat system, more than 70 unique units of great power and high-definition visuals that will immerse players in a horrendous story of war and survival."

Open-Xchange, a provider of open source groupware, has announced the availability of two software extensions that enable native Mac applications to be used with Open-Xchange and the iPhone to access Open-Xchange groupware. Now, data and groupware information stored on Open-Xchange can be accessed on Macs, or the AJAX-based web interface, or by using Microsoft Outlook on PCs, or virtually any smartphone. With OXtender for Mac OS X, end users can access and edit all information and documents stored on the Open-Xchange server with their familiar desktop Mac applications. This makes Open-Xchange e-mails, appointments, contacts, tasks and documents available to end users through their Mac applications -- Mail, iCal and Addressbook. Even without a connection to the Internet, users can continue to work without interruption. When connected the next time, changes on the Mac and Open-Xchange Server will be synchronized immediately. In addition, with OXtender for Mobile Web all mobile devices...