Deal Spotlight: PDF Nomad
Today's special deal is PDF Nomad for Mac OS X. It's being offered for US$19.99; the regular price is $39.99. To take advantage of this special pricing go to http://www.mupromo.com/deal/1847/6603/pdf+nomad .
PDF Nomad is a PDF editor built from the ground up for Mac OS X 10.7 Lion. It features a variety of ways to take your PDF documents from one place to the next. PDF Nomad provides often used operations like merging multiple documents, as well as more exotic ones like exporting the document's text as a spoken sound file.
Mac OS X software updates for May 7
Here are the latest incremental updates for Mac OS X apps.
RE:Vision Effects (http://www.revisionfx.com) has announced support for Adobe After Effects CS6 and Premiere Pro CS6. In addition to CS6 support, all of RE:Vision Effects' After Effects-compatible plug-ins now come with uninstallers.
Qoppa Software (http://www.qoppa.com) has released PDF Automation Server 3.2 with expanded Word to PDF conversion, including support for conversion of Word files with the .docx extension to PDF. PDF Automation Server is a system to automate PDF workflows.
Apple wins legal sanctions against Samsung
Apple has won sanctions against Samsung for its failure to produce source code in a patent-infringement case in federal court in San Jose, California, reports "Bloomberg" (http://macte.ch/S2gTS). This is the latest development in the ongoing, global battle between the two companies.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Paul S. Grewal wrote in his order that Samsung "plainly violated" a court order requiring it to turn over code to Apple. He also ruled that Samsung won’t be able to offer evidence in the case about its efforts to “design- around” three patents at issue in the case.
In its lawsuit, Apple claims that Samsung’s 4G smartphone and Galaxy Tab 10.1 tablet computer infringe its patents. In December, U.S. District Judge Lucy Koh in San Jose ruled against Apple’s request to block Suwon, South Korea-based Samsung from selling that phone and tablet in the U.S. That order followed an Australian court ruling lifting an injunction on the tablet there.
Study: iPad accounts for 94.64% of all tablet web traffic
Chitika Insights (http://www.chitika.com) says their latest research shows that, based off of impressions across their network, the iPad accounted for 94.64% of all tablet based traffic.
This is impressive in and of itself but to put this number into perspective, the next closest competitor, the Samsung Galaxy tablet, boasts a lack luster market share of 1.22%. Coming in last, in respect to traffic share, was the Barnes and Noble Nook with a meager 0.53% traffic share. In defense of the Nook, it is used primarily as an e-reader, with the capabilities of a tablet, according to Chitika, an online ad network and data analytics firm.
"Going forward the competition is going to be hard pressed to find a way to overthrow the seemingly omnipotent Apple," says Chitika. "Not only do they offer a great product they have the undying devotion of their enthusiasts. Thus far Apple’s iPad offering has been able to thwart any attempt by competitors to develop a rival (or even equivalent product). ...
FTC appears ready to fine Google for iPhone/iPad security breach
The Federal Trade Commission appears ready to fine Google millions of dollars for hacking around privacy settings on iPhones and iPads. Consumer Watchdog filed a complaint in February with the FTC after Stanford Researcher Jonathan Mayer revealed what the Internet giant was doing.
Sara Forden of "Bloomberg News" today reported the Commission is negotiating with Google about how big the fine will be. She cited an unidentified source as saying the fine could amount to more than US$10 million.
"Google hacked past a key privacy setting on iPhones and iPads and other devices using Apple's Safari browser, placed tracking cookies on them and then lied, saying the settings were still effective," says John M. Simpson, Consumer Watchdog's Privacy Project director. "I am delighted the FTC appears ready to take strong action against an obvious violation of Google's promises to honor users' privacy in its 'Buzz' Consent Decree with the Commission."
Under the terms of the consent decree, the FTC...
German court postpones decision in Samsung-Apple case
A German court Friday postponed its decisions on alleged infringement by Samsung Electronics of two Apple patents in the ongoing legal brouhaha, reports "FOSS Patents" (http://macte.ch/ClECc). German regional courts stay patent infringement lawsuits only if a defendant shows a high probability (80%+) of the patent being invalidated, the article adds.
This week it was reported (http://macte.ch/SfT1s) that Apple and Samsung CEOs will meet on May 21 and 22 to try and settle the global, ongoing patent battle. Currently, the legal combat involves 50-plus patents and lawsuits in 10 countries.
The meetings will take place in a San Francisco courthouse, while the litigation itself is before the San Jose division of the court. Apple's original complaint accused Samsung of violating eight patents, and named 17 specific Samsung products that the company felt were infringing upon its own inventions. And at point, the battle was on ....
Tablet shipments predicted to reach 424.9 million units by 2017
Shipments of tablet computers are expected to grow from 81.6 million units in 2011 to 424.9 million units by 2017, according to the latest date from NPD DisplaySearch (http://www.displaysearch.com).
The forecast for 2013 shipments has increased from 168.9 million to 184.2 million. This forecast estimates that in 2016 more tablets will be shipped than notebooks. A growing diversity of operating systems is driving the increase in demand for tablets, as well as rapidly evolving features. At the same time, the capacity of component manufacturing is being increased to meet new market demand.
"So far in this relatively young product category, the tablet computer market has been dominated by Apple and has tended to include a number of competing products that are similarly configured to the iPad," says Richard Shim, NPD DisplaySearch senior Analyst. "However, as the market matures and competitors become better attuned to consumer preferences and find opportunities to break new ground, we...
Ovum: Android to dominate smartphones by 2017
I'd take this latest prediction from the Ovum research group with a grain of salt. Smartphones will outperform the overall market for mobile phones, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.9% for the period 2011–17 to reach 1.7 billion units.
However, Ovum says predictions show Android as the dominant operating system over the next five years as handset vendors rush to make it their primary smartphone platform. In its latest forecast, the telecoms analyst house predicts global annual mobile phone shipments will grow at a CAGR of 6.3% between 2011 and 2017, driven primarily by demand from emerging markets where connection growth will continue to fuel handset shipments. New shipments in developed markets, such as North America and Western Europe, will be almost entirely made up of smartphones, while feature phones will continue to play a small role in emerging markets in 2017.
"Android will dominate the smartphone market over the next five years," says Adam Leach,...
Logitech introduces light-powered protection for the iPad
Logitech (http://www.logitech.com) has expanded both its solar and tablet accessories lineups with the Logitech Solar Keyboard Folio. Made for the newipad, as well as the iPad 2, it's a slim, book-style case and keyboard featuring a built-in keyboard that’s powered by light.
Similar to Logitech’s solar keyboards for Mac and PC, the Logitech Solar Keyboard Folio includes onboard solar cells that charge the built-in Bluetooth keyboard in any light, whether indoors or outdoors. When fully charged, the battery lasts for up to two years, even in complete darkness (based on a average use of two hours per day), says Alexis Richard, director of product marketing at Logitech.
The Logitech Solar Keyboard Folio has two stand positions, so when you want to use your iPad you can choose the viewing angle that’s best for you. Open the folio and place your iPad in the first position to enjoy the full keyboard when you’re typing. Place your iPad in the second position and the first keyboard row acts...
AirBeam Pro enables HD video surveillance with a Mac
Appologics has ported AirBeam, their app for video surveillance on iOS, to the Mac. It requires Mac OS X 10.7.x, costs US$3.99 and is available worldwide exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Video category.
AirBeam Pro streams live video and audio in HD quality from the Mac's camera and microphone across a WiFi or 3G network. The stream can be followed with a web browser or with iPhones, iPods or iPads.
iDevices can be used as remote cameras and watched with the Mac app. Features include: multi camera support for watching several camera devices simultaneously from a single monitor device; multi monitor support for broadcasting a single camera device to multiple monitors at the same time; automatic discovery of AirBeam cameras on a single WiFi network; and high def, low latency streaming with resolution up to HD 720p (1280x720 pixel) and up to 30 frames per second.
Folder Factory lets you change folder icons in OS X
Appsoft Studio has released has released Folder Factory 1.0, an app for changing folders’ design on Mac OS X 10.6 or higher. It's available for US$2.99 exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Graphic & Design category.
According to the folks at Appsoft Studio, folders created with Folder Factory are easier to find in various locations. The ability to attach pictures, apply colors and adjust their intensity are the main features of the application.
xMount holders, stands released for new iPad
xMount has released a system of holders and stands for the new iPad. All sport a special base.
The iPad is inserted into the base and securely locked in place. xMount CEO Benjamin Herman says they're offering more than a dozen holders and support systems for the iPad. For details go to http://www.xmount.de/ .
Graphic Node releases 10 new themes for iBooks Author
Graphic Node (http://graphicnode.com/) has updated its selection of themes for iBooks Author with 10 new designs. The full package (US$16.99) now offers 80 themes for Apple's book creation app.
Each theme includes the full range of standard layouts provided in iBooks Author. There's also an option to insert and generate shapes, tables or charts that are already colored and matched with the selected template style.
Users can view samples of the clips and purchase Themes for iBooks Author on the Graphic Node website. The collection is also available on the Mac App Store.
Winter Wolves releases Loren the Amazon Princess
Winter Wolves has released Loren The Amazon Princess for Mac, Windows and Linux systems. It's a fantasy epic combining intricate turn-based battles with a heroic tale of overcoming evil.
Here's how the game is described: "Travel by Princess Loren's side as she searches for her lost mother, the Queen of the Amazons. Guide her choices and act as her valiant defender, meeting many colorful characters along the way. As the journey progresses, everyone will grow and change -- character development in games isn't dead! It's also impossible to see all the content in just one playthrough, with so many ways to customize the characters."
A free demo is available at http://www.winterwolves.com/lorenamazonprincess.htm . Registration is US$24.99.
Pomfort LiveGrade available for Mac OS X
Pomfort has released LiveGrade, a look and color management solution for the right image at the filmset. It requires Mac OS X 10.6 or higher, costs US$479 and is available at the Pomfort web site (http://pomfort.com/livegrade/).
With this brand new product Pomfort enables DITs, DOPs and camera assistants to create and interactively manipulate looks of HD-SDI images coming directly from a variety of professional film cameras. LiveGrade works in conjunction with Blackmagic Design's HD Link devices and supports the two grading modes "CDL Grade" and "Alexa Looks."
Mac OS X software updates for May 4
Here are the latest incremental updates for Mac OS X apps.
Aperio Lux (http://aperio-lux.org/) has announced uDesktop HD 1.5 for Mac OS X, an update of the personal wallpaper manager. With the upgrade, you can add your own pictures into the program for animation, and installation on the desktop.
Maintain (http://maintain.se/cocktail) has released Cocktail 5.2 (Lion Edition), the latest maintenance update of Cocktail for users running OS X Lion. Cocktail is a general purpose utility for OS X that lets you clean, repair and optimize your Mac. Version 5.2 adds improvements to the Pilot scheduler and ability to automatically purge inactive memory. It also fixes compatibility issues with Microsoft Office 2011 14.2 and Firefox 12.
Little Snitch (http://www.obdev.at/products/littlesnitch/index.html), a security tool for Mac OS X, has been revved to version 2.5.2. The upgrade fixes some issues involving Network Monitor and Fast User Switching.
Deal Spotlight: Ikaro Racing and Great Monster Trouble
Today's special deal is the Ikaro Racing and Great Monster Trouble for Mac OS X. It's being offered for US$8.99; the regular price is $15.98. To take advantage of this special pricing go to http://www.mupromo.com/deal/1857/6603/ikaro+racing .
Ikaro Racing is a fast-paced airplane racing game. Also included in this promo is the tower-defense style game, Great Monster Trouble, in which you must save you village from attacking monsters.
Apple rumors: new iPhone, impending 'big' event
Here are the latest Apple rumors from the blogosphere:
"Whether you call it the 'iPhone 5,' the 'iPhone 6,' or the 'iPhone 4G' -- well, maybe not the last one thanks to international regulators -- the new iPhone is coming this fall, and we have some details to share. They match and expand upon details we received back in March, suggesting that Apple is abandoning the long-rumored 'teardrop-shaped iPhone 5' in favor of another glass-bodied design." -- "iLounge" (http://www.ilounge.com)
"An administrative assistant with UPS, the world's largest import-export brokerage firm as well as the familiar package-delivery service, says customs activity connected with Apple may indicate 'something big' coming soon. Independent of that report, Apple stores are said to be doing some "all-hands" training sessions as well, lending some credence to the otherwise-thin report, which appeared on a speculative next-gen iPhone enthusiast blog." --"MacNN" (http://www.macnn.com)
"Apple is developing iPay as...
Apple lawsuit involves double charges on iTunes
Another day, another lawsuit. New York resident Robert Herkowitz says Apple charged him twice for the same song on iTunes and refused to give his money back for one of the songs, and is suing on behalf of himself and others who have experienced this, reports "GigaOm" (http://macte.ch/4dgFa).
Herkowitz also wants special damages and for Apple to change its refund policy. The case appears to hinge on the terms of service for the iTunes store which requires all users to agree to its no refund policy, notes "GigaOm."
The iTunes rules provide for a refund only if an item doesn’t download or if there are technical problems.
Analyst: no iTV before 2014
In a note to clients -- as reported by "CNET" -- investment bank J.P. Morgan analyst Mark Moskowitz says you shouldn't expect an Apple-branded HDTV (the rumored "iTV") until 2014. He thinks the move will happen in two steps.
First, Apple would expand its current TV box by launching a more advanced set-top module sometime in 2013 at the earliest. Then the company could unveil a full-blown TV with a display and speakers in 2014 or later.
"We believe that the economics of the TV industry are strained, despite there being suitable offerings from the likes of Sony, Sharp, and Samsung," Moskowitz says. "Overall, we would be surprised to see Apple enter a new market unless the value proposition could support double-digit operating margins. In TVs, that bogey is rather elusive, in our view."
For customers to shell out money for an iTV -- which the analyst thinks will cost more than a typical TV -- the typical user interface would have to be redesigned, TV programs and digital content would...
Apple to expand store-within-store concept to Target, Walmart?
In a note to clients -- as reported by "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com_ says Apple will expand its store-within-a-store retail outlets to Target and Walmart in the U.S. over the next two years.
He says the company has 250 retail locations in the U.S., but has the potential to reach many new customers by expanding its micro-store concept. Currently, Walmart has over 3,800 locations in the U.S., and Target has 1,700 stores. Munster expects Walmart to be a significant partner for Apple in expanding the company's presence, as Walmart has better rural distribution.
Apple is currently testing its store-within-a-store concept at two Target locations, and 23 more stores will be added before the end of the year, reports "AppleInsider."
Apple, Samsung ordered to streamline iPad patent claims
Apple and Samsung Electronics have until Monday to further streamline the number of claims to be considered in the ongoing lawsuit over patent rights for smartphones and tablets, reports concerning their smartphone and tablet products, reports the IDG News Service (http://macte.ch/XEXtZ). The case is scheduled to go to trial July 30.
Judge Lucy Koh of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California ordered the companies to pare down the case "so a jury can understand and fairly judge the issues in one trial," notes the IDG News Service. This is the second time the judge had asked them to downsize their claims. The order came at a case management conference at the court on Wednesday afternoon.
Apple shines in first quarter tablet shipments
A steep drop in shipments of Android-based tablets offset a strong quarter from Apple and caused the media tablet market to miss projections for the first quarter of 2012 (1Q12), according to preliminary data from the International Data Corporation (http://www.idc.com) research group.
Total worldwide media tablet shipments for the quarter reached 17.4 million units in 1Q12, 1.2 million units below IDC's projection for the quarter. While IDC predicted a sharp seasonal slowdown of -34% from the previous quarter’s record-breaking 28.2 million units, the actual decline was slightly steeper at -38.4%. The total still represents a robust year-over-year growth rate of 120%, up from 7.9 million units in the first quarter of 2011.
"Apple reasserted its dominance in the market this quarter, driving huge shipment totals at a time when all but a few Android vendors saw their numbers drop precipitously after posting big gains during the holiday buying season," says Tom Mainelli, research director...
Ovum: tablets to impact wealth management, corporate banking...
Organizations in the wealth management and corporate banking sectors have yet to realize the potential for easy and enjoyable content consumption represented by tablets, according to Ovum (http://www.ovum.com). A tablet’s slick, gesture-driven user interface and shareable screen is ideal for helping customer meetings run more smoothly and effectively, the organization notes.
In a new report, the independent technology analysts look at support for tablet devices in corporate banking, to accommodate treasurers' needs when they are out of the office, and in wealth management, as an aid to customer interaction in face-to-face meetings.
"The financial sector as a whole has come out of the global crisis with an urgent need to rebuild its credibility with a disillusioned public," says Rik Turner, senior analyst at Ovum and author of the report. "In certain sub-verticals such as wealth management more "face-time" with the customer can help this rebuilding process."
What's more, as most...
Plattan Denim headphones are jeans for your ears
The US$80 Plattan Denim is the latest staple in the Urbanears collection of headphones. Designed to fit like your favorite pair of jeans, it’s the second model launched as part of the Urbanears Editions range.
The Plattan Denim features a raw denim finish designed to gently age over time. Brass accents and indigo colored ear cushions and fabric cord complete the look. The Plattan Denim Edition has pre-launched at Apple Stores and Apple.com in the U.S. It will be available worldwide at Urbanears retailers, and online at Urbanears.com (http://www.urbanears.com/) on May 23.
UC Irvine Extension offers online application development course
The University of California, Irvine Extension will offer an online course titled "Application Development for Social Networking" from July 2 through Aug.12 to meet the demands of app users in the mobile technology industry and also provide techniques to develop, implement and distribute these programs.
In addition, UC Irvine Extension will also offer free webinars called, "Mobile Development for Apple iPhone and iPad Information Session," "Application Development for Android Devices Information Session" and "Social Networking Programming Information Session" to address trends that currently impact the development of mobile, social media and tablet applications.
To register for the courses, call 949-824-5414 or visit http://unex.uci.edu/services/registration/. To register for the free webinar, visit http://unex.uci.edu/services/events/.
Deal Spotlight: Paragon mini-bundle
Today's special deal is the Paragono mini-bundle for Mac OS X. It's being offered for US$29.95; the regular price is $59.85. To take advantage of this special pricing go to http://www.mupromo.com/deal/1852/6603/ntfs+for+mac+os+x .
The Paragon mini-bundle will have three of Paragon's apps, NTFS for Mac, HFS for Windows, and Camptune X. NTFS for Mac gives users unlimited access to NTFS formatted drives on their Mac, while HFS for Windows will give them unlimited use of HFS formatted drives on their PCs. Camptune X is a tool that allows users to reallocate drive space to or from the Boot Camp partition on their Mac.
Milestone joins Enterprise Device Alliance
Milestone Technologies, an IT service provider and Apple system integrator providing solutions and services to Fortune 1000 companies around the world, has joined the Enterprise Device Alliance, (http://enterprisedevicealliance.org/). The EDA is an organization designed to provide information to IT managers and administrators about the ways they can leverage their Windows infrastructure, management tools and expertise to easily integrate Macs into their organizations.
As part of the organization, Milestone will participate in the educational, research and interoperability activities that the EDA conducts and contribute its integration experience to help enterprises deploy, integrate and manage Macs, iPhones and iPads in a Windows environment.
"We are delighted that Milestone has chosen to team with the EDA at this critical juncture as IT departments deal with the explosive growth of Apple Macs, iPads and iPhones in the enterprise," says T. Reid Lewis, president of both the EDA and...
EaseUS CleanGenius 3.0 comes to the Mac App Store
EaseUS Software has announced the availability of CleanGenius 3.0 on the Mac App Store. It requires Mac OS X 10.6 or higher and is available for US$9.99 for a limited time.
CleanGenius offers a way to scan and clean your Mac. It can clear all caches, logs, system junk, Safari Internet caches and more, letting you regain disk space and protect your privacy. CleanGenius also includes an uninstaller that removes all files associated with an app you delete, as well as a duplicate finder and memory freer.
Mahjongg Staxx available in the Mac App Store
Selectsoft's Mahjongg Staxx is available in the Mac App Store in the Game category. It costs US$4.99 and requires Mac OS X 10.6.6 or higher.
Here's how the game is described: "Mahjongg Staxx features multiple game modes, next-generation 3D play, exclusive game editors and more. Play with the largest collection of tile sets and layouts ever, or import photos to create custom tile sets and layouts for a unique personalized experience.
"Mahjongg Staxx offers classic mahjongg solitaire gameplay with a twist -- up to 24 layers of tiles per layout. Players need a sharp eye as they search for matches in stacks of tiles and try to clear the board. With multiple game modes, everyone can find their favorite way to play."
Nova Golf swings onto the Mac App Store
Nova Golf, a golfing game, for Mac OS X 10.6 and higher is now available at the Mac App Store. It's available for US$4.99 for the first week of its release; after this the price will be $14.99.
Here's how the game is described: "A follow-up to Nuclear Nova Software's award winning game GL Golf, Nova Golf is sure to keep you entertained and immersed for countless hours. Redesigned from the ground up, Nova Golf has everything both casual/hardcore gamers and frequent/weekend golfers could want."
Ripple Training Callouts released for Final Cut Pro X
Noise Industries (http://www.noiseindustries.com/) has introduced Callouts by Ripple Training exclusively for Final Cut Pro X, available now through FxFactory.
A set of 10 Effects, Callouts offers a way to highlight specific parts of footage. Editors can create emphasis with arrows, circles, magnifiers, text highlights, animated paths and more. Ripple Training Callouts can be purchased now through FxFactory for US$49.
ebook lets you 'Take Control of CrashPlan Backups'
TidBITS Publishing has released Joe Kissell's "Take Control of CrashPlan Backups" ebook, which provides help for CrashPlan, CrashPlan+, and CrashPlan PRO.
Kissell helps readers devise a backup strategy for CrashPlan's capabilities, shows how to back up to multiple destinations and restore files from all of them, explains less-common tasks (such as switching to a new computer and seeding a hard drive locally before moving it to a friend's house for offsite backup), and walks readers through fine-tuning CrashPlan's many settings. All three consumer and small-business versions of CrashPlan -- the free CrashPlan and the subscription-focused CrashPlan+ and CrashPlan Pro -- are discussed, with relevant differences called out. (The book does not cover CrashPlan PROe, the enterprise version.)
The 138-page ebook costs US$10. For more information about the book, including table of contents, author bios, and cover graphic, see: http://shop.oreilly.com/product/9781615424047.do .
Mac OS X software updates for May 3
Here are the latest incremental updates for Mac OS X apps.
AKVIS (http://www.akvis.com) has updated three of its apps Enhancer 13.5, Noise Buster 8.5, Refocus 2.0. Bugs have been fixed, and the plug-in versions are now compatible with the upcoming Adobe Photoshop CS6. All of these products are available in two variants: as plug-ins and as standalone applications, on Mac OS X and Windows.
Adobe has announced Camera Raw 6.7 final release on Adobe.com. The Camera Raw plug-in provides access to raw image formats produced by many leading digital cameras. Version 6.7 adds support for more cameras.
Pioneer expands Elite SC series of receivers
Pioneer Electronics has announced five Elite SC series receivers, two 7.2-channel models including the SC-61 and SC-63, and three 9.2-channel models including, the SC-65, SC-67 and SC-68.
They're designed to become the consumer’s entertainment hub for connectivity, content sources, control and ultra-high audio and video performance. Each receiver is designed to deliver audio output with high efficiency using Pioneer’s Class D3 amplification technology.
The new line is also enhanced with advanced network features and custom installation set-up options including Apple’s AirPlay. For details go to http://www.pioneerelectronics.com .
Smithsonian to display Steve Jobs' patent exhibit
In recognition of the late Steve Jobs’ contributions to technology, the Smithsonian’s S. Dillon Ripley Center will display the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s exhibit, “The Patents and Trademarks of Steve Jobs: Art and Technology that Changed the World.”
The exhibit, a display of 30 4-by-8-foot panels made to resemble iPhones, showcases more than 300 patents and trademarks granted to Jobs throughout this career. Each panel displays facsimiles of the front pages of 12 patents granted to Jobs, totaling 312 of the 317 he acquired in his lifetime. The traveling exhibit was designed and created by the National Inventors Hall of Fame and Museum in Alexandria, Viriginia., where it was on display through February.
The exhibit will include objects from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in a special display case located at the entrance to the exhibit. The case will feature a 1985 Apple Macintosh computer, mouse, and keyboard; a 2005 NeXT monitor, sound box, microcomputer...
Wait time for new iPad shortens -- at least in the U.S.
Apple's online store now shows a wait time of only three to five business days for the new iPad, down from recent wait times of five to seven days. The wait time covers all six variations of the Apple tablet.
As Apple's supply has climbed closer to demand, the wait time in the U.S. has gradually dipped from the two to three weeks when the new iPad first hit stores in mid-March. However, European buyers still face a longer wait -- from five days to two weeks, notes "CNET" (http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-57425866-37/new-ipad-online-wait-time-...).
HP reclaims top spot in client computer market from Apple
HP retook the lead in the worldwide client computer market in Q1 2012, according to the latest figures published by analyst firm Canalys (http://www.canalys.com).
Apple had ousted the long-time market leader in Q4 2011, thanks largely to record iPad shipments (in excess of 15 million units). Canalys counts tablet sales among computer sales, though other research groups such as Gartner and IDC don't.
In Q1, however, Apple shipped 11.8 million iPads, bringing its total client computer number for the quarter to 15.8 million. HP’s shipments were higher by around 40,000 units, according to Canalys estimates; just enough to give it the lead.
Lenovo took third place, with impressive year-on-year growth of 50%. Acer and Dell took the remaining top-five places, but with shipments down on the same quarter a year ago. The total client computer market grew by 21% to 107 million units.
While the tablet/pad category exhibited the highest growth -- more than 200% year on year -- notebook and...
Target to no longer carry Amazon, Kindle products
Target will no longer carry Kindles, Kindle-branded and Amazon-branded products, reports "The Verge" (http://macte.ch/sDVBN). However, they'll continue to carry iPhones, iPads, iPods and Nook products.
"Target continually evaluates its product assortment to deliver the best quality and prices for our guests," the retailer said in a statement. "Target is phasing out Kindles and Amazon- and Kindle-branded products in the spring of 2012. We will continue to offer our guests a full assortment of ereaders and supporting accessories including the Nook."
Wait time for new iPad shortens -- at least in the U.S.
Apple's online store now shows a wait time of only three to five business days for the new iPad, down from recent wait times of five to seven days. The wait time covers all six variations of the Apple tablet.
As Apple's supply has climbed closer to demand, the wait time in the U.S. has gradually dipped from the two to three weeks when the new iPad first hit stores in mid-March. However, European buyers still face a longer wait -- from five days to two weeks, notes "CNET" (http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-57425866-37/new-ipad-online-wait-time-...).
Apple, Dropbox worked to resolve Apple App Store issue
"CNET" says Apple is reportedly working with Dropbox to resolve an issue that has led to a number of developers' iOS apps being rejected from the App Store.
The apps, based on the Dropbox software development kit, are apparently being rejected because they contain links to external purchase options. However, that action seems to be in line with Apple's App Store rules, which prohibit external purchases if there's not also an option for Apple's in-app purchases, Steven Musil writes for "CNET."
Dropbox released a temporary workaround to address the issue this evening that removed the link, and a "better solution" is promised in the next week.
In the meantime, Dropbox is said to be coordinating efforts with Apple, Musil writes. For details go to http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-57425736-37/apple-reportedly-working-w... .
Apple updates iLife apps for iOS
Apple released iPhoto 1.0.1 for iOS on Tuesday with a fix for a problem where some photos would duplicate. This is the first update Apple has released for the iPhone, iPad and iPod touch version of iPhoto.
iPhoto 1.0.1 for iOS 1.0.1 includes a Copy Link button for your journal’s URL to use when publishing a journal to iCloud. The update also fixes an issue that could cause duplicate photos to appear in Photos view.
iMovie 1.3.2 for iOS deals with stability problems. GarageBand 1.2.1 for iOS fixes various issues. Cards 1.1.2 for iOS includes letterpress cards specifically for Mother's Day, as well as updates of other card designs.
All updates are available at the Apple App Store. They're free for those who have purchased the apps. If you haven't, they're five bucks each.
HEX debuts Vision Plastic watchbands for the sixth gen iPod nano
HEX has announced the Vision Plastic Watch Band collection. The new line-up of watchbands, available in an array of fluorescent shades, transforms the iPod nano (sixth generation) into a wristwatch.
It's offered in five hues, including neon blue, neon pink, red, black, and white. The Vision Plastic is constructed of silicone that purportedly meets all REACH and RoHS safety standards. The watchbands have a color-matched ABS buckle for adjustability, and feature a patented clip-in, clip-out design that attaches the iPod nano securely into place.
The Vision Plastic Watch Bands are available now for US$24.95 at the online Apple store and ShopHEX.com. For more info go to http://www.shophex.com/ .
Jawbone wants you to jam with the Big Jambox
Jawbone (http://www.jawbone.com) has introduced the Big Jambox, a new addition to its portable wireless speaker line-up. It wirelessly connects to any Bluetooth enabled device, including smartphones, tablets and computers.
Weighing 2.7 pounds, Big Jambox airtight enclosure features proprietary neodymium drivers and two opposing passive bass radiators. A built-in, rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to 15 hours of continuous playback and 500 hours of standby time on a single charge.
The Big Jambox is also a Type-1 compliant speakerphone. It features a newly designed omnidirectional microphone for 360-degree sound input, with echo-cancellation and full duplex communication.
The Big Jambox comes in three designs (red dot, white wave and graphic hex). It will be available in the US on May 15 for US$299 at AT&T, Best Buy, and Sprint stores, as well as Jawbone.com. The Big Jambox will be available in additional countries this summer.
Macware releases first font collections on the Mac App Store
Macware (http://www.macwareinc.com/) has published the first font collections on the Mac App Store. Each MacFonts font collection includes a royalty free, commercial use license for the person who downloads them.
All fonts are available in OpenType font format and work in pplications including Quark,Illustrator, Photoshop, Microsoft Office, iLife, iWork, Pixelmator and more. The commercial use license allows the purchaser to install the fonts on multiple devices they own for work or home projects, such as laptops, desktops and even Windows computers.
The MacFonts font collections include Classic, Comic and Contemporary font styles, each with 10-11 fonts packaged together. A larger Essentials collection is packed with over 80 fonts, which includes each of the smaller font collections.
The Classic, Comic and Contemporary MacFonts font collections are now available for US$0.99 each on the Mac App Store. The MacFonts Essential Collection costs US$9.99.
Ballistic Lifestyle Smooth case comes to the iPhone
Ballistic (hhttp://www.goballisticcase.com/) is now shipping its slimmest iPhone case: the Ballistic Lifestyle (LS) Smooth case for iPhone 4/4S. Adam Stubin of Ballistic says it was developed as a response to consumer’s demands for protection without bulk.
The LS Smooth case is designed with TPU materials and has purportedly been drop tested from up to six feet. The case also comes equipped with 16 interchangeable bumpers, in four different color options per package, so customers can customize their look.
The Ballistic LS Smooth is now available in black, charcoal, hot pink, purple, and orange for US$29.999 at the Ballistic web site.
Early bird discount ends May 22 for 2012 FileMaker Developer
ConferenceAttendees registering for the annual FileMaker Developer Conference (http://www.filemaker.com) have until May 22 to take advantage of the "early bird" discount from FileMaker, Inc. and save US$300 on registration. After May 22, the full conference fee of $1,595 will apply.
The 17th annual FileMaker Developer Conference will be July 16-19, at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami, Florida. This year’s event features over 70 technical and business sessions on building better business solutions for iPad, iPhone, desktop, and web.
A limited number of hotel rooms are available at a special group rate. Conference attendees are urged to make reservations before discounted rooms sell out. Call the Fontainebleau Hotel at 1-866-711-6306.
Verbatim announces Store 'n Go USB 3.0 drive
Verbatim (http://www.verbatim.com) has released the US$19.99 Store ‘n’ Go V3 USB 3.0 Drive.
Compatible with both Mac OS X and Windows, the sleek USB drive works with all USB ports (including USB 2.0/1.1) and comes in storage capacities ranging from 8GB-64GB. Note that on the Mac the drive will only run at USB 2.0 speeds because Apple hasn't yet added USB 3.0 support. Available in seven colors, the V3 USB 3.0 drive features a retractable USB connector.
Sheffield Softworks Vintage Effects released for FCP, Motion, AE...
Noise Industries has introduced Sheffield Softworks Vintage Effects (US$19), available now for Final Cut Pro, Motion and After Effects through FxFactory.
The plug-in (http://macte.ch/jb4hJ) allows editors to give a vintage, 20th century film look to their footage by mathematically recreating the conditions of the original physical process through three different techniques. For each of the three processes, Vintage provides a normal and quick mode, which renders faster but doesn't allow editors to fully customize the settings.
Deal Spotlight: Chronicle
Today's special deal is Chronicle for Mac OS X. It's being offered for US$9.95; the regular price is $14.95. To take advantage of this special pricing go to http://www.mupromo.com/deal/1851/6603/chronicle .
Chronicle is a personal finance app designed to help you remember to pay your bills on time, track your spending, and calculate the average amount you are paying on any given bill.
