New Class on Demand webinar looks at mastering Motion
Class on Demand, a provider of professional educational products for creative markets, has announced the latest "Class on Demand Legends Series" weekly training webinar featuring digital media instructor Larry Jordan.
The new webinar, "Master Motion -- Even If Motion Graphics Scare You" can be accessed in streaming video delivery format through the Class on Demand Learning Platform (http://www.classondemand.com/legends/). An expansion of the current Class on Demand training lineup, "Class on Demand Legends Series" provides an exclusive "inside look" at the inner workings of influential industry experts and figureheads.
"Master Motion -- Even If Motion Graphics Scare You" is designed to help apprehensive Final Cut Pro editors let go of their fear of learning Motion. The webinar will help users conquer the Motion interface, discover the power of Motion templates, create simple, yet effective, animated lower-thirds, and design elegant full-screen animated titles using resources from...
iOS Developer training scheduled for March, April
About Objects has announced additional dates for public classes on iPhone and iPad development in March and April.
The courses cover ANSI C, Objective-C, and iOS SDK programming, and will be held at the company's Reston, Virginia, headquarters, as well as near the Apple campus in Cupertino, California. The courses are taught by Objective-C developers, and feature a mix of lecture and hands-on exercises covering the fundamentals of iOS development, including ANSI C, Objective-C, and iOS SDK programming.
Pricing begins at US$1,295 for the two-day "Objective-C for Beginners" class, on up to $2,595 for the five-day "Introduction to iPhone and iPad Development." Students who wish to attend both Objective-C for Beginners and Introduction to iPhone and iPad Development, or who wish to attend all three classes can sign up for a bundled offering at a substantial discount. Early registration discounts are also available. For more info, including dates, go to the About Objects web site (http://...
Jan. 11 event fuels talk of Verizon iPhone
Verizon has invited members of the media to an event next Tuesday, Jan. 11, in New York City, fueling rumors of an impending iPhone announcement, reports "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com).
On Friday, Verizon sent out formal invitations to members of the press for an event to be held at the Lincoln Center. The invitation says event will feature Verizon Wireless president Lowell McAdam, but no other details were provided.
Of course, as the gang at "AppleInsider" notes, Apple normally holds events to introduce new products at its own corporate headquarters in Cupertino, CA. If next week's event is for the much-anticipated Verizon-compatible CDMA iPhone, it would be unique for Verizon to make the announcement instead of Apple CEO Executive Steve Jobs, they note.
CES: 4i Concepts debuts new iOS device accessories
4i Concepts (http://4iconcepts.com/) is debuting three products for the iPhone, iPad and iPod at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. One is the second generation 4iThumbs (US$24.95), an overlay screen with ridges to guide iPhone users’ thumbs for accurate text input.
Providing tactile feedback similar to a QWERTY keypad, the invisible design allows for blind typing on touchscreen interfaces while protecting the face of the phone, without blocking any portion of the screen. Improved from the first generation design, which launched in November 2009, 4iThumbs2 can be removed and stored on the back of the phone when not in use and requires no installation.
Designed for iPhones 3G/S and 4 and the iPod touch, it comes in both landscape and portrait versions. It's available with just the keypad (4iThumbs2, $12.95) or with a bumper compatible with the iPhone 4 to securely hold the keypad in place
Also being unveiled is the $19.95 4iStrap (pictured), a multi-function elastic...
iPhone tops the Virtue 100 list for third straight year
Apple’s iPhone continued its reign earning the top spot again for the third-straight year on the Vitrue 100 list, which annually ranks the most social brands. Rounding out the top five are Blackberry, Disney, Android and iPad. Apple ranked number seven on the list, the iPod number 15 and the Mac number 75.
The Vitrue 100 measures a brand’s “social mentions” by analyzing online conversations on a daily basis across social networks, blogs, micro-blogs, photo and video sharing sites. The rankings represent the sheer volume of social mentions, not sentiment. This is the third annual Vitrue 100. Go here for current and past rankings: http://www.vitrue.com/smi .
“Our third annual Vitrue 100 rankings revealed some surprising and interesting things about some of the world’s most iconic brands, as well as newer brands, and their effective use of social media,” says Vitrue CEO Reggie Bradford. “iPhone taking the top spot is most likely is due to continued and sustained buzz and headlines the...
Mac App Store hacked
A number of security loopholes in the applications listed on the Mac App Store allow users to download paid applications for free and repackage bootleg programs with malicious code, according to "eWeek" report (http://macte.ch/HEftd).
Less than 24 hours after Apple unveiled the Mac App Store for the Mac OS X, reports emerged on various user forums, including "Pastebin" and "Daring Fireball" (http://www.daringfireball.net), that some paid apps don't properly validate App Store receipts, making it easy to obtain those programs for free, the article adds. Users can copy the App Store receipt from any legitimate Mac App Store download -- free or paid -- and paste it to validate other paid applications, according to the posted instruction.
"This isn't true for all paid Mac App Store apps," wrote John Gruber of Daring Fireball, but only for those applications with which developers were lax about applying Apple's recommendations on validating store receipts. The app checks to ensure there is...
IK Multimedia offers handheld microphone for iOS devices
IK Multimedia (http://www.ikmultimedia.com) has announced the iRig Mic, a handheld quality condenser microphone for the iPhone, iPod touch and iPad, designed for all vocal and mobile sound needs. You can pre-order it now for US$59.99.
iRig Mic is designed especially for the singer, vocalist and songwriter on the move, as well as for recording speeches, instruments, performances or any other sound sources in the studio, on stage or in the field. Its sports an unidirectional electret-condenser microphone capsule that provides quality recording, in both close mic and long distance mic conditions, and real-time monitoring with its dual mini-jack connector.
A three-level gain switch makes it adjustable for any sound pressure condition from soft speaking to loud playing. The iRig Mic can be mounted on any mic stand, leaving the iOS device free for app operation.
iRig Mic also comes with VocaLive free, IK’s new real time effects processor app suite for the singer and vocalist, iRig Recorder...
O'Reilly Media releases 'Office 2011 for Mac Missing...
O'Reilly Media has released "Office 2011 for Macintosh: The Missing Manual," an 816-page book by Christopher Grover. It costs US$27.99 for the ebook version and $34.99 for the print version.
Topics covered include: taking advantage of new tools; creating professional looking documents; crunching numbers with ease; staying organized; making presentations; and using the programs together. Grover has worked as a technical writer, advertising copywriter and product publicist for more than 25 years.
CES: ThermaPak introduces new laptop, iPad cooling products
ThermaPak is introducing new products at this week's 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The new products are:
° IcePad (US$34.99) – ThermaPAK’s new icePad sleeve brings environmentally-friendly cooling to the iPad using patented HeatShift Technology. The polyurethane cover provides access to all iPad buttons and connections, while keeping the Apple tablet cool. The icePad fits snuggly around the iPad, with openings to plug in a charger, cable or headset. It's available in translucent clear and black.
° LapSaver ($25.99-$29.99) --The LapSaver features the HeatShift Technology for cooling in addition to offering a sleeve for storage of the user’s laptop. While the laptop is on, it can be rested on the back of the LapSaver to ensure it stays at a safe temperature. When the user is ready to go, the laptop can be slipped into the built-in smooth neoprene sleeve for transport. The LapSaver is available in 14-inch and 16-inch models, both in black.
° LapSaver...
Mac App Store downloads top one million in first day
Apple says that over one million apps have been downloaded from the new Mac App Store in the first day. The store launched on Thursday with more than 1,000 free and paid apps.
“We’re amazed at the incredible response the Mac App Store is getting,” says Apple CEO Steve Jobs. “Developers have done a great job bringing apps to the store and users are loving how easy and fun the Mac App Store is.”
The Mac App Store offers apps in Education, Games, Graphics & Design, Lifestyle, Productivity, Utilities and other categories. Users can browse new and noteworthy apps, find out what’s hot, see staff favorites, search categories and look up top charts for paid and free apps, as well as user ratings and reviews. The Mac App Store is available for Snow Leopard users through the Software Update as part of Mac OS X 10.6.6.
Mac developers set the price for their apps, keep 70 percent of the sales revenue, are not charged for free apps and do not have to pay hosting, marketing or credit card fees...
Apple’s 2011 proxy statement now online
Apple says its 2011 proxy materials are now available on the web under the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s Notice and Access rules and can be found at http://www.apple.com/investor . As a result of the Notice and Access rules, Apple is able to significantly reduce the environmental impact of producing and delivering printed materials, the company says.
Apple shareholders can still receive a printed copy of the proxy materials free of charge by following the instructions provided at http://www.apple.com/investor or in the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials that will be mailed to individuals who were Apple shareholders as of Dec. 27. Apple’s 2010 Form 10-K was filed on Oct. 27, 2010 and may also be viewed at www.apple.com/investor .
Among the items of interest in the proxy statement is that CEO Steve Jobs’ is still making just US$1 annually (well, okay, he has some pretty serious stock options) and that Chief Operating Officer Timothy Cook received total...
CES: Griffin introduces StompBox for the iPad
Griffin Technology (http://www.griffintechnology.com) has introduced the StompBox for iPad and Mic Stand Mount for iPad.
The StompBox multi-function foot controller integrates with iShred LIVE to give guitarists an iPad-ready pedalboard. It's due for release in the first quarter of the year for US$99.99. The Mic Stand Mount turns an iPad into a music stand. It's due later this month for $39.99.
This Mac OS X app will Nag you
Electric Pocket has announced a Mac version of its Nag reminder app (http://electricpocket.com/mac/), offering a way to give yourself a persistent reminder that something needs to be done.
You can set an alarm for important events. When the alarm time comes, Nag will sound its alarm -- and will continue its nagging every minute until you acknowledge the alarm.
Nag requires Mac OS X 10.6 or later. It's available worldwide exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Productivity category.
CES: Panasonic introduces new digital cameras, camcorders
Panasonic has introduced new digital cameras and camcorders at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
The new Lumix DMC-S3 and Lumix DMC-S1are two easy-to-use models that offer smart features for taking photos and 720p (at 30fps) High Definition videos. The 14.1-megapixel Lumix S3 and 12.1-megapixel Lumix S1 also feature a new design, with a distinct rounded shape designed to fit comfortably in the palm of the hand.
The Lumix DMC-FH27 and Lumix DMC-FH25 shoot 16.1 megapixel images and combine a 28mm wide-angl Leica DC lens with an 8x optical zoom. Designed with an easy-to-hold grip and slim and stylish profile, both models feature large Intelligent LCDs, 720p High Definition (HD) video recording and an advanced iA (Intelligent Auto).
Panasonic has introduced three new Full-High Definition (HD) 3MOS camcorders to its 2011 line, the HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800. The new full-HD camcorders feature 1920 x 1080 resolution with 1080/60p recording, and can also shoot 3D...
CES: Olympus debuts new cameras, accessories
Olympus has introduced new cameras and accessories at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The new products include the Olympus PEN E-PL2, the fourth generation of the PEN family of compact interchangeable lens digital cameras.
This camera expands your creative potential with Live Guide II, new in-camera creative features, new auxiliary lenses, a new Close-Up Spotlight (MAL-1) and new Olympus PENPal Bluetooth accessory. The lineup of six new Olympus cameras includes the XZ-1, an ultra-compact with a built-in ZUIKO lens.
Olympus' new point-and-shoot cameras offer new features including 3D photo mode, Eye-Fi Card compatibility and new Magic Filters, adding artistic effects to your videos. They include the TG-610, TG-310, SP-610UZ and VG-120.
New iCal alternative available at the Mac App Store
Little Marauder (http://www.littlemarauder.com) has released Caliander, a new iCal alternative on the Mac App Store. The US$18.99 has a novel timeline based user interface, event creation using common English descriptions, and a global keyboard shortcut for adding events.
Since Caliander uses the same calendar database as iCal, it syncs just as usual, so there's no need to migrate old calendars. It doesn't use the conventional paper calendar layouts in favor of a novel, dynamic timeline layout, which can be panned and zoomed freely.
Caliander also has a perceptual mode, which squeezes together the distant future to show the near future in greater detail. This means that the software can show a detailed daily schedule while still reminding the user of things coming up in the next couple of days. Caliander requires Mac OS X 10.6.0 or later.
CES: Buffalo launches USB 3.0 storage family, expands wireless...
At this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Buffalo Technology (http://http://www.buffalotech.com/) has launched a family of USB 3.0 storage devices and expanded its wireless portfolio.
The new USB 3.0 external hard drives deliver interface speeds up to 5 gigabits per second and range in price from US$99.99 to $629.99. The new MiniStation Stealth USB 3.0, DriveStation Axis USB 3.0, DriveStation Duo USB 3.0 and DriveStation Quad USB 3.0 are designed for quick transfer and storage of high-resolution graphics, digital audio/video, large multimedia files, photos and more.
Buffalo Technology also announced the AirStation Nfiniti Wireless-N High Power Dual Band Router & Access Point. The gigabit WZR-HP-AG300H is the latest addition to Buffalo's DD-WRT powered wireless portfolio. It will be available in February at an estimated street price of US$149.99.
HyperCard clone available on the Mac App Store
Bayhoff Software has released BayCard 1.0, a modern day HyperCard clone on the Mac App Store. It works with Mac OS X 10.6 and higher and costs US$19.99.
It was designed to allow non-programmers to bring their own visions to life without the need to learn how to write code. Like HyperCard, a BayCard document can be thought of as a stack of index cards. Unlike HyperCard, BayCard doesn't feature a scripting language. In place of a scripting language, BayCard features over 25 interface widgets including, but not limited to, tables, lists, web pages, date pickers, and iTunes-style star ratings.
According to the folks at Bayhoff Software, BayCard can be utilized in many different ways by different users. For example, one user may choose to use BayCard to organize their life. Another user may use the program to design a simple presentation. Finally, a third user may use BayCard to design several point-and-click adventures.
CES: Assero introduces line of iPad front-packs
At this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Assero Industries (http://www.asseroindustries.com) has launched a line of iPad front-packs that will purportedly allow iPad functionality with complete hands-free mobility. T
The trademark-design allows the iPad user to wear the forward-facing gear bag and unzip the front pack creating a drop down desk that houses the iPad in a secure form-fitting case. The interior of the bag is lined with soft neoprene fabric to protect the screen, while supplemental pockets for credit cards, chargers and a cell-phone provide a total mobile office.
Assero’s front-packs range from US$89.99-129.99. The iPad bags are comprised of sturdy materials including an easy-to-clean Ripstop nylon exterior and a neoprene iPad sleeve with Vlcro backing to adjust against the soft, brushed tricot interior. The straps are Memory Foam covered by breathable mesh fabric. Durable finishings include deluxe zippers and adjustable straps/buckles, and double-enforced...
Tembo is new find utility for Mac OS X
Houdah Software has released Tembo, a "friendly" find utility for Mac OS X designed to make the searching (and finding) of files, mail messages, bookmarks and more as easy as possible.
Tembo is sold exclusively through the Mac App Store for US$14.99 and requires Mac OS X 10.6.6 or higher.. A demo version is available from the product web site (http://www.houdah.com/tembo/).
Initially, you'll find Tembo to have been inspired by the original Spotlight interface as we knew it under Mac OS X Tiger. Search results are grouped by categories. Preferences allow for categories to be enabled, disabled and reordered.
Tembo may list up to 2.500 search results within each group. There are filters appropriate for the context designed to help you sort through the list of results. Messages, for example, may be filtered by subject, sender and recipient.
Panorama Sheets for Mac OS x combines database, spreadsheet...
ProVue Development has released Panorama Sheets, a new Mac OS X application that combines the power of a database with the familiar simplicity of a spreadsheet for only $39.95.
All database operations are RAM based in order to run quickly, and all data entry, searching, sorting, data analysis and data manipulation is handled using a straightforward spreadsheet-like interface. Data can be imported or exported to/from text files and spreadsheets, and can be printed in tabular format or using standard Avery mailing label templates.
When setting up a search, analysis or data manipulation, Panorama Sheets instantly previews the results as each key is pressed (similar to Spotlight). The live preview updates in real time, so users can immediately see how different options interact with actual data before they actually perform an action.
There are two versions of Panorama Sheets for OS X. The version available from Apple's Mac App Store requires an Intel Mac running Mac OS X 10.6.6 or later...
CES: Verbatim introduces new flash drives, memory cards, SSDs
Verbatim (http://www.verbatim.com) has announced a new line-up of flash drives, high-speed memory cards and performance-driven solid-state disc drives at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. They include the:
° Verbatim Netbook USB Drive -- this low-profile and lightweight new flash drive is simply inserted into a netbook or other electronic device with a USB port and left in place for always-ready removable storage. It works with Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems and is available in storage capacities of 4GB, 8GB and 16GB. A special Car Audio USB edition, specifically targeted at automotive applications is also available in a capacity of 8GB.
° Verbatim 64GB SDXC Memory Card -- the newest format in the Secure Digital (SD) arena, the Verbatim 64GB Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDXC) memory card, is compatible with SDXC devices supporting both the High Speed Bus Interface (Class 10 speed rated) and the latest UHS-1 (Ultra High Speed) Bus interface, which...
Kensington announces four new iOS device accessories
At this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Kensington Computer Products Group (http:www.kensington.com) has introduced four new products to extend connectivity with iPhone, iPad, and iPod devices and the applications that run on them. They are the:
° US$49.95 Kensington PowerLift Back-Up Battery and Dock, which is designed to give your iPhone hours of extra power plus a handsfree stand with the Kensington PowerLift Back-Up Battery and Dock. The 1200 mAh battery pack provides charging while the kickstand flips open to let you enjoy FaceTime chats and videos. It features two position charging: in-line use for phone conversations and docking for charge, sync and FaceTime.
° Kensington BlackBelt Protection Band for iPad ($39.99), which wraps your Apple tablet with an industrial rubberized band allowing a secure grip for handling in any iPad orientation. It protects not just the edges but cushions iPad from accidental drops. The BlackBelt protection band preserves full access...
CES: Speakal unveils new speaker solutions
At this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Speakal (http://www.speakal.com) announced an expansion of its lineup of advanced docking solutions to include lifelike replicas for the football, basketball, and soccer fan.
Each of these 2.1 companions for your iOS device boasts 360 degree sound distribution, a 15W subwoofer, and volume touch controls. The Speakal MiGolfball tees up golf enthusiasts with a wireless stereo speaker set that wirelessly plays your favorite music from your Bluetooth device, MP3 player, or computer. Go to the Speakal web site for pricing.
Andrea Electronics launches SuperBeam computer headsets
Andrea Electronics (http://www.AndreaElectronics.com) has introduced its new SuperBeam “boom free” computer headsets at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. It's a headphone that works like a headset.
The product eliminates the need to constantly manually position the boom microphone for proper close talking operation, according to Douglas Andrea, president of Andrea Electronics. With SuperBeam headsets, the user looks more natural during video use, with no fuzzy foam ball out in front of their lips, he adds.
The initial two models are SuperBeam Buds, an in-ear model, and SuperBeam Phones, an over the head on-ear headphone. The headsets come with inline volume and microphone mute control. The headset cable is terminated with standard 3.5mm audio plugs for connection to the SuperBeam systems’ PureAudio USB audio adapter for use with computers or any portable media device such as an iPod for basic audio listening.
The US$49.95 SuperBeam headsets incorporate unique far-...
CES: SteelSeries Siberia Neckband released for the iPod, iPhone...
At this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, SteelSeries (http://www.SteelSeries.com) is introducing the SteelSeries Siberia Neckband headset for music lovers and mobile gamers to use with their iPod, iPhone and iPad.
This headset version has been designed to fully support the Apple devices and features a single 3.5mm jack for combined audio and voice and an inline remote that powers audio and call controls. The Neckband features thick, cloth covered foam earcups, an optimized soundscape, and a retractable microphone system to be used while answering calls or stored in the left earcup while just listening to music.
The SteelSeries Siberia Neckband costs US$79.99 Details regarding product availability, retail locations, and new additions to this music and mobile audio line-up will be announced soon.
Simple Help Editor revved to version 4.1.3
The PandaWare Company has updated Simple Help Editor, its cross-platform help authoring application, to version 4.1.3. It now offers better support for working with content managed in version control systems, and for users who keep several editing windows open simultaneously.
The update also improves support for Unicode text, and features a number of interface improvements and bug fixes. Mac and Windows users can use Simple Help Editor to create software help systems that display in Apple Help Viewer, Windows' HTML Help viewer, a Web browser, or in a proprietary help window (for applications created with Real Software's REALbasic).
Simple Help Editor is available as a Mac OS X Universal Binary application (for Mac OS X 10.3.9 or higher) and a Windows 2000 or higher application. Both can be downloaded from The PandaWare Company's web site (http://www.pandaware.com/download.html#simplehelp).
Unregistered copies work in demo mode for up to 30 days. The cost is US$50 for a single-...
iCurrency Plus 1.1.0 available at the Mac App Store
Limited Securities (http://www.limitedsecurities.com) has released iCurrency Plus 1.1.0 on the Mac App Store. The application tracks and evaluates currency exchange rates, as well as provides trends, graphs and a currency conversion calculator.
Among other features iCurrency Plus offers notifications using Growl and the ability to show one of the currency pairs in the menu bar at all times. Users can be notified of rate variances, predetermined by the user's choice of percentage spreads.
iCurrency Plus requires Mac OS X 10.6.6. It's available for US$1.99 in the Finance category of the Mac App Store.
MyThoughts for Mac OS X gets new Mind Map branch styles, more
Mode de Vie Limited has released MyThoughts 1.2 (http://www.mythoughtsformac.com/), an update to their mind mapping solution for Mac OS X 10.5 and higher. The update adds new Mind Map branch styles and new Relationship Line arrow styles..
You can also now drag and drop URLs direct from browser to Mind Map Branch. Version 1.2 offers improved image controls including opacity and arrange and the ability to import FreeMind files.
With MyThoughts, you can, via drag and drop, create fluid "mind maps" by adding links to files, pages from the web and much more. The application ships with over 3000 images and icons to illustrate mind maps.
MyThoughts 1.2 is priced at US$49 for a single-user license. A five-license family pack is available for $69. Educational and volume discounts are also offered.
Beatles paid directly in iTunes deal
According to industry sources, Apple is paying the Beatles' royalties from digital download sales on the iTunes store in the United States directly to the band's company, Apple Corps, and is paying the songwriting mechanical royalties directly to Sony/ATV Music Publishing, which controls most of the Beatles' song catalog, reports "Billboard" (http://macte.ch/Bp5No).
That suggests the royalty split could be more lucrative for the Beatles than it would be under the typical provisions of a standard artist contract, which treat digital downloads as a retail sale, the article says. Under a standard contract, a label issues an album, licenses the songs from music publishers, collects all wholesale revenue from the retailers and then distributes royalties to the artist and the publisher.
"Billboard" says that, for superstar artists, the royalty typically equals about 20%-25% of retail revenue. In the case of iTunes' Beatles sales, where tracks are sold to the merchant for about 90 cents and...
EnSoul debuts on Mac App Store
MacPaw has released Ensoul (http://www.macpaw.com/ensoul), a new Mac application that allows users to customize their iPhone experience, exclusively on the new Mac App Store.
Ensoul lets users create wallpapers tailored to the iPhone (including iPhone 4) directly on their Mac desktop. By dragging images into Ensoul, users can edit and manipulate them as they wish, even adding fun effects. Ensoul's tools let users crop, zoom, rotate, modify colors, add textures, and more. When finished, the user uses iTunes to upload their image creations directly to their iPhone.
Users can also use Ensoul to create and implement full-sized contact photos into their iPhone Address Book. The larger size Address Book contact images make it much easier to manage and utilize Address Book imagery, says MacPaw founder and CEO Oleksandr Kosovan.
Ensoul 1.0 requires an Intel-based Mac running Mac OS X 10.6.6 or greater. It's available for US$14.99.
Attachments for Mail lets you find, use files you've been...
Hubapps (http://hubapps.com) has released Attachments, a new companion to Apple Mail, which facilitates finding and using emailed files. It transparently monitors for new files, and provides tools for working with them, including Quicklook previews, cloud sharing, zip, drag-n-drop, search-n-sort and more.
Attachments is debuting exclusively in the Mac App Store for US$4.99. It requires Mac OS X 10.6 or higher and an Intel-based Mac (sorry, PowerPC Macs need not apply).
JVC announces world's first 3D consumer camcorder
At this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, JVC (http://www.jvc.com) announced the world's first consumer camcorder to offer 3D recording in Full HD, thanks to a new JVC-developed high-speed processor that can produce two simultaneous Full HD images.
The new GS-TD1 uses two camera lenses and two 3.32 megapixel CMOS sensors -- one for each lens -- to capture three-dimensional images much the same way that human eyes work. VC's new high-speed imaging engine simultaneously processes the two Full HD images -- left and right images at 1920 x 1080i -- within that single chip.
The newly developed "LR Independent Format" makes the GS-TD1 the world's first consumer-oriented camcorder capable of 3D shooting in Full HD, according to the folks at JVC. The company''s new camcorder offers other shooting modes as well, including the widely used "Side-by-Side Format" for AVCHD (3D) and conventional AVCHD (2D) shooting.
The camcorder uses a JVC 3D Twin HD GT Lens, as well as multiple...
AT&T announces iPhone 3GS for $49
AT&T has announced a new price for the iPhone 3GS (US$49) starting Friday, Jan. 7, for both new and upgrade-eligible existing AT&T customers. That's down from $99.
The offer will be available online at http://www.att.com/iphone, across more than 2,200 AT&T retail locations nationwide and through AT&T business channels, as well as Apple channels. The handset has an 8GB capacity and requires a two-year service contract.
ComScore: iPhone has 25% of US smartphone market in November
ComScore (http://www.comscore.com), which measures the digital world, has reported key trends in the U.S. mobile phone industry during the three-month average period ending November 2010. The iPhone gained a little ground in the smartphone market.
Approximately 61.5 million people in the U.S. owned smartphones during the three months ending in November, up 10% from the preceding three-month period, as RIM led with 33.5% market share of smartphones. After several months of strong growth, Google Android captured the #2 ranking among smartphone platforms in November with 26% of U.S. smartphone subscribers. Apple accounted for 25% of smartphone subscribers (up 0.8 percentage points), followed by Microsoft with 9% and Palm with 3.9%.
The ComScore report ranked the leading mobile original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and smartphone operating system (OS) platforms in the U.S. according to their share of current mobile subscribers ages 13 and older, and reviewed the most popular activities...
Apple’s Mac App Store now open for business
Apple's Mac App Store is now open for business with more than 1,000 free and paid apps. The store brings the Apple App Store for iOS experience to the Mac, so you can find new apps, buy them using your iTunes account, download and install them in just one step.
The Mac App Store is available for Snow Leopard users through Software Update as part of Mac OS X 10.6.6. It will be built into next summer's Mac OS X Lion.
“With more than 1,000 apps, the Mac App Store is off to a great start,” says Apple CEO Steve Jobs. “We think users are going to love this innovative new way to discover and buy their favorite apps.”
The Mac App Store offers apps in Education, Games, Graphics & Design, Lifestyle, Productivity, Utilities and other categories. Users can browse new and noteworthy apps, find out what’s hot, see staff favorites, search categories and look up top charts for paid and free apps, as well as user ratings and reviews.
Entirely new apps, as well as current Mac favorites, are...
Apple 'quietly prohibiting' vacation days for three...
Apple is "quietly prohibiting" vacation days for some retail employees for three weeks beginning later this month, "a move that could foreshadow a significant product introduction in the coming weeks," "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com) has learned.
People familiar with the company's retail plans say Apple has issued a "blackout" period spanning three weeks, during which retail employees without seniority will not be allowed vacation time, the article adds. That blackout period is said to begin the last week of January and continue into the first half of February.
"AppleInsider" says that prohibiting vacations during such a large span of time is typically indicative of a major product launch, such as a new iPhone, though their sources have no specific knowledge of what Apple could be planning this time around.
A Verizon iPhone, perhaps?
CES: Cirago launches new network storage product
At this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Cirago International (http://www.cirago.com/) -- a manufacturer of multimedia centers, storage and wireless solutions --unveiled its new Cirago Link+ (NUS2000) USB Network Storage Link that delivers performance to access up to four USB-networked devices quickly and easily from anywhere -- even while on the go.
The Link+ is designed for users who want to tap into their document and media library while on the go, with smartphone access that makes it easy to view and share files from anywhere, according to Tenny Sin, executive vice president at Cirago. The compact device, set to debut in second quarter 2011 and retail for under $100, includes all the functionality of the company’s NUS1000, with added NTFS write support, remote access capability and gigabit Ethernet connectivity, delivering the highest speed available on the market for Ethernet devices.
Featuring four USB 2.0 ports, each supporting up to 2 TB drive capacity, the...
CES: Parrot introduces Red Dragon speakers
Parrot, which specializes in wireless peripherals for mobile phones, unveiled the newest addition of its Hi-Fi wireless stereo speakers, Zikmu Parrot by Starck: Red Dragon (http://www.parrot.com/zikmu), at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. They'll set you back a cool US$1,600.
The Red Dragon has an iPhone/iPod docking station. You can also listen to web radio via an iOS app you can download at the Apple App Store.
Other features of the 17-pound speaker system are: an RCA line-in input; Wi-Fi and Bluetooth audio streaming; and Wi-Fi b/g with SES/WPS (browsing and control). The Red Dragon supports software update via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Apple 'quietly prohibiting' vacation days for three...
Apple is "quietly prohibiting" vacation days for some retail employees for three weeks beginning later this month, "a move that could foreshadow a significant product introduction in the coming weeks," "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com) has learned.
People familiar with the company's retail plans say Apple has issued a "blackout" period spanning three weeks, during which retail employees without seniority will not be allowed vacation time, the article adds. That blackout period is said to begin the last week of January and continue into the first half of February.
"AppleInsider" says that prohibiting vacations during such a large span of time is typically indicative of a major product launch, such as a new iPhone, though their sources have no specific knowledge of what Apple could be planning this time around.
A Verizon iPhone, perhaps?
CES: Kodak introduces new Mac compatible webcams
Sakar International (http://www.sakar.com) has expanded its family of Kodak Webcams with new US$19.99 and $29.99 models that facilitate video calling on both Macs (Mac OS X 10.5 and higher) and PCs.
Features range from full-motion live images and still image capture at up to 1.3 megapixels to built-in parental controls, drag-and-drop image uploads to social networking and image sharing sites, and a mini-tripod included with the $29.99 model. Designed to simplify video chatting over services such as Skype and Yahoo! AOL and MSN Instant Messenger as well as Google Talk and iChat AV for Macs, the new Kodak Webcams purportedly require no technical expertise to install, use or share captured images.
The Kodak S101 Webcam ($19.99) features:
° A parental control lock-out capability that optionally blocks webcam use without a password to help keep children safe online;
° Bundled control center software for easy video calling, image editing and image sharing;
° The ability to record both...
Pioneer releases SmartCradle for the iPhone
Pioneer Electronics (http://www.pioneer-usa.com) has announced new solutions for safer integration of smartphones into the car environment. It has introduced the Aha Radio Mobile App, which turns social media and traffic apps into audio broadcasts.
Pioneer has also released the first SmartCradle for use with the iPhoneto enhance in-car performance of GPS enabled apps such as MotionX-GPS Drive, a navigation app. Also new is the App Mode feature that's available in nine new audio/video and navigation models and enables viewing of a connected iPhone’s video content from Safari, YouTube and other select apps directly through Pioneer’s larger, high resolution in-dash screens.
Pioneer’s two new in-dash navigation models are the first to connect drivers to the world around them with on-demand, interactive, personalized radio, according to Ted Cardenas, director of marketing for the car electronics department, sales and marketing division of Pioneer Electronics.
Via an iPhone running the...
Chinon launches AVi Alpha iPod/iPhone docking station
Chinon USA (http://www.chinonusa.com) is introducing the AVi Alpha, an advanced generation of the original Chinon AVi multimedia iPod/iPhone docking station. It's available immediately at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of US$149.99.
Retro-fashioned after the 1970's American "boom box", the AVi Alpha features a 7-inch LCD that delivers high-resolution playback of videos stored on an iPod or iPhone, expanding both their picture size and sound quality, says Jensen Fong, president of Chinon USA. In addition, when docked to an iPod touch or iPhone connected by Wi-Fi, the AVi Alpha will stream web videos from sites such as YouTube or Netflix onto the LCD. A full suite of AV in/out functions connect you to TV receiver boxes, DVD players and media devices, offering greater flexibility for viewing options.
The AVi Alpha operates as simply as other iPod or iPhone docking stations. Just connect your iPod or iPhone to the universal dock adapter, select an operation mode, and you're...
Acoustic Research Unveils Docking Stations for Apple and Android
Audiovox Accessories Corp. (http://www.acoustic-research.com/) has introduced a complete line of docking stations from Acoustic Research for the iPad, iPhone, and iPod. A model for Android-based products is also included as well.
Leading the new line of Acoustic Docking Stations is the ARS45i, which produces 30 watts of power and deep bass, according to David Geise, president of Audiovox Accessories Corp.. This docking speaker system offers component and composite video-output for video playback on the consumer's TV, and a remote control for operating across a room. The ARS45i will be available this spring with a suggested retail price of US$129.99.
The ARS35i offers functionality for an iPad dock. This model has a motorized rotating arm that turns the iPad to landscape or portrait mode. This dock also includes video-output, FM radio, and audio input for MP3 player connection. The ARS35i will be available in March 2011for US$129.99.
The entire front of the iPad-compatible ARS30i is a...
Garage Inc. released for the Mac, iOS devices, more
TransGaming (http://www.transgaming.com) has released Garage Inc., an original, cross-platform game made by TransGaming’s in-house game development studio. The title is available on the Mac, iPhone, iPad, Windows and TransGaming’s GameTree TV platform.
Here's how the game is described: "Garage Inc. is a dynamic, multi-platform time-management game featuring a visually vibrant and imaginative style that will take players into 1920’s prohibition-era Chicago.The game revolves around the life of Angelo Marito, a car mechanic and recent Italian immigrant who is trying to make a life for himself by opening his very own car garage. Garage Inc. will deliver to players the excitement and challenges of managing a busy repair shop through core time-management gameplay as well as through minigames. The game also features colorful characters and an immersive story, revealed in part through an innovative online social media campaign."
Garage Inc. was developed by TransGaming’s Studio Division in...
Speakal introduces Top Gear, Doctor Who speaker solutions
Speakal (http://www.speakal.com) is offering Top Gear and Doctor Who fans unique speaker systems. Top Gear enthusiasts can rev up their favorite tunes with a helmet that docks and rocks your audio device with a built-in digital amplifier, 25W of total output, and a built in subwoofer.
Doctor Who fanatics will rejoice in the T.A.R.D.I.S replica speaker featuring bass and premium speakers with Bluetooth playback. The systems are debuting at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Pricing hasn't been announced.
Backdrop Designer Plugin is Now Available for 64-bit Photoshop...
Digital Anarchy (http://www.digitalanarchy.com) has released their Backdrop Designer plug-in for Adobe Photoshop CS5. The software creates resolution-independent digital backdrops, very similar to expensive muslin drapes used in a photography studio.
Backdrop Designer 1.5 is fully compatible with Photoshop CS5, Photoshop CS4 and 64-bit systems. With Backdrop Designer, photographers are no longer limited to just the backgrounds they have in the studio, according to Digital Anarchy President Jim Tierney. There are 900 presets to choose from all of which can be mixed and modified to create thousands of variations. Backdrop Designer is used by photographers of all types to move beyond traditional portraiture, and give their clients more flexibility in results after the photoshoot.
Backdrop Designer 1.5 is regularly priced at US$199; however, it's on sale for $149 through Jan. 31. On the Mac, the product runs on OS 10.4 and higher. Demo filters and samples are available at the Digital...
XtremeMac unveils new iOS charging solutions
XtremeMac (http://www.xtrememac.com) is announcing four new additions to its InCharge series at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The InCharge series are designed to keep your iPod, iPhone and iPad charged and playing at home and on the go.
The new introductions are the InCharge Mobile (US$79.99), Auto USB, Auto Plus and Auto AUX. InCharge Mobile is a low profile, sleek rechargeable battery pack and protective case. According to the folks at XtremeMac it boasts one of the largest battery capacities for iPhone 4 chargers on the market at 2300 mAh, the equivalent of one full charge. Features include an integrated stand for landscape viewing and FaceTime chatting, LED battery status indicator, on/off switch for battery conservation and a micro USB cable for charging and syncing.
The three new InCharge Auto solutions for the car each offer a compact design and deliver 10 watts of power. The $24.99 InCharge Auto USB is equipped with a detachable USB to 30 Pin cable for...
All-in-one mobile payment solution available for the iPhone 4
An all-in-one mobile payment solution has been released for the iPhone 4. The solution combines Intuit’s GoPayment app and merchant account and mophie’s credit card reader.
With GoPayment and the mophie credit card reader, payments are processed after a business owner swipes a credit card through the form-fitting mophie card reader. To get up and running quickly, there's a merchant account that purportedly lets business owners start processing credit cards in as few as 15 minutes. GoPayment also provides 24 x 7 live customer support for help if needed.
GoPayment's features let merchants create and sell from a list of frequently sold items, apply sales tax, and send customized receipts via text and e-mail with a map of where the transaction occurred. GoPayment is also compatible with QuickBooks -- both Mac and PC versions.
The solution protects customer data throughout the payment process. Credit card data is never stored on the phone. In addition, card data is double encrypted; once...
10 New Keynote themes available
In collaboration with iPresentee, KeynoteStage (http://www.keynotestage.com/) has announced Keynote Themes 7.0, to be used with the presentation component of Apple's iWorks suite.
Keynote Themes 7.0 includes 10 new themes: Black Diamond, Cooking, Medicine, Solid Grey, Windmill, Wave, Triangle, Relax, Notebook and Blue Style. The collection offers a variety of presentation styles with coordinated fonts, colors, backgrounds, bullets and picture frames.
Keynote Themes 7.0 requires Mac OS X 10.4.3 or later and iWork '08 or iWork '09. Each individual Keynote theme is priced from US$5.
