Apple posts iOS 10.1 and tvOS 10.0.1
Apple has released a finished version of iOS 10.1, bringing a promised Portrait shooting mode to owners of the iPhone 7 Plus. It also provides various bug fixes.
Portrait mode is a software feature that uses the two lenses of the iPhone 7 Plus to create the look and feel of an image shot with portrait settings on a camera with a telephoto lens. You access portrait mode from within the Camera app simply by swiping left and right in the viewfinder.
The update is a free download, available either through iTunes or over-the-air via the Settings > General > Software Update menu in iOS.
Apple has also posted tvOS 10.0.1 with bug fixes and security improvements.
Apple Watch Nike+ goes on sale this Friday
Apple and Nike have announced that the Apple Watch Nike+ will be available on Friday, Oct. 28. It combines all the features of Apple Watch Series 2 with the new Nike+ Run Club app for motivation to go for a run, guidance from the world’s best coaches and athletes and coaching plans that adapt to your schedule and progress.
The Apple Watch Nike+ also features exclusive Nike Sport Bands and unique watch faces inspired by Nike’s iconic style that can be personalized with apps like Activity Rings, Heart Rate, Stopwatch and Weather.
“Running is one of the world’s most popular activities for staying in shape and being healthy, and with Apple Watch Nike+, runners will be even more motivated to achieve their performance goals,” said Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer. “The response so far has been incredible and we’re thrilled to get Apple Watch Nike+ onto customers’ wrists starting Friday.”
“Apple and Nike share a passion to make life easier and more fun and we’re excited to...
DDoS attacks causing Internet disruptions
A series of denial of service attacks on a major DNS provider have caused major issues across the internet, with outages of some of the largest sites and services including the New York Times, CNN, Netflix, and Twitter experienced across about half of the U.S. Now the Department of Homeland Security is getting involved, reports AppleInsider (www.appleinsider.com).
The attacks initially targeted DNS provider Dyn's servers at about 11 a.m. (Eastern) were mitigated by the company's countermeasures. At about 12:20 p.m. (Eastern), the attacks continued and the outages are now expanding to California, Texas, Washington, and even the UK.
The attacks are now being monitored by the United States Department of Homeland Security, and the agency is "investigating all potential causes" of the massive disruption. DNS providers such as Dyn resolve site name to IP addresses so that web browsers may communicate with servers for content delivery. A DDoS attack uses masses of hijacked PCs (usually...
StarTech offers new lockable iPad stand
StarTech.com has released the $191.99 Lockable Floor Tablet Stand for iPads. It offers any customer-facing company or organization the ability to setup an instant information kiosk.
Features of the Lockable Floor Tablet Stand include:
• A lockable metal enclosure;
• The stand can be screwed into the floor for additional security;
• Integrated cable management;
• A covered home button so customers can’t navigate away from app.
The stand is optimized for the 9.7-inch iPad and works in portrait or landscape orientation.
Satechi unveils the Slim Aluminum Wireless Keypad
Satechi has unveiled its newest Metallic Series product – the Slim Aluminum Wireless Keypad. The keypad is designed to expand the functionality of a user’s existing keyboard to create a more comfortable environment when working on accounting tasks, Excel spreadsheets, and more.
The Bluetooth-enabled Slim Aluminum Wireless Keypad, compatible with both Mac and PCs, boasts an ergonomic, tilted design and anti-slip pads to provide comfort and securely keep the keypad in place. Its slim profile means you can toss it in a laptop bag, backpack or purse for travel.
The Slim Aluminum Wireless Keypad has a built-in rechargeable lithium battery that purportedly lasts up to two weeks. To conserve battery life, it will automatically go into sleep mode when not in use after one hour.
As with the other products in Satechi’s Metallic Series, the Slim Aluminum Wireless Keypad has a premium aluminum construction, available in three finishes: gold, silver, and space gray. It’s available for $39.99 at...
ADATA unveils new digital display power banks
ADATA Technology (www.adata.com) has launched the P20000D and P12500D smart display power banks. The two models use lithium-ion cells and feature digital displays that show remaining charge percentage to better inform users.
Dual USB ports output a total of 2.1A to enable quick charging of two devices simultaneously. Both power banks offer six protective circuits and a shock and fire resistant enclosure. The P20000D further includes a high luminance LED flashlight. The the P20000D and P12500D are sufficient for multiple charges of smartphones, tablets, and mobile devices such as wireless headphones and game controllers at 20000mAh and 12500mAh, respectively.
According to the folks at ADATA, their large capacity means they’re enough for up to 6.4 smart phone charges, 1.8 average tablet charges. Charging is made more efficient thanks to the inclusion of two USB ports that output a total 2.1A, so users can charge two devices at once to save time, whether recharging smartphones, tablets...
Mad Max rolls onto the Mac
Mad Max for Mac and Linux is now available on the Feral Interactive Store (www.feralinteractive.com), Steam and the Mac App Store.
Players become Max, the lone warrior who must fight for survival against the Wasteland’s savage factions by engaging in all-out melée brawls and vicious vehicular combat. The game requires macOS 10.11.6 or higher and costs $29.99.
LinkOptimizer for Adobe InDesign adds macOS Sierra support
Zevrix Solutions has announced LinkOptimizer 5.0.9, a compatibility update to its workflow automation solution for Adobe InDesign.
The software solves the problem of resizing InDesign links to their final dimensions at a target resolution automatically. The app also can also convert colors, perform essential image adjustments and convert image formats Version 5.0.9 makes LinkOptimizer compatible with the recently released macOS Sierra.
LinkOptimizer can be purchased from the Zevrix website (www.zevrix.com) for US$259.95 (a “lite” version is available for $179.95). A demo is available for download. The update is free for LinkOptimizer 5.x users and $130 to upgrade from previous versions. LinkOptimizer requires macOS 10.6-10.12 and Adobe InDesign/Photoshop CS5-CC 2015.
DEVONagent updated for macOS Sierra, supports Qwant
DEVONtechnologies has announced updates to all editions of DEVONagent, its Internet search and research tool for macOS.
Available in three editions, it queries search engines and crawls web sites. It then filters the results again and presents the results in a multitude of ways. The new version brings compatibility changes for macOS Sierra, updated plugins, and workflow enhancements. The updates are free and recommended for all users.
All editions of DEVONagent require an Intel-based Mac and OS X 10.8.5 or later. They can be downloaded from www.devontechnologies.com and be test-driven for free before they need to be properly licensed. All editions of DEVONagent are also available in the App Store; DEVONagent Pro and Express can be bought as part of bundles together with DEVONthink in DEVONtechnologies' online shop.
Station is a new multilevel dock for macOS
True North Software has introduced Station 1.1, a multilevel (hierarchical) launcher for macOS. It’s designed to promote a more natural organization of applications and documents into folders.
With nested folders, you can arrange items in Station in a way that fits your workflow with an uncluttered look and feel. Scalability is greatly increased through logical groupings thus increasing the sheer number of items that can be added to Station without having to shrink the launcher size, according to the folks at True North Software.
Station requires macOS 10.10 or higher and costs $14.99. It’s available on the True North website (http://www.truenorthsoftware.com) or at the Mac App Store in the Productivity category. A demo version is available from the True North website.
Apple sends out press invites to a ‘hello again’ event
Apple has sent out invitations to members of the press for an event at its Cupertino, California, headquarters on Thursday, Oct. 27. The invitation is dubbed “hello again”
New MacBooks are almost a certainty. New MacBook Airs and a slightly revamped iMac are likely. A new display to replace the discontinued Thunderbolt Display may see the light of day. And, if we’re lucky, there may be new Mac Pros and Mac minis announced.
Apple releases new iOS, macOS Sierra betas
Apple has posted the fifth iOS 10.1 beta; it’s the second developer beta released this week. The beta is available to registered developers and public beta testers. Apple has also pushed out beta 5 for macOS Sierra 10.12.1.
The developer betas are available at the Apple Developer Center. Non-developers must be registered with Apple's Beta Software Program to obtain it.
Tropical Software releases TopXNotes 1.8.3
Tropical Software has releaseds TopXNotes 1.8.3, an update to their personal information manager for macOS.
The app allows you to create, view, organize, and instantly access your Mac notes with TopXNotes. Version 1.8.3 sports a few new features, performance enhancements and bug fixes. And it keeps your notes synchronized between TopXNotes for Mac and TopXNotes for iOS.
You can now "Email Current Note" (or part of a note). The default toolbar icon set has been completely re-arranged. And version 1.8.3 is macOS Sierra ready.
TopXNotes 1.8.3 is available for US$39.95 from the Tropical Software website (www.tropic4.com), the Mac App store, Amazon, and other select Macintosh software resellers. TopXNotes 1.8.3 is a free update to customers who have already purchased version 1.5 or later. Existing customers with an older version (previous to 1.5) can upgrade to version 1.8.3 for $19.95 from the company's website.
Syncro Soft updates Oxygen XML Editor suite of products
Syncro Soft, the developer of the Oxygen XML suite of products, has released version 18.1 of its XML editing suite of products: Oxygen XML Editor, Author, Developer, Web Author, and WebHelp. The company has also announced the addition of a new Oxygen XML Scripting license, allowing some of the processing provided by Oxygen (such as the extensive DITA validation support) to be integrated in your own scripts.
Although Oxygen XML Editor version 18.1 is a maintenance release that focuses on performance and usability improvements, it also adds a variety of new features. Audio and video content in DITA is now fully supported. Oxygen XML Editor 18.1 allows you to insert media objects, play audio, and display video directly in the Author visual editing mode and includes updates to the publishing workflow to handle video and audio objects in the output.
A new Markdown editor allows you to write, preview, and convert Markdown content into HTML or DITA and you can use Markdown-encoded topics in...
SmartBear releases enhanced support for REST API security testing
SmartBear Software (www.smartbear.com), which specializes in software quality tools for teams, released a major update to its API [application programming interface] readiness platform, Ready! API, focusing on the security of APIs.
SmartBear’s Ready! API is a unified set of graphical and code-based testing tools that includes Secure Pro for dynamic API security testing, SoapUI NG Pro for functional testing, LoadUI NG Pro for load testing, ServiceV Pro for API service virtualization and TestServer for Continuous Integration environments.
“Most of the APIs in the cloud are based on the popular REST methodology, and these are universally accessible and open to threats from hackers,” said John Purcell, vice president of Products, API Readiness at SmartBear. “It has become a priority for organizations to determine and fix security loopholes in their REST APIs, and this new update to Secure Pro allows organizations to do that. With most of the vulnerable content in REST API being...
AKVIS releases SmartMask 9.0
AKVIS has announced SmartMask 9.0, an upgrade of its Mac compatible selection tool. The upgrade offers a number of improvements, including the new Chroma Key and Custom Background modes, as well as the enhancement of previously existing features and other changes.
AKVIS SmartMask is designed to make image area selection fun and simple. The software offers special-purpose modes and tools for different selection types, with both soft and sharp edges. It lets you select fluff, hair, fur, tree branches, glass, or a transparent veil. The software also lets you get rid of the unwanted color shades left on the cutout object by the environment.
Version 9.0’s Chroma Key mode which automatically removes specific colors from an image. It also adds a Custom Background mode with different adjustment options, extended Eraser tool settings, and more.
AKVIS SmartMask, Home license, sells for $69. One license key allows activating and using the software on two computers. The version 9.0 update is...
ChronoSync 4.7 adds direct cloud connections
Econ Technologies (www.econtechnologies.com) has released ChronoSync 4.7 featuring direct cloud support.
ChronoSync is an US$49.99 sync, backup, and bootable backup app for the Mac. It can back up and sync to anything you can connect to a Mac, including external drives, thumb drives, NAS drives, remote Macs, PC's and now cloud services. Version 4.7 includes direct cloud connections for Amazon S3, Google Cloud Storage, and SFTP file servers. Additional cloud services will be added in future releases.
mStand and mStand360 available in new colors
Rain Design’s (http://www.raindesigninc.com/) mStand ($49.90) and mStand360 ($59.90) are now available in three Apple matching colors: silver, gold and space gray.
Created for MacBooks, MacBook Airs and MacBook Pro, they raise your laptop to a better ergonomic height, so that you can use your laptop comfortably and safely. A cable hole in the back of the stand routes wires to reduce clutter.
mStand360's has the added feature of an aluminum rotating base that allow you to share the screen and access ports. Its body is a single solid piece of aluminum with a sand-blasted and silver-anodized finish that matches Apple laptops.
Paragon’s Hard Disk Manager ready for macOS Sierra
Paragon Software Group (PSG) has updated Paragon Hard Disk Manager for Mac — its tool to protect, maintain, and manage your Mac — adding full support for macOS Sierra. The software tool, which covers every aspect of a Mac’s computer life cycle, from drive partitioning and regular backup to system migration, flexible disaster recovery options, and secure wiping of recycled storage.
Paragon Hard Disk Manager for Mac is available for immediate download as a free 10-day trial or can be purchased direct for $39.95 at http://www.paragon-software.com/home/hdm-mac/. For current users of Paragon Hard Disk Manager, the update to the version supporting macOS Sierra is free.
Output Factory for Adobe InDesign now supports macOS Sierra
Zevrix Solutions has announced Output Factory 1.5.58, a compatibility update to its output automation solution for Adobe InDesign.
Output Factory automates printing, exporting and preflighting of InDesign documents, and offers batch output, single page export, variable file names, layer versioning, detailed history and more. Version 1.5.58 makes Output Factory compatible with the recently released macOS 10.12 Sierra and is offered as a free update to licensed users.
Output Factory can be purchased from the Zevrix website (www.zevrix.com) for US$169.95 (there’s a “lite” version for $120), as well as from authorized resellers and Adobe Exchange. A demo is available for download. BatchOutput users can upgrade to Output Factory for $84.97. Output Factory requires macOS 10.6-10.12 and Adobe InDesign CS5-CC 2015.
Fourth iOS 10.1 beta released
Apple has released a fourth iOS 10.1 beta to registered developers, as well as the general public. The developer beta is available at the Apple Developer Center. Those already beta testing iOS 10.1 can download the new beta as an over-the-air update. Non-develoers must be registered with Apple's Beta Software Program to obtain it.
AutoMounter for macOS upgraded to version 1.2.2
Pixeleyes has released AutoMounter 1.2.2 (http://tinyurl.com/ju9qqol), an update to their menu item designed to automatically mount your network shares on macOS.
Whenever you change locations, the utility will mount your shares from the available server or Network-attached storage appliance, and they will appear on your Desktop. AutoMounter is secure, uses native macOS frameworks, and doesn't store your credentials. No scripting is required. Version 1.2.2 offers bug fixes, optimizations and more.
AutoMounter requires macOS10.11 or later. It costs US$9.99 and is available worldwide exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Utilities category. For more information, please contact Andrew Hamer-Adams.
ONLYOFFICE opens source code of desktop document editors for...
Ascensio System SIA says they have opened the source code of its ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors, presenting a free and open source alternative to Microsoft Office for macOS.
ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors is an office suite that combines text, spreadsheet and presentation editors, allowing anyone to create, view and edit documents offline. Being fully compatible with MS Office, the editors support all the popular document formats, including ODF.
The app features allows users to edit complex documents as well as switch to online mode and collaborate on documents with colleagues or teammates. The collaborating features include real-time co-editing in two modes, reviewing and tracking changes, commenting, built-in chat. The editors also support connecting third-party plugins. Developers can use these plugins to add specific functions they need to the editors.
ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors works with macOS 10.10 or higher. Version ONLYOFFICE 4.1.1 is now free and available worldwide. The office...
RecoveryFix introduces a new migration platform
RecoveryFix has introduced a new migration platform: RecoveryFix for MBOX to PST converter (http://tinyurl.com/z5znnfl), which features advanced migration solution for a totally user- centric migration solution. It’s designed to offer a MBOX-related total migration solution under a single roof.
The software is all set to target 20 different MBOX-supported email clients (including Apple Mail, Thunderbird, Opera and more) for a migration to Office 365 platform and to all versions of Microsoft Outlook (including 2016). The release is also introduced with free demo variant for gaining quick insight of the tool’s functioning and response, in a completely safe and cost-free manner.
The MBOX to PST migrator features conversion options to save MBOX files in any of these formats: EML, MSG and PST files. It also extends the migration facility with advanced filtration according to specific criteria such as Subject, From, To, Attachments and Date. Pricing starts at $39 for a limited time.
Maxprog rings up iCash 7.5.9 for macOS
Maxprog (http://www.maxprog.com) has released iCash 7.5.9, an update to their personal finance solution for macOS and Windows. The $49 app was designed specifically to track incomes, expenses, credits, debts and banks transactions.
iCash offers unlimited categories, multiple accounts, multiple currencies, a SQL backend engine, password protection, export/import routines, search functions, and drag & drop support. Version 7.5.9 offers several new features, improvements, and is now available in several new languages.
WaterField announces a sleeve for the anticipated MacBook Pro...
In anticipation of a MacBook Pro update, WaterField Designs has announced the upcoming Maxwell MacBook Pro Sleeve (http://tinyurl.com/jgpyrgj). It’s a custom-fit case with magnetic enclosure and water-repellant material in new colors.
This sleeve will be available in vertical or horizontal orientation. An optional strap converts the sleeve into minimalist stand-alone solution. It will be available for pre-order at an early bird price until the MacBook Pro is announced at an Oct. 27 event, according to WaterField Designs owner, Gary Waterfield (though Apple has officially to announce such an event).
Locally-manufactured LUNA textiles on the case's exterior combine with an acrylic backing, a layer of ballistic nylon, and shock-absorbing neoprene internal padding. These textiles - in Kelly green, Crimson red, Cobalt blue or Slate black - are treated with patented Nano-Tex coating for extreme water- and stain-resistance.
WaterField also offers a black ballistic or tan waxed canvas...
ATTO debuts new Thunderbolt 3 devices
ATTO Technology (www.attotech.com) has announced new ThunderLink 3401 and 3402 devices, allowing 40GbE connectivity from new Thunderbolt 3-enabled platforms to networks and storage while also providing backwards compatibility to Thunderbolt 2 devices and 10GbE infrastructures.
With single- and dual-output options and speeds doubling that of Thunderbolt 2, the new ThunderLink devices provide bandwidth for 4K video workflows via a single cable. ATTO’s Thunderbolt 3 devices enable higher performance and permit large bandwidth-intensive transfers via all major Ethernet protocols, says Tim Klein, CEO of ATTO Technology.
ATTO’s ThunderLink devices feature proprietary Advanced Data Streaming (ADS) technology for the smoothest data transfers, eliminating dropped frames and providing the most consistent time-to-data for high-performance applications or mobile workstation users, he adds. When it was revealed at this year’s NAB conference in Las Vegas, Post Magazine named ATTO’s ThunderLink...
Quicken launches 2017 product line
Quicken 2017 is now available for Mac and Windows system. The new product line offers users a revamped interface, a mobile app that’s iPhone/iPad compatible, and new investment, reporting, and bill pay capabilities. The products have been re-designed to work optimally on high resolution displays.
Quicken 2017 includes the biggest upgrade yet to Quicken’s mobile app, providing users quick access to a more complete picture of their finances anytime, anywhere, according to CEO Eric Dunn. Mac and Windows users can now use the free companion app to track their investments, enter transactions even when they are offline, and quickly search transactions across all of their accounts. They can also view two years of transactions on their phone when they sync their data file for the first time so that they have a more comprehensive view of their spending patterns.
Quicken for Mac 2017 delivers on a number of key features requested by users to provide more visibility and control over their...
App Delete 4.3 is optimized for macOS Sierra
Reggie Ashworth has announced AppDelete 4.3, an update to his application deletion utility for macOS. Via drag and drop, it will uninstall anything along with all of the associated items. Version 4.3 has been optimized for macOS Sierra and boasts an user interface refresh.
AppDelete 4.3 requires macOS 10.7 or higher. It costs $7.99 for a single-user license. Upgrades from version 2.x and 3.x are $3.99. A demo is available at the product website (http://www.reggieashworth.com/appdelete).
Oslo assistant launches on iOS and the web
Ozlo, Inc., an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered search company, has launched its assistant (named Ozlo) and next generation AI platform.
It can link together multiple sources of information to answer questions like, “What’s a good place to watch the game tonight,” or “Good place for a date nearby.” Now available on iOS and web, Ozlo will become accessible everywhere as the company opens its platform to more third-party data providers and developers over the next year, according to Charles Jolley, co-founder and CEO of Ozlo Inc.
Ozlo is powered by a next generation AI platform that can extract and combine knowledge from many different sources, providing direct answers to questions. Unlike other assistants, Ozlo starts from a position of information neutrality, providing the best possible insight to the users, says Jolley.
As Ozlo understands the context of a query or request, “he” is able to provide answers that go beyond a string of blue links. For example, some, but not all...
Apple release third developer beta of watchOS 3.1
Apple has posted a third pre-release beta of watchOS 3.1 for Apple Watch for registered developers. The developer beta can be downloaded through the Apple Developer Center or the Software Update mechanism in the Mac App Store.
Adobe issues security updates for Flash Player plugin
Adobe has posted security updates for its Flash Player plugin that deal with vulnerabilities that could allow a hacker to take control of a targeted computer.
For Mac owners, the updates include Flash Player Desktop Runtime 23.0.0.185, Flash Player Extended Support Release 18.0.0.382, and Flash Player for Google Chrome 23.0.0.185. The updates can downloaded using either Flash's included update tool or the Adobe website (https://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/).
TextExpander for Mac v6.1 Supports Portuguese, Dictation in Fill...
SmileOnMyMac (http://www.smileonmymac.com) has updated TextExpander, a macOS utility that lets users define abbreviations for frequently-used text strings and images, to version 6.1. The upgrade adds Portuguese localization as well as the ability to use fill-in snippets with Apple’s Dictation.
Now you can preview a snippet before expansion using the new Preview button in the snippet editor. The snippet editor also has improved drag and drop support.
TextExpander 6.1 requires macOS 10.10 or higher. It costs $40 annually or $7.96 monthly. Current TextExpander users receive a 50% lifetime discount on a “Life Hacker” plan. Users who purchased the utility after Dec. 1, 2015, can get three months on a Life Hacker plan.
Apple releases new developer beta of macOS Sierra
Apple has released the the fourth developer beta of macOS 10.12.1. The developer beta can be downloaded through the Apple Developer Center or the Software Update mechanism in the Mac App Store.
Basic Pie Charts released for ConceptDraw solutions
CS Odessa (conceptdraw.com) has rolled out its updated (and free) Basic Pie Charts solution in ConceptDraw Solution Park. It contains templates, varied samples, and a library of vector stencils for drawing pie charts, donut charts, and pie graph worksheets.
The revved Basic Pie Charts introduces a new set of graphic tools that provide a range of basic pie chart types to support documentation and graphics that deal with statics and data. ConceptDraw Pro is compatible with macOS and Windows.
It’s supported by the business solutions located in ConceptDraw Solution Park and retails for $$199 per end user license. ConceptDraw Pro10 is included in ConceptDraw Office 3, which retails for $499.
Cisdem conjures up OCR Wizard 4.0 for macOS
Cisdem has conjured up version 4.0 of OCR Wizard. The app can convert PDFs, scanned documents, and image files in over 40 languages into searchable and editable files.
Version 4.0 reportedly provides more accurate text recognition and adds business card recognition and new formats. It’s also macOS Sierra compatible.
OCRWizard is available now at the Cisdem website (www.cisdem.com). A demo is available for download. A single license of OCRWizard costs US$59.99; a two Mac license is $79.99; and a five Mac license is $119.99. The app requires macOS 10.1 or higher.
Typinator is ready for macOS Sierra
Ergonis Software (www.ergonis.com) has announced Typinator 6.11, a new version of their text expander for Mac OS X.
It’s a tool for automating the process of inserting frequently used text and auto-correcting typing errors. Version 6.11 is compatible with macOS Sierra.
Typinator requires macOS 10.6 or newer. The upgrade to Typinator 6.11 is free for anyone who owns a valid license for Typinator 6.x. Upgrade paths are available for owners of older licenses. For new users the price is $24.99.
PhatWare WritePad Handwriting Recognition Engine released as...
PhatWare Corp., a professional software and application developer, has announced that the entire source code of its multilingual WritePad handwriting recognition engine is now available under GPL v.3 license.
The company says theWritePad Handwriting Recognition Engine (HWRE) is the first fully functional, self-contained handwriting recognition engine to be released as open source. The engine supports most operating systems and includes build scripts for macOS, iOS, Google Android, Microsoft Windows and Windows Mobile, and various distributions of Linux. Compiled libraries and sample code for the WritePad HWRE are available separately in the WritePad SDK repository at https://github.com/phatware/WritePadSDK.
Apple releases third beta of iOS 10.1
Apple has released the third beta of iOS 10.1, which includes the Portrait feature that applies a DSLR-like blur effect over photos using the dual lens system.
If you're not already signed up for the public beta program, you can do so here (https://beta.apple.com/sp/betaprogram/). The public beta program is free, but remember: beta software is unfinished software so use with care.
MacX DVD Ripper Pro 4.9.5 debuts new user interface for macOS...
MacXDVD (www.macxdvd.com) has announced MacX DVD Ripper Pro 4.9.5, an upgrade to its flagship DVD ripper. The update features a new user interface and increased support for macOS Sierra, the iPhone 7 and Galaxy S7.
The upgrade is available to all current MacX DVD Ripper Pro users at no charge. New users can get all the features and updates at $59.95. The complete full-featured DVD video conversion package with top-level support is offered at $39.95 for a limited time; that’s up to 70% off.
olloclip announces new lens sets for the iPhone 7/7 Plus
olloclip has announced its newly designed mobile photography lens sets for the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: the Core, Active and Macro Pro lens sets. The updated designs feature new multi-element optics, the new Connect interchangeable lens system and an innovative hinged lens base keeping the lens flush with the camera for improved optical performance while allowing compatibility with most screen protectors.
The new Connect interchangeable lens system maintains all the best features of its award-winning predecessor and is now equipped to quickly configure with other individual iPhone 7 Connect lenses, according to Patrick O'Neill, olloclip founder.
The patent-pending Connect system attaches and aligns instantly to both the front and rear cameras of iPhone with no extra parts required. Similar to the precision fit of over-ear headphones, the hinged lens base of the Connect™ system swivels independently and is designed to be screen protector friendly (up to .5mm), adapting to keep the lens...
24U Promoted to Platinum Level of FBA
FileMaker Platform developer, 24U Software (http://www.24usoftware.com/), has been designated as a Platinum Level FileMaker Business Alliance (FBA) member.
Partners who reach the FBA Platinum level are specifically selected by FileMaker, Inc. for exhibiting the highest level of customer service and technical expertise in creating innovative custom apps with the FileMaker Platform. 24U Software has been a member of the FileMaker Business Alliance (http://www.filemaker.com/fba/ ) since the year 2002 when it used to be called FileMaker Solutions Alliance. The company has six FileMaker 15 Certified developers on staff.
Graphic Inspector Now Supports macOS 10.12 Sierra
Zevrix Solutions has released Graphic Inspector 2.1.6, a compatibility update to its quality control solution for images and vector graphic files.
The tool is designed to solve the problem of quickly locating files with specific resolution, color, spot channels, fonts and other attributes. Graphic Inspector can also search file metadata, report image compression, and save search criteria in workflow specific presets. The new version introduces full support for macOS Sierra.
Graphic Inspector can be purchased from the Zevrix web site (www.zevrix.com) for $19.95, as well as from authorized resellers. It’s free with purchase of PDF Checkpoint or InPreflight Pro for Adobe InDesign. A demo is available for download. Version 2.1.6 is free for users of previous versions. Graphic Inspector requires macOS 10.5 or higher (some features require 10.7 or later).
JustBroadcaster for Facebook 1.7 released for OS X
Mac Broadcaster has announced JustBroadcaster for Facebook 1.7, an update to their powerful Facebook live-streaming app for the Mac.
The app offers individuals and businesses a tool to broadcast live content directly to Facebook, from their Mac. Video streams can include the Mac's desktop, video from individual apps, iOS devices, webcams, and more. Version 1.7 offers text overlays (titling) as well as direct support for professional BlackMagic devices.
JustBroadcaster for Facebook 1.7 costs US$29.99 and requires macOS 10.10 or higher. It’s available worldwide through the Mac App Store in the Video category. A one-year license is also available for $15 at the JustBroadcaster website (http://www.justbroadcaster.com/fb), where a demo is available for download.
Mad Max rolls onto the Mac October 20
Feral Interactive has announced today that the open world, third-person action game Mad Max is coming to Mac and Linux on Oct. 20. Developed by Avalanche Studios and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment on console and Windows PC, Mad Max features an original story set within the universe of Mad Max.
Players become Max, the lone warrior who must fight for survival against The Wasteland’s savage factions by engaging in all-out melée combat and vicious vehicular combat. Following the theft of his Interceptor, Max teams up with the gifted mechanic Chumbucket to build the ultimate survival vehicle, the “Magnum Opus.”
Players design, customize and upgrade their vehicle by choosing from different car chassis and a myriad of upgrades including mounted weapons, armor and engines in order to escape to the Plains of Silence. As they navigate The Wasteland, gamers will encounter a huge variety of enemies, in a gigantic post-apocalyptic open-world with a range of immersive...
ExoLens introduces PRO and PRIME iPhone 7 accessory lenses
ExoLens (www.exolens.com) has launched the ExoLens PRO and PRIME ranges of accessory lenses for the iPhone 7. Each line is designed for a specific consumer.
First to market will be the ExoLens PRO Wide-Angle and Telephoto Kits for the iPhone 7. These kits will bring the aspherical lens technology previously reserved for high-end DSLR lenses straight to your iPhone as a compact mobile accessory lens, says John Fellowes, CEO of Fellowes Brands, which acquired ExoLens in 2014. All PRO Kits come with the new machined aluminum ExoLens Edge mount, which features an integrated cold shoe accessory mount (compatible with accessories such as external video light) and key ring loop.
The ExoLens PRO Wide-Angle Kit with Optics by ZEISS features a ZEISS Mutar 0.6x Asph T* Wide-Angle lens, which provides virtually no distortion and exceptional edge-to-edge contrast, Fellowes adds. This Kit is designed to help professionals capture expansive scenery and immerse viewers with frame filling detail,...
Targus announces USB-C laptop docking station
Targus has launched the $199.99 USB-C Universal Docking Station (DOCK410USZ), a compact 4K docking station that supports USB-C technology. It works with the 12-inch Apple MacBook.
The USB-C Universal Docking Station can connect up to two high-definition displays for images at resolutions up to 3840 x 2160. Its ergonomic wedge design supports the laptop for comfortable typing, and its compact size fits in the hot-desking, flexible environments of modern workspaces, according to Ron DeCamp, director of Product Management, Targus.
The Targus USB-C Universal Docking Station has these connectivity ports:
° 1x USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode (aka Alt-Mode) host connection;
° 3 x USB 3.0 (USB 3.1 Generation 1) Type-A (for device charging);
° 1x USB 3.0 (USB 3.1 Generation 1) Type-C;
° 2x DisplayPort 1.2a video ports;
° 1x HDMI 2.0 video port;
° 1x DVI-D video port;
° 1x Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 port;
° 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio In/Out po;
° Standard industry lock slot
Along with the USB-C...
PDFpen 8.2 Adds Tabbed Windows on macOS Sierra
Smile has rolled out PDFpen 8.2 (http://smle.us/store), an update to its all-purpose PDF editing tool for the Mac. This version adds iCloud sync for users who purchased from the Smile store, and supports tabbed windows on macOS Sierra.
What’s more, PDFpen and PDFpenPro 8.2 now show the PDFpen section of the user's iCloud Drive in the open dialog for users who purchased from Smile directly. The PDFpen Library now syncs automatically via iCloud for all users. The Library also syncs with PDFpen for iPad & iPhone.
PDFpen retails for US$74.95, PDFpenPro for $124.95. FamilyPpack licenses, which cover up to five computers in one household, are $94.95 for PDFpen and $149.95 for PDFpenPro. Office Pack licenses start at $224.95 for PDFpen (five users) and $349.95 for PDFpenPro (5 users).
Upgrades from earlier single user versions of either application are $30, and free to users who purchased on or after Jan. 1. Upgrades from previous versions of PDFpen to PDFpenPro 8 are $50. Upgrade...
Lemke Software Introduces Automatic Colorist for Professional...
FxFactory has launched EPICOLOR (https://fxfactory.com/info/epicolor/), a digital color processing plug-in for Apple’s Final Cut Pro X and Motion tools. It’s designed to completely automate primary color-correction.
EPICOLOR is an artificial intelligence tool. It creates a natural look by dragging it onto a clip in the timeline. You can then give your film a special look using the app’s interface. EPICOLOR lets you save your own presets as a file to share and it supports the use of third party LUTs.
EPICOLOR costs $99. A demo is available for download.
Quark Releases macOS Sierra Update for QuarkXPress 2016
Quark Software has released the October Update for QuarkXPress 2016, adding macOS Sierra support. It also addresses known issues.
The update is for both Mac and Windows versions of QuarkXPress 2016 and free for all current QuarkXPress 2016 users. It can be downloaded using the built-in Auto Updater in QuarkXPress or downloaded here (http://www.quark.com/Support/Downloads/).
