Scripty Claus gives us Holiday Season AppleScript
Want to have a little racing fun this holiday season? Then check out an AppleScript from Scripty Claus.
Holiday Season is a AppleScript that lines up your Desktop icons and races them across the screen until one of them reaches the finish line. You can learn more at http://tinyurl.com/dxs33z2, including how to set it up.
Apple cleared in Italian AppleCare investigation -- but receives...
Already required to pay $1.2 million (€900,000) in damages, Apple has been fined another $264,000 (€200,000) by Italy’s ‘antitrust authority’ Autorità Garante della Concorrenza e del Mercato (AGCM) for failing to comply with local laws with its Applecare warranties between March 28 and Nov. 10, reports "The Next Web" (http://tinyurl.com/ckqgwz7).
In a statement -- which you can read in its entirety at http://tinyurl.com/cg2c2g7 -- the AGCM says that while Apple has since amended its warranty policies, its actions between March and November continued to infringe on rights covering “Legal guarantee of conformity and commercial guarantees for consumer goods” in the Italian consumer code.
In December 2011, Italy's Antitrust Authority fined Apple 900,000 euros (approximately US$1.2 million) for its handling of customer guarantees. The watchdog group said Apple had failed to inform shoppers of their legal right to two years' technical support, recognizing instead only a one-year standard...
Apple patents not yet invalid
Apple's patents behind the pinch-to-zoom, bounce-back and multitouch features of its iPhone aren’t invalid, at least not yet, reports "Bloomberg" (http://tinyurl.com/cqgupvn).
On Dec. 7 the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office published a preliminarily ruling that Apple's iPhone patent popularly referred to as "the Steve Jobs patent" is invalid in its entirety upon reexamination. However, the Office’s initial rejections in recent weeks were consistent with a process in which most patents challenged over the past three decades, including ones rejected at some point, survived in original or modified forms, according to data compiled by the office, notes "Bloomberg."
In late October, a first Office action in a reexamination proceeding stated the preliminary conclusion that all 20 claims of Apple's rubber-banding (overscroll bounce) patent are invalid. The "Steve Jobs patent" (number 7479949) is for a "touch screen device, method and graphical user interface for determining commands by...
Jobs' family yacht seized in Amsterdam
The yacht commissioned by the late Steve Jobs has reportedly been sequestered by lawyers for designer Philippe Starck in Amsterdam over a payment dispute.
The yacht was originally set to cost 150 million euros, but the Jobs family now reportedly claims that the actual cost was 105 million euros, according to "Dutchnews.nl" -- as noted by "AppleInsider." The total cost of the ship determines the payment for Starck, who is due 6% of the cost price. Read more at www.appleinsider.com .
Apple to appeal judge's ruling in Samsung case
Apple has informed Judge Lucy Koh of the United States District Court for the Northern District of California that it would be appealing her decision from earlier this week to disallow the sales embargoes on 26 Samsung devices, reports "MacNN" (http://tinyurl.com/cw2p3m3).
Two days ago a court in California denied Samsung a retrial in a patent dispute with Apple, and also refused Apple a ban on the sale of some Samsung products. A jury decided in August that the South Korean company must pay Apple US$1.05 billion for infringing several of its patents in Samsung smartphones and tablets.
This is all part of the ongoing, global legal battle. Apple and Samsung have filed more than 30 lawsuits against each other across four continents. For example, Apple alleges that Samsung copied the slide-to-unlock technology of its iPhone and iPad devices.
Mac OS X software updates for Dec. 21
Here are the latest updates for Mac OS X apps:
Aquafadas (www.aquafadas.com) has rolled out PulpMotion 3.5 with support for Mountain Lion. PulpMotion lets users of all skill levels assemble their favorite photos, videos and music into slideshows.
Zevrix Solutions (www.zevrix.com) has announced Graphic Inspector 1.7.20, a maintenance update to its quality control solution that checks batches of graphic files for potential problems according to specific workflow requirements. The new version lets uses correctly identify the color mode of Adobe Illustrator EPS files created with Illustrator CS4 and later.
SoftRAID 4.5.1(www.softraid.com) fixes an problem with the latest Mac minis (Late 2012) which could cause data corruption on RAID volumes. This problem is caused by a change in the architecture on these new Macs.
The new MacVector 12.7 (www.macvector.com) sees the introduction of a new complimentary basic edition, MacVector Free. MacVector Free includes many of the basic sequence...
Apple sued by EON Corp. for patent infringement
A company by the name of EON Corp. is suing Apple for ... go on, take a guess -- yes, you've got it -- patent infringement. The lawsuit claims Apple has violated its interactive video patents, reports "Patently Apple" (http://tinyurl.com/cvv54oo).
"Many of Apple's major competitors in the wireless industry have properly paid for using EON's technology. By this action, EON engages a compulsory process that will require Apple to do the same."
According to "Patently Apple," the company is charging Apple with four counts of infringement based on patents 5,663,757, 5,481,546, 5,592,491and 5,388,101. The latter three patents are referred to further into the complaint as the "Dinkins Patents," which are those that were originally filed and granted to EON.
F1 2012 drives onto the Mac
Feral Interactive says F1 2012, the FORMULA ONE racing simulation game, is available now for the Mac.
Developed by Codemasters Birmingham and published by Codemasters for consoles and PC, F1 2012 is the follow-up to F1 2011 and the BAFTA Award-winning F1 2010. It is the first new Formula One game to appear on the Mac in over ten years.
Here's how the game is described: "The official game of the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship™, F1 2012 features all the teams, drivers and circuits from the 2012 season. All 20 tracks are recreated in meticulous detail, including classics such as Circuit de Monaco, home of the FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2012 and recent arrivals like the brand new Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, home of the 2012 FORMULA 1 UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX.
"F1 2012 offers thrilling gameplay that, in an intense and extensive Career Mode, accurately simulates motorsports’ most demanding competition. Players get to pursue a Formula One career and battle the...
iPhone users get $49 unlimited monthly Solavei mobile service
Solavei, a contract-free mobile service provider, says its members can access up to 4G coverage on unlocked GSM iPhones in 37 new markets with the 1900 MHz band.
The network enhancements allow Solavei members to use iPhones and other AT&T/4G smartphones to access its $49 per month unlimited voice, text and data in areas including New York City, Newark, Boston, Philadelphia, Detroit, Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, Tampa, Baltimore, Houston, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Washington DC, Atlanta, Seattle, Minneapolis, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San Diego, Central and Southern Arizona, San Francisco Bay Area, Central Valley California and South Florida.
Launched on September 21, 2012, Solavei has already purportedly attracted more than 100,000 members nationwide. For more info go to www.solavei.com .
Cowbeam beams onto the Mac
Digital Dreams (www.digitaldreamsgames.com) has released Cowbeam for Mac OS X (10.6.6 or higher). It costs US$2.99 and is available at the Mac App Store.
Here's how it's described: "Cowbeam is a single player 'Who is it?' game with planets instead of faces. You need to gather hints that point you towards the right planet where a cow resides. These hints range from the planet's color to its size, and from the vegetation to the amount of moons orbiting around the planet."
AQ Audio releases second gen SmartSpeaker with AirPlay support
AQ Audio has released the second generation of their AirPlay speaker AQ SmartSpeaker A2 with new colors and a lower price point.
The AQ SmartSpeaker A2 sports AQ Direct mode, which permits users enjoy Apple's AirPlay technology. Although it has AirPlay capabilities built for Apple, it also empowers Android and Windows users via a special DLNA Certified App available at the Google Play Store and via Microsoft’s “Play To” feature.
The AQ SmartSpeaker A2 is available at Amazon.com or oat www.aqaudio.com . It costs US$149 for a single unit, $289 for a twin pack and $555 for a four pack.
European Commission to charge Samsung in antitrust case
The European Commission is set to charge South Korean electronics group Samsung in an antitrust patent case, the European Union's competition chief Joaquin Almunia told "Reuters" (http://macte.ch/iooEx).
The EU competition watchdog is investigating whether Samsung broke EU competition rules by filing patent lawsuits against Apple. "We will issue a statement of objections very soon," Almunia said, referring to the Commission's charge sheet.
This is all part of the ongoing, global legal battle. Apple and Samsung have filed more than 30 lawsuits against each other across four continents. For example, Apple alleges that Samsung copied the slide-to-unlock technology of its iPhone and iPad devices.
Semiconductor revenues to fall by almost 5%
Overall worldwide semiconductor revenues will fall by almost 5% in 2012 to just over US$200 billion. Fifteen of the top 20 semiconductor vendors including Intel, Samsung, Texas Instruments, and STMicroelectronics will see their semiconductor product revenues decline in 2012, compared with 2011.
A handful of companies have managed to buck this trend and outperform the overall market and in many cases the continued growth of the smartphone market has been crucial to their success.
"Revenues for platform and wireless connectivity IC used in smartphones grew almost 30% year-on-year from 2011 to 2012 and this has helped companies such as Qualcomm and Broadcom grow in a lackluster year for the overall semiconductor market," says Peter Cooney semiconductor practice director. "Competition in this market is no doubt fierce but those with a strong market position are very well rewarded."
Revenue growth will not continue unabated, integration both in platform ICs and connectivity ICs will be a...
Mac OS X software updates for Dec. 20
Here are the latest updates for Mac OS X apps:
Bare Bones Software (www.barebones.com) has released BBEdit 10.5.1, an update to the recently announced BBEdit 10.5 HTML and text editor. It's a maintenance upgrade with some bug fixes.
Stellar Data Recovery (www.stellarinfo.com) has announced Drive Toolbox 2.5, an improvement of its previous version with enhancements in most key utilities that are now faster and perform more efficiently.
Patent Office invalidates Apple 'pinch to zoom' patent
A key Apple patent that the company successfully used against Samsung in its patent infringement courtroom brawl has been invalidated by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, reports "CNET."
All 20 claims of U.S. patent No. 7,844,915 -- also known as the "pinch to zoom" patent -- have been invalidated by the Patent Office today, following a re-examination. Samsung pointed this out in a filing to U.S. District Court Judge Lucy Koh this afternoon, noting that it was "relevant" given the company's effort for a retrial, as well as Apple's attempt at an injunction against a number of Samsung devices for infringing on this very patent, notes "CNET."
This is all part of the ongoing, global legal battle. Apple and Samsung have filed more than 30 lawsuits against each other across four continents. For example, Apple alleges that Samsung copied the slide-to-unlock technology of its iPhone and iPad devices. Read more at http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-57560112-37/uspto-invalidates-key-appl...
Apple technology and insight at 2013 CES
MacTech Magazine has launched MacTech Insight, a new conference track focused on Apple technology as a part of the upcoming 2013 International CES. MacTech Insight is designed specifically for the technology-minded looking to see trends, opportunities and gain insight into the Apple market. Featuring expert speakers from throughout the Apple market, the day will be kicked off with a keynote address from Neil Ticktin, Editor-in-Chief/Publisher of MacTech Magazine. MacTech Insight will start at 9 a.m. Thursday, January 10, Las Vegas Convention Center, North Hall N260.
Everyone wants to know the latest and the inside track about Apple, and its products. Whether Mac, iPhone, AppleTV, etc., the people behind MacTech Magazine have been working with Apple technologies since 1984. Hear from those that "live Apple" every day: what the experts think Apple is up to next, and how you personally and in your organization can make the most of technologies from the most innovative company in the...
Dirac Live Room Correction Suite released for Macs, PCs
Dirac Research AB has released the Dirac Dirac Live Room Correction Suite, a software solution that delivers optimized sound quality for any Mac or PC-based HiFi system.
The software, which requires a microphone, measures the acoustic performance of the system within the listening room and optimizes playback performance accordingly, providing the most transparent music reproduction possible, says Dirac CEO Mathias Johansson. A point of emphasis with the Dirac software is that it optimizes all sound from the computer using any music/media player as well as standard sound output devices, he adds.
The manufacturer's suggested retail price for the Dirac Live Room Correction Suite is US$850 with an introductory discount of 25% available now from Dirac (shop.dirac.se). For more info go to www.dirac.com .
Parallels and VMware: Should you upgrade?
One of the most frequent questions we've been getting recently is "Should I upgrade to Parallels Desktop 8 or VMware Fusion 5?" Even though these new versions shipped several weeks back, we generally like to wait a bit as the updates for virtualization software that follow a major release often make a difference.
We decided to put the new versions to the test on both a MacBook Pro as well as a MacBook Air (the SSD vs. hard drive make a difference). As with all of our benchmarks, this comparison is only about speed, and not about features.
For VMware Fusion, we tested and compared version 5 to version 4.1, the previous version. See the results at http://www.mactech.com/2012/12/19/vmware-fusion-5-vs-41-should-you-upgrade
For Parallels Desktop, we tested and compared version 8 to version 7, the previous version. See the results at http://www.mactech.com/2012/12/19/parallels-desktop-8-vs-7-should-you-up...
Winter Wolves releases Heileen 3: New Horizons for the Mac
Winter Wolves has released the third chapter of the Heileen series as a life simulation game with a "light comedy" setting.
Here's how the game is described: "This last chapter continues the story from the end of the second game and takes place in the Caribbean islands. After being rescued by Captain Morgan and his pirate crew, they set off to find and reunite with her old friends. Aboard the ship, the Morning Star, Heileen ponders on what she'll like to do with her life.
"Along the way she will meet new characters, discover additional things about her old friends and maybe learn a profession thanks to the new skills system. The Virtues/Sins gameplay introduced in the second game is also present: every choice in the game will change Heileen's personality, in a wide array of possibilities. Saint or sinner? That will be up to you to decide!"
Heileen 3: New Horizons is available for Mac OS X, Windows, Mac, and Linux. The main game has a free demo available on the official website (http...
Apple awaiting judge's decision on additional damages...
Apple is waiting for a judge’s decision on its request for additional damages against Samsung for patent infringement after the Cupertino-based company lost its bid to block U.S. sales on 26 of the Galaxy maker’s devices, notes "Bloomberg" (http://macte.ch/dcviL).
Apple failed to establish that consumer demand for Samsung products was driven by technology it stole, U.S. District Judge Lucy H. Koh in San Jose, California, said in her Dec. 17 ruling. While a jury found Samsung infringed six Apple patents, it isn’t in the public interest to ban Samsung’s devices because the infringing elements constituted a limited part of Samsung’s phones, Koh said.
This is all part of the ongoing, global legal battle. Apple and Samsung have filed more than 30 lawsuits against each other across four continents. For example, Apple alleges that Samsung copied the slide-to-unlock technology of its iPhone and iPad devices.
Judge: Apple didn't violate Motorola patent
Judge Thomas B. Pender, an administrative law judge at the U.S. International Trade Commission has ruled that Apple didn't violate a Motorola Mobility patent relating to a sensor controlled user interface for a portable communication device, reports "InfoWorld" (http://macte.ch/uFTv7).
This is part of an ongoing battle between the two companies. Apple has alleged that Motorola infringes 24 of its patents (21 of them with Android-based phones, the remaining three with set-top boxes and DVRs), while Motorola previously asserted 18 patents against a variety of Apple products (mostly but not exclusively iPhone, iPad and iPod). Litigation between the two companies has taken place in several different federal courts.
On Nov. 5 a patent infringement case between Apple and Motorola Mobility was dismissed by a Wisconsin district court. In November 2010 Apple sued Motorola, alleging that the company's smartphone lineup and the operating software it uses infringe on the iPhone-maker's...
Gaming dominates mobile devices in December
In its newly released "December MobileSTAT," Jumptap (www.jumptap.com), which specializes in targeted mobile advertising, reports that mobile gaming traffic continues to surge across its network and individual verticals.
With the advent of bigger, faster and more affordable smart devices, mobile gaming has become the most popular activity for smartphone and tablet users. This popularity is reflected in the growth of Jumptap’s Gaming Channel, a premium collection of addictive apps including Words with Friends and Angry Birds.
"Mobile gamers are not just teenagers, but busy professionals, moms and dads, and grandparents," says Matt Duffy, vice president of Marketing, Jumptap. "As gaming traffic grows on our network, advertisers gain scalable ways to reach specific audience segments of any age or demographic."
The Jumptap MobileSTAT reports mine large quantities of network data to identify targeting and audience trends. Jumptap uses proprietary algorithms to analyze and normalize this...
WarBirds 2013 released for Mac OS X 10.8
iEntertainment Network (www.ient.com) has released WarBirds 2013, a new version of its massively multiplayer, online simulation.
A new Mountain Lion version, with advanced graphics, is now available. Thirteen new aircraft have been added to WarBirds 2013 including the two ground attack aircraft, the Hawker Sydney Typhoon and the Ilyushin IL-2 Shturmovik. Other new simulation aircraft include a new Lancaster bomber, the tank busting Hurricane IID, and Mitchell B-25D- "Strafer" low level attack aircraft.
New features added include updated damage models on over 50 aircraft, new weapons loadouts adjusted to more exact historical options, and new fragmentation, incendiary, and tank busting weapons. IENT expects to release a free MicroTransaction version of WarBirds 2013 early in 2013. Players get basic aircraft and can win or purchase upgrades with microtransactions.
Mac OS X software updates for Dec. 19
Here are the latest updates for Mac OS X apps:
Vjoon (www.vjoon.com) is set to release a new version of vjoon K4. Version 6.5 will ship to the company's integration partners before Christmas and will be available to all customers at the beginning of the new year. The update comes with new features that make the cross-media publishing platform even easier to work with.
Ergonis Software (www.ergonis.com) has announced Typinator 5.4, an improved new version of their text expander. The new version offers versatile import and export of text snippets in various formats.
Fidelity Media (www.megaseg.com) has delivered version 5.8.7 of MegaSega, its DJ mixing and pro radio automation software. The upgrade adds compatibility with iTunes 11, support for Apple Media Keys and multimedia remotes, and improvements to the playlist browser and automatic volume control features.
Telestream (www.telestream.net) has rolled out ScreenFlow 4.0.2, an update of its screencasting software package. Holding...
iOS 6.0.2 gets mixed reviews
Apple's update for iOS designed to fix an unspecified Wi-Fi bug in the iPhone 5 and iPad mini is only partially successful, according to "Computerworld" (http://macte.ch/okKBH).
According to Apple, iOS 6.0.2, fixes a bug that could impact Wi-Fi." However, customers reported that the update fixed some, but not all, of the Wi-Fi problems they have encountered, according to "Computerworld." The article describes the updates's results as "mixed."
iOS 6.0.2 released for the iPhone 5 and iPad mini
Apple has posted iOS 6.0.2 for the iPhone 5 and iPad mini. It's available for download under the Software Update option in the iOS Settings app.
"This update contains improvements and bug fixes, including fixes a bug that could impact Wi-Fi," says Apple. For information on the security content of this update, please go to http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1222 .
More than 30 new networks added to TV Everywhere
DIRECTV has enhanced its DIRECTV Everywhere service by adding more than 30 new networks to the platform, with thousands of TV shows and movies on demand and available for access anytime, anywhere.
DIRECTV customers now have access to a variety of new on demand titles from A+E Networks, Scripps Networks Interactive, SHOWTIME, Smithsonian Channel and Viacom Media Networks through their PC/Mac via DIRECTV.com, iPad, iPhone, iPod touch or Android phone, at no extra charge.
In addition, DIRECTV has expanded its live in-home streaming lineup to over 60 channels. Last month, DIRECTV added both DIY and ION to its live in-home streaming service, which can now be accessed through the iPad and iPhone. For more info go to www.directv.com/everywhere .
Epson unveils Mobile POS Printer with Bluetooth support for iOS
Epson America's US$10 Mobilink P60 thermal printers are now available with Bluetooth connectivity for the iOS mobile operating system.
Available in both receipt and label versions, the new Mobilink devices allow retail and hospitality customers to take advantage of wireless printing from all handheld iDevices via the Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR wireless networking standard. Bluetooth’s open standard wireless communications protocol creates a stable connection and is a cost effective option for short-range transactions of up to 30 feet, according to Gregg Brunnick, director of Marketing for Epson’s Business Systems Division.
The Mobilink is available with belt clip and shoulder strap options; both receipt and label versions are now available through Epson’s reseller and distribution channels. For more information, visit http://pos.epson.com/mobile .
Mac App Blocker for OS X updated to version 2.0
KnewSense has released Mac App Blocker 2.0 for Mac OS X (10.6 or higher). It's an update to the utility that enables users to block access to applications by placing them on a Blocked App list, which is password protected.
Improvements in version 2.0 include:
° The ability to add scheduled days/times to block/unblock each application or all applications;
° The ability to add trusted networks to unblock applications when connected to specific networks;
° An updated user interface;
° The ability to add multiple apps to the blocked apps list at one time;
° Recording and saving of all failed attempts;
° The ability to remove individual or all histories for each app;
° A new temporary lockdown mode.
Mac App Blocker 2.0 costs US$14.95 and is available at the KnewSense website (http://knewsense.com). A 15-day free trial download is also available.
New SDK brings SMART Board usability to Web applications
SMART Technologies (www.smarttech.com) has released a new SMART Board software development kit (SDK) that allows developers to build web applications that sense user actions on a SMART Board interactive display.
The applications have embedded intelligence to recognize if the user is touching the interactive display to move an object, sketch with a pen or to perform other physical interactions with the large screen device. The SDK is now available to all SMART Ecosystem Network members.
Currently, over 2,000 software development, publishing and design organizations are members of the SMART Ecosystem Network. Membership in the network is available at no cost. To register to be a part of the Ecosystem Network, visit smarttech.com/ecosystem .
Developers can leverage the SMART Board SDK to enhance applications designed for Mac, Windows, and Linux operating platforms and web applications. The applications can sense interactive whiteboard activity, such as interaction with the SMART Pen...
Block Pop released for Final Cut Pro X
Noise Industries has introduced Block Pop for Final Cut Pro X. It's an US$49a set of 23 fully customizable transitions that break video into blocks that transform into the next scene.
They can be used to give projects a more modern and exciting look with 3D block transitions. Editors can plug and play from a variety of styles, or customize transitions Block Pop is available at http://stupidraisins.com/block-pop-final-cut-pro-x-transition .
Samsung drops injunctions against Apple in five countries
Samsung says it will drop its injunction applications against Apple in five European countries, "in a major U-turn in a long-running patents war between the electronics giants," reports the "Wall Street Journal" (http://macte.ch/WLVTX).
The South Korean company will drop injunction applications in Germany, France, the U.K., Italy and the Netherlands, a senior executive told the "WSJ." However, it will continue to pursue lawsuits in Europe, where it alleges infringements on its products, it said.
This is all part of the ongoing, global legal battle. Apple and Samsung have filed more than 30 lawsuits against each other across four continents. For example, Apple alleges that Samsung copied the slide-to-unlock technology of its iPhone and iPad devices.
California court denies Samsung a retrial
A court in California has denied Samsung Electronics a retrial in a patent dispute with Apple, and also refused Apple a ban on the sale of some Samsung products, reports the "IDG News Service" (http://macte.ch/MpdZB).
A jury decided in August that the South Korean company must pay Apple US$1.05 billion for infringing several of its patents in Samsung smartphones and tablets.
This is all part of the ongoing, global legal battle. Apple and Samsung have filed more than 30 lawsuits against each other across four continents. For example, Apple alleges that Samsung copied the slide-to-unlock technology of its iPhone and iPad devices.
Apple releases EFI updates for iMac, 13-inch Retina MB Pro
Apple has released EFI updates for the new iMac and 13-inch Retina Display MacBook Pro -- iMac EFI Update 2.0 and MacBook Pro EFI Retina EFI Update 1.1, respectively.
According go Apple, the updates address Thunderbolt and Wi-Fi issues, along with sleep-related problems. They also include general performance fixes.
You can learn more about iMac EFI Update 2.0 at http://support.apple.com/kb/DL1618?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US . You can learn more about MacBook Pro Retina EFI Update 1.1 at http://support.apple.com/kb/DL1619 . Both require OS X 10.8.1 or higher.
Mac OS X software updates for Dec. 18
Here are the latest updates for Mac OS X apps:
Kdan Mobile (http://kdanmobile.com) has released an update for Animation Desk, software that lets users perform hand-drawn animations in a digital way. Version 1.2 is a maintenance update.
Tension Software (www.pomola.com) has revved Data Extractor, which allows you to extract data from files and collect them ready to be exported for later use, to version 1.2. The upgrade offers: Adjustable Keys and column order in the extraction database; better undo management; improved design layout; new, modern look toolbar icons; and an improved run report.
Equinux has updated SongGenie (http://www.equinux.com/us/products/songgenie/index.html), a software application designed to analyze, detect and label music data, to version 2.2.3. The upgrade adds support for the new Gatekeeper security feature in Mountain Lion.
uTorrent (http://mac.utorrent.com), a lightweight BitTorrent client, has rolled to version 1.8.1. The upgrade fixes several issues.
Relaunched Google Maps sees over 10 million downloads
Jeff Huber, senior vice president of Commerce & Local at Google, announced on his Google+ account (https://plus.google.com/+JeffHuber/posts/CfXMJ76Nfwk) that the relaunched Google Maps for iOS has seen over 10 million downloads in the first 48 hours after its release.
"We're excited for the positive reception of Google Maps for iPhone around the world," he writes. "Congratulations to the Maps Team on the recognition for the passion and hard work they poured into it, for this release and over the last 7+ years. If you're an iPhone user and haven't downloaded the Maps app yet, get it on the App Store or visit: https://itunes.apple.com/app/id585027354?mt=8 . If you already have it -- thank you, and please tell a friend. Any feedback you have is welcomed, here in G+ or in the app (just shake it)."
Apple posts Mac Wi-Fi Update 1.0
Apple has posted Mac Wi-Fi Update 1.0 for Mac OS X 10.8.2 or higher.
Apple says the update is recommended for all late 2012 Mac systems. This update improves compatibility when using the 5GHz band in Wi-Fi.
To confirm the update has been applied, the CFBundleVersion string of the AirPortBrcm4311.kext will need to be checked. You can learn more at http://support.apple.com/kb/DL1620?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US .
Trojan-SMSSend-3666 is Mac-specific trojan
Unscrupulous folks have developed a new Mac OS X-specific Trojan that mimics the behavior of a legitimate software installer, reports "The Register."
Trojan-SMSSend-3666 poses as an application for listening to music on a Russian social networking site and tries to trick you into handing over your mobile number to activate the radio app. You're asked to enter your phone number into an appropriate field and then specify the code sent to the mobile in an SMS.
Victims are charged for a premium-rate text message and sign themselves up for regular debits, notes to "The Register." In return, they get nothing beyond an application that can be downloaded for free from elsewhere on the net, at best, the article adds.
Read more at http://macte.ch/yS7yb .
Autodesk Smoke 2013 now shipping
Autodesk has announced that the new Autodesk Smoke 2013, an update of the professional video editing software, is now shipping. It costs US$3,495 per license and is available at
Smoke 2013 is designed for professional editors working in video production, corporate video, online video and other competitive creative environments. The new Smoke offers editing and effects within a single, efficient timeline-based workflow, a sleek user interface and runs on a wide variety of Macs, says Mark Strassman, Autodesk Media & Entertainment vice president strategy and marketing.
New features include: the ability to drag and drop a clip from the source player into the timeline; the ability to expand/collapse the timeline FX pipeline area; and a redesign and streamlining of the user interface and interface elements to speed up workflows.
Wunderlist 2 available for the Mac, iPhone, other devices
6Wunderkinder has announced Wunderlist 2. Available for free on Mac OS X, iOS, Windows and the Android OS, it's a cross platform, cloud based productivity app with such features as Cloud Sync, Reminders and more.
Wunderlist 2 has now been rebuilt in an all new native apps on all major devices. The switch to native apps guarantees you will experience a lightning fast and a seriously stable performance no matter what and how many different devices you are using throughout the day, according to says Christian Reber, founder and CEO, 6Wunderkinder. It also allows the development team to accurately scale and roll out updates on a regular basis, he adds.
Along with the added new features the user interface of Wunderlist 2 has been completely reworked to be even simpler, yet more intelligent. To create your own Wunderlist 2 account go to www.6Wunderkinder.com .
Sprint to acquire 100% ownership of Clearwire
Sprint (www.sprint.com) has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the approximately 50% stake in Clearwire (www.clearwire.com) it doesn't currently own for US$2.97 per share, equating to a total payment to Clearwire shareholders, other than Sprint, of $2.2 billion.
This transaction results in a total Clearwire enterprise value of approximately $10 billion, including net debt and spectrum lease obligations of $5.5 billion. The transaction consideration represents a 128% premium to Clearwire's closing share price the day before the Sprint-SoftBank discussions were first confirmed in the marketplace on October 11, with Clearwire speculated to be a part of that transaction; and, a 40 percent premium to the closing price the day before receipt of Sprint’s initial $2.60 per share non-binding indication of interest on November 21.
iPhone 5 sales in China top two million first weekend
Apple has sold over two million of its new iPhone 5 in China, just three days after its launch on Dec. 14. iPhone 5 will be available in more than 100 countries by the end of December, making it the fastest iPhone rollout ever.
"Customer response to iPhone 5 in China has been incredible, setting a new record with the best first weekend sales ever in China," says Apple CEO Tim Cook. "China is a very important market for us and customers there cannot wait to get their hands on Apple products."
ScaleMaster 3.0 for Mac OS X released
RoGame Software (http://mac.rogame.com/) has updated ScaleMaster, a Mac OS X tool for helping improvising musicians and songwriters understand scales, has been updated to version 3.0.
The software features virtual banjo, bass, guitar, mandolin and piano instruments, scale ratings for the the 200-plus listed scales, a chord matching utility, lookup history and more. Version 3.0 brings a somewhat larger display that now shows 12 frets at a time and close to five octaves on the piano.
ScaleMaster 3.0 also adds the banjo instrument. Like all other instruments (bass, guitar, piano and mandolin) it can be position shifted and has its own high-quality samples for playback.
Another new feature in ScaleMaster 3.0 is the History view, which is accessible via menu command or toolbar button. The history view lists the last 16 displayed scales by order, name and rating.
Other new features in ScaleMaster 3.0 include improved compatibility with Mac OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion, support for Retina...
ITC judge rules in favor of Apple, others in patent infringement...
A U.S. International Trade Commission has ruled in favor of Apple, Intel and HP in a case involved processor patent technology infringement claimed by X2Y Attenuators..
"The Wall Street Journal" (http://macte.ch/O5Emf) reports that In his ruling, ITC Administrative Law Judge David Shaw not only cleared the three companies of any wrongdoing, but determined the patents asserted by X2Y to be invalid.
The patent infringement lawsuit involved, among other things, the iMac and its use of Intel processors. The lawsuit was filed in June 2011 by X2Y Attenuators. The company claims Apple's 27-inch iMac, utilizing a 3.2Ghz Intel Core i3 processor, is in violation of five patents it has registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, as is HP's TouchSmart 610 Series PC.
X2Y Attenuators (http://www.x2y.com/) describes itself as an "Intellectual Property Company that develops advanced passive component solutions for the electronics industry. Founded in June 1996, the company is headquartered...
D-Link expands line of cloud routers
D-Link has enhanced its line of cloud-enabled products with the availability of the Cloud Router 2500 (DIR-836L), Cloud Router 1100 (DIR-626L) and SharePort Mobile Companion (DIR-505L), delivering increased wireless speeds, extended coverage and enhanced feature sets.
The N750 Dual-Band Gigabit Cloud Router 2500 is designedfor high-bandwidth activities, delivering speeds of up to 750Mbps for uninterrupted HD video streaming, online gaming and seamless downloading and uploading. For basic Internet needs, the Cloud Router 1100 delivers up to 300Mbps for web-browsing, email and online chatting.
Both Cloud Routers feature a built-in amplifier to extend Wi-Fi range and improve wireless speeds in hard-to-reach areas. For fast wired connections, the Cloud Router 2500 is equipped with four Gigabit Ethernet ports and the Cloud Router 1100 has four fast Ethernet ports. Both Cloud Routers also offer easy remote network management with the free mydlink Lite app from an iPhone, iPad, or Android...
DH_SubtitleX released for Final Cut Pro X, Motion 5
Digital Heaven has announced DH_SubtitleX, a new FxPlug generator plug-in for Final Cut Pro X and Motion 5 on Mac OS X 10.0.6 or higher.
It provides a way to add "burned-in" boxed subtitles to a video production. This plugin automatically creates the background box according to the text entered and offers consistent vertical positioning.
DH_SubtitleX uses a fixed list of standard fonts thath are installed by default with OS X 10.6, 10.7 and 10.8. Custom installed fonts will not be usable by DH_SubtitleX.
DH_SubtitleX is priced at US$29.99 and available for immediate purchase from the Digital Heaven online store. For the first 30 hours after release, customers can get a 30% discount on the plug-in by using the coupon code shown on the Digital Heaven website (http://www.digital-heaven.co.uk). A watermarked trial version is also available for download.
Analyst trims his Apple estimates, price targets
In a note to clients -- as reported by "Forbes" (http://macte.ch/QT06j) -- UBS analyst Steve Milunovich has trimmed his estimates and price targets for Apple from US$780 to $700.
His decision was based on:
° Supply chain checks indicate the iPhone build rate is falling to 25 million units for the March quarter; Milunovich models 40 million total iPhone shipments for the quarter.).
° "Some of our Chinese sources do not expect the iPhone 5 to do as well as the iPhone 4S.”
° The iPad mini may be cannibalizing the larger iPad.
iPhone 5 goes on sale in China, 32 more countries
The iPhone 5 is now available in China and 32 other countries.
The other countries are Albania, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Ecuador, Grenada, Indonesia, Israel, Jamaica, Jordan, Kuwait, Macedonia, Malaysia, Moldova, Montenegro, Panama, Paraguay, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Taiwan, Turkey, United Arab Emirates and Venezuela. The next gen smartphone is now available in 42 countries.
First ruling issued in Apple-Samsung post-trial hearing
Judge Lucy Koh, the federal judge presiding over two Apple v. Samsung lawsuits in the Northern District of California, has issued her first ruling on issues raised at the post-trial hearing last week, reports "FOSS Patents" (http://macte.ch/ARAUz).
"It isn't even a ruling in a narrow sense: the order just explains that the court declines to adjudicate Apple's non-jury FRAND defenses (under the doctrines of waiver, equitable estoppel, and unclean hands) and counterclaims even though it has jurisdiction over them," writes Florian Mueller for "FOSS Patents." "Apple wanted a decision, and it was hoping to render certain Samsung patents entirely unenforceable beyond this case. But Judge Koh didn't want to rule on issues that are, for the time being, not outcome-determinative because the jury didn't find Apple to infringe any of Samsung's asserted standard-essential patents."
This is all part of the ongoing, global legal battle. Apple and Samsung have filed more than 30 lawsuits against...
Drobo introduces new NAS device: the 5N
Drobo (www.droboworks.com) has released the Drobo 5N. It's a Mac and Windows compatible,network-attached storage (NAS) device with pricing starting at US$599.
It employs BeyondRAID technology, which automates data protection and capacity expansion operations. In addition, the Drobo 5N utilizes Drobo's Data-Aware Tiering capability that uses high-performance flash (SSD) technology to accelerate performance of the storage array.
What's more, Drobo extends its data protection in the Drobo 5N with a new feature that protects user data in the event of an unforeseen power failure or interruption. The new data protection feature is fully automated.
