Black Friday retail CE sales down nearly 6%
U.S. consumer electronics retail sales for Black Friday declined 5.6%, a steeper than anticipated decline according to l= market research company, The NPD Group (www.npd.com).
The drop follows last year’s loss of nearly 4%. Computers, Android tablets, and TVs accounted for 58% of all sales dollars, up from 51% of sales in 2009.
"This slow start is merely a continuation of the challenges seen in the consumer electronics business throughout 2012," says Stephen Baker, vice president of industry analysis at NPD. "In an unbalanced market, where just a few categories deliver significant dollars, and even fewer offer any growth, the ability to deliver positive results will remain difficult for companies exposed to the entire consumer electronics marketplace."
Despite a 4% increase in unit volume, flat-panel TV revenue dropped 6% as a result of average selling prices (ASP) falling from US$367 last year to $333 this year. A record 40 percent of all flat-panel unit volume came from 32-inch...
Judge: Apple/HTC settlement can't be sealed
The patents shared between Apple and HTC in their global legal settlement can be revealed to the public, according to a late Monday ruling from US District Court Judge Lucy Koh, as reported by "MacNN" (http://macte.ch/uQHPz).
"This Court has repeatedly explained that only the pricing and royalty terms of license agreements may be sealed," the ruling states. "There are compelling reasons to seal pricing and royalty terms, as they may place the parties to the agreement at a disadvantage in future negotiations, but there is nothing in the remainder of the agreement that presents a sufficient risk of competitive harm to justify keeping it from the public."
On Nov. 12, it was announced that Apple and HTC have reached a global settlement that includes the dismissal of all current lawsuits and a ten-year license agreement. The license extends to current and future patents held by both parties.
Apple launches iTunes Store in 52 more countries today
Apple has announced the launch of the iTunes Store in Russia, Turkey, India, South Africa and 52 additional countries featuring a selection of local and international music from all the major labels and thousands of independent labels.
The iTunes Store features local artists including Elka in Russia, Sezen Aksu in Turkey, AR Rahman in India, and Zahara in South Africa, international artists including The Beatles, Taylor Swift and Coldplay, and world-renowned classical musicians including Lang Lang, Yo Yo Ma and Yuja Wang. Customers can choose from over 20 million songs available to purchase and download on the iTunes Store.
Movie fans can choose from a selection of films available for rent or purchase from the iTunes Store, with many available in HD, from studios including 20th Century Fox, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, The Walt Disney Studios and Warner Bros. Pictures, as well as leading local distributors.
FileWave releases version 5.8 of FileWave Management
FileWave (www.filewave.com) has released version 5.8 of FileWave Management with a new "Zero Touch" auto enrollment feature that allows FileWave Administrators to add iOS devices to the FileWave system automatically,.
FileWave's new integrated Profile & Managed Prefs editor provides FileWave Administrators a single interface from which they can deploy both iOS version 5/6 and Mac OS X 10.5 (and higher) settings. FileWave's deployment system works whether settings need to be applied via profiles or via Managed Preferences for legacy clients.
FileWave has added more extensive Kiosk customization capabilities, multiple URL support for Software Update and support for Windows 8 clients in desktop mode.
JAMF Software announces enterprise plug-ins for managing Macs
JAMF Software has released plug-ins for Windows management systems including Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2012 (SCCM) and Altiris Client Management Suite.
The Casper Suite is management software for the entire Apple platform, enabling organizations to manage and secure devices as they respond to the growth of Apple in the enterprise. With the release of plug-ins that integrate with the latest versions of the leading Windows management systems, enterprise organizations are immediately able to manage the Apple platform by using the Casper Suite alongside existing infrastructure.
Support for Microsoft SCCM 2012 and Altiris Client Management Suite 7.1
In environments where Apple devices are flooding into traditionally PC-based organizations, IT management is often faced with the dilemma of settling on a single cross-platform product that has lesser capabilities for one platform or training administrators to work with parallel systems that have stronger platform-specific...
TeamViewer launches version 8
TeamViewer has released TeamViewer 8, which expands client service capabilities and provides faster and easier performance for both remote control and online meetings sessions.
With the new version, TeamViewer is introducing the new TeamViewer Management Console, a cloud-based administration tool. It addresses the needs of corporate environments and with greater emphasis on accountability, stricter security guidelines and the need for central control of their TeamViewer user accounts, according to the folks at TeamViewer.
The Management Console opens up completely new possibilities for support teams in companies large and small, they add. Features in the new TeamViewer Management Console include comprehensive user management, connection reporting of all sessions and browser-based single-click connections.
The Management Console offers a new set of user management capabilities. All employees within a company using TeamViewer for IT support services can be managed and controlled...
Mac OS X software updates for Dec. 4
Here are the latest updates for Mac OS X apps:
ipSoft (http://islenskt.com/) has announced Chord Dictionary 1.2 for Mac OS X, an update to its app that provides reverse chord lookup from a guitar fretboard. It requires Mac OS X 10.7 or higher.
Synium Software has released CleanApp 4.0.0 Beta
(http://synium.de/products/cleanapp/index.html), a new (and beta) version of the uninstaller and system management tool for Mac OS X. The upgrade squishes several bugs and fixes several localization issues.
MacRabbit has brewed Espresso 2.0.5 (http://macrabbit.com/espresso/), an upgrade of the web development tool. The new version fixes some glitches and is tweaked for Retina display Macs.
Digital Rebellion has given us version 1.1.8 of Pro Media Tools (http://www.digitalrebellion.com/promedia/), a suite of workflow utilities focused on processing and managing media, with functions including detecting gamma shifts, editing QuickTime movie metadata, batch renaming files and more. The new version...
Apple rumors: iMacs assembled in the U.S., more
Here are the latest Apple rumors from the blogosphere.
"Apple may be taking some of the burden of assembling the new iMac off Chinese supply partners by performing parts of assembly in the U.S., as a number of newly-purchased standard units are showing an "Assembled in USA" notation usually reserved for made-to-order machines." -- "AppleInsider" (www.appleinsider.com)
"Intel is working to cut the power consumption of its chips -- not only in future processors, but also in the current Ivy Bridge line that's used in all recent Macs." -- "CNET" (news.cnet.com)
After months of anticipation, Apple's iTunes Music Store may finally be coming to Russia according to an invitation-only iTunes event scheduled for Tuesday evening in Moscow. The Russian iTunes Store currently only distributes apps, public domain books, and podcasts, a significant limitation for Apple in Europe's largest Internet market." -- "The MacObserver" (www.macobserver.com)
"As part of a lengthy press release sharing details...
onOne Software offer free, premium editions of Perfect Effects 4
onOneSoftware has released Perfect Effects 4 Premium Edition and Perfect Effects 4 Free Edition.
Both software programs offer a library of photographic effects and tools for image enhancement and creative stylization. Each may be used as a standalone application, as an external editor for Apple Aperture, Adobe Lightroom, or as a Photoshop plug-in.
Perfect Effects 4 Premium Edition provides photographers with a library of more than 400 photographic effects that instantly add professional looks to photos. Effects are sorted into more than 40 categories, such as HDR, Movie Looks, and Vintage. Also included are effects that recreate the look of film and darkroom techniques, add glows, vignettes, and borders, and correct common photography problems. Effects may be added with a single click or combined to create unique looks.
Both Perfect Effects 4 Premium and Free Editions are now available from onOne Software. New users may purchase Perfect Effects 4 Premium Edition for US$99.95....
DssW announces Battery Guardian for Mac OS X
DssW has released Battery Guardian for Mac OS X. It helps users know when to deplete their laptop battery. The free app works by placing a small heart in the top-right of the menu bar.
When the time comes to deplete, the heart turns red. This simple and clear indicator makes looking after the battery easy, says Graham Miln, director, Dssw.
He adds that to get the most out of a MacBook battery, it should be depleted once a month. Depleting involves disconnecting the mains power and using the battery until the charge is nearly empty.
Once started, Battery Guardian runs in the background and doesn't require the application to be left running. Battery Guardian will automatically track the battery charge. Each time the battery is depleted, Battery Guardian will reset the reminder.
To download go to http://www.dssw.co.uk/batteryguardian/ . System requirements are Mac OS X 10.6.7 or later.
Flying Pig releases Localizator 1.0 for Mac OS X
Flying Pig (www.flyingpigcorp.com) has released Localizator 1.0, an Xcode project's localizations tool. It's specifically designed for developers who are working on massively localized projects with external support for translation.
Localizator browses a selected root directory looking for strings files, copies them, organizes them by language and creates a separate Localizator project, which can be saved aside and exchanged between engineers and translators outside of the actual Xcode project, making it safe to edit.
Upon completion of the localization work, the user can push the changes into the Xcode project file tree. Localizator will replace only edited files automatically removing for developers the hassle of finding and replacing each file one by one,.
Combined with Base Internationalization feature from latest Xcode versions, Localizator can integrate the developers workflow and serve as a tool designed to help developers master the challenge of the diversity the Apple App...
Dream Pinball 3D pings onto the Mac App Store
Runesoft (www.rune-soft.com) has introduced Dream Pinball 3D 1.0 for Mac OS X. It's available for Mac OS X 10.6.6 or higher and costs US$9.99.
Here's how the game is described: "With Dream Pinball 3D you can transform your Mac into six different, multilevel, 3D pinball machines. Featuring clever gameplay, balls made of different materials have special ballistic properties that affect how those balls roll. A cutting edge engine gets the best out of this classic game's optics and acoustics, including state-of-art particle technology, HDR and multiplayer 3D sound."
iPhone 5 arrives in South Korea, more companies this month
Apple today announced that the iPhone 5 will be available in South Korea on Friday, Dec. 7, with more than 50 additional countries being added in December, including Brazil, Russia and Taiwan.
The iPhone 5 is currently available in 47 countries around the world including the US, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan and the UK. iPhone 5 comes with iOS 6, the world’s most advanced mobile operating system with over 200 new features including: Shared Photo Streams, Facebook integration, all-new Maps app, Passbook organization and even more Siri features and languages.
Mac OS X software updates for Dec. 3
Here are the latest updates for Mac OS X apps:
Apple has posted Digital Camera Raw Update 4.02. Available via the Mac OS X Software Update app, it adds support for several new cameras from Canon, Nikon, Panasonic and Sony to its supported import list for Aperture 3 and iPhoto '11.
JNSoftware has announced Dialectic 1.9 (www.jonn8.com/dialectic/), an update to the telephony tool for Mac OS X. Among the enhancements are support for Polycom SoundPoint & Grandstream IP phones, and improved compatibility for
magicJack, Kerio Operator, Snom IP phones and X 10.8 Mountain Lion.
Mapdiva (www.mapdiva.com) has released Artboard 1.7, an update of its vector drawing software. The upgrade is enhanced for the MacBook Pro with Retina-display and features major workflow enhancements.
Zevrix Solutions (www.zevrix.com) has rolled out Output Factory 1.3.10, a feature update to its professional output automation solution that automates printing, exporting and post-processing from InDesign. The new...
iFixIt tears down the new 21-inch iMac
The gang at iFixit have torn down the new 21.5-inch iMac from Apple. They say "it's an exercise in disappointment for us."
"We were quite worried when we saw that super-thin bezel during Apple's keynote, and unfortunately we were correct: the glass and LCD are now glued to the iMac's frame with incredibly strong adhesive," says Miroslav Djuric, chief information architect, iFixit. "Gone are the lovely magnets that held the glass in place in iMacs of yesteryear.
He adds: "... the bad news doesn't stop there. Once inside, folks can still replace the RAM, hard drive, and CPU, but they'll have to remove the entire logic board before doing so -- everything is located on the back of the board, nooked right into the iMac's slim frame. Consequently, this year's unit received a super-sad 3 out of 10 repairability score, down from a healthy 7 on last year's unit. Hackers, tinkerers, and repairers be forewarned: get last year's model if you'd like to alter your machine in any way.
You can find...
ComScore: Apple has 34.3% of U.S. smartphone market
ComScore (www.comscore.com), a company that "measures the digital world," has released data from the comScore MobiLens service, reporting key trends in the U.S. mobile phone industry during the three month average period ending October 2012.
The study surveyed more than 30,000 U.S. mobile subscribers and found Samsung to be the top handset manufacturer overall with 26.3 % market share. Google Android continued to lead among smartphone platforms, accounting for 53.6% of smartphone subscribers, while Apple secured 34.3%.
For the three-month average period ending in October, device manufacturer Samsung ranked as the top OEM [original equipment manufacturer] with 26.3% of U.S. mobile subscribers (up 0.7 percentage points). Apple ranked second for the first time on record with 17.8% market share (up 1.5 percentage points), followed by LG with 17.6% share, Motorola with 11% and HTC with 6%.
Approximately 121.3 million people in the U.S. owned smartphones (51.9% mobile market penetration)...
Apple: we weren't aware of jury member's Seagate...
Apple says it wasn’t aware during trial that the foreman of the jury that issued a US$1.05 billion verdict against Samsung was involved in a lawsuit with his former employer, Seagate Technology, reports "Bloomberg Businessweek" (http://macte.ch/nKPJF).
Samsung asked Apple to disclose when it first learned about the litigation between the jury foreman, Velvin Hogan, and Seagate. Apple responded in a filing Friday in federal court in San Jose, California. Samsung is attempting to get the Aug. 24 verdict thrown out based on claims the trial was tainted by the foreman’s failure during jury selection to tell U.S. District Judge Lucy H. Koh, who presided over the case, that he filed for bankruptcy in 1993 and was sued by Seagate.
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.
Bob Mansfield cashes in $20 million of Apple stock
Bob Mansfield, Apple's senior vice president of the newly created Technologies division, has cashed in more than US$20 million worth of Apple shares, reports "Macworld UK" (http://macte.ch/wrneM).
Mansfield sold 35,000 AAPL shares, which, based on the closing price on 28 November, ($582.94) would be worth around $20,402,900. The sell off was revealed in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing.
Apple offers unlocked version of the iPhone 5
Apple is now offering unlocked versions of the iPhone 5. They're available at http://macte.ch/wmsJ0 .
The unlocked iPhone only works on supported GSM networks, such as AT&T in the U.S. When you travel internationally, you can also use a micro-SIM card for iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S or a nano-SIM card for iPhone 5 from a local GSM carrier. The unlocked iPhone won't work with CDMA carriers such as Verizon Wireless or Sprint.
The unlocked iPhone 5 costs US$649 for 16GB model, $749 for the 32GB version and $849 for the 64GB model. The limit is two per customer.
App Studio goes live for digital publishing with HTML5
App Studio (www.AppStudio.net), the new cloud-based HTML5 solution that turns print into interactive digital experiences, is live.
With HTML5 at its core, App Studio takes the risk out of digital publishing by offering designers -- from small agencies to large enterprises -- the flexibility to use familiar tools to create app content for virtually any tablet or smartphone. With a free trial and low publishing costs, designers and content creators can get started to create and test apps through App Studio’s managed cloud environment.
App
Studio pricing plans start at US$199.95 for a single edition app or $99.95 per month for a multi-issue publication. A children’s book is an example of a single edition app while a monthly magazine is an example of a multi-issue publication.
Designers can get started with App Studio by creating a free account to access App Studio’s managed cloud environment. With an App Studio account, designers log in to the App Studio app within QuarkXPress or...
iPad mini, iPhone 5 arrive in China in December
Apple has announced the Wi-Fi versions of iPad mini and fourth generation iPad with Retina display will be available in China on Friday, Dec. 7, and iPhone 5 will be available on Friday, Dec. 14.
The iPad mini and the new fourth generation iPad with Retina display are currently available in 42 countries. The Phone 5 is available in 47 countries, including the US, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan and the UK.
Arcade Pinball pings onto the Mac
Arcade Pinball is now available at the Mac App Store. It requires Mac OS X 10.6 or higher and costs US$3.99.
Here's how the game is described: "Miss the 8-bit days of sprites and beeps, yet still addicted to the thrill and dynamism of modern apps? Want to have your cake and eat it, too?
Get your paws on digital pinball moguls Gameprom's latest release, Arcade Pinball and get all your kicks in one dazzling app!
This unique table features pinball bumpers and targets, plus a color monitor where upi can take on a variety of old-school digital minigame challenges – a space scroller, car racing, missile defense, a block breaker, and more.
"And like many Gameprom tables, Arcade Pinball pushes the digital environment to deliver more than a mechanical table, while capturing the same feel and response of a real physical pinball game."
eSellerate updates the Embedded Web Store SDK for Macintosh
eSellerate has released version 5.0.0.0 of the Embedded Web Store SDK [software development kit] for Macintosh.
Beginning with this release, two different versions of the eSellerate Embedded Web Store Engine are available for use with eWeb Libraries for Macintosh. The only difference between these engine versions is that one is always included within the application, while the other is typically installed in locations external to the application.
Developers can use either or both of these engines to suit their needs. You can download the new SDK by logging in to your publisher account at http://publishers.esellerate.net and going to eSellerate Downloads.
Griffin Technology announces charge/sync cables with Lightning...
Griffin Technology (www.griffintechnology.com) has announced its charge/sync cables featuring Apple’s new Lightning Connector.
Griffin’s new cables with Lightning Connector are charging solutions that are built to resist kinks and tangles. The cables work with Griffin’s family of PowerBlocks and PowerJolts, as well as Apple’s USB power adapters, or plug into a computer's USB to sync with iTunes. The cables offer connectivity to users of all new Apple devices featuring the Lightning Connector, including iPhone 5, iPad mini, iPad fourth generation), iPod touch (fifth generation), and iPod nano (seventh generation).
Designed for use in the car, the four-foot coiled USB to Lightning Cable (US$24.99) is designed to save space and eliminate tangles. With Griffin’s new three-meter USB to Lightning Cable ($29.990 users can charge and sync new Lightning devices from just about anywhere in the room. Almost 10 feet long, it'sis built to handle the power needs of Lightning devices. The cable...
iBattz introduces snap-on battery case for the iPhone 5
iBattz has introduced their first protective battery case for the iPhone 5 with the Mojo Hi5 Powerbank Case. It's a two-part protective case that features a detachable 2500mAh aluminum battery to keep users powered up on the go.
The battery is thin, lightweight and complementary to the iPhone 5’s minimalistic design. In addition, it can also be used to power other USB devices. The user has the option to use the battery or just protect their phone with the case.
Included with the Mojo Hi5 Powerbank case is the 2500mAh battery, matte black and gloss white cases, USB to Micro USB charging cable, Velcro strap and a short flex USB cable for charging the iPhone 5 when connected with the Apple Lightning to micro USB adapter, available at the Apple Store and online, sold separately. The Mojo Hi5 Powerbank Case is available at Amazon.com and usa.ibattz.com for a manufacturer's suggested retail price of US$79.90.
Sonnet announces Echo Express II Thunderbolt Expansion Chassis
Sonnet has announced the Echo Express II, the newest member of the company's Echo family of Thunderbolt expansion chassis for PCIe cards.
Featuring two PCIe slots, the new Thunderbolt-to-PCI expansion chassis enables the use of a variety of high-performance PCI Express cards -- originally designed for use in desktop computers -- with any computer equipped with a Thunderbolt port.
The Echo Express II was designed for users needing a compact solution to connect two PCIe cards to their computers, and supports the majority of Thunderbolt-compatible PCIe cards. Based on the original Echo Express expansion chassis, the Echo Express II adds a second slot to support two half-length (up to 7.25 inches long), full-height, single-width PCIe 2.0 x16 cards. Like its siblings, the Echo Express II expansion chassis has dual Thunderbolt ports to support daisy-chaining of devices.
The new Echo chassis includes three temperature-controlled, variable-speed fans for cooling the cards and the chassis'...
These speakers go BOOM
The BOOM Movement is taking its next supreme idea to the streets with Urchin, a Ready 4 Anything (R4A) Bluetooth speaker designed to go where you go.
The Urchin's interchangeable silicone skins give the Urchin its distinct look and also make it shock and water resistant, according to the folks at the BOOM Movement. It ships with a carbineer for hooking on a belt loop or backpack, a suction cup for sticking to a shower tile, and a screw mount attachment for the dash of a car, or it can be used with the optional bike mount or strap attachment.
The Urchin's silicone skin is molded with a hole at the top so it can easily be attached to most anything with everything from a screw in the wall, to a rope tied around a tree. Also included is a built-in microphone that instantly turns the Urchin into a hands free speaker for any Bluetooth phone allowing it to be used on the go.
The Urchin is built to connect with pretty much any Bluetooth device, with support for Version 2.1 + EDR or higher,...
Small budget Bollywood movies get online release with Spuul
Bollywood movie lovers worldwide can now watch big-budget blockbusters as well as small-budget movies on Spuul.com, an online platform for streaming Indian movies and TV shows.
Until recently, small budget Bollywood movies had little chance of a worldwide audience. But now producers of budget titles such as “Ata Pata Laapata” and “Future Toh Bright Hai Ji” are releasing their films online on Spuul with the assurance of access to a larger audience base.
“Ata Pata Laapata,” a small budget comedy flick by actor Rajpal Yadav, will release on Spuul on Dec. 1, 2012, within a month of its theatrical opening. This follows the recent online release of “Future Toh Bright Hai Ji,” which started streaming on Spuul within ten days of its theatrical opening. Other upcoming 2012 budget titles on Spuul include “Fatso,” “Gali Gali Chor Hain,” “Mere Dost Picture Abhi Baki Hai,” “Staying Alive,” “Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai,” and “I am 24.”
Viewers can now instantly watch these movies at Spuul.com or download...
Clockwork Man 1 and 2 available on the Mac App Store
Total Eclipse (www.totaleclipsegames.com) says the Clockwork Man Hidden Object/Adventure Series is now available on the Mac App Store. They require Mac OS X 10.6 or higher and cost US$9.99 each.
Here's how the series is described: "In The Clockwork Man (U$9.99) players explore a fantastic vision of the past through the eyes of Miranda Calomy, a feisty engineer with a knack for creative problem-solving. Accompanied by her loyal robot friend, Sprocket, she embarks on a global adventure trying to help her grandfather. Will she manage to compile the parts to the world's greatest invention before it's too late?
"The Clockwork Man: The Hidden World ($14.99) brings twice as much fun, puzzles, adventure game play and a captivating story. The discovery of a strange obsidian artefact takes Miranda and Sprocket on a quest for The Hidden World, a land lost in time and glimpsed through legends. Yet they are not alone; doggedly chasing them every step of the way, an unknown menace will do anything...
SecureMac offers security guide to Mountain Lion
SecureMac has released a free Mac OS X security guide, outlining the top tips for securing your computer against threats. The guide, "Top 10 Security Tips for Mac OS X Mountain Lion (10.8)," outlines the new security features, measures and practices for Apple's latest operating system Mountain Lion.
The guide covers some of the latest technology including, GateKeeper, File Vault 2, Privacy Controls, Firewall, Password Assistant, Anti-Phishing, Software Updates, iCloud locator, and more. You can download the free guide at http://www.securemac.com/10-MacOSX-MountainLion-Security-Tips.php .
Mac OS X software updates for Nov. 30
Here are the latest updates for Mac OS X apps:
Zevrix Solutions (www.zevrix.com) has announced Output Factory 1.3.10, a feature update to its professional output automation solution for Adobe InDesign. The new version lets users output InDesign documents as single files without splitting them into single pages.
Managing Editor (www.maned.com) has released MEI Portico 2.0, the latest in the Adobe development partner's lineup of solutions for publishers. MEI Portico lets publishers create custom branded user interfaces for their mobile and tablet apps. The new version of MEI's custom storefront software for tablets was built to empower Adobe Digital Publishing Suite customers.
St. Clair Software (www.stclairsoftware.com) has rolled out Default Folder X 4.5.3, an update to their utility that enhances the file dialogs in all Mac OS X applications. The upgrade addresses stability and compatibility issues.
It's here: iTunes 11
iTunes 11 has been released and is available at www.itunes.com as a software update. It features a completely redesigned player, integration with iCloud, and a new look for the online music, apps, TV and movie stores.
The new iTunes features a dramatically simpler and cleaner interface that keeps your favorite iTunes content at the forefront, according to Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Internet Software and Services. With iCloud integration, your music, movie and TV purchases made on any of your iOS devices or computers is conveniently displayed in your iTunes library on your Mac or PC, available anytime you want them.
The redesigned iTunes Store, App Store and iBookstore have been rethought to make buying your favorite content on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac or PC simpler than ever, says Cue.
"We created iTunes because we love music and we’re going back to our roots with an incredibly clean design that keeps your music at the forefront," he adds. "The new iTunes...
Analyst: iPad mini cannibalizing sales of the iPad 4
In a note to clients, Citi analyst Glen Yeung says the iPad mini is cannibalizing sales of the full-size iPad. A poll of 50 Apple stores conducted by Citi this week found limited stock of the iPad Mini but wide availability of the iPad 4.
"While not explicitly asked, it is clear in our survey work that [the] iPad 4 is not selling well, cannibalized by Mini sales," Yeung says.
Around 10 million iPad minis were manufactured for the current quarter, compared with 10 million to 15 million for all other iPads combined, he adds. Read more at http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-57556141-37/ipad-mini-cannibalizing-sa... .
Tony Fadell: Forstall's departure was 'justified'
n an interview (http://macte.ch/a59af) with the BBC, Tony Fadell (top photo), an ex-Apple employee known as the "father of the iPad," says Scott Forstall (bottom photo), who is leaving Apple next year, got what he deserved.
Last month it was announced that Forstall, Apple's senior vice president of iPhone software, will be leaving Apple next year and will serve as an advisor to CEO Tim Cook in the interim. Forstall is known for his fiery temperament and has been blamed -- whether justly or not -- for the iOS Maps brouhaha.
Fadell said Forstall's departure was "deserved and justified." "If you read some of the reports, people were cheering in Cupertino when that event happened," he added.
Fadell left Apple in 2008. He was the first member of the iPod hardware engineering team when he joined Apple in 2001. He was promoted to vice president of iPod engineering in 2004. He became senior vice president of the iPod Division in April 2006. Fadell is now CEO of Nest, the company behind the...
Apple plans Santa Clara office
Apple continues to expand its real estate for company sites, agreeing to build a site in Santa Clara, California, that could house 1,200 or more workers, according to the "San Jose Mercury News" (http://www.mercurynews.com/ci_22084599).
The article says Apple has struck a deal with developer Peery Arrillaga for a custom-tailored two-building campus that' under construction on the north side of Stevens Creek Boulevard in Santa Clara. Apple and Peery Arrillaga declined to discuss the development and leasing deal. However, "multiple sources with direct knowledge of the transaction" told the "Mercury News" that Apple has leased nearly 296,000 square feet from Peery Arrillaga in a deal that included demolition of existing buildings.
Apple is also building a state-of-the-art, "spaceship-shaped" campus in Cupertino, California. It's expected to house more than 12,000 employees. The campus is expected to open sometime in 2016.
Apple Store, Costco among highest rated cell phone retailers
Whether shopping online or at walk-in stores, those who bought a cell phone at an Apple Store or at Apple.com had a better overall experience than shoppers at any other cell-phone store, according to a survey from the Consumer Reports National Research Center. When it came to ratings for checkout and service, only Apple’s walk-in and online stores received top scores for both attributes.
The full ratings, which are based on 9,774 responses from Consumer Reports subscribers surveyed in July 2012 who bought a new cell phone in the past two years, can be found online at ConsumerReports.org and in the January 2013 issue of Consumer Reports. In the same issue, Consumer Reports rated carriers in 23 metro areas based on a September 2012 survey of 63,253 subscribers.
Costco received high marks in the Consumer Reports survey for service and pricing on the cell phones it sells at special kiosks within its warehouse stores; Walmart matched Costco in offering pleasing prices. Best Buy received...
Verizon tops Consumer Reports' rankings of cellphone...
Verizon tops the ranking of the four major U.S. cellphone carriers by Consumer Reports. AT&T comes in last (again).
Verizon was the highest-rated major carrier in Consumer Reports’ annual cell-phone service ratings, based on a survey of 63,253 subscribers by the Consumer Reports National Research Center. The full report can be found online at ConsumerReports.org and in the January 2013 issue of Consumer Reports, which is on newsstands now.
Of the four major U.S. national cell-phone standard service providers, Verizon Wireless led the pack, receiving favorable scores for voice and data service quality, and also for support attributes like staff knowledge and resolution of issues. Sprint, T-Mobile, and AT&T each received mostly middling to low marks, particularly for voice and text service quality.
AT&T was among the lower-scoring providers, but its 4G LTE network was Rated the most favorably of any carrier. Its users reported the fewest problems with that higher-speed...
iPhone 5 coming to China soon
The iPhone 5 has apparently cleared the last hurdle in a series of Chinese regulatory checks, opening the way for the Apple smartphone to finally be sold in one of the company’s largest markets, according to the IDC News Service (http://macte.ch/zEEPi).
Two iPhone models received the necessary network access licenses from China’s Telecommunications Equipment and Certification Center (TENAA), the article adds. The devices had previously received approval from a pair of Chinese regulatory bodies in September and in October.
Macrobatix announces grand opening for new Cobb, Georgia store
Macrobatix (http://macrobatix.com) -- a Johns Creek, Ga.-based Apple Specialist and Apple Authorized Service Provider -- will celebrate the grand opening of its new store at Town Center mall in Cobb County on Dec. 1.
An official ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. where Kennesaw Mayor Mark Matthews, Cobb County Commissioners Joann Birrell and Tim Lee and the area’s District Executive Director Lanie Shipp will be present.
The new 2,300-square-foot store, Macrobatix, which is located on the lower level of the mall near the Belk wing, will be hosting random drawings every hour allowing customers to win free Apple products, such as iPods, iPads and related accessories. In addition, the first 300 Macrobatix customers will receive a free t-shirt. The store will open its doors at 9 a.m. and close at 9 p.m.
AViiQ hammers up a wooden iPhone case
AViiQ is shipping the Thin Case with Wood for iPhone 5, a marriage of protection and style featuring authentic wood.
Inspired by the natural patterns found in wood, the AViiQ Thin Case with Wood for iPhone 5 embodies the belief that simplicity can be elegant, according to Alan Yeung, co-founder of AViiQ. The selection of real wood trims, chosen for their lasting qualities, delicate feel and distinctive looks, is paired with an ultra-thin satin-finish plastic case.
The AViiQ Thin Case with Wood measures less than 1.4mm thick, is currently available for US $27.99 at www.AViiQ.com . It comes in a variety of wood and color combinations, including yellow-walnut, blue-cherry, green-cherry, white-maple and black-walnut.
Iconographer Susan Kare announces new products for the holidays
Susan Kare, the noted Silicon Valley graphic interface designer, referred to by the New York Times as "the Betsy Ross of the personal computer," has announced new products for the holidays -- each at US$99.
The first is a bundled set that includes her famous Smiling Computer signed and numbered print accompanied by her book, "ICONS," featuring 80 of her most popular icons created between 1983-2011. "ICONS" comprises a collection of original Apple icons including the Bomb, Watch cursor, Smiling Macintosh, and Moof the Dogcow, and the 1983 and 2011 portrait icons of Steve Jobs, among others popular illustrations from companies like Google and Facebook.
In addition, Kare is announcing the new Icons A to Z print as a signed, limited edition 16 x 20 art print featuring icons designed by Kare for each letter of the alphabet. It's designed to be a "great piece of art for a child¹s room, or for any hipster who loves beautiful illustrations."
Ballistic serves up Every1 Series of cases
Ballistic has announced the Every1 Series for smartphones. This protective case has four layers of protection, is comprised of a slim exterior and dual-color scheme and is available in a variety of colors.
The Every1 is easy to remove yet doesn't come apart when dropped, because of the new built-in Active Latches, according to Adam Stubin, vice president of Business Development, Ballistic. Suspension Springs further shield the iPhone by providing a 1mm air gap around the phone, he adds. The built-in port covers also deliver a dirt-resistant mechanism for all ports and buttons.
The case comes equipped with a built-in screen protector. A second model also features a kickstand for flexible functionality.
The Ballistic Every1 Case will be available in early December for iPhone 4/5, Samsung Galaxy S III, Samsung Galaxy Express, and Nokia Lumia 820/920 for US$50. You can find it at www.goballisticcase.com and a variety of other U.S. retail stores.
Satechi device turns iOS gadgets into universal remotes
Satechi has released its Universal Remote dongle and RemoteBean app for iOS devices. The compact dongle and app transform any iOS device into a universal remote.
The device can be used to control a variety of infrared electronics including TVs, DVD players, DVRs and more, eliminating clutter and the need for multiple remote controls. The plug and play Universal Remote dongle connects to the iOS device’s 3.5mm jack.
Once plugged in, users download the free RemoteBean app, enter the activation code and program all multimedia electronics in the room on the iPhone or iPad. The app guides users through each room in the house to customize virtually any device that comes with a remote control.
The app contains a database of all major manufacturers and thousands of products. However, if a device isn't in the database already, users can teach the app to control such devices via the learning function making the Universal Remote dongle and app future proof.
The Satechi Universal Remote...
iPad mini inspires new line of UNIEA cases
UNIEA (www.uniea.com) has unveiled a new set of cases for the iPad mini. The Colorama Folio Case (top photo) is a scaled down version of the larger Colorama case that debuted with the new iPad in the spring.
It combines PU leather and high-impact color options. The US$39.95 Colorama’s folio cover folds up into two different angles for video viewing and reading/typing, while a microfiber inner lining won’t scratch your iPad’s surface. It also sports a pressed hexagon pattern on its sides, which is designed to give a comfortable, stylish texture.
The $44.95 Soft Suit Folio for iPad mini picks up on the same theme of colored leather and offers six deluxe colored leather panels. It's an “up market” iPad mini case featuring a PU leather construction material wrapped around a plastic core designed to add stability and protection.
Custom name card slots offer a feature that complements the iPad mini, while the right side of the case where the tablet is inserted offers a durable rubberized...
AnyGlove offers 'touchscreen gloves in a bottle'
AnyGlove (www.anyglove.com) is a new product that will purportedly turn almost any type of glove into a touchscreen compatible glove. With AnyGlove, you can send texts and use your favorite apps on mobile devices such as the iPhone 5, iPad, iPad mini and Galaxy S3 with almost any glove, anytime of the year.
The AnyGlove liquid can be applied to any finger(s) or part of the glove you want to work with a touchscreen. A single application reportedly can last for weeks, even months, depending on the type of gloves and how you use them. AnyGlove can be reapplied at any time, as needed, to restore full functionality throughout the useful life of the glove.
AnyGlove works on different types of materials; fleece, knits, synthetic suede and more. It's available for under US$20.00 (USD) and a single bottle can treat multiple pairs of gloves.
AnyGlove can be purchased online at Amazon.com, Amazon.ca and Amazon.co.uk. Plans are underway to expand availability of AnyGlove into other geographical...
Markzware releases PDF2DTP for QuarkXPress 8
Markzware (www.markzware.com) has released PDF2DTP for QuarkXPress 8. PDF2DTP data conversion software is a QuarkXPress XTension that enables you to open and convert PDF to QuarkXPress 8 for both Mac and Windows platforms.
PDF2DTP for QuarkXPress 8 provides a way for you to migrate content from PDF to an editable format within QuarkXPress, a desktop publishing (DTP) layout. PDF2DTP data conversion software will convert PDF to QuarkXPress from a flattened Portable Document Format right into QuarkXPress. Users can then more easily edit PDF in QuarkXPress, a flexible and familiar environment.
PDF2DTP can convert PDF to QuarkXPress, including all elements possible to bring over from the PDF, including text, colors, and images. PDF2DTP for QuarkXPress 8 will also extract images embedded within PDFs and saves them in a separate folder.
PDF2DTP for QuarkXPress 8 data conversion software is available at the PDF2DTP Store (http://macte.ch/AE8Qu) for US$149. You can obtain the system...
Mac OS X software updates for Nov. 29
Here are the latest updates for Mac OS X apps:
Zevrix Solutions (www.zevrix.com) has released BatchOutput PDF 2.0 public beta, a new version of its solution to printing multiple PDF documents on Mac OS X. Designed as an affordable solution for printers, publishers, ad agencies, as well as users of other trades, The new version introduces fully automated processing based on watched hot folders and output settings presets.
Eltima Software (www.eltima.com) has announced USB Network Gate 2.0 for Mac, an upgrade of the software that lets your computer work with remote USB devices over Internet/LAN/WAN as if those devices were connected directly to this computer. The new version has all features of version 1.x plus multiple new additions and improvements.
ExactCODE (www.exactscan.com) has revved ExactScan Pro, its scanning software, to version 2. With support for Apple's ImageCapture compatible scanner drivers many consumer scanners now work with the software out of the box on the Mac....
TSMC may produce chips for iOS devices beginning next year
TSMC will start producing chips for Apple's next iOS devices in 2013, reports "DigiTimes" (www.digitmes.com), quoting unnamed "industry observers," Samsung Electronics has been the sole supplier of CPUs that power the existing iPhones and iPads.
Of course, with the ongoing patent war between the two companies, a severing of the relationship isn't too surprising. Demand from Apple is expected to be huge and "allocation of TSMC's available advanced process capacity among its major clients will be a critical decision to be made by the foundry," says "DigiTimes." TSMC will need at least more than 200,000 12-inch wafers ready to satisfy the huge demand from Apple, the article adds.
Joyn to take on Apple's iMessage
To combat the "growing popularity" of Apple's iMessage, WhatsApp and other social-networking smartphone apps, Spain's three biggest wireless service providers on Wednesday launched a free text messaging product called Joyn, reports "Investor's Business Daily" (http://macte.ch/EzKgu).
iMessage is a texting service that Apple first rolled out with iOS 5. It's free for those texting over Wi-Fi using an iOS device or Mac with iMessage. And it’s unlimited.
The Joyn service is being launched by Telefonica's Movistar, France Telecom'sOrange and Vodafone. It will offer free messaging and, in some cases, free calls. Other European wireless firms, such as in Germany, are expected to offer the Joyn messaging service, according to "Investor's Business Daily."
Apple releases Thunderbolt Firmware Update v1.1
Apple has posted Thunderbolt Firmware Update v1.1 for the mid-2012 MacBook Pro on Tuesday.
It addresses an issue with MacBook Pro (mid 2012) and some Thunderbolt cables that may prevent bus-powered Thunderbolt devices from functioning properly. The update requires OS X 10.7.4 or higher.
Thunderbolt Firmware Update v1.1 is available through the Mac OS X Software Update app, or as a downloadable installer at http://support.apple.com/kb/DL1612 .
