Crow Coming to the Mac App Store on Aug. 30
Sunside says their action-adventure title, Crow, will be available for sale on the Mac App Store and Macgame store (www.macgamestore.com) on Thursday, Aug. 30.
Crow for the Mac supports the latest features of Mac OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion, including Game Center leaderboards and achievements. It also includes high resolution graphics, bloom and other advanced post processing effects, support for the mouse and keyboard, and a remastered soundtrack.
Here's how Crow is described: "Combining unique exploration, combat, and game mechanics, Crow takes the player on an exciting journey to far away lands where an ancient battle is unfolding. Created using Sunside’s in-house game platform Radiance, Crow delivers stunning visuals and immersion in a fully 3D world."
Agenda Announced for CPUG Amsterdam SuperMeet
The stage show agenda has now been set for the Fifth Annual CPUG Amsterdam SuperMeet, which will take place during IBC2012 on Sunday, Sept. 9, at the Hotel Krasnapolsky in the heart of Amsterdam.
This "SuperMeet" promises to be the single largest gathering of Final Cut, Adobe, Avid, Autodesk editors, and Digital Filmmakers, Gurus and users during IBC2012. Tickets to the The Amsterdam SuperMeet can be purchased at the SuperMeet web site (http://supermeet.com).
Scheduled to appear on stage will be Michael Cioni, CEO of Light Iron Digital in Hollywood, California. Cioni will lead a discussion in what SuperMeet producers Daniel Berube and Michael Horton say, "might be the most important topic we have ever done at a SuperMeet."
Berube and Horton add, "Cioni will talk about the changing ecosystem of filmmaking and how it has, and will impact all filmmakers and post production creatives. Everything is changing and if you do not adapt, if you do not embrace these changes, chances are you...
Google: most claims in Apple-Samsung case not about Android OS
Google, responding to an U.S. jury verdict that found that Samsung infringed Apple patents, said most of the claims “don’t relate to the core Android” software used in mobile devices, reports "Bloomberg" (http://macte.ch/n7ur2).
“The court of appeals will review both infringement and the validity of the patent claims,” the company said in an email statement. “Most of these don’t relate to the core Android operating system, and several are being re-examined by the U.S. Patent Office.”
The verdict is a "major victory for Apple vis a vis the Android ecosystem," Bernstein & Company analyst Toni Sacconaghi told "Bloomberg," adding that "we don’t think it is a game-changing loss for Android." The ruling is "likely to embolden Apple’s legal strategy," she said.
"Litigation playing out in several countries may ultimately lead to Android phone makers paying royalties to Apple of $3 to $25 per handset or 'forced workarounds on violated patents, some of which could modestly change the look...
Apple, Facebook plan expanded Oregon data center operations
Apple and Facebook this month each filed plans to expand data center operations in Prineville, Oregon, "a small community that's on its way to becoming one of the top data center locations in the U.S.," reports "Computerworld" (http://macte.ch/nGgiX).
Once the latest projects are completed, the two tech firms will be running a combined 1.2 million square feet of data center space, "and each company owns enough land in the city to expand well beyond that," the article adds.
Apple has agreed to pay local governments US$150,000 a year and get a 15-year property tax exemption for the data center it's developing in Central Oregon, reports the "Associated Press" (http://macte.ch/5R9zI).
In an agreement with Prineville and Crook County, Apple also committed to minimums of 35 jobs at the center, wages 150% of the county's average wage and $250 million invested at its 160 acres of land, the article adds. Apple paid $5.6 million in February to buy 160 acres in Prineville and started...
Samsung to continue its Apple supply contract
Even though Samsung Electronics lost the first round in its patent battle against Apple, it's unlikely to damage the relationship in which Samsung is the sole supplier of Apple-designed chips that power the iPhone and iPad, reports "Reuters" (http://macte.ch/8rcZR).
At an emergency meeting in Seoul on Sunday, "the South Korean group's post mortem was led by vice chairman Choi Gee-sung and the head of the mobile business JK Shin, rather than by CEO Kwon Oh-hyun, whose primary role is in charge of the components business," and "the clear message from Samsung is that a strict internal firewall between its handset business and its components operations remains intact," the article adds.
Samsung will appeal the U.S. verdict in the patent trial. However, the company isn't going to risk its Apple supply contract, which is worth billions of dollars, "Reuters" reports.
LifeProof for iPad available
LifeProof has announced the availability of the LifeProof nüüd case for the iPad. It's water, dirt, snow and shock proof, and features a totally "naked" screen that provides tactile response and visual clarity.
The new LifeProof iPad case protects both iPad 2 and iPad Gen 3 devices. It's currently offered exclusively at all Best Buy and Best Buy Mobile stores nationwide. It is also available online at LifeProof.com as well as BestBuy.com. LifeProof nüüd iPad case is available for $149.99 and the Cover + Stand for LifeProof nüüd iPad case for $29.99. A case and cover combo is also available for $159.99.
The LifeProof nüüd case is designed for students, road warriors, outdoor adventurers, parents, children, emergency services, the military and anyone who wants to take their iPad with them everywhere, everyday, and in any kind of weather. Unlike any other case on the market, The naked screen technology places absolutely nothing between the user and the iPad, providing uncompromised...
Ninebuzz Guitar Jam Tracks now available on OS X
Ninebuzz Software has introduced Guitar Jam Tracks -- Scale Trainer & Practice Buddy 1.0 for Mac OS X. It features five musical styles and Retina-ready graphics.
Guitar Jam Tracks provides a way to practice guitar scales. Features include: five professionally recorded styles; chord charts for rhythm guitar parts; pentatonic scale charts in all keys for learning lead guitar; keyboard shortcuts for one-touch toggling of style, key, scale, charts; etc.; automatic track looping; zoomable scale charts; and more.
Guitar Jam Tracks requires OS X 10.7 or later. It costs US$4.99 and is available worldwide exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Music category.
Tiny Troopers lands on the Mac, PC
Iceberg Interactive (http://iceberg-interactive.com) has released Tiny Troopers is available for the Mac and PC. Gamers can find Tiny Troopers for US$9.99 on an array of digital portals worldwide including Steam, GameStop, Amazon, GamersGate, Metaboli, Green Man Gaming, Get Games Go, and many others.
Here's how the game is described: "In Tiny Troopers players lead a team of tiny soldiers on a modern battlefield and fight against an intriguing assortment of enemies, guiding them through dozens of challenging missions. Gamers can strengthen their Tiny Trooper squad with experts such as machine gunners, medics, and delta force. Players gain ranks and earn lives in the safest way to fight a war!
"Gamers go face to face with enemy infantry snipers, tanks, and more in a war where the casualty rate is high. With an endless supply of fresh recruits to step up and fill the ranks, the lucky troopers who survive from mission to mission will be promoted and each new stripe earned will make them...
FNC, FBC now live on the iPad, iPhone
Time Warner Cable subscribers can now watch Fox News Channel (FNC) and FOX Business Network (FBN) live on the iPad and iPhone.
The live programming streams will specifically be available on the Fox News iPhone, Fox News iPad and Fox Business iPad applications. You can get the latest news coverage, market updates and watch your favorite shows anytime, anywhere that you have an Internet connection.
Customers that subscribe to the corresponding channels simply need to log into the apps with their TWC ID to verify their subscription. For more information, go to www.timewarnercable.com .
Mac OS X software updates for Aug. 27
Here are the latest updates for Mac OS X apps:
Akvis (www.akvis.com) has announced Akvis Sketch 14 for Mac and Windows. The software converts digital photos into pencil sketches and watercolor, charcoal, and pastel drawings. Version 14 introduces the new Timeline feature, which creates stepwise shots during image processing.
Adobe has released Adobe Revel 1.5. Available in the Mac App Store and the Apple App Store, Adobe Revel is a photography app that marries organizing and editing tools with a cloud technology. Theres now automatic syncing of everything a user does: importing and editing photos, creating albums, etc.
Dartware has rolled out version 5.6 of InterMapper (www.intermapper.com/) -- now including enhanced auto-discovery, better control of data and a friendlier interface. InterMapper is designed to help optimize network uptime, reduce risk and alert the network administrator of impending issues before network impact.
iPhone/iPod touch/iPad apps for Aug. 27
Here are the latest iPhone/iPod touch/iPod/iPad apps. You can find 'em at the Apple App Store (www.itunes.com/appstore/).
Internet Design Zone has announced Dress Up Contest For Girls 1.0 for the iPhone and iPad. The dress-up app is designed for girls ages 4-12 years, In the game, gals have to play 26 levels and create different looks to win the contest with their sense of fashion and style.
3909 has released Intro Thing 1.0, for iOS. The US$0.99 app combines filmed motion, freeze-frames, and music to create character introduction videos.
Take Flight Software has introduced Photo Shoot List 1.0 for iOS. The $0.99 is designed to help photographers organize their lists of planned shots for upcoming events, travels, and client shoots. Shots are listed with a description and a sample photo of the shot planned. Pre-done templates are available for in-app purchase and include travel destinations and common events such as weddings.
DevStorm Apps has introduced Pop Farm 1.0, a physics...
ITC: Apple didn't infringe two Google patents
The International Trace Commission (ITC) has ruled that Apple didn't infringe two patents owned by Google's Motorola Mobility unit for wireless technologies used throughout the electronics industry. However, the ITC didn't completely resolve the companies’ dispute, ordering a trade judge to reconsider Motorola Mobility’s claim that Apple violated another patent, reports "Bloomberg" (http://macte.ch/iU7rz).
The judge previously found no violation of that patent, which applies to a sensor used to determine the proximity of a person’s head to the phone so it doesn’t accidentally hang up. The commission could have stopped shipments of the iPhone and iPad at the border had it upheld Judge Thomas Pender’s earlier finding that Apple infringed a patent for 3G technology. That determination had prompted criticism that the agency shouldn’t ban imports of products that infringe patents related to technological standards used by an entire industry, notes "Bloomberg."
All this is part of an...
Apple awarded over $1 billion in damages in Samsung patent trial
Samsung will appeal, but Apple has won a major victory over Samsung in its major patent trial. The jury, after three days of deliberations in the U.S. District Court trial in San Jose, awarded Apple more than US$1 billion after finding that Samsung had infringed on six patents by copying the look and feel of its mobile devices.
Here's some of the major points from the trial:
° "The jury found, for instance, that Samsung used Apple's patented pinch-and-zoom technology, which allows users to make objects on the screen bigger or smaller with a flick of their fingers. It also found that Samsung infringed on Apple's bounce-back patent, an effect that occurs when a user attempts to scroll beyond the edge of an image or text box." -- "Los Angeles times" (http://macte.ch/i4qzS)
"Following Apple’s big win in U.S. court today against Samsung, Apple CEO has sent a memo response to Apple corporate employees. The statement is reminiscent of Apple PR head Katie Cotton’s statement from earlier today...
WWDC 2012 Interview: Fiberlink
While in San Francisco, TUAW and MacTech Magazine teamed up to speak to developers at Apple's WWDC 2012 about the keynote and how Apple's new technologies will help them and their customers. In the weeks following the event, we'll bring you those videos on TUAW, MacTech and MacNews.
If you aren't currently a reader of MacTech Magazine, check out the special WWDC free MacTech on iPad issues for MacTech Magazine here.
This video features Neil Ticktin (Editor-in-Chief, MacTech Magazine) and Jatin Malik of Fiberlink at WWDC. Jatin was kind enough to tell us about their thoughts on the announcements on WWDC, and how it will affect their plans moving forward.
Those Samsung stores -- and new ads -- look very familiar ...
Samsung ha apparently copied Apple again. Even as the two companies are involved in a global battle over patent rights, Samsung's flagship consumer electronics store" in Sydney, Australia, is VERY similar to Apple's retail stores,
The stores feature "smiling blue shirt-wearing sales staff, a minimalist design and smartphones and tablets that invite customers to pick up and play," according to the "Sydney Morning Herald." "Everything from the store layout to the sales staff to the products and even the packaging and promotional material is uncannily Apple-esque," the article adds. You can read more, and see a video of the copycat Samsung store, at http://macte.ch/7LihD .
If that's not enough, Galaxy S III that instantly recalls the product promos that Apple issues to accompany its product launches. You can read more, and see a video, at http://macte.ch/u1mJI .
Creative director behind 'Mac Genius' ads resigns
The creative director behind Apple’s maligned "Genius" ads has quit, reports "Macworld UK" (http://macte.ch/R3rZL). Scot Trattner was an executive creative director at TBWA/Media Arts Lab, he is moving on to a post at agency 72andSunny.
While Trattner’s latest Apple ad campaign hasn’t been well received, he has had more success with other Apple campaigns, including the ‘I’m a Mac’ campaign, notes "Macworld UK." Trattner has worked on campaigns for Apple since 2004.
This week Apple removed its "Mac Genius" TV spots from its YouTube channel and from the Apple.com marketing page. The ads -- which featured a young Apple Genius helping Mac users with problems -- debuted during the Summer Olympics, but stopped airing soon after. They generally got negative reviews, especially for making some Mac users seem, well, a bit dumb and unable to figure out how to use Macs.
Apple stopped airing the ads on television soon after they were introduced during the Opening Ceremonies of the Olympic. That...
South Korea court slaps wrists of both Apple, Samsung
A South Korea court today delivered a split decision in the never-ending battle between Apple and Samsung over patent rights.
A three-judge panel in Seoul Central District Court said Apple infringed two Samsung technology patents, while Samsung violated one of Apple's patents, reports "The Wall Street Journal" (http://macte.ch/e0HHL). The court awarded small damages to both companies and said they must halt sales of the infringing products in South Korea. None of the banned products are the latest models of Samsung or Apple devices.
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.
Tablet market on track to exceed 100 million shipments in 2012
The April to June quarter of 2012 set a new record for media tablet shipments reaching nearly 25 million units with total shipments growing 36% quarter-over-quarter (QoQ) and 77% year-over-year (YoY), according to "ABI Research" (www.abiresearch.com).
Apple iPad shipments represented nearly 69% of worldwide volumes for the period, according to a preliminary assessment of vendor share by the market intelligence firm. Gains in the quarter also came from Samsung (8.1%) and ASUS (4.0%), while RIM (1.0%) experienced the most significant decline. Shipments of Dell and LG ceased in the period as both companies retrench for future tablet offerings. Worldwide shipments of media tablets are expected to exceed 100 million units in 2012.
"Most impressive about Apple’s 17.0 million tablet shipments in 2Q’2012 was it nearly matched 2010 total worldwide shipments of 17.3 million for all vendors," says Jeff Orr, senior practice director for mobile devices.
Company representatives noted that nearly...
Living Earth HD offers a world clock, weather app for OS X
Radiantlabs today introduces Living Earth HD 1.0 for OS X (10.6.8 or higher), a Mac version of their world clock and weather app for iOS. Its available at an introductory price of US$4.99 (USD) and available worldwide exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Weather category.
Accessed from the menu bar, Living Earth HD provides a live, 3D simulation of our planet at our current moment in time with global weather, forecasts, and world clock for cities around the world. It opens to display a dramatic, simulated, near real-time view of all of Earth from space.
Revealed are HD details of clouds, oceans, weather systems, continents, and city lights. Users can follow the movement of the Earth's terminator or grey line, which separates day from night. Users may enter any of millions of cities, towns, or landmarks contained in the app's database.
Once set, the location remains in a permanent, scrolling list of cities, each entry showing a weather summary, temperature, and local time....
Mobile network operators not to blame for iPhone SMS...
AdaptiveMobile (http://www.adaptivemobile.com/), which specializes in mobile security, says it wants to dispel some of the myths regarding the recent iPhone SMS vulnerability which could allow scammers to "spoof" the sender of a text message, allowing them to pose as a known friend or contact.
While mobile operators have recently come under fire for this exploit, AdaptiveMobile argues that the source of the problem is the handset, not the network.
"Device manufacturers, like all members of the mobile ecosystem should aim to take security seriously and ensure their devices comply with a wide range of standards and technical recommendations," says Cathal McDaid, security consultant, AdaptiveMobile. "For SMS to remain a trusted, clean channel, companies need to be vigilant that their products both properly conform to standards and don’t inadvertently expose flaws that can compromise their customers."
The exploit was first revealed by a researcher on the pod2g blog and the exploit...
Gomite introduces the Tiltpod for the iPhone
Gomite has introduced the US$14.95 tiltpod, a small, quick-connect tripod. It's available for compact cameras or mobile devices such as the iPhone.
The tiltpod functions as a tripod on the go, allowing you to connect your camera or camera phone and take pictures hands-free. With a "grippy" underside, it's purportedly able to grip virtually any surface. It's small enough to fit on a keyring.
The tiltpod is available in two different models, including the classic tiltpod for compact cameras and the tiltpod mobile for the iPhone 4/4S. The tiltpod for compact cameras features a magnetic base that can connect to magnetic tripod balls on most cameras. With a compact design that can attach to an included camera wrist strap, the tiltpod functions as "pocketable" camera support.
The tiltpod mobile performs essentially the same function for the iPhone 4/4S. Featuring a grippy magnetic base, the tiltpod mobile can snap in and support the Apple smartphone to take pictures, watch movies, FaceTime...
Dukane rolls out new iPad sync/charge cart
Dukane (www.dukane.com) has rolled out the US$2,200 MCC2 cart, which will sync/charge 32 iPad devices. According to the folks at Dukane, the MCC2 provides:
° A durable plastic design with steel internal structure;
° Security -- it can be closed and locked with ca ombination padlock (not included);
° LED lights on top to indicate charging status;
° Three extra outlets on top to charge peripherals;
° Numbered slots with wire management;
° Cooling vents throughout, two storage drawers for laptop or spare cables and an access point storage compartment;
° Slot-in sliding doors'
° Five-inch rolling wheels, two casters with brake locks.
Bracketron announces Power Dock Pro Flex for iPhone
Bracketron has announced the Universal USB Power Dock Pro Flex for iPhone, a mount that converts your DC power source into a multi-charger that can power two mobile devices simultaneously.
The dock’s built-in 30-pin charger and 12V USB port allow drivers to mount and charge an iPhone, iPod touch or iPod, and charge a second device while on the road. Mounting features and 360 degree adjustability offer optimal viewing angles and added safety for hands-free use of your mobile device while using GPS and other driving-related applications. The Universal USB Power Dock Pro Flex for iPhone is available for pre-order now for US$36.95 at Bracketron.com.
It sports a compact design featuring molded high-impact plastic construction with a soft touch finish. The dock consists of a PowerGrip arm that holds the mount in your vehicle’s 12V port, and a flexible neck that attaches to a height-adjustable holder for iPhone. An LED power indicator located at the base of the mount lets you know when your...
Edifier debuts Sound To Go Plus
Edifier has introduced its latest audio solution for a laptop, tablet or smartphone -- the Sound to Go Plus. It's available for US$49.99 at www.Edifier.US.com/shop-edifier and retailers across North America.
The Sound To Go Plus is an all-in-one micro speaker with a re-chargeable lithium battery. Encased in a brushed aluminum chassis, it boasts a two-channel stereo with two full range 1.25-inch drivers on each channel (magnetically shielded).
The Sound To Go Plus also features a built-in Class D amplifier and a 3 x 1.25-inch oval passive radiator. An auxiliary input enables the use of multiple host devices such as smartphones, iPads and any MP3 enabled device.
Warhammer Online available at the Macgamestore
Warhammer Online is now available at the Macgamestore (www.macgamestore.com). It requires Mac OS X 10.5.7 or higher and costs US$19.95.
Here's how the game is described: "Experience the glory of Realm vs. Realm! Declare your allegiance and join hundreds of thousands of mighty heroes on the battlefields of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning to experience the epic nature of war. Enter a grim fantasy world where the armies of Order (Dwarfs, High Elves, and Empire) and Destruction (Greenskins, Dark Elves, and Chaos) collide to determine the fate of nations.
"Invade enemy lands, besiege imposing fortresses, and sack sprawling capital cities for the glory of your Realm. Wield devastating magic and deadly weapons, battle monstrous creatures, and join your brothers-in-arms in epic Public Quests. Climb the Bastion Stair, carry your Guild Banner into battle, and unlock the secrets of the Tome of Knowledge as you travel the world. Sharpen your blade and prepare to unleash your inner mutation...
Digital Video Expo announces conference program
NewBay Media, a publisher of digital content creation media, has announced a series of education offerings, including the new "LA Post-Production Conference" at their 16th annual Digital Video Expo conference and exhibition, held next month at the Pasadena Convention Center from Sept. 19-21, 2012.
Digital Video Expo's LA Post-Production Conference is produced with Future Media Concepts, and features three days of intensive, hands-on education, with classes that include Adobe Creative Suite Workshop, Apple Final Cut Pro Workshop, Editing with Avid Media Composer, DSLR Workshop, Digital Video Production, Editing and Web Video 3.0.
In a continuing partnership with AbelCine, Digital Video Expo will also offer half-day workshops on such topics as "The Hows and Whys of Lighting," "Choosing the Right Camera," "Intro to Digital Cameras -- Raw, Log and Uncompressed," "On-Set Workflows and Media Management," and "HD Frame Rates, Color and Compression."
Additionally, Digital Video Expo will...
Mac OS X software updates for Aug. 24
Here are the latest updates for Mac OS X apps:
Apple has posted updated HP printer drivers for Mac OS X 10.6, 10.7 and 10.8. They're available via the Software Updates component of the OS X Systems Preferences app.
Recosoft Corp. (www.recosoft.com) has announced PDF2ID 3.5, an update of the PDF-to-InDesign conversion tool for Mac OS X and Windows. The upgrade adds InDesign CS 6 support.
Softhing (www.softhing.com/home.html) has updated Entourage Exchange Accounts Optimizer to version 3.0. With Entourage Exchange Accounts Optimizer, you can ensure your on-line Exchange mailbox never gets full. Version 3.0 adds Mac OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion compatibility.
Publicspace.net has revved The Big Mean Folder Machine (http://macte.ch/GUzzl), a file/folder management utility for Mac OS X, to version 2.2.6. The new version. The upgrade improves integration with the Mac App Store version.
Apple appeals court ruling in Kodak case
Apple has appealed a court ruling that dismissed its claim on two patents held by Kodak. In a Wednesday court filing, the company said it was challenging g U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Allan Gropper’s decision to give Kodak partial victory in a lawsuit over ownership of 10 patents, reports "Bloomberg" (www.bloomberg.com).
Apple and Google recently joined rival investor groups hoping to nab Kodak's patent portfolio. The groups are offering warm-up bids of between $150-$250 million, reports "The Register" (http://macte.ch/Cgu28).
Kodak plans to sell its patents as part of a bankruptcy reorganization in New York. However, Apple claims it owns 10 of the patents in Kodak’s portfolio.
Apple sued Kodak in April 2010, about three months after Kodak accused Apple and Research In Motion of infringing a patent related to ways of previewing images. Apple's countersuit said Kodak devices copy the technology that it uses in Macs, iPhone, iTunes and Photo Booth involving image processing, energy...
DOJ says Apple, others cause 'consumer harm' in ebook...
In its response to recent filings from Apple, publishers and booksellers on its proposed ebook settlement with three publishers, the Department of Justice addresses few specific complaints, but says there's "unmistakable consumer harm that has resulted from the conspiracy in this case," reports "paid.content" (http://macte.ch/lbi81). The DOJ asks Judge Denise Cote to approve the settlement without a hearing.
The DOJ pooh-poohs the argument that ebooks are different from print books, "but doesn’t elaborate on why they are the same (and doesn’t respond to the criticism that it has failed to take interrelated markets, like those for e-readers, into account)," notes "paid.content." Rather, it says, “Railroads, publishers, lawyers, construction engineers, health care providers, and oil companies are just some of the voices that have raised cries against ‘ruinous competition’ over the decades,” and publishers should not be granted special treatment."
On the flip side, last week Apple said...
Apple releases OS X 10.8.1
Apple has released Mac OS X 10.8.1, a maintenance update for Mountain Lion. The upgrade -- a 24.2MB download -- is available via the Software Update component of Mac OS X's Systems Preferences app.
According to Apple, OS X 10.8.1 includes general operating system fixes that improve the stability and compatibility of your Mac, including fixes that:
° Resolve an issue that may cause Migration Assistant to unexpectedly quit;
° Improve compatibility when connecting to a Microsoft Exchange server in Mail;
° Address an issue playing audio through a Thunderbolt display;
° Resolve an issue that could prevent iMessages from being sent;
° Address an issue that could cause the system to become unresponsive when using Pinyin input;
° Resolve an issue when connecting to SMB servers with long names;
° Address a issue that may prevent Safari from launching when using a Proxy Automatic Configuration (PAC) file;
° Improve 802.1X authentication with Active Directory credentials.
VMware Fusion 5 packs over 70 new features
VMware -- which specializes in virtualization and cloud infrastructure -- has announced VMware Fusion 5, which boasts over 70 new features for a "Windows on Mac" experience. In addition, VMware is introducing VMware Fusion 5 Professional with new capabilities designed to improve the way businesses and IT deliver applications to users on Macs and PCs.
"While the number of users adopting Macs continue to rise, the business environment is still dominated by Windows," says Jason Joel, director, personal products, VMware. "VMware Fusion 5 and Fusion 5 Professional build upon our award-winning platform, adding new capabilities that are in demand among both individual and professional users. Leveraging our experience with consumer and enterprise end-users, we believe this new version of the product is the best solution on the market for users who want to run Windows on Mac simultaneously."
The VMware Fusion 5 product family offers a way to run Windows on a Mac for individual or business use...
TMDTouch announces a touchscreen for the iMac
TMDTouch, a China-based company, has announced Zorro Macsk, which the company says is the world's first touchscreen for the iMac.
According to the folks at TMDTouch, Zorro Macsk uses infrared technology to sense touch input so users can use input such as natural finger gestures or a stylus to swipe, scroll, click, zoom, and more. A protective film offered by TMDTouch protects the iMac from scratches and dust. The Zorro Mask is available on Amazon for US$199 in colors like pink, silver and black.
Purportedly, it doesn't require any additional software to run. You attach the protective film to the iMac screen. Hold the Zorro Macsk with an angle greater than 45 degree and let it attach to the iMac completely. Plug the USB cable into the back of the iMac. Wait 10 seconds, and you get a touchscreen iMac, according to TMDTouch.
There's no software to install. According to the designers, Zorro Macsk integrates the gesture recognition function of the Apple trackpad, you can switch screens,...
Many American consumers don't see the need for 4G LTE
A study of 3,000 folks surveyed by the Piper Jaffray research group -- and as reported by "AppleInsider" (www.appleinsider.com) -- indicates that, though the next iPhone is expected to have high-speed 4G long-term evolution connectivity, nearly half of American consumers feel they don't need 4G LTE.
The survey found that 47% of consumers feel they don't need 4G LTE, and another 26% indicated they feel all 4G network technologies are the same. Just 15% of those polled said that 4G LTE is the best network technology.
Nikon rolls out ultra-mini camera
Nikon has announced the CoolPix S01, an ultra-compact camera that's small enough to fit into a user's pocket. It boasts a simple home screen and user interface with shortcut menus for quick operation.
Weighing approximately 3.4 ounces with an extremely small form factor (3.1 x 2.1 x 0.7 inches), the S01 has a stainless construction and processing that prevents the glossy exterior from being scratched, according to Bo Kajiwara, vice president of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon. It's available in colors such as red, white, silver and pink.
The CoolPix S01 features touch-screen operation system. The graphic user interface (GUI) offers an "easy-to-tap four-segment" home screen designed to streamline operation. By tapping a subject, the shutter is automatically released when focus and exposure are fixed while various image effects set prior to shooting can be applied to pictures. Additionally, the S01 offers in-camera retouching of photos.
Easy Auto Mode helps users to...
ZooGue Social Case for iPhone gets new colors
ZooGue has launched the refreshed Social Case Pro for the iPhone 4/4S. The Social Case Pro, currently offered for free on the ZooGue website, provides protection via a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) design.
With a ridged grip to prevent slipping, ZooGue’s Social Case Pro is slim and lightweight. It's available in Black, Light Grey, White, Navy Blue, Old Spice Red, Light Blue, Pink, Purple, Army Green & Lime Green.
The Social Case Pro is regularly available for US$14.99 on ZooGue.com. However, for a limited time, customers can enter the code FreeZooGueAccessory for a free case (standard shipping rates apply).
Satechi rolls out BT Lite headphones
Satechi has released the BT Lite headphone, which allows users to stream crisp, audio without the hassle of tangled cords. It's available for US$44.99 at Satechi.net and Amazon.com .
The lightweight (2.6 ounces) headphone features soft ear pads and a slim, adjustable headband. The Bluetooth 3.0 headphone has integrated controls that allow users to play and pause music, as well as control the volume and skip tracks. Users can also answer/reject calls or redial the last number that called directly from the headphones while the Bluetooth-enabled smartphone is up to 33 feet away. Additionally, the BT Lite Headphone automatically switch from music to phone mode whenever a call comes.
Macgo Player is first Blu-ray authorized player for the Mac
The Blu-ray Association has authorized Macgo to become an official Blu-ray authorized manufacturer. This means the Macgo Mac Blu-ray Player has become the world's first authorized Blu-ray disc (BD) player for Mac.
The Macgo Mac Blu-ray Player is compatible with Mac OS X 10.5 and higher, including Mountain Lion. It can play any commercial Blu-ray disc/DVD released in any region -- though you'll need an external Blu-ray drive connected to your Mac. See our review at http://macte.ch/KeqpO .
In addition to that, the Macgo Mac Blu-ray player can playISO videos or folders directly. It costs US$59.95; for more info go to www.macblurayplayer.com .
Native Instruments introduces Conant Gardens
Native Instruments has introduced Conant Gardens, a new Maschine Expansion designed to reflect the soulful side of Detroit, covering hip-hop, funk, afrobeat and deep house. Named after the district of Detroit renowned as the birthplace of many African American musicians and artists, this expansion explores the distinctive sound of the neighborhood through tailored drum sounds, percussion and sampled phrases.
The 45 kits in Conant Gardens mix one-shot drums and long-sample basslines, clavinet riffs, guitar and Rhodes piano phrases. Set to ADSR mode, classic sample techniques are emulated, while providing a way to play the phrases. For instant use with Maschine or Maschine Mikro, a number of pre-programmed patterns are provided that span Detroit's varied musical landscape.
Conant Gardens is available at the NI Online Shop for US$59. A compact, $0.99 version of Conant Gardens is also available for iMaschine, the groove sketchpad for the iPhone and iPod touch; you can find it at the Apple...
Chronicle 5.0 ready for Mountain Lion, Retina displays
LittleFin Software has released Chronicle 5.0, an update to home finance and bill management app for Mac OS X. It's enhanced for Mac OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion and Retina displays.
Chronicle provides a graphical means to enter and track bills. Features include: automatic bill paying reminders; database of payments and receipts; graphs and reports which analyze trends and averages; and a sortable list of upcoming bills which can be paid on-line from within the app.
Version 5.0 includes notification center reminders, which remind the user to pay a bill, even when Chronicle isn't running. Clicking on a reminder launches the software, where the user can pay bills online with the integrated browser, and log the payment in Chronicle.
In addition, Chronicle now includes Retina display enhanced graphics, including an all new, custom set of icons to represent different types of bills. Among the icons included are icons for childcare; gyms, insurance, rent & mortgage, credit cards and much...
Substance Designer 3 for Mac OS X gets new batch tools, more
Allegorithmic has updated Substance Designer, its non-linear texture and material processing software, to version 3. It adds 2D painting utilities and new batch processing tools.
As game development is often expensive, SD 3 was designed to alleviate some of the biggest loss areas in an artist’s work routine, all while creating high-quality graphics that will help sell a game’s look and feel upon release, according to Dr. Sébastien Deguy, founder and CEO of Allegorithmic. The robust tool set found in SD 3’s work environment begins this process by eliminating the need to jump in and out of numerous texturing programs, he adds. It extends it further by allowing users to customize, share and scale up their textures to any game platform.
Substance Designer 3 is available now on both the Mac OS X and PC platforms as an interchangeable license for the retail price of US$590. An upgrade price of $300 is offered for pre-existing users. For more information go to www.allegorithmic.com .
iStopMotion for Mac adds iOS support
Boinx Software has updated iStopMotion, its stop motion animation tool for Mac OS X, to version 3 is coming to a Mac near you. The new version adds the ability to create HD movies using an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch as a camera via the free iStopMotion Remote Camera app.
iStopMotion 3 has also been optimized for the Retina display screen on the Retina MacBook Pro. It also has enhanced security by being sandboxed and signed with a DeveloperID.
iStopMotion 3 is localized in English, German, French, Japanese and Russian. It's available for US$49.99 USD, with a limited-time, introductory price of $29.99. StopMotion 3 -- which requires Mac OS X 10.7.4 or higher -- is now available both from the Mac App Store and the Boinx Website (www.boinx.com/).
Mac OS X software updates for Aug. 23
Here are the latest updates for Mac OS X apps:
Acclivity NYC (www.acclivitysoftware.com) has rolled out Checkout 3.5, an update including over 200 enhancements and fixes to their Mac retail point-of-sale app. Among the improvements are speed boosts and automatic printing enhancements.
Zevrix Solutions (http://www.zevrix.com) has announced PDF Checkpoint 1.4.1, a compatibility update to its PDF preflight and conversion solution. The new version is compatible with Mac OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion.
Zevrix has also released Output Factory 1.3.6, a feature update to its professional output automation solution for Adobe InDesign on Mac OS X. The new version lets users automate export of InDesign documents to HTML.
ExactCODE GMBH (www.OCRkit.com) has updated OCRkit, an OCR solution for the Mac. The update features a new content aware page de-skew option, as well as improved PDF compression and performance. It also features improved multi-core performance and stability.
Eternal Storms Software (...
Government docs coming to iTunes in e-book format
Apple and the Government Printing Office have reached a deal to make hundreds of government documents and manuscripts available on iTunes in e-book format, reports "InformationWeek" (http://macte.ch/YfGNY).
The Apple deal is the latest in a string of e-book partnerships that the Government Printing Office -- the official federal government printer -- has made similar deals since December 2010 with the Google, Barnes & Noble, and smaller companies like OverDrive, Ingram, and ZInio.
"We need to be able to provide the American people with publications in whatever format they want," Herb Jackson, the Government Printing Office's managing director of business products and services, told "InformationWeek." "We want to be relevant, we want to get into as many channels as we can and with e-books we have been able to provide the public with titles they want."
Apple's Mac Genius ads disappear
Apple has removed its "Mac Genius" TV spots from its YouTube channel and from the Apple.com marketing page.
The ads -- which featured a young Apple Genius helping Mac users with problems -- debuted during the Summer Olympics, but stopped airing soon after. They generally got negative reviews, especially for making some Mac users seem, well, a bit dumb and unable to figure out how to use Macs.
Apple stopped airing the ads on television soon after they were introduced during the Opening Ceremonies of the Olympic. That was the plan all along, according to Apple's ad agency. Still, they were available on YouTube and Apple's website -- but no more.
Apple does sometimes remove older advertisements from its website and YouTube. However, there are still has ads on YouTube from as far back as November 2010, notes "MacRumors" (www.macrumors.com).
Analyst ups Apple's 12-month market price to $750
In a note to clients -- as reported by "AppleInsider" (www.appleinsider.com) -- Needham & Company analyst Charlie Wolf has increased his 12-month market price for Apple to US$750.
His new price target was driven largely by the iPhone, with a dollar-per-share value increase of $60.08 accounting for 42.4% of the increase. The value of the Macplatform was increased by $14.04 to $100.50, accounting for 13.4% of the projected share price, while the iPad grew $22.02 to $109.94, taking 14.7% of the forecasted value.
"The unique feature of our model is that the growth in Mac sales is driven solely by the halo effects emanating from the iPhone and iPad," Wolf explained. "Changes in our forecast of iPhone and iPad sales, then, also impact Mac sales as well as software and peripheral sales."
Wolf's projections call for the iPhone to account for 22% of smartphone sales this year. The analyst believes believes the Mac's marketshare will grow from 4.8% in 2011 to 11.3% in 2021. (It's already...
AT&T defends FaceTime/Mobile Share decision
AT&T announced last week that it will be restricting usage of Apple's FaceTime over Cellular feature in iOS 6 to customers on its new Mobile Share plans. The company has been blasted for the decision, mainly by consumers who don't want to change their current service plans.
It's also been criticized by the digital advocacy organization Public Knowledge h of violating FCC rules on net neutrality. John Bergmayer, a lawyer for Public Knowledge told the "New York Times" (http://macte.ch/RNuWz) said AT&T was violating the F.C.C.’s Open Internet Rules, which say that mobile providers shall not "block applications that compete with the provider’s voice or video telephony services."
"There is no technical reason why one data plan should be able to access FaceTime and another not," he said.
Now AT&T has issued a statement on the matter, entitled "Enabling FaceTime Over Our Mobile Broadband Network." You can read it at http://macte.ch/11Hhr .
iPhone sales boost China Telecom's profit
China Telecom, the country’s biggest fixed-line carrier, posted second-quarter profit that beat analysts’ estimates as the introduction of the iPhone attracted a substantial number of new users to its wireless unit, reports "Bloomberg" (http://macte.ch/DjHm5). The company began offering subsidized iPhone sales on March 9,
Net income fell 10% to 4.55 billion yuan (approximately $716 million), from a restated 5.05 billion yuan a year earlier, China Telecom reported. That exceeded the 4.4 billion yuan median of seven analysts’ estimates in a "Bloomberg News" survey.
“It looks like the negative impact of iPhone subsidies was not as strong as people expected in the quarter, and average revenue per user was higher than we expected,” Marvin Lo, a Hong Kong-based analyst at Mizuho Securities, told "Bloomberg." “The rising iPhone and smartphone penetration helped increase average revenue per user."
Jury deliberation in Apple, Samsung trial starts today
Yesterday Apple and Samsung presented closing arguments in their patent trial, and jury deliberation is expected to start today.
Presiding Judge Lucy Koh has given the jury a 109-page set of instructions. The jury must decide if, as Apple claims, Samsung illegally "ripped off" the iPhone and iPad, or, as Samsung claims, Apple is merely trying stifle competition.
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.
Analyst: media outlets would be wise to team up with Apple
In a note to investors -- as reported by "AppleInsider" (www.appleinsider.com) -- Barclays Capital analyst Ben A. Reitzes said traditional media outlets should team up with Apple if they want to begin making more money from "small screen" viewing via devices like iPads, smartphones and notebooks.
He says the trend toward "small screen" viewing on portable devices beyond the living room HDTV is providing less advertising revenue to big media companies than traditional "big screen" viewing through cable TV. Reitzes thinks companies should align with Apple on the rumored revamp of the Apple TV set-top box and/or the "iTV."
"Apple may hold the cards in being the only company that can fully monetize the small screens for big media companies," he says. "The risk of not partnering with Apple is that as young people may 'cut the cord' given the cost of cable that a screen connected to an Apple TV with AirPlay can provide a substantial array of content."
First Ceramic headphone joins the Klipsch Image series
Klipsch has launched the Image X7i, the company’s first-ever ceramic headphone model. In addition to offering a sleek black or white finish with laser-etched logos, the Image X7i’s ceramic composition provides listeners with durability, according to Chris Aiello, Klipsch product manager for headphones.
The headphone employs the brand’s newest cabling that offers users a flat surface area for heightened cord strength and tangle resistance. Adding to its functionality, the Image X7i features a three-button remote that houses a directional mic, granting Apple device users call and music control, and crystal clear conversations.
Unlike circular-shaped ear tips that put stress on the pressure points inside the ear, Klipsch’s patented oval ear tips naturally fit the contours of the ear canal. These ear tips also offer superior noise isolation (or passive noise-cancellation).
The Image X7i’s audio works with virtually any device that has a standard 3.5mm headphone jack; however, the mic and...
