Analyst: an 'iTV' could nab 5% of the HDTV market
In a note to clients -- as reported by "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com) -- Barclays Capital analyst Ben A. Reitzes says that an Apple-branded HDTV (the rumored "iTV") would bring in US$17 billion in revenue and garner 5% of the HDTV market.
Reitzes thinks the LCD market will reach about 230 million units in 2012. The forementioned $17 billion in revenue would be almost 10% of his fiscal 2013 estimate of $183.1 billion for Apple.
With assumed gross margins of around 40% on a full-fledged Apple television set, he sees the company gaining about $5.40 earnings per share, or about 11% of his fiscal 2013 earnings per share of $48.46. Reitzes thinks that an iTV could eventually become more than "just" a TV -- including gaming, video, communication, content delivery, apps, computing and all the capabilities of the current Apple TV.
Siri accounts for a quarter of Wolfram Alpha queries
Apple's Siri voice technology accounts for about one-fourth of the queries fueled by the Wolfram Alpha search engine (http://www.wolframalpha.com/), according to "The New York Times" (http://macte.ch/8Li5U).
According to Apple, Siri isn’t like traditional voice recognition software that requires you to remember keywords and speak specific commands. Siri understands your natural speech, and it asks you questions if it needs more information to complete a task.
Wolfram Alpha is an engine for computing answers and getting knowledge. It works by using Wolfram Research's store of expert-
level knowledge to compute answers to questions you ask.
The new version of Wolfram Alpha arrives tomorrow. Its formal name is Wolfram Alpha Pro, notes "The Times."
Smart Audio Tech sues Apple for patent infringement
Another day, another lawsuit. A Texas "shell company," Smart Audio Technologies, has filed a suit claiming Apple’s iPod nano and other devices violate its patent for random song playlists, reports "Mashable" (http://macte.ch/no0Ik).
"While these type of 'patent troll' lawsuits are filed everyday against Apple and other technology companies, this one is notable because Smart Technologies is represented by a new law firm founded by Joseph Farnan Jr., a former federal judge who worked in the same Delaware court where the lawsuit was filed," the article adds.
The suit comesmsix months after a jury found Apple violated the playlist patent of another Texas entity, Personal Audio, and ordered the tech giant to pay US$8 million. Apple is appealing that decision.
A U.S. District Judge said in August 2011 that the $8 million in damages Apple has to pay to patent licensing company Personal Audio for violations of a playlist patent from the iPod covers "past and future use of the technology" and...
Apple bucks declining computer trend in the UK, France
Computer shipments in Western Europe totaled 16.3 million units in the fourth quarter of 2011, a 16% decline from the equivalent period in 2010, according to Gartner (http://www.gartner.com). Apple was one of the few companies that, overall, bucked the trend.
For the year, computer shipments numbered 58.5 million units in Western Europe in 2011, also a 165 decrease from 2010. The computer market in Western Europe has suffered four consecutive quarters of shipment decline.
"Despite aggressive pricing and special holiday deals for PCs, consumers' attention was caught by other devices, such as smartphones, media tablets and e-readers," says Meike Escherich, principal analyst at Gartner. "Even though we saw a drop in prices, consumer coomputer shipments could not match the levels of previous years."
In the fourth quarter of 2011, the computer markets of Italy, Greece, Portugal and Spain were particularly hard hit, with year-on-year computer demand declining 30% and more. The mobile...
Apple to open 'stores-within-stores' in Sam's...
Apple and Walmart subsidiary Sam’s Club are in early discussions to widen their already existing partnership, according to "9to5 Mac" (http://www.9to5mac.com).
Sam’s Club currently sells Apple’s iPhone, iPad, and iPod lines within its large retail chain. However, the compamy and Apple are looking to expand the relationship, the article adds. Apple is considering an expansion of its Apple Store-in-store program to the 47 United States retail warehouse chain locations, says "9to5 Mac."
Apparently, Sam's Club might carry Macs as well as iOS devices. Apple already has "in-store stores" in over 600 Best Buy locations, and is rumored to be planning the same with the Target chain.
MemoTrainer in new memory training app for Mac OS X
BSoft has introduced MemoTrainer 1.0, its new memory training and development program for Mac OS X (10.5 and higher). It's available for US$0.99 through the Mac App Store in the Games category.
With MemoTrainer players push buttons in the determined order and to try to do it in the shortest possible time. The program determines the time for exercise completion and the number of possible mistakes. Brainiacs can advance into "Professional" mode to increase their memory capacity even more.
MemoTrainer program is developed specifically for memory training and development. Memory development consists in repetition of especially developed exercise during the minimum possible time with the floor amount of mistakes. It's necessary to push randomly arranged blue and red buttons for the exercise to be done.
Moore College of Art & Design announces iPad initiative
Moore College of Art & Design has announced initiative for new BFA students entering in the fall of 2012. Each new student will be given an iPad 2. Pre-populated apps selected to support the visual art and design education at Moore will come loaded and ready for students to use in their classes.
"Faculty at Moore are committed to educating students for contemporary careers in art and design," says Academic Dean Dona Lantz. "The iPad 2 will be a pivotal learning tool in the new Foundation curriculum where the integration of digital media and tools will be taught and used in tandem with traditional drawing and design media."
"We are proud to be the first art and design college to partner with Apple to provide iPad devices to all new BFA students," says Moore President Happy Craven Fernandez. "This is an exciting opportunity to increase interactivity within the classroom and Moore community."
For more information visit http://www.moore.edu .
24U Software releases FM Bench
24U Software has released 24U FM Bench (http://fmbench.com/) for FileMaker Pro 11, a solution for optimizing FileMaker solutions. It's designed to help developers with the whole optimization process -- from benchmarking through analyzing, identifying bottleneck, optimizing, and reporting results.
24U FM Bench can be also used to monitor, analyze, and optimize business processes, as long as these processes can begin and end with performing some action in a FileMaker driven IS. It's developed around the idea of the "Marvelous Optimization Formula" and utilizes the methodology of finding bottlenecks, commonly used in the manufacturing industry to optimize the manufacturing processes for shortest possible lead times and highest possible throughput of production lines.
A license for one FileMaker Server and unlimited number of users is currently being offered to early adopters at a discounted price of US$997 with extra bonuses worth of over $2,000 and a 30 days money-back guarantee. 24U...
Intel announces Solid-State Drive 520 series
Intel has announced what it says is its fastest, most robust client/consumer solid-state drive (SSD) to date: the Intel Solid-State Drive 520 Series, a 6 gigabit-per-second (gbps) SATA III SSD produced using Intel 25-nanometer (nm) NAND memory process technology.
"We tapped Intel engineering to create a client SSD that delivers performance on all fronts with obsessively high reliability," says Rob Crooke, Intel vice president and general manager of the Intel Non-Volatile Memory Solutions Group. "The Intel SSD 520 once again raises the industry bar on SSD performance, quality and reliability to dramatically improve user experience."
Unlike a traditional hard disk drive (HDD) with spinning disks and moveable parts, an SSD is based on silicon, NAND flash memory specifically, to create a lower power, more reliable and drastically faster storage solution that can keep up with today’s most demanding applications, Internet streaming and intense multi-tasking, he says. Based on its own...
iStomp is new programmable effects pedal for iOS devices
Harman's DigiTech (http://www.harman.com) has introduced the US$229.95 iStomp pedal, a new concept in guitar stompboxes that allows musicians to program the effect pedal with any sound they want and change it at any time. It connects to an iPod touch, iPhone or iPad.
The iStomp pedal connects to an iOS device using the DigiTech Smart Cable that comes with the iStomp. Once connected, the DigiTech StompShop provides two of the most popular requested effects, the DigiTech Total Recall Delay and the DigiTech Redline Overdrive with the initial purchase.
The app also offers access to additional effects that iStomp owners can browse, try out, and purchase for their stompbox. The iStomp pedal has four knobs to control effects parameters, which change their function according to which effect is loaded.
The iStomp pedal comes with an iOS authorization cable, power supply and the two initial downloads. Additional downloads are available starting at $4.99 each.
You can put a 'cellhelmet' on your iPhone
The "cellhelmet" project was just released on Kickstarter.com. It's described as "the first and only case to guarantee the iPhone 4/4S inside."
If your iPhone should ever break inside of a cellhelmet, the company behind it says it will repair or replace it. The cellhelmet retails for US$44.99.
It includes unlimited repairs. You can purportedly file as many damage claims as needed -- within your one year of coverage. For more info go to http://macte.ch/sHUwC .
The clear cellhelmet shell is constructed of a tough polyurethane. According to the folks at Kickstarter.com, it won't stretch or lose its shape, yet it will hold up to repeated drops and falls.
TypeStyler 11 available at the Mac App Store
TypeStyler 11 for Mac OS X (http://www.typestyler.com/) is now available from the Mac App Store at a special introductory price of US$59.99. This is the lowest price ever for any version of the software.
TypeStyler 11 offers Grunge Effects that allow you to make aged, distressed, weathered and downright filthy-looking vintage graphics. You can choose styles with scratches, holes and beat up, worn out, weathered effects. You can also modify, create and save your own Grunge Styles.
TypeStyler 11 lets you share TypeStyler graphics by posting directly to Facebook and Twitter. You can also quickly attach them to an email or or add them to your iPhoto library. What's more, version 11 lets you adjust the position of pictures within both text and graphic shapes.
New book lets you 'Take Control of iTunes 10'
TidBits Publishing has released "Take Control of iTunes 10: The FAQ, 2nd Edition." The US$15, 173-page ebook by Kirk McElhearn uses a Q&A approach to help readers appreciate and understand the process of adding media to iTunes, tagging it, adding album art, and organizing it into playlists.
With that setup completed, readers can enjoy their music, movies, audiobooks, and ebooks without hassles when it's time to find a particular item or do something special like sync a select subset of music to an iPod, create a party playlist, identify overlooked music, or listen to the chapters in an audiobook in order. McElhearn also explains how to use Apple's iTunes in the Cloud features, including the iTunes Match service.
McElhearn is a freelance writer, journalist, and translator. He has written and co-written a dozen books on the Macintosh, covering both software and hardware. or more info about ""Take Control of iTunes 10: The FAQ, 2nd Edition" -- including the table of contents, author...
Devium Dash drives onto the screen for iPhones, Android devices
Devium, a new car audio company, has introduced the Devium Dash.
Designed to fully integrate smartphones and utilize them as the interface for car audio needs, it sports a "minimalist yet elegant design that will complement the interior of any vehicle and satisfy any audiophile’s needs," says creator and Devium owner Paul Lizer. He says it doesn’t require that you learn a new interface to use your stereo.
The Dash’s interchangeable faceplate design allows you to keep your phone at the center of your car. It will feature Bluetooth for hands-free calling and will allow users to designate their top five app icons to appear in landscape mode for easy viewing while on the go.
The Dash will also feature an FM tuner that will automatically switch over to radio stations’ streaming audio over the Internet when a loss of signal occurs. Lizer expects the first shipments of the Dash will start in July and is currently utilizing the KickStarter web-based capital-raising service to round out...
TopXNotes for Mac OS X adds NoteSync process
Tropical Software's TopXNotes (http://www.tropic4.com/) note manager for the Mac has been updated to version 1.7.2. The upgrade offers performance enhancements, bug fixes, and a NoteSync process.
TopXNotes will now keep your notes synchronized between TopXNotes for Mac and TopXNotes Touch for the iPhone and iPod touch. Version 1.7.2 includes a new Preference for setting vertical and horizontal text margins and a new Preference to choose manual or automatic note delete.
TopXNotes 1.7.2 requires Mac OS X 10.6.6 or later. It costs US$39.99 and is available worldwide exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Productivity category and at the Tropical Software (http://www.tropic4.com).
DashExpander for Mac OS X adds Snippet Detection
Kapeli (http://kapeli.com/dashexpander/) has released DashExpander 1.3.0, an update of its free Mac app. It requires Mac OS X 10.7 ("Lion") and is available at the Mac App Store.
Version 1.3.0 adds Snippet Detection. DashExpander will now suggest new snippets that you should use, based on what you copy and paste.
DashExpander saves you from typing long strings of text by defining abbreviations that are later expanded whenever you type them. You can collect text snippets that you often reuse.
Chronosync for Mac OS X updated to version 4.3.0
Econ Technologies (http://www.econtechnologies.com) has updated ChronoSync to version 4.3.0.
Each sync target can now be given a custom name; these are displayed throughout the rest of the user interface. What's more, a specific target folder/volume can now be changed without losing all the state information recorded by previous synchronizations.
ChronoSync is an automated synchronization and backup application for Mac OS X. It runs natively on both Power PC and Intel-based Macs running Mac OS X 10.5 and higher. Demos are available for download. For new users ChronoSync costs US$40. As always, all existing ChronoSync users can update for free.
Clarify for Mac OS X adds Postbox AppleScripts, more
Blue Mango Learning Systems has released Clarify 1.0.3, an update of the image-based communications tool for Mac OS X and Windows systems. When exporting to Clarify-it.com there's now a button that copies the HTML for the document on Clarify-it.com the clipboard.
Clairfy 1.0.3 for OS X adds Sparrow and Postbox AppleScripts for emailing PDF documents (OS X). Also, a step contextual menu offering an option for creating a new document.
Blue Mango CEO Greg DeVore says Clarify helps people create clearer communications through the combined use of multiple screenshots and text. Users capture screenshots turn them into documents, add text and image annotations and then share their documents as a PDF, as an email, via Dropbox or through Blue Mango's free Clarify-it service.
Clarify is now available for Mac or Windows for US$29.99. A cross-platform license can be purchased for $39.99. Licenses can be purchased through the Blue Mango Online Store (http://www.bluemangolearning.com/clarify/) or...
Mail Archiver X for Mac OS X gets maintenance upgrade
Moth Software has announced Mail Archiver X 2.7.2.3.379 for Mac OS X, an update to their app designed as a companion to the user's email application, allowing consolidation, archiving, cleaning, formatting, and permanent storage of emails. It's a maintenance upgrade.
With Mail Archiver, emails may be saved in its native, Filemaker, or PDF database format. Archiving emails from a variety of email applications into a single database, the app is designed to prevent accidental deletions, facilitates quick searches, and eliminates storage size limits.
Following the archiving process, users may browse or search from the Mail Archiver X Browser. In the far left column is a list of all their mailboxes, plus their Inbox and Sent Messages. The center of the window contains a list of all archived emails, with column headings including: From, To, Subject, Date, and Mailbox. Finally, the right window displays the full, scrollable contents of any archived email selected from the list. Tabs permit...
Apple's A5 processor includes noise-reduction circuitry
Apple's A5 processor includes noise-reduction circuitry licensed from a start-up called Audience, and a chip analyst believes that's why the iPhone 4 lacks the Siri voice-control system, reports "CNET."
According to Apple, Siri -- which is currently in beta testing -- isn’t like traditional voice recognition software that requires you to remember keywords and speak specific commands. Siri understands your natural speech, and it asks you questions if it needs more information to complete a task.
Audience revealed details of its Apple partnership in January, when it filed paperwork (http://macte.ch/cPmUg) for an initial public offering (IPO) of stock. Teardowns by iFixit (http://macte.ch/YVM5c) and Chipworks (http://macte.ch/QcASH) revealed a dedicated Audience chip in the iPhone 4. However, the iPhone 4S integrates Audience's "EarSmart" technology directly into the A5 processor, the company's S-1 filing said.
Linley Group analyst Linley Gwennap says this explains why the A5 chip that...
Apple wants the driPhone to become the dryPhone
In New Zealand Apple is fighting a trademark application for a smartphone case dubbed the "driPhone" (http://www.driphone.co.nz/), reports the "Sydney Morning Herald" (http://macte.ch/3gwQN).
Hayden Crowther, of Hamilton, New Zealand created the driPhone as a waterproof case for smartphones of all varieties but Apple is opposing his plans to trademark it in New Zealand and has now asked him to switch the "i" in driPhone for a "y," the article adds.
Apple told Crowther, through Wellington-based patent and trademark attorney firm Henry Hughes that it was opposing his driPhone trademark in New Zealand. However, the inventor thinks there's "little weight" to Apple's opposition and, so far, has refused to rebrand it.
Analyst: iPad 3 will leave competitors in the dust
In a note to investors -- as reported by "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com) -- Deutsche Bank analyst Chris Whitmore says he's expecting the third generation iPad next month that will sport a high-resolution display, a quad-core CPU, graphics performance four to five times faster than the iPad 2, and Siri voice control.
More juice in the iPad 3 will leave competitors further behind and drive Apple market share gains, he adds. Estimates from Deutsche Bank, combined with data from IDC, suggest that Apple currently has a 25% share of the combined notebook and tablet market.
Whitmore said none of the iPad competitors introduced in the last 12 months have come close to the iPad. He tells clients that most of the products have been "me-too" offerings with too little differentiation from each other.
Best Buy survey mentions and Apple HDTV
"The Verge" (http://macte.ch/HQ4Dk) reports that Best Buy appears to be sending surveys to customers getting feedback on potential new products and services, including the rumored Apple-branded HDTV (the "iTV").
The article says that the the product willcrun iOS, support iCloud, be controllable from an iPhone or iPad, and have access to Netflix, YouTube, and Flickr. Also, it will purportedly offer an "iSight camera" (though Apple's been calling it a FaceTime camera lately). There's no mention of Siri voice support.
"The Verge" says the Best Buy describes the iTV as a 42-inch model that would cost about US$1,499. Keep in mind that Apple has made no mention of a company branded TV of any sort.
Apple reportedly sued for selling the iPad in mainland China
Another day, another lawsuit. Apple is being sued by Proview Shenzhen Techonology for selling the iPad in mainland China, reports "iSmashPhone.com."
They may face an US$38 million fine, the article adds. Apple is awaiting hearing by the Pudong district court in Shanghai later this month. You can read more at http://ismashphone.com/2012/02/apple-sued-may-face-fine-for-selling-ipad... .
Apple climbs back into smartphone market leadership position
The worldwide smartphone market grew 54.7% year over year in the fourth quarter of 2011 (4Q11), as Apple unleashed its iPhone 4S on an eager marketplace, according to new data from IDC (http://www.idc.om).
Apple climbed back into the market leadership position with the launch of its iPhone 4S worldwide. In the process it reached a new shipment volume record for itself and for the entire industry for a single quarter.
According to the "International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Mobile Phone Tracker," vendors shipped 157.8 million units in 4Q11 compared to 102.0 million units in the fourth quarter of 2010. The 54.7% year-over-year growth was higher than IDC's forecast of 40.0% for the quarter, and higher than the 49.2% growth in 3Q11.
On a full-year basis, total smartphone shipment volumes reached 491.4 million units in 2011, up a strong 61.3% from the 304.7 million units in 2010. This was higher than IDC's full year estimate of 54.7% for the year, but still below 2010's year-over-...
Motorola wants 2.25% of Apple sales in patent dispute
Motorola wants 2.25% of Apple's sales in return for license to standard-essential wireless patents, according to a report at "FOSS Patents" (http://macte.ch/bCw0J).
"I assume this relates to Apple's sales and to all of MMI's standard-essential patents, though the context is only one patent (the one over which Motorola has already forced Apple, temporarily, to remove certain products from its German online store," Florian Mueller writes for "FOSS Patents." "Assuming in Motorola's favor that this was a license to all standard-essential wireless patents, the amount still appears excessive to me given how many companies hold patents on such standards and what royalty rate this would lead to in the aggregate."
Last month the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that Motorola's Droid smartphones don't violate three Apple patents. The ruling is preliminary and needs to be approved by the ITC's full six-member commission.
Apple has previously alleged that Motorola infringes 24 of...
Google lures away an Apple senior director
Google has hired Simon Prakash, a senior director at Apple, for a "secret project," according to "VentureBeat" (http://macte.ch/L2A4h). The project is "presumably run by Google co-founder Sergey Brin, the article adds.
Prakash worked at Apple for more than eight years and was most recently the senior director of product integrity at Apple. Before Apple, he was director of engineering design validation at Cielo Communications. He was also a reliability and FA manager at 3Com. (The photo is courtesy of "VentureBeat.")
Valentine's update available for Graphic Node's Pages...
Graphic Node has updated its Pages Templates collection for Apple's word processing/document creation application. In addition to 712 layouts from the previous version, the updated variety contains 71 new templates.
These include 50 templates for Valentine's day cards. The upgraded package maintains the selection of template types introduced in the earlier versions, such as greeting cards, letters, posters and even playing cards.
Pages Templates requires Mac OS X 10.5 or higher and iWork '08 or later. It costs US$24.99 and is available at the Graphic Node web site (http://graphicnode.com/).
OtterBox cases benefit Avon Breast Cancer Crusade for Valentine’...
Show your smartphone some love for Valentine’s Day and think pink. Otterbox wants you to trade the traditional chocolate and roses for something that will outlast the holiday. The company is offering protective Commuter Series Strength cases that benefit the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade.
"OtterBox's sponsorship of the Crusade and Avon Walk for the past two years has enabled us to support organizations nationwide that are making great strides in breast cancer research and care," says Carol Kurzig, president of the Avon Foundation for Women. "There is still much more work to do to end breast cancer, which is why we are so appreciative of supporters like OtterBox that are helping us work towards creating a world without breast cancer. We are proud to once again have OtterBox as an official Avon Walk for Breast Cancer sponsor during the Avon Walk’s 10th birthday season and the 20th anniversary of the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade."
In the fourth quarter alone, OtterBox donated more than US$317...
Apple updates iBooks Author, iBooks
Apple has released iBooks Author 1.0.1 and iBooks 2.01.
iBooks Author 1.0.1 is an update of Apple's free tool for creating interactive ebooks. The new version “provides an updated version of the End User License Agreement.” iBooks Author is a free download at the Mac App Store.
iBooks 2.0.1 for the iPhone and iPad addresses a problem where some iBooks textbooks fail to open. The update is available at the Apple App Store.
Apple releases Security Update 2012-001 v1.1
Apple has released Security Update 2012-001 version 1.1 for Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard") users. It's available via the Software Updates component of the Mac OS X Systems Preferences app.
According to Apple, Security Update 2012-001 version 1.1 is “recommended for all users and improves the security of Mac OS X." It's a 1.3GB download.
CoverSutra for Mac OS X gets better resource management
Sophiestication Software's CoverSutra (http://www.sophiestication.com/coversutra/), an iTunes extender for Mac OS X has been updated to version 3.3. The new version offers better resource management.
CoverSutra lets you control iTunes without having to leave the currently active application. The software does this through the use of global keyboard shortcuts, information bezels and a transparent floating window. In addition, CoverSutra has integrated support for Last.fm, a social music recommendation service.
CoverSutra 3.3 requires Mac OS X 10.6.6 or later and iTunes 9 or higher. It can be purchased for US$4.99 at the Mac App Store.
ExactScan Pro update for Mac OS X improves color operations
ExactCode has updated its ExactScan Pro (http://www.exactcode.de/site/products/exactscan/) scanning software for Mac OS X (10.4 and higher) to version 2.19. The upgrade offers improved performance of certain color operations.
ExactScan includes built-in drivers for over 230 document scanners, including devices from Avision, Kodak, Oki, Visioneer and Xerox. Together with the Spotlight indexing services built into Mac OS X since 10.5 ("Leopard") this features form a document management solution suitable for small-office and home-office (SOHO) environments. What's more it has image enhancement algorithms that can recognize automatically how the images and documents have to be cropped and de-skewed.
ExactScan comes with support for many languages (English, Dutch, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, Simplified-Chinese, Traditional-Chinese) and works with Mac OS X 10.4 and higher.
ExactScan is available for approximately US$126 and ExactScan Pro for $154 online, the Mac App...
FX Photo Studio for Mac gets speed boost, more
MacPhun has updated FX Photo Studio for Mac (http://www.fxphotostudioapp.com), the "supercharged" version of the FX Photo Studio mobile franchise. The upgrade brings integration with Photoshop, Lightroom and Aperture plus performance improvements. The app now purportedly runs faster and the image processing is of a better quality.
With access to over 150 photography effects with FX Photo Studio, users can blend filters while mastering styles of photography art such as lomography, analog effects, vignettes, tilt-shift, sketches, textures and many more. The software is available in standard and pro editions.
They support image resolution up to 16 and 32 mega-pixels respectively. And both sport photo editing tools including sharpening, shadowing and color adjusters.
FX Photo Studio for Mac requires Mac OS X 10.6 or later and is available at the Mac App Store in the Photography category. FX Photo Studio Standard is US$14.99, and FX Photo Studio Pro is $39.99. The new version is a free...
Dialectic for Mac gets improved Safari integration, more
JNSoftware has updated Dialectic (http://www.jonn8.com/dialectic/), a telephony tool for the Mac, to version 1.8.4. The upgrade offers improved Safari integration, Firefox 9 and 10 compatibility, Asterisk AJAM support and more.
Dialetic provides system-wide dialing of phone numbers using Bluetooth mobile phones, landlines, many VoIP services and more. It integrates with contact management applications such as Marketcircle Daylite, Microsoft Entourage, Now Contact, Palm Desktop, FileMaker Pro and other databases, as well as Apple's iCal and Address Book.
In addition to dialing, the software provides a global Address Book menu for accessing your contact data including email, instant messaging, postal addresses, URLs, notes, and phone numbers. You can create new email messages, look up addresses on a map, copy data to the clipboard or insert it into your current document.
Dialetic works with Mac OS X 10.4.9 and higher. It costs US$25.
SubRosaSoft.com updates data recovery products
SubRosaSoft.com has released version 7.5 for the entire Salvage line. FileSalvage, CameraSalvage, and PodSalvage have all been upgraded.
Improved search and recover functions increase the chances of recovering lost files, according to Marko Kostyrko, CEO of SubRosaSoft.com. The new versions also sport updates for the latest operating system and foreign languages,
SubRosaSoft Salvage software requires Mac OS X 10.5 or above. For more information on the Salvage range of products, go to http://www.SubRosaSoft.com/ .
MUG Event Calendar': back-ups, hard drive failure, more
As so many recover from Macworld/iWorld 2012, "The MUG Event Calendar" heads into the week with lots of interesting material.
Nik Software’s Kevin La Rue will present their plug-ins and iOS app to a California group, while backing up will be the agenda in Australia, drive failure warning signs will be discussed in Ireland, and favorite apps and tips is scheduled to be presented in Alaska. Other topics set for this week include rumors, iTunes, the art of communication, learning with iPads and much more. And, of course, everyone will be talking about what was shown at Macworld/iWorld 2012.
"The MUG Event Calendar" can be found at The MUG Center (http://www.mugcenter.com), an online resource for Mac User Groups. MUGs are good places for making new friends in the Mac community, improving your computing skills, finding solutions to technical problems, and perhaps locating a good deal on used hardware. For more info on MUGs, and to find the location of the one nearest you, go to Apple's MUG...
NoteCard for Mac OS X updated to version 1.0.1
NoteCard (http://www.notecardosx.com/), a visual note-taking app for Mac OS X, has been updated to version 1.0.2. It's a maintenance release. The US$7.99 app was inspired by the OS X Stickies app.
NoteCard lets you: make tabbed cards, stack cards in groups, add pages to cards, store cards in sheets for quick access and a full screen editing environment called Reader. A demo is available for download.
Apple 'un-pull's iOS devices in Germany in never-...
Apple, which has spent the past day pulling older models of the iPhone and iPad inventory from the shelves of its online store in Germany, is now restoring them.
Apple has pulled several iPad and iPhone models from its German online store after Motorola Mobility enforced a patent injunction against its rival, reports the "BBC" (http://macte.ch/7GmXq). Now in a statement given to "AllThingsD" (http://macte.ch/TVRgM), Apple confirmed that the iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4 and 3G/UMTS-based iPads should be returning to the shelves of its German online store in a matter of hours.
"All iPad and iPhone models will be back on sale through Apple’s online store in Germany shortly," an Apple spokeswoman told AllThingsD. "Apple appealed this ruling because Motorola repeatedly refuses to license this patent to Apple on reasonable terms, despite having declared it an industry standard patent seven years ago."
Forensics firm cracks Apple's FileVault
Apple's FileVault disk encryption can be circumvented in less than an hour, according to a computer forensics firm, reports "The Register" (http://macte.ch/pGMcM). Technology from Passware can purportedly capture the content of a Mac machine's memory, via Firewire interfaces, before extracting encryption keys.
Passware claims the latest version of its toolkit (Passware Kit Forensic 11.3) can recover hashed passwords with rainbow tables and extracting passwords from encrypted Mac keychain files as well as building a password list for its dictionary attack (based on the words detected in a computer memory). It can also reportedly unlock volumes encrypted using TrueCrypt, a disk encryption software that ranks alongside PGP as the choice of privacy-conscious computer users, human rights activists and others, according to "The Register."
Mac OS X 10.7.x ("Lion") includes a new version (2) of FileVault, which allows you to encrypt the information in your home folder. The app creates a...
Apple pulls iOS devices in Germany in ongoing legal dispute
Apple has pulled several iPad and iPhone models from its German online store after Motorola Mobility enforced a patent injunction against its rival, reports the "BBC" (http://macte.ch/7GmXq).
The move follows a December ruling that Apple had failed to license one of Motorola's wireless intellectual properties. iPhone users in Germany may also face the loss of their push email iCloud service after a separate patent victory by Motorola, notes the "BBC." Apple has said it will appeal.
This is part of an ongoing battle. Earlier this month the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that Motorola's Droid smartphones don't violate three Apple patents. The ruling is preliminary and needs to be approved by the ITC's full six-member commission.
Apple has previously alleged that Motorola infringes 24 of its patents (21 of them with Android-based phones, the remaining three with set-top boxes and DVRs), while Motorola previously asserted 18 patents against a variety of Apple products (...
Australia: Apple widens its legal claims against Samsung
Apple has widened its claims against Samsung in its ongoing patent battle with the company it was revealed in the NSW Federal Court in Australia, reports "The Australian IT" (http://macte.ch/0XsKN).
Samsung lead barrister Neil Young SC said Apple had "enormously" expanded its patent bid which initially involved three patents of features in the Korean company's Galaxy Tab 10.1, the article adds. The lawsuit now encompasses 278 claims across 22 patents that cover 10 Samsung devices.
Avid releases video editing app for the iPad
Avid has released its first video editing application for the iPad -- Avid Studio, available immediately at the Apple App Store. The company says it's the first iPad app for video editing to offer frame-by-frame editing accuracy and access to all kinds of media.
As a special launch promotion, Avid Studio for iPad is being offered for US$4.99.
It allows users to begin editing by offering access to any videos, photos and audio already in their iPad library, or media that can be imported from iTunes, cameras and more. Users can then arrange clips in the Storyboard, make edits using the Timeline, and enhance their movie creations with transitions, effects and a soundtrack.
They can then share movies directly to YouTube, Facebook and more -- or export projects to Avid Studio software, where they can continue editing with even more advanced tools on their PC. A how-to guide is included with the app. For more info go to http://www.avid.com/avidstudioapp .
iBooks Author templates available at the Mac App Store
Jumsoft has introduced Book Pallete 1.0, a themes application developed specifically for iBooks Author on the Mac. It requires Mac OS X 10.7.2 or later, costs US$2.99 and is available worldwide exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Graphics & Design category.
Book Palette app contains 10 templates that bring plenty of options to Mac users who wish to publish their own e-books. All templates contain the full range of standard section and page layouts provided in the iBooks Author app, including covers, chapter pages, text pages, tables of contents, glossary pages, and more.
The first version of Book Palette provides templates for various e-book styles -- from slick business publications to a traditional cookbook. Most elements in Book Palette can be recolored, moved, or removed. Users can type or paste in their own text, add and remove text boxes, and change the fonts.
Stock images can be replaced with users' own photos or pictures. Gallery, video, and other widgets...
RAGE: Campaign Edition comes to the Mac
Bethesda Softworks, in partnership with Aspyr Media, says RAGE: Campaign Edition is now available for the Mac worldwide.
This new shooter from id Software has been published for the Mac by Aspyr.. The game can be digitally downloaded in English, French or German now via Apple's Mac App Store, Aspyr's own digital store GameAgent.com, and through other supporting Mac digital retailers.
Here's how the game is described: "In RAGE: Campaign Edition you will take on bandit gangs and hordes of mutants with an arsenal of exotic weapons and special items, such as Wingsticks, personal turrets, sentry bots, and remote-controlled bomb cars as you play through the game’s full unaltered single-player campaign.
"The Mac version will also include bonus equipment formerly exclusive to the RAGE Anarchy Edition, including a Double Barrel Shotgun, the Rat Rod Buggy, Fists of RAGE and Crimson Elite Armor. You’ll also have access to the Wasteland Sewers Missions which feature additional mutant blasting...
Tunewear releases Security Locker for the iPad 2
Tunewear has released the US$99.95 Security Locker for iPad 2. The iPad 2 can be worn around the neck for in-store, or for back-office applications.
The Security Locker can be secured to desk or table to prevent the iPad 2 from disappearing when used for in-store demos, trade show booth presentations and even school exhibits. The clear polycarbonate hard case is designed with a security lock and wire features. It's built to both prevent theft of iPad 2 and protect it from dirt and scratches.
Tunewear also provides custom logo printing. The Security Locker is now available on Amazon or the Tunewear eStore (http://www.tunewearllc.com/servlet/the-100/tablet-iPad-security%2C-anti-...).
Jewel Quest The Sapphire Dragon released for the Mac
Macgamestore (http://www.macgamestore.com) has released Jewel Quest: The Sapphire Dragon Collector's Edition, the sixth game in the Jewel Quest series by iWin. It costs US$13.99 and requires Mac OS X 10.5 or higher.
Here's how the game is described; "Jewel Quest: The Sapphire Dragon Collector's Edition leads you through 200 brand new jewel boards as you unearth ancient wonders and discover the secret behind the elusive Sapphire Dragon. While piloting his Cessna in a Himalayan snowstorm, Raj crash-lands on a frozen mountain, thus kicking off the adventure.
"While piloting his Cessna in a Himalayan snowstorm, Raj crash-lands on a frozen mountain, thus kicking off the adventure in Jewel Quest 6: The Sapphire Dragon. Raj's crash has led him to a chance discovery of the Temple of Wishes, an ancient complex thought to be only legend! Raj assembles a team to explore the temple, but plans change suddenly when the team encounters a gang of ruthless pirates!
"Raj's hotshot team of...
Umotion 2D is new Mac compatible, 2D animation tool
NuOxygen Game Publishing has released Umotion 2D (http://macte.ch/ZFHth), a new 2D animation tool for Macintosh and Windows systems. A demo version is available.
Using this tool you can create 2D animations and export them directly into Unity, Umotion 2D comes with tutorial videos and a short user guide.
You only need to work with the separate elements from your texture Atlas and not the whole animation sequence. Furthermore, you can use Umotion to resize complex 2D games with bigger 2D animations with Unity for iPhone and iPad. The final result is similar to what you get when creating animations with a 3D software like Maya or 3DMax, only you are working into a 2D environment.
Tech Transitions released exclusively for FCP X
Noise Industries has added Idustrial Revolution's XEffects Tech Transitions to its repertoire of products for FxFactory 3. The new visual effects package, made exclusively for Final Cut Pro X, lets editors add transitions to projects without layers, key framing, or complex mattes.
Tech Transitions offers 28 transition effects, all with adjustable settings. Effects can be slipped, lengthened, shortened and cut and pasted like any other transition.
Almost all transitions include freeze versions, which holds the last frame of the outgoing media and the first frame of the incoming media, performing the transition between the two stills. Effects harness the power of GPU processing within FCP X for fast previews and renderings.
Offered at US$49, users can download a free trial version of XEffects Tech Transitions (http://www.idustrialrevolution.com/x1-tech-transitions).
PDF Nomad for Lion adds watermarks feature
SintraWorks has updated PDF Nomad, a PDF editor for Mac OS X 10.7 ("Lion"), to version 1.2. The upgrade adds features such as watermarks and "exploding" into chapters.
PDF Nomad is available as a single-user license for the introductory price of US$19.99 from both the Mac App Store and from the SintraWorks website (http://macte.ch/uiF4v). A demo is available from the latter.
PDF Nomad's features include simple text search and extraction, file merging, page splitting, form creation, markup and annotation, booklet/magazine creation and more. You can create and fill out PDF forms, mark-up text and annotate pages with rectangles, ovals, arrows, lines and more.
With PDF Nomad, you can resize whole documents to a different page size with a single command, or resize individual pages with drag and drop, shifting page contents as needed. You can export individual pages as bitmaps (jpg, png etc.) or create spoken audio files from the document's text.
