TinyBooks for Mac OS X gets maintenance update
Ken Winograd and Space-Time Associates (http://www.winograd.com) has updated TinyBooks Pro, its Mac accounting and bookkeeping program, to version 7.0.4. The upgrade improves the importing of old TinyBooks documents, improves the built-in help text and error messages and improves the Recur Dialog.
TinyBooks Pro is a single-entry bookkeeping and accounting system designed for sole proprietors, home and other small businesses, and family finances. To use you enter your expenses and income, and TinyBooks Pro does the rest. Current and year-to-date on-the-fly totals are continually displayed. Fully automatic bar-charting of all expense and income accounts make the determination of monthly trends intuitively obvious, according to the folks at Space-Time Associates.
TinyBooks Pro 7.0.4 is exclusively for Intel-based Macs and is available now. TinyBooks (the non-Pro TinyBooks) is still available for those running on older PowerPC Macs or those running Mac OS 8.x. or 9.x TinyBooks Pro 7.0.4...
Apptix introduces Apptix Hosted Exchange for Apple
Apptix (http://www.apptix.com) -- a provider of hosted Microsoft Exchange email, Microsoft SharePoint and VoIP services for businesses worldwide -- has launched Apptix Hosted Exchange for Apple, a new hosted offering that provides native integration of Apple-based communications applications with Microsoft Exchange Server 2007.
The service provides full business-class Exchange support for all Mac computers running Mac OS X 10.6.x ("Snow Leopard"). ActiveSync mobile service is also included with each Exchange mailbox for use with the soon-to-be launched iPad, as well as any iPhone or iPod touch (with Wi-Fi access) mobile digital devices.
"Apptix Hosted Exchange for Apple gives our customers all the features and functionality of hosted Microsoft Exchange, but without the need for software outside of native Mac applications," says James Bond, vice president of Software & Product Development for Apptix. "Our customers can now use Apple Mail, Apple iCal, Apple Address Book...
Kyte announces iPad support
Kyte (http://www.kyte.com) -- an online, mobile and social video platform for live and on-demand content -- has announced an SDK (software development kit) for developing Kyte-powered iPad apps for distribution through the AppleApp Store, as well as web-based support for the iPad through a new, universal embed code that outputs HTML5 video.
The new SDK and HTML5 support provides media companies and marketers with the flexibility and choice to build native iPad applications, or extend compatibility of their new or existing Kyte-powered websites to the iPad, says Gannon Hall, chief operating officer, Kyte. In addition to its robust online video platform, Kyte gives organizations the ability to add social and interactive capabilities to video content and to natively distribute that content across the iPad, iPhone/iPod touch, BlackBerry, Android and Nokia platforms, he adds.
Hall says that aAdditional key features of the Kyte SDK for iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch include:
° A binary API (...
CinemaView Duo dual display extender announced
CinemaView (http://www.cinemaview.com) has announces its new Duo dual display extender for Apple computers using the Mini DisplayPort video port. The Duo works with either two 24-inch Apple LED Cinema Displays, creating a total 3840x1200 pixel display space, or with two CinemaView 24 LCD displays, creating a total 3840x1080 pixel display space.
The CinemaView Duo has one male Mini DisplayPort plug that connects to a Mac, and provides two female Mini DisplayPort ports into which two identical Mini DisplayPort equipped monitors can be connected. The Duo analyzes the individual screen resolution of each connected display, adds the two together, and sends a composite "extended" resolution signal to the Mac -- up to 3840x1200 pixels.
The CinemaView Duo is available for prepaid pre-order for US$149, including ground shipping to USA and Canada destinations. These pre-orders will ship to customers on or before April 28.
Analyst: Apple to sell 150,000 to 200,000 iPads this weekend
Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster is predicting that Apple will sell 150,000 to 200,000 iPads this weekend. He's also forecasting 2010 total sales of of 2.8 million iPads.
As noted by "Silicon Alley Insider" (http://macosg.me/2/27), those numbers are much lower than some estimates of six million to 10 million unit sales. However, Munster goes on to say that the apps will ultimately "drive demand longer term" for the iPad. The Sellers Research Firm (that's me) predicts 500,000 unit sales this weekend and nine million total for 2010.
The iPad will be available in Wi-Fi models in the US for a suggested retail price of US$499 for 16GB, $599 for 32GB, and $699 for 64GB. The Wi-Fi + 3G models will be available in late April for a suggested retail price of $629 for 16GB, $729 for 32GB and $829 for 64GB. The iPad will be sold in the US through the Apple Store (http://www.apple.com), Apple’s retail stores, most Best Buy stores, select Apple Authorized Resellers and campus bookstores.
Apple releases QuickTime, iTunes, iPhoto updates
Apple has released updates for QuickTime, iTunes and iPhoto. You can obtain 'em via the Software Updates component of Mac OS X's Systems Preferences app.
QuickTime 7.6.6 addresses 16 security issues on both the Mac and Windows platforms. iTunes 9.1.0 has five security fixes and adds support for iPad syncing and iBooks organizing and syncing. iPhoto 8.1.2 adds iPad support and boasts syncing improvements.
Dot Hill introduces AssuredSAN appliances
Dot Hill (http://www.dothill.com), a provider of storage solutions and software for OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), open storage partners and system integrators, has expanded its channel program with the introduction of its next-generation AssuredSAN disk-to-disk data protection appliances targeted at small-to-medium businesses (SMBs).
The Dot Hill AssuredSAN 3000 Series, based on the company’s new 3000 Series storage platform announced in February, features a suite of disaster recovery applications, including Dot Hill’s new AssuredRemote remote replication software. The Dot Hill AssuredSAN 3000 Series is available through Dot Hill channel partners now. List prices are expected to start at US$20,200 for a dual controller Fibre Channel system fully populated with 500GB SATA drives.
Flash Media Encoder 3.1 for Mac OS now a free download
Adobe has announced that Flash Media Live Encoder 3.1 for Mac OS X is now a free download. You can grab it at http://blogs.adobe.com/flashmedia/2010/03/flash_media_live_encoder_31_fo... .
Features include: the ability to perform up to three simultaneous encodes; saving to local file during encoding; auto-adjust (helps manage the stream quality to stay live under poor network conditions); and support for H.264 and VP6 codecs. Flash Media Live Encoder is designed for content owners who want to stream live events like concerts, sporting events, web casts, and news.
Seton Hill undergrads to get MacBook, iPad
Beginning in the fall of 2010, all first year undergraduate students at Seton Hill University (http://www.setonhill.edu) will receive a 13-inch MacBook and an iPad. They'll have complete access to these mobile technologies for classes as well as at all times for personal use.
After two years, Seton Hill will replace the laptop with a new one -- one that students can take with them when they graduate. The university says the technology is designed to allow students to stay in touch with professors, advisors, and classmates, research any topic at any time, engage in hybrid and fully on-line courses, and access a whole host of Seton Hill technology services.
Seton Hill is a Catholic university rooted in Judeo-Christian values. It's located in Greensburg, Pennsylvania.
Bloomsbury planning digital books for the iPad
Book publisher Bloomsbury is planning digital editions of its books for the iPad, reports "The Guardian" (http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2010/mar/30/bloomsbury-books-harry-po...).
"It has not come to the UK yet, so that is a piece of business yet to happen, but I can certainly say that the iPad looks like a very exciting platform indeed," Bloomsbury CEO Nigel Newton told the publication. "Obviously it is the most important development in ebooks in recent months, so we will certainly be talking to Apple."
The iPad will come with an iBookstore app. will feature books from major and independent publishers. The free iBooks app lets you buy books from the iBookstore. Once you’ve bought a book, it’s displayed on your Bookshelf. Just tap it to start reading.
Apple overtakes Wal-Mart in market cap
Apple is now the third largest company in America by market cap, having overtaken Wal-Mart for the number three position. At $236.86 the market cap of Apple is roughly US$214.75 billion, compared to Wal-Mart at $55.95 with a $212.9 billion market cap, according to "24/7 Wall Street" (http://247wallst.com/2010/03/30/value-shock-apple-larger-than-wal-mart-m...).
On an enterprise value including debt, Wal-Mart still maintains the lead over Apple as it has over $36 billion in long-term debt versus only about $5 billion for Apple, and Apple’s longer-term liabilities are not even real debt issuance, the article adds. Our favorite tech company will probably never reach the top spot when it comes to US market cap status in the U.S. as ExxonMobil's market cap is $317 billion -- and that's with shares closer to a 52-week low rather than an all-time high.
Still, "24/7 Wall Street" says "there is one challenge and one that the Apple lovers would absolutely love." Microsoft sits with a market...
Analyst: Apple to sell 300,000 to 400,000 iPads this weekend
Bernstein analyst Toni Sacconaghi is telling clients that he expects Apple to sell between 300,000 and 400,000 iPads over launch weekend–including pre-sales. But he figures the device will sell five million in its first full year at market and 6.8 million in fiscal year 2011, according to "All Things D" (http://digitaldaily.allthingsd.com/20100330/ipad-expectations-“over-zealous”/?mod=ATD_rss).
"We note that the initial iPad launch will be a US only launch and will not include 3G models; we suspect that total (including pre-sales) first weekend sales will be slightly higher than the original iPhone’s first weekend (270K), given the iPhone had a similar price, and was US exclusive (although it did not offer pre-orders),” Sacconaghi told clients. "Our analysis suggests that iPhone sales run rates have fallen significantly (i.e., by a factor of 4x – 9x) following launch weekends; we think a drop-off in sales at the high end of this range is likely appropriate for the iPad, given that...
Fuel Collective releases Permute for Mac OS X
Fuel Collective has released Permute (http://fuelcollective.com/permute), an US$14.95 media conversion tool for Mac OS X 10.6.x ("Snow Leopard").
It offers drag and drop video conversion with presets for devices such as the iPhone, Apple TV and XBox. You can also modify the existing presets. Permute is 64-bit and can convert .dvdmedia and VIDEO_TS folders to ISO files for better media center support.
MacFamilyTree sprouts version 5.7
Synium Software has released version 5.7 of MacFamilyTree (http://www.synium.de/products/macfamilytree/index.html). The new version introduces a completely overhauled source management, as well as the new facts feature.
Hair color, eye color and more are now stored. Also new: audio and video recording using a webcam and the all new Family Group Sheet or the improved Kinship Report.
You can now navigate through the three-dimensional representation of your family data and dive into your family history. MacFamilyTree 5.6 also sports an extended and much improved media management. Select persons on your family pictures and assign them to entries in your database.
MacFamilyTree 5.7 requires Mac OS X 10.4.11 or higher. For new users the cost is US$49. It's a free upgrade to registered users of version 5.x. Upgrades from versions prior to 5.0 are $25.
Elan wants to ban Apple products
Elan Microelectronics Corp., a Taiwanese maker of chips and touch-screens, has asked a U.S. trade agency to ban the import and sale of some Apple products, including the iPad, because of alleged patent infringement.
"BusinessWeek" (http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-03-30/elan-files-itc-complaint-aga...) reports that Elan’s complaint was filed yesterday with the U.S. International Trade Commission in Washington claims Apple “knowingly and deliberately” used Elan’s technology, while continuing to introduce infringing products The petition also seeks to ban imports of the iPhone and iPod touch products, Elan said in the complaint.
Elan sued Apple in April 2009 , alleging infringement of two of its touch screen patents, The lawsuit alleges that Apple products -- including its MacBook, iPhone and iPod touch -- use technology that infringes on two of Elan’s patents.
Apple releases Security Update 2010-002 for Leopard
Apple has released Security Update 2010-002 for Leopard. It's a 78.39MB download and requires Mac OS X 10.5.8.
Apple says Security Update 2010-002 is recommended for all users and improves the security of Mac OS X. Previous security updates have been incorporated into this security update. You can obtain it via the Software Updates component of Mac OS X's Systems Preferences app.
Trailrunner for Mac OS X jogs to version 3.0
Trailrunner (http://www.trailrunnerx.com), a Mac OS X solution for folks doing long distance sports, has been updated to version 3.0. The user interface has been redesigned from the ground up.
This includes the management of routes, the local track network and the new diary. TrailRunner can now display maps specially created and geared towards to runners, bikers and any other outdoor enthusiasts.
With TrailRunner you can plan workout routes on a geographical map, export the route directions as small NanoMaps onto an iPod and import workout data from the Nike + iPod sports kit back into the workout diary. Other features are an exercise plan, .Mac weblog publishing, a GPS, GPX and KML import/export, an integrated map and elevation data download from global mapping services like USGS topo maps.
TrailRunner is donationware. You can download the software, and, if you like it, make a donation to the developer.
KeyCue update for Mac OS X adds open interface
Ergonis Software (http://www.ergonis.com) has released KeyCue 5.0, an update of the keyboard shortcut "cheat sheet." The new version adds an open interface that enables third party products to use KeyCue for displaying custom keyboard shortcuts, regardless whether the shortcuts are visible in the menu or not.
KeyCue detects and displays an instant overview of all shortcuts. Until now, KeyCue could show only keyboard shortcuts that are visible in a program's regular menus. Version 5 also comes with a new technique for easy installation and update and offers further improvements, like an option to specify on which display the shortcut table shall appear.
KeyCue 5.0 requires Mac OS X 10.4 or Mac OS X 10.5. It's Universal Binary so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs. The upgrade to KeyCue 4.5 is free for anyone who has purchased KeyCue in the last two years. For new users the cost is US$29 for a single user license.
Instead of purchasing KeyCue by itself, customers can get the...
Economy-x-Talks releases Clipboard Link for Mac OS X
Economy-x-Talks has released Clipboard Link (http://clipboardlink.economy-x-talk.com) for Mac OS X (10.3 and higher) The app enables you to share the contents of the clipboard of your computer with other computers on the same local network.
You can copy a text or picture on one computer and paste it on any computer connected to your network and running Clipboard Link. To use the software, copy a text or picture from any window first and start Clipboard Link. Now start Clipboard Link on another computer on your local network.
The name of your first computer will appear in the Clipboard Link window on the second computer. Click the Copy button next to the name of the first computer. The clipboard of the first computer has now been transferred to the second computer.
Clipboard Link costs approximately US$11. A demo is available for download.
Keyboard Maestro update for Mac OS X adds MIDI triggers, actions...
Stairways Software (http://www.stairways.com) has released Keyboard Maestro 4.2, the new version of its productivity enhancer for Mac OS X. The upgrade adds MIDI triggers and actions, as well as an Execute Macro action, editing macros from the status menu or floating palette and more.
Using Keyboard Maestro's macros you can: control applications, windows, or menus; insert text; open documents, applications or URLs; execute scripts; control the system or iTunes; and more, all with the touch of a key, click of the mouse, periodically or at specific times, when an application is launched or running, or even over the Internet using Keyboard Maestro's built in web server.
Using Keyboard Maestro's Program Switcher and Window Switcher you can cycle through applications or windows, closing, hiding, launching, and more. The software lets you close or hide multiple windows or applications. Using Keyboard Maestro's Clipboard Switcher, you can select from a number of named clipboards, storing...
Boris FX announces new Boris Continuum Unit: Shaders
Boris FX (http://www.borisfx.com), a developer of integrated effects technology for video and film, has announced that a new Boris Continuum Unit, Shaders, is now available.
The Boris Continuum Shaders Unit includes 13 Boris Continuum Complete filters and transitions that take advantage of Apple’s real-time FxPlug architecture. Among the included filters are a full suite of keying and compositing tools, film effects, glow effects, 3D perspective filters and transitions, and an all-new Flicker and Shake filter.
The Boris Continuum Shaders Unit allows editors to view animated previews of presets and saved effects in an effects browser window. Presets can be viewed in real-time using actual clips from the timeline.
The Boris Continuum Shaders Unit supports Apple Final Cut Pro, Final Cut Express, and Motion. The Shaders Unit is the latest addition to previously-released Boris Continuum Units: Chroma Key, Pan and Zoom, UpRez, Motion Key, Lens Flare, Film Look, Glitters, Optical...
Keynote Hub launches with three Keynote themes
Keynote Hub (http://www.keynotehub.com), a new Keynote theme store, is offering three new themes for Keynote. Keynote is the presentation creation component of Apple's US$79 iWork suite.
The three new themes -- Brownstone, Esquire, and Simplicity -- are focused on the fundamentals of color, typography, and layout, according to the folks at Keynote Hub. Brownstone is inspired "by the timeless elegance of New York's brownstones." Esquire is "bold, powerful, and a bit whimsical." Simplicity is a minimalist theme, "with a simple but powerful style."
All three themes are available in 1024x768 screen resolution, come with over 20 master slides, and are priced at US$19 each.
MacSpeech updates MacSpeech Scribe
MacSpeech (http://www.macspeech.com) has updated MacSpeech Scribe, the a personal transcription solution for the Mac, to version 1.0.1. It's a maintenance update with some bug fixes.
With MacSpeech Scribe, those running Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard") can transcribe their recorded voice into written text with up to 99% accuracy, in a single button click, according to Andrew Taylor, founder and CEO of MacSpeech. The app automatically creates an individual speech profile, in one of 13 different English dialects, from an initial recorded sample of the person's voice. A single MacSpeech Scribe license can create and use up to six individual voice profiles, each compatible with all accepted audio file formats. MacSpeech Scribe accepts audio files in .wav, .aif, .aiff, .m4v, mp4, or .m4a formats.
When composing a letter or other document by voice, users can include spoken punctuation, and MacSpeech Scribe will automatically include the punctuation marks in the output text. Audio file...
MMQuery plug-in ready for FileMaker Pro 11
Comm-Unity Networking Systems has released MMQuery 1.1 (http://mmquery.cnsplug-ins.com/), an update of the plug-in for FileMaker Pro that lets you work with your data through the calculation engine. The upgrade This new version brings full compatibility with FileMaker Pro 11 plus several new functions and features.
MMQuery allows you to perform SQL queries on your own database or use the helper functions in the plug-in to do the same types of queries without actually having to know SQL. MMQuery requires FileMaker Pro 7.0v3 and above to function properly. The plug-in won't under previous versions of FileMaker Pro. If you have FileMaker Pro 7.0 but have not updated to 7.0v3, you can obtain a free update from FileMaker, Inc's web site.
A single-user license for the client version of MMQuery is US$35. To use the Server Edition of MMQuery, you'll need to purchase at least a 10-User license. A 10-User License is $172. If you own a 1.x license of MMQuery, the upgrade to 1.1 is free.
Mail Forward for Mac OS X updated to version 5.0
System Support Products (http://www.sspi-software.com) has updated Mail Forward for Mac OS X -- e-mail forwarding application for AOL, Gmail, Hotmail, MSN, and Yahoo web mail accounts -- to version 5.0.
Standard POP and IMAP e-mail accounts can also now be forwarded. A maximum of 20 different e-mail accounts can be entered into the app, each with its own forwarding address. A built-in scheduling feature permits mail to be forwarded automatically at a specified time interval. A default forwarding address can be specified, simplifying initial set-up. Release 5.0 of Mail Forward is a complete re-write of the application, greatly enhancing its speed and reliability, according to the folks at System Support Products.
Mail Forward for Mac OS X costs US$19.95. A 30-day free trial is available for download. Registered users of Mail Forward who have purchased within one year prior to this announcement will be provided with the new release free of charge. Other registered users will be...
iPad users will get one major OS upgrade for free
iPad users will have to purchase some OS updates aired with the release of the iPhone OS 3.2 software development kit, according to documentation accompanying the new SDK.
As noted by "DailyTech" (http://www.dailytech.com/IPad+Users+Get+One+Free+Major+OS+Upgrade+and+Th...), the documentation has this to say:
Apple will provide you any iPad OS software updates that it may release from time to time, up to and including the next major iPad OS software release following the version of iPad OS software that originally shipped from Apple on your iPad, for free. For example, if your iPad originally shipped with iPad 3.x software, Apple would provide you with any iPad OS software updates it might release up to and including the iPad 4.x software release. Such updates and releases may not necessarily include all of the new software features that Apple releases for newer iPad models."
In other words, with the iPad, Apple will be giving users one free, major OS upgrade. After that users will be...
Canalys: iPhone OS has 15% of smartphone share
According to research firm Canalys, Apple's iPhone OS accounted for about 15% of smartphones sold last year, running third behind phones using Nokia's Symbian OS and Research in Motion's OS.
Those own 47% and 21% of the market, respectively, according to "TheStreet" (http://www.thestreet.com/_yahoo/story/10713461/1/google-not-apple-to-rul...). While Apple has grown much faster than those two brands, it still lags by almost 10 million units, the article adds.
Nokia's Symbian is selling more than twice the units of its closest competitor. But given that sales growth is in the low single digits, the big movers could overtake it sooner rather than later, says "TheStreet." Research in Motion and Apple could overtake Nokia in about three years based on current growth rates.
'Father of the iPod' leaving Apple
Tony Fadell, the "father of the iPod," is leaving Apple after nine years for "greener pastures," according to The New York Times.
Fadell's departure from Apple has been gradual. In 2008, he stepped down as senior vice president of the iPod division, but has remained on Apple’s payroll as a special adviser to CEO Steve Jobs. He told "The Times" that he's moving on now to advise companies and pursue private investments with a focus on green technology.
Fadell 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.
Prior to joining Apple, Fadell was a co-founder, CTO, and director of engineering of the Mobile Computing Group at Philips Electronics where he was responsible for all aspects of business and product development for a variety of products. He later became vice president of business development for Philips U.S....
TechSmith updates Camtasia screen recording software
TechSmith Corp. (http://www.techsmith.com) has released Camtasia for Mac 1.1, an update of its screen recording products. The new version includes region capture so users can record only the area of the screen they choose, or select from a preset region. The new release also supports multiple monitor environments, the ability to pause and resume recording sessions, and the option to do voice-only recordings.
Camtasia for Mac 1.1 is integrated with TechSmith’s Screencast.com hosting service for free video sharing and tracking. It requires Mac OS X 10.5.6 or later. Camtasia for Mac 1.1 costs US$99 for new users, but is a free upgrade for current customers.
WD announces 750GB notebook hard drives
Western Digital (http://www.wd.com) is now shipping 750GB of storage capacity in a standard-height 2.5-inch notebook hard drive. It's the industry's highest capacity to date in this form factor, says Jim Morris, WD's senior vice president and general manager of Storage Products.
Designed for mainstream notebook computers, the WD Scorpio Blue 750GB hard drives utilize WD's 375GB-per-platter areal density and Advanced Format technology. WD Scorpio Blue 750 GB hard drives are shipping now through select distributors and resellers. The manufacturer's suggested retail price for the WD Scorpio Blue 750 is US$149. WD Scorpio Blue hard drives are covered by a three-year limited warranty.
Study: Kindle leads in brand recognition, but more folks plan to...
PriceGrabber.com explores eReader and eBook shopping trends in its latest "eReader and eBook Trends Consumer Behavior Report." The report reveals that while the Amazon Kindle is the brand leader in eReaders, more consumers plan to purchase the Apple iPad.
The report includes survey responses from 1,631 online consumers from Feb. 8–25. While eReaders are still becoming mainstream, the Amazon Kindle leads its competitors in brand recognition, with 61% of consumers having heard of the Kindle. Fifty-five percent of consumers indicated that they have heard of the iPad. Thirty-four percent revealed that they have heard of the Sony Reader, and 28% of consumers have heard of the Barnes & Noble nook.
The iPad will become the most sought-after device that can be used as an eReader in the coming year, according to the PriceGrabber.com study. While more consumers are familiar with the Kindle, the iPad is the most popular eReader among consumers planning to purchase in the next year. Twenty...
Study: College iPhone integration increases motivation, learning
GetYa Learn On (http://GetYaLearnOn.com) -- an educational software company that created the app called "Statistics I" -- has released empirical findings from a pilot study conducted during the fall semester of 2009 at Abilene Christian University (ACU) that shows positive effects of using and iPhone (or iPod touch) in the classroom.
Students in an introductory Statistics class were given the new iPhone app, which was used to supplement the instructor's lectures and for studying and test preparation. Statistics I is based on a mobile learning platform that includes lessons, touch-screen simulations, calculators, decision making tools, quizzes, flashcards, formulas, and a glossary. (The Statistics I app has been converted into an iPad e-textbook and is under review by Apple for the upcoming device.)
The results of the study were published in a white paper that was released today. The study provides evidence that GetYa Learn On's Mobile Learning Platform used in conjunction with...
'WSJ': Apple is planning a Verizon iPhone
Morgan Stanley analyst Ehud Gelblum thinks Verizon is passing on the chance to be an iPhone carrier in the US -- see http://www.macnews.com/content/verizon-pass-iphone -- but "The Wall Street Journal" (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304370304575152242601774892.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_MIDDLETopStories( has a different take on the situation.
The "WSJ," quoting "people briefed on the matter," says Apple is developing a new iPhone to debut this summer and also appears to be working on a model for Verizon Wireless. The people briefed on the matter told the "WSJ" that one of the new iPhones is being manufactured by Taiwanese contract manufacturer Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., which produced Apple's previous iPhones. The model that has CDMA capability, used by Verizon Wireless, is purportedly being manufactured by Pegatron Technology Corp., the contract manufacturing subsidiary of Taiwan's ASUSTeK Computer.
Lulu's self-published books coming to the iPad
Electronic book publisher Lulu (http://www.lulu.com/) told its top authors over the weekend that their electronic books can be made available on Apple’s new iBookstore that is debuting with the launch of the iPad on April 3.
According to "Digital Beat" (http://macosg.me/2/1t), Lulu said it would automatically convert books for submission to the iBookstore -- unless authors didn’t want their books published on the iPad. According to R.R. Bowker’s Books in Print database, some 276,489 books were published traditionally in the U.S. in 2008. Lulu alone published over 400,000 titles last year.
Best Buy limited to 15 iPads per store?
The Best Buy (http://www.bestbuy.com) stores that will be carrying the iPad when it goes on sale this Saturday will be limited to 15 per store, according to a TUAW report (http://www.tuaw.com/2010/03/27/exclusive-best-buy-playbook-for-ipad-leak...).
The story quotes a "tipster" as saying that each store will be limited to 15 iPads in stock, and those WiFi-only iPads will be evenly distributed among the three price points. Apple says "most" of the 670-plus Best Buy retail stores in the US will carry the iPad.
Apple stocks are at all time high
Apple shares were up as much as 1.3% to $233.87 in morning trades. The stock has risen nearly 17% since the company first introduced the iPad at a media event in late January.
"MarketWatch" (http://www.marketwatch.com/story/apple-shares-set-new-highs-on-ipad-fren...) notes that Apple stock has more than doubled from its level at this time last year, hitting an all-time high. The stock was up $1.19 at $232 Monday afternoon.
Self-published authors can see their work on the iPad
Self-publishing service Smashwords, Smashwords, a site where writers can publish their own e-books, as signed a distribution deal with Apple to put its books into the iPad iBookstore.
This means that "unpublished authors can sell their work on the Apple iPad at virtually no cost," according to "DigitalBeat" (http://digital.venturebeat.com/2010/03/28/self-published-electronic-book...). To get books on the Apple store by launch day, Smashwords authors have to have their works submitted to Smashwords’ premium catalog by March 31. The book has to be in the EPUB format and have a big cover image.
The iPad will come with an iBookstore app. will feature books from major and independent publishers. The free iBooks app lets you buy books from the iBookstore. Once you’ve bought a book, it’s displayed on your Bookshelf. Just tap it to start reading.
BBC iPhone apps postponed
The BBC says (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/8593206.stm) its plan to launch iPhone apps for its news and sport content have been put on hold by its governing body.
The BBC Trust has asked the BBC to postpone its plans while it looks into the business case for the new services. The free applications were due to be released in April but have met with criticism from groups who say they will skew the market for news apps.
Several newspapers -- including the "Guardian" and "Daily Telegraph," already offer both free and paid-for apps. A spokesperson for the BBC Trust said that the body had decided to launch an assessment of the apps after "representations from industry."
Analyst says Apple will ship six million iPads this year
iPad suppliers are already raising their build rates in expectation of strong sales, thanks to encouraging pre-order rates, according to Morgan Stanley analyst Katy Huberty.
As reported by "All Things D" (http://digitaldaily.allthingsd.com/20100329/morgan-stanley-apple-will-sh...), she told clients that Apple’s manufacturing partners now expect to ship 2.5 million iPads between March and May, considerably ahead of her previous estimate of 750,000 for the June quarter.
What’s more, they are now forecasting shipments of eight to 10 million iPads in calendar 2010, considerably more than prior expectations of five million-plus. Current Street consensus is for Apple to sell three to four million iPads, but Huberty figures the company will sell over six million iPads, notes "All Things D."
iPad Camera Connection Kit available for pre-order
Apple's Camera Connection Kit for the iPad is now available for pre-order. It costs US$29, and is due to ship in late April, around the same time as the iPad Keyboard Dock.
The Camera Connection Kit gives you two ways to import photos and videos from a digital camera. It lets you import your photos and videos to iPad using the camera’s USB cable. Or you can use the SD Card Reader to import photos and videos directly from the camera’s SD card.
Apple releases Mac OS X 10.6.3
Apple has updated Snow Leopard to version 10.6.3. You can obtain it via the Software Updates component of the Mac OS X Systems Preferences app. According to Apple, general operating system fixes and improvements provided for:
° Performance of Logic Pro 9 and Main Stage 2 when running in 64-bit mode;
° Printing reliability;
° Sleep and wake reliability when using Bonjour wake on demand;
° A color issue in iMovie with HD content;
° Glowing, stuck, or dark pixels when viewing video from the iMac (Late 2009) built-in iSight camera;
° An issue in which the Finder reports a -36 error when copying directories to a drive formatted as FAT32;
° Reliability of photo screen savers;
° Compatibility issues with OpenGL-based applications;
° An issue in which shadows in PDF of Aperture book are black instead of gray;
° An issue in which the microphone level in iChat may not increase the volume after reducing it to prevent a feedback event;
° The reliability of certain third-party USB devices;
° The...
iPad to touch down Saturday at 9 am
The iPad will be available in all 221 US Apple retail stores and most Best Buy stores this Saturday, April 3, beginning at 9 a.m. Apple retail stores will offer a free Personal Setup service to every customer who buys an iPad at the store, helping them customize their new iPad by setting up their email, loading their favorite apps from the Apple App Store, and more.
Also, beginning Saturday morning, all US Apple retail stores will host special iPad workshops to help customers learn more about the new product. What's more, Apple has already released a series of iPad tutorial videos. You can find 'em, in the QuickTime format, at http://www.apple.com/ipad/guided-tours/ .
The iPad will be available in Wi-Fi models in the US for a suggested retail price of US$499 for 16GB, $599 for 32GB, and $699 for 64GB. The Wi-Fi + 3G models will be available in late April for a suggested retail price of $629 for 16GB, $729 for 32GB and $829 for 64GB. The iPad will be sold in the US through the Apple...
Brightcove announces support for HTML5 -- and the iPad
Brightcove, an online video platform, has announced the Brightcove Experience for HTML5, a framework for publishing and delivering interactive and advertising-supported web video experiences for HTML5-compatible devices.
The new platform solution, available free of charge to more than 1,000 Brightcove customers in 42 countries, will enable media companies and marketers around the world to expand the reach of their online video initiatives to consumer devices such as the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch, says Jeremy Allaire, Brightcove chairman and CEO. The Brightcove Experience for HTML5 fills the gap between the current playback capabilities of the emerging standard and what their customers need to operate successful online video businesses, he adds.
The Brightcove Experience for HTML5 provides support for intelligent device detection, playlist rendering, and playback of H.264 encoded video content. Customers are using the Brightcove Experience for HTML5 today to build iPad-ready web...
Boingo Wireless to support iPad on first day of release
Boingo Wireless (http://www.boingo.com) says iPad owners will be able to choose between Wi-Fi access plans based on hourly credits or a monthly subscription to connect to its global network of 125,000 Wi-Fi hotspots as soon as they buy their tablet.
“The iPad may be a new product, but it’s one with a familiar need: super-fast Internet in places where you’re likely to connect -- coffee shops, restaurants, hotels, airports,” says Dave Hagan, president and CEO for Boingo Wireless. “Right out of the gate, iPad users will have the ability to access Boingo Wi-Fi as a convenient and affordable alternative or add-on to 3G Internet access, especially for the first wave of users for whom Wi-Fi is the only connection choice.”
Boingo boasts nearly 30,000 hotspots in North America and more than 125,000 hotspots around the world. The company offers Boingo Mobile, a US$7.95 per month subscription that gives the user unlimited Wi-Fi access worldwide. Those who only occasionally venture out into the...
Toshiba releases Canvio back-up solution
Toshiba (http://www.toshibadirect.com) has introduced the Canvio portable hard drive, a backup solution with up to 1TB of storage. It comes in five colors and four storage capacities, starting at 500GB.
At the top capacity (1TB), the Canvio holds up to 285,000 digital photos, 263,000 digital music files, or 820 digital movies. It's smaller than a postcard and weighs six ounces.
The Canvio product line is available in these flavors:Raven Black, Satin Silver, Liquid Blue, Rocket Red and Komodo Green. Suggested retail prices by capacity are: US$119.99 for the 500GB Canvio; $139.99 for the 640GB Canvio; $159.99 for the 750GB Canvio Plus; and $199.99 for the 1TB Canvio Plus.
Akvis ArtSuite 6.0 supports Frame Packs
Akvis has announced the update of Akvis ArtSuite to version 6.0. ArtSuite is a collection of versatile effects for decorating photos.
The standalone version now supports Frame Packs of Hand Painted Photo Frames. Two new themed frame packs are also available. These frame packs contain frames which have been designed by artists specially for ArtSuite. Also new to version 6.0: support for 64-bit in the plug-in version, bug fixes, and a new installation program. A free frame pack containing 30 hand painted frames is also available as a separate download. The upgrade for registered users is free.
The effects in version 6.0 are grouped as follows:
° Edge Effects (Photo Frames) allow generating a photo frame for a digital photo. It can be a classic frame with wood carving or a funny frame with some frogs along the border.
° Artistic Effects allow one to experiment with photos. For example, you can convert a photo into a B&W image and then add a color shade to it; replace colors in an...
QuickerTek releases new Air Carry handle for the MacBook Air
QuickerTek has announced the Air Carry Handle (http://www.quickertek.com/products/macbook_air_carry_handle.php) for the MacBook Air. It's an US$79.95 handle is made from non-flex aircraft quality aluminum.
The Carry Handle is designed to ensure that the trim laptop doesn't slip and hit the floor, according to the folks at QuickerTek. The lightweight handle is super strong and it's attached to the laptop by a stiff aluminum mount that uses the existing screw holes in the MacBook Air. New countersunk longer screws secure the Air Carry Handle to the Air. The finish of the aluminum complements the MacBook Air.
The Carry Handle also elevates the MacBook Air to allow air underneath the laptop for better cooling when you go mobile for hours and hours. This slight angle adjustment also keeps the keyboard at a non-tiring position for many hours of use. Rubber feet on the Carry Handle prevent you from chasing your laptop around on a hard surface like a desk.
Pattern design simplified with Artlandia SymmetryShop 3
Artlandia has released version 3 of Artlandia SymmetryShop, an Adobe Photoshop plug-in for professional pattern design. SymmetryShop 3 is designed to provide multiple productivity enhancements and markedly simplifies the design workflow by making the plug-in functionality available as a floating Photoshop panel.
SymmetryShop automatically creates the 17 mathematical types of symmetric patterns as well as drop and diamond patterns, grids, gradations, sateens, and other standard repeat systems. The plug-in keeps the image source available for unlimited iterations and refinements throughout any number of Photoshop sessions. The new version purportedly makes this core functionality more easily accessible and adds new features.
As an improvement over previous versions, SymmetryShop 3 is available as a floating panel (similar to the Layers, Channels, Paths, and other standard Photoshop panels) and no longer requires the user to open a special dialog in order to create a pattern or change...
ArtOptimizer for Illustrator updated to version 2.3.4
Zevrix (http://www.zevrix.com) has updated ArtOptimizer, its workflow automation solution for Adobe Illustrator, to version 2.3.4. The new version allows you to process rotated images and improves the user interface.
ArtOptimizer eliminates the excess image data of document links and performs image adjustments, reducing the size of an Illustrator job. In order to eliminate excess image data, the app automatically scales the images in Photoshop to match their dimensions in Illustrator, changes resolution according to the target resolution specified, and reimports images to Illustrator at 100%.
In addition, ArtOptimizer can automatically convert image colors, apply sharpening filters, merge and delete layers, and run Photoshop Actions during processing. ArtOptimizer 2.3.1 can be purchased from the Zevrix Solutions web site for US$129.95, as well as from authorized resellers. A demo is also available for download.
ArtOptimizer is available for Mac OS X 10.4.2 and higher and Adobe...
Decloner update for Mac OS X adds Safe Mode
PixelEspresso has released Decloner 1.2 (http://www.pixelespressoapps.com/decloner/), an update of the Mac OS X 10.5 ("Leopard") utility to find and delete duplicate files. The new version adds a Safe mode.
Decloner can now move deleted files to a folder instead of Trash for added security; this also allows files to be removed from network volumes. Version 1.2 also adds: safeguards against deleting all copies of a file; new a Follow Aliases preference; a new message bar for error notifications; improved automatic file selection by date; and 64-bit support.
Decloner uses a algorithm to determine if files are identical. The names of duplicate files are presented in a list to allow the user to select which files to delete, either individually or in bulk. Decloner can process large number of files on internal or external drives, and supports QuickLook and exclusion patterns.
The user can inspect files and view their contents using Leopard's QuickLook feature. Decloner never deletes files...
