Eye-Fi announces 8GB Eye-Fi Pro X2
Eye-Fi Inc. (http://www.eye.fi) has developed what it says is the
next generation Eye-Fi experience, which includes an entirely new
platform and more flexible sharing options. The 8GB Eye-Fi Pro X2 is
powered by Eye-Fi's proprietary X2 engine.
Photo enthusiasts will benefit from increased storage capacity, Class
6 performance for faster read/write speeds, faster-than-ever wireless
photo and video uploads and increased Wi-Fi range, according to Jef
Holove, CEO of Eye-Fi. Eye-Fi Pro X2 users will also benefit from a
new feature, Endless Memory mode, which enables the Eye-Fi card to
automatically make space available after photos and videos are
uploaded. Last, Eye-Fi is introducing Eye-Fi Center, a new desktop
application that gives users more options in sharing their digital
memories.
The Eye-Fi Pro X2 wirelessly uploads JPEG and RAW images and videos
from the camera to computer and one of 25 online photo and video
sharing sites, such as Flickr, Picasa or Facebook. It also allows
users...
Western Digital announces USB 3.0 drives
Western Digital has introduced its fastest My Book external hard
drive ever. The new My Book 3.0 desktop external drives are among the
first devices certified with the SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interface.
With an interface that's up to 10 times faster than the
previous-generation USB 2.0 interface, the high-performance My Book
3.0 drive significantly reduces the time it takes to open and save
large files, according to Dale Pistilli, vice president of marketing
for WD's branded products group. Offered standalone, or in a kit that
includes a USB 3.0 PCIe adapter card, the 1TB My Book 3.0 drive is
available now at select retailers and http://www.shopwd.com. The 2TB
model is expected later this week.
The SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interface on My Book 3.0 drives provides
transfer rates of up to five gigabits-per-second, allowing users to
open and save files up to 4.7 times faster than USB 2.0. The new My
Book 3.0 drive is compliant with the USB-IF SuperSpeed USB 3.0
standard to provide compatibility...
BoinxTV optimized for Snow Leopard
AppZapper ready for Snow Leopard
AppZapper.com has updated AppZapper (http://www.appzapper.com) --
which lets you uninstall virtually any application, widget,
preference pane and plug-in by drag and drop -- to version 2.0. The
update sports a fresh new design for Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard").
AppZapper works with Mac OS X 10.4 and higher. Individuals can
purchase AppZapper for US$12.95, and a new Family Pack registers all
members of the same household for $18. A demo version allows you to
zap five times prior to purchase.
Macally announces new Mac, iPhone, iPod accessories
Macally (http://www.macally.com) has announced new accessories for
the Mac, iPhone and iPod. Pricing hasn't been announced on most of
the products, which are coming soon.
The TunePalPro is a set of stereo earbuds with a remote control on
the cord. The Macally Minibud is a min-earbud with retractable cord.
The 1-port Micro CLA is a cigarette lighter charger for the iPhone
and iPod. The 2-port USB Travel Charger will let you charge your
iPhone or iPod anywhere there's an available USB port.
The ReSyncCable lets you sync and charge your Apple device. The
AmpTune is a stereo speaker system for iPods and iPhones that offers
vertical or horizontal docking. The FMport is a full channel FM
transmitter for the iPhone and iPod. The PowerGo is a three-in-one
battery charger-USB, AC and car charger kit for the Apple devices.
The Antibacterial iPhone Overlay Film offers a protective, clear
screen plastic overlay with antibacterial properties. The TuneFan is
a 2.1 stereo speaker system (US$99.99)...
Lexar launches Echo line of flash-based backup drives
Lexar Media (http://www.lexar.com), a provider of memory products for
digital media, has launched its Echo line of flash-based, backup
drives: the Lexar Echo SE and Lexar Echo ZE. The line is designed to
protect valuable data on netbook and notebook computers.
The Echo SE is a portable drive that plugs into a computer's USB port
to perform automatic backup and transfer of files, at read speeds up
to 28MB/second and write speeds up to 10MB/s. The Echo ZE, with its
low-profile size and plug-and-stay design, provides a means to
automatically back up essential file.
Both drives are Mac and Windows compatible. They include built-in
Echo backup software. Features include targeted file backup, which
stores only specified files and reduces wasted disk space, and file
versioning, which backs up a history of files and allows the
retrieval of previous versions. Additionally, the software offers
optional AES 128-bit encryption, enabling protection in the event of
drive loss.
The Echo SE backup...
iWave announces new Urban Collection line of electronic
The new Urban Collection from iWave (http://www.iwaveaudio.com/),
manufacturers of electronic accessories, offers a selection of
street-inspired headphones, earbuds, iPhone/iPod cases and speakers.
"The Urban Collection was designed to match the hottest styles and
latest sneakers to create a cohesive modern look for anyone with a
desire to stand out in a crowd and make a statement," says Steven
Scaba of iWave. "The bright, bold colors in the Collection really
speak to our customers who want to bring their street style to their
favorite technology pieces."
They'll be available at nationwide retailers in the second quarter of
the year. The Urban Collection features earbuds and iPhone/iPod cases
(US$9.99 to $29.99), headphones ($14.99 to $39.99) and speakers
($19.99 to $29.99).
iLuv debuts Tatz series of headphones and earphones
iLuv (http://www.i-luv.com) has debuted the Tatz, a new line of
headphones and earphones.
Each series includes three headphone and four earphone models. The
"Impressionz" series sports a red colored option for those who like
to stand out of the crowd. The "Broken Heartz" series is for girls
who want to rock out in pink hues. The "Scarz" series is a black
colored option for the tough but cool music lover. Tatz will be
available starting in late January.
Technocell unveils PowerPak XT, PowerPak Duo for iPhone, other
Technocel (http://www.technocel.com), an ccessory solution provider,
has announced the Technocel PowerPak XT and PowerPak DUO, two
portable battery and home charger all-in-one solutions that work with
the iPhone and other mobile devices.
Both new versions feature larger batteries than their prior model and
the PowerPak DUO will feature dual USB ports. These powerful
recharging solutions are designed to replace all your chargers with a
single universal .
The PowerPak XT has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of
US$49.99 and the PowerPak DUO will be available for $59.99. Both will
go on sale Jan. 31.
Apple App Store downloads top two billion
Apple says that more than two billion apps have been downloaded from
the Apple App Store (http://www.itunes.com/appstore/), the largest
applications store in the world. There are now more than 85,000 apps
available to the more than 50 million iPhone and iPod touch customers
worldwide and over 125,000 developers in Apple's iPhone Developer
Program.
"The rate of App Store downloads continues to accelerate with users
downloading a staggering two billion apps in just over a year,
including more than half a billion apps this quarter alone," says
Apple CEO Steve Jobs. "The App Store has reinvented what you can do
with a mobile handheld device, and our users are clearly loving it."
Today, iPhone and iPod touch customers in 77 countries worldwide can
choose from an incredible range of apps in 20 categories, including
games, business, news, sports, health, reference and travel.
Canon announces new PIXMA printers
Canon U.S.A. (http://www.usa.canon.com ) has announced the latest
additions to the PIXMA Wireless Office All-in-One (AIO) series. Added
features range from sleek designs to improved functionality.
The PIXMA Wireless Office AIO products feature a new and improved
operation panel enabling users to perform basic functions by simply
pressing the Mode key, according to Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice
president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.
Users can select an operation to perform and navigate through menus
and functions easier than ever before, he adds.
A new addition to these printers is the Auto Document Fix feature,
which simultaneously helps deliver scan results for sharing and
repurposing while sharpening and blackening document text to increase
readability. When scanning documents, such as magazines or
newspapers, Auto Document Fix removes the background and the show
through from the other side of the page making it easier to view.
The Auto Photo Fix II...
iHome to debut new models from its Studio Series at this week...
iHome (http://www.ihomeaudio.com) will announce new products for its
Studio Series line at this week's Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in
Las Vegas.
The new iP2 Home Audio System for iPhone/iPod and the iP49 Portable
Rechargeable Audio System with Alarm Clock & FM Radio for iPhone/iPod
are the next wave of products to incorporate DPS technology, giving
users new hardware options while maintaining the same high standard
of audio quality set by the original Studio Series offering, the
award-winning, says Evan Stein, vice president of marketing, iHome.
The iP2 and iP49 are equipped with the patented Bongiovi Acoustics
DPS technology. Stein says it's a complex, chip-based algorithm,
custom-tuned to each and every product. The processor involved is
active, meaning it constantly scans the program material in real time
and effectively improves transients and harmonics that results in
amazing highs, lows and clarity across all frequencies and volume
levels. .
The Studio Series product...
Canon introduces newVIXIA line-up
Canon U.S.A. (http://www.usa.canon.com) has introduced a new line of
nine VIXIA high definition flash memory camcorders. The 2010
high-definition lineup includes Canon's flagship VIXIA HF S-series,
the compact VIXIA HF M-series and a new entry-level VIXIA HF R-series.
Some new features enhancing Canon's 2010 lineup include a new touch
panel LCD with an advanced tracking feature helping keep any subject
-- such as people, pets, or cars -- in focus and properly exposed.
Canon's new VIXIA lineup also includes an enhancement to its image
stabilization system and an all-new HD-to-SD Downconversion feature
allowing video to be easily uploaded to the web or burned onto DVDs.
Select 2010 VIXIA camcorders are compatible with Eye-fi SD Memory
Cards, allowing for wireless uploading of video content to a computer
or favorite video sharing site via the Eye-fi card's wireless
capabilities.
All of the new 2010 VIXIA High Definition camcorders retain Canon's
proprietary imaging technologies: a...
Technocel debuts the T360 Bluetooth headset
Technocel (http://www.technocel.com), an accessory solution, has
announced the T360 Bluetooth Headset, an entry-level headset
featuring Bluetooth version 2.1 technology for cell phone users. The
T360 will be available starting Jan.30, at a manufacturer's suggested
retail price of US$39.99.
Small and lightweight in size, the T360 is constructed with a black
high-gloss finish. It purportedly offers five hours of talk time and
150 hours of standby time. It's packaged with ear gels of multiple
sizes.
The T350 offers
call waiting, answer, reject and end functions. Plus, Technocel
offers a free technical support line.
Digital Entertainment Content Ecosystem (DECE) adopts Adobe Flash
Digital Entertainment Content Ecosystem (DECE) has selected the
upcoming Adobe Flash Access software as one of the first approved
content protection solutions required for premium video in devices
that support DECE.
DECE is a consortium of leading content providers, consumer
electronics companies, technology vendors and service providers
working to enable improved consumer access to entertainment content.
The Adobe Flash Pplatform is a system of integrated tools,
frameworks, clients and servers for the development of web
applications, content and video that runs consistently across
operating systems and devices. Adobe Flash Access 2.0, a key
component of the Adobe Flash platform, is a scalable, flexible
content protection solution that enables the distribution and
monetization of premium content.
Adobe Flash Access 2.0 provides a way to combine the reach and
interactivity of the Adobe Flash Platform with robust security and
flexible usage rules so that businesses can enforce necessary...
Sanus adds HDMI Cables with
Sanus Systems (http://www.sanus.com) -- a provider of audio/video
mounts, furnishings and consumer electronics accessories -- has added
pivoting HDMI cables to its Sanus Elements product offering. The
cables are y available in 2.5, 5 and 10-foot lengths.
Sanus Elements ELM402-G1, ELM405-G1 and ELM410-G1 Pivoting HDMI
Cables offer a feature not found on standard HDMI cables -- a
connector that pivots 180 degrees. This is designed to make it easy
to connect to hard-to-reach ports in tight places and behind TVs
mounted on low-profile wall mounts.
The connector is less than one inch deep. It's gold plated to
optimize signal transfer for the highest quality audio and video. The
cables are made from a flexible material that bends during
installation. The cables are available for a list price of $29.99
(ELM402-G1), $39.99 (ELM405-G1) and $49.99 (ELM410-G1).
Sanus will be showing the HDMI Cables at this week's Consumer Electronics Show.
iWave introduces eco-friendly tech accessories
iWave (http://www.iwaveaudio.com) will introduce its Grass Roots
Collection at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The
collection will include a selection of accessory options, including
headphones, earbuds and cases for the iPhone/iPod, all made from
reusable, environmentally friendly and fully recyclable materials
like plastic, wood and bamboo, according to Steven Scaba of iWave.
The main design characteristic of the Grass Roots Collection is the
subtle contrast between the rustic wood grain finish and the smooth
earthy tones, bringing technology products into a whole new dimension
for nature-enthusiasts, he adds. The rich wood accents of the earbuds
and headphones add that little element of worldly appeal for any
music listener, according to Scaba.
The Grass Roots Collection will be available at nationwide retailers
in the second quarter of the year. It will include iPhone/iPod cases
and earbuds (US$9.99 to $29.99) and headphones ($14.99 to $39.99).
be.ez launches sleeves for Wacom tablets
be.ez (http://www.be-ez) has launched a range of sleeves for Wacom
tablets. Designed for the Wacom Intuos4 and Bamboo ranges, the be.ez
LA robe Tablet range of sleeves provide protection in a sleek design.
Designed in black with a contrasting green interior, the be.ez LA
robe Tablet range is made from soft, lightweight low resilience
polyurethance shape-memory foam (LRPu). The sleeve is 5mm thick,
adding very little bulk or weight when carrying the tablet around.
It features an inner lip for storing the pen and pen tips to avoid
misplacing them or causing any damage to the tablet. The sleeves can
be carried alone or tucked away in a bag to ensure protection from
knocks, dust and scratches.
The LA robe Tablet Creativa for Bamboo small sizes is US$19.99, while
the LA robe Tablet Artista for Bamboo medium sizes costs $24.99. The
LA robe Tablet Sketch2 for Intuos4 small is priced at $24.99, while
the LA robe Tablet Studio2 for Intuos4 medium goes for $29.99
Avenza announces 2010 MAPublisher training schedule
Avenza Systems, producers of MAPublisher cartographic software for
Adobe Illustrator and Geographic Imager spatial tools for Adobe
Photoshop, has announced the 2010 schedule for its two-day
MAPublisher training course.
The class offers in-depth MAPublisher training. MAPublisher training
is offered in hands-on computer labs at locations around North
America. Training is also available onsite at customers' locations
and online in which case certain aspects of the course will be
tailored especially for the specific organization and workflow.
Features of the 2010 round of MAPublisher classes include content on
creating interactive data-rich Flash maps, geospatial PDF export and
MAPublisher LabelPro advanced text placement. The cost is US$1,000
per person. Discounts are available for three or more attendees from
the same organization. For details -- including locations and times
-- go to the Avenza web site (http://www.avenza.com).
QNAP releases Atom processor iSCSI Turbo NAS
QNAP Systems (http://www.qnap.com) has nveiled its new series of
Turbo NAS servers: the TS-259 Pro, TS-459 Pro, TS-659 Pro and TS-859
Pro (a QNAP exclusive), which have been certified as compatible with
VMware's vSphere4 (ESX 4.0) virtualization platforms. They're
designed for departmental file sharing, storage, and advanced server
applications in the office environment.
VMware's vSphere is purportedly the industry's first cloud operating
system that offers a way to reduce IT costs and increase
responsiveness. Shared networked storage is a component of a Cloud
Computing infrastructure. The new Turbo NAS series incorporates the
Intel Atom D-510 dual-core processor.
The new Turbo NAS series comes with new version 3.2 of the QNAP NAS
management software, which supports lots of class-leading new
features such as iSCSI service. There's support for SPC-3 Persistent
Reservation for clustering in VMware and Windows Server 2008. MPIO
and MC/S are also supported, as well as new DFS support (...
Radioshift for Mac OS X updated to version 1.5
Rogue Amoeba has released Radioshift 1.5
(http://www.rogueamoeba.com/radioshift/), an update of the Internet
radio player and recorder. The new version brings support for
thousands of web streams previously only available via web players.
Hundreds of new streams in Windows Media Pro and QuickTime streaming
formats are now supported. Streaming reliability has also been
improved, and Radioshift will now restart streams when they err --
and use back-up streams where available as well. Other improvements
in Radioshift 1.5 range from an improved interface to support for
streaming with Airfoil to fixes for dozens of minor bugs and crashes.
With all this, Radioshift 1.5 is far and away the best version of
Radioshift ever made.
Like a personal video recorder (PVR) for radio, Radioshift enables
internet and AM/FM radio to be recorded automatically and listened to
at any time. The built-in Radio Guide lets you subscribe to programs
with a single click. Radioshift then runs in the background,...
Axiotron to kick off 2010 with Modbook discount promotion
Axiotron has announced a 2010 kickoff promotion for its Mac tablet,
the Modbook (http://www.axiotron.com/modbook). Under the promotion,
customers can convert their MacBook base systems into a Modbook for
US$699 (regularly $899) or get a Modbook based on a
new dealer-supplied 2.13GHz MacBook base system for $1,649 (regularly
$1,849).
The promotion, which extends a holiday discount initiated in
November, runs through March 1, 2010.
ArtOptimizer for Illustrator updated to version 2.3.2
Zevrix Solutions (http://www.zevrix.com) has updated ArtOptimizer,
its workflow automation solution for Adobe Illustrator, to version
2.3.1. The new version addresses a critical issue that could prevent
ArtOptimizer from processing files on certain systems.
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 at a 20% New Year sale discount for
US103.96, as well as from authorized resellers. A demo is also
available for download....
9th Annual San Francisco SuperMeet to offer free educational
Final Cut Studio, Adobe and Avid editors and digital filmmakers from
around the world will gather together for the Ninth Annual San
Francisco SuperMeet (http://supermeet.com/), to be held on Friday,
Feb. 5, 2010 at the UCSF Mission Bay Conference Center in San
Francisco, California.
Free educational workshops will be offered during the day by Canon,
Adobe, Autodesk and Red Giant. Bay Area filmmakers will have a chance
to screen content in the SuperMeet Digital Showcase featuring over 30
software and hardware developers.
Doors open to the "SuperMeet Digital Showcase" at 3:30 pm, featuring
over 30 exhibitors including Avid, Blackmagic Design, Footagehead,
G-Tech, Matrox, Maxon, Noise Industries, Red Giant and others. The
SuperMeet stage show begins at 7 pm and concludes at 11 pm with the
"World Famous Raffle" featuring prizes including the Canon EOS 5D
Mark II HDSLR, AJA KiPro, NLE software, plug-ins and more. The San
Francisco SuperMeet promises to be the single largest Bay Area social...
TopXNotes for Mac OS X ready for Snow Leopard, gets new, modern
Tropical Software (http://www.tropic4.com/) has updated TopXNotes,
the note organizer for Mac OS X 10.5 ("Leopard"), to version 1.5. The
upgrade is ready for Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard") and has sports a
new, modern toolbar.
TopXNotes (pronounced "Top Ten Notes") allows people to create,
collect, store, and retrieve bits and pieces of information. Its
interface allows notes to be both categorized and grouped, and allows
the user complete control over the appearance of a note's content.
Notes can also be synchronized with Classic iPods for handy retrieval
while away from the computer. The company is working on support for
the iPhone and iPod touch.
This update is available for US$14.95 exclusively to registered
users. For new users the cost is $39.95. A demo is available for
download.
RadTech ships STM Convoy laptop backpack
RadTech (http://www.radtech.com) has released the US$99.99 STM Convoy
laptop backpack. It features a concealed laptop compartment and a
suspended foam cell to protect your laptop on all sides.
The STM Convoy comes loaded with utility pockets and compartments
with space for peripherals, books, folders and accessories. Convoy's
ergonomic harness system is designed to make a heavy load completely
manageable.
The laptop case is made of water resistant, light weight canvas and
is completely surrounded by chenille. A built-in, captive rain cover
deploys in seconds.
The Convoy is available in medium size, which fits most wide-screen
laptops with 15-inch and smaller display screens. It comes with YKK
zippers, duraflex buckle adjustors, high-density padding, load
bearing stitching, and high-strength nylon webbing.
NewerTech introduces Window Mount for Apple iPhone 3G and 3GS
Newer Technology (http://www.newertech.com) has announced the
NewerTech Window Mount for iPhone 3G and 3GS models. With an exact
fit cradle and super vacuum adhesion, the $19.99 MSRP NewerTech
Window Mount keeps an iPhone 3G or 3GS securely in place for safe
operation and viewing.
Specifically designed for iPhone 3G/3GS models, the NewerTech Window
Mount offers 360 degree viewing of an iPhone 3G or 3GS in autos,
trucks, SUVs, and boats, as well as on desktops, airplane tray
tables, and on any other flat surface. Its flexible neck combined
with super vacuum adhesion eliminates any sags, drooping, or
vibration drawbacks, according to the folks at NewerTech.
Gefen bringing new product line to CES
Digital connectivity solutions provider, Gefen
(http://www.gefen.com), will demonstrate several upgrades to existing
connectivity solutions and a brand new product line designed to ease
home entertainment system installations at the upcoming CES 2010.
"While we continue building a strong back-end for high definition
audio/video systems, we are also focusing on further enhancing
already proven technologies," says Hagai Gefen, president and CEO,
Gefen "This has led us to the development of a new product line,
Gefen ToolBox, for installers working in the field."
The ToolBox offers compact installation tools for plug and play
system installation and operation. Products come in metallic
enclosures that can be mounted on any wall where hi-def audio/video
systems are implemented.
These "mini" solutions include all connection cables for immediate
installation, with HDMI connectors equipped with a locking mechanism
to eliminate cable disconnects. Initial products packaged under the
ToolBox...
HDRsoft introduces Photomatix Light, a HDR photo software
HDRsoft (http://www.hdrsoft.com) has released Photomatix Light, a
stand-alone HDR (high dynamic range) photo processing application for
Mac OS X 10.5 and higher.
Based on the same internal HDR processing engines as Photomatix Pro,
Photomatix Light merges bracketed photos and processes them with HDR
tone mapping or exposure fusion methods. After selecting the source
photos, users can adjust the processed image by changing various
settings, or choose from built-in presets such as Painterly or Grunge.
Photomatix Light automatically aligns bracketed exposures, allowing
hand-held photographs to be used as well as tripod-mounted shots. One
license of Photomatix Light costs US$39. It's free for licensed users
of Photomatix Pro.
Barcode Producer ready for 2010 industry changes
Apparent Corp. has updated Barcode Producer
(http://www.itsapparent.com/barcodeproducer/), its barcode creation
software suite for Mac OS X, to version 5.7. The upgrade has been
revved for 2010 barcode industry standards, including GS1 DataBar
requirements for coupons. It also updates the software's integrated
Symbology Guide and documentation for the new year's standards.
Barcode Producer is a tool for creating barcodes visually, with
one-click export for Adobe Creative Suite products, including
Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and Acrobat Distiller. It's
Universal Binary so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs.
Barcode Producer for Mac OS X and Windows is immediately available
online with digital and physical CD-ROM delivery. It costs US$199.
Plug-ins and accessories include the GS1 DataBar generation tool
($299), Automator batch barcode generation system ($299), and
IntelliScanner Pro barcode scanner for testing printed output ($299).
Site licenses are available, and Mac...
SyncMate syncing software for Mac OS X updated to version 2.5
Eltima Software has updated SyncMate (ttp://www.sync-mac.com/),
software for syncing data between a Mac to Windows Mobile handheld
devices, to version 2.5. The upgrade adds the ability to sync your
Mac with Windows Mobile devices via Bluetooth (USB and Wi-Fi
connections are also supported). It also adds an autosync option and
real-time synchronization.
The new version enables all Mac users to synchronize their Macs with
Windows PC, Sony PlayStation(R) Portable (PSP) and USB flash drives,
as well as with other supported devices (Windows Mobile devices,
Nokia phones, other Macs, online storage and Google account).
SyncMate lets you synchronize Favorites, Contacts, Calendar, Notes in
mobile device with Bookmarks, Address Book, iCal, Stickies on Mac OS
X. The software enables Internet sharing between the Mac and the
mobile device. The connection can be made via USB cable or Wi Fi.
SyncMate is Universal Binary so runs natively on both PowerPC and
Intel Macs. It requires Mac OS X 10.4 or...
Econ Technologies offers three free Mac apps
Econ Technologies (http://wwwecontechnologies.com) is offering three
free applications for your Mac: Portraits & Prints, DayChaser, and
ImageCaster are now free applications.
Econ previously released and sold all three of these applications but
have decided to concentrate on backup and synchronization
applications. Instead of discontinuing them, theye updated all three
applications for Snow Leopard and now offer them free of charge.
"We decided to concentrate on ChronoSync and some future Backup
applications. Since we did not plan any any future updates for
Portraits & Prints, DayChaser, and ImageCaster we did not want to
charge for them anymore. So we updated all three for Snow Leopard and
fixed a few bugs," says Joe Japes, marketing director of Econ
Technologies. "They are all great applications and we're happy to
offer them for free to Mac users. I personally use Portraits & Prints
all the time and will continue to need it."
Portraits & Prints lets you print your...
Winter Wolves announces Spirited Heart Deluxe
Winter Wolves (http://www.winterwolves.com), developers of several
award-winning simulation and roleplay games, has announced the
release of Spirited Heart Deluxe. The deluxe version is purportedly a
major improvement over the original game, featuring a completely new
interactive job system based on a game of dice.
Players are challenged to get as close as possible to a target number
without going over by rolling up to four dice. This gives the player
more control over their fantasy alter ego as they now have a direct
influence on job results.
Other features include the ability to earn titles upon reaching
certain high level skills, the extension of playing time up to 30
in-game years, romance encounters that can be toggled on and off, an
optional easy mode, revised text, and three new Goddess endings in
which players earn a blessing by completing a task ordained by a
Goddess.
The deluxe version replaces the old version and existing users can
get it for free simply by redownloading...
Akvis releases Magnifier 3.0 for Mac, Windows
Akvis has released Akvis Magnifier 3.0 for Mac and Windows. It's an
update of the tool to resize digital images. Featuring advanced photo
resizing algorithms, Akvis Magnifier enlarges digital pictures to
"super-high" resolution. Version 3.0 is compatible with Mac OS X 10.6
("Snow Leopard").
The program is available as a plug-in to a photo editor, as well as a
standalone edition. Version 3.0 offers a new interface and improved
compatibility. Support for 64-bit has been added to the plug-in
version (now compatible with Adobe Photoshop CS4 64 bit). It also
adds compatibility with Adobe Photoshop Elements 8 and Windows 7.
Plus, Magnifier 3.0 adds new measurement units to specify the size of
the output image. In addition to pixels and percent, it is now
possible to set the size in centimeters, millimeters or inches.
Upgrade for registered users is free.
A 10-day demo is available for download
(http://Akvis.com/en/magnifier/index.php). Registered users of
Magnifier can update their version...
Insider Releases Smasher 1.8
Insider Releases Smasher 1.8 with Snow Leopard Compatibility
Utility Assures Proper Font Operation in Mac OS X and Creative Applications
December 21, 2009 [Los Gatos, Calif] - Insider Software, the makers of
FontAgent® Pro, today announced the immediate availability of Smasher
version 1.8, which enhances the preventive maintenance utility's support
for Apple's Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard operating system release. Smasher
works automatically to eliminate corruption to font caches and temporary
files, the #1 cause of font-related problems and workflow interruptions.
Necessary Protection for All Mac Graphic Designers
Smasher fixes common font problems such as garbled text, erroneous font
substitutions, fonts not appearing in application menus, printing problems
and font-related crashes. While some font utilities manually clear specific
kinds of font caches, Smasher remains the only solution that maintains the
health of many kinds of caches as it runs automatically with
set-it-and-forget-...
MacTech: 25 years old, Seeking memories
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MACTECH'S 25TH ANNIVERSARY: SEEKING COMMUNITY MEMORIES
- 25 years in print, Second oldest Mac publication
- 15 years online: new web site soon to be unveiled
- Now tagged "The journal of Apple technology"
December 22, 2009 -- WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- MacTech Magazine today
kicked off it's 25th Anniversary celebration. The magazine is seeking out
great stories and memories from those who have them to share. Now through
the end of the year, MacTech is offering up free subscriptions to new
subscribers (they pay only the postage).
The first issue of MacTech was released in November/December of 1984 and
titled "MacTech". For the balance of the first 7 years, the magazine was
titled "MacTutor" before it returned to its original title of "MacTech".
With its 25th Anniversary now here, the magazine has evolved to be "The
journal of Apple technology."
Originally a programmer-only magazine, the magazine transitioned to an "all
Mac tech" magazine in 2004, and never looked...
Playrix launches Fishdom: Frosty Splash for Mac OS X
Playrix Entertainment (http://www.playrix.com) has launched its
winter-themed title Fishdom: Frosty Splash for the Mac. This
Universal Binary game runs on Mac OS X 10.4 and later.
Fishdom: Frosty Splash is a match-3 sequel of the flagship game. It
sports aproximately 100 winter-themed fish and accessories, an
unlimited number of tanks to create and design, "Relaxed" and
"Against the Clock" game modes and a bonus screensaver.
Fishdom: Frosty Splash normally costs US$19.95, but it's available
for $9.98 for a limited time. A demo is available for download.
Syncro Soft releases Oxygen XML Editor, Oxygen XML Author 11.1
Syncro Soft (http://www.oxygenxml.com/) has released version 11.1 of
its XML Editor and XML Author containing a set of tools supporting
all the XML related technologies.
Oxygen combines content author features like the CSS driven Visual
XML editor with a XML development environment. It has ready-to-use
support for the main document frameworks DITA, DocBook, TEI and XHTML
and also includes support for all XML Schema languages, XSLT/XQuery
Debuggers, WSDL analyzer, XML Databases, XML Diff and Merge,
Subversion client and more.
Version 11.1 of XML Editor improves the XML authoring
capabilities, the support for XML development and also a number of
core features. The visual XML authoring now uses schema information
to provide intelligent editing actions.
The new compact representation of tags and the quick up/down
navigation features improve the ergonomics and the usability,
according to the folks at Syncro Soft. can use any XQJ
compliant XQuery processor for XQuery transformations,...
Adobe releases final Camera Raw, Lightroom, DNG Converter updates
Adobe has announced the availability of Lightroom 2.6, Photoshop
Camera Raw 5.6 and DNG Converter 5.6.
Originally posted as release candidates for community testing on
Adobe Labs, these final versions include raw file support for 20 new
camera models, including the Canon EOS 7D and Nikon D3s. Additional
DNG support has been added for the Leica M9 and Ricoh GXR camera
models.
The updates also provide a fix for an issue affecting PowerPC
customers using the final Lightroom 2.5 and Camera Raw 5.5 updates on
the Mac. The issue, introduced in the demosaic change to address
sensors with unequal green response, has the potential to create
artifacts in the highlight area while using the Highlight Recovery
tool in raw files from Sony, Olympus, Panasonic and various medium
format digital camera backs.
Lightroom 2 software is a digital photography workflow solution,
allowing photographers to import, process, manage and showcase
images, and the Photoshop Camera Raw plug-in provides access within...
EditShare qualifies Snow Leopard for multi-channel ingest, shared
EditShare (http://www.editshare.com), which specializes in cross
platform collaborative editing and shared media storage systems, has
announced compatibility for Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard"). The
EditShare multi-channel ingest, shared storage and archiving
solutions offer special project sharing capabilities for broadcast,
postproduction and DI editing workgroups.
Thanks to EditShare's patented bin-locking/project-locking framework,
Mac-based editors using Apple Final Cut Pro and Avid editing
applications can see, copy or revise the work of colleagues with the
assurance that a bin, sequence or project will never get accidentally
deleted or overwritten, according to Andy Liebman, president and
founder, EditShare. Via a file-manager type interface, editors can
see all the bins and project files being used by all editors in their
group. Bins and projects belonging to other editors are automatically
opened as "Read Only," and control can easily be transferred from one
editor to another...
Synology launches DiskStation DS210j crossover NAS for home,
Synology America Corp. (http://www.synology.com) has launched the
two-bay DiskStation DS210j in North America, a new cross-over NAS for
home and small business users. It's designed to be the central hub of
the home or office digital network.
"With the DiskStation DS210j we're able to offer Synology customers
more power and functionality than they have ever had at this price,"
says Doug Self, product specialist at Synology America Corp. "The
DiskStation DS210j allows even entry-level businesses an affordable
solution for reliable centralized data protection, file sharing
across a network, email, web and print server hosting and even a
surveillance system without having a full-time IT staff person on
board to manage it or a big IT budget."
The DiskStation DS210j is one of Synology's new designs that are
cable-less, which means that installation of hard drives is
effortless, he says. Each bay is capable of supporting up to 2TB HDDs
(up to 4TB total). The design of the DiskStation...
LaCie partners with Symwave for USB 3.0 dual-drive storage
LaCie (http://www.lacie.com) and Symwave, a supplier of systems
solutions for SuperSpeed USB devices, have announced the industry's
first dual hard disk RAID storage solution based on the new
SuperSpeed USB (3.0) standard.
LaCie's 2Big USB 3.0, a dual-disk RAID 0/1 storage solution, powered
by Symwave's USB 3.0 standard-compliant dual SATA and RAID bridge
controller, reaches the highest throughput ever achieved in a USB 3.0
external storage product, according to John O'Neill, vice president
of marketing at Symwave. The 2Big USB 3.0 will be available in up to
4TB capacities and is bundled with award-winning backup software for
both Mac and PC users.
Developed for users that require sizeable data flow and fast storage
products - such as video professionals who needs high bandwidth, the
2Big USB 3.0 will let users transfer a high-definition uncompressed
video at speeds up to 275MB/s burst read transfer speed, or perform
real time streaming and editing of multiple HD files simultaneously...
iDive update for Mac OS X offers Final Cut, Avid format
Aquafadas (http://www.aquafadas.com) has updated iDive, its digital
video catalog for Mac OS X, to version 2.0. The upgrade lets you
export directly from iDive and offers integration with Avid and Final
Cut formats.
It also adds DV capture and recapture features. You can now download
only the video footage required in an instant, says Claudio Zimmer,
Aquafadas chairman. The new DV Recapture function allows for faster
and easier footage selection and requires less storage space and
processing power from your Mac, he adds.
In iDive 2, the latest video file formats are now fully supported
such as MPEG2 and AVCHD. There are also interface and navigation
improvements, allowing users to search and index footage faster and
easier.
iDive is a central hub for your movies and clips. iDive is the ideal
cataloguing solution for all your video files. The program will
subsequently catalogue any file QuickTime can open. iDive allows you
to keep track of your videos on CDs or DVDs. For the first time...
Red Giant Software releases beta of Knoll 3D Flare
Red Giant Software (http://www.redgiantsoftware.com) has released a
beta of Knoll 3D Flare a new free set of tools that allows you to
easily create Knoll Lens Flares in After Effects 3D space.
This add-on for Knoll Light Factory Pro 2.5 in After Effects includes
features like Edge flare-ups, color linking, Z-depth intensity, and
full 3D obscuration. These tools are available free to all Knoll
Light Factory Pro 2.5 users. Knoll Light Factory is an award-winning
product used in movies such as "Avatar," "Transformers" 1 & 2, "The
Day After Tomorrow," the Star Trek series, and "Dreamgirls."
NewerTech announces new USB Video Display Adapter
NewerTech (http://www.newertech,.com) has announced today the
NewerTech USB Video Display Adapter for adding an additional HDMI,
DVI, or VGA display with up to 2048 x 1152 resolution via any Mac or
PC computer's standard USB 2.0 port.
Functioning like a bus powered (no AC adapter required) "external
video card," the US$95.99 NewerTech USB Video Display Adapter enables
users to expand the display capabilities of desktop and laptop
computers that offer only one built-in display/video-out port while
eliminating the cost and hassle of installing a video card into the
computer, according to the folks at NewerTEch.
The NewerTech USB Video Display Adapter connects to HDMI, DVI, and
VGA equipped displays (including the latest HD flat panel LCDs,
standard CRT monitors, and projectors) in full 32-bit color at
resolutions of up to 2048 x 1152. Up to six adapters can be
configured to either extend the desktop or clone a primary screen and
provide greater visibility of more applications and...
RE:Vision Effect releases Twixtor OFX version for Foundry's...
RE:Vision Effects (http://www.revisionfx.com) has released Twixtor as
an OFX plug-in set; Foundry's Nuke and Autodesk's Maya Composite
(Toxik) are currently supported.
Other OFX hosts will be added to the list of supported applications
once Twixtor is verified to work properly within them. Twixtor
enables you to retime your image sequences. It synthesizes unique new
frames by warping and interpolating frames of the original sequence,
employing RE:Vision's proprietary tracking technology that calculates
motion for each individual pixel.
Twixtor has options to help prevent tearing and stretching of objects
as they cross or go out of the frame, including a smart blending
option for pans and zooms to prevent inappropriate streaking or weird
artifacts at frame borders. Twixtor also has an option to
automatically enhance dark imagery or imagery with poorly defined
edges. With the features, many pieces of footage that could be
difficult to track become well behaved.
What's in the Twixtor OFX...
Toon Boom makes Harmony available for pilot production
Toon Boom Animation has launched its Pilot Production Program for
anyone who has a concept and wants to pitch it to broadcasters,
producers, investors at industry gatherings such as Kidscreen,
Cartoon Forum, MIPTV or any others.
With the Pilot Production Program, Toon Boom offers professional
animators an opportunity to create their TV, web or film pilot using
their animation software. The Toon Boom Pilot Production Program
offers free access to Toon Boom Storyboard Pro and Harmony
stand-alone licenses for up to three months and access to an in-house
expert dedicated to your animation project.
Certain conditions apply. Details can be found at
http://www.toonboom.com/pilot-production-program/ .
Tunewear releases GameHandle for iPhone 3G/3GS, iPod touch 2G
Tunewear (http://www.tunewear.com) has released the GameHandle for
the iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS and second gen iPod touch. The US$19.95
device is designed to provide a better grip on the Apple devices when
playing action and racing games.
It has a rubber coating on the surface that Tunewear claims is
comfortable and feels great to the touch. It also prevents your hands
from slipping when you're game playing.
An internal sound cavity system resonates the sound from iPhone or
iPod speakers inside the GameHandle body. It outputs the sound
through vents on the back for an overall improved audio experience.
'Mary Kay Andrews: The Fixer Upper' game coming in...
Digi Ronin Games has confirmed a Jan. 2010 release for "Mary Kay
Andrews: The Fixer Upper," and announced the start of a special
giveaway on the Digi Ronin Games Facebook fan page.
Based on the novel, "The Fixer Upper" by "New York Times" bestselling
author Mary Kay Andrews, "Mary Kay Andrews: The Fixer Upper" is a
hidden object casual game for the Mac and PC. Here's how the game is
described: "With its colorful, impeccably detailed scenes, charming,
cleverly woven story and vividly depicted characters, the game makes
its debut just in time to brighten and banish any post-holiday blues."
For an early start on the fun, players are invited to visit the Digi
Ronin Games page on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/DigiRoninGames)
for a chance to win a copy of the game plus a copy of the book; look
for giveaway details under the "Discussions" tab, and sneak a peek at
new screen shots ("Photos").
FMC training options now include Final Cut Pro 7, Mac IT
Future Media Concepts (FMC) -- and authorized digital media training
organization for postproduction, broadcast, and content creators --
has announced new training options for their FMC|Online division.
Commencing in late December, the updated training catalog boasts
Adobe, Apple and Avid course enhancements, which include Final Cut
Pro 7 instruction and Mac IT training. FMC|Online utilizes the latest
in desktop sharing technology to provide live group classes conducted
by manufacturer certified trainers.
A counterpart to their classroom training, the new online courses
will continue to provide students with fundamental, hands-on
technology instruction to confidently assume most real-world
postproduction assignments, says Ben Kozuch, co-founder of FMC.
Registration is currently open for all upcoming FMC|Online courses.
To view course information, including pricing, dates and
availability, please visit: www.FMCTraining.com .
