VideoPier 1.1 and VideoPier HD 1.1 available for Mac OS X
Aquafadas (http://www.aquafadas.com/) has
released VideoPier and VideoPier HD 1.1. The
VideoPier family of products is aimed at
videographers who own MPEG-2 or AVCHD camcorders
and who struggle with these video formats on
their Mac.
VideoPier and VideoPier HD are designed to make
it very easy to transfer clips from these
camcorders to a central location on their Mac,
without requiring any conversion, without any
loss in quality. The clips appear grouped by
Events in the VideoPier user interface, ready to
be viewed, organized and converted to any format.
VideoPier handles data that has already been
copied to disk and will let you access all your
clips In addition, VideoPier HD lets you capture
HDV material directly from tape based HDV
camcorders.
VideoPier comes with ae set of export
functionality, to iMovie 06/08, iPhone, QuickTime
and Final Cut (VideoPier HD only).
Version 1.1:
° Adds support for the Elgato Turbo.264 encoding device;
° Adds support for a category of camcorders...
Star Walk, an 'interactive celestial map' released for...
VITO Technology has released Star Walk, an interactive celestial map
for the iPhone. With Star Walk you can identify and learn stars or
constellations, watch changing Moon phases, get acquainted with the
basics of astronomy. It's available for US$4.99 at the Apple App
Store
(http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=295430...)
Whenever you admire the starry night sky, Star Walk helps you to
recognize anonymous heavenly bodies. Just find them on your
interactive star map and tap "i" to retrieve information, such as
celestial coordinates of these heavenly bodies.
Star Walk covers about 9,000 stars, planets and constellations. You
can select and tap any object to have it zoomed and to read
additional information. Star Walk currently supports English, French,
German, Italian, Russian and Japanese languages. The skyline in Star
Walk is annotated with the four compass points
(North West South East) for better orientation.
Using Star Walk you don't have to browse the...
Swann releases MovieStick for shooting, sharing videos on-the-go
FXFactory now supports now offers Adobe After Effects CS4
Noise Industries (http://www.noiseindustries.com) has announced that
FxFactory has expanded host integration support to include the newly
released Adobe After Effects CS4 application. In addition to the
expanded host support, there are four new plug-ins for FxFactory Pro
users.
The new plug-ins are packaged in the FxFactory Pro 2.0.5 update and
include Random Close Up, Whoosh, Cube and Upscale. The Noise
Industries team is also offering a new Pan and Zoom plug-in FxPack.
Released as part of the special Noise Industries Free FxPack
Collection, free FxPacks such as Pan and Zoom can be used by any
FxFactory supported Adobe or Apple user. A look made popular by
documentary maker, Ken Burns, the new Pan and Zoom plug-in enables
users to create the stunning Pan and Zoom motion effects without
using a single keyframe.
Users can download FxFactory 2.0.5 as well as the free Pan and Zoom
FxPack directly from the Noise Industries web site.
Cygnett releases new iPod alarm clock
Cygnett (http://www.cygnett.com/) has announced the US release of
their digitally re-mastered GrooveNeo Speaker System & Alarm Clock
for iPod. It sports touch-sensitive keys for easy programming and
operation, large format digital time matrix and real-time bass
response. It's available now for US$89.99 at Amazon
(http://www.amazon.com).
The GrooveNeo allows users to wake up with their favorite iPod
tracks, AM/FM radio or buzzer. They can hit the the snooze button for
a few more Zzz's. With a dock and play system, which recharges the
iPod, users can command and control its functions with the full
function remote.
Ocarina transforms iPhone into musical wind instrument
Smule has introduced Ocarina, a app that transforms the iPhone into
an expressive musical wind instrument. It's available now at the
Apple Apple Store
(http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=293053...)
for US$0.99
The Ocarina synthesizes sound in real-time, just like a regular
instrument, based on actual gestures including wind input, tilt, and
finger placement over the four holes overlaid on the multi-touch
pad. The sound isn't pre-compiled, but is generated by the notes,
gestures and nuance of the individual performer.
Win a trip to Barcelona, Spain, in Photoshop User Awards
The National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP) has
announced a call for entries for its 4th annual Photoshop User Awards
(http://www.photoshopuserawards.com) competition held exclusively for
Adobe Photoshop users worldwide.
"The Photoshop User Awards provides Photoshop artists, photographers,
and designers from around the world an exceptional opportunity to
gain international recognition, celebrate their best work, and share
their vision and creativity with the worldwide Photoshop community,"
says Scott Kelby, president of NAPP.
Winners will be chosen in 11 categories with one Best of Show grand
prizewinner receiving a dream assignment to Barcelona, Spain to
create a future cover of Photoshop User magazine, the official
publication of NAPP. The trip to Barcelona includes airfare, hotel
accommodations, hotel transfers, and daily expenses for five days for
the winner and an assistant of their choice.
Winning images in each of the 11 categories will appear in a special...
SONiVOX offers free trial of 57 new Downloadable Virtual
SONiVOX has released the first batch of their new downloadable
virtual instrument plug-ins. These plug-ins, branded as DVI which
stands for Downloadable Virtual Instruments, give musicians and
composers access to a large collection of sample based virtual
instruments for Macs and PCs.
As a part of the rollout SONiVOX is offering a free trial program
allowing musicians to try these downloadable virtual instruments
before they purchase them. Users will be able to download and try
sample based virtual instruments in the comfort of their own home or
studio before they need to make a purchasing decision, says Al
Joelson of SONiVOX. Pricing starts at US$19.95.
Replacing an earlier series of downloadable instruments, the new
DVI's feature synthesis engine technology developed in-house by
SONiVOX, as well additional DSP / Special FX by signal processing
pioneers and manufacturer iZotope. The initial 57 DVI offerings
include orchestral instruments, vintage keyboards, ethnic tonal and...
Nisus Writer Pro for Mac OS X adds new file importer, more
Nisus Software today announces the release of Nisus Writer Pro 1.2
(http://www.nisus.com/pro) , the latest version of the word
processor. The upgrade adds a new file importer that improves file
translations, especially for the .doc format.
Additionally, export as Word file format (.doc) and the Open Document
(.odt) format has been added. The Table of Contents feature has a few
new options: tab/backtab can be used to promote or demote TOC levels,
and TOC entries can be rearranged by drag and drop within the
navigator pane.
Other new features include automatically updating time stamps, Flesch
and Kincaid reading ease scores, additional backup options, a
Macroize menu, and editable document properties (author, company,
copyright, etc.). There have also been additions to the Nisus Macro
Language, and bug fixes and other enhancements.
Nisus Writer Pro 1.2 is an Universal Binary app so runs natively on
both PowerPC and Intel Macs. It requires Mac OS 10.4 or later.
Nisus Writer Pro 1.2 is...
Sonoma Wire Works offers FourTrack music app for the iPhone
Sonoma Wire Works has released FourTrack
(http://www.sonomawireworks.com/iphone/fourtrack/), a multitrack
audio recorder for the iPhone and iPod touch (second generation).
It's an US$9.99a songwriting and practice tool for singers, guitar
players, piano players and other musicians who want to capture
musical ideas and record songs on their iPhone.
With the app, you plug in a microphone, arm a track, record, and
repeat. FourTrack works with the iPhone built-in microphone, a
headset mic, or an iPod touch with a third-party mic and headphones.
WiFi sync allows FourTrack recordings to be downloaded to any desktop
computer with a browser. Tracks can then be loaded into any recording
software (DAW) to continue working on songs.
What is a four track recorder? Stereo tape recorders record two
tracks at a time on a cassette. A four-track recorder allows you to
record one track at a time while listening to the other three. This
allows you to record a guitar part, then add a vocal part, then add...
OWC offers 6GB memory upgrades for new MacBooks, MacBook Pros
Other World Computing has announced new OWC 4GB
modules and 6GB Memory Upgrade Sets for MacBooks
and MacBook Pros (both 15 and 17 inch models,
which prior factory and after- market options
limited memory to a maximum of 4GB total.
Complete OWC memory upgrades pricing for the new
"unibody" MacBooks and MacBook Pros:
° 2GB DDR3 Memory Upgrade Module, US$65.99;
° 4GB DDR3 Upgrade Kit (matched pair of 2GB memory modules), $129.99;
° 4GB DDR3 Memory Upgrade Module, $699.99;
° 6GB DDR3 Memory Upgrade Kit, $749.99 (2GB + 4GB modules).
OWC Memory Upgrade Pricing for 2007 "Santa Rosa"
model and later (pre-Late 2008 "Unibody") MacBook
13-inch, Macbook Pro 15-inch, and MacBook Pro
17-inch models:
° 2GB DDR2 Memory Upgrade Module, $29.99;
° 4GB DDR2 Upgrade Kit (matched pair of 2GB memory modules), $59;
° 4GB DDR2 Memory Upgrade Module, $449.99;
° 6GB DDR2 Memory Upgrade Kit, $479.95 (2GB + 4GB modules)
For more information on OWC Memory Upgrades and
online compatibility guide that ensures you...
Tesline-Service announces Rohos Logon Key 1.4 for Mac OS X
Tesline-Service SRL, which specializes in computer security
solutions, has updated its Rohos Logon Key for Mac OS X
(http://www.rohos.com/mac-os-x/), an authentication solution, to
version 1.4. The software, which works with Mac OS X 10.4 and higher,
now s X Tiger and Mac OS X Leopard now supports YubiKey, a USB key.
The solution provides a hardware-based authentication that lets you
access your Mac with YubiKey. The Mac is protected, but you don't
need to enter your password manually each time you unlock your Mac.
You can automatically lock your Mac screen when YubiKey is unplugged.
The Mac Version costs US$29. A 15-day demo is available for download.
EasyCatalog for InDesign CS4 now available
65bit Software has released EasyCatalog for InDesign CS4
(http://www.65bit.com/products/easycatalog/overview/overview.shtm). A
15-day trial version is now available for download from the 65bit
Software web site.
With EasyCatalog data can be imported from a complex, relational
database, or a simple CSV or tab-delimited file exported from Excel.
By linking InDesign content directly to source data, EasyCatalog
improves accuracy and reduces page make-up time, according to Mark
Haden, director of 65bit Software.
All of the optional EasyCatalog modules -- including the new
Relational module -- are also now available. The Relational Module
allows users to work with data sources of almost unlimited complexity
within EasyCatalog and can be used to connect to relational databases
such as MySQL or Microsoft SQL Server.
EasyCatalog also offers semi-automatic and automatic creation (using
the optional Pagination Module) of structured documents. It's
available for InDesign CS, CS2, CS3 and CS4. The...
Look & Learn Keyboard is Mac compatible
The KeyRight Company (http://www.KeyRight.com) has introduced the
US$39.95 Look & Learn Keyboard, a colorful computer keyboard designed
to teach correct typing. It's Mac and Windows compatible.
According to Jerome Whitcroft, KeyRight founder and president, the
new product, "helps users of all ages learn, practice and master
typing, almost without trying, every time they use their computer or
laptop." The product is a standard QWERTY keyboard that features
color-coded keys that identify eight "finger zones" for correct
typing.
For example, the blue keys are used by the right index finger, while
green keys are used by the left index finger, so typists know which
finger controls each key. The Look & Learn Keyboard is bundled with
an interactive tutorial CD designed to help the user develop the
correct motor skills, muscle memory and hand-eye co-ordination.
Billings 3.0.3 for Mac OS X adds 30 new features
Marketcircle has updated Billings
(http://www.billings3.com), time and expense
billing software for the Mac-based creative and
business professional, to version 3.0.3. The
upgrade sports 30 improvements, including:
° A new auto-backup feature when you quit the app;
° Enhanced Daylite integration;
° Improved Address Book integration;
° Better rendering speed for many invoice/estimate/statement templates
Also, Marketcircle's Billings "Main Street" sale
continues. Until Nov. 30, Billings sells for
US$39.95 instead of $59.95, and the upgrade sells
for $25 instead of $35.
Akvis Magnifier 2.0 enlarges photos to 'super-high...
Akvis Software has released Akvis Magnifier 2.0
(http://Akvis.com/en/magnifier/index.php), an update of the tool for
increasing image resolution. Version 2.0 is available as a
stand-alone application as well as a Photoshop plug-in. The plug-in
supports batch processing that allows applying the same settings to a
series of images.
Featuring advanced photo resizing algorithms, Akvis Magnifier
enlarges digital pictures to "super-high resolution" for enlargements
and poster-size prints. Version 2.0 also adds support of image
editing in Lab mode and a Print dialog to the standalone edition that
makes it possible to print large images at a high resolution. There
are also new interface languages added: French, Spanish, Italian.
According to the folks at Akvis, resizing pictures with Akvis
Magnifier yields a much higher quality than simple bicubic
interpolation. Depending on particular needs, Akvis Magnifier can be
fine-tuned to produce images that look exactly as required for a
given purpose...
Komodo IDE update adds support for Git, Mercurial (hg), Bazaar
ActiveState (http://www.activestate.com), a provider of tools and
services for dynamic languages, has released Komodo IDE 5.0, an
update to the multi-platform, multi-language integrated development
environment (IDE) for web development. The new release adds support
for the Git, Mercurial (hg), and Bazaar distributed version control
systems (in addition to the already supported Subversion, Perforce,
and CVS).
Komodo IDE 5.0 sports smart cross-SCC system checkout wizardry
designed to make it easier to get to work on shared repositories.
Sharing code across a team is also better with Komodo IDE 5.0's
improved code formatting. Consistent formatting makes reading and
maintaining code easier, so Komodo IDE makes it simple with built-in
code formatting tools and the ability to easily hook in external code
formatting tools (like PHP Beautifier, Perltidy, and astyle,
according to the folks at ActiveState.
For a limited time Komodo IDE costs US$245 for a license for Mac OS
X, Unix and Windows...
Vaddio introduces ProductionVIEW Precision Camera Controller
Vaddio (http://www.vaddio.com), a designer and OEM distributor of
specialty PTZ cameras and high-end camera control systems used in the
broadcasting, audio/visual and videoconferencing industries, has
introduced today the new ProductionVIEW Precision Camera Controller.
Taking the existing ProductionVIEW Super Joystick a step further, the
Precision Camera Controller upgrades the robotic camera controller to
a broadcast-quality joystick for pan, tilt and zoom control. In
addition, it integrates CCU image control functionality into the
system, allowing users to control red and blue gain, detail, and iris
with adjustable gain. One-push white balance (OPWB), auto white
balance (AWB) and auto iris are also available to those who desire a
more automated image control system. The CCU control surface gives
system users real-time knobs and buttons to control each of these
functions.
Designed to control up to seven PTZ cameras, the Precision Camera
Controller can be used as a stand-alone device...
SerialMailer for Mac OS X gets advanced template support
Falkon Ware has updated its SerialMailer bulk email app for Mac OS X
to version 5.9. The upgrade offers advanced template support as an
way to embed messages in already existent designs at send time.
Custom templates can be created with almost any web site editor.
Those who are looking for an efficient way to send their annual
christmas mails might also be interested in the christmas template
that comes with the program, according to the folks at Falkon Ware.
The full version of SerialMailer costs US$29.95. The 5.9 update is
free for already registered customers. It's available from
http://www.falkon-ware.com/SerialMailer
VPN Tracker 5.4 adds support for Network Security Appliance 240
Equinux (http://www.equinux.com) has released VPN
Tracker 5.4, the newest version of its
IPSec-based VPN client for Mac OS X. The upgrade
adds support for the newest Network Security
Appliance 240.
VPN Tracker 5.3 is a free update for all
registered users of VPN Tracker 5. New licenses
for VPN Tracker 5 are available at the Equinux
Online Store starting at ¤69 (approximately
US$97). The software requires Mac OS X 10.4 or
higher.
XChange releases pdfToolbox Server 4
XChange International (http://www.xchangeuk.com) has released
pdfToolbox Server 4. From the developers of the preflight technology
in Adobe Acrobat, pdfToolbox Server 4 offers PDF preflighting and
automatic correction, color management, presentation tools,
imposition and more.
The upgrade includes metadata capabilities. pdfToolbox Server 4
supports all PDF versions (up to PDF 1.7/Acrobat 9) and connects to
existing workflows via hot folders offering simultaneous processing
of multiple files for optimized throughput. It uses IPTC, XMP and
other object related metadata and displays that data in a
configureable report that checks more than 1,000 characteristics.
It provides configuration files that can be interchanged with other
servers and adjusts and corrects more than 100 different
PDF?attributes. pdfToolbox Server 4 supports all principle standards
and validates and creates PDF/X-1a, PDF/X-3, PDF/X-4, PDF/A-1a and
PDF/A-1b.
The product (which costs approximately US$502) also embeds...
Photoshop.com adds storage options, new features
Adobe has updated Photoshop.com
(http://www.photoshop.com), the online
destination that provides users with a solution
for editing, managing, storing, and sharing
photos online.
Available now, Photoshop Elements 7 and Premiere
Elements 7 customers with Photoshop.com Basic and
Plus membership can purchase additional storage
options. Available pricing and options are as
follows:
Basic membership:
° A total of 20 GB for U$19.99/year;
° A total of 40 GB for $39.99/year;
° A total of 100 GB for $99.99/year.
In addition to receiving benefits such as ongoing
deliveries of seasonal artwork, album templates
and tutorials, Plus members have the following
additional storage options:
° A total of 20 GB for $49.99/year;
° A total of 40 GB for $69.99/year;
° A total of 100 GB for $129.99/year.
Additionally, beginning Nov. 11, Photoshop.com
Basic members who don't own Photoshop Elements 7
or Premiere Elements 7 will also be able to
purchase expanded storage space. For these
online-only users,...
'REALbasic Developer' mag available in book format
(i)REALbasic Developer Magazine(/i) is reprinting the last year's
issues into a perfect-bound book that will be shipping at the end of
November. You can pre-order RBD Archive Volume 6, a perfect-bound
book containing the full contents of Year Six of the mag, for
US$37.50 -- 25 percent off the regular price.
The 300+ page book contains the full contents of issues 6.1-6.6, Nov
2007-Oct 2008), and features a full-color cover, black ink interior,
and perfect-binding. Current subscribers can save even more with an
additional subscriber discount.
Those interested should place orders today on the REALbasic Developer
web site (http://www.rbdeveloper.com/bookpreorder.shtml). The
pre-order discount expires Nov. 14.
Association of REALbasic Professionals is now open
The Association of REALbasic Professionals (ARBP) is now open for
business. At the new members-only web site
(http://www.arbpmembers.org) you can purchase a membership, download
software from the code repository, participate in the forums, look
for REALbasic jobs and save over US$450 with discounts on a variety
of REALbasic-related software.
There are several different types of memberships from which to
choose: Free, Personal ($50) and Professional ($150). Visit the web
ARBP site and click "Membership Benefits" to learn more.
Foundry shipping Ocula collection of 3D stereo plug-ins
The Foundry (http://www.thefoundry.co.uk) is now
shipping Ocula, a collection of plug-in tools
designed to solve common problems with
stereoscopic imagery, boost productivity in post
production, and deliver a more rewarding
stereoscopic viewing experience, says CEO Bill
Collis. Ocula plug-ins are designed to
automatically replicate key processes on left and
right channels and help artists polish and refine
stereoscopic material, literally removing
headaches from the final viewing experience.
As Ocula plug-ins enable precise, pixel-level
manipulation of stereoscopic imagery, they will
help artists to refine and finesse stereo footage
in a highly productive fashion., Collis adds. The
tool set is based on new disparity-mapping
algorithms, created by The Foundry's Academy
Award-winning R&D team.
Disparity maps track and correlate the
differences in positional space and movement
between corresponding pixels in the left and
right cameras, delivering pixel-level control
over images....
PhidgetTemperatureSensor for Mac OS X updated
Phidgets has updated its PhidgetTemperatureSensor for Mac OS X. The
new version of the 1051 shows improvements in both reliability and
accuracy through the addition of on-board filtering, cold junction
compensation and optimized calibration methods. The upgrade replaces
the previous version of the product.
Users can program Phidgets using an application programming interface
(API) supported under Mac OS X. Users can write programs in C, Java,
ActionScript 3.0, and Cocoa. Phidgets also provides programming
examples for all its products to help programmers write their own
programs. The API Libraries as well as the examples and the
documentation are available at no charge the Phidgets web site:
http://www.Phidgets.com
The new version of the 1051 PhidgetTemperatureSensor is available
now. The suggested resale price remains at $60 Canadian.
HistoryHound for Mac OS X now searches web archives
St. Clair Software (http://www.stclairsoft.com) has updated
HistoryHound, the utility for indexing and searching web pages that
you've bookmarked or visited recently, to version 1.9.6. The upgrade
adds the capability to search web archives that you've saved from
Safari, OmniWeb or Shiira.
When you configure HistoryHound to index folders and files on your
hard disk, Web archives are automatically scanned and added to the
search index along with html, PDF, and text files. Version 1.9.6 also
corrects a problem that could cause HistoryHound to crash when
indexing some web pages.
Type in a few words that appear anywhere on the page and HistoryHound
will give you a list of matches, ranked by relevance. Powered by Mac
OS X's SearchKit search technology, HistoryHound lets you do a text
search on the entire content of all web sites you've visited
recently, plus all the pages you've bookmarked. It also includes a
built-in browser based on WebKit, the same engine that's inside
Safari....
IntelliScanner releases Mac compatible Wine Collector 300
IntelliScanner has released Wine Collector 300
(http://www.intelliscanner.com/products/wine/), a "smart scanner" for
wine enthusiasts. It costs US$279 and works with Mac and Windows
systems. It bundles the IntelliScanner mini portable barcode reader
and wine management software to automatically provide wine bottle
details using an Internet-enabled database and AutoFill technology.
The system helps track tasted wine, view collections online,
determine wine maturity and now offers personalized asset tags for
tracking wines without barcodes. Wine Collector 300 uses barcode
technology to organize any wine collection instantly. By scanning the
retail barcode on a wine label and then plugging the scanner into a
computer, the software will automatically download information about
the bottle -- just like a digital camera -- and automatically fill in
details like the name, varietal, winery, country, type, color and
region.
Users can then store rating and tasting notes, print custom reports,...
Kensington releases plethora of computer products in time for the
Kensington Computer Products Group (http://www.kensington.com) has
announced a variety of computer accessories and products in time for
the holidays. Some of the accessories are for iPhone and iPod users.
The US$49.99 Kensington Mini Battery Pack and Charger for iPhone and
iPod purportedly extends play time on the devices with up to 30 hours
of music, six hours of video and three hours of extra talk time
without having to be connected to a power source. It's small enough
to slip in a pocket or a purse or stay attached to your iPhone or
iPod. A detachable kickstand props up your iPod in portrait or
landscape position for greater flexibility.
The $19.99 Kensington Car Charger for iPhone and iPod lets you charge
a device from your car's 12-volt power outlet. Or you detach the
cable and charge your other USB powered devices while you drive in
the car. The charger boasts a built-in safety fuse, LED power
indicator, and it charges all iPhone and iPod models with dock
connector (excluding...
Ross Video ships Mac compatible SoftMetal 4.0 software
Ross Video (http://www.rossvideo.com) is now shipping SoftMetal 4.0
software, launched at IBC 2008. Version 4.0 is currently shipping at
no charge to all current SoftMetal customers. SoftMetal is a line of
multi-definition video servers designed for live production and
master control applications.
SoftMetal 4.0 offers MXF native record and playback support for HD
and SD clips. Other features include: QuickTime native SD playout;
Close Captioning support; embedded audio support; 16 channels per
video input and output; and stereoscopic (3D) record and playback.
SoftMetal control is based on a client/server architecture with the
client side applications written in Java and able to run on a Mac, PC
or Linux computer, allowing control of the Soft Metal system from the
users desktop of choice.
Marware announces Eco Vue for 2G iPod touch
Marware has released the US$29.99 Eco Vue
(http://www.marware.com/PRODUCTS/Cases-for-Gen-2-touch/Eco-Vue-for-iPod-t...
) for the second generation iPod touch 2G. It's made from cornstarch
polymers with a lining of recycled polyester and is designed to "give
you the look and feel of leather, without the guilt."
The design protects your iPod from harm, while a tuck-in belt locks
it in place at the top. The Eco Vue comes with a clear screen
protector that provides scratch protection without adding bulk or
loss of screen sensitivity. It also comes with a microfiber cleaning
cloth.
iWebTemplate introduces free Google Tool Set
iWebTemplate (http://www.iwebtemplate.com) has introduced their
Google Tool Set, a free, web-based resource for Mac enterprise and
web developers. Offered exclusively for click and mortar, web site or
online business, it's a browser-based collection of tools designed to
help anyone get a better handle on their AdWords, Google Ads, or
Google Ranking.
The Google Tool Set includes Google Banned Checker, a Datacenter
Search, Google PageRank Prediction, Multi-Rank Checker, PageRank
Checker, Rank Checker, Link Price Calculator, Search Engine Position,
Search Listings Preview, a Google Adsense Calculator and Adsense
Preview. The Adsense Preview allows users to review what ads are
targeted for their web site.
By using the Adsense Calculator, it's purportedly easy to calculate
Adsense earnings based on page impressions. With the Link Price
Calculator, you can estimate how much to pay for a link based on
different criteria. You can use the Datacenter Search to find the
right keywords/phrase...
Flash on Tap sets spring conference dates in Boston
Flash on Tap (http://flashontap.eventbrite.com), a Flash design and
development conference and beer tasting festival, has announced its
spring conference dates: May 28-30, 2009, in Boston. The conference
organizers, Infrared5, Influxis and Red5Server have planned both
educational and inspirational sessions.
The Flash on Tap conference is organized around main-stage speakers
designed to appeal to all attendees followed by afternoon break-out
sessions where attendees can choose the sessions they wish to attend.
The mid-day presentations include small talks and provide attendees
with information and inspiration around skill-building, technique,
professional growth and creativity. All conference events take place
in the Flash on Tap Beer Garden and Theatre Lounge.
On the main stage, speakers are balanced between Flash design
speakers -- such as GMUNK (Bradley Grosh) and Chris Georgenes -- and
Flash development speakers including John Grden and Grant Skinner.
Motion graphics guru GMUNK...
RapidWeaver 4.2 now localized into French
Realmac Software has updated RapidWeaver
(http://www.realmacsoftware.com), its web site creation application
for Mac OS X, to version 4.2. The software is now fully localized
into French, German, Italian and Japanese, as well as featuring a
number of bug fixes and performance tweaks.
RapidWeaver 4.2 is a free upgrade for registered users of RapidWeaver
3.6 and higher. A new license is US$79. Users of RapidWeaver 3.5 or
earlier can upgrade for $25.
Western Digital releases Mac compatible WD TV
Western Digital (WD) has introduced a way for consumers to play their
stored digital content on their HDTV in Full-HD 1080p resolution. The
WD TV Media Player connects to a user's TV or home theater and plays
digital movies, music and photos from WD's My Passport portable drive
or other USB mass storage device. The WD TV Media Player is available
now at WD's online store (http://www.shopwd.com) and select retailers.
According to research firm IDC, nearly 334 million GB of photos and
more than 3.1 billion GB of video will be stored on consumer desktop
and laptop computers in 2008. The research firm expects that to
increase to 400 million GB and 5.8 billion GB, respectively, by 2010.
These large personal digital libraries are all but trapped on users'
computers, says Jim Welsh, senior vice president and general manager
for WD's Branded Products and Consumer Electronics Groups.
In order to play their content on their TV, consumers have struggled
with clumsy solutions such as copying onto...
XChange announces three new products for designers, prepress
XChange International (http://www.xchangeuk.com) has announced three
new products for the prepress market and designers.
With the Permanent Press filter for Photoshop (approximately US$74),
users can create professional quality vintage offset printing and ink
effects with any design, photograph, type treatment or image. Users
have the ability to take any design, photograph, type treatment or
image and transport it to another time and aesthetic. Permanent Press
can purportedly make any photo look like an authentic CMYK reproduced
printed image or turn it into a stylized illustration.
XChange has also introduced MadeToPrint XT (approximately $350) and
BigPicture XT (approximately $370) for QuarkXPress 8. Both XTensions
are available for earlier versions of QuarkXPress, as well.
MadeToPrint is an output enhancer that adds a variety of features to
QuarkXPress. Processes like file exporting, printing and collecting
can be combined and even automated entirely using MadeToPrint. The
XTension...
Isis Imaging introduces Isis Locus duotone software for Mac OS X
Isis Imaging Corp. (http://www.isisimaging.com/HOME.html) has
released Isis Locus, the US$64.95 Mac OS X 10.5 ("Leopard")
compatible turnkey software for duotone creation. The software's
controls provide an infinite range of image correction possibilities
for perfect duotone reproduction every time, says developer Stephen
Herron.
Selection of the ink color is important, and with Isis Locus the user
may pick any color from any image and any match-color chart, he adds.
Custom palettes provide a way to collect colors.
Select the ink colors and adjust the image correction sliders for
optimum reproduction. From then on creating the images for duotone
involves the process of opening the source images and saving or
exporting the duotone images.
Duotone creation is just one of three Isis Locus functions. Creation
of a fifth image for five-color reproduction, and an overlay
color-correction method similar to a photo filter are included. The
creation of a fifth-color image is used on five-...
Paul Kent, vice president of MWSF, offers show preview
Paul Kent, IDG's vice president of the Macworld Conference & Expo
(http://www.macworldexpo.com/), recently talked with (I)MacTech(/I)
and (I)Macsimum News(/I) to discuss the 2009 show, which will run
Jan. 5-9 in San Francisco. He discussed overall growth, new show
floor features and an expanded focus on new Mac users.
The 25th year of the Macworld Expo takes place in evolving
marketplace. The changes started 10 years ago when Steve Jobs
returned to Apple -- and MWSF is designed to reflect those changes.
"We follow Apple's lead to product an event that actively reflects
what we think is going on in the Apple world," Kent says. "For
instance, mobility is a big deal right now. From MacBooks to iPods,
the concept of technology that goes with you is one of the core
strengths of the Mac market. We have a plethora of exhibitors
participating this year who concentrate on mobility. AT&T will be
there, but also Verizon and Sprint, who want to convince Mac users to
connect Mac laptops to...
Marware announces the Game Grip for iPhone 3G and iPod touch 2G
Marware has announced the Game Grip
(http://www.marware.com/PRODUCTS/iPhone-3g-cases/Game-Grip ) for the
iPhone 3G and the iPod touch 2G. The silicone handle grips on the
controller provide comfort for longer gaming sessions, and a cord
management solution allows you to use your headphones and charging
cable while you play, according to the folks at Marware.
The Game Grip also supports an optional, removable battery pack
solution from Marware (sold separately) that can give you added power
while gaming. Simply slide the battery pack onto the back of the Game
Grip, and attach the cable.
The Game Grip comes with two silicone skins, a game controller with
interchangeable silicone grips, cord management, and an optional
battery pack solution. It's available in smooth black with blue
handle grips. It retails for US$49.99 (USD) and is available for
pre-order online.
iTunesDupesBarrier upgrade resolves problem with iTunes 8
Hyperbolic Software has updated iTunes Dupes Barrier
(http://www.hyperbolicsoftware.com/iTunesDupesBarrier.html%5DiTunes),
an iTunes utility, to version 1.2.1. The upgrade fixes
incompatibilities with iTunes 8.
iTunes Dupes Barrier allows you to search the duplicate songs inside
the iTunes and iPod songs' databases. It requires Mac OS X 10.4.0 or
later and iTunes 4.0 or higher. It costs US$10, but version 1.2.1 is
a free update for registered users.
ACTSudoku Easy, ACTSudoku Unlimited released for iPhone iPod...
Houdah Software (http://www.houdah.com/iPhone) has released ACTSudoku
Easy for iPhone and iPod touch. ACTSudoku Easy offers all the
features of ACTSudoku Unlimited for free. Those features include a
streamlined interface, advanced game generator, automatic markers,
intelligent hints, and more.
ACTSudoku Unlimited (US1.99) improves upon ACTSudoku Easy by offering
three levels of difficulty. All game boards are symmetrical and
guaranteed to be solvable by logic only. No guessing or backtracking
is required. The most noticeable advantage of ACTSudoku is its
intuitive touch interface, which sports both positive (green) and
negative (red) markers (pencil notes), according to the folks at
Houdah Software.
Both ACTSudoku Easy and ACTSudoku Unlimited are available at the
Apple App Store.
FastMac announces iV extended battery, charger for the iPhone
FastMac has announced the iV, an extended battery pack and portable
charger for Apple's iPhone that purportedly triples battery life and
adds a built-in flash and Bluetooth headset charger. Armed with an
iV, the iPhone is capable of up to 24 hours of talk time, 31 days of
standby, 20-plus hours of video and almost 72 hours of audio playback
time, the company says.
FastMac's iV for iPhone is shipping now and can be ordered from the
company (http://www.fastmac.com) for a special introductory price of
US$79.95. Each iV carries a one-year warranty and a 30-day money back
guarantee. In addition, each iV comes with a90-day trade-in warranty
that allows the original owner to trade in their used iV for a brand
new, next generation iV for half price.
FastMac's iV contains a 3100mAH TruePower battery. The iV is an
on-the-go mobile battery charger that allows for continuous iPhone
use even as it is being charged. Along with the dock connector port
used for charging and syncing, the iV also has a...
FlatOut 2 races from Virtual Programming
Virtual Programming has announced release, in box product format, of
the FlatOut 2 racing game for the Mac
(http://www.vpltd.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=226).
It requires Mac OS X 10.4.11 on an Intel-Mac (PowerPC Macs aren't
supported) and costs US$39.95.
Here's how the game is described: "Experience the drive of your life
as you throw yourself around on and off the track causing fences to
shatter, tyre walls explode, water tanks and barrels fly across the
track into other cars. And if anyone, including you, gets caught up
in a big smash sit back and watch as the driver gets catapulted
through the windscreen in spectacular effect. With over 5000
destructible objects on each track and 40 deformable pieces on every
car sparks are guaranteed to fly increasing the mayhem with every lap!
"As the different races progress you'll recognise which of the AI
characters are your closest rivals. How you decide to take them out
is up to you, like slamming them into a bridge...
MacBU gets new general manager
Microsoft's Macintosh Business Unit (the MacBU) has announced that
Eric Wilfrid has been named the new general manager of the MacBU.
This change in leadership comes as Craig Eisler has been promoted to
a new role within E&D.
Wilfrid is a 14-year Microsoft veteran who has been with the MacBU
since its inception in 1997 where he most recently was a product unit
Manager. You can find a note from him on the Mac Mojo blog
(http://www.officeformac.com/blog/) later today.
As general manager for the MacBU, Wilfrid's responsibilities include
managing the strategic vision and direction for all of MacBU's
software and online products developed for the Mac platform, managing
the business relationship with Apple and leading one of the largest
teams of Mac-focused developers outside Apple. Prior to his role as
general manager, he was a product unit manager for the MacBU in the
Silicon Valley campus in Mountain View, California. Wilfrid managed
the team of engineers in Mountain View who work...
OWC announces 'ModService'
Other World Computing (OWC) has announced Modservice, a new service
that converts an existing Intel Core 2 Duo based MacBook into an
Axiotron Modbook, a Mac-based tablet computer that lets users draw
and write directly on the screen.
Modservice pre-ordering is available immediately from OWC, with
prices starting at US$1,299.99 for the turnkey service, which
includes a protective shipping box and FedEx air shipping to and from
OWC. For complete details on converting a MacBook into a customized
Modbook and to pre-order the Modservice, visit:
www.macsales.com/modbook
TuneWear announces new colors for Prie Ambassador, LeatherShell
TuneWear (http://www.tunewear.com) has announced two new case colors,
Sienna and Snow, for the Prie Ambassador for iPhone 3G series of
high-quality nappa leather cases. Additionally, the new color Snow
has been added to the LeatherShell for iPhone 3G series of leather
shell cases.
Prie Ambassador for iPhone 3G Snow and LeatherShell for iPhone 3G
Snow are available now at the TuneWear online shop. Prie Ambassador
for iPhone 3G Sienna will be available in November.
Prie Ambassador is an US$59.95 nappa leather open-face carrying case
with a hook. All ports, sensors and the camera remain open and
accessible. iPhone 3G is held secure by the side latch and can be
removed from the case when needed. On the back there's a cardholder
just big enough for holding an ID, travel pass or IC card.
Using the TuneWear hook, Prie Ambassador can be attached to just
about anything, such as a belt loop or carry bag. The hook is
removable so take off the hook and slide iPhone 3G into a jacket or
pant pocket...
Sound Byte 3.7.0 for Mac OS X adds various new options
Black Cat Systems (http://www.blackcatsystems.com) has released
version 3.7.0 of Sound Byte, which turns your Mac into a" cart
machine" for playing sound recordings, such as music and special
effects. The upgrade adds an option to automatically display playlist
windows that are assigned to carts.
It also adds: an option to lock settings against unauthorized
changes; a repeat option to carts to automatically play at a user
selectable interval; the Click Pauses Playback option to the card
options; and the Click Start Aborts Others option to the card options.
Sound Byte is targeted to DJs, radio stations and audio productions,
to quickly and easily play a variety of recorded sounds, such as
jingles, advertisements, songs, sound effects at sporting events, and
more. Sound Byte is available for Mac OS X as well as for Windows. It
comes in three versions, starting at US$39.
iBobble-3D offers 'politically incorrect laughter' for...
iCloseBy.com (http://www.iCloseBy.com) has announced the release of
iBobble-3D, a new app for the iPhone and iPod touch. It lets you
create custom "bobblehead dolls" from photos of friends or political
figures, which can then be shaken and shoulder tapped into nodding,
spinning wobblers or bobbing "yes" heads. It costs US$0.99 and is
available at the Apple App Store.
iBobble-3D lets people choose the best body for each virtual doll,
from clowns to convicts. In addition, it lets people change the
background image and put their bobblehead in locations from the
frozen tundra to vacation wonderlands.
iBobble-3D uses the accelerometer built into the iPhone and iPod
touch to transfer finger taps, pinches and shakes to spin the virtual
bobblehead. The more someone shakes their iPhone or iPod touch, the
more iBobble-3D will nod and bobble.
Griffin releases iTrip Auto for the iPhone
Griffin Technolog has released the new iTrip Auto for iPhone, one of
only a handful of FM transmitters certified for use with Apple's
iPhone and iPhone 3G.
The iTrip Auto plugs into the dock connector of the iPhone and offers
audio, intuitive controls and Griffin's trademark station-scanning
feature, SmartScan. SmartScan makes setup and operation nearly
automatic byb seeking out the best FM frequencies available, then
selects the best of the best for use in transmitting the music to the
car's FM stereo.
iTrip Auto automatically optimizes output volume, and the user can
select stereo or mono modes for best-quality audio. Listeners can
control speaker volume from the car stereo controls, eliminating the
need to look at the touchscreen to adjust volume level. It features a
large, backlit LCD screen for reference on the road.
Griffin's iTrip Auto for iPhone, $69.99, is now available at major
retailers and on Griffin's web site
www.griffintechnology.com/products/itripauto
SharedPlan for Mac OS X updated to version 5.0
SharedPlan Software has released version 5.0
(http://www.sharedplan.com/getsharedplan.html) of
its US$199.95 its SharedPlan Pro project
management software for Mac OS X, Windows, and
online with a number of new capabilities for
improved team collaboration and simplified
planning of large projects. It delivers the
following new enhancements:
° Improved cost management -- costs are now
managed throughout the entire project with fixed
costs and resource costs being rolled up for
accurate task costs and project costs.
° Enhanced resource management -- SharedPlan
Software has completely reworked the resource
editor so it's purportedly easier to manage
resources and task assignments
° Improved email security -- task assignment
email sent to resources may now be protected with
industry standard SSL encryption
° Deadline scheduling -- you can denote tasks as
deadlines and track them using visual indicators
and new reports
° Improved task information editor -- the task
information editor has...
