Red Giant Universe expands with upgrades
Red Giant has launched Red Giant Universe 2.0, an update to the company’s GPU-accelerated plugins for editors and motion graphics artists. It packs more than 60 tools that run in Apple Final Cut Pro X, Apple Motion, Adobe Premiere Pro CC, Adobe After Effects CC, Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve, HitFilm and Sony Vegas.
The upgrade includes four new and 29 updated plugins, plus a new user experience designed to make it easy to preview and apply effects. Universe 2.0 also brings support for Adobe Creative Cloud 2015.3. For pricing options go to the Red Giant website (www.redgiant.com).
UCedge Softphone brings unified communications, mobility to OS X
Toshiba America Information Systems’ Telecommunication Systems Division has announced the availability of its new built-in softphone as part of an update to its UCedge client software available for Mac OS X.
Toshiba's UCedge softphone gives Mac users the ability to use their devices as extensions on their VIPedge, IPedge or Hybrid Cloud business communications solution. Using the softphone enhances the UC benefits, including presence and instant messaging with both internal and external organizations, said Brian Metherell, vice president and general manager of Toshiba’sTelecommunication Systems Division.
UCedge is compatible with Toshiba's VIPedge cloud-based business telephone solution, IPedge on-site Unified Communications system, and Strata CIX systems with an IPedge Application Server, as well as Toshiba's Hybrid Cloud solution.
UCedge client software, including softphone, runs on OS X, Windows, iOS, and Android systems. UCedge, including the new softphone for OS X users, requires...
AdminStudio Suite 2016, Workflow Manager 2016 add Mac support
Flexera Software (www.flexerasoftware.com) has updated AdminStudio Suite, a unified application readiness solution for packaging, virtualisation and management, adding Mac support along with that for Windows and mobile applications.
In addition, the company unveiled the latest release of Workflow Manager, a web-based end-to-end IT process management solution that tracks service-level agreements using out-of-the-box automation for change and asset management. AdminStudio Suite 2016 has added support for preparing Mac applications for reliable deployment to JAMF Software Casper Suite. These new capabilities will help organizations keep up with the increasing use of Mac computers in the enterprise and accelerated update and upgrade cadence.
WD expands storage capacity of several My Passport drive
Western Digital Corporation has launched its My Passport Ultra, and upcoming My Passport for Mac and My Passport Ultra Metal portable hard drives, with up to 4TB capacity.
The drives include WD Backup automatic backup software1 with cloud-ready Dropbox integration and 256-bit AES hardware encryption with password protection to help safeguard against unauthorized drive access. My Passport Ultra 4TB portable hard drives have a three-year limited warranty and are available now from the WD store (http://tinyurl.com/jqr2t57) and at select retailers and distributors. The My Passport Ultra 4TB hard drive has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $159.99. The My Passport for Mac and My Passport Ultra Metal 4TB hard drives will be available next quarter.
AppDelete 4.2.6 improves the ‘Undo from Folder’ option
Reggie Ashworth has announced AppDelete 4.2.6 (http://tinyurl.com/ngg3ugq), an update to his application deletion utility for Mac OS X (10.7 and higher).
Via drag and drop, it can uninstall anything, along with all of the associated items. Mac users will no longer have to hunt through their system to find and delete these items manually. Version 4.2.6 improves the “Undo from Folder” option, and includes other fixes and improvements.
AppDelete costs $7.99 for a single user license. Upgrades from version 2/AppDelete Lite are $3.99. A demo is available for download. Also, note that version 3 licenses without a serial number are also eligible for the upgrade.
Late Night Software launches Script Debugger 6
Late Night Software has released Script Debugger 6 (http://www.latenightsw.com), the latest version of its AppleScript development software.
The upgrade includes 25 new features and a raft of other tweaks and improvements. It’s designed to make it easier to work on large projects, and to take advantage of new AppleScript features.
Script Debugger 6 requires Mac OS X Yosemite or El Capitan. It retails for $99.99, with upgrades from Script Debugger 5 for $49.99. Volume and educational discounts apply. A demo version is available for download.
MOSO releases Xmplify XML Editor 1.8.0 for Mac OS X
MOSO has announced Xmplify XML Editor 1.8.0 (http://xmplifyapp.com/), an update to their powerful XML editor built specifically for Mac OS X 10.7 and higher.
Xmplify XML Editor provides aXML-aware editing environment with DTD and XML Schema-based auto-completion, automatic document validation, XSLT and XPath support, live HTML preview and much more. Version 1.8.0 adds improved support for auto-completions, plus fixes and other improvements.
Xmplify is available for $59; both volume and educational discounts are available. Version 1.8.0 is a free upgrade for Xmplify 1.x users.
Counter is new counting utility for Mac OS X
Tension Software (www.tensionsoftware.com) has launched Counter 1.0 for Mac OS X. The app does one thing: it allows to count a discrete number of elements.
Using Counter you can solve any kind of situation where you have to computer enumerate a total number of elements (physical or abstract), and you want to be sure the process will be error free. You can add to the total a new unit simply pressing the space bar on your Mac to count it. Counter will keep track of the counting as it progress and will add +1 to the total at any space bar press.
Counter 1.0 requires OS X Yosemite or El Capitan. It costs $0.99 and is available at the Mac App Store.
Mobile Labs testing solutions now support iOS 10
Mobile Labs (http://mobilelabsinc.com) Mobile Labs, a provider of enterprise-grade mobile testing solutions, today announced comprehensive support for Apple’s iOS 10 on the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad.
The testing solutions include deviceConnect, Mobile Labs Trust and deviceBridge. deviceConnect supports manual and automated mobile app testing behind the security of a corporate firewall by using a private mobile device cloud. iOS 10 support includes the complete set of device access management and testing capabilities already available for Android and prior iOS versions: manual testing, automated testing and device inventory management. In addition, support includes dynamic instrumentation that allows users to test unmodified apps, including iOS 10 apps, without the need to create a special app build or to make source code changes.
Current Mobile Labs customers can gain the ability to test iOS 10 devices by upgrading to the most recent 7.1 patch and installing Xcode. Xcode 8 includes...
LearnQuest is now an Apple Authorized Global Training Provider
LearnQuest (www.learnquest.com), a provider of global IT and business skills, is now an official Apple Authorized Global Training Provider. It will offer new iOS developer and technical courses globally to Apple's enterprise partners and customers around the world over the coming months.
These courses are designed to help developers building transformative business apps with foundational learning and best practice on architecting and creating native Swift apps for enterprise, and app lifecycle management to keep apps up to date with current iOS features and functions. Technical courses will assist enterprise customers and their partners with training on security, large-scale deployment approaches, and the fleet management of iPhone and iPad, according to Dimitri Schneiberg, LearnQuest managing director.
In addition, LearnQuest will offer existing iOS, OS X, and pro apps courses, and the training that supports the Apple Certified Mac Technician (ACMT) and Apple Certified iOS...
EditShare Flow Media Asset Management 3.3 update available
EditShare has released EditShare Flow 3.3.0.2 (http://www.editshare.com/products/flow).
The update features content delivery to Amazon S3, batch sidecar metadata file processing, support for multi-track audio in AirFlow, and user permissions in Flow Templates. Existing Flow users with a valid EditShare maintenance agreement can download the update at http://www2.editshare.com/passprot/.
The new “Send to Amazon S3” feature in EditShare Flow automates migration of content from EditShare shared storage systems to secure offsite cloud storage. Thanks to direct integration with Amazon storage buckets, Flow users can automate delivery of clips, sequences and full packages from their on-premise EditShare storage direct to S3 or Glacier services.
Flow now supports batch import of sidecar metadata from a wide range of third-party solutions including other media asset management solutions. During a Flow Scan session, metadata contained in each of the sidecar files is automatically applied to...
Fonts Manager for the Mac revved to version 3
Match Software has announced Fonts Manager 3 for Mac OS X El Capitan and macOS Sierra. It’s a font management system for users who need to manage large font collections.
Fonts Manager supports instant activation of single fonts or entire folders, support of iCloud Drive, DropBox and Google Drive, and is compatible with Adobe Creative Cloud and QuarkXPress. Each font can be visualized in continuous sizes 8-500 with the user own phrases.
Fonts Manager’s list price is $19.99. It’s available at the Mac App Store, as well as on the Fonts-Manager site (http://fonts-manager.com), where users can download a fully functional 30 days evaluation copy.
Tixeo client designed to provide encryption for OS X group...
Tixeo (www.tixeo.com) has introduced a native Mac client designed to offer a real end-to-end encryption for group videoconferencing with Mac or PC. It provides an architecture enabling end-to-end encryption for group videoconferencing while maintaining a high adaptability to network fluctuations, according to its developers.
This innovation has been made possible by the SVC on Demand (Scalable Video Coding on Demand) technology created by Tixeo's R&D department. The Tixeo Mac app will allow you to simply organize online meetings from any workstation.
During group video conferencing, participants can share their desktop and eventually give control to another participant.
Tixeo is a paid subscription service. However, you can try it for free for 30 days.
AKVIS introduces the Sea Frame Pack
AKVIS has introduced the $17 Sea Frame Pack, which includes 100 frame designs for use with AKVIS Frames and AKVIS ArtSuite. The frames include 50 horizontal and 50 vertical templates.
Using the Sea Frame Pack, you can frame your holiday photos, create a smash book or prepare unique invitation cards for a sea-style party. All the designs are available as thumbnails to preview.
The AKVIS frame packs can only be used with AKVIS Frames Free (available free of charge) and AKVIS ArtSuite ($49 for the plug-in version and $69 for the standalone app). All AKVIS products run on macOS 10.6 and higher.
Troi Text Plug-in 4.0.1 released for FileMaker Pro 15
Troi Automatisering has released Troi Text Plug-in 4.0.1 for FileMaker Pro 15. The update is further optimized for use with FileMaker 15.
In this version Troi Automatisering made description and type-ahead information available for all functions of the plug-in. This extra function description will be shown in FileMaker Pro 15 in the Specify Calculation dialog box when you type a function name and also as a text popup in the functions pane on the right. The type-ahead information is used by the auto complete functionality of FileMaker Pro 15.
A fully functional version of Troi Text Plug-in 4.0.1 is available for downloading at Troi's website (http://tinyurl.com/plzbk5d). Licenses cost $49 per user. Details on developer licenses and multi-user discounts can be found at the Troi Automatisering website.
Upgrading to version 4.0.1 is free for all users of version 4.0: version 4.0.1 works with the same registration as the 4.0 version. Product updates from earlier versions, bought on or...
Comm-Unity Networking Systems updates CNS Image
Comm-Unity Networking Systems has released an update for CNS Image, its FileMaker plug-in for working with images stored in container fields or stored on the hard drive. The new version has full, cross-platform 64-bit support, as well as support for the latest FileMaker Plug-in SDK [software development kit], bringing calculation type-ahead and tool-tip description support, among other things.
This version also includes all the latest CNS Core updates bringing bug fixes and enhancements to the plug-in. CNS Image is available immediately at http://cnsimage.cnsplug-ins.com/ for both Mac OS X and Windows.
If you purchased CNS Image anytime from June 22, 2015, until now, you can install this latest version free of charge without requiring a new license key. If you purchased CNS Image anytime between June 22, 2014, and June 21, 2015, you can renew your license for 50% off the current price. If you purchased CNS Image anytime before June 22, 2014, you can renew your license for 25% off...
OWC unleashes external storage solutions with capacities up to...
OWC Digital has announced that four of their proven external storage solutions are now available with up to 40TB of capacity. By adding configurations using 10TB enterprise-class drives to their lineup of 4-bay devices, these products boast 25% more storage than previous models.
The enhanced products include the ThunderBay 4 RAID , Mercury Elite Pro Qx2 Enterprise Edition, OWC Rack Pro mini-SAS Enterprise Edition, and OWC Rack Pro Quad-Interface Enterprise Edition for $3,999.99, $3,799.99, $3,899.99, and $3,899, respectively.
The OWC ThunderBay 4 RAID 5 utilizes Thunderbolt 2 ports and customizable RAID configurations to reach transfer rates up to 1,342 MB/s in RAID 0 and 723 MB/s in RAID 5. The OWC Mercury Elite Pro Qx2 sports an USB 3.1 Gen 1, eSATA and FireWire 800 interface, multiple drive capacities and customizable drive modes.
The OWC Rack Pro Quad-Interface provides USB 3.1 Gen 1, FireWire and eSATA connectivity. The OWC Rack Pro mini-SAS offers speed up to 24 GB/s, which is...
Avira expands Phantom VPN to iOS, macOS
Avira (www.avira.com) is expanding its Avira Phantom VPN (Virtual Private Network) o include devices running on Apple’s iOS and macOS. The Phantom VPN now incorporates all major operating systems for computers and mobile devices: Android, Microsoft’s Windows, and iOS and Mac.
The new Phantom VPN is aimed directly at two significant segments of technology users – people with Apple devices, and even more importantly, mixed households where people have a collection of devices running on a variety of operating systems, said Melanie Weber, head of the VPN project at Avira. Researchers at Strategy Analytics found that up to 28% of homes in Europe and the US have Apple and Android OS devices, with up to 20% of people claiming to use both Apple and Android devices weekly. And, this study just looked at Apple and Android-powered devices and did not include Windows computers.
“There is a growing segment of households that are mixed – there can be a Windows laptop together with an Android...
Remotix 4.0 offers remote access to any computer from the Mac
Nulana LTD has announced Remotix 4.0, an upgrade to their remote control application for macOS. It allows users to quickly connect with and remotely control any Mac or PC, directly from their own Mac desktop.
Remotix offers screen sharing, file transfer, complete SSH tunneling support and more. Version 4.0 brings the ability to view several remote machines at once, RD gateway capabilities, and more.
Remotix requires macOS 10.6.6 or later. It’s compatible with any RDP server, Apple Screen Sharing, RealVNC, x11vnc, UltraVNC, TigerVNC, TightVNC, and VMWare, allowing even more flexibility for any user's remote control requirements. The Remotix Cloud feature offers the ability to access any computer from anywhere, allowing users to manage computers and send messages, all via the handy Remotix Cloud web interface.
Remotix 4.0 costs $39.99 for a personal license, and is available worldwide through the Mac App Store (https://itunes.apple.com/app/remotix-vnc-rdp/id466261145) in the Business...
BusyMac releases BusyCal 3 for macOS and iOS
BusyMac has released BusyCal 3, an upgrade to its calendar app for macOS and iOS. It displays calendars in day, week, month, year and list views and syncs with iCloud, Google Calendar and Exchange.
Version 3 has been completely redesigned. There’s added support for travel time, which allows users to block out the necessary time to travel to an event location. Users can set a fixed amount of travel time or determine it automatically using the integrated support for Apple Maps and Location Services. Users can even receive alerts when it's time to leave as traffic conditions change.
The menu bar app in BusyCal 3 also received a makeover. It now displays a navigable mini-month calendar with colored dots and bars that provide a visual density map of the user's availability. A scrolling list of events is displayed in the menu along with a 10-day weather forecast. Users may click on an event in the menu bar to view its details, and create new events and to dos using natural language. And...
SecuritySpy for macOS gets 64-bit support, more
Ben Software (www.bensoftware.com) has announced SecuritySpy 4.0, an update to the multi-camera video surveillance software for macOS.
The tool offers recording features, remote monitoring and configuration, and optimized code. Version 4.0’s improvements include 64-bit support, speed improvements, new capture features, and a new user interface.
Pricing depends on the number of cameras you’re using SecuritySpy with — ranging from $45 for the single-camera version to $990 for the unlimited-camera version. The app requires macOS 10.7 or higher.
WPS Office implements freemium version of software
WPS Office Software (https://www.wps.com), an office productivity suite for PC and mobile devices, has announced general availability of the company’s new Freemium, or sponsored access, version of its flagship product.
WPS Office had previously allowed free use of of the software, but with restricted functionality. With the Freemium model, users now have full access to all of WPS Office’s features and functionality with no subscription needed.
WPS Office is an office suite solution that includes Writer, Presentation, Spreadsheets and a built in PDF Reader. The software, which has been downloaded by nearly 1.25 billion users, is fully compatible with Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel, and Word.
The WPS Office suite, which is Android for Work integrated, is available for Android and iOS as well as Windows and Linux-based PCs. The software is available through one of several licensing options, including annual, lifetime, or freemium. In terms of annual licensing, WPS Office is half the price...
IK Multimedia releases Orchestral Percussion
IK Multimedia (www.ikmultimedia.com)has released Orchestral Percussion, the master percussion add-on instrument collection for Miroslav Philharmonik 2 and SampleTank 3 that contains over 45 symphonic percussion instruments, 3GB of sample content, more than 400 audio loops and over 100 MIDI files.
Players can work with these files directly in Miroslav Philharmonik 2 or SampleTank 3, or drag them into the DAW timeline for further editing. Orchestral Percussion for Miroslav Philharmonik 2 and SampleTank 3 is available now from the IK online store and the SampleTank 3 Custom Shop for $99.
Propellerhead rolls out Reason 9 music production software
Propellerhead Software has released Reason 9, a new version of the music production software. It builds on the Reason platform by introducing a host of new devices, sounds and creative tools.
Reason 9 introduces three Player devices that instantly transform any MIDI input into “compelling” music. Note Echo creates rhythmic, pitched MIDI delays for melodies, drum rolls and more. Scales & Chords turns simple melodies into harmonies and chords.
Transpose notes to a selected scale and automatically generates chords for your song. Dual Arpeggio transforms chords into intricate rhythms. F
Reason’s new Pitch Edit mode helps users fix out-of-tune notes, adjust vibrato, change timing, create new melodies from a recording, change the dynamics, and more. Audio to MIDI lets you convert your vocals to MIDI notes. Reason 9 also comes with 1000 new sounds to ignite your creativity.
What’s more, the upgrade now includes the Pulsar dual channel LFO – previously available as a Rack Extension ($49...
Aural ships Studio6 Bass Trap
Auralex Acoustics, Inc. is shipping the new Studio6 Bass Trap, which provides broadband control from 40 Hz and up, providing low-frequency control in a 2' x 4' footprint with slim 6" profile.
In order to address a growing need requested by Auralex customers, the Studio6 is stand-mountable, using the optional ProMAX stands, allowing the panels to be used in a number of temporary recording and mixing situations or where a permanent installation is not possible or desired.
The Studio6 also mounts to room walls and corners using Auralex TubeTak Pro Wall and the TubeTak Pro corner mounting option. Go to www.auralex.com/ for more info.
GigSky expands coverage for the iPad with Apple SIM support
GigSky, an international wireless carrier and mobile technology company, will offer cellular data plans for iPad travelers with Apple SIM in over 140 countries, including “all top travel destinations,” as well as Ecuador, Argentina, Jamaica, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Isle of Man, and The Virgin Islands — up from more than 90 countries and territories.
The recent release of the 9.7-inch iPad Pro, which features an embedded Apple SIM, makes it even easier for customers to access GigSky's short-term data plans directly on an Apple tablet, avoiding the hassle of buying a local SIM when they travel, according to GigSky CEO Ravi Rishy-Maharaj. All data packages are prepaid, with what he terms "no asterisk" pricing.
Customers select the data they need, for just the time they need it. There are extra fees or taxes, and no contracts. For details on enhanced coverage and pricing, go to https://applesim.gigsky.com/pricing .
Customers can purchase GigSky international data plans on the...
ADATA launches SP550M.2 2280 SATA 6Gb/sSSD
ADATA Technology (www.adata.com) has launched the Premier SP550 M.2 2280 SATA 6Gb/s solid state drive for slim laptops and ultrabooks. The former measures just 22x80x3.5mm, but is available in up to 480GB.
Its maximum read/write speeds are 560/510MB per second, with 4K random read at up to 75K IOPS. The latter allows the Premier SP550 M.2 2280 to operate in simulated SLC (single-level cell) mode for a performance boost. DRAM cache buffer functionality (where the SSD uses system RAM as a temporary, ultra-fast cache) also enhances read/write performance by as much as double that of solid state drives that lack a DRAM cache, according to the folks at ADATA.
To improve SSD stability and data integrity, the Premier SP550 M.2 2280 is equipped with RAID engine and data shaping technologies, attaining extended lifespan for better, longer-lasting stability and return on investment. It also supports LDPC (low density parity check) error correction technology to reduce data errors, increase data...
Western Digital introduces the WD Pro Series
Western Digital has introduced the WD Pro Series: My Passport Wireless Pro Wi-Fi mobile storage and My Cloud Pro Series network attached storage (NAS). They’re designed specifically for the creative community,
The products use the My Cloud mobile app. A new version of the app will be launched with the My Passport Wireless Pro and My Cloud Pro Series and be compatible with the Adobe Creative Cloud. In addition, both the My Passport Wireless Pro and My Cloud Pro Series devices are also compatible with the Plex Media Server and My Cloud OS 3 software for editing, streaming and sharing of content.
Using the direct Wi-Fi connection, creators can automatically backup files from compatible cameras, as well as save, edit and transfer work from up to eight other devices connected to the drive. Tethered connections are also available for faster transfers and include a built-in SD card reader as well as a USB 2.0 port.
Available in capacities up to 3TB, the My Passport Wireless Pro device also...
Apple posts firmware update for AirPort Base Stations
Apple has released firmware updates for its wireless AirPort Base Stations. According to release notes (https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT206849) it fixes a vulnerability in which a remote attacker may be able to cause arbitrary code execution.
A memory corruption issue existed in DNS data parsing. This issue was addressed through improved bounds checking, according to Apple.
The firmware update is available for the AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme, and AirPort Time Capsule base stations with 802.11n; AirPort Extreme and AirPort Time Capsule base stations with 802.11ac. You can obtain the update via the AirPort Utility app that’s found in the Utilities folder in the Applications folder on your Mac — or by using Launchpad.
FotoJet photo tool adds Edit mode
PearlMountain Technology has updated its FotoJet (https://www.fotojet.com/) online photo tool to version 3.5 . The upgrade adds a new Edit mode.
FotoJet is an online collage maker, graphic designer and photo editor. It’s designed to help users create collages, photo cards, social media graphics, posters and edit photos with ease. And its free.
VPN Tracker World Connect designed to make Internet connections...
Using public wifi hotspots when you’re on the go with an iPhone, iPad or Mac? equinux VPN Tracker World Connect (www.vpntracker.com/worldconnect) is designed to make any Internet connection secure. Plus, it automatically detects the best VPN destination for your need.
VPN Tracker World Connect allows you to simultaneously connect to your company’s VPN as well as World Connect with its intelligent routing algorithm.
VPN Tracker World Connect for iOS is free to download on the App Store. VPN Tracker for Mac is available for download at www.vpntracker.com. After a free trial period, VPN Tracker Would Connect is available for $49.99 annually for macOS and iOS. All plans include unlimited traffic.
Addonics announces OS-independent 1U RAID racks
Addonics Technologies (www.addonics.com) has announced two 1U RAID Rack chassis with removable drive systems for adding and removing 2.5-inch hard drives or solid state drives.
The new family of products comes bundled with all the connecting cables for attaching to your system. Users can start their RAID Rack with just one drive and expand by adding more drives as their storage requirement grows. Depending on the model, the hard drives can be connected to the system with eSATA, or mini SAS cables and accommodate up to eight 2.5-inch HDDs/SSDs.
There are two models. The R1825SN-2MS allows the attaching of up to eight 2.5-inch SATA hard drives or SSDs with 9-9.5 mm maximum drive height to a computer via two external mini SAS cables. The R1825SN-8ES attaches to the computer via eight eSATA cables.
Drives, which will appear as eight independent drives when attached to any system, can be hot swapped when connecting to an eSATA host that supports such a feature. In addition, eight drives...
Steinway virtual piano plug-in collection now available on flash...
Sound Magic has announced that Mega Steinway Special Edition — a collection of piano plug-ins based on Steinway pianos — is now available on a flash drive.
Mega Steinway Special Edition is available as a custom flash drive featuring eight next-generation modeled virtual piano plug-ins (VST and AU 32- and 64-bit, as well as AAX 64-bit for Mac OS X and Windows) for $399. You can buy it here (http://tinyurl.com/jo67at4).
Ableton and Skinnerbox release update for Time & Timbre
Ableton and the electronic duo Skinnerbox have released a major update for Time & Timbre, the rhythm engine and drum synthesis instrument for Live. Available to buy now, or free for existing Time & Timbre owners, the revamped Max for Live toolkit lets you use the engine’s unique rhythm and swing capabilities throughout your music-making process.
Time & Timbre has been a tool for Live users since its release in 2014. Its five versatile drum synth modules and polymetric groove engine can add ipolyrhythms, swing and subtle variations to drum productions.
Now added to the Pack are a collection of devices that bring a wealth of rhythmic possibilities. Control any MIDI parameter with groove-induced modulations; spark a ton of ideas for leads and basslines, or create rhythmic delays with off-the-grid echoes that fit alongside your offbeat drums.
For owners of the new Push, Time & Timbre can take over Push’s sequencer with a completely customized layout. The setup reimagines...
Life is Strange now out on the Mac App Store
Life is Strange is now available on the Mac App Store (https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/life-is-strange/id1090369664?mt=12). It requires macOS 10.11 or higher and costs $4.99.
Life is Strange is a five-part adventure that explores complex issues withstory-based choice and consequences. It explores real world issues with a different take on story-based choice and consequences.
In the game, you find your way as Max, a teenager struggling to follow the road less travelled and make her mark on the world. You can rewind time to change your choices in a story that twists and turns along different paths towards different endings. Life is Strange offers hand-painted visuals and an indie soundtrack.
Qt Company releases Qt 5.7 with a New Qt 3D Module
The Qt Company has released Qt 5.7, the latest version of its cross-platform application and user interface (UI) development framework.
It offers UI creation, including a new Qt 3D module, as well as new ways to create modern touch-based UIs with Qt Quick Controls 2 and Qt Quick Designer. Qt 5.7 follows the evolution of modern C++, leveraging C++11 in Qt APIs. Qt is the framework for all C++ development and allows developers to harness the power of C++ with the convenience of high-level Qt libraries.
Also, a new “start up” license has also been announced that will help support small businesses who are seeking to utilize Qt in commercial desktop and mobile applications. Details on the new licensing release are available here (http://tinyurl.com/z5c4tla).
Output Factory for Adobe InDesign now supports InCopy Workflow
Zevrix Solutions has announced Output Factory 1.5.55, a feature update to its output automation solution for Adobe InDesign.
Output Factory automates printing, exporting and preflighting from InDesign. The software offers an array of time saving options such batch processing, export as single pages, layer versioning, variable file names, multi-format output and much more. The new version now fully supports the editorial InCopy workflow by allowing to auto-update links in imported InCopy documents.
Output Factory 1.5.55 can be purchased from the Zevrix website (www.zevrix.com) for $169.95. There’s a “lite” version for $120 and a server version for $700, as well as from authorized resellers and Adobe Exchange. A demo is available for download. BatchOutput users can upgrade to Output Factory for $85. Output Factory requires Mac OS X 10.6-10.11 and Adobe InDesign CS3-CC 2015.
PDF Studio for macOS revved to version 11
Qoppa Software has launched PDF Studio 11 (http://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio/), an update to their PDF editing application for macOS X.
The tool creates PDF documents that are compliant with the Adobe PDF specifications. Version 11 introduces a brand new OCR engine, and adds a number of new features including Spell Check, Non-Latin OCR Languages, Output Preview, and Enhanced Print Dialog.
PDF Studio Standard costs $89, and the Pro version is $129. A demo is available for download.
AKVIS Pastel 2.0 for macOS adds new enhanced pastel effect
AKVIS (www.akvis.com) has released AKVIS Pastel 2.0 for macOS and Windows. The app allows you to transform your photos into pastel pieces.
The new version provides an enhanced pastel effect with new settings and features. It also offers a completely redesigned interface, support for Ultra HD resolution, new decoration effects and stylish frames, as well as other changes.
On the Mac platform, AKVIS Pastel requires mac OS 10.6 or higher. It costs $49.
TopXNotes 1.8.2 for macOS provides performance enhancements
Tropical Software today announces TopXNotes 1.8.2, an update to their award-winning, full-featured personal information manager developed exclusively for macOS.
With TopXNotes, you drag and drop to create notes from any other text application or drag to import text and/or RTF documents. Once the information is created, TopXNotes' category system can be used to create categories that meet your needs or file them in folder-like groups. Version 1.8.2 provides performance enhancements and bug fixes.
TopXNotes 1.8.2 is available for $39.95 from the Tropical Software website (http://www.tropic4.com/topxnotes.html), the Mac App Store, Amazon, and other select Mac software resellers. It's a free update to customers who have already purchased version 1.5 or later. Existing customers with an older version (before 1.5) can upgrade to version 1.8.2 for $19.95 from the Tropical Software website.
Business Process Workflow Diagrams Solution available for...
CS Odessa has released the Business Process Workflow Diagrams Solution in the ConceptDraw Solution Park. It allows users of ConceptDraw Pro to better describe and manage work scenarios by using the business process workflow methodology.
New libraries and samples make it easier to describe the steps related to this popular workflow process. The Business Process Workflow Diagrams Solution retails for $49.
ConceptDraw Pro has the ability to exchange documents with Microsoft Visio. It can open and save documents that can be used by Visio users. It’s supported by the business solutions located in ConceptDraw Solution Park, and retails for $199 per end user license.
ConceptDraw Office 3 includes ConceptDraw MindMap 8, ConceptDraw Project 7, ConceptDraw Pro 10, and the ConceptDraw Solution Park with more than 150 Solutions. It retails for $499 and can be purchased directly from CS Odessa (www.conceptdraw.com).
Troi Automatisering releases Troi Activator Plug-In 4.0
Troi Automatisering has released Troi Activator Plug-in 4.0 for FileMaker Pro 11. The updated cross platform plug-in runs natively in FileMaker Pro 15 and now serves as image upload server.
The Activator Plug-in is a tool for triggering scripts across the network, even over the Internet. A fully functional demo version of Troi Activator Plug-in 4.0 is available for downloading at Troi's web site (http://www.troi.com/software/activatorplugin.html).
Troi Activator Plug-in 4.0 works with FileMaker Pro 12 and higher. The plug-in can also be used with runtimes from FileMaker Pro Advanced 12 and higher. The plug-in is available for Mac OS X 10.6.8 or higher and Windows 7-10.
Licenses cost $89 per user. Details on developer licenses and multi-user discounts can be found on at the Troi Automatisering web site.
DRM Converter for macOS X upgraded to version 4.9.3
AppleMacSoft (www.applemacsoft.com) has upgraded DRM Converter for Mac OS X to version 4.9.3.
It's an app for removing DRM from Apple Music, protected audio files and old iTunes M4P songs. It makes it possible to save them in MP3, M4A, or other audio formats that is playable on either your local computer or your music players. The new version fully compatible with the latest versions of macOS and iTunes. It also supports new Apple Music, audiobook files and much more.
DRM Converter for Mac requires macOS 10.6 or higher. It costs $39.95 and is available from the AppleMacSoft website. A demo version is available for download.
Folx 5.0 for macOS features revised interface
Eltima Software has announced Folx 5.0, an update of the download manager for macOS. It's available in free and paid-for versions.
Version 5.0 features a revised interface with lots of newly added features, including improvements to overall downloading process and its management. Retina displays and the latest macOS versions are supported.
The free version of Folx offers downloaded files organization, fast search for downloaded files, and more. Folx Pro costs $19.95 and provides such features as: splitting the downloads in up to 10 threads for faster downloading; scheduling the download tasks; automatic speed adjustment for equal Internet traffic allocation; sending the downloaded videos and music directly to iTunes playlists. For more info go to http://mac.eltima.com/ .
AAS rolls out a NKS-ready version of the Lounge Lizard EP-4...
Applied Acoustics Systems says its Lounge Lizard EP-4 electric piano (http://tinyurl.com/j5z5fw5) now supports Native Instrument's NKS extended plug-in format.
NKS brings interaction between Lounge Lizard EP-4 and KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboards and MASCHINE hardware. Lounge Lizard EP-4's key parameters have been mapped in order to provide optimal tactile control of its physical modeling engine, according to Eric Thibeault, marketing director at Applied Acoustics Systems. What’smore, Lounge Lizard EP-4's entire factory preset library now appears in the tag-based browsers of the MASCHINE and KOMPLETE KONTROL software.
This new NKS version of Lounge Lizard EP-4 is free to registered users. To mark this release, until June 27, Lounge Lizard EP-4 is offered at a price of $99 (a 50% discount) to new users.
Lounge Lizard EP-4 runs on both macOS and Windows in 32- and 64-bit host sequencers supporting the VST, Audio Units, RTAS, and AAX Native plug-in formats.
Maintain serves up Cocktail 9.3 (El Capitan Edition)
Maintain has served up Cocktail 9.3.1 (El Capitan Edition), a new edition of Cocktail for users running OS X El Capitan 10.11.
Cocktail is a general purpose utility for OS X that lets users clean, repair and optimize their Macs. The new version adds the ability to change the umber of Recent Places in the Open and Save dialogs. It also provides improvements on the "Clear applications caches" procedure.
Cocktail 9.0 (El Capitan Edition) requires OS X El Capitan 10.11 to run. Cocktail (Yosemite Edition) for OS X 10.10, Cocktail (Mavericks Edition) for OS X 10.9, Cocktail (Mountain Lion Edition) for OS X 10.8 and Cocktail (Lion Edition) for OS X 10.7 are available for download from the Maintain website (http://tinyurl.com/p5adypq).
Cocktail costs $19 for a single user license and is available for purchase from the Maintain website. When unregistered, Cocktail runs in demo mode and will expire after the tenth launch.
Parallels celebrates 10 years of Parallels Desktop for Mac
Parallels has announced that June 14-21 it will celebrate 10 years of innovations and industry firsts in Parallels Desktop for Mac. The online celebration (http://www.parallels.com/products/desktop/) will highlight a decade of features that allow you to run any application – on Windows XP, 7, 8 and 10, Chrome, Linux and Android – on a Mac.
Now through June 21at 11:59 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time), Parallels Desktop or Mac 9 and 10 customers and new customers can save 25% off of the recommended retail price (RRP) of Parallels Desktop 11 for Mac and Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition. The RRP of Parallels Desktop 11 for Mac is $79.99. Upgrades for existing Parallels Desktop 9 or 10 for Mac customers are $49.99, with an introductory offer to upgrade to a Pro Edition subscription for $49.99 per year.
Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition is available to new customers for $99.99 per year. It includes a concurrent Parallels Access subscription (www.parallels.com/access) to remotely...
Soundness announces SoundSoap Solo for macOS
Soundness has announced SoundSoap Solo, a new desktop edition of its audio cleaning software for macOS and Windows
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The app was developed specifically to help remove unwanted hiss and background noises, electrical hum, rumble, and low volume in media files, without requiring any audio expertise. It’s designed for anyone creating videos, action camera footage, screencasts, podcasts, music, or dialogue.
SoundSoap Solo requires macOS10.9 or later. It reads all major audio and video file formats, including QuickTime, H.264, CAF, MP4, MP3, FLAC, WAV and AIFF. SoundSoap Solo includes the standalone application and costs $79. It’s available from Soundness online (http://www.soundness-llc.com).
Apple launches free Swift Playgrounds app for the iPad
Apple has introduced Swift Playgrounds, a new iPad app designed to make learning to code fun and easy for anyone.
It brings coding to life with an interactive interface that encourages students and beginners to explore working with Swift, the programming language from Apple. Swift Playgrounds includes Apple-developed programming lessons where students write code to guide onscreen characters through an immersive graphical world, solving puzzles and mastering challenges as they learn core coding concepts. The app also features built-in templates to encourage users to express their creativity and create real programs that can be shared with friends using Mail or Messages or even posted to the web.
“I wish Swift Playgrounds was around when I was first learning to code,” says Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering. “Swift Playgrounds is the only app of its kind that is both easy enough for students and beginners, yet powerful enough to write real code. It’...
iOS 10 packs new Home app, updates to Messages & Apple Music
Apple today previewed iOS 10, which it says is the biggest release ever of the world’s most advanced mobile operating system, featuring a huge update to Messages that delivers more expressive and animated ways to message friends and family, like stickers and full-screen effects.
iOS 10 introduces the ability for Siri to do more by working with apps, redesigned Maps, Photos, Apple Music and News apps, and the Home app, delivering a way to manage home automation products in one place. iOS 10 opens up incredible opportunities to developers with Siri, Maps, Phone and Messages, says Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering.
“iOS 10 adds Siri intelligence into QuickType and Photos, automates your home with the new Home app and opens up Siri, Maps, Phone and Messages to developers — while increasing security and privacy with powerful technologies like Differential Privacy,” he adds.
Messages is the most frequently used iOS app, and with iOS 10 it is more...
