Cargo VPN is new private, secure VPN proxy
Cargo VPN is a new private and secure VPN proxy for macOS (http://tinyurl.com/y7hnjgzb) and iOS (http://tinyurl.com/y8huwecu).
It provides you with anonymous unlimited access to the web. With Cargo VPN, you can block malicious websites, ads, and all sorts of snoopers with the help of the DNS Firewall. Dedicated IP address and servers are also available.
CS Odessa announces Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) addition
CS Odessa (www.conceptdraw.com) has announced a new enhancement for ConceptDraw Pro. This new addition, Plan-Do-Check-Act, introduces a new set of libraries that provides a solution for PDCA diagrams.
It includes a collection of samples, and library of vector stencils and icons that support “continuous quality improvement of products of any level of complexity,” according to the folks at CS Odessa. This new addition to the Solution Park is free for current users of ConceptDraw Pro 11, which is compatible with macOS and Microsoft Windows. ConceptDraw Pro 11 costs $199; a demo is available for download.
Jumsoft bring new features to its Toolbox and Templates apps
Jumsoft (www.jumsoft.com) is updating itsToolbox apps and standalone template products to include new features. The 40,000-plus templates can be used for themes, infographics, and other design elements for documents and presentations.
The most recent update from Jumsoft brings the new Customer Center feature, which is designed to make reaching out to developers easier than before. It resides within a button by the search bar and clicking it opens up four options: rate the app on the App Store, request template, report a problem, and send me news.
In addition to the Customer Center, the update modifies the content handling system within the apps so they’re quicker and more resource-efficient for everyone. The update also brings Touch Bar support for MacBook Pros with Touch Bar.
Digital Stationery Consortium offers free membership for start-...
The Digital Stationery Consortium, Inc. (DSC) has announced that the organization is accepting Promoter member applications for a free, one-year membership from digital stationery-focused developers within technology start-ups as well as academic entities exclusively.
This initiative allows these young and developing companies to participate in the DSC’s technical and educational efforts via the consortium’s work groups. Once approved, the Promoter membership fee is waived for the first year. Promoter membership benefits include the ability to participate in DSC meetings as well as participate in one of three work groups, according to said Masahiko Yamada, DSC chairman.
As part of the DSC, members will work to establish digital ink as universal, open and smart content format based on the Wacom Ink Layer Language (WILL). WILL’s digital ink technology ensures cross-compatibility of ink data, allowing businesses and consumers to freely communicate and collaborate across digital devices...
Troi Automatisering releases Troi Encryptor Plug-in 4.0
Troi Automatisering has released Troi Encryptor Plug-in 4.0 for FileMaker Pro 16. It’s an update of the tool for securing your FileMaker data, exporting or emailing your data without risk and importing safely back into FileMaker. Version 4.0 adds new features when running FileMaker Pro 16.
A fully functional demo version is available for downloading at Troi's website (http://tinyurl.com/z2heuv3). Troi Encryptor Plug-in 4.0 works with FileMaker Pro 12 to 16. The plug-in can also be used with runtimes created by FileMaker Advanced 12 to 16. The plug-in is available for macOS 10.6.8 or higher and Windows 7 to 10.
Licenses cost $79 per user. Details on developer licenses and multi-user discounts can be found on the Troi website. Troi Encryptor Plug-in 4.0 also works with FileMaker Server 12 to 16 as a server-side plug-in and as a plug-in used by the web publishing engine and WebDirect. To use this, you need to purchase a special cross-platform server/web license for $399.
Product updates...
Comm-Unity releases FTPit Pro 3.5, a FileMaker Pro plug-in
CNS Plug-ins has released FTPit Pro 3.5, an update of the FileMaker Pro plug-in. It uses FTP to transfer files to and from your computer.
You can use it to upload static web pages to a website, download database upgrades from a centralized server, or write a complete FTP client within FileMaker itself. You can transfer text directly to or from fields in your database, and you can upload files that reside in container fields.
The Server Edition of FTPit Pro allows you to install and use the plug-in on FileMaker Server with all its capabilities. For example, you can now do things like transfer database backups to an offsite server directly from the FileMaker Server machine, use the plug-in with Web Direct, or harness Perform Script On Server from FileMaker Go devices. Download a copy today to explore the many features of this plug-in.
Version 3.5 adds support for FileMaker 16, including Script Steps. This version also has many bug fixes and a few new features to make the plug-in more...
AKVIS Airbrush for macOS gets a multicolor mode
AKVIS (www.akvis.com) has released AKVIS AirBrush 5.0, an update of the software for transforming digital photos into airbrushed works of art. Version 5.0 offers a new multicolor mode that allows users to choose five colors for creating mesmerizing airbrush paintings. It also adds a spray parameter group.
A demo is available for download. On the Mac platform AKVIS AirBrush requires macOS 10.7 or higher. The product is available as a standalone application and as a plugin to photo editors: AliveColors by AKVIS, Adobe Photoshop, and others.
AKVIS AirBrush 5.0 Home sells for $49, Deluxe for $69, Business for $89. One license key allows activating and using the software on two computers. Version 5.0 is a free upgrade for recent buyers as well for those who bought “1 Year of Updates” during the last 12 months. Users, whose license isn’t valid for the new version, can get AirBrush 5.0 for $14.95.
MegaSeg 6.0.4 for macOS Released With Over 50 Improvements
Fidelity Media has released the fourth update to MegaSeg 6 Pro, DJ and radio automation software for macOS (10.6 and higher). Version 6.0.4 features over 50 important fixes including new controller presets, with improvements to search, segues, events, automatic volume, and interface refinements.
MegaSeg 6 introduced a redesigned interface among many new features including smart volume sensing for automatic segues, a new playlist browser, full-track waveforms with draggable loop points, album art progress rings, second-precision events, video overlays, exportable logs, daypart restricted tracks, and support for macOS Sierra.
MegaSeg 6 DJ and Pro editions can be purchased at http://megaseg.com for $99 and $199, respectively. Older versions of MegaSeg DJ and Pro editions can be upgraded for $29 and $69, respectively.
Sonnet's eGFX Breakaway Box now shipping
Sonnet Technologies is shipping its eGFX Breakaway Box with 350W power supply (http://tinyurl.com/y73krnlq), the first in the company’s new series of Thunderbolt 3 to PCI Express (PCIe) expansion chassis for professional graphics and gaming applications.
It provides a single slot for connecting any size Thunderbolt-compatible PCIe card, including high-performance GPU cards. The eGFX Breakaway Box is targeted to those who need to run bandwidth-intensive graphics applications on their eGFX-compatible notebook, all-in-one, or other small-form-factor computers.
The unit is equipped with a 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 port that enables data transfers up to 2,750 MB/s. It supports Thunderbolt-compatible cards with GPU chipsets such as the AMD Radeon R9 and RX, and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 7, 9, and 10 series, plus the NVIDIA TITAN X and Xp, and Quadro GP100, P4000, P5000, and P6000 cards.
The eGFX Breakaway Box is now available from Sonnet Technologies and its dealers. It has a manufacturer’s suggested...
Twelve South debuts Curve laptop stand
Twelve South (www.twelvesouth.com) has debuted their newest desktop solution: the $49.99 Curve, a flowing aluminum stand, matte black finish and improved ergonomic design built to complement the design of your MacBook.
You can use your MacBook on Curve to create a more comfortable desktop with your favorite external keyboard and mouse. Or you can use the combo with an external display to create the perfect dual-screen setup. When it’s time to go mobile, unplug and roll out.
The Curve elevates the laptop screen 6.5-inches and keeps 70% of the base exposed for optimal cooling. It allows access to your MacBook screen lift for one-handed opening.
Lakehorn AG introduces Video File List 1.0 for macOS
Lakehorn AG (www.lakehorn.com) has introduced Video File List 1.0 for macOS. The app is used to find out more about any collection of movies files.
Video File List can help find poor quality content and will make it easier to clean up movie collections, according to the folks at Lakehorn AG. It displays all necessary information to decide what to do with a movie file, including video resolution or runtime, as well as calculates the compression ratio of the file. Video File List can parse folders of movie files.
Video File List 1.0 requires macOS 10.11 or higher and costs $3.99. It’s available at the Mac App Store in the Video category.
MacPlus Software debuts Miya Notes for Google Keep 1.0
MacPlus Software (http://www.noteifyapp.com) has released Miya Notes for Google Keep 1.0, a Mac-client for Google Keep.
Rather than utilize a web browser to access Google Keep notes, you can use Miya Notes. Features include a widget for the desktop, multi window mode, menu bar access, and a variety of hot keys. Additional shortcut functionality allows to instantly create notes just by pressing one hot key without opening the app.
Miya Notes for Google Keep requires macOS 10.10 or later. It’s normally priced at $2.99. However, it will be available for $0.99 through Aug. 18. Miya Notes for Google Keep is available at the Mac App Store in the Productivity category.
FLAC to MP3 Mac 2.0 Converts FLAC Audio Files to MP3 and Other...
WDSoft has rolled out FLAC to MP3 Mac 2.0 (https://flactomp3mac.com), an update to the free audio conversion app. It requires macOS 10.10 or higher.
The tool converts FLAC media files to MP3, WMA, M4A, AAC, OGG and WAV audio formats. FLAC to MP3 Mac shrinks the file size to enable the playing of files on almost any device. Users can also extract audio from movie file formats such as MP4, MPG, and more.
Xojo rolls out Xojo 2017 Release 2
Xojo, Inc. (www.xojo.com) has announced Xojo 2017 Release 2, an update of the free, rapid application development tool for making apps for macOS, iOS, Windows and Linux, web, and Raspberry Pi.
The tool offers built-in support for graphics, database servers, Internet protocols and more. The latest release of Xojo adds over 250 improvements and focuses on enhancements to 64-bit support, Linux GTK+ 3 and HiDPI, and iOS Launch Screen support.
BioShock Remastered comes to the Mac on August 22
Feral Interactive (www.feralinteractive.com) has announced that BioShock Remastered, a version of the first-person shooter running in 1080p, will be released for macOS on Aug. 22 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the game’s original release. It was originally developed by Irrational Games and published by 2K for Windows and console.
Here’s how the game is described: “Set in an alternative 1960, BioShock Remastered plunges players into Rapture, an individualistic utopia gone badly wrong. To survive the onslaughts of the city’s deranged inhabitants, players must rewrite their own genetic codes, and find creative ways to combine their terrifying new powers with devastating weapons. With a thought-provoking storyline, BioShock is at once beautiful, thrilling and frightening, and explores profound ideas about science, politics and human nature.”
BioShock: Remastered will be available from the Feral Store and Steam for $19.99. The Mac App Store version of BioShock: Remastered will be...
WaterField Designs announces the Air Porter carry-on bag
WaterField Designs (www.sfbags.com) has announced the Air Porter travel bag and Air Caddy duo, which are designed to facilitate in-case laptop charging, accelerate time through TSA security, and maximize in-flight leg room while maintaining easy access to essential tech, travel and personal items.
The Air Porter is a multi-compartment carry-on bag to organize everything needed during a flight, according to WaterField Designs owner Gary Waterfield. Travel-friendly features include a built-in, padded laptop sleeve sized for up to a 15-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar, a variety of pockets, and three carry options: dual handles for a briefcase look, a suspension shoulder strap for carrying messenger style, and a wheeled-suitcase handle pass through for a hands-free carry from curbside to airport gate.
The slim, TSA-friendly Air Porter stands on its own under an airline seat leaving ample leg room while maintaining significant capacity for tech items (laptop, phone, chargers, cords,...
Output Factory Server for InDesign Adds Multi-Format Output Hot...
Zevrix Solutions has announced the second public beta release of Output Factory Server 2, an upgrade to company's output automation solution for Adobe InDesign.
Output Factory Server automates printing and exporting from InDesign by processing files from hot folders. The new release introduces the ability to create sequences of workflows called actions, which let users output InDesign documents to multiple formats at once from a single hot folder.
Output Factory Server 2 public beta can be downloaded from the Zevrix website (www.zevrix.com). Qualified beta testers will receive a 50% discount on Output Factory Server 2 (upgrade or new license). The current stable release, Output Factory Sever 1, can be purchased for $699.95 (or a single user version for $169.95). A demo is available for download. Output Factory requires macOS 10.7-10.12 and Adobe InDesign CS5-CC 2017.
Apple releases new iOS 11, tvOS 11, watchOS 4, macOS High Sierra...
Apple has rolled out the sixth developer betas of iOS 11, tvOS 11, watchOS 4, and macOS High Sierra. The finished versions are due this fall.
They can be downloaded from the Apple Developer Center (https://idmsa.apple.com) or through the Software Update mechanism in the Mac App Store.
Maintain serves up Cocktail 10.4.2 (Sierra Edition)
Maintain has served up Cocktail 10.4.2 (Sierra Edition), a new edition of Cocktail for users running macOS Sierra.
It’s a general purpose utility for macOS that lets users clean, repair and optimize their Macs. The new version adds ability to perform essential system maintenance with a click of a button, without any need to configure even a single option. It also fixes compatibility issues with upcoming Cocktail (High Sierra Edition) and contains a number of bug fixes.
Cocktail costs $19 for a single user license and available for purchase from the Maintain website (http://www.maintain.se/cocktail). When unregistered, Cocktail runs in demo mode and will expire after the tenth launch.
BatchOutput for Microsoft Word update addresses bugs in Office...
Zevrix Solutions has released BatchOutput DOC 2.5.3, a maintenance update to company's output automation solution for Microsoft Word.
The app is designed to solve the problem of saving multiple Word documents to PDF and sending them to printer. It offers PDF security, image compression, variable file names and other options. Version 2.5.3 addresses multiple bugs introduced in recent releases of Office and macOS that prevented users from opening Word documents reliably and without interruption.
BatchOutput DOC can be purchased for $19.95 from the Zevrix Solutions website (www.zevrix.com). A demo is available for download. The update is free for users of version 2 and $10 from version 1. BatchOutput DOC requires macOS 10.6-10.12 and Microsoft Word 2008, 2011 or 2016.
Satechi rolls out Aluminum Type-C to VGA, Type-C to Gigabit...
Satechi (www.satechi.net) has introduced two new adapters to its arsenal of USB-C solutions. The new Aluminum Type-C to VGA Adapter and Aluminum Type-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter expand connectivity options and add functionality to USB-C devices.
The plug and play $34.99 Aluminum Type-C to VGA Adapter provides users with a solution for projecting a compatible USB-C device to a VGA display. Providing 1080p resolution at a rate of 60Hz, it lets users connect the USB-C device to a VGA-compatible display or projector.
The $29.99 Aluminum Type-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, supporting 10/100/1000Mbps Ethernet, provides HD video streaming, uninterrupted gaming and fast web downloads. You connect the Ethernet wire to the RJ-45 port on the adapter to upgrade to a wired Gigabit Ethernet network connection.
Both Type-C accessories feature a sleek brushed aluminum exterior in silver, gold, space gray or rose gold.
File Manager for macOS introduces double click functions
B-Eng (http://www.b-eng.ch) has announced File Manager Pro 1.2, an update to the dual panel file manager for macOS.
It’s a file managing tool with a dual panel layout that allows control and overview when handling and managing files and folders. File Manager Pro facilitates tasks like copy/move/delete files and folders, as well as compressing/decompressing files, synching directories and even visual, interactive overview of drives and directories. Version 1.2 introduces additional double click functions for many tasks, making navigation quicker.
File Manager Pro 1.2 requires macOS 10.11 and costs $18.99. It’s available through the Mac App Store in the Productivity category.
Noble Master Games releases Demise of Nations 1.0.37 for macOS
Noble Master Games has released Demise of Nations 1.0.37, a “simultaneously executed turn-based grand strategy wargame" for the Mac.
The game covers the rise of Rome till the fall of modern civilization. Featuring over 50 unique troop types, Demise of Nations is described a mix between Civilization and Unity of Command featuring deep game-play including diplomacy, research, building, trading and resource management. The game also includes modding support with an integrated map editor.
Demise of Nations 1.0.37 can be downloaded directly from the official website (http://demiseofnations.com) or via Steam. It comes with two maps provided for free. Additional maps can be downloaded for $3.99 a piece or $19.99 for all.
Multiplayer games are free to join. However, to cover server costs, there’s a fee for custom online game setup or custom avatars. Demise of Nations is not pay-2-win.
pdfToolbox revved to version 9.3
callas software (https://www.callassoftware.com) has rolled out version 9.3 of pdfToolbox, which allows you to integrate PDF processing. The upgrade uses the latest version of the Adobe PDF Library and provides bug fixes in the areas of rendering and transparency flatting and improves stability and performance of the application.
A new Switchboard action allows for converting pages containing CMYK (and optionally spot colors) into pre-separated pages (without rasterization). A one page CMYK PDF file is converted into a four-page pre-separated PDF file. Pre-separated pages have metadata to allow compatible equipment to recognize them as such.
The pdfToolbox check for the size of a page box such as the trim box has been extended. Now it’s also possible to check that a page has either a given size or a multiple of that size. This allows for checking whether a page can be proportionally scaled to the required size.
The update to pdfToolbox 9.3 — which requires macOS 10.7 or later — is...
Quark Announces New Release of Quark Content Automation Platform
Quark Software (www.quark.com) has updated its Quark Content Automation Platform. The new release, adds enhancements to content management and web-based content review, including the ability to assemble and manage PowerPoint slides at a component level.
Quark’s content automation platform enables business users and editorial teams to collaborate effectively throughout the multi-channel content life cycle – from creation and management to publishing and delivery. By creating and reusing content components – rather than traditional static documents and files – teams can share, search, track, and reuse content.
The Quark Content Automation Platform consists of modules that enable the creation, management, publishing and delivery of multi-channel content. The modules affected in the newest release include Quark Publishing Platform, QuarkXPress Server, Quark Author Web Edition, and Quark XML Author.
Sonnet announces Mac compatible Thunderbolt 3 to Dual...
Sonnet Technologies has announced a new addition to its expanding Thunderbolt 3 product line: the Thunderbolt 3 to Dual DisplayPort Adapter. The compact, bus-powered device enables users to connect up to two 4K ultra-high-definition (UHD) DisplayPort (DP) monitors or one 5K DP monitor to a single Thunderbolt 3 port on Mac and Windows systems.
Sonnet's Thunderbolt 3 to Dual DisplayPort Adapter is a plug-and-play solution for adding dual DP port connectivity to most computers with Thunderbolt 3 ports. Users simply plug in the Sonnet adapter to their computers, connect the monitors with standard DP cables (sold separately), and then configure the displays through the operating system.
Although the Sonnet Thunderbolt 3 to Dual DisplayPort Adapter supports up to two 4K DP monitors at 60 hertz or one 5K DP monitor at 60 hertz, it also supports monitors with lower resolutions, such as full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) and 1920 x 1200. Plus, the Sonnet adapter's built-in audio support ensures that...
Putty for macOS updated to version 8.5.1
Wine Reviews (https://winonmacs.com/) has released Putty for Mac 8.5.1. It’s an update of the terminal emulator for macOS.
Putty supports different types of network protocols such as SSH, FTP, SCP, Telnet and more. Version 8.5.1 fixes minor bugs and a crash.
Putty requires 10.9.5 or higher and costs $15. Anyone who has purchased Putty in the past three months is entitled to a free upgrade. Putty comes with three months of upgrades.
Apple releases fourth public beta of iOS 11
Apple has released the fourth public beta of iOS 11. or iPhone and iPad users. The finished version is due this fall and will be a free software update.
iOS 11 has been in developer beta testing since early June. If you're not already signed up for the public beta program, you can do so at https://beta.apple.com/sp/betaprogram/ . The public beta program is free, but remember: beta software is unfinished software so use with care.
FileMaker opens up the Custom App Academy
FileMaker, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Apple, has launched its Custom App Academy (http://tinyurl.com/yaqp4joj) and FileMaker Developer Conference videos designed to help individuals learn to build custom apps using the FileMaker Platform. It includes video tutorials with step-by-step guidance tailored to the learner's level.
Along with the aforementioned video tutorials in the Custom App Academy, the first videos from the FileMaker Developer Conference with multiple tracks designed for different skill levels and needs are now available. The videos from those sessions—from beginner to advanced—become a secondary learning resource after the event, according to Ann Monroe, vice president of worldwide marketing and customer success, FileMaker, Inc..
DriveDx for macOS upgraded to version 1.6.0
BinaryFruit has released DriveDx 1.6.0 (https://binaryfruit.com/drivedx), an update of its macOS solution for SSD and HDD health diagnostics and monitoring.
The app performs overall drive health diagnostics using drive health indicators (like SSD wear out / endurance, reallocated bad sectors, offline bad sectors, pending sectors, I/O errors, and more) that most closely correlate with drive failures according to the statistics reported in the latest researches focused on identifying drive failure trends. This provides a picture of a current drive health status and enables foreseeing potential problems with drive failure and loss of data.
DriveDx requires macOS 10.6.8 or higher. It has has four types of licenses that are currently being offered on promotion: a personal license for $19.99; a family license for $39.99, a business license starting from $99.99, and an IT-consultant license starting from $49.99. A demo is available for download.
Ghostotter introduces Automator Actions for Apple Pages
Ghostotter Software has introduced Pages Automator Actions (http://tinyurl.com/ycrjxrrf), a $12.50 set of Automator actions to control Apple's Pages on macOS
Users can create Automator workflows to open files, convert then to other formats, find/replace text and more, without needing to know any kind of coding. The actions can interact with actions from other applications to build workflows to save users time, including batch converting Pages documents to PDFs, zipping them and uploading them via FTP.
Apple posts new iOS, macOS, tvOS, watchOS betas
Apple has posted the fifth developer betas of iOS 11, macOS 10.13 High Sierra, tvOS 11, and WatchOS 4. Developers can download the beta through the Apple Developer Center or the Software Update mechanism in the App Store.
NetObjex, Brooklyn Library team up for smart mobile charging...
NetObjex has partnered with one of the nation's leading public libraries, Brooklyn Public Library (www.bklynlibrary.org), to offer patrons Smart Mobile Phone Charging Station technology.
They’re free for use to consumers, and allow patrons to charge their mobile devices in secure enclosures with integration to their library cards. In exchange, patrons are required to complete an engagement usually involving watch a short 15-30 second video clip and/or answering a brief survey. This provides Brooklyn Public Library a tool in collecting valuable data for analytics, with the objective of improving services at the library and the community at large, according to Donnell Perkins, manager of Enterprise Applications at Brooklyn Public Library.
Powering these charging stations is the NetObjex IoT-Blockchain platform that enables data collection through sensors, storage and visualization of data in the cloud, marketing campaign management, and optional integration into enterprise systems...
Graphic Inspector Now Can Preview Adobe InDesign Files
Zevrix Solutions has announced Graphic Inspector 2.3.1, a feature update to company's quality control solution for images and vector files.
It’s a tool for Mac users that can check both raster images and Illustrator documents for specific resolution, color, spot channels, fonts and other attributes. Version 2.3.1 lets users preview Adobe InDesign documents thus eliminating the need to open them for identification or even have InDesign installed on the user's machine.
Graphic Inspector can be purchased from the Zevrix website (www.zevrix.com) for $19.95. It’s free with purchase of PDF Checkpoint or InPreflight Pro for Adobe InDesign. A demo is available for download. The update is free for users of version 2.x and $10 for earlier versions. Graphic Inspector requires macOS 10.5-10.12 (some features require macOS 10.7 or later).
IK Multimedia's ARC System 2.5 with MEMS microphone ships
IK Multimedia (www.ikmultimedia.com) is shipping its ARC System 2.5 with MEMS microphone.
Version 2.5 of the Advanced Room Correction System combines a new MEMS measurement microphone, measurement software together with an audio correction plug-in for Mac/PC DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) and employs Audyssey MultEQ XT32 patented technology to improve the audio monitoring accuracy of speakers in any studio or listening room.
The included "Virtual Monitoring" feature lets users select specific templates to deliberately alter the response of the monitoring setup to match devices like LCD TVs, car audio systems, small radios, etc., and listen to how their mixes will translate on other "virtual" band-limited systems.
ARC System 2.5 with MEMS microphone is now available for $199.99. Users that have previously purchased any IK product with a minimum value of $99.99 can take advantage of a special crossgrade price of $149.99.
Current ARC 2 users can upgrade to software version 2.5 free...
PDF Checkpoint can now open PDF files wth your chosen editor
Zevrix Solutions has announced PDF Checkpoint 1.8, a feature update to company's PDF preflight and conversion solution.
The app automatically preflights, saves as images, splits and optimizes multiple PDF files. The software can also convert PDF colors and helps users easily prepare files for print, web and mobile devices. Version1.8 lets users open PDF files with an app of their choice, change the default PDF editor, and improves handling of drag-and-drop processing.
PDF Checkpoint can be purchased on the Mac App Store and Zevrix website (www.zevrix.com) for $39.95. The update is free to licensed users. A demo is available for download. PDF Checkpoint requires macOS 10.7 or higher.
SuperTab for macOS revved to version 3.0
SpriTec Software has revved SuperTab (www.supertab.me) , its utility app for macOS, to version 3.0.
The tool enhances and extends the Mac's built-in Command-Tab app switcher, providing additional access to files, folders, websites, calendars, windows, clipboards, Dock items and more. Version 3.0 adds item name overlays and calendar events.
With SuperTab's ability to display folders, files and many other items in the App Switcher, it had become difficult to easily identify identical looking items. By adding the option to overlay the names of these items directly atop their icons, SuperTab 3.0 has now made identifying and working with these items much more intuitive and simple.
SuperTab 3.0 also makes viewing upcoming Calendar Events as easy as activating the App Switcher. Users can configure the Date Range to display, choose which Calendars to include Events from, and can hover the mouse over any Event to see its full details.
SuperTab 3.0 is compatible with macOS 10.8 and higher. It’...
AKVIS LightShop updated to version 6.0
AKVIS (www.akvis.com) has released AKVIS LightShop 6.0, an update of its app for adding light effects to images. The new version adds a Sparkle Brush that scatters light spots of different shapes, colors, and sizes. Also, a new gray interface theme is now available.
On the Mac platform, AKVIS LightShop 6 runs on macOS 10.7 and higher. It’s available as a standalone application and as a plug-in to photo editors such as AliveColors by AKVIS, Adobe Photoshop, and others.
AKVIS LightShop 6.0 Home sells for $72, Deluxe for $99, and Business for $185. One license key allows activating and using the software on two computers. Version 6.0 is a free upgrade for recent buyers as well for those who bought “1 Year of Updates” during the last 12 months. Users whose license isn’t valid for the new version can get LightShop 6.0 for $14.95. A demo is available for download.
Data Shredder for macOS revved to version 1.0.2
ProtectStar has updated Data Shredder for Mac (http://tinyurl.com/yb9s2373), their military grade data deletion tool, to version 1.0.2.
The app securely deletes data using secure deletion methods that meet and exceed government, military, and industry standards. Users drag ’n drop files, folders, volumes or even external devices to the app. Data Shredder then eliminates any chance for data reconstruction. Version 1.0.2 is a maintenance upgrade.
Data Shredder for Mac is available in two versions. The Professional Edition offers 11 different data shredding methods, completely wiping all free space and overwriting the storage area, to completely erase all of the stored data. The Data Shredder Military Edition offers 18 erasing methods in total, while also offering advanced deletion reports.
Data Shredder for Mac Professional uses certified deletion algorithms, including: DoD 5220.22-M ECE, Peter Gutmann, HMG Infosec No.5, German BSI-2011-VS, US Army AR380-19 and more. Data Shredder for...
Apple sees revenue growth of 7% and EPS growth of 17%
Apple has announced financial results for its fiscal 2017 third quarter that ended July 1. The company posted quarterly revenue of $45.4 billion and quarterly earnings per diluted share of $1.67.
These results compare to revenue of $42.4 billion and earnings per diluted share of $1.42 in the year-ago quarter. International sales accounted for 61% of the quarter’s revenue.
“With revenue up 7% year-over-year, we’re happy to report our third consecutive quarter of accelerating growth and an all-time quarterly record for Services revenue,” said CEO Tim Cook. “We hosted an incredibly successful Worldwide Developers Conference in June, and we’re very excited about the advances in iOS, macOS, watchOS and tvOS coming this fall.”
“We reported unit and revenue growth in all our product categories in the June quarter, driving 17 percent growth in earnings per share,” added Chief Financial Officer Luca Maestri. “We also returned $11.7 billion to investors during the quarter, bringing cumulative...
Red Giant rolls out Trapcode Suite 14
Red Giant has released Trapcode Suite 14 (http://www.redgiant.com/products/trapcode-suite/), an update to its set of tools for creating 3D motion graphics and visual effects in Adobe After Effects.
With a total of 11 powerful tools for 3D motion graphics and visual effects, release highlights include Trapcode Particular 3.0 and Trapcode Form 3.0, which have both been completely overhauled to offer faster rendering speeds and an intuitive user experience when building particle effects. Also included is a free update for Trapcode Tao, giving users depth of field effects for more realism.
Trapcode Suite 14 can be purchased for $999 (Suite 14 is a $199 upgrade from previous editions) through the Red Giant’s online store. Customers can purchase individual products or the entire Trapcode Suite 14.
mophie debuts the powerstation USB-C XXL
mopie has launched the powerstation USB-C XXL, a high capacity universal battery designed to charge MacBooks, MacBook Pros, iPads, iPhones and other mobile devices. It’s available exclusively at Apple stores, Apple.com and mophie.com for $149.95.
Equipped with one USB-C and one USB-A output charge port, it includes a 19,500mAh battery for more than one full charge to a MacBook. The powerstation USB-C XXL is also wrapped in soft-touch fabric.
The USB-C port features USB-PD technology, allowing it to charge USB-C laptops at rapid charging rates up to 30 Watts and to accept high-speed charging input when connected to USB-PD chargers. Additional features of the powerstation USB-C XXL include: an additional USB-A output port 5V/2.4A; a role switch controlled by status button (USB-C input/USB output); a Cypress CCG2 chipset; and pass-through charging USB-C to USB-A.
FileMaker for iOS tops three million downloads
FileMaker, Inc. (www.filemaker.com) says its FileMaker Go for iPad and iPhone app has exceeded three million downloads from the Apple App Store.
FileMaker Go is a free app that runs FileMaker-based custom apps on the iPad and iPhone. Users benefit from the same power and capability of FileMaker desktop custom apps while on the go. They can connect to their data anywhere to check inventory, send orders, create an invoice and perform other productivity-increasing tasks from the field.
Sonnet releases Thunderbolt 3 Upgrade Cards
Sonnet Technologies has released Thunderbolt 3 upgrade cards for existing Thunderbolt 2 Echo Express SE II, III-D, and III-R expansion systems, giving those models greater bandwidth for users' installed PCIe cards, and providing Thunderbolt 3 connectivity to allow use with the latest MacBook Pros and iMacs.
Sonnet's Thunderbolt 3 upgrade cards feature dual 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 ports that support the daisy-chaining of up to five additional Thunderbolt peripheral devices. They support backward compatibility for 20Gbps Thunderbolt 2- and 10Gbps Thunderbolt-equipped devices when connected via the Apple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C)-to-Thunderbolt 2 Adapter.
As an added benefit, the second Thunderbolt 3 port also supports a variety of displays and a multitude of USB 3.1, USB 3.0, and USB 2.0 devices when connected with the proper cable, and fully supports the DisplayPort 1.2 protocol, which enables streaming to one 4K display at 120Hz, two 4K displays at 60Hz, or one 5K display at 60Hz.
Sonnet's...
FileMaker 16 video training bundle available
FileMaker author and trainer, John Mark Osborne, has released a three-part video training series for FileMaker 16 with a price reduction when purchased as a set.
The videos were created in FileMaker Pro 16 Advanced, but can be used with FileMaker Pro 12, 13, 14 and 15 with the exception of a few exercises. The Complete Contact Manager video series covers desktop development concepts relating to relational design, scripting, calculations and reporting at an intermediate level.
"I've seen a lot of training material use examples from a variety of solutions and they are difficult to follow,” says Osborne. "I used a single example of a contact manager throughout the three part series in order for students to follow along easier and produce something tangible by the end of the videos".
The Complete Contact Manager videos are sold individually for $50 or as a bundle of three for $100. To watch sample videos or purchase these videos, go to
http://philosophy-of-filemaker.thinkific.com .
LinkOptimizer for InDesign Now Can Batch Process Entire...
Zevrix Solutions has announced LinkOptimizer 5.1.3, a feature update to company's image processing automation solution for Adobe InDesign.
LinkOptimizer helps users reduce InDesign link size automatically by scaling and cropping images to their InDesign dimensions while reducing their resolution to the desired target. Version 5.1.3 lets users batch process InDesign files from the entire subfolder tree of the selected folder, and introduces improvements in user experience and performance.
LinkOptimizer can be purchased from the Zevrix website (www.zevrix.com) for $259.95 (there’s a “lite” version for $179.95) as well as from Adobe Exchange and authorized resellers. A demo is available for download. The update is free for LinkOptimizer 5.x users and $130 to upgrade from previous versions. LinkOptimizer requires macOS 10.7-10.12 and Adobe InDesign / Photoshop CS5-CC 2017.
LibreOffice 5.4 released with new features for Writer, Calc and...
The Document Foundation has released LibreOffice 5.4 (www.libreoffice.org), an update of the LibreOffice 5.x family for macOS, Windows, Linux and the cloud. The upgrade adds new features in every module, including the usual large number of incremental improvements to Microsoft Office file compatibility.
LibreOffice Online is fundamentally a server service, and should be installed and configured by adding a cloud storage and a SSL certificate. It might be considered an enabling technology for the cloud of ISPs or the private cloud of enterprises and large organizations.
LibreOffice users, free software advocates and community members can support The Document Foundation with a donation at http://www.libreoffice.org/donate.
Geekbench revved to version 4.1.1
Geekbench 4.1.1 (http://www.geekbench.com) is now available for download, and improves the stability and performance of Geekbench. This update is recommended for all Geekbench 4 users. Geekbench 4.1.1 features the following changes:
° Reduces Memory Latency memory usage on 32-bit devices.;
° Works around an issue where Windows GPU drivers do not include all of the components necessary to run OpenCL;
° Fixes an issue that caused HDR to allocate more memory than needed;
° Fixes an issue that could prevent the Compute Benchmark from running on recent NVIDIA GPUs under macOS;
° Fixes crashes that could occur when loading malformed documents;
° Fixes several crashes in the Android and iOS interfaces.
Geekbench 4.1.1 is a free update for all Geekbench 4 users.
myTracks Update Brings Geotagging to the macOS Photos App
Dirk Stichling has announced myTracks 3.1.2 (https://www.mytracks4mac.info/index.php/en/), an update to his photo geotagging app for macOS.
The utility is designed to makes it easy to quickly organize GPS tracks from a range of devices, organizing them in a library. GPS tracks can be assigned to photos stored in the JPG or RAW photos formats. Version 3.1.2 offers the ability to geotag photos stored in the macOS Photos app.
myTracks requires macOS 10.8 or higher. It costs $14.99 and is available worldwide exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Travel category.
X-naut announces new drone controller bracket
X-naut (www.x-naut.com) has entered into the consumer and commercial drone market with the launch of the Drone Controller Bracket that’s compatible with DJI Phantom and Inspire mobile device holders.
The Drone Controller Bracket attaches to the back of X-naut's Active Cooling Mount for iPads and then slides into the mobile device holder. The unit will keep the iPad cool for 15 hours continuously, says X-naut CEO Darren Saravis. The cooling mount is powered by AA batteries or external charging via micro USB).
The Active Cooling Mount for the iPad Air and 9.7-inch iPad Pro is $199.99. The iPad mini version is $179.99. Sorry, 12.9-inch iPad Pro owners, no Active Cooling Mount is available for the super-sized tablet.
The Active Cooling Mount for iPads was developed from a real-world situation that Saravis, also a pilot, experienced when his iPad overheated and shut off during a mission critical situation while flying. This extreme situation led Saravis to launch X-naut and developed the...
