Paragon NTFS for Mac 15 now available
Paragon Software Group (PSG) has released Paragon NTFS for Mac 15, an update of the multilingual software utility that eliminates the boundaries between macOS and Windows operating systems by delivering full read and write access to Windows-formatted drives under macOS.
The 15th edition ships with a new engine that guarantees advanced support of the latest NTFS file systems, such as Windows 10 system compression and provides ever faster, more transparent access to NTFS partitions under macOS, according to the folks at NTFS. All product options and functionality, including information on mounted volumes, system startup, and verification are now accessed conveniently from the Mac menu bar in Finder. The user interface can also be switched between light and dark themes depending upon the user’s preference.
Paragon NTFS for Mac 15 supports all operating systems from OS X to macOS 10.12. It’s available for download for $19.95 at https://www.paragon-software.com/home/ntfs-mac/ . For...
AirBeamTV introduces Mirror for Fire TV for macOS
AirBeamTV has introduced Mirror for Fire TV, their new screen mirroring solution for macOS.
It allows you to mirror the screen and audio of your Mac to an Amazon Fire TV. Screen mirroring (sometimes called screen casting) allows you to see the screen of your Mac, or any external display connected to your Mac, on your TV.
Mirror for Fire TV requires macOS 10.10 or higher. It costs $8.99 and is available at the Mac App Store. To use sound as well as video, Mac App Store users need to install a separate audio driver, which can be downloaded free from the AirBeamTV website (https://www.airbeam.tv).
Version 10.3.4 of Cocktail (Sierra Edition) is served
Maintain has announced Cocktail 10.3.4 (Sierra Edition), the latest maintenance update for users running macOS Sierra.
Cocktail is a general purpose utility for macOS that lets users clean, repair and optimize their Macs. This version adds ability to show heat map in Year view in Calendar and ability to disable checking for updates for connected devices in iTunes. It also fixes some compatibility issues with System Integrity Protection and adds macOS Sierra 10.12.5 compatibility.
Cocktail (Sierra Edition) requires macOS Sierra 10.12 to run. Cocktail (El Capitan Edition) for OS X 10.11, Cocktail (Yosemite Edition) for OS X 10.10, Cocktail (Mavericks Edition) for OS X 10.9 are Cocktail (Mountain Lion Edition) for OS X 10.8 are available for download from the Maintain website (http://www.maintain.se/cocktail). The price is $19 for a single user license. A demo is available for download.
FreeFileSync 9.1 adds support for FTP, FTPS
FreeFileSync (https://www.freefilesync.org) has rolled out version 9.1 of its free open source file synchronization utility for macOS, Windows and Linux, and macOS. The new version supports synchronization via FTP (File Transfer Protocol) and the encrypted variant FTPS (SSL/TLS).
This enhances FreeFileSync's capabilities to not only work with local drives and network shares but also synchronize mobile and cloud storage. On the Mac platform, it works with macOS 10.7 or higher.
ABBYY Business Card Reader launches cloud-based web client
ABBYY (www.abbyy.com) has launched a cloud-based web client for ABBYY Business Card Reader. The web version gives mobile users access to their digitized contacts on a computer, in addition to a smartphone, tablet and Apple Watch.
BCR Web makes working with long contact lists comfortable and efficient, while the mobile app digitalizes business cards in 25 languages, enables users to search, sort and group their contacts, exchange digital cards and export them to Excel and Salesforce, according to Ivan Bodyagin, vice president, Head of Text Recognition Products at ABBYY.
Due to the cross-platform synchronization, business cards digitized using the mobile app are instantly uploaded to the cloud storage, which is encrypted and protected to guarantee user security and privacy, he adds. To use ABBYY Business Card Reader's web client, open BCR's website, click Login and enter the email and password you used to synchronize your contacts with the cloud in the mobile app.
The web client works...
Mac compatible Photomatix Pro revved to version 6
HDRsoft (www.HDRsoft.com) has revved Photomatix Pro to version 6. It's the latest version of their Mac compatible software app that helps photography pros and enthusiasts create HDR (High Dynamic Range) photos in a large range of styles, from realistic to artistic.
Version 6 provides: more style choice for realistic results; more control over color; the ability to blend an original photo with the rendered image, either globally or by using a brush to select specific areas; a new distortion correction tool; and a more intuitive workflow.
Photomatix Pro 6 is available for $99 for a single-user license. Customers who purchased Photomatix Pro 5 will receive a free upgrade. Earlier versions of Photomatix Pro can be upgraded for $29.
Sonnet launches the eGFX Breakaway Box
Sonnet Technologies has announced the eGFX Breakaway Box (http://tinyurl.com/y73krnlq), a Thunderbolt 3-to-PCI Express (PCIe) expansion chassis with a single slot for connecting any size Thunderbolt-compatible PCIe card, including high-performance graphics (GPU) cards to a Thunderbolt 3-equipped computer.
The eGFX Breakaway Box is designed specifically for gamers and professionals who need to run bandwidth-intensive graphics applications on their eGFX-compatible notebook, all-in-one, or other small-form-factor computers, according to Sonnet CEO Robert Farnsworth. The company’s goal is to provide the quietest GPU card enclosure that is both affordable and supports the most popular graphics cards, he added.
Additionally, the eGFX Breakaway Box is Thunderbolt-certified for both Mac and Windows, enabling customers with PCIe cards such as the RED ROCKET-X and Avid Pro Tools | HDX to benefit from using this enclosure. With the eGFX Breakaway Box, smaller and lighter general-purpose...
Swift Playgrounds expands coding education to robots, drones,...
Apple today announced that Swift Playgrounds, a free iPad app to teach kids of any age basic coding skills in Swift, will soon offer a new way to learn to code using robots, drones and musical instruments.
Playgrounds is designed to teach basic programming concepts like loops and conditionals using an animated character that the budding programmers direct by writing code. The app offers suggestions for code to be used, and Swift Playgrounds also has a special iOS coding keyboard to ease entry of all of those pesky brackets. Swift Playgrounds is compatible with all iPad Air and iPad Pro models and iPad mini 2 and later running iOS 10 or later.
Apple says it's working with device makers to make it easy to connect to Bluetooth-enabled robots within the Swift Playgrounds app, allowing kids to program and control popular devices, including LEGO MINDSTORMS Education EV3, the Sphero SPRK+, Parrot drones and more. The Swift Playgrounds 1.5 update will be available as a free download on the...
Network Speed Tester apps released for all Apple devices
Lakehorn AG has introduced its full suite of Network Speed Tester apps (http://tinyurl.com/ycaqcq45) for all Apple devices. It lets users measure and visualize network and WiFi performance between Macs, iPhones, iPads and Apple TVs on the same network.
The Network Speed Tester apps can detect weak spots or bottlenecks on the local WiFi or wired network and can help improve overall network performance, according to the folks at Lakehorn AG. Results are displayed in a graph in realtime, so any change is visible immediately.
Network Speed Tester requires any two devices to operate. One device will act as the server using the server app (on iOS or tvOS) or the combined app on macOS. From the second device, the client app will connect to the server via bonjour and visualize the results.
Network Speed Tester apps require macOS 10.10 , iOS 9.0, and tvOS 9.0 or higher. Network Speed Tester for Mac is a $3.99 download available worldwide through the Mac App Store in the Utility category. The...
AKVIS releases Extreme Pack of picture frames
AKVIS (www.akvis.com) has released a new Extreme Pack for its Frames and ArtSuite apps that includes picture frames inspired by “adrenaline-charged lifestyle and passionate sportspeople living on the edge.” The collection includes 100 picture frames created by professional artists, 50 vertical and 50 horizontal templates.
On the Mac platform, the AKVIS products run on macOS 10.7 and higher. The Extreme Pack sells for $15.
Developer earnings from the App Store top $70 billion
Apple has announced that its global developer community has earned over $70 billion since the App Store launched in 2008. In the past 12 months alone, downloads have grown over 70%.
From breakout hits like Pokémon GO and Super Mario Run to other standout launches such as CancerAid, SPACE by THIX, Zones for Training with Exercise Intensity, Vanido, Ace Tennis and Havenly, customers discover and experience new apps and games every day on the App Store.
"People everywhere love apps and our customers are downloading them in record numbers," says Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “Seventy billion dollars earned by developers is simply mind-blowing. We are amazed at all of the great new apps our developers create and can’t wait to see them again next week at our Worldwide Developers Conference.”
He adds that since the release of iOS 10 last fall, iPhone and iPad users have also experienced new engaging and creative ways to connect, such as giving a...
HoudahSpot for macOS gets a speed boost
Houdah Software has released HoudahSpot 4.3 (https://www.houdah.com/houdahSpot/), a feature update to the file search tool for the Mac.
It combines file search features with a flexible results display and previews to help you find the right document, email message, photo or video file. Version 4.3 improves performance, adds easy file tagging from the contextual menu, offers better autocomplete on Finder tags in search and file tagging, as well as improved support for international character sets in text preview.
HoudahSpot 4.3 requires macOS 10.10 or higher. It costs $29 for a single user license. Upgrades from previous versions start at $17. HoudahSpot licenses purchased on or after November 1, 2014 remain valid for HoudahSpot 4.x. A demo is available for download.
SCOSCHE announces MagicMount Dash/Vent
SCOSCHE Industries (pronounced skōsh) has announced the MagicMount Dash/Vent. When combined with other MagicMount products, such as the MagicMount Wall Charger or MagicMount Pro Home/Office, the line offers a tangle-free system for mounting devices while at home, the office or on the road.
The 2-in-1 MagicMount Dash/Vent employs SCOSCHE’s MagicMount technology to mount a mobile device to a vehicle’s dash or most vent types. The MagicMount Dash/Vent base may be mounted to the dash; the MagicMount itself can be left in that position or removed and then moved to the vent by sliding the magnetic head off the base and sliding it onto the slats of the vent. The magnetic head may also be used as a kickstand on a hotel nightstand or airline tray.
MagicMount Dash/Vent base employs StickGrip material to hold the mount to the surface, while its soft touch, rubber lock-nut offers secure positioning and a four-axis adjustable angle to comfortably position a mobile device at any angle. The mount...
Matrox Mura IPX cards add support for third party graphics cards
Matrox (www.matrox.com) has announced that its Mura IPX line of capture, encode, decode, and display cards has been enhanced to allow even greater interoperability, with added support for third party graphics cards, DirectShow and the Linux operating system.
Designed for control rooms, digital signage, AV presentation and other applications requiring high-density capture, streaming, recording, decoding, displaying, and control, Mura IPX cards now fit seamlessly into every video wall system and operator workstation in-use or in design today, according to Fadhl Al-Bayaty, product manager, Matrox Graphics. Able to decode many streams of IP video, Mura IPX IP decoder cards can now process and pass this content directly to any in-system video card, taking advantage of each card’s unique display capabilities to offer users the ability to make the immersive experiences that work for them.
The need to capture, decode, process and/or encode video to further distribution is essential to modern...
Apple releases new developer betas of iOS 10.3.3, macOS 10.12.6...
Apple has released new developer betas of iOS 10.3.3, macOS 10.12.6, watchOS 3.2.3 and tvOS 10.2.2. They can be be downloaded from the Apple Developer Center.
First of three part video training series for FileMaker 16...
FileMaker author and trainer, John Mark Osborne, has released part one of a three part video training series for FileMaker 16. The videos are 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 John Mark 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 four for $120. For the next week, a 20% discount will be applied to part 1 for a final price of $40. To watch sample videos or purchase these videos,...
Brawlerz Nitro drives onto the Mac
Bail Enemy Jet! has rolled out Brawlerz Nitro 1.0 (http://www.brawlerznitro.com), an $14.99 arena combat game for macOS, Windows and Linux.
Here's how the game is described: “Brawlerz Nitro puts players in charge of insane nitrous-infused vehicles with everything a car needs, including weapons and explosives! Experience team combat with deathmatch and soccer game modes in high detailed combat arenas. Its standout features include a brilliantly colorful art style with support for split screen in both offline and online game modes.”
Designed as an eSports title, it has multiple game modes and is designed for both solo and team play. New features will be added in coming weeks.
Output Factory Server for Adobe InDesign improves preflight...
Zevrix Solutions has announced Output Factory Server 1.2.28, a feature update to company's output workflow automation tool for Adobe InDesign.
The utility automates printing and exporting from InDesign by processing files from hot folders. Output Factory Server can serve unlimited users on a network and offers layer versioning, preflighting, single page export and more. Version 1.2.28 improves handling of email alerts triggered by preflight errors and gives users easier access to the email templates settings.
Output Factory Server 1.2.28 can be purchased from the Zevrix website (www.zevrix.com) for $699.95. A demo is available for download. BatchOutput Server users can upgrade for $350. Output Factory Server requires macOS 10.7-10.12 and Adobe InDesign CS5-CC 2017.
MacTech, MacNews celebrate Memorial Day
MacTech and MacNews will be “closed” today in honor of Memorial Day, federal holiday in the U.S. for remembering the people who died while serving in the country's armed forces. Remember our veterans on this special day. And be safe
Troi releases Troi Serial Plug-in 5.0 for FileMaker Pro 16
Troi has released Troi Serial Plug-in 5.0 for FileMaker Pro. The plug-in gives FileMaker Pro access to external devices with a serial interface.
Version 5.0 is compatible with FileMaker Pro 16. It also adds a new Serial_GetPortInfo function that retrieves the status and other information of a serial port.
A fully functional demo version of Troi Serial Plug-in 5.0 is available for downloading at Troi's website (http://tinyurl.com/y8vv3ahr). A cross platform developer license costs $999.
Version 5.0 needs a new registration. The upgrade is free for users who bought a license for Troi Serial Plug-in on or after June 2, 2016. Eligible users will be sent a new registration. Upgrades from a cross platform developer license bought before June 2, 2016 are available from US$ 499.
Apple upgrades Final Cut Pro and iMovie
Apple has updated Final Cut Pro and iMovie, the (respectively) pro and consumer versions of its video editing software. Both upgrades are available via the Mac App Store.
Final Cut Pro 10.3.4 resolves a stability issue when using keyboard shortcuts to trim in Secondary Storylines. It also fixes an issue in which certain editing operations could create an extra audio fade in and fixes an issue in which the Share dialog could incorrectly display a codec warning. For new users the software costs $299.
iMovie 10.1.4 improves stability when updating libraries created with earlier versions of the software. It also addresses an issue that would lower the volume of clips after transitions. For new users iMovie costs $14.99.
Scripting Boot Camp added to CMD-D|Masters of Automation...
Sal Soghoian, host of the CMD-D Conference, has announced a pre-conference Scripting Boot Camp taught by Ray Robertson the day before the first CMD-D|Masters of Automation Conference.
Designed for those who are new to automation, the CMD-D Scripting Boot Camp takes place at the Santa Clara Convention Center on Aug. 8, which is the day before the CMD-D Conference (pronounced "Command-D") itself.
"Ray Robertson is the perfect person to lead CMD-D's Scripting Boot Camp," said Soghoian, conference co-founder and user-automation expert. "He's patient and gentle, inspiring and simply brilliant. If I were new to automation, he's who I'd want to teach me. I'm very excited to have him on board."
The CMD-D Scripting Boot Camp will feature a full day of hands-on instruction on AppleScript and scripting on the macOS. Attendees will come away with an understanding of how the core scripting architecture on macOS works, as well as a fundamental understanding of how to write AppleScript scripts, says...
IK Multimedia announces Syntronik for Mac/PC
IK Multimedia has introduced Syntronik (www.ikmultimedia.com/syntronik) a virtual synthesizer for Mac/PC that will be available in July 2017 and is now open for pre-order.
It includes 17 instruments, available as a collection or separately, with over 2,000 preset sounds covering a selection from 38 multi-sampled vintage synthesizers. Syntronik's synthesis engine is coupled with the new DRIFT technology to accurately reproduce the behavior of oscillators from real hardware synths. There are advanced features like 4-part layers, splits and arpeggiators.
Syntronik will be priced at $299.99 with a crossgrade version available for $199.99 (eligible to any registered IK users with a purchase of $99.99 or greater).The 17 instruments comprising Syntronik will also be available separately for $49.99 each upon release. Syntronik can be pre-ordered now at a special 50% discount introductory price of only $149.99 with crossgrade for $99.99.
Unmarked Software releases TextSoap 8.4 update
Unmarked Software has announced TextSoap 8.4, a feature update to its text processing and editing utility for macOS. The app processes text from endless different formats.
TextSoap serves to automate efforts to fix any text formatting issue that users encounter when working with text. Version 8.4 adds new current date expansion, support for literal characters in more actions, and addresses a number of issues reported by customers.
TextSoap 8.4 requires macOS 10.10 or later. It has a suggested retail price of $45. However, through May 31, it's available at a 35% discount ($29.24 for individual licenses and $42.24 for family packs). TextSoap 8.4 may be purchased directly from Unmarked Software. Discounted upgrades for existing customers are also available and may be purchased directly from Unmarked Software (www.unmarked.com). Prices for upgrades start at $22.
Apple launches app development curriculum
Apple has launched a new app development curriculum designed for students who want to pursue careers in the app economy. The curriculum is available as a free download from Apple's iBooks Store.
App Development with Swift is a full-year course designed by Apple engineers and educators to teach students elements of app design using its Swift programming language. Students will learn to code and design fully functional apps, gaining critical job skills in software development and information technology.
Starting this fall, six community college systems serving nearly 500,000 students across the country will be among the first to offer the innovative curriculum. At many campuses, local businesses will also offer students mentoring and internships.
“We’ve seen firsthand the impact that coding has on individuals and the US economy as a whole. The app economy and software development are among the fastest-growing job sectors in America and we’re thrilled to be providing educators and...
ImageFramer 4.0 adds new features for photographers and artists
Apparent Software has released ImageFramer ImageFramer 4.0, an update to its image framing application for macOS. It packs over 1,000 customizable frames and specialty borders.
Version 4.0 introduces dozens of improvements, including an Adobe Photoshop Lightroom plugin, batch processing, integration with Apple Photos, and the capability to export and import frames and design templates.
ImageFramer 4.0 is available in three pricing tiers: $29.95 for ImageFramer Lite, $39.95 for ImageFramer Standard, and $69.95 for ImageFramer Pro. All versions require macOS 10.11 or later. Demo versions are available at Apparent Software online (http://www.apparentsoft.com/imageframer).
QuarkXPress 2017 now available
Quark Software has released QuarkXPress 2017 (http://www.quark.com/Products/QuarkXPress/), the newest version of the company’s graphic design and desktop publishing software for professional print and digital production.
QuarkXPress 2017 introduces new graphics and image editing capabilities, such as non-destructive image editing, and extends text and typography features, such as text stroking and shading. The new version includes a range of the top user-requested features and continues to be sold as a perpetual license.
With QuarkXPress 2017, you can edit images by adjusting levels and curves, changing brightness and contrast, applying gamma correction and much more. All adjustments are non-destructive, so original images stay intact.
QuarkXPress 2017 supports the rapid conversion of print layouts into digital media or even from one print layout to another. Adaptive conversion lets designers duplicate a layout and automatically resize all design elements, even if the layout is...
CS Odessa announces ConceptDraw Plan 1.1
CS Odessa (www.conceptdraw.com) has announced ConceptDraw Plan 1.1, new version of its web-based project management tool. It’s designed to help improve a project team's communications.
Version 1.1 extends web functionality. It also improves the ability to integrate with ConceptDraw Project 8, a project management tool.
ConceptDraw Plan 1.1 retails for $119 for 20 participants. It supports all major web browsers. ConceptDraw Project 8 retails for $299 and is compatible with macOS and Microsoft Windows. ConceptDraw Project 8 is included in ConceptDraw Office 4, which retails for $499.
OWC ships new version of SoftRAID
OWC Holdings, a division of OWC, has launched SoftRAID 5.6, an upgrade of the RAID software featuring SoftRAID Easy Setup. The feature is designed to make it easy to create a RAID system (redundant array of independent disks) from scratch to keep your files protected against disk failure and achieve faster data access.
SoftRAID’s Easy Setup guides less technical users through the process of creating SoftRAID volumes, automating the process of configuring disks and making recommendations to help users setup their SoftRAID system. All users have to do is decide what the RAID volume will be used for and how much space to use (with hints from the application) -- SoftRAID Easy Setup does the rest.
Additional new features in SoftRAID include the ability to monitor USB and FireWire disks for failure and impending failure and translation to Simplified Chinese (for both the application and documentation), in addition to the 5 other languages SoftRAID already supports: English, French,...
Belkin releases new Pocket Power portable power bank
Belkin has released the Pocket Power, a compact, portable power bank that comes in 5,000 and 10,000 mAh sizes and in black, rose gold and silver. A 15,000 mAh model will be available in black only.
Featuring fast-charging capability and polymer battery cell technology, the new battery packs are lighter, thinner and equipped to charge multiple devices at an affordable price point, according to Marco Peters, vice president of product management. It has built-in safety features, a micro-USB port for charging battery pack, a six-inch micro-USB cable, four LED indicators that display the remaining power level, and a plastic casing.
The Pocket Power 5,000 mAh is available today for a manufacturer’s retail price of $29.99 online (http://www.belkin.com/us/p/p-F7U019/) and at Target in the U.S. and Walmart in Canada. The Pocket Power 10,000 mAh and 15,000 mAh will be available this summer.
Joyoshare rolls out Media Cutter 1.0 for macOS
Joyoshare Software (http://www.joyoshare.com) has introduced Media Cutter 1.0, a smart video splitting tool for Macs and Windows systems. It allows you to cut, edit and convert videos as well as audio in seconds with lossless quality.
Media Cutter was specifically developed for cutting and trimming large videos and audio from any popular format to smaller footage without any quality loss. It also allows you convert video footage to any other format, such as M4V, MP4, AVI, MPG, MPEG, MP3, AAC, AC3, WAV, etc., as well as transfer split videos and audio to multiple ready-presets of devices such as the iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Samsung Galaxy S and other Android devices and game consoles.
Media Cutter 1.0 costs $29.95 and requires macOS 10.12 or higher. A free demo is available that provides five opportunities for any user to cut and convert videos and audios for free. On the Mac platform, it’s compatible with macOS 10.8 and higher.
XwaveSoft introduces SurfPro VPN 1.0 for the Mac
XwaveSoft (www.xwavesoft.com) has introduced SurfPro VPN 1.0, a secure VPN client/service for macOS. It allows Mac users to keep their personal data, identity, location, and other confidential information cloaked from hackers via the app's anonymity tools.
SurfPro also allows you access websites and Internet services that are normally blocked in your country. The software routes its protected Internet traffic via any one of over 300 proxy servers, stationed in over 50 locations around the globe.
A demo is available for download. If you decide to continue with the SurfPro VPN service, there’s a choice of subscription plans. Options range from $3.99 per month, up to $49.99 for a three-year subscription. All SurfPro VPN subscriptions allow users to access the service on up to five Macs or iOS devices.
You can download SurfPro VPN at the Mac App Store. It requires macOS 10.10 or higher.
Nokia and Apple settle all litigation
Nokia and Apple announced today that they have settled all litigation related to their intellectual property dispute and agreed a multi-year patent license.
“This is a meaningful agreement between Nokia and Apple,” said Maria Varsellona, chief legal Officer at Nokia, responsible for Nokia’s patent licensing business. “It moves our relationship with Apple from being adversaries in court to business partners working for the benefit of our customers.”
Under a business collaboration agreement, Nokia will be providing certain network infrastructure product and services to Apple. Apple will resume carrying Nokia digital health products (formerly under the Withings brand) in Apple retail and online stores, and Apple and Nokia are exploring future collaboration in digital health initiatives. Regular summits between top Nokia and Apple executives will ensure that the relationship works effectively and to the benefit of both parties and their customers.
“We are pleased with this resolution of...
eMerge Americas 2017 Hackathon starts June 10
The eMerge Americas 2017 Hackathon starts June 10. Leading up to the event, eMerge Americas, the technology conference connecting revolutionary startups, cutting-edge ideas, and global industry leaders and investors from Latin America, North America and Europe, announced that the Hackathon will be back during its fourth edition to highlight some of the brightest tech talent and most promising startups in South Florida.
The official eMerge Americas Hackathon runs Saturday, June 10, 8 a.m. until Sunday, June 11, 2 p.m. The event, sponsored by Visa and Celebrity Cruises, attracted more than 125 coders last year and is expected to be even more exciting this year. The Hackathon presents an opportunity for computer programmers and other software development professionals to openly collaborate in a creatively-fueled environment.
There will be two types of teams; company organized teams, and team made up of individuals. The top scoring teams will receive up to $6,000 in cash and prizes. The...
Caboodle personal snippet manager is available in the Mac App...
Before Dawn Solutions (http://www.beforedawnsolutions.com) says Caboodle 2.0.2, the company's personal snippet manager now on the Mac App Store. It requires macOS 10.10 or later and costs $19.99.
The app provides a single place to store, organize, and find useful tidbits of text, images, PDFs, and more. Version 2.0.2 sports such new features as multiple document windows, Spotlight search, a new high performance file format, and more.
Nongünz game now out on the Mac
Sindiecate Arts has released Nongünz on Steam (http://tinyurl.com/jw2pafo) for macOS, Windows and Linux. It's a $6.99 “gothic retro” game.
Here’s how it's described: “The game is a puzzle in itself, a secret to be discovered. Each run has you fighting through a procedurally-generated dungeon filled with hordes of monsters made from human limbs and giblets. Build up your score by executing stylish combos and spend the rewards on your expanding band of lost souls and death cultists.
“As you advance, fill your graveyard base with praying cultists, self-scourging martyrs and somber gravediggers. Use their special shops including shops, slot machines, dungeon shortcuts and special skills.
“Each player can give their interpretation of the game, beyond the reflection that Brainwash Gang invites us on the inherent attractiveness of violence.”
Comm-Unity Networking Systems releases CNS Barcode 2.5
Comm-Unity Networking Systems has released CNS Barcode 2.5, the second CNS Plug-in to gain Script Steps under FileMaker 16.
This version also includes updates from other CNS Plug-ins. Like its sibling product, CNS Barcode for iOS, this plug-in can both scan and generate barcodes. CNS Barcode can scan JPEG or PNG images containing barcodes or it can use an attached webcam to scan any barcodes held up to the camera.
Barcode formats you can scan include Codabar, Code 3 of 9 (Code 39), Code 3 of 9 Ext. (Code 39+), Code 93, Code 128, DataBar-14, DataBar-14 Stacked, EAN 2, EAN 5, EAN 8, EAN 13, EAN 14, EAN 128, Interleaved 2 of 5, ISBN, QR Code, UPC A, and UPC E. Barcode formats you can generate include all the formats you can scan plus Data Matrix, HIBC Data Matrix, USPS OneCode, PDF417, and PostNET.
CNS Barcode version 2.5 is available immediately at http://cnsbarcode.cnsplug-ins.com/ for both macOS and Windows. A demo is available for download.
If you purchased CNS Barcode any time from...
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War III coming to the Mac on June 8
Feral Interactive (www.feralinteractive.com) has announced that Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War III, the latest episode in Relic Entertainment’s real-time strategy series, will be released for macOS and Linux on Thursday, June 8.
In Dawn of War III's 17-mission campaign, players alternately command the Space Marines, the savage Orks, and the technologically-sophisticated Eldar as the warring factions fight for the Spear of Khaine, a mysterious weapon that will determine the fates of all three. Massive armies and devastating elite units engage in tactical battles where the key to victory lies in taking advantage of each unit’s unique abilities to outwit, then overpower, the enemy.
Dawn of War III’s multiplayer mode features matches in which two teams of up to three players per side battle for supremacy. The macOS and Linux versions of the game on Steam will be cross-platform compatible with each other.
Dawn of War III will be available through the Feral Store and Steam for $59.99 and at...
24U Software releases 24U Toolbox Plug-In 2.0.3
24U Software (http://www.24usoftware.com/), a FileMaker solutions provider, has announced 24U Toolbox Plug-In 2.0.3, an update to their data processing extension for FileMaker Pro.
It's designed to help FileMaker developers in their daily work by providing a solid toolbox of the most commonly needed simple but powerful functions. Version 2.0.3 removes limit of number of system scripts performed in single session, offers more precise error code handling, and much more.
The plug-in is fully compatible with FileMaker Pro 12, 13, 14 and 15, and with FileMaker Server 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 on macOS 10.10 or higher.
24U Toolbox Plug-In 2.0.3 is immediately available for download as a free fully functional, 14-day, trial version, which can be activated after purchasing a license code. This update is free of charge for all registered users of 24U Toolbox Plug-In 1.x or 24U FM Bench.
A license for one user is $49. A server-side license is available for $499 and covers unlimited server-side...
Google Assistant for iOS available at the Apple App Store
The Google Assistant for iOS is now available at the Apple App Store for free. To get started, press the mic icon or start typing. Some things your Assistant — a Siri competitor — can help with:
Make quick phone calls (e.g. "Call Mom.")
Send text messages (e.g. "Text my bestie.")
Send emails (e.g. "Email your boss the latest TPS report.")
Set reminders (e.g. "Remind me to buy a birthday gift for Sarah.")
Set calendar events (e.g. "Set a calendar event for dinner with Charlie tomorrow from 7-9.")
Play music (e.g. "Play Jazz music on Youtube.")
Navigate to places (e.g. "Get me directions home.")
Ask it anything (e.g. "Will I need an umbrella today?”)
You can't replace Siri with Google Assistant. And you’ll have to open the app in order to use it.
Apple releases first public beta of iOS 10.3.3
Apple has posted the first public beta of iOS 10.3.3. It contains, as best I can tell, mostly bug fixes and minor tweaks.
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.
Sonnet launches SF3Series — CFast 2.0 Pro Card Reader
Sonnet Technologies (www.sonnettech.com) has launched the SF3 Series — CFast 2.0 Pro Card Reader, the first in a new family of professional media readers that feature a 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 interface.
The Sonnet reader employs dual card slots to take advantage of the bandwidth Thunderbolt 3 offers. The CFast 2.0 Pro Reader van ingest files simultaneously from two cards at concurrent data transfer speeds up to 1,000 MB/s — more than double the average ingest speed of USB 3.0 card readers, says Sonnet CEO Robert Farnsworth.
Measuring 5.75 x 3.5 x 1 inches, the compact CFast 2.0 Pro Card Reader's shell is made from extruded aluminum. The reader features a user-replaceable, captive 0.5-meter Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) cable with USB-C connector. It’s bus-powered so no power adapter is required.
Sonnet's SF3 Series — CFast 2.0 Pro Card Reader is expected to be available May 22 with an manufacturer’s suggested retail pride of $199.
AKVIS releases OilPaint 6.0 for macOS
AKVIS (www.akvis.com) has released AKVIS OilPaint 6.0, and update of the photo-to painting software for macOS and Winows. The new version offers users the freedom to generate abstract style paintings full of shapes and color.
On the Mac platform, the software requires macOS 10.7 or higher. The product is available as a standalone application and as a Photoshop plugin filter.
AKVIS OilPaint 6.0 Home sells for $49, the Deluxe version for $69, and the Business for $89. 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 is not valid for the new version, can get OilPaint 6.0 for $14.95. A demo is available for download.
ChartIQ introduces an HTML5 desktop framework
ChartIQ (www.chartiq.com), which specializes in HTML5 for capital markets, has launched Finsemble, which it says is the first HTML5 desktop application framework, providing modern user experience (UX) APIs, drop-in components, and the ability to integrate legacy .NET, and Java alongside HTML5.
Clients can use Finsemble to deliver proprietary content and data, along with content from ChartIQ and other third-party providers. Built on top of OpenFin’s common operating layer for financial desktops, Finsemble provides the tools for financial institutions and technology providers to assemble new and existing components into bespoke desktop applications.
Finsemble provides core desktop functionality such as window and workspace management, snapping and docking, component linking, event routing, storage, authentication, and data feed management. A range of pre-built components including charting, blotters, chat, news, and market data widgets are available from ChartIQ and an ecosystem of...
Matrox Mura IPX 4K IP Multiviewer available
Matrox Graphics (www.matrox.com/graphics) has announced the immediate availability of the $4,999 Matrox Mura IPX 4K IP decode and display card.
The new PCI Express card offers H.264 decoding of two 4Kp60, four 4Kp30, eight 1080p60, sixteen 1080p30 or many more SD streams. It sports four DisplayPort outputs at resolutions up to 4K per display. The standalone card is a uniquely "system-free" card, making for an energy efficient and versatile solution available in all environments a multiviewer is required, says said Fadhl Al-Bayaty, product manager, Matrox Graphics.
Apple releases four new developer betas
Apple has new developer betas of iOS 10.3.3, watchOS 3.2.3, tvOS 10.2.2, and macOS Sierra 10.12.6. They can be be downloaded from the Apple Developer Center.
CS Odessa announces Logistic Dashboard addition to ConceptDraw...
CS Odessa (www.conceptdraw.com) has released a new addition to the ConceptDraw Solution Park for ConceptDraw Pro: the Logistic Dashboard Solution, a complement to the Logistics Flow Chart Solution.
The Logistic Dashboard solution ($49) extends ConceptDraw PRO functionality to quickly build dashboards that display Key Performance Indicators (KPI) of a company’s products or services. The solution provides a collection of predesigned vector logistic symbols, pictograms, objects, and clipart suitable for creation of Logistics Dashboards that reflect the logistics activities and processes of an enterprise or firm. The solution can depict a company’s supply chain, logistics planning, and the stages of goods movement from the seller to buyer.
ConceptDraw Pro 11 is compatible with macOS and Microsoft Windows. It’s included in ConceptDraw Office 4, which retails for $499.
FontAgent delivers object-based font server
Insider Software (www.insidersoftware.com) has announced FontAgent Server 7, which it says is “the world's only object-based font server and the most advanced solution for organizing, optimizing, distributing and tracking font collections.”
It's built on FontFlex technology, which brings object-based font management performance, scalability, flexibility, power and simplicity to organizations of any size. It integrates the basic objects of font management--fonts, sets, users, groups, font licenses and directories--into a firm foundation for enterprise font management, according to Insider Software.
Admins then invite users, and import and assign fonts. FontAgent Server does the rest, making sure that everyone gets the fonts they're supposed to have, and that the organization stays in compliance. To ease administration, admins can define sets of fonts and organize users into role, team or project-based groups.
FontAgent Server 7 is available via cloud subscription or on-premise...
KeyCue 8.4 offers improved compatibility with macOS Sierra
Ergonis Software (www.ergonis.com) has released KeyCue 8.4, a new version of the company's keyboard shortcut cheat sheet.
It displays an instant overview of the currently available keyboard shortcuts; application-specific menu shortcuts as well as system-wide hotkeys and user-defined shortcut descriptions. Version 8.4 improves compatibility with macOS Sierra and offers enhanced compatibility with third-party products and overall stability.
KeyCue 8.4 requires macOS 10.6 or newer. The upgrade is free for anyone who owns a license for KeyCue 8 or purchased a license for KeyCue 7 on or after March 1, 2015. Upgrade paths are available for owners of older licenses. For new users, the price is $19.99. A demo is available for download.
Sal Soghoian to host CMD-D: Masters of Automation Conference
Sal Soghoian has announced the first-ever CMD-D: Masters of Automation Conference (pronounced “Command-D") on Wednesday, Aug 9, in Santa Clara, California. It’s for anyone who uses automation, creates automation or develops software. Registration is now underway (http://www.cmddconf.com).
CMD-D is designed for anyone who uses automation, creates automation or develops software. Attendees will learn about powerful automation capabilities hiding in plain sight, user-friendly Automator power-tricks, the latest developments for cutting-edge dual-platform automation for macOS and iOS, and more. For those who are new to automation, a Scripting Boot Camp is also being planned for Aug. 8.
"I'm really excited about CMD-D," says Soghoian, conference co-founder and user-automation expert. "For the past twenty years, I've met and taught great people, doing amazing things with Apple's automation technologies. Bringing everyone together can only lead to even more creative solutions and...
