DF Mixer Pro for Mac gets advanced search function, more
DJMixersoft (http://www.DJMixersoft.com) -- which specializes in DJ
mixing and digital music technologies -- has released version 3.6.5 of DJ Mixer
Professional for Mac, an US$99.95 DJ solution for amateur and
professional DJs alike.
The new version has an advanced search function, with BPM, year and key filters allowing for easier mixing. It also supports keys in Circle of Fifths or compatible formats and the MIDI buffering has been re-implemented with a major stability improvement. With 20 new controllers in this version.
DJ Mixer Pro enables you to mix digital music in various formats such as MP3, M4A, WMA, AAC, OGG, WAV or AIFF in real time. You can also mix video clips together with audios. The program has BPM detection that will help you synchronize your tracks.
DJ Mixer Professional integrates with your iTunes library. It's compatible with Mac OS X 10.9 or higher. A 30-day demo is available for download.
App Tamer for Mac OS X gets a refined user interface
St. Clair Software (http://www.stclairsoft.com/) has introduced an upgrade (2.0.3) to App Tamer, its Mac utility that manages applications to deliver more efficient CPU usage and increased battery life. This version addresses several performance issues, as well as refining App Tamer's user interface.
App Tamer comes pre-configured to automatically manage Safari, Firefox, Chrome, Spotlight, Time Machine, Word and many other apps when they're in the background. You can customize it for other apps, as well.
App Tamer will operate on any Mac running Mac OS X 10.7 or higher. You can try App Tamer free for 15 days. A license to continue using it after the trial period is US$14.95. Users of App Tamer 2.x can upgrade to version 2.0.3 for free. Users of earlier versions can upgrade for $7.95.
Deliver Express for Mac OS X gets maintenance upgrade
Zevrix Solutions (http://www.zevrix.com) has announced Deliver Express 2.4.4, a maintenance update to its solution to automatically send and share files across the Internet and local networks on the Mac. The new version addresses an issue that could prevent email from being sent via certain SMTP servers.
Deliver Express processes files from watched hot folders and can serve multiple users on a network while running totally unattended. It offers e-mail notifications, multi-destination delivery, file compression, detailed history and much more. The new version allows users to transfer uncompressed folders to FTP and SFTP servers.
Deliver Express can be purchased from the Zevrix website as well as from authorized resellers. The license prices are based on the maximum number of allowed destinations and range from US$29.95 to $299.95. The update is free for licensed customers. A demo is available for download. Deliver Express requires Mac OS X 10.5 or higher.
SubEthaEdit anticipates Yosemite's translucent interface...
The Coding Monkeys have updated SubEthaEdit
(http://www.codingmonkeys.de/subethaedit/), a text editor for Mac OS
X, to version 4.0.1. The upgrade anticipates some of OS X Yosemite's translucent user interface features.
SubEthaEdit 4.0.1 — available at the Mac App Store, as well as from The Coding Monkeys — also a fixes some bugs.
SubEthaEdit's tabbed window interface helps to reduce window clutter
by grouping documents in a single window with a tab bar, according to
the Coding Monkeys. Tabs include keyboard access, and support
drag-and-drop to tear off, recombine and sort individual tabs.
However, the traditional multi window interface is still fully
supported.
SubEtha 4.0.1 is a free update for registered users of version 4.x. For new users the cost is US$29.99. It requires Mac OS X 10.9 or higher.
Black Box introduces stackable locker system for mobile devices
Black Box Corp. has expanded its portfolio of storage and charging solutions for mobile devices with a new "pay as you grow" stackable locker system. Called the iPad, Chromebook, Tablet, and Laptop Lockers, these configurable, stackable lockers feature the company’s signature IT cabinet design.
They can accommodate standard 19-inch rack IT equipment in addition to all sizes of tablets and other mobile devices. The Black Box stackable locker system allows customers to purchase what they need today with the flexibility to stack additional lockers up as they add devices, according to the folks at Black box. The stackable configuration ensures that the footprint remains small.
The system is designed for any environment where mobile or e-learning devices are stored: K-12 institutions, training environments, restaurants for wait staff to place wireless orders, airlines for digital flight and maintenance manuals, and medical professionals who use devices at the point of care for patient...
ZooGue announces three new iPad cases
ZooGue has announced three new iPad cases, including a redesigned Case Prodigy made for iPad Air and iPad mini. The redesigned cases are approximately 40% thinner, 25% lighter and have an additional angle added for extra convenience.
The Thin iPad mini and Air Case Prodigy Elite (pictured) are designed to provide enhanced protection by encompassing the tablet in a plastic shell protecting the corners from harm. With the addition of the shell, the tablet is also free of any obstruction to the bezel of the tablets. Considering the redesigned cases will still provide the same stable and secure use of the magnetic kickstand, and allow access to all buttons and ports, ZooGue believes these cases will offer unsurpassed benefits that competitor cases do not provide, says Tim Angel, owner of ZooGue.
In keeping with the idea of updating designs, the company will also offer a three-ring binder case for the iPad Air. This case sports a nylon exterior with microfiber interior case. It fits into...
iHealth blood glucose monitor works with iPhones
iHealth Lab Inc. has launched the iHealth Align, a FDA-approved mobile blood glucose monitor. The meter plugs directly into a smart phone such as the iPhone and displays and stores readings using the iHealth Gluco-Smart app.
By displaying readings directly on the phone screen, iHealth was able to shrink the device size to just slightly larger than the circumference of a quarter. The compact size and mobile sync capability make iHealth Align a small and powerful new tool for diabetes management, says Adam Lin, president of iHealth Lab. The iHealth Align plugs directly into the headphone jack of a user's smart phone and works with both iPhone and Android phones.
The readings are automatically displayed and logged using the free iHealth Gluco-Smart mobile application. Through the app, users can manage their readings, track insulin and easily share info with caregivers and supporters. Since all the data is automatically sent to the cloud, users can view their information from anywhere...
AlertBoot integrates OS X FileVault 2 to its service
AlertBoot Data Security (http://www.alertboot.com) has integrated into its cloud-based laptop disk encryption and smart device management console the ability to deploy and control FileVault 2 full disk encryption on Macs.
With this latest addition, clients of the managed encryption provider are able to protect and manage, via a single web-based console, Windows-based computers, Macs, iPhones, iPads, and Android OS-based smart phones and tablets, says Tim Maliyil, founder and CEO of AlertBoot. The latest AlertBoot addition makes use of FileVault 2, Apple's FIPS 140-2 compliant FDE software included with OS X versions Lion (10.7) and upwards.
Using the encryption software native to all modern Macs, AlertBoot is able to:
° Remotely wipe encrypted machines.
° Back up encryption keys to the AlertBoot cloud, preventing the loss of data and preparing for other contingencies.
° Allow multiple users to share the same encrypted computer with their own unique passwords.
° Provide cloud-based...
Intuit reimagines QuickBooks online ecosystem for Mac users
Intuit Inc. has announced the availability of the new QuickBooks app for Mac. The company says it brings the power and benefits of the QuickBooks Online ecosystem to Mac users.
The QuickBooks app for Mac is the newest addition to the QuickBooks Online ecosystem, the cloud accounting solution for small businesses. Now Mac users have the option to leverage QuickBooks’ design with an app they can access through the Mac menu bar that gives small businesses and accountants access to a robust, open platform that works for them anytime, anywhere, says Dan Wernikoff, senior vice president and general manager of Intuit’s Small Business Group.
The app has the option to not only use the new app but iPhone and iPad apps to ensure businesses always have access to their important business data. Through just one QuickBooks Online account, a business can access and interact with its data from a computer, iPhone, or iPad. The app automatically syncs data between devices and users, so small businesses...
QuickerTek brings 802.11AC Wireless to MacBook Air, MacBook Pro
802.11ac wireless has come to the Apple MacBook Air and Pro laptops thanks to QuickerTek's new US$149 QCard 2, which replaces the stock wireless card.
It goes in the standard wireless card socket, so users don't sacrifice a USB or other external connection port. Any MacBook Pro or Air running MacOS X 10.8.4 and a PCIe bus (which includes most newer MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models) is a candidate. Users without a PCIe bus may substitute the QuickerTek acNano USB external antenna.
The QCard2 package comes with instructions; additional instructions are also available on the QuickerTek website (http://www.quickertek.com/). The QCard2 also comes with all the tools necessary to install the upgrade.
The QCard2 is currently part of a money-saving bundle. For a limited time, the acHex 6-antenna upgraded Apple Base Station or Apple Time Capsule is bundled with the QCard2.
BatchOutput PDF now available on the Mac App Store
Zevrix Solutions (www.zevrix.com) says BatchOutput PDF, its PDF printing automation solution, is now available on Mac App Store for US$14.99. It requires Mac OS X 10.7 or higher.
The software processes PDF files from watched hot folders eliminating the need to open and print each document manually. Once users drop PDFs into hot folders, the files will be printed automatically using the assigned output settings.
Users can create print presets for selected print settings and assign them to hot folders. For example, they can make hot folders for color and black-and-white printers, specific paper sizes, duplex modes, various color profiles and other controls.
BatchOutput PDF Server is available for $79.99 from Zevrix and the Mac App Store. A demo is available for download from the Zevrix website.
Smart Qi Power introduces wireless charger system for iPads
Smart Qi Power (www.smartqipower.com) is introducing the 3DOM iTablet — thin wireless charger kits for the Apple iPad 4, iPad Air or iPad mini.
According to the company, the 3DOM iTablet is the first wireless charger system that adds wireless charging capability to the latest Apple tablets without a special sleeve or extra weight. There are two components: the 3DOM Power sticker and the Triangle charging stand with three coils. Both have matching 1-Amp charging rates.
The 3DOM Power sticker takes a few seconds to plug into the Lightning connector and attach to the back of the iPad and can be unplugged easily if needed. The 1-Amp charging rate is needed to keep up with the larger batteries. It's thinner than a credit card, and stays in place under any non-metallic case (up to 5 mm thick) or smart cover. It connects wirelessly with the matching Triangle charging stand.
The Triangle charging stand allows iTablet enabled iPads or any Qi compatible phone or tablet to be charged in a...
OKIDOKEYS Smartlocks to integrate with iOS 8
With Apple's recent announcement of the fall 2014 release of iOS 8 and HomeKit to improve the way connected devices can be managed, OKIDOKEYS (www.OKIDOKEYS.com) says its suite of products, including SmartLocks, will seamlessly integrate with new Apple software.
With the HomeKit software platform. Apple is, in essence, making it easier for home automation devices, like OKIDOKEYS, to integrate its apps' functionality with iOS devices like iPhones, iPads and iPods. This improved integration will allow for more efficient control of door locking, light dimming and other home automation functions via iOS devices, says Pascal Metivier, OKIDOKEYS founder and CEO.
OKIDOKEYS provide a way to lock and unlock your home doors, using any Bluetooth-enabled smartphone, with the free OKIDOKEYS app. The SmartLocks can be installed in a few minutes on existing deadbolt, Metivier says.
The Secret Society-Hidden Mystery comes to the Mac App Store
G5 Entertainment (http://www.g5e.com) and MyTona have released The Secret Society - Hidden Mystery game for free on the Mac App Store.
Here's how the game is described: "In The Secret Society - Hidden Mystery you join the Order of Seekers, a secret society of people with a unique ability to move inside magic worlds. You travel through photographs in search for clues to unravel the mystery behind the disappearance of your missing uncle and remove the dangers threatening the entire Secret Society.
"You will look for myriad of clues in photographs you move within. These clues, if gathered together with others, will expand even further the world you're traveling and serve to help you unravel the mysteries you're tasked with. Some of these puzzles are harder than others."
Apple: we've received no selective tax treatment from Irish...
The European Commission plans to open a formal investigation into Apple, Starbucks and Fiat in relation to tax arrangements with three EU countries, notes the "BBC" (http://tinyurl.com/qbgfmbd). The firms' respective arrangements with Ireland, the Netherlands and Luxembourg will be investigated.
However, Apple says it's not received any selective tax treatment from the Irish authorities after European Union state aid regulators opened an investigation into the issue.
"We have received no selective treatment from Irish officials. Apple is subject to the same tax laws as scores of other international companies doing business in Ireland," the company told "Reuters" (http://tinyurl.com/prwsksz) in a statement.
Dev Interview: Oleksandr MacPaw, Kosovan
TUAW and MacTech are once again teaming up to interview developers surrounding Apple's announcements at WWDC. Hear what they have to say.
Introduction
We'd like to welcome our guest, Oleksandr Kosovan, CEO at MacPaw. MacPaw develops products for Mac, iOS, and Oleksandr took some time to tell us about WWDC and how it impacts the company.
What were you most excited about hearing in Apple's recent announcements?
The biggest things we're excited about are Home Kit and iBeacon. Even though they're not directly related to our business, they open a whole new layer of possibilities for smart home devices.
But there are couple of more things which we found pretty exciting:
iCloud drive -- we hope iCloud finally will work as it was supposed to and that our users will benefit from it.
Touch ID APIs -- finally we have it!
What does your company do?
MacPaw Inc.
We're a fresh, independent software development company located in Kyiv, Ukraine. We specialize in software development using the...
ChronoSync 4.5 for Mac OS X adds Document Organizer, more
Econ Technologies has updated ChronoSync to version 4.5, an update of the automated synchronization and backup application for Mac OS X that can synchronize, backup, and create bootable backups. The upgrade includes an all new Document Organizer, support for Apple’s Notification Center, 64-bit performance, and over 100 additional new features.
Along with existing email alerts, you can now choose to have your sync and backup results posted directly to your desktop as Notifications. ChronoSync is now a 64-bit app, allowing access to more memory and the use of more advanced APIs and system technologies. Virtually all icons and supplemental artwork in ChronoSync 4.5 have been optimized for Retina displays giving ChronoSync a new, cleaner look. Version 4.5 also includes performance increases across the board when running bootable backups, scanning files, opening and closing ChronoSync documents, and when communicating with ChronoAgent.
For new users the cost is US$40. A demo is available...
MegaSeg DJ optimized for latest versions of Mac OS X
Fidelity Media has updated MegaSeg (www.megaseg.com/), the DJ mixing app and broadcast automation system made especially for Mac, to version 5.9.3. The upgrade features optimizations for the latest versions of Mac OS X. It also adds support for Numark’s Mixtrack Edge controller, 16 channel audio devices, and improved iTunes playlist subfolders.
MegaSeg Pro provides features for pro DJs and VJs, radio and TV stations, and hospitality businesses such as restaurants and hotels. The Pro edition incorporates video playback for ambient visuals, hot keys for instant sound effects, automated music scheduling, ad messaging events, track separation rules, request lists, and more. The DJ edition offers features including visual beat syncing, headphone outputs for preview, MIDI support, automatic volume control, fast category searching, track logging, integrated iTunes playlists and protected audio playback.
MegaSeg 5.9.3 DJ and Pro editions are available from MegaSeg.com for US$99 and $199...
LaCie ships new dual-disk RAID solution
LaCie (www.lacie.com) has announced the availability of what it says is the fastest dual-disk RAID solution on the market — the LaCie 2big. Now with Thunderbolt 2 technology, the LaCie 2big delivers speeds of up to 420MB/second.
The LaCie 2big also offers up to 12TB of capacity and hardware RAID. Itfeatures front-loading disks, disk status LEDs, near-silent heat dissipation, a "secret" door for cable management, and hardware RAID protection — all enclosed in a Neil Poulton design.
The LaCie 2big is the first dual-disk product to ship with Thunderbolt 2 and USB 3.0. It's available in 6, 8 or 12TB capacities through LaCie Resellers starting at US$599.
NEC adds flagship, 30-inch display to its line-up
NEC Display Solutions of America has announced the MultiSync EA 304WMi (http://tinyurl.com/qz26jhq), a 30-inch monitor addition to its premium business desktop portfolio. It sports WQXGA (2560 x 1600) resolution LED-backlit model and built-in speakers.
The widescreen model features IPS panel technology with wide viewing angles (178° horizontal/vertical), touch-sensitive menu controls and ergonomic adjustability. The LED backlighting of the 16:10 aspect ratio EA304WMi allows for a slimmer profile, lighter weight and increased power savings compared to previous generation models, according to Art Marshall, product manager for Professional and Medical Displays at NEC.
For workstations with multiple displays, ControlSync technology lets users control the settings for up to six MultiSync EA Series displays. Users are able to adjust power, brightness, volume and many other settings of the multi-monitor setup in unison through the master monitor.
The MultiSync EA304WMi ships with a...
Munin, a Norse mythology-based puzzle game, launches on the Mac
Munin, Odin's faithful raven, starts its journey through the nine realms of Yggdrasil to find its lost wings in a new 2D puzzle platformer (http://tinyurl.com/pfr5qmq) for Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux systems. It costs US$9.99.
Here's how the game is described: "In Munin, players enter a fantastic world of the legends of the Norse gods, because the raven Munin is one of the two loyal messengers of Odin, the father of the gods. But due to a capricious prank by Loki, he has been transformed into a little human girl, and its feathers have been scattered across the nine worlds of Yggdrasil. The players’ task is to find the feathers and restore the raven to his true form."
Jumsoft's Inspiration Set updated with 43 new templates for...
Jumsoft (http://www.jumsoft.com) has updated its range of templates for Apple's Pages. The latest version of the Inspiration Set application includes 43 new designs, adding up to 350 templates for a variety of document types.
Most elements in the Inspiration Set can be edited. Stock images can be replaced with users' own photos or pictures. All templates are available in both paper size A4 and U.S. Letter.
The Jumsoft templates require Mac OS X 10.6.6 or later and Pages 5.0 or higher. Inspiration Set 2.9 costs US$19.99 and is available worldwide through the Mac App Store in the Graphics & Design category. The app is also available on the Jumsoft website with more information and design samples.
PDFpen for Mac OS X gets Text-to-Speech support, more
Smile (http://www.smilesoftware.com) has rolled out PDFpen 6.1.3, an update to its all-purpose PDF editing tool for OS X. The update adds Text-to-Speech support and improves support for VoiceOver and Accessibility in several areas.
The changes in PDFpen 6.1.3 have also been made in PDFpenPro 6.1.3, the pro version that can also convert websites into PDFs, automatically create fillable PDF forms, and construct document table of contents. PDFpen 6.1.3 works with PDFpen for iPad and PDFpen for iPhone, allowing editing across devices when used with iCloud or Dropbox storage. Users who wish to use iCloud must purchase PDFpen 6 from the Mac App Store. (Apple restricts iCloud access to applications purchased via the Mac App Store.)
PDFpen retails for US$59.95, and PDFpenPro for $99.95. Family pack licenses, which cover up to five computers in one household, are $74.95 for PDFpen and $119.95 for PDFpenPro. Office pack licenses, which cover up to five users in an office, are $179.95 for PDFpen...
EverWeb for Mac OS X gets enhancements to Image Gallery, more
RAGE Software has revved EverWeb, a website designer for the Mac, to version 1.4. The new version adds enhancements to the Image Gallery, Navigation Menu, Image Slider, Facebook, and HTML Snippet widgets.
EverWeb builds on the ease of use of Apple's discontinued iWeb website tool. Using modern HTML5 and CSS3, EverWeb websites are faster, leaner and compatible with all major desktop and mobile web browsers, according to the folks at RAGE Software.
With EverWeb, you can use one of the professionally designed templates or start a website from scratch. Built-in widgets let you add design shapes, social media integration, image galleries, image slideshows, contact forms and more. The built-in HTML Snippet widget lets you add just about anything to your EverWeb site.
EverWeb comes in two versions. A standalone version that can be used with any web hosting service costs US$79.95 USD. EverWeb can also be purchased with one-click publishing that includes the software, web hosting, and custom...
CS Odessa announces new basketball solution in ConceptDraw...
CS Odessa (http://www.conceptdraw.com) has added to the ConceptDraw Solution Park to enhance ConceptDraw Pro 9.5 and greater. Introduced is a new set of libraries that provides a complete basketball sport solution.
The Basketball Solution includes libraries tailored for basketball diagrams, play schema, and illustrations. The new addition to ConceptDraw Solution Park is free for current users of ConceptDraw Pro 9.
The Basketball Solution in the ConceptDraw Solution Park includes a collection of templates, samples, and libraries of vector stencils, icons and clipart that support basketball diagrams with any level of complexity. ConceptDraw Pro is compatible with Mac OS X and Microsoft Windows. It retails for US$199. Also, it's included in ConceptDraw Office 2, which retails for $499.
PhatWare releases improved WritePad handwriting recognition SDK
PhatWare Corp. has WritePad SDK 4.2, an update to their handwriting recognition SDK (software development kit) for iOS 7.0.
WritePad SDK enables third-party app developers and OEMs [original equipment manufacturers] to leverage handwriting recognition software for iOS 7. The new version of the SDK features improved handwriting recognition engine, updated APIs supporting UNICODE (UTF-16) text encoding for better compatibility, enhanced documentation and sample code.
WritePad SDK sample code and documentation have been also updated.
The WritePad SDK evaluation is free, while commercial redistribution is royalty-based. Go to http://tinyurl.com/kg5bamu for more info.
Amsys announces Swift iOS development course
Amsys has announced their first "Beginning Swift Development" course for July. Announced at last week's Apple WWDC keynote, Swift has been created to make app development an easier, more accessible skill to acquire.
The two-day course by Amsys will be available at both the company's Manchester and Soho based Apple Authorised Training Centres. Throughout the course, delegates will learn key skills and tools such as: how Swift handles values, strings and characters, what classes are and how to use them, experiment with playground, plus an introduction to Xcode and how to manage and compile all your code.
For delegates familiar with Objective-C, the course also includes a module on combining Swift into existing apps that are written in Objective-C. Go to http://www.amsys.co.uk/training/ for more info.
Apple releases MacBook Air SMC Update 2.0
Apple has released MacBook Air SMC Update 2.0 for mid-2013 MacBook Air models.
This update addresses an issue which may cause the battery to drain faster than expected when the lid is closed. It requires Mac O X 10.8.5 or later and is available via the Software Update component of OS X's Systems Preferences app.
Akvis MakeUp for Mac OS X tetra new Share button, more
Akvis (http://www.akvis.com) has released Akvis MakeUp 3.5 for Mac OS X (10.4 and higher) and Windows. Akvis MakeUp automatically smoothes small defects on the skin, making it radiant, beautiful, pure and even, as you can see on artistic images, according to the folks at Akvis.
In version 3.5, a new Share button allows you to quickly publish images from the program in Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Tumblr, Google+. With improved RAW files processing, the list of supported formats has been extended.
The software is designed for tasks such as processing marriage photographs or graduation party photos. Thanks to the Batch Processing feature, you won't need to process every picture, but can apply the chosen settings to a whole folder with the event shooting. The program is available in plug-in and standalone versions. The plug-in version is compatible with Adobe Photoshop CS5 64-bit.
Akvis MakeUp sells for US$39 for the Home version (either plug-in or standalone), $49 for Home Deluxe (plug-...
Dev Interview: Larry O'Connor, Other World Computing
TUAW and MacTech are once again teaming up to interview developers surrounding Apple's announcements at WWDC. Hear what they have to say.
Introduction
We'd like to welcome our guest, Larry O'Connor, Founder & CEO at Other World Computing. Other World Computing develops products for Mac, iOS, and Larry took some time to tell us about WWDC and how it impacts the company.
What were you most excited about hearing in Apple's recent announcements?
The new iOS development environment is very exciting to us as is what Yosemite brings next to the Mac platform. In terms of the iOS side - it's perfect timing with respect to entries we have planned to enhance the customer experience with our product. With respect to 10.10 [aka Yosemite] - the new OS offers a lot of user benefit without, so far, the kind of drastic changes that 10.9 introduced on the developer impact side. The open, public beta aspect also should mean far less being addressed pre release - wider range of scenarios addressed...
Autodesk acquires Bitsquid
Autodesk (www.autodesk.com) has acquired Stockholm-based Bitsquid AB, the creator of the Bitsquid game engine.
The acquisition brings to Autodesk expertise in 3D game development and proven technology that will enable Autodesk to supercharge its portfolio of tools for game makers through the development of a new 3D game engine, according to Chris Bradshaw, senior vice president, Autodesk Media & Entertainment. Multiple game developers have used the modern and flexible Bitsquid engine to create 3D games for next-generation consoles and PCs, and Autodesk will continue to work with many of these companies to develop the new 3D game engine. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed, he adds.
In addition to acquiring the Bitsquid game engine, the acquisition of the Bitsquid team and technology will enable Autodesk to create new tools for real-time 3D visualization for architects and designers. The new technology will also be incorporated into solutions for customers outside of the...
Deque Systems offers free beta of WorldSpace Xcode plugin
Deque Systems (www.deque.com) is releasing a beta version of WorldSpace Xcode Plugin for the iOS application development community. This tool automatically analyzes source code to validate that all accessibility attributes have been specified correctly.
It integrates into the Xcode development environment and displays Accessibility issues in the source code to aid in quick remediation. Developers can also learn about how to address Accessibility issues with the provided context sensitive help.
Apple's VoiceOver accessibility infrastructure is a comprehensive platform that can be used to deliver accessible applications, if used properly. The WorldSpace Xcode Plugin aids developers in validating that the iOS Accessibility infrastructure is used properly, so good accessibility becomes part of the normal methodology.
The tool can also be integrated into a Continuous Integration testing framework so that Accessibility issues can be validated by a Quality Assurance team as the code is...
GhostControl game for the Mac goes to version 2.0
Application Systems and bumblebee have conjured up GhostControl Inc. 2.0 for the Mac. The upgrade allows your ghost hunters to access bigger weapons and better traps.
There's a new inventory system of your equipment and a "Spookipedia" that holds all your information from ghostscans. There's also an equipment guide, achievement list, and more.
In the game you manage a team of ghosthunters. Your goal is to free London from paranormal terror in turn-based battles. Take on the ghosts, follow the map, and take in the lovely sites and stunning landmarks of London.
GhostControl Inc. costs US$7.49 and requires Mac OS X 10.6 or higher. It's available at the game website (http://www.application-systems.co.uk/) and also via the Steam gaming service.
SMART Utility for Mac OS X gets new email system, more
Volitans software has announced SMART Utility 3.1.2, an update to the hard drive diagnostic application. The new version features a new email system, better drive support, and bug fixes.
SMART Utility is an application to scan the internal hardware diagnostics system of hard drives. SMART is a system built into hard drives by their manufacturers to report on various measurements of a hard drive's operation.
SMART Utility is available in a variety of licenses including a personal license for US$25 and a family license for $40. It can be purchased online (http://www.volitans-software.com/) or within the SMART Utility itself through its embedded web store.
Dev Interview: Wil Shipley, Delicious Monster
TUAW and MacTech are once again teaming up to interview developers surrounding Apple's announcements at WWDC. Hear what they have to say.
Introduction
We'd like to welcome our guest, Wil Shipley, Chief Monster at Delicious Monster. Delicious Monster develops products for Mac, iOS, and Wil took some time to tell us about WWDC and how it impacts the company.
What were you most excited about hearing in Apple's recent announcements?
iCloud Drive is something I want to use all the time. I like the improvements in Mail and Safari a lot, and I appreciate that they're concentrating on making those apps solid instead of doing crazy new stuff and letting their old apps rot.
Continuity is a technology I've wished for every time I go to a website on my Mac. I end up texting a lot of stuff to myself, this is SO much nicer. And we used to have caller ID and dialing our phones from our Macs back in 2004 with iSync and our Moto RAZRs, it's nice to see it's finally back with the iPhone.
Swift seems...
Dance Party coming to Apple TV
Rolocule Games has announced the development of Dance Party, a multiplayer rhythm game where users mimic the movements of onscreen dancers using their iPhone or iPod touch.
Dance Party allows users to connect multiple iOS devices together and dance simultaneously in front of big screens. The game streams to an HDTV using AirPlay mirroring. Dance Party will also feature turn based multiplayer for local dance tournaments.
The game is due to be released on the Apple App Store in July. Rolocule Games plans to give early access of the game to those signing up at the website (http://www.dancepartygame.com) starting today.
Native Instruments launches The Future of DJing video series
Native Instruments has kicked off The Future of DJing – a new video series featuring international artists and how new technologies found on Traktor products inspires creativity. Throughout the summer of 2014, The Future of DJing series will highlight the artist, and how technological innovation plays a role in their performance.
The first video features Marc Kinchen (aka MK) whose musical career has given rise to some of dance music’s most iconic tunes. In the video, he talks about how technology has always inspired his DJing and fuels his concept of the ideal live DJ performance — creating a track from start to finish live while DJing. MK also shares his vision where a future generation of talented DJ/producers will be setting the new standards of DJ culture without ever touching vinyl or playing an instrument.
The Future of DJing video series aims to kick-start discussions with artists, labels, and the media about, well, the future of DJing. As an added bonus, Native Instruments is...
SmoothReviews introduces new service
SmoothReviews has introduced a brand new service that allows any app developer to get "unlimited, free, honest app reviews on the App Store or Google Play."
"The review for review system helps your app build credibility and gives it more exposure, meaning more downloads," says founder Jay Van Buiten. "All of these things help developers to move the app up in the rankings and generate more revenue. Developers give and receive reviews from each other using a point system to get honest reviews as often as they'd like."
SmoothReviews supports iOS or Android, free or paid, tablet or phone apps. Any app can receive reviews.
Here's how it works: you give a review, you get a review. For each review you give, you earn a point on your SmoothReviews account. Your app will then appear for another developer to review, and you'll have spent the point. Go to http://smoothreviews.com for more info.
Flipbuilder releases Flip PDF Pro for the Mac
Flipbuilder has released Flip PDF Professional for Mac (http://www.flipbuilder.com/), a tool for creating page flip catalogs from PDFs.
With Flip PDF Pro, Mac users can create catalogs, brochures and other marketing collaterals from PDF files. It allows users to drag and drop a variety of objects for creating presentations. You can also embed YouTube Videos, animated text, flash files, and other pre-designed objects for creating page flip e-books.
Flip PDF Pro costs US$299 and requires Mac OS X 10.5 or higher. A demo is available for download.
Cocktail for Mavericks now lets you tweak fonts in Safari
Maintain has served up Cocktail 7.5.1 (Mavericks Edition), the latest maintenance update for users running OS X Mavericks.
Cocktail is a general purpose utility for OS X that lets users clean, repair and optimize their Macs. Cocktail's features are arranged into five categories that helps you manage various aspects of your computer. This version adds ability to set proportional and fixed-width font family and font size in Safari. It also fixes compatibility issues with Firefox 29 and contains other minor bug fixes and improvements.
Cocktail 7.5 (Mavericks Edition) requires OS X Mavericks 10.9 to run. Cocktail (Mountain Lion Edition) for OS X 10.8, Cocktail (Lion Edition) for OS X 10.7 and Cocktail (Snow Leopard Edition) for OS X 10.6 are available for download from Maintain website (http://www.maintain.se). Cocktail costs US $19 for a single user license.
TaskInsight for Mac OS X gets new speech commands module
Imaja has updated TaskInsight (http://www.imaja.com/taskinsight/), its productivity and business task management tool, to version 3.3. The update debuts a new speech commands module to control TaskInsight, and a new function to create speakable text from the task list.
TaskInsight includes priorities, labels, color coding, manual and automatic sorting, drag and drop, copy and paste, undo and redo, import and export, customizable views, text-to-speech for selected tasks, and several optional fields. A number of new commands let users set the priority or status for the selected tasks. The Shift Time menu can be used to shift selected tasks in time in various increments. A number of simple and combination sorts can be selected from the new Sort menu or with keyboard shortcuts.
TaskInsight provides standard Mac OS X functions such as searching, drag and drop prioritization, drag and drop text in and out of TaskInsight, and includes extension features such as: copy items as tab-delimited...
Instant 3.0 lets you use your Mac's built-in camera
ThinkTime Creations has announced Instant 3.0 (http://instanttheapp.com), an update to its Polaroid photo app for Mac OS X. You can now take a shot using the built-in camera on your Mac.
Instant lets user "re-shoot" their digital photo by drag-and-dropping it on to its "camera body." It requiers Mac OS X 10.6 or later,. It costs US$4.99 and is available worldwide exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Photography category.
Big Ass Fans introduces a 'smart' ceiling fan
Big Ass Fans has unveiled what it says is the world’s first smart ceiling fan designed with an on-board computer and array of sensors. SenseME technology (www.bigassfans.com/senseme), available exclusively on the Haiku ceiling fan, revolutionizes a home fixture that hadn’t changed for decades, according to Carey Smith, founder and Chief Big Ass of Big Ass Fans.
He says that SenseME knows when you enter or leave a room and turns Haiku on and off automatically. The technology monitors the room’s temperature and humidity, adjusting Haiku’s speed when conditions change. SenseME "learns" your comfort preferences, tailoring those speed adjustments to what you find comfortable.
Haiku with SenseME, which begins shipping later this summer, is the first fan controllable by a smartphone app. You can use the app to set schedules for both the fan and light or select from several control modes. Among them is Gradual Awake, which gently increases the fan’s speed and light for a more pleasant wakeup...
LaCie upgrades the Rugged hard drive
LaCie (http://www.lacie.com) says its latest Rugged hard drive features faster speeds, a tougher design, and an integrated interface cable. It's purportedly tougher than ever before with improved shock, dust and water resistance. Plus, the integrated Thunderbolt cable stows away when you're not using it.
The Rugged is MIL-compliant, which means that data is protected even during accidental drops of up to 6.6 feet. During transit, users can attach the removable cover to provide IP 54-level protection against dust and water.
The SSD version goes a step further with resilience against vibration and shock. Both versions are tough enough to be shipped for reliable delivery to clients or partners, according to LaCie. Included software protects files from prying eyes with AES 256-bit encryption.
The LaCie Rugged, design by Neil Poulton, will be broadly available mid-June through LaCie resellers in 1TB (US$219.99) and 2TB ($299.99) capacities. The 250GB SSD ($299.99) and 500GB SSD ($499.99...
Virtual City Playground for the Mac sports new graphics, content
G5 Entertainment's city builder for Mac OS X, Virtual City Playground, has been revved to version 1.14. It sports new graphics and content.
Virtual City Playground is a sim-social that lets you create a metropolis. Your goal is to please your inhabitants by providing them with tons of business opportunities and true-to-life neighborhoods, and entertainment facilities, among other amenities. Master trade, resources and balance between the booming development and the traffic that is a subsequent effect of the former.
Virtual City Playground requires Mac OS X 10.7.4 or higher. It's available for free at the Mac App Store.
Kingston Digital releases second generation MobileLite Wireless...
Kingston Digital (www.kingston.com) has announced the MobileLite Wireless G2. Shipping later this month, it allows smartphone and tablet users to extend onboard device storage and stream and share content with multiple users.
Additionally, the ultra-portable MobileLite Wireless G2 has a 4640 mAh 3.8v battery for mobile charging and a direct Ethernet port for wireless Internet routing, Wi-Fi bridging. The USB port also allows 3G dongle support.
Fully charged, the internal battery of the MobileLite Wireless G2 is capable of charging most smartphones twice, according to Andrew Ewing, Flash memory business manager, Kingston. To enable users to stay constantly connected, the device supports a direct connection from a 3G wireless Internet dongle and also has a direct Ethernet connection thus allowing MobileLite Wireless G2 to serve both as a portable router or shared network (NAS) drive.
G-Tech to demo new storage solutions for 2K/4K workflow
At this week's Cine Gear conference (http://www.cinegearexpo.com/83/) in Los Angeles, G-Technology (www.g-technology.com) is demonstrating new storage solutions for audio/video production, photography, and the creative professional market — including the new G-RAID with removable drives, the Studio Line (G-Speed Studio and G-RAID Studio) and Evolution Series with the new G-Drive ev-220 external storage module.
The US$349.99, 2TB G-DRIVE ev 220 is a USB 3.0 hard drive with transfer rates up to 220MB/s. You can use it alone or with the Evolution Series G-DOCK.
The G-RAID with Removable Drives (pictured) is a removable dual-drive storage system with transfer rates of up to 330MB/. The G-RAID is configurable in RAID 0, RAID 1, or JBOD, and features USB 3.0, eSATA, along with FireWire. The G-RAID ships with two removable 7,200RPM hard drives, complete in an all-aluminum enclosure. Pricing starts at US$449.95 for a 4TB model.
In addition to showcasing the G-RAID Studio, G-Technology is also...
SecuritySpy 3.4 for Mac OS X adds HTTPS, more
Bensoftware has announced SecuritySpy 3.4, an update to the multi-camera video surveillance software for the Mac.
SecuritySpy sports features such as motion detection, real-time compression of multiple camera feeds, and network video and audio streaming. New features in this version include web server encryption (HTTPS), support for relay interfaces to control external devices, support for new IP cameras, and bug fixes.
Pricing depends on the number of cameras used with the unlimited camera version costing US$1,100. SecuritySpy requires OS X 10.5 or higher. A 30-day fully-featured trial of SecuritySpy is available at the Bensoftware web site (http://www.bensoftware.com/).
Apple's Eddy Cue to be honored with Spirit of Life award
City of Hope’s Music, Film and Entertainment Industry group (http://tinyurl.com/lmpowg6) will honor Eddy Cue, senior vice president of Apple’s Internet Software and Services, with its 2014 Spirit of Life Award.
The award is City of Hope’s highest honor, and each year recognizes an individual whose work has fundamentally impacted the music, film and entertainment industries. Cue will be the first honoree from the technology sector. The award will be presented at a dinner in Los Angeles on Oct. 23.
"We couldn’t be more excited to be recognizing Eddy Cue with City of Hope’s highest honor," says Jason Morey, president of City of Hope’s Music, Film and Entertainment Industry Group. "City of Hope and Apple are both renowned for their passionate embrace of innovation and change. Eddy embodies that same passion. He has played a hugely important role for Apple as it has revolutionized the way consumers enjoy everything from music to films to TV to books to apps. He is an extraordinarily...
Adaptxt Keyboard soon to be available on iOS 8
KeyPoint Technologies says its Adaptxt smart keyboard app will be coming to iOS this fall. With the unveiling of iOS 8 and Apple opening its doors to third party keyboard apps, KeyPoint readied its internal team in anticipation for this opportunity, says Sumit Goswami, CEO at KeyPoint Technologies.
He adds that the company also plans to unveil specialized dictionaries for legal, health, finances and other professionals. The Adaptxt specialized dictionaries for iOS will reportedly predict words and phrases applicable to various professional industries.
Goswami says that Adaptxt is the only keyboard to offer over 100 languages and 30 specialized dictionaries. Go to http://www.keypoint-tech.com for more info.
