Bretford ships new cart, rollers for iOS devices
Bretford is shipping its the Mobility Cart 42 for the iPad and iPad mini (pictured). Also shipping are the Bretford PowerSync Roller 10 for iPad and the PowerSync Roller 20 for iPad mini. They're charging and syncing roller cases designed for use in schools, training facilities and other professional organizations with large deployments of iOS devices.
The Mobility Cart 42 is the highest capacity charging cart for iPad and iPad mini offered by Bretford. It allows up to 42 iPads to be charged simultaneously and kept secure for one large group or for sharing between smaller groups. The Mobility Cart 42 includes separate locking front and rear compartments to allow users to keep power adapters locked separately from their devices and direct the heat away from the iOS devices. The Mobility Cart family, which also includes solutions for 20 and 30 MacBook computers, incorporates the Bretford Dock & Lock Security Kit that enables the cart to be secured to a fixed, immovable object...
i4software - Developer Interview
Recently, TUAW and MacTech Magazine teamed up to speak to developers about how Apple's newly announced technologies (specifically Mavericks and iOS 7) will help them and their customers. In the weeks following the event, we'll bring you those videos on TUAW, MacTech and MacNews.
If you aren't currently a reader of MacTech Magazine, check out the special free MacTech on iPad issues for MacTech Magazine here.
This video features Neil Ticktin and Michael Zaletel of i4software. Michael was kind enough to tell us about their thoughts on Apple's announcements, and how it will affect their plans moving forward.
Shade 3D 14 for 3D modeling, animation and 3D printing released
Mirye Software and e-frontier have released Shade 3D 14, the next generation of the professional 3D modeling, rendering, animation and 3D printing tools for Mac OS X and Windows.
Shade 14 offers a complete, integrated solution for 3D artists, designers and film makers. The release also includes over 1.3GB of HDRI background images and over 1GB of example models, samples, textures and more.
Shade 3D 14 is available in Professional (IS$499), Standard ($249) and Basic ($99) releases on Mac OS X and Windows. All levels use the same iworkflow in the adaptable, configurable interface.
Shade 3D for Unity is also available for free. The Mac OS X version is available through the Mac App Store. For more info go to http://www.mirye.net/shade-14-overview .
Memoria game now available in the Mac App Store
Memoria, Daedalic’s latest point & click adventure release, is now also available in the Mac App Store.
Here's how the game is described: "500 years have passed, since Sadja, princess of the faraway kingdom of Fasar, set forth to fight in the great battle of the Gorian Desert. Victory in this battle against mighty demons would cement her place as one of the greatest heroes of all time -- but she failed.
"Her story was lost in the sands of time, and now a young fowler named Geron must unravel her mysterious fate. But his search sets events in motion that will cast a long shadow over his homeland and turn his present into a twisted image of a long lost past.
"Memoria’s Aventuria setting is based on The Dark Eye, probably Europe’s best-known pen & paper RPG system. Memoria move beyond traditional point & click adventure gameplay to add a magic system derived from this RPG. Players will cast magic spells that allow them to banish darkness or even to take direct control over...
Theme Inn presents an upgrade to templates for MS PowerPoint
Theme Inn has updated its selection of products for Microsoft Office, with 10 fresh designs for MS PowerPoint.
New templates in the 90-piece Templates for MS PowerPoint are Flying Shapes, Straight Ribbon, and Paper Work. The templates include up to 20 master slides, a mix of bullet text and photo-oriented layouts.
The updated Templates for MS PowerPoint pack is a part of Theme Inn's Bundle for MS Office. It supplies users with a collection of design choices for putting their slideshows together. Users can type or paste in their own text, add and remove text boxes, change fonts, and drag their photos or pictures onto presentation slides. The themes are available in 4:3, 16:9, and 16:10 ratios.
Templates for MS PowerPoint requires MS Office 2008 for Mac or later and OS X 10.6.6 or higher. It costs US$19.99 and is available worldwide through the Mac App Store in the Productivity category (http://tinyurl.com/qdcp84g).
Judge dismisses case over 'wiggly' iPhone buttons
A U.S. district court judge has tossed out a case leveled by two iPhone owners who claimed the allegedly "wiggly" power buttons of some iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S handsets are hazards to users, reports "AppleInsider.com . "
U.S. District Judge Gary Feess denied the request by Ross Missaghi and Charles Thompson to bring Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) claims against Apple and AT&T over an allegedly faulty iPhone power button design. The plantiffs said they each took their respective phones to Apple Stores, where employees told them that the defect was not repairable and thus the "user must either continue to use the [phone] in its diminished state, or purchase a replacement."
However, Feess ruled that Apple had no obligation to disclose defects that arose after the warranty for the phone expired. He added it was “speculative” to claim that a faulty power button represented a safety hazard.
Java plug-in gets bumped by Apple once again
For the third time this year, Apple has blocked the Java 6 and Java 7 plug-ins on Macs due to "multiple security issues" in versions older than the most current.
The update causes Java 6 installations older than update 51 to stop working, and for Java 7 versions older than update 25 are blocked, reports "MacNN" (http://tinyurl.com/psvvxg5). Java, an utility for developing application software and deploying it in a cross-platform computing environment, isn't to be confused with programming language JavaScript, an interpreted computer programming language.
Apple starts iPhone trade-in program
Apple has confirmed reports that will begin rolling out a nationwide (U.S.) iPhone trade-in program today, reports "AppleInsider" (www.appleinsider.com).
The program will allow Apple Store customers to trade-in an older model iPhone for store credit toward the purchase of a new model. The goal seems to be to keep current iPhone owners within the Apple ecosystem, says "AppleInsider."
KeyCue ready for OS X Mavericks
Ergonis Software has announced KeyCue 6.6, an update to the cheat sheet for learning and remembering keyboard shortcuts. The upgrade is ready for the upcoming Mac OS X Mavericks.
With KeyCue, whenever the command key is kept pressed for a while, the software displays a table with all keyboard shortcuts available in the currently active application, systemwide hotkeys, as well as key combinations for triggering macros in Keyboard Maestro, QuicKeys and iKeys.
KeyCue requires Mac OS X 10.5.8 or newer and is fully compatible with OS X Mountain Lion. The upgrade to version 6.6 is free for anyone who owns a valid license for KeyCue 6. Upgrade paths are available for owners of older licenses. For information about purchases, including enterprise licenses, volume discounts, and upgrade pricing offers, go to the Ergonis Software web site (www.ergonis.com).
Chronosync for Mac OS X revved to version 4.4.1
Econ Technologies has updated ChronoSync, its automated synchronization and backup application for Mac OS X (10.6 and higher), to version 4.4.1. The upgrade offers bug fixes and offers improved connectivity to iPads running InterConneX.
With InterConneX you can create a repository of files so that you can store and organize files and folders in one location on an iPad just like on a Mac. In addition to managing and storing files, InterConneX allows you to share your files and folders between other iPads running InterConneX and Macs running ChronoSync or ChronoAgent.
For new users the cost is US$40. A demo is available for download from the Econ Technologies web site (www.econtechnologies.com).
Monumental Sounds - Developer Interview
Recently, TUAW and MacTech Magazine teamed up to speak to developers about how Apple's newly announced technologies (specifically Mavericks and iOS 7) will help them and their customers. In the weeks following the event, we'll bring you those videos on TUAW, MacTech and MacNews.
If you aren't currently a reader of MacTech Magazine, check out the special free MacTech on iPad issues for MacTech Magazine here.
This video features Neil Ticktin and Paul de Benedictis Doug McKechnie of Monumental Sounds, LLC. Paul de Benedictis was kind enough to tell us about their thoughts on Apple's announcements, and how it will affect their plans moving forward.
uDesktop NEXT LT for OS X provides 200 hi-res wallpapers
Aperio Lux has announced uDesktop NEXT LT for OS X, the free version of their desktop wallpaper application. With it, users can choose from 200, free, high resolution images.
You can sort the wallpapers by New, Popular or choose Random. uDesktop NEXT LT provides multi-monitor support and desktop images settings
uDesktop NEXT LT requires Mac OS X 10.7.4 or later. It's available through the Mac App Store in the Lifestyle category (http://tinyurl.com/orqbl9z).
iMobie announces AnyTrans transfer tool
iMobie has launched AnyTrans for Mac OS X. It's a transfer tool designed to "welcome the release of iPhone 5S in September.
When upgrading to a new iDevice like an iPhone 5S (which, by the way, Apple hasn't officially confirmed), neither iTunes nor iCloud can sync music, game saves and personal settings to new device. However, AnyTrans for Mac can transfer such info.
It also allows you to import music from an iPhone onto your Mac. In fact, AnyTrans allows two-way transfer of all media files between iDevices, iTunes and Macs, according to the folks at iMobie.
The support support iTunes 11.0.5 and iOS 7 beta 7. For more info go to www.imobie.com/anytrans/ .
SendLater lets you send emails on time
ChungwaSoft has introduced SendLater 1.0 for Mac OS X. It's a plugin for Apple's Mail application.
SendLater allows anyone to send an email at an arbitrary date and time in the future. Delivery of an email is completely decoupled from the composition of the same email.
Normally, emails are immediately sent to the recipient when you press Mail's "Send" button. With SendLater there is another button that allows you to send the email at an arbitrary date and time in the future.
There's a special launch offer for SendLater 1.0. It's being offered for approximately US$8 instead of the regular price of $13 until the end of September. For more info go to www.chungwasoft.com .
DeskConnect Launches for the Mac
DeskConnect has introduced DeskConnect for Mac. It lets you instantly transfer text, images, audio, video, web pages, documents, driving directions and more.
DeskConnect for Mac supports sharing between other Macs with DeskConnect installed, as well as to and from iPhone, iPad and iPod touch through a free companion app available on the Apple App Store.
DeskConnect provides unlimited transfers to an unlimited number of devices, and is completely free at the Mac App Store (http://tinyurl.com/q3cu6j8). It requires OS X 10.6 or later. For more info go to http://deskconnect.com .
Parallels Desktop 9 for Mac provides Mavericks support, much more
Parallels has launched Parallels Desktop 9 for Mac, which lets customers run Windows and Mac applications simultaneously on a Mac without rebooting. New features include cloud storage optimizations for iCloud, Dropbox, Google Drive and SkyDrive.
Customers will also enjoy increased productivity with Mac OS X features like Launchpad in Windows applications and using the upcoming OS X Mavericks. For Windows 8 users, Parallels Desktop 9 incorporates the familiar Start menu and Windows Start button. Starting Aug. 29, current Parallels Desktop users can upgrade to Parallels Desktop 9 for Mac at www.parallels.com/desktop. For new customers, Parallels Desktop 9 will be available for purchase at retail and online stores and via the Parallels website starting on Sept. 5.
"Parallels Desktop 9 for Mac customers will enjoy peace of mind knowing that Parallels keeps pace with and supports leading new technologies, such as the upcoming OS X Mavericks, Windows 8.1 and increasingly popular cloud...
Sudo flaw offers potential (if unlikely) OS X security risk
A Metasploit report (http://www.metasploit.com), as noted by "The MacObserver" (http://tinyurl.com/pe3smcx), says that a security flaw in the command line tool sudo in Mac OS X 10.7 and higher, as well as some Linux distributions, could give unauthorized root access to user's computers. Metasploit is a company that a company that specializes in finding security issues and building utilities to point them out.
To take advantage of the exploit, an attacker needs to already have an administrator-level account on the Mac, physical or remote access to the machine, have already used the sudo command, and to set the system clock to January 1, 1970. The steps needed to exploit this particular issue make it unlikely most Mac users will become victims before a patch is available, notes "The MacObserver."
Ortelius adds Mountain Lion support
Mapdiva has updated Ortelius (http://www.mapdiva.com/), its map illustration software for Mac OS X, to version 1.8. The new version is 64-bit native and adds Mac OS X Mountain Lion support, including full-screen viewing, resume, versions and autosave preferences.
Ortelius is a vector-based drawing program made especially for (though not limited to) map design and presentation. Through its drag-and-drop interface, Ortelius offers a solution for floor plans, landscape plans, scaled drawings, and a variety of custom maps.
Ortelius allows you to draw directly with features such as roads, rivers, coastlines, buildings, symbols, and contours. It's designed for reports, presentations, books, research papers, invitations, magazines, web sites, brochures, public displays, and new media applications with professional-level results.
Every drawing feature supports map attribute information, such as those imported from geographic information system (GIS) map data, that can be referenced by...
ImageXY for Mac OS X revved to version 3.0
SugoiSoft (http://www.sugoisoft.com) has updated ImageXY, their batch image resizing application for Mac OS X, to version 3.0. The upgrade allows users to resize by simply dragging images out of the app.
ImageXY is for resizing one or multiple photos. It can resize drag and dropped images, folders, or even entire drives..
ImageXY resizes photos using defined presets. Users can use one of the standard presets for common sizes, such as Email or Blog or they can create their own custom size presets in either pixels or percentages.
ImageXY can resize images from anywhere on the system by dragging and dropping photos into the application or on its dock icon. It can resize drag and dropped images, folders, or even entire drives. Dragging directly from other applications, such as Safari or Faces in iPhoto allows users to get the size image they want, no matter the location, says James Van Dyne, founder of SugoiSoft. ImageXY supports all formats handled natively by Mac OS X.
ImageXY is...
OWC Data Doubler adds up to 3TB of storage to Apple laptops
Other World Computing (OWC) has announced the availability of new OWC Data Doubler DIY Bundles, available for up to 3TB of internal, RAID-able drive capacity for MacBook and MacBook Pro models.
The OWC Data Doubler gives MacBook/MacBook Pro owners the flexibility to, for instance, an internal back-up drive or greater performance by creating a Striped RAID in Disk Utility. The Data Doubler mounting solution, available for immediate ordering from US$37.99, comes complete with the Data Doubler internal drive mount, a detailed step-by-step Mac notebook model-specific installation guide, and a five-piece toolkit.
Special Bundles, that also include up to two drives and up to 3TB of capacity, are available from $89. For more info go to http://tinyurl.com/nvb4rgo .
Logitech introduces the Ultrathin Touch Mouse
Logitech has introduced its first ultra-portable touch mouse. The slim design of the Ultrathin Touch Mouse is designed to complement today’s computers, with sleek lines and a brushed aluminum body, according to Charlotte Johs, Logitech global vice president of brand development and portfolio for PC accessories. “
With its thin design, the Logitech Ultrathin Touch Mouse slips into a computer sleeve or pocket. Its "silky-smooth touch surface is created by an invisible coating that helps you simplify Windows 8 navigation, or take full advantage of the Multi-Touch navigation in OS X," she adds.
The Ultrathin Touch Mouse can connect wirelessly to your laptop, desktop and tablet at the same time. You can switch among them with the flip of a switch. The mouse is rechargeable through USB. Just one minute of charge time gives you enough power to keep working for another hour (based on typical user experience).
Available in two color options, the Logitech Ultrathin Touch Mouse T630 in black and...
Surtees Studios - Developer Interview
Recently, TUAW and MacTech Magazine teamed up to speak to developers about how Apple's newly announced technologies (specifically Mavericks and iOS 7) will help them and their customers. In the weeks following the event, we'll bring you those videos on TUAW, MacTech and MacNews.
If you aren't currently a reader of MacTech Magazine, check out the special free MacTech on iPad issues for MacTech Magazine here.
This video features Neil Ticktin and Ben Surtees of Surtees Studios. Ben was kind enough to tell us about their thoughts on Apple's announcements, and how it will affect their plans moving forward.
Eton Corp. - Developer Interview
Recently, TUAW and MacTech Magazine teamed up to speak to developers about how Apple's newly announced technologies (specifically Mavericks and iOS 7) will help them and their customers. In the weeks following the event, we'll bring you those videos on TUAW, MacTech and MacNews.
If you aren't currently a reader of MacTech Magazine, check out the special free MacTech on iPad issues for MacTech Magazine here.
This video features Neil Ticktin and Skip Orvis of Eton Corp.. Skip was kind enough to tell us about their thoughts on Apple's announcements, and how it will affect their plans moving forward.
Sock Monkey Software unleashes Boss Blocker for Mac
Sock Monkey Software has introduces Boss Blocker 1.0, an app for controlling your Mac when you need to quickly switch screens. It extends a computer's capabilities by performing multiple actions simultaneously with a customizable keyboard shortcut.
When triggered, Boss Blocker hides open apps and windows, mutes the system sound volume, pauses active media players, and more. In addition to the system control it offers, it can display one of three "productivity" windows or activate the screen saver. When triggered a second time, the app returns the system to its previous state, revealing hidden windows, restoring the sound volume, and starting media players where they left off.
Boss Blocker requires Mac OS X 10.7 or later. For a limited time, it's available for US$1.99 exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Utilities category (http://tinyurl.com/pdowmvl).
Autodesk introduces Maya LT 2014 for game developers
Autodesk has introduced Autodesk Maya LT 2014, a 3D modeling and animation tool tailored for independent and mobile game developers. Available immediately and compatible with certain industry-standard game engines, Maya LT draws inspiration from Autodesk Maya software to bring an intuitive, affordable new toolset for the creation of professional-grade 3D mobile, computer and web-based game assets, according to Chris Bradshaw, senior vice president, Autodesk Media & Entertainment.
The software integrates into game development workflows with out-of-the box support for Unity 3D Engine and Unreal Engine through the FBX file format for primary data exchange. Autodesk Maya LT has the ability to import certain 3D asset formats [Maya (.ma, .mb), Maya LT (.mlt), OBJ, FBX, AI, EPS] and texture formats (BMP, PNG, DDS, EXR, TGA, TIFF), as well as export 3D assets in FBX and .mlt.
Maya LT has a number of features customized specifically for the needs of mobile and independent game developers...
Drumagog for Mac OS X beats to version 5.2
WaveMachine Labs has released Drumagog 5.2 (www.drumagog.com), a 64-bit update of the drum replacement plugin for Mac OS X. The new version is compatible with 64-bit digital audio workstations such as Logic X, Ableton Live 9, and Cubase 7.
Drumagog is a software plug-in that replaces acoustic drum tracks with the choice of other samples. Available now in both VST and AU formats for OS X, version 5.2 is a free update for all registered Drumagog 5 users.
The app requires Mac OS X 10.6 or higher. It's available in three versions (basic, pro and platinum) with prices starting at US$89.
LinkOptimizer for InDesign upgraded to version 4.8.2
Zevrix Solutions (www.zevrix.com) has announced LinkOptimizer 4.8.2, a feature update to its workflow automation solution for Adobe InDesign. The new version lets users automatically convert both RGB and CMYK images linked to an InDesign document to selected ICC color profiles.
LinkOptimizer allows users to reduce the size of InDesign links and speed up processing by eliminating excess image data. It performs essential image adjustments; converts image formats; and more. LinkOptimizer works automatically with Photoshop to eliminate the excess image data of InDesign links, perform essential image adjustments and convert image formats.
LinkOptimizer can be purchased from the Zevrix website for US$259.95 USD (there's a "lite" version for $179.95) as well as from authorized resellers. A demo is available for download. The update is free for LinkOptimizer 4.x users and $98.78 to upgrade from previous versions. LinkOptimizer is available for Mac OS X 10.5 and higher and works with Adobe...
Tripp Lite offers reversible USB cables
Tripp Lite, a manufacturer of power protection and connectivity solutions, has introduced a new line of reversible USB cables. These USB cables feature a reversible type A connector.
Unlike traditional designs where a USB cable can only be attached one way, Tripp Lite’s new USB cables connect to a USB port in either direction. Models are available in a variety of lengths and connector types. For details go to http://tinyurl.com/paaq6qy .
Judge narrows the scope of penalties in Apple ebook case
During a hearing in a New York federal court on Tuesday, Judge Denise Cote narrowed the scope of the penalties the U.S. Department of Justice wants leveled upon Apple, saying she doesn’t want them to intrude too much into the company’s business operations, reports "AllThingsD" (http://tinyurl.com/lclzwvy).
"I want this injunction to rest as lightly as possible on how Apple runs its business," Cote said. "I want Apple to have the flexibility to innovate."
She added that she doesn't support broad government oversight of all of Apple’s content distribution deals beyond e-books. Nor does she feel that imposing new requirements that would force Apple to allow rival e-book retailers like Amazon to link to their own e-bookstores from iOS apps is a good idea.
"I don’t want to do more than is necessary here. The App Store was only an incidental part of this trial," Cote said, adding that the benefits of such a sanction aren’t worth the "disturbance" they would cause to Apple’s management of...
Parallels releases Access for the iPad
Parallels has introduced Parallels Access for iPad, a product that "applifies" Mac and Windows applications, letting customers remotely access and experience them as if they were made for the iPad.
Now people can enjoy native iPad gestures even in applications not optimized for iPad. With Parallels Access (www.parallels.com/access), just tap right to what you need to get done, in any Windows or Mac application.
With more and more people using iPads on-the-go, Parallels Access empowers them to get more done easily, work or play -- even with low-bandwidth connections. Developed by the makers of Parallels Desktop for Mac (www.parallels.com/desktop), Parallels Access is now available for the iPad with full support for Macs, and Windows support is available as a free beta. Support of devices in addition to the iPad is in development.
"We are now in an always-on age where people are increasingly demanding access to their applications and data regardless of physical location," says Birger...
LogicalVue Software announces CodeVue 2.0
LogicalVue Software has rolled out CodeVue 2.0, an update of the code snippet manager for software developers.
CodeVue is a code snippet manager for a variety of programming languages, including: C/C++, HTML, Java, Objective-C, PostgreSQL, TransactSQL, VHDL, Visual Basic, XML and Xojo. It automatically saves and manages an unlimited amount of code snippets.
CodeVue is available now for Mac OS X and Windows. Normally priced at $29.99, CodeVue is on sale now through Sept. 30 for $19.99. You can download a free demo version that works with up to 10 code snippets from the LogicalVue website (www.logicalvue.com).
MacOptimizer for OS X optimized to version 2.0
MacAppware (www.macappware.com) has announced MacOptimizer 2.0, an upgrade to its disk utility application for Mac OS X. The new version boasts features to analyze and boost memory, speed up Internet browsing, monitor CPU usage, manage Startup items, and more. It also adds a new System Tweak to switch your dock between a 3D and two-dimensional view, enhances current tools, and fixes several minor bugs.
MacOptimizer can help you clean, repair and organize your Mac. It can assist you in speeding up your Mac, fixing common problems on your computer, and organizing your Mac desktop.
MacOptimizer 2.0 supports Mac OS X 10.7 or later. It's available for purchase on the MacAppware website for US$29.99.
OneTouch EMR SaaS, iPad app, integrated with MacPractice software
MacPractice -- a developer of native practice management and clinical software for Mac, iPad and iPhone for doctors -- has announced integration of MacPractice MD with OneTouch EMR. With OneTouch, a cloud based EMR/EHR, doctors can record and access medical records using any modern browser or OneTouch EMR’s native app for iPad.
Fully certified for Meaningful Use, OneTouch EMR for MacPractice stores data in the cloud for access from the app for iPad or from any modern browser. Integration with MacPractice MD eliminates the need for the re-entry of demographic data into OneTouch. Charges created in One Touch are electronically forwarded to MacPractice (www.macpractice.com) for review and posting by the front desk, even when charges are posted from outside the office.
OneTouch operates without popup windows and can incorporate custom forms, templates and macros. OneTouch EMR for iPad is available as a free download from the Apple App Store.
Boinx Software - Developer Interview
Recently, TUAW and MacTech Magazine teamed up to speak to developers about how Apple's newly announced technologies (specifically Mavericks and iOS 7) will help them and their customers. In the weeks following the event, we'll bring you those videos on TUAW, MacTech and MacNews.
If you aren't currently a reader of MacTech Magazine, check out the special free MacTech on iPad issues for MacTech Magazine here.
This video features Neil Ticktin and Michael Ehrmann of Boinx Software . Michael was kind enough to tell us about their thoughts on Apple's announcements, and how it will affect their plans moving forward.
Centrify announces the Centrify User Suite, Mac Edition
Centrify Corp., which specializes in Unified Identity Services, has announced the availability of the Centrify User Suite, Mac Edition. The company says it's the industry’s first solution to provide robust Active Directory-based authentication, policy management, single sign-on (SSO) and user self-service for connected and remote Mac OS X systems.
With Centrify User Suite, Mac Edition (Centrify for Mac), on-premise and remote Macs and mobile devices are integrated into Microsoft Active Directory (AD), leveraging organizations’ existing AD infrastructures, processes and skill sets to deliver enhanced security and easy management for IT, and simplified, secure access for Mac users at work, according to David McNeely, senior director of product management, Centrify.
As a complement to its historic agent-based approach for providing Active Directory-based authentication and Group Policy management, Centrify has now added a cloud-based option for managing Macs. By extending the Centrify...
SecuritySpy ready for OS X Mavericks
Bensoftware has announced SecuritySpy 3.1, an update to the multi-camera video surveillance software for the Mac. New features in this version include Mac OS X Mavericks compatibility, Apple push notifications to iOS devices, and support for many new IP cameras.
SecuritySpy boasts features such as motion detection, real-time compression of multiple video and audio feeds, and network video and audio streaming, SecuritySpy is designed for demanding video surveillance applications. The software supports a variety of network cameras and video servers, including the popular ACTi, Axis, Panasonic, Sony and Vivotek ranges, as well as FireWire, USB, and PCI video input devices.
SecuritySpy features motion detection, which can be used to trigger recording as well as email alerts and audio alarms. The built-in web server allows remote viewing of live video and audio, previously captured footage, as well as configuration of the software, from over the internet using a web browser or a mobile...
Twelve South introduces the GhostStand for laptops
Twelve South has introduced the US$34.99 GhostStand, a modern, transparent stand designed to elevate any MacBook (Air or Pro) to a more comfortable viewing height.
It has two sets of soft, silicone rails; one set on top to grip your MacBook and one set below to protect your work surface. GhostStand is a clear, lucite platform that lifts the MacBook display six inches off your desktop.
Each blade on the stand has double-inlaid, brushed metal rails lined with s soft silicone to grip the bottom of your laptop and protect your work surface. The GhostStand is available now at twelvesouth.com and soon at Apple retail store.
Anker ships Astro2 external battery for portable devices
Anker has introduced the second generation Astro2 external battery, now available at Amazon.com for US$44.99. It packs a 9,000mAh battery that can charge two mobile devices simultaneously.
The Astro2’s capacity charges most smartphones four to five times with a 3A charge output available between the two charging ports, according to Steven Yang, Anker founder and chairman. It features a power consumption Smart LED display to clearly indicate the remaining battery life.
You can simply give the Astro2 a quick shake to activate the battery and the LED power indicator. It measures 4.7 x 3.5 x 1.2 inches and weighs 8.8 ounces. It's compatible with, among other devices, the iPhone 5, iPhone 4S, iPad (2, 3 and 4) and iPad mini. For more info go to www.ianker.com .
Akitio's Neutrino Thunder D3 certified for Mac, Windows...
Akitio says its Neutrino Thunder D3 with Thunderbolt and USB 3.0 has received certification for both Mac and Windows computers. With speeds of over 770MMB/second, it will be available next month.
The two-bay unit was designed to hold two 2.5-inch hard drives or SSD’s with a drive height of up to 15mm. The Thunder D3 also features two removable drive trays for easy installation and removal of drives.
The Thunder D3 will be available in capacities up to 4TB. As with other Akitio products, the Thunder D3 will be available at Akitio.com, Amazon.com and at other online and retail outlets throughout the world.
Centrify rolls out Centrify User Suite, Mac Edition
Centrify Corp., which specializes in Unified Identity Services, has announced the availability of the Centrify User Suite, Mac Edition. The company says it’s the industry’s first solution to provide robust Active Directory-based authentication, policy management, single sign-on (SSO) and user self-service for connected and remote Mac OS X systems.
With Centrify User Suite, Mac Edition (Centrify for Mac), on-premise and remote Macs and mobile devices are integrated into Microsoft Active Directory (AD), leveraging organizations’ existing AD infrastructures, processes and skill sets to deliver enhanced security and easy management for IT, and simplified, secure access for Mac users at work, according to David McNeely, senior director of product management, Centrify.
As a complement to its historic agent-based approach for providing Active Directory-based authentication and Group Policy management, Centrify has now added a cloud-based option for managing Macs. By extending the Centrify...
Apple: DOJ's ebook penalties are too severe
Following the U.S. Dept. of Justice revision of proposals to reform Apple following its e-books conspiracy conviction, the company calls the latest remedies a "broadside" favoring rival Amazon, reports "CNET" (http://tinyurl.com/m96f7kp).
In a letter to the court, Apple attorney Orin Snyder called the government's revised remedies a "broadside masquerading as a brief" that largely ignores the court's instructions to find a compromise with Apple and rein in a request for an external antitrust monitor. The DOJ's brief aims to justify measures that would give rival Amazon a "significant competitive advantage over Apple," the letter said.
According to "CNET," the letter adds that restraining the company's dealings with Amazon and other e-book retailers in its App Store is outside the scope of what the government pursued at trial. Snyder asked the court to order the department withdraw its latest proposals and instead file a document in line with what the court requested, or at least give...
HYPER releases iUSBport Mini
Sanho Corp. has introduced the latest member of the iUSBport family: iUSBport Mini. Similar to the original iUSBport, the US$89.95 connects to any USB storage device (including USB hard drives and flash drives) and wirelessly makes the contents accessible to iOS, Android or any Wi-Fi enabled device.
Shaped like a USB flash drive with a built-in MicroSDXC slot, as well as a USB host port, the iUSBport Mini has a built-in wireless router that creates its own wireless network to share USB/MicroSDXC data with nearby devices. You can purportedly stream up to three different 1080p HD movies to three different devices or stream music, photos and perform two-way file transfer with up to eight different users.
It's a standalone device that requires no Internet, computers, routers or external power. To use it with an iDevice, you download a free app from the Apple App Store. For more info go to www.hypershop.com .
Brattoo Propaganda Software adds new features to Duplicate...
Brattoo Propaganda Software (http://brattoo.com/propaganda/) has released Duplicate Annihilator 4.13.0, an update of its Mac OS X software that finds and deletes iPhoto duplicates.
The software compares the images in your iPhoto library, using algorithms to make sure that no duplicates escape. It also now handles imported thumbnails, thumbnails of faces, corrupt jpegs and missing photos.
Duplicate Annihilator requires Mac OS X 10.4.x or higher and iPhoto 5 or later. It costs US$7.95 and is available worldwide from Brattoo Propaganda Software online. The 4.13.0 upgrade is free for existing customers.
Zevrix unveils Output Factory Server 1.0 for Adobe InDesign
Zevrix Solutions has announced Output Factory Server 1.0 public beta, a new output workflow automation solution for Adobe InDesign.
It automates printing and exporting from InDesign by processing files from watched hot folders and is an upgrade of the company's BatchOutput Server. Output Factory Server offloads output to a central system leaving operator workstations free from the output process. It offers layer versioning, email notifications, preflighting and more.
Output Factory Server 1.0 public beta can be downloaded from Zevrix Solutions )(www.zevrix.com) free of charge. Qualified beta testers will get a 25% discount once the software is released. An upgrade price will be available for BatchOutput Server users. Output Factory Server runs on Mac OS X 10.6-10.8 and works with Adobe InDesign CS3-CC.
CEntrance introduces the HiFi-M8 for iDevices
CEntrance, which specializes in digital audio, has released the HiFi-M8 - a battery-powered, portable D/A Converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier designed to refine the sound of the iPhone, iPad and iPod.
Pronounced "Hi-Fi Mate," the device streams high-resolution audio from smartphones, tablets and laptops. It's offered in several models with various audio output configurations including XLR, 1/8-inch", 1/4-inch and SPDIF Optical connectors.
On the "HiFi-M8 PRO" model, designed specifically for the Pro Audio market, it features male XLR jacks and +4dBm line-level output for connection to professional equipment. For those customers who don't use iPhones, the HiFi-M8 LX model features a TOSLINK optical input to accommodate a SPDIF input signal, instead of the iPhone input.
All models also offer a 24-bit/192kHz USB input for use as a portable USB DAC. What's more, the HiFi-M8 offers a number of tone shaping controls to EQ and customize the sound for the best synergy with a variety of...
Smile - Developer Interview
Recently, TUAW and MacTech Magazine teamed up to speak to developers about how Apple's newly announced technologies (specifically Mavericks and iOS 7) will help them and their customers. In the weeks following the event, we'll bring you those videos on TUAW, MacTech and MacNews.
If you aren't currently a reader of MacTech Magazine, check out the special free MacTech on iPad issues for MacTech Magazine here.
This video features Neil Ticktin and Greg Scown of Smile. Greg was kind enough to tell us about their thoughts on Apple's announcements, and how it will affect their plans moving forward.
WD expands WD Arkeia network backup appliance line
WD has announced two ultra-compact backup appliances: the WD Arkeia DA1300 and DA2300, which offer small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) all-in-one backup and disaster recovery solutions, says Bill Evans, general manager of WD's SMB business unit.
Bundled with the WD Arkeia v10.1 software, these new appliances come with an unlimited numbers of file/folder backup agents on any of over 200 distinct platform types (for example, Mac OS X, Windows, Linux, AIX, HP-UX, Solaris, Novell, BSD) The software also offers optional specialized agents for hot backups of important applications and databases.
WD Arkeia uses an advanced, patented technology called Progressive Deduplication that reduces storage volume and delivers faster backups, according to Evans. The new WD Arkeia DA1300 and DA2300 backup appliances integrate the Intel Atom dual-core processor and the Intel Xeon processors, respectively. As with the WD Arkeia's rack-mounted appliances, the DA2300 uses SSD to maximize backup...
Final Cut Pro X Plugin White Balancer released by FxFactory
Noise Industries has added CineFlare White Balancer to its collection of plugins available in FxFactory. It costs US$49.
Designed exclusively for Final Cut Pro X, White Balancer is a one-click white balancing tool that uses a color picker to dial in the perfect white balance for images, according to the folks at Noise Industries. Users drag and drop White Balancer onto the desired clips. After a few clicks, a color window will pop up.
The editor then simply selects the magnifying glass, which acts as a color picker, and chooses the color in the clip that is supposed to be white, causing the colors to automatically adjust for the correct white balance. For more info go to http://tinyurl.com/lwf4f4d .
MEW announces 'From Editor to Preditor' class
Manhattan Edit Workshop (http://mewshop.com/), a digital training destination for post-production and content creators, has announced a "From Editor to Preditor," class, which will premiere on Tuesday, Sept. 17. Editors will learn the skills they need to become post-producers, and ultimately, "preditors."
The workshop will be taught by Emmy Award-winning television producer Mark King, who has produced work for networks including ABC, HBO and ESPN. There are only a limited number of seats available.
"No longer are roles such as producer and editor mutually exclusive, making it more important now more than ever to be multifaceted," says MEWShop founder, Josh Apter, who helped design the class. "Technology today lets creatives easily blend roles, fully realizing their ideas from concept to finished product. MEWShop's Preditor workshop focuses on the techniques and technology used in both roles, providing a strong foundation for students to successfully fill this growing niche."
Over the...
Seapine Software unveils unified Web client in TestTrack 2013.1
Seapine Software has released TestTrack 2013.1, the newest version of its tool suite for managing product development. The 2013.1 release brings the power of the Mac, Windows, and Linux TestTrack clients to the browser with a modern, unified web application.
"The entirely new, integrated web client in 2013.1 is an exciting improvement for TestTrack users," says Rick Riccetti, president and CEO, Seapine Software. "Teams can now work with requirements, requirement documents, issues, and test runs from one modern, powerful web client."
TestTrack 2013.1’s replaces its three previous web clients -- TestTrack Pro web client, TestTrack RM Reviewer, and TestTrack TCM Test Runner -- with a single, unified application. The improved, modern user interface allows software developers and testers to create and review requirements, work with issues, and execute and track tests from their web browser, according to Riccetti.
Also included in the TestTrack 2013.1 release is the ability to visualize...