Isle of the Kakapo has rolled out RailModeller Pro 5.4, an update to their model railroad and slot car layout design solution for macOS. RailModeller Pro offers sophisticated design tools that enable hobbyists to easily design model train and slot car track layouts via drag & drop. The app includes a library catalog covering over 200 track systems in all major model scales as well as scalable accessories, allowing for custom designs of any layout a user can visualize. Version 5.4 includes: fully localized library names and element descriptions; scalable libraries for all model scales; and multi-color elements. RailModeller Pro requiem macOS 10.10 or later. It’s available for $39.99 at the Mac App Store (http://tinyurl.com/ycvnh4j5). A free version, RailModeller Express, which is suitable for smaller layouts with a limited number of tracks, is also available.

FxFactory has released XEffects Viral Video Thirds, a new Final Cut Pro X plugin developed by partner Idustrial Revolution. This plugin is based on splitting the screen into thirds, adding graphical overlays and using dynamic transitions to animate between the "third composites." The combination of masks, titles and transitions all work together with thirds. XEffects Viral Video Thirds is distributed on the FxFactory app store (https://fxfactory.com/info/viralvideothirds/). It ‘s being launched at a discounted price of $39 until Nov. 7.

QNAP Systems has released the TS-431XeU NAS (available in 2GB and 8GB RAM models) that offers a compact, short depth design with a 10GbE SFP+ port for high-speed connectivity. The TS-431XeU features a standard 1U form factor, and is designed for space-constrained SMBs and homes that require fast, stable and secure storage. The rackmount TS-431XeU has a shorter chassis depth of 11.46 inches (291 mm), allowing for saved space to be used for ventilation or cabling to facilitate flexible deployment. It boasts a noise level of only 20.3dB, and power consumption of 12.42W (sleep) or 30.99W (active). Thanks to QNAP’s close cooperation with Annapurna Labs, an Amazon company, the TS-431XeU will also be equipped with advanced snapshot features. Snapshots form part of a complete disaster recovery plan, and can help in minimizing the impact of ransomware attacks. (Snapshot support will be added to the TS-431XeU in the upcoming QTS 4.3.4.) The quad-core TS-431XeU provides hardware-accelerated...

Zevrix Solutions has announced Package Central 1.10.2, a compatibility update to company's file packaging workflow automation solution for Adobe InDesign. The software automatically collects InDesign documents along with their fonts and links from watched hot folders. Package Central can serve unlimited users on a network and offers email notifications, variable folder names, PDF/IDML export, and more. The new version adds support for InDesign CC 2018 featured as part of Adobe Creative Cloud. Package Central can be purchased for $149.95 from the Zevrix website (www.zevrix.com). A demo is available for download. The update is free for registered users. Package Central requires macOS 10.7-10.13 and Adobe InDesign CS5-CC 2018.

TechSmith Corp. (www.techsmith.com) has released Snagit 2018, the latest version of its screen capture and image editing software for Mac and Windows. The newest version offers new grab text, smart move, and text replace features. Other improvements include updates to the desktop video recording feature. Snagit 2018 allows for higher frame rate desktop recording for smoother, more professional recordings, as well as better quality webcam capture and better stability. And, it does it all using fewer CPU resources than ever before, according to the folks at TechSmith. Snagit 2018 costs $49.99 for new users. Users with previous versions of Snagit can upgrade for $24.99.

Econ Technologies (www.econtechnologies.com) has announced ChronoAgent 1.8.0, which is ready for macOS High Sierra. The ChronoSync/ChronoAgent combination allows anyone to synchronize files between two Macs, back up Macs to a Mac server, or even maintain a bootable backup over a network. Version 1.8.0 now recognizes APFS volumes while offering improved file backup and sync performance. In addition to a few bug fixes, ChronoAgent 1.8.0 also includes more reliable startup, better statistics reporting and an updated manual. ChronoAgent 1.8.0 works on macOS 10.8 or newer and is available for $14.99. ChronoSync, the multipurpose app for local and cloud backup, bootable clone, and folder synchronizing, is designed to work on macOS version 10.10 and newer. Full working trial licenses are available, or you can purchase ChronoSync for $49.99. ChronoAgent allows any Mac to accept direct, secure connections from any ChronoSync Mac or any InterConneX iOS device so you can access or transfer...

Apple has released a new fifth developer beta of iOS 11.1, along with the fourth betas of macOS High Sierra 10.13.1 and tvOS 11.1. They can be downloaded from the Apple Developer Center or through the Software Update mechanism in the Mac App Store with the proper profile installed. Also, there’s a new public beta of macOS High Sierra 10.3.1 available for public beta testers. 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.

Bare Bones Software has released BBEdit 12.0.1, a maintenance release of its professional strength HTML and text editor. It’s a recommended update that includes refinements and fixes for specific reported issues. BBEdit maintains the recently introduced evaluation model in which the full, complete feature set is available for the first 30 days of use. At the end of the 30-day evaluation period, the permanently functional feature set changes to include BBEdit's editing capabilities, but not its web authoring tools or other exclusive features. BBEdit’s exclusive features may be re-enabled at any time with a purchased license. BBEdit 12 requires macOS 10.11.6 or later. It has a suggested retail price of $49.99. Owners of BBEdit 11 can upgrade for US$29.99. Owners of BBEdit 10 or earlier (including customers who purchased BBEdit in the Mac App Store) can upgrade for $39.99. Anyone who purchased BBEdit 11 on or after March 1 is eligible to receive a free upgrade, while all eligible...

Cisdem (www.cisdem.com) has upgraded Cisdem Video Converter, a video conversion tool for macOS, to version 3.5.0. The upgrade adds support for more output devices, such as the iPhone X, iPhone SE, and more. It also improves download speed. Cisdem Video Converter is compatible with macOS 10.9 and higher. It costs $49.99; a demo is available for download.

Allegorithmic has released an update for Substance Designer (http://tinyurl.com/qch5ab5), a material authoring tool for macOS and Windows. Seven new noises and filters have been added to ease the creation of complex shapes and patterns, while new support for X-Rite’s Appearance Exchange Format (AxF) offers a way to author custom materials for design applications. AxF is a format that enables the communication of all aspects of a physical material’s appearance – color, texture, refraction, translucency, gloss, special effects and reflection properties – in a single, editable file. Once uploaded into Substance Designer, users will be able to add procedural edits to this data, producing custom materials with high degrees of accuracy and photorealism.   The update to Substance Designer is available free cost to current subscribers. Following the trial period, individual users will be able to subscribe to the Indie or Pro plans. Subscriptions to Substance Indie cost $19.90/month; Pro plans...

ProVUE Development has released Panorama X, a general purpose database system for Macs. It sports a 64-bit RAM based database engine and universal multi-level Undo. Panorama X also introduces a new flexible usage based approach to software subscriptions, according to ProVUE Development founder James Rea. He says that notable features include the following: ° The Panorama X data sheet displays rows and columns like a spreadsheet, but has special functions optimized for working with structured database information. ° Panorama X includes an application builder that enables the user to build a custom interface, including custom windows, dialogs, forms, labels and custom reports. The user/developer has complete control over the layout, and if necessary, any programming needed. Layouts can be fixed or responsive to window size. Programming code can be embedded into any element, much like HyperCard(TM). ° Panorama X allows huge data sets to be bent, reshaped or refactored at will. Fields...

DEVONtechnologies has updated all editions of its intelligent information and document manager DEVONthink for Mac with sync enhancements and performance improvements. They’re compatible with macOS 10 and higher. Version 2.9.16 allows to import multiple databases from a remote location at the same time, cleans up sync locations more aggressively, and makes the synchronization more efficient. Finally the updates bring compatibility fixes for macOS High Sierra. They’re free and recommended for all users. All editions can be downloaded (www.devontechnologies.com) and be test-driven for free before they need to be licensed. DEVONthink Personal as well as all editions of DEVONagent are also available in the Mac App Store; DEVONthink can be purchased in bundles with DEVONagent at bundle prices in DEVONtechnologies' online shop.

Flexibits has announced Cardhop, an interactive contacts app for the Mac. Its parsing engine lets users search, add, edit, and interact with their contacts in one place. Cardhop automatically uses the built-in contacts on your Mac, so there’s zero configuration. Just type in "John G" and John's card will instantly appear. Or enter "Sarah Smith sarah@cardhopapp.com" and Cardhop will add a new contact to Sarah's card. Or type in "call Michael S" and Cardhop will instantly start a phone call with Michael on your Mac, or even directly on your iPhone using Bluetooth! You can interact with your contacts with the following actions: Call, Copy, Directions, Email, FaceTime, FaceTime Audio, Large Type, Message, Skype, Telegram, Twitter, URL, and VoIP. With Cardhop's notes field, users can add a few details about their contacts, and the next time they interact with their contacts, they'll know more about them. Cardhop for Mac is available now for $19.99 from the Mac App Store or directly from...

Apple and GE have announced a partnership to deliver industrial apps designed to bring predictive data and analytics from Predix, GE’s industrial Internet of Things (IoT) platform, to the iPhone and iPad. The two companies unveiled a new Predix software development kit (SDK) for iOS, which gives developers the tools to make their own industrial IoT apps. “GE is an ideal partner with a rich history of innovation across the industrial world in areas like aviation, manufacturing, healthcare and energy,” said Apple CEO Tim Cook in a press release. “Together, Apple and GE are fundamentally changing how the industrial world works by combining GE’s Predix platform with the power and simplicity of iPhone and iPad.” “The partnership between Apple and GE is providing developers with the tools to make their own powerful industrial IoT apps,” added John Flannery, chairman and CEO, GE. “Our customers increasingly need to arm their workforces through mobility. Working together, GE and Apple are...

CS Odessa (www.conceptdraw.com) has introduced a new version of its online project management tool. ConceptDraw Plan 2 provides updated online workspace including Shared Resource Pool, Gantt Chart view, Resource Allocation view, Resource Usage view and Scheduler. What’s more, the new version improves project team collaboration and Task Complete Activity management. ConceptDraw Plan 2 retails for $119 annual subscription per licensed user. It supports all major web browsers and is interacts with ConceptDraw Project 8 for the desktop which retails for $299, and is compatible with MS Project.

WaterField Designs has announced the Ranger iPhone X case (http://tinyurl.com/y8zprfrn), a modern take on the traditional holster. With magnetic closing systems that use Neodymium rare-earth magnets, it attaches securely to clothing, belts, work vests or straps.  A Fidlock closure keeps the iPhone safeguarded inside the case. Scratch-free Ultrasuede lining adds cushioning and helps clean the iPhone screen as users insert and remove it from the case. The bottom opening allows users to keep ear buds connected and keeps text and call notifications audible when the iPhone is inside the case. Side openings provide access to volume and sleep buttons. A front leather pocket can hold earbuds or cash and a key. Pre-orders for the Ranger iPhone X Case are available now and units will start shipping Nov. 3 (the day the first iPhone X units are expected to arrive to customers). The Ranger case will cost $89 and be available in black or chocolate distressed leather.

Apple has posted the third developer betas of iOS 11.1, watchOS 4.1 and tvOS 11.1. All can be be downloaded from the Apple Developer Center.

Andrei Doubrovski has rolled out Elements+ 10, an update of his enhancement patch for Adobe Photoshop Elements. Featuring hundreds of tools, including missing adjustments, smart filters, and more, it’s an add-on that unlocks the undocumented advanced functions in Photoshop Elements+ featured in the latest versions of Photoshop. Version 10 includes some extra adjustments, smart filters, vector masks, and many more advanced tools normally hidden under the hood. Elements+ 10 requires macOS 10.4.11 or later and costs $12. A demo is available for download (http://elementsplus.net).

St. Clair Software has updated App Tamer, its Mac utility for managing applications to yield more efficient CPU usage, increased battery life and quieter operation. The utility’s AutoStop capability automatically slows down or pauses applications when you switch away from them, and then restarts them when you click back to them. Version 2.3.3 offers a new option to speed up Time Machine backups and addresses a number of other issues. App Tamer runs on macOS 10.8 or higher. A demo is available for download (http://www.stclairsoft.com/AppTamer/); registration is $14.95. The version 2.3.3 update is free for users who purchased App Tamer 2.x or bought App Tamer 1.x after July 1, 2013. For those that purchased a license before that date, the upgrade is $7.95

Apple has released iOS 11.0.3. It can be downloaded for free on all eligible devices over-the-air in the Settings app. To access the update, go to Settings --> General --> Software Update. According to Apple, iOS 11.0.3 fixes an issue where audio and haptic feedback would not work on some iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus devices. It also addresses an issue where touch input was unresponsive on some iPhone 6s displays because “they were not serviced with genuine Apple parts.”

AKVIS (www.akvis.com) has released SmartMask 10, a selection tool designed to make image masking fun and simple. Version 10 provides users with the new Refine Radius tool, enhanced Magic Brush tool, and other improvements. AKVIS SmartMask allows switching between Auto and Manual modes to achieve the best possible result with any photo. For more nuanced and precise excision of a monochrome background, SmartMask offers the Chroma Key mode. To improve the selection to a very fine point and make it as perfect as possible, the Refine Edges mode and a number of post-processing tools are available. AKVIS SmartMask requires macOS 10.7 or higher and costs $69. One license key allows activating and using the software on two computers. The product is available as a standalone application and as a plugin filter for Adobe Photoshop and other image editors.

ProjectWizards (www.projectwizards.com) has conjured up version 4.3 of Merlin Project, its project management software for macOS. The app is is now optimized for mac OS High Sierra. However, all Merlin Project users will benefit from an update as several optimizations have been implemented, according to the ProjectWizards. The software is now available in Japanese and Simplified Chinese. Also included in version 4.3 is a stability update. Merlin ProjectMerlin Project costs $289 for new users. A demo is available for download.

CS Odessa (www.conceptdraw.com) has released Dashboard for CRM to the ConceptDraw Solution Park. It can display activity in Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and other application platforms. The ConceptDraw CRM Center Dashboard Solution can even be setup to update dynamically, always giving the most current information and keeping you on top of emerging trends. It supports data from text files (TXT), comma-separated values files (CSV), and MS Excel spreadsheet files (XLS). Once you have connected a source file to the ConceptDraw document containing the solution’s dashboards, the visual indicators will automatically be updated based on your selection of refresh time and source file changes. The resulting dashboard can be used as a dynamic display of the data, or exported as a PowerPoint slide, Adobe PDF document, HTML, or any one of several other graphic formats for use in any way you can imagine. CRM Center Dashboard is a $49 solution for ConceptDraw Pro 11 and ConceptDraw Office 4....

True North Software has released Photo Print 4.0, an update of their photo printing application for macOS. It features a drag ’n drop, layout-oriented user interface. Photo Print allows you to place photos into frames, and adjust both images and frames positionally with effects, such as borders and image filters. It supports layered layouts, borders, shadows, filters and effects, styled text, and custom templates. Version 4.0 has been rewritten from the ground up so runs faster, can handle more photos, and allows you to save your creations as Photo Print documents. Photo Print is priced at $19.99 and requires macOS 10.11 or higher. It’s available at the Mac App Store (http://tinyurl.com/y9not7kv). A demo version is available from the True North website (http://www.truenorthsoftware.com).