Amped Wireless releases new Wireless-N USB adapters
Amped Wireless has introduced two new high-power Wi-Fi directional USB adapters that deliver Wi-Fi access: the UA1000 High Power Wireless-N 500mW Directional USB Adapter and the UA2000 High Power Wireless-N Directional Dual Band Adapter
Through the use of high gain directional antennas, high power amplifiers, low noise amplifiers and the latest Wi-Fi technology, these two new products provide Mac and PC users with high speed Wi-Fi access and superior range, according to Jason Owen, president and CEO at Amped Wireless. These new platforms allow devices to connect to 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi networks from up to three times greater distance than standard wireless adapters, he adds.
The US$79.99 UA1000 High Power Wireless-N 500mW Directional USB Adapter features: two 500mW amplifiers to increase transmit range; two low noise amplifiers to increase receiving capabilities; a high gain 5dBi dual polarity, directional antenna that concentrates Wi-Fi signals in a single direction for maximum range...
iLuv debuts Peanuts-flavored, Apple accessories
iLuv Creative Technology (http://www.i-Luv.com) has announced a new line of accessories featuring the Peanuts characters. Snoopy, Charlie Brown and the rest of the gang will now be available on protective cases and sleeves and high-fidelity earphones and headphones for the iPhone 4S, the new iPad, and MacBook devices. Prices range from US$19.99 to $59.99.
The Snoopy Character Series Hardshell case for iPhone 4S/4 (pictured) is a hardshell case is customized to fit the iPhone 4S to offer full access to all the phone’s controls. Also available in Snoopy Behavior Series, Snoopy Message Series, Snoopy Green Series, and Snoopy Cartoon Series.
The Snoopy Deco Film Protective film for iPhone 4S/4 colorfully protects the iPhone 4S from finger prints and scratches while personalizing your phone with a Peanuts character. The Snoopy Folio Portfolio Case for new iPad/iPad2 is specifically designed for the iPad to take advantage of all the device’s ports. The micro-suede inner lining prevents any...
Redpark GPS Cable connects iDevices to navigation, location...
Redpark Product Development has announced the US$59 Redpark GPS Cable that allows customers to connect iPad, iPhone and iPod touch gadgets to navigation devices. It's a one-meter long cable with a male DB-9 connector.
The Redpark GPS Cable is designed for use with navigation devices that use the NMEA 0183 communications protocol. For more info go to http://www.redpark.com/c2gps.html .
Teleprompt+ User Manuals available on the iBookstore
Bombing Brain Interactive has announced the availability of its Teleprompt+ User Manuals on the iBookstore. These free interactive guides provide details of all the features of Bombing Brain's teleprompter apps for iPad and OS X in the new iBooks Author format.
"The release of iBooks Author this year was an excellent opportunity for us to take our documentation a step further," says Gene Whitaker, CEO of Bombing Brain Interactive. "While our apps are very easy to start using with little or no instruction, we believe strongly that our customers should have free, convenient access to tools to help them get the most out of their purchases."
Links to the manuals can be found on the Bombing Brain web site, as well as via the built-in help area in each app. These free iBooks include text, interactive images, and videos, demonstrating all app features and serving as a reference for customers. The manuals are searchable for quick answers to feature questions. They can also be read from start...
Mac OS X software updates for April 24
Here are the latest incremental updates for Mac OS X apps.
MaBaSoft (http://www.mabasoft.net/) has announced World Clock Deluxe 4.8, an update to their world time utility for Mac OS X. World Clock Deluxe comes with over 1,500 cities and 200 time zones, displays multiple clocks in a horizontal or vertical palette, in the menu bar, or in the Dock, and calculates corresponding times in different cities. Version 4.8 adds 73 cities, updates daylight-saving time information for various countries, and supports cities with two daylight-saving time periods within the same year.
Airline Tycoon Deluxe (http://www.rune-soft.com/product.php?product_id=29) for Mac OS X 10.6.6 and higher has been updated. The new version fixes a few minor bugs and adds multi language support for the business simulation.
.com Solutions says FileMaker Pro developers can use FmPro Migrator Platinum Edition 6.68 (http://macte.ch/GjtKa) for Microsoft VB6 to LiveCode conversions, in order to build multi-platform desktop...
Deal Spotlight: Contour
Today's special deal is Contour for Mac OS X. It's being offered for US$19.99; the regular price is $49.99. To take advantage of this special pricing go to http://www.mupromo.com/deal/1841/6603/contour .
Contour was developed in collaboration with Emmy Award-nominated Jeffrey Alan Schechter and is a story development system. The software uses the same character-based structure that most every blockbuster movies uses to create well-written stories from fade in to fade out.
July 5 date of hearing on Apple's antitrust lawsuit against...
A hearing on Apple's antitrust lawsuit against Motorola is slated for July 5 in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, reports "FOSS Patents" (http://www.fosspatents.com/).
On or after that day, Judge Janis Sammartino will decide whether Apple's lawsuit can proceed or is dismissed (possibly with prejudice). If it goes forward, Motorola will then get a few weeks to (finally) respond to the complaint, notes "FOSS Patents."
On Feb. 11 it was announced that Apple sued Motorola Mobility in a U.S. court on Friday in an attempt to stop Motorola from asserting some patent claims against Apple in Germany.
The suit, filed in a San Diego federal court, argues that Motorola's German lawsuit against Apple breaches terms of a patent licensing agreement between Motorola and Qualcomm. This is part of an ongoing battle between the two companies.
Apple has previously alleged that Motorola infringes 24 of its patents (21 of them with Android-based phones, the...
Games, publishing, social networking, ecommerce to top mobile...
iPad and Android media tablet users have become and will remain avid app users over the next five years, averaging more than 31 downloads per year per media tablet, according to a new report from ABI Research (http://www.abiresearch.com).
A new market intelligence study on emerging tablet applications found that 11 of the 13.7 billion app downloads forecasted for iPad and Android media tablets in 2016 will be focused on four categories: games, digital publishing, social networking, and e-commerce.
"Media tablet app consumption will mimic smartphone app use in some ways, but in many ways, it will be very different," says Mark Beccue, senior analyst, ABI Research. "Digital publishing of books, magazines, and newspapers will flourish on media tablets in a way never seen on smartphones. Increasingly, consumers will opt for the more versatile media tablet over dedicated eBook readers. Leveraging unparalleled interactivity and design, publishers will gain new readers, including seniors (...
Denver Broncos huddling up with the iPad
The Denver Broncos are tossing out their 500-page playbooks this season and will instead hand out iPads that feature the week's game plan, scouting reports, video clips and other relevant data, reports the "Denver Post" (http://macte.ch/6kic8).
Now when Broncos head coach John Fox adds a play, the update will be pushed automatically to the playbook app on each player's iPad. "The advantage is that when they leave the building, they can take everything home with them very easily and watch tape at night and review the game plan installation," Broncos general manager Brian Xanders,, told the "Post." "This is their full-time job -- to prepare and do whatever they can to help us win each week. "
Dropbox introduces links for sharing
Dropbox, a free service that lets people bring their documents, photos, and videos anywhere and share them, has announced a way for people to instantly share items with just a link. Now documents, photos, and videos can be shared simply by creating and sending a link to friends, family, or colleagues, whether they are Dropbox users or not.
"We're always looking for ways to make life easier and solve the basic problems people face everyday," says Drew Houston, CEO and co-founder of Dropbox. "Sending files has always been a painful process, but now with Dropbox, sharing with friends, family, and colleagues is effortless."
Dropbox links allow people to easily view documents, photos, and videos in a full-browser display without any setup. Business presentations, home movies, and even entire folders can be opened and viewed without having to sign in, download anything, or open files separately.
From the Dropbox desktop, web, and mobile applications, the "Get link" button generates a unique...
Intel debuts Ivy Bridge processors
As expected Intel officially debuted its Ivy Bridge processors today. "BBC News" reports (http://macte.ch/iHTuG) that the chips are the first to sport what Intel says is a "3D transistor," which offers more power while using less energy.
The initial release includes 13 quad-core processors, most of which will be targeted at desktop computers. Look for new iMacs, and probably revamped MacBook Pros, in the near future.
Further dual core processors, suitable for laptops will be announced "later this spring." That's when the next rev of MacBook Airs should arrive.
Analyst: Apple likely to discontinue 17-inch MacBook Pro
In a note to clients -- as reported by "MacRumors" (http://www.macrumors.com) -- KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo thinks Apple will discontinue its 17-inch MacBook Pro. He thinks this is part of a move to streamline the company's laptop line-up.
"Apple’s Mac business in 2Q12 will be boosted by several factors," writes Kuo. "Three of which are: (1) Mountain Lion, which integrates iOS features with Mac OS, Apple TV’s interaction function, will be launched in June; (2) upgrading to Ivy Bridge; and (3) back-to-school demand. We forecast Apple will sell 5.32mn units of the Mac series (up 28.5% QoQ and 35.2% YoY) in 2Q12, making it the main growth driver.
"We also predict Apple will roll out a fully new MacBook model in early 3Q12, boasting strong performance and easy carryability by combining the advantages of MacBook Air and MacBook Pro. While adding new products, Apple is likely to stop making the 17” MacBook Pro this year due to falling shipments, in order to maintain a lean...
InMobi: iOS maintains dominate market position
InMobi (http://www.inmobi.com/research), an independent mobile ad network, has released its "Mobile Insights Report: North American Edition, Q1 2012." The report, based on data from InMobi's global network, unveils that iOS has maintained its dominant market position over Android in North America since January this year, with iOS total share of impressions for the quarter at 37%, against Android at 34%. RIM OS follows iOS and Android with 7% share in the region.
The InMobi report also uncovers the most prominent handsets in North America for the quarter January to March 2012, with Apple devices taking the top three positions, highlighting the strength of the brand: the iPhone (19.7%), iPod (12.2%) and iPad (4.9%), followed by the RIM BlackBerry 8520 (1.9%) and the HTC PC36100 closely behind at 1.8%. These rankings also reflect the strength of Apple globally, with Apple devices boasting the top three positions at 18% total global market share.
Globally, Nokia with its broad range of...
ShareOver is new social sharing app for Lion
Codehead has introduced ShareOver 1.0, a social sharing app for Mac OS X 10.7 Lion.
ShareOver enables users to share web pages, links, and online videos from any browser by dragging and dropping the favicon or the URL of the page to a menu bar icon. The software supports social sharing via email, Facebook, Twitter, Google , Reddit, Tumblr, and Delicious. Users can also save links to Read It Later and Instapaper.
ShareOver setup is a one-time process. Open the application after download and go to the "Setup" tab to log in to preferred online services and start sharing right away. ShareOver makes social sharing a breeze - eliminating the need of multiple apps, cumbersome and time consuming copy-and-paste, or having to juggle numerous webpages in order to share interesting news, online favorites, and videos.
ShareOver 1.0 is free for a limited time and will hit the paid app market at US$0.99. It's available exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Social Networking category.
Adobe announces Creative Suite 6, Creative Cloud
Adobe (http://www.adobe.com) has announced the Adobe Creative Suite 6 product line and Adobe Creative Cloud. The former includes new releases of 14 CS6 applications and four Creative Suites: Adobe Creative Suite 6 Design & Web Premium, Adobe Creative Suite 6 Design Standard, Adobe Creative Suite 6 Production Premium, and Adobe Creative Suite 6 Master Collection.
A new subscription-based offering, Adobe Creative Cloud, will provide users with the ability to download and install every Adobe CS6 application. Creative Cloud also integrates Adobe Touch apps into everyday work, introduces cloud-based sync and store capabilities, and powers the publishing of apps and high-impact Web experiences.
The performance and workflow enhancements in Adobe Photoshop CS6, Adobe Illustrator CS6 and Adobe InDesign CS6 will result in significant time savings for print, Web and mobile projects, according to David Wadhwani, senior vice president, Digital Media Business, Adobe. In Photoshop CS6, designers...
Apple moves forward on Oregon data center
Apple has agreed to pay local governments US$150,000 a year and get a 15-year property tax exemption for the data center it's developing in Central Oregon, reports the "Associated Press" (http://macte.ch/5R9zI).
In an agreement with Prineville and Crook County, Apple also committed to minimums of 35 jobs at the center, wages 150% of the county's average wage and $250 million invested at its 160 acres of land, the article adds. Apple paid $5.6 million in February to buy 160 acres in Prineville and started construction of a modular server farm on the bluffs above town.
Oregon's mild climate and relatively low power costs are part of the draw, "but tax breaks are the big attraction," according to "The Oregonian" (http://macte.ch/6KABp) .Rural "enterprise zones" spare computers and other equipment from the property taxes that other businesses pay. The exemption could be worth several million dollars or more to Apple, depending on the size of its investment, notes "The Oregonian."
Apple to create 500 new jobs at Cork, Ireland headquarters
Apple plans to create 500 jobs at its European headquarters in Cork, Ireland, reports "RTE News" (http://macte.ch/RuBBm). The company currently employs 2,800 people there.
Apple plans to build a three-story office block next to its existing plant in the city to cater for the expansion of its business in Europe, the Middle East, India and Africa, according to "RTE News." Apple's Senior Director for Corporate Communications Alan Hely said the company plans to increase its workforce in the city to 3,300 over the next 18 months, the article adds.
Apple, Proview working on settlement?
The IDG News Service reports (http://macte.ch/92ZvH) that Apple and Proview Technology, a Chinese company, have started talks to try and resolve an ongoing legal dispute over the iPad trademark.
Ma Dongxiao, a lawyer representing the Chinese company Proview, said on Friday the talks were happening, but declined to offer details. The ongoing legal brouhaha is still being deliberated by the Higher People's Court of Guangdong Province, but earlier this week, the court recommended that both Apple and Proview find a way to mediate the dispute, says the IDG News Service.
BaKno releases 3D charting tool for Mac OS X
BaKno Games has announced Charts, its new charting tool for Mac OS X. It offers eight types of charts including the usual bars and pies, most of them accepting multidimensional data.
All charts are rendered as a 3D scene in which many parameters be customized, such as the background color, light color and intensity, optional shadows or reflections, data titles and additional text. The actual chart's objects can be rendered using seven different materials: plastic, wood, glass, metal, stone, leather or fabric. Each material can be configured as well, either for all objects or independently by object. When an animated movie is needed, there are four different camera animations that can be combined into a total of 11 different animations.
Exported images or movies can be used into documents such as Keynote or PowerPoint presentations and websites. Movies are exported as loopable, which means that they can play indefinitely with no visible jumps.
Charts is available as as free-to-try...
Analyst: Apple's June quarter guidance may not be too...
In a note to clients -- as reported by "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com) -- Sterne Agree analyst Shaw Wu says when Apple reports its latest financial results next Tuesday, the company's guidance for the current June quarter may be less conservative than usual, thanks to especially strong sales of both the iPhone and iPad.
Although Apple is famous for "vintage conservative guidance," the company may be more aggressive next Tuesday, he adds. Wu expects Apple to have sold 29.5 million iPhones in the March quarter, along with 12.3 million iPads and 4.3 million Macs.
Get Plain Text for OS X converts copied text to plain text
Alice Dev Team has released Get Plain Text 1.0 for Mac OS X 10.6 or higher. It's available for US$2.99 through the Mac App Store in the Utilities category.
Get Plain Text provides a solution for users who want to copy formatted text; it allows users to convert text to plain text. It removes all unneeded formatting, including: colors, typeface size, style (boldface, italics, etc.), hyperlinks, images, and anything else that is not plain text.
"If you use the copy/paste functions in Mac OS, then you know how big of a pain it can be to manually convert formatted text," says Stanislav Kuptsov, CEO of Alice Dev Team. "We developed Get Plain Text to provide a solution to this everyday frustration, and think anyone who needs to convert text to plain text will appreciate how valuable Get Plain Text is. This app will lower your stress level and save you tons of time."
LongTail Video report finds growth in HTML5 adoption
LongTail Video (http://www.longtailvideo.com) -- a provider of self-serve video solutions for web publishers -- has unveiled its latest "State of HTML5 Video" report (http://www.longtailvideo.com/html5/), showing continued growth in HTML5 support and playback across the browser market, while highlighting other trends and issues in both mobile and desktop browsers.
Approximately 74% of the browser market now offers HTML5 support, up from 68% in January. Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and IE9, the latest version of Internet Explorer, grew their market shares over the first quarter, while use of non-supportive and outdated versions of Internet Explorer continued to shrink.
The "State of HTML5 Video" also examines how browsers support the JavaScript API [application programming interface], a crucial component for giving developers control over how video content is displayed and interacts with the rest of a webpage. LongTail tested factors like loading, buffering, playback and volume...
DropKey is new file encryption tool for the Mac
WellRedApps has introduced DropKey, a new utility for Mac OS X Lion that allows users to encrypt sensitive documents.
DropKey uses industry-standard Public-Key Cryptography to quickly encrypt files without the need for managing passwords. Using this method, the sender and recipient share public encryption keys. After that occurs, files can be encrypted by one and decrypted by the other without using passwords. While Public-Key Cryptography can use a variety of levels of security, DropKey uses the 256-bit method, a well-established industry standard, according to Ian Schray, WellRedApps co-founder and CEO.
DropKey, now available for Mac OS X Lion, can be found at the WellRedApps website (http://www.getdropkey.com). The regular price is US$29.99, but it can be purchased for $19.99 for a limited time. A free 30-day trial is available from the website.
Additionally, all direct purchases of DropKey will include a coupon for a free second license to be shared with a friend, family member...
Nikon releases 24.2-megapixel D3200 digital camera
Nikon (http://www.nikonusa.com) has introduced the new 24.2-megapixel Nikon D3200 HD-SLR; a camera designed for photo enthusiasts ready to step up to a D-SLR or for the busy family memory keeper with an active lifestyle who demands a camera that can keep pace.
The D3200 features Nikon's instructive Guide Mode. Advanced features include a high resolution 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor, Full HD (1080p) video recording with full time autofocus (AF) and four frames-per-second (fps) high-speed continuous shooting mode, prepare the D3200 for challenging lighting conditions and fast paced action.
Also, Nikon D3200 users will be able to take advantage of the new WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter. When connected to the camera, this optional adapter can wirelessly send images to mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, preview an image before shooting and control the camera remotely.
The Nikon D3200 outfit with the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens will be...
LaunchMagic 4 is successor to F10 Launch Studio for OS X
Chronos has released LaunchMagic 4, the successor to F10 Launch Studio and a major upgrade to its launch manager for Mac OS X.
Chronos invented the full-screen launch manager and first released it as F10 Launch Studio at Macworld Expo 2003 in San Francisco, California. Nine years later, Chronos is giving it a simpler name (LaunchMagic) and has made it faster, easier to use, and more powerful, according to Jerry Halls, vice president of Sales at Chronos.
Among the new features are menu bar access, support for documents and folders, document searching, Quick Look previews with full path info and more. The application is a 64-bit only application and requires Mac OS X Lion.
A fully functional, 30-day trial version can be downloaded from Chronos' web site (http://www.chronosnet.com). LaunchMagic costs US$29.99 for a single user license; a family pack is available for $49.99. Registered F10 Launch Studio 1.x, 2.x, and 3.x customers can upgrade to LaunchMagic 4 for $14.99.
Satechi Audio Cube Bluetooth speaker available
Satechi is shipping the Audio Cube Bluetooth Speaker with a portable design. It's available for US$44.99 at Satechi.net and Amazon.com.
The Satechi Audio Cube Bluetooth Speaker delivers 2x2 watts of audio performance. It's compatible with any Bluetooth-enabled device including iPhone 4S, Android phones, new iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab, MacBook Pro and more.
The Cube weighs 9.6 ounces and has a built-in rechargeable battery for six hours of playtime. It boasts a dual-channel speaker system with each channel output providing two watts of power.
The speaker has an auxiliary port to connect other non-Bluetooth devices or to double as an extended speaker for existing audio systems. It can also be controlled via the integrated volume, pause/play and power buttons on the top of the speaker. The Audio Cube Bluetooth Speaker can be recharged via any USB port.
Luxology ships Power SubD-NURBS for modo
Luxology has released Power SubD-NURBS for modo, a plug-in that allows designers to automatically convert Subdivision surface meshes into NURBS-based CAD formats that can be exported directly to standard CAD systems. Modo is 3D modeling, painting, rendering, and animation software
Developed for Luxology by San Diego’s IntegrityWare, Power SubD-NURBS bridges the worlds of highly flexible Subdivision surface modeling and CAD-accurate NURBS representations. With this new plug-in for modo, industrial designers in the early stages of the design process can create concept models that can be exported and refined within the users' CAD systems.
The plug-in exports IGES, SAT, STEP, and Rhino file formats for compatibility with leading CAD packages. Additionally, modo materials assigned by the designer can be used to derive surface boundaries in the resulting file for maximum control.
Power SubD-NURBS for modo 601 is available immediately for Mac OS X and Windows (32-bit and 64-bit) at US$595....
SleekSpeak rolls out Bluetooth bike speaker
SleekSpeak has announced the SleekSpeak Speaker, a Bluetooth-enabled, portable speaker built for headphone-free bicycle riding. It attaches to the handlebars and wirelessly streams all audio from all iOS devices, cell phones and MP3 players.
The SleekSpeak is also designed as a solution for more audible GPS navigation, training apps, audiobooks, podcasts and hands-free calls while commuting to work or riding for pleasure. Additionally, the small, rubberized coated portable device is water resistant and can be hung from a tree in the park while picnicking, attached to a lounge chair at the pool, working at a desk, or commuting by foot.
With a 12-hour power-life per charge, the SleekSpeak has an audio output of 80dB. Due in July, it will be available in a variety of great color combinations such as pink and green, blue and white, red and black, and more.
SleekSpeak is currently a KickStarter project developed by a David Meisenholder, founder of StickyLAB product development studio. It...
RunRev announces LiveCode Small Business App Academy
RunRev (http://www.runrev.com), makers of the LiveCode cross-platform app development environment, has announced the next Academy in its series of free online mobile app development courses with the LiveCode Small Business App Academy.
The new course will run from May 1-31 and will teach small business owners and employees how to create customizable apps for their businesses. The Small Business Academy follows the recent LiveCode Game Academy, completed earlier this year,.
The Academy is a free, no obligation program that is designed to allow new app development skills and learning into the busy lifestyle of professionals, through short daily videos delivered directly to the user’s inbox. The Small Business App Academy offers 60 building blocks necessary to create a tailored, full-featured app by the end of the 30-day period. Participants can follow the program in 30 days or at their own pace. For more info go to the RunRev web site.
Chronicle Mini 2.0 released with bill reminder email service
LittleFin Software has announced Chronicle Mini 2.0, an update to their free bill reminder app for Mac OS X 10.7.x ("Lion"). It's available at the Mac App Store.
Chronicle Mini reminds users when bills are due, right from the menu bar. Version 2.0 includes an improved design and a new e-mail reminder service.
Available as an US$4.99 in-app purchase, the service sends the user an e-mail before each bill is due, reminding the user to make a payment even when Chronicle Mini isn't running.
Mac OS X software updates for April 20
Here are the latest incremental updates for Mac OS X apps.
DEVONtechnologies (http://www.devontechnologies.com) has pushed all editions of its document and information manager DEVONthink and its smart note-taking app DEVONnote to version 2.3.4 with interface enhancements and bug fixes.
Stairways Software has announced Keyboard Maestro 5.2 (http://purchase.keyboardmaestro.com/), adding a plethora of File actions, new filters, new tokens, new functions and other improvements. Keyboard Maestro enhances the application switcher and window switcher, and includes the application launcher first featured in Switcher Maestro.
Cortado (https://workplace.cortado.com), which specializes cloud desktop services, has released its HTML5 version for Cortado Workplace. The new version adds a client for Macs, PCs, and notebooks to its series of native apps for iPhones, iPads, Android and BlackBerry devices.
Launched by MaKleSoft (http://maklesoft.com/secustore/) for iOS, Mac, Windows, Blackberry,...
Deal Spotlight: Virus Barrier X
Today's special deal is Virus Barrier X for Mac OS X. It's being offered for US$19.99; the regular price is $49.99. To take advantage of this special pricing go to http://www.mupromo.com/deal/1840/6603/virusbarrier+x6 .
With all the news about the Flashback trojan infecting over 600k Macs, keeping your computer and personal information safe is on everyone's mind. With multiple threat-detection techniques, improved methods of detection, combined detection protocols, proactive behavioral analysis, and a full range of defensive functions, VirusBarrier X6 protects Macs from all known network-based threats, as well as all known malware.
Chitika: HTC market drops 60% in five months
HTC's share of traffic in the mobile market has declined -- dropping 60% in five months, according to Chitika Research (http://www.chitika.com), a full-service on-line advertising network serving over two billion monthly impressions across more than 80,000 websites. What's more revenues are down 35% year-over-year.
In order to determine the actual level of market share HTC is losing as seen on its network, Chitika Insights conducted a study analyzing data from October 2011 through March 2012. During the span of our study, Apple’s market share grew from 46.84% to 76.88%, an increase of 64.13%. Over this same duration, HTC’s overall web traffic share fell from 18.22% to 7.28%, a decrease of 60.04%.
Apple is not the only threat to HTC. There are a wide variety of other Android manufacturers vying for dominance in the marketplace. It seems as if HTC is afflicted with a lack of product differentiation, says Chitika.
Judge upholds 'anti-poaching' lawsuit against Apple,...
Apple, Google, Intel, Adobe, Intuit, Disney's Pixar division and Lucasfilm and four other technology companies were ordered by a judge to face an antitrust lawsuit claiming they illegally conspired not to poach each other's employees, reports "Reuters" (http://macte.ch/m23lu).
District Judge Lucy Koh in San Jose, California, rejected the companies' bid to dismiss claims brought under the federal Sherman antitrust law and California's own antitrust law, the Cartwright Act.
In a Wednesday decision, Koh said the existence of "Do Not Cold Call" agreements among various defendants "supports the plausible inference that the agreements were negotiated, reached, and policed at the highest levels" of the companies.
"The fact that all six identical bilateral agreements were reached in secrecy among seven defendants in a span of two years suggests that these agreements resulted from collusion, and not from coincidence," Koh added.
Last May Joseph R. Saveri of the national plaintiffs' law firm...
Analyst: iPhone 4S sales see 'modest decline'
In a note to clients -- as reported by "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com) -- Canaccord Genuity analyst T. Michael Walkley says the iPhone 4S is still a hot seller six months after launch, though sales in developed markets like the U.S. have "modestly declined" in favor of 4G LTE smartphones.
He expects this trend to continue as Android competitors introduce new models in the June and September quarters, and also as consumers begin to wait for Apple's next-generation iPhone.
"For example, our March channel checks at Verizon indicated a stronger mix of LTE smartphones, and we believe Verizon has strong June quarter promotions planned for LTE Android smartphones," Walkley wrote.
Apple on ebook price fixing charges: let's go to court
Apple wants to go to trial to defend itself against U.S. government allegations that it conspired with publishers to raise prices of electronic books, reports "Reuters" (http://macte.ch/RaANk).
"Our basic view is that we would like the case to be decided on the merits," Apple lawyer, Daniel Floyd, told U.S. District Judge Denise Cote. "We believe that this is not an appropriate case against us and we would like to validate that."
In response to the U.S. Department of Justice's antitrust lawsuit against Apple and several book publishers for collaborating on ebook pricing, Apple says it's actually been working to break Amazon’s control over market.
In a statement (http://macte.ch/Y5Dz0) to AllThingsD, Apple spokesman Tom Neunayr had this to say: "The DOJ’s accusation of collusion against Apple is simply not true. The launch of the iBookstore in 2010 fostered innovation and competition, breaking Amazon’s monopolistic grip on the publishing industry. Since then customers have benefited...
Samsung files counterclaim against Apple
And you thought they were going to settle this peacefully? Despite reports (http://macte.ch/qeBbc) that Apple and Samsung execs and lawyers were going to sit down and hash out their legal differences, the latter has filed a counterclaim against Apple in a California lawsuit, reports "FOSS Patents" (http://macte.ch/goMsv).
Two of those patents are FRAND-pledged patents that Samsung declared essential to ETSI standards, the article adds. Five of the patents (including the two FRAND patents) were originally applied for by Samsung, while three others were acquired (one from Hitachi, one from a group of three inventors). Also, Samsung's complaint states for two of the patents that Apple was shown "detailed explanation[s]" of infringement (presumably that means claim charts) in October 2010. One of those two patents was previously asserted against Apple but then withdrawn from the first California litigation between these companies, notes "FOSS Patents."
The accusations by Samsung were...
iPhones account for over half of Verizon's smartphone sales...
Verizon (http://www.verizon.com) has announced its fiscal results for the first quarter of 2012. The wireless carrier activated 3.2 million iPhones during the quarter -- over half of its smartphone sales.
Verizon reported double-digit percentage growth in year-over-year quarterly earnings results and increased cash flow in first-quarter 2012. Verizon Wireless posted another quarter of profitable revenue growth, while Verizon's Wireline segment posted another quarter of customer and revenue gains for FiOS fiber-optic services, and increased sales of strategic business services.
At the end of the first quarter, nearly 47%of Verizon Wireless' retail postpaid customer phone base were smartphones. That's up from 43.5% at the end of fourth-quarter 2011.
MobileMe users offered free copy of Snow Leopard
Apple is offering MobileMe users that haven’t yet moved to Snow Leopard yet free copies of the operating system to cut down on their upgrade costs to Lion as the transition to iCloud -- which requires Lion -- moves forward.
Go to the MobileMe sign-in page and log in with your MobileMe credentials to take advantage of the deal. It will save you US$30 off the cost of migrating to Lion.
Macworld Asia 2012 to be held in August in Beijing
The co-hosts of Macworld Asia, Beijing Investment Promotion Bureau and International Data Group (IDG) announced that Macworld Asia 2012 is scheduled Aug. 2-5 in China National Convention Center (CNCC), Beijing.
The exhibition area of this expo will be doubled this year to accommodate more exhibitors from global markets, especially those from Asia. So far, 95% of the exhibition stands have been sold out.
As the greatest exposition of the Apple industry chain in Asia, Macworld Asia not only provides the best exhibition stage and exchange platform for the booming enterprises in the industry chain, but also will unveil the infinite business opportunities for the appreciation among mobile internet industries this year through its forums, Jennifer Xu, vice president of IDG Asia, says. By offering diverse customer experiences, Macworld Asia 2012 aims to be another ultimate carnival for Apple fans, he adds.
This expo is expected to attract around 500 exhibitors from China and other markets...
Combat Mission: Battle for Normandy rolls onto the Mac
Combat Mission: Battle for Normandy, a World War II combat simulation game, is now available in the Mac App Store. It costs US$49.99 and requires Mac OS X 10.6 or higher.
Here's how the game is described: "Combat Mission: Battle for Normandy faithfully recreates the experience of tactical land warfare in Western France during World War Two. Using the unique Turn-Based (WeGo)/Real-Time hybrid game system of our proprietary CMx2 battle engine, the first installment in this new series covers the three months after the Allied D-Day landings in Normandy in June 1944, from Operation Overlord in June through the Cobra Breakout in August."
3M launches Mac Confidential privacy filters
Because of the unique design of the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and iMac, these particular models have, in the past, not been able to attach mobile privacy filters to protect sensitive on-screen data from peering eyes. 3M has changed that with its Mac Confidential privacy filters (http://macte.ch/BzBWB).
3M -- yep, that 3M, the company that specializes in adhesives through their iconic Scotch Tape brand, has created three new designs of privacy filters specifically for these devises. The filters use a clear, adhesive strip to attach a privacy filter that doesn't detract from the Mac's aesthetic and can be repositioned hundreds of times. Depending on monitor size, they range in price from US$33 to $134.
UC Irvine OpenCourseWare content available on iTunes U
The University of California, Irvine OpenCourseWare is now offering four new courses on iTunes U.
iTunes U is a dedicated area within iTunes that gives users public access to hundreds of thousands of free lectures, videos, books, podcasts, and courses from learning institutions all over the world. With the new iTunes U app users can download content directly onto their iPhone, iPad or iPod touch.
"iTunes U is a powerful tool because it reaches both national and international audiences, provides self-learners with free UC-quality courses and materials, and furthers our land grant mission to increase universal access to higher education," says Larry Cooperman director of UC Irvine’s OCW project. "Within one year, UC Irvine will make the core, undergraduate Chemistry curriculum available openly through channels such as iTunes U."
The UC Irvine iTunes U courses are:
° "PubHlth 200: Foundations of Public Health." This course, created by Dr. Oladele Ogunseitan, teaches participants with an...
Logitech announces Keyboard Cover for the new iPad
Logitech (http://www.logitech.com) extends its tablet lineup with its latest keyboard accessory -- the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover -- for the new iPad, as well as the iPad 2. The US$99.99 all-in-one solution provides an ultrathin screen protector and built-in keyboard so you can type easily and travel without worry, says Alexis Richard, director of product marketing at Logitech.
It protects the iPad screen with a slim aluminum cover that adds minimal weight to your tablet. It also features a built-in keyboard that pairs through Bluetooth. When you’re ready to type an email or watch a movie, the keyboard’s built-in stand holds your iPad at the best angle, says Richard.
Similar to a Smart Cover, the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover attaches to your iPad with a magnetic clip. It has an instant on/off feature, which means the Apple tablet automatically wakes up when you open the cover, and switches to standby when you close it.
Logitech says the Ultrathin Keyboard Cover has a six...
Suitcase Fusion 4 brings font browsing, control Directly into...
Extensis (http://www.extensis.com) says Suitcase Fusion 4, the newest version of the professional-grade font manager for Mac and Windows operating systems, is now available for purchase or upgrade. The upgrade brings font handling tools directly into the creative workflow, allowing designers to access them where and when they are needed, says Chris Meyer, senior product manager, Font Solutions.
A key new feature in Suitcase Fusion 4 includes Extensis Font Panels. The new Extensis Font Panels extend font browsing and control directly into Adobe InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop applications. Designers can preview, organize and activate fonts from their font collection directly from Adobe applications, thereby eliminating the endless search for the right font.
Suitcase Fusion 4 is also the only professional desktop manager that covers all areas of the creative workflow, including the web, says Meyer. The Font Panel for Adobe Photoshop includes web fonts from WebINK and Google Web...
Thursby launches PKard Reader for iOS devices
Thursby Software Systems (http://www.thursby.com) has launched PKard Reader, an iPad, iPhone and iPod touch web browser solution. It combines an US$149.99 plug-in card reader using industry standard CAC, PIV, PIV-I or CIV smart cards and a free app leveraging two-factor authentication.
The PKard solution lets people access web portals, collaboration sites and email directly from their iPads and iPhones with secure authentication to their personal smart cards. For example, a US military reservist can access educational or training materials on secure sites from his or her own iPad or iPhone.
Security is maintained at all times whether playing music, or switching from app to app, preserving the Apple user experience, according to Thursby Chief Technical Officer Paul Thursby. Importantly, no changes need to be requested for back-end servers making the solution easy to install for both individuals and organizations, he adds.
The PKard Reader hardware plugs directly into the 30-pin...
Fourth edition of 'iPad: The Missing Manual" available
O'Reilly Media has released "iPad: The Missing Manual, 4th Edition," an update of the "manual that doesn't come in the box" for the third generation of the Apple tablet.
Among the topics covered by author J.D. Biersdorfer in the US$24.99 book are:
° Build your media library. Fill your iPad with music, photos, movies, TV shows, games, eBooks, and more.
° Sync wirelessly. Keep your iPad's apps, media, and email messages current without cabling up.
° Capture stunning images. Take photos and HD video with the tablet's new 5-megapixel iSight camera.
° Get online. Connect via WiFi or the blazing-fast 4G LTE cellular network--and create a free WiFi hotspot with Verizon's iPad.
° Take dictation. "Speak" email messages and notes, and have the iPad type them up.
"No matter which iPad model you have--the new iPad, the iPad 2 or the original iPad--there's tons of stuff in "iPad: The Missing Manual" that works for your tablet, whether it be syncing photos or keeping your calendar up to date,"...
Autodesk Inventor Fusion available a 'tech preview' on...
Autodesk says Autodesk Inventor Fusion is now available for download as a free technology preview (http://www.facebook.com/InventorFusion) for the Mac. The company claims it's the first 3D direct modeling software for the platform.
Inventor Fusion's 3D direct manipulation tools allow users to open and edit 3D models from almost any source and incorporate them into new or existing designs. Designers can freely explore complex shapes and forms. The software is fully interoperable with AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor software and a variety of other Autodesk and third party CAD tools.
Vehicular Networking Solution rolls out for ConceptDraw Pro 9
CS Odessa has announced the Vehicular Networking Solution for ConceptDraw Pro 9, now available in the ConceptDraw Solution Park.
New challenges arise in network administration, as vehicle manufacturers embrace the Wi-Fi paradigm and onboard hot spots become ever more ubiquitous, according to the folks at CS Odessa. With this latest solution, ConceptDraw Pro is uniquely positioned to address the growing demand for analysis and illustration of these types of networks, they add.
The Vehicular Networking solution in ConceptDraw is designed to save time and increases clarity in the analysis of the network infrastructure and vehicle variables by rapidly representing all possible environmental variables. It adds library elements and templates for working in this expanding field. For more information, visit http://www.conceptdraw.com .
Free Calendar template from SeedCode available for FileMaker 12
SeedCode (http://www.seedcode.com) has announced a new, free Calendar Template for FileMaker 12. It takes advantage of some of the new features in FileMaker 12, including the new look and feel, as well as the new ExecuteSQL function.
The free calendar is a completely unlocked calendar template that folks can paste into their own solutions. It's also a nice starting point for getting to know SeedCode's Pro Calendars, which offer drag-and-drop, resource scheduling, and other features not found in the free calendar, says John Sindelar of SeedCode.
All SeedCode calendars are unlocked for you to modify and extend. They're built solely in FileMaker Pro, require no plug-ins, and have layouts optimized for FileMaker Go on iPad.
