Sketcher for Mac OS X updated to version 1.2
Neatberry has updated Sketcher for Mac OS X (10.6 and higher) to version 1.2. It's a maintenance release.
Sketcher is a cross-platform application that allows users to convert digital images into pencil, watercolor, pastel or oil painting works of art. Features include: various target artworks support; built-in textures library; a Texturize filter; and more
Sketcher costs US$14.99. It's available from the Neatberry website (http://neatberry.com). Version 1.2 is a free update for registered users. A demo is also available for download.
Antec announces cleaning solutions for electronics
Antec (http://www.antec.com) has announced its Advance Cleaning Solutions line. The line includes three different types of cleaners: 100% Natural, 3x Strength and a Deep Cleaning Gel.
All products come alcohol and ammonia free, while keeping your device or accessory fingerprint resistant, bacteria free and static free, according to the folks at Antec. The cleaning solution cleans and protects devices with an ecologically-friendly formula. The wipes and 60mL spray are TSA-compliant and portable. Go to the Antec web site for various pricing options and packages.
Mei releases Vjoon K4 Version 6.4 R2
Managing Editor Inc. (MEI) has announced the latest update to the vjoon K4 Cross-Media Publishing Platform, a workflow-management system for creating and managing content for print, Web, tablets, mobile devices and more.
Highlights include enhanced multichannel publishing capabilities and standard third-party system integration. The latest version of vjoon K4 also offers a standardized approach to networking publishing environments and integrating third-party systems. Contact MEI (http://www.maned.com) for pricing options.
ITC postpones Apple's first complaint against HTC
The ITC ruling on Apple's first complaint against HTC was scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 6. However, it's been extended by eight days to Wednesday, Dec. 14, writes Florian Mueller of "Foss Patents" (http://macte.ch/4v2sv).
Why? "The ITC is struggling to cope with a huge caseload. It has recently postponed a number of decisions and hearings," Mueller writes. "This delay cannot be reasonably interpreted to provide any indication as to what the outcome will be. However, the fact that the delay is relatively short (eight days) indicates that the ITC is very close to a decision and unlikely to postpone it again (though it could)."
Apple first filed its complaint against HTC in March 2010. An initial ruling in July 2011 found that HTC did violate two Apple patents.
-- Dennis Sellers
Apple's HDTV to come in three sizes?
Apple hasn't announced any plans for an HDTV, though speculation runs rampant that the company is planning its own television for 2012 or 2013. Now "Smarthouse" (http://macte.ch/TgF6P), a "lifetstyle technology guide," claims to have knowledge that the "iTV" will come in three sizes ranging from 32 inches to 55 inches.
Quoting "sources at a major Japanese company who are involved in manufacturing the TV," the article says that the iTVs will incorporate a new processor that will first appear in the iPad 3. A totally new software interface has been written that allows users to call up programs using voice commands via the new Siri personal assistant app built into the iPad, iPhone and directly into the TV, says "Smarthouse."
The article adds that the 55-inch model will compete with new Smart TVs from Samsung and LG that will have new processors built in "while offering a combination of OLED display, as well as new Super HD TV technology from LG." Last week Piper Jaffray analyst Gene...
Apple, others sued for violating Federal Wiretap Act
The law firms of Sianni & Straite of Wilmington, DE, Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow & McElroy of Edison, NJ, and Keefe Bartels of Red Bank, NJ, have filed a class action complaint in Federal Court in Wilmington, Delaware related to the "unprecedented breach of the digital privacy rights of 150 million cell phone users."
The complaint asserts that three cell phone providers (T-Mobile, Sprint and AT&T) and four manufacturers of cell phones (HTC, Motorola, Apple and Samsung) violated the Federal Wiretap Act, the Stored Electronic Communications Act, and the Federal Computer Fraud and Abuse Act.
David Straite, one of the attorneys leading the action, said in a press release that "this latest revelation of corporate America’s brazen disregard for the digital privacy rights of its customers is yet another example of the escalating erosion of liberty in this country. We are hopeful that the courts will allow ordinary customers the opportunity to remedy this outrageous breach."
Judge nixes Apple's request to stop Galaxy sales in the U.S...
Apple couldn't convince a U.S. judge to block Samsung from selling Galaxy smartphones and tablets in the U.S. market, reports "Reuters" (http://macte.ch/jToxZ). In a Friday ruling, U.S. District Judge Lucy Koh in San Jose, California denied Apple's request for a preliminary injunction against Samsung.
The two companies are engaged in a legal brouhaha that includes more than 20 cases in 10 countries as both sides claim patent infringements. Also on Friday, an Australian court extended a halt on sales of Samsung's latest Galaxy tablet in the country by at least a week, as Apple appeals a ruling that had ended the ban.
Apple facing shortage of 2TB drives
The 2TB hard drives offered as build-to-order options for the iMac are in short supply due to flooding in Thailand, reports "Neowin" (http://macte.ch/Gph7p). Over 50% of global hard drives are made in the country, the article adds.
According to the Apple website it could add anywhere from five to seven weeks to the delivery time due to the sheer difficulty of sourcing 2TB hard drives for the machines. The Mac Pro line can be outfitted with as many as four 2TB hard drives, though when doing this, the delivery time for the machine doesn't increase.
This may suggest that Apple are holding any 2TB hard drives they have available for usage in the Mac Pro line over the iMacs at present, notes "Neowin." iMac with 1TB hard drives face no delays in shipping.
McAfee: iOS safer than Android OS
Apple's iOS is safer than the Android operating system as a safer environment, "but the damage to mobile devices is likely to be high because smartphones are always connected, they always carry some personal data, and they are even equipped with small cameras, microphones, and positioning devices -- just like the spies carried in old movies," says McAfee (http://www.mcafee.com), the security software company.
"The core of contemporary OS’s, such as iOS and Android, is based on Unix/Linux, which makes the system reasonably secure," the company says in a report. "However, due to the competitive pressure of the market, the manufacturers frequently prioritize time-to-market concerns over security and may add core drivers and applications that are insufficiently tested. There could also be flaws in implementing updates for the firmware and OS that would make the robustness of the OS core irrelevant -- as an attack may be able to entirely replace it."
Apple’s iOS is currently the biggest...
Fitch: smartphone penetration to exceed 50% of end of 2011
According to Fitch Ratings' latest telecom special report (http://www.fitchratings.com), postpaid smartphone penetration increased to 46.8% in third-quarter 2011, a change of 310 basis points (bps) sequentially.
This was a decrease from the average rate increase of 370 bps over the past three quarters as consumers waited for the iPhone 4S launch. Penetration rates could exceed a 400-bps change in fourth-quarter 2011, driven by take-up rates for the iPhone 4S, aggressive LTE data promotions by Verizon Wireless and penetration gains at AT&T Mobility. Fitch Ratings believes smartphone penetration should approach the mid - 60% range by end of 2012.
AT&T's proposed acquisition of T-Mobile USA will be the key issue in 2012. Fitch believes T-Mobile faces an uncertain future if the deal, which has encountered significant governmental opposition, collapses and could take more aggressive steps using a portion of the proceeds from the break-up fee to stabilize postpaid market share....
Iger shows his Apple love in large purchase of company shares
Last month Disney CEO Bob Iger joined the Apple Board of Directors. He's also showing his confidence in the company's future.
According to an SEC filing, last week he acquired 2,670 shares of Apple at an average price of US$375, putting the total cost at just above $1 million. The move is seen as a gesture of confidence in the company, at which Iger will also serve on the audit committee.
MacUpdate kicks off December 2011 software bundle
MacUpdate has kicked off its December 2011 software bundle (http://mupromo.com/?ref=6603), featuring a collection of 11 popular Mac apps, including TechTool Pro 6, for US49.99. The limited-time bundle represents a savings of 94%, or almost $700, and includes:
° TechTool Pro 6 ($99.99) -- A leading Mac utility, with tools for diagnosing virtually all hardware problems and for repairing and optimizing hard drives. A bootable DVD disk image is included in the bundle, and version 6 features improved eDrive functionality, enabling all of the app's tools to be ran from the boot drive, perfect for Macs without optical drives. More info can be found at http://www.macupdate.com/app/mac/4307/techtool-pro .
° TotalFinder ($18) -- Adds Web browser-like Tabs to the Finder and other must-have enhancements for a more productive Finder experience. More info can be found at http://www.macupdate.com/app/mac/33373/totalfinde .
° Postbox 3 ($29.95) -- An email client for Mac OS X, offering more features...
MOV is MP4 video repair tool for Mac
Remo Software has announced Remo Repair MOV, an US$129 file repair utility for repairing corrupt or damaged MOV and MP4 video files. The software is currently available for Mac OS X 10.5.8 or higher and is designed to help repair an unlimited number of corrupt/damaged files having any playable length.
Remo Repair MOV provides support for most camcorders and has special repair algorithm. Some of the popular brands supported by the software are Nikon, Canon, Contour, GoPro, Samsung, Sanyo and many others.
MOV lets you repair MOV video files that get truncated or abruptly finalized by the camcorder due to its faulty firmware. It even supports MOV, MP4 video files having large sizes. MOV has an automated repair process that separates video and audio data streams and later adjoins them to create a relevant playable video file.
A demo is available at the Remo Software (http://www.remosoftware.com). You must login as system administrator on your Mac to install and use the software. Also,...
Apple to build new data center in Prineville, Oregon?
Apple may build a large data center in Prineville, Oregon, a quarter mile south of the Facebook server farm that opened this year, reports "The Oregonian" (http://macte.ch/6KABp), citing "two people with direct knowledge of Apple's plans."
Oregon's mild climate and relatively low power costs are part of the draw, "but tax breaks are the big attraction," the article adds.
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 opened a 500,000-square-foot data center in Maiden, N.C., earlier this year. The company also plans to build a new solar farm opposite the data center.
Report: iPhone losing dominance, iPad continues to surge
According to a new Strategy Analytics (http://www.strategyanalytics.com/) report, "App Developer Attitudes and Behaviors," Apple continues to draw primary attention from app developers, while the Android is holding steady, Windows Phone is gaining momentum, and BlackBerry is struggling.
The growth of the iPad, Android, and Windows Phone is clearly coming at the expense of iPhone, BlackBerry, Java and other platforms, according to Josh Martin, director of Apps Research at Strategy Analytics.
"The app market is already maturing," he says. "Developers are tired of a few making the lion’s share of revenue. Thus, we see strong interest in fresh, emerging platforms and new business models, such as virtual goods and in-app advertising over the next year. The platform that best delivers revenue from multiple streams stands the best chance of success in the next eighteen months. For this reason, Strategy Analytics predicts that Apple will introduce carrier billing in emerging markets next year...
The Mac Store launches '21 Macs in 21 Days' promo
The Northwest's largest and locally owned Apple reseller, The Mac Store (http://www.themacstore.com), has announced "21 Macs in 21 Days", a promotion during which they'll be giving away 21 MacBook Air computers to 21 different folks.
To enter, individuals are encouraged to visit any Mac Store location through. Dec. 21. Drawings are held daily. Once at the store, customers can click on the "21 Macs" icon on any one of the display machines and then enter their contact information.
"We wanted to launch a fun promotion with a substantial reward that would keep customers engaged throughout the holiday season," says Erick Laabs, vice president of The Mac Stores. "The new MacBook Air computers are extremely popular, and we love the idea of giving a bunch of them away."
The Mac Store opened its first location in 1978 and has grown to 10 locations in the Northwest. The stores range from Eugene, Corvallis, Salem and Portland all the way up to the Seattle area. Their latest store recently...
Bato Treasures of Tibet is new billiards-like game for Mac OS X
MD Studio, in conjunction with Vasilek Games, has introduced Bato Treasures of Tibet, new gaming title for Mac OS X (10.6 or higher). It's available at the Mac App Store for US$3.99.
Here's how the game is described: "This is a modern embodiment of the ancient oriental game, in something like the billiards. Do you like to travel and solve the puzzles? Join a young master of an ancient Tibetan game as he leaves for treasure-hunting across the wild lands.
"Bato offers over 70 levels of relaxing arcade challenges. The goal: eliminate all of the stones from the game board. The means by which this is accomplished: clicking and sliding identically colored stones into each other. Aim and slide one stone into another, eliminate multiple stones for bonus points and pull off extraordinary bank shots for an even higher score! Ten bonus items add an extra layer of fun and complexity to the gameplay. Can you earn the highest ranking on each level as you follow a young man on his journey to...
TerraRay for Mac OS X gets speed improvements, more
AvisNocturna Software has updated TerraRay (http://avisnocturna.com/site/TerraRay.html), its terrain rendering software for Mac OS X (10.6 and higher), to version 6.0. In the update, rendering speed has been improved by optimizing the renderer and switching to 64-bit.
TerraRay is still compatible to 32 bit Macs. These improvements increased rendering speed by 25% to 50% for most scenes not affecting rendering quality in any way, according to the folks at AvisNocturna Software.
A completely new cloud system has been written from scratch that supports placing individual cloud clusters in scenes for volumetric effects. What's more, a new algorithm for rocks has been implemented for version 6.0. The user interface has been improved in many areas, as well. Not enough? The grass algorithm has been improved ,and a new post processing filter to adjust color vibrance has been added.
TerraRay 6.0 is available exclusively available at the Mac App Store. It's being offered at a 50% discount (US$...
Scosche releases fitRAIL for the iPad
Scosche (http://www.scosche.com) has announced the availability of the fitRAIL exercise mount for iPad and iPad 2. The Scosche fitRAIL is available at Apple retail stores, Apple.com and Scosche.com for US$49.99.
The fitRAIL provides athletes with a convenient way to watch movies and TV shows, listen to music, read and more during workouts. The aluminum fitRAIL mounts to treadmills, exercise bikes, elliptical machines and others found at the gym or in the home.
The user’s iPad or iPad2 rests in the fitRAIL’s mounting tray and is held in place against the frame by Scosche’s patented stickGRIP material. A neoprene clip-on strap attaches to the top of the iPad to lock it into place. The fitRAIL also features soft rubber feet to prevent scratching workout machines and a foldable design and travel pouch for the gym bag.
fitRAIL is also a great way to use the Scosche myTREK pulse monitor and app during workouts, according to Kas Alves, executive vice president of Scosche Industries...
3G Surfstick for Mac OS X now supports HSPA+ speeds
Nova media has unveiled iCON 711, a new 3G surfstick for Mac OS X made by the Belgium company Option. The modem supports fast download speeds with up to 21.1 Mbit/s.
The iCON 711 is neither SIM locked nor netlocked and can be used within most networks around the globe, according to Jan Fuellemann of Nova media. It features a MicroSD card slot compatible to SDHC cards with up to 32GB memory and an external antenna connector.
The iCON 711 comes with launch2net Premium, a 3G connection manager for Mac OS X. The software features a SMS text message manager, statistics, and the ability to share a 3G connection with other Macs and devices. launch2net Premium includes connection settings for most mobile network providers. For cross-platform usage, the iCON 711 includes a connection manager for Windows operating systems alredy stored on the device.
On the technical side the iCON 711 is working in the 900/2100 MHz frequency ranges for 3G connections and supports HSPA+ with download speeds up...
Learn Pixelmator 2 video training app available
The Mac U has introduced Learn -- Pixelmator 2 Edition, a video training series for Pixelmator, a graphics application for Mac OS X.
Featuring 36 individual video lessons, this course includes over two hours of video tutorials on how to use the tools, adjustment commands and filters available in Pixelmator 2. Each lesson is presented in HD video at 1280x720 resolution:
The videos guide the viewer with zooms, pans and highlights of what is being discussed. The keyboard shortcuts associated with each lesson are listed in the sidebar. You can use the notes pane to jot down things to remember from each lesson, then output all your notes in a single PDF document
Learn -- Pixelmator 2 Edition requires Mac OS X 10.7.x ("Lion"). It costs US$3.99 and is available worldwide through the Mac App Store in the Graphics & Design category.
DX Toolbox revved to version 3.8
Black Cat Systems has released DX Toolbox version 3.8, an update of the Mac OS X radio propagation/conditions analysis and forecasting tool for amateur radio operators, shortwave listeners, and other radio enthusiasts. This version add 21 D Layer Absorption maps.
Broadcasts can be searched by station name, frequency, time of transmission, and country. Those broadcasts currently on the air can be shown. This makes it easy to find and tune into international shortwave broadcasts, according to the folks at Black Cat.
DX Toolbox us designed to help amateur radio operators and shortwave listeners estimate radio propagation conditions. Several propagation forecasting charts are available to estimate signal levels and path conditions between any two points on the Earth.
DX Toolbox sells for US$24.99. A feature complete demo is available at the product web site (http://www.blackcatsystems.com/software/dxtoolbox.html).
Graphic Node expands assortment of iWork templates
Graphic Node (http://graphicnode.com/) has expanded its assortment of iWork templates with the update of the iOS version of Designs for Pages.
The expanded pack for Apple's Pages for iOS now consists of 535 customizable templates. The collection assists iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch users in creating documents without using a computer.The Designs for Pages set is available at the Apple App Store for US$0.99.
FileWave updates software deployment/management suite
FileWave has launched version 5.5 of its software deployment and management suite. The upgrade includes a self service kiosk for Mac and PC computers as well as iOS devices, a software update server for Mac and Windows computers and iOS 5 Mobile Device Management (MDM) support.
The Self Service Kiosk has the ability to not only deliver applications but also to continuously maintain the latest version of an organization’s documentation such as price lists, sales literature or HR documents without further end user intervention. Download a document once, and FileWave can ensure it is updated and maintained for the life of the document, according to the folks at FileWave Inc. For more info go to http://www.filewave.com .
1-in-10 mobile subscribers using the iPhone
ComScore (http://www.comscore.com), a company that "measures the digital world," has released data from the comScore MobiLens service, reporting key trends in the U.S. mobile phone industry during the three month average period ending October 2011. Among other results the survey shows that 1-in-10 mobile subscribers are now using the iPhone.
The comScore study surveyed more than 30,000 U.S. mobile subscribers and found Samsung to be the top handset manufacturer overall with 25.5% market share. Google Android -- on LG and Motorola -- continued to gain ground in the smartphone market reaching 46.3% market share. Apple, in fourth place, had 10.8% market share, which is up from 9.5% from comScore's last survey in July.
For the three-month average period ending in October, 234 million Americans age 13 and older used mobile device, according to comScore. RIM rounded out the top five with 6.6% share.
Ninety million people in the U.S. owned smartphones during the three months ending in...
Kindle blazes its way to second place in media tablet market
Just two weeks after its introduction, Amazon’s Kindle Fire already is shaking up the market, with the device expected to surpass all other iPad rivals to take second place in the global media tablet business in the fourth quarter, according to a new report from iHS (http://www.isuppli.com).
Coming up from zero in the third quarter, Amazon will ship 3.9 million Kindle Fire tablets during the last three months of 2011, according to a preliminary projection from the IHS iSuppli Display Materials & Systems Service from information and analysis provider IHS. This will give the company a 13.8% share of global media tablet shipments in the fourth quarter, exceeding the 4.8% held by No. 3 Samsung, and second only to Apple’s commanding 65.6% portion of the market, as presented in the table below.
"Nearly two years after Apple Inc. rolled out the iPad, a competitor has finally developed an alternative which looks like it might have enough of Apple’s secret sauce to succeed," says Rhoda...
iPhone/iPod touch/iPad apps for Dec. 2
Here are the latest iPhone/iPod touch/iPod/iPad apps. You can find 'em at the Apple App Store (http://www.itunes.com/appstore/).
Listen Technologies has announced a free iOS app for the Americans with Disabilities Act Assistive Listening Standards. The ADA Compliance Assistive Listening Calculator is a complete tool set for understanding and calculating your facility requirements to meet the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design.
Little Dog has released Cost Watch 1.0 for iOS, an US$0.99 app for running monitor meeting costs. Using a digital stop watch interface, it shows the running totals for the time and personnel cost of an event, alerting the watchers with color and sound when time and cost limits are reached.
ZealTopia Interactive has introduced Invisible Me 1.0 for the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. In the $0.99 game, you will have to help Puru and his friends, who are trapped inside nasty dungeons, to be able to escape.
Cobalt Techno has debuted iDB 1.0 -- Database...
Class action suit filed against Carrier IQ for wiretap violation
A group of consumers has filed a nationwide class-action lawsuit claiming that smartphone manufacturers HTC Corp., HTC America and Samsung Electronics for using software developed by Carrier IQ (CIQ) that illegally intercepts incoming text messages and captures users' key strokes -- including those used to compose email and text messages or to dial numbers -- without consumers' knowledge or permission.
In mid-November, software developer Trevor Eckhart published a video blog illustrating the operation of the CIQ software recording keystrokes, including information sent to secure websites using HTTPS security protocols used in e-commerce and other security-sensitive sites. After Eckhart published his discovery and documents he found on CIQ's website, CIQ accused him of copyright violations and threatened legal actions unless he capitulated to the company's demands.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation, a public-interest digital rights watchdog stepped in to defend Eckhart. CIQ later...
Apple's Ron Police purportedly no longer reporting for duty
Ron Police, Apple’s vice president in charge of sales to the U.S. government, who helped get its devices into more federal agencies, has left the company, reports "Bloomberg Businessweek" (http://macte.ch/UrxHl) , quoting an unnamed "person with knowledge of the move."
Police (and isn't that a great name for a person with his job) had run the government sales force since 2004. However, he left in October, according to "Bloomberg Businessweek."
Police helped Apple’s iPhone and iPad gain a foothold at government agencies, a market traditionally dominated by technology products from companies such as Microsoft., Dell and Research In Motion. To further that effort, Apple is seeking security certification from the National Institute of Standards, the agency that provides technology recommendations to the federal government, says "Bloomberg Businessweek."
Apple ban on Galaxy tablet in Australia extended
Apple has won another temporary injunction to stop rival Samsung from selling its Galaxy tablet computer in Australia, reports "ABC News Australia" (http://macte.ch/aab90).
On Wednesday the Federal Court lifted a previous injunction, meaning Samsung could start selling its Galaxy Tab 10.1 today. However, Apple appealed to the High Court and won.
The injunction means Samsung can't sell the tablet computer until the case goes before the court on Dec. 9. Apple says the Galaxy range of tablets and smartphones violates patents for its own iPad and iPhone line.
Apple updates Keynote for the Mac
Apple released Keynote 5.1.1, an update of the presentation software for Mac OS X. The update “addresses issues when working with large Keynote presentations on Mac OS X 10.7 ("Lion").
It also adds accessibility and stability improvements. Keynote 5.1.1 requires Mac OS X 10.6.6 or higher. You can obtain the update via the Software Update component of the Mac OS X Systems Preferences app.
Keynote is part of the US$79 iWork suite. Or you can buy it at the Mac App Store for $19.99.
iPhone tops 2011 Yahoo U.S. search list
The iPhone topped Yahoo‘s U.S. top searches list for 2011. It’s the first time since 2002 a tech device has topped the list, when PlayStation 2 took the number one spot.
"The iPhone transcended gadget status," said Vera Chan, Yahoo senior editor and web trend analyst. “The device helped facilitate political movements around the world, and embodied the vision of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs."
Chan added that Jobs’s decision to step down as Apple CEO in August and his death in October also fueled search activity for the iPhone.
Apple number two among online retail performers on Cyber Monday
Compuware Corp. (http://www.compuware.com), a technology performance company, has announced the top retail Web and mobile site performers for Cyber Monday based on the Compuware Performance Index. Apple was number two among websites.
Compuware's analysis also found that, despite months of preparation by retailers, performance satisfaction for the top 50 retailers was down more than 12% on Cyber Monday from non-holiday baseline levels.
"The top Cyber Monday retail Web and mobile performers understand this simple equation: faster sites equal more sales," says John Van Siclen, general manager of Compuware's Application Performance Management (APM) Business Unit. "These retailers invested in the people, technology and best practices to deliver top Web and mobile performance on Cyber Monday, which is far more demanding than any other time of the year. Top performers made the most of this year's increased online and mobile holiday traffic."
IDC: 2012 will be year of mobile, cloud platform wars
One year ago, International Data Corporation (IDC) predicted that the IT industry's next dominant platform, built on mobile computing, cloud services, social networking, and big data analytics technologies, would begin its transition into the mainstream.
Today, spending on these technologies is growing at about 18% per year and is expected to account for at least 80% of IT spending growth between now and 2020. With future market revenues at stake, IDC (http://www.idc.com) predicts that 2012 will be marked by some of the first high-stakes battles as companies seek to position themselves for leadership in these critical and fast-growing technology areas.
"The industry's shift to the 3rd Platform will accelerate in 2012, forcing the industry's leaders to make bold investments and fateful decisions," says Frank Gens, senior vice president and chief analyst at IDC. "Companies like Microsoft, HP, SAP, RIM, and others -- including Apple -- will face 'crossroads moments' in 2012. By the end...
iPhone/iPad sales up 93% in Apple's fiscal year
Apple recorded revenues of US$65,225 million during the financial year ended September 2010 (FY2010), an increase of 52% over 2009.
The increase in revenues was mainly due to 93% growth in sales of iPhone and robust sales of the iPad, according to Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com) The operating profit of the company was $18,385 million in FY2010, an increase of 56.6% over 2009, notes the research group. Apple's net profit was $14,013 million in FY2010, an increase of 70.2% over 2009.
The Logger lets you keep an eye on your computer when you'...
3y3.net (http://www.3y3.net) has introduced The Logger 1.0, an US$19.99 computer monitoring tool for Mac OS X (10.5 or later).
The Logger records what your employee, roommate or child does on you computer. The software utility records every key pressed in your Mac and takes a snapshot of the screen with every mouse click detected.
You can even receive an email every time a keystroke session is started. The Logger creates full HTML reports for every session where you can see all keys pressed and snapshots taken.
XType is new typing tutor for Mac OS X
Mac Winsoft has released XType, a typing tutor solution for Mac OS X (10.6 or later). It's available for US$14.99 at the Mac App Store in the Education category.
Developed specifically for Mac laptop and desktop owners looking to master the skill of typing, this application utilizes a structured approach to turn even the most complete computer novices into keyboarding whizzes quickly and efficiently, according to the folks at Mac Winsoft. XType includes 15 sequentially more difficult lessons.
The app offers both English and Arabic language. XType's learning modules are structured to keep users challenged and engaged as the move through the course and begin typing more efficiently. What's more, each of the app's levels are comprised of an array of diverse exercises, with some focused on teaching users correct on-keyboard finger positions, others focused on pushing students to type at higher speeds, and more. Level 15 is structured as a final exam.
V-MODA unveils Faders earplugs
V-MODA has unveiled its Faders tuned earplugs, the first of several protective offerings under Ear Armor branding.
Constructed from metals and medical-grade silicone fittings, Faders are designed to protect your hearing by reducing harmful noise by 12 dB evenly across the frequency spectrum, while still allowing you to enjoy crystal clear music and speech in a club, concert, festival, music practice, or other excessively loud events, says Val Kolton, founder of V-MODA. The noise reduction can make the difference between an enjoyable listening experience and lifelong hearing loss, he says.
Faders are available in Gunmetal, Rouge and Pink flavors and come with three sizes of medical-grade “BLISS 2.0” silicone fittings for a universal fit. Additionally, the fabric lanyard ensures they don't get lost in the crowd. They're available for a limited time for only US$15 at http://www. V-MODA.com. For any order over $50, the Faders will be included complimentary while supplies last.. A...
IK Multimedia launches StealthPedal CS, StealthPlug CS
IK Multimedia (http://www.ikmultimedia.com) has released StealthPlug CS and StealthPedal CS “Custom Shop” systems. These packages provide players with an audio interface for their computer (a way to hook up an instrument to their computer) and the Guitar & Bass tone shaping software system: AmpliTube Custom Shop.
Now players can practice, play and record anywhere, any time with their laptops, according to the folks at IK Multimedia. The core of the Custom Shop package is the AmpliTube Custom Shop software, IK’s tone software that allows players to build virtual guitar rigs one piece at a time.
It comes complete with 24 pieces of gear, a digital chromatic tuner and two guitar/bass signal chains for mono and/or stereo operation. The AmpliTube Custom Shop is based upon AmpliTube 3, the guitar/bass tone software.
The US$99.99 StealthPlug CS features the StealthPlug quarter-inch-to-USB cable interface, and the new AmpliTube Custom Shop software plus 50 gear credits to use in the...
MacPractice products ready for Lion
MacPractice (http://www.macpractice.com) -- an Apple developer of practice management and clinical software for physicians, dentists, chiropractors, and eye care professionals for Macs, iPhones, and iPads -- has officially announced the release of MacPractice MD, DDS, DC and 20/20 v4.1.3 with Mac OS X 10.6.x ("Snow Leopard") and 10.7.x ("Lion") capability.
Networks hosting MacPractice can have a mix of Lion and Snow Leopard computers with MacPractice 4.1.3. This updated version of the software has been introduced to several hundred MacPractice clients over the past several months, and MacPractice is now offering the software to new users. Current users of earlier versions of MacPractice 4.1 will also receive an electronic alert over the coming weeks that MacPractice 4.1.3 is now available for download.
In addition to the added Lion compatibility, MacPractice 4.1.3 features payment plans and an ordering system, which have been added to the core products and will benefit all users,...
ImageXY for Mac OS X offers image format conversions
SugoiSoft (http://www.sugoisoft.com) has updated ImageXY, their new batch image resizing app for Mac OS X (10.6.6 or higher), to version 2.0. The upgrade brings batch image format conversion capabilities, image quality controls for JPEG images, user interface refinements, and more.
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...
IconBox ready for Lion
Florian Soenens has updated IconBox (http://www.iconboxapp.com), his US$24.95 icon organizer for Mac OS X, to version 2.5. The upgrade offers Mac OS X 10.7 ("Lion") compatibility and a restyled interface.
IconBox lets you organize your collection of icons in an iPhoto-like way. You can download, organize and customize your icons.
SMEStorage Cloud FTP provides access to over 30 file clouds
SMEStorage (http://www.smestorage.com_, an open cloud appliance company, says their CloudFTP feature add-on for their open cloud platform now supports over 30 file and storage services.
CloudFTP adds a ubiquitous FTP access layer to storage clouds that don't natively support the FTP protocol This means transferring files can be as easy as launching an FTP client and selecting the files to be moved, no matter what Cloud the files are stored on, says SMEStorage CEO Ian Osborne.
Uploading data to different file clouds becomes as simple as switching cloud storage directories within the same FTP session, he adds. The SMEStorage Open Cloud Platform acts as a cloud data broker in which access can be managed and granted to File Stores and Saas Services that are authorized for use with the service. It provides a single view of data in which files can be accessed and managed from all desktops and devices.
Mac Marshal ready for Lion, iCloud
Mac Marshal (http://www.macmarshal.com), a tool for Mac OS X evidence acquisition and analysis, has been upgraded to version 3.0. The upgrade adds full support for Mac OS X 10.7 ("Lion"), iCloud configuration analysis and improved Bluetooth device history
Mac Marshal now runs on Microsoft Windows as well as Mac OS X, so you can analyze Macs from a Windows forensic workstation. Mac Marshal Forensic Edition is the standard version of Mac Marshal, installable on Mac OS X 10.4 or newer and Microsoft Windows XP or newer. (Spotlight and FileVault analysis require Mac OS X.) The Forensic Edition is sold commercially but is free to US law enforcement.
Mac Marshal Field Edition 3.0 runs directly on a Mac target machine from a USB drive for live analysis, extracting volatile system state data including a snapshot of physical RAM. The drive contains both Mac and Windows versions of Mac Marshal for use back at the lab as well. U.S. law enforcement may order the Field Edition USB drive directly...
Remoter VNC updated to version 3.2.1
RafSoftware (http://rafsoftware.com) has released Remoter VNC 3.2.1 for iOS, an update to their productivity app that enables users to remotely control Macs via Screen Sharing, and Windows or Linux PCs using the VNC or RDP standards right from their iOS devices.
Version 3.2.1 adds support for sending input events over to RemoterFusion for multi--monitor support and an alternative French keyboard mapping file. There's also support for RDP domain to be passed as part of username (in the form domainusername).
Remoter VNC app uses Bonjour for set-up and features a novel "virtual trackpad" to precisely control of the mouse cursor. Sound redirection, RDP, Telnet and SSH that allows for secure VNC/RDP over SSH, are available as in-app purchases.
Remoter VNC 3.2.1 is available in the Apple App Store (http://www.itunes.com/appstore/) for US$0.99 with free lifetime upgrades. In-app purchases are available that enhance the functionality of Remoter VNC. The RDP add-on is $3.99. The RemoterFusion...
iPresentee relaunches set of free stuff
iPresentee (http://www.ipresentee.com/) has relaunched its set of free stuff, including four iWeb themes, two RapidWeaver themes, two Keynote themes, two Keynote Motion Themes and more.
What's more, the company has added a number of free products available for users of Keynote Countdown Timer, Keynote Alphabet, Mail Stationery and more. All free packages don't require any registration and are available for immediate download.
Keynote Countdown Timer includes different countdown timer animations to be used with Apple's Keynote presentation software. Keynote Alphabet includes three different animated alphabet letters and numbers to use with Keynote. Keynote Objects combines 100 images that can be used as decoration for iWeb websites, Keynote or PowerPoint presentations and Pages or Word documents.
Apple's Statement on Carrier IQ
Posted by Greg Mills
I contacted Apple Media Relations this morning requesting comment on the Carrier IQ privacy issue on Apple products and got a nice phone call back with an official statement from Apple, at 4:30 Central time.
"We stopped supporting CarrierIQ with iOS 5 in most of our products and will remove it completely in a future software update. With any diagnostic data sent to Apple, customers must actively opt-in to share this information, and if they do, the data is sent in an anonymous and encrypted form and does not include any personal information. We never recorded keystrokes, messages or any other personal information for diagnostic data and have no plans to ever do so."
Film Event celebrates impact of Apple tech on film, television
IDG World Expo has announced a full program of film events debuting at Macworld | iWorld.
They include: the iPhone Film Festival where winning filmmakers will showcase movies made entirely on iPhones; an exclusive screening of the full-length, unaired "South Park" pilot episode followed by a Q&A with South Park Studios staff; additional screenings of films developed exclusively for the event; and a series of educational and highly interactive Tech Talks with directors, filmmakers and technical experts about the creative and technical processes related to iPhone and iPad film creation, including production, editing and distribution. Collectively, the elements of the Film Event celebrate the broad and varied ways that Apple technologies are redefining film and television.
The Film Event complements a slate of traditional Macworld | iWorld programs, including an exhibit floor featuring hundreds of companies showcasing the latest in software, hardware, peripherals, accessories and...
Analyst predicts 28 million iPhones to ship in December quarter
J.P. Morgan analyst Mark Moskowitz has upped the firm's shipments of the iPhone in the December quarter to 28 million (up from 25.3 million), he said in a note to clients -- as reported by "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com).
He was revved his company revenue estimates to US$38.69 billion. Moskowitz says U.S. carriers have been "surprised by the strong uptake" of the iPhone 4S, as well as the lower-priced iPhone 4 and 3GS models. The older iPhone models are also expected to aid Apple's penetration in emerging markets such as China.
According to the analyst, sustained demand for all three current iPhone models will push Apple's revenues up to $38.69 billion with $9.87 in earnings per share this quarter. The firm's previous estimate stood at $37.26 billion and $9.45 EPS (earnings per share). Wall Street consensus puts Apple's revenue for the quarter at $38.02 billion and $9.78 EPS.
Parallels names new execs, eyes growth
Parallels (http://www.parallels.com/), which specializes in cloud services enablement (about two-thirds of the company's business) and desktop virtualization software (including Parallels Desktop for Mac), has announced the appointment of new Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Michael Toutonghi, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) David Arkley and Vice President and General Manager of Europe and North Africa (EUNA) Jesper Frederiksen, who all fill key roles for driving Parallels’ continued growth.
The company generates more than U.S. $100 million in revenue and employs a global workforce of over 800 staff across the U.S., Europe and Asia. Parallels Desktop for Mac lets you run Windows applications on a Mac without rebooting. Parallels Hosting and Cloud Service Delivery solutions enable service providers to deliver and profitably grow hosting and cloud services for over 148 million small businesses worldwide.
"Parallels has a history of innovation and attracting top talent. Michael, David and...
