Light Pillar releases Window Tidy for Mac OS X
Light Pillar (http://www.lightpillar.com/) has introduced Window Tidy 1.0, its first app for Mac OS X and available now in the Mac App Store.
Window Tidy is an integrated extension to the OS X window management system, providing a way to arrange, tile and organize windows without having to remember hotkeys. Window Tidy's customizable layouts allow a window to be positioned and resized using nothing but a simple drag and drop.
When a window is dragged, Window Tidy displays the available layout options. Dropping a window on the desired layout applies it to the dragged window, it takes no time at all to organize all the windows on the screen.
Window Tidy works with multiple screen configurations, allowing windows to be moved onto a different screen and a layout to be applied with one drag and drop. The app also provides a function to recover windows from inactive screens, moving the window onto the display that contains the mouse cursor.
Window Tidy requires Mac OS X 10.5 and is...
ATTO delivers enterprise-class storage to Mac environments with...
ATTO Technology is providing Mac users with Fibre Channel connectivity with enterprise-class storage on the HP P2000 G3 FC Modular Smart Array (MSA) storage system.
ATTO will feature this Celerity Fibre Channel Host Bus Adapters (HBAs) with Multipath Director solution at IBC in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Sept. 9-13. This combination allows HP to provide solutions to vertical markets that have formerly been outside its usual channels, says Tom Kolniak, ATTO's director of products.
ATTO’s Celerity line of HBAs are the industry’s only 8Gb/sec Fibre Channel host bus adapters that provide high-performance connectivity to feature-rich storage for Mac platforms, a solution useful in media and entertainment, healthcare, oil and gas, government and education, scientific, advertising and rich content digital asset creation, he adds.
With this offering, Mac Final Cut Pro users also have the ability to add an HP MSL series tape library for archiving content in their post production environment. ...
NEC releases new desktop monitor
NEC Display Solutions of America (http://www.necdisplays.com) has announced the first model in the new generation of the MultiSync P Series with the 24-inch widescreen MultiSync P241W desktop monitor and added the P241W-BK-SV to the SpectraView series.
Designed for web graphics and photography applications, the P241W utilizes an e-IPS panel for great imaging performance. It features hardware color calibration using the NEC SpectraView kit to deliver accurate color. The kit, which is compatible with both Mac and Microsoft Windows operating systems, includes an optimized calibration sensor based on the X-Rite Eye-One Display and SpectraView calibration software.
The P241W will be available for September shipment with an estimated street price of US $749. The P241W-BK-SV with SpectraView color calibration sensor and software will be available in September at an estimated street price of $1,249.
Agenda set for Fourth Annual FCPUG Amsterdam SuperMeet
The agenda has now been set for the Fourth Annual FCPUG Amsterdam SuperMeet (http://supermeet.com/) to be held Sunday, Sept. 11, at the Hotel Krasnapolsky in the heart of Amsterdam during IBC week.
The Amsterdam SuperMeet will further celebrate the tenth anniversary of SuperMeets and promises to be the single largest gathering of Final Cut, Adobe, Avid, Autodesk editors, and digital filmmakers, gurus and users during IBC2011.
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the SuperMeet web site. Doors open at 16:30-17:00.
Scheduled to appear on stage will be Michael Wohl, one of the original designers of Final Cut Pro. He will show "What you Need to Know about Final Cut Pro X.
"There's a lot of myths circulating in the industry as to what Final Cut Pro X can and cannot do," states Wohl. "That's my focus at the SuperMeet, to clear up the confusion about what Final Cut Pro X editors can do now."
Film editor Eddie Hamilton will describe the editorial of "X-Men: First Class" and "...
Winter Wolves announces Spirited Heart Girl's Love
Winter Wolves has released Spirited Heart Girl's Love, an expansion of the standard game Spirited Heart. It adds six new beautiful and interesting female characters to date, each one with her own personality and life goals, increasing the original number of romanceable characters to 12.
In addition, each character will react differently based on the race you're playing as, offering different dialog choices and final marriage endings. The old marriage endings present in the original game have been updated as well, featuring a total of 36 different marriage outcomes.
The expansion and the standard game are now a unique installer, and you can choose to purchase both versions or only one. You can download the demo and buy the game (US$19.99) from Winter Wolves website at http://www.winterwolves.com . The game uses a one-time online activation so there are no extra downloads required.
If you already own the original Spirited Heart game, you can buy the expansion with 50% off discount....
Email Marketing for Mac OS X adds new options
3y3.net (http://www.3y3.net/) has introduced Email Marketing 2.8 for Mac OS X, a tool for building email lists targeted to a specific market area. The new version offers a variety of new options.
With Email Marketing, you only need to specify the keywords and the app will serve up thousand of emails addresses parsed from the search results. You can store the email lists or export to CSV (adequate for databases or Outlook) and VCF (adequate for GMail, Apple Agenda and many other email systems) All the extractions are saved in the database for future uses.
There are search engines for the following countries: all countries (.com), Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brasil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Nederland, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Singapore, Spain, Sweden...
FileMyFiles for Mac OS X gets revamped interface, more
Pubblog has announced FileMyFiles 3.0, an update to the multi-tool file system organizer for Mac OS X. The new version offers a revamped, improved user interface, as well as bug fixes.
FileMyFiles is designed to keep all of your files organized, leaving your Desktop and other important folders uncluttered and your files easy to find. Files are sorted and put into folders according to eight categories of file types: Words, Images, Audio, Compressed, Data, Layout, Video, and Web. You can always choose "Unfile My Files" and put everything back the way it was before.
FileMyFiles is available from the Pubblog store (http://www.filemyfiles.com/) for US$19.95. You can download it and try it out free for 10 days. FileMyFiles is also available in the Mac App Store for $9.95 (minus the feature of uninstalling applications and their related files and folders).
UberMask for Mac OS X updated to version 2.0
Nova Media has updated UberMask (http://www.novamedia.de/index_e.html) for Mac OS X (10.6 and higher) to version 2.0.
UberMask hides files and folders with a keystroke from curious eyes and inadvertent discovery. Even Spotlight can't find the files hidden by UberMask.
Version 2.0 now supports hiding files and folders on multiple volumes and partitions as well. Version 2.0 is a free update for all current owners of a UberMask 1.x license. For new users the cost is approximately US$14. A demo version is available for download.
FmPro Migrator for Mac OS X revved to version 6.1.3
.com Solutions has released FmPro Migrator Developer Edition 6.1.3 ( http://www.fmpromigrator.com/products/fmpro_migrator/index.html). The new version adds log-in and role-based security feature within the generated PHP web application.
The Visual FoxPro Conversion Service built into in FmPro Migrator Developer Edition enables FileMaker Pro developers to automate the conversion of Windows-only FoxPro solutions into cross-platform compatible FileMaker Pro database files. Converted solutions can be run on MacOS X, Windows and iPhone/iPad mobile devices using FileMaker Go.
This feature converts DBF file tables, data, relationships, forms, reports/labels, scripts, and static ComboBox/ListBox value lists into FileMaker Pro database files.
FmPro Migrator Platinum Edition is priced at US$600 per developer and includes a copy of FmPro Migrator Platinum Edition for both Mac OS X and Windows platforms. Existing FmPro Migrator Developer Edition customers may upgrade to FmPro Migrator Platinum...
WMF Converter Pro 3.1.0 released for Mac OS X
Cristallight (http://www.cristallight.com/) has announced WMF Converter Pro 3.1.0, an update to its professional level image tool for Mac OS X 10.5 and higher. It costs US$19.95, which includes the lifetime license with free upgrades, and free tech support.
WMF Converter Pro allows you to render and convert single or multiple WMF files, preview them, change colors in vector based WMF files, and save either all of them or selected ones as Mac native images in one of 10 file formats, including both vector and raster formats. The image resolution setting can also be used when saving in raster image formats.
You can open one or more WMF file(s), or just drag files or folders with WMF files to the WMF Converter window and the images will appear in the Image Preview Area. Set the Export format and resolution, if necessary, and click one of the export buttons on the toolbar. Other features include the ability to replace color functionality, customizable image preview size, WMF file...
One in six Macs now run Lion
One in six Macs now run Mac OS X 10.7 ("Lion"), according to a new survey by NetApplications (http://www.netapplications.com) -- as reported by "Computerworld" (http://www.computerworld.com).
The web metrics company says Lion accounted for 1% of all desktop operating systems that were used to connect to the Internet last month. The total usage share of Mac OS X was 6%.
Lion's online usage nearly matched that of Mac OS X 10.5 ("Leopard"). Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard") remained the most widely-used version of Apple's desktop operating system, with an overall share of 3.5%, or 57% of all Macs.
Apple looking to hire a product security manager
According to a new job posting (http://jobs.apple.com/index.ajs?BID=1&method=mExternal.showJob&RID=91080...), Apple is looking to hire a product security manager. The person will be "responsible for overseeing the protection of, and managing risks to, Apple’s unreleased products and related intellectual property."
The person hired will reside in Cupertino, California. The position requires up to 30% travel (international and domestic). The product security manager will "collaborate with other security managers by contributing to, and managing execution of, strategic initiatives set forth by Director, Global Security," according to the job posting.
Apple selling off Final Cut Studio inventory
Apple is once again selling Final Cut Studio 3, the professional video-editing software it discontinued earlier this year and replaced with the controversial, radically different Final Cut Pro X. However, don't get your hopes up that the product is being reintroduced.
Apple is merely selling out the inventory it has of the discontinued product. Final Cut Studio 3 is only being made sold through Apple's phone sales, and not its online or retail stores, the blog notes. Plus, the price is still US$999.
Apple to implement USB 3.0 in future products?
Apple is looking at USB 3.0 as a potential feature to add on future products even before Intel integrates USB 3.0 support into its chipsets, according to "VR-Zone" (http://vr-zone.com), quoting an unnamed source.
"Apple has been looking into USB 3.0 host controllers, especially as the price has finally reached an affordable level," the article says. "A USB 3.0 host controller is priced at somewhere between US$2-3 in large quantities today which should be compared to US$10-15 for Intel's Thunderbolt chip. It's also important to remember that Thunderbolt not only requires a host chip, but also a device chip and additional chips on the device end depending on the type of device. This makes Thunderbolt a very expensive solution for simple storage device etc."
My take: this makes sense on one level. However, I have the feeling that Apple is betting on Thunderbolt as the long-term replacement for both USB and FireWire.
-- Dennis Sellers
Best Slashes RIM PlayBook Price $150
Posted by Greg Mills
Reports are coming out that BestBuy has slashed the price of the RIM PlayBook $150. What this means is that Best Buy has a stock of PlayBook that isn't selling. A similar price cut preceeded the HP TouchPad disaster and may be indicative of further price cuts to come and or a discontinued product line.
Wi-LAN suing Apple, others for patent infringement
Wi-LAN (http://www.wi-lan.com), a company founded in 1992 "to commercialize technology inventions that made low-cost, high-speed wireless networking a reality," is suing Apple.
Wi-LAN has commenced litigation in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, Tyler Division against Apple, Alcatel-Lucent USA, Dell, Hewlett-Packard, HTC America, Kyocera International, Kyocera Communications, Novatel Wireless, and Sierra Wireless America (individually and collectively, “Defendants”). In its filing, WiLAN claims that these companies have infringed and continue to infringe WiLAN’s U.S. Patent No. RE37,802 related to CDMA and HSPA and U.S. Patent No. 5,282,222 related to Wi-Fi and LTE.
WiLAN will be represented in this action by McKool Smith, an U.S. law firm specializing in intellectual property litigation. McKool Smith is representing WiLAN in other patent infringement actions in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas.
-- Dennis Sellers
BrandIndex: Apple brand proving bigger than Jobs
The Apple brand in the US is proving bigger than Steve Jobs himself, reports "YouGov BrandIndex" (http://www.brandindex.com/), which tracks public perceptions of brands.
Interestingly, Jobs resignation as Apple’s CEO sent the company’s consumer perception into even more positive territory, says the research group. As expected, the announcement caught the attention of US consumers. Apple's Attention score jumped from 44% on the day prior to the announcement to 61% on the day after the announcement, says BrandIndex.
But rather than drive brand perception scores down as one might expect, YouGov BrandIndex’s Index score, its key measurement of brand health, rose several points for Apple since Jobs made his announcement on Aug. 24 with Tim Cook taking his place.
The Index score encompasses the consumer perception of adults over 18 of such measurements as quality, value, reputation, satisfaction, impression, and the willingness to recommend the brand to friends. Apple’s Buzz score also...
XtremeMac unveils new audio solution
XtremeMac (http://www.xtrememac.com) has announced four new audio solutions at IFA 2011, a global trade show for consumer electronics -- Tango Bar, Luna Voyager II, Soma Stad and Soma Travel.
The Tango Bar is a 10-watt amplified speaker, with a single USB connection for both power and audio, that connects to any Mac computer or PC. Featuring a slim design, the Tango Bar is built to fit beneath an iMac or Cinema Display. It sports six speaker configuration with dual dome tweeters, midrange/bass drivers and passive radiators. Additional connections include headphone output, line-in jack and optional sub-out port.
The Lunar Voyager II is a low profile, FM dual alarm clock and personal audio system for iPod, Phone or iPad. The compact, case-friendly dock is enhanced by the free Luna Voyager app, allowing users to set dual independent alarms and wake to an iPod, iPhone, iPad, FM radio or buzzer. The app also offers FM radio tuner control and multiple channel preset.
The Soma Stand is...
iW1 available beginning Sept. 26
iHome says their AirPlay speaker system, the iW1 (http://www.ihomeaudio.com/iW1BC/), will be available for purchase throughout North America starting Sept. 26.
In advance of its wide release, a limited quantity was offered for sale exclusively on iHomeAudio.com to iW1 email subscribers on a first-come first-serve basis. Supplies were limited and sold out within 45 minutes.
Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, the iW1 enables a wireless listening experience and employs Bongiovi Acoustics Digital Power Station (DPS) technology and four active speakers for premium audio performance in a compact design, according to the folks at iHome.
Using AirPlay, users can wirelessly stream music simultaneously from iTunes, iPhone, iPad or iPod touch to multiple AirPlay-equipped iHome speakers over Wi-Fi. AirPlay requires iTunes 10.1 or later and iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iOS 4.2 or later.
Griffin launches Stylus + Pen + Laser Pointer
Griffin Technology has launched the Stylus + Pen + Laser Pointer, a precision tool for projection screen, touchscreen and paper.
"Mobile computing is transforming the way we digest and share new information, and Griffin is at the forefront of this trend, continually launching innovative accessories that address the modern day consumer’s needs,” says Mark Rowan, President of Griffin Technology. "Our latest stylus is like a ‘digital Swiss Army knife’ in the way it maximizes functionality of mobile devices while remaining compact enough to slide easily into your pocket."
The Stylus + Pen + Laser Pointer features a soft rubber tip designed to mimic the press of a finger, giving users more control as they write, sketch, tap and drag on iPads, iPhones or other touchscreen surfaces. It also boasts an integrated laser pointer for screen presentations and a refillable ballpoint pen for writing on paper
The Stylus + Pen + Laser Pointer is available for $49.99 from http://www.griffintechnology....
ColorWash for Mac OS X lets you enhance photos
Arkadiusz Mlynarczyk has released ColorWash 2.1.1 (http://arek.mlynarczyk.info/colorwash/), an update to his photo enhancement tool for Mac OS X. It requires Mac OS X 10.6 or higher, costs US$0.99 and is available at the Mac App Store in the Photography category.
ColorWash lets users transform ordinary pictures into "artistically dramatic photos." Snapshots are automatically converted to grayscale when loaded then users are able to select which elements within the scene will be restored to their original color. The latest update features a brand new fill tool, as well as allows direct upload to Facebook, Flickr, and sending via email.
Quark simplifies iPad publishing with QuarkXPress 9.1
Quark has announced the availability of QuarkXPress 9.1, a free update to QuarkXPress 9 that features App Studio.
App Studio allows designers to create branded apps for the iPad, distribute apps through the Apple App Store, and design and publish content that can be purchased and downloaded from within the apps. This integrated set of tools puts designers in control and offers a pricing model that brings iPad app creation and publishing within everyone’s reach, says Gavin Drake, vice president of marketing for Quark.
To create branded apps, designers use App Studio Factory, the standalone Mac OS X software included with QuarkXPress 9.1. App Studio Factory enables designers to create customized App Studio apps using predefined app templates that offer a variety of features, including in-app purchases and in-app subscriptions.
To publish to the iPad with App Studio, designers and publishers will purchase an app template license and an issue license pack from Quark, which are one-off...
iWeb Themes Park releases five new templates
iWeb Themes Park (http://www.iwebthemespark.com) has released five new themes for iWeb, Apple's web creation tool: Colorful, Nature, Red Ribbon, Smoke and Thinking.
To use iWeb Themes from iWeb Themes Park requires a Mac with iWeb from iLife '08 or later. The iWeb Themes Box of 140 themes is priced at US$29.99. Each template is available for $11.99 or $12.99. Four iWeb Themes are free for everyone.
Gameloft Launches Real Golf 2011 on the Mac App Store
Gameloft has launched Real Golf 2011 on the Mac App Store. It requires Mac OS X 10.6 or higher and costs US$6.99.
Here's how Real Golf 2011 is described: "If you want to play golf with the best, you need the best golf game. Join Anthony Kim, Natalie Gulbis, Camilo Villegas and many more of golf’s elite on prestigious courses around the world for the most vibrant golf experience on the Mac App Store.
"Nine of the world’s best golfers are ready to face off against you on 10 golf courses fully recreated in 3D, including famous courses such as Bethpage, Evian and Harbour Town. Motion capture technology makes every character’s swing and putt look authentic. Dynamic lighting effects change the environment from early morning to evening as you progress through each game.
"Make your own legend in Career mode by winning tournaments, then upgrade your golfer with new gear as you rise through the world rankings. Compete against other players from around the world online or challenge your...
DEVONagent Pro updated to version 3.0.1
DEVONtechnologies has announced DEVONagent Pro 3.0.1, an update to the company's smart Internet research assistant for Mac OS X.
DEVONagent Pro is designed to help you search more efficiently on the web. It searches multiple sources. Version 3.0.1 includes support for Mac OS X 10.7 Lion's full screen mode, other smaller improvements, and bug fixes.
DEVONagent Pro 3.0 is a paid upgrade for all customers who have purchased their license for DEVONagent 1.x or 2.x before Jan. 1, 2009. Everyone eligible for a free upgrade has already received their upgrade license; if not, they can reclaim it from the DEVONtechnologies web site (http://www.devontechnologies.com).
DEVONagent Pro 3.x requires Mac OS X 10.5 or later and can be downloaded as a free trial from DEVONtechnologies online. It can be test-driven for free for 60 hours of non-continuous runtime until it needs to be properly licensed.
DEVONagent Pro sells for US$49.95 in DEVONtechnologies' online shop and will be available in the Mac...
OWC introduces firmware update for SandForce driven SSDss
Other World Computing (OWC) has announced what it says is the industry’s first and only Apple/Mac compatible firmware updater for SandForce Driven Solid State Drives.
The fully Mac bootable updater is freely available from OWC for use exclusively with select OWC Mercury Solid State Drive models manufactured since January 2010. This new Mac compatible firmware updater is in addition to firmware update support OWC previously made available for Macs via the use of Bootcamp, as well as for PCs running the Windows OS.
OWC’s Mac compatible firmware updater eliminates the need for a PC, ownership of Windows or other operating system, or the creation of a specially designated drive partition that other brand SSD updaters have required. Mac users only need to download the updater from OWC’s site, obtain and burn a DVD, and then boot from that DVD to launch a point and click GUI (graphical user interface) for installing the latest firmware revision to their OWC Mercury SSD. OWC’s Proprietary...
Autodesk Smoke workshops launched
Manhattan Edit Workshop (Mewshop) has announced the upcoming Autodesk Smoke on a Mac presentation on Sept. 8 from 6-8 pm.
A free event for all, Smoke on a Mac will introduce attendees to the capabilities of this ditorial finishing software. Autodesk Smoke features the familiar workflow of a nonlinear editor combined with visual effects design and finishing tools.
The free demo, presented by Autodesk Certified Smoke Trainer Alina Pineda, will familiarize attendees with the all-in-one creative toolset that Smoke has to offer, from editorial, to conforming, color correction, paint, 3D visual effects, and more. The free Smoke on a Mac presentation will take place at the Mewshop headquarters: 80 Fifth Ave., Suite 1501, New York, NY. Because this is a free event, seating will be first-come, first-served. For more info go to http://www.mewshop.com .
Ableton offers registered users free Retro Synths
Registered users of Ableton Live 8 or Suite 8 can now download Retro Synths free of charge. In addition, purchasers of Ableton Live 8, Suite 8 or any relevant upgrade before Oct. 31 will also receive Retro Synths for free.
For further details, video/ audio demos, as well as a download link, go to http://www.ableton.com/free-retro-synths . Retro Synths contains more than 4,000 samples of synthesizers from the past three decades, imulti-sampled and completely integrated into Ableton Live.
The selection includes Minimoog basses, acid lines from the Roland TB-303, phase distortion sounds from the Casio CZ-series and more. Every preset is immediately playable and can be customized using the flexible Macro controls.
The latest free update gives Retro Synths two new soundsets. Modular Patterns contains basses, resonant leads, as well as further sounds and phrases from a classic analogue modular system. Opus explores the lush string, brass and organ sounds of the Moog Opus 3.
Native Instruments releases five new instruments, effects
Native Instruments has released five products that further expand its range of Komplete Instruments and Effects. The new products include Kontakt 5, Guitar Rig 5 Pro, Studio Drummer, Solid Mix Series and Transient Master.
Kontakt 5 is the next generation of the software sampler. The new version offers enhanced sound shaping through a host of new filters and studio-grade effect algorithms, time-stretching, sampling modes, and more.
Guitar Rig 5 Pro is the latest version of the effects studio. The fifth generation expands the feature set of the software with additional amplifiers and effects, speaker emulation, and creative features.
Studio Drummer is a new instrument for the creation of studio-quality acoustic drum tracks. By combining sampled drum kits and a studio-grade mixing environment with an assortment of grooves, the Kontakt-based instrument provides a "virtual drummer" for pop, rock, metal, jazz and related music styles.
The new Solid Mix Series emulates the EQ and dynamics...
PasswordWallet updated for Mac OS X, iOS
Selznick Scientific Software (http://www.selznick.com/) has announced PasswordWallet 4.6 for Mac OS X and version 4.6 for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. PasswordWallet is a password management solution.
The apps allow users to automatically share all of their passwords between their Mac, iPhone, MobileMe, and DropBox, as well as their Windows, Android, Windows Mobile, and Palm Pre devices. PasswordWallet for the iPhone features encrypted exports and Backup and Restore functionality that requires no special software, not even iTunes. It encrypts and stores data and information all in one convenient location: passwords, usernames, PIN numbers, combinations, personal notes and more.
PasswordWallet lets users lock and unlock all of their passwords with a single master password. They can even save web addresses, and PasswordWallet will launch the default browser automatically. The application's auto-typing feature fills in the required user name and password, allowing users to log-in to...
Syncplicity announces cloud-based file access for iPad users
Syncplicity has announced the availability of its iPad app that brings cloud-based file access and management to iPad users.
From the Apple tablet, Syncplicity users can browse, share and manage files and folders stored on their Mac, PC, SharePoint servers, on the corporate network or in popular cloud-based services such as Google Docs. This universal file access includes shared Syncplicity folders set up for collaboration in businesses or sharing for personal use.
Users can gain secure access to any file and folder anytime while mobile, eliminating the need to email file attachments, use VPNs, or upload files to a new place in order to access them from a mobile device. Syncplicity also offers remote wipe, built-in policy and permission controls and end-to-end encryption for all data transferred, stored on the Syncplicity service, and stored on the mobile device. For more info, visit www.syncplicity.com .
NetMarketShare: Mac OS X, Safari, iOS set record highs
According to the latest market share survey from NetMarketShare (http://www.netmarketshare.com), the market share for Mac OS X, Safari and iOS all rose last month.
According to the report, among desktop operating systems, Mac OS X had 6.03% of the global market share in August compared to 5.96% in July (that's global market share; in the US it's almost 10%). This is the highest percentage ever for Mac OS X. Windows remains dominant with 92.90% as of August. That's down from 93.07% in July.
When it comes to browsers, Safari had 4.64% in August. Internet Explorer had 55.31%, Firefox had 22.57% and Chrome had 15.51%. That compares to, respectively, July percentages of 53.68%, 21.57% and 13.45%, respectively, for the browsers.
The iOS's market share also rose, according to NetMarketShare. It had 53.04%, compared to 20.57% for Java ME, 15.98% for Android, 6.21% for Symbian, 3.33% for Blackberry, and 0.34% for Windows Mobile.
NetMarketShares' monthly surveys don't measure market share in...
Eddy Cue promoted to senior VP for Internet software, services
Apple has promoted Eddy Cue, Apple's vice president of applications, to senior vice president for Internet software and services.
In his new role, Cue will oversee Apple's iTunes Store, as well as the iCloud, iAd, and its iBookstore platform. Cue will report to the company's new CEO, Tim Cook.
Here’s Cue’s biography at the Apple site: "Eddy oversees Apple's industry-leading content stores including the iTunes Store, the revolutionary App Store and the iBookstore, as well as iAd and Apple's innovative iCloud services.
"He is a 22-year Apple veteran and leads a large organization of amazing people. Eddy played a major role in creating the Apple online store in 1998, the iTunes Music Store in 2003 and the App Store in 2008. He also played a key role in developing Apple's award-winning iLife suite of applications. In his early years at Apple, he was a successful manager of software engineering and customer support teams.
"Eddy earned a bachelor's degree in Computer Science and...
Parallels Releases Desktop 7 for Mac, and Mobile App
Parallels announced this morning that Parallels Desktop 7 for Mac will be available in stores on September 6th. Previous version owners are able to upgrade starting today. "More than 90 new and enhanced features in Parallels Desktop 7 include Mac OS® X Lion integration, performance boosts and a powerful new Parallels Mobile app and My Parallels services platform for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch devices."
“As Macs have become more popular than ever, a growing number of Mac users, including enterprises, find they need to run critical Windows programs on their Macs. Parallels Desktop 7 for Mac lets you run popular apps like Windows Internet Explorer, Access, OneNote, Quicken and more, even the most demanding graphical programs, without rebooting and without compromise on speed and usability. Run Windows applications like they were made for your Mac,” said Parallels CEO Birger Steen. “The people have spoken and Parallels listened to make the best even better. Whether you’re a business,...
DisplayPort adaption in computers increases by 160%
The Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) says the organization has experienced tremendous growth in the number of computer displays adopting DisplayPort to deliver a better visual experience to users.
Over the last 12 months, computer displays making their way to market with DisplayPort have increased by 160%, reaching 78 displays from leading manufacturers such as Apple, Barco, Dell, Eizo Nanao, Fujitsu, Hewlett-Packard, Lenovo, Mitsubishi, NEC, Philips, Samsung and Sony, according to the VESA (http://www.vesa.org). Fueling the growth is the display industry’s recognition and optimism for the consumer market adoption and market saturation of DisplayPort, which is driving chipset, device and component manufacturers to replace legacy interfaces with DisplayPort.
"The availability of streaming media and HD-quality broadcast content over the internet means many consumers now demand a TV-like experience on their computers," says Bill Lempesis, executive director at VESA. "These...
New Panasonic camcorder shoots Full-HD 2D, 3D video
Panasonic (http://www.panasonic.com) has announced the HDC-Z10000, its first integrated twin-lens 2D/3D camcorder that's fully compatible with the AVCHD 3D/Progressive standard, which was also recently announced. Pricing and availability haven't been announced.
The HDC-Z10000 builds on Panasonic's 3D innovations, having the closest 3D video macro setting with a twin-lens 3D camcorder at approximately 17.8 inches. New to Panasonic's 3D-capable camcorders, the HDC-Z10000 features a 1,152,000-dot, 3.5-inch LCD that appears 3D to the naked eye; no 3D eyewear is needed. By using a parallax barrier to control the direction of the light from the LCD, images with slightly different perceptions are viewed by the right and left eyes, creating a 3D effect. The user can check 3D images while shooting, without having to connect a monitor. The display can also be switched between 2D and 3D.
Based on the AVCHD format, this new standard has been upgraded to AVCHD 3D, which uses MVC (Multiview Video...
Stock Keeper is new DAM application for Mac OS X
Minder Softworks has introduced Stock Keeper 1.0 (http://macte.ch/KlzzS), a new digital asset management app for Mac OS X. It costs US$19; a 30-day demo is available for download. Bulk discounts and global licenses are available.
Stock Keeper allows graphic designers, multimedia producers, software developers, or anyone who uses digital media, to manage their digital assets. It's designed to make easy for users to find and save stock media online using a built-in web browser, save files from their hard drive, and more.
For those who use stock photography and download media from online, Stock Keeper has a built-in web browser and groups of bookmarks it calls Web Search Groups that open in tabs. It comes with 28 sources for online media, but users can add their own, and create their own search groups. Users can save files directly from the built-in web browser into their media library. When saving, tags, notes, and license information can be added to the image. Images can also be saved...
Tunesque brings iTunes Store search to Lion
MTA has released Tunesque (http://tunesque.afkstudio.com/), a free app for Mac OS X 10.7 ("Lion") that lets you search the iTunes Store for music, movies, apps, and audiobooks without having to launch either the iTunes or the Apple App Store.
Tunesque runs in the background, ready to be called into action. It sports a Spotlight-inspired interface that automatically displays results that include music, movies, TV shows, audiobooks, e-books, as well as iOS and OS X apps.
The results are shown in a format that includes title, author and up-to-date pricing information in the local currency of the iTunes Store selected by the user (Tunesque automatically detects the user's default iTunes store location when first launched). A pop-over window is used to display additional information, including a product screenshot, description, and user rating.
Results can also be customized according to each user's preferences through a settings panel that also allows users to change the default iTunes...
Appalicious works as a companion to the Mac App Store
ProVUE Development has released Appalicious 1.0 (http://www.appaliciousapp.com), a shopping assistant program that works as a companion to the Mac App Store.
Appalicious enhances the software selection process by helping users navigate smoothly and helping them find the best deals among the thousands of apps available the store, according to ProVUE President James Rea. When in use, Appalicious loads the entire store catalog into RAM to ensure flexible operation and blazing fast searching, sorting, and overall organization, he adds.
Appalicious offers a customizable spreadsheet interface, searching and sorting, version & price history (including discount tracking), the ability to view multiple apps at once and recently viewed, wish list and searchable notes.
Appalicious requires Mac OS X 10.6.6 or later and is OS X 10.7 ("Lion") compatible. The application is free, but a subscription is required to receive daily Mac App Store updates. The software includes a free seven-day trial...
Mobile Mouse Pro offers wireless control of your Mac
RPA Technology has announced Mobile Mouse Pro 2.6.0 (http://www.mobilemouse.com/) for iOS, a Mac OS X 10.7 ("Lion") ready update to their utility that transforms any iOS device into a computer remote control, complete with trackpad and air mouse.
Designed to operate via a local Wi-Fi network, there are purportedly no line-of-sight limitations. Mobile Mouse Pro 2.6.0 features a Pro Presentation Mode for controlling slide shows, a File Browser Mode for launching applications and media files, and all new multi-touch gestures to mimic those in Lion.
Mobile Mouse Pro allows the user to view the screen from a distance, while using their iOS device as a wireless mouse or trackpad. The iOS device is always aware of what applications are running at any time and shows the appropriate keys for that program, providing the user with a single screen for controlling all media and web applications. The app uses the device's built-in accelerometer to translate hand motions into mouse movements on the...
ChromaTunes is new music player for Mac OS X
Veenix has introduced ChromaTunes (http://www.veenix.com/ChromaTunes.html), a music player for Mac OS X (10.6 or higher) that automatically organizes music by sonic energy/mood.
ChromaTunes uses Veenix's sonic analysis technology (HPE). Features include the ability to send playlists to iTunes and the ChromaPad Mini Player control deck, which packs the features into a small desktop footprint. ChromaTunes also features smart playlists for artist, album, and genre, plus Veenix's "Smart More Like This Tune" technology that allows users to select a tune and instantly create a playlist of similar tunes.
ChromaTunes supports AAC/M4A music files. A free demo is available for download from the Veenix website (). For a limited time, users can save US$10 off the retail price of $29.95 -- or get ChromaTunes free when they purchase Veenix TypeBook Creator, which does for fonts what ChromaTunes does for music.
CompuExpert brings HS-905BT Bluetooth headset to North America
CompuExpert has released the Genius Bluetooth HS-905BT Stereo Headset (http://compuexpert.com/genius/home.html) in North America. Compatible with all Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and devices, the HS-905BT allows users wirelessly connect to their mobile phones, iPads, tablet computers and music players and take phone calls or listen to music using a single headset.
With its clip-on design and effective range of up to 10 meters, the Bluetooth receiver/microphone is lightweight and easy to attach to clothing and accessories. There are buttons on the device for controlling volume, call answering and ending, and music selection.
The HS-905BT can play music for up to six hours or standby for 165 hours on a single charge; charging purportedly takes only two hours via the included Micro USB cable. A pair of hearphones is also included, but users may also turn their favorite headphones into a Bluetooth portable device using the 3.5 mm jack.
The HS-905BT will also connect to a set of...
Netgear introduces nano-sized powerline adapter
Netgear (http://www.netgear.com) has introduced the Powerline AV+ 200 Nano Dual-port Set, which features a tiny adapter that plugs into any electrical outlet and provides two Ethernet ports for connecting Internet-enabled devices such as TVs, computers, Blu-ray players and video game consoles to home networks.
'Powerline networking, which makes connections through a home's existing electric wiring, is ideal for reaching rooms beyond the range of WiFi signals, without the cost and complication of installing Ethernet cables, according to Fred Guiot, senior product line manager for Powerline Products at Netgear.
One adapter from the kit is plugged into a wall outlet near the home router/gateway, with an Ethernet cable connecting the router to the adapter. The other adapter can be placed in any outlet in the home and makes an automatic connection to the home router at up to 200 megabits per second (mbps). This adapter has two ports for connecting nearby Internet-enabled devices through...
CS Odessa announces follow-up Solution to ConceptDraw MindTwee
CS Odessa (http://www.conceptdraw.com) has announced its new "Social Media Response" solution.
Using the ConceptDraw Social Media Response solution improves quality of content in social media and helps build an active customer community, according to CS Odessa President Gregory Zhukov. It allows companies to be more effective in timely messaging thanks to the ability for rapid response to a customer's post in social media, he adds.
The Social Media Response solution creates interactive social media flow charts and action mind maps. The solution includes a video tutorial and a number of samples helping social media teams refine and organize their response process. There are materials to help trainers and consultants develop a social media strategy and provide training for social media groups on how to effectively accomplish their daily work.
ConceptDraw MindMap retails for US$219, and ConceptDraw Pro retails for $249. Competitive upgrades from other paid products are available.
Nisus Software releases Lion compatible versions of its word...
Nisus Software (http://www.nisus.com/) has released OS X 10.7 ("Lion") compatible versions of their Nisus Writer Pro and Nisus Writer Express word processors.
These updates, which are free for owners of Express 3.x and Nisus Writer Pro, also fix a handful of bugs. Nisus Writer Express, and Nisus Writer Pro are universal binaries and require Mac OS X 10.4.11 or later.
Nisus Writer Pro 2.0.1 is available at the Nisus web store for only US$79 and $49.00 for the upgrade version. A three license Family Pack is available for $99. Versions on CD are available for an additional $10, plus shipping.
Nisus Writer Express 3.4 is available for $45 and $30 for the upgrade version. A three license Family Pack is available for $79. These updates are free to current license holders of Express 3.x and Pro.
Akvis releases HDRFactory 2.0
Akvis (http://www.akvis.com) has released Akvis HDRFactory 2.0, an update of the software for Mac OS X (10.4 and higher) and Windows that creates HDR images from a series of photographs taken at different exposures or from a single photograph. The latest version introduces an Effects with parameters tool that helps to add a glow effect to an image, darken or lighten image edges, and add warm or cold tints.
Akvis HDRFactory is a program for creating High Dynamic Range images and making photo correction. It creates HDR photos (images with high dynamic range) by combining several images of the same object taken with different exposure values.
The app supports files in the RAW format. Registered users can upgrade to version 2.0 for free. Akvis HDRFactory is available in two editions: as a standalone program and as a plug-in to a photo editor.
Akvis HDRFactory sells for US$69 for the Home version (either plug-in or standalone), $99 for Home Deluxe (either plug-in or standalone, all...
Primate Labs releases Geekbench 2.2
Primate Labs has announced Geekbench 2.2, an update to their cross-platform processor and memory benchmark solution for Mac OS X, Windows and Linux. The new version features an improved interface and includes a new hardware stress test that helps users determine if their computer is experiencing hardware problems.
Geekbench provides a set of benchmarks engineered to measure processor and memory performance. Version 2.2 includes a new command-line interface on Mac OS X and Windows. The command-line interface provides enterprise users, system administrators, and power users with a way to automate Geekbench.
Geekbench 2.2 is a free update for existing Geekbench users. New users can purchase a single-platform license for US$12.99 from the Mac App Store or the Primate Labs Store (http://www.primatelabs.ca/geekbench/) or a cross-platform license for $19.99 from the Primate Labs Store.
Pro Tools 9 tutorial focuses on Mac music, sound design...
Infinite Skills today announces a new Avid Pro Tool 9 Training Video Course. It highlights professional standard audio production techniques for music, voice and soundtrack work.
With 85 separate tutorials, the series has been designed to help beginners gradually learn recording concepts and techniques, implement virtual and real-world instruments and produce polished publishable tracks. The course is currently available in DVD-ROM and downloadable format.
The Learning Avid Pro Tools 9 Tutorial Video series can now be ordered from the Infinite Skills website (http://macte.ch/JE6Vn) on DVD-ROM or as a direct download for US$99.95. Both versions of the training includes usable working files that correspond with onscreen projects.
Apple working on remote diagnostic tool for iOS devices?
Apple is working on a web-based remote diagnostic tool that would help an Apple Specialist in finding and fixing problems with iOS devices, reports "HardMac" (http://www.hardmac.com). This tool's arrival would probably coincide with the release of iOS 5 this fall.
"HardMac" says the diagnostic tool will provide info such as:
° Health, level of load of the battery, duration passed since the last complete charge;
° The minimum level to which the battery was disdischarged;
° The iOS version installed;
° The ability to ascertain if the device was turned off "normally."
China: Apple suppliers accused of systemic pollution
Chinese environmental groups have accused Apple suppliers in the country of systemic pollution, reports the "Financial Times."
In a report released on Wednesday, five Chinese non-governmental organisations said the US technology company was using suppliers with public records of environmental violations and taking “advantage of the loopholes in developing countries’ environmental management systems." The accusations escalate a standoff between Apple and Ma Jun, director of the Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs, a co-author of the report, the article says.
The groups have sought to persuade 29 big electronics brands over the past year to work with them on containing pollution in their supply chain, but singled out Apple as unresponsive. Read the complete story at http://macte.ch/55PUL .
