Jul 24, 2008 Jul 26, 2008 Friday July 25, 2008
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Revo's Blik RadioStation gets iPod dock, becomes iBlik RadioStation
Filed under: Home Entertainment, Portable Audio Apparently looking to give Bose a run for its money when it comes to long overdue product upgrades, Revo has now finally seen fit to gift its Blik RadioStation with an iPod dock, a move that follows its similarly risky forays into the rarely explored fields of WiFi and DAB radio. Apart from that welcome addition, however, this newly-dubbed iBlik RadioStation looks to be identical to its most recent predecessor, with it packing the same WiFi and DAB as before and, of course, the same love-it-or-hate-it styling. If that's a bit too much for you to handle, Revo has also kindly introduced the DAB-less iBlik WiFi, which will set you back 130 (or about $260), as opposed to the 180 (or $360) the full blown iBlik RadioStation will run you. Look for both of 'em to hit Europe next month.[Via Slash Gear] Read|Permalink|Email this|Comments
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Gateway ditches direct sales model, goes purely indirect
Filed under: Desktops, Laptops Gateway, long known for its (once) very active direct sales model, is continuing to morph as it attempts to revitalize itself. The most recent strategic change is pretty remarkable -- the outfit is completely and thoroughly ditching the aforesaid direct sales model. From here on out, prospective customers will only be able to snag a Gateway PC from retailers, e-tailers and other channel partners. According to the official verbiage, the change will deliver "significant cost savings, ultimately resulting in an improved value proposition for consumers." This all seems to have quite a bit to do with the recent Acer acquisition, with Mark Hill, Acer Group US General Manager, stating that Gateway is "shifting its distribution method to better align with Acer's successful global strategy, which was built upon an indirect model." At this point, we suppose it can't hurt to give it a whirl.[Via Electronista, image courtesy of The New York Times]Read|Permalink|Email this|Comments
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Mobile platform tug-of-war
At a Mobile Web Wars Roundtable held by TechCrunch more than 20 mobile wonks discussed that state of mobile platforms. The iPhone was an object of adoration but not a big enough market to merit full attention.
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Mac 101: Safari tab tricks
Filed under: Mac 101I've found myself using Firefox 3 more and more as of late, though there is one feature of Safari that I miss dearly. Picture it: you have a bunch of tabs loaded up in one window of your browser. For some reason you decide that you would really like to see one tab in its very own window. In Safari all you have to do is click on that tab and drag. As you can see to the right, a little picture of the website you're viewing appears and you can drop that picture anywhere on your screen. Once you drop it, the picture expands into a Safari window displaying that website.This cool feature is a little tough to explain in words, so read on for a brief video demonstration.Please note that I'm using Leopard and Safari 3.Continue reading Mac 101: Safari tab tricksPermalink|Email this|Comments
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Appearance: PPUG meets tomorrow in Philly
If you’re in the Philadelphia area I’d like to invite you to attend the Philadelphia PowerBook User Group (PPUG) meeting tomorrow at the Manayunk Brewery and Restaurant. We meet from 12 noon to 3pm over lunch and fine local beer. Want to debate my theory on Apple’s mysterious “product transition?” Or discuss your favorite iPhone [...]
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How to convert an old dock to work with iPhone 3G
Posted by Dave MertenGot an old iPhone dock laying around and don't want to spend money for the new iPhone 3G dock? Well, here is a way to modify and old dock and make it work with the Phone 3G.
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iPhone gas application roundup
On 18 June 2008 I published my iPhone app wishlist and I’m happy that most of my most requested applications have been released (Thank you Texas Hold’Em!). Two my most request applications dealt with fuel, specifically a fuel economy tracker and a cheap gas finder. Several iterations of the first are now available from the App [...]
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WinPwn 2.0 released For Windows users (video)
Posted by Dave MertenWinPwn 2.0, the jailbreak/pwning software for Windows users running the iPhone 2.0 software, has been released. Those of you Windows users looking to jailbreak your iPhone 3G, iPod touch or iPhone running the latest firmware version can now do so. The team posted the download and the instructions on their...
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iPhone 2.1 SDK Disappointments
Filed under: Analysis / Opinion, Apple Corporate, iPod Family, iPhone, App Store, SDK Something is rotten in the state of Cupertino. Mr. Jobs, TEAR DOWN THIS NDA. If the new iPhone 2.1 beta firmware is anything, it's a perfect excuse to say: "I told you so." It explains why the NDA failed to disappear on schedule. Apple kept its promise -- "Ve shall delivah the 2.0 iPhone und SDK on Yuly 11th" -- while working around the fact that that SDK was half baked at best. It was certainly not ready for prime time. The NDA simply expands the beta period. It offers cover to Apple, as they scramble to finish developing ready-to-ship software. In retrospect, there really was no need for the NDA in the first place, nor this second new 2.1 NDA that just debuted. Anyone, including Apple's competitors -- even the really evil "big brother" ones -- can sign up and download the SDK for free. Apple isn't exactly keeping things hush hush on the down low. All the NDA does right now is keep developers from talking to each other and blogs, magazines and book authors from publishing how-to articles. Said articles, etc., could actually help Apple reduce its tech support overhead. It would certainly help solidify the brand and allow third parties to make better, stronger App Store entries. It made no sense then. It makes no sense now. But that's not where the grumbling ends. Our TUAW tipsters have been busy. They tell us that Apple is busy rejecting Applications from the App Store for grammar mistakes in onboard help files (not a joke) and for not presenting the user with the best playability options (also not a joke). Many of these frustrated developers tell us that some of their products have been waiting for review for four weeks and up and that their updates are getting caught in the gears. One wrote that his apps are getting poor reviews while fixes can't see the light of day. And if the TUAW tipsters' tips are true (thanks TUAW tipsters), the new SDK throws a further wrench into the gears. 2.0 SDK Applications will not be immediately compatible with version 2.1 (although that could change between beta and release). Other tremendously terrific tipsters tell us that the newest beta program isn't fully open. Apparently only a subset of iPhone SDK development members have been granted access. That once again puts some developers at a tremendous financial disadvantage. All in all, the buzz in developer circles is not happy. While some look forward to their first August paychecks from App Store, others remain waiting and frustrated in the wings. As always, please continue to use our tip line if you have anything you want to add anonymously to the discussion. Otherwise, feel free to opine in our comments.Read|Permalink|Email this|Comments
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'Macsimum Recommended Reading' for July 25
Posted by Dennis Sellers “Celebrity Fake List: Top 10 iPhone Clones: Apple iPhone is undoubtedly a settled trademark. It is a high quality product. No wonder that Apple is releasing its new generation 3G iPhone in 60 days. But that's the bit of news. I'm driving at the fact that a number of companies...
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MacOSG: July Apple User Group Bulletin
Posted by Dave Merten
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iPhone Free Software Ringtone
Assuage your guilt with Richard Stallman’s performance of “The Free Software Song” as a ringtone for your iPhone, thanks to the Dave Walker. ★
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PopIn releases browser tool beta for Mac, PC, iPhone
Posted by Dennis SellersPopIn Inc. has announced Mac, PC and iPhone beta editions of popIn, a patent-pending browser tool that enables users to access other sites and incorporate related information into the web page they're viewing.
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Bricksmith 2.0
Filed under: SoftwareIt has been awhile since I posted about Bricksmith, it looks like Allen Smith hasn't spent all his time pining for more TUAW coverage. Nay! He has been working on Bricksmith 2.0, which brings some new features to this open source Lego modeling app. The renderings have been improved, part search has been beefed up, and new addition to the Help file will aid those looking to create nifty models.My favorite part of this app has to be the Minifig generator (which I used to create the image that accompanies this post). You can use it to create more aesthetically pleasing minifigs, to be sure, but this guy has got character I tells ya.Bricksmith is free, but if you find yourself using it often a donation would be nice.Read|Permalink|Email this|Comments
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Toon Boom releases Flip Boom Classic
Posted by Dennis SellersToon Boom Animation today announced the release of Flip Boom Classic, a new version of Flip Boom. It's designed as animation software for kids of all ages.
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Article: iPhone Gems: Action Puzzlers, Table + Pinball Games
You could easily spend $50 on a bunch of random new games at the App Store, or you could save your cash for the really good ones. Today, we've selected a collection of different iPhone action puzzle, table, and pinball games to spotlight, and as always, we let you know which are and aren't worth your hard-earned dollars. If you're in a rush, here's a hint: skip straight to Demiforce's new Trism—it's the best…
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Apple releases AirPort Extreme Update for Tiger users
Tiger users experiencing audio problems when connected to AirPort Extreme stations will want to pay attention to this software update from Apple. Read More...
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Apple Plans to Implement Directional GPS, Push Notification.
read more
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Apple says, "Want to hack iPhones for a living?"
The iPhone's security is under fire, so Apple's stepping up its game. Want to get paid to hack the iPhone? Apply for Apple's new iPhone Security Engineer position!Read More...
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Multiple iPhone household? Share your apps.
Filed under: Apple, iPhone, App StoreLet me start this post off by pointing out that I am not a lawyer, and I don't even play one on TV. I have, however, been called for jury duty a few times, so I know my way around a courthouse.Melvin Rivera isn't a lawyer either, but he and his wife own two iPhones. Melvin knew that iPhone apps are wrapped with Apple's delicious flavor of DRM called 'FairPlay' that has some fairly open terms of use. You can authorize up to five computers to access items purchased from the iTunes store (that aren't iTunes Plus tracks, since they don't have any DRM on them) and you can then play those tracks (and one assumes applications) on any unlimited number of iPods and iPhones.Melvin, being the clever man that he is, realized that he shouldn't have to purchase two copies of Super Monkey Ball: one for his wife's iPhone and another for his. FairPlay makes it clear that those apps should be able to run on multiple iPhones, so after some poking around Melvin got it to work. Check out his blog for the blow by blow account.Clearly, this approach is kosher as far as the DRM is concerned, but do iPhone apps have licenses that supersede the FairPlay wrapper? I haven't agreed to any per app licensing agreements when installing something on my iPhone (as of yet) though that doesn't mean they don't exist (as I pointed out above I'm no Perry Mason).Read|Permalink|Email this|Comments
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News: iSkin rolls out revo2 for iPhone 3G
iSkin has announced its new revo2 case for the iPhone 3G. The revo2 is made from soft Microban( antimicrobial silicone, and features a detachable ViSOR transparent face shield, a honeycomb micro-texture for added grip, raised volume and power buttons, open access to the iPhone 3G's camera, ring/silent switch, microphone, and speaker, integrated headphone and Dock Connector port covers, and a special translucent silicone zone that protects…
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Apple Gazette Daily 314 - Psystar vs. Apple, Mossberg on the App Store, and iPhone 2.1
podcast sponsor link:Click Here to check out Audible! Today's Show: Psystar vs. Apple, Mossberg on the App Store, and iPhone 2.1 You can subscribe via iTunes, or by RSS feed, or… you can listen to the episode right here: In addition to that, you can also download the Apple Gazette Daily Widget and listen to every episode of the show right on your Dashboard. Click Here to download.
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Facebook's iPhone app: a bug that gives out magical iPhones (not really) to friends you never knew you had
Facebook's iPhone app attributes more iPhone owners than there actually are
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Mystery solved: Apple’s new product is iTablet
Previously I speculated about the mysterious “product transition” that Apple’s Peter Oppenheimer (CFO) mentioned no less than seven times in the Q3 2008 Earnings conference call with analysts. Some of his quotes from the call: We are working to develop new products that contains technologies that our competition will not be able to match. I cannot [...]
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Exclusive: Behind the Scenes Video from The Princess Bride Game
The Princess Bride is one of those movies that's loved by everyone. Go ahead, ask the person next to you if they like The Princess Bride. See, it's universally adored. Now Mac users can re-enact the adventures of Wesley and Buttercup with The Princess Bride Game released for OS X today. The game features five casual games, animation based on the movie, and the voices of two of the original film actors. read more
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Article: Ask iLounge 7-25-08
This week's Ask iLounge topics: MobileMe on iPhone for Calendars only, Buying iPods for International use, Voice recorders for 4G iPods, Free Music for iPod, Problems transferring purchased content to iPod, Playing AAC files in Windows Media Player
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If You Can Get Past the Rocky Rollout, MobileMe's a Winner
I haven't experienced many of the problems that are reportedly plaguing Apple's new .Mac replacement, MobileMe. The new version of Apple's $99 online storage, e-mail, photo-sharing, calender and contacts service launched July 11 -- the same day the company released the iPhone 3G and the App Store. Shortly after launch, MobileMe promptly broke for many users, over and over again, leaving some without e-mail for days on end. Last week, Apple sent a message to MobileMe subscribers, noting that the transition from .Mac to MobileMe was "a lot rockier than we had hoped."
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V.C. Advice to Entrepreneurs: It's Not All About the iPhone
The iPhone was the hot topic at MobileBeat, a cellphne industry conference, but venture capitalists advised mobile startups to build for all platforms.
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Analyst: Apple board would have to tell investors of any potential changes in Jobs' leadership role
Posted by Dennis SellersInvestment bank Piper Jaffray has told Apple investors that the company's leadership would be required to disclose “in a timely fashion” any changes that would prevent CEO Steve Jobs from maintaining his role, according to AppleInsider.
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Dan Lyons, Fake Steve, and Newsweek
Dan Lyons, who recently took over Steven Levy’s old spot as Newsweek’s technology columnist, on why he walked away from his Fake Steve Jobs weblog: The truth is simply this. I began hearing a few months ago that Steve Jobs was very sick. I wasn’t sure if these rumors were true or not. Then I saw how he looked at WWDC and it was like having the wind knocked out of me. I just couldn’t carry on. I hope and pray that he’s not sick. But for now I just can’t carry on with the Fake Steve character. I’m sure it had nothing to do with the fact that continuing the Fake Steve blog might have an adverse affect on the amount of access to new products Apple will grant to Lyons and Newsweek. Levy, at least while at Newsweek, was often seeded with new products a few weeks in advance of release, in the same rarified air as Walt Mossberg and David Pogue. Even with Fake Steve on ice, it’ll be interesting to see what kind of access Apple gives to Lyons at Newsweek. ★
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iPhone OS 2.1 might be coming soon
A beta version of an update to Apple's iPhone operating system is making the rounds with apparent GPS-related improvements but no sign of a 3G reception fix.
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iPhone 3G availability tracker mashup
Looking for an iPhone 3G? Apple provides an iPhone 3G availability application on their retail Web page that lists iPhone availability by store location. (The app appears to be offline as of press time). The problem is that Apple’s availability application forces you to drill down store by store to find product. Chris Barnes has addressed the [...]
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Silverback now available
Filed under: SoftwareUK web development team Clearleft has released its web site usability testing application, Silverback.In short, Silverback turns a Mac into a portable usability testing laboratory. What used to require a complicated and cumbersome set up involving several computers, a video camera, and lots of time, can now be done much faster and with less hassle. You only need a Mac with a built-in or attached camera, and a copy of Silverback.The application records video footage of the user, and combines it with recorded footage of their activity on screen. Clicks, inputs, pointer movements and the user's speech and facial expressions are all combined into a single video file that can be quickly exported. One nice touch allows the test facilitator to add "bookmarks" during a session by clicking a button on the Mac's Apple Remote. Nothing distracting will show up in front of the user, but the bookmark is still recorded invisibly in the background.The only thing that doesn't appear to be included - at least in this initial release - is the ability to edit the output video file before exporting. Even so, it looks like it could be an invaluable tool for anyone who makes software or web sites for a living. If you want to find out more, watch the five-minute demo video, which is a useful summary of aims and features.Silverback is Tiger and Leopard compatible, sells for $49.95 and can be used as a fully functional demo for 30 days. As an added bonus, 10% of all profits generated will be donated to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.Read|Permalink|Email this|Comments
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Pangea launches Cro-Mag Rally, Enigmo for iPhone, iPod touch
Posted by Dennis SellersPangea Software has released versions of its Engimo puzzle game and the Cro-Mag Rally (shown) racing game for the iPhone 3G and the iPod touch. Cro-Mag Rally, a 3D caveman racing game, sends players on a ride challenging them to drive primitive cars with primitive weaponry.
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iPhone 3G ads appear; no line-waiting needed for viewing
Apple has some new iPhone 3G commercials airing on national TV that extol the virtues of 3G and the device's business uses. Read More...
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Rumor Mill: iPhone to get copy, paste and better navi in firmware 2.1
The most exciting thing around the watercooler today is the rumor that Apple has seeded iPhone firmware 2.1 to developers. MacNN sources tell them that they’ve found references to cut, copy and paste in the Localizable.strings entry under English.lproj. Woot!According to the story the 2.1 firmware also contains references to a mobile radio function which [...]
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Consoles Sell Like Hotcakes, Yahoo Cuts a Deal, Sysadmin Caves
As much as I love zombie movies, I really don't care to count how many times I've been invited to BECOME a zombie on Facebook. Yeah, you know the one I'm talking about. That's what you get when you open your platform to developers with all sorts of agendas -- you get a handful of good stuff, and you get oceans of crap -- spammy, garbagey applications -- the software equivalent of Cracker Jack prizes. So at Facebook's F8 developer's conference, the company announced what it calls the "Great App" program.
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News: Boomwave intros Kruz cases for iPhone 3G
Boomwave has introduced its new Kruz cases for the iPhone 3G. Each Kruz case offers open access to all the iPhone 3G's ports and controls, and includes a screen protector. Kruz ABS cases feature hard shell protection with a faux leather exterior, and come in white, red, or black, each with a unique design on the rear shell. Kruz ABS cases for iPhone 3G sell for $24 each. Also available are Kruz SC cases, which are made from cowhide leather,…
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Montreal Apple store grand opening today
Filed under: Retail, AppleThe rumored Apple Store, Sainte Catherine in Montral is opening today, in grand style. If you're in the area of 1321 Ste-Catherine st west besides the Ogilvy Department Store at the corner De la Montagne st (which I totally just grabbed from the store's website, I have no idea where any of that is) you should stop on by.It looks like the store will also have a number of musical guests for the next few days to keep interest up. Amongst the musical folks stopping by the store are: The Stills on July 26th Alex Cuba on July 27th Anik Jean on July 28th David Usher on July 29th Thanks to everyone who sent this in.Read|Permalink|Email this|Comments
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iSkin releases revo2 case for iPhone 3G
Posted by Dennis SellersiSkin has introduced its new revo2 soft premium silicone protector designed especially for iPhone 3G. It encapsulates the communications and provides coverage from impact, shock, dirt, dust and moisture.
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SPECULATION: iPhone's “Product Transition” can only be one thing…
Apple's “product transition” that was mentioned in the recent earnings call has generated quite a bit of speculation. The “never-going-to-die” iTablet rumor made its way to the top of the list, and some have also speculated that Apple is referring to their notebook line. When you think about it, though - neither of these make a whole lot of sense. First, the iTablet isn't happening. I know a handful of people would really like it if it existed, but for right now, the product does not fill a mass market consumer need, and until it does it won't happen. We have absolutely no proof that this device even exists anywhere beyond the minds of some hopeful Apple enthusiasts. If it did come out it would not be a “product transition” of any kind either. It would be a new product. The suggestion of the notebook line would certainly qualify as a “product transition”, but Apple has also stated that they will be offering this “mysterious” product at a price the competition just can't match. That throws all notebooks and desktops out the window as far as I'm concerned. Apple does not sell computers. They never have, and I doubt they ever will. If Apple is going to make a statement that they're going to create a product that's priced in such a way that the competition can't match it - they'd have to release sub $500 notebooks and sub $300 desktops. First, that would make for some crappy Macs. Second, Mac sales are at an ALL TIME HIGH - so why on earth would they go slashing the prices of their computer hardware line? It just doesn't make sense. There is this other product, however, called an iPod. Apple has sold a gazillion of them, and the market for them is growing stagnant. It's time to transition consumer to the next generation of iPod. Apple has also recently purchased chip maker PA Semi, which will bring their chip making “in-house” and reduce overall production costs on mobile devices like iPods and iPhones. So, what's the “mystery product”? Easy - it's the iPod Touch. Getting consumers to make the transition from their traditional iPods to the iPod Touch will not only bring sales back up to where they need to be, it will also increase the App Store install base, which will, in turn, increase digital purchases and App Store profits. By offering an iPod Touch at an extremely affordable price Apple will gain an ongoing customer through the App Store, and bring iPod sales back up at the same time. With all of that said, I fully expect to see an iPod Touch for $199 (or less) just in time for Christmas. What do you think?
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News: Quest for the Best iPhone App Contest winners announced
iLounge is pleased to announce the winners of our Quest for the Best iPhone App Contest, which gave developers the opportunity to spotlight new iPhone and iPod touch software in three separate categories: Games, Business/Productivity/Professional, and “Just Plain Cool.” We selected three winners, one per category; each will receive a Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin iPod Speaker System (retail value: $599), provided by B&W, along…
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The Real Dan Lyons on Fake Steve Jobs (and why he left)
The author behind the persona of Fake Steve Jobs considers the future of his satire hit and explains to Ars why he left in the first place. Read More...
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First Looks: DLO Surface Shields Anti-Glare Protection for iPhone 3G
As a competitor to similar bundled screen protector offerings from Power Support, Griffin, and others, DLO's new Surface Shields for iPhone 3G ($15) is a set of five anti-glare screen protectors in a single package. There's nothing amazing to report here except for the pricing, which is a little under Power Support's while offering a greater quantity of protectors....
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How to check for iPhone 3G availability at Apple Stores
Posted by Dave MertenThe Apple Retail Store are running low on iPhone 3Gs. You can check the most up-to-date availability at the link below. Shipments of iPhone 3G arrive most days and availability is updated nightly.
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First Looks: DLO Jam Jacket for iPhone 3G
Similar to DLO's second version of the Jam Jacket for iPhone, the company's new Jam Jacket for iPhone 3G ($20) is a straightforward silicone rubber case sold in black, clear, pink, and blue versions. Each comes with three clear static cling film protectors, and features grippy sides with cut-outs for the iPhone 3G's ports and camera. Gone is the earphone cable manager found on the original iPhone Jam Jacket, in favor of a smooth back....
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MobileOne to sell iPhones in Singapore
Posted by Dennis SellersMobileOne, Singapore's smallest mobile-phone operator, will reportedly offer the iPhone in its retail outlets by the end of this year.
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First Looks: DLO VideoShell for iPhone 3G
Based upon one of the highest-rated cases for the iPod touch, DLO's new VideoShell for iPhone 3G ($20) is a generally convenient clear hard plastic shell with one serious issue. While we continue to like its flip-out integrated video stand, which lets you easily watch movies or TV shows on the iPhone 3G, we found the case almost impossible to remove from the device once installed, even when following the directions -- an issue that will seriously…
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First Looks: DLO HybridShell for iPhone 3G
Based upon one of our favorite cases for the iPod touch, DLO's new HybridShell for iPhone 3G ($25) won't be getting a positive review from us this time unless its clear hard plastic shell is redesigned to be easier to open. Though we like the style of the case, which uses rubberized dots on the back for added grip, and includes a clear screen protector, we found it almost impossible to remove from the iPhone after snapping these photos and actually…
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iPhone OS 2.1 and SDK 2.1
Filed under: Developer, iPhoneAttention iPhone developers: get ye to Apple's iPhone Dev Center. Apple released the image for the iPhone OS 2.1 and SDK 2.1 last night. You must be registered to get at these files, which means that you have to agree to an NDA (First rule of iPhone development: don't talk about iPhone development), though for those curious registering for Apple's dev center is free (as noted below, the free account won't get you access to these files).According to numerous tipsters this .1 release includes the beginnings of the iPhone notification services as well as some improvements in the location awareness area. iPhone users, this is an advanced release of the software so that devs and make sure their apps work, and start whipping up new apps. This won't be available for phone in the wild until some later date (that only Steve and his hairdresser know for sure).One thing to note: apps created using this SDK/OS combination cannot be sold on the App Store at this time, so I hope you have an extra iPhone or iPod touch laying around.Update: I was mistaken, this new files aren't available via the free Apple Dev accounts. You have to have a paid membership to get them (though I would imagine they will trickle down to the freebie accounts at some point in the near future), and be a registered iPhone developer.Update 2: Some folks in the comments are saying they are paid, registered developers and they can't see these files so your mileage may vary.Thanks to everyone who sent this in.Read|Permalink|Email this|Comments
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Find corrupt fonts using Spotlight in Terminal
In doing an mdimport -A in Terminal, I noticed a particular attribute called com_apple_ats_font_invalid. Spotlight seems to set this attribute for files in a font folder (e.g. ~/Library/Fonts) that aren't valid font files. Try this is a Terminal window to see if you have any bad fonts: $ mdfind "com_apple_ats_font_invalid == 1" You can see this in action if you use the -live switch on the above command. Once the mdfind starts, in another Terminal window, create a bad font: $ echo "bad font" > ~/Library/Fonts/badfont.ttf You'll see that the query in the first window now shows one match; remove the file you just created (rm ~/Library/Fonts/badfont.ttf), and the query count will drop to zero. Press Control-C to end the mdfind in the other window. I'm not sure if this is new for Leopard or whether Tiger has it as well.
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Date calculations with stock and Gnu versions of 'date'
The stock OS X date command ships with a useful -v command that allows date calculation. For example, to determine the last day of February, you could use the following: date -v3m -v1d That's the third month in the first -v, and then less one day in the second -v. man date gives many examples. On the other hand, the Gnu version of date that's available from MacPorts does not support this option. Playing a bit with the --date option for Gnu's date, I came up with: date --date="march 1 1 day ago" This results in the same date calculation as in the stock date function. Gnu's date also includes the option of printing rfc-2822 and rfc-3339 dates. The latter can be used for applications like Google that require xls dates: date --rfc-3339='ns' 2008-07-23 18:28:00.110568000+05:30 The ...
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Manage the periodic logs
There has been some discussion here about the periodic maintenance tasks and making them run: 10.4: Reschedule periodic maintenance tasks A simple shell script to run system maintenance tasks What hasn't so far been addressed is the logs themselves. I got very interested in these as I suddenly (under 10.4) couldn't account for 5GB on my hard disk. It turns out that the primary culprit was the daily.out log file that had simply grown out of all proportions. The periodic logs are never cleaned up, and thus just grow in size each and every time the periodic maintenance tasks are run. For example: [21:02:...
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Connect to a LEAP wireless network with iPhone 2.0
My company uses the LEAP security protocol for its wireless network. The iPhone doesn't list LEAP as a network security option, but the following workaround works with iPhones and iPod Touches that have the 2.0 software update. Go to your Settings app. Then select Wi-Fi. Next, select Other. Enter the name of your LEAP network. Under Security, select WPA Enterprise. Then enter your username and password. That's it. It works like a charm for my company's wireless network.
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Atempo, Nexsan team up for backup-to-disk storage solution
Posted by Dennis SellersAtempo, a provider of cross-platform data protection and archiving solutions, and Nexsan a provider of long-term disk storage, have announced a comprehensive backup-to-disk solution that integrates Atempo's storage management software with Nexsan's high density green storage system.
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Movie review: 'Step Brothers' is men behaving badly
Posted by Dennis SellersThe Talladega Nights: The Legend of Ricky Bobby boys—director Adam McKay (who also directed Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy), Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly—have reunited for Step Brothers, a lesser film than its predecessor.
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Ancient Quest of Saqqarah is released for the Mac
Posted by Dennis SellersAncient Quest of Saqqarah, a cinematic puzzle game by Codeminion, has come to Mac OS X. It has 500 puzzles spread across seven different game play types and music composed by the people responsible for the soundtrack of The Witcher.
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Scrabble Journey available at Macgamestore
Posted by Dennis SellersScrabble Journal is now available at the Macgamestore. The game, published by Real Arcade, costs US$19.95 and works with Mac OS X 10.4.1 or higher. A demo is available for download.
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O'Reilly Media releases 'JavaScript: The Missing Manual'
Posted by Dave MertenIn today's Web 2.0 world, creating modern, interactive Web sites requires learning JavaScript. But, unlike HTML and CSS, JavaScript is a true programming language with complex rules that are challenging for most Web designers to learn. In JavaScript: The Missing Manual, author David McFarland teaches you how to use JavaScript...
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Data loss from App Store updates
Filed under: iPod Family, Developer, iPhone, App Store, SDK When Apple first announced that third-party applications would be coming to the iPhone, they also announced an update mechanism in the App Store. On the surface, this ability to update applications (mostly for free) is a nice feature, however, when you learn that Apple didn't include a means for developers to save the data files created by their apps, you tend to start rethinking "nice feature."I first noticed this when I updated Enigmo and lost all of my saved games. In addition, I just updated Facebook and lost my login information. Apple should have provided a way for applications to save information like this for retrieval after an update.Have you encountered data loss in after updating your iPhone's third-party applications? Be sure to sound off in the comments.Update: Judging from the comments to this entry this appears to happen on a case by case basis: sometimes updating an app will overwrite your data, other times it won't. Sure sounds like a bug to us! Though the question is: whose bug is it: Apple's or the 3rd party app dev's?Read|Permalink|Email this|Comments
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iPhone roundup: Apple seeds 2.1 with new GPS features, possible copy/paste, also completely out of phones
Filed under: Cellphones, GPS Your morning iPhone news fix: looks like Apple's seeded a beta of firmware 2.1 (not to be confused with the supposed 2.0.1 that will fix the myriad bugs and issues with 2.0), which may have some new GPS features that would imply turn-by-turn directions. No argument from us if Apple really is including new Core Location hooks for tracking your direction and speed, which would both be needed for doing proper GPS navigation.Another bit which may or may not make it into 2.1 is copy/paste. We're still both hopeful and skeptical, but supposedly in the new version of the WebKit framework exists commands for "plugins," "copy," "paste," "cut," and some others. We can't confirm if these really exist (and if they do, we don't know how they've actually been there, or if they're simply holdovers from the desktop WebKit frameworks), so don't hold your breath. Also supposedly making its first appearance in the 2.1 beta code: Apple's push notification service.Oh, and by the way, if all this has whet your appetite for the device, sounds like today will be a bad day to try and snag one. Apple's retail site shows absolutely zero iPhone availability in the US, so if you're jonesing then check out eBay or the seedy looking dude on the corner with the overstuffed trenchcoat.[Thanks to Cameron and everyone who sent these in]Read - Apple all out of stockRead - New GPS features seeded?Read - 2.1 getting background push?Permalink|Email this|Comments
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Price cuts on Macs? Why not?
Posted by Dennis SellersSometimes Apple just can't win. In the past it's been knocked for having overpriced products. Now stock has dipped because some pundits think that Apple is planning price cuts to be more competitive in the current, tough economic climate. But what's wrong with that?
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Amazon To Power Upcoming MySpace Music Downloads?
The as-yet unlaunched MySpace Music will likely partner with Amazon (AMZN) to handle all music ecommerce transactions, we've heard from multiple sources. Apple (AAPL) and Rhapsody are also bidding for the business, however, and one source says a final decision hasn't yet been made.The project, which combines the music from three of the four major labels (Sony BMG, Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group) with $120 million in cash from MySpace along with MySpace's existing music properties, is set to launch in September.
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News: iPodweek coming later today; Vote on stability poll
The latest edition of iPodweek, our weekly newsletter covering all things iLounge, is coming later today. iPodweek is a weekly summary of the best iPod news, reviews, and feature articles we’ve published, and it also features giveaways and iPod accessory discount offers from various companies. There’s still plenty of time to sign up and receive this week's edition — just use the simple form below to submit your email address, if you haven't…
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Options Trader: Friday Outlook
Yet another exciting week in the markets draws to a close.
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First Looks: AB Sutton Simple Slip for iPhone 3G
Based upon its earlier Slip case designs, AB Sutton's new Simple Slip for iPhone 3G ($88-108) is a Kidskin leather sleeve with a branded band that runs across one side; inside is silk. What continues to make these Slips unique is the degree to which they can be customized by the user: 50 colors of leather and similarly numerous colors and textures of silk are offered, along with choices over trim and thread, as well as the ability to monogram or otherwise…
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First Looks: FullBodyFilms Protection Pack for iPhone 3G
Based upon its earlier, highly recommended clear film protector for the original iPhone, FullBodyFilms' Protection Pack for iPhone 3G ($17) jumps a buck in price while preserving its prior combination of two pieces of front protective film and one piece of rear protective film. The front pieces use static cling and vary from completely clear to anti-glare, while the back is adhesive, applied with a little soapy water. Together, they cover the majority…
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Developers receive iPhone 2.1 with directional GPS, push notification
Apple Insider reports that Gear Live has the iPhone 2.1 software in hand and note that Core Location can now recognize the cardinal direction of an iPhone with GPS. It can also detect velocity. Both of these are essential to providing turn-by-turn directions. Insider also notes that Apple has implemented a rudimentary version of the background push notification service in the 2.1 update. This feature is going to be very valuable to applications like AIM that could use the service to make IMing much more user friendly on the iPhone. Apple originally said that this service would become available in September of this year, so it is likely that we'll see the iPhone 2.1 software update around that time.
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Apple releases iPhone 2.1 beta to registered developers only
Apple has released a beta of iPhone OS 2.1 with updated GPS functionality and support for push notifications. However, only registered developers who are authorized to distribute apps are allowed to download it.Read More...
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News: Apple seeds iPhone OS 2.1 to devs, adds GPS, audio features
Apple has begun seeding a beta version of iPhone Software 2.1 to select developers, alongside an updated version of the iPhone SDK. Gear Live reports that the new software includes new Location Services features such as direction and speed tracking; it also appears to add a number of new functions for audio conversion and handling, as well as rudimentary support for push notifications for third-party applications. ...
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ZVUE's 1GB Journey DAP comes with 22 tracks you'll never delete
Filed under: Portable Audio Brace yourselves, dear readers. The item we're about to explain just might be is most certainly the best thing to ever happen to the digital audio player market. ZVUE's 1GB pre-loaded Journey MP3 player not only reeks of the early '80s in design alone, but this thing actually arrives with 22 Journey tracks loaded on (11 new joints, 11 of your childhood favorites). It's like buying Journey's greatest hits and getting a DAP for free -- go on, be good to yourself, it's only $39.88. Jump past the break if you need some encouragement / discouragement.[Via AnythingButiPod, thanks Dula]Continue reading ZVUE's 1GB Journey DAP comes with 22 tracks you'll never deleteRead|Permalink|Email this|Comments
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Apple Investors Need to Get a Grip
I declared the Bear market over yesterday, and that the bottom was 1200 on the S&P; that hasn't changed. However, what followed was a rough day, no doubt. And if you recall my words from yesterday's blog, I said there would be days like these. I just didn't expect it to happen so soon, I guess you never do. I know many people are still reeling from the downtrend we've been through, and yesterday probably made you feel like we're slipping into it again. But I don't think so. The daily and weekly charts simply don't bear that out (no pun intended). What I have also been saying for the past week, is that even in the wake of good days, like the ones we had the past several sessions, you must be cautious and go light. When you come off a Bear run, you can't take anything for granted, you have to expect huge swings. The reason for this whipsaw, besides the fact that we just came off a nasty downtrend, is that earnings inject volatility into the markets. Remember, emotions are high, sentiment and tolerance are low. Add to that imperfect news and you have the recipe for emotional upheaval. If it's too much for you to handle, then move to the sidelines for a while until things settle down. Cash is a valid position, and many times the right position to be in.
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New iPhone Apps for July 25, 2008 (BIG UPDATE)
Today there was a very large update to the App Store. Several games, a few Social Networking sites, and even some Productivity utilities have made their way into the store, giving us all kinds of stuff to play with over the weekend. New or Updated Applications include: American Heritage Dictionary, Annotater, Avatar, CellSpin, Cookie Bonus Solitaire, Editer, Exposure, FlashMath, Fonts, Graffitio, iCandy, iChoose, iDo, Imangi, Karajan, Las Vegas Blackjack, Lingolook ITALY, NetNewsWire, Paper Football, Platinum Solitaire, Poker Timer Dealer Button, Shanghai Mahjong, SnapMyLife, The Athlete's Calculator, The Dark Knight: HaHaHa, Tile Sudoku, Touch4: FS5, Wall Street Words, and zintin
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Direct sales leader Alticor implementing iPhone pilot program
Posted by Dennis SellersDirect sales leader Alticor, the parent company of Amway, is among the largest companies to acknowledge publicly that it's launching an iPhone trial, reports Information Week. The company is launching a pilot program with the Apple communications device starting next year.
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Macsimum Migration Kit: video management software
Posted by Dennis SellersIn this week's Macsimum Migration Kit, we're looking at Mac software for collecting and managing videos. For those new to the column, Macsimum Migration is our term for companies moving from Windows machines to Macs—or at least adding or increasing the number of Macs they use. A Macsimum Migration kit...
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Mac Bloggers on Surprise Products, Snagging 3G iPhones and Squeezing Out Battery Life
While Apple's third quarter financial performance report kicked off the week's news, it was Apple's Chief Financial Officer Peter Oppenheimer's commentary about a possible mystery product that really had bloggers typing. The iPhone 3G remains a hot topic as well, but finding one is still posing a problem for many would-be owners, and for those who have an iPhone 3G in hand, the challenge is keeping it running throughout the day. Apple's third quarter financial report had all the expected raw numbers.
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The New Best Hope for Mobile CRM: iPhone 3G
On July 11, when Apple had barely started to sell its much-anticipated iPhone 3G, Salesforce.com became the first customer relationship management vendor to announce the availability of its mobile applications for the iPhone in Apple's App Store. Now, two weeks after the phone's release, a few other CRM vendors can claim some sort of iPhone 3G compatibility; many more are planning to roll out an application in the future. With the souped-up iPhone 3G and Apple's software development kit, building sophisticated business apps is now much easier.
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Maccast 2008.07.24
A podcast about all things Macintosh. For Mac geeks, by Mac geeks. Show 233. iPhone 3G is cheaper, has complaints, and is in short supply. iPhone 2.0 feeling a little more like public beta for some. Update for older iPod Touches. iPhone 3G unlocks and jailbreaks released. Apple apologizes for Mobile Me, offers penance. Apple's second quarter growth takes it to #3 in the US. Apple 3rd Quarter earnings call. New Macbooks soon? Quad core of iLife updates. 3 New iPhone ads posted. Microsoft and Ubuntu look for more Mac like experiences. Why isn't TimeMachine talked about more? Fixing Time Capsule backup kernel panics. iPhone 3G calendar color fix. Auto open disk images on mount. Dusting off your Mac. Hack your way to .Me almost push. Should we give our Mac preventative medicine? Be careful with App Store purchases. iPhone 2.0 screenshots built-in. Special thanks to our sponsors: Circus Ponies - Free 30-day Trial of Notebook Smile on My Mac, check out Happy 5th Birthday! New music, With My Freeze Ray by Dr. Horrible I have a PhD in horribleness -- Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog (2008) Shownotes in: HTML or OPML Subscribe to the Podcast Feed or Get the MP3
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Apple releases AirPort Extreme Update 2008-002
Posted by Dennis SellersApple has released AirPort Extreme Update 2008-002. According to Apple, it's recommended for all Intel-based Macintosh computers and improves the reliability of AirPort connections.
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1394 Trade Association introduces copper automotive standard for vehicle navigation
Posted by Dennis SellersThe 1394 Trade Association, of which Apple is a member, has introduced the new 1394 Automotive specification for copper cabling media, designed to optimize the use of the 1394 (FireWire) standard in entertainment, environmental control, camera, and other in-vehicle applications.
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Loopmasters releases two new music products
Posted by Dennis SellersLoopmasters has released Drumdrops in Dub Vol. 1 and Electro House Underground.
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Demo of Battlestations Midway available
Posted by Dennis SellersFeral Interactive has released a demo of Battlestations Midway, a game for Mac OS X 10.4 or later. (However, it doesn't support GMA graphics cards with shared RAM a la those on the MacBook and Mac mini.)
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Donovan's Views: Apple's Nancy Paxton on earnings guidance
Posted by Dennis SellersBy Gaurang Donovan Nancy Paxton is the senior director, Investor Relations and Corporate Finance at Apple and generally opens the quarterly earnings conference calls.
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Create a Silent Ringtone for the iPhone
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Apple: Expecting Short-Term Weakness
Apple (AAPL), once a must have stock in any portfolio, is now the latest company to begin showing some sings of serious near-term weakness. Their latest quarter, all things considered, can only be considered lackluster at best. On the bottom line, the company earned $1.19/share, well above analyst expectations of $1.07/share. (See conference call transcript.)The problems, however, began with Apple's forecasts into the next year. Apple stated that margins would fall from the current 34.8% to 31.5% in the next quarter. As if that wasn't enough, the company said it would see gross margins of about 30% in 2009. These figures are all well below what analysts had been predicting into the next few years and the stock has reacted appropriately. Steve Jobs' current health is an entirely separate matter.
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David Pogue's iPhone: The Missing Manual Ebook released
Posted by Dave MertenThe new iPhone 3G has a nicer shape, GPS, and of course 3G speeds in the big cities,” says a blissed-out David Pogue. “But it's the iPhone 2.0 software and the App Store that really change the game.” A year ago, Pogue, the New York Times technology columnist and bestselling...
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Mac OS Ken: 07.25.2008
Mossberg: MobileMe Not Ready for Primetime (Even When It Just Works) / Morgan Stanley Analyst: Good News Ahead Based on Travel Receipts from Jobs / Oppenheimer Analyst: Other Touchscreen Phones Could Give iPhone a Run for its Money / RIM Imports (Some) iTunes to (Some Models of) the BlackBerry / Mr. Softy Plans Apple-Style Hardware/Software Experience (Or Not)
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What Batman is Missing From His Utility Belt
Batman is the sole protector of Gotham City, the last line of defense between its hapless citizenry and fiends like the Joker, the Penguin and the Riddler. But what Batman has in grit and combat ability, he lacks in stylish computing power. Enter Apple to help the Dark Knight not only vanquish crime, but look good dong it. So what’s the Dark Knight missing from his utility belt? read more
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Zoho
Zoho occupies a middle ground between Google Docs and ThinkFree. The suite offers more features than Google and links to a much larger set of apps that cover almost every office need—at press time www.zoho.com boasted 17 online apps covering productivity, collaboration, and business. But Zoho’s Writer, Sheet, and Show apps don’t quite reach ThinkFree’s level of detail and compatibility with Microsoft Office. read more
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'MacVoices' looks at NetSketch app for the iPhone
Posted by Dennis SellersOn the new MacVoices Ben Gotow, the developer of NetSketch, and his dad, Jon Gotow of St. Clair Software, introduce the only vector-based drawing program for the iPhone and iPod touch.
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The Mac Night Owl: 'Apple without Steve Jobs'
Posted by Dennis SellersOn today's commentary, Gene “Mac Night Owl” Steinberg ponders “Apple without Steve Jobs.”
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Info needed on password management software for the Mac
Posted by Dennis SellersOur next Macsimum Migration Kit will look at Mac software for managing passwords. If you use or know of such goodies, drop us a line (dsellers@macsimumnews.com) by Wednesday, July 30.
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ThinkFree Online
ThinkFree’s browser-based launching pad presents the suite’s clean interface. read more