New OS X Lion Server tutorial available
Professional training developer InfiniteSkills Inc has released a full tutorial series on the newest version of Apple's server operating system, Lion Server. It's priced at US$99.95. More information and free tutorial samples can be found on the Lion Server training page (http://macte.ch/M0wyw).
The tutorial includes 121 lessons on everything from network and directory service configuration to file sharing, mail servers and Xgrid computing. These Lion server training videos show how to perform advanced tasks using a combination of graphical utilities and terminal commands, according to Colin Boyd, sales director for InfiniteSkills.
Narrated by Apple-certified instructor Chris Tarnowieckyi, the 10.7 Server training series begins with a guide to installation and initial configuration tasks. The lessons show how to set up an administration computer, integrate relevant hardware and begin using the workgroup manager. The training then moves through network service configuration, including...
Apple garners 80% of profit among handset makers
Investment firm Canaccord Genuity tells clients -- as reported by "24/7 Wall Street" (http://macte.ch/tFL9x) -- that Apple collects around 80% of the operating profit among all handset makers.
Of US$14.4 billion in industry profit, Apple’s take is $11.5 billion. Samsung comes in second with 15% of the profits, or about $2.2 billion.
However, when it comes to market share,, Apple’s iOS trailed the Android operating system from Google with 19% to Android’s 48% at the end of 2011. Canaccord Genuity estimates that at the end of 2012, Android will hold 57% share to Apple’s 22%.
Group wants Apple to change board election procedure
Calpers, the largest U.S. pension fund, is seeking support for a longstanding proposal to get Apple to require a majority vote before electing unopposed candidates to the company's board, reports "Reuters" (http://macte.ch/ZYTNW).
The non-binding shareholder proposal again asks Apple to replace its plurality vote rule in uncontested elections, and require election by a majority of total shares, Calpers said in a regulatory filing on Thursday. Calpers, with $229 billion in assets, owned about 2 million Apple shares. The next Apple shareholder meeting is set for Feb. 23.
New York Attorney General to terminate antitrust lawsuit against...
Intel and the New York Attorney General have agreed to terminate the lawsuit alleging violation of U.S. and state antitrust laws that was filed by the New York Attorney General in November 2009.
The agreement, which follows a December 2011 court ruling that greatly reduced the scope of the New York Attorney General’s lawsuit, expressly states that Intel doesn't admit either any violation of law or that the allegations in the complaint are true, and it calls for no changes to the way Intel does business. The agreement includes a payment of $6.5 million from Intel that is intended only to cover some of the costs incurred by the New York Attorney General in the litigation.
"Following recent court rulings in Intel’s favor that significantly and appropriately narrowed the scope of this case, we were able to reach an agreement with New York to bring to an end what remained of the case," says Doug Melamed, senior vice president and general counsel at Intel. "We have always said that Intel’s...
Are Apple, Google mobile browsers endangering the 'Open Web...
The dominance of Apple and Google mobile browsers is leading to a situation that's even worse for Web programming than the former dominance of Internet Explorer, according to Daniel Glazman, co-chairman of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), a group overseeing the formatting and effects standard called Cascading Style Sheets (CSS).
Per "CNET," he says that programmers are overlooking other browsers when they use newer CSS features -- even when those other browsers support the features.
The result is that those other browsers -- Firefox, Internet Explorer, and Opera, chiefly -- might have to essentially "masquerade" themselves as other browsers.
When this happens, the "Open Web" -- a programming foundation based on cooperatively created standards rather than proprietary features -- is being ruined, according to Glazman. For more info go to http://news.cnet.com/8301-30685_3-57373764-264/web-leader-apple-google-p... .
Gemini for Mac OS X removes duplicate files
MacPaw has released Gemini (http://macpaw.com/gemini), a Mac-only duplicate finder and cleaner. The software -- available at the Mac App store for US$4.99 for a limited time -- searches for and removes duplicate files including videos, music, images, documents and more.
System files are ignored by Gemini to ensure the stability of Mac OS X, according to MacPaw CEO Oleksandr Kosovan. Enhanced scanning algorithms allow Gemini to find the biggest duplicates so that a user could stop the scan and instantly clean a considerable amount of space if needed, he adds. The app can even find folders that have identical content.
Gemini includes such features as built-in preview, full screen support, core animation, drag 'n drop functionality and search and sorting possibilities.
With the Auto Select feature the software introduces a new way of cleaning duplicates in Mac OS X.
It allows user to avoid manual and boring selection of duplicates and perform this operation with a click of a button....
'iTV" kinda like a giantic iPad?
Take this with a grain of salt: Canadian telecoms company Rogers and Bell already has the "iTV" (an Apple-branded HDTV) device in its labs, reports "The Globe and Mail."
Quoting two unnamed sources, the article says the TV will be voice controlled, using software similar to Siri on the iPhone 4S, and will offer iPad-style apps.
It will also offer gesture control with users able to manipulate apps using hand gestures to type on an on-screen virtual keyboard.
While the iTV product remains cloaked in secrecy, the sources said Apple has approached Rogers and Bell as it actively pursues partnerships with Canadian carriers. "They’re not closed to doing it with one [company] or doing it with two," says "The Globe and Mail." "They’re looking for a partner. They’re looking for someone with wireless and broadband capabilities."
The article says the iTV "has the potential to revolutionize TV viewing by turning conventional televisions into gigantic iPads."
Apple worth more than Google, Microsoft combined
Apple's stock hit a new high on Thursday, pushing the company's market capitalization to US$456 billion. That's more than the values of Google and Microsoft combined, notes "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com).
As of this morning, Microsoft's market cap was around $256.7 billion, while Google was approximately $198.9 billion. With Apple's stock up more than 3% in morning trading, the company passed the combined totals of both Google and Microsoft.
What's more, Apple is ahead of Exxon Mobil, which had a market cap of around $402 billion this morning. This gives Apple a value of more than $50 billion more than the oil giant, notes "AppleInsider."
FBI file on Steve Jobs released
The U.S. government has released the late Steve Jobs’s FBI file Thursday, including details of a background check done for a presidential appointment in 1991, reports "Wired" (http://macte.ch/uM2iK).
The background check was for an appointment to the president’s Export Council, under former President George H. W. Bush. Though Jobs' personal integrity was questioned (use of LSD in his younger days, distorting the truth, doing anything to achieve his goals), the interviewees all said there was no reason Jobs should not be given the presidential appointment to the export council, which he subsequently received.
The 191-page FBI file was released following a Freedom of Information Act request by "Wired" and other media outlets. If you'd like to read it go to http://macte.ch/ROPj9 .
Apple to announce iPad 3 in early March?
Apple will hold a special event in March to unveil the iPad 3, according to "All Things D" (http://macte.ch/pd7uw). The event will be held in San Francisco, "presumably at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts," the article adds.
In writing for "All Things D," John Paczkowski speculates that the iPad 3 will most likely go on sale the week after it's unveiled at the special event. Apple, of course, declines to comment.
In a note to investors -- as reported by "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com) -- Deutsche Bank analyst Chris Whitmore says he's expecting the third generation iPad next month that will sport a high-resolution display, a quad-core CPU, graphics performance four to five times faster than the iPad 2, and Siri voice control.
More juice in the iPad 3 will leave competitors further behind and drive Apple market share gains, he adds. Estimates from Deutsche Bank, combined with data from IDC, suggest that Apple currently has a 25% share of the combined notebook and tablet...
Hackers cracking into iTunes accounts
Hackers are reportedly cracking iTunes accounts to obtain paid content and stick you with the bill, according to "Cult of Mac" (http://macte.ch/hOauG). Once inside your account, the thieves can steal your store credit and gift cards, and make purchases with your credit card and PayPal information, the article adds.
Apple is reportedly looking into the issue and issuing refunds to customers who have been hacked. However, many users claim the company is “reluctant” to deal with their issue, and tells them that their refund is a “one-time exception to our sales policy," says "Cult of Mac."
You can read more about the matter at the Apple Support Communities site (https://discussions.apple.com/thread/2665383).
Apple's request to stop Galaxy Tab sales denied
The changes Samsung has made to the Galaxy Tab 10.1N are enough to no longer infringe on Apple's intellectual property rights, a judge at the district court in DA1/4sseldorf, Germany, decided Thursday. The verdict was expected, since the court delivered the same preliminary decision in December, reports "Computerworld" (http://macte.ch/Ozh2R).
Samsung welcomes today's ruling, since the court has denied Apple's request to stop the sale of the Galaxy Tab 10.1N. The tablet remains available to consumers in Germany, a spokesman told "Computeworld" via email. Apple can appeal the verdict.
This is, of course, the latest development in the apparently never-ending battle between Apple and Samsung, both of whom claim patent infringement. Samsung has sought to ban the iPhone 4S in counties such as France and Italy for patent infringement. The companyhas filed motions with courts in Paris and Milan seeking the ban, each citing two patent infringements on wireless telecommunications technology....
White MacBook for education discontinued
Apple has told resellers that the educational version of the white MacBook, the last such model, is now discontinued, reports "MacRumors" (http://www.macrumors.com).
Apple has notified resellers that it has ended that distribution channel as well, classifying the MacBook as "End of Life." The company is directing users toward the MacBook Air and 13-inch MacBook Pro instead.
New Bookle app enables reading of DRM-free EPUBs in Mac OS X
Many people assumed that Apple would add EPUB reading capabilities to Preview or Safari in Mac OS X Lion, or perhaps port iBooks from the iPad to the Mac. But that hasn't happened; to fill the void, TidBITS Publishing and Stairways
Software have collaborated to create Bookle, an EPUB reading app for Mac OS X.
Available in the Mac App Store for US$9.99 (visit http://tid.bl.it/bookle-app), Bookle 1.0 provides the core features needed for reading DRM-free EPUBs. Bookle stores all opened EPUBs in an internal library, enabling readers to switch among EPUBs instantly.
Mouse, trackpad, and keyboard navigation controls are provided for moving around within an EPUB. Text formatting, background colors, and graphics all appear, and links both within an EPUB and out to Web resources are live. Readers can customize the font, size, and background color in most EPUBs on a per-title basis, and Bookle can even read EPUBs out loud.
"Bookle 1.0 is intentionally simple, both because an EPUB reader should...
Most US smartphone owners use devices for movie research
Mobile devices are playing a critical role in the entertainment research and planning process for a majority of smartphone and iPad users, according to a new study by Greystripe, a brand-focused mobile ad network and a division of ValueClick (http://www.valueclick.com).
The study, which Greystripe conducted on its network, revealed that 53% of smartphone users and 27% of iPad users search for movie listings, times and locations on their devices. This is good news for film studios, which can now target movie marketing directly at consumers on the go, looking for films to watch.
The study also finds that participants are using their smartphones and iPads to discover new movies, interact with movie ads, watch trailers, and purchase tickets and DVDs. Greystripe collected data from 546 users on its network of iPhone, iPod touch, iPad and Android devices during a one-month-long period from Nov. 1, 2011, to Nov. 30, 2011.
The study found iPad and touch smartphone users are a key movie-...
Tablet tariffs comprise one-third of mobile broadband plans
An analysis of tablet tariffs from the Strategy Analytics Mobile Broadband Price Benchmarking Service (http://www.strategyanalytics.com) shows that the number of tablet devices offered by operators is growing -- with many providing at least five different tablets. The research shows that 4G/LTE plans, increasingly prevalent in mobile broadband offers, are now starting to appear specifically for tablets.
"Q4 2011 brought rapid growth in tablet tariffs in all countries," says Strategy Analytic's Pawel Kmiec. "Currently, nearly 35% of all plans included in the Mobile Broadband Price Benchmarking system are now tablet-specific, compared to less than 30% in our September 2011 update."
Operators today offer on average 4-5 tablet devices -- usually a first- or second-generation iPad, a 7- or 10-inch Samsung Galaxy Tab, and, increasingly, an operator-branded tablet device. Given the scale and speed of LTE/4G developments, Strategy Analytics predicts that the number of tablet-specific LTE/4G...
Luca Visual FX brings Grunge collection to FCP X, Motion, AE
Noise Industries welcomes the latest collection of Luca Visual FX plug-ins to FxFactory 3.
The Grunge Collection features four new visual effects tools: Grunge Effects, Film Leaders, Sprocket Slip, and Light Leaks. The family of tools are compatible with Final Cut Pro, Motion, and After Effects. The Grunge Collection includes the following four products:
° Grunge Effects (US$99): Grunge Effects consists of Grunge Overlays and Grunge Transitions. Grunge Overlays offers a variety of animated textures that add a dynamic and intriguing feel to a project. Grunge Transitions includes an array of never released animated and often complex, grungy textures designed to be used mainly, but not exclusively, as transitions.
° Film Leaders ($99): Film Leaders lets users create leaders that complement and enhance their projects. Editors have control over the look and feel of their leaders and can adjust font type, size, kerning, spacing, texture, animation and more. Film Leaders also offers over...
CurrentWerks shipping energy-saving USB wall outlets
CurrentWerks (http://www.currentwerks.com) says its newest energy-saving USB wall outlets, the Duo and the Quattro (pictured), are now shipping.
The Duo adds two powerful USB ports with 16W of output to a standard 110V wall outlet. The Duo supports both 15A and 20A wall receptacles. It ships in regular and decorator styles with a choice of colors.
The Quattro has four USB ports that have a combined 22W output and fits in a standard wall gang box. Using a patented door mechanism, the Quattro purportedly eliminates vampire power, also known as standby power, saving energy.
At 2.1 amps per port, both of these products are currently the most powerful energy saving devices available on the market, according to CurrentWerks CEO Patrick Manning. They output enough to quickly charge even the most power-hungry devices such as the iPad, iPhone, Droid devices and game controllers at full charging rate.
Mac OS X software updates for Feb. 9
Here are the latest updates for Mac OS X apps.
Econ Technologies has updated ChronoSync to version 4.3 and ChronoAgent for Mac to version 1.3. ChronoSync is the automated synchronization and backup application for Mac OS X and ChronoAgent for Mac is a utility that runs on the destination Mac and communicates directly with ChronoSync, giving you full root access to the destination Mac. For more info go to econtechnologies.com .
Fournova has announced Tower 1.4 (http://www.git-tower.com), an update to the company's $59 Git client for Mac OS X. It provides an interface that combines all the important features Git has to offer; the new release introduces submodule support.
Tagtraum industries has released beaTunes 3.5 (http://www.beatunes.com/), an update to the $34.95 music library management and music analysis tool for Mac OS X and Windows. BeaTunes helps enforce spelling rules, finding mis-categorized songs, duplicates, fix faulty sort names, etc. The new release features improved...
Greenpeace: Apple's not green enough
Apple has come under fire from the Greenpeace environmental group for a lack of effort to raise awareness around issues of climate change and address itsown energy use levels, despite record profits in recent months, reports "V3" (http://macte.ch/Jwuia).
Greenpeace's "Cool IT Leaderboard" report (http://macte.ch/xd37Y) assess many of the world's major technology firms for their work in raising the awareness of climate change issues, the work they do to reduce their own energy output and the services they provides for others to try and reduce their own impact.
Greenpeace said Apple wasn't even included in its report because the firm had made so little effort on these issues, notes "V3."
"It has not demonstrated leadership or elected to pursue market opportunities to drive IT energy solutions that many of its competitors have, despite record profits and large cash reserves," the organization said.
Facebook was left out for the same reasons although, as Greenpeace says, it's now changed...
U.S. Air Force reportedly planning to buy 'thousands'...
The U.S. Air Force wants to buy thousands of iPad 2s for crews that fly cargo aircraft, according to "TabTimes" (http://macte.ch/sP9kC).
The goal: to replace the paper charts and technical manuals the crews now have to carry, the article adds. The Air Force’s Air Mobility Command’s (AMC) planned purchase could be the largest single federal order for a tablet, according to the site "NextGov" (http://www.nextgov.com/nextgov/), which reported on the deal after seeing a notice at the Federal Business Opportunities website.
The notice said AMC wants to buy "a minimum of 63 and a maximum of 18,000, iPad 2, Brand Name or Equal devices” for cargo aircraft such as the C-5 Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster.
"NextGov" also says that Teri Takai, the Defense Department's chief information officer, kicked off a speech at the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association Cyberspace Symposium on Wednesday by asking, "Everyone wants an iPad, right?" She then implied "quick deployment of tablet...
Petitions on overseas working conditions to be delivered to Apple
Two online petitions asking Apple to improve conditions in overseas manufacturing plants (such as the Foxconn facilities in China) ahead of the next iPhone will be hand delivered to a number of Apple's retail stores tomorrow, reports "CNET."
Watchdog group SumOfUs (http://sumofus.org/) says that it plans to deliver its own petition, along with one from Change.org, to a number of Apple's retail stores around the world. That includes New York, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, London, Sydney, and Bangalore.
Combined, the two petitions have amassed more than 250,000 signatures, the group said. SumOfUs started an online grassroots campaign last month calling on Apple to address dangerous conditions in factories manufacturing the rumored iPhone 5.
"I use an iPhone myself. I love it, but I don’t love having to support sweatshops, and neither do millions of other Apple consumers," says Taren Stinebrickner-Kauffman, executive director of SumOfUs. "The hip, educated market that Apple aspires...
Apple to stream Paul McCartney concert
Apple is supporting Paul McCartney's new album release with a free video stream of a live concert on Thursday, Feb. 9. It will be streamed via iTunes for Macs and PCs and will also be available directly on the Apple TV; just choose iTunes Live from the Internet menu.
McCartney's new album is "Kisses on the Bottom," an "intimate exploration of the Great American Songbook." It includes two new songs and is available at the iTunes Store for US$9.99.
Apple Premium Resellers: we're hurting from lack of...
Apple's network of authorized Apple Premium Resellers across Europe say they're hurting from a lack of inventory since pple began expanding its own retail locations.
The problem was profiled this week by France's "Les Echos," as noted by "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com). It details a complaint filed last November by eBizcuss, the first authorized reseller of Apple France and the largest in the country, which saw its sales fall 22%in its third fiscal quarter of 2011.
The Apple Premium Reseller has seen its stock price plummet 50% over the last year. "Les Echos" says Apple's own retail stores have marginalized Apple Premium Resellers. eBizcuss has filed an injunction against Apple and threaten to file a complaint of unfair competition to the Competition Authority in France.
Apple's Premium Reseller page (http://www.apple.com/uk/buy/apr/) says "your local Apple Premium Reseller stocks a full range of Apple products and employs friendly, knowledgeable staff who can answer all...
Sprint sells 1.8 million iPhones in fiscal fourth quarter
In announcing its fourth quarter financial results, Sprint says it sold 1.8 million iPhones. By comparison, AT&T sold 7.6 million and Verizon moved 4.3 million.
Spring also announced an US$1.3 billion net loss and an increase in its operating revenues by the largest amount in five years to $8.72 billion. With net subscribers hitting 55 million (33 million postpaid, 14.8 million prepaid and 7.2 million from wholesale), the company added an extra 1.6 million subscribers in its first quarter, helped by strong iPhone sales.
"Our strong fourth quarter performance illustrates the power of matching iconic devices like the iPhone with our simple, unlimited plans and industry-leading customer experience," says Sprint CEO Dan Hesse. "During the past year, Sprint added more than five million net new customers and grew wireless service revenue by more than 5%, including 17% for the Sprint platform. This momentum gives us confidence as we execute our Network Vision upgrade and 4G LTE roll-out...
Apple releases EFI firmware updates
Apple has released EFI firmware updates for various Macs. You can obtain them via the Software Updates component of the Mac OS X Systems Preferences app.
MacBook Air EFI Firmware Update 2.3 enables Lion Recovery from an Internet connection on late 2011 MacBook Air models. It also addresses an issue where the system could restart if the power button is pressed immediately after waking from deep sleep.
iMac EFI Update 1.8 enables Lion Recovery from an Internet connection on mid-2010 iMac models. MacBook Pro EFI Firmware Update 2.6 enables Lion Recovery from an Internet connection on MacBook Pro (early 2010) models.
Apple wants basic principles established on patent licensing
"The Wall Street Journal" reports (http://macte.ch/uQAqi) that Apple has asked European Telecommunications Standards Institute, a telecommunications standards body, to set basic principles governing how member companies license their patents.
In a letter to the Institute, Apple said the telecommunications industry lacks consistent licensing schemes for the many patents necessary to make mobile devices, and offered suggestions for setting appropriate royalty rates that all members would follow. "The Times" notes that many mobile technology companies, such as Motorola and Samsung, hold patents that became part of industrywide standards. Apple is involved in ongoing legal battles with both companies over claims of patent infringement.
Final Cut Pro X wins Editors Choice Award
Controversial or note, Apple's Final Cut Pro X has won an Editor's Choice Award (http://macte.ch/jCQu5) from "PC Magazine," which rates it 9 out of a possible 10.
Among the comments by "PC World": "Final Cut Pro X kicked off a storm in the pro video-editing community when Apple first released it. It lacked necessary capabilities they needed for their jobs—XML export and import, multicam editing, and broadcast monitor support. The third and latest update to the software brings just about everything the pros wanted, including a big one: multicam editing. Final Cut Pro X 10.0.3 ($299.99, free 30-day trial available) also brings beta support for broadcast monitors, detailed control over chroma-keying, and an XML update that enables a third-party plugin to import projects from Final Cut Pro 7. With each feature restoration, Apple has not just brought parity with earlier support, but has rethought it, making it both more powerful and easier to use."
HoverBar connects your Mac and iPad
Twelve South (http://www.twelvesouth.com) has unveiled the HoverBar, an US$79.99 adjustable arm that "floats" an iPad 2 next to an iMac or Apple display, allowing you to use iPad as a secondary, touchscreen computer.
Having an iPad floating next to your Mac allows you to, for instance, monitor your Twitter stream, stocks and local weather -- or run FaceTime on your iPad while you email, edit a file, or cut a video on your Mac.It can also be used separately to create a compact iPad workstation or an install-free kitchen mount for iPad.
The HoverBar features a black, heavy-gauge, adjustable steel arm. Simply flex the HoverBar arm to find the best position for viewing, swiping or tapping the iPad. HoverBar has a solid metal, silicone lined clamp that can be attached to any iMac or Apple display with an L-shaped stand.
The clamp leaves no marks and is secured with an included allen wrench. Designed specifically for iPad 2, the secure, ball-mounted display clip can be rotated...
Zevrix releases Output Factory for InDesign
Zevrix Solutions has announced Output Factory 1.0, its new solution to automate output from Adobe InDesign. It's available for Mac OS X 10.5-10.7 and works with Adobe InDesign CS3-CS5.5.
Output Factory automates printing, exporting and post-processing from InDesign, and is anupgrade of the company's BatchOutput plug-in. In addition to the output of multiple files, single page export and variable file names, Output Factory offers array of new solutions, such as layer versioning, preflighting, workflow presets and processing history.
Users only need to select the files to output and adjust the settings, and Output Factory will do the rest automatically. For example, the software can be left exporting hundreds of InDesign files overnight, and the completed job can be picked up next morning.
Output Factory supports printing as well as exporting to PDF, PostScript, EPS, Flash, INX, IDML, EPUB and several image formats. In addition, it can skip files with specific errors, preflight final...
New ebook lets you 'Take Control of Screen Sharing in Lion...
TidBits has released "Take Control of Screen Sharing in Lion," an US$10, 103-page ebook by Glenn Fleishman.
It offers the latest advice on screen sharing with iChat, Back to My Mac, the Screen Sharing application in Mac OS X, and Skype, and describes the current versions of iTeleport and LogMeIn, iOS apps that let you run your Mac remotely by tapping and dragging. Although this new edition has "Lion" in the title, it is also the go-to Take Control ebook for questions about screen sharing with users of 10.5 Leopard and 10.6 Snow Leopard.
Fleishman is a technology journalist based in Seattle. He's a contributing editor at TidBits. For more information about "Take Control of Screen Sharing in Lion" -- including the table of contents, author bios, and cover graphic -- go to http://shop.oreilly.com/product/9781615423965.do .
Canon introduces three new all-in-one printers
Canon U.S.A. (http://www.usa.canon.com) has announced the addition of three Pixma Office printers to the lineup: the MX512 Wireless1 All-In-One (AIO), MX432 Wireless1 AIO and the MX372 AIO.
Available for both new wireless models is the Canon Easy-PhotoPrint mobile app, for use with compatible Apple and Android smart phones and tablets, allowing documents to be scanned on the printer and sent directly to a compatible device. Users can print PDFs of documents that were created with the app directly from compatible devices, whereas in the past only photos could be printed.
With 802.11n Wi-Fi capability, the Pixma MX512 and MX432 Wireless Office AIO Printer models are capable of a high-speed network transfer rate. Setting up a wireless network can be accomplished with the press of one button when using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS).
Canon has developed the FastFront system and an exposed user interface included on all three new printers. Located on the front of the printer, the...
Timesheets for Mac OS X gets project expense tracking
Senomix Software has released Senomix Timesheets 4.1, an update to their Mac OS X and Windows time tracking system. The new version adds project expense tracking and employee expense claim entry.
With the addition of expense tracking, Senomix Timesheets can now be used to record project costs through the same networked applications provided to track employee effort hours. The software enables both in-office and off-site employees to track effort and expenses directly from their computers.
With effort hour and expense data immediately available for in-house billing or project tracking the moment a user clicks "save" on their computer screen, Senomix Timesheets can be used on its own or as a front-end for an office's QuickBooks or database billing and payroll system. For more info go to http://www.senomix.com/ .
Analyst: Apple has 80% of mobile profits
In a note to clients -- as reported by "Barron's" (http://macte.ch/qVPgC) -- Morgan Keegan analyst Tavis McCourt, says that, after looking at data from all makers of phones who have reported for the quarter so far, "Apple simply dominated Q4:11 handset/mobile computing trends."
He adds that Apple now accounts for nearly 50% of the revenues of the entire industry and over 80% of the profits by his calculation. McCourt notes that global mobile computing revenue rose 34% with Apple’s results included, but sagged 0.4% in the fourth quarter when Apple is taken out of the picture.
Analyst: an 'iTV' could nab 5% of the HDTV market
In a note to clients -- as reported by "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com) -- Barclays Capital analyst Ben A. Reitzes says that an Apple-branded HDTV (the rumored "iTV") would bring in US$17 billion in revenue and garner 5% of the HDTV market.
Reitzes thinks the LCD market will reach about 230 million units in 2012. The forementioned $17 billion in revenue would be almost 10% of his fiscal 2013 estimate of $183.1 billion for Apple.
With assumed gross margins of around 40% on a full-fledged Apple television set, he sees the company gaining about $5.40 earnings per share, or about 11% of his fiscal 2013 earnings per share of $48.46. Reitzes thinks that an iTV could eventually become more than "just" a TV -- including gaming, video, communication, content delivery, apps, computing and all the capabilities of the current Apple TV.
Siri accounts for a quarter of Wolfram Alpha queries
Apple's Siri voice technology accounts for about one-fourth of the queries fueled by the Wolfram Alpha search engine (http://www.wolframalpha.com/), according to "The New York Times" (http://macte.ch/8Li5U).
According to Apple, Siri isn’t like traditional voice recognition software that requires you to remember keywords and speak specific commands. Siri understands your natural speech, and it asks you questions if it needs more information to complete a task.
Wolfram Alpha is an engine for computing answers and getting knowledge. It works by using Wolfram Research's store of expert-
level knowledge to compute answers to questions you ask.
The new version of Wolfram Alpha arrives tomorrow. Its formal name is Wolfram Alpha Pro, notes "The Times."
Smart Audio Tech sues Apple for patent infringement
Another day, another lawsuit. A Texas "shell company," Smart Audio Technologies, has filed a suit claiming Apple’s iPod nano and other devices violate its patent for random song playlists, reports "Mashable" (http://macte.ch/no0Ik).
"While these type of 'patent troll' lawsuits are filed everyday against Apple and other technology companies, this one is notable because Smart Technologies is represented by a new law firm founded by Joseph Farnan Jr., a former federal judge who worked in the same Delaware court where the lawsuit was filed," the article adds.
The suit comesmsix months after a jury found Apple violated the playlist patent of another Texas entity, Personal Audio, and ordered the tech giant to pay US$8 million. Apple is appealing that decision.
A U.S. District Judge said in August 2011 that the $8 million in damages Apple has to pay to patent licensing company Personal Audio for violations of a playlist patent from the iPod covers "past and future use of the technology" and...
Apple bucks declining computer trend in the UK, France
Computer shipments in Western Europe totaled 16.3 million units in the fourth quarter of 2011, a 16% decline from the equivalent period in 2010, according to Gartner (http://www.gartner.com). Apple was one of the few companies that, overall, bucked the trend.
For the year, computer shipments numbered 58.5 million units in Western Europe in 2011, also a 165 decrease from 2010. The computer market in Western Europe has suffered four consecutive quarters of shipment decline.
"Despite aggressive pricing and special holiday deals for PCs, consumers' attention was caught by other devices, such as smartphones, media tablets and e-readers," says Meike Escherich, principal analyst at Gartner. "Even though we saw a drop in prices, consumer coomputer shipments could not match the levels of previous years."
In the fourth quarter of 2011, the computer markets of Italy, Greece, Portugal and Spain were particularly hard hit, with year-on-year computer demand declining 30% and more. The mobile...
Apple to open 'stores-within-stores' in Sam's...
Apple and Walmart subsidiary Sam’s Club are in early discussions to widen their already existing partnership, according to "9to5 Mac" (http://www.9to5mac.com).
Sam’s Club currently sells Apple’s iPhone, iPad, and iPod lines within its large retail chain. However, the compamy and Apple are looking to expand the relationship, the article adds. Apple is considering an expansion of its Apple Store-in-store program to the 47 United States retail warehouse chain locations, says "9to5 Mac."
Apparently, Sam's Club might carry Macs as well as iOS devices. Apple already has "in-store stores" in over 600 Best Buy locations, and is rumored to be planning the same with the Target chain.
MemoTrainer in new memory training app for Mac OS X
BSoft has introduced MemoTrainer 1.0, its new memory training and development program for Mac OS X (10.5 and higher). It's available for US$0.99 through the Mac App Store in the Games category.
With MemoTrainer players push buttons in the determined order and to try to do it in the shortest possible time. The program determines the time for exercise completion and the number of possible mistakes. Brainiacs can advance into "Professional" mode to increase their memory capacity even more.
MemoTrainer program is developed specifically for memory training and development. Memory development consists in repetition of especially developed exercise during the minimum possible time with the floor amount of mistakes. It's necessary to push randomly arranged blue and red buttons for the exercise to be done.
Moore College of Art & Design announces iPad initiative
Moore College of Art & Design has announced initiative for new BFA students entering in the fall of 2012. Each new student will be given an iPad 2. Pre-populated apps selected to support the visual art and design education at Moore will come loaded and ready for students to use in their classes.
"Faculty at Moore are committed to educating students for contemporary careers in art and design," says Academic Dean Dona Lantz. "The iPad 2 will be a pivotal learning tool in the new Foundation curriculum where the integration of digital media and tools will be taught and used in tandem with traditional drawing and design media."
"We are proud to be the first art and design college to partner with Apple to provide iPad devices to all new BFA students," says Moore President Happy Craven Fernandez. "This is an exciting opportunity to increase interactivity within the classroom and Moore community."
For more information visit http://www.moore.edu .
24U Software releases FM Bench
24U Software has released 24U FM Bench (http://fmbench.com/) for FileMaker Pro 11, a solution for optimizing FileMaker solutions. It's designed to help developers with the whole optimization process -- from benchmarking through analyzing, identifying bottleneck, optimizing, and reporting results.
24U FM Bench can be also used to monitor, analyze, and optimize business processes, as long as these processes can begin and end with performing some action in a FileMaker driven IS. It's developed around the idea of the "Marvelous Optimization Formula" and utilizes the methodology of finding bottlenecks, commonly used in the manufacturing industry to optimize the manufacturing processes for shortest possible lead times and highest possible throughput of production lines.
A license for one FileMaker Server and unlimited number of users is currently being offered to early adopters at a discounted price of US$997 with extra bonuses worth of over $2,000 and a 30 days money-back guarantee. 24U...
Intel announces Solid-State Drive 520 series
Intel has announced what it says is its fastest, most robust client/consumer solid-state drive (SSD) to date: the Intel Solid-State Drive 520 Series, a 6 gigabit-per-second (gbps) SATA III SSD produced using Intel 25-nanometer (nm) NAND memory process technology.
"We tapped Intel engineering to create a client SSD that delivers performance on all fronts with obsessively high reliability," says Rob Crooke, Intel vice president and general manager of the Intel Non-Volatile Memory Solutions Group. "The Intel SSD 520 once again raises the industry bar on SSD performance, quality and reliability to dramatically improve user experience."
Unlike a traditional hard disk drive (HDD) with spinning disks and moveable parts, an SSD is based on silicon, NAND flash memory specifically, to create a lower power, more reliable and drastically faster storage solution that can keep up with today’s most demanding applications, Internet streaming and intense multi-tasking, he says. Based on its own...
iStomp is new programmable effects pedal for iOS devices
Harman's DigiTech (http://www.harman.com) has introduced the US$229.95 iStomp pedal, a new concept in guitar stompboxes that allows musicians to program the effect pedal with any sound they want and change it at any time. It connects to an iPod touch, iPhone or iPad.
The iStomp pedal connects to an iOS device using the DigiTech Smart Cable that comes with the iStomp. Once connected, the DigiTech StompShop provides two of the most popular requested effects, the DigiTech Total Recall Delay and the DigiTech Redline Overdrive with the initial purchase.
The app also offers access to additional effects that iStomp owners can browse, try out, and purchase for their stompbox. The iStomp pedal has four knobs to control effects parameters, which change their function according to which effect is loaded.
The iStomp pedal comes with an iOS authorization cable, power supply and the two initial downloads. Additional downloads are available starting at $4.99 each.
You can put a 'cellhelmet' on your iPhone
The "cellhelmet" project was just released on Kickstarter.com. It's described as "the first and only case to guarantee the iPhone 4/4S inside."
If your iPhone should ever break inside of a cellhelmet, the company behind it says it will repair or replace it. The cellhelmet retails for US$44.99.
It includes unlimited repairs. You can purportedly file as many damage claims as needed -- within your one year of coverage. For more info go to http://macte.ch/sHUwC .
The clear cellhelmet shell is constructed of a tough polyurethane. According to the folks at Kickstarter.com, it won't stretch or lose its shape, yet it will hold up to repeated drops and falls.
TypeStyler 11 available at the Mac App Store
TypeStyler 11 for Mac OS X (http://www.typestyler.com/) is now available from the Mac App Store at a special introductory price of US$59.99. This is the lowest price ever for any version of the software.
TypeStyler 11 offers Grunge Effects that allow you to make aged, distressed, weathered and downright filthy-looking vintage graphics. You can choose styles with scratches, holes and beat up, worn out, weathered effects. You can also modify, create and save your own Grunge Styles.
TypeStyler 11 lets you share TypeStyler graphics by posting directly to Facebook and Twitter. You can also quickly attach them to an email or or add them to your iPhoto library. What's more, version 11 lets you adjust the position of pictures within both text and graphic shapes.
New book lets you 'Take Control of iTunes 10'
TidBits Publishing has released "Take Control of iTunes 10: The FAQ, 2nd Edition." The US$15, 173-page ebook by Kirk McElhearn uses a Q&A approach to help readers appreciate and understand the process of adding media to iTunes, tagging it, adding album art, and organizing it into playlists.
With that setup completed, readers can enjoy their music, movies, audiobooks, and ebooks without hassles when it's time to find a particular item or do something special like sync a select subset of music to an iPod, create a party playlist, identify overlooked music, or listen to the chapters in an audiobook in order. McElhearn also explains how to use Apple's iTunes in the Cloud features, including the iTunes Match service.
McElhearn is a freelance writer, journalist, and translator. He has written and co-written a dozen books on the Macintosh, covering both software and hardware. or more info about ""Take Control of iTunes 10: The FAQ, 2nd Edition" -- including the table of contents, author...
Devium Dash drives onto the screen for iPhones, Android devices
Devium, a new car audio company, has introduced the Devium Dash.
Designed to fully integrate smartphones and utilize them as the interface for car audio needs, it sports a "minimalist yet elegant design that will complement the interior of any vehicle and satisfy any audiophile’s needs," says creator and Devium owner Paul Lizer. He says it doesn’t require that you learn a new interface to use your stereo.
The Dash’s interchangeable faceplate design allows you to keep your phone at the center of your car. It will feature Bluetooth for hands-free calling and will allow users to designate their top five app icons to appear in landscape mode for easy viewing while on the go.
The Dash will also feature an FM tuner that will automatically switch over to radio stations’ streaming audio over the Internet when a loss of signal occurs. Lizer expects the first shipments of the Dash will start in July and is currently utilizing the KickStarter web-based capital-raising service to round out...
TopXNotes for Mac OS X adds NoteSync process
Tropical Software's TopXNotes (http://www.tropic4.com/) note manager for the Mac has been updated to version 1.7.2. The upgrade offers performance enhancements, bug fixes, and a NoteSync process.
TopXNotes will now keep your notes synchronized between TopXNotes for Mac and TopXNotes Touch for the iPhone and iPod touch. Version 1.7.2 includes a new Preference for setting vertical and horizontal text margins and a new Preference to choose manual or automatic note delete.
TopXNotes 1.7.2 requires Mac OS X 10.6.6 or later. It costs US$39.99 and is available worldwide exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Productivity category and at the Tropical Software (http://www.tropic4.com).
DashExpander for Mac OS X adds Snippet Detection
Kapeli (http://kapeli.com/dashexpander/) has released DashExpander 1.3.0, an update of its free Mac app. It requires Mac OS X 10.7 ("Lion") and is available at the Mac App Store.
Version 1.3.0 adds Snippet Detection. DashExpander will now suggest new snippets that you should use, based on what you copy and paste.
DashExpander saves you from typing long strings of text by defining abbreviations that are later expanded whenever you type them. You can collect text snippets that you often reuse.
Chronosync for Mac OS X updated to version 4.3.0
Econ Technologies (http://www.econtechnologies.com) has updated ChronoSync to version 4.3.0.
Each sync target can now be given a custom name; these are displayed throughout the rest of the user interface. What's more, a specific target folder/volume can now be changed without losing all the state information recorded by previous synchronizations.
ChronoSync is an automated synchronization and backup application for Mac OS X. It runs natively on both Power PC and Intel-based Macs running Mac OS X 10.5 and higher. Demos are available for download. For new users ChronoSync costs US$40. As always, all existing ChronoSync users can update for free.
Clarify for Mac OS X adds Postbox AppleScripts, more
Blue Mango Learning Systems has released Clarify 1.0.3, an update of the image-based communications tool for Mac OS X and Windows systems. When exporting to Clarify-it.com there's now a button that copies the HTML for the document on Clarify-it.com the clipboard.
Clairfy 1.0.3 for OS X adds Sparrow and Postbox AppleScripts for emailing PDF documents (OS X). Also, a step contextual menu offering an option for creating a new document.
Blue Mango CEO Greg DeVore says Clarify helps people create clearer communications through the combined use of multiple screenshots and text. Users capture screenshots turn them into documents, add text and image annotations and then share their documents as a PDF, as an email, via Dropbox or through Blue Mango's free Clarify-it service.
Clarify is now available for Mac or Windows for US$29.99. A cross-platform license can be purchased for $39.99. Licenses can be purchased through the Blue Mango Online Store (http://www.bluemangolearning.com/clarify/) or...
Mail Archiver X for Mac OS X gets maintenance upgrade
Moth Software has announced Mail Archiver X 2.7.2.3.379 for Mac OS X, an update to their app designed as a companion to the user's email application, allowing consolidation, archiving, cleaning, formatting, and permanent storage of emails. It's a maintenance upgrade.
With Mail Archiver, emails may be saved in its native, Filemaker, or PDF database format. Archiving emails from a variety of email applications into a single database, the app is designed to prevent accidental deletions, facilitates quick searches, and eliminates storage size limits.
Following the archiving process, users may browse or search from the Mail Archiver X Browser. In the far left column is a list of all their mailboxes, plus their Inbox and Sent Messages. The center of the window contains a list of all archived emails, with column headings including: From, To, Subject, Date, and Mailbox. Finally, the right window displays the full, scrollable contents of any archived email selected from the list. Tabs permit...
Apple's A5 processor includes noise-reduction circuitry
Apple's A5 processor includes noise-reduction circuitry licensed from a start-up called Audience, and a chip analyst believes that's why the iPhone 4 lacks the Siri voice-control system, reports "CNET."
According to Apple, Siri -- which is currently in beta testing -- isn’t like traditional voice recognition software that requires you to remember keywords and speak specific commands. Siri understands your natural speech, and it asks you questions if it needs more information to complete a task.
Audience revealed details of its Apple partnership in January, when it filed paperwork (http://macte.ch/cPmUg) for an initial public offering (IPO) of stock. Teardowns by iFixit (http://macte.ch/YVM5c) and Chipworks (http://macte.ch/QcASH) revealed a dedicated Audience chip in the iPhone 4. However, the iPhone 4S integrates Audience's "EarSmart" technology directly into the A5 processor, the company's S-1 filing said.
Linley Group analyst Linley Gwennap says this explains why the A5 chip that...
Apple wants the driPhone to become the dryPhone
In New Zealand Apple is fighting a trademark application for a smartphone case dubbed the "driPhone" (http://www.driphone.co.nz/), reports the "Sydney Morning Herald" (http://macte.ch/3gwQN).
Hayden Crowther, of Hamilton, New Zealand created the driPhone as a waterproof case for smartphones of all varieties but Apple is opposing his plans to trademark it in New Zealand and has now asked him to switch the "i" in driPhone for a "y," the article adds.
Apple told Crowther, through Wellington-based patent and trademark attorney firm Henry Hughes that it was opposing his driPhone trademark in New Zealand. However, the inventor thinks there's "little weight" to Apple's opposition and, so far, has refused to rebrand it.
Analyst: iPad 3 will leave competitors in the dust
In a note to investors -- as reported by "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com) -- Deutsche Bank analyst Chris Whitmore says he's expecting the third generation iPad next month that will sport a high-resolution display, a quad-core CPU, graphics performance four to five times faster than the iPad 2, and Siri voice control.
More juice in the iPad 3 will leave competitors further behind and drive Apple market share gains, he adds. Estimates from Deutsche Bank, combined with data from IDC, suggest that Apple currently has a 25% share of the combined notebook and tablet market.
Whitmore said none of the iPad competitors introduced in the last 12 months have come close to the iPad. He tells clients that most of the products have been "me-too" offerings with too little differentiation from each other.
Best Buy survey mentions and Apple HDTV
"The Verge" (http://macte.ch/HQ4Dk) reports that Best Buy appears to be sending surveys to customers getting feedback on potential new products and services, including the rumored Apple-branded HDTV (the "iTV").
The article says that the the product willcrun iOS, support iCloud, be controllable from an iPhone or iPad, and have access to Netflix, YouTube, and Flickr. Also, it will purportedly offer an "iSight camera" (though Apple's been calling it a FaceTime camera lately). There's no mention of Siri voice support.
"The Verge" says the Best Buy describes the iTV as a 42-inch model that would cost about US$1,499. Keep in mind that Apple has made no mention of a company branded TV of any sort.
Apple reportedly sued for selling the iPad in mainland China
Another day, another lawsuit. Apple is being sued by Proview Shenzhen Techonology for selling the iPad in mainland China, reports "iSmashPhone.com."
They may face an US$38 million fine, the article adds. Apple is awaiting hearing by the Pudong district court in Shanghai later this month. You can read more at http://ismashphone.com/2012/02/apple-sued-may-face-fine-for-selling-ipad... .
Apple climbs back into smartphone market leadership position
The worldwide smartphone market grew 54.7% year over year in the fourth quarter of 2011 (4Q11), as Apple unleashed its iPhone 4S on an eager marketplace, according to new data from IDC (http://www.idc.om).
Apple climbed back into the market leadership position with the launch of its iPhone 4S worldwide. In the process it reached a new shipment volume record for itself and for the entire industry for a single quarter.
According to the "International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Mobile Phone Tracker," vendors shipped 157.8 million units in 4Q11 compared to 102.0 million units in the fourth quarter of 2010. The 54.7% year-over-year growth was higher than IDC's forecast of 40.0% for the quarter, and higher than the 49.2% growth in 3Q11.
On a full-year basis, total smartphone shipment volumes reached 491.4 million units in 2011, up a strong 61.3% from the 304.7 million units in 2010. This was higher than IDC's full year estimate of 54.7% for the year, but still below 2010's year-over-...
Motorola wants 2.25% of Apple sales in patent dispute
Motorola wants 2.25% of Apple's sales in return for license to standard-essential wireless patents, according to a report at "FOSS Patents" (http://macte.ch/bCw0J).
"I assume this relates to Apple's sales and to all of MMI's standard-essential patents, though the context is only one patent (the one over which Motorola has already forced Apple, temporarily, to remove certain products from its German online store," Florian Mueller writes for "FOSS Patents." "Assuming in Motorola's favor that this was a license to all standard-essential wireless patents, the amount still appears excessive to me given how many companies hold patents on such standards and what royalty rate this would lead to in the aggregate."
Last month the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that Motorola's Droid smartphones don't violate three Apple patents. The ruling is preliminary and needs to be approved by the ITC's full six-member commission.
Apple has previously alleged that Motorola infringes 24 of...
Google lures away an Apple senior director
Google has hired Simon Prakash, a senior director at Apple, for a "secret project," according to "VentureBeat" (http://macte.ch/L2A4h). The project is "presumably run by Google co-founder Sergey Brin, the article adds.
Prakash worked at Apple for more than eight years and was most recently the senior director of product integrity at Apple. Before Apple, he was director of engineering design validation at Cielo Communications. He was also a reliability and FA manager at 3Com. (The photo is courtesy of "VentureBeat.")
Valentine's update available for Graphic Node's Pages...
Graphic Node has updated its Pages Templates collection for Apple's word processing/document creation application. In addition to 712 layouts from the previous version, the updated variety contains 71 new templates.
These include 50 templates for Valentine's day cards. The upgraded package maintains the selection of template types introduced in the earlier versions, such as greeting cards, letters, posters and even playing cards.
Pages Templates requires Mac OS X 10.5 or higher and iWork '08 or later. It costs US$24.99 and is available at the Graphic Node web site (http://graphicnode.com/).
OtterBox cases benefit Avon Breast Cancer Crusade for Valentine’...
Show your smartphone some love for Valentine’s Day and think pink. Otterbox wants you to trade the traditional chocolate and roses for something that will outlast the holiday. The company is offering protective Commuter Series Strength cases that benefit the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade.
"OtterBox's sponsorship of the Crusade and Avon Walk for the past two years has enabled us to support organizations nationwide that are making great strides in breast cancer research and care," says Carol Kurzig, president of the Avon Foundation for Women. "There is still much more work to do to end breast cancer, which is why we are so appreciative of supporters like OtterBox that are helping us work towards creating a world without breast cancer. We are proud to once again have OtterBox as an official Avon Walk for Breast Cancer sponsor during the Avon Walk’s 10th birthday season and the 20th anniversary of the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade."
In the fourth quarter alone, OtterBox donated more than US$317...
Apple updates iBooks Author, iBooks
Apple has released iBooks Author 1.0.1 and iBooks 2.01.
iBooks Author 1.0.1 is an update of Apple's free tool for creating interactive ebooks. The new version “provides an updated version of the End User License Agreement.” iBooks Author is a free download at the Mac App Store.
iBooks 2.0.1 for the iPhone and iPad addresses a problem where some iBooks textbooks fail to open. The update is available at the Apple App Store.
Apple releases Security Update 2012-001 v1.1
Apple has released Security Update 2012-001 version 1.1 for Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard") users. It's available via the Software Updates component of the Mac OS X Systems Preferences app.
According to Apple, Security Update 2012-001 version 1.1 is “recommended for all users and improves the security of Mac OS X." It's a 1.3GB download.
CoverSutra for Mac OS X gets better resource management
Sophiestication Software's CoverSutra (http://www.sophiestication.com/coversutra/), an iTunes extender for Mac OS X has been updated to version 3.3. The new version offers better resource management.
CoverSutra lets you control iTunes without having to leave the currently active application. The software does this through the use of global keyboard shortcuts, information bezels and a transparent floating window. In addition, CoverSutra has integrated support for Last.fm, a social music recommendation service.
CoverSutra 3.3 requires Mac OS X 10.6.6 or later and iTunes 9 or higher. It can be purchased for US$4.99 at the Mac App Store.
ExactScan Pro update for Mac OS X improves color operations
ExactCode has updated its ExactScan Pro (http://www.exactcode.de/site/products/exactscan/) scanning software for Mac OS X (10.4 and higher) to version 2.19. The upgrade offers improved performance of certain color operations.
ExactScan includes built-in drivers for over 230 document scanners, including devices from Avision, Kodak, Oki, Visioneer and Xerox. Together with the Spotlight indexing services built into Mac OS X since 10.5 ("Leopard") this features form a document management solution suitable for small-office and home-office (SOHO) environments. What's more it has image enhancement algorithms that can recognize automatically how the images and documents have to be cropped and de-skewed.
ExactScan comes with support for many languages (English, Dutch, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, Simplified-Chinese, Traditional-Chinese) and works with Mac OS X 10.4 and higher.
ExactScan is available for approximately US$126 and ExactScan Pro for $154 online, the Mac App...
FX Photo Studio for Mac gets speed boost, more
MacPhun has updated FX Photo Studio for Mac (http://www.fxphotostudioapp.com), the "supercharged" version of the FX Photo Studio mobile franchise. The upgrade brings integration with Photoshop, Lightroom and Aperture plus performance improvements. The app now purportedly runs faster and the image processing is of a better quality.
With access to over 150 photography effects with FX Photo Studio, users can blend filters while mastering styles of photography art such as lomography, analog effects, vignettes, tilt-shift, sketches, textures and many more. The software is available in standard and pro editions.
They support image resolution up to 16 and 32 mega-pixels respectively. And both sport photo editing tools including sharpening, shadowing and color adjusters.
FX Photo Studio for Mac requires Mac OS X 10.6 or later and is available at the Mac App Store in the Photography category. FX Photo Studio Standard is US$14.99, and FX Photo Studio Pro is $39.99. The new version is a free...
Dialectic for Mac gets improved Safari integration, more
JNSoftware has updated Dialectic (http://www.jonn8.com/dialectic/), a telephony tool for the Mac, to version 1.8.4. The upgrade offers improved Safari integration, Firefox 9 and 10 compatibility, Asterisk AJAM support and more.
Dialetic provides system-wide dialing of phone numbers using Bluetooth mobile phones, landlines, many VoIP services and more. It integrates with contact management applications such as Marketcircle Daylite, Microsoft Entourage, Now Contact, Palm Desktop, FileMaker Pro and other databases, as well as Apple's iCal and Address Book.
In addition to dialing, the software provides a global Address Book menu for accessing your contact data including email, instant messaging, postal addresses, URLs, notes, and phone numbers. You can create new email messages, look up addresses on a map, copy data to the clipboard or insert it into your current document.
Dialetic works with Mac OS X 10.4.9 and higher. It costs US$25.
SubRosaSoft.com updates data recovery products
SubRosaSoft.com has released version 7.5 for the entire Salvage line. FileSalvage, CameraSalvage, and PodSalvage have all been upgraded.
Improved search and recover functions increase the chances of recovering lost files, according to Marko Kostyrko, CEO of SubRosaSoft.com. The new versions also sport updates for the latest operating system and foreign languages,
SubRosaSoft Salvage software requires Mac OS X 10.5 or above. For more information on the Salvage range of products, go to http://www.SubRosaSoft.com/ .
MUG Event Calendar': back-ups, hard drive failure, more
As so many recover from Macworld/iWorld 2012, "The MUG Event Calendar" heads into the week with lots of interesting material.
Nik Software’s Kevin La Rue will present their plug-ins and iOS app to a California group, while backing up will be the agenda in Australia, drive failure warning signs will be discussed in Ireland, and favorite apps and tips is scheduled to be presented in Alaska. Other topics set for this week include rumors, iTunes, the art of communication, learning with iPads and much more. And, of course, everyone will be talking about what was shown at Macworld/iWorld 2012.
"The MUG Event Calendar" can be found at The MUG Center (http://www.mugcenter.com), an online resource for Mac User Groups. MUGs are good places for making new friends in the Mac community, improving your computing skills, finding solutions to technical problems, and perhaps locating a good deal on used hardware. For more info on MUGs, and to find the location of the one nearest you, go to Apple's MUG...
NoteCard for Mac OS X updated to version 1.0.1
NoteCard (http://www.notecardosx.com/), a visual note-taking app for Mac OS X, has been updated to version 1.0.2. It's a maintenance release. The US$7.99 app was inspired by the OS X Stickies app.
NoteCard lets you: make tabbed cards, stack cards in groups, add pages to cards, store cards in sheets for quick access and a full screen editing environment called Reader. A demo is available for download.
Apple 'un-pull's iOS devices in Germany in never-...
Apple, which has spent the past day pulling older models of the iPhone and iPad inventory from the shelves of its online store in Germany, is now restoring them.
Apple has pulled several iPad and iPhone models from its German online store after Motorola Mobility enforced a patent injunction against its rival, reports the "BBC" (http://macte.ch/7GmXq). Now in a statement given to "AllThingsD" (http://macte.ch/TVRgM), Apple confirmed that the iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4 and 3G/UMTS-based iPads should be returning to the shelves of its German online store in a matter of hours.
"All iPad and iPhone models will be back on sale through Apple’s online store in Germany shortly," an Apple spokeswoman told AllThingsD. "Apple appealed this ruling because Motorola repeatedly refuses to license this patent to Apple on reasonable terms, despite having declared it an industry standard patent seven years ago."
Forensics firm cracks Apple's FileVault
Apple's FileVault disk encryption can be circumvented in less than an hour, according to a computer forensics firm, reports "The Register" (http://macte.ch/pGMcM). Technology from Passware can purportedly capture the content of a Mac machine's memory, via Firewire interfaces, before extracting encryption keys.
Passware claims the latest version of its toolkit (Passware Kit Forensic 11.3) can recover hashed passwords with rainbow tables and extracting passwords from encrypted Mac keychain files as well as building a password list for its dictionary attack (based on the words detected in a computer memory). It can also reportedly unlock volumes encrypted using TrueCrypt, a disk encryption software that ranks alongside PGP as the choice of privacy-conscious computer users, human rights activists and others, according to "The Register."
Mac OS X 10.7.x ("Lion") includes a new version (2) of FileVault, which allows you to encrypt the information in your home folder. The app creates a...
Apple pulls iOS devices in Germany in ongoing legal dispute
Apple has pulled several iPad and iPhone models from its German online store after Motorola Mobility enforced a patent injunction against its rival, reports the "BBC" (http://macte.ch/7GmXq).
The move follows a December ruling that Apple had failed to license one of Motorola's wireless intellectual properties. iPhone users in Germany may also face the loss of their push email iCloud service after a separate patent victory by Motorola, notes the "BBC." Apple has said it will appeal.
This is part of an ongoing battle. Earlier this month the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that Motorola's Droid smartphones don't violate three Apple patents. The ruling is preliminary and needs to be approved by the ITC's full six-member commission.
Apple has previously alleged that Motorola infringes 24 of its patents (21 of them with Android-based phones, the remaining three with set-top boxes and DVRs), while Motorola previously asserted 18 patents against a variety of Apple products (...
Australia: Apple widens its legal claims against Samsung
Apple has widened its claims against Samsung in its ongoing patent battle with the company it was revealed in the NSW Federal Court in Australia, reports "The Australian IT" (http://macte.ch/0XsKN).
Samsung lead barrister Neil Young SC said Apple had "enormously" expanded its patent bid which initially involved three patents of features in the Korean company's Galaxy Tab 10.1, the article adds. The lawsuit now encompasses 278 claims across 22 patents that cover 10 Samsung devices.
Avid releases video editing app for the iPad
Avid has released its first video editing application for the iPad -- Avid Studio, available immediately at the Apple App Store. The company says it's the first iPad app for video editing to offer frame-by-frame editing accuracy and access to all kinds of media.
As a special launch promotion, Avid Studio for iPad is being offered for US$4.99.
It allows users to begin editing by offering access to any videos, photos and audio already in their iPad library, or media that can be imported from iTunes, cameras and more. Users can then arrange clips in the Storyboard, make edits using the Timeline, and enhance their movie creations with transitions, effects and a soundtrack.
They can then share movies directly to YouTube, Facebook and more -- or export projects to Avid Studio software, where they can continue editing with even more advanced tools on their PC. A how-to guide is included with the app. For more info go to http://www.avid.com/avidstudioapp .
iBooks Author templates available at the Mac App Store
Jumsoft has introduced Book Pallete 1.0, a themes application developed specifically for iBooks Author on the Mac. It requires Mac OS X 10.7.2 or later, costs US$2.99 and is available worldwide exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Graphics & Design category.
Book Palette app contains 10 templates that bring plenty of options to Mac users who wish to publish their own e-books. All templates contain the full range of standard section and page layouts provided in the iBooks Author app, including covers, chapter pages, text pages, tables of contents, glossary pages, and more.
The first version of Book Palette provides templates for various e-book styles -- from slick business publications to a traditional cookbook. Most elements in Book Palette can be recolored, moved, or removed. Users can type or paste in their own text, add and remove text boxes, and change the fonts.
Stock images can be replaced with users' own photos or pictures. Gallery, video, and other widgets...
RAGE: Campaign Edition comes to the Mac
Bethesda Softworks, in partnership with Aspyr Media, says RAGE: Campaign Edition is now available for the Mac worldwide.
This new shooter from id Software has been published for the Mac by Aspyr.. The game can be digitally downloaded in English, French or German now via Apple's Mac App Store, Aspyr's own digital store GameAgent.com, and through other supporting Mac digital retailers.
Here's how the game is described: "In RAGE: Campaign Edition you will take on bandit gangs and hordes of mutants with an arsenal of exotic weapons and special items, such as Wingsticks, personal turrets, sentry bots, and remote-controlled bomb cars as you play through the game’s full unaltered single-player campaign.
"The Mac version will also include bonus equipment formerly exclusive to the RAGE Anarchy Edition, including a Double Barrel Shotgun, the Rat Rod Buggy, Fists of RAGE and Crimson Elite Armor. You’ll also have access to the Wasteland Sewers Missions which feature additional mutant blasting...
Tunewear releases Security Locker for the iPad 2
Tunewear has released the US$99.95 Security Locker for iPad 2. The iPad 2 can be worn around the neck for in-store, or for back-office applications.
The Security Locker can be secured to desk or table to prevent the iPad 2 from disappearing when used for in-store demos, trade show booth presentations and even school exhibits. The clear polycarbonate hard case is designed with a security lock and wire features. It's built to both prevent theft of iPad 2 and protect it from dirt and scratches.
Tunewear also provides custom logo printing. The Security Locker is now available on Amazon or the Tunewear eStore (http://www.tunewearllc.com/servlet/the-100/tablet-iPad-security%2C-anti-...).
Jewel Quest The Sapphire Dragon released for the Mac
Macgamestore (http://www.macgamestore.com) has released Jewel Quest: The Sapphire Dragon Collector's Edition, the sixth game in the Jewel Quest series by iWin. It costs US$13.99 and requires Mac OS X 10.5 or higher.
Here's how the game is described; "Jewel Quest: The Sapphire Dragon Collector's Edition leads you through 200 brand new jewel boards as you unearth ancient wonders and discover the secret behind the elusive Sapphire Dragon. While piloting his Cessna in a Himalayan snowstorm, Raj crash-lands on a frozen mountain, thus kicking off the adventure.
"While piloting his Cessna in a Himalayan snowstorm, Raj crash-lands on a frozen mountain, thus kicking off the adventure in Jewel Quest 6: The Sapphire Dragon. Raj's crash has led him to a chance discovery of the Temple of Wishes, an ancient complex thought to be only legend! Raj assembles a team to explore the temple, but plans change suddenly when the team encounters a gang of ruthless pirates!
"Raj's hotshot team of...
Umotion 2D is new Mac compatible, 2D animation tool
NuOxygen Game Publishing has released Umotion 2D (http://macte.ch/ZFHth), a new 2D animation tool for Macintosh and Windows systems. A demo version is available.
Using this tool you can create 2D animations and export them directly into Unity, Umotion 2D comes with tutorial videos and a short user guide.
You only need to work with the separate elements from your texture Atlas and not the whole animation sequence. Furthermore, you can use Umotion to resize complex 2D games with bigger 2D animations with Unity for iPhone and iPad. The final result is similar to what you get when creating animations with a 3D software like Maya or 3DMax, only you are working into a 2D environment.
Tech Transitions released exclusively for FCP X
Noise Industries has added Idustrial Revolution's XEffects Tech Transitions to its repertoire of products for FxFactory 3. The new visual effects package, made exclusively for Final Cut Pro X, lets editors add transitions to projects without layers, key framing, or complex mattes.
Tech Transitions offers 28 transition effects, all with adjustable settings. Effects can be slipped, lengthened, shortened and cut and pasted like any other transition.
Almost all transitions include freeze versions, which holds the last frame of the outgoing media and the first frame of the incoming media, performing the transition between the two stills. Effects harness the power of GPU processing within FCP X for fast previews and renderings.
Offered at US$49, users can download a free trial version of XEffects Tech Transitions (http://www.idustrialrevolution.com/x1-tech-transitions).
PDF Nomad for Lion adds watermarks feature
SintraWorks has updated PDF Nomad, a PDF editor for Mac OS X 10.7 ("Lion"), to version 1.2. The upgrade adds features such as watermarks and "exploding" into chapters.
PDF Nomad is available as a single-user license for the introductory price of US$19.99 from both the Mac App Store and from the SintraWorks website (http://macte.ch/uiF4v). A demo is available from the latter.
PDF Nomad's features include simple text search and extraction, file merging, page splitting, form creation, markup and annotation, booklet/magazine creation and more. You can create and fill out PDF forms, mark-up text and annotate pages with rectangles, ovals, arrows, lines and more.
With PDF Nomad, you can resize whole documents to a different page size with a single command, or resize individual pages with drag and drop, shifting page contents as needed. You can export individual pages as bitmaps (jpg, png etc.) or create spoken audio files from the document's text.
CameraBag 2 released for the Mac, PC
Nevercenter has released CameraBag 2 for Mac and PC. It's an update of the desktop photo app.
Redesigned from the ground up, CameraBag 2's new Analog Engine pairs a full suite of photographic tools with the filters and vintage simulations of previous versions. According to Nevercenter President Tom Plewe, the key innovation in version 2 is a straightforward approach to layering, rearranging, and tweaking all of these effects in realtime. CameraBag 2 ships with 100-plus, adjustable filters and 25-plus professional controls
With CameraBag 2, you don’t have to know what look you want to get started, Plewe says. It lets you see all the possibilities at once: old-school instant film or modern high-contrast portrait, subtle color adjustment or complete artistic overhaul. You can choose from side-by-side comparisons with the fullscreen Quicklooks, or get large, instant previews on mouseover.
Once you’ve chosen a filter, its components are all in the tray to tweak and adjust non-...
Avadon: The Black Fortress updated to version 1.0.4
Spiderweb Software has updated Avadon: The Black Fortress (http://www.spiderwebsoftware.com/avadon/index.html), an indie fantasy role-playing game for Mac OS X, to version 1.0.4. The upgrade fixes bugs and typos and improves performance with the Magic Trackpad.
Avadon: The Black Fortress requires Mac OS X10.5 or later and costs US$19.99, though version 1.0.4 is a free upgrade for registered users. You can download the game from the Mac App Store or the Spiderweb Software website.
Here's how the game is described: "Avadon is in epic adventure in a strange and dangerous world. You are a spy and warrior who must fight the enemies of your homeland. As a servant of the Black Fortress, your word is law. Gain power and influence, experience an exciting adventure, and battle a conspiracy to destroy your people.
"You are an agent of Avadon. The Black Fortress. Outside your lands, there are limitless threats. Barbarians. Fading, jealous empires. Titans and unspeakable horrors. The warriors and...
AAS updates ready for Lion
Applied Acoustic Systems has released updates for all of their instruments (except Chromaphone) that bring full compatibility with Mac OS X 10.7.x ("Lion").
The updates include Tassman 4 v4.1.7, Lounge Lizard EP-3 v3.1.5, Ultra Analog VA-1 v1.1.5, Strin Studio VS-1 v1.1.4, Lounge Lizard Session v3.1.5 and Ultra Analog Session v1.1.5. For more info go to www.applied-acoustics.com .
My Living Desktop for OS X revved to version 5.0.2
Amuse has released My Living Desktop 5.0.2 (http://www.mylivingdesktop.com/) for Mac OS X, a new version of their video desktop and screen saver utility. More applications are now automatically added to the Auto Deactivation feature.
My Living Desktop is a cross between a video desktop (moving wallpaper) and screen saver. With its built-in video importer, users can import their own movie scenes for use as video desktops. Anyone can have family movies, movies of friends and special events, vacation movies and more as their desktop -- or as a screen saver.
My Living Desktop boasts a variety of high-definition movie videos shot from all around the globe, accompanied by nature sound effects. Upon purchase, download access to additional hi-def movie videos are available from within the software itself.
The application also sports Automatic Serenity Breaks. This feature allows the user to have My Living Desktop automatically remind them to take a break. Simply specify the interval or time(s...
Apple has 12.4% of mobile subscribers, 29.6% of smartphone market
comScore (http://www.comscore.com), which "measures the digital world," released data from the comScore MobiLens service, reporting key trends in the U.S. mobile phone industry during the three month average period ending December 2011.
The study surveyed more than 30,000 U.S. mobile subscribers and found Samsung to be the top handset manufacturer overall with 25.3% market share. Google Android strengthened its lead in the smartphone market to reach 47.3 percent market share.
For the three-month average period ending in December, 234 million Americans age 13 and older used mobile devices. Device manufacturer Samsung ranked as the top OEM [original equipment manufacturer] with 25.3% of U.S. mobile subscribers, followed by LG with 20 % share and Motorola with 13.3% share. Apple continued to gain ground in the OEM market with 12.4% share of total mobile subscribers (up 2.2 percentage points), while RIM rounded out the top five with 6.7% share.
Approximately 97.9 million people in the U....
Cook talks of Apple's charitable efforts
In a "town hall" meeting at Apple's Cupertino, California, campus last week, CEO Tim Cook talked about Apple's charitable contributions, notes "The Verge" (http://macte.ch/86W1x).
Cook said that Apple has donated a total of US$50 million to Stanford's hospitals, split into $25 million for a new main building and $25 million for a new children's hospital. The CEO also spent "quite a bit of time" talking about Apple's status as the leading contributor to Project RED, to which Apple has given over $50 million.
Project RED (http://www.joinred.com/red/) is a non-profit organization dedicated to wiping out AIDS. Apple, Nike, Dell, Converse and many other companies are "friends of RED."
Judge to Apple, Motorola: trim those patent claims
This week Circuit Judge Posner, who is serving by designation on the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois to preside over an Apple v. Motorola Mobility lawsuit, entered an order that, among other things, tells the parties to trim the number of patents in play, reports "FOSS Patents" (http://macte.ch/LSVJ2).
The order acknowledges that Apple and Motorola made a January 30 submission that complied with a request to inform the court "of what patents they wish to litigate in the liability trial," but "not fully satisfactorily" to Posner. The judge wants more "winnowing" to take place, notes "FOSS Patents."
Originally, there were 15 Apple and six Motorola patents at issue. The judge threw out some of those claims on summary judgment, and the parties dropped others in order to be cooperative and to narrow the case, reports "FOSS Patents."
This is part of an ongoing battle. Earlier this month the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that Motorola's...
Apple still leads Dell, HP in customer support, but ...
Apple continues to lead Dell and HP in customer service quality for phone-based technical support, but Apple’s support satisfaction among surveyed customers dropped significantly over the past 18 months, according to the latest study conducted by Vocallabs (Vocalabs).
In telephone interviews immediately following a support call, 54% of Apple customers were "Very Satisfied" with the experience during the last six months of 2011, compared to 44% of Dell customers and 49% of HP customers. Apple’s satisfaction score is down 19 points from the first half of 2010, while Dell and HP have generally held steady over the past two years.
Looking at common complaints in 2011, less than 1% of Apple customers surveyed complained about the language skills of the support technician; much fewer than the 8% of Dell customers and 10% of HP customers with similar issues. Many customers also complained about the extra cost of out-of-warranty tech support, but Apple saw fewer complaints here, too. About 1...
XBox Live marketing boss joins Apple
Xbox Live marketing boss Robin Burrowes is the latest games exec to join Apple, notes "MCV" (http://macte.ch/5GPWC).
Burrowes worked at Microsoft for seven years, and was in charge of Xbox Live. Prior to that, he worked for MSN and HMV.
"Burrowes joins Apple this year in charge of marketing the App Store for iTunes Europe," says MCV. "Burrowes is the latest in a line of high-profile British games recruits that Apple have made to its team. Former Nintendo PR boss Robert Saunders joined early last year, tasked with promoting apps on iPad, iPod and iPhone."
IDC: Apple number three in global mobile phone market
The worldwide mobile phone market grew 6.1% year over year in the fourth quarter of 2011 (4Q11), as the feature phone market declined faster than anticipated, dragging market growth down to its lowest point in over two years.
According to the IDC research group (http://www.idc.com), vendors shipped 427.4 million units in 4Q11 compared to 402.8 million units in the fourth quarter of 2010. The 6.1% year-over-year growth was higher than IDC's forecast of 4.4% for the quarter, but weaker than the 9.3% growth in 3Q11.
IDC says Apple jumped into the third spot globally from the fifth spot last quarter thanks to a record-breaking quarter of shipments. That represents the Cupertino-based company's highest-ever ranking on IDC's top 5 global mobile phone leaderboard.
The launch of Apple's iPhone 4S smartphone, which is now available in over 90 countries (as of mid-January), was the primary reason the company leapt over LG and ZTE in 4Q11. Device sales in the U.S. and Japan were particularly...
Holiday tablet traffic jumps 229%
If you didn’t get a tablet this holiday season, you may be one of the few. According to Jumptap (http://www.jumptap.com), which specializes in targeted mobile advertising, tablet network traffic jumped 229% over an average projected for the day after Christmas, based on historical network traffic.
Jan. 2, 2012 also saw a bump, with a 263 percentage traffic increase -- most likely from recipients uploading holiday photos and getting familiar with their devices. In its newly released "January MobileSTAT" report, Jumptap found that the Kindle Fire experienced the greatest tablet growth throughout December. The new device held 10% of tablet market share on Dec. 1 and finished the year with 30%market share. This year-end surge suggests a 2012 trend for lower-priced tablets.
In 2011 Android and iOS continued to battle for mobile OS share. When the dust cleared, Android had beaten iOS, according to Paran Johar, chief marketing officer, Jumptap (although most other stats dispute this). The...
Photo Transformer is new photo organizer for the Mac
Prosoft Engineering has released Photo Transformer for Mac OS X 10.6.8 and higher. It's available for US$9.99 at the Mac App Store.
Photo Transformer lets you categorize your photos by type, date or size. Its categories make it easy to find the images you are looking for and then process them in a variety of different ways, says Greg Brewer, CEO of Prosoft Engineering.
Photo Transformer doesn't require your photos to be managed by a library or database. It will find images no matter where they are located on your system using its fast search and categorization engine, according to Brewer.
Scoshe releases flipCharge burst and rogue
Scosche has released the flipCharge burst and flipCharge rogue. The new back-up battery and charger line provides iPhone and iPod users with instant power on-the-go.
Both models feature a flush folding USB cable for syncing, blue LED battery level indicator, a carabiner clip and work with Scosche’s free reVive app for advanced power management. The flipCharge rogue sports an1800mAh lithium polymer battery, capable of fully charging a dead iPhone or iPod.
The smaller flipCharge burst, provides an emergency 30% power burst to an iPhone, and can charge a dead iPod up to 70%. Both flipCharge models are recharged by plugging into to any computer, wall or car charger.The Scosche flipCharge burst and rouge are available now at Scosche.com for US$44.99 and$59.99, respectively.
SG Project Pro comes to the Mac
FourthFrame Technologies has introduced SG Project Pro 1.0 for the Mac, the latest addition to their series of Simple Genius project management apps for Mac OS X and iOS.
The business app requires Mac OS X 10.7.x ("Lion") and is the flagship version of FourthFrame's project management suite. SG Project Pro offers features designed to enable management of concurrent projects and team members.
SG Project Pro 1.0 costs US$99.99 and is available worldwide exclusively through the Mac App Store in the Business category. SG Project (similar to the Pro version, but limited to viewing one project at a time) is $49.99.
Nikon introduces new line of digital cameras
Nikon has introduced a new line of CoolPix digital cameras: the CoolPix L810, L26 and S30.
The CoolPix L810's powerful zoom (26x) offers a chance to capture every detail without giving up the convenience of a compact point-and-shoot camera, according to the folks at Nikon. The CoolPix S30 is a new type of camera from Nikon, providing "worry-proof construction with a simple to use interface and an affordable price point so any family can enjoy photography with a camera that instills confidence."
The CoolPix L26 is designed for casual photographers and streamlines photo-taking with intelligent Nikon technologies like automatic Scene Modes and easycontrols. All three cameras are AA battery compatible. For more info go to http://www.nikonusa.com .
Future Media Concepts adds new iPad training courses
Future Media Concepts (FMC), a digital media training organization, has added four new courses to its roster of iPad training courses. FMC will offer the courses for iPad owners, app developers, and IT support personne.
FMC has created two new iPad courses for IT personnel. "iPad Support Essentials" is for IT workers who provide support in a professional environment. The course will introduce students to apps that help them manage company networks and provide iPad support to employees.
"iPad Deployment" is for IT managers who use the iPad on a daily basis in their professional environment. They will learn how to deploy and maintain iOS-based devices and provisions for apps developed in-house.
The other two new courses are "Publishing on iPad," in which developers will learn to use Adobe InDesign to create, distribute, monetize, and optimize engaging content and publications for iPad and other devices; and "iPad Basics" designed for new iPad owners who want to learn how to use the...
