Apple's New iPad - Everything You Wanted . . . and less!

Oh dear me now . . . has Apple done it again, or has Apple just released a great big iPod Touch? It looks to me like a great big iPod Touch with an 'improved' screen (LED-backlit IPS) that might just be sharp and clean enough for ebook reading but for the glare bouncing off the shiny surface. There's more (much more) at the Apple web site. The first devices won't be available until March 2010. So what do we think? Frankly, we think you don't need another gadget, especially one that's been announced at a price range of $499 (16GB, WiFi only) in increments up to $829 (gasp) for the 64GB WiFi + 3G version. It's big at 9.5" x 7.5" x 0.5" and somewhat heavy at 1.5-1.6 lbs (depending on the version). By comparison, the biggest 9.7" Amazon Kindle DX has a more readable screen, is 0.5" taller, 0.15" thinner and (most important) 7oz lighter, and $10 cheaper than the base-model iPad. Apple will need at least one more revision after the initial release to get this one right. The biggest issue we have is that of half-baked convergence. The iPad is not a good netbook (no hardware keyboard for fast text entry - typing, notes, email, etc., etc. - sorry folks, but an onscreen keyboard just doesn't spin our crank). The iPad is large and heavy in a big vest or jacket pocket, and it certainly won't fit in the big pocket of your cargo pants (or shorts) unless you don't object to the iPad banging against you with every step (at 1.5 lbs it will be felt). There's no USB or FireWire port, so forget about even that part of netbook handiness. The iPad really is a great big iPod Touch, but without the convenience of manageable size. Forget about ebooks and doing anything else made so difficult and eye-straining by the glossy LED-backlit touch screen. Ho hum. What else? Some good things. The mediocre-but-ubiquitous iPod sound is fully integrated, as is the wonderful iTunes Store. Video viewing (if Steve Jobs' demo at the product launch is anything to go by) should be smooth, color-rich, color-accurate and fast courtesy of the 1Ghz, Apple A4 System-on-a-Chip. All in all, it's not the device for which the masses seemed to have been clamoring for the past few months.

Back-to-School (and Business??) with a $299 Laptop?

How do they do this? A $299 laptop? Just in time for a flat-ish economic recovery (uh, hey man, it's not really a recovery) and the kids heading back to high school, upper Forms, college and university, WalMart is flogging a $298 Compaq laptop and Best Buy was flogging a $299 Acer. Why, you ask, and how good/useful/reliable could they possibly be? A fine question, we reply. Our answer is a resounding, "NUH-UH!" We've actually tried the Celeron-underpowered, slow-ish cheap-o laptops and found them, um, somewhat wanting. The keyboards, while larger than the slightly zippier Netbooks that are all the rage right now (but way too small and unresponsive for extended typing), are merely a larger version of the generally sucky Netbook and cheap laptop mushboards - fine for surfing and email, but awful for note-taking, report writing and other important education-like stuff and work. The three best and most reasonably priced school and small business laptops we've seen (and, more important, tried) in the more quality-realistic price range of US$600-$1200 will take the bumps & bangs of daily use, speed everything along, ease some of the stress of long hours of typing, and provide a a screen that won't burn your eyes out during hours of concentration, and with even a slight amount of care will continue to work just fine for the next couple of school years. Beat the rush at Amazon.com. They're the Compaq Presario CQ60Z, the Toshiba E105-S1602 (everybody's best buy it seems) along with the superb Toshiba L300, the Apple MacBook Pro, and last but not least the Dell Vostro 1500. Why wait? Stick a crowbar in your wallet and lever out enough cash to buy the kid a decent laptop. It's got to be done and, believe us, we share your pain.

Apple iPod touch 32GB 2nd Generation

Apple has renovated the iPod touch 32GB with a sleeker design, integrated speaker, longer battery life and even more functionality. This touch can even help your workouts with the Nike+iPod sensor (optional) inserted in your shoe for improving your workout. The touch still utilizes the same multi-touch interface that has made the iPhone famous. View your favorite media on the stunning 3.5" widescreen display while the Wi-Fi web browsing capabilities will let your surf the web with Safari, watch YouTube videos or buy content directly from the iTunes Wi-Fi Store. At only 4.2 oz and 8mm deep, it is astounding what you can do with the iPod touch. Get yours here!

Apple Burning Developers?

Apple appear to be playing a dirty and underhand game with their Apps Store. There have been a number of instances where they have let apps be released and sold through their App Store only to be cut and then have a very similar feature announced in one of their firmware updates. This kind of behavious will only engender a distrust and induce a great deal of antipathy to the company and it's product. If true then will start to see quite a few people becoming quite rabid in their aversion to dealing with apple. Come on Apple, you can do so much better than use other peoples ideas.

Apple Update Macbooks and Cinema Display

Apple have updated a whole bunch of their products, including their Macbooks, Macbook Air and Macbook Pro lines. They have also updated their 24 inch display, which now includes an integrated isight camera. The machines now use Apple's new unibody manufacturing technique, which uses a solid piece of aluminum that then has sections removed. There is also a black bezel surrounding the screen and a buttonless, glass, multi-touch trackpad. Apple have made it substantially simpler to change out hard drives. The drive is now stored in a compartment with the battery, meaning it can be removed without having to use any screwdrivers. The MacBook Pros are available immediately, with models priced from $1,999 to $2,499 for stock units and the high-end Macbook Pro with a 2.8 GHz processor for $2,799.

Apple To Announce New Hardware Next Week

According to several sites, Apple is due to announce at least one new laptop at another of its Town Hall unveilings. Rumors are that it will be a sub $1000 device, with some folks guessing that it may even be as low as $800.

Apple Release 2.1 Update For iPhone

Apple have relased their 2.1 software upgrade for the iPhone. This update comes the promise of fewer call drops and a significantly improved battery life. It has purportedly also fixed a lot of bugs.

Apples Woes Continue with iPod Touch 2G & iTunes 8

It seems that the new version of iTunes is causing a "-3256 Unknown Error Occurred." message to occur. This and another the "-15000," has prevented iTunes 8 upgraders from using their Airtunes on remote speakers. according to entgadget the error is related to Firewalls and Firmware. You basically need to either turn off your Firewall or allow iTunes to accept incoming requests. This is also helped to update your Airport Express to the latest firmware version. Windows-based iPod touch users are also seeing Blue Screens of Death when they plug in their players due to undocumented issues. The solution is reboot the system while the touch is plugged in to force the system to recognize the device, run a sync, and turn off photo syncing, while irksome, it appears to work. Come on Apple, get with the program, you're not doing yourself any favours.

Apple Intro New iPods, Headphones & iTunes 8

Apple unleased their new iPods, iTunes and content offerings today at their annual september press conference. Amongst their new offerings were a new iPod Nano and Touch. A change in the line up of their iPod classic and a new iTunes version and content such as HD TV Shows and features like Genius which apparently can generate playlists of songs "that go great together." The HD TV shows on offer will cost $2.99 instead of $1.99 for standard definition content. Apple also claimed to have over 65 million iTunes Store accounts worldwide. The 160GB iPod Classic has been retired because in Jobs words "No one buys the thick" one, which is funny, because most of my friends who have recently bought one, have bought this exact model. It seems that they will only be offering a 120GB model for an SRP of $249 (£179), and which should be the same size and dimensions as the current 80GB model. The new iPod Nano was unveiled as "the thinnest iPod we've ever made." and like many of the speculative renderings we were teased with, it does have an oval, tapered shape with a black or white wheel. It also features an accelerometer like the iPhone and iPod Touch for viewing Cover Flow album art, photos, and video when turned sideways. The Nano also has a built-in voice recorder and the ability to shuffle tracks, when shaken. The new iPod Nano also includes an iPhone-like headphone set which comes with a new clicker, volume control, and microphone. The clicker allows you to double-click to skip to the next song, press once to pause and three times to go to the previous song. You can also record voice memos with a microphone on the other side. Costing around $29, the new headphones will be available from next month, there will also be a new set of higher quality in-ear headphones that will have an SRP of $79. The iPod nano will purportedly have a "great" battery life with 24 hours of music and 4 hours video. The new iPod nano will have an SRP of $149 for the 8GB model and $199 for the 16GB. New iPod Touches were also shown and it appears that the new shiny Touch has the same 3.5" display but is thinner with a tapered, stainless steel back. The iPod Touch has the same integrated volume controls on the side, it also features a built-in speaker like the iPhone. Another cool feature is the integration of the Nike+iPod system for tracking running statistics. The new iPod touch will support up to 36 hours of music and 6 hours of video playback off a full charge. Unlike the other new announcements it is available immediately for $229 for the 8GB model, and $299 for the 16GB, and $399 for the 32GB.

iPhone Ad Pulled In UK

The UK's Advertising Standards Authority has decided that Apples UK iPhone campaign is telling a lot of porky pies (lies). They taken the step of banning the commercial from airing in its current state. The ASA has argued that "all the parts of the internet" should include Flash and Java webpages, neither of which are natively viewable through the iPhone's mobile Safari. The ASA said: "Because the iPhone doesn't support Flash or Java, you couldn't really see the internet in its full glory, ... They made a very general claim that you can see the internet in its entirety, and actually that's not quite true - so we've upheld." Apple are obviously unhappy about this, but then again this is from the company which people think invented the gui and mouse based computing.

iRing

iPod fans rejoice ... the iRing remote control. Ok, the iRing is only a new concept from designer Victor Soto. The iRing wireless remote control for your iPod which is shaped into the form of a cool looking ring. The iRing’s works quite simply, to adjust the volume, need to slide your finger across the touch sensitive surface of the ring. Simply tap the Apple icon on the ring to pause or play and touch on either side of the icon to skip or replay a track. Don't rush out to try and find one yet, as it is only a concept, but apple would do well to buy this one from Victor.

iPhone 3G Lawsuit

Alabama resident Jessica Alena Smith filed a lawsuit against Apple over the "Defective iPhone 3G." She hopes the suit will become a class-action complaint. She is stating that the suit is based upon the iPhone's 3G sub-standard performance and reliability. The Lawsuit details that Smith noticed that the iPhone's data connection, e-mail, SMS, and other communications were slower than expected, and that the device only appeared to connect to AT&T's 3G network less than 25 percent of the time. She also experienced an "inordinate amount of dropped calls," according to the lawsuit. It will be interesting to see this unfold. Thanks to Ars Technica for the lead.

iPhone With Glowing Apple Logo Mod

Gizmodo are featuring a story which features a russian mod of an iPhone in which the modder has made the Apple logo on the back glow. All told the mod isn't cheap to do. It costs about $300, so you really have to be an apple Fanboy to attempt it. Oh ... BTW, it'll also invalidate your warranty.

Apple Raises Ire Of iPhone Users

A purported capability in the iPhone is rapidly raising the Ire of iPhone users. Several Blogs and tech sites are reporting on a reported capability in the iPhone which allows it to call home and then disable unregistered apps. This feature flies in the face of many users assumptions that they are buying their technologies and are therefore free to add whatever they want to their devices. Even Engadget who are big Apple fans are not impressed by this purported capability.

Disappearing iPhone Apps

It appears that Apple have been removing a few of the most popular iPhone applications from their store. Last week it was NetShare, this week the popular Box Office application. So what is up with this are the apps doing something illegal or is Apple just flexing it muscle in some wierd way. Apple are making it obvious that they'll control what you can and can't put on the iPhone, however, this leaves me and a few others out there a little nervous and also reinforces one of the reasons why I'm not overly enamoured with the iPhone or Apple. I should be free to use my toys as I see fit ... not have some schoolyard bully try to extort my pocket money from me. I, like a few others out there, would like to see a free and open platform from all manufacturers and vendors. Hopefully this isn't something sinister and really more to do with security or a bug...

iPod Touch 64GB + GPS?

According to tgdaily.com, Apple are going to be enhancing the iPod Touch by upgrading their top of the line model with 64GB of ram and adding GPS capabilities. The article also speculates on the rest of the iPod line too ... it's worth a read.

Rumours Abound Of Macbook Touch

Sites like MacDailyNews and Gizmodo are spinning with news of a new Macbook based tablet which features touch technology. Appleinsider have also posted a consideration for this concept in this post. Time will tell...

Apple File Against Psystar

Mac-clone manufacturer Psystar has been served legal papers from Apple, which alleges violation of its shrink wrap license, trademark and also arguing copyright infringement. The suit, filed at the federal district court of the northern district of California will be an interesting one with Apple fighting to stop Psystar. Psystar will be arguing that Apple’s license policy contravenes US monopoly law. Apple if might be shooting themselves in the foot if Psystar are able to argue this point effectively. The outcome should prove interesting to other third partys who fall foul of Apples protectionist policies.

iPhone 3G Big Hit For Apple

Apple have purportedly sold over a million 3G based iPhones this weekend and up to 10 million iPhone apps. Launched in 21 countries, the iPhone 3G lead to long lines at many stores that lasted throughout the weekend. This all making it one of the most successful device launches to date. There were however many problems, activation issues and system crashes. Indications are that sales in the US will slow down but with over 50 countries still awaiting their launch dates there will most likely be more records broken.

iPhone 2.0 Software Launched

Apple have officially released Version 2.0 of their iPhone Firmware. For those of you who want to know more, visit Apple at the software update page to get more information.

iPhone 3G Launch Day Woes

Apple and 02 were faced with quite a few upset customers today when 02's systems couldn't cope with the launch day load. Many of the buyers had to wait for an inordinately long time to get their sets activated. Carphone Warehouse had to revert to using their own systems when 02's couldn't cope. The Apple Store in Regent Street ended up losing a few customers when they couldn't even access the 02 activation servers.

New Zealand Sells First iPhone 3G's

This isn't really true, but if you count retail store sales as the only legit form of sale, then the statement stands. Twenty two year old Jonny Gladwell was the first owner of the first retailed iPhone 3G. He apparently waited for over 48 hours to get his unit.

Canadian iPhone 3G Plan Updated

As reported earlier this week Canadians have been more than a little annoyed at Rogers since they announced their expensive iPhone 3G price plans. It appears that Rogers have responded with a deal which offers 6GB of data for $30 a month. The deal will be available for buyers who activate their iPhone with a three year contract before August 31. Read the press release here.

iPhone 3G Sells Out In UK

O2 UK started to take pre-orders for the iPhone 3G earlier today. The O2 online shop ran out of stock on the 16GB black iPhone 3G within 3 hours and shortly thereafter they ran out of the 8GB unit as well. This doesn't mean you can't get hold of one, it just means O2 can't get you one on release day. You can still try Carphone Warehouse and other suppliers of O2's products.

Canadian iPhone Pricing Plan Is Robbery

Looks like Canada will be getting the iPhone on July 11th, 2008. Rogers Wireless and Apple will release the iPhone 3G into the Canadian market, but at higher prices than pretty much any where you can think of. The 8GB model can be had for just $199, but it will require a three-year service agreement with Rogers Wireless. If you want the 16G, it’ll cost you only $100 more. The big problem lies in their pricing plan, the smallest plan will start at a pricey $60 a month and this doesn’t include caller ID, licensing, access fees and taxes. The four iPhone 3G plans are as follows: $60/month: 150 daytime minutes, unlimited evenings and weekends, 400MB data, 75 text messages, visual voicemail $75/month: 300 daytime minutes, unlimited evenings and weekends, 750MB data, 100 text messages, visual voicemail $100/month: 600 daytime minutes, unlimited evenings and weekends, 1GB data, 200 text messages, visual voicemail $115/month: 800 daytime minutes, unlimited evenings and weekends, 2GB data, 300 text messages, visual voicemail Additionals are as follows: $15 a month will get you Caller ID, WhoCalled, Caller Ring Trax, 2500 text messages, and 2500 call forwarding minutes. For an extra $20 a month, you get much the same, except there are 10000 text messages and 6:00pm early evenings. Add the $60 monthly plan with the $15 value pack, system access fee, 911 fee, and taxes, and you get about $100 a month. Going over your minute plan will cost you $0.35 a minute, more than some prepaid services. If you go over your data plan, it'll cost you $0.50 per megabyte. This has all generated a big outcry and spawned several sites, including Ruinediphone.com. It remains to be seen what effect this outcry will have, but you can be certain of one thing, anyone one, who has any sense will not even consider getting one if they like texting or viewing online media and songs. Stick with getting an older iPhone, or even buy one offline... Even better save your money and stick with a phone which supports Java, Flash and other industry standard services and applications. Thanks to an article over at futurelooks.com for much of the information in this post.

Vista VS OS-X

For those of you who are interested or even bothered, ExtremeTech have an ongoing discussion happening at their forums. It's an interesting and honest comparison, however it's bound to ruffle some feathers.

Apple Announce 3G iPhone

So it's official, Apple are to begin selling the 3G iPhone in 22 countries on the 11th of July. This will be accompanied by a price drop. No idea on UK prices as yet but I hope its more in line with the US prices than the typically usurious rates they normally charge us Brits. The US price will be $199 for an 8 GB edition, and $299 for a 16 GB version, which will also be available in white. The iPhone 3G comes in a full black plastic case, metal buttons, the same 480 by 320-pixel multitouch LCD display and a flush headphone jack. The new iPhone also has an integrated GPS receiver. According to Apple it offers improved battery life (up to 300 hours on standby, 10 hours of 2G talk time, 5 hours of 3G talk time, 6 hours of browsing, 7 hours of video, or 24 hours of audio). Update With all the noise about the 3G iPhone, there are also a lot of gripes too ... nice that they've added the 3G and improved on things like the headphone jack and battery life (Still no user replaceable battery though). Other issues include: No A2DP audio on bluetooth No copy and paste 2MP camera No Video recording No MMS. No front camera No flash support inside Safari - although this may be handled in the future via an update. No user uploaded ring tunes No support for Memory Cards Details of O2 Pricing in UK: Monthly Charge £30 £35 £45 £75 Cost of 8GB iPhone £99 £99 Free Free Cost of 16GB iPhone £159 £159 £59 Free

Apple Tablet Rumour Again...

Several sites are speculating on a possible announcement by apple of a new OS-X based tablet. Some are speculating that it will be a larger and more enhanced touch tech based iphone concept whereas others are talking up a more pc centric tablet with stylus. Whilst the latter would would most certainly be a welcome addition to the line especially for artists (actually Axiotron produce an OS-X based tablet called the Modbook), a larger iphone might struggle because the MID concept has yet to be accepted. Asus have let slip that Apple are working on a tablet and Intel have done the same with regards to Apple using the Atom processor. Who knows? Certainly not I, however if Apple do release a new form factor lets hope they pay attention to the execution of the design better than they did with either the iphone or the Macbook Air, which were good but problematic.

Apple Fall Foul Of DOD

Apples planned acquisition of chip-design firm P.A. Semi appear to have raised some concern with the Department of Defense. P.A. Semi's chips are used by all branches of the armed services. P.A. Semi informed several current customers that it was due to be acquired and that it could not guarantee future supplies of its chips. EETimes has stated that P.A. Semi's high-performance, low-cost PWRficient CPU is used in at least 10 Defense systems.

Nokia's "Tube" - An iPhone Challenger.

Nokia showed a potential challenger to the iPhone late last year. The teaser has since been followed up this week with more images and a little bit more info prompting some speculation on the capabilities of their unit, strangely codenamed "Tube" and no doubt able to compete with the iphone on more than just a touch screen based interface and media support, including Java which is still absent (but promised via Sun) on the iPhone.

Apple iPhone 3G In 2 Months

According to a report at Gizmodo UK the new 3G iPhone will be in stores sometime in June. Tech pundit, Walt Mossberg, from the Wall St. Journal, stated “We all know that when the iPhone came out, it became crystal-clear that you were going to be able to carry in your pocket something that would give you a very good video experience. But again, broadband on these mobile phone networks is limited and I'm not talking about the fact that iPhone isn't 3G, it will be 3G in 60 days.” As Gizmodo inferred, Walt may not be Jobs, but he's that connected that you can be fairly certain he knows what he's talking about.

Apple Files New iPhone Patents

There have been several reports on some of the Tech blogs about Apple filing a new patent relating to making it a lifestyle companion. The patents as they have been reported on look like nothing new. Old ideas that have been rehashed to fit new technology. I can understand companies wanting to protect their Intellectual Property, but some filings have become ridiculous. It's well past time the patent system was overhauled to avoid all this potentially litigious material.

Sun Developing Java For iPhone

Sun Microsystems are developing Java Virtual Machine (JVM) for use on Apple's iPhone. They plan to release JVM in the summer. This will make the iPhone able to run Java applications. The iPhone edition is to be based on the Java Micro Edition of Java and in spite of Apple's apparent disinterest in doing so themselves. Who knows, but maybe this will be extended into support for all the web based Java apps and tools. Maybe Apple's claim of having the "real" Internet on their device will finally become a reality, and not just marketing spin.

BBC iPlayer for iPhone

The BBC have announced that their iPlayer is avaialble for the iPhone. To use iPlayer o all you have to do is access the iPlayer website and then stream the required BBC programme. This is great news for iPhone users and only if you have wifi access. But to use the player on an Edge enabled phone sounds like a recipy for frustration and disaster. Apple need to release a 3G version and pretty damn soon.

Apple Announce SDK & Beta Of Version 2 iPhone OS

With much hurrah, Apple announced the release of the iPhone SDK and a slew of new features for the new iPhone OS at their SDK conference. Details of the iPhone SDK were also released relealing that developers will have access to their "Cocoa Touch" framework and the other APIs being used by Apple for iPhone software development. The SDK provides support for developing hardware-accelerated 3D graphics, location-enabled apps as well as full access to the media capabilities. Developers will also be able to use Xcode (a Mac only option), there is also a new iPhone Simulator which facilitates easy testing of all developed applications. Version 2 will include things like, Microsoft Exchange and ActiveSync support, Push mail and Contacts, Global Address List, VPN, authentication via certificate, and lots more. The Beta will initially be available for developers and selected enterprise IT departments only. Missing from the announcements was any mention of a 3G version of the iPhone ... get with the program, Apple, many of us want 3G, although by the time we get it, it may be old hat anyways.

Apple Increases Storage for iPod Touch & iPhone

Apple have announced that they have doubled the capacity of the iPhone and the iPod Touch for an additional $100. The iPhone comes in an 8GB Model for $399 and the new 16GB model for $499. The iPod Touch has also been enhanced to store more music and videos, with a 32GB model at the top for $499, the iPod Touch is also available in 16GB and an 8GB models. Still no external storage capabilities however.

MacBook Air Start Shipping

Many early purchasers of the MacBook Air are reporting that Apple have informed them that their units are on their way to them. By the time you read this several of these unit will no doubt have been configured and put through their paces. It'll be interesting to hear about the first impressions of these early adopters. Does the wireless RemoteDisk facility work? It remains to be seen.

Apple Looking To Charge For Upgrades

Apple announced last week that Mail, Maps, Stocks, Notes and Weather are all coming to the iPod touch. New touch owners can get them all for free, but early adopters will be asked to pay $20. The new Maps app can't use cell-based location-finding like on the iPhone, but it can still figure out where it is using the SkyHook WiFi hotspot database. The touch will also support webclips and the reconfigurable home screen. I am not alone in wondering just how many of your Touch users will be happy about this. I'm guessing, not many...

Macbook Air and the Pied Piper...

Most of you have read about the story of the Pied Piper of Hamlin and although the lessons taught in this tale tend to escape most folks these days, it can't be one that's ignored. Apple is very much like the pied piper in that lots of Apple fans follow all too blindly and in adulation of all that is Apple. They hear the note of the piper but overlook the obvious. It's interesting that nearly every time Apple has announced a new product in the last few years, I've been less than impressed. I don't hate Apple and I certainly like using Apple products - I am a designer after all. The latest innovation from Apple is the ultralight, ultrathin laptop called the Macbook Air, and it's certainly impressive all things considered. The Air is thin, extremely thin, it also looks nice too. The good things are its portability (if you're only going short distances), and the gestural capabilities on the touch pad. However there are a few issues. No optical drive, a less than friendly USB port, non-removable battery pack and the lack of Ethernet and FireWire are damning. Stop designing stuff with batteries you can't get to or replace easily. The touchpad features are nice, as is the portability, but realistically speaking, all the extra components you're going to have to carry around with you are going to make you want to shout. Sorry, Steve and crew but as nice as it looks and as rich as you're going to get with the sale of this unit to the masses, it fails to impress me. Then again, who am I to say? I guess I must be deaf to the call of the Pied Piper.

Apple Plagued By Problems With Leopard

Apple have been hit by a number of issues with their new OS, Leopard. The problems include issues with the firewall being disabled upon installation, an issue with finder deleting files during a move, and losing data under certain circumstances such as a power fluctuation. There are also many reports of system freezes or glitches which relate to the use of the graphics display system. The final one is really ironic, as it concerns the appearance of the Dreaded BSOD (Blue Screen of Death) which so often plagued Windows. Yes, the BSOD is now appearing in OS X. Even more of concern is Apple's apparent censoring of discussion on their support forums of many of these issues. It appears that Apple either rushed this product to market, or didn't allow enough beta testing cycles. Either way, Mac OS X Leopard is not quite ready for prime time.

Apple To Unlock iPhone

It seems that Apple are waking up to customer demands and have realized that they have won no friends with the locked phone issue. They are going to be releasing an unlocked version of their iPhone. They are also going to be releasing an SDK for third party developers. I'll wait to comment on the last issue, as I have no idea what form the SDK will take, but on the unlocking issue, it can only bode well for Apple as many more people will buy their "new cool" thing. I still think the phone sucks in two key areas ... The removable battery (or lack of one) and the lack of support for 3G.

iPod Nano & iPod Classic Unveiled

After unveiling the new iPod Touch, and feeling a little disappointed with Apples efforts, I was pleased to see the Ipod classic and the New Video Playing iPod Nano. The classic is just like the 5G units but in capacities of 80GB and 160GB, whereas the Nano is available in 4GB and 8GB sizes. I for one, like the ipod Nano and can see sense in this PMP. The 8GB & 16GB iPod Touch offering fall short of true excellence due to its relatively small storage capacities ... go on Apple give us more storage on the iPod Touch.

Apple Announce iPod Touch

As expected Apple announced an iPod based upon their iPhone and one which uses many of the features found in the popular mobile phone. Coming in 8GB and 16GB versions the new media device looks pretty cool even if the capacity is a little underwhelming. The 8mm-thick iPod looks very much like the iPhone and also features WiFi which when combined with the free WiFi service from Starbucks who are teamed up with Apple and is being rolled out over the next few months. The unit can also display video and photos synched from iTunes. The Safari based browser will allow users to browse the internet via the WiFi interface. Check out Apples Guided Tour for more info. The iPod touch is available now in a $299 8GB and a $399 16GB version. Both versions included earphones, a USB 2.0 cable, dock adapter, stand and Quick Start guide. System requirements include iTunes 7.4, which has just been released.

Apple To Announce New iMac Products

Apple are planning a whole slew of iMac based announcements in the next week. With press invitations being handed out for an Apple "product presentation for Mac" in Cupertino next week. The event will take place on Tuesday, August 7th. Apple are being very clear about the fact that this is going a Mac products only press event.

iPhone Proves Expensive.

Over at TG Daily, Wolfgang Gruener has posted an interesting article about the iPhone which more than any I've read exposes the real problem with the iPhone. I'ts worth a read and shows just how silly Apple and AT&T are being with their greed. Which will lose Apple many fans ... We all figured AT&T were a big mistake, and given the figures that wolfgang has cited many peeps will undoubtedly drop AT&T as a service provider and opt to wait for something which can unlock the iPhone. Pop on over and have a read ... TG Daily.

iPhone Reviews Summary

The reviews for the iPhone are coming hard and fast ... most like what they see, and are impressed by what Apple have produced. However below I've listed the good and the Bad. Good Things - It's a great iPod with some web capabilities Cover Flow feature is awesome Orientation sensors are cool Display quality excellent. The UI is excellent and has only served to raise the bar... Battery life is more than most of us expected. 'Visual Voicemail' is pretty cool... The glass screen is remarkably resilient. Microsoft Exchange is supported The bad: No User Replaceable Battery ... Shame on you Apple yet again for being so inconsiderate!!! (A Phone without this, is a truly pathetic omission). The virtual keyboard is frustrating with a learning curve... The Absences of 3G is a mistake. Web browsing is real slow unless your use wireless. OS X uses 700MB of the 4GB/8GB Memory. No A2DP support – Stupid considering it's a media device!!! No cut, copy or paste options for text – staggering No MMS No editing of PDF, Word or Excel documents. No browser support for Flash or any other embedded video Poor voice call quality 2MP Still camera only – no video recording. No support for MP3 ringtones. Contacts must be scrolled through – no searching or voice dialling... No Memory Card slot!!! No GPS... The bottom line is that it makes a great iPod, but the phone capabilities and several features need a rethink... Links: David Pogue Walt Mossberg Edward Baig Steven Levy

Apple Patches Safari 3 Beta

Apple released its second security patch for the Beta of Safari 3 browser. The patch for Safari 3.0.2 for Windows fixes security holes in the previous version, improves text display, and improves upon launch times. The update also fixes a security vulnerability by which an attacker could spoof a website in the browser's address bar, tricking users into thinking they were at a valid site instead of a fake one, possibly conning them into revealing confidential information and passwords. The Mac update for Safari improves support for Mail, iChat, and Dashboard, and fixes problems with parental controls and Google Reader.

iPhone Preview?

Engadget, who have been very positive about the iphone haveupped a post with comments from an "insider" whos had some experience with the iPhone. it's worth a read and if true will require apple to put some effort into redesigning/upgrading the interface somewhat. It seems the central issue is that the phone will require you to use a finger for text entry as most peoples thumbs will cause too many errors. To read more visit engadget.com.

iPhone To Include YouTube

Apple have announced that iPhone owners will be able to watch YouTube content using a special player and using the higher quality H.264 codec. This is the same codec that YouTube uses for new videos, and for the older ones that need re-encoding. Looks like the net is heating up with rumours and announcements just ahead of the release of this much anticipated device.

Mac OS X Updated To 10.4.10

OS X 10.4.10 has officially been released for consumption. 10.4.10 addresses a number of issues which Apple officially listed as being in the following areas: Bluetooth Addresses an issue in which a Bluetooth headset may show up as an available device for sound output in the Sound preference pane after it had been removed from Bluetooth preferences. Third-party Adds RAW image decoding support for the following cameras: Panasonic DMC-LX1, Panasonic DMC-LX2, Leica M8, Leica D-LUX 2, Leica D-LUX 3, Fuji S5 Pro, Nikon D40x, and Canon EOS 1D Mk III. Also resolves an issue in which some DNG images may appear tinted or distorted. Improves compatibility of Mathematica 6 with 64-bit Macs. USB Improves reliability when using the IR remote control after waking from sleep. Improves reliability when mounting external USB hard drives. Resolves an issue in which a TomTom GO 910 may not be recognized when connected via USB to an Intel-based Mac. Other Improves responsiveness when using the Control-Eject key combination to display a shutdown dialogue. Addresses a specific issue in which users importing video from a DV camera may experience dropped frames. Includes recent Apple security updates. Addresses issues with calendar calculations in certain applications. Addresses issues when rounding decimal numbers for display in certain applications. For Motion, addresses an issue on Intel-based Macs in which some texture corruption could appear in Motion if VRAM is full. This update comes ahead of the proposed release of Leopard. For more info visit the updates Info Page at Apple

Safari Beta Released for Windows

Yet another web browser for us to be confused by ... It looks like Apple are serious about the Web and taking on Microsoft again. They have released a Public Beta of Safari 3 for Windows user. Just quite what it does I'm not sure but Trusted Reviews have published a review.

Apple Says ...

Apple today announced that iPhone will deliver significantly longer battery life when it ships on June 29 than was originally estimated when iPhone was unveiled in January. iPhone will feature up to 8 hours of talk time, 6 hours of Internet use, 7 hours of video playback or 24 hours of audio playback.* In addition, iPhone will feature up to 250 hours-more than 10 days-of standby time. Apple also announced that the entire top surface of iPhone, including its stunning 3.5-inch display, has been upgraded from plastic to optical-quality glass to achieve a superior level of scratch resistance and optical clarity. So I might have jumped the gun a bit, if these figures prove correct on the playback and usage times ... I still think that Apple screwed up what could have possibly been their best product to date by not allowing users the capability to switch power packs with ease...

Apple iPhone Views

I can honestly say that the apple iPhone has captured the imagination of many... However one of the problems with this tech is that even though it will most likely be a financial success and net Apple Millions the phone itself will suck for several reasons. The first is that it is too cool and although it has a reported battery life that will allow you to play up to 8 hours of music, what happens when that battery has been exhausted and even got forbid it actually fails? I can assume a couple of scenarios (quite probable ones too): 1. The user in the event of the battery being exhausted will have to plug in an external back up power pack (external, because there is not capacity in the unit for exchanging the internal powersupply with a back up). 2. Find a place where you can charge the uselees unit up so that you can use it again. 3. In the event of failure send the phone back to Apple for a replacement power pack because you can't just siply open the unit up yourself to change the power pack ... In the words of many a Brit, Apple are elitist wankers who haven't given a real thought about the consumer in this particular area of the phones usability. To all you poor saps who buy this phone, good luck ... I'll be keeping an eye open for your reactions, when you try to use the phone after watching your first movie on the phone and then run out of juice 5 minutes into the next call you get ... let hope I'm wrong.

Apple Gets Into Gaming

Apple last week announced that they had signed deals with EA, its EA Sports division and iD software. The deals signify that titles such as Battlefield 2142, Command & Conquer 3, Need for Speed, Tiger Woods 08, Madden 08, the yet to be announced iD FPS will be appearing on OS-X

Apple MacBook Pro 2007 Edition — More Power

With a starting lineup that starts with the Intel Core 2 Duo 2.2GHz processor, 2GB RAM and a 120GB hard drive, the Apple MacBook Pro 2007 Edition laptop series looks poised to add another bump in sales to Apple's bottom line. They're fast, they're equipped with highly quality screens and there's more than ever before available for Mac OS X. You could do worse than considering a MacBook Pro 2007 Edition if you need a mobile DTP, graphics, video or general multimedia workstation. Nice machines. Check them out at the Apple Store. We did and we liked what we saw, especially the 2.4GHz 17" model. The NVIDIA 8600M GT graphics are lovely (and fast).

Apple iPhone Release Date . . . sort of

As anxious crowds begin to form in the days leading up to the iPhone's June 29 release date in the U.S., a number of other countries are still waiting for release timing. The iPhone will both augment an existing market segment and help to better define a technology segment being carved from the convergence of wireless telephony and wireless mobile entertainment. But don't anticipate iPhone avilability in Canada, the UK, Europe, South America or anywhere else outside the U.S. for that matter, until Apple becomes confident that the high risk first release of the iPhone proves worthwhile, and more important, quickly earns wide consumer demand and acceptance. Apple is banking on the large touch screen, 2 megapixel, high quality audio, high speed network, and streaming internet and video capabilities combined with iPod quality audio and lots of internal storage to take over the existing market and grow it very quickly. Connectivity to the iTunes store will be unique in the industry. iPhones will initially be available exclusively on the AT&T (formerly Cingular) wireless network and can be purchased, locked to AT&T, from the Apple Store beginning June 29.

Jobs and Gates Meet & Chat

Last Wednesday night, Steve Jobs and Bill Gates had an intimate sit-down, in which they chatted and shared with an audience much in the way of the history and relationship between Apple, Microsoft and each other. Engadget have posted a review of the meet, so to read more, visit here.

Apple To Use Enhanced Theft Protection On iPhone

Reports from several sources are that Apple are planning a sudden motion based theft protection system on their New iPhone. the system will purportedly work by allowing the owner to use the motion detection systems built into the item to detect sudden motion such as when devices are snatched. The device will lock itself when this type of motion is detected and will require a security password to unlock it...

Mac OS X Patch Fixes 25 Security Concerns

Apple have issued a security update that deals with 25 security flaws in its Mac OS X operating system. The security update deals with a trio of zero-day bugs that were disclosed in January. Some third-party components such as the Kerberos authentication technology are also dealt with. The most serious of the vulnerabilities could allow an attacker to gain complete control over an unpatched Mac.

100 Million iPods Sold

Apple announced the sale of its 100 millionth iPod. Quite the milestone really. "At this historic milestone, we want to thank music lovers everywhere for making iPod such an incredible success," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO, in a statement. "iPod has helped millions of people around the world rekindle their passion for music, and we're thrilled to be a part of that." With so many units sold it'll be hard for anyone to challenge it's position in the marketplace, although I've said it before, I think the mobile phone industry is beginning to make serious inroads with their latest generation of phones with multimedia support.

iPod Virus Created

Kaspersky Labs have created Podloso, a virus design to demonstrate a minor security hole in the iPod. For the Virus to work the user must actually download it. The virus will only infect an iPod with Linux installed. Podloso cannot spread to other iPods on its own, one in the right folders on an iPod the virus will make all songs and videos unplayable. Instead of playing back the affected files, the iPod will display an error message which reads, "You are infected with Oslo the first iPodLinux Virus." For more visit tgdaily.

Boot Camp Supports Vista

It appears, that Apple's Boot Camp Version 1.2, now supports Microsoft Windows Vista. Yet another reason, for me, to consider buying an Intel CoreDuo Mac... I've been playing with my recently restored OS-X based PowerMac, back at the office. I'm impressed and happy, with how well the system now works, especially after we had the faulty power supply replaced. I'm thinking of exchanging the stupid mac mouse with a two button mouse, having tried one on the Mac. I like the context sensitive menus offered with the right mouse button but I haven't tried the Mighty Mouse yet... Apple insists on reinventing everything, so I'll have to give one a try, before making any final decisions...

Apple Aren't The Only Ones Having Fun

Perusing the web I was introduced to some excellent spoofs of the Apple vs PC ads, which Apple are using to excess. A series of spoof ads featuring an apple type guy, a PC suit and a big body builder reppin' the Dell XPS are quite entertaining. There are three, so far and I've enjoyed watching them all. Anyone who tells me Macs are more stable and secure is talking out of their nether regions. I've personally had a Mac that has been crashing on me with regularity. In fact it spends more time crashing than running. Yeah it happens, but don't try selling me myths, or elitism either for that matter. They're just machines after all. Watch the XPS vs Apple Ads - XPS VS Apple 1, XPS VS Apple 2 and XPS VS Apple 3.

Mac Book Mini Rumour

There are rumours that Apple are working on a Flash drive based Ultraportable called the Macbook Mini by a number of of sites online. At present there are only renderings and concepts online from Mac fans but I can't see why Apple couldn't seriously do this... Visit Keith Wilsons take on this idea, for a possible configuration. I'm more interested in a Mac Tablet with Wacom enabled pen technology, than the ultraportable.

Apple Product Rumours

Engadget are reporting on a trio of rumours around Apple, which includes the possibility of discounted iPhones, A Nand drive based Sub-notebook and and early release of Leopard. Not sure how much faith I'm going to place in these rumours but all are quite possible. Visit this page for more info.

Black iMacs

Several sites around the web have been posting rumours that Apple could possibly be coming out with black 24″ and 20″ iMacs. 8-core Mac Pros are also expected according to Gizmodo, The Appleblog, MacScoop and MacDailyNews . I for one think it's about time, however only time will tell...