Mac notebook and other portable computing is covered
in The 'Book Review, and general Mac
news is in Mac News Review.
All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.
News, Reviews, & Opinion
Apps & Services
Accessories
iPod Deals
These price trackers are updated every month.
News, Reviews, & Opinion
iPad Earns Higher Satisfaction Rating Than Mac
Digital Daily's John Paczkowski notes that the latest American
Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) this week gave Apple its
highest-ever score - 86 points out of 100, a new record in the
personal-computer category, and one that is nine points higher than
Apple's closest PC competitors, with Hewlett-Packard, Dell, and Acer
tied at a satisfaction rating of 77. Paczkowski observes that Apple has
claimed top spot in the ACSI's personal-computer rankings for seven
straight years, since it beat Dell by one point in 2003.
Impressive, indeed, but Paczkowski informs us of something the ACSI
survey abstract didn't, giving only passing reference to the iPad's
inclusion in the computer category. ACSI's managing director David
VanAmburg told Paczkowski that the iPad actually scored higher than the
Mac, making Apple's tablet the highest-scoring product Apple sells and
therefore the highest-scoring product ACSI has ever recorded consumer
satisfaction data on.
See our full report on the ACSI
survey in today's Mac News Review.
Editor's note: I find Digital Daily's headline somewhat misleading,
as it implies that those who use both an iPad and a Mac find the iPad
more satisfying. What the headline should say is that the iPad earns a
higher satisfaction rating than Macs - quite an accomplishment!
dk
Link: iPad More
Satisfying Than Mac
Apple Certified Refurbished iPads Now
Available
Apple now offers Apple Certified Refurbished iPads through the
online Apple Store. Your editor is generally a big fan of ACR products.
My last two Mac systems and two iPods have all been ACR units, and all
have been excellent performers, with no problems noted, and for a
substantial discount from list prices for new machines, with the same
warranty coverage and AppleCare eligibility. However, these ACR iPads
are selling for only $50 less than a new one. Reportedly they have
completely new outer cases and batteries, but personally I think I
might opt for a new unit with the difference in up-front cost so
slight.
Apple Certified Refurbished Products are preowned (and "open-box")
Apple products that undergo Apple's stringent refurbishment process
prior to being offered for sale. While only some units are returned due
to technical issues, all units undergo Apple's stringent quality
refurbishment process, which means that they are very likely more
thoroughly vetted and tested than new units.
Apple cautions that since ACR units have been unpacked and
manipulated, they might however exhibit some minor cosmetic
imperfection, such as scratches, marks or discolorations, although I
have never detected any such flaws on the four ACR products I've bought
personally.
Each Apple Certified Refurbished Product:
- is fully tested (including full burn-in testing).
- is refurbished with replacement parts for any defective modules
identified in testing.
- is put through a thorough cleaning process and inspection.
- is repackaged (including appropriate manuals, cables, new boxes,
etc.).
- includes the operating software originally shipped with the unit
and the custom software offered with that system. See each products
"Learn More" for more details.
- is given a new refurbished part number and serial number.
- is placed into a Final QA inspection prior to being added to
sellable refurbished stock.
Refurbishment procedures follow the same basic technical guidelines
as Apple's Finished Goods testing procedures.
Apple Certified Refurbished Benefits In Summary:
- Substantial savings
- A fully functional unit with complete documentation
- The assurance that the unit meets Apple's premiere quality
standards, and that its defective components have been replaced by
genuine Apple components
- All Apple Certified Refurbished Products are covered by a one-year
limited warranty. For extended coverage, you have the option of
purchasing the AppleCare Protection Plan with your Apple Certified
Refurbished Product. The AppleCare Protection Plan extends the
complimentary coverage on your Apple Certified Refurbished Product to
up to three years of world-class support for Mac, and up to two years
of world-class support for iPod, iPhone, and Apple TV.
Refurbished unit supply is usually limited and first-come,
first-serve. Apple recommends that you act quickly if you see an item
that you like. A product will be reserved for you once you've completed
checking out and Apple has received full authorized payment.
Pending availability, the 16 GB WiFi model goes for $449, the 32 GB
is at $549, and the 64 GB unit is $649. 3G model refurbished iPads have
yet to become available, with all three 3G models listed as out of
stock, but will sell for $50 off new list, starting at $579 for the 16
GB model.
Link: Apple Store
'Liquid Contact Indicator' Could Change Repair
Policies
MacFixIt's Joe Aimonetti reports:
"Apple has changed the name of one of the key components used to
determine whether or not damage was caused by liquid submersion. Though
the change is subtle, now the Liquid Contact Indicator, it could signal
a change in Apple's repair policies . . . By changing the
name of the sensor, Apple has quite a bit more wiggle room when dealing
with customer service issues regarding liquid damage...."
Editor's note: It was previously called the Liquid Submersion
Indicator. dk
Link: Apple Changes
a Name that Could Change Repair Policies
Touch Panel Supply Chain Gearing Up for 2G iPad in
Early 2011
DigiTimes' Susie Pan and Yvonne Yu report that component suppliers
including touch panel and reinforced glass suppliers for Apple's iPad
are completing validation with Apple for the second-generation 9.7"
iPad, according to sources at Taiwan-based component suppliers, with
Apple expected to launch the second-generation iPad in the
first-quarter of 2011 and shipments for the second-generation iPad at
"the beginning" of the year.
Link: Touch Panel Supply
Chain Gearing Up for Second-Generation iPad Coming in Q1, 2011
(subscription required)
iPad Will Disrupt PC Market by Creating a New Usage
Model
A recent study by leading market research firm Technology Business
Research, Inc. (TBR) finds that the tablet will displace many
consumers' secondary PCs, creating a third major device category for
personal computing and connectivity.
The study points to the success of Apple's iPad as a demonstration
that the consumer seeks quick, easy e-mail and Web access via a device
that features more portability than a laptop PC while providing
instant-on and more usability than a smartphone.
Although laptop PCs will lose some ground to tablets, TBR believes
the market will support all three device styles for computing and
connectivity, including the laptop, tablet and smartphone.
"The rise of tablets is a clear signal of consumers' desire for
different forms of information consumption. Tablet devices, such as the
iPad, will shake up the personal computing ecosystem and the PC
market," says Ezra Gottheil, Senior Analyst at TBR. "Tablets will
displace sales of consumers' secondary laptop PCs, while their primary
PC will continue to maintain its role for tasks such as document
creation, storing files, and editing photographs. The majority of
consumers will still own a PC two or three years down the road, but
they will increasingly leverage other devices for computing and web
access needs."
TBR's iPad & Web Tablet Buyer Study surveyed 500 United
States-based iPad owners and future buyers, who plan to purchase an
iPad in the next six months. Key findings include:
- About a third of buyers replaced or will replace their PC with the
iPad.
- Almost half of buyers use their iPad as their primary computing
device.
- More than 80% of buyers stated the iPad met or exceeded
expectations.
- The TBR iPad & Web Tablet Buyer Study report documents the
emergence of a third connectivity device in the consumer arsenal. The
tablet category will be a vital piece of the computing ecosystem.
"The tablet device will rapidly establish itself as a powerful
information consumption device in both the consumer and business
markets," says TBR President Jon Lindy. "All those in the computing
ecosystem must keep the tablet in mind when putting together their
strategies for 2011 and beyond."
Survey data included:
- Respondent demographics and technology profiles
- Purchase criteria and purchase process
- Device usage and anticipated usage
- Satisfaction and desired improvements
- Attached purchases
Link: Oops,
Steve Jobs Did It Again: Apple's iPad Will Disrupt the PC Market by
Creating a New Usage Model
iPad Way Better than a PC in Two Areas
TechRepublic's Editor in Chief Jason Hiner observes that because of
the iPad, 2010 will likely be remembered as a landmark year in
computing, ranking with 1984 when Apple introduced the first
mass-market graphical user interface with the original Macintosh, and
1995's Windows 95 launch that made PCs much easier to use on the cusp
of the Internet revolution.
However, Hiner contends that as groundbreaking as the iPad is, its
capabilities sometimes get exaggerated. He sums the paradoxical nature
of the iPad up with the shorthand evaluation that the iPad is only good
for two things: Reading/viewing and multitouch interaction.
However, he thinks it has plenty of room to grow.
Link: The Truth About iPad:
It's Only Good for Two Things
Samsung Galaxy Tab: First Real iPad Competitor and
How It Compares
Tablet Computer Geeks reports:
"So it appears that the new Samsung Galaxy Tab may be the first real
tablet of any significance to hit the market. It's an interesting
device that runs on the Android Operating System. Here we show you a
little bit more about the Galaxy Tab and then we compare it to the
iPad.
"The Galaxy Tab is significant for two reasons. It is the first
major competitor to the iPad to come to market and it is also the first
Android tablet to hit the market...."
Editor's note: That first sentence implies that the iPad was not
"the first real tablet of any significance to hit the market." Color us
confused! dk
Link: The First Real
iPad Competitor and How They Compare - Galaxy Tab
BlackBerry Tablet May Be Unveiled Next Week
IDG News Service's Nancy Gohring says that Research in Motion may
introduce a tablet computer next week, according to a Wall Street
Journal report that cited unnamed "RIM insiders," and outlined some
details of what such a tablet might look like with a 7" touchscreen and
one or two built-in cameras, and running new OS software developed by
recently acquired QNX Software Systems instead of the BlackBerry 6
operating system
Link: BlackBerry Tablet
May Appear Next Week - Report
Apps & Services
Ford Debuts Fiesta App on the App Store with
Interactive Sales Brochure
PR: Ford's new Fiesta is adding an app for the Apple iPad to
its list of technology offerings, providing users with interactive
product information, photos, videos and available custom offerings
Fiesta is the first Ford vehicle to use an app to deliver a
one-of-a-kind interactive brochure experience
The now available Fiesta App for iPad offers an interactive
perspective on the vehicle's 15 class-exclusive features, 40 mpg story,
connectivity and accessories. With more than 3 million Apple iPads
sold, launching the Fiesta App in the App store is the perfect
opportunity for Ford to reach out to customers, by creating an
interactive sales brochure that provides a depth of information not
found in a typical dealer brochure.
"Fiesta target consumers are heavily digitally inclined and often
lead the way with new technology adoption. The Fiesta App gives these
customers the information they want, in a format they expect," says
Thomais Zaremba, Ford car marketing communications manager. "It's
another way for us to reach out to customers in the digital and social
media space."
Interactive Information at Your Fingertips
The Fiesta App gives customers interested in a Fiesta a rich
experience with Ford's newest small car, providing a depth of
information that couldn't be achieved in a typical sales brochure.
"This app is purpose built for the iPad to deliver information in a
way that iPad users are accustomed to receiving information. It's very
interactive, yet very educational at the same time," says Zaremba. "It
brings together the gratification of holding a brochure while sharing
interactive content like videos that are typically found on
websites."
App users will be able to check out all of Fiesta's 15
class-exclusive features, including keyless entry and available
push-button start. The screen lets viewers scroll down to each of the
features, where a description and short video then shows how the
technology works.
One screen also details all of the available tattoos and graphics,
with viewers able to scroll through to see the choices for themselves.
The app also describes how the Ford Fiesta with the six-speed
PowerShift automatic transmission achieves an EPA rating of 40 mpg
highway, delivering class-leading fuel economy.
Additional Fiesta App information includes:
- Quality: Informs app users about how Fiesta achieved quality
through strength and quietness
- Safety: Details how Fiesta features seven standard airbags,
including a new driver's knee airbag specifically developed to help
reduce injuries in frontal collisions
- Connectivity: Includes information on how the latest version of
Ford SYNC® with turn-by-turn navigation, a standard audio input
jack and an available audio upgrade will keep Fiesta drivers
connected
- Available accessories: Lets viewers see how they can personalize
their Fiesta, with accessories like an illuminated gear indicator shift
knob, rear spoiler, even a kayak carrier to haul outdoor gear
- Standard and available features: Details the number of standard and
available features that increase convenience and add connectivity on
Fiesta
- Colors: Shows off the choice of nine vivid new colors, from Bright
Magenta to Lime Squeeze to Blue Flame
The Fiesta App is available for free in the App Store.
Editor's note: Incidentally, Ford might devote some engineering
attention to improving iPhone support in its vehicles. According to
Halifax Chronicle Herald photographer and "Gizmo Ninja"
Christian Laforce, while his iPhone 3GS worked well as a phone with the
SYNC in-car communications and entertainment system in a Ford Fiesta
tester, he had heard that SYNC and iPhones don't coordinate very well.
That proved true in his case - the proverbial wheels coming off when
Laforce introduced Bluetooth music streaming to the SYNC equation. He
says he had no problems syncing via Bluetooth and downloading his
contact list to the system, but voice commands controlling media
functions refused to work beyond the "play" instruction, he couldn't
skip ahead using either voice commands or the steering wheel mounted
controls, and switching back and forth from music to phone functions
sometimes rendered both features nonfunctional, so he can't recommend
using an iPhone with SYNC (which, for what it's worth, was developed
for Ford by Microsoft), noting that iPhones don't appear on Ford's list
of devices tested with the system. cm
Link: 2011
Fiesta (download
link)
The Telegraph for iPad
PR: Enjoy the best of the Telegraph, every day, with our
new iPad app - free for a limited period in partnership with Audi. The
app brings you the editors' selections from our award winning daily
newspaper from the sharpest political reporting to in-depth sports
analysis and must-read columnists.
The best of the Telegraph includes the following:
- UK news
- World news
- Sport
- Business
- Comment
- Features and analysis
- Daily cartoon by Matt
Download the app from 5 a.m. (BST) every day. Then read it whenever
you like, even when you're offline.
Look out for upgrades to the app coming soon.
The Telegraph - delivering quality journalism every day.
Version 1.1 released 20 September 2010
Requirements:
- Compatible with iPad.
- Requires iOS 3.2 or later.
Link:
The Telegraph for iPad (download
link)
VLC Media Player Comes to iOS
PR: Applidium's VLC is a free and open source cross-platform
multimedia player and framework, that plays most multimedia files and
various streaming protocols. It is simple to use, yet very powerful and
extendable, and is now available in an iOS version.
VLC has all codecs built-in. It comes with support for nearly all
codec there is. And what is more it can even play back the file or
media if it is damaged! Missing or broken pieces are no stop to VLC, it
plays all the video and audio information that's still intact.
Requirements: Compatible with iPad. Requires iPhone OS 3.2 or
later.
Freeware
Link: VLC for iPad (download
link)
WhisperingWord Biblical Apps Offer Daily Updates
and Forum Discussions
PR: London, England - Announcing that WhisperingWord Ltd.,
the developer of the WhisperingWord iPhone and iPad apps, has just
released the latest update for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad users.
WhisperingWord and WhisperingWord Spanish for iPhone (both version
1.1), and WhisperingWord and WhisperingWord Español for iPad
(version 1.0), give users access to the wisdom and teachings of Victor
Robert Farrell, who has been writing and teaching from the Bible for
over 30 years. The apps are updated with fresh writings daily, and
offer users in-app ebook purchases and a chance to engage in live forum
discussions.
The WhisperingWord Suite of apps features include:
- Word for the week
- Wake Up! Morning devotions
- Night time devotions a.k.a. "Night Whispers"
- Old and New Testament book overviews
- Embedded YouTube videos
- Calendar
- Book Me
- Forum
- Newsletter
- Inform my friends
- Ebooks
- Blog
Through down to Earth, easy to understand overviews, users will come
to fully understand every book of the Bible. These four apps are
designed to help users grow spiritually through fresh daily morning and
evening inspirational writings, called Wake Up! and Night Whispers.
These teachings have been well received the world over, and are updated
twice daily for users to enjoy. Another timed delivery feature is the
Word Of The Week, which is a more in-depth weekly study that often
includes embedded YouTube videos. As the name suggests, this feature is
updated once a week.
The WhisperingWord apps also give users the option to learn even
more by accessing Victor Robert Farrell's daily blog and through in-app
purchases of his many Ebooks. New titles are added regularly.
The calendar feature lets users see Victor's schedule of speaking
engagements, so they can catch him live when he is in their area, and
there's also a "Book Me" feature for those who might want to book him
to speak at a function. These are also the only apps of their kind that
encourage users to expand their spiritual horizons through lively
conversation in topical forum discussions.
Device Requirements:
- iPhone, iPod touch and iPad
- Both iPhone apps require iOS 3.0 or later
- Both iPad apps require iOS 3.2 or later
- iPhone English version 0.6 MB
- iPhone Spanish version 0.7 MB
- Both iPad versions 3.1 MB
WhisperingWord and WhisperingWord Spanish 1.1 for iPhone are free.
WhisperingWord For iPad and WhisperingWord Español for iPad 1.0
are $4.99. The entire suite of apps is available worldwide exclusively
through the App Store in the Lifestyle category. Promo codes are
available for qualified reviewers. Please specify the website or blog
you represent when making your request.
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SiGE2MdQcQ
Link: WhisperingWord for iPhone
(download
link)
Link: WhisperingWord
for iPad (download
link)
The Almighty Bible Goes High Tech: Genesis
Available in iPad/iPhone App on Oct. 1
PR: The recently released print version of The Almighty Bible
- Genesis (first book in the graphic novel series) has been welcomed
with a positive reception from teens, tweens, parents and grandparents
in both Christian and secular communities.
Now, in an effort to continue to develop the series, to further
capture the attention of youth, the team behind this project has
announced the release of an app for the iPad/iPhone. "It is our goal to
create a tool that young people will be eager to revisit outside of
Sunday school, youth group and Bible study sessions." says Kevin
O'Donnell coproducer of the project and creator of the award winning
"Liberty's Kids" from PBS.
In print format, the book already includes images that transform the
greatest stories ever told into beautiful illustrations. Each page is
also accompanied by biblically accurate condensed text that young
people nine and up can easily follow. In addition to what the print
version already offers, the app will provide the reader with narration,
maps, glossary, historical commentary and many other features that are
still being developed as a result of feedback from people like you.
"Kevin and I both come out of the animation world and we've brought
that mindset to creating a bible that we believe will connect with
today's young people." - says Dong Chung, Kevin's partner in the
project.
Now you can be equipped to minister whenever the opportunity arises.
With the app, parents and young people are able to share their
excitement for the Bible by telling the stories in a way that cannot be
done with words alone. Carrying the app in your pocket, it is easier
than ever to share the Bible with your friends, Christians and
non-Christians alike, in a fun way. "We are working directly with youth
ministers around the country to ensure that the new app provides the
tools that parents and youth workers alike will love." - says Pastor
Charles Kim, head of the Advisory Board.
The first app in the series - Genesis - will be released to the
public on Oct. 1 with a live debut of the app at the National Youth
Workers Convention, to be held in San Diego over Oct 1-4.
The Almighty Bible is published by Apple of the Eye Publishing and
produced by Golden Dog and My Legacy Press.
Link: The
Almighty Bible
Commodore 64 Gets BASIC Again as Apple Eases App
Store Rules
PR: The Commodore 64
iOS App is based on the original and all-time famous 8-bit home
computer released by Commodore International in August 1982. The most
recent addition of the hugely popular blue screen BASIC interpreter
enables fans and friends of Commodore 64 to type in their own programs
and re-experience the full-blown eighties retro experience.
In addition, Commodore 64 for
iOS comes with more than 40 retro classics such as International
Karate, Last Ninja I, II & III, Boulder Dash, Space Taxi, Wizball,
Paradroid, Super Pipeline, Uridium and Stormlord.
"We are truly excited to bring back BASIC to the millions of iPhone,
iPod touch and iPad users globally. I really look forward to create my
first few BASIC programs on my iPhone," says Jacob Moller, Chief
Executive Officer at Kiloo.
"It has been tremendous fun to produce the official and fully
licensed Commodore 64 App for iOS. During the development of this most
recent release I've found myself spending hours with BASIC. I hope to
emulate the disk drive so user generated programs can be saved and
loaded again," says Stuart Carnie, Chief Technical Officer at
Manomio.
Commodore 64 is available World Wide for $4.99 from the Apple App
Store on iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad.
Link: Commodore
64 (download
link)
Accessories
eHolster Introduces Front Pocket Wallet with Cell
Phone Pouch
PR: eHolster, LLC, creators of the original
eHolster Modular Shoulder Holster Case System, introduced the unique
and innovative Front Pocket Wallet with Cell Phone Pouch to its
expanding product line. These new leather front pocket wallets are
designed to comfortably fit in a front pocket and include a soft
protective pouch for a cell phone or smartphone.
"The new front pocket wallets combine the best features of a
protective cell phone pouch with the security and accessibility of a
front pocket wallet," stated Scott Quarterman, President of eHolster,
LLC. "Now your wallet items and your cell phone can be safe, secure and
easily accessible from your front pocket."
The Front Pocket Wallet with Cell Phone Pouch includes an
ID holder slot to hold a drivers license or other form of
identification, two card slots to hold credit cards or business cards,
and a zippered coin pocket to hold currency, coins and other flat
items.
The front pocket wallet includes a universal cell phone pouch with
specially designed elastic sides to accommodate most cell phones and
smartphones. The universal cell phone pouch will fit Apple iPhone
devices (such as iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3g, iPhone 2g, iPod
touch, iPod classic), Blackberry devices (such as Blackberry Bold,
Blackberry Curve, Blackberry Storm, Blackberry Pearl, and some older
Blackberry devices), and other smartphone devices.
The Front Pocket Wallet with Cell Phone Pouch is hand-crafted with
soft and supple 100% genuine leather that conforms to a cell phone's
size and shape over time. The inside of the universal cell phone pouch
is made with soft felt material to surround and protect the cell phone
or smartphone.
The Front Pocket Wallet with Cell Phone Pouch is on sale for a
limited time for $34.95 (retail price of $39.95), comes with a limited
lifetime warranty, and is available exclusively eholster.com.
Link: Front Pocket Wallets
Kensington KeyFolio and Folio Cases for iPad
PR: Kensington has announced two cool new iPad accessories -
the Kensington KeyFolio and Folio Cases that give iPad users the
ability to stay protected, connected, and productive with their iPad
everywhere they go.
Kensington KeyFolio Bluetooth Keyboard and Case for iPad (K39294US;
SRP $99.99)
The Kensington KeyFolio not only
protects your iPad when on the road but also provides a handy wireless
Bluetooth keyboard and handsfree stand when you reach your destination,
turning the iPad into a near-netbook. The rubberized keys were
specially designed to cushion your iPad screen from bumps and scratches
when the folio is closed.
Features:
- Durable synthetic leather cover protects your iPad in style
- Provides full access to all iPad controls and 30-pin connector
- Rubberized keys are spill-proof and also protect iPad screen from
scratching when closed
- Bluetooth keyboard delivers wireless operation and includes iPad
specific keys
- Adjustable stand securely holds your iPad in landscape mode
- Uninterrupted working time: 90 hours
- Magnet-free folio case ensures uninterrupted operation of the
iPad's digital compass
Link: Kensington KeyFolio
Bluetooth Keyboard and Case for iPad
Kensington Folio Case for iPad (K39296US; SRP $39.99)
Protect your iPad in style while also gaining a handsfree stand
with the Kensington Folio Case for iPad. The padded interior protects
your iPad from bumps and bruises while on the road, and is remarkably
thin. And when you reach your destination, the folio case with
adjustable stand makes it easy to watch videos, surf the web and
more.
Features:
- Durable synthetic leather cover protects your iPad in style
- Provides full access to all iPad controls and 30-pin connector
- Padded interior delivers ultra-thin cushioning
- Adjustable stand securely holds your iPad in landscape mode and
offers multiple viewing positions
- Magnet-free folio case ensures uninterrupted operation of the
iPad's digital compass
Link: Kensington Folio Case for
iPad
Keycase Folio Deluxe with Built-in Bluetooth
Keyboard for iPad
PR: The Keycase Folio Deluxe case is a perfect companion
for the daily iPad user. Typing emails and documents, and chatting
online on your iPad has never been easier. The case opens up into a
laptop position giving you optimal viewing while you type. It can be
easily folded when the keyboard is not in use.
Built-in Bluetooth 2.0 Keyboard
The Bluetooth 2.0 keyboard allows you to connect to your iPad
seamlessly. The silicone construction helps to protect your keyboard
from accidental spills and allows you type quietly. It is a perfect
companion for typing notes in meetings, at the library, or in class.
The keyboard has a built-in rechargeable battery which lasts for 45
hours per charge and can be charged using the USB connection. Also, the
Bluetooth keyboard can be used to connect to your iPhone, PS3, and any
other Bluetooth device.
Case
Design
The clean design of the case allows you to have easy accessibility
to all the buttons on the iPad. The Magnetic clasp takes up the whole
height of the case which helps to secure your iPad in place.
Brief Overview of Features
- Bluetooth 2.0 Silicone Keyboard
- Leather Style Exterior
- Magnetic Clasp
- Rechargeable keyboard lasts for 45 hours per charge
Keyboard charges through USB cable (included)
- Automatically reconnects when turned on
- The case comes with a 1 year warranty.
- Ships in 1-2 business days and ships from NY
MSRP $129.99
Currently on sale for $99.99
Link:
Keycase Folio Deluxe with Built-in Bluetooth Keyboard for iPad
BMW First Automaker to Offer OEM Seat Holders for
iPad
PR: In the press release issued by BMW for the 2010 Paris
Auto Show, the company announces a BMW holder for the Apple iPad to
debut in the new BMW X3 and to be made available for all other model
series from spring 2011.
The BMW iPad cradle supports portrait and landscape mode viewing,
and rear seat passengers can connect to available WiFi hotspots or
using an Internet-compatible mobile phone or data-enabled SIM card.
At the 2010 Paris Motor Show, BMW showcases a new Bluetooth
interface technology that was created for the Apple iOS 4 operating
system and allows the new Apple iPhone 4 to be integrated, among other
devices. Also on show is the iPod Out function, which optimises the
operation of various Apple devices in the vehicle. New possibilities
for online use are opened up by the WiFi hotspot function that provides
rear-seat passengers using a notebook or iPad with wireless Internet
access while on the move, as well as a globally unique technology for
integrating BlackBerry smartphones in the car, which among other things
permits the display of emails including the text-to-speech
function.
BMW is also incorporating a new Bluetooth interface technology
created specifically for the Apple iOS 4 operating system to allows
integration of the new Apple iPhone 4 and iPod. Introduction of a new
interface technology in 2011 will enable all new BMW models to support
the new iPod Out function of iOS 4. iPod Out broadens the range of
iPhone and Apple iPod touch functions that BMW drivers can use inside
their vehicles.
The iPod Out function allows display and control capability for
music playback from an iPhone or iPod touch using the onboard monitor
and vehicle controls to give drivers direct access to the latest iPod
functions, such as a custom playlist and the Genius function, which
searches the user's library to compile a playlist of tracks that go
well together.
Link: BMW Shows Off the
First OEM Seat Cradles for iPad
USB Fever 6x Telescope with Crystal Case for
iPhone 4G
PR: Don't want to be limited by the iPhone's built-in camera,
now you have a way to "expand" its functions.
This telescope has a 6x expansion that can help you to close up any
objects from afar 6 times.
Advantages:
- avoid contortions of image
- larger luminous flux
- higher visual acuteness
- good for color reduction
- detachable from the crystal case
- 6x optical lens
Recommend usages:
- Watching sports
matches,
- Watching concerts
- Travel
- Remote shots at the zoo
This accessory is compatible with iPhone 4G
Package Contents:
- Crystal Case for iPhone 4G
- Telescope
- Neck Strap
Note:
- This is a fixed 6x optical lens, not a gradual/changeable optical
zoom.
- The crystal case is either in smoky black or Crystal Clear
$18.99
Link: USB
Fever 6x Telescope with Crystal Case for iPhone 4G