The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)http://www.tuaw.comThe Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.tuaw.com/media/feedlogo.gifThe Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)http://www.tuaw.comen-usCopyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/TUAW Holiday Giveaway-tacular Part Four: iPhone partyhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/27/tuaw-holiday-giveaway-tacular-part-four-iphone-party/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/27/tuaw-holiday-giveaway-tacular-part-four-iphone-party/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/27/tuaw-holiday-giveaway-tacular-part-four-iphone-party/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Plenty of folks are probably getting iPhone gift cards this season, and for anyone who wants to make their iPhone the hit of the party (later, once you've actually purchased and activated the thing) here's a lineup for you: some speakers (which fit just about every iPod ever made plus the iPhone), a stylus to keep grubby fingers of your precious, and a case.

I tested the JBL speakers and the stylus. The JBL speakers provide an astonishing amount of sound in such a small package. We turned it up as far as felt safe, and the kids had their fingers in their ears. Plus, at either loud or soft volume the audio was always very clear, not muddled with bass or too tinny on the high end (this was from the iPhone with no EQ).

The Pogo stylus does what it says: provides a poking stick for the iPhone's surface that works. It's a stick, and it pokes -- that's about as good a recommendation as you'll get from a stylus. The thing was just a short piece of aluminum too, so there's no heft at all. If you're used to a Mont Blanc in your hand you may be disappointed, I guess.

Thanks to Dr. Bott for the JBL On Stage 200iD Speakers, iSkin Revo2 iPhone 3G case (in red and black) and a Pogo iPhone stylus.

  • Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older.
  • To enter leave a comment telling us what music you would play on some really loud speakers.
  • The comment must be left before December 31, 11:59PM Eastern Time.
  • You may enter only once.
  • One winner will be selected in a random drawing.
  • Prize: JBL On Stage 200iD Speakers ($149.95), iSkin Revo2 iPhone 3G case ($39.99), Pogo iPhone stylus ($19.95)
  • Click Here for complete Official Rules.

TUAW Holiday Giveaway-tacular Part Four: iPhone party originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sat, 27 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)TUAW Holiday Giveaway-tacular Part Four: iPhone party originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sat, 27 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>3gcasedrbottgiveawayiphoneipodjblspeakersstylusVictor Agreda, Jr.Sat, 27 Dec 2008 17:00:00 ESTTUAW Holiday Giveaway-tacular Part Three: cool portable accessorieshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/26/ptuaw-holiday-giveaway-tacular-part-three-cool-portable-accesso/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/26/ptuaw-holiday-giveaway-tacular-part-three-cool-portable-accesso/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/26/ptuaw-holiday-giveaway-tacular-part-three-cool-portable-accesso/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Were you lucky enough to get one of Apple's new, greener portables? Today's prize bundle is geared for the mobile computer user and includes a Thermapak lap pad that helps to cool the machine, a lock to secure the machine in public and an iKlear polish kit for the screen.

I had a chance to use the lap cooling pad, and on my 1st-gen MacBook Pro running Flash and getting quite hot, the pad did a great job of cooling the machine down. There are crystals inside the pad, and as they get hot, they melt, which helps dissipate the heat. My lap no longer felt hot, and when I lifted up the computer the bottom didn't feel painful to the touch. The pad had gone from crunchy to gooey as well, which my kids thought was awesome.

Thanks to Dr. Bott for the prizes today, each of which are among their most popular items.

  • Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older.
  • To enter leave a comment on this post.
  • The comment must be left before December 31, 11:59PM Eastern Time.
  • You may enter only once.
  • One winner will be selected in a random drawing.
  • Prize: Thermapak Laptop cooling pad ($30), MicroSaver notebook lock ($44.99), iKlear Apple Polish kit ($24.95),
  • Click Here for complete Official Rules.

TUAW Holiday Giveaway-tacular Part Three: cool portable accessories originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Fri, 26 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)TUAW Holiday Giveaway-tacular Part Three: cool portable accessories originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Fri, 26 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>drbottgiveawayholidashholidaylaptopnotebookVictor Agreda, Jr.Fri, 26 Dec 2008 14:00:00 ESTSo you just got a hard drive -- now what?http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/25/so-you-just-got-a-hard-drive-now-what/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/25/so-you-just-got-a-hard-drive-now-what/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/25/so-you-just-got-a-hard-drive-now-what/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

All day on December 25, TUAW presents "Now What?" We've got first steps and recommendations for all the Apple gifts you (hopefully!) found under the tree today. Happy holidays!

Some good soul gifted you with a hard drive for the holidays. I can't think of a better gift! There are two ways to use that extra disk space -- the right way, which I'll get to in a moment, and the way many people do it, which is to just expand their disk space because they are running out of room.

I'm here to tell you that is the wrong thing to do with a new hard drive if you don't have a backup strategy already. Let's make a few assumptions here. The new drive has a USB 2.0 interface, or it has a Firewire 400 or 800 interface. It also is at least as large as your primary hard drive. Even better if it is bigger. Use that drive as a backup device, not for more disk space. Old hands around computers already know this, but if you are just getting started, it really is extra important to have all your files duplicated on another drive.

With any computer, stuff happens, like a sudden power surge, a drive failure, or a kid in the house who loves to see how the Mac trash can works. Can you really afford to lose all those pictures, emails, documents and CDs you lovingly ripped to iTunes? I didn't think so.

Getting a heavy duty back up is not too challenging. If you plug a brand new drive in, your Mac (assuming you have Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard) will ask you if you'd like to use it as a Time Machine drive. Time Machine is Apple's built-in backup solution, and it is great for people who constantly change or update files and sometimes have a good reason to go back and get the old versions. The larger your extra drive, the further you can 'go back in time'. Time Machine allows you to restore all the data, but it can take several hours and may require your original system DVD if your machine isn't bootable.

Read on for more...

Continue reading So you just got a hard drive -- now what?

So you just got a hard drive -- now what? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 25 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)So you just got a hard drive -- now what? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 25 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>backupCarbon Copy ClonerFeaturessecuritySuperDuperTime MachineTimeMachineMel MartinThu, 25 Dec 2008 17:30:00 ESTTUAW Holiday Giveaway-tacular Part Two: so you got a used nano?http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/25/tuaw-holiday-giveaway-tacular-part-two-so-you-got-a-used-nano/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/25/tuaw-holiday-giveaway-tacular-part-two-so-you-got-a-used-nano/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/25/tuaw-holiday-giveaway-tacular-part-two-so-you-got-a-used-nano/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Budgets are tight, we get that. So this holiday season, if all you could afford for yourself or a loved one was a 3rd-gen nano, we've got a trio of cases for you: one for running, one for general protection and one with little built-in speakers, for sing-alongs.

Again, courtesy Dr. Bott: ifrogz Audiowrapz ($24.99), Griffin Streamline ($20.99), ifrogz Treadz ($14.95)

  • Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older.
  • To enter leave a comment telling us what your favorite color is, if you have one.
  • The comment must be left before December 31, 11:59PM Eastern Time.
  • You may enter only once.
  • One winner will be selected in a random drawing.
  • Prize: ifrogz Audiowrapz ($24.99), Griffin Streamline ($20.99), ifrogz Treadz ($14.95)
  • Click Here for complete Official Rules.

TUAW Holiday Giveaway-tacular Part Two: so you got a used nano? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 25 Dec 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)TUAW Holiday Giveaway-tacular Part Two: so you got a used nano? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 25 Dec 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>3g nano3gNanoaccessoriescasedrbottgiveawayipodnanoVictor Agreda, Jr.Thu, 25 Dec 2008 15:30:00 ESTTUAW Holiday Giveaway-tacular Part One: the active iPodderhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/24/tuaw-holiday-giveaway-tacular-part-one-the-active-ipodder/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/24/tuaw-holiday-giveaway-tacular-part-one-the-active-ipodder/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/24/tuaw-holiday-giveaway-tacular-part-one-the-active-ipodder/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


For the next 5 days we're giving away a bunch of stuff from our friends at Dr. Bott. Check back each day for a new chance to win a bundle of goodies, each with a theme.

Today the theme is "the active iPodder," or all those folks you see running with their iPods strapped to their arms. So we're including the Marware Sportsuit for a long-distance runner (holds up to 160 GB of music) and an EcoRunner 4th-gen nano strap for shorter distances. Plus, you'll want to hear your music while you drive around (perhaps to wherever you're going to run), so we're throwing a Griffin iTrip Auto SE in the mix.

I have tried the latest versions of these iTrip devices, and I have to say they are much better than previous models. Provided you have a clear channel, the signal is strong enough to provide a decent FM sound. My wife, a conisseur of nano wrist straps, was duly impressed with the EcoRunner -- it fits on your arm as well and is supposed to be more green by not using neoprene as the primary material. We didn't give it a long test, as giving away sweaty merchandise isn't cool, but our 1st-gen nano fit (thanks to the way the sleeve is made), which was cool.

Win a Marware 4th-gen nano wrist/arm strap, a Griffin iTrip, a Marware Sportsuit Convertible for iPod classic (80 and 160 GB versions) and the very last of our now old-skool TUAW t-shirt (only available in small). To enter, just tell us whether you are a runner, a cyclist or none of the above.

  • Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older.
  • To enter leave a comment telling us whether you are a runner, a cyclist or none of the above.
  • The comment must be left before December 31, 11:59PM Eastern Time.
  • You may enter only once.
  • One winner will be selected in a random drawing.
  • Prize: TUAW t-shirt ($5), Marware Sportsuit Convertible for iPod classic ($34.99), Griffin iTrip Auto ($69.99), Marware Eco Runner ($34.99)
  • Click Here for complete Official Rules.

TUAW Holiday Giveaway-tacular Part One: the active iPodder originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)TUAW Holiday Giveaway-tacular Part One: the active iPodder originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>casegiveawayipoditriprunningt-shirtVictor Agreda, Jr.Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:00:00 ESTKeep your New Year's resolutions: a Holiday Gift Guidehttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/18/keep-your-new-years-resolutions-a-holiday-gift-guide/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/18/keep-your-new-years-resolutions-a-holiday-gift-guide/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/18/keep-your-new-years-resolutions-a-holiday-gift-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ahhhh, New Year's resolutions. You promise that you're going to take better care of yourself, improve your life, and then you usually break all of those resolutions by January 2nd. This year's going to be different, right? Here are some gift ideas to help you keep your 2009 New Year's resolutions.

Weight Loss

Unless you're the lean and mean marathon Mac man and real-life action figure Adam Engst, you could probably afford to lose some weight. Resolving to lose a few pounds is a classic New Year's resolution, and one that's very easy to break. Fortunately, there are some Mac and iPhone applications that can help you to stay the course:

CalorieKing Nutrition & Exercise Manager for Mac OS X -- This US$45.00 application has a huge food database and makes it simple to drag-and-drop caloric information into a food diary. Exercise tracking and a weight log are included as well.

BeFit -- TUAW covered the debut of this US$15.95 Mac application earlier this year, and it remains a good program for tracking what you put in your mouth. Remember, you can get BeFit at half-price if you're a current Jon Brown Designs customer.

Continue reading Keep your New Year's resolutions: a Holiday Gift Guide

Keep your New Year's resolutions: a Holiday Gift Guide originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Keep your New Year's resolutions: a Holiday Gift Guide originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>exercisegiftsiphoneipodmacmeditationnikeplusrelaxresponsible drinkingResponsibleDrinkingstop smokingStopSmokingweight lossWeightLossSteven SandeThu, 18 Dec 2008 09:00:00 ESTHands-on with Element Case and your chance to win a TUAW versionhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/16/hands-on-with-element-case-and-your-chance-to-win-a-tuaw-version/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/16/hands-on-with-element-case-and-your-chance-to-win-a-tuaw-version/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/16/hands-on-with-element-case-and-your-chance-to-win-a-tuaw-version/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


We get a small number of physical products to review around here, and the streets are thick with iPhone cases of every variety -- but Element Case stood out. These aren't generic leather or plastic cases, they are somewhat beefier plastic cases available with metal, carbon or wood accents and sporting magnetic "flip" lids. The added surface area makes it a little easier to play games, especially if you're getting cramps playing Fieldrunner all day. At the end of this review we've got a special-edition TUAW Element Case to give away.

The phone is secure in the case because you have to unscrew the bottom of the case, slide the phone in, and put the screws back in. There are ports along the sides that allow you to access everything you'd normally need: camera, volume, sync cable port. You can't put the phone in the dock, however. The "flip" lid is a piece of plastic with magnets, and those magnets lock onto the screws. The lid attaches to the back of the case when you need access to the screen -- a nice design feature.

I'm not sure all this protection adds any shock absorption, but the phone certainly feels sturdier with a rigid casing on the outside. For games, the added surface area was welcome, even more ergonomic. Speaking of the casing, you can choose a CNC-machined version with a base in aluminum alloy (fits first-gen iPhones), but my model was the "Liquid" edition, which is injection-molded plastic (fits both 1st-gen and 3G iPhones). There's a slightly fancier plastic model with some wood veneer on the back, plus a nickel-plated model and a very limited-run of the "CRG" model. The only problem with all this is that several of the cases are for the 1st-gen iPhone only (like the CRG), so you'll have to peruse the shop and see what's available. Essentially everything is limited-run, which adds to the cache value of your case, if that's your thing. No designer case would be complete without customization, and Element Case will custom-engrave a design on the lid or back of your case.

Gallery: Element Case

Continue reading Hands-on with Element Case and your chance to win a TUAW version

Hands-on with Element Case and your chance to win a TUAW version originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Hands-on with Element Case and your chance to win a TUAW version originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>caseelementcaseiphoneplasticsportVictor Agreda, Jr.Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:00:00 ESTInfectious offers discount for TUAW readershttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/11/infectious-offers-discount-for-tuaw-readers/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/11/infectious-offers-discount-for-tuaw-readers/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/11/infectious-offers-discount-for-tuaw-readers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


I am a huge fan of Gelaskins, and my iPhone has boasted one since I discovered a display at a small Toronto store back in May. Adhesive art for your iPhone, iPod, and Mac is a fantastic concept and a great way to express yourself beyond the typical hardware case.

Infectious is another site that offers art for laptops, cars, and more. They have recently launched a line for the iPhone. The site currently has 38 different pieces of art for the iPhone, and is currently on sale for $9.99. The Infectious stickers will fit both generations of iPhones.

You will get a large piece of art for the back of the phone, and a smaller one for the front that goes over the Home button. The artwork for the front of the iPhone is a fantastic feature that Gelaskins doesn't have, and one that I find very attractive. It makes it easy to spot your phone without having to flip it over to check the back or activate the screen to check the wallpaper.

Art for laptops is starts at $29.99 and will fit the Powerbook G4, iBook, MacBook, MacBook Pro and MacBook Air. The artwork is made on 3M vinyl material and can be easily removed to put on another piece.

Infectious is currently offering a deal for TUAW readers. Use discount code TuawRocks for 10% off from now until December 31.

Infectious offers discount for TUAW readers originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Infectious offers discount for TUAW readers originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>accessoriesartgelaskinsibookinfectiousiphonemacbookmacbook proMacbookPropowerbookMegan LaveyThu, 11 Dec 2008 17:00:00 ESTSolar powered iPhone case may not work when visiting the Sunhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/08/solar-powered-iphone-case-for-hip-professionals-may-not-work-whe/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/08/solar-powered-iphone-case-for-hip-professionals-may-not-work-whe/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/08/solar-powered-iphone-case-for-hip-professionals-may-not-work-whe/#commentsFiled under: ,

Eco-friendly traveler? Check! Hip professional? Check! Outdoor enthusiast? Check! Hip profess--wait a minute! OK, so Solar Arcadia may not have the greatest product pages around but that does not stop them from offering this environmentally friendly piece of iPhone case awesomeness.

The case is essentially a lithium ion battery pack with a solar panel that doubles as a flip cover for the iPhone. The construction is said to be leather, however I cannot imagine this being very kind to Mother Nature. There is also an LED status indicator that informs you of the capacity of the case's battery pack when charging and discharging.

The instruction manual notes that an empty iPhone battery can be re-charged in 3 hours when the included Li-Ion battery pack is full. When the battery pack is empty you can set the case to direct charge mode and get your iPhone recharge on straight from the power of the Sun itself!

Note that it does take a full 12 hours of direct sunlight to fully charge an empty iPhone battery, and in December that much sunlight could be hard to come by (at least here in the Northern Hemisphere). However, it is possible to charge the case's battery pack without being attached to the iPhone. So, if you are on a long flight with a window seat it's possible to charge your backup battery while watching the latest episode of Family Guy that you torrented bought from iTunes.

The case may not be the most attractive and is not to be used in conditions where it gets to be hotter than 150° F -- but these things are unimportant. You care about the environment; this is why you bought a Prius and hold the MPG record for your local hyper-miling club. Now get out there and begin harvesting all of that solar energy! Besides, there isn't a wind-powered iPhone case available... not yet, anyway.

Thanks Kirk for sending this in!

Solar powered iPhone case may not work when visiting the Sun originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Solar powered iPhone case may not work when visiting the Sun originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>caseiphoneiphone 3giphone3gsolarsolar powerSolarPowerAron TrimbleMon, 08 Dec 2008 18:15:00 ESTSilicon iPhone case aids the visually impairedhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/08/silicon-iphone-case-aids-the-visually-impaired/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/08/silicon-iphone-case-aids-the-visually-impaired/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/08/silicon-iphone-case-aids-the-visually-impaired/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Invisual iPhone case by Critica is unique, having been designed for the blind and visually impaired. It encloses the entire device and features bas-relief buttons that coincide with a modified home page (you'll have to shuffle some icons around first). The coolest thing is that Critica claims it doesn't interfere with the screen's touch sensitivity or performance at all. The high contrast when the backlight is engaged will benefit the visually impaired.

It's just a prototype right now, so no release or pricing information is available. Critica has also stated that a forthcoming application will contribute to its functionality. If we hear any more about this unique case, we'll let you know.

Back in April, AT&T announced the Text Accessibility Plan's (TAP) for iPhone and iPhone 3G, which was designed for deaf users as well as those who are hard of hearing.

[Via Apartment Therapy]

Silicon iPhone case aids the visually impaired originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Silicon iPhone case aids the visually impaired originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>caseiphonevisually impairedVisuallyImpairedDave CaoloMon, 08 Dec 2008 11:00:00 ESTLivespeakr now accepting pre-ordershttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/08/livespeakr-now-accepting-pre-orders/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/08/livespeakr-now-accepting-pre-orders/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/08/livespeakr-now-accepting-pre-orders/#commentsFiled under: , ,



When we first wrote about the promising Livespeakr, the creator was still looking for a manufacturing partner. According to the Livespeakr website, pre-orders for the ultra-portable speaker system are now being accepted.

Just to refresh our memories, the Livespeaker is a speaker cradle that holds the iPhone/iPod. The speakers are protected against RF (radio frequency) noise, so you can enjoy pristine audio without the cell signal getting in the way. The speakers will expand, rotate, and contract to fit movie/Cover Flow viewing angles, and will fit in your pocket. The speakers are powered by rechargeable batteries, or AC adapter.

You can find more information about the speakers on the Livespeakr website. On the store page, you can pre-order the speakers for $99.99US in either black or white. The price is discounted by $30US for the first 2,000 orders. Pricing will return to $129.99US after the 2,000 orders have been placed. Availability is expected around January 26, 2009.

Livespeakr now accepting pre-orders originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Livespeakr now accepting pre-orders originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>accessoriesiPhoneiPhone 3GIphone3giPod touchiPod touch 2nd generationIpodTouchIpodTouch2ndGenerationspeakersCory BohonMon, 08 Dec 2008 09:00:00 ESTLivescribe and the Pulse Smartpen on the Machttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/05/livescribe-and-the-pulse-smartpen-on-the-mac/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/05/livescribe-and-the-pulse-smartpen-on-the-mac/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/05/livescribe-and-the-pulse-smartpen-on-the-mac/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The Pulse Smartpen has been around for a while, but until late last month the desktop software from Livescribe was Windows-only. The pen captures what you write, and the desktop app allows you to store and playback your writing and captured audio on your computer. I had a chance to test drive the Pulse and the beta version of the Mac app, and now we're giving that demo unit to one lucky TUAW reader. Details on the giveaway at the end of the review.

I was informed that some of the folks who had a hand in creating the Mac app for Livescribe were honest-to-Jobs former Apple employees and the app is written in Cocoa -- a refreshing change of pace in a world beset by hasty Mac ports. Livescribe Desktop on the Mac certainly looks and behaves as a Mac app should, but unfortunately the Mac version doesn't yet have all the features of the Windows version. Now there's a familiar refrain.

On the Mac, you can print your pages but to save as a PDF you drop into the Print dialog. That's pretty normal. You can export audio recordings as AAC files. What you can't do is marry the animation of your drawings (that is, the replay of your writing) with the audio for export. On the Windows version you can export a Flash file that shows you drawing and plays audio as it was recorded. Of course, the app is still in beta, and the feature is coming, but this is a limitation for some. There are other features "coming soon" I'll describe in the main review.

Check out the gallery for lots of screenshots and close-ups of the pen. If you're the impatient sort, I can say that I really like the pen and the software. There's a "gee whiz" factor when you see your notes "playing" on the screen, with audio, and the pages turn as it progresses. If you need digital copies of everything you write, or want to capture a lecture with written notes, there's simply nothing this compact and efficient. Read on for the full details.

Gallery: Pulse Smartpen Livescribe Desktop for Mac public beta

startup screensyncthe boxInfrared camera and sync portpiano application

Continue reading Livescribe and the Pulse Smartpen on the Mac

Livescribe and the Pulse Smartpen on the Mac originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Livescribe and the Pulse Smartpen on the Mac originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>gadgetlivescribepulse penPulsePenusbVictor Agreda, Jr.Fri, 05 Dec 2008 07:00:00 ESTApple finally offers in-ear headphones for salehttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/02/apple-finally-offers-in-ear-headphones-for-sale/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/02/apple-finally-offers-in-ear-headphones-for-sale/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/02/apple-finally-offers-in-ear-headphones-for-sale/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We were recently wondering what happened to the in-ear headphones that Apple promised way back in September. Today, we're happy to see that the online Apple Store is finally offering them for sale with free shipping and delivery listed as 7-10 days.

These headphones promise to be of higher quality than the standard buds that ship with the iPhone. In addition to better drivers and sound isolation they include the new combo mic / remote that offers volume control on certain late model iPods (basically, the presently shipping models only). If you manage to grab a pair let us know what you think.

[via Engadget]

Apple finally offers in-ear headphones for sale originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Apple finally offers in-ear headphones for sale originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>headphonesin-ear headphonesIn-earHeadphonesMat LuTue, 02 Dec 2008 12:00:00 ESTWhat to get the person with everything - Holiday Gift Guidehttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/26/what-to-get-the-person-with-everything-holiday-gift-guide/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/26/what-to-get-the-person-with-everything-holiday-gift-guide/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/26/what-to-get-the-person-with-everything-holiday-gift-guide/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If your diamond-encrusted iPod case is wearing out, or you simply must coat your new MacBook in gold, this list is for you. Presenting the most expensive, ridiculous and sublime gifts for the Apple fan in your life.




18-karat gold iPod shuffle
It isn't enough to have a gold shuffle. How about a gold shuffle that cost you more than $10,000? Or even twice that? Well, here you go -- this coating will cost you plenty but it does come with a wooden box and a certificate.

Casa Gi Diamond Earbuds
There's an entire industry around diamond-and-gold audio headgear. Just check out this gallery over at Luxist. The Casa Gi set (from Italy, of course) wins points because I think they look like I would have seen them on "Falcon Crest," had earbuds been around in the 80's.

Beatles Collector's Box
Even though we may not see the Beatles in iTunes any time soon, you can still cram them into your iPod the old fashioned way: rip them. Yes, even this $795 set makes you put the music into iTunes yourself. It comes with 13 of the fab four's CD's, however and a 120GB iPod classic, but still... I guess you could throw in a Ripstyles offer?

The Ultimate Minimalist Desk
If you didn't already know, Steve Jobs doesn't like cords and clutter. If I bought him a gift, I'd send him this desk. In steel, definitely.

Keep reading for more diamonds, a fridge that acts as an iPhone accessory, and more.

Gallery: Really expensive Mac and iPod, iPhone stuff

Continue reading What to get the person with everything - Holiday Gift Guide

What to get the person with everything - Holiday Gift Guide originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 26 Nov 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)What to get the person with everything - Holiday Gift Guide originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 26 Nov 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>giftshggholidashholidayholiday gift guideHolidayGiftGuideseasonVictor Agreda, Jr.Wed, 26 Nov 2008 15:30:00 ESTA Holiday Gift Guide for the frequent travelerhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/25/a-holiday-gift-guide-for-the-frequent-traveler/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/25/a-holiday-gift-guide-for-the-frequent-traveler/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/25/a-holiday-gift-guide-for-the-frequent-traveler/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If the favorite people on your holiday gift list spend more time in hotels and airports than they do hanging out with you, then we can help. This guide to gifts for the frequent traveler is sure to put a smile on the face of your friends or loved ones wherever their travels may take them in 2009.

Power on the go
With rare exceptions, it's almost impossible to find an airport or hotel room with enough power outlets for all of your electronic gadgets. Rather than challenging someone to a duel with presentation laser pointers to see who gets to use the one available airport outlet, I've come up with a more peaceful solution -- carrying a compact multiple outlet with me.

Belkin's Mini Surge Protector with USB Charger (at right, above) can handle three AC and two USB devices simultaneously. It's tiny and light, and fits just in just about any laptop case.

My personal favorite is the Monster Cable Outlets To Go Power Strip (below), which fits six widely-spaced grounded AC outlets in a very flat 8.5" x 2.25" x 1.8" box. This one works very well with those obnoxious adapters that cover two or three outlets by themselves, and is perfect for sharing a single power outlet with five total strangers. If more people carried these in their laptop cases, there would be world peace...at least in airports. It's also available in even more compact 3 and 4 outlet models.


Continue reading A Holiday Gift Guide for the frequent traveler

A Holiday Gift Guide for the frequent traveler originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 12:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)A Holiday Gift Guide for the frequent traveler originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 12:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>amazon kindleAmazonKindlebackpackexternal hard driveExternalHardDrivegarmin nuviGarminNuvigpsholidashholiday gift guideHolidayGiftGuideiphone3glaptop caseLaptopCasepower stripPowerStripsurge protectorSurgeProtectorSteven SandeTue, 25 Nov 2008 12:48:00 ESTA "gaming shield" for the iPhone and 3Ghttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/17/a-gaming-shield-for-the-iphone-and-3g/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/17/a-gaming-shield-for-the-iphone-and-3g/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/17/a-gaming-shield-for-the-iphone-and-3g/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


I have a feeling people will probably love these or hate these, but personally, I like the fact that they look a little different than most iPhone cases out there. The folks at Element Cases sent us a note about their new "gaming shields" for the iPhone. If you're trying to make your iPhone look different, they'll certainly help. Marketed towards gamers, the cases offer impact protection and an easier form factor to hold on to, even during raucous games of MotoChaser.

I also like their "Flip-Lid" idea -- the front of the case is retained by magnets, and can be "flipped" to the back of the case for storage while you use the iPhone. It's a neat way to keep the front covered without that awkward flap that some cases use.

My iPhone is currently sitting in an iSkin Revo (I like how thin and tough it is, even though it grabs lint from my pocket like crazy), and my iPod is in an awesome leather Vaja case. However, if I ever picked up an iPod touch for using around the house, I'd definitely consider this -- at $99US it's a bit pricey, but for a custom-built case that adds rugged style to your iPhone, it's worth checking out.

Special note: next week TUAW will be giving away 5 of these. Each case is a custom order, so winners will be able to customize the case before they receive them. - Ed.

A "gaming shield" for the iPhone and 3G originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)A "gaming shield" for the iPhone and 3G originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>colorfuldesignelementelement-casesflip-lidgamingiphoneiskin-revolidmagnetsmotochaserMike SchrammMon, 17 Nov 2008 18:00:00 ESTBelkin's Switch-to-Mac USB Cablehttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/12/belkins-switch-to-mac-usb-cable/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/12/belkins-switch-to-mac-usb-cable/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/12/belkins-switch-to-mac-usb-cable/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Peripheral maker Belkin has taken note of the fact that a lot of people are switching to Macs. Their new Switch-to-Mac USB Cable, available in the US now for US$49.99, is designed to streamline the process of moving files from your PC running Windows XP or Vista to your Mac running Tiger or Leopard.

The cable comes with a Migration Assistant that performs a similar function to Apple's Migration Assistant -- it copies music, movies, photos, files, and Internet preferences from the PC to the Mac at USB 2.0 speeds. At the completion of the migration, the software provides a summary of all of the content that has been copied and the location of the files.

Belkin says the Switch-to-Mac USB Cable is on sale in the US now, and it will be available in Canada, Asia, Europe and Australia beginning in February, 2009.

Belkin's Switch-to-Mac USB Cable originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Belkin's Switch-to-Mac USB Cable originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>belkinmigrationpcswitcherusbSteven SandeWed, 12 Nov 2008 15:25:00 ESTWin a CardScan Executive for Machttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/23/win-a-cardscan-executive-for-mac/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/23/win-a-cardscan-executive-for-mac/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/23/win-a-cardscan-executive-for-mac/#commentsFiled under: , ,

TUAW reported on the new CardScan Executive for Mac in late September, and now you have a chance to win one in an exclusive TUAW giveaway. It's the sweet little scanner seen at right. No, you don't get the iPhone along with it -- that's only in the picture to give you a sense of how small the CardScan really is.

We have a nicely repackaged review unit all ready to ship to one lucky reader to be randomly selected via the comments. To enter, leave a comment and tell us approximately how many business cards (other than your own) you currently have stashed around your home / office / bedroom.
  • Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older.
  • To enter leave a comment telling us how many business cards you currently have.
  • The comment must be left before October 31, 11:59PM Eastern Time.
  • You may enter only once.
  • One winner will be selected in a random drawing.
  • Prize: CardScan Executive for Mac ($259.99)
  • Click Here for complete Official Rules.
Good luck!

Win a CardScan Executive for Mac originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Win a CardScan Executive for Mac originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>business cardsBusinessCardsgiveawaymacscannerSteven SandeThu, 23 Oct 2008 12:00:00 ESTDOTS gloves let you use your iPhone even when it's coldhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/22/dots-gloves-let-you-use-your-iphone-even-when-its-cold/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/22/dots-gloves-let-you-use-your-iphone-even-when-its-cold/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/22/dots-gloves-let-you-use-your-iphone-even-when-its-cold/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


This is pretty brilliant in its own special way. Let's paint the scene -- you're wandering the cold streets of Chicago a few months from now, and you're wondering where the closest pizza place is. You whip out your iPhone to pull up the Google Maps application, but wait -- your hands are covered in gloves, and no matter how much you try to swipe the screen, you can't get it to register your swipes, much less hit those little keys on the keyboard. But it's too cold to take your gloves off -- what do you do?

Solution: DOTS gloves. They've got little smooth plastic "dots" built into the fingertips so you can control a touchscreen even while your hands are kept warm. Like I said, genius in its own way. However, I haven't actually used them, so I can't say for sure they work the way we'd expect. While they specifically mention them working on the iPhone, I've had trouble in the past getting the iPhone to register materials other than my finger. Still, if you want to take their word for it, $15 is cheap for a good pair of knit gloves anyway. If you're in the market for a new pair this winter and know you won't want to have to take your gloves off just to work a touchscreen, seems like a good deal to me.

[via Waxy]

DOTS gloves let you use your iPhone even when it's cold originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 21:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)DOTS gloves let you use your iPhone even when it's cold originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 21:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>chicagocoldcontroldotsdots-glovesfingeriphonewinterMike SchrammWed, 22 Oct 2008 21:09:00 ESTIPEVO TR-10 designed for iChat, GarageBandhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/17/ipevo-tr-10-designed-for-ichat-garageband/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/17/ipevo-tr-10-designed-for-ichat-garageband/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/17/ipevo-tr-10-designed-for-ichat-garageband/#commentsFiled under: ,

While most VoIP devices are made for Skype, IPEVO has made a version of its TR-10 conference phone with the Mac in mind: It can be used with both iChat and GarageBand.

For iChat conversations, the device can be used either as a speakerphone or traditional handset with full-duplex audio and echo cancellation. The buttons on the front of the device can be programmed to start iChat or record calls.

For GarageBand, the TR-10 can be used as an audio input device to record podcasts. The device only works with a Mac.

IPEVO sells the TR-10 for $79.90 in its online store.

[Via Engadget.]

IPEVO TR-10 designed for iChat, GarageBand originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)IPEVO TR-10 designed for iChat, GarageBand originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>garagebandichatipevotr-10voipRobert PalmerFri, 17 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST