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/eeeMac creator tells you how to do it yourselfhttp://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/07/eeemac-creator-tells-you-how-to-do-it-yourself/http://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/07/eeemac-creator-tells-you-how-to-do-it-yourself/http://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/07/eeemac-creator-tells-you-how-to-do-it-yourself/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


A little while ago, we posted about Gregory Cohen's eeeMac -- he modded an eeePC into an OS X-running ultraportable, including adding a little Apple icon on the back. And now, he's posted how he did it all on a blog, so that if you've got a few Saturday afternoons, an eeePC to destroy, and a big interest in making a really tiny (fake) Mac, you can do it too. And even if you don't want to crack the case and do a little modding, you can still try to just get OS X running on the little machine -- Gregory has done all the hard work for you and boiled everything you need down into a 22mb disk image (you'll also need a retail OS X disc, of course).

Very cool. I'd never have the time or insight to put one of these together, but I can definitely marvel at the achievement.

eeeMac creator tells you how to do it yourself originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)eeeMac creator tells you how to do it yourself originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>disk-imageeeemaceeepcgregory-cohenhacksmodos-xsaturday-afternoonstinyMike SchrammWed, 07 Jan 2009 15:45:00 ESTMulti-Touch Trackpad Update for Windows & Vistahttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/18/multi-touch-trackpad-update-for-windows-and-vista/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/18/multi-touch-trackpad-update-for-windows-and-vista/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/18/multi-touch-trackpad-update-for-windows-and-vista/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Last night, Apple released a Windows update for MacBook machines running Boot Camp. It's not clear yet whether you can or should install this on all MacBook/MacBook Pro models, or just the newest (unibody) versions. If you've been running Windows on these new MacBooks, then you know how fickle the Multi-Touch trackpads are. This update will hopefully help matters, as we've received quite a few tips about trackpad problems in Windows (not to mention the numerous postings on the Apple discussion boards).

Apple tell us that the update "Improves the performance of the Apple Multi-Touch trackpad when running Microsoft Windows XP and Windows Vista on a Mac computer using Boot Camp."

You can download this update from the Apple Support Downloads website. It is a Windows executable, so you will need to be running Windows to install it. It is available for both Windows XP & Vista.

On a side note, the download page for the update shows an... interesting, and previously unknown version of Vista, at least to anyone browsing right now (it will probably be fixed shortly). We can only imagine that "Widows Vista" is coming soon to a computer near you.

Thanks to Ryan, and others who sent this in!

Multi-Touch Trackpad Update for Windows & Vista originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Multi-Touch Trackpad Update for Windows & Vista originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>BootCampbreakingnewsMacBookMacBook AirMacBook ProMacbookAirMacbookProCory BohonThu, 18 Dec 2008 17:30:00 ESTMacBook Pro tip: resetting SMC saved my dayhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/14/macbook-pro-tip-saved-my-day/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/14/macbook-pro-tip-saved-my-day/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/14/macbook-pro-tip-saved-my-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Here's a timely tip if the battery on your Intel based Mac laptop seems to be operating at less than optimum performance.

The other day I took my MacBook Pro off the charger and was surprised to see only an hour and 40 minutes of run time, even though the battery was fully charged and only a few months old. It didn't seem right, and I went immediately on the web to make a Genius appointment at our local Apple Store. Then I did a little digging around Apple support documents and found one that seemed promising.

Was it possible I needed to reset the SMC (System Management Controller)? Well, dutifully following the instructions, I shut down my laptop, removed the power cord and unhooked the battery. I held down the power button for 5 seconds, put the power cord back on, and inserted the battery. Surprise surprise, my computer started up and showed about 4 hours of time left on the battery when I went back off the charger. Better still, it really did hold up for that amount of time, so things were back to normal. I canceled my Genius appointment and spent the day congratulating myself for finding the tip, and getting my battery back in shape.

The SMC is a chip on the motherboard that can lose its way, and in my case it needed a little kick to get itself sorted out. This chip has been the focus of some controversy in the past, and Apple has updated the SMC firmware repeatedly. Anyway, this fix worked for me -- might work for you. Here's the link to the Apple Support Document. There are instructions for the Intel MacBooks, MacBook Pros, and the new MacBook Air. Be there or be square.

MacBook Pro tip: resetting SMC saved my day originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sun, 14 Dec 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)MacBook Pro tip: resetting SMC saved my day originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sun, 14 Dec 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>battery drainIntel laptopsSMCtroubleshootingMel MartinSun, 14 Dec 2008 13:45:00 ESTApple issues SMC and Firmware update for all unibody MacBookshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/10/apple-issues-smc-and-firmware-update-for-all-macbooks/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/10/apple-issues-smc-and-firmware-update-for-all-macbooks/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/10/apple-issues-smc-and-firmware-update-for-all-macbooks/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Today, Apple issued both SMC and Firmware updates for their entire line of unibody MacBook computers, and the MacBook Air. Read on to discover what was changed for each system, and how you can get the updates.

MacBook
SMC Firmware Update 1.2 (Download Page)
This update "improves the sensing and accuracy of the MagSafe Power Adapter indicator light, and the battery charge indicator lights on the MacBook (late 2008) model."

EFI Firmware Update 1.3 (Download Page)
This update "fixes several issues to improve the stability of the MacBook (Late 2008) model."

MacBook Pro 15"
SMC Firmware Update 1.2 (Download Page)
This update "improves the sensing and accuracy of the MagSafe Power Adapter indicator light, and the battery charge indicator lights on the MacBook Pro (late 2008) model."

EFI Firmware Update 1.6 (Download Page)
This update "fixes several issues to improve the stability of the MacBook Pro (Late 2008) model."

MacBook Air
SMC Firmware Update 1.1 (Download Page)
This update "improves the sensing and accuracy of the MagSafe Power Adapter indicator light, and the battery charge indicator lights on the MacBook Air (late 2008) model."

EFI Firmware Update 1.1 (Download Page)
This update "fixes several issues to improve the stability of the MacBook Air (Late 2008) model."


To download these updates, you can either launch Software Update (Apple menu > Software Update), or download the appropriate installer packages from the Apple Support Download website. There are additional installation instructions that you will need to follow after the download completes.

Has this update improved your MacBook/Pro/Air's performance? After you install, come back here and let us know!

Update: As our commenters have pointed out, older MacBook and MacBook Pro models do not require these updates. Our apologies to everyone who has been frantically clicking Software Update.

Thanks to everyone who sent this in!

Apple issues SMC and Firmware update for all unibody MacBooks originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Apple issues SMC and Firmware update for all unibody MacBooks originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>breakingnewsFirmwareMacBookMacBook AirMacBook ProMacbookAirMacbookProSMCsoftware updateSoftwareUpdateupdateCory BohonWed, 10 Dec 2008 19:30:00 ESTBusinessWeek: HP "out-touches" Applehttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/19/businessweek-hp-out-touches-apple/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/19/businessweek-hp-out-touches-apple/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/19/businessweek-hp-out-touches-apple/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Talk about being slightly touched. Arik Hesseldahl's BusinessWeek article, published today, says "...as of Nov. 19, Hewlett-Packard has beaten Apple to the punch, announcing the first multi-touch-enabled notebook PC, the tx2. I can't help but wonder whether Apple just lost an important race."

Not only did Apple not lose an important race, the tx2 isn't the first multi-touch notebook. Engadget points out that the Dell Latitude XT, which offered multi-touch technology, came on the scene back in July of '08. But even that wasn't first, because the MacBook Air was introduced on January 15th of 2008 with a multi-touch trackpad.

"Well," you say, "there's a difference between a touchable trackpad and a touchable display." You're right: one's meant to be touched and one isn't. The reason the trackpad on the MacBook Pro and he MacBook has gotten larger, smoother and glassier is because Apple is (and will continue to) inviting you to do more with it than tap and click. Multi-touch gestures on a notebook ought to be delivered via the surface that's made to be touched, not the surface made to be viewed. On the iPhone those surfaces are one & the same because there's no other option.

But really, the notion that Apple "lost an important race" by not being first is the biggest error here. Apple wasn't the first to release jukebox software, a portable music player or a mobile phone. Yet, iTunes, the iPod and the iPhone are the most successful examples of each. Apple's greatest strength is patience.

The designers and developers at Apple know you want a fully touch-enabled laptop. So do the folks at HP. The difference is that Apple's staff are patient and careful enough to execute it in exactly the right way, not just the most obvious way.

[Via MacDailyNews]

BusinessWeek: HP "out-touches" Apple originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)BusinessWeek: HP "out-touches" Apple originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>hpipodmacbook airmacbook proMacbookAirMacbookPromulti-touchDave CaoloWed, 19 Nov 2008 15:00:00 ESTPrototype MacBook Air found on eBayhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/19/prototype-macbook-air-found-on-ebay/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/19/prototype-macbook-air-found-on-ebay/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/19/prototype-macbook-air-found-on-ebay/#commentsFiled under: , ,


This is probably old news for most classic Mac collectors, but it's the first I've heard of it: a member of the forums at MacRumors.com bought a MacBook Air "as is" on eBay, and when it showed up, he got something even more valuable than the envelope-filler: a prototype version. As you can see above, there's no "MacBook Air" nameplate under the monitor, and hardware inside is dated to May of 2007, which is way before Apple officially announced the machine.

Apparently someone given an early working version of the notebook has already moved on to the new [REDACTED] that Apple is working on, and has sold off their old prototype of the Air. Very cool -- as I said, collectors know that there are prototypes floating around out there still, but this is the first I've heard of the phenomenon. And I like that it's almost a time capsule back into the beginnings of the product we know now as the Air -- the model name given in the software just says "Mac," so this predates the name we associate with the machine. You wonder what would have happened to a system like this if it hadn't actually gone into production and been released.

Prototype MacBook Air found on eBay originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Prototype MacBook Air found on eBay originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>Applebrandingebaymacbook-airmay-2007monitorprototypeversionMike SchrammWed, 19 Nov 2008 07:30:00 ESTTUAW Review: MacTrak Theft Recovery Softwarehttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/18/tuaw-review-mactrak-theft-recovery-software/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/18/tuaw-review-mactrak-theft-recovery-software/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/18/tuaw-review-mactrak-theft-recovery-software/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There are several applications available that will help find a lost or stolen Mac. Here at TUAW, we've talked about LoJack for Laptops, Orbicule's Undercover, MacPhoneHome, and iAlertU from Slapping Turtle. Most of these apps "find" the computer by determining the IP address of the machine, and using that data to narrow down the physical location where the laptop is in use. That information can be shared with police and ISPs to find the thieves, recover your laptop, and make an arrest.

There's a new Mac recovery app available called MacTrak that's different -- it uses the same Skyhook Wireless positioning technology used in the iPhone to accurately determine the location of your Mac within 10-20 meters. If your nice new MacBook Pro is lost or stolen, you simply log into a special web page with your predetermined credentials, and click on one button to start tracking your Mac. Every 30 minutes, MacTrak takes a picture with the iSight camera, then sends detailed information including its latitude and longitude to you via email. At the same time, it uploads that same information in a "Wanted Poster" view to your Flickr account. You can then work with the proper authorities to have your Mac returned to you. Read on for more info about MacTrak.

Continue reading TUAW Review: MacTrak Theft Recovery Software

TUAW Review: MacTrak Theft Recovery Software originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 17:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)TUAW Review: MacTrak Theft Recovery Software originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 17:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>location-based servicesLocation-basedServicesskyhook wirelessSkyhookWirelesstheft recoveryTheftRecoverySteven SandeTue, 18 Nov 2008 17:36:00 ESTNew NVIDIA hardware capable of more than Apple lets onhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/23/new-nvidia-hardware-capable-of-more-than-apple-lets-on/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/23/new-nvidia-hardware-capable-of-more-than-apple-lets-on/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/23/new-nvidia-hardware-capable-of-more-than-apple-lets-on/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've already seen some suggestions that more is hiding under the hood of the new unibody MacBooks than Apple has disclosed. Now Gizmodo is reporting that the NVIDIA folks have revealed to them that the graphics hardware in the new MacBooks is capable of quite a bit more than Apple has has chosen to use.

In particular, the the dual GPUs in the MacBook Pros can apparently be run in a Hybrid SLI mode allowing them both to be active at once (and thus increasing graphics performance over the discrete chip alone). In addition, the hardware is apparently capable of on-the-fly switching between the two GPUs instead of the present implementation which requires logging out to switch between the integrated 9400M and the discrete 9600M GT. In principle, this would allow the machine to dynamically switch between using the discrete chip when plugged in and the integrated chip when running on battery power.

So what's the upshot? In the short run, not much. Just because the features are supported in the silicon means squat unless Apple decides to implement them in software. In the best case scenario, however, the new MacBook Pros might see performance increases with only software and/or firmware updates. Of course, whether Apple will choose to do that (which would perhaps decrease the incentive to buy the next generation of machines) is another question altogether.

New NVIDIA hardware capable of more than Apple lets on originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)New NVIDIA hardware capable of more than Apple lets on originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>gpuMacBookmacbook proMacbookPronvidiaMat LuThu, 23 Oct 2008 08:00:00 ESTAw, I just bought a MacBook last week ...http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/17/awe-i-just-bought-a-macbook-last-week/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/17/awe-i-just-bought-a-macbook-last-week/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/17/awe-i-just-bought-a-macbook-last-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

When I was faced with the decision of buying a MacBook Pro or waiting, I immediately took the leap of faith without knowing if Apple would be releasing a new unit within the next few weeks or not. As it turns out, I was wrong and Apple did release a new MacBook Pro. However, I did not suck it up and go on ... I went searching for some answers as to what you can do if you are in the same situation. In this post, I'm going to tell you what I found out.

When you purchase a new product from Apple (either through the online store, or though a brick-and-mortar store) you have 14 days to return the product. With this 14-day policy, Apple also gives you price protection. From my understanding this covers both pricing decreases as well as new products coming out.

When I took my MacBook Pro to the Apple Store, they immediately looked at my receipt and asked if I wanted a new one. I thought, "This can't be this easy, can it?" There is a caveat with replacing your old machine with a new model: the Apple Store might charge you a "re-stocking" fee. This is a 10% fee based on the initial purchase price. I questioned them about this and they told me that I would be getting an upgraded product. However, I was able to get my re-stocking fee waived after talking with the manager for a little while.

The Bottom Line
If you bought a MacBook/Pro/Air in the past 14 days and want to upgrade to one of the newer models, it definitely wouldn't hurt to call up your local store (or Apple online customer service at 1-800-MY-APPLE) and talk to them about returning. Don't be surprised if they tell you about the restocking fee, they told me the same story until I took it into the store. Unlike most computer companies, Apple does try to make the situation right, and most of the time, you come out on top of the matter.

Additional Resources

Aw, I just bought a MacBook last week ... originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Aw, I just bought a MacBook last week ... originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>MacBookMacBook AirMacBook ProMacbookAirMacbookProonlinepolicypurchaseretailreturnstoreCory BohonFri, 17 Oct 2008 08:00:00 ESTApple Notebook meta-livebloghttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/14/apple-notebook-meta-liveblog/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/14/apple-notebook-meta-liveblog/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/14/apple-notebook-meta-liveblog/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



We might not be there in person, but we will be monitoring all the live feeds to provide one ultimate-meta blog experience. I'll also try to answer any questions I can from the comments.

Join us at 1:00 PM EDT for all the action!

Continue reading Apple Notebook meta-liveblog

Apple Notebook meta-liveblog originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Apple Notebook meta-liveblog originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>liveblogmacbookmacbook proMacbookPronotebook eventNotebookEventChristina WarrenTue, 14 Oct 2008 12:50:00 ESTMacBook pricing and part numbers?http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/13/macbook-pricing-and-part-numbers/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/13/macbook-pricing-and-part-numbers/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/13/macbook-pricing-and-part-numbers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

According to posts appearing on MacRumors and BoyGeniusReport tonight, Best Buy has been receiving new part numbers and pricing for unknown devices that are shipping to stores right now. MacRumors took the part numbers and price list and came up with the following assumption for what's going to be announced during tomorrow's notebook event:
  • K29, MB382LL/A $899.00 - MacBook?
  • M97, MB466LL/A $1,299.00 - MacBook
  • M97, MB467LL/A $1,599.00 - MacBook
  • M96, MB543LL/A $1,799.00 - MacBook Air
  • M96, MB940LL/A $2,499.00 - MacBook Air
  • M98, MB470LL/A $1,999.00 - 15" MacBook Pro
  • M98, MB471LL/A $2,499.00 - 15" MacBook Pro
  • M88, MB766LL/A $2,799.00 - 17" MacBook Pro
While the entry-level MacBook isn't as inexpensive as some rumors had forecast, a Fortune / CNN analysis today noted that an $899 price point could expand Apple's notebook market by 50% in terms of revenue.

What do you think about this pricing rumor? My personal feeling is that the numbers are valid, considering they're appearing this close to a major event. Leave your comments below.

MacBook pricing and part numbers? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)MacBook pricing and part numbers? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>breaking newsBreakingNewseventsmacmacbooknotebookSteven SandeMon, 13 Oct 2008 23:30:00 ESTeeeMac runs OS X on an even smaller portable than the Airhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/12/eeemac-runs-os-x-on-an-even-smaller-portable-than-the-air/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/12/eeemac-runs-os-x-on-an-even-smaller-portable-than-the-air/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/12/eeemac-runs-os-x-on-an-even-smaller-portable-than-the-air/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


I've heard some great things about the tiny little eeePC, but this is the best thing I've heard so far: it can be a Mac. Twitterer Gregory Cohen has pictures on Picasa of his completed eeeMac, an eeePC transformed (perhaps in similar fashion to this previous attempt -- details please, Gregory) into an OS X-running ultraportable, complete with a tiny little lit Apple logo on the back.

Pretty hot. As slim as the MacBook Air is, Asus' unit is even smaller. And it's super cheap, too -- we haven't heard how much this little transformation cost, but considering the eeePC sells at retail for 1/3 of the Air's price, odds are that even tons of modding won't set you back as much as a kitted-out Air. Apple wouldn't be thrilled with it, but you have to admit, that's one good-looking little ultraportable.

eeeMac runs OS X on an even smaller portable than the Air originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Fri, 12 Sep 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)eeeMac runs OS X on an even smaller portable than the Air originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Fri, 12 Sep 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>eeeMaceeepcgregory-cohenhackedmacbook-airmoddedtwitterMike SchrammFri, 12 Sep 2008 07:00:00 ESTApple issues update for MacBook Air, warns against processor-speed toolshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/23/apple-issues-update-for-macbook-air-warns-against-processor-spe/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/23/apple-issues-update-for-macbook-air-warns-against-processor-spe/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/23/apple-issues-update-for-macbook-air-warns-against-processor-spe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Last night, Apple issued an update for the MacBook Air. With the oh-so creative title of "MacBook Air Update," this update is recommended for all users and fixes "issues with video playback and processor core idling."

According to Apple, this update should not be installed until applications that modify processor operating characteristics (i.e. frequency and voltage), like CoolBook, are removed from the system. Apple says that these applications are not supported.

You can download this update by visiting the Apple support download website or by opening Software Update (Apple menu > Software Update). Apple has published a support note with extra information about this update.

Thanks to everyone who sent this in!

Apple issues update for MacBook Air, warns against processor-speed tools originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sat, 23 Aug 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Apple issues update for MacBook Air, warns against processor-speed tools originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sat, 23 Aug 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>hardwareMacMacBook AIrMacbookAirnotebooksoftware updateSoftwareUpdateupdateCory BohonSat, 23 Aug 2008 10:15:00 ESTApple replacing frayed MagSafe power cableshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/20/apple-replacing-frayed-magsafe-power-cables/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/20/apple-replacing-frayed-magsafe-power-cables/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/20/apple-replacing-frayed-magsafe-power-cables/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

According to a Knowledge Base article posted last week, Apple is now replacing (free of charge) frayed, discolored and deformed MagSafe power adapters for MacBook and MacBook Pro.

But -- and there's always a but -- they will only replace it if there's no sign of "abuse." So if you've been doing the right thing and holding the hard plastic connector to disconnect the cable, you might not have to pay another $80 for a new power adapter.

If your connector looks like the one pictured, and has been babied its entire life, then take it back to an Apple-Authorized Service Provider or an Apple retail store for an evaluation and replacement. It doesn't matter if the warranty has expired.

Also -- bonus points for the greeked copy at the bottom of Knowledge Base article page. I'm sure that counts for a shot in some obscure Apple website drinking game.

Thanks, Jeff!

Apple replacing frayed MagSafe power cables originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Apple replacing frayed MagSafe power cables originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>damagefraymacmagsafepower adapterPowerAdapterreplacementRobert PalmerWed, 20 Aug 2008 11:00:00 ESTMacBook Air to get 'imminent' speed bump?http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/14/macbook-air-to-get-imminent-speed-bump/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/14/macbook-air-to-get-imminent-speed-bump/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/14/macbook-air-to-get-imminent-speed-bump/#commentsFiled under: ,

PhoneNews claims they can "confirm" that Apple will speed-bump the MacBook Air with a Penryn-class Intel Core 2 Duo processor, increasing the clock speed to 2 GHz and up. The story also notes that, since the processor requires more power, the Air will ship with a higher-capacity battery and 60-watt power adapter.

Engadget goes further, noting that clock speeds could (theoretically) reach 3.06GHz. Also, they speculate that the Air could feature improved integrated graphics if it adopts the Intel Centrino 2 chipset.

Alternatively, Engadget notes that Intel plans to release several flavors of low-voltage Penryn chips in September, which might indeed be slated for the MacBook Air. Using these chips, however, would decrease the power requirements noted by PhoneNews, not increase them.

PhoneNews says national retailers have been alerted "to be prepared for the upgrade." This may be part of several laptop announcements rumored to be happening in September.

[Via IGM.]

MacBook Air to get 'imminent' speed bump? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)MacBook Air to get 'imminent' speed bump? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>centrino 2Centrino2intelmacbook airMacbookAirpenrynphonenewsRobert PalmerThu, 14 Aug 2008 13:00:00 ESTBattery calibration recommended by Apple, why no utility?http://www.tuaw.com/2008/07/30/battery-calibration-recommended-by-apple-why-no-utility/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/07/30/battery-calibration-recommended-by-apple-why-no-utility/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/07/30/battery-calibration-recommended-by-apple-why-no-utility/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Swollen MacBook Pro batteryLike virtually all mobile computer manufacturers, Apple recommends that users calibrate their laptop batteries every few months, as Scott pointed out a couple of years ago. Unlike many manufacturers, however, Apple does not include a utility to automatically perform a calibration. Given Apple's uncanny ability to make things user-friendly, this seems like a bit of a glaring oversight.

What are the benefits of calibration? Primarily the goal is to ensure that the microprocessor in your battery provides an accurate estimate of how much time you have left on the battery. Over time it can lose track of just how much juice your battery has in it, and calibration gives it a very accurate reading on the battery's health.

Older battery technologies also benefited from a process called conditioning, which was typically performed the same way as a current battery's calibration process. In a nutshell, you fully charge the battery, fully discharge it, then fully charge it again. It's unclear whether modern lithium batteries gain anything in an actual capacity perspective from this process, or if it is simply a calibration of the microprocessor for the purpose of providing accurate time estimates.

Continue reading Battery calibration recommended by Apple, why no utility?

Battery calibration recommended by Apple, why no utility? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Battery calibration recommended by Apple, why no utility? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>batterybattery-calibrationbattery-conditioningbattery-lifecalibrationcoconutbatteryJason ClarkeWed, 30 Jul 2008 19:00:00 ESTMacBook Air SSD prices drophttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/07/03/macbook-air-ssd-prices-drop/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/07/03/macbook-air-ssd-prices-drop/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/07/03/macbook-air-ssd-prices-drop/#commentsFiled under: ,

It looks like Apple has a nice little surprise for anybody in the market for the SSD equipped MacBook Air. The price on the Apple Store for the 64GB SSD upgrade on the 1.6GHz Air has dropped to $599 from $999. Similarly the price of the 1.8GHz Air (equipped with the SSD standard) has dropped to $2598 from $3098.

Needless to say, the SSD is still a pretty penny and there's some controversy about how much it helps battery life. But if you've been waiting for one it looks like this is your lucky day.

Thanks, Keisha!

MacBook Air SSD prices drop originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)MacBook Air SSD prices drop originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>MacBook AirMacbookAirSSDMat LuThu, 03 Jul 2008 19:00:00 ESTApple Notebook Shipments Skyrocket 61%http://www.tuaw.com/2008/06/29/apple-notebook-shipments-skyrocket-61/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/06/29/apple-notebook-shipments-skyrocket-61/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/06/29/apple-notebook-shipments-skyrocket-61/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

FireworksThis is a good news, bad news story. Let's start with the good news!

DisplaySearch, a market research firm, is reporting that Apple's sales of notebook computers are up 61% from 1st Quarter, 2007 to 1st Quarter, 2008. In that fiscal quarter, Apple shipped over 1.4 million notebooks, compared to almost 900,000 the year before. That puts Apple just behind Asus in terms of growth year-to-year, as the Taiwanese board and component maker saw a 67% growth rate. Most other notebook manufacturers saw growth rates in the 20 - 40% range.

The bad news? Apple's still in seventh place in overall notebook market share at 4.6%, trailing behind leaders HP (20.8%), Dell (15.1%), and Acer (14.7%) but still ahead of Asus (4.3%) and Sony (4.2%).

My personal speculation is that Asus is seeing huge increases due to the Eee PC subnotebook, which has been extremely popular with geeks wanting tiny Linux or Windows computers. If trends continue, Apple's notebook market share numbers should continue to grow into 2008.

[via DisplaySearch]

Apple Notebook Shipments Skyrocket 61% originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sun, 29 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Apple Notebook Shipments Skyrocket 61% originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sun, 29 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>macbookmacbook airmacbook proMacbookAirMacbookProsalesfiguresSteven SandeSun, 29 Jun 2008 11:00:00 ESTMod: use your MacBook Air Superdrive on any machinehttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/06/24/mod-use-your-macbook-air-superdrive-on-any-machine/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/06/24/mod-use-your-macbook-air-superdrive-on-any-machine/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/06/24/mod-use-your-macbook-air-superdrive-on-any-machine/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you've got a MacBook Air SuperDrive and you've been hankering to use it with other computers (Mac or PC), tnkgrl over at tnkgrl Mobile has a solution. With a $9 part and some intestinal fortitude, you too can make your MBA Superdrive universally compatible.

Using the drive with other computers has been a desire from its inception. After some experimentation, tnkgrl found that simply replacing the IDE to USB bridge within the drive did the trick. Of course, that means removing the daughter-board and relocating the 12 MHz crystal. For an experienced hardware hacker, no sweat. For the average Joe, well, it's quite obviously an at-your-own-risk situation.

Check out the post at tnkgrl Mobile for the details.

Mod: use your MacBook Air Superdrive on any machine originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Mod: use your MacBook Air Superdrive on any machine originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>hackshardwarembamodssuperdriveBrett TerpstraTue, 24 Jun 2008 12:00:00 ESTApple Juicz solar charger for MacBook Airhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/06/17/apple-juicz-solar-charger-for-macbook-air/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/06/17/apple-juicz-solar-charger-for-macbook-air/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/06/17/apple-juicz-solar-charger-for-macbook-air/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Okay here's one for the deep-pocketed Greens out there (or maybe somebody on assignment to the middle of nowhere). QuickTek is offering a line of solar chargers for the MacBook Air called the Apple Juicz. There are three models of increasing size: 18 watt, 27 watt, and 55 watt. They recharge a MacBook Air in 14, 8, and 5 hours respectively, but all this solar powered goodness doesn't come cheap at $500, $600, and $1000. On the bright side though, they'll throw in a "very cool Element carry bag" for free, which you'll need as the largest one unfolds to 60 x 42 inches.

In addition to the solar panels you'll also need a modified MagSafe power adapter. QuickerTek will upgrade yours for $25 or sell you one pre-modified for $100 (which includes car and airline adapters). They suggest that this would be the ultimate gift for a college student, but even as a geek prof I'd be tempted to take the lunch money of anybody I saw on the quad with 17 square feet of solar panel laid out on the grass. But maybe that's just me.

[via Macworld]

Apple Juicz solar charger for MacBook Air originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Apple Juicz solar charger for MacBook Air originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>Apple JuiczAppleJuiczQuickerTekMat LuTue, 17 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST