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/Hardware that supports iPhoto '09's geotagginghttp://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/07/hardware-that-supports-iphoto-09s-geotagging/http://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/07/hardware-that-supports-iphoto-09s-geotagging/http://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/07/hardware-that-supports-iphoto-09s-geotagging/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I spent yesterday afternoon like many of you: Hunched over my keyboard in a posture-defying mound, my eyes locked on 1440 x 900 pixels of real-time information and fingers tapping keys like so many coked-up woodpeckers. A Mountain Dew and Cinnabun stood at the ready, should I need refueling. I was a gold-encrusted invitation to hypertension if you ever saw one.

As Phil Schiller gave his demonstration of iPhoto '09, with its face recognition, fancy travel books, themes and "Places" feature, I was most impressed by the geotagging.
If shot with the right hardware, iPhoto recognizes where a given photo was taken, and places it on a Google map. If the photos in an event span several locations, it notices that, also. The built-in maps are very attractive and handy, as you can search your entire library by geographic location. As I watched all of this, one thought was echoing in my mind.

I don't have single piece of hardware that can do this.

It's what I call a Mario Batali Moment. I'm a real Mario fan, but every time I watch his show, I get a little depressed. As Mario sits down to a small family table in Umbria, olive trees and screeching cicadas in the background, I think, "There's another incredible Italian salami I'll never get to try."

A brief Google search turned up good news. I didn't have to spend several hundred dollars on a GPS-aware camera. Here are several devices that will get the job done without breaking the bank.

  1. The Wolverine GEO connects to several Nikon and Fuji DSLR's and embeds GPS coordinates in an image's metadata (EXIF) during exposure. Just click and you're done. The Wolverine GEO costs $149.99US.
  2. The GiSTEQ PhotoTrackr is a small GPS device that you carry around as you shoot photos. As you take pictures, you camera records the time. The PhotoTrackr also records the time and the GPS location. The included software merges the two. Small, tidy and $129US (the "lite" version is $99US).
  3. Similarly, the Amod AGL3080 GPS Data Logger connects to your Mac via USB port, allowing you to grab the recorded log in standard NMEA format. Mac-compatible software is included. The AGL3080 will run you about $70US.
So there are three relatively inexpensive options. Yes, I realize that the 3G iPhone will tag photos with GPS information, but it isn't the greatest camera in the world. You can also add this information by hand, but who wants to do that? Instead, there's good news:

iPhoto geotagging needn't be your forbidden salami.

Update: Our readers continue to offer additional suggestions. Keep them coming, folks! Here are a few from the comments.
  • David notes that "...the GISTEQ product does NOT support geotagging of RAW images," so keep that in mind. His solution: "I ended up using the iTU4l.pl perl scripts from http://www.schimmelnetz.de/projekte/iTU4l/ and HoudahGeo ($30US)."
  • jadam points out another solution: "If you have a standalone GPS that supports track logging, turn tracking on and bring it along with you on your next photo shoot. Then once you are finished, use the free GPSPhotoLinker (Free) to geotag your photos."
  • Tim suggests the SD GPS Data Logger ($125).
  • John Fischetti and a couple of others suggested the Eye-Fi Explore Wireless card ($99US).
  • John suggested the Jobo photoGPS (couldn't find a price for some unknown, frustrating reason), which mounts on your camera's hotshoe.
Others have recommended iPhone/iPod touch Geo Tracking software, like OnLocation ($2.99US) [App Store link] and Trails ($1.99US). Thanks, everyone! Keep the great suggestions coming.

Hardware that supports iPhoto '09's geotagging originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Hardware that supports iPhoto '09's geotagging originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>geotrackingilifeiphoto 09Iphoto09macworld09Dave CaoloWed, 07 Jan 2009 13:15:00 ESTTUAW Macworld Video: Griffin Technologyhttp://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/07/tuaw-macworld-video-griffin-technology/http://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/07/tuaw-macworld-video-griffin-technology/http://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/07/tuaw-macworld-video-griffin-technology/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Although I'm the veteran of about a dozen Macworld Expos, this is the first time I've attended as a member of the media instead of as "just" a showgoer. Let's face it; the level of attention that you get from companies is a lot greater when you're writing or shooting video about a company's products than when you're one of tens of thousands of people cruising past a booth.

Still, I was unprepared for the gracious reception that I received at Griffin Technology when I visited to see what new products were released from the Apple peripheral manufacturer. Griffin has been making innovative products for the Apple community since 1992, and 2009 is no exception. The company has entered the Bluetooth headset market with the SmartTalk Bluetooth (featuring human voice prompting), pointed the way towards total control of FM radio with the Navigate with iFM, and shown that you don't need power to get sound amplification with the AirCurve acoustic amplifier.

Join me on a tour of Griffin's new and recent products with Jackie Ballinger from Griffin. This video report is part of our continuing and exhaustive coverage of Macworld Expo 2009.

TUAW Macworld Video: Griffin Technology originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)TUAW Macworld Video: Griffin Technology originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>accessoriesgriffiniphoneipodmacworld 2009Macworld2009mwsfperipheralsvideoSteven SandeWed, 07 Jan 2009 10:30:00 ESTSlingPlayer Mobile for iPhone / SlingPlayer for Mac HDhttp://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/06/slingplayer-mobile-for-iphone-slingplayer-for-mac-hd/http://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/06/slingplayer-mobile-for-iphone-slingplayer-for-mac-hd/http://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/06/slingplayer-mobile-for-iphone-slingplayer-for-mac-hd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Our sister site Engadget is reporting that Sling Media, maker of the Slingbox, is going to be demonstrating SlingPlayer Mobile for iPhone at Macworld Expo 2009 this week.

Sling had produced a proof-of-concept back in June of 2008. Now the word is that the app will be submitted to the powers-that-be at Apple for certification and acceptance into the App Store sometime before the end of March, 2009.

If you're not quite that into watching your Slingbox streams on an iPhone, Sling Media is also demoing a prototype of SlingPlayer for Mac HD. This application enables Slingbox PRO-HD owners to zap HD streams to their Macs. This Mac app is expected to be available free of charge, while pricing for the iPhone app has not yet been determined.

Stay tuned for our continuing coverage of Macworld Expo 2009, where you'll find news, photos, and video of the flood of announcements coming out of Moscone Center.

[via Engadget]

SlingPlayer Mobile for iPhone / SlingPlayer for Mac HD originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)SlingPlayer Mobile for iPhone / SlingPlayer for Mac HD originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>macworld 2009Macworld2009mwsfSteven SandeTue, 06 Jan 2009 02:00:00 ESTHP's MediaSmart works with Time Machine, iTuneshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/29/hps-mediasmart-works-with-time-machine-itunes/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/29/hps-mediasmart-works-with-time-machine-itunes/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/29/hps-mediasmart-works-with-time-machine-itunes/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Earlier this week, HP announced the availability of two new home servers, the MediaSmart ex485 and ex487. It's true that both are based on Microsoft's Windows Home Server platform, but the interesting thing for Mac users is that they're recognized by Time Machine as backup targets, and they can act as an iTunes server. At $599US for the ex485 (750GB of storage) or $749US for the ex487 (1.5TB), that's not a bad deal.

Other specs include a 2GHz Celeron CPU, 2GB of DDR2 RAM, gigabit Ethernet, four USB 2.0 ports, one eSATA jack and four internal HDD bays. Note that total storage on these units can be scaled up to 9TB.

HP will begin taking pre-orders in January for shipment in February.

For now, I've got a G4 iMac in my basement acting as a home media server, as it were, to the Apple TV. Two external drives are attached -- one for Time Machine and one for a SuperDuper! clone, scheduled to update weekly.

A third, pocket-sized drive is updated via SuperDuper! weekly and lives off-site (read: my wife's desk in her classroom, don't tell!). Do you have a home-spun backup and streaming solution?

[Via Engadget]

HP's MediaSmart works with Time Machine, iTunes originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)HP's MediaSmart works with Time Machine, iTunes originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>backupexhome serverHomeServerhpitunesleopardtime machineTimeMachineDave CaoloMon, 29 Dec 2008 14:00:00 ESTFound Footage: Pete's FishCamhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/15/found-footage-petes-fishcam/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/15/found-footage-petes-fishcam/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/15/found-footage-petes-fishcam/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Remember the remote-controlled dog treat dispenser from a few weeks ago? Now Pete Raumann has come up with Pete's FishCam, which comes complete with an iPhone interface so that he can remotely watch his fish swimming around in a nicely appointed aquarium.

It's more than just a webcam, though -- Pete can also turn the lights on and off (both tank and accent spotlights), pan the camera left and right, and open and close the "treasure chest" in the tank. Pete used the same equipment and web-based applet generator from ioBridge that was used to create the dog treat dispenser.

Note to Pete: your next assignments are to build an aquarium-cleaning robot and fish feeder that you can control from the iPhone. The video below shows how the interface works on the iPhone, complete with narration by Mr. Raumann.

What are your ideas for something you'd like to be able to watch and/or control from your iPhone? Put it in a comment, and please remember to keep it clean!

Found Footage: Pete's FishCam originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Found Footage: Pete's FishCam originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>aquariumiphoneipod touchIpodTouchremote controlRemoteControlSteven SandeMon, 15 Dec 2008 17:00:00 ESTWoof! An iPhone-controlled dog treat dispenserhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/04/woof-an-iphone-controlled-dog-treat-dispenser/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/04/woof-an-iphone-controlled-dog-treat-dispenser/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/04/woof-an-iphone-controlled-dog-treat-dispenser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

While you're geeking out with your techie friends building battle bots or pumpkin cannons, why not give your dog a little love at the same time?

TUAW reader Stephen Myers sent us a link about a fun little project he worked on. He wants to be able to check on his dog's well-being and reward the dog with treats from anywhere he can use his iPhone. Stephen found out about ioBridge, a company that develops electronic monitoring and control modules that connect to any Ethernet network and can be controlled via an encrypted web front end.

Myers used an I/O module and servo smart board from ioBridge, a servo, an old CD spindle case, some cardboard and wood scraps, a large syringe plunger, and a webcam to build his device, and then used the ioBridge web interface to create a widget that controlled the device. No programming was required. The system generated javascript that was then embedded into a web page optimized for the iPhone screen, and now Myers can check up on Cooper, his dog, and give Cooper some treats.

Myers has many more details about the system in his blog entry, and he will be writing future posts about how he's using ioBridge and X10 controllers to turn lights on and off in his home -- from his iPhone.

Be sure to check out the YouTube video below!

Woof! An iPhone-controlled dog treat dispenser originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Woof! An iPhone-controlled dog treat dispenser originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>automationcontrollerhackiphonex10Steven SandeThu, 04 Dec 2008 20:00:00 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 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 ESTLED Cinema Displays now availablehttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/18/led-cinema-displays-now-available/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/18/led-cinema-displays-now-available/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/18/led-cinema-displays-now-available/#commentsFiled under: ,

Apple's LED Cinema Displays, announced at a special event in October, are finally available on the Apple Store online, and at Apple retail locations, which should make Cory happy.

The LED Cinema Display, which is more suitable as a laptop docking station more than another monitor for your desktop Mac, sells for $899. Shipping is free from the Apple Store online.

I went to the San Diego-area UTC Apple Store on Sunday, and saw a display model. The color was sharp, and looked identical to the display on my 24-inch iMac. Compared to the MacBook Pro next to it, the pixel density is looser (making objects of the same pixel size seem larger on the Cinema Display than on the laptop), typical for Apple's desktop displays. Unlike the iMac, the stand for the display had a tapered foot that was thinner at the front than in the back: Something I hadn't noticed before.

Additionally, adapters that connect the new Mini DisplayPort to DVI and VGA are also available, and will ship within 24 hours.

An update from the commenters: The Mini DisplayPort adapters are for MacBook Air, and won't help connecting a Mac Pro (for example) to this new display. Sorry, my mistake. Also, not all retail stores have the displays, so you might want to give them a call first before heading over there.

LED Cinema Displays now available originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)LED Cinema Displays now available originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>adapterbreakingnewscinema displayCinemaDisplaydviledutcvgaRobert PalmerTue, 18 Nov 2008 11:00:00 ESTRichard|Solo 1800: More of everything!http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/09/richard-solo-1800-more-of-everything/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/09/richard-solo-1800-more-of-everything/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/09/richard-solo-1800-more-of-everything/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

We reported on the Richard|Solo Smart Backup Battery for iPhone a few months ago. Now Richard|Solo has released a much improved version of the Backup Battery that not only provides more power for your iPhone or iPod, but some excellent new features that trash the competition.

The Richard|Solo 1800 has 50% more capacity than the original versions, which had 1200 mAh of power. The new model has an 1800 mAh capacity, and is latched firmly onto the iPhone using a specially designed mechanism. There's an optional plastic support brace that reduces the lateral force on the battery connector; wonderful if you want to use the iPhone while charging it with the 1800.

Richard|Solo provides a dual-port USB car charger in addition to the AC wall charger, which still features a retractable cord for tangle-free storage in your computer bag or purse. The coolest new features are two built-in lights; a white LED flashlight and a red laser pointer.

The Richard|Solo 1800 retails for $69.95. If you own an iPhone or recent iPod, this is the backup battery to buy! It's well designed, feature packed, and reasonably priced. Now I need to get one for my wife!

What do you use for backup iPhone power? Leave a comment!

Richard|Solo 1800: More of everything! originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sun, 09 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Richard|Solo 1800: More of everything! originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sun, 09 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>backup batteryBackupBatteryiphoneipodipod touchIpodTouchlaser pointerLaserPointerled flashlightLedFlashlightSteven SandeSun, 09 Nov 2008 09:00:00 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 ESTNew Cinema Displays finally arrive with iSight cameras, MagSafe connectorshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/14/new-cinema-displays-finally-arrive-with-isight-cameras-magsafe/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/14/new-cinema-displays-finally-arrive-with-isight-cameras-magsafe/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/14/new-cinema-displays-finally-arrive-with-isight-cameras-magsafe/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In a move that surprised everybody and nobody simultaneously, Apple has released a brand-new 24-inch LED Cinema Display to spruce up the languishing product line.

In addition to a new form factor that brings their look in line with newer iMacs (and now the new MacBook and MacBook Pro models announced today), the displays have an iSight camera, speakers, and a MagSafe power connector to charge your laptop. They have a native resolution of 1920 by 1200 pixels.

Also, the displays are more environmentally friendly, moving away from the mercury-vapor backlights to newer LED backlights now available throughout Apple's line of laptops. The surface of the display is glass, with a glossy finish.

The display includes three USB ports, but no FireWire ports featured on older Cinema Displays.

The new 24-inch display will be available in November for $899.

Update: "Old" Cinema Displays still appear to be on Apple's website, so it looks like other screen sizes in the older form factor will continue to be available. For how long, we don't know.

[Via Engadget.]

New Cinema Displays finally arrive with iSight cameras, MagSafe connectors originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)New Cinema Displays finally arrive with iSight cameras, MagSafe connectors originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>24breakingnewscinemacinema displayCinemaDisplaydisplayenvironmenteventlednotebookRobert PalmerTue, 14 Oct 2008 14:15:00 ESTSprint SmartView for Macs incompatible with broadband cardshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/10/sprint-smartview-for-macs-bricks-broadband-cards/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/10/sprint-smartview-for-macs-bricks-broadband-cards/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/10/sprint-smartview-for-macs-bricks-broadband-cards/#commentsFiled under: , ,

TUAW reader John T. alerted us to an issue with Sprint's SmartView application, version 1.85.0007.0. SmartView for Mac is a recently released (August 28, 2008) application which is used with Sprint's Mobile Broadband cards and USB modems.

The issue, which occurs with the ExpressCard cards used with MacBook Pro notebooks running Leopard, causes the card to stop working. To get the card working again, it's necessary to reinstall an older version of the SprintView software or previous software such as Sierra Wireless Watcher.

This problem does not occur when using the Sprint Mobile Broadband USB connectors such as the Sierra Wireless 595U, Sierra Wireless Compass 597, or Ovation U727. John noted that Sprint's tech support team is aware of the issue, but that the faulty software is still available on the download page.

Update: Some commenters have taken offense to the use of the word "brick" in the post title [since changed -Ed.]. Note that SmartView, when run under Mac OS X 10.5, does not permanently damage the Sprint cards. Reverting to a previous version of the software resolves the issue.

Thanks for the tip, John!

Sprint SmartView for Macs incompatible with broadband cards originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Sprint SmartView for Macs incompatible with broadband cards originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>breakingnewsmacSteven SandeFri, 10 Oct 2008 20:00:00 ESTTUAW Review: CardScan Executive for Machttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/25/tuaw-review-cardscan-executive-for-mac/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/25/tuaw-review-cardscan-executive-for-mac/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/25/tuaw-review-cardscan-executive-for-mac/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you're one of those people who maintains a huge collection of business cards, you're going to love this product.

CardScan Executive for Mac (iPhone for scale)

CardScan has come out with a Mac version of their CardScan Executive scanner and software, and it looks like a winner. The US$259.99 package includes the small (3.5" x 6.4" x 1.6") scanner seen above, a CD-ROM with Mac and Windows versions of CardScan's contact management software, and a USB cable. What? No power brick? Nope -- it's bus-powered so you can eliminate one more power plug. The scanner worked fine for me plugged into a USB 2.0 hub.

Installation is simple -- put the CD-ROM into your drive, then drag the application file to the Applications folder. The final step? Plug the USB cable into the scanner and an available USB port on your Mac, and a light on the CardScan lets you know you're ready to start entering business cards. That light glows red when you first hook up the CardScan, then turns blue the first time you fire up the CardScan software. Read on to see how this all works.

Continue reading TUAW Review: CardScan Executive for Mac

TUAW Review: CardScan Executive for Mac originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 25 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)TUAW Review: CardScan Executive for Mac originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 25 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>business cardsBusinessCardsmacscannerSteven SandeThu, 25 Sep 2008 08:00:00 ESTEye-Fi adds MobileMe supporthttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/24/eye-fi-adds-mobileme-support/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/24/eye-fi-adds-mobileme-support/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/24/eye-fi-adds-mobileme-support/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Eye-Fi has announced that their eponymous SD memory card with built-in WiFi is getting faster and adding MobileMe support. The Eye-Fi allows you to automatically upload photos from your SD card compatible camera to your Mac or a variety of online services like Flickr, SmugMug, and now MobileMe. The update will be available on October 5 and is also backwards compatible to existing Eye-Fi cards with upgrade fees. Other additions include Eye-Fi's own web gallery, geotagging support (via a similar mechanism to the original iPhone), and Wayport / open hotspot support, each for additional annual fees.

The Eye-Fi cards come in three flavors: Home, Share, and Explore. Home ($79.99) is limited to uploads on your home WiFi network to your home computer; Share ($99.99) allows broader WiFi access and uploading to web galleries; Explore ($129.99) also adds geotagging.

[via Engadget]

Eye-Fi adds MobileMe support originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Eye-Fi adds MobileMe support originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>eye-fimobilemeMat LuWed, 24 Sep 2008 15:00:00 ESTApple announces two new sets of headphoneshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/09/apple-announces-two-new-sets-of-headphones/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/09/apple-announces-two-new-sets-of-headphones/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/09/apple-announces-two-new-sets-of-headphones/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Another interesting detail released in the excitement of the Let's Rock event: Apple's announcement of two new sets of headphones designed for the new iPods and their voice notes recording feature. The first set is similar the the present iPhone headset with a main button for play/plause and skipping control (in addition to the mic). A nice new feature, however, is the addition of two buttons for volume control.

The second set (pictured right) is a bit more exciting as it seems to represent Apple's attempt to compete with more high-end "canalphone" headsets from the likes of Etymotics, Shure, Ultimate Ears, etc. In addition to the mic and in-line controls of the other set, the buds on this one include two separate drivers (tweeter and woofer) as well as three sizes of silicone tips for sound isolation. We can only hope this hi-fi effort is more successful than the ill-fated iPod Hi-Fi.

Both sets are listed as compatible only with the new iPod classic, 4th gen nano, and 2nd gen touch. However, Infinite Loop has suggested that they will work with the iPhone excepting the volume controls which are not supported. The first set will be $29, while the in-ear set will run $79.

Apple announces two new sets of headphones originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 09 Sep 2008 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Apple announces two new sets of headphones originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 09 Sep 2008 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>canalphonesheadphonesin-ear headphonesIn-earHeadphonesiPodMat LuTue, 09 Sep 2008 23:30:00 ESTGive your iPhone 3G a telephoto lenshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/18/give-your-iphone-3g-a-telephoto-lens/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/18/give-your-iphone-3g-a-telephoto-lens/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/18/give-your-iphone-3g-a-telephoto-lens/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

From the "really strange looking iPhone accessories" department, we present for your inspection the mobile.brando.com.hk Apple iPhone 3G Mobile Phone Telescope. Dave mentioned this in passing a few days ago, but since Engadget noted it today we went back and took a closer look. This product definitely wins the TUAW award for the longest name for an iPhone add-on. In case you're wondering what the function of this device is, the website says it all -- "Overcome the short coming of camera cellphone that can only near-sighted, it also makes distant view for you at the moment."

The idea is to take this plastic "crystal" case, put it on your iPhone 3G, and then put the telescope onto the case. This gives your iPhone a 6X telephoto lens. But it does more! Once again, from the website -- "The new design to run of rays can effectively avoid the contortion of image, and makes the super wide angle, the larger luminous flux, the higher visual acuteness, good for color reduction, which makes the high quality of photography."

Huh?

If you really need a telephoto lens for your iPhone 3G and don't mind the abuse from friends, you can order one for the bargain price of US$19 plus shipping. For more mind-boggling details or to order the telescope, click the Read link below.

Give your iPhone 3G a telephoto lens originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Give your iPhone 3G a telephoto lens originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>accessoriescheapiphoneiphone 3gIphone3gtelephotoSteven SandeMon, 18 Aug 2008 19:30:00 ESTEye-Fi and SmugMug team up for geotagginghttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/13/eye-fi-and-smugmug-team-up-for-geotagging/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/13/eye-fi-and-smugmug-team-up-for-geotagging/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/13/eye-fi-and-smugmug-team-up-for-geotagging/#commentsFiled under: , ,

EyeFiThe Eye-Fi card is an SD card with a difference -- it has Wi-Fi built into it for easy camera-to-internet transfer of photos. It comes in three different flavors; Eye-Fi Home, Eye-Fi Share, and Eye-Fi Explore. The latter card (US$129) includes free Wi-Fi access at Wayport hotspots, unlimited geotagging using Skyhook Wireless (the same service Apple and Google use for location data on pre-3G iPhones and iPod touch handhelds), and an unlimited WebShare service for sharing photos.

Eye-Fi and SmugMug (an online photo sharing site) announced a partnership providing a year of geotagging and hotspot access for SmugMug members using an original Eye-Fi Card or the $US99.99 Eye-Fi Share. SmugMug provides standard (US$39.95 annually), power user (US$59.95 annually) and professional ($149.95 annually) accounts, all of which provide ad-free, backed-up, and secure hosting of your photos.

Do you use an Eye-Fi card with your digital camera? If you do, what service do you upload your photos to, and do you use the geotagging capability? Leave us a comment.

Eye-Fi and SmugMug team up for geotagging originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Eye-Fi and SmugMug team up for geotagging originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>eye-figeotagginghotspotsmugmugSteven SandeWed, 13 Aug 2008 21:00:00 ESTTUAW Review: Richard | Solo Smart Backup Battery for iPhone / iPodhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/11/tuaw-review-richard-solo-smart-backup-battery-for-iphone-ip/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/11/tuaw-review-richard-solo-smart-backup-battery-for-iphone-ip/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/11/tuaw-review-richard-solo-smart-backup-battery-for-iphone-ip/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Richard | Solo Smart Backup Battery for iPhone / iPod
If there's anything I've learned about the iPhone 3G since July 11th, it's that the battery life is horrible. If I'm just texting and making the occasional call, I can survive for a day, but if I try to play games or use 3G I know it's going to go to the dreaded red battery icon quickly.

That's why there are a growing number of manufacturers who have extended battery packs for the iPhone on the market. For example, I looked at the Kensington Mini Battery Pack and Charger (US$49.99), but the website doesn't show that it works with the iPhone 3G.

My next choice was the Richard | Solo Smart Backup Battery. This US$49.95 lithium-ion battery pack has saved me from running out of juice prematurely more than once!

Read on for more information about this must-have sidekick for the iPhone 3G.

Continue reading TUAW Review: Richard | Solo Smart Backup Battery for iPhone / iPod

TUAW Review: Richard | Solo Smart Backup Battery for iPhone / iPod originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 11 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)TUAW Review: Richard | Solo Smart Backup Battery for iPhone / iPod originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 11 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>batterychargeriphoneiphone 3gIphone3gSteven SandeMon, 11 Aug 2008 08:00:00 ESTJawbone: Get ticketed, get a discounthttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/03/jawbone-get-ticketed-get-a-discount/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/03/jawbone-get-ticketed-get-a-discount/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/03/jawbone-get-ticketed-get-a-discount/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Who says crime doesn't pay?

Aliph, makers of the ultra-cool noise-reducing Jawbone Bluetooth headset, have come up with a great marketing scheme. If you live in California, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, New York, or Washington -- all states with laws requiring hands-free use of mobile phones -- and receive a ticket for yapping with your iPhone plastered to your ear, Jawbone will deduct $20 off the purchase price of one of their headsets.

You can't get a discount on the Silver Tongue model, but the prices for the Goldy Lips and Blah Blah Black versions end up at $129.99 and $109.99 respectively. All you need to do is go to the Jawbone website, look for the Hands Free Ticket Processor, and enter your state and ticket number. $20 is taken off the original purchase price, and you're ready to go.

This is one case where I wish I did live in a nanny state that was forcing me to use a hands-free kit!

Jawbone: Get ticketed, get a discount originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sun, 03 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)Jawbone: Get ticketed, get a discount originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sun, 03 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>bluetoothbluetooth headsetBluetoothHeadsetheadsetiphonejawboneSteven SandeSun, 03 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST