July 31, 2010

Joshua Topolsky Reviews the Magic Trackpad

There isn’t anything truly magical, revolutionary, or groundbreaking about the Magic Trackpad. It’s not the first of its kind, and it doesn’t turn our current computing paradigms on their ear. It’s an excellent device for those who prefer touch input to mouse or trackball, and it’s a solidly built piece of gear that will compliment the uncluttered workspaces of lots of geeks out there. But it’s not a game changer or the death knell for our modern day method of interacting with our PCs as some have speculated. In all, at the $69 price tag it’s difficult to call something like this a must-have — it’s a niche product for a niche user. It’s easy to see that touch input is increasingly becoming an important part of how we interact with technology and the Magic Trackpad does a admirable job of transmuting that experience to the desktop. But at least for this editor, you’ll have to pry the mouse out of my cold, dead hands.

Get the Most out of FaceTime Calling on iPhone 4

These are all rudimentary tips, but its a handy link to add to the collection.

July 30, 2010

Cameron Moll on ‘The Magic Trackpad’

Both a comical and insightful review. I won’t be able to confirm or deny his claims for myself, but Cameron has made some interesting observations nonetheless.

Panasonic Earphones: The Earphones Note

The packaging uses the universal symbol for music: the note. By specially arranging the earphones inside a special box they appear to look like two eighth notes. So the earphones show at first sight for whom they are made: for passionate music lovers.

They were ultimately successful.

Pod à Porter, Neckband for iPod Shuffle

A neat accessory, if you happen own a 3rd Gen iPod Shuffle.

Latest Job Offering at Apple

Cloud Computing?

July 29, 2010

Safari Extensions

If you are looking for a collection of Safari Extensions, this is the link to bookmark.

Macworld’s iPhone 4 Cover Shot with an iPhone 4

A phone doubles as a camera. Take a minute to think about that.

Just Mobile’s UpStand

UpStand™ - standing up for the infinite possibilities of iPad.

Except – of course – the possibility of holding the iPad in portrait orientation.

New 27-Inch iMac Disassembled, Aftermarket SSD Install Difficult

Too bad – I was actually considering this as an option.

Motorola – “No Jacket Required”

Brilliant.

Verizon Droids Use More Data than iPhones?

Apparently the more data your smartphone uses, the better it is. Who knew?

Why Didn’t Apple Use Rechargeable Batteries in the First Place?

David never really answers the question, but it in an interesting question nonetheless. I have a pet theory that is directly related to a previous statement made by John Gruber:

[...] the way you get to be a billion dollar company is by having a nose for opportunities. $100 million is $100 million.

In the past, Apple has avoided making *unnecessary* accessories. Today, they are taking the opportunity to expand their horizons and make a few extra dollars. Why? Because they can.

The New Kindle

Great review by Engadget. Personally, I have never owned an ebook reader – aside from the iPad – and I think the new Kindle may be my first.

Thoughts on Designing for iPad

Some insightful thoughts on both the design experience and expectations. The more I read, the more I believe we still haven’t discovered the *right* way to control multi-touch apps and devices – I don’t even think we are close. There have been some excellent examples – a, b, c – of what the future might bring; companies have been very open about their role in this space. I hate saying this, but only time will tell…

July 28, 2010

Apple Design History

Impressive footage of Apple’s design evolution – in timeline fashion.

Safari Extensions Gallery

Make sure to update Safari to 5.0.1 if you intend on installing anything.

iPhone Speed Test Across Four Generations

Joe White:

It’s fantastic to see how far the speed of the iPhone has advanced. Personally, my recent move from iPhone 3G to 4 has left me flabbergasted with the change – I’m very impressed with Apple’s super-quick new handset, to say the least.

Agreed.

The Hidden Complexity of iOS 4 Multitasking

Peter Vidani on the importance and difficulty of multitasking properly in iOS 4. There is no longer a system in place where – when you leave an app and return, you will by greeted with a splash-screen. iOS has taken the ‘high road’ and upon your return, you might just be in Titusville, Florida – trust me, long story – or deep down in the menu system. Probably the second, but you never know…

Macworld’s Hands on with the Magic Trackpad

Jason has some great photos of Apple’s new Magic Trackpad. It is gallery style, and includes remarks on actual usage and features.