SvenOnTech » iPhone

AirPlay with Scandinavian Design Now Available for Your iDevice…at a Price

Sven Rafferty — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 23:45:43 +0000

I love, LOVE, Scandinavian furniture and have since I was kid. Hey, with a Swedish name, one has to, right? A walk through IKEA always gives me flashbacks to when I was a kid while in Germany and I always remember how my sweet parents spent thousands on a custom Scandinavian bed for me as a teen that I still miss to this day. Now, that same stunning look and simplicity comes to speakers for your iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, and even iTunes on your Mac or PC. Utilizing AirPlay from Apple, Libratone debuts it’s AirPlay enabled sounds systems that, “boast exceptional sound and minimalistic Scandinavian design made from hand-picked materials including Italian cashmere, and chrome.” One look at these blocks and you don’t have to look any further for beauty. While Libratone shafted us on any specifications in its press release, it certainly didn’t prepare us for the staggering prices. The “cheappy” clocks in at $700 and the top of the line will set you back $1,300! But hey, it’s Scandinavian, right?

View Press Release »

LIBRATONE DEBUTS AIRPLAY
ENABLED SOUND SYSTEMS

Libratone’s wireless AirPlay speakers boast exceptional sound and minimalistic Scandinavian design made from hand-picked materials including Italian cashmere, and chrome

Palo Alto – November 2, 2011 – Libratone, a brand known in Europe for its high-end sound systems, makes its U.S. debut with the launch of two cutting-edge AirPlay-enabled options for the ultimate sound experience: the Libratone Live and Libratone Lounge. Apple’s AirPlay® allows users to stream songs from their iTunes music libraries on Mac or PC, as well as music stored on their iPad, iPhone or iPod touch, through their Wi-Fi networks.* The Libratone Lounge system is designed to make every corner of the room the ideal spot for sound while the Libratone Live allows for versatility due to its smaller size. Another attractive feature is the gorgeous design of both systems, which is heightened with quality hand-picked materials including Italian cashmere, chrome, wood and selected acoustic materials. Libratone Live and Lounge allow you to experience big sound with minimalistic design without clumsy, clunky speakers. One is all you need.

Liberation is a reoccurring theme for Libratone as they encourage a life without cables, without clutter and most importantly surrounded by great sound. Users can enhance the Libratone experience with the Libratone App, which allows for the customization of the FullRoom feature, enabling you adjust sound to fit any room.

The Libratone speakers are now available in a variety of colors to compliment your spaces. The Libratone Lounge, perfect for living room spaces, is available in Slate Grey, Blueberry Black and Vanilla Beige as standard at a cost of $1,299 and as red and green cashmere in its premium offering at a cost of $1,399. The more petite Libratone Live, ideal for any room in the home, is available in grey, black and beige as standard at a cost of $699 and as premium in red and green cashmere at a cost of $799. The stylish Live also offers a chrome handle for easy portability.
Libratone Lounge and Live are available at Apple Online Store in US. For a full list of other retailers visit www.libratone.com/buy.

“Music is the context in which we live our lives – a personal soundtrack so to speak. We believe strongly in simplicity and the ability to experience room-filling sound in any room without clumsy speakers and tangled wires” states Soeren Louis Pedersen, Chief Sales Officer of Libratone, “Libratone is designed to simplify and enhance any home décor with room filling, high fidelity sound”.

Libratone Live and Libratone Lounge features:

• Libratone Lounge and Libratone Live utilizes AirPlay, allowing users to stream songs from their iTunes music libraries on Mac or PC, as well as music stored on their iPad, iPhone or iPod touch, through their Wi-Fi networks.*
• Minimalistic interior design. Libratone Live is small and even has a handle for easy placement. Libratone Lounge is designed to stand alone or to fit under a TV or anywhere aesthetically all while enjoying the same exceptional sound.
• FullRoom technology. The single sound source design ensures that acoustic sound is covered from corner-to-corner. Take the experience to the next level by personalizing the FullRoom feature with the Libratone App.
• Quality raw materials and craftsmanship all from hand-picked materials including cashmere, chrome and wood. Gorgeous colors compliment every home.
The Libratone App is available for free from the App Store on iPad, iPhone or iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore.

*AirPlay requires iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPod touch (2nd, 3rd or 4th generation), iPad 2 or iPad with iOS 4.2 or later, or Mac and PC with iTunes 10.1 or later. Wi-Fi network is required.

About Libratone
Libratone is a Copenhagen-based audio company that creates sound systems for today. That’s it.
Our approach is three-headed: Wireless technology, hi-fi quality, and Scandinavian design
– in one sound source.

Our goal is to play music from iPad, iPhone and iPod touch devices worldwide and to deliver an alternative to clumsy stereo systems and the wire-havoc they wreak. All without compromising the sound experience.

To learn more about Libratone’s Lounge and Live audio systems visit www.libratone.com.

Trademark acknowledgements
iTunes, AirPlay, iPod, iPhone and iPad are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.
Libratone and FullRoom are registered trademarks of Libratone A/S.

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Wahoo Run Gym Pack Helps You Train Using Your iPhone

Sven Rafferty — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 04:52:07 +0000

If you’re needing a good work out and you want to record it all while maintaining your optimal heart beat range, then Chip Hawkins has a deal for you. His company, Wahoo Fitness has just released a nifty little app that works with Wahoo key, an ANT+ dock connector, that is compatible with hundreds of ANT+ monitors found commonly around gyms of America. Wahoo Run/Gym Pack comes with its own heart monitor in case you do not have one to fit around your chest. You can pick up the kit from Best Buy today for $129.

View Press Release »

Atlanta, GA – October 25, 2011 – Wahoo Fitness, the leader in smartphone fitness technology, announces the Wahoo Run/Gym Pack for iPhone, iPod, and iPad, with nationwide availability at Best Buy stores. Wahoo’s Run/Gym Pack uses ANT+ technology to combine your GPS, heart rate, music, phone, and more into one powerful all-in-one training partner. By connecting your iPhone or iPod Touch to heart rate monitors, foot pods and other fitness sensors, Wahoo provides iPhone users easy access to a plethora of health and fitness information, eliminating the need to purchase a designated fitness device. The Run/Gym Pack is available today for $129.99 at Best Buy stores.

Wahoo Fitness’ Run/Gym Pack wirelessly connects to any ANT+ fitness measuring device, including heart monitors and foot pods, transforming your iPhone into a complete fitness partner supplying heart rate, pace, distance, location, calories, your favorite playlist and more, all in real-time. “By harnessing the power of the smartphone we’ve bridged the gap between expensive exercise devices and the everyday athlete,” says Chip Hawkins, CEO of Wahoo Fitness. “You no longer have to purchase a designated fitness watch. You’re already carrying your iPhone or iPod Touch with you for music and safety; might as well have it track your workout too.”

The Wahoo Run/Gym Pack includes a Wahoo Soft Heart Rate Strap and Wahoo Key, which plugs into the 30-pin connector and instantly links your iPhone to most popular heart rate monitors and other ANT+ sensors. With superior computing power, your iPhone becomes the most powerful exercise computer on the market, compatible with over 100 of the top fitness applications available in the App Store such as Runkeeper, MapMyRun+, RunMeter, Runtastic, Jog Log, and Wahoo Fitness’ own App. The choice of Apps allows users to receive, monitor, upload, and record all their workout information in the format of their choice. With your workout data in the palm of your hand, it’s easy to upload to your favorite training platform or share with friends through Facebook and Twitter, without ever plugging in.  Wahoo Fitness Run/Gym Pack features include:  • ANT+ radio transceiver with 30 pin connector supports all current and future ANT+ sensors, allowing you to track heart rate, time, calories, pace, distance, course, and more all on your iPhone • Compatible with 100+ of the most popular fitness apps, including the free Wahoo Fitness App • Includes Wahoo Key and Wahoo Soft Heart Rate Strap  • Optional Wahoo Armband provides comfortable protection for your iPhone with full touch screen access • Compatible with iPhone 3G, 3GS, 4, and 4S as well as iPod Touch and iPad models  The Run/Gym Pack is available now for $129.99 at Best Buy stores nationwide. To request additional information on Wahoo Fitness please contact PR Representative Brad Hobbs at (305) 576-1171 x119 or by email at bradhobbs@maxborgesagency.com. For more information on Wahoo Fitness, please visit www.WahooFitness.com

About Wahoo Fitness: Located in Atlanta, GA., Wahoo Fitness connects smartphones to your favorite fitness activities – running, biking, and gym going- through the use of its ANT+ connectors for iPhones. Wahoo Fitness’ award winning products include its Wahoo Run/Gym Pack, which adds heart rate training to your iPhone, and its Wahoo Bike Case, which simultaneously protects your phone and connects it to the sensors on your bike. For more information on Wahoo Fitness, please visit www.wahoofitness.com.

Siri and HAL Get Married

Sven Rafferty — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 04:03:37 +0000

It didn’t take long for someone to put Siri into A Space Odyssey 2001 and remind us of how Siri is much like HAL. Now ThinkGeek brings Iris, Siri backwards, 9000 cradle for your iPhone 4S to allow for you to control your iPhone via a single button remote. The expensive cradle of $60 packs a mic and speaker into the box along with the infamous red glowing “eye” to remind you that HAL, I mean, Iris is listening.

View Press Release »

ThinkGeek is announcing today that it will release an accessory for the iPhone 4S that works with Siri, named Iris 9000. The Iris 9000 is a voice control module for iPhone 4S & Siri that allows for you to control Siri from across the room.

Simply place your iPhone into the Iris 9000 cradle and use the included micro remote to trigger Siri from up to 50 feet away. Just tap the Iris 9000 remote button once, listen for the Siri chime and speak your command or question. The built in mic on the Iris 9000 picks up your voice from across the room and the embedded speaker amplifies Siri’s spoken responses.

You can also make and receive calls using the Iris 900 like a standard speakerphone. Oh, and the Iris 9000′s glowing eye flickers along with Siri’s voice!

The Iris 9000 will be available in Spring 2012 for $59.99 and ThinkGeek has begun taking email requests today, which will alert those who sign up the moment the product is available for shipping.

Below are some more specs on the Iris 9000. However, if you’d like more info or would like to chat about the product, contact me [Jessica Darrican / 305-576-1171 x.116 / Jessica@maxborgesagency.com].

A Siri-ous Cause for Concern?

Jonathan Zschau — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:08:37 +0000

What is Apple’s Siri and should you be worried about your privacy?

Siri is a speech-recognition software application found on the iPhone 4S that acts as a “personal assistant.” As of right now, it’s only available in the iPhone 4S models, but it may eventually come to other Apple devices such as the iPhone 4 or iPad. Siri utilizes natural language processing to interpret questions and commands inputted through speech. There are two aspects of Siri that make it such a revolutionary technology when utilized on handheld devices such as the iPhone. First, its ability to interpret spoken natural language enables the user to give commands as if talking to a living person. This has potential to change the way in which we humans interface with computers.

Second, Siri is exceedingly observant and even learns, perhaps more observant than many of us have yet to fully appreciate. Siri knows what you ask, when you ask it, how you asked it, even where you were when you asked it; Siri won’t forget. As time goes on, Siri will grow increasingly knowledgeable about you, your associations, and your habits. The computing power behind Siri isn’t sequestered on your iPhone – it’s in the cloud and, therefore, everything it learns about you may be utilized in ways you never intended it to be. Think of Siri as omniscient personal assistant who serves each and every one of the millions of iPhone users at once. Although Siri has promised to keep your secrets – perhaps she’s even signed a confidentiality agreement – Siri may rely upon something she learned from you today to assist your neighbor tomorrow. Is this a bad thing? Well, maybe not, provided you’re aware Siri is doing this.

Siri’s ability to learn is perhaps one of the most exciting traits the technology has to offer, but it’s also potentially alarming if privacy is one of your top priorities. This is because of the way Siri relies on cloud computing to understand all of the data it learns about you, which includes information you directly input (such as a question or command) as well as other contextual data that you may not think you are sharing (such as your location or even your tone of voice). Siri processes and analyzes all of this information using an amalgam of applications, which include voice recognition and output software, natural language searching algorithms, and an iteration of Wolfram Alpha (a sophisticated answer engine) to generate a relevant and seemingly sentient response. Over time, Siri builds a contextual understanding of you and what it learns about you is ultimately stored somewhere.

At first glance this may not seem so different than other services we already use on a daily basis such as Google or Amazon. Google has been tracking our searching behavior for over a decade. Amazon has been learning about our shopping habits for just as long. The derivative use of this information is part of what has made these companies so profitable and certainly has fueled the explosion of the information age. What makes Siri so exceptional is that it exemplifies how integrated, unobtrusive, and seamless these technologies are becoming. We’re no longer in the age of desktop computers, which sat, stationary, in our offices or living rooms. Many of us have taken to these small, powerful, and elegantly designed technological marvels without a second thought as to what is actually going on behind the curtain. Perhaps this love affair with our portable devices such as the iPhone has distracted us from the progressive and unyielding erosion of our own privacy that has been unfolding over the past few decades.

Are Siri and similar technologies something we should be worried about? Is Siri big brother’s female counterpart? Should we all take up arms, retreat to our basements, and don tinfoil helmets? No, of course not. Siri is an exemplary technology, which demonstrates the direction the portable device revolution is headed. The common sharing and utilization of personal data will undoubtedly help the vast majority of us become more organized and productive. But the takeaway is that we all need to pause to appreciate the striking fact that your privacy isn’t what it used to be and, therefore, it is incumbent on you make an effort to understand how and what you share will be used by others. Only then can you make a deliberate decision as to how best utilize technologies such as Siri in a way that is consistent with your own needs and interests.

What information does Siri collect?

Although Apple recently pulled its About Siri and Privacy page, a cached version is still available. It’s likely that Apple will post and updated version in the days or weeks to come. The page provided some insight into what types of information Siri relied on in order to do her magic. The page indicated that Siri would collect two types of data: User Data and Voice Input Data, which Apple defined as:

User Data sent to Apple enables Siri to help you when you say things like “Call Dad” or “How do I get to work from here?” Voice Input Data is used by Apple to process your request, to help Siri better recognize what you say and may be used generally to improve the overall accuracy and performance of Siri and other Apple products and services. Voice Input Data is associated with your verbal commands and may include:

Audio recordings

Transcripts of what you said

Related diagnostic data, such as hardware and operating system specifications and performance statistics

Based on these somewhat broad definitions, it seems that Siri will be collecting a vast array of personal information from its users. In other words, Siri is going to collect much more than the mere content of your queries or commands. As a case in point, you may want Siri to know that your daughter’s first name is Natalie and that she has a particular cellular phone number, but you may not be entirely comfortable that Siri also knows that you call her when you pick her up from elementary school every weekday at the corner of School Street and Center Street at 3:15 PM. Depending on your own perspective on the importance of privacy, you may not be comfortable with Siri collecting and analyzing all of this information.

The point here is that you should be aware that this type of data is being collected and that you cannot be absolutely sure about how it’s being used. Have you heard about the husband that allegedly used his wife’s iPhone’s Find My Friends feature to discover that she had been having an affair? Would you take issue with someone having the ability to track your location without your knowledge? As these technologies and services become more ubiquitous in our everyday lives we should at least take some time to understand what data might be shared and what, if any, risks that may be created by the sharing of that data.

Will someone access your personal information?

If you use a portable device like an iPhone then you are already sharing a significant amount of information that you might consider to be private. While the vast majority of us have nothing to be concerned about, you should not only understand what types of data might be shared, but also who might access it.

Whatever you share is in the cloud, for anyone to read should they be resourceful enough to gain access to it. To use the analogy I used earlier, you can think of Siri as a personal assistant. Sure, she may have sworn on her mother’s grave that she would never tell anyone what you had disclosed to her behind closed doors, but if Siri does spill the beans then you’re out of luck. To Apple’s credit, there is a fairly robust privacy policy in place, Apple does have an unparalleled reputation for being a responsible corporation, and lastly, there isn’t anything in the world that would kill Siri and the iCloud quicker than a systemic security breach. Seemingly secure databases have been compromised in the past. Does anyone remember the monumental breach of the PlayStation Network earlier this year where tens of millions of users’ personal account data was stolen? It’s naive to assume that the data Apple, or any company for that matter, will never be hacked or otherwise obtained by some unknown third party.

What about government surveillance? The Electronic Communications Privacy Act (“ECPA”) has been widely criticized for its apparent inability to safeguard personal information that is stored in the cloud. In its present form, the ECPA treats data stored in the cloud differently than data stored locally on your computer’s hard drive. For example, if you have an email account (e.g. Yahoo or Gmail) government officials may access that data without a warrant; all the authorities need to do is certify that the information to be collected will be relevant to a criminal investigation.

What does this mean for you? Be careful of what you share because other people could potentially access information that you may consider to be personal and private. The cloud really does present some interesting concerns regarding privacy and it’s worth your while to take a little bit of time to understand them.

Some perspective: Siri isn’t a new threat to your privacy.

Sharing our personal information isn’t anything new; we’ve been leaking our personal information in ways unanticipated and unknown to ourselves for decades. Every time you use a credit card, rewards card, run a Google search, or log onto a computer you are sharing something about yourself. Siri is one of the more sophisticated and easily accessible services of this sort that we have yet seen and that’s truly an exciting thing. But it’s also disconcerting to think about how much Siri will come to know about us. The fact that Siri is so convenient and so seamless makes it incredibly easy not to think about the risks associated with sharing too much information. Provided you’re conscious of the simple fact that whatever you share with Siri may not be forever held in secrecy then you have nothing to worry about. If you’re still especially concerned over the prospect of Siri getting to know you, you can always deactivate Siri.

Jonathan Zschau is the author of the new book Buying and Owning a Mac: Secrets Apple Doesn’t Want You to Know and contributing writer at CultofMac.com.

Ten Top Tips for Taking the Best Bite out of the New Apple iPhone 4S

Jonathan Zschau — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 05:06:38 +0000

1. Be prepared to act fast. If you want the new iPhone, be prepared to act fast on the date of release. After the announcement of the iPhone 4 pre-orders sold out within a matter of hours and those who procrastinated got left out in the cold. Pay attention to Apple news sources and pre-order your new iPhone as early as possible.

2. Avoid the lines: order online and deliver to your home. There are going to be lines around the block for the new iPhone. Don’t let fear of expensive shipping fees or late deliveries stop you from buying online. Apple has a great track record for getting new iPhones delivered to customers on time and delivery is free.

3. Buy from alternative sellers. If Apple’s pre-ordering system gets bogged down, buy from Verizon or AT&T. Whenever you buy from authorized retailers your new iPhone will come with the same one-year limited warranty and will be fully serviceable at Apple locations. Be aware, however, that return policies and procedures may differ from Apple’s so you should take a moment to read the retailer’s return policy.

4. Sell your old iPhone. If you’re upgrading from an old iPhone consider selling your old one for cash on eBay, Craigslist, or other channels such as sellyourmac.com. There’s plenty of demand and a used iPhone can fetch as much as a few hundred dollars. You can also trade in your iPhone with companies like Gazelle.com, which offers hundreds of dollars for well-kept models.

5. Buy with a credit card that offers additional protection. Many credit card companies (such as American Express) offer additional protection plans on purchases made with their cards. As long as you pay off your card balance so you don’t accrue interest or other fees that offset the benefit, it may be a good idea to take advantage of this service.

6. Hold off on AppleCare. AppleCare is Apple’s own service plan, which it offers for most of its products. The iPhone AppleCare plan currently costs $69 and can be obtained at any time for up to one year after purchase. Apart from the additional telephone technical support available beyond the 90-day complimentary period, there is little benefit to buying AppleCare before the one-year limited warranty is about to expire. Consider saving a date 11 months after you purchase your iPhone and decide then. It’s a waste of $69 if your phone gets lost, stolen, or damaged in a way that would void coverage (for example, by water damage).

7. Invest in a good case. Whether or not to equip your iPhone with a case is a matter of personal preference and risk assessment. If you do decide to buy a case take some time to read the reviews and choose one that is both aesthetically pleasing and offers sufficient protection for the types of environments you envision taking your iPhone into.

8. Learn iOS 5. The iPhone 4S’s operating system, iOS 5, is just as important—if not more—than the new hardware features in the iPhone 4S. All smartphones, not just the iPhone, are capable of far more than most users give them credit for. Take time to read up on the capabilities of the iOS and pay particular attention to the new features.

9. Do your research and read the reviews. Whatever iPhone(s) Apple releases this fall it’s important to research whether a new iPhone is really right for you. Online Mac sites are a great place to start because writers will be covering Apple’s release and sharing ideas and opinions for weeks before and after the announcement.

10. Look out for defects and be an informed consumer. Always be on the lookout for defects and get them addressed when they first arise. Stay informed by keeping up to date on problems, issues, bugs and breakdowns other Mac users may be having through Mac web sites (such as Cult of Mac.com).

Jonathan Zschau is a Boston-based attorney, a lifelong Mac enthusiast, a writer for CultofMac.com, and an outspoken advocate for consumer rights. Buying and Owning a Mac: Secrets Apple Doesn’t Want You to Know is available at bookstores online in print, PDF, EPUB, and Kindle formats. For more information visit http://www.cultofmac.com or http://amzn.com/0983107009

SampleTank for the iPhone Makes Muscians Full Out Bands

Sven Rafferty — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 23:38:19 +0000

Hey keyboardists of the world, it’s time to grab your iPhone or iPad and let it help you excel in your playing. With the new SampleTank free app for the iPhone or iPod touch, it will give mobile musicians more sounds to grove it to via the iRig MIDI interface. You can get 8 instruments which gives you 400 rhythmic and melodic patterns that will round out anything that you may be playing. In essence, you’ll have the entire band packed into your iOS device and keyboard!

View Press Release »

October 2011, Modena, Italy – IK Multimedia is proud to announce that SampleTank® Free for iPhone/iPod touch is now available in the iTunes App store. Together with the newly-released regular version of SampleTank, the two apps are the first pro-quality, sample-based sound and groove modules available for the iOS mobile platform.

Both can be played using the built-in keyboard and patterns, but they truly excel when used with an external keyboard controller and a MIDI interface – like the newly-released iRig™ MIDI – to replace older hardware sound and synthesizer modules for live performance. Together with iRig MIDI, SampleTank offers the most portable and best quality sound and groove module solution for mobile musicians to date.

SampleTank sounds are known for their high quality and extreme variety that is unmatched on the iOS platform. For the first time in a mobile device, users are able to experience the same quality of sounds they are used to from the most sophisticated software or hardware instruments like IK’s range of virtual instruments for the Mac and PC.

SampleTank Free users can immediately start using 8 instruments (4 + 4 by registering) on their favorite iOS device including Drums, Bass, Electric Piano, Acoustic Guitar, Synth Lead and Woodwinds. The instruments also come with over 400 rhythmic and melodic patterns so that anyone can compose high-quality grooves in seconds right out of the box.

Users can expand their sonic palette to over 400 instruments and 900 patterns by accessing the in-app store where they can find 16 categories of sounds covering the entire set needed for the most demanding live players and producers: Pianos, Organs, Strings, Basses, Guitars, Drums, Synths, Woodwinds, Brass, Ethnic Instruments, Percussion and more all instantly accessible from right inside the app. Single instruments categories can be added for only $4.99/€3.99 or as a complete collection for a discounted price of only $39.99/€31.99, a fraction of what instruments with an equivalent quality would cost as regular software or hardware instruments. Free version users can also upgrade to all the sounds included in the regular version of SampleTank for only $9.99/€7.99.

Both in the free and in the regular version, users can access three main sections of the app:

The Sounds page is where users can quickly browse and audition the hundreds of available sounds and patterns which are organized in easily recognizable icon-based categories. Both the included instruments and the add-on instruments can be auditioned here making it easy to choose what the user prefers. Here users can play up to 4 simultaneous instruments and save or recall them using the built-in preset system.
The Edit page is where the user can personalize the sound and effects parameters through easy-to-understand knobs for immediate sound and effect parameter tweaking. Each SampleTank sound is “production-ready” since it comes with pre-programmed built-in effects of the highest quality for the platform to further emphasize the musicality and character of sounds.
The Play page is where every type of musician finds a convenient play environment directly in their iOS device with a dual piano-style keyboard, a scale-based keyboard or drum pads.

SampleTank features

4-part multi-timbral professional quality sound and groove module
Expandable sound library with more than 400 instruments in 16 categories
Huge selection of melodic and rhythmic patterns for accompaniment or groove creation
Built-in insert effects and master reverb
Easy-to-use, intuitive mobile interface
Sound and effects editing with multiple parameters
Play interface with piano keyboard, scale-based keyboard and drum pads
Compatible with iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPod touch 4th and 3rd generation, iPad 2 and iPad with iOS 4.3 and newer
Designed in concert with iRig MIDI interface for iOS devices

Pricing and availability

SampleTank Free for iPhone/iPod touch is now available on the iTunes App store. < http://itunes.apple.com/app/sampletank-free/id464775965?mt=8>

The regular version of SampleTank with 72 built-in sounds is also available for an introductory price of only $9.99/€7.99. < http://itunes.apple.com/app/sampletank/id464783893?mt=8>

A universal iPad version of SampleTank is also in development and will be available soon. Current users of SampleTank for iPhone / iPod will be able to update to this version for free when it becomes available.

iRig MIDI, the Core MIDI interface for iOS, is already shipping and is available for only $69.99/€54.99 in selected music instruments and electronic retailers. Owners of iRig MIDI also get an exclusive sound-set of 48 sounds to use in SampleTank for free simply by registering.

339 Million Low-Cost Android Smartphones to Ship Worldwide in 2015, Says In-Stat

Sven Rafferty — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 23:28:25 +0000

The Android onslaught will continue and it will do so with low-cost smartphones says the latest In-Stat report. While rumors proceed Steve Jobs autobiography of his betrayed feelings of Google’s Eric Schmidt concerning Android, it looks like there really is little to stop it from conquering the world. Either Apple needs to continue its innovation or kill Android.

View Press Release »

In many parts of the world, the typical Android smartphone, selling for $400 to $500, is out of reach for many consumers that currently have a feature phone or perhaps no phone at all. These potential smartphone owners currently only have one OS choice in the low-cost category, (under-$150) and that is Android. New In-Stat (www.in-stat.com) research forecasts that unit shipments for low-cost Android smartphones will approach 340 million worldwide in 2015.

“The low-cost Android handset segment will cause some fragmentation in the Android platform,” says Allen Nogee, Research Director. “Most low-cost Android smartphones are likely to be released with Android 2.2 or 2.3, since these versions are a good blend of features with modest memory and processor usage. The Ice Cream Sandwich (Android 4.0) step-up in memory and processor demands makes this release less attractive for low-cost Android devices.”

Recent In-Stat research found:
The low-cost smartphone area is Android’s to lose. This market could get much more competitive, especially as other OS vendors begin to target the space.
The low-end low-cost smartphones generally stick with EDGE and processors running at 600MHz speeds or less, and a single-core EDGE chip sells for well under $10. For our purposes, low-cost means smartphones that are $150 or less.
Smaller phone manufacturers will sometimes purchase from the “gray market” where component manufacturers typically don’t pay licensee fees, royalties, and taxes for the products they produce.
Early competitors in the market include Huawei, MicroMax, Motorola, Samsung, Spice, and ZTE.
Recent In-Stat research Less is More: The Worldwide Emergence of Low-Cost Android Smartphones (#IN1104911WH)looks at the history of the low-cost smartphone market, and how we got where we are today. The report looks at Android in-depth and the problems that Google faces as it moves into the low-cost arena. The obstacles are also explored in-detail, as are the markets where low-cost Android smartphones will dominate.
Forecasts include:

Smartphone shipments
Android smartphone shipments
Low-cost Android smartphone shipments by region
Bill of materials (BOM) for processor, touchscreen, other components
Country-by-country view of the smartphone market
About In-Stat
In-Stat’s market intelligence combines technical, market and end-user research and database models to analyze the Mobile Internet and Digital Entertainment ecosystems. Our insights are derived from a deep understanding of technology impacts, nearly 30 years of history in research and consulting, and direct relationships with leading players in each of our core markets. In-Stat provides its research through reports, annual subscriptions, consulting and advisory services to inform critical decisions. Technology vendors, equipment manufacturers, service providers and media companies worldwide rely on In-Stat to support critical business, product and technology decisions. For more information, contact us or visit www.in-stat.com.

About The NPD Group, Inc.
The NPD Group is the leading provider of reliable and comprehensive consumer and retail information for a wide range of industries. Today, more than 1,800 manufacturers, retailers, and service companies rely on NPD to help them drive critical business decisions at the global, national, and local market levels. NPD helps our clients to identify new business opportunities and guide product development, marketing, sales, merchandising, and other functions. Information is available for the following industry sectors: automotive, beauty, commercial technology, consumer technology, entertainment, fashion, food and beverage, foodservice, home, office supplies, software, sports, toys, and wireless. For more information, contact us or visit www.npd.com and www.npdgroupblog.com. Follow us on Twitter at @npdtech and @npdgroup.

InCharge Slim and Easy Way to Charge iPhone

Sven Rafferty — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 23:18:56 +0000

Travelers know how crummy electronics can be when it comes time to pack in all the stuff that keeps it going, aka, chargers. Some are small but those pesky prongs that stick out make packing difficult. Some have collapsible prongs but are large. Shesh, can some one give us a break? As David Lee Roth use to say, one break, coming up! XtremeMac has released the InCharge hOme USB which is slim and has a collapsible prongs for easy traveling and packing. The cable can also be be removed and used on any Mac or PCs USB port for charging and syncing. It can be yours for $29.99.

View Press Release »

Oakdale, MN – October 18, 2011 – XtremeMac, a leading designer and manufacturer of accessories and audio solutions for Apple devices, is thrilled to announce the new InCharge Home USB Wall Charger, the perfect travel charger, slim and full power. With 10 watts of power, the InCharge Home USB provides rapid charging for iPod, iPhone or iPad as well as other USB powered devices.

The compact InCharge Home USB features a slim design with collapsible prongs for easy portability and convenience when traveling. Additionally, the low profile InCharge Home USB allows access to a second wall outlet. The included 4ft detachable USB to 30 pin cable can be used for charging/syncing with a computer.

The InCharge Home USB is available now in the U.S. for $29.99 at www.XtremeMac.com.

For more information on the InCharge Home USB and all of XtremeMac’s award winning products, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

About XtremeMac:
Celebrating its 10 year anniversary, XtremeMac is a portfolio brand of Imation Corp. (NYSE:IMN). Founded in 2001, the same year Apple introduced the first iPod, XtremeMac provides innovative solutions to protect, power and play Apple devices. The brand’s award winning cases, speaker docks and charging solutions incorporate leading edge design and advanced technology to enhance customer experience with Apple products. Additional information can be found at XtremeMac.com, Facebook/XtremeMac and Twitter/XtremeMac.

XtremeMac, the “X” logo, and InCharge are trademarks of Imation Corp. iPhone, iPod, iPod Classic, iPod nano and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc, registered in the U.S. and other countries. iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc.

V-Neck Sleeve Protects your Notebook, iPad, and iPhone Through Deception

Sven Rafferty — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 18:14:15 +0000

It’s often said that the best security is the most obvious security. Here is such an example of that with the Original V-Neck Sleeves for your Apple MacBooks, iPhones, and iPads. Taking the concept of hiding something of value in something of little value, Computer Apparel created a case that allows you to slip in your device and its accessories in a venue that does not attract attention like the common “Steal me!” computer bags that litter airports, schools, and coffee shops around the nation. Most will glance at a shirt and walk right by it as they near that computer bag in the corner. The V-Neck Sleeve continues to protect your investment from common injuries incurred when, um, naked and shirtless.

My only reservation for the shirt is most people do not travel around with neatly folded shirts; however, if placed in a case or a hotel drawer, yes, this would fool the average thief for sure.

The only thing that could have made this even better is if it were a black mock shirt such as the late Steve Jobs use to wear. But maybe that will appear as a special edition.

View Press Release »

LOS ANGELES, CA – October 18, 2011 – Computer Apparel announces the next
generation in business casual with their Original V-Neck Sleeves, designed
to protect Apple laptops, iPhones, and iPads in style. This perfectly
tailored v-neck tee offers Mac enthusiasts a fashion-forward alternative to
the common computer case. Made from high-quality cottons and ultra-soft
padding, the Original V-Neck Sleeve is not only a safe fit for computers and
tablets, but it is also a machine washable one. Equipped with convenient
pockets to stow chargers, papers, and even a place for an iPhone, this is
one computer sleeve that will never go out of style.

“We wanted to create something that was fun, fashionable, and most
importantly, of quality,” says Roger Ein of Computer Apparel. “The V-Neck
Sleeve offers superior protection, convenience, and even security, meaning
it is easy to mistake the V-Neck Sleeve for an actual folded up v-neck
t-shirt.”

However, the playful Original V-Neck Sleeve is not the only top shelf
product to expect from Computer Apparel. The up-and-coming company is
bursting at the seams with new and exciting computer sleeve ideas.

“We have hundreds of ideas for new computer sleeve fashions,” says Ein.
“The Original V-Neck Sleeve is just the beginning. Imagine an entire
wardrobe for your computer; that’s Computer Apparel.”

For now, the off the cuff computer sleeves are just the tech trend to turn
heads. Available in four sizes and five vibrant colors, there is a V-Neck
Sleeve suited for every personality. Whether it is stowed snuggly in a
suitcase or discretely in a drawer, Apple owners can rest assured their
computers are protected and looking good with the Original V-Neck Sleeve
from Computer Apparel.

Try one on at http://www.computer-apparel.com/.

Bracketron Has a Mount for your iPhone, Blackberry, or Android Phone and Your Car

Sven Rafferty — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 23:01:14 +0000

Smartphones are quickly becoming the phone in everyone’s pocket and purse and with that comes the availability of music, GPS, and other aids for you to use while on the road. Car mount kits are very popular but finding a good one is much tougher. Every one I have used with the long goose necks never give me a steady way to hold my iPhone and many other cradles seem to make things more complex with too many elbows to tighten down. Today Bracketron releases the Cradle-iT Dash Mount that not only locks down your iPhone but does it for Blackberry and Android devices as well. The universal mount will either mount to your dash or windshield without the need for tools or surface mounts. This makes it perfect for using between more than one vehicle and its small sized easily lets you travel with it in a purse or bag as well as for allowing for easy storage in today’s modern tiny glove box. For $30, this isn’t a bad deal at all, though I wished it had a dock connector port. More deets below.

View Press Release »

Minneapolis, MN – October 17, 2011– Bracketron, the leading manufacturer in mounting solutions for mobile consumer electronics, announces the retail availability of the Cradle-iT Dash Mount, a powerful suction mount that uses patented technology to secure your mobile device in a safe and convenient position on your vehicle’s dashboard. The Cradle-iT mounts your mobile device with or without a case, and easily pivots and rotates to maximize your viewing angle. The mount offers 360-degree adjustability and can be easily switched between vehicles or even used on your office desk and other flat surfaces. The Cradle-iT Dash Mount is available now for $29.95 at national retailers and Bracketron.com.

“The Cradle-iT Dash Mount is an extremely versatile universal mount for handheld mobile devices,” said Mark Mandel, Executive Vice President of Bracketron. “This innovative product is one of many Bracketron mounts that help drivers to responsibly use their mobile devices in their vehicles, ensuring that GPS applications can be viewed at an optimized angle and the device is in a secure position.”

The Cradle-iT Dash Mount’s innovative design consists of three main parts including a powerful suction cup, an arm with a ball and socket joint, and a flexible cradle holder. The suction cup features a polyurethane ring with Bracketron’s groundbreaking, patented Temporbond technology. This adhesive-free grip technology provides the ultimate hold without leaving a sticky residue. The suction cup also features a lever that is pushed to install the mount and pulled up to remove it. The combined technologies of the suction cup result in an unbelievably strong grip, while Temporbond also allows you to mount the suction cup to almost any surface whether it is smooth or textured.

The arm of the Cradle-iT mount includes a ball and socket joint that allows for 360-degree rotation of the cradle holder, letting you to maximize your viewing angle for complete comfort and ease. The holder was designed to fit most handheld smartphones so that device controls are easily accessible. Its universal design is compatible with iPhone®, Blackberry, Android and more. Different handheld mobile devices can easily be switched in and out of the universal holder, providing incredible flexibility. Installation takes seconds and requires no tools. The mount is also compact and fits easily in a bag, glove compartment or purse when not in use.

Features

• Unique cradle design securely grips your device, with or without a case
• Innovative design features a patented polyurethane ring for secure hold
• Mounts to most hard or textured surfaces, including your windshield
• Cradle design allows full access to all device controls
• Pivots and rotates for multiple viewing angles
• Portable design for easy installation and removal
• Fits most handheld smartphones

About Bracketron
Founded in 2001, Bracketron is the industry leader in universal mounting solutions and accessories for many of today’s most popular mobile and handheld technologies, including GPS, smartphone, iPad/tablet, MP3, satellite radio and PC. Bracketron offers a broad selection of mounting configuration options designed to offer an optimal level of flexibility and functionality. The company has broadened its product line to include a variety of flexible mounting options designed to extend the use of the device and enhance the overall user experience.

For more information about Bracketron, visit www.bracketron.com.