Saturday, March 31, 2001
News
TextEdit And Word Files Clarification
In brief, no, of course not, Apple's TextEdit does not translate Word files.
Buzzle Upsets The Apple Cart
Buzzle, the oddly named consortium formed about six months ago by six Apple Computer resellers across Australia, was put into receivership yesterday.
AppleWorks Preview Back (Kinda)
Apple has posted a new AppleWorks Preview for Mac OS X (version 6.1.2) in the "Software: Apple Software: Mac OS X" folder of users iDisk. Sorry, but it's apparently only for North American users.
Apple To Launch OS X E-Mail Newsletter
Next Tuesday, April 3, Apple will launch a bi-weekly e-mail newsletter called Mac OS X Product News that will introduce new products available for Mac OS X. Plus, it will give you the opportunity to download and/or purchase them.
Review
Do Applications Run Faster In OS X Than In OS 9?
Sometimes OS X is faster, sometimes it's not.
Belkin Parkway
While the backpack style caters more to the younger audience, the lack of much storage space makes the case of questionable value for students.
Puzzle Power 3.1
This package is well worth the price for parents and teachers looking for a quick and easy way to make fun and challenging tests or review material. OK, there's no such thing as a fun test, but these puzzles come pretty close.
Virtual PC 4
Virtual PC 4 isn't quite perfect: it uses a little more RAM than version 3, and it contains minor glitches, such as incompatibility with some DOS games. However, these shortcomings are minor compared with Virtual PC's strengths, including beefed-up performance and the ability to run multiple operating systems simultaneously. Version 4 is by far the best PC emulator ever, and well worth the price of an upgrade.
Wintel
Microsoft Shuts Windows On Bluetooth Support
Microsoft Corp. will not support Bluetooth in the next major version of Windows, executives said this week, portraying the technology as not ready for prime time.
April Fool!: Timing's Right For A Bug
As if Sunday morning won't already be hard enough for the Daylight-Savings-Time challenged (is it spring ahead/fall back or spring back/fall ahead?), a computer glitch might add to the clock confusion.
Friday, March 30, 2001
News
Jump In, The Streaming's Fine
Some advances in technology improve Web reception of audio and video, even over dial-ups.
Appel's Next Step
OS X is an eye-catching, smooth-working rebirth of the Macintosh operating system.
Toast 5 Titanium Now Available
The new version of Toast incorporates a brand new graphical user interface, and also sports the ability to do background printing, regardless of whether or not your drive has buffer underrun (or "burnproof") protection.
Users Have Their Say On Mac OS X
Apple Computer's Mac OS X launch shook the earth for many of the company's die-hard fans last weekend. But aftershocks may cause some Mac enthusiasts unexpected trouble.
Opinion
Del Miller: Rope And Chain
Because of MacOS X, the Macintosh community will be going through some interesting times: Were part of the Unix world now and the rules are much, much different. How will the merging of the Unix world into ours change the Macintosh culture?
Wintel
Microsoft Won't Discuss Downturn
Microsoft Corporation declined to say on Friday whether the sputtering U.S. economy would have an impact on its earnings outlook for the second half of its current business year, which ends in June.
Microsoft's Cheerful Desperation
Microsoft wants the next generation of personal computers to be more usable. Who could disagree? But PC buyers may be more than a little surprised, and not entirely pleased, to learn the full extent and direction of Microsoft's influence over the capabilities and design details of the next generation of business and home machines.
Emachines Cuts Jobs, Retrenches
Discount-computer seller Emachines will cut 16 percent of its work force and pull back its efforts aimed at getting revenue from online advertising.
Thursday, March 29, 2001
Top Stories
A New Face (And Heart) For The Mac
Still, it's a good idea to start getting used to Mac OS X, even if you're not a Mac person, because Apple's advances usually light the way for the rest of the computer industry.
Steve Jobs' New Lesson Plan
Apple's CEO could be quietly preparing a revitalized strategy aimed at schools and universities, the company's biggest market.
Apple At PowerPC Makers' Mercy - Ex-Exec
Apple remains at the mercy of its key component suppliers - in particular its processor providers Motorola and IBM - the former head of the Mac maker's European operation has admitted.
New PowerBooks' Classic Glitch
The Mac OS 9.1 CD that ships as the Classic environment with OS X will not install on the Titanium PowerBook G4.
News
Value Investors Start To Go Apple (Computer) Picking
For the time being, at least, the polish on Apple's shares stems — yes, indeed — from their relative safeness.
Apple's New OS X Is The Mac On Steroids
After looking at Apple's new, long-awaited system - OS X, I'm thinking about buying a Macintosh again.
AOL Beta Testing OS X Services
If everything stays on schedule, customers would see a finalized version by early June 2001.
Two OS X "Docklings" Available For Volume And Audio CD Playback
Windows Media Player 7 Comes To The Mac
Media Player 7 supports playback of streamed or downloaded Windows Media audio and video files; Windows Media digital rights management; and playback of MP3 files.
MS Offers Office 2001 Rebate, Upgrade Deal For OS X
The company is offering a US$50 rebate (CDN$75) for buyers of Office 2001.
AppleWorks 6.1 Preview Missing In Action
Apple Updates iTools
iCards now has a series of X-derived cards.
Opinion
Programming For Yourself
So take a risk! Learn something new! You never know what unexpected good will come out of it.
OS X A Temptation From Apple, But Resist It For Now
I believe the bet ultimately will pay off, though not without some growing pains.
OS X? What's That? Looking At OS X Through Bifocals
For the rest of us, there is no reason to rush out and buy it.
Mac OS X Is Only For Programmers — Not!
Wow, this new OS has a lot more potential than I thought!
Review
Adobe Premiere 6
Although the new version still lacks the interface elegance and special-effects prowess of Final Cut Pro, its learning curve isn't as onerous, its price isn't as steep, and its DV and Web support are outstanding.
Wintel
Why I'm Optimistic About Windows XP
I came away impressed with Microsoft's commitment to stability and application compatibility.
Microsoft Storm Warning
The HailStorm program will put all your data in one convenient place — and leave Bill Gates with the keys.
Microsoft: Good Drivers Wanted
With the next version of its consumer Windows operating system, Microsoft is trying to make computers less daunting and prone to crashes. To reach that goal, Microsoft not only needs to clean up its own code, but also all the third-party drivers, little bits of software that help the system communicate with peripherals and other add-ons.
Gateway Shuts 10 Percent Of U.S. Stores
The store closings happened two days ago, the company confirmed Wednesday. They affect about 500 employees, who will be given the opportunity to take other positions within the company.
Microsoft May Delay Online Games For Xbox
Microsoft's Xbox console won't allow Japanese players to access games over the Internet until its second year on sale, according to a confidential company document.
PC Makers Appeal To Bargain Hunters
A slew of new low-cost desktop PCs are set to debut in early April, with the introduction of new budget-minded chips from Advanced Micro Devices and Intel.
Microsoft Releases Xbox Details
Microsoft has quietly upgraded the hard drive on its upcoming Xbox video game console. The company's online spec sheet for the console now lists a 10GB drive, rather than the 8GB originally promised.
Gates Plans Invisible, Automatic Updates For WinXP Users
Basically, you have to ask yourself if you think the storekeeper is a fit and proper person to be making these decisions for you.
Wednesday, March 28, 2001
Top Stories
Mac OS X Offers Impressive Internet Features
Considered on its own, though, OS X delivers Internet features that are solid overall and in many cases a welcome break from the clumsy Internet features of some operating systems and applications.
News
Apple Re-Enters Desktop Battle
Revamped operating system, powerful processors may sway more federal users.
Apple Says OS X Sales Strong In UK
With hopes pinned on the Unix-based operating system to boost its financial health, Apple is looking rosy after a sell-out first weekend.
Your Mac OS X Questions Answered
Microsoft: FireWire In, USB Out?
Clearly, Readmond reckons Steve Jobs is onto something here is out to embrace and extend his strategy.
Opinion
OS X To Be A Huge Success
Mark my words, in the coming year it will be totally uncool to even point your finger at a Wintel or Linux box.
Review
Not Everything Peachy In Apple Land: OS X Alienates One Mac Faithful
Fourteen years with Macs, and Apple II before that, and now Apple puts a fancified Windows 3.1 interface on top of UNIX and calls it the best of both worlds.
Mac OS X Sucks
Don't even think about implementing Mac OS X in a production environment.
Wintel
New Windows Demands PC Power
PC enthusiasts looking to grab an early copy of Windows XP may be in for a big surprise: Many will need more computing horsepower to run the operating system.
Ultimate TV Guns For Your Eyes
With the recent unveiling of UltimateTV, Microsoft is hoping to spark demand for digital programming while quietly moving its earlier, more limited experiment in interactive television off the prime-time lineup.
Tuesday, March 27, 2001
Top Stories
Apple Computer's Jobs Strives To Rekindle Sales, Enthusiasm
With Apple's shares languishing, the PC market in decline, and even loyal fans questioning his strategy, Jobs may not be able to wait that long.
Mac OS X (v10.0)
Mac OS X 10.0 is a significant leap from Mac OS X Public Beta but it is still immature in our opinion. Apple was wise to wait until summer to ship Mac OS X installed as the default OS on its computers and make a big splash at that time if no more than to ensure that the major graphics applications are Mac OS X native.
OS X: It's Easy As, Well, A Mac
The hardest part of installing Mac OS X was removing a bunch of MP3s to make room on my hard drive for the new operating system.
Is Mac OS X Half-Baked?
Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, do not forsake the bird in hand for the imagined one in the book. Of all the operating systems on the planet, OS X is perhaps the only one that can claim to be "fully baked."
News
Apple's Generation OS X
The Mac has a new weapon in its fight to survive in a world dominated by Microsoft.
Searching For OS X Info? Check The Tech Info Library
OS X 'Beginning Of End' For HyperCard?
Apple's OS X Biggest Change In 17 Years
Mac Fans Embrace New OS
"I need it! Let me in! I have to have it!"
First Web Content Management Software For OS X Promised
Roxen Platform, from Roxen Internet Software, is being described as the first Web content management software to ship. It's due within the next 30 days.
Opinion
The New Apple Stores & The Macintosh Experience
To me, the physical Apple Store sounds like a great complement to the existing channels and an excellent approach to bring the Macintosh experience to the masses. It should, however, never become a tactic of competition against existing stores that already do a fine job at selling the Mac.
Will Mac OS X Mail End Email Diversity?
Apple calls email a "killer app." However, one wonders whether it what it is going to kill will not be the present rich diversity of choice among third-party Mac email clients.
OS X: Ready For Prime Time?
Of course the answer to that is no. But it sure makes a damn good soap opera!
Wintel
My First Look At Windows XP
Microsoft's new Windows XP—at least the beta builds I've been playing with—combines the best of Windows 2000 with what I like about Windows Me, and then goes a step further. And this is good.
Gates Opens Silicon Valley Tech Center
Technology icon Bill Gates on Monday greeted a standing-room-only crowd as he officially opened the Microsoft Technology Center-Silicon Valley, the largest and most sophisticated of four now operated by the world's No. 1 software maker.
PC Vendors Face Choices
PC manufacturers are preparing for an intense battle for market share in 2001, as some PC vendors reduce profit margin gains to increase market penetration.
Intel Takes New Approach To Battery Life
Intel will try a new tactic to improve laptop battery life when it comes out next year with "Banias," its first chip designed from the ground up to power notebooks.
Monday, March 26, 2001
Top Stories
OS X Versions Of iMovie, iTunes, AppleWorks Now Out
Making good on its promise to deliver Mac OS X-compatible versions of three cornerstone applications, Apple today released new versions of iTunes, iMovie and AppleWorks.
News
Warning!!! Apple's Firmware 4.1.8 Disables Some RAM!
While the details are still fuzzy, there is definitely a link to non-Apple RAM.
X Launch
Apple has offerred a Mac OS X Essentials training course for this new operating system.
Opinion
Mac OS X Ushers Devotees Into 21st Century
We won't know which OS is better until XP arrives, but it's safe to say both Mac and Windows are heading in the right direction.
Wintel
Microsoft's War Of Attrition
Losing talent and watching cash decline in relative terms, it's my guess that Gates and Ballmer decided enough was enough — it's time to go to war against these troublesome dot-coms.
Sunday, March 25, 2001
Top Stories
Should You Make The Switch?
The pros and cons of OS X.
A Lot Of Fuss Over... Nothing?
Chalk it up to a slower economy and a product that many Mac enthusiasts and early adopters probably pre-ordered online.
News
Apple Offers Mail Import Scripts For OS X Mail Client
Apple has released a package called Mail Import Script to enable Mac OS X users to import mail into the Mail application included with new operating system.
X-Day Photos, Part I - The Mac OS X Retail Box
Check Your iDisk For 9 New Mac OS X Software Downloads
Apple has updated the Software folder in iDisk with several new updates for Mac OS X.
Opinion
After Three Years, It's Time To Begin
Despite the huge amount of work Apple's software engineers have done, and the amazing technical achievements they've pulled off, this is only the beginning. There's a lot more work to be done before they can rest easy and call Mac OS X a success. For now, after three years, it's still a remarkable work in progress.
Mac OS X Is Here. Will I Upgrade?
Once I get myself settled in with the homo sapiens of operating systems, I'm not going to want to monkey around with anything else.
Wintel
Pressed To Innovate, Microsoft Relies Again On An Inner Circle
A brain trust for Mr. Gates has never been more important than it is now.
WinXP Beta 2 Declared - Released Slated For Noon Sunday PST
Despite being under great pressure and up against a deadline, the beta team took it slowly and carefully.
Saturday, March 24, 2001
Top Stories
Mac OS X: Apple Delivers A Work In Progress
The good news is, OS X is as stable as Apple promised. Other operating systems deliver this kind of protection — but you can't install them in 30 minutes or less without memorizing the manual, as OS X allowed me to do on three different Macs.
Mac OS X Won't Change The World... But It's Still A Big Deal
Apple has done, without doubt, an amazing job. Not as amazing as they would have you believe, but amazing nonetheless.
It's A Start
And when all was said and done, I was impressed and excited about the future of the Mac OS.
OS X Available Early For Some
Although Apple says that Mac OS X's official release date is tomorrow, MacCentral has heard from numerous readers who have already picked up the new operating system from dealers.
News
Apple Calms Resellers Over Tesco Rumpus
A leaked email from Apple to its resellers proves the company is attempting to prevent a repeat of Tesco's one-off sale of cut-price iMacs.
Mac OS X Hype Helps Push Apple Higher 7.4%
Mac OS X hype has finally taken over the mainstream and financial press, and that helped boost Apple's stock 7%.
Opinion
Mac OS X: 'This Operating System Is Not Ready Yet'
"It's a shame that Apple did so many televised adverts saying users can cut their own CDs or make their own DVD movies when they can't do these things using this release. Apple has been very subdued over this launch and it is probably because they are embarrassed."
No Mac OS X Yet
It's not that I don't believe in OS†X.
Enough Criticism, Apple Deserves A Break
This Saturday should be a time to celebrate the arrival of OS†X, not mourn what isn't there.
Wintel
Microsoft Faces Hacker Threat
Microsoft on Thursday warned that hackers had got hold of two digital certificates that would allow them to pose as the software giant and spread viruses in its name.
Saturday, March 17, 2001
Top Stories
PowerBook G4 Diary: The Final Analysis
In the case of the Titanium PowerBook G4, because the product is a major leap ahead of both the PC and Mac standards in the areas that count most in mobile computing — size, weight, functionality, stability and design — we have decided to award it Five Mice. That's right, after long deliberation, we have decided to award the Titanium PowerBook G4 that most coveted of Macworld ratings.
News
Connectix President Talks About Sony Deal
McDonald explained that the initiative announced yesterday is a broad technology agreement with implications far beyond just emulation of the PlayStation.
Opinion
OS X Diary: End Of The Line
Apple's work is never done.
Is Apple Giving Up On The Cube?
Passing Of A Free OS
What has Apple gained from cutting off this support?
Wintel
Notebook Makers Prepare 1 GHz Blitz
Several major notebook makers will break the gigahertz barrier next week.
Friday, March 16, 2001
Top Stories
Enough With Themes Already
I have a proposal for what to do with most themes: get rid of 'em.
Sears, Apple Part Ways (Again)
The on-again, off-again relationship between Apple and Sears is off again. By the end of the year, Sears will (once again) no longer carry Apple products.
News
Apple Announces Final Cut Pro 2 With Vast Improved G4 Performance
So, What Exactly Is PowerSchool, And Why Did Apple Buy Them?
Offering complete solutions is the path that has been taking for the DV market, the CD-RW market, and the DVD authoring market. The education market is bigger than all those other markets combined.
GeForce 3: AltiVec II?
Will innovative graphics card make its mark on the Mac?
Apple To Buy Education Company
In what may be a plan to regain loss ground in the education market, Apple has announced plans to buy privately-held PowerSchool, a provider of Web-based student information systems for K-12 schools and school districts.
Sony Acquires Virtual Game Station From Connectix
It appears that former legal adversaries Sony and Connectix Corp. are now joining forces. The companies today announced a "joint technology agreement" that puts an end to their long-running legal battles. This new announcement may also signal the end of Virtual Game Station, at least as we know it today.
Opinion
Let Mac Users Join In By Trading Up
Apple has a problem. A good portion of its user base wonít be able to use OSX unless they buy a new machine — and most of them wonít, at least not right away.
Apple Wins And Loses
Yes, a good number of Mac owners who bought into Windows have defected, but a good number are also using the Windows computer to supplement their Mac, not replace it.
Review
iDVD Diary, Dar 1: First Appearances
It's not so scary once you play with it.
Wintel
Compaq To Cut 5,000 Jobs, Miss Estimates
Compaq Computer on Thursday warned it will miss first-quarter earnings estimates and cut 5,000 jobs.
Wednesday, March 14, 2001
Opinion
Let Mac Users Join In By Trading Up
"It's time to let go. Introducing The Great Mac Trade-In Offer: send us your old Mac and weπll send you a new one." Sound crazy? Maybe, but Apple has a problem. A good portion of its user base won't be able to use OS X unless they buy a new machine — and most of them won't, at least not right away."
Monday, March 12, 2001
News
Sunday, March 11, 2001
Top Stories
Good Critic Is Missed; Bad Titanium Doesn't Spoil Barrel
So don't make too much of the fact that the sample machine Apple sent me happened to have a bad DVD system. Nevertheless, this defect is particularly worrisome because Jobs rushed the machine into production in an effort to attack the company's badly sliding sales figures.
News
Service Allows Users To Easily Add Updated Headlines To Their Web Site
Applesurf has announced a new service that allows users to add updated headline news content to their Web site.
Wintel
Survey: Microsoft "Running Scared" Over Linux
A staggering 73 percent of 1250 respondents disagreed with Microsoft's stance on the open-source software movement, according to a ZDNet readership survey.
Saturday, March 10, 2001
Wintel
Windows Now Slightly Open
While some software vendors have jumped into the open-source pool feet first, Microsoft appears to be going in one toe at a time.
Microsoft Declines Comment On Xbox Profitability
Microsoft Corp. on Friday declined to address a recent report that it would take five years to reach profitability with its new Xbox video game console, saying the forecast by Merrill Lynch was based on assumptions that were the brokerage's own.
Friday, March 9, 2001
Top Stories
Apple Offers Taste Of Upcoming OS X
Apple Computer executives are offering a small sneak peek into its highly anticipated new operating system, but are asking fans to focus on what OS X will have, not on what it's missing.
Prep Your Mac For OS X
Follow these easy steps and you'll be playing with OS†X, and enjoying the familiarities of previous versions in no time at all.
Cheaper Power Mac Unveiled, Sans DVD Burner
For those who only want the "power to burn" CDs, Apple Computer introduced a cheaper version of its fastest desktop computer Thursday.
News
Teaching Untethered Future Teachers
Making connections for students among mathematics, science, social studies, and educational technology is no small feat for teachers. But the State University of New York (SUNY) Cortland has hit upon an innovative approach: iBook computers and QuickTime videos now help bring the four subjects into focus for New Yorkís elementary school instructors of tomorrow.
Apple UK Plans OS X Parties
The launch party offers free refreshments, food, live music and a selection of one-off deals.
Mac OS X Classic Faster Than Expected?
With Mac OS X having gone "gold master" and being prepped for production, there have been reports that the Classic environment is very slow. However, other sources have told MacCentral that it will be much zippier than reports have indicated.
Mac OS X Takes A Walk On The Unix Side
Itís not strictly open-source, and it needs more big apps, but this OS will be instantly familiar to Linux and Unix users.
Cheaper Power Mac Unveiled, Sans DVD Burner
For those who only want the "power to burn" CDs, Apple Computer introduced a cheaper version of its fastest desktop computer Thursday.
Opinion
Survey Says...
The mere fact that this survey found Mac users are 47% likely to leave the Mac behind when they buy a new computer. That's disturbing.
Apple Banks On OS X - Wisely?
Apple's OS X platform, which will ship on 24 March, is vital to Apple's future, but the operating system could be hampered by incompatibility with recent products, according to industry watchers.
Review
Que! M2 QuadSlim Drive
After battling the idiosyncrasies and weirdnesses of SCSI all these years, the no-hassle flexibility and user-friendliness of FireWire is a breath of fresh air, and the Que! M2 drive is a superb product.
It Doesn't Get Any Worse
It seems as if everyone who works on computers has some bad/good/difficult upgrade and repair stories. I always find these stories interesting to read. Here a few of my own for your reading pleasure.
Two Months Later: Titanium Reliability Report, What Works Well, What's Broken
G4 Speakers
Ultimately, it will be both your aural and visual preferences that dictate which solutionóif anyóyou go with. And while it goes without saying that superior alternatives exist that carry the same price tag as these systems, as every Mac user knows, specs aren't the only thing that counts.
Silence Is Golden: The Quest For Quiet Computing
I'm a big fan of silence, whether while hiking or while computing. And certain Macs are some of the quietest computers — perhaps the quietest — and they always have been.
Simon The Sorcerer II
Simon the Sorcerer II is a nice diversion for those interested in adventure gaming, but for most the dated graphics and annoying flaws will be too much to handle.
Wintel
Tech Stocks Slump On Intel Warning
Technology stocks took a beating at midday Friday as the market continued to react to warnings from bellwethers.
Compaq To Double Memory In Its iPaq Pocket PC
Global Woes A Part Of Intel's Worries
Analysts said Friday they are worried that Intel's job cuts and warning of a revenue shortfall could be a sign of trouble overseas.
MS Blurring The Lines: Will 'Experience' Be Worth The Costs?
With Sales Hurting And Few Signs Of A Pickup, There's Little Intel Upside
While still maintaining some optimism that the year's second half would improve, officials, when queried on a conference call, couldn't point to any signs that show an improvement in demand, as the slowdown has spread from the PC sector to the networking, communications and server sectors.
If Intel Warns, Can Microsoft Be Far Behind?
Nearly 70% of Microsoft's sales are tied to PCs.
Microsoft's Hailstorm To Hit
Microsoft Corp. will formally introduce its Hailstorm Web services development platform initiative to the market in a marathon 14-hour session next week in Redmond, Wash.
Microsoft Co-Opts Open Source Approach
In a major extension of corporate policy, Microsoft has quietly started a program to provide selected large enterprise customers with copies of the source code for Windows 2000 (Professional, Server, Advanced Server and Data Center), Windows XP (released betas) and all related service packs.
New Microsoft Office Faces Dual Obstacles
When Microsoft releases Office XP in a few months, the company will face off against its two toughest competitors: software pirates and, well, Microsoft.
Cracks Appear For Latest WinXP Protection Tech
Within 24 hours of the build leaking out onto the Web, cracks for the protection system were being published.
Thursday, March 8, 2001
Top Stories
Apple Plants Some New Seeds
Apple Computer is planting some new seeds in the hopes of future growth. Although unconfirmed thus far, the Mac manufacturer is apparently undergoing a plan to open retail outlets throughout the U.S. By opening retail stores, Apple will be able to eliminate the middleman. Selling direct at retail prices, the company will boost its financial profitability.
Mac OS X Code Released, Despite Missing Features
On Wednesday, the company released the final, or gold, code for the next-generation Mac operating system. From the gold code, Apple can begin manufacturing copies for sale at retail.
News
Digitally, Using Discs, Not Tape
You need all of that background to appreciate the importance of the new Hitachi DZ-M100A digital camcorder, also called the DVD Cam.
Mac OS X Ready To Ware
People anxiously awaiting the release of Apple's Mac OS X operating system won't have to wait much longer.
Mac OS X "Gold Master" Released To Manufacturing
World's most advanced operating system ready to ship on March 24.
Run Windows Apps On Your Mac... Remotely
Rather than purchasing Virtual PC, and the application, this essentially allows Mac users to "rent" the programs they need.
Opinion
The Ten Commandments Of The Church Of Macintosh
Be Realistic For First Rev Of Mac OS X
Those who don't want to experience some of those growing pains may not wish to install OS X on a Mac they use for mission critical jobs. And gamers will probably want to wait.
Review
Bridging The Video Divide
The Dazzle Hollywood DV-Bridge is a cool device that will appeal to Mac or PC users with FireWire ports.
These Are No Bimbos
The new series of iMacs, with upgrades in processor, memory and storage, deliver the goods and look good while doing it.
Broadband In The Boonies
Since moving to the country about a month ago — and discovering that the best my modem could hope for in this neck of the woods was a 26.4 Kbps connection — I've sought swifter alternatives for connecting to the Net.
iDVD
So long as your reason for wanting to be able to record DVDs is honest, you won't be disappointed by iDVD. It makes recording DVDs fun and childishly simple.
Your Mac Is An Alarm Clock
Got a Mac in your bedroom? Great — you can use it as an alarm clock! Here's how to do it.
Wintel
Microsoft's Software Without Support: A Bad Deal For Business
Would you spend a small fortune to buy a top-of-the-line Cadillac and be satisfied if it came without a warranty? Not likely. Why, then, should businesses be forced to shell out big bucks for software that doesn't include support?
'Naked' Virus Blankets E-Mail Users
The destructive and potentially embarrassing e-mail virus known as "Naked Wife" is slowing to a stop after hitting about 70 organizations yesterday, including a branch of the U.S. military, according to virus researchers.
After Assimilation Comes Integration: Behind Microsoft's Massive .NET Initiative
Whether your service provider business runs on Windows or not, you will have to provide some integration with the program for your business customers.
Can The Bush Administration Drop The Microsoft Suit?
Yes. An administration is free to review and then reverse field on legal proceedings initiated by its predecessor.
Why Do So Many People Hate Microsoft?
"What did Microsoft do to provoke these parties? I have this theory called the "Name Theory." It basically says that often companies are obsessed with touting qualities that their products lack."
Dell Claims Industry Record
Dell Computer asserts it is the first company to sell more than 10 million computers in a single year to customers throughout the United States, Canada and Latin America.
Dell Brings An Ultra-Portable To Consumers
Dell Computer is bringing its slimmed-down laptop, popular with corporations, to consumers.
New From Compaq: iPaq Muscles Up
In a more aggressive push into the corporate market, Compaq Computer is preparing to release a more robust version of its iPaq handheld.
Wednesday, March 7, 2001
News
Mac Users Sing Opera's Praises
Can the Mac support another Web browser, especially one that isn't free? That's the question the Oslo, Norway-based Opera Software AS is testing with the "Technology Preview 1" release of its Opera 5.0 browser.
Heady Growth Over, PC Makers Poised To Consolidate
"Apple has got that sort of a unique nichy workstation-type aura to it. They would be a good complement to Sun as a Sun segment. Depends how cheap they are."
Famous Musicians Pitch iTunes In New TV Spot
"It's your music. Burn it on the Mac. Dig?"
Opinion
Apple: The Green Computer?
One aspect of a computer that has so far been completely ignored by all computer makers is environmental impact. Apple could easily take a lead here.
Review
Business Mac-Hine
SPSS is a powerful tool for data analysts and the Mac version, which mirrors its Windows counterpart feature for feature, has won a Macworld Magazine Eddy award in the Best Data Management Software category.
Wintel
Ballmer Hints At Moves To Palm OS, Linux
Calling the Linux movement a "phenomenon," Ballmer admitted that his company was continuously evaluating Linux and would probably port .NET services to Linux, although "there are hurdles to putting Microsoft software on Linux." These hurdles include a "messy and confused" intellectual-property environment, according to the Microsoft CEO.
Tuesday, March 6, 2001
Top Stories
Consultant Offers Tips To Prevent Schools From Going Wintel
John Droz, Jr. is tired of seeing schools phase out Macs — and he's developed a strategy he hopes Apple will implement to stop such "backward migrations."
Survey: Macintosh Owners Still Most Loyal
Apple customers are still the most loyal to their brand, according to a new survey by Harris Interactive, the Internet-based research firm.
News
New Artists Use QuickTime As Part Of Album Promotion
The Pierces, a hot new talent on Epic Records, are using the Web to promote their first album and their Web site. The Pierces use QuickTime exclusively to let the world hear musical clips, candid interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage.
Mac OS X Backordered At The Apple Store?
MacCentral has received several e-mails from the Apple Store forwarded by readers — the e-mails suggest that the Apple Store is experiencing a backlog for orders placed for the new operating system.
FWB Cans SoftWindows
FWB Software has discontinued SoftWindows 98 for Mac, its PC emulator, though it will keep on selling Real PC, the same the emulator that comes with DOS.
An iMac Never Changes It Spots, Eh?
As a marketing ploy, it was effective. Nobody serious had ever done anything like this before. It stopped the traffic, grabbed the headlines and started the arguments.
Apple Offers PB G3 Trade-Up Program For 190, 5300
Current owners of the PowerBook 5300 and PowerBook 190 can purchase a 400 MHz PowerBook G3 equipped with FireWire for US$1,599. This limited time offer will end on March 23, and is available only while supplies last, Apple told MacCentral.
Macromedia, Allaire Could Merge March 20
The companies now expect to close their pending merger on or shortly after March 20, assuming approval of the merger by Allaire stockholders at a special meeting to be held on that date.
More Apple Stores In The Works
Although Apple Computer has refused to talk publicly about its plans to open its own retail outlets, the Mac maker is apparently continuing a national effort to secure store locations.
Opinion
Farewell MacWeek
Farewell, MacWeek. Some of us will miss you, and have for four years now.
The Reality Of Mac OS X - A Common Sense Perspective
Mac OS X is probably the most impressive piece of OS engineering in recent memory (save the original Mac OS).
iMac Underposered For MP3s
There is absolutely no reason that at least one of the iMacs shouldn't have a G4 CPU.
Mac User Illusions Exposed
We should all remember that we are not immune to wrong assumptions. It is easy to have reactions without further thinking, and this is exactly what someone has to avoid, even if it sounds like a challenge.
What Good Is A Server OS Without Server Hardware?
To begin with the server should be rack-mount ready.
Would Apple Retail Stores Succeed?
Yes, Apple retail stores would be great. But they are not the sole solution to Apple's sales numbers or current slump.
Review
Free POP 3 Email
A very cool thing is that having multiple email accounts need not cost you a cent.
Tell Me All About My Mac
One web site has evolved from a final project for a computer science class into a the most elegant and informative source of information about Apple computers I've ever seen.
Nisus Writer 6.0
Nisus Writer's indexing tools are likely to please anyone creating long documents, and the program continues to provide excellent support for languages. But the interface can be uneven and perplexing to use, and although the new features may satisfy current users, there probably aren't enough of them to tempt anyone who's using the latest version of Microsoft Word.
Road Testing Apple's New Operating System
My time with the PowerBook and Mac OS X has convinced me that Apple is doing the right thing for mobile computer users. I found that I became quickly spoiled by the quality of the experience this combination offers, making all my other computers seem kind of dated and clunky.
Wintel
NakedWife Virus Hits U.S. Military, Companies
A virus advertising itself as an e-mailed photo of someone's wife has started infecting computers in Europe and the United States and may have started spreading from the U.S. military, antivirus experts said Tuesday.
Microsoft Xbox Gets Family-Friendly
The software giant plans to voluntarily insert a V-chip-like control in its new video game console.
Microsoft Updates Visio Graphics Software
Microsoft on Tuesday announced the beta release of Visio2002, the latest version of its diagramming and drawing software.
MS Gears Up For Public WinXP Beta With Interim External Build
Apparently still doesn't quite know how to Whistle, Steve...
MS Swipes Old (51) OS/2 Guru To Head .NET Server Sales
Long history of cooperation with Beast of Redmond, says here...
XP: The User Takes Command
With Office XP, Microsoft proves that it gets the message, finally: Users want to decide for themselves how their software works. And theyíll be able to do just that with the forthcoming release of Office XP With FrontPage.
Monday, March 5, 2001
Top Stories
New Ads, Products Help Apple Polish Its Business Image
Company targets corporate enterprise buyers with titanium laptop, Mac OS X.
News
Alternative Browser Running Hard At Netscape, Microsoft
Hailing not from Silicon Valley but from Oslo, Norway, Opera Software A.S. has developed an Internet browser that's fast becoming a favorite among computer cognoscenti
Review
One Brain Or Two?
We're not buying — we're just thrilled with our Titanium PowerBook — but if we had a reason to buy a high-end production machine, we'd give the nod to the "two brains are better than one" dual-processor Power Mac G4/533.
Zero Click Web Surfing
How many clicks or keystrokes did it take you to get to Low End Mac?
Wintel
Maxtor Picks Windows, Dumps Open Source
Maxtor has switched from the open-source FreeBSD version of Unix to a special-purpose version of Windows 2000 for a new storage system it's introducing Monday.
Sharp To Challenge Palm, Pocket PC With Linux PDA
Sharp, which leads Japan's market for handheld electronic organizers, said it will challenge Palm and Microsoft on their home turf by introducing a device running on the free Linux operating system.
Intel Takeover Of Xircom Gets Antitrust Green Lights
Microsoft May Delay Xbox Game System In Japan, Analysts Say
Microsoft may face delays in Japan because many game companies there have yet to embrace Xbox, executives said. Only Tokyo-based Konami Corp. has publicly identified game titles it's developing for the system. Microsoft needs home-grown games because Japanese users have different tastes than users in the U.S.
Sunday, March 4, 2001
News
Apple Computer To Open Retail Stores
"They're opening lots of them around the country now."
Wintel
Saturday, March 3, 2001
Top Stories
Requiem For A Magazine
Because, no matter how good those other publications had been, MacWEEK was simply the best. And it was the best because each and every member of that staff would accept nothing less, in themselves or others.
MacWEEK, MacCentral To Consolidate
In an effort to streamline operations in the company resources from MacWEEK will be rolled into the existing structure of MacCentral, effective Monday, March 5, 2001.
Opinion
Wintel
Microsoft Unveils Online Media Initiative
Microsoft Network is attempting to rejuvenate a flagging online advertising sector by setting up a pan-European online media planning facility to encourage corporate advertising on the portal.
Geeks Declare War On Intel
Chip-heads say flaws in the Pentium 4 prove the high-tech giant is sacrificing engineering principles for marketing goals.
Friday, March 2, 2001
Top Stories
'Belief Brands'
When they buy an Apple computer, they buy into the company's philosophy - not to show off, but just for their well-being.
Sources: Soft Spots Remain In Apple's New OS
Sources familiar with the first ground-up rewrite of Apple Computer's operating system since the Mac's debut in 1984 said the initial version will not be able to play or write DVDs. Other gaps, such as sleep problems with Mac laptops, also will limit the new OS' usefulness to certain users—although none rise to the level of aggravation that the lack of DVD support is likely to cause.
Mac Is Back In Town
My love affair with the Cube, the sexy Apple computer, has been re-ignited. But at a price. I just got a gander of Apple's funky new product line, which made its New York debut yesterday and has begun shipping.
News
Do You Need A New, Improved Operating System?
If you've been comfortable with the operating system you've been using on your old computer — whether it's Windows or the Mac OS — get ready to be made uncomfortable.
HP Launches Flatbed Scanner Line
Kawasaki Cools Down Attacks Of Turning 'Blue'
"I'm getting a lot of hate e-mail because of this crazy situation, so I guess people need to know what really happened," Kawasaki told MacUser UK magazine. "The guys who reported this in the first place never even bothered to contact me to find out what happened."
A Universe Unfolds
Long-suffering users of the Electric Image Animation System can now lay down their copies of "Waiting for Godot." Electric Image: Universe, the much-delayed upgrade to the high-end 3-D graphics software, is finally shipping on the Mac.
High-End Cube Delayed; GeForce2 MX Backlog At Fault
Apple dealers who spoke to MacCentral confirm the delays and report being told by Apple representatives the reason is due to a backlog of the Nvidia graphics card.
PowerBook Keeps Order In The Court
Maine has fewer judges per capita than any other state. Since there arenít enough judges to staff every courthouse in this vast state, judges are often on the road, travelling to remote courthouses to hear cases with a trusted companion ó a Macintosh PowerBook.
Dealers See A Need For Speed
Mac resellers are busy putting Apple's new iMacs on the shelves, but pro customers are calling for faster performance and dual-processing capabilities as dealers await shipments of the company's SuperDrive-equipped Power Macs.
Opinion
Mac: The Original 'Windows Extreme'
I think Apple and Steve Jobs are happy now being a niche player in the world of computers. As I looked through clippings, brochures and other items from the dawning of the Mac era, I couldn't help but thing how things could have been different if there were more Macs in the world than Windows-based machines.
Arrrgh! Sabotaged By MS Word Again
This latest skirmish of course does nothing to convince me to abandon my personal and provisional boycott of Microsoft software on my hard drive.
Review
Even Windows Users Will Love Apple's New PowerBook
While each generation of PowerBook portable Macs has been better and faster than the one before it, this time Apple has made a quantum leap forward. The new PowerBook G4 is a unique notebook computer even Windows users will lust for.
Four Popular Mac Email Clients Compared
The Mac platform is graced with a pretty decent selection of email clients, and there should be one to suit almost everyone's taste.
Powerbook Drop Test
Apple doesn't tell you that not only is the machine slick, it's built like a rock.
Apple's iTunes Doesn't Disappoint
The interface is simple and intuitive, without any of the visual attractiveness of programs like MusicMatch Inc.'s Jukebox. What's impressive is the file management and the CD burning speed.
Wintel
MS To Release 'Jump To .Net'
During the first half of current year, Microsoft India Development Centre (IDC) expects to complete the beta testing of "JUMP to .NET," the Java user migration path to Microsoft .Net and release it in the second half.
Microsoft Woos Former IBM Software Exec
Gateway's Attempt To Fatten The Cow Shocks Analysts
Gateway, which is known for its cowhide logo, is backing away from lucrative services and software in favor of refocusing on computer sales, an area that recently has not made a dime for the company.
Intel To Integrate USB, Wireless Into P4 Chipsets
Intel will add native USB 2.0 support to its PC system chipsets early next year, the company's desktop products group chief, Louis Burns, promised today. And wireless 802.11 support will follow around a year later, he pledged.
Windows: The Unstoppable OS?
The problem, or not depending on your perspective, with Microsoft is its got reach. Its so embedded in the hearts and minds of users, so entrenched in the supply chain of many hardware developers and software developers that, even when the going gets tough, it can take a long time to shake off this particularly persistent Rottweiller.
Microsoft Is Cocky After Hearings Suggest It Won't Be Broken Up
There is little evidence that Microsoft curbed its aggressive practices even after a trial court last year ordered a company breakup and harsh conduct restrictions, which were stayed pending appeal. ìThey always claimed they did nothing wrong, and I think theyíve acted accordingly,î says David Smith, an analyst at Gartner Inc.
Office XP To Ship Just Under The Wire
Nothing like cutting it close: It appears that Microsoft is going to make its target shipping date for Office XP.
PC "Overclockers" Risk Danger For Faster Machines
Microsoft Judge's Comments Are An Issue
Pentium III To Fade From Desktops
The Pentium III will fade out of desktops this year, an accelerated exit that could rearrange the chessboard in the processor world.
Analysts Say Intel Proposal Could Split PC Industry
Intel executives are calling for a dramatic overhaul in the innards of PCs, but analysts fear the chipmaker's new technology could split the industry.
Microsoft Admits To Windows 2000 Glitch
The glitch affects servers and desktops alike, and may allow an attacker to execute malicious code by way of a buffer overflow type attack.
Court Creates Illusion Of Microsoft Upswing
Can Microsoft Change Its Spots?
Some very powerful interests in Silicon Valley would like nothing better than to see Microsoft crippled. The big question is whether Microsoft will give the "Bill is Satan" crowd another chance to pounce on its mistakes.
Intel Itanium To Ship Next Quarter
Intel hopes upbeat news on its IA-64 platform will start its worldwide developer forum off on a good note Tuesday.
Thursday, March 1, 2001
Top Stories
Good Looks Aren't Everything
Even if the titanium PowerBook is a hit, Apple remains cut off from the most bountiful emerging markets in computing, stranded on an island of its own choosing. Still, if you could take just one laptop along with you on a desert island, this would be the one.
Initial Version Of OS X To Lack Some 'Goodies'
Ken Bereskin, the company's OS X product manager, told MacCentral that DVD playback won't be initially available. He also noted that, although X versions of iTunes and iMovie are in the works, they "probably won't" ship on the March 24 OS CD.
Flower Power On U.S. Shelves
Apple's new iMacs, including models with the much-debated Flower Power and Blue Dalmatian color schemes, have begun to hit U.S. retail shelves.
News
Japanese Users Of Apple Portables Face Problems
Apple Days Are Here Again
The multi hued iMac range, the Power Mac G4 and several other goodies from Apple Computers will be there to touch, feel and experience at the Apple Expo which takes off in the city on Thursday at Hotel Atria.
Apple Evangelist Makes IBM Move
"This is a historic moment," Kawasaki said, referring to his choice of an IBM ThinkPad over an Apple PowerBook to run his PowerPoint presentation. "If Steve Jobs could only see me now."
Shaken But OK In Seattle
Seattle-area Mac developers—and at least two Mac resellers—reported that they're shaken but otherwise doing fine after a major earthquake hit the area at 10:55 a.m. Pacific time.
Opinion
The Flat Mac
The flat Mac won't be positioned as an iMac replacement or a Cube replacement, but that's what it will become over time.
Apple Removed DVD From The iMac For A Reason
DVD is simply not as critical as its being made to be in light of Apple's new strategy.
Review
ContentBarrier
ContentBarrier has the potential to be one of the best Internet filtering solutions, it just needs to live up to it.
'Look Mac, No Hands'
So what do you say to your Mac? Do you want to access the Internet? Simply say: "Macintosh, Open Internet Explorer."
Hot Piece Of Glorious Metal
Apple's Powerbook G4 Titanium is high tech-art.
Dreamweaver 4
In the end, this version of Dreamweaver really doesn't offer a whole lot more than the last one did.
Dreamweaver 4
Whether you're a code cruncher or a graphic designer, Dreamweaver 4 has the tools you need.
Cordless Mice
The Logitech Cordless Trackman Wheel is an innovative and reliable trackball, with the added appeal of being cordless.
FireWire Tape Drives
If you can afford it, the Ecrix drive is a worthwhile investment. It's built like a tank, its performance and capacity are high, and the company is stable — dispelling concern that if the vendor were to close shop, the proprietary tapes would become unavailable to users.
Wintel
MS Sales Undamaged By Court Case
The US Department of Justice's antitrust case against Microsoft has made no impact on the software giant's sales, according to IDC.
Microsoft Ships 'Corporate Preview' Of Offixe XP
The latest test version of the office applications upgrade, which originally was referred to as Office 10, comes less than four months after Microsoft released a second batch of beta code.
Microsoft Remains King Of The OS World
No Microsoft To The Rescue This Time
The operating system company had lots of help in the mid-1990s, however, and these supporting variables are simply not in place right now to help spur another Microsoft-led rebound.
Gateway To Drastically Slim Down Its Product Line
Gateway executives told financial analysts Wednesday that the company's costs are too high and that it will drastically cut the number of computer configurations it sells.
Gateway Slashes Earnings Forecast
Gateway warned Wednesday that it will post only break-even operating results in the first quarter—far short of analyst expectations—as it looks to cut prices and boost its customer satisfaction ratings.
Large Quake Rattles Seattle Area
A representative for Microsoft, located in nearby Redmond, said employees felt the quake, but services such as e-mail, phone and Internet access were not disrupted. Other tech companies in the region also were affected by the temblor.
Intel Debuts 1Ghz Mobile Pentium III
Intel took the wraps off several products yesterday, including the upcoming 1Ghz mobile Pentium III processor and a second-generation Itanium chip.
Microsoft Opens Doors To New Office Beta
Microsoft delivered a new beta release of its latest Office XP software to corporate clients and released its final version of BackOffice 2000 on Wednesday.
Linux Catching Up To Windows In Server Market
Microsoft still holds the lion's share of the server operating system market, but Linux shipments grew slightly faster than Windows did last year, according to a new report.
Intel To Spell Out Communications Revenue
Intel will likely break out the revenue and operating profit in its communications division in the relatively near future, an accounting change that should give investors a much clearer picture of the business.