Friday, January 31, 2003
News
Wireless Firms Jumping Gun On New Spec?
Although that means official certification is still some way off, a handful of companies have already released products, and others are racing ahead with their own plans to take early advantage of 802.11g's bandwidth.
Coder Finds New Way To Swap Tunes
Like Daniel entering the lions' den, programmer Jim Speth is about to release some new music-sharing software that could land him in a world of legal pain.
Macworld Poll: Overwhelming Support For Safari
Macworld asked readers: "Have you switched to Safari?". A stunning 66 per cent of 1,262 respondents replied 'Yes'.
Apple Price Policy May Save You Money
Apple's Demo Reel
"If you'd like the chance for your best work to be seen by thousands of professionals worldwide, now's your chance."
Review
iMovie 3.0 Will Not Run On "Clam-Shell" iBooks
Fix For The eMac Raster Shift Problem
Thanks to well placed sources outside of Apple who wish to remain anonymous, we are able to bring you news of a fix for the widely reported eMac "raster shift" screen defect, which generated more complaints and general discussion in the MacFixIt mailboxes than any other event in the past six months.
The Sims: Unleashed
As far as expansion packs go, Unleashed offers a great deal of new gameplay to the Sims experience.
Sidetrack
ONCE AGAIN : "A computer is not a TV, a typewriter and a tape recorder," repeats Dana Blankenhorn. "I'm going to repeat this periodically until the industry hears it."
GOOGLE SUCCESS : Pitch from Google's competition is essentially "first, tell us everything you have, then we'll tell you what you've got," reports Cory Doctorow.
APPLE SUCCESS : "[Apple] are already discovering just how they can make money on Open Source Software, and it's not even in the quasi-traditional 'support' line of business that people seem fixated on," observed Garin in Slashdot.
JUST BE HAPPY : Now when I head for the US, not only do I have to worry about delays at airports while people touches me, I also have to try not to go to too many public toilets.
And they say Singapore is a police state. :-)
Wintel
AMD Delays 64-Bit Athlon Chip
Advanced Micro Devices confirmed on Friday that it has pushed back the introduction of its Athlon 64 processor for desktop PCs.
Experts Say Microsoft Security Effort Failing
Computer security experts said on Thursday the recent "SQL Slammer" worm, the worst in more than a year, is evidence that Microsoft's year-old security push is not working.
Thursday, January 30, 2003
News
O'Reilly Offers UNIX CD Bookshelf V3.0
If you're rolling up your sleeves and getting your hands dirty with Mac OS X's Unix underpinnings, you might be interested in a new reference from O'Reilly & Associates.
Ming And Mini-Me's Magic Moment
Detroit Students To Get Wireless iBooks
The 80 sixth-graders at Detroit's Malcolm X Academy are more eager than usual to head to school these days. So is teacher Jeffrey Robinson.
A Mac Angle On Linux
If the company continues to sell itself as a good open-source citizen that gives back to this vibrant community, though, I'm counting on a warm reception for this Mac interloper at future LinuxWorlds.
Opinion
Sony Left Holding The Bag Again?
In the end, I think DVD-R would prevail, but I don't want it to come to that.
Review
Keynote Vs. PowerPoint
With Keynote, Apple gives Mac users that haven't yet moved up to Jaguar one more reason for doing so. And for any Mac user who just wants their presentations to look that bit more polished—and have their belief in the Apple's design elegance confirmed—then Keynote is well worth the indulgence.
The Operative: No One Lives Forever
MPEG 1, 2, And Now 4: Shrinking Video Files
What is the difference between the MPEG-1, MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 video formats?
iPod Wants To Be Seen And Heard
Apple's portable music player is proving both technologically and fashionably hip.
Taming Mac OS X
As the deadline looms for the transition to the new operating system, here are some helpful hints for making the switch as effortless as possible.
Cordless Trackman Wheel
The TrackMan Wheel series represents the best and most-comfortable thumb-controlled trackball I've ever used. My recommendation for TrackMan Wheel being a great first trackball still stands.
Sidetrack
UPDATES SLOWING DOWN... : Updates are going to slow down just a notch here at MyAppleMenu, as me and my family celebrates the Chinese New Year.
It's the year of the goat comes Feb 1st.
Wintel
EU Says Microsoft Will Alter Passport
The European Union's watchdog arm said Thursday that Microsoft has agreed to make "radical'' changes to its .Net Passport system to ease concerns about data privacy posed by Internet identity systems.
Dell Plans To Sell PCs Inside Sears, Other Chains
Wednesday, Dell launched a trial with retail company Sears, Roebuck & Co. , opening the first of about 10 stores-within-a-store in Austin, Texas, according to John Hamlin, a Dell senior vice president.
Intel Aims For Longer-Running Handhelds
Handhelds running Intel processors are likely to get a significant charge from a new chip.
Microsoft Eyeing Vivendi Unit?
Reports mounted Wednesday that Microsoft is negotiating to buy video game assets of financially troubled French media conglomerate Vivendi Universal.
Wednesday, January 29, 2003
Top Stories
Mac Vs. Windows: Who Cares?
Apple-hating sites have all but disappeared, Mac OS X is getting widespread respect, Mac fans are more confident, and Windows users apparently could care less what computers other people use.
Internet Worm Unearths New Holes
The computer bug that ravaged systems throughout the world over the weekend showed how the increasing use of the Internet by businesses, banks and local governments has created vulnerabilities where few ever suspected them.
News
New Standard To Speed Chip Connections
A key industry group is aiming to come out with a new specification for a high-speed chip connection technology that could more than triple the bandwidth for data.
Apple Activates .Mac Address Book Syncing
While the .Mac page still lists the feature as "Coming Soon," when we logged-in to our Address Book a page asked if we wanted to turn the feature on.
Apple Offers iLife And Keynote Education Bundle
Alton High Grad, Microsoft Donate Cash, Software
Students in the Alton High School Internet literacy class work on their iMac computers Tuesday using software and additional memory made possible through the donation of a former student, Chris Mitchell, 21, who works for Microsoft Corp. in Redmond, Wash. Microsoft also donated 100 copies of its Microsoft Office 2001 software.
Readers: iLife Ships To International Users
Slightly earlier than the revised January 31st ship date.
iLife 'Will Inspire Home Networks'
Consumer interest in audio and video on computers could drive the consumer market to network their homes to make better use of such technologies.
Charity Begins At Home
Radin Mas' Primary 5 pupils will try their hand at a traditionally adult venture — e-commerce — to raise funds for their IT pursuits.
Towards A New Beginning
The school will be using Apple's OS X running on powerful G4 computers that the company says is particularly productive for bioinformatics research.
Some Parents Keep Track Of Kids Online
All-In-One Living Room Gadgets Arrive
There are those who believe that while consumer electronics companies may be focused on building special boxes to draw digital media to the TV, the solution to the situation is already well in place: the standard home PC.
MPEG-4 On Road To Rights Management
A streaming-media consortium set a schedule this week for finalizing technical specs for MPEG-4 security and rights management—components that are key to the open standard's adoption among content owners.
Opinion
Apple And Third Party Developers: Between A Rock And A Hard Place
There is always room for a better mousetrap.
What's With The Hassles From Apple?
Surprise charges. Annoying .Mac pop-ups. Hijacked e-mail preferences. Apple's overzealous drive to sell may create a user backlash.
Here's A Story...
We all know those silly Mac folks slather at the mouth about Mac rumors... so you do the only sensical thing and create yet another Mac rumor site and litter it with ads for your product(s).
Review
Another Rave Review For Safari Browser
It's the best Web browser I've ever used, for any computer.
Sum Of PC Greater Than The Whole
The fact that there is more Mac software these days, and that Apple has come out with some pretty nifty software of its own, like the iLife collection, is, however, not reason enough to look at the company through rose-tinted glasses.
Sidetrack
NOT YOUR TYPICAL REVIEW : "Anyone who is looking to get rid of their helper monkey," claims Arbit Adams, "should definitely look into getting an eMac." After all, eMac smells better.
LIVE OR LIP-SYNC : Apparently, Shania Twain did do her singing live. But, backups did kick in.
Wintel
Sun Files Opposition To Microsoft's Appeal In Java Case
Wants technology shipped as soon as possible.
Breaking Down The .Net Barriers
Volunteer effort
could oblige Microsoft to work with Linux.
Pentium Price Cuts At Hand
The chipmaker has planned the price adjustment for desktop Pentium 4 chips for late February, according to sources.
Microsoft Tablets Start Strong In Europe
Despite only a partial quarter of sales, Microsoft tablet PCs accounted for 1 percent of European portable sales during the fourth quarter.
Tuesday, January 28, 2003
Top Stories
Apple Updates Power Macs, Releases 20-Inch Display
Apple revved the high-end Power Mac to 1.42GHz, while adding FireWire 800 and internal support for 54Mbps AirPort Extreme and Bluetooth wireless networking.
Mac Opera Gored On Safari?
Opera Software expressed significant doubts it would continue producing a browser for the Macintosh operating system, illustrating a growing problem for third-party Mac developers as Apple Computer steps up its own application development efforts.
News
Apple Splits OS 9 Power Macs Onto Separate Page
For the first time, Apple has symbolically and tangibly split its Power Mac line into two sets - those that can exclusively boot Mac OS X and those that can also boot Mac OS 9.
Developer To Revive iTunes File-Sharing
The developer of a peer-to-peer file-sharing plug-in for Apple Computer's iTunes music application has decided to give the software a new lease on life, after it was put out of commission by the computer maker's lawyers earlier this month.
Laptop Computers Beginning To Go Home With Students
"The students have been fabulous with the computers. Overall, it's just been incredibly impressive."
Nisus Working On An OS X Version Of Word Processor
The long-in-the-works Mac OS X version of Nisus Software's Nisus Writer is could enter public beta testing in late February or early March, though the time frame is subject to change.
Sorenson Squeeze 3 Products Shipping
Sorenson Squeeze is a video compression tool designed for both novice and professional content creators. It allows users to encode and deliver QuickTime media for streaming and progressive downloads.
Review
Marble Blast
While not very deep, the gameplay is addictive and very easy to learn. The levels are really easy on the eyes and are set up quite cleverly, particularly in the later stages.
DAVE Outshines Jaguar's Cross-Platform File, Print Sharing
DAVE is the better choice when you have a Mac that you want to fit into an existing PC network, such as a student taking a Mac to college, or for someone bringing in an iBook or PowerBook to the office.
ThinkFree Office: Not Ready For Prime Time
I want to like ThinkFree Office. I really do. I would like nothing more than to find an office suite that would be a Microsoft Office killer. Unfortunately, ThinkFree Office ain't it.
The ABCs Of MP3
If a quick glance around my gym is any indication, Apple's sleek iPod remains the undisputed king of the digital-music-player market.
Emulators - The Copy-Cat Top Dogs
Did you realise that it's possible to persuade your PC to assume an entirely new personality, to masquerade as a different make and model altogether?
Going On Safari
Currently, Apple is clearly focused on speed and elegance above all else, and that's a fine goal for a 1.0 product. But I hope that future versions of Safari incorporate additional features that simplify life on the Web.
The Right Database For Your Business
Access or FileMaker Pro? Here's how to choose.
F1 Championship Season 2000
With great effects and very detailed, realistic gameplay, F1 Championship has dashed across the finish line as a new milestone for Macintosh racing.
Sidetrack
REALITY-BASED JOURNALISM : Doc Searls compared the influx of reality TV with blogs. "Like all these TV shows, [blogs] cost relatively little to produce, they're done largely by amateurs, and they threaten Business As Usual."
Perhaps, the next big Hollywood television hit will not come to you via television, but at your local newstand, next to the weekies and dailies.
RSS-WEB : Matt Croydon wonders, "if a redesign happens and everyone is reading via RSS, did a redesign happen?"
CSS for RSS, anybody? :-)
Wintel
Some Microsoft Consumer Suits Quashed
A federal judge on Monday granted a motion by Microsoft Corp. to throw out five of the consumer antitrust lawsuits filed against the company in four states.
Worm Hits Microsoft, Which Ignored Own Advice
The disruption was particularly embarrassing for Microsoft, which has been preaching the gospel of secure computing.
Final Microsoft Antitrust Overseer Named
The U.S. Justice Department on Monday nominated a Silicon Valley engineer and entrepreneur to a technical committee that will oversee Microsoft's compliance with its antitrust settlement.
MS SQL Worm: Maybe Not A Case Of Ignorance Or Lazyness
System administrators have good reason to refuse to install patches: many of them break systems.
Borland, Microsoft Tie .Net Knot
Borland Software has licensed a key piece of Microsoft's .Net software and will build a new line of programming tools for .Net later this year, the companies announced Monday.
Setbacks In Search For Worm Author
Security experts are hunting for clues that might finger the person who wrote the SQL Slammer worm that hammered the Internet this past weekend. Yet chances are, the attacker will escape, investigators said.
Microsoft Fails Slammer's Security Test
Microsoft's policy of relying on software patches to fix major security flaws was questioned Monday after a series of internal e-mail revealed that the software giant's own network wasn't immune from a worm that struck the Internet last weekend.
Monday, January 27, 2003
Top Stories
Jobs For President? Not This Time
A grassroots campaign to persuade Apple's CEO Steve Jobs to run for President of the United States was launched on the Web last week, but it was over almost as soon as it began.
News
Apple Strengthens Server Support
Despite its nascent status, Apple Computer's server division is gaining momentum among ISV partners and corporate users of its Xserve and OS X operating system.
The Mouse That Rolled
While todayís computer mouse is as ever-present as the common can opener, it was considered highly unusual back in 1983, when Apple introduced its Lisa personal computer with a built-in mouse.
Resnet Problems Continue
Pardee residents using Macintosh computers say they have trouble logging on to high-speed connection.
Opinion
Apple Moves Boldly Forward
Let's see if Apple's willing to up the ante enough to make things truly interesting.
Fulfilling The Promise Of Aqua And The Quartz Rendering Engine
If we're going to have a processor intensive interface anyhow, let's take full advantage of it and give Mac applications that fluidity as well. Let's see Apple take the brilliance of the Quartz display engine and run with it.
How To Milk An Apple
Apple may never again pose a threat to Microsoft and its PC allies, but its niche is safe.
Taking A Bite Out Of The New Apple
With the Mac, there are so many things newbies can do that they never thought possible — create and publish a photo album, record their own songs and even edit your own independent movie. Many professionals have, and now it's your turn.
Sidetrack
SMARTER AS WE GROW OLDER : Dave has an interesting argument about relating oldness (experience?) with smartness. Except there is a fundamental flaw: it may be correct to say that a person is smarter at age 40 than at age 20, but that still doesn't mean that a person at age 40 is smarter than another person at age 20.
Ah, the fun of logic... :-)
COMPUTERS AND CARS : Even if the analogy is correct, the solution is not to "educate" or make people go through training before they can put their computers on the network. The long-term goal should be to make cars so safe and easy that you do not need a license to operate them.
Wintel
IBM Rejuvinates Wireless ThinkPads
IBM on Monday will release a new family of ThinkPads that feature dual-band wireless, enhanced management software, and, for the first time, fashion choices when it comes to the navigational stick on the keyboard.
Worm Exposes Laziness And Microsoft Flaws
The Sapphire worm that hit servers running Microsoft's SQL Server database this weekend was a wake-up call for anyone who thought the Internet had become a safer place following increased attention by corporate and government leaders.
Sunday, January 26, 2003
News
Students' Grades To Go Online For Parents
With the click of a mouse, students will see grades for each class assignment. Parents will too.
This Student Gets The Apple Of The Class
Townships Students To Receive Laptops
"The biggest benefit would be that it will engage studnets more into their own learning."
Apple Accuses Unova's Intermec Of Infringing Patents
Unova's Intermec unit is using the patented technology in software and scanners that are hand-held or mounted on vehicles and used by delivery people or warehouse workers, Apple claims.
Opinion
Apple's Ads Versus PC Ads: Cool Features Compared Instead Of Specs
If Apple hopes to enter into that marketplace, its commercials need to deliver the proper message to appeal to the jaded IT manager who is reluctant to consider one of those pretty boxes with an alien operating system.
Review
Learning The Terminal In Jaguar, Part 2
I'll show you how to configure cron to email you a report each time it runs one of these jobs.
Descender
There's nothing new about Tetris clones. There's also nothing wrong with them.
Wintel
'Slammer' May Punch In Monday
The global worming attack that fried much of the Internet this weekend may return on Monday as unpatched systems and applications boot up at the start of the workweek.
Computer Worm Slows Global Net Traffic
Worldwide Internet traffic suddenly slowed down dramatically for hours on Saturday, after a fast-spreading computer worm clogged pipelines of the global network, officials said.
Saturday, January 25, 2003
Top Stories
Surfin' With Apple Safari
Eat your heart out, Windows surfers. Apple's Safari browser is fast and feature-packed with functions that Netscape and Internet Explorer users can only long for.
No Gaming Mac Attack In Apple's Future
Why wouldn't a company with such little market share devote more resources to gaming in order to lure more users?
Opinion
iLife: Worth The Price?
I plan to buy iLife for the $50 regardless, because I want to support a company that I hope continues to stay in business. My only gripe is that iDVD doesn't support external DVD burners.
Review
iSync, Therefore I Am Waiting For A Bug-Fix Update
The possibilities here are intriguing: Why share only contacts and calendars? Why not also synchronize Web bookmarks or MP3 playlists? First, though, Apple needs to get this software up to speed.
Logitech Marble Mouse
Gamers who have never used a trackball before and are looking to add a new piece of gaming hardware to their collection would do well to consider purchasing this device. Those who are considering this trackball as their primary input device may want to look elsewhere, due to the limited number of usable buttons and the lack of a scroll wheel.
Wintel
Fearing The Penguins—For Good Reason
What do you know? Microsoft was right about Linux all along.
Microsoft Beefs Up Sales Force By 1,500
Software giant Microsoft is hiring 1,500 salespeople to promote its programs directly to corporate customers, Chief Financial Officer John Connors said on Friday.
What's In A Name? Not Palladium
Microsoft has dropped the code name of its controversial security technology, Palladium, in favor of this buzzword-bloated tongue twister: "next-generation secure computing base."
Intel Rounds Out Mobile Chip Family
The company will unveil three versions of its low-power Pentium-M processor, formerly code-named Banias, as part of the Centrino package.
Friday, January 24, 2003
Top Stories
Softly Does It! I'm Writing On The Edge
My name is Jessie Moniz. I'm a Microsoft Windows user. I'm relieved just to have reached the end of this column without my computer crashing.
News
Quebec's Eastern Township Schools To Buy 5,000 Apple Notebooks
In its efforts to provide its students with the best learning experience, the Eastern Townships School Board announced today an innovative Enhanced Learning Strategy that will provide every student in its schools with an Apple portable computer. This will be the first board-wide laptop initiative implemented in Canada.
Henrico Parents Happy With iBook Program
Henrico schools teamed with Apple and launched the Teaching and Learning Technology Initiative.
Tech Coalition Fires At Hollywood
The battle between Silicon Valley and Hollywood went public with a fury Thursday, as leading computer companies kicked off a campaign to paint the entertainment business as the bad guy in wanting to mandate strict copy protection technology.
Apple Confirms Keynote Glitch
"Apple has identified a bug in the driver software for certain ATI graphics chips which can affect a small number of systems when used with Keynote," the company said.
Sidetrack
WHEN IS THE 3'O CLOCK PARADE : And other tales of working in DisneyWorld.
Wintel
Microsoft Reorgs Windows Client Team
Redmond elevates veteran Will Poole to run the expanded Windows client business for the company.
Microsoft's .Net To Get EU Nod
The European Union's privacy watchdogs are expected to say next week that Microsoft's .Net Passport system broadly complies with EU data protection rules and that only minor changes are needed, EU sources said Thursday.
Dell Switches Internal Servers To Linux
Dell Computer has switched 14 of its internal servers from Sun Microsystems machines to its own systems running Linux and a new version of Oracle's database software, Chief Information Officer Randy Mott said Thursday.
Thursday, January 23, 2003
Top Stories
Apple Delays iLife Launch
Apple Computer has delayed by a week the scheduled launch for iLife, its collection of programs for playing music, making movies, editing photos and creating custom DVDs.
Apple's Office Politics
As crazy as this made-in-Cupertino-office-suite theory may sound, Apple has made a habit in recent years of making unexpected strategic moves, such as launching a chain of retail stores and building a portable MP3 player. Why not AppleWorks Pro?
Mac Users Find Glitches With Keynote
Apple Computer originally created its new Keynote software to allow its boss, Steve Jobs, to make it through speeches without a hitch. But now that the company has released the presentation program to the public, early customers say it is anything but bug-free.
News
'We Will Build A Business-Friendly Environment': Apple Japan President
Apple: First 'School Night At The Apple Store' Jan 29
Vintage PC's, Fondly Collected
The holy grail of computer collectors is the Apple I, with only about two dozen in existence.
Opinion
Apple's Chess Game With Microsoft: Check!
Of course, all this is just a fantasy. A conjecture. And the Macworld San Francisco Keynote 2003 was just a smoke and mirrors show by a checkers player. Right?
Poll: Desirable 12-Inch PowerBook Edges 17-Inch
Answering Macworld's online poll "Which PowerBook is for you", 39 per cent of readers plumped for the compact 12.1-inch PowerBook G4 - narrowly beating the preferences of the 34 per cent who'd rather have the new 17-inch PowerBook.
Review
Nostromo N50 SpeedPad
Rarely are gamepads entertaining to use, but the n50 is an exception. The only thing holding it back from widespread adoption is the fact that it is designed for first and third person shooters. Fortunately Mac gamers can still get plenty of use out of it.
Switching From A PC To A Pair Of Macs
Friend buys a Power Mac and an iBook — and uses FireWire Disk Mode to tie them together.
The Next Front(ier) In The Disruption Of Traditional Media
The power of RSS goes beyond websites to applications that are designed to parse headlines from numerous sources.
Sidetrack
YES, I'M CONFUSED : If I had too much money to spare right now, I would have a very hard time deciding on whether to get the new 12-inch PowerBook, or the 12-inch iBook.
RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE : Patrick Berry speculates that RIAA is more involved in Apple's game plan than it appears.
MEANWHILE... : Do consider electing Steve Jobs as the next president of the United States.
Wintel
New Microsoft Flaw Exposes Servers
Microsoft warned system administrators on Wednesday that a new flaw in its Windows 2000 and NT domain controllers could leave their networks open to attack.
Microsoft Appeals Java Ruling
Microsoft asked a federal appeals court on Wednesday to shelve a lower court order that would force it to start incorporating Sun Microsystems' Java programming language into its Windows operating system.
Sputering Growth Sparks Changes At MSN
Microsoft is rethinking the marketing strategy for its new MSN 8 Internet service, amid signs of stagnant growth and just months after launching a $300 million advertising campaign aimed at closing the gap on rival America Online.
Microsoft Loses Showdown In Houston
The nation's fourth-largest city rebuffed Microsoft's offer and has embraced an obscure competitor called SimDesk. SimDesk delivers software over the Internet at a fraction of the cost of Microsoft's Office, a software suite used on 94% of America's office personal computers.
Cisco, Microsoft Zero In On IT
Cisco Systems said Wednesday that along with partner Microsoft it had begun offering businesses a new blueprint for installing office systems based on Windows 2000 and hardware from both companies.
Microsoft Auto Software Hits Exit Ramp
Microsoft is selling its Dealerpoint software business to Reynolds and Reynolds in a deal worth about $7 million, the companies said Wednesday.
Dell Throws Weight Behind Clusters
Dell Computer is adding more hardware to its high-performance clusters, aiming to up the number of computers that share heavyweight computing jobs.
AMD Talks Up Opteron Chip
Though the new processor won't make its debut until April, AMD is talking it up in front of the crowds at this week's LinuxWorld trade show here.
Wednesday, January 22, 2003
Top Stories
X11: Apple's Secret Formula
Apple Computer has quietly extended an overture to the Unix community, with the release of software that would make it easier for Unix applications to run on the Mac operating system.
News
And What About The Hardware?
The notebook is indeed a showcase for advanced technology.
Songs From A Room With A Laptop
Santa Cruz has become a nerve center for experimental electronic music as technology pushes creativity to a whole new level.
Technology Grant Changes Classroom Experiences
A grant has helped Park Rapids students become more technologically literate.
Opinion
Apple's Seeds Choked By Weeds
Apple should be great. And profitable. Instead, the seeds of brilliance keep getting choked out by the weeds of commodity products.
Apple's Bumper Crop
To even begin to get the full benefit, you have to have a top-of-the line Mac, a gargantuan hard disk, and lots of time to burn. And it helps to be as obsessive about production values as Steve Jobs himself.
802.11a Stinks, But Don't Throw It Out
Sure, 802.11g is compatible with 802.11b, but with low-cost dual 802.11a/b units coming, does that matter?
Not Ready To Switch To Macs? Why Not Just Add One?
THE Key To User-Friendly Computers?
Jef Raskin, who helped design Apple's classic user interface, is working on a new system, THE, that could be a big improvement.
Macworld Disappoints — Again
I really want to believe Steve Jobs when he says, "What's driving us is one simple thing: innovation." But ever since the redesign of the iMac a couple years ago, I just haven't seen it.
Free
A whole lot of cool stuff from a lot of cool companies is probably getting stifled.
Market Share Versus Installed Base
To really get that market share up with new computer sales, Apple needs to be as aggressive in convincing its existing user base to switch to Mac OS X as it is with Windows and Unix users.
Review
Keynote
One thing it lacks in, though, is automation during the presentation.
Belkin iPod Case
The Belkin case is a decent everyday case. It's not going to protect your iPod if you drop it, but it will provide adequate scratch protection.
Where Next For RSS?
I hate to be a wet blanket but I just don't see RSS readers persisting for too long as a standalone application class, this stuff just belongs in the browser.
ABSplus: "No Excuses" Hard Drive Backup Package Helps You Start To Prevent Data Loss
The ABSplus generally worked well for us, and overall it compares favorably with other backup programs used in concert with a FireWire hard drive. If you don't already have a solid backup solution, it's an excellent way to start protecting yourself against data loss.
Upgrade The Lombard And Pismo PowerBooks
We reveal how to upugrade RAM and hard drive in the Lombard and Pismo models.
Sidetrack
WHAT AM I READING? : I wish I knew Italian, so that I can re-read The Luneburg Variation in its original language.
And I'm glad I didn't read any of the reviews at Amazon before I randomly picked this book up from the library.
WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING? : Chances are, you'll find at least one Applescript here that adds value to your listening pleasure.
WHAT ARE YOU EATING? : The quality of the ingredients is what makes the difference.
HONORS : The often-humorous As The Apple Turns, is one of the five best computers or technology weblog in this year's Weblog Awards.
ICON STORY : The battle for the desktop. (Shockwave)
Wintel
Microsoft To Seek Antitrust Deal With EU
The Commission was expected to take into account Microsoft's presentation and recent conditions imposed on the company by a U.S. court in its decision, the source said.
How Microsoft Could Get Out Of Shipping Java
Sun's lawyers should have argued (or should have argued more strenuously) against any back door exit.
Microsoft To Buy PlaceWare
Microsoft Corp. announced Tuesday that it has entered into an agreement to acquire privately-held Web conferencing service provider PlaceWare Inc.
Dell Handheld Delays Irk Buyers
Dell launched the competitively priced Axim X5 in November in a move that marked the direct PC seller's entry into the handheld computer market. But now message boards on Dell's Web sites are filled with complaints from buyers upset that they don't yet have the gadgets they ordered weeks ago.
Judge Sets Plan For Java In Windows
A federal judge in Baltimore on Tuesday set a schedule that Microsoft must meet for including Sun Microsystems' Java programming language with its Windows operating system.
Microsoft Takes Wraps Off CRM Software
Microsoft released the first version of its customer relationship management software on Tuesday.
Tuesday, January 21, 2003
Top Stories
Is There Hope For Java?
A judge has ordered Microsoft to make it easy for Sun's popular programming language to work with Windows. But the remedy may be too little, too late.
Wireless Far From Flawless
For most people, my advice is to hold off on 11g for now — if you have to buy now, go with the tried and true 11b.
News
5GB iPod Unavailable At Apple Store Due To "Significant Holiday Demand"
Apple Web Site Recognizes Safari Users
Several MacMinute readers note that Apple's Web site now recognizes what browser you are using ó- as long as you are surfing with its new Safari Web browser.
Opinion
Apple Takes On Enterprise Shine
To those who gripe about having only one real end-user IT choice, we have a suggestion: Stop complaining and look at Apple.
Focus Your Energies Wisely
Don't spend so much time fighting competitors that you lose sight of what's important.
Review
Apple Safari 1.0 (Beta)
Speed is the main reason to try Safari, but the product also introduces several eyebrow-raising innovations.
Introductions To VPN's Under Mac OS X
AirPort Extreme: In The Key Of G
We're bullish on 802.11g because it's backwards compatible, and because it doesn't rely on unproven technology. Faster speed at about the same price? Count us in.
Sidetrack
AQUA : One of the casualty, I think, of the cross-platform reinvent-everything mentality of the Mozilla effort is the difficulty of adopting native features of operating systems.
TCO : "Although Windows is reasonably easy for the not-entirely-technically-competent person to install and administer, I think Macintosh leads it in that space." — Bruce Perens, former Linux/Open-Source strategist for HP.
YAHOO! : "I've got some really good news: I lost my job last week!" — Michael Clarke, in Hunkabutta
MUST BE BEFORE OS X : "I could make a Macintosh crash by sitting in front of it." — Bradley Belcher.
Wintel
When Bill Gates Speaks, Look For The Devil In The Details
The Bill Gates who steps up to a conference podium is, in equal amounts, both sinner and savior ... and the devil will always be in the details.
Microsoft Reveals Source Code To Russia
Russia has become the first country to get its hands on one of the world's most closely guarded corporate secrets—Microsoft's blueprint for its Windows operating system, the software giant said Monday.
Monday, January 20, 2003
Top Stories
Apple Shows Real Substance Behind The Pretty Case
Who does Steve Jobs think he is, making the world of PCs interesting again?
News
Safari Tops 1 Million Downloads
Apple on Monday announced that its new Internet Web browser Safari has been downloaded more than 1 million times. Safari has been available as a public beta since it was introduced at Macworld Conference and Expo earlier this month.
Apple Enthusiasts Get All Wrapped Up In iPod
MP3 player spawns robust harvest of accessories.
Apple's New Video Editor Designed For Business Use
With the new Final Cut Express, Apple is seeking to increase its presence in the video-editing market and offer professional capabilities to a wider user base.
Laptops Project To Boost Learning For Malcolm X Academy Students
"Technology lets every student have a seat in the front row."
O'Reilly Releases "Learning Unix For Mac OS X, Second Edition"
Opinion
Computers Are Taking Over The World
It's fast, sleek and sexy. Only one problem. Stupid thing doesn't work right.
Meet Apple's Rendezvous — No Pain Networking
It will be possible to bring home a new device—perhaps a video recorder or even new speakers—plug it in and start using it with no setup required. That's the world I'm really looking forward to.
Review
MacPower 60
The MaxPower 60 and its siblings are designed for those who must operate a laptop away from normal power sources for extended periods of time.
Connected Clothing For The Networked World
Before you stuff one more gadget into your pocket, you might consider trying one of these garments. Some of them border on the geeky, but they also might make using your gadgets more convenient and comfortable.
Sidetrack
THE BROWSER WAR : The competition is not, I feel, between Safari and Internet Explorer and Mozilla.
Rendering of HTML data is a service provided by the operating system, something that Microsoft correctly supported in Windows, and something that Apple is now working on.
The competition, instead, will be the quality of such a service offered by the different operating systems: the completness and the usefulness of the APIs. The measurement indicator will be the number of innovative applications that arises from the availability of such an API from the operating system.
The result, so far, is a big fat zero (correct me if I'm wrong) on the Windows front. Apple do have some catching up to do, but the bar is not high at all.
THE SPELLING WAR : Echoing what David Coursey said... I once worked in a project with the code name Rendezvous. Nobody can spell the word correctly.
Wintel
Gates Upbeat About Technology's Future
Microsoft Sizes Up The Penguin
A sign that the IT industry has taken notice of Linux is that for the second year in a row the world's biggest software firm (and Linux antagonist) will have a booth at LinuxWorld.
As Linux Nips At Microsoft, Its Advocates Talk Numbers
The evidence is now overwhelming that Linux, once a symbol of software's counterculture, has become a mainstream technology.
Sunday, January 19, 2003
News
6 Short Movies Reflect Real Life
The six amateur filmmakers spent about a dozen Friday mornings learning how to use digital video cameras and filming things close to their lives.
Eight-Digit Salary Club To Drop Members
Several executives who took home a bundle in 2001 — including Apple Computer's Steven Jobs and the chief of Tyco International's health-care unit — could lose their club membership with their pay dropping in 2002.
Opinion
Putting G Before A
The choice of G is especially surprising because Apple practically owns the education and higher-education markets, which, according to most of the university IT people with whom I've spoken, are moving to A.
Review
No Reason To Pan Movie Maker 2's Effects
Call it the Battle of the Ken Burns Effect. It's not a Civil War conflict but rather a clash between Microsoft Corp. and Apple Computer Inc. for the one area of home computing where Apple has been the hands-down winner—until now.
Sidetrack
Wintel
Windows Media Player: Easy On The Ears, But Not On The Eyes
Unfortunately, the new Windows Media Player hasn't improved on its predecessor's inefficient, designed-by-committee looks.
What Lies Beneath
Why Microsoft should build its next version of Windows on top of Linux.
Microsoft Unveils New CD Copy Protection
Microsoft announced on Saturday new digital rights software aimed at helping music labels control unauthorized copying of CDs, one of the biggest thorns in the ailing industry's side.
Saturday, January 18, 2003
News
"School Night At The Apple Store" Announced
The program is "specially designed for K-12 schools to celebrate achievement."
Opinion
The Future Of Networking?
I predict Rendezvous making it real big in our industry, especially in the home and small office markets.
Review
Windows iPod Music Player
Like most Apple products, iPod for Windows sets a high standard for quality and features and charges accordingly. I think it's worth the price. Go get one — I will leave further rationalizations as an exercise for the reader.
Cleaning iTunes
Tidy up your MP3 records with a dash of AppleScript.
Friday, January 17, 2003
Top Stories
Mouth Wide Shut
"Every word I say, by definition, is a promise."
Mix Master iPod Opens Up A World Of Sound
Having so much music at your fingertips, with the ability to organize and quickly regroup tunes to follow one stylistic path or mix several, actually changes the listening experience.
News
Apple Silences iTunes P2P Software
Apple's move comes amid increasing hostility between the entertainment industry and music-swapping applications such as Kazaa and the now-defunct Napster.
Apple Posts 'iLife Up-To-Date' Details
Apple on Friday offered details about its iLife Up-To-Date program, an incentive to get new Mac users to upgrade to the iLife package when it begins shipping later this month.
Apple Picks Up Wired Rave Award
The Apple's Mac OS X team picked up an award for excellence in software design.
Students To Click With New Laptops
The Livonia school board agreed to buy a mobile computer lab for classroom use at Johnson Elementary School.
Opinion
Is QuarkXPress Hurting Power Mac Sales?
It may seem like an extreme headline, and perhaps a serious charge. But Apple's statements in recent weeks make it clear that Quark Inc.'s lateness to the Mac OS X party is having its effect.
Never Forget Your Customers
We may have to follow the example of Steve Jobs, who learned that it's with "hands-on" contact and real listening that a true understanding of the customer's problems can then be translated into a product that provides a solution and creates value.
Apple Needs More Of The Old Magic
What Apple needs is something to drive sales in 2003 and 2004, and it's not clear that a new large laptop and a new small laptop will do it, or upgraded versions of the iMac and iBook.
How About An Apple-Sun Merger?
Given both companies' poor financial positioning in the equity market, an Apple-Sun merger or, at least, partnership would make sense for the following reasons.
David Pogue On Missing Manuals As Performance Art
Pogue dishes on what makes a poorly written guidebook, how it could be that Apple doesn't know what its own "letters" feature is, and why it's so important to him to get a book to press in a dizzying two weeks.
On iCommune
The file-sharing capability might fall beyond the accepted definition of "console".
What Does That $8 Million Loss Mean?
The good news is that Apple is continuing to pump money into new products even in the midst of an unoffical recession.
Review
Heroes Of Might & Magic IV
Heroes of Might and Magic IV is the best yet in the series. If youíre a fan of the legendary series or just looking for a new strategy title, then Heroes of Might and Magic IV will not disappoint.
iListen 1.5: New Speech-Recognition Software For OS X Lacks Polish But Offers Transcription Support
At this point, IBM's ViaVoice—although it also has its flaws—is a better choice for most. The primary benefit of iListen today is the ability to transcribe documents dictated into a tape recorder.
Never Say Die
What to do when it costs more to fix your laptop than it's worth?
Links Championship Edition
It is enjoyable in its current state if you have a relatively new Macintosh, but if your machine is more than two years old, forget about it.
PrinTrio
A good value. A good printer. You will not be unhappy with the PrinTrio.
PHP 4.3 And Mac OS X
After reading this article, you'll know how to download, configure, and install your very own PHP on Mac OS X.
JBL Creature
Keep in mind that sound fidelity can be very subjective, so if you are interested in the Creature speakers it would be a good idea to listen to them and decide for yourself. But after using the system for a few weeks, I found that the JBL Creature speakers deliver richly textured sound for both gaming and multimedia applications.
Sidetrack
OF RSS AND BANDWIDTH : "Just wanted to note that with sites like myapplemenu providing a full RSS feed I've stopped reading MacMinute's RSS feed and MacCentral's RSS feed. They just aren't useful to me." — john, in inluminent/weblog.
One concern many people have is the higher bandwidth imposed by RSS readers, causing the shrinkage of RSS content provided. Maybe there is a need for a P2P network (a la Usenet) for RSS feeds. Maybe RSS readers should default to a 24-hour updating frequency.
THANKS FOR THE KIND WORDS : "MyAppleMenu has a lot of news that I look for on many places." — NUKLEOS weblog.
Thanks. I don't intend MyAppleMenu to be the one-stop newsstand for everybody. But if your interests coincide with mine nicely, welcome abroad.
Have you checked out the other sections in MyAppleMenu, such as Tomorrow and Reader?
AN APPLE A DAY : From Glenn Fleishman and Adam Engst, it's the Apple AirPort Weblog.
Another day, another poll. How much of an investment in Apple products does your organisation have?
THE PROBLEM WITH SINGAPORE'S WEATHER, is that it is almost never nice to venture outdoors. :-)
(Have a good two hours, Doc.)
Wintel
Microsoft Says Xbox Sales On Track
A Microsoft executive said Friday that the company is on track to meet Xbox sales targets for the current fiscal year.
Microsoft: Security Fix Due For Phone OS
Microsoft plans to update its Smartphone 2002 operating system to fix security flaws that make it possible to send rogue software programs to a specific model of phone that uses the OS, a representative said Friday.
Windows Media 9 Gets Sundance Showing
Microsoft plans to screen four independent movies at the Sundance Film Festival with its Windows Media 9 Series software, as part of the company's ongoing efforts to warm Hollywood to its technology.
Microsoft Thrills, Chills Investors
Microsoft's stock split and first-ever dividend weren't enough to overcome Wall Street's apprehension about the software giant's reduced projections for 2003.
One Year On, Is Microsoft "Trustworthy"?
A year after Bill Gates called for Microsoft to make its products more "trustworthy," executives are touting myriad initiatives as proof of the software giant's new resolve.
Microsoft Sets Dividend, Splits Stock
Microsoft set its first-ever annual stock dividend Thursday and said it will split its stock as quarterly earnings surpassed expectations.
AMD Misses On Fourth-Quarter Earnings
Advanced Micro Devices on Thursday reported a larger-than-expected fourth-quarter loss, despite revenue from processor shipments rising by 60 percent from the preceding period.
Why 'Shared Source' Is A Lie
Having "access" to the source only means that it can be studied. Producing new software, or even fixing Microsoft's bugs, is strictly verboten.
Thursday, January 16, 2003
Top Stories
Apple's Looks, Functions Convert This PC Devotee
For years on radio and in my NBC News Channel reports, I've been known as PC Mike. So I'll explain that PC really stands for Personal Computer. For indeed, my new love for my Mac is very personal.
Apple Earnings Match Expectations
Apple Computer on Wednesday posted fiscal first-quarter earnings that matched Wall Street estimates, with the Mac maker forecasting that sales and earnings would remain flat for the current quarter.
News
Warburg Reiterates "Buy" Rating For AAPL
Apple To Open Highland Park Retail Store On January 25
Apple Rises After Q1 Report
Apple Computer shares continued to gain ground Thursday after the personal-computer maker reported a first-quarter net loss of $8 million, while forecasting a slight profit for its current quarter.
Apple Downgraded By Needham & Co.
Symantec Reports 29 Percent Q3 Revenue Growth
Increasing demand among enterprises for the full range of Symantec's security products and services was responsible for the strong performance, according to Symantec, based in Cupertino, California.
Pumping It Up To 11: Music Is Rocking The Slopes
"Music is essential to snowboarding and freestyle skinng."
Francais Made Fun
Modern technology makes a traditional subject interesting — and more easily learned — for kids at Tarpon Springs Middle.
iCommune Threatened By Apple
The author of iCommune, a music sharing plugin for iTunes, has received a "Notice of Breach and Termination of License" letter from Apple, stating that he violated the license to the Device Plug-in API which iCommune uses.
Connectix Updates Virtual PC To 6.0.1
The update addresses several issues bringing the most current version to 6.0.1.
Apple CFO Talks About Financials; The Road Ahead
iMac, iBook and PowerBook sales were solid, but that the Power Mac pro lineup remained the weak point in the company's lineup.
Interest Pinch Could Bruise Apple
Apple Computer's checkbook may be earning lower interest, which could put a squeeze on the company's income.
Photography Class Changes Image
Photography class at Newark Memorial High School has moved into the 21st century.
Sony To Release Mac Fingerprint ID Solution
The FIU600 unit will offer fingerprint identification for, among other things, logging into Mac OS X.
Opinion
The DigiCam Chronicles: Assignment Macworld
This is the first in an ongoing series of photo essays demonstrating how to get the most out of your digital camera.
Apple Loses Money! Quick, Sell Your Stock!
Apple's Financial: When Is A Loss Really A Profit?
We can probably expect a steady stream of cool stuff from Apple over the coming year; enough, no doubt, to keep the Mac rumor mills running overtime.
Poll: Opinions Split On Intel Move
Macworld Online readers are split down the middle when it comes to the question of whether Apple should switch to Intel processors.
Apple's Safari Hunts Explorer Users
The firm enters 'the browser wars' with its new software, but does Apple really have something else going on?
Apple: Long On Sizzle, Short On Steak?
When a core part of your business languishes that badly for that long, there's only one party who's ultimately responsible for the mess: you.
Confessions Of A Mac Collecting Addict
Do any of you have any suggestions of which Macs I should donate and which I should keep?
Review
Smallest PowerBook Has Ability To Make Apple Shine
I found one notable drawback in the new PowerBook: Like its larger siblings, it gets pretty hot because of its metal skin. All in all, the 12-inch PowerBook is a dandy laptop — small, relatively inexpensive, yet powerful and beautiful.
Sidetrack
THE MYTH OF USER-INTERFACE
"Aqua might have some fancy bells and whistles, but at its core, it is a 'wrapper' around a UNIX kernel." — Timothy R. Butler
No, sir. User interface does not equal to wrappers, or skins, or pretty pictures.
STILL IN COPYRIGHT JAIL : Sorry, fellas. You're never coming out.
MY DEAREST... : I am going to use this article, where confidential information is retrieved from used hard disks, to convince my wife why we shouldn't throw away that Bondi Blue iMac in our storeroom, even though the power supply has already went dead.
PINGPONG AND iMAC at Heidelberg College Teen Center.
LISA : Hi, it's me again. (No, this is not a spam mail.)
Wintel
Intel Rewrites Itanium Roadmap
Intel Corp has dramatically rerouted its Itanium 2 roadmap, delaying the transition of the 64 bit architecture to 90 nanometer technology but pulling forward its plans for a dual core version of the product.
Microsoft 2Q Seen Strong On Windows XP, Despite Xbox Drag
Demand for personal computers was lackluster in the usually strong December quarter, but corporate spending on technology appears to have been better than feared. Microsoft partner and semiconductor giant Intel Corp. (INTC) said its profits doubled as revenue rose 3% in the December period.
Judge: 120 Days For Microsoft To Add Java
Microsoft Corp. will have 120 days to release a version of Sun Microsystems' Java programming language for Windows after a federal judge issues his formal order against the software giant.
Microsoft's "Wireless Watch": How To Rescue It From Potential Doom
Local Optimization, Or, The Trouble With Dell
Michael Dell never told his employees to optimize for customer satisfaction or to optimize for delivery time, he told them to optimize for inventory velocity and nothing else, and that is what he got.
Security Flaw May Threaten Cell Phones
Microsoft and U.K. carrier Orange are investigating whether hackers are sending rogue software to cell phones using Microsoft's Smartphone 2002 operating system.
Intel To Assemble Pentium 4 In China
Chipmaker Intel is set to begin its first CPU assembly in China this year at a newly upgraded plant, even as the company announced plans for a major cut in capital spending in 2003.
Intel Software Fine-Tunes Linux Code
Intel announced on Tuesday new software to help programmers speed up Linux programs running on Intel Xeon and Pentium 4 processors.
Microsoft, Sun Disagree Over Java Order
A federal judge stepped in on Wednesday to referee a simmering dispute between Microsoft and Sun Microsystems over a court order that Microsoft start distributing Sun's Java programming language in its Windows operating system.
Wednesday, January 15, 2003
Top Stories
Journalism 101: You Had To Be There
Not one writer who claimed to have reliable inside sources at Apple was on the level. Apple's people kept their mouths shut and every nondisclosure agreement was honored. Steve Jobs got to surprise his Macworld audience. I couldn't be more pleased.
News
Apple Not To Everyone's Taste
Some analysts sour on firm's prospects despite new wares.
Now Playing: The Human Genome
Life sciencie technology is about as cutting-edge as it gets, but now it's apparently also hip.
J2EE Servers Reach Planet Apple
JRun 4 for Mac OS X could provide a low-cost alternative to some pricey Java servers now running on Unix or Windows.
Microsoft Commits To At Least One More Office Rev
Maya Gets Oscar For Technical Achievement
Alias|Wavefront, has been awarded an Oscar for its development of Maya software, their professional 3D animation and effects package.
Opinion
Technology Press Versus Mac Users
Millions of Mac users may not embrace Jaguar or its successors for years and maybe never.
Is Apple Getting Too Cool Again?
Steve Jobs wowed the Macworld faithful with more amazing stuff. My only worry: All this hardware, software, and stores could be distracting.
It's Crunch Time For Apple - Again
There is little doubt that Mac OS X is going places, but ultimately, third-party developers will have to be persuaded that there is a big enough market for their products.
Mac OS X Is Slow, But Safari Makes A Big Difference
Safari has the best bookmarking system Iíve seen. This browser is a keeper.
Baffling Software/Music Industry Copyright Deal
The ultimate meaning of these policy principles, which talk so smarmingly about "meeting the needs and expectations of our customers," is in the reality that we, the customers, are not really part of this process. These companies are dividing up the world. Our interests are secondary.
Review
Mac2Phone Delivers At Last
Mac2Phone almost rocks.
Sidetrack
RUPERT GOODWINS ON MICROSOFT'S SMARTPHONE 2002: If you must place yourself in life-threatening situations with a mdoern information appliance as your only hope of rescue, don't pick something with an obscure user interface.
Oh, this is not a life-threatening situation, but did you know that you can disable pop-ups and pop-unders in IE?
Speaking of blocking, here's a way to block most advertisement in all your web browsers on Mac OS X. Warning: Some command line stuff needed.
Wintel
Judge To Hear Microsoft, Sun Proposals
The judge overseeing Sun Microsystems Inc.'s legal battle with Microsoft Corp. has asked attorneys for both sides to come before him Wednesday afternoon to discuss the caseónamely how Microsoft will comply with the court's order to include Java in Windows.
Dell Eyes Linux Future Despite Desktop Retreat
In the case of the Linux desktop, Dell pulled back on large investments in 2001 as demand faltered, Dell said. But this failure has not stopped the company from attacking the nascent markets for HPCC (high-performance computing clusters) and for Linux clusters running Oracle Corp. database software.
Nokia And Microsoft On Collision Course
The present development towards wireless networking and handheld computers will undoubtedly lead to a battle between Nokia and Microsoft — two leviathans and leaders of once discrete markets.
Microsoft To Face Questions On Cash Mountain
Investors are expected to be as interested in hints from Microsoft Corp. about plans for its $40.5 billion cash mountain as they are about this week's quarterly earnings report which is expected to show record sales.
Microsoft To Give Governments Access To Code
To try to slow the acceptance of the Linux operating system by governments abroad, Microsoft is announcing today that it will allow most governments to study the programming code of its Windows systems. Under the program, governments will also be allowed to plug their security features instead of Microsoft's technology into Windows.
Transmeta Notches Up Notebook Security
Chipmaker Transmeta is aiming to help notebook owners tighten the security of their personal data by incorporating into its Crusoe line features that protect sensitive information.
Intel Earnings Beat Targets
Intel on Tuesday reported better-than-expected earnings for its fourth quarter, thanks in part to stronger sales of high-end processors for PCs and servers.
Tuesday, January 14, 2003
Top Stories
Mozilla Hurt By Apple Blast
AOL Time Warner's Mozilla project is facing new questions about quality after Apple Computer's release of a browser based on rival open-source code.
Music, Technology Groups Agree On Copyright Plans
Under the plan, future generations of entertainment devices won't be required by law to have locking controls that make it more difficult to copy digital entertainment.
News
Digital Media Deals
"Consumers are the real victors here."
Apple Retail Store Coming To Burlingame, CA
Third Party Run Strong At Macworld
While Apple Computer Inc. dominated last week's Macworld Expo/San Francisco with product releases that ranged from new professional notebooks to presentation and browser software, third-party developers also used the annual West Coast gathering as a launchpad for their latest Mac wares.
Macworld Expo Attracts Over 90,000 Attendees
MacBowl 2003 Raises $15,500 For SF School
Exhibitors at Macworld Conference & Expo in San Francisco, Calif. took some time out on a rainy Thursday evening last week to raise $15,500 in computer equipment and cash for a San Francisco elementary school in need at the third annual MacBowl.
Apple Objects To Microsoft Settlement
Apple's complaint largely revolves around the destiny of funds that are not claimed by individuals and businesses who qualify for rebate vouchers under the $1.1 billion settlement.
Microsoft Releases Office V. X 10.1.3
According to Microsoft the update fixes several issues with the Italian Spelling Tool and the French Proofing Tools.
Opinion
Apple's Last Minute Decision Was A Good One
Apple's handling of the iApps is just another indicator that this company is ready for serious business in 2003 — and that Steve Jobs is definitely still in charge.
Now That Apple Has Started, It Had Better Finish The Safari
If Apple's goal is to make Mac OS X the ultimate destination for both beginning as well as high end users who want to use the Mac as a digital hub then they need to think beyond the obvious first steps.
Apple Steals The Show
Steve Jobs trumped Bill Gates by a longshot.
Is Microsoft Losing Control?
A few well-aimed chinks in the armor that may, over time, begin to spread big time.
A Macintosh May Be In Your Future
Apple keeps setting the bar higher for the industry in personal computing. The question is whether best of breed products are sufficient to alter market dynamics and the buying habits of corporations for whom cost reduction and platform standardisation are key drivers of technology acquisition.
What Is Apple Thinking? We'll Have To Wait And See
Apple's sending the message that Mac OS X is big enough and strong enough that it doesn't necessarily need to suck up to Microsoft or any other industry powerhouse; bringing the same leadership and innovation to software as they have done for hardware. Or are the Apple corps just alienating some of their strongest allies?
Apple Reduces Its Microsoft Dependency
Call me an optimist, but I hope that Apple reducing its dependency on Microsoft will motivate Microsoft to take renewed interest in moving Office X and Internet Explorer forward in interesting and innovative ways.
Review
StuffIt Deluxe 7.0.1
StuffIt Deluxe 7 offers users slightly better compression than previous versions of the product and greater integration with the Unix-based Mac OS X.
Browser For Mac Users Has Good Start
The new software is not — I repeat, not — quite ready for prime time. But it's a very good start.
Apple's iPhoto Superior To New Windows Offerings
New PowerBooks: Mini Me And The Lunch Tray
Apple was careful to provide a rational way for people to choose among Apple's iBook and PowerBook models.
Safari Bug, Enhancement And Feature Notes
To date, a number of bugs, conflicts and compatibility issues have been identified, and in some cases these problems have been resolved by Apple, or third-party developers.
Sidetrack
TO TAB OR NOT TO TAB
Apple will introduce tabbed browsing in Safari, because almost every review and every discussion forum asked for it.
Apple will not introduce tabbed browsing in Safari, because Apple's home page will look very ugly, with two rows of tabs. Reminds folks of Microsoft.
ALL THE THANKS : Steve Jobs, commeting in CARS, "You know, I do and I do and I do for you people and htis is the thanks I get?"
WHAT'S THAT ON A WINDOWS SITE? A Mac laptop? Asked Julio Ojeda-Zapata.
Wintel
Phone Maker Details Microsoft Divorce
U.K.-based cell-phone maker Sendo has filed a lawsuit accusing Microsoft of engaging in a "secret plan" to push the small maker of cell-phone software into bankruptcy.
An Open Letter To Microsoft
Here's my real question: When is MS going to become a Great Technology Company too?
Judge Says Trade Groups Can't Appeal Ruling On Microsoft
In an opinion released Saturday, U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly said that the groups failed to prove that the settlement deal impaired their ability to protect their interests, or that the settlement did not adequately represent them in the case.
Dell Seeks To Cash In With Retailers
The company said on Monday at the National Retail Federation's Convention and Expo in New York that it would enter the market for retail point-of-sale equipment with a new line of electronic cash registers.
Time To Stop The Microsoft Merry-Go-Round
Let's face it: No one was really happy with the slap on the wrist Microsoft received after years of court wrangling over its dirty, monopolistic deeds. But it's time to move on to other things.
Nimble Edge Slowly Erodes For Microsoft
As bleak as the technology sector looks, there's one bright spot: The Microsoft monopoly is dead.
Monday, January 13, 2003
Top Stories
How To Turn Apples Into Ferraris
Apple needs to make it easier and less expensive for developers of desktop applications to write products that run on the Mac OS. Since most desktop developers are Windows-oriented, that means they need to make it easier for Windows developers to target the Mac.
The Byte From The Apple Is Rotten At Its Ore
No matter how much Apple's critics disdain Apple, one thing probably will never change: Year after year, the relentless Steve Jobs continues to make them pay attention.
News
Macworld Organizer Bets On Apple
IDG reportedly expects to settle issue of Apple's participation in New York by the end of the this month.
Apple Q1 Earnings Due Wednesday
Mac Boss Seeks Switchers
Apple UK's Mark Rogers explains his plans to win over PC users.
School District Considers Computers For All Students
"Students at Henrico schools are more collaborative."
Math Department Rewires Laptops To Increase Student, Faculty Access
Software For Your 'Digital Lifestyle'
Computers aren't just for word processing and Web browsing anymore. They have become "digital hubs" for manipulating electronic photos, movies and music.
Opinion
News.com Invents "MPEG-4 Backers Vs. Windows Media License" Protest
News.com's story is just irresponsible journalism.
The Ripe Apple — Giving The Devil His Due
Apple has gotten a few things right over the years.
The MP3 Winners Of 2002
Capturing 15% of total MP3 player sales despite an average $400 price tag, Apple is looking at 4 million units sold since the iPod's introduction.
Apple Kills Small Developers
I don't know why Apple doesn't spend more money on its OS and less on application software best left to third parties.
Why Not An Even Smaller Powerbook?
Just as some would willingly trade screen size for a smaller form-factor, preferring the 12-inch model over the 15- and 17-inch models, there are some who would trade in the CD drive as well.
Review
Apple's Safari Browser Is Hard To Close
If Apple continues to show the intelligence and discipline with this software that they have so far, I think it will become the primary browser for many Mac users.
Wintel
Windows CE Update Set For Mid-2003 Release
The next update to Microsoft's Windows CE .Net OS, which has been given the code name McKendric, will ship before the middle of 2003 and include several new features, a company executive said at the Microsoft Embedded DevCon 2003 conference being held here.
More On SPOT, From E-Paperback Reiter
Just about everyone writing about the SPOT watch doesn't realize that it's an old concept, an old technology and old — and incredibly banal — applications.
Sunday, January 12, 2003
Top Stories
Surfin' Safari
Good job, Apple. Now get to work!
Come Together
The messages are building one on top of the other — control of our destiny, freedom of choice, the elegant marriage of design and vision.
News
The X Factor: Apple Rolls Out New Version Of X11 Windowing Environment
Latest move for OS X is intended to bring parity with other UNIXes and deepen its Open Source community involvement.
Enthusiasm Returns To Macworld
Attendees feel more upbeat after calling last year's event 'depressing,' but critics say there's little new to get excited about.
Apple At Work
Macintosh vendors are fighting hard against the notion that only personal computers can compete in the business world.
The Science Of Learning
Technology has changed education, including the daily procedures in the classroom.
MWSF '03 FireWire 800 Roundup
Eager to market faster transfer rates and longer range of FireWire 800 technology, solution providers have been quick to adopt the new standard. A few key early adopters of IEEE1394b exhibited their new products at January's Macworld Expo.
The Macworld SF Audio Report: More Goodies For Mac OS X
Much to the joy of the ever-thirsty Mac audio crowd, nestled among the aisles of San Franciscoís 2003 Macworld Expo were many new arrivals for Mac OS X audio.
More Fun Than A Barrel Of iPods
There was a rumor circulating on the show floor at Macworld concerning a well-organized gang of thieves stealing new PowerBooks from Apple's booth.
Opinion
Yes, The World Needs Another Browser
Yes, Safari's initial popularity and performance potential shows that the Mac world did indeed need another Web browser. It may not be your cup of tea, but this is one cool program, dude.
Review
In Pro Digital Photography, Megahertz Matters
What's there to say but the obvious: The fastest dual processor Mac has been soundly thumped by one of the fastest single processor PCs.
Sidetrack
MEME : Which are the most influential web sites in the Mac universe? Memeufacture has the answer.
Wintel
Collaboration Cure
The real opportunity behind the Tablet PC involves collaboration and markup.
Saturday, January 11, 2003
Top Stories
Apple Posts Safari Update
The update is "recommended for all Safari users."
News
Apple, Microsoft Drive Digital Agenda
Investing in the emerging digital platform, Microsoft and Apple have launched into the new year with strategies that signal what some believe represent the next wave of IT innovation.
Cloud Hangs Over Macworld's Future
As the weeklong Macworld Expo here wraps up Friday, questions linger about what's next for the twice-yearly show—particularly whether Apple will continue showing up to the East Coast installment of the expo.
Apple's New Batch Of Products Well-Rounded, Solution Providers Say
Despite a lack of new professional desktop products, Apple served up a well-balanced menu of hardware and software at Macworld San Francisco this week, according to solution providers.
Opinion
Apple On Top Of Its Game: The Macworld SF 2003 Report
"You're missing the big picture. The key to the Mac for the last few years has been integration."
Free Flight
Apple can't count on Microsoft and is tired of kowtowing to Microsoft, so the logical strategy is to replace the Microsoft products that cause so much concern.
Review
A First Look At The Safari Web Browser
Hopefully, tabbed browsing will make it into the final product.
Five Favorite Things From Macworld SF
Despite a tough economy and soft tech market, Macworld SF 2003 was definitely upbeat. Here are five products that made a positive impression on me.
One On One With The Big Al PowerBook - Big, Bold And Stunning
Wintel
Gateway's Changes Yield Little Reward
If Gateway Inc. hasn't pulled out of its slump, it's not for lack of trying new things.
FM Gets Strong Reception At CES
The hot new technology at the Consumer Electronics Show this year is—FM radio?
Microsoft Should 'Fear The Penguin'
Microsoft should "fear the Penguin" as Linux moves into the heart of corporate IT infrastructures, according to Goldman Sachs.
Microsoft Resolves Class-Action Suit
Microsoft said late Friday that it has reached a $1.1 billion settlement in a California class-action lawsuit.
Pentium 4: More Speed In The Pipeline
Intel will increase the speed of the chipset on the Pentium 4 in the coming months, a change that will likely boost the performance of top-end PCs.
Judge Refuses To Dismiss Microsoft Case
A federal judge on Friday refused to dismiss antitrust cases filed against Microsoft by two small rival software companies.
Microsoft Seeks Antitrust Dismissals
Microsoft on Friday hopes to reverse a series of legal setbacks before a Baltimore judge, whom it will ask to dismiss three private antitrust cases pending against the software giant.
Friday, January 10, 2003
Top Stories
Apple Claims BETT Hat Trick
For the third year on the bounce Apple has landed an award at the UK IT in education show BETT.
Apple To Send OS X On Safari
Apple is planning on taking a page out of Microsoft's book, and integrating its new browser technology into the Mac OS X operating system.
News
Macworld: It Takes All Kinds
Visitors to Macworld come from all walks of life. Leander Kahney talks to a waitress turned documentary filmmaker, a church musician and an antiques dealer who doesn't even use computers, to mention just a few.
Windows At Macworld? Believe It
Perhaps the most unusual exhibitor at this year's Macworld tradeshow is a company that sells, of all things, glass windows. Also please don't eat the snails.
Nvidia Targets Mac Games Users
Nvidia is muscling its way onto the packaging of a significant number of games for the Mac platform.
Apple UK Tops Schools Poll
Schools were asked to detail how satisfied they were with their ICT products and services — and Apple was ahead of the pack.
Print Shop, Kid Pix Deluxe, More Coming To OS X
The logjam of educational and home software that isn't available for Mac OS X will soon be broken if Mac conversion house Software MacKiev has anything to do with it.
Film To Fibre: Price And Proliferation
At roughly ten percent of the cost of their precursors, the latest in digital editing suites have opened the film production floodgates, placing professional editing equipment within the reach of small scale production houses and independent directors.
Dell Flunks Environmental Test
IBM and Apple ranked highest among U.S. companies.
Gadget Takes iTunes To The Living Room
The HomePod downloads songs one at a time and plays them either through a stereo or by connecting directly to speakers.
MPEG-4 Backers Protest Microsoft License
Proponents of MPEG-4 are decrying Microsoft's new licensing fees for rival technology, saying that the pricing poses unfair competition and threatens consumer choice.
Apple Embraces Two New Fast Standards
During Tuesday's keynote address, Apple CEO Steve Jobs announced two new technologies on the new 17-inch PowerBook that should give users more bandwidth for wireless networking and FireWire than ever before.
Opinion
Installing CD-RW Raises Burning Questions
Sooner or later something is going to go wrong, and that means diving back into the addictive world of computer-tinkering.
Macworld: The Real Show Is The Audience
I wouldn't go so far as to say that Mac users are the best people in the world of technology ... but certainly, they are the nicest.
More On The Macworld Expo
The truth is, my report was over 2000 words long in its first draft. What a shame, I thought, to have to cut so much interesting secondary information—and what luck to have an email column where I can put it!
Safari A Jaguar In Sheep's Clothing?
So what are some other possibilities if we stop thinking of Safari as CyberDog the Sequel?
Review
Safari Shows Off The Apple Difference
If you can get a sense of this true interface philosophy and integrated design, you can see what it is Apple is trying to market.
The 17" PowerBook G4/1000 With GeForce4 440 Go Versus Other Apple Laptops
iApp Organize Whom You Know, Where You Go
I sometimes pine for Entourage's superior searching, printing and notifying, but iCal and Address Book have the killer feature I can't live without: They work with iSync.
In-Depth: 12-Inch PowerBook
I was able to spend time with the PowerBook and its engineers to examine the finest details of the design with a fine-toothed comb to bring you exactly what you can't know without using the unit.
iPhoto 2.0 Steps, Not Dashes, Forward
Lots of other little improvements, such as easier access to your iTunes library, make iPhoto 2.0 a worthy download.
Why Are Safari And Sherlock Two Different Applications?
Why the distinction between regular web browsing and web browsing using specialized interfaces for structured data?
Web-Surfing Safari
According to Apple, KHTML was selected as Safari's foundation for its leanness and speed, and these were the two attributes that impressed us most in tests of the Apple browser.
Sidetrack
ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA : "Yes," reports Macs Only!, "the real U.S. government Internal Revenue Service actually has a booth at MWSF. We instinctively shied away from getting too close."
Wintel
A Microsoft Watch Will Provide Much More Than Time
Microsoft, continuing its effort to extend its reach beyond computers, today introduced designs for a new class of watch that gives more than the time and a pocket audio and video player.
Is There Truth Behind The Macromedia Takeover Rumors?
Chances are, this won't happenó-at least not anytime soon. Microsoft isn't in a position to unceremoniously purchase competitors and kill off their products.
Microsoft E-Book Software Cracked
A British programmer has released software online that is said to dismantle the anticopying technology in the Microsoft Reader e-book software, setting up another potential confrontation in the digital piracy wars.
Microsoft, Intel Team On Portable Video Players
Aiming to prove that one-trick-devices still have a place in the world of handheld computing, Intel and Microsoft are working to increase adoption of the portable video player.
Xbox Hackers Get Cracking Again
Reports of the death of the high-profile Neo Project Xbox digital rights cracking effort have been greatly exaggerated, it has emerged today.
Dell: PCs Still Rule The Roost
The PC still rules, insists Dell Computer founder Michael Dell.
Microsoft Enlists Media Allies
Microsoft announced expanded support for its media ventures on Thursday at the Consumer Electronics Show 2003 in Las Vegas.
Thursday, January 9, 2003
Top Stories
Apple Releases QuickTime 6.1
QuickTime 6.1 delivers quality and performance enhancement for audio, video, and full screen playback.
Apple 'Switch' Campaign Shifts To Unix Crowd
Apple this week targeted UNIX users (in addition to Microsoft Windows users) in its drive to "switch" non-Mac users to its OS X platform.
Desktop Notebooks Die Hard
Consumers are prompting a new trend in mobile computing: the "desknote."
News
Macworld Gives Best Of Show Awards
Apple Unwires Laptops
The Mac maker counts on faster wireless LAN and a pioneering implementation of Bluetooth to set consumers drooling over its new portable computers.
Computer Gurus Up For Design Award
"The four nominees have all made fantastic contributions to the world of design."
Apple Offers Early Bird Special For PBs
"An official launch t-shirt and a special day at our store."
"X For Teachers" Launches In Europe
Macworld Fans Go The Distance
Some Apple enthusiasts will stop at nothing to attend Macworld, the popular San Francisco tradeshow. Reana Armitage flew halfway around the globe from Tasmania, while Randy Nauert sleeps in his car because hotels don't favor his dog.
Apple Prepares Q1 Results
Apple breaks with tradition this year, delivering its first quarter 2003 financial results conference over a week later than its Macworld Expo San Francisco keynote speech.
Maxtor Expands Line, Previews FireWire 800 Device
New Apple Line-Up Fails To Excite
A modest collection of new computers and new software may have brought cheers from Apple's faithful gathered in San Francisco yesterday, but it failed to move investors and analysts.
Mac Lovers Fight To Glimpse 'Woz'
A mini melee broke out at Macworld on Tuesday afternoon as hundreds of people tried to get into a panel discussion featuring Steve Wozniak, the legendary computer hacker who helped start Apple.
AppleCare: 12" PB Features New Midrange Spea
"The midrange-enhancing is designed to produce a separate channel of midrange sound."
Apple Execs On PowerBooks, iApplications
"For more and more customers these PowerBooks represent no compromise."
Enhanced MySQL For OS X Coming In Feb
MySQL is an relational database system used by Web site and businesses. The software counts over 4 million worldwide installations across multiple platforms.
Steve Jobs Appears On CNBC Business Center
"Apple has a wonderful customer base. If we come off with innovative products, they're buying them."
Opinion
A Safari Of Net Effects Part 2
Does the browser really need a mate in as much as it needs to expand its range?
Macintosh: An Acquired Taste
The company blazes forth, but few answer the call.
I-Innovation
Steve Jobs didn't sound too worried.
The Addiction Continues
Here's my credit card number. Sign me up. I don't want to be a dork anymore.
Viva Steve Jobs!
Goodness, the man can keynote!
San Francisco 2003 Keynote Winners And Lowers
That's how you give a keynote.
Review
Never Mind The Notebooks, Here's The Content Management
Microsoft would be best advised to worry about a third new piece of software, Apple's iLife, the all-in-one digital media application that integrates the Macintosh photo, movie and music management and editing software of the last couple of years.
One On One With The Little Al PowerBook - Small, Curvaceous And Supremely Portable
CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 11
Powerful painting, drawing, and animation applications.
House Of Apple Launches This Season's Collection
Fashion has Milan. Technology has Apple Computer.
Fear Me, Wicked Record Execs
In which our columnist discovers the latest in genius MP3 software, and may never buy a new CD again.
First Safari Feed Back
Apple should implement an easy to use wizzy editor.
iPhoto, iTunes Falling Down On Library Size
It makes no sense to add new features before basic scalability is taken care of.
Safari
Safari looks good, loads fast, and seems to be making a true effort to support web standards. Itís too early to say much more than that.
Safari Special Report: Aesthetics; HTML Rendering; Stability; OmniWeb To Adopt Engine?
Sidetrack
CONVERSATIONS : You want to know the progress behind Safari? Check out Dave Hyatt's weblog.
SURFING ON SAFARI : Blogging with Safari. Must resist urge to close window after reading every article 'cos there's no tabbed browing...
SWITCHER : John Robb. "After 18 years on a PC, I am ready to call it quits. Windows is waaaay too much of a hassle for me to maintain."
BAD COMPANY : Looks like Windows users do not like Intuit either.
Me? I switched from Quicken 2002 on Mac OS X to Money 98 on Windows, and is now happier.
CHIEF ARCHITECT CHANGES HIS MIND? : For one moment, when I read this headline from InfoWorld, Bill would allow copying of music, movies, I thought somebody in Microsoft advised Bill Gates, "stop listening to Hollywood, listen to the users."
Wintel
Windows Server's Identity Crisis
Microsoft on Thursday again changed the name of the product, marking the fourth name for what will now be called Windows Server 2003. The successor to Windows 2000 Server is scheduled to ship in April.
Gates; SPOT Marks A Digital Revolution
Microsoft's latest plan to improve the way you live revolves around wristwatches and refrigerator magnets.
Hotmail: A Spammer's Paradise?
Anti-spam advocates say spammers have found an effective way to mine new addresses from Hotmail. These "dictionary attacks" are preventable, but only if company officials want to stop them.
Microsoft Frees Up Freestyle
Microsoft on Thursday will formally announce that Alienware and Toshiba plan to release notebooks running Windows XP Media Center Edition, originally code-named Freestyle. Using the software, which is a variation of Microsoft's flagship operating system, consumers will be able to watch TV shows on their portables and record the shows to their hard drives.
Intel: No Break In Tech Spending
Chipmaking giant Intel sees little improvement in technology spending in the next six months but hopes demand from emerging markets such as China will drive an improvement in the second half of the year, according to a company executive.
Microsoft To Tweak Smart Displays
Microsoft is already preparing an update for its Smart Display technology, which is due to launch late Wednesday during company Chairman Bill Gates' keynote speech at the Consumer Electronics Show.
Wednesday, January 8, 2003
Top Stories
Safari Breaks Single Day Download Record For Apple
Apple's new Web browser, Safari, broke the single day download record previously held by iTunes, according to Phil Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing.
School Cuts May Mean Fewer Apples For Teachers
While school budgets are generally tight, Apple can still hope to hold onto its education base because of those same budget constraints.
Not PC But True: Mac Fans Are Geeks
"These people are a lot more geeky than PC users. They're more into it than PC users."
Steve Jobs: Still Standing, Still Evangelizing
For those two hours, in the company of a faithful mob, it certainly did appear as if we mere mortals had been handed the tools of the digital gods.
News
Apple Eyes Microsoft's Turf
Keynote is slick, yields gorgeous slides that look like they came from a professional graphic artist, and at first glance seems easy to use. And it is probably the last front on which Microsoft expected a competitive challenge to its software.
Next-Gen FireWire Debuts In Apple Notebook
The IEEE 1394b bus has made its debut inside the new 17-inch PowerBook from Apple Computer Inc., paving the way for next-generation data rates up to 3.2 Gbits per second.
Apple: There's No "a" In Wi-Fi
Apple Computer joined a growing band of companies giving the cold shoulder to 802.11a, marking another setback for the wireless standard designed to replace 802.11b as the dominant way to create home and office wireless networks.
Developers Make X11 For OS X Announcements
On the heels of Apple's quiet X11 for Mac OS X announcement, the OpenOffice.org community today has posted a Final Beta release of OpenOffice.org 1.0 X11 for Mac OS X and Darwin.
FireWire 800 Products Showcased At Expo
The 1394 Trade Association today noted several new FireWire 800 products showcased at the Expo, including Apple's 17" Powerbook G4, Maxtor's new 200GB FireWire 800 concept hard drive; and LaCie's new line of desktop d2 FireWire 800 drives.
REALbasic 5 To Ship Next Month
This new version of the award-winning software includes enhanced support for Mac OS X 10.2 including drawers, brushed-metal windows, and toolbars.
Prices Cut On 1GHz PowerBook, Original AirPort Cards
In light of Apple's new PowerBook announcements, the company has reduced the price on its 15.2 inch screen-equipped 1GHz PowerBook to US$2,799.
Metrowerks Offers $99 Tools For Mac OS X
Metrowerks Corp. Tuesday announced a new low-priced version of its application development tools for the Mac OS X platform.
Yao Ming's First TV Commercial Is For Apple
Houston Rockets center Yao Ming made his television advertising debut this week with a spot for Apple Computer's new notebook computer.
Even Woz Still Uses Mac OS 9
"I use [Mac OS X] but I have computers with [Mac OS 9] doing important tasks. Why would I switch when it just works forever?"
Woz Has Words For 'Jaguar' Switch
"Mac 9 is good. Mac 10 is also good."
Mood At Macworld: Line's A Party
Macintosh devotees queue up for Steve Jobs' Macworld keynote speech as early as 2:30 a.m. Tuesday, sharing doughnuts and playing games wirelessly.
Apple Branches Out, Offering 2 Software Programs
Mr. Jobs said that he had disclosed the company's new Safari Web browser to Microsoft before making the announcement this morning and said the two companies still had a strong partnership.
Welcome To The Browser Jungle, Safari
Apple Computer's Safari browser offers little challenge to Microsoft's browser dominance, analysts said Tuesday, but the Mac maker could benefit enormously if it can wean itself from Internet Explorer.
Greetings From The Safari Team At Apple Computer
The number one goal for developing Safari was to create the fastest web browser on Mac OS X.
Avid To Offer Avid Free DV
Avid Technology Inc. has announced plans to release Avid Free DV, a free, DV-only version of its video editing software.
Microsoft Announces Mac 'Trifecta'
The Macintosh Business Unit at Microsoft Corp. today announced three new initiatives that it's hoping will continue to draw Macintosh users to its OS X product offerings.
"X For Teachers" Program Extended
Apple Drops Price On 1GHz 15.2" PowerBook G4 And 14.1" iBook
Bare Bones Software Offers "Not-At-The-Show" Special For BBEdit
Detto Announces Move2Mac For Windows 95
The product is targeted at Windows 95 users who do not have a USB port and cannot connect to the Mac's USB port.
Opinion
A Safari Of Net Effects
Once again the network effects of the Internet delivers.
The Real Macworld Keynote Announcement: Independence
Jobs has brilliantly created some more room to maneuver with independence.
After The Keynote
Apple's realities versus expectations.
"You Shouldn't Always Believe What You Read" - Steve Jobs 1/7/03
I feel good about Apple today, and I feel great about the Mac industry in general.
Awkward Moments Dampen Woz's Return
Bottom line: good participants, good topic. For some reason, it just didn't work out. Too bad. I hope Woz comes back again for another try.
What Do You Think Of The Mac O SX Interface?
The OS X interface design is distracting and self-conscious, with a marketing slickness rather the straight-forward transparent charming style of the past.
Apple Tries To Expand Reach
You have to ask if Apple's moves represent a divorce from Microsoft. No. The only party in this relationship that can do the divorcing is Microsoft, which surely must be entertaining the idea today.
Review
Safari Information For Web Designers
Scripting Rectangular Selections In BBEdit 7
Initial Reactions To Safari
Safari's bookmark and history management, the Google bar and spell checking are the three biggest gains for my own use.
Safari Review
All browsers have bugs, and all web designers need to know about them.
Wintel
Microsoft Security: What's Next?
Scott Charney has been on the hot seat ever since he joined Microsoft Corp. last year as the software giant's chief security strategist.
Effort To Crack Xbox Code Abandoned
A scheme to crack the code used to authenticate official games for the Xbox games console has been abandoned for "legal concerns". But cryptography experts say the odds of succeeding were astronomical anyway, unless some shortcut could have been found.
Intel Names Its Next Mobile Chip
Intel will call its next-generation mobile processor Centrino.
Microsoft Releases Media Software Updates In Bid To Undercut Rival's Product Launches
Apple has long touted the digital audio and video features of its Macintosh computers as a key selling point. Yesterday, though, Microsoft shined the spotlight on its own offerings.
Tuesday, January 7, 2003
Top Stories
Final Cut Express: Pro-Style Video Editing On A Budget
Final Cut Express is targeted to small business users, educators, students, and advanced hobbyists and includes all the key features video editors need, such as the same interface and workflow as Final Cut Pro, video editing tools, hundreds of special effects and easy delivery to DVD, Web, or tape.
Apple Laptop Gets Jumbo Screen
On the two-year birthday of the high-end Titanium PowerBook, Apple Computer on Tuesday upped the ante by introducing a model with a massive 17-inch display.
Apple Releases Its Own Web Browser
Apple Computer CEO Steve Jobs on Tuesday unveiled a new Web browser and said software innovation has placed his company at the forefront of digital entertainment in the home.
Power Mac MDD Owners Plauged By Noisy Fans
Owners of Apple's latest Power Mac G4 series are working to increase pressure on the computer maker to repair noisy units.
News
Apple Introduces High-Speed 'Airport Extreme'
Apple CEO Steve Jobs announced AirPort Extreme, the next generation of Wi-Fi wireless networking technology based on the new ultra-fast 802.11g standard.
Keynote: Apple's New Presentation Application
Apple CEO Steve Jobs introduced Keynote, a new Apple presentation application, during his Macworld Conference & Expo keynote today. He described it as a "presentation application for when your presentation really counts."
Apple's iLife Suite Integrates Digital Hub Apps
Apple is bundling iTunes, iPhoto 2, iMovie 3, and iDVD 3 together in a new bundle called iLife that promises tighter than ever integration between all the solutions.
Apple Kicks Off "Every Mac Needs .Mac" Promo
Apple Faithful Seeking Recipe For Recovery
Macworld trade show attendees are eager to hear CEO Steve Jobs' strategy for stemming the company's slide at the hands of PC rivals.
Macromedia Debuts JRun 4, J2EE Server For OS X
JRun can deploy and manage standards-based Java applications, offering features for accelerated deployment and scalability along with full Java 2 Enterprise Edition (J2EE) compatibility.
Maxtor Broadens Personal Storage 5000 Family Lineup
Rumors Worm Around Apple
Spies. International intrigue. High-tech gadgets. Secret informers. It must be time for Macworld.
Apple Unveiling Eagerly Awaited
When Apple Computer rolls out its new products before a throng of Mac enthusiasts at the Macworld conference, observers expect the biggest buzz to surround the smallest gadgets.
Merril Lynch Rates Apple As "Sell"
Merrill analyst Steve Milunovich said that Apple appears to be dealing with a thin pipeline for new products and he expects the company to continue to lose market share.
Shrinking Trade Shows Reflect Weak Tech Industry
Computer trade shows, like Internet stocks, aren't what they used to be.
First ERP For X Server Unveiled
Powereasy, which will be offered as a bundled solution along with Apple hardware and PowerEasy installation services, represents a major turning point for Apple in its attempt to break out of the desktop market and move up to the server-based mid-market.
MSN Messenger Goes Dark
Microsoft's Instant Messenger service went down early Monday, affecting up to 75 million people worldwide who sign on to the service to chat with friends and co-workers.
EZQuest Shows New 200GB FireWire Drive
If you can never have too much storage capacity, you might want to turn your attention to EZQuest's new Cobra+ 200GB hard disk drive.
Opinion
Random Notes From The Expo: It's Not The End The Result, But The Anticipation That Counts
Where's the entertainment value of a Macworld Expo if there's no anticipation of the outcome?
Reporter's Notebook: Today's The Day
As a member of the press, I only have to wait in line two hours to get a good seat.
iApps Go From Free To Fee?
If c|net is correct in stating that Apple will continue to offer free versions of the iApps while also offering more powerful versions for a fee, then Apple is making a very smart move.
Review
Director Keeps Its Place At Top
eWeek Labs found its latest incarnation, Director MX, to be an excellent upgrade, with increased usability, capability and integration options.
Popular Connections Make Add-Ons Work
Make Mine Mac
Lower prices and better software have made switching from a PC practical.
Virtual PC 6 Fits In And Performs
Dual-Personality Macs
If you're among those who have to run a few Windows-only applications at home—where you're a dedicated Mac-lover—in many cases Virtual PC offers a way to keep your feet in two computing worlds.
Hands On With The 1GHz PowerBook
Overall the 1GHz Titanium PowerBook has more to offer pro users and consumers than ever before. The addition of the SuperDrive and the speed boost will give many buyers cause to reflect on whether to purchase a desktop or a PowerBook the next time they upgrade their machine.
Sidetrack
PARTY TIME! Have you checked out the Hess Events List?
Let's give a warm welcome to the latest mom-and-pop software company for the Mac OS X platform.
From video iPod (why?) to the iBrowser (making its second appearance since last year), the answer will be available at the keynote — today. Too bad I'll be alseep. (One more thing at 11 am == 3 am here in Singapore.)
For those in Singapore that don't need to sleep (or don't need to stay awake the next day), you can head on down to AppleCentre@Orchard for the keynote.
AWARD SEASON : Both the iMac design team and the Mac OS X team are nominated for the 4th Annual Wired Rave Awards.
RECOMMENDATIONS, ANYONE? : I need a FTP client that can smartly modify filenames automatically, so that I can easily transfer MP3s between my Mac and Windows. (I can run FTP service on both my Mac and Windows, so it doesn't matter whether the client is a Windows or Mac application.)
Any recommendations? Thanks.
Wintel
Microsoft Takes Digital Media Beyond Windows
Microsoft will announce on Tuesday its first-ever licensing fees for use of its media delivery software on non-Windows technology, a move to expand its reach in the broadening market for digital media devices.
Linux Looms For Microsoft
Microsoft Corp. must learn to cooperate with Linux and open-source developers to ensure better interoperability, rather than porting its products to Linux, enterprise users say.
Sun Wins One Against Microsoft—And Why That's A Bad Thing
We don't want the courts deciding what goes into software products.
Microsoft Readies New Exchange
A new version of Microsoft's Exchange communications software has entered a second round of testing, the company said Monday.
Monday, January 6, 2003
News
Macworld Likely To Draw A Crowd: Despite Small Market Share, Apple Show Is Biggest In San Francisco
To judge by the attendance at Macworld Expo, you'd never guess that Mac fans remain a tiny minority in a sea of PC users.
The End Of The iMac? Not Likely
Rumors of the iMac's demise appear to have been greatly exaggerated.
EyeTV Turns To UK PAL
El Gato is preparing to release a PAL-supporting version of EyeTV -ñ a digital-video recorder that can record and pause live TV and skip commercials.
Free iDVD 2.1 Released
The update, which was released over the weekend, introduces support for DVD-ROM data and AppleScript, as well as enhancements to the DVD burning process, and a series of performance improvements, according to the company.
Macworld First Of Many 2003 Tradeshows For FileMaker
FileMaker Inc. is showcasing its range of K-12 database solutions within the company's exhibit area at this week's Macworld Conference & Expo in San Francisco, California. But the data subsidiary of Apple is also taking its solutions on the road for much of 2003.
Apple May Plan Computer Chameleon To Reflect Owners' Whims
Color Kinetics had worked extensively with Apple on the concept, only to have Apple back out of a deal at the last moment. The true illumination of the matter may need to await action by the patent Office.
Logitech Proves No Mouse Among Men
Daniel Borel, chairman, believes that Logitech stands a chance of dominating the man-machine interface.
Apple Releases iCal 1.0.2
Hot on the heels of their 1.0.1 release, Apple has posted iCal 1.0.2, the latest version of the popular calendar application.
Opinion
No Worms In Apple's Stock
Wall Street analysts have soured on Apple. That's why now is the best time to buy the stock.
Apple Banks On Digital Media Harvest
"The innovation ratio [on Tuesday] will be much higher than Apple's 5 percent market share."
Why Macworld Must Die!
The Apple community and Apple itself no longer need Macworld. And, if anything, the requirement that Apple plan its product launches around the Macworld calendar does more to hurt Apple than to help it. January is simply not the best time to have your big product launch of the year.
Mac Tablet: Ready For Expo?
I fear my habit of speculating about Apple Computer's next move is just too deeply ingrained to kick.
Review
Apple iBook 800MHz
The iBook is likely to find itself popular with 2 groups — those who value the easy usability of Macs, and UNIX programmers who want to write and compile their own code.
Friends Don't Let Friends Use Classic
Anyone who's serious about doing work on a Mac should wean themselves from Classic programs as soon as their wallet can afford it.
Wintel
Microsoft Hooks Up With CDMA
Microsoft will step up its fight with Nokia on Monday with plans to unveil software that powers cell phones based on Code Division Multiple Access technology.
Sunday, January 5, 2003
Top Stories
Macworld Preview
Is the battle for the PC one that Apple Computer can still win? Or has the company become like a Civil War nostalgist, re-enacting skirmishes long since decided? That question takes center stage at Macworld San Francisco this week.
News
Apple Cult Gathers For Innovation Update
Apple is by no means the largest computer hardware or software company in the world, but it is by any count the most innovative and it wears a logo and a brand name that ranks with Nike's flash and Coca-Cola's wave as the most recognisable anywhere on the planet. Millions of Apple's customers wear the silhouetted apple with the chunk bitten from its cheek as a badge of honour.
Macintosh Devotees Find Mecca In S.F.
Macworld Conference and Expo expected to draw 88,000 loyal fans.
Laptop Program Gets A Boost
Thousands more Maine students will get home Internet access for laptop computers assigned by their schools, thanks to millions of dollars worth of cash and in-kind donations, Gov. Angus King said Thursday.
Opinion
Apple Needs Clear Path To Future
If I were running Apple, I'd start selling Mac OS X server computers, the more powerful machines that dish out data to other devices, that run on the Intel architecture.
Whir Of eMac Floppy Drive Recalls Holidays Of Old
How far the Macintosh has come in a short time.
Review
Pretty Good Update For E-Mail Privacy
You don't need mathematics knowledge to use the program, but you will need to read the manual.
Sidetrack
DOWN ON TECHNOLOGY : Nothing seems to work these days, reports Eric Burke.
For example, you'd have to treat Adobe Illustrator like a video game.
Wintel
Microsoft's Masterplan To Screw Phone Partner - Full Details
Microsoft's Latest Media Adventure
Microsoft will take a big step into online retailing Tuesday when for the first time it will sell a program both as a download and in shrink-wrapped boxes in stores.
'Smart Displays': Bright Idea, Dim Implementation
It costs too much, it's too hard to set up, and even when coaxed into the right configuration, it performs worse than anybody should expect.
What The Future Holds For Microsoft
2002 was certainly an eventful year for Microsoft. With a new year dawning, we present this interview with Adam Barr, former Microsoft developer and occasional Microsoft pundit.
Saturday, January 4, 2003
Top Stories
Open For Business
Open technology has altered the business models of Microsoft, Apple, IBM, and Sun and will put a fresh spin on IT's approach to technology selection and integration in 2003. Office 11 and Mac OS X are prime examples of the enormous positive disruption caused by open technology.
Microsoft: From Research To Reality
Rick Rashid, senior vice president at Microsoft, who heads up Microsoft's research group, discusses his group's projects, particularly in the areas of wireless, natural language, and search technologies.
News
Apple Extends .Mac Free Prints Deadline
Steve Jobs Autograph Causes Bidding Frenzy
A premier issue of Macworld magazine autographed by Apple CEO Steve Jobs is being auctioned on eBay and drawing bids in excess of US$900 -ó comparable to prices paid for John D. Rockefeller or George Washington signatures.
Macworld: Apple Mum On New Year's Product Crop
It's a new year for Apple Computer, but the company is employing the same old tactics, remaining quiet about possible product announcements on tap for the Macworld Conference and Expo opening Monday in San Francisco.
Apple Polishes Up For Macworld 2003
By the time CEO Steve Jobs takes the stage on Tuesday, the company is expected to issue ten product and partnership press statements compared to eight last year.
Opinion
Apple Preparing New Upgrade Fees
According to sources familiar with the plans, Apple is expected to announce at the Macworld Expo in San Francisco Tuesday that consumers will have to pay for new versions of iDVD, iPhoto and iMovie, which will be sold together as a bundle.
Review
/Switch'd
Regardless of the underlying reason, I thoroughly enjoy my Powerbook. I like people to see it, and I like people to ask me about it. It's the best computer I've ever owned, and Apple just keeps giving me more reasons to like it.
No One Lives Forever
This game could have been amazing, but it missed by just this much.
Wintel
Consumer Groups Intervene In Microsoft Settlement
The two groups, the Consumers for Computing Choice (CCC) and the Open Platform Working Group, on Tuesday filed a motion to intervene in the case on the grounds that the settlement will harm both consumers and software developers.
MS Java Ruling Sets IT Precedent
The biggest consequence could be the precedent of a judge — and not engineers, software companies or even users — deciding what is installed on personal computers.
Friday, January 3, 2003
Opinion
A World Without Apple Computer
I think we should all be grateful that Apple Computer, despite its relatively small market share, has made such a tremendous impact in the industry.
Rampant Guesses About Macworld Run Gamut
Macworld Expo: Is It Still Important To Apple?
With its retail store chain growing, Apple might reach more potential customers simply by sending a few marketing people around the country to display new products at the local outlets, where the customers can actually buy them and take them home if they want.
Macworld San Francisco 2003. Bored Again?
Oh please, not again...
Review
Fully-Adjustable Ergonomic Keyboard Takes The Pain Out Of Typing
Once you've used a Comfort Keyboard for a while, switching back to a standard keyboard is quite literally a pain. And if you think the $300 price tag stings, it's nothing compared to the cost of physical therapy, prescription drugs, and lost productivity that can result from severe repetitive stress injuries.
The Best In 2002: The Year In Freeware
Co: Writer 4000
I have to give Don Johnston's Co:Writer 4000 a qualified thumbs-up overall. It's a tremendous teaching tool for challenged writers.
Living Without Windowshading
A number of correspondents have challenged me over the past several months to try using the OS X Finder on its own terms rather than resorting to hacks that make it work more like OS 9, so I decided to continue living without windowshading for a while.
Sidetrack
THIRD ANNUAL WEBLOG AWARDS : Have you nominated your favorite weblogs yet?
MEMORIES... of the last MWSF.
Wintel
Microsoft Foes Urge Antitrust Punishment
Two more Microsoft foes have joined an effort to overturn the landmark antitrust settlement that a federal judge approved in November.
Trustworthy Computing In 2002
For Microsoft, 2002 was filled with failings, inadequacies, lies, cover-ups, passing-the-buck and (as usual) relentless pressure to upgrade. These are the actions of a company promoting 'Trustworthy Computing'. But are they trustworthy?
And Now, The Portable Desktop PC, Up To A Point
Microsoft may have quite a challenge explaining to the masses how this wireless screen differs from last fall's Tablet PC, whose looks, marketing language, core audience of well-heeled techies and manufacturer roster are confusingly similar to those of the Smart Display.
Microsoft-Powered Phone Takes Off
Device maker High Tech Computer has received approval from the Federal Communications Commission to begin selling the "Falcon," a cell phone powered by Microsoft's Pocket PC Phone Edition software.
Microsoft Counts On Antipiracy Technique
Microsoft is set to release its first mainstream consumer software application protected by product activation, in what could be a first step toward expanding use of the antipiracy technology.
Thursday, January 2, 2003
Top Stories
Apple Releases iCal Update, iSync 1.0
Apple on Thursday released an update to the companies calendaring application, iCal, and the final version of iSync.
News
Apple And Microsoft Out Of Sync
Apple Computer on Thursday released the final version of its iSync synchronization software, in what could be seen as an attempt to trump new software coming next week from Microsoft.
Apple Launches iSync Platform
"The real payoff for Apple is down the road, with the integration of wired and wireless technology, and the gradual elimination of wired connections."
Hold Onto Your Macs - They'll Be Worth Something (One Day)
Grab that dusty Lisa or Mac 128 and put it on ebay - because you could make yourself a small fortune.
Apple Suffers Another .Mac Service Outage
"Access to the .Mac Web site is severly limited at this time."
Review
Raising Your Laptop In Style With The iCurve
With the move towards laptops as desktop replacements, Griffin Technology has provided the solution to make that laptop a desktop, yet easy enough to grab it and hit the road.
NVIDIA GeForce4 Ti
Without argument, the GeForce4 Ti is an incredibly powerful video card, and it reigns as the fastest card you'll find on the Mac right now.
Hands On With El Gato's EyeTV
The EyeTV is equipped with a coaxial antenna connection and composite video input, as well as stereo audio input. You can view TV signals live or record them to hard disk for later viewing.
Photoshop Elements
If you're looking for the perfect gift for the holidays for your favorite computer user or digital photo taker, you really should consider Photoshop Elements 2.
Back Me Up Baby
It's a complete hard disk backup solution, it includes all the hardware and software you need, and it's drop-dead easy to set up and use.
Sidetrack
HAPPY NEW YEAR : Relive the excitement in New York via QuickTime VR.
Wintel
Microsoft On Horns Of Dilemma
Will Longhorn take the blue ribbon or get slaughtered? Microsoft is banking on the former. Others aren't so sanguine.
Wednesday, January 1, 2003
Top Stories
'Switch' Ads Create A Buzz, But Sales Impact Still Unclear
"It's been a very exclusive type of market, and that means when you have an exclusive market it's very hard to increase that."
News
KMS Awarded 3-Year Grant
Goals of the grant are improving student achievement in reading, math, science and social studies.
The Omni Group And PopCap Release OS X Version Of Big Money Deluxe
Opinion
New Year, New Focus On Genius Of Macs
I couldn't stand it any more. I switched.
The Road Warrior Year End Wrapup And A Look Ahead To 2003
What's Up Apple's Sleeve For '03?
Mac users look to next week's MacWorld trade show to see how Apple intends to take on the new year.
Sidetrack
MAC PEOPLE : Phil Zajicek, Saturn Men's Team, is amazed by his new iBook and iPod. "Apple is making some nice products."