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News, Reviews, & Opinion
iPhone Ranks Highest in Business Wireless
Smartphone Customer Satisfaction
PR:
iPhone manufacturer Apple ranks highest in overall customer
satisfaction among business wireless smartphone users, according to the
J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Business Wireless Smartphone Customer
Satisfaction Study(SM) released Thursday.
The study, now in its second year, measures business customer
satisfaction with wireless smartphones - defined as mobile phones
offering advanced capabilities and personal computer-like functionality
- such as a BlackBerry or Treo. Overall satisfaction is measured across
five key factors. In order of importance, they are: ease of operation
(27%); operating system (24%); physical design (21%); handset features
(18%); and battery aspects (10%).
Apple ranks highest in overall smartphone customer satisfaction with
a score of 778 on a 1,000-point scale, performing particularly well in
the ease of operation, physical design and handset feature factors.
BlackBerry manufacturer RIM (703) and Samsung (701) follow Apple in the
rankings.
"With the introduction of the iPhone in 2007, Apple has clearly
differentiated itself from the competition in areas that are most
important to business smartphone users," said Kirk Parsons, senior
director of wireless services for J.D. Power and Associates. "By making
basic applications and features easy to use and providing functionality
in a thin, lightweight device, Apple has performed well in exceeding
customer expectations."
The study finds that one-fourth of users report experiencing at
least one software-related issue or problem with their current
smartphone device. The software-related issues reported most often
include the need to reboot the phone, application malfunction/freeze
and issues related to touch screen malfunction. Among those owners who
have experienced a software problem, 44 percent report having to reboot
their device at least once on a weekly basis during the past 12 months,
while 34 percent report experiencing either an application malfunction
or application freeze at least once per week.
"Given that smartphones are actual mini-computers, it's not
unexpected that users experience software-related issues," said
Parsons. "However, with the increasing number of features and
applications that can be used on these devices, both the devices and
software platforms will need to be more reliable if market penetration
of smartphones is to increase over time. It's critical for
manufacturers to offer a complete package of functionality that is easy
to use and has minimal operation malfunctions."
The study also finds the following key smartphone business wireless
usage patterns:
- Sixty-nine percent of business smartphone users own a handsfree
headset, and 74 percent of those owners use a wireless headset device.
Motorola owners report a higher incidence of using wireless headsets
(86%), while only 60 percent of Apple iPhone owners report using a
wireless headset device.
- Among smartphone users, 37 percent would like GPS (global
positioning system) capabilities on their device, 25 percent would like
WiFi capabilities, 23 percent want touch screen and 15 percent would
like to have voice recognition command for automatic dialing.
- The average reported purchase price of a smartphone device is $216,
compared with an average reported purchase price of $261 in 2007. Apple
owners report the highest average purchase price at $337, while
Motorola owners report the lowest device pricing at $169.
- The top five reasons given for choosing a smartphone brand are:
Internet capability (45%), ability to use e-mail account (41%), overall
design/style (39%), Bluetooth capabilities (37%) and keyboard style
(e.g., QWERTY) (37%).
- Thirty-four percent of smartphone owners say they download
third-party software. Popular software downloads among business users
include games (49%), business applications such as Microsoft Word and
Excel (43%) and travel-related programs (36%).
The 2008 Business Wireless Smartphone Customer Satisfaction Study is
based on responses from 1,388 business wireless customers who currently
own a smartphone device. The study was fielded between August and
September 2008.
Link: J.D. Power and
Associates
iPhone More Reliable than Blackberry or Treo
Cult of Mac's
Lonnie Lazar reports:
"iPhones are more than twice as reliable as Blackberry smartphones
after one year of operation, according to a study by Square Trade
research. Square Trade, a company that sells add-on warranties covering
electronic devices beyond their manufacturer warranty periods, looked
at the failure rates of 15,000 phones covered under its plans.
According to their data, the malfunction rate for iPhones after one
year is 5.6 percent, compared to 11.2 percent for the Blackberry and
16.2 percent for the Treo."
Link:
Study Says iPhone Is More Reliable than Blackberry or Treo
iPhone Reliable but Accident-Prone
Internet
News's Judy Mottl reports:
"Apple's iPhone is proving more reliable than the BlackBerry or Palm
Treo - though it is the most prone to accidents, according to a new
study that examined accident rates and dependability among the three
smartphones.
"iPhone users reported a malfunction rate of just 5.6 percent during
their first year of ownership, compared to 16.2 percent of Palm Treo
owners and 11.9 percent of BlackBerry users, according to the study
from SquareTrade."
Link: Survey:
iPhone More Reliable but Accident-Prone
Link: SquareTrade
4 Signs That It's Time to Restore Your iPhone
The Apple Core's Jason D.
O'Grady says:
"Does your iPhone exhibit any of the following symptoms?:
- Laggy access to the Text/SMS application
- Longer that five second delay to get a live image in the Camera
application
- Long pause before being able to scroll in Contacts
- Delay when clicking on the letter shortcuts in Contacts
"It if does, you may be suffering from Molasses iPhone Syndrome and
the only cure it is to nuke and pave."
Link: 4
Signs That It's Time to Restore Your iPhone
Using Your iPhone as a Trackpad
The
Apple Blog's David Appleyard says:
"There has been a huge amount of speculation about whether Apple
would release a laptop with a trackpad resembling an iPhone or iPod
touch screen. While this always seemed unlikely, there's no doubt that
the iPhone has the perfect sized screen to function as an (albeit very
over-featured) trackpad. Snatch is an application for the iPhone which
allows you to do just that - use the device as a wireless trackpad for
your Mac...."
Link: Using
Your iPhone as a Trackpad
Apps & Services
TheFind: Where to Shop Gives Holiday Shoppers More
Choice to Find the Best Price
PR: TheFind, Inc., a shopping search engine for discovering
lifestyle goods, is making it easier for consumers to complete their
shopping lists this holiday season with TheFind: Where to Shop, a new
application that gives consumers the ability to leverage TheFind's
powerful shopping search capabilities and comprehensive local store
data from anywhere, via the Apple iPhone.
"The economic challenges that the US and global markets have
experienced over the last couple of months are expected to impact
retail sales this holiday season, with price likely to become the
defining factor in product purchases, followed by breadth of product
selection," said Siva Kumar, cofounder and CEO of TheFind. "In
introducing TheFind: Where to Shop, we hope to ease some of the
'pocketbook' pain consumers are feeling, by helping them find products
in their local neighborhoods and compare online prices while on the go.
With TheFind's Where to Shop, consumers can find the best deals on
their holiday purchases, without running all over town or having to sit
at their computer to conduct their online research. Our comprehensive
approach to finding products also ensures that those consumers will
find even the most unique items in a snap."
Last month, the National Retail Federation (NRF) issued its 2008
Holiday Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by
BIGresearch, which projects that US consumers will "spend an average of
$832.36 on holiday-related shopping, up a paltry 1.9 percent over last
year's $816.6, and representing the lowest increase in planned consumer
spending since the survey began in 2002." The report went on to state
that "consumers say one factor will play the biggest role in buying
decisions this year: price." According to the survey, 40.0 percent of
shoppers cite sales or promotions as the largest factor when
determining where to shop, while another 12.6 percent claim that
everyday low prices sway their decision. Other consumers rated
selection (21.5%) as the primary factor.
TheFind: Where to Shop bridges the gap between online research and
offline purchases, enabling shoppers to compare products and pricing -
while out and about - and ensuring that they find exactly what they're
searching for, quickly and easily within reach. With a comprehensive
index of more than 250 million products covering 200,000 store
locations, TheFind's iPhone application aims to be the best resource
for savvy shoppers.
With TheFind: Where to Shop consumers are able to:
- Carry" online shopping research - product searches, prices, store
locations and sales information - with them anywhere they go. Consumers
no longer have to sit at their desks in front of the computer before
leaving home to do their Holiday Shopping - they can have it all with
them wherever they go.
- Quickly and easily determine which retail outlets selling the
desired items are closest in proximity. For every search, TheFind:
Where to Shop graphically maps the locations of local brick-and-mortar
stores whose websites have the item, and also gives phone numbers and
directions to those stores. Consumers can use the map to determine
which location is the closest to them, or call ahead to get more
information or reserve the product - saving time, money and gas.
- Check in-store availability. Through integration with inventory
look up capabilities offered by NearbyNow and Krillion, TheFind's
iPhone application enables shoppers to actually check the inventories
of participating, nearby stores to see if a particular item is in
stock. Additionally, all listings for local retailers have phone
numbers listed so the busy shopper can call to check in-stock status
before venturing out.
- Compare online and local pricing and obtain the very best deal.
TheFind: Where to Shop puts a wealth of information at one's
fingertips, enabling a shopper at a store to assess prices from other
retailers, to make sure they are getting the best deal. TheFind's
application alerts shoppers to various considerations such as items on
sale and driving distance of retail outlets, so they can make
purchasing decisions based on their individual preferences and
criteria.
Local search is one of the fastest-growing areas of search engine
technology, and integration with brick and mortar stores, and
location-specific data to facilitate in-store purchases is viewed as
the "last mile" in search. An October 2008 report by Nielsen Research
entitled "Research Now . . . Buy Later? How consumers balance
an online and offline multi-channel world" found that "shoppers who
browsed for products both on- and off-line at Wal-Mart, for example,
spent 38% more than the store's average customers." The study goes
further to show that "nearly two-thirds (64%) of consumers who
purchased electronics in brick-and-mortar stores first researched the
products they bought online."
"Mobile represents a real opportunity for retailers in the near
term, as well as a bridge between the Internet and local stores," said
Greg Sterling, analyst, Sterling Market Intelligence and Local Mobile
Search. "As the audiences grow and the technology matures, mobile
promises targeting, tracking and consumer loyalty opportunities not
even available on online."
TheFind: Where to Shop is available now from the iTunes App Store.
TheFind plans to release TheFind: Where to Shop for other popular
mobile platforms with standard browsers, 3G and location services.
Link: TheFind
(only available through the
Apple App Store)
Gas Cubby for iPhone and iPod touch
PR: App Cubby introduces Gas Cubby 1.0, their gas mileage and
vehicle maintenance app for the iPhone and iPod touch. Whether a
hyper-miler or just need a reminder to change the oil, Gas Cubby will
save money and help keep any vehicle operating at its peak. Featuring
easy-to-use service reminders and beautiful, full-screen charts, it's
the ultimate tool for tracking gas mileage and vehicle maintenance.
Keeping tabs on your vehicle has never been so easy.
With a focus on ease-of-use, Gas Cubby supports multiple vehicles,
and offers excellent charts for miles-per-gallon (MPG), gas price, gas
expenses, as well as service expenses. Advanced searching and filtering
allow for in depth analysis and will automatically generate new charts
based on the filtered data. Users may store vehicle data, such as VIN,
license plate, and insurance policy. Among Gas Cubby's most helpful
features are its customizable service reminders.
Data fields can be turned on an off, allowing the user to enter as
much or as little information as necessary. Customizable tags allow
grouping or categorization of records. If further visualization or
analysis is needed, a few quick taps will create an Excel-compatible
(CSV) report. Once a report has been generated, it can be emailed to
anyone as an attachment using App Cubby's secure, custom mail
service.
Feature highlights include:
- Tracks gas mileage and vehicle maintenance
- Charts: MPG, gas price, gas expenses, service expenses
- Charts update as data is filtered
- Customizable service reminders
- Supports multiple vehicles
- Store vehicle data: VIN, License Plate, and Insurance Policy
- Turn data fields on and off
- Excel compatible email reports (CSV attachment)
- Easily search, sort, and filter records
- Customizable tags
- Number Pad or Odometer style entry
- If data entry is interrupted by a phone call, the data will be
stored and retrieved on next launch
System requirements: iPhone or iPod touch 2.1 or later
Gas Cubby 1.0 for iPhone is only $4.99 and available exclusively
through Apple's App Store.
Link: Gas Cubby (only available
through the
Apple App Store)
MileBug Lite Free for Limited Time
PR: MileBug Lite, a lite version of the premier iPhone
mileage log application, is now available for FREE for a limited time
only. MileBug Lite helps those driving their own vehicles for business,
charity, medical, or other reasons receive their reimbursement and/or
tax deduction. In the US, IRS business rates are up to 58.5 cents/mile.
MileBug Lite for the iPhone/iPod touch helps people track their miles
and provides emailed reports for easy submission to employers,
accountants, and the IRS.
What's New?
- Option for kilometers vs. miles (General Settings)
- Custom deduction rates
- Define multiple business rates (reimbursement vs. deduction)
- "Other" business category for percentage tax filers
- Foreign and other special characters supported in reports
- Notes included in reports
- Spanish version
MileBug Lite answers the call from the many international customers.
Inside the General Settings is now an option to select kilometers
instead of miles. From within the Presets, users can define custom
rates for business, charity, medical, and other categories. If you get
one rate from your employer for reimbursement, and another rate from
the IRS for your side business, you simply create two different
business rates.
As an added bonus, MileBug Lite supports Spanish. Simply select
Spanish as the language of your iPhone or iPod touch in the General
Settings - > International area and restart MileBug Lite. Bienvenido
a MileBug!
Link: MileBug
Lite (only available through the
Apple App Store)
FourTrack iPhone Application
Sonoma Wire Works announces the launch of FourTrack, a multitrack
audio recorder for the iPhone and iPod touch (2nd Generation).
FourTrack is a songwriting and practice tool for singers, guitar
players, piano players and other musicians who want to capture musical
ideas and record songs on their iPhone. Plug in a microphone, arm a
track, record, and repeat. FourTrack works with the iPhone built-in
microphone, a headset mic, or an iPod touch with a third-party mic and
headphones.
WiFi sync allows FourTrack recordings to be downloaded to any
desktop computer with a browser. Tracks can then be loaded into any
recording software (DAW) to continue working on songs. FourTrack is
developed by Sonoma Wire Works, makers of RiffWorks guitar recording
software, and by The Retronyms, makers of Recorder, the top selling
(single track) recording application for the iPhone. Introductory
price: $9.99.
FourTrack Features:
- Track Count: 4
- Track Length: unlimited
- Recording Quality: 16 bit, 44.1 kHz
- Calibrated Meters: accurately monitor record and playback
levels
- Recording Clip Lights: ensure input levels do not cause
distortion
- Calibrated Faders: accurately adjust playback level of each
track
- Pan Control: move tracks from left to right
- Time Line: seek to anywhere in your song instantly
- Shuttle Wheel: accurately move within your song
- Slide-to-Record: prevents overwriting your tracks
- Latency Compensation: accurate to within 1ms
- Compressor-Limiter: automatically fattens sound of the output
mix
- Song List: unlimited song count
- WiFi Sync: copy recordings to a desktop computer
Requirements:
- Compatible with iPhone and iPod touch (2nd Generation).
- Requires iPhone 2.0 software update.
- iPod touch requires a third party microphone (see developer website
for recommendations).
What is a Four Track Recorder?
Stereo tape recorders record two tracks at a time on a cassette. A
four-track recorder allows you to record one track at a time while
listening to the other three. This allows you to record a guitar part,
then add a vocal part, then add a harmony, and so on. The Beatles
recorded several albums using only four tracks. Four-track cassette
recorders were the first affordable multitrack recorders for home
musicians. Multitrack recording software, like GarageBand and Pro
Tools, allow you to record many tracks, but the principle is the same.
FourTrack (the iPhone app) gives you the simplicity of the old-school
cassette four-track in an affordable and convenient package. With
FourTrack in your pocket, you can record music anywhere at the moment
of inspiration.
Link: FourTrack (only available
through the
Apple App Store)
iSpinning, First Heart Rate and Fitness App for
iPhone and iPod touch
PR: Spinning, a leader in indoor group cycling, today
introduced the new iSpinning fitness application available on the Apple
iPhone App Store.
iSpinning, free for a limited time only, is an innovative new cardio
and cycling application that compiles real-time data for fitness
tracking. iSpinning is the first of a suite of health and fitness apps
enabled by iTMP Technology, a pioneering developer of smartphone
hardware and software applications.
For iPhone and iPod touch users interested in cutting edge fitness
applications, and for Spinning enthusiasts eager to integrate their
fitness data with Apple's mobile computing platforms, the new iSpinning
iPhone application is a breakthrough in fitness tracking.
iSpinning is an iPhone-based Spinning computer and cardio fitness
system that is compatible with leading fitness heart rate transmitters
and a growing list of other fitness sensors. In addition to
heart-related data, iSpinning receives speed, cadence, and power data
from cycling sensors so users can track cycling metrics from their road
and mountain bikes too.
"For years the fitness industry has struggled with the complexities
of tracking and displaying fitness data in ways that are appealing to
the end user. iTMP has raised the bar with their suite of iPhone apps
that collect data from body and equipment sensors to track and present
it in a simple and usable format," said John Baudhuin, CEO of Mad Dogg
Athletics, Inc., creators of the Spinning indoor cycling program.
"While there are a handful of fitness apps for the iPhone, until now
none of them have incorporated real-time user data in their
calculations. With our wireless virtual bridge, SMHEART LINK, we
connect distributed health and fitness sensors to Apple's iPhone and
iPod touch. In other words, we enable Apple's incredible mobile
computers to double as heart monitors and cycling computers," said
Michael Williams, founder and CEO of iTMP.
The iSpinning application will run with simulated data so users can
see how the application will monitor and manage cardio fitness metrics.
Additional hardware, including iTMP's SMHEART LINK, will be required to
allow the app to "listen" to your heart and your Spinner bikes or
outdoor bikes. SMHEART LINK stores an entire workout's worth of data,
compiling information even while the iPhone app is interrupted by a
call or if the iPhone is not present. The result is an uninterrupted
workout profile that can be reviewed real-time during or after a
workout.
iTMP's SMHEART LINK has a suggested retail price of $149.95 and will
be available for the holiday and resolution seasons online, where users
can also find additional product information, accessories, and receive
updates. Spinning's website will also carry SMHEART LINK and Spinning's
cadence sensor.
Link: iSpinning (only available
through the
Apple App Store)
Merge Healthcare Announces New Merge Mobile for
the iPhone
PR: Merge Healthcare, a leading medical imaging solutions
provider, announced mobile technology that enables patients and
healthcare professionals to view digital medical images such as CT,
MRI, X-ray, and other images on an Apple iPhone or iPod touch. A
demonstration of Merge Mobile for the iPhone is available free of
charge from the iPhone App Store.
Merge Mobile is breakthrough technology intended to help health
organizations and clinicians improve quality of care, reduce costs and
improve responsiveness to patients. Today, radiologists and physicians
have access to patient medical images from computers connected to their
practice management or PAC (picture archiving and communications)
systems. Applications(a) built upon Merge Mobile technology will enable
radiologists to view emergency cases directly from their iPhone or iPod
touch, consult with colleagues and, when necessary, forward critical
findings directly and securely to a patient's referring physician.
"Merge Healthcare will usher in a new era of mobile healthcare by
bringing advanced medical imaging information to the fingertips of
physicians," said Justin Dearborn, Merge Healthcare Chief Executive
Officer. "Merge Mobile leverages the rapid convergence of mobile and
medical technology development to empower new approaches in healthcare
delivery and coordination."
Merge Mobile technology will enable the development of applications
to retrieve CT, MRI, X-ray and other images wirelessly, and to perform
standard radiologic manipulations to guide decision-making, much like
computer-based solutions such as PACS. Few solutions of this kind exist
today, and most experience download delays associated with medical
imaging's large data sets. Merge Mobile incorporates advanced remote
rendering techniques, including multi-planar reconstruction (MPR),
which eliminate downloading of large data quantities to the mobile
device and enable near-immediate access to images. Features include
remote stack viewing using the iPhone multitouch interface, scroll,
contrast adjustment, zoom and pan. A secure communication protocol
addresses privacy.
Merge Healthcare provides sample images and data via a demonstration
server with the free Merge Mobile download.
Link: Merge Mobile (only
available through the
Apple App Store)
Smule Ocarina iPhone Musical Instrument
PR: Smule introduces Ocarina, the first and only app that
transforms the iPhone into an expressive musical wind instrument. It's
available now on Apple's App Store for 99¢.
See it in action here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2XUw6Hy4Tzk
You Tube "Stairway" video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfrONZjakRY
You Tube "Zelda" video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhCJq7EAJJA
The Ocarina synthesizes sound in real-time, just like a regular
instrument, based on actual gestures including wind input, tilt, and
finger placement over the four holes overlaid on the multitouch pad.
Unlike other iPhone audio apps, the sound is not precompiled but is
generated by the notes, gestures and nuance of the individual
performer. As a result, it allows an iPhone user to explore and master
the musical sounds of an entirely iPhone-native version of an ancient
flute-like instrument.
Smule's audio engine (CHiP) and the Smule Sonic Network make it
possible to hear live performances around the world. With the globe
view, you can hear performances, and see the origin of that
performance.
This is the fourth in a series of innovative applications from
Smule, based on the developer's innovative mobile audio platform.
Dr. Ge Wang, founder and CTO of Smule is also a Stanford professor
at the Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics (CCRMA) and
director of the Stanford
Laptop Orchestra, and the author of the Chuck audio programming
language.
Link: Smule Ocarina
(only available through the
Apple App Store)
ReaddleDocs Connects iPhone to Popular Online File
Storages
PR: Readdle announces the release of its new version of the
popular document and file management solution ReaddleDocs 1.1.1. Now
users can copy files from MobileMe iDisk, Box.Net, MyDisk.se,
Filesanywhere and other online file storages that support WebDAV access
protocol to their iPhones and view them offline.
ReaddleDocs is a complete document and file management solution for
the iPhone and iPod touch. It allows users to transfer documents to
their devices, view them on the go and even share with others in a
simple way. Thousands of people use ReaddleDocs to save files from
their Mac, Windows or Linux computers, world wide web, online file
storages and even email attachments to their iPhones and iPod
touches.
Online file storage is a popular and efficient way to backup
important data or share information among several devices. ReaddleDocs
v1.1.1 enables users to browse documents from WebDAV enabled file
storages, copy them to the iPhone, view offline and email to colleagues
and partners. ReaddleDocs makes documents and files accessible from any
computer or mobile phone that individual uses.
"The internet is a great source of information that is why saving
and accessing information from the web is one of biggest necessities
that any iPhone and iPod touch owner encounters. ReaddleDocs is the
only application that covers it completely by saving web pages, files
from the web servers and with the new version from MobileMe iDisk,
Box.Net, MyDisk.se and FilesAnywhere file storages", notes Alexander
Tyagulsky, Readdle.com CMO.
ReaddleDocs v1.1.1 adds other notable enhancements including support
of popular e-book Plucker and FB2 formats that makes ReaddleDocs most
flexible e-book reader application on the platform. Also, version 1.1
can process ZIP document archives that are very popular way of
compressing documents before sending them as e-mail attachments or
placing in the web.
Pricing and Availability: ReaddleDocs is available for $14.99 at the
App Store.
Link: ReaddleDocs (only
available through the
Apple App Store)
Raisix ColorMatch Helps iPhone Users Find
Complementary Clothing, Decorating Colors
PR: Raisix, Inc. has announced ColorMatch, the ideal way to
take the guesswork out of matching dress shirts, neckties, dresses,
accessories, upholstery, wall or house paint and much more. Available
through the Apple iTunes store, ColorMatch is an inexpensive iPhone
application for professionals and nonprofessionals alike that instantly
finds perfect color matches at home, in a store, or on location in a
customer's home.
ColorMatch is simple enough
for anyone to use. Thanks to the application's easy finger-touch slider
bars, users can quickly create the color they have in mind onscreen.
Once the color is found, ColorMatch instantly provides five
complementary colors that will inspire perfect matches for clothing
items like scarves, ties, shirts and blouses; home decorating
accessories like pillows and sheets; or even color schemes for
brochures, invitations, company logos and Web pages.
Users can set ColorMatch's Boldness Level to reflect their own
personal tastes and preferences, ranging from conservative/traditional
to bolder, more contemporary color scheme choices.
"Virtually everyone would like help from time to time selecting
colors with the confidence of a professional stylist or decorator. For
just $4.99, ColorMatch puts that kind of power in your pocket, ready
for whenever you need it," said Yaron Sinai, founder and chief
executive officer of Raisix, Inc. "You can match and store the color of
a living room sofa while at home, then recall the color for use at the
paint store. Or use ColorMatch to create a palette of colors, then use
it as a shopping guide for an entire season's worth of clothing. The
uses are endless."
ColorMatch's three onscreen color sliders - red, blue and green -
are used in combination to help users create virtually any color they
see or can imagine. To make the application even more convenient,
ColorMatch displays swatches big enough for matching with upholstery,
clothing or swatches.
ColorMatch is now available for download from the Apple iTunes App
Store.
Link: Raisix
ColorMatch (only available through the
Apple App Store)
OEM 3G iPhone Glass and Digitizer Kits Now
Available at Mission Repair
PR: Mission Repair in Kansas City, a specialist in iPod and
iPhone full-service repairs. has begun to offer parts to the public, in
particular, 3G iPhone Glass/Digitizer Assemblies for those customers
who prefer to perform the repair themselves in the comfort of their own
location. The 3G iPhone screens are fragile and many customers
currently use Mission Repair as their repair center of choice.
However many customers are willing to perform iPhone repairs on
their own, and Mission Repair has begun to assist customers with such
projects. If you're a tech-savvy customer that likes to tinker and
wants to save time and money by performing their own iPhone 3G
Glass/Digitizer Repair, now you can buy a brand new 3G iPhone
Glass/Digitizer Assembly that comes with a 1 year warranty.
Mission Repair provides a full-lineup of services and upgrades- iPod
Repairs, iPhone Repairs, MacBook Repairs, MacBook Pro Repairs,
PowerBook Repairs and iBook Repairs! They offer many flat-rate
services, repair liquid damaged units and offer brand new parts in
their repairs.
"Bar none, we have the BEST way to install a new LCD Digitizer into
a 3G iPhone." Said Ryan Arter, President "We are proud to be the only
company to offer the 3G iPhone Glass/Digitizer Assemblies with the
appropriate adhesive strips to install it into your iPhone frame. These
adhesive strips are by far the only way to properly install the
digitizer into the frame of your iPhone. Other companies use epoxy or
superglue to install digitizers. Any type of glue can seep into your
home button and ruin your phone. We've seen superglue outgas and ruin
LCD screens. Our laser-cut adhesive strips are top quality and a
perfect fit. We use them in every iPhone 3G Glass/Digitizer
installation performed at Mission Repair."
Mission Repair provides several shipping options (including FedEx
ground and overnight) on each of their services and parts offered. If
you're local to Kansas City, they also accept walk-ins with no
appointment necessary during normal business hours.
Dealer Alert: Mission Repair is currently taking orders for bulk
quantities. Call 1-866-638-8402 for bulk pricing on the adhesive
strips.
Mission Repair also buy used customer units and are currently
purchasing all versions of the iPod, iPhone, Macintosh Portables,
Gaming Systems, and Cell Phones. Rather than adding to a landfill, you
can sell your unwanted items (in most cases) directly on their website,
working or not. Mission Repair is a "Green" business that disposes of
eWaste correctly.
Mission Repair's company policy is to never charge a restocking fee
if an item is returned within their 30-day return period. This applies
to every item they sell. This is a great benefit and gives customers
the peace of mind that they are making the right decision and can have
confidence that the service is being done correctly.
Dealers also take advantage of Mission Repair's services by
outsourcing their repairs directly to the Mission Repair facility in
Kansas City. Contact Mission Repair directly for dealer pricing on
depot repairs or parts sales.
Mission Repair is your choice for full-service iPod, MacBook and
Cell Phone Repair Services. Mission Repair currently offers repair
services for iPods, iPhones, Apple Laptop Computers (including MacBook
Air, MacBook Pro, MacBook, PowerBook and iBook), gaming consoles
(including PSP), Cell Phones with new programs coming online often.
Mission Repair is Accredited though the Greater Kansas City Better
Business Bureau and is a Proud Member of the Olathe, Kansas Chamber of
Commerce. Their technicians are Apple Certified Macintosh
Technicians.
With a 100% customer service mentality, www.missionrepair.com is
your one-stop repair service center with support for all makes and
models of iPods, iPhones and Macintosh Portable Systems, Cell Phones
& Gaming Consoles.
- Mission Repair
- 19953 West 162nd Street
- Olathe, Kansas 66062
- 866-638-8402
Link: Mission
Repair
Accessories
RichardSolo 1800 Backup Battery for iPhone
PR: Introducing the newest iPhone backup battery, using
Apple's proprietary connector: the rechargeable RichardSolo 1800
Battery - just snap it on and it begins to charge instantly
"I love my iPhone 3G! It is the best personal gadget I've ever
owned. However, my battery begins to run out, towards the end of the
day. And you can run out of juice if you are traveling, or in an
airport.
Introducing the newest iPhone backup battery, using Apple's
proprietary connector: the rechargeable RichardSolo 1800 Battery - just
snap it on and it begins to charge instantly. It is certified both
"Works with iPhone" and "Made for iPod", and for both the original
iPhone and the iPhone 3G.
There's nothing quite like it. It has 1800 mAh of capacity,
which is enough to completely charge your iPhone, and have reserve
power left over. It is the only battery available that actually
"latches" onto your iPhone, and a support brace is included to make it
super secure.
In the kit, you get a complimentary 110-240 volt AC Wall charger,
and also a dual-USB car charger, and a retractable USB cable. So you
can charge it at the wall, in your car, from your computer, and you can
charge them both at the same time. Connect the RichardSolo to the
iPhone, then connect the RichardSolo to the charger, and charge both
with one charger.
At night, snap the battery and iPhone together, and charge them both
overnight with our charger. You'll wake up in the morning with both
fully charged. When you travel, you don't need the Apple charger. Just
take this one.
Of course, it works for all models of iPhone and iPod, including the
3G, except for iPod shuffle.
This is a great accessory to keep with you all the time. There are
three color LED lights to show you the status of the charge. And if all
that were not enough, enjoy the built-in ultra-bright LED flashlight,
and also the built-in laser pointer; your cat will be entertained for
hours!" - Richard
Free US and Canada shipping and no tax outside California. GST does
apply to Canadian orders.
$69.95
Link:
RichardSolo 1800 Backup Battery for iPhone
Griffin PowerDock - Multiple Charging Bases for
iPod and iPhone
PR: Does your
family own a family of iPod or iPhone models? Can you only find one
charger when all of you need to recharge? Call a cease-fire with
PowerDock, a charging base where every iPod and iPhone in the house can
get together to charge its batteries.
Just slip your iPod or iPhone into place to safely charge. Models
available with two or four Apple Universal Docks built into a single
charging base. Substantial brushed aluminum with a grippy rubber base
stays put on countertops and desktops. Includes a collection of
Universal Dock insert adapters to ensure that every iPod and iPhone in
the house gets a place at the table.
PowerDock comes boxed with a set of Universal Dock adapters to fit
all compatible iPods, but initial shipping units do not have a 3G
universal dock adapter included. To get one, click "Buy Now," where
they are available for $1.99. At retail stores, PowerDock units listed
as iPhone 3G compatible will have the 3G adapter included.
Features
Charging base plugs into
standard 120VAC wall outlet- Sturdy brushed metal base stays put on your desk
- Charges any combination of iPod models
- 8 Universal Dock inserts included to fit iPod models that charge by
Dock Connector
- Certified by Apple as a "Works with iPhone" product
- Certified by Apple as a "Made for iPod" product
- Technical Specifications
- Power input: 110-240V AC @50-60 Hz
- Power output: 5V DV @ 1.2 Amps
- AC Power supply: 6' (1.8m)
- 8 Universal Dock inserts included to fit iPod models that charge by
Dock Connector
$49.99 - $69.99
Link: Griffin
PowerDock
iGo Compatible everywhereMAX and wallMAX
Multi-device Chargers
PR: iGo, Inc. has unveiled their new chargers. The most
compatible multi-device chargers ever, they allow users to charge their
laptop computers, and mobile devices such as mobile phones,
Bluetooth headsets, smartphones/PDAs, MP3 players, portable gaming
devices, digital cameras, and more with one single, stylish
charger.
"Every year, laptops and electronic devices
get faster, smarter, and smaller - advancements that encourage users to
take them everywhere," said Michael D. Heil, president and chief
executive officer of iGo. "With the iGo MAX chargers, the consumer is
presented with one simple product for all their charging needs."
iGo everywhereMAX (MSRP $139.99) allows users to charge their
laptops from a wall outlet, an auto outlet or even an airplane seat.
Designed with the consumer's needs in mind, the everywhereMAX is sleek
and slim, has an easy-to-pack carrying case and weighs less than a
pound. While the laptop charges, iGo's dualpower accessory
simultaneously charges an additional mobile device such as an iPod,
mobile phone, BlackBerry, Bluetooth headset or digital camera.
Thousands of devices can be charged from one charger, thanks to iGo's
interchangeable power tips.
iGo wallMAX (MSRP $99.99) offers much of the same functionality as
the everywhereMAX, but for users who only need a wall charger. This is
an ideal solution for a replacement charger or an additional charger
for those who prefer to keep one at home and one at the office.
Now, instead of packing and tracking more than a half dozen
chargers, only one is needed. Both the everywhereMAX and wallMAX are
available for purchase online now at www.iGo.com and are available for
purchase at other retailers such as Radio Shack nationwide.
The MAX series of chargers is compatible with today's most popular
laptops and devices from brands such as Apple, Dell, Compaq/HP, LG,
Motorola, Nokia, Palm, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba and more. For the latest
compatibility list, visit the company's newly redesigned online store
at:
iGo's products are available at www.iGo.com as well as through
leading resellers and retailers.
Link: iGo
Etymotic hf5 Earphones for iPod, Other
Players
PR: Etymotic Research, the inventor and world leader of
in-the-ear, high-fidelity earphones, announced its fifth generation of
noise-isolating, high-fidelity earphones: the hf5 earphones, designed
for iPod and other MP3 music players.
The hf5 earphones are the same high-fidelity, noise-isolating
earphones as those contained in Etymotic's hf2 headset for iPhone
devices, except without the microphone. The hf2 headset received two
Best of Show awards at the 2008 Macworld Expo, and editors' choice
awards from Mac|Life, Macworld UK, PC Magazine and PC News Weekly. In a
recent review of the hf5 earphones, CNET Editor Jasmine France
concluded: "The Etymotic hf5 earphones are an excellent option for
those who want the highest level of sound isolation without sacrificing
sound quality, portability or style."
According to Mead Killion, Ph.D., founder and president of
Etymotic Research, "The hf5 earphones continue Etymotic's tradition of
providing legendary sound quality to musicians as well as users of iPod
and other music devices. With their unsurpassed noise isolation, the
hf5 earphones deliver a near-perfect music experience: total sound
immersion whether performing or listening to music."
The hf5 earphones use Etymotic Research's acclaimed tuned
acoustic-insert technology for the clearest, truest sound available.
Sealing in the ear, the hf5 earphones allow listeners to hear the full
dynamic range of recordings without having to play them at unnaturally
high - and unsafe - volume levels.
Additional new eartips give the hf5 earphones even greater
fitting flexibility, ensuring comfortable listening for people with ear
canals of all shapes and sizes. The subtle yet stylish hf5 earphones
come in three colors: cobalt blue, ruby red and black.
Available exclusively at Amazon.com,
the Etymotic hf5 earphones carry a retail price of $149. The earphones
are compatible with all iPod models, as well as with music players and
monitors that accept a 3.5mm plug.
Link: Etymotic
Presentation
iSimple Introduces New Automotive iPod Docking
Solutions
PR: iSimple has announced the availability of two new
interface solutions that provide a direct, hardwired connection between
any model of iPod and most aftermarket or factory sound systems. The
iSimple RCA iPod Audio Connector (IS75) and iSimple RCA iPod
Audio/Video Connector (IS76) allow consumers to enjoy 100%
crystal-clear music from any model iPod or iPhone through any factory
or after-factory head unit that features RCA inputs. The
easy-to-install IS75 and IS76 (MSRP: $49.95) are available through
dealers and retailers in the US and Canada.
iSimple offers true hardwired interface solutions that allow car
owners to directly interface their iPod or other portable audio source
directly into their vehicle?s factory-installed entertainment system,
providing crystal clear, static-free sound and unparalleled ease of
use.
The IS75 is designed for the busy music enthusiast, and offers an
iPod docking cable and a 3.5mm headphone-style audio input for other
portable audio devices like handheld GPS, portable satellite tuners or
other MP3 players. The IS76 does not offer the additional audio input,
but it does give consumers the option of enjoying both music and video
from any iPod through their in-car entertainment systems. Both the IS75
and IS76 also provide battery charging for all iPod and iPhone models,
including the iPhone 3G, and new versions of the iPod nano and iPod
touch.
iSimple offers true hardwired integration solutions that allow car
owners to directly wire their portable audio equipment into their
automotive audio systems, providing unparalleled ease of use, sound
quality and efficiency.
Link: iSimple
Protection
Once Again, Ivyskin Sets the Standard in iPhone
Protection and Design
PR: Ivyskin has done it again. Following in the footsteps of
the breakthrough product, the Xylo T3 Touch-Thru case, the much
anticipated Quattro line introduces some one of a kind concepts never
before seen in the sea of endless cases and armor, all promising
durability and the highest level of protection for the iPhone 3G.
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the new Quattro design is the
use of real Touch-Thru Glass as the screen protector in the T2, T3, and
T4 models. The patent pending Xylo Glass technology has the absolute
best tactile sensitive, Touch-Thru on the market, guaranteed. It also
provides protection for the sensitive screen of the 3G. There are no
more static issues to deal with or annoying bubbles on the screen. The
result is a crystal clear screen and the ultimate Touch-Thru
experience.
The Quattro T1 case is a high-quality polysilicon case that fully
wraps the phone, including the home button and external controls. It
also features integrated port protectors . There are two additional
clear polycarbonate components that protect the sensor area in front of
the phone and the distinct Apple logo on the back. The T1 comes in
several bright, stylish color combinations that are sure to please any
iPhone enthusiast. The ivySkin Quattro-T1 is offered in four designer
choices: Alpine white, Jet black, Royal blue, Raz red and retails for
34.99.
The Quattro T2 case is truly unique. It boasts an unprecedented 4
layers of protection for the iPhone 3G. The innermost layer, is a
polysilicon skin that encases the phone, similar to the T1. It also
includes the integrated port protectors to protect against dust,
moisture, etc. The second layer is the unique Xylo Glass®
Touch-Thru screen that fits over the screen and allows for touch
through use of the screen. The outermost layer is a hard polycarbonate
shell that snaps into place over the silicon skin. It features a
built-in, high shine, polished aluminum faceplate for added protection
and style without excess bulk. Several different color combinations are
available for the Quattro T2. The ivySkin Quattro-T2 is offered in
three designer choices: Jet black, Royal blue, Raz red and retails for
39.99.
The Quattro T3 case is the sleekest member of this family. It
combines the soft and smooth feel of our polysilicon, with the
durability and strength of hard polycarbonate. The result is the sleek
yet tough Quattro T3. The genius behind this design is silicon treated
polycarbonate. It creates the smooth feel but provides rigid, solid
protection for the iPhone 3G. There are 2 separate pieces that come
together in a clean snap. The T4 also features the Xylo Glass®
Touch-Thru screen to finish off the look. A bonus feature of this case
is the 'dockability' of the phone while the case is in use. The iPhone
can be docked without taking the whole case off. A detachable port
protector is also included for use when the phone is not docked. The
ivySkin Quattro-T3 is offered in four designer choices: Alpine white,
Jet black, Royal blue, Raz red and retails for 44.99.
The upcoming Quattro T4 is similar to the T3, but with a twist. The
bottom piece of the case that snaps into place actually contains a
built-in extended battery. It allows for 'on the go' charging and
provides 6 extended hours of talk time as well as 7 hours on Wi-Fi
internet and 350 hours of stand by. The ivySkin Quattro T4 will be
available on the 2nd week of December 2008.
The Quattro line of products are currently available online at
ivyskin.com, J&R Music World,
Amazon.com,
NewEgg,
and will soon be available through a worldwide range of retailers.
Link: Ivyskin
Marware's Nuance for 4G iPod nano
PR: Marware Inc. announces the colorful Nuance for the
iPod nano 4G. A convenient, removable lanyard adds extra versatility
for hanging on a purse, belt loop or even your wrist. The Nuance
includes a lanyard and a microfiber cleaning cloth. It's everything you
need to enjoy your new nano in style.
Features:
- Durable, colorful leather construction
- Removable carrying strap
- Slim profile adds style to the iPod nano 4G
- Perfect for pocket, purse or just holding in your hand
- Includes: leather sleeve, lanyard, clear film protector, and
microfiber cleaning cloth
- Marware's Lifetime Warranty
The Nuance is available in black, pink, blue, and yellow leather. It
retails for $24.99 and is available now for pre-order online. Please
visit Marware online for updated shipping dates. Marware is a leading
provider of software and accessory solutions for Apple iPhones, iPods,
and Notebooks.
Link:
Nuance for 4G iPod nano
