iNews Review

Verizon CDMA iPhone 4 Has Hotspot, US Tax App for iPad, Depression Screening App, and More

This Week's iPad, iPhone, iPod, and Apple TV News

Compiled by Charles Moore and edited by Dan Knight - 2011.01.14

Mac notebook and other portable computing is covered in The 'Book Review, and general Mac news is in Mac News Review.

All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.

News, Reviews, & Opinion

The Competition

Apps & Services

Accessories

Presentation

Protection

iPod Deals

These price trackers are updated every month.

News, Reviews, & Opinion

Verizon iPhone 4 Also a WiFi Hotspot

Hardmac's Lionel reports:

"It is possible to turn the Verizon iPhone 4 into a WiFi hotspot, which can provide an Internet connection to up to 5 devices. All the other carriers, almost everywhere in the world only allow Bluetooth tethering for a very high fee...."

Editor's note: The Personal Hotspot feature can share an Internet connection over WiFi, Bluetooth, and USB. Rumor has it that this feature will come to the GSM iPhone in the near future. dk

Verizon iPhone Clears Path for Future iPhone 5 Release

iPhone5 News Blog's Michael Nace says the iPhone's arrival on Verizon marks a significant turning point in the smartphone battle for market supremacy, with Apple's expansion of network choices for the iPhone between Verizon and AT&T representing a key countermove to the rise in popularity of Google's Android

Nace also suggests that it now seems apparent that Apple always had the Verizon version of the iPhone in mind before the release of the next iPhone, and the more clues we're given, the easier it becomes to imagine when we might see the iPhone 5 - and logically speaking, it would not be surprising to imagine that Apple would give Verizon a marketing window of six months or so before making an announcement on the iPhone 5.

Editor's note: It's kind of a no-brainer that there will someday be an iPhone 5. Given Apple's track record and naming conventions, along with the speed with which Verizon, AT&T, and their competitors are rolling out 4G, I pretty much expect Apple to call the next version the iPhone 4G. In addition to supporting 4G connectivity, it would be very smart for Apple to release a single version of the iPhone that can work with both CDMA and GSM networks. dk

CDMA iPad to Join iPhone

The Register's Rik Myslewski reports:

"Hot on the heels of Verizon's announcement on Tuesday that it will begin to offer an Apple iPhone 4 on its CDMA network on February 10 comes word that a CDMA iPad is also in the works."

Editor's note: Please, Apple, let's have CDMA and GSM on the same device! dk

iPhone Tops Vitrue's Annual Rankings of Social Brands for Third Time

PR: Apple's iPhone continued its reign earning the top spot again for the third-straight year followed by an impressive showing by consumer electronic brands. The Vitrue 100, which annually ranks the most social brands, has iPhone # 1 followed by Blackberry (2), Disney (3), Android (4), and iPad (5) rounding out the top five. The Vitrue 100 measures a brand's "social mentions" by analyzing online conversations on a daily basis across social networks, blogs, micro-blogs, photo and video sharing sites. The rankings represent the sheer volume of social mentions, not sentiment. This is the third annual Vitrue 100.

It is certainly impressive that Apple dominates the list with six brands - iPhone, iPad, Mac, iPod, Apple and iTunes - and four of those brands are in the top 15.

"Our third annual Vitrue 100 rankings revealed some surprising and interesting things about some of the world's most iconic brands, as well as newer brands, and their effective use of social media," says Vitrue CEO Reggie Bradford. "iPhone taking the top spot is most likely is due to continued and sustained buzz and headlines the strong brand generated during 2010, with many articles, blogs and consumer mentions. It is certainly impressive that Apple dominates the list with six brands - iPhone, iPad, Mac, iPod, Apple and iTunes - and four of those brands are in the top 15. And it was great to see some new brands this year like Android, making a monster debut at No. 4 and Blackberry moving up 13 spots. 60% of the top 20 on the list are consumer electronics brands, which shows a strong dominance of that industry in social mentions."

Additional thoughts from Bradford on The Vitrue 100:

  • Consumer Electronic brands had the largest share with 30% of the total list; Fashion/Retail, 20%; Auto/Transportation, 17%; Media/Broadcast, 12%; Sports, 5%; Online, 5%; Food/Beverage, 4%; Quick Serve Restaurants, 4%; Financial, 2%; and Toys/Amusement, 1%.
  • Blackberry generated tremendous buzz and news headlines throughout 2010 and moved up 13 spots in the Vitrue 100 to #2. Blackberry is a strong, well-known brand, and it is especially engrained in the business/enterprise community as it seems for the past decade everyone had a Blackberry device. However, 2010 continued the rise and popularity of smart phones like iPhone and Android-enabled handhelds . . . and these phones are encroaching on Blackberry's historically dominant market share of the business world. Blackberry also has many popular smart phones that created buzz and consumers love.
  • Google's Android made an impressive debut at #4. With the rise in Android-enabled mobile/smart phones and a big advertising push, Android certainly generated social buzz throughout 2010. Headlines also included stories about Android encroaching on Blackberry as well as gaining on iPhone from a market share perspective.
  • AT&T tied for the biggest jumper moving up 45 spots to #32. According to an Advertising Age article this summer, AT&T executives said they began addressing customer service mentions of AT&T on social sites by growing a team of five people to 19 people dedicated to managing Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. AT&T decided to take customer service right to the customers on social nets. AT&T took quick and smart actions to help their customers achieve great service through social channels. We see this as a growing trend for all businesses, especially communication/technology companies.

The Vitrue 100: Top Social Brands of 2010 (Apple brands in bold)

  1. iPhone
  2. Blackberry
  3. Disney
  4. Android
  5. iPad
  6. Sony
  7. Apple
  8. MTV
  9. Coca-Cola
  10. Samsung
  11. Ford
  12. Mercedes
  13. BMW
  14. Starbucks
  15. iPod
  16. ABC
  17. Xbox
  18. NBA
  19. CNN
  20. Honda
  21. Dell
  22. Amazon
  23. Hewlett-Packard
  24. Nike
  25. Nokia
  1. Playstation
  2. Ferrari
  3. Wii
  4. eBay
  5. Nissan
  6. Microsoft
  7. AT&T
  8. iTunes
  9. Adidas
  10. Audi
  11. NFL
  12. Nintendo
  13. Red Bull
  14. Best Buy
  15. Toyota
  16. Gucci
  17. Visa
  18. Victoria's Secret
  19. Disneyland
  20. Suzuki
  21. LG
  22. Fox News
  23. Zara
  24. Volkswagen
  25. Turner
  1. Converse
  2. Dodge
  3. CBS
  4. General Motors
  5. ESPN
  6. Panasonic
  7. Porsche
  8. NBC
  9. Chevrolet
  10. Target
  11. Jeep
  12. Kia
  13. Intel
  14. Subway
  15. NHL
  16. McDonald's
  17. Pandora
  18. Major League Baseball
  19. Sprint
  20. Puma
  21. Harley Davidson
  22. Pixar
  23. NASCAR
  24. REI
  25. Walmart
  1. Mac
  2. Discovery Channel
  3. H&M
  4. Philips
  5. Pepsi
  6. Prada
  7. T-Mobile
  8. Skittles
  9. Burberry
  10. Verizon
  11. Louis Vuitton
  12. Motorola
  13. Krystal
  14. IKEA
  15. IBM
  16. The Gap
  17. Sears
  18. Armani
  19. Cisco
  20. Zappos
  21. American Express
  22. Hurley
  23. Oracle
  24. Netflix
  25. TBS

Some powerhouse technology brands were omitted from the list as they provide the backbone of many social networks. These include Google, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and Yahoo. The Vitrue 100 is measuring companies that are using the technology, not those who are the technology. For more information, including methodology behind the rankings, please visit www.vitrue.com/smi.

About Vitrue

Vitrue is the leading provider of social media publishing software, offering software-as-a-service (SaaS) tool to help businesses harness the marketing potential of social media. Anchored by its industry-leading Vitrue Social Relationship Management (SRM) Platform, Vitrue works with marketers of all sizes, from global brands to local businesses, as well as agencies, to deliver a comprehensive solution to message, manage, measure and maximize interactions across Facebook and Twitter. Headquartered in Atlanta with offices in New York, Chicago, Cincinnati and San Francisco, Vitrue is a Facebook "Preferred Developer Consultant" and has received numerous industry accolades including the Red Herring Global 100 and OnMedia 100. For more information, visit vitrue.com

How Useful Are Tablets for Business?

PCWorld's Keir Thomas says:

"Last week's CES brought forward a huge number of tablets. It doesn't take a genius to realize we're entering the era of tablet computing....

"Assuming tablets are here to say, when it comes to corporate take-up there's an interesting question: What exactly are we supposed to use tablets for?"

The Competition

Dual-core Motorola Android Phone Transforms into a Laptop

The Register's Tony Smith reports that Motorola's Atrix is a smartphone that thinks it's a notebook, featuring a 1 GHz dual-core processor, 1 GB of RAM and 16 GB of onboard Flash storage to which you can add the contents of a 32 GB Micro SD card.

"The Atrix is 11mm thick, has a 'qHD' 960 x 540 24-bit colour screen, 2.4 GHz/5 GHz 802.11n Wi-Fi, and tri-band cellular connectivity, and . . . a Laptop Dock accessory that turns the Atrix into a laptop with a Qwerty keyboard, 11.6in screen and battery all in a slimline metal covered case."

Apps & Services

US Federal Tax Returns App from Taxsoftware.com

PR: Taxsoftware.com today announced that an application for six of the most often used 2010 federal tax returns is now available for a flat fee of $9.99 on the Apple iPad. The forms can be completed entirely on iPads and transferred to PCs or Macs.

This is the first federal tax returns application to be available for the millions of iPads sold since their introduction last year. Taxsoftware.com was the first to provide both personal and business tax preparation services online, which are used today by hundreds of thousands of accountants and companies.

"We led the pack in the 1990s in providing online tax services. We are proud to take the lead again with the launch of the one application people need so they can use iPads to prepare and file a variety of federal tax returns, " said spokesperson Mickey Macedo.

The app for the 2010 tax year version of Form 1040 return includes most forms and schedules needed to prepare tax returns. Paid preparers must be registered with IRS and have an EFIN, a PTIN, and an IRS E-services account. They must also be registered with a Taxsoftware.com Eservices account and have a digital ID.

The app includes the following additional business tax returns:

  • Simplified tax year 2010 version of Form 1065 (Partnership Return), which includes two Schedule K-1s
  • Simplified tax year 2010 version of Form 1120 (Corporation Return), which includes all basic schedules
  • Simplified tax year 2010 version of Form 1120S (S Corporation Return), which includes one Schedule K-1
  • Simplified 1041 Form (Estates and Trusts), which includes one Schedule K-1
  • 1099-MISC

Device Requirements:

  • Compatible with iPad
  • Requires iOS 4.2 or later
  • 13.8 MB

All business forms include depreciation of up to ten assets and the use of one vehicle for business. The app includes unlimited tax preparation and printing. There is an e-filing charge of $4 for an iPad 1040 and a $15 fee for any iPad business return (1041, 1065, 1120, 1120S and 1099-MISC.).

myLIFEplus Mobile Wellness App

PR: Introducing myLIFEplus, a wellness application built on natural philosophies of health. This free app's impressive range of features enables users to improve their total wellness using a holistic approach. Now available in the Apple App Store, myLIFEplus arrives in time for New Year's resolutions to embrace a healthier lifestyle in 2011.

myLIFEplusMyLIFEplus uniquely offers what other apps fail to; it measures users total wellness in six vital dimensions: physical, intellectual, emotional, social, environmental, and spiritual. Further, it provides practical tools and educational content to help users become healthier in each dimension. Designed with significant input from natural wellness professionals, myLIFEplus represents a partnership project between Life University and Bizmosis, a mobile solutions developer that has created apps for American Idol and Fortune 500 companies.

Each wellness dimension features frequently updated challenges designed to motivate users in fun, inspirational ways. Informative content posts allow users to become educated on alternative healthcare approaches. Listings of natural consumer products favored by chiropractors, nutritionists and other wellness providers are also available. Additionally, users can identify local wellness providers offices through key search terms and GPS mapping. Once a provider is selected, an Appointment Tracking function helps manage wellness care visits.

"This app is absolutely the first of its kind," says Life University President Guy Riekeman, D.C. "We've been sharing some of the details of myLIFEplus with natural wellness experts throughout the country, and the excitement level is already phenomenal. This is a tool that can not only help spread the message of natural, total healthcare, but can motivate people to begin living truly healthier, happier lives from the first time they use it."

Features:

  • myAssessment rates your total wellness in six vital dimensions giving you a Vital Score
  • Vital Score graphs compare your score with other myLIFEplus users globally and are segmented in your age & gender categories
  • Vital Score sharing via Facebook, Twitter and e-mail
  • Hundreds of frequently updated wellness challenges
  • Continually updated, wellness-based myKnowledge content from trustworthy sources & expert providers featured in the database
  • Searchable database and GPS locator to find chiropractors and other wellness providers
  • Appointment reminder function helps you track your wellness appointments
  • Product recommendations for natural health products & services

An enhanced version of the app is expected to debut by 2012. For more information on myLIFEplus, visit:

Free Depression and Anxiety Health Screener App

depressioncheckPR: Mymoodmonitor.com, a leading website for mental health screening, is now providing a free, mobile version of the M-3 Checklist, a scientifically validated screen for mood and anxiety disorders, in the Apple App Store. Adapted from its existing mymoodmonitor.com website, this mobile version, called Depressioncheck, provides the same validated mental health questionnaire, developed by a team of mental health practitioners and experts. The app is a simple, easy-to-use checklist and takes approximately three minutes to complete. The screen is validated for those 18 years and older and its accuracy confirmed in the March 2010 Annals of Family Medicine.

depressioncheckMillions of Americans have a diagnosable mood or anxiety disorder every year, while fewer than half of these individuals receive help for their condition. One reason for this shortfall has been the absence of a single, simple, and reliable screen that can assess the presence of the mood and anxiety disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and PTSD. Depressioncheck is a symptom checklist with which a user may rate his or her mood in one easy review. It is comprised of a short series of questions that touch on indicators of mental health.

Robert M. Post, M.D., Director of the Bipolar Collaborative Network, the 2010 recipient of the NAMI Scientific Research Award, and one of the creators of the M-3 Checklist, explains that, "The Depressioncheck app is an extremely powerful and efficient way of distributing the M-3 Checklist screen. By going mobile, we can get this researched based screen in the hands of individuals who can take the screen whenever it is convenient for them. When significant symptoms are uncovered, the user receives important confirmation that his or her suffering is not somehow self-imposed, and that there are options to help improve the situation."

depressioncheckAs demonstrated by a 2009 research study at the University of North Carolina Medical School, the screen has the sensitivity to pick up treatable cases that are often invisible to earlier mental health screens, including many individuals who suffer from milder, but overlapping conditions, such as mixed depression and anxiety.

Furthermore, it can help distinguished regular depression from the bipolar variety, and thereby avoid a common cause of mistreatment with potentially serious consequences. The customized report provides risk and severity ratings that may serve to guide the user to an appropriate treatment, whether therapy or medication.

For those in distress and at risk for suicide, Depressioncheck provides a direct, one-button link to Mental Health America's National Suicide Hotline. Interactive applications of this sort, offering users validated medical assessment and feedback in real-time, have the potential to greatly improve the dynamics of healthcare delivery, reaching many who might otherwise suffer in silence. The value of this technology to college and military populations, among others, is considerable.

The Depressioncheck app is available to iPhone (telephone and data) and iPod touch (data only) users through the Apple applications. An ongoing dialogue about the M-3 Checklist and different aspects of mood and anxiety disorders is provided at the mymoodmonitor Facebook page.

A Spanish language edition and a version for the Droid operating system are planned.

Free Colonoscopy Prep App

Colonoscopy Prep AssistantPR: WellApps, LLC, developer of GI Monitor for Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis, announced today the release of Colonoscopy Prep Assistant. During the portion of colonoscopy preparation when a patient ingests a liquid laxative, Colonoscopy Prep Assistant tracks the number of glasses completed and time between glasses, notifying the patient when it's time to drink their next glass. The app is available for free in iTunes and the Android Market.

Colonoscopy Prep AssistantAs an Ulcerative Colitis patient, Brett Shamosh, Cofounder & CEO of WellApps, LLC, is at a higher risk for colon cancer and undergoes an annual colonoscopy for screening. During a recent colonoscopy prep, he was instructed by his doctor to drink 8 glasses of a liquid laxative every 10-15 minutes for 2 hours. Said Mr. Shamosh, "I used a notepad to tally the number of drinks and a stopwatch to keep track of time. Then I decided that there should be an app for that." The app is currently intended for liquid laxative preps, but WellApps is enhancing the app to support all specific colonoscopy preparation methods suggested by providers. Edward Shin, MD, Cofounder of WellApps, adds, "I have no doubt that providers will begin to prescribe apps for colonoscopy and other procedure preparations. Apps can guide the patient through their specific prep as if a nurse was there with them."

Colonoscopy Prep AssistantProcedure preparation apps can offer significant benefits to patients and providers. Arun Swaminath, Associate Director of the IBD Center at Columbia University Medical Center, says "Thorough bowel preparation allows me to identify the smallest polyps or cancers. In addition, good prep shortens the procedure's duration, making it safer for patients. Strict adherence to prep instructions allows for the highest quality colonoscopy." Procedure preparation apps also provide unique opportunities to Pharmaceutical companies looking to enhance their products. Bill Jennings, CEO of Good Health Media, says "Pharma is always trying to collect feedback from patients. With apps like these, they can get real-time survey information right after the prep is completed, while suggestions for improvement are fresh in the mind of the patient."

Inspired by an ongoing battle with Ulcerative Colitis, 35-year old Brett Shamosh, a digital media executive from Bergen County, NJ, decided to use the booming smartphone app market to help fellow IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) patients. He created GI Monitor, currently the #1 mobile symptom tracking app for Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis. Since then, he started WellApps, LLC to develop and distribute symptom tracking applications for patients with chronic illnesses. Shamosh says, "We know that apps can help make procedure preps more effective and prevent do-overs. The release of this particular app also serves as a great reminder that IBD patients are at a higher risk of colon cancer and should get screened regularly, as directed by their doctor."

Colonoscopy Prep Assistant is free to patients.

DisplayLink Multi-Monitor iPad App for Windows Users

DisplayLink Multi-Monitor iPad AppPR: Available for an Introductory Price of $1.99

Used to having a second display for your Windows desktop? Put your iPad to work. Get the first DisplayLink iPad monitor companion app from the leader in multi-display productivity. DisplayLink has shipped millions of networked multi-display solutions through top tier partners such as HP, Toshiba, Samsung and others.

The DisplayLink app wirelessly turns your iPad into an extended desktop display, improving your productivity by freeing up desktop space on your notebook or desktop computer.

Key Features

  • Creates an interactive, secondary wireless display for your PC with the iPad
  • Allows you to park your browser, email, social networking site, IM or application control console on the iPad display and avoid application view switching on your primary display
  • Complete Windows 7, Vista, and XP compatibility
  • Operates in true, uncompromised Windows 7 Aero mode. Other iPad display apps essentially drop to Basic mode operation, losing the familiar Aero desktop features on your displays such as translucency and thumbnail previewing from the task bar, as well as presenting application compatibility issues. DisplayLink avoids these application compatibility issues.
  • Configuration using the familiar Windows graphics display utility
  • Discover and connects the iPad screen to your PC over your wireless network quickly and reliably
  • Connect and disconnect - display repositions automatically
  • Operates seamlessly with other DisplayLink multi-monitor and dock products to create a rich, productive multi-monitor environment.

DisplayLink Multi-Monitor iPad AppThe DisplayLink iPad display app requires the installation of the DisplayLink iPad host software on your PC. After loading the app on your iPad you'll receive instructions for downloading that software. You can also go to our software download page at ipad.displaylink.com

Once the host software is installed on your PC you're ready to go.

  • Make sure your PC and iPad are connected to the same network
  • Start the app on your iPad
  • The app will show a list of available DisplayLink enabled host PC's
  • Select your PC and enter a one-time password that matches the one entered on the PC
  • The PC and the iPad will connect and the extended display will now be available on your iPad
  • Monitor mode (extended or cloned) and display positioning are controlled through the standard Windows graphics control UI

System Requirements:

  • PC running Windows XP, Vista, or Win7
  • iPad w/ iOS v3.2 or greater

Limitations:

  • Recommended for office and productivity applications
  • Not intended for 3D PC gaming or use as a primary display for video playback at this time
  • PC only - no Mac support

Price £1.19/ $1.99

Free Credit Card Swiper for iPhone 4 Hardware for New Merchants

PR: App Ninjas, developer of Swipe Credit Card Terminal for iPhone, is now giving away the Apple-approved Credit Card Swiper for iPhone 4 and iPod touch hardware free to all new users.

The hardware accessory provides processing support for credit card transactions to the Swipe mobile app. Swipe allows small businesses, non-profits, and mobile businesses to swipe a credit card and receive their payment within 48 hours.

"Providing iPhone 4 and iPod touch users with a swipe accessory allows any mobile merchant to quickly process transactions, saving them money and time," says John Waldron, CEO of App Ninjas. "Swipe's features help manage credit card transactions with virtual terminal access, online reporting, real-time authorizations, and premium customer support, including access to a customer support rep assigned to their account, from the moment they download Swipe.

The hardware attaches to the bottom of the iPhone through the dock connector, turning the iPhone in a secure credit card terminal.

Swipe offers users no setup or activation fee, no monthly minimums and competitive processing rates. Low transaction fees make Swipe more affordable for small businesses than conventional mobile terminals. The Swipe app also works without the hardware for keyed-entry transactions.

The Swipe app is available on the App Store and through App Ninjas network of value-added white-label partners. Swipe's white-label solution enables Independent Sales Organizations (ISOs), banks, and other merchant-focused companies to offer their customers a complete credit card processing solution for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad, including same day startup and access to App Ninjas PA-DSS certified iPhone solution. Additionally, the Swipe app can be customized to integrate with a partner's existing payment gateway.

Swipe is available for purchase on the App Store.

Cost Effective Water Damage Cell Phone Repair Service by CellularDR.com

PR: Water damage can cause havoc when it comes to cellphones. CellularDR.com has an affordable solution for phones that require special attention if damaged by water or any kind of liquid or moisture. Cell phone water damage repair can save consumers hundreds of dollars when compared to purchasing a new phone.

Treo on iceIn addition to the large selection of cellphone repair services offered by CellularDR.com, water damage repair service is now available for those who need it. With the combination of increasing cell phone costs due to advancing technology and the current poor economy, many cell phone users are choosing to repair their liquid damaged cell phone instead of purchasing a new one.

Water damage can happen in many ways and is one of the most commonly seen problems when people seek cell phone repair. Spilled drinks, getting run through the washing machine, dropped in a puddle and more can all contribute to a cell phone getting damaged.

CellularDR.com has years of experience in repairing water damaged cell phones and ranks on top for success in restoring a cellphone back to good working condition after it's been exposed to liquid. When a cell phone comes in contact with any liquid such as water, there are many things that can go wrong. Most of the time the things people do on a daily basis put cell phones at risk and they don't even know it. Cellular phones can succumb to water damage by keeping them in the bathroom while taking a hot steamy shower, texting while in the Jacuzzi, extreme sweating while working out or running on the treadmill with the cell phone is in your pocket and more.

Red water damage spot in Motorola phoneUnfortunately, phone owners think the phone is all right after an incident. They wipe the outside of the phone, plug it in to charge, and never think about it again, until it acts up! CellularDR.com recommends sending the phone in immediately after contact with any water or liquid has occurred for a full internal cleaning. By having it cleaned, the circuit boards will not burn out and the minerals and particles in the liquid will not have a chance to corrode and eat away at the cell phone parts.

When it comes to cell phone water damage, time is of the essence. Waiting too long will increase the chances of irreparable damage; especially if the water makes its way into the main circuitry where it can cause damage that cannot be repaired.

CellularDR.com is a name people have trusted for years. The cell phone repair process is quick, affordable and your cellphone can be on its way to be repaired in 3 easy steps. Visit CellularDR.com for further details on how to get started repairing your water damaged phone.

CellularDR.com National Cell Phone Repair Hotline - Toll Free (877) 288-4488

Accessories

iWatchz Launches Carbon and Jelly iPod nano Watch Collections

iWatchzPR: The Carbon Collection features a matte-black aluminum nanoclipz system and a carbon watchband accented with coloured stitching available in six colours. The Carbon Collection will be available in early February 2011 at over 250 Apple Stores nationwide, Apple.com and www.iwatchz.com at $49.95.

iWatchzThe Jelly Collection features a translucent-coloured nanoclipz system and matching vibrant silicon watchbands in pink, orange, red, green, blue, white and grey. The Jelly Collection will be available at retailers nationwide and at www.iwatchz.com in early February 2011 at the very affordable price of $24.95.

"The Q Collection represents the foundation of the iWatchz brand," offers the company president. "We are now responding to the market's request for different collections for different demographics of customers."

iWatchzThe company's first product line, the Q Collection, was launched in early December in over 250 Apple stores nationwide, at Apple.com, and at the company's website.

iWatchz patented watch integration system enables users to transform their iPod nano (6th generation) into a stylish wristwatch. Turning your Apple iPod nano into a stylish wristwatch is as easy as: 1 - Press, 2 - Slide, 3 - Click

iWatchz was quickly propelled to the top spot in the new market of iPod nano Watchbands in only the few weeks leading up to the holidays.

The company's president attributes the success of their product to its ease-of-use, stylish design, and affordable pricing. The fact that iWatchz were also able to deliver product to consumers in time for the holidays certainly did not hurt either.

iWatchz president adds: "The Carbon Collection is by far the most high-end and stylish product on the market and we are thrilled that Apple has selected the product for its stores and websites to complement the Q Collection launched with Apple in December. The Jelly Collection, which will be available across a wide-array of retailers, was developed for a younger audience with vibrant colours and softer bands. We were overwhelmed with the positive response to our initial launch and we are looking forward to announcing more collections in the coming weeks."

Pyramat's New Tablet Chair Hottest Seat at CES

PR: Pyramat, the creators of the original line of sound furniture, is promising the best seat in the house, revealing at the 2011 International CES in Las Vegas their new Tablet Chair and Tablet Chair DLX, a line of chairs designed to give tablet users a hi-tech haven of comfort and function. The Tablet Chair offers an integrated tablet support system featuring an adjustable swivel arm, built-in speakers, USB power and more.

With Apple's launch of the iPad sparking a widespread tablet trend, CES organizers officially dubbed 2011 the "year of the tablet." And Pyramat is offering the first accessory for tablet users to become fully and comfortably immersed in their own world of personal technology.

Features of the Pyramat Tablet Chairs include:

  • Swivel arm with adjustable height and angle, including back stand for tablet PC
  • Portrait and landscape view capability
  • Built-in speakers to boost tablet PC sound
  • 2.0 / 2.1 speakers provide crystal clear audio
  • Pyramat POWERSUB subwoofer on DLX model
  • USB power and audio
  • MP3 cable jack
  • Compatible with all tablet PCs including iPad

The Pyramat Tablet Chair will be available at quality retailers in Fall 2011 at a suggested retail price of $139.99 and $179.99 for the DLX model.

USB Fever 12x Telescope for iPhone 4

USB Fever 12x Telescope for iPhone 4PR: Want to have a Super Telescope/Telephoto Lens to your iPhone 4?

This telescope has offers 12x power that can help you to get close up on any object from 12 times farther away.

The telescope offers manual focus; just turning the ring in the front of the scope to the clearest shot. It comes with a stand for iPhone 4 to clip on to take pictures and movies.

Features:

  • Avoid contortion of images
  • Detachable from the crystal case
  • Superb 12x Optical Zooming
  • Manual Focus adjust
  • Comes with a stand for taking pictures and movies

Specifications:

  • 18mm objective lens diameter
  • USB Fever 12x Telescope for iPhone 4 15 wide angle of view
  • Micro manual Focus adjustment

Colors Available (Hard Cover):

  • Black
  • White

This accessory is compatible with iPhone 4

Package Contents:

  • 12x Telescope with manual focus x 1
  • Hard Case x 1
  • Holder Ring (attach to the lens for tripod) x 1
  • Mini Tripod x 1

USB Fever 12x Telescope for iPhone 4Note:

  • This is a fixed 12x optical lens, not a gradual/changeable optical zoom.
  • The Flash Light will be blocked when the lens is on.

$39.99

USB Fever Wide Angle + Fish Eye + 12x Telephoto Lens Combo for iPhone 4

PR: This combo package includes:

  • 180° Fish Eye Lens with Back Cover for iPhone 4G
  • Wide Angle Lens (+ Macro Lens) for iPhone 4G
  • 12x Telescope with Hard Case for iPhone 4G

USB Fever Wide Angle + Fish Eye + 12x Telephoto Lens Combo for iPhone 4Features:

  • One Package for Fish Eye Lens, Wide Angle Lens (+ Macro Lens) and 12x Telephoto Lens
  • One Back Cover for All Lens
  • With Tripod for taking pictures under extreme situation.
  • Independent Back Cover, when you don't need the lens, just screw them off then you can go.

This accessory is suitable for (compatible with) Apple iPhone 4

Colors Available (Back Cover only):

  • Black
  • White

Package Contents:

  • Wide Angle (+ Macro Lens) x 1
  • Fish Eye lens x 1
  • Super 12x Telescope with manual focus x 1
  • Back Hard Case (Back cover) x 1
  • Holder ring (attach to the 12x Telephoto) x 1
  • Mini Tripod x 1

usbfeverlenses.jpg

Note:

  • The Back cover included in this package is just for the Lens in this package, not suitable for other lens in our shop unless otherwise specified.
  • Only one back cover will be shipped.
  • The Flash Light will be blocked when the lens is in use.

$74.99

Presentation

Stainless Steel Kickstand for Your iPad

Tablet Coasters Stainless Steel Kickstand for iPadPR: California based NewPCgadgets introduces Tablet Coasters, a stainless steel kickstand for your iPad. Tablet Coasters are similar in design to their popular Smartphone Coasters. These sleek and attractive polished stainless steel coasters raise your Tablet PC to a 35° viewing angle, enabling you to be more comfortable and productive. The stackable space-saving design makes Tablet Coasters great for home or office. Coasters are also perfect for presentations, conferences, trade shows or for displays.

Tablet Coasters Stainless Steel Kickstand for iPadTablet Coasters work with all popular tablet PCs including the Apple iPad, Samsung Galaxy, HP Slate, BlackBerry PlayBook, Toshiba Honeycomb, Motorola Xoom, ZTE Light, and dozens more. Not only do they improve the look of your iPad, but the steel surface may help improve the WiFi signal in some models.

Tablet Coaster Dimensions are 5-1/2"w x 7"d x 2-3/4"h. Includes nonskid rubber feet on the bottom and top lip. Coasters are priced as low as $14.95 each (in quantity).

iChair: You Sit, It Stands

iChairPR: iChair introduces its new multifunctional slider case with integrated stand for iPad, iPhone 4, 3G/S, and iPod touch. The iChair allows Apple owners to display and work on their iDevice while propped up on its durable stand. Rubber coated for an easy grip and velvety feel on the outside and a microfiber lining on the inside, the iChair for iPad features an ultra slim profile design. The integrated pull out stand folds in and out easily allowing for quick landscape or portrait viewing.

iChairThe iChair is a multipurpose slider case that allows Apple owners to display and work on their iDevice while it's propped up on its integrated and durable stand. Taking basic elements to another level, iChair handpicked the highest quality materials to construct a sleek and lightweight slider case that makes full use of the your device's multimedia capabilities while still providing the best for protection.

iChairRubber coated for an easy grip and velvety feel on the outside and a microfiber lining on the inside, the iChair for iPad features an ultra slim profile design. The integrated pull out stand folds in and out easily allowing for quick landscape or portrait viewing. Pulling the stand further out allows for media or presentations to be displayed firmly, with three stable clicks varying optimal viewing. Another quick pull out tab enables ergonomic typing at the perfect angle.

"In designing iChair, we kept simplicity and functionality at the forefront of our strategy," says Shefali Sedey, Director of Marketing. "Utilizing the highest quality materials, locking mechanisms and advanced manufacturing techniques, we produced a product that provides ultimate functionality, sleek looks and is sure to be a case your iDevice can't live without."

Each case comes standard in black with your choice of an extra top slider case in either blue or white. It also comes equipped with a screen protector, dust cloth and squeegee board making iChair's value absolutely unbeatable.

All iChair products are available at goiChair online with the iPad retailing at $49 and the iPhone 4, iPhone 3G/S, and iPod touch at $34. Continental US customers also receive free standard shipping when they purchase the iChair online. For additional information on iChair products, contact PR representative Shefali Sedey. Follow us on Twitter for live social updates.

Protection

iLuv Ready with New Line of iPhone 4 CDMA Cases

iLuve cases for CDMA iPhone 4PR: iLuv is set to launch a new line of stylish cases and protective films for the iPhone 4 CDMA. The products continue iLuv's commitment to rapidly deliver innovative, high quality mobile accessories that enhance the consumer's lifestyle. iLuv's new line will be available when the iPhone 4 arrives at Verizon Wireless and Apple stores on February 10, 2011.

"Industry analysts estimate Verizon could add as many as 7 to 10 million new iPhone 4 users in the US," says Pia Chon, iLuv marketing director. "iLuv is poised to meet this new demand with stylish cases and films designed to enhance and protect the Verizon user's new iPhone 4 experience."

The initial lineup of iLuv's iPhone 4 CDMA protective cases and films include:

  • Leatherette Clip Case (iCC756) - Sophisticated protection. MSRP $49.99
  • Metallic Case (iCC749) - Durable protection in titanium and chrome finish. MSRP $29.99
  • Translucent Case (iCC743) - Full coverage available in black, white or pink. MSRP $29.99
  • Clear Case (iCC742) - Full protection while letting your phone shine through. MSRP $24.99
  • Flex-Gel Case (iCC746) - Full coverage protection available in 5 colors. MSRP $24.99
  • Flex-Trim Case (iCC741) - Bumper type protection available in 5 colors. MSRP $19.99
  • Glow-in-the-Dark Case (iCC745) - Fun case with glowing patterns. MSRP $19.99
  • Silicone Case (iCC744) - Full coverage protection available in 5 colors. MSRP $14.99
  • Sports Armband (iCC212) - Never miss a call even when you're on the run. MSRP $29.99

All the above cases come complete with protective screen films

  • Glare-Free Screen Protector Film (iCC1405) - Quad-Layer protection, yet remarkably thin and anti-glare. Perfectly tooled for iPhone 4. MSRP $14.99
  • Clear Screen Protector Film (iCC1404) - Quad-Layer protection, yet remarkably thin. Perfectly tooled for iPhone 4. MSRP $12.99

General availability will be end of January in leading retailers, and online.

Speck's Most Popular Case Design Gains New Function as CandyShell View and CandyShell Card for iPhone 4

PR: Speck's critically acclaimed, award-winning and best-selling case, the CandyShell, arrives at the Consumer Electronics Show this week sporting some new form and function. Just revealed today, Speck's CandyShell View and CandyShell Card for iPhone 4 join the ever-popular CandyShell collection of case designs.

Both cases are designed to keep pace with our fast-moving mobile culture.

"CandyShell is a bona fide hit with consumers, so we asked ourselves: 'How can we take the magic of CandyShell and transform it to serve new needs and uses?'" says Bryan Hynecek, Director of Design at Speck. "Both cases are designed to keep pace with our fast-moving mobile culture."

CandyShell View CandyShell View

With the new CandyShell View, you can watch movies, videos, or use FaceTime on your iPhone 4 more easily all without adding bulk, or using add-ons. Built into the back of the case is a patented spring-loaded retractable kickstand that pops out for easy viewing. When done, simply flip the stand back and it magically disappears within the case. The entire stand adds nearly no bulk to the case and works for both vertical and horizontal viewing. Available in Black/Grey for a MSRP of $39.95.

CandyShell Card

CandyShell CardThe new CandyShell Card lets you keep your essential cards with you in your iPhone 4, allowing you to leave your wallet at home. This case conveniently holds up to three credit cards (or your driver's license/identification) neatly and securely behind the iPhone. The CandyShell Card is specially designed to keep a low profile while preventing your cards from slipping out by maintaining constant soft pressure inside, whether inserting one, two or three cards into the case. The side-loading card slot is fully enclosed to prevent cards from scratching the back of your iPhone when inserted and removed. There's also a convenient thumb release slot to make removing your cards easy. Available in Black/Grey for a MSRP of $39.95.

Both new cases feature Speck's award-winning single-piece CandyShell design, with a sleek protective hard shell exterior that's easy to slide in and out of pockets, as well as soft rubberized interior lining and button covers that offer extra shock-absorption and protection from drops and bumps.

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