As an avid watcher of movies, I was thrilled by the prospect of watching the latest releases on my iPad. In practice however, I haven’t watched a single film all the way through and the reason is this – the iPad is simply too awkward to hold at the right angle for long periods of

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MoviePeg for iPad Solves Your Movie-Viewing Woes – Mostly [Review]

We’re pretty certain this week you rushed to iTunes to download the security-patch-update-only for iOS 4, you know, the one that renders jailbreak.me unworkable. Sure you did. Since Mobile Safari handles PDF files so wonderfully in the first place (cough cough, GoodReader), you open them up all the time and needed to be safe against bad script action. Right? Right? Are those crickets or did someone switch our ringtone again? Features: – 25 Awesome Safari Extensions – We must admit: we have loved Firefox since the days even before it was called Mozilla. Everything about it was better than Internet Explorer from the get-go. By the time Safari showed up, we were pretty locked in with our extensions on Firefox, and Safari’s lack was a dealbreaker. Well, Apple noticed this and finally came around to the idea of extensions. Like everyone else’s user-created content, 25% is garbage, 50% duplicate ideas, and 25% are sheer genius. Care to guess which ones we highlighted

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In Case You Missed It: Aug.8 – Aug. 14

Screaming at the screen in a theater when things start to head downhill for the hero never really seems to work fro me. With the iPhone app of the interactive film The Weathered Underground, though, it might  (ok, screaming at an iPhone still won’t produce results, but the idea is that the story can be affected

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Interactive Movie ‘The Weathered Underground’ Debuts On iPhone

We trust you didn’t blow off any fingers or — even worse — limbs this 4th of July weekend? Good. Neither did we. Our fingers were too busy flying over the keyboard, trying to keep up with everything happening in your Mac life. Hey, that’s a catchy phrase, someone should use that. Features: – Hot Future Tech Coming to Your Mac, iPhone and iPad – Boy, these are some doozies. We haven’t been this excited for the future since we were promised jetpacks by 2000. We’re talking real solar power, energy beamed through air, fiber optic insides for computers, OLED flat screen TVs, and more. If you like your tech cool (and you wouldn’t be here if you didn’t), then you’re going to love this stuff. – Are Widgets Dead? – In which we attempt to answer the question of whether or not anyone really uses those little memory gobbling bits of code to get movie times and provide us a quick calendar and tell us the phases of the moon. The answer? Weeeelllll…it all depends. How-Tos: – How To Shoot and Edit iPhone 4 Videos with iMovie – I think YouTube better be prepared for a new wave of business as pairing up the iPhone 4 with the iMovie app means we’re going to see a lot, and we mean a lot, of new films shot, cut, and ready to go on the fly. Meanwhile, for the amateurs out there, we make sending grandma a video card a little easier.

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In Case You Missed It: July 4 – July 10

  Some seriously cutting-edge tech is cresting the horizon, ready to take your Apple devices and other gear to the next level of awesome. We’ve searched out the breakthroughs on the verge of becoming reality to discover how Macs, iDevices, and other tech are about to become even more impressive.   Illustrations by ArtBombers If you’re a regular reader of Mac|Life , you know that every January we look at the fanciful future of Apple, ranging from the prototype cars to the VR goggles that might emerge from Cupertino one not-so-soon day. This is not that story. This story is about real tech that genuinely works–it’s visible on the horizon, and it could be in your Apple gear in a year or three. Think of this story as a preview of the near future. Of course, we can’t say for sure that all this technology will end up in future products (we’re good, but we’re not psychic). Some of it may never leave the lab. What you can rely on is that old standards will hit their technical limits, and progress will march on. But for a reasonable-guess preview of how Macs, iPhones, iPads, iPods, and other tech will grow, evolve, and improve in the coming years, continue reading.   The Display’s the Thing   Since the original Macintosh, our screens have been passive windodws into Apple’s machines. That’s about to change

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Hot Future Tech Coming to Your Mac, iPhone and iPad

(Image courtesy of slashfilm.com) It’s being called the “Death Grip” in the blogosphere, and rumor has it that Apple may be taking more notice beyond its CEO saying that one is simply holding the device wrong.  A possible iOS update may resolve the problem come early next week, according to AppleInsider . While some of the trouble may indeed lie in the way one holds their phone, apparently reception problems greatly increased in iPhone 3GS’ after one upgraded to iOS 4, which could possibly mean that the problem may actually lie within the software itself.  Of course complicating things is not being able to go back to earlier versions of the iOS in order to make comparisons.  Because of this, some were confirming on Apple’s tech support forums that an iOS 4.0.1 software update is in the works to try and address the issue, and could be released sometime next week.  It could even be released possibly as early as Monday.  However, the comments were taken down shortly after. The fix would address an issue within iOS 4 that is related to radio frequency calibration of the baseband.  The issue is believed to be occurring when there is a switch between frequencies, leading to calibration issues. Follow this article’s author, Matthew Tilmann on Twitter .  

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How Do You Solve A Problem Like Reception? With An iOS 4.01 Update Of Course!

Section: Mac Software , Graphics / Design , Reviews Format: Download Developer: Topaz Labs System Requirements: Intel Mac, Mac OS X v10.4 or later, Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, or iPhoto/Aperture/Lightroom through FusionExpress (free download) Review Computer: 2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo MacBook, 4GB DDR2 RAM Price: $79.99 standalone, $179.99 as part of the Topaz Photoshop Plug-In Bundle Availability: Out now Demo: Download Night photographers and iPhone shutterbugs take notice: Topaz Labs DeNoise could easily become the single most important tool for cleaning up your images. Photographers who shoot nighttime images are familiar with the tradeoff between brighter images and noisier (grainier) pictures. Point-and-shoot photographers, and those using their iPhones in low light situations, may simply realize that the pictures they are taking are not quite as clear as they would like (in case you were wondering why that is, DPReview has a great article here ). In film photography, film grain could be used to add mood, ambiance, or distinction to a shot. In digital terms, it is unwanted noise that can ruin an otherwise great image. The DeNoise plug-in provides several easy ways to remove this noise and restore your images. Clean up image noise from high ISO settings Sometimes, it is not possible to shoot with sufficient lighting, nor desirable to use a flash.  Although camera sensors have come a long way in recent years, it is still possible to end up with more noise than is desirable in an image, especially if using a camera with limited settings. Topaz Labs’ DeNoise is available either as a standalone Photoshop/PS Elements plug-in, or as part of a bundle; iPhoto, Aperture, and Lightroom users can take advantage of the plug-ins through the use of the free Topaz FusionExpress bridge.  iPhone users will especially benefit from DeNoise’s abilities, as the automatic ISO on the iPhone makes it a very flexible-but-flawed low light camera.  Take this iPhone photo example from a Lady Gaga concert: The power of all Topaz Labs software lies in their simplicity Each program comes with several simply-labelled presets and a quick preview pane to show the outcome of each preset.  DeNoise 4 comes with presets for both JPEG and RAW formats, with handy labels from “light” to “strongest” to indicate the amount of noise reduction applied. A variety of preview modes is also available to help determine which preset will yield the best results, with full RGB, luminance, color, red, or blue channels available for independent display. Manual control over all options For images not instantly fixed by a preset (and these are few and far between, and likely the result of an obsessive photographer), DeNoise also allows manual control over all options.  These are carefully grouped into two categories for Noise Reduction and Detail Recovery, and all the sliders are labelled with tool tips indicating what effect each slider has on the image: This image of Cinderella’s castle in Disneyworld was shot just after dusk with Auto ISO. The “JPEG – strong” preset was almost enough, but the “JPEG – strongest” blurred too much of the castle. Luckily, the “Clean Color” and “Recover Detail” sliders were available, and the end result was postcard perfect.

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Appletell reviews Topaz Labs DeNoise 4 Photoshop plug-in

Section: iPhone / iPod touch / iPad , iPhone , iPod touch , iDevice Apps , Macintosh / Apple Hardware , Peripherals , External and Portable Storage Devices , Video and Digital Cameras / Video Capture , Mac Software , Audio / Video , Reviews Provides: High definition recording of component video Developer: Elgato Minimum Requirements: Intel Core 2 Duo 2.26GHz or higher CPU, Mac OS X v10.5.8 or later, 2 GB RAM, built-in USB 2.0 port, cable or satellite receiver with analog video and audio outputs (component output required for HD), Internet connection (required to download Program Guide data) Price: $199.95 Availability: Out now The Elgato EyeTV is an unassuming silver box; one that can be comfortably stacked on top of a Mac Mini. It comes with an unassuming pile of wires that need to be connected to your Mac, an HDTV and your cable or satellite box. The primary goal of this mass of hardware is simple—to give you Digital Video Recorder (DVR) capabilities on your Mac.  This gives you the capability to play back your shows when and where you want. The system comes with software that makes it a versatile offering to the consumer market.  It allows for both HD and standard definition recording. It allows you to control your TV with the built in Eye TV.  It lets you add your saved content to you iPhone or iPad for viewing on the go with a bit of help from an app. It comes with a subscription to TV guide online to give you a full listing of shows that you can record.   Of course, that’s all just the marketing. What you want to know about is the experience of using the device. So, lets get into the nitty gritty.    Installation Installing the hardware is not too much trouble if you happen to have your Mac and your TV setup close together.  If, however, you have a great deal of space between them, things can get a bit complicated.  The most difficult part of physical setup is the proper placement of the receiver with your cable or satellite box.  The receiver is a bit oddly shaped and often has a hard time staying in place.  It is best to tape it in place or put it under the box pointing up. The software end of the install is quick and easy.  Even on some older systems, this setup installs quickly and without a hitch.  Using the Software: Basics Using the software is on the whole is easy enough.  The system is mostly a no-frills affair unless you want to activate the extra features you can.  The best thing to do is use your mouse to get what you need done.  Working with the remote can be a bit annoying, especially when it keeps landing you at the wrong channel because it accepts imput too slowly.  The Best Parts A simple user interface that allows for easy recording. The ability to view live TV as its on without switching your setup on the monitor or HDTV. Recording shows you want to watch later on.   The Worst Parts By default, the software will always boot when you turn on your Mac. You can change this so it won’t happen, but a prompt on installation to ask your preference would be welcome. A remote that does not always transmit in real time and seems to have a lower range than the remote that comes with your Mac. No dual recording ability or record and watch another channel.  This feature, which is common on many cable company box DVRs would be nice for those of us who live in houses where people have vastly different ideas of what constitutes good TV.   Smart Guide & Smart Senses Guide The smart guide allows you to search for shows meeting a specific criteria.  If you want to be sure you never miss an episode of the Tudors or any movie musical made after 1985, then this guide can help you to find it without a lot of channel surfing.  These features are for hardcore fans.  Just be sure to set your parameters carefully or you can end up with unwanted content in your listings.  On Screen Menus The on screen menus are touted as a great navigation tool, but really you are better off using the guide window.  It  requires less steps to get you what you want.  iPhone & iPod Recording If you want to watch live TV, look over your recordings, edit, set up a new show or just browse the guide on the go, then the accompanying app is a good idea.  Just remember that you will be using up your 3G time if you do not do this in a WiFi zone.  Given the costs, it may not be the best use of your iPhone data plan time unless you’re on unlimited. DVD Burning Add Toast to your setup and with a few steps you can burn your content to a DVD and keep it forever.  Provided you don’t go and try to use it for illegal sales, you could quietly grow your in home library of films and TV seasons, which could save you some serious cash.  The Bottom Line In the end, you are forced to wonder, is the Eye TV worth it?  Well, that depends a lot on who you are. If you are the kind of person who really loves your TV, the kind of person who would buy a lot of movies or TV show anyway, then this device maybe worth your time and your money. If, however, TV is not high on your list of priorities in life, then the box will not be that much of a use to you. Casual viewers may want to consider upgrading their already installed box to add DVR features if you don’t have it already.  Appletell Rating: Buy the EyeTV HD DVR Full Story » | Written by Katie Gatto for Appletell . | Comment on this Article »

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Appletell reviews the EyeTV HD DVR for component video

Section: iPhone / iPod touch / iPad , iPhone , iPod touch , iDevice Apps , Macintosh / Apple Hardware , Peripherals , External and Portable Storage Devices , Video and Digital Cameras / Video Capture , Mac Software , Audio / Video , Reviews Provides: High definition recording of component video Developer: Elgato Minimum Requirements: Intel Core 2 Duo 2.26GHz or higher CPU, Mac OS X v10.5.8 or later, 2 GB RAM, built-in USB 2.0 port, cable or satellite receiver with analog video and audio outputs (component output required for HD), Internet connection (required to download Program Guide data) Price: $199.95 Availability: Out now The Elgato EyeTV is an unassuming silver box; one that can be comfortably stacked on top of a Mac Mini. It comes with an unassuming pile of wires that need to be connected to your Mac, an HDTV and your cable or satellite box. The primary goal of this mass of hardware is simple—to give you Digital Video Recorder (DVR) capabilities on your Mac.  This gives you the capability to play back your shows when and where you want. The system comes with software that makes it a versatile offering to the consumer market.  It allows for both HD and standard definition recording. It allows you to control your TV with the built in Eye TV.  It lets you add your saved content to you iPhone or iPad for viewing on the go with a bit of help from an app. It comes with a subscription to TV guide online to give you a full listing of shows that you can record.   Of course, that’s all just the marketing. What you want to know about is the experience of using the device. So, lets get into the nitty gritty.    Installation Installing the hardware is not too much trouble if you happen to have your Mac and your TV setup close together.  If, however, you have a great deal of space between them, things can get a bit complicated.  The most difficult part of physical setup is the proper placement of the receiver with your cable or satellite box.  The receiver is a bit oddly shaped and often has a hard time staying in place.  It is best to tape it in place or put it under the box pointing up. The software end of the install is quick and easy.  Even on some older systems, this setup installs quickly and without a hitch.  Using the Software: Basics Using the software is on the whole is easy enough.  The system is mostly a no-frills affair unless you want to activate the extra features you can.  The best thing to do is use your mouse to get what you need done.  Working with the remote can be a bit annoying, especially when it keeps landing you at the wrong channel because it accepts imput too slowly.  The Best Parts A simple user interface that allows for easy recording. The ability to view live TV as its on without switching your setup on the monitor or HDTV. Recording shows you want to watch later on.   The Worst Parts By default, the software will always boot when you turn on your Mac. You can change this so it won’t happen, but a prompt on installation to ask your preference would be welcome. A remote that does not always transmit in real time and seems to have a lower range than the remote that comes with your Mac.

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Appletell reviews the EyeTV HD DVR for component video

Section: iPhone / iPod touch / iPad , iPhone , iPod touch , iDevice Apps , Macintosh / Apple Hardware , Peripherals , External and Portable Storage Devices , Video and Digital Cameras / Video Capture , Mac Software , Audio / Video , Reviews Provides: High definition recording of component video Developer: Elgato Minimum Requirements: Intel Core 2 Duo 2.26GHz or higher CPU, Mac OS X v10.5.8 or later, 2 GB RAM, built-in USB 2.0 port, cable or satellite receiver with analog video and audio outputs (component output required for HD), Internet connection (required to download Program Guide data) Price: $199.95 Availability: Out now The Elgato EyeTV is an unassuming silver box; one that can be comfortably stacked on top of a Mac Mini. It comes with an unassuming pile of wires that need to be connected to your Mac, an HDTV and your cable or satellite box. The primary goal of this mass of hardware is simple—to give you Digital Video Recorder (DVR) capabilities on your Mac.  This gives you the capability to play back your shows when and where you want. The system comes with software that makes it a versatile offering to the consumer market.  It allows for both HD and standard definition recording. It allows you to control your TV with the built in Eye TV.  It lets you add your saved content to you iPhone or iPad for viewing on the go with a bit of help from an app. It comes with a subscription to TV guide online to give you a full listing of shows that you can record.   Of course, that’s all just the marketing. What you want to know about is the experience of using the device. So, lets get into the nitty gritty.    Installation Installing the hardware is not too much trouble if you happen to have your Mac and your TV setup close together.  If, however, you have a great deal of space between them, things can get a bit complicated.  The most difficult part of physical setup is the proper placement of the receiver with your cable or satellite box.  The receiver is a bit oddly shaped and often has a hard time staying in place.  It is best to tape it in place or put it under the box pointing up. The software end of the install is quick and easy.  Even on some older systems, this setup installs quickly and without a hitch.  Using the Software: Basics Using the software is on the whole is easy enough.  The system is mostly a no-frills affair unless you want to activate the extra features you can.  The best thing to do is use your mouse to get what you need done.  Working with the remote can be a bit annoying, especially when it keeps landing you at the wrong channel because it accepts imput too slowly.  The Best Parts A simple user interface that allows for easy recording. The ability to view live TV as its on without switching your setup on the monitor or HDTV. Recording shows you want to watch later on.   The Worst Parts By default, the software will always boot when you turn on your Mac. You can change this so it won’t happen, but a prompt on installation to ask your preference would be welcome. A remote that does not always transmit in real time and seems to have a lower range than the remote that comes with your Mac. No dual recording ability or record and watch another channel.  This feature, which is common on many cable company box DVRs would be nice for those of us who live in houses where people have vastly different ideas of what constitutes good TV.   Smart Guide & Smart Senses Guide The smart guide allows you to search for shows meeting a specific criteria.  If you want to be sure you never miss an episode of the Tudors or any movie musical made after 1985, then this guide can help you to find it without a lot of channel surfing.  These features are for hardcore fans.  Just be sure to set your parameters carefully or you can end up with unwanted content in your listings.  On Screen Menus The on screen menus are touted as a great navigation tool, but really you are better off using the guide window.  It  requires less steps to get you what you want.  iPhone & iPod Recording If you want to watch live TV, look over your recordings, edit, set up a new show or just browse the guide on the go, then the accompanying app is a good idea.  Just remember that you will be using up your 3G time if you do not do this in a WiFi zone.  Given the costs, it may not be the best use of your iPhone data plan time unless you’re on unlimited. DVD Burning Add Toast to your setup and with a few steps you can burn your content to a DVD and keep it forever.  Provided you don’t go and try to use it for illegal sales, you could quietly grow your in home library of films and TV seasons, which could save you some serious cash.  The Bottom Line In the end, you are forced to wonder, is the Eye TV worth it?  Well, that depends a lot on who you are. If you are the kind of person who really loves your TV, the kind of person who would buy a lot of movies or TV show anyway, then this device maybe worth your time and your money. If, however, TV is not high on your list of priorities in life, then the box will not be that much of a use to you. Casual viewers may want to consider upgrading their already installed box to add DVR features if you don’t have it already.  Appletell Rating: Buy the EyeTV HD DVR Full Story » | Written by Katie Gatto for Appletell . | Comment on this Article »

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Appletell reviews the EyeTV HD DVR for component video