iNews Review

Biggest iPad Questions Answered and Unanswered, Free Olympic App, Opera Mini for iPhone, and More

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

Compiled by Charles Moore and edited by Dan Knight - 2010.02.12

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.

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These price trackers are updated every month.

News, Reviews, & Opinion

Biggest iPad Questions Answered

Technologizer's Harry McCracken takes a crack at summarizing some of the major things non-geeks need to know about the iPad, such as:

  • What's the onscreen keyboard like? Better than expected.
  • What's the software situation going to be like?
  • What are the device's biggest limitations?
  • Is the price really as unbelievable as Steve Jobs thinks?
  • I like the idea of a tablet, but I want a real PC. Will be I be able to buy an iPad-like gizmo that runs Windows?
  • Will the iPad be a satisfactory substitute for a PC or Mac? Absolutely not.
  • Speaking of netbooks, should I buy an iPad instead of one?
  • How about getting an iPad instead of Amazon's Kindle or another e-reader?
  • So should I buy one?

iPad Questions Apple Hasn't Answered

InfoWorld's Galen Gruman observes that as the smoke clears from Steve Jobs' iPad demo, missing details suggest there's less to Apple's tablet than meets the eye

Gruman relates that he's asked Apple a set of questions about what Jobs and Apple have not revealed about the iPad, and more than a week later, Apple PR has yet to either provide answers or grant him permission to relay those answers publicly, and that others in the press and analyst community are also getting the silent treatment as well regarding certain capabilities that matter to many prospective users, leading him to infer that the unanswered queries may imply that the iPad is less "magical" and "revolutionary" than Jobs suggests.

Particular points cited:

  • Can you save and transfer documents to the iPad?
  • Does the iPad support Microsoft Exchange email?
  • Does the iPad support VPN and configuration?
  • Can you use media services other than iTunes on the iPad?
  • Can the iPad be used for videoconferencing?

Whatever the truth is, says Gruman, Apple won't say, and if Apple won't say, maybe you shouldn't buy.

Why the iPad Needs Multitasking

TidBITS' Adam C. Engst in a lengthy essay discusses and analyzes the continuing complaint about Apple not supporting multitasking in the the iPhone OS, noting that Apple's position has been that allowing apps to run in the background would significantly hurt performance and battery life. Apple added push notification in iPhone OS 3.0, which muted the grumbling somewhat, but the imminent release of the iPad changes everything, what with the tablet's faster CPU, 10-hour battery life, and 1024 x 768 display resolution that opens the possibility of running apps side-by-side.

Engst further observes that while the iPhone is aimed at short, focused tasks, the iPad will more likely be employed (by some at least) for longer, more general computing tasks that could involve using multiple apps, just as we're used to on the Mac, such as using an iPad to read text in Mobile Safari, copy some of it to a Pages document, and sending that document to a colleague via Mail.

The Hidden Blessing of No Multitasking

The Other Mac Blog's Colum O'Dwyer says:

"The constant criticism of the iPhone and now the iPad is no multitasking. Which has been defined by the critics as the ability to run multiple applications at once. Apple has allowed simple background process such as downloading music form iTunes while still using another application but they have not opened this option up to developers and I do not seeing them doing so any time soon. However, is this such a curse?"

Apple to Be 'Nimble' on iPad Pricing

Engadget's Nilay Patel reports:

"Apple's $499 starting iPad price tag is already lower than many people - and a few competitors - expected, but apparently Steve and company have left themselves a little wiggle room: Credit Suisse analyst Bill Shope says that Apple told him it'll remain 'nimble' when it comes to iPad pricing, suggesting that the price could drop if sales don't meet targets...."

Apple Could Lower iPad Price If Market Demands It

AppleInsider's Sam Oliver reports:

"If the market does not respond well to the iPad and its price range of $499 to $829, Apple executives have reportedly said they could be 'nimble' on its cost...."

How Apple's A4 Chip Lets iPad Run Cooler, Save Battery Life

VentureBeat's Paul Boutin comments on how Apple broke with the consumer electronics industry's accepted wisdom by designing its own processor chips for the iPad, noting that In the past Apple had persuaded Intel to build a custom CPU for its super-skinny MacBook Air. However, the iPad goes one step further by bringing the chip design in-house, using the talents of a company Apple acquired in 2008 called Palo Alto Semiconductor ("PA Semi"), a maker of power-efficient silicon.

Boutin says he's heard from several microchip engineers, some of them ex-Apple, on specifically how Apple's new A4 chip delivers a claimed 10 hour battery life and manages to run cool. He relates the best explanation he's received so far.

Apple's A4 Chip: Engineers Correct Stupid Journalist

VentureBeat's Paul Boutin says:

"I have no clue about computer chip design and manufacturing. So I trolled VentureBeat's readers with a challenge: Explain to me how Apple's switch from third-party chip manufacturers to its own in-house design for the A4 chip that powers the new iPad tablet computer makes the iPad better, either for Apple or for iPad customers.

"Former Apple employee Prabhakar Kotla sent me not one snappy answer, but ten of them."

Opera Mini for iPhone Ready for Demo

PR: Opera blogger Espen André Øverdahl says:

"Good news, everybody! We plan to reveal Opera Mini for iPhone in an exclusive press and partner preview during the 2010 Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona. This means that we now have a working version of Opera Mini for the iPhone.

"While Opera Mini for iPhone is not publicly available, visitors without a press pass will not leave Opera's stand disappointed. Opera will unveil a host of other Opera-powered devices at its exhibit."

Will Apple Let Opera on the iPhone?

Forbes' Brian Caulfield reports:

"Opera Software said Wednesday it plans to offer a version of its Opera Mini web browser for Apple's iPhone. Great, but will Apple let the application - which rivals the iPhone's built-in Safari browser - onto the iPhone's App Store? Opera has not yet submitted a version of Opera Mini for the iPhone to Apple for approval...."

Opera Mini for iPhone Sneak Peek

PR: Opera Software, maker of the world's most popular mobile Web browser, plans to reveal Opera Mini for iPhone in an exclusive press and partner preview during the 2010 Mobile World Congress (MWC). Visit Opera's exhibit in Hall 1, C44, to witness a new way to surf the Web on the iPhone - an experience that Opera promises will be fast, easy to use, and packed with favorite Opera features.

Opera Mini for iPhoneOpera Mini is renowned for its compression technology, which results in significantly faster Web-page loading and reduces data surcharges. With favorite desktop features in its arsenal, such as tabs, Speed Dial and the password manager, Opera Mini is designed with usability in mind.

"We are thrilled to offer journalists and partners an exclusive preview of Opera Mini for iPhone during the year's biggest mobile event," said Jon von Tetzchner, Cofounder, Opera Software. "This is a unique opportunity to introduce the fast, feature-rich Opera Mini experience for the iPhone, and to showcase our latest beta releases of Opera Mobile and Opera Mini on other platforms and devices. Opera's mission is to bring the Web to the world, and by making Opera Mini available on yet another platform, we are one step closer."

While Opera Mini for iPhone is not publicly available, visitors without a press pass will not leave Opera's stand disappointed. Opera will unveil a host of other Opera-powered devices at its exhibit.

To hear more from Opera about the future of the Web, attend one of our speaking engagements during MWC:

Monday, February 15, 2010

  • 15:00 - Jon von Tetzchner, Vodafone panel discussion on "Mobile Web developments, W3C standards, using Web APIs and the live creation of widgets", in Hall 7, Auditorium 1

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

  • 14:00 - Håkon Wium Lie, panel discussion on "Mobile security in an IP world", Hall 5
  • 14:00 - Christen Krogh, presentation on "Creating a connected cloud for the perfect mobile storm", Hall 5
  • 15:45 - GSMA Awards ceremony, Opera Mini shortlisted for "Best Mobile Internet Service" and "Best Mobile Technology Breakthrough", Hall 5, Level 3, Auditorium 1

Get your hands on an Opera-powered device by visiting our stand in Hall 1, C44, during Barcelona's annual Mobile World Congress, or schedule a meeting with Opera. Contact press10@opera.com press10[at]opera.com for more information.

iPad Guidelines Emphasize Content over User Interface

uxmag.com notes that Apple's Human Interface Guidelines for the iPad outline how to create user interfaces optimized for the iPad device and says that, according to Apple, the best iPad applications downplay application UI so that the focus is on content; present content in beautiful, often realistic ways; and take full advantage of device capabilities to enable enhanced interaction.

The article quotes Apple's Human Interface Guidelines for the iPad saying:

"Your application should encourage people to interact with iPad from any side by providing a great experience in all orientations. The reason is that people don't view the device as having a default orientation, because they don't pay much attention to the minimal device frame and they're unconcerned with the location of the Home button.

"Enhance Interactivity (Don't Just Add Features)

"The best iPad applications give people innovative ways to interact with content while they perform a clearly defined, finite task. Resist the temptation to fill the large screen with features that are not directly related to the main task. In particular, you should not view the large iPad screen as an invitation to bring back all the functionality you pruned from your iPhone application."

Healthcare Industry Wants a Tablet, but Not Necessarily an iPad

PR: Last week, during the fever pitch surrounding the announcement of Apple's iPad tablet, spokesman Chris Thorman says Software Advice surveyed 178 physicians, nurses, medical students and healthcare IT professionals about what the healthcare industry's ideal tablet would look like. This isn't Software Advice's first time talking tablets and healthcare. In April of last year, they wondered if the Apple tablet would become the ideal device to run electronic health record (EMR) software.

The goal with this survey was to find out what healthcare professionals want in a tablet and how well Apple's iPad fulfills those wants.

Things learned from from the survey results include:

Majority of Healthcare Professionals Are Likely to Buy a Tablet

This chart shows how likely respondents are to purchase a tablet for healthcare use in the next year.

Tablet Tasks

This chart [not reproduced here] shows what percentage of respondents want to use a tablet for a particular task. This chart shows what percentage of respondents want to use a tablet for a particular task.

Ease of Use and Software Selection are Top Reasons for Tablet Selection

According to survey results, ease of use is the major purchase reason for a majority of healthcare professionals. That may fare well for the iPad. Why? The iPad runs on the iPhone operating system, and thousands of doctors are already using iPhones in clinical settings. In addition, the iPad has a finger touchscreen, and of the survey's healthcare respondents, 63% said they preferred a finger touchscreen over styluses and voice dictation when asked about their data input preference. Many of those same people said that the speed of the data entry was the determining factor when noting a preference for the finger touchscreen.

On the downside, in terms of medical software selection, the iPad lags far behind virtually every other tablet on the market. Despite having over 5,000 medical apps immediately available for download through Apple's App Store, none of those apps are a functional EMR system or even remotely close to one. The vast majority of EMR software on the market today will not run on a Mac OS X operating system. Most require a Windows-based operating system to function.

The iPad may have an easy to use operating system helped by a finger touchscreen but those pros are nullified by that system's inability to run the vast majority of medical software on the market today.

iPad VGA Video Output

AppleInsider's Daniel Eran Dilger reports:

"Like the existing iPhone and iPod touch, the iPad can output video via the same composite or component video cables to present standard definition, analog video with roughly 480 lines of resolution.

"The iPad's new VGA-connector option delivers PC style video at the device's native 1024 x 768 resolution. Existing iPhone and iPod models won't work with the new VGA cable, as they aren't designed to support higher resolution outputs than they can display...."

How to Downgrading Your 3.1.3 iPhone to 3.1.2

TUAW's Erica Sadun has posted a tutorial on downgrading the iPhone OS 3.1.3 firmware on a 3GS back to version 3.1.2.

Apps & Services

Toughturtle's Free Olympic iPhone App

PR: Toughturtle LLC, a developer of innovative solutions for the Internet and for the iPhone, has recently released 'Winter 2010', a new iPhone and iPod touch App that is already being touted as the 'go-to' App for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver. Winter 2010 has all the features that an Olympic App should have, and so much more.

Winter 2010 has up-to-the-minute news and information from an extensive list of providers, so you know that you have everything you need to stay on top of the Vancouver Games. The App also comes with a complete Event schedule, Sport Details, and a multitiered Medal tracker. Toughturtle takes Medal Trackers even farther with configurable Push Notifications. This enables the user to receive instant medals results by winning Country or by the individual Sport.

"Back in 2008 when the App Store came onto the scene, Toughturtle delivered the first iPhone App for the Beijing Summer Games called iOlympics.", said Todd Barnes, Lead Developer at Toughturtle LLC. "iOlympics was very popular and we were hoping to re-release under that same name, but we ran into a trademark issue and went with 'Winter 2010' instead. Winter 2010 delivers everything you need to keep up with the Games, and the added Push Notifications really make this App an incredible piece of software... especially with the FREE price point"

App Description:

Keep up-to-date with all the events and news from the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver.

Get instant access to all the news and information all on your iPhone and/or iPod touch. Quickly reference the entire Event schedule so you know when you need to set your DVR to record an event. An up-to-the-minute Medal Tracker which lists the country with the most medals, with a breakdown of Gold, Silver, and Bronze totals.

Push Notifications:

Get Push Notifications for medal winnings by Nation and by Sport . . . as they happen.

News Feeds:

  • Articles saved to your device for true offline viewing (article dates/times are converted automatically to your locale):
    • General News
    • News by Sport
    • In-App full view of Article
    • Launch full article in Mobile Safari
  • Sport Information:
  • Article dates/times are converted automatically to your locale.
  • Schedule dates/times are also converted automatically to your locale.
    • News
    • About the Sport
    • Schedule
    • Medals
  • Medals:
    • Medal totals by Sport
    • Medal totals by Nation
    • Medal Details
    • Get Push Notifications for Medals won by Nation and by Sport. When a Nation wins a medal, you can get a Push Notification instantly. You can even configure Push Notifications to see all the Medals won by Event, as they happen.
  • Schedule (schedule dates/times are converted automatically to your locale):
    • Detailed schedule by Date
    • Detailed schedule by Sport

Settings:

  • Refresh At Startup
  • Push Notifications On/Off
  • Article Count
  • Database Optimization
  • In-App Technical Support Contact

Device Requirements:

  • iPhone and iPod touch
  • Requires iPhone OS 3.1.2 or later
  • 0.6 MB

Winter 2010 is free and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Sports category.

PR: Intermap Technologies today announced the availability of 76 ski resort maps for its AccuTerra iPhone App, including a special application for Whistler-Blackcomb ski resort. The application allows consumers to see where events are taking place, locate lifts, view trails by difficulty, find lodging, and check weather forecasts. AccuTerra for Whistler-Blackcomb is available in 2D and 3D giving 2010 event spectators all the features of a paper trail map in the palm of their hands.

iPhone AccuTerra App"We have taken the foundation of the AccuTerra GPS application and extended it to provide the same experience for the snow sport enthusiast"

Building upon the success of AccuTerra GPS for the iPhone, which brings outdoor enthusiasts a detailed view of their topographic surroundings for hiking and walking adventures, AccuTerra is growing its library of applications by adding snow sport terrain. As visitors make their way to Whistler-Blackcomb and home viewers watch events unfold, AccuTerra allows them to navigate the upcoming events by displaying detailed, high resolution images of the ski trails and surrounding area used during the competition.

Created with the same accuracy, map detail, and social aspects of the award winning AccuTerra GPS, the Whistler-Blackcomb app lets visitors use the full functionality of the topographic map, while toggling between Google Maps for on-road data - essentially creating an all-in-one mapping app for the 2010 events. Similar to all AccuTerra iPhone applications, the snow sport terrain apps allow users to create personal tours and record and share outdoor experiences through photos and videos. In essence, create an interactive personal journal.

"As spectators and home viewers watch the winter events, the AccuTerra application serves as another way to participate in the experience with the most detailed terrain images available of the Whistler-Blackcomb area," says Michael Bullock, vice president, Intermap Consumer Electronics. "The AccuTerra experience goes beyond the 17 day event as people come to visit Whistler year after year and can use the map to ski the same trails they watched on TV."

In addition to the Whistler - Blackcomb map, AccuTerra is now offering ski resort maps and bundles covering over 76 ski areas. Resort map downloads range from $1.99 to $5.99 and are available for resorts across the country, such as; Northern Colorado (15 resorts), Lake Tahoe Area (10 resorts), Northwest (8 resorts), Northeast (5 resorts), Northern Rockies (6 resorts), Southwest (8 resorts), Southern California (5 resorts), Utah (10 resorts), and Vermont (9 resorts).

"We have taken the foundation of the AccuTerra GPS application and extended it to provide the same experience for the snow sport enthusiast," said Kevin Thomas, vice president of marketing, Intermap. "By adding weather features and 3D terrain to the snow sport applications, we are incorporating specific features that will appeal to the outdoor enthusiast who spends most of his or her time looking for fresh powder."

The AccuTerra GPS App is available in the App Store.

Using the in-app purchasing feature, users can access the GPS map store to download map data bundled in a variety of packages; state bundles, state and national park bundles, and special interest areas across the country. Map bundle prices range from 99¢ to $5.99 and are automatically integrated with neighboring areas as additional bundles are purchased.

Ski resorts available in the AccuTerra datastore are Alpine Meadows, Alta, Arapahoe Basin, Arizona Snowbowl, Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain, Bear Mountain, Bear Valley, Beaver Creek, Big Sky, Boreal, Breckenridge, Bretton Woods, Brighton, Buttermilk, Copper Mountain, Crested Butte, Crystal Mountain, Deer Valley, Durango Mountain, Grand Targhee, Heavenly, Homewood, Jackson Hole, Jay Peak, Keystone, Killington, Kirkwood, Loon Mountain, Loveland, Mad River Glen, Mammoth, Monarch, Moonlight Basin, Mt Bachelor, Mt Baker, Mt Hood Meadows, Mt Hood Skibowl, Mt Snow, Mt. Rose, Northstar at Tahoe, Okemo, Park City Mountain, Powder Mountain, Powderhorn, Sierra at Tahoe, Sierra Summit, Ski Santa Fe, Smugglers' Notch, Snow Summit, Snowbasin, Snowbird, Snowmass, Solitude, Squaw Valley USA, Steamboat, Stevens Pass, Stowe, Stratton, Sugar Bowl, Sugarbush, Sugarloaf/USA, Summit at Snoqualmie, Sun Valley, Sundance, Sunday River, Sunrise Park, Taos, Telluride, The Canyons, Timberline Lodge, Vail, Whiteface, Whitefish (Big Mountain), Winter Park, and Wolf Creek.

PR: Cars.com announced today the availability of a free iPhone Cars.com car shopping application that helps mobile shoppers search dealer inventories and private-party listings to locate the vehicle they want. The app, which also works on the iPod touch and upcoming iPad, can be downloaded from the App Store on iTunes.

"Nearly a third of all mobile visits to Cars.com are being made from the iPhone," said Bill Swislow, Cars.com senior vice president of product. "We are excited to enhance the mobile experience for Apple users and reach a new audience of car shoppers by offering the first automotive shopping app for the iPhone that allows shoppers to find both new and used cars from a large selection of inventory."

The Cars.com app gives car shoppers access to the most popular functionality on the Cars.com website. Shoppers can:

  • Search millions of new, used and certified vehicles based on make/model, distance and maximum price preferences.
  • Save specific dealerships and listings, along with notes and additional photos, to a favorites list for future access.
  • Locate nearby dealerships to contact them by email or phone, visit the store, view their complete inventory or access their traditional Internet site.
  • Sort listings search results based on distance, mileage, price and model year.
  • Access affordability and payment calculators, Cars.com Smart Target Pricing for new cars and Kelley Blue Book Values.

Car shoppers who do not own an Apple device can conveniently access the Cars.com mobile site from any mobile browser.

"Mobile is an increasingly important channel for our business, now accounting for as much as 5 percent of our overall site traffic," said Swislow. "We are always looking for ways to optimize that experience for shoppers who want on-the-go access to the information they need to make a confident car-buying decision. It is also critical for our advertisers, who are looking for new ways to reach ready-to-buy shoppers."

Given its increased importance and appeal to consumers, Cars.com will feature its mobile shopping channel in its 2010 advertising campaign, kicking off this Sunday on the Super Bowl. An all-new 60-second spot will feature the life story of character Timothy Richman, who is showcased using Cars.com mobile to build his knowledge on a vehicle he plans to purchase.

Cars.com is a leading destination for online car shoppers, offering credible, easy-to-understand information from consumers and experts to help buyers formulate opinions on what to buy, where to buy and how much to pay for a car. With comprehensive pricing information, side-by-side comparison tools, photo galleries, videos, unbiased editorial content and a large selection of new- and used-car inventory, Cars.com puts millions of car buyers in control of their shopping process with the information they need to make confident buying decisions.

PR: Announcing that Oceanarc Ltd., the developer of MusiDash 1.0, has launched a new app for people who like listening to music. The multi-utility app has amazing graphics which mimic a car dashboard, while providing an easy method of finding and playing music while on the move. MusiDash functions go beyond the obvious by also displaying the current time, the device's battery charge level, and signal strength on one screen.

MusiDashMusiDash has awesome graphics that look just like a car's analogue clock with sub-dials. Users have the option of a portrait or landscape display, and the backlight color is adjustable to match a user's car interior - or MusiDash will handle the lighting by switching between daytime and nighttime modes automatically.

The application's main screen shows users the time, battery charge level, and their cell's signal strength. By double tapping the clock, users can access their music library to choose their favorite songs or albums. Double clicking the album cover will start the music playing. After that, the user can click back to the clock screen while the music continues to play.

With its large, easy to see and use controls, MusiDash is safer to operate in the car than a regular music playing device such as an iPod. All controls are tap or swipe, so it can be used with one hand. Users have the option to adjust their music preference settings to Repeat, Shuffle, or Select a Playlist. This feature adds to the custom, personalized feeling of MusiDash.

MusiDash Features:

  • Amazing graphics that mimic a car's dashboard
  • Shows current time, battery level and cellular sign connection
  • Change backlight color to match car's display
  • Optional automatic setting for daytime/nighttime mode
  • Large, easy-to-use controls
  • In app album library with beautifully displayed artwork
  • Touch screen responsive interface
  • Selected music plays in background while app is on main display screen

While MusiDash was developed primarily for vehicle travel, it works perfectly well anywhere for anyone who enjoys music. This is one to check out, even if just to have some convenient fun.

Device Requirements: iPhone or iPod touch 3.0 or later

MusiDash 1.0 is 99¢ and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Utilities category. Promo codes are available for qualified reviewers. Please specify the website or blog you represent when making your request.

PR: Tidal Pool Software announces the release of Wanderlust 1.0 for Apple iPhone and iPod touch. Wanderlust allows you to search for great airfares and book flights on your iPhone/iPod touch. Wanderlust is the first iPhone app to support in-app flight bookings.

Wanderlust searches millions of airfare combinations from over 400 airlines worldwide with savings of up to 60%. This includes over 20 million consolidator fares and over 40 low cost carriers in Europe and Asia with fares starting at just $10. Wanderlust features a simple user interface to easily find great flights and book them from within the app.

Feature Highlights:

  • Simple and intuitive flight search and booking user interface
  • Search for round-trip, one-way, and open-jaw flights
  • Find great fares for adults, seniors, children, and infants
  • Browse economy, business, and first class fares
  • Expand your search and find flights near your departure/destination
  • Powerful sorting and filtering of flight search results
  • Flight search history makes it easy to quickly recheck fares
  • Prominently displays the full cost to make comparisons easy (no hidden taxes/fees)
  • Book flights securely within the app
  • Manage and email flight bookings
  • Find contact info for hundreds of airlines
  • Create profiles for multiple billing/shipping addresses (personal, work, etc.)
  • Set up travelers including their seat/meal preferences, frequent flyer numbers, and special services

Wanderlust is powered by OneTravel. OneTravel offers flights, hotels, and packages to top destinations throughout the world. OneTravel was launched in the mid-nineties in a barn in Pennsylvania and has grown to be one of best recognized online travel brands in the US and internationally. We are one of the oldest and most recognized travel sites, celebrated for our incredibly low airfares, last minute flight deals, cheap business class flights, and affordable first class fares, discount hotels, the best car rental deals, and attractive vacation packages all year round. Our products are backed by 1-800 courteous and professional customer support any time of the day 24/7.

Device Requirements:

  1. iPhone and iPod touch
  2. Requires iPhone OS 3.1.2 or later
  3. 1.9 MB

Wanderlust 1.0 is free and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Travel category. Wanderlust currently requires a US or Canada billing address and credit card.

Screenshot: http://www.tidalpool.ca/wanderlust/images/screenshots/flightSearch.png

PR: Locksmith industry giant Pop A Lock is entering into a new partnership with the Locksmith Locator iPhone App to offer a unique service to people all over the country.

It is believed that this Locksmith App will be able to help save the lives of countless children by reducing the response time of the locksmith and the amount of time that a child may have to be locked in a vehicle on a hot or very cold day.

Every year in this country, children die because they are locked in a car and their parent or guardian is unable to track down emergency help in time. These parents are usually unaware of how much danger these children are in until it is too late, but the new Locksmith iPhone App and Pop A Lock promises to make things much safer and easier. With one push of a button on the Locksmith APP and your GPS location and problem is sent directly to a local locksmith in your area to assist you immediately.

Perhaps the best part of this program is that it is free to use, so if your child is locked in a vehicle, you will not have to pay for the locksmith. The Locksmith App is also free to download on I Tunes, so make sure that you take advantage of this today.

The Locksmith App, which was developed by Creative One Media, allows users to contact a local locksmith with one simple touch of a button. The app will automatically send the locksmith information on your exact location and help will arrive almost immediately.

The Locksmith iPhone App will actually be able to provide assistance faster than current GPS technology, which is definitely something positive to consider, especially for those who have been let down by GPS in the past.

Pop A Lock also offers great rates on all other types of vehicle problems and can even handle residential and commercial lock changes. This company is a one stop solution for all of your lock needs, but is particularly proud of its Locksmith App.

Emergency Door Unlocking Program (EDU):

Fee unlocking service when a Child is locked in the vehicle!

In participating locations the EDU program provides communities with a safe, fast solution to a situation that occurs daily. Pop-A-Lock is committed to keeping children safe and preventing accidents from becoming tragedies, which is why emergency door unlockings are handled with priority and usually in 20 minutes or less. Developed to assist EMS, police and fire departments in entering locked vehicles, the EDU service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Pop-A-Lock has responded to 100's of thousands of EDU calls since its inception.

Always call 911 to report if a child is locked in a vehicle. Pop-A-Lock can only respond in areas where we have a bona fide franchisee that can respond in a timely manner. Calls for a service outside of our reasonable coverage cannot be responded to in a timely manner. Always, physically call us to identify that a child is locked in a vehicle!!! Do not just request service through the locksmith locator.

Pop-A-Lock currently provides service to more than 4,000 communities nationwide. The company was founded in 1991 in Lafayette, LA., by local law enforcement officers. For more information about the EDU program, go to popalock.com

Pop-A-Lock franchises are available in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Please email franchise@popalock.com, call 877-233-6211, or visit popalock.com/franchising.php for more details.

Stop Your Headache with Your Phone

PR: Medical acupuncture company, Miridia Technology Inc. today is pleased to announce Headache 1.0, a new app for your iTouch or iPhone for fixing headaches. Headaches are one of the most common and frustrating health problems in the world today. While pain pills may temporarily cover the symptoms, they do not address the cause of a headache. A medical acupuncture company has broken barriers with the research and development of modernized uses of acupuncture.

Headaches are one of the most common and frustrating health problems in the world today. While pain pills may temporarily cover the symptoms, they do not address the cause of a headache. A medical acupuncture company has broken barriers with the research and development of modernized uses of acupuncture. In addition to computerized acupuncture tools for practitioners, they recently released an iPhone and iPod touch app called Headache.

According to the app description, "The principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine teach that energy imbalances in the body often contribute to headache symptoms, and these imbalances can be corrected with pressure to specific points on the body." The application teaches not just about the headache you are experiencing, but goes on to identify the exact points to treat, and even has sound or vibration based treatment built in to the application if your device supports it.

"Selected by licensed acupuncturists, these points may bring you safe, natural, effective relief." They claim that no technical or medical skill is required, and self-treatment only takes a few minutes. At $1.99, not only is this an affordable alternative to popping pills, but it's a great tool to keep in your pocket for the next time you feel that pressure building in your head.

Device Requirements: iPhone and 2nd Generation iPod touch 3.0 or later

Headache 1.0 is $1.99 and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Healthcare & Fitness category.

PR: Happymagenta announces the release of Spyglass 2.0, a major update to their popular digital compass and HUD display for iPhone 3GS devices. Developed specifically to leverage the iPhone's unique capabilities, Spyglass is a fun-to-use multifunction augmented reality tool and heads-up display with a live compass, GPS information, as well as tilt horizon - right over the live feed from the built-in camera, (or even an auto-rotated map), turning any iPhone into a sophisticated location-aware viewfinder.

Featuring an easy-to-use interface, Spyglass includes a milspec compass, GPS locations and constant bearings tracker and finder, sun and moon tracker, inclinometer, sextant, rangefinder, angular calculator, camera (with 5x digital zoom), maps, and lots of other useful features. It is useful for all types of outdoor activities from marking and then finding the car, camp or hotel, as well as during hunting, fishing, hiking, scouting, seafaring, sports and touring.

Just like in airplanes, sci-fi movies or military-styled night vision binoculars, Spyglass works in any orientation encompassing a three-dimensional space. While viewing through the iPhone's built-in camera, tilt or rotate the device to see incredibly detailed, live information in any direction. All Spyglass features, such as digital zoom, color filters, HUD colors and imperial or metric units are easily configurable.

Feature Highlights:

  • Heads-up display style (like in planes or sci-fi movies)
  • Compass (milspec, working with any orientation)
  • Multiple destinations and bearings tracker (AR)
  • Sun and Moon positions tracker (AR)
  • Add or edit custom destinations and bearings
  • Rhumb line (nautical) navigation
  • Sextant (AR), inclinometer and angular calculator
  • Stadiametric optical rangefinder (300-1500 ft or 100-500m)
  • Measure vertical, horizontal, spherical angles
  • Measure distance to or size of objects
  • GPS (coordinates, altitude, speed, course)
  • Maps with autorotation
  • Digital zoom camera (up to 5x)
  • Take photos into the album
  • Milspec, imperial or metric units (+MGRS WGS84)
  • Variety of HUD colors and color filters
  • Highly configurable

"The idea behind Spyglass was initially to create a fun as well as useful tool similar to binoculars that are commonly used in sci-fi, military and action movies.," said Pavel Ahafonau, founder and CEO of Happymagenta. "And with over 100 changes in total, this huge update of Spyglass has matured from being mostly a fun tool into being mostly useful one. And of course, there is even more fun too."

Version 2.0 users can easily take pictures and screenshots that are properly oriented and stored into the photo album, as well as show the user location pin on a map, and easily switch between backwards or classic compass.

Spyglass now allows simultaneous tracking of multiple targets (GPS locations or constant bearings) that can be added either manually or by using maps. Current positions of targets that are being tracked (including sun and moon) are displayed as augmented reality markers (as bearing hints) on a compass when they are not in sight of a camera. The compass and spyglass itself were designed to milspec devices, and work in any orientation. Spyglass supports military units for angles (angular mils) and locations (MGRS). For nautical and marine activities Spyglass supports navigating along thumb lines.

The sextant and built-in angular calculator are used to measure distance to, and/or size of remote objects. Improved reliability and precision are reached when visually measuring angles by using augmented reality markers that help to properly orient the device - spherical coordinate mapping and all scales are close to real camera field of view and dependent on current zoom that makes positioning of scale markers more precise. And just like the rangefinder used in sniper scopes, Spyglass' built-in optical rangefinder helps to quickly measure approximate distance to objects of known size. Scale is 300-1500 ft (100-500m) for objects with height of 5.6 ft (1.7m).

Device Requirements:

  • iPhone 3GS
  • Requires iPhone OS 3.1 or later
  • 0.5 MB
  • Internet Connection (for Maps feature)

Spyglass 2.0 is 99¢ and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Navigation category. Review copies are available upon request.

YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBE9Hwe_shE

Screenshots: http://happymagenta.com/spyglass/screenshots.html

PR: Bowers Technologies, Inc. has announced that that their latest iPhone app for the Christian marketplace, iPastor 1.0 is now available on the iTunes store. iPastor is a valuable tool for pastors, ministers, missionaries, church staff, and even volunteers to effectively and efficiently serve the church members. It works with both iPhone and iPod touch.

iPastor allows people to:

  • Record an unlimited number of ministry needs
  • Assign multiple categories to a particular person's needs
  • Assign multiple care strategies to address the need
  • Record notes as you address the need
  • Track how the person is associated with your church (member, friend, etc.)
  • Record relevant contact information
  • Delegate a ministry need to another person
  • Sort needs according to situation, care strategy, or by delegate
  • Review fulfilled needs for historical record, reminders, followup etc.

"People in ministry are so busy nowadays given the current economic conditions and the impact it is having on families." said Bryan Bowers, founder of Bowers Technologies, Inc. "Pastors were asking us for an app like this based on their specific needs. Naturally we wanted to help make their lives a little easier and created the app. This is our way of thanking those who diligently serve others in the church."

Device Requirements:

  • iPhone and iPod touch
  • Requires iPhone OS 3.0 or later
  • 0.8 MB

iPastor is $4.99 and available February 8, 2010 worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Productivity category. Review copies are available upon request.

Screenshot: http://iproduceapps.com/images/ip_main.jpg

PR: MacSpeech, Inc. today began conducting live hands-on technology demonstrations of the upcoming "via Dictate" iPhone extension app to MacSpeech Dictate. The sneak peak demonstrations are exclusively for attendees at Macworld Conference and Expo 2010.

The via Dictate app allows the iPhone to be used as a remote extension of MacSpeech Dictate, when MacSpeech Dictate is running on a Macintosh. The via Dictate app is intended for distribution at no additional cost, plus requires Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard and a launched MacSpeech Dictate running on a machine accessible by via Dictate.

MacSpeech Dictate is the only desktop speech recognition solution for the Macintosh. MacSpeech Dictate provides unprecedented speech recognition accuracy with minimal training and works with existing Mac applications. MacSpeech Dictate delivers a true Mac user experience, and conforms to behaviors already familiar to Macintosh users worldwide. Beyond dictation, MacSpeech Dictate lets people perform basic navigation of their Mac and control it with their voice to launch applications, open new windows, execute menu commands, etc.

Navigon iPhone App Updated with 3D Terrain Views, Social Media Integration, and Intelligent Routing

PR: Navigon AG, a leading provider of mobile phone onboard navigation, today announced a significant update for MobileNavigator, the most feature-rich navigation app available on the iPhone platform. Extending comprehensive functionality, the update adds three innovative features: in-app Connection to Facebook and Twitter, Panorama View 3D with 3D terrain views powered by NASA data, and personalized route delivery via Navigon MyRoutes, an intelligent direction provider. Navigon is showcasing the update prior to its launch in spring at the Macworld Expo in San Francisco, February 11-13, booth #575.

Navigon MobileNavigatorNavigon, an industry first to launch an onboard navigation app on the iPhone platform, remains ahead of the competition by consistently delivering first to market, full-feature updates. Apple's App Store is ideal for delivering our latest innovations to our users

Navigon, an industry first to launch an onboard navigation app on the iPhone platform, remains ahead of the competition by consistently delivering first to market, full-feature updates. Apple's App Store is ideal for delivering our latest innovations to our users," said Gerhard Mayr, vice-president worldwide mobile phones & new markets, Navigon. "The upcoming fifth version not only redefines routing capabilities on the iPhone platform but also integrates social media connectivity, and outstanding, reliable 3D environment views.

Further enhancing the proficient iPhone connectivity capabilities, MobileNavigator allows users to broadcast current position, destination and ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) to favorite social media outlets, Twitter and Facebook, without navigation interruption. The easy access in-app icons seamlessly launch and the Twitter feature automatically limits input to the maximum 140, and provides a character countdown.

Complementing the elegant iPhone UI, Panorama View 3D delivers 3D map views through digitized cartography rendered from NASA's height and terrain data. The full 3D view delivers an accurate depiction of surrounding environment, and what lies ahead with digital landscapes that include elevations, shadows, and geographic images. Panorama View 3D is integrated in-map, independent from the phone's data connection.

Navigon MyRoutes takes personalized route recommendations to a new level with intelligent, customized direction planning. The feature analyzes individual driving data and designs customized routes. Up to three choices with distance and ETA are clearly displayed in-map for each. One primary recommendation based on the user's driving habits, the day of week and time of travel is provided and the additional two alternatives provide options to choose a preferred route.

MobileNavigator transforms the iPhone into an inclusive navigation device that relies on the GPS receiver, independent from a cell or wireless signal, to provide the most feature rich onboard navigation application. MobileNavigator offers a familiar, yet streamlined user interface that offers intuitive visual feedback and readily accessible connected features, which takes the efficiency of mobile navigation to new heights. It is the only onboard iPhone navigation app available that includes Google Local Search, Reality View!" Pro, branded in-route POI s, seamless in-app iPod controls, enhanced pedestrian mode, Traffic Live, and soon in-app social media connectivity in one application.

Navigon is dedicated to delivering premium navigation software for multiple mobile phone platforms. The company recently launched MobileNavigator for Windows Phone and announced an application for Android phones. According to the latest market data from Canalys, Navigon is the industry leader of onboard/perpetual navigation solutions for mobile phones in the U.S. with a market share of 23 percent.

Version 1.5.0 Feature Highlights:

Connection to Facebook and Twitter: A simple icon tap posts users current position, destination, and ETA without navigation interruption.

Panorama View 3D: True 3D in-map views obtained from NASA's height and terrain data enable intuitive orientation of surrounding environment, and what lies ahead with digital landscape elevations, shadows, and geographic images. Panorama View 3D is integrated in-map, independent from the phone's data connection. The Panorama View 3D feature will be available via an In App Purchase.

Navigon MyRoutes: Analyzes driving habits, patterns, location, time/day and provides up to three routes clearly displayed in-map with ETA, distance and driving times for each.

MobileNavigator is available for $89.99 in the Apple App Store and is equipped with maps of North America from Navteq. Special Macworld promotion: MobileNavigator for $69.99 and one time In App Purchase Traffic Live for $19.99 (regularly $24.99) from February 5-15. Panorama View 3D will be available via an In App Purchase for $9.99.

Besides being available for the iPhone 3G and 3GS, the Navigon app also runs on first-generation iPhone or an iPod touch. Additional accessories are required for GPS navigation on these devices.

Find Navigon on:

TextExpander Touch Integration Added to Notebook, iThoughts, iType2Go

PR: SmileOnMyMac have announced that TextExpander touch is now integrated in the apps Notebook, iThoughts and iType2Go. Users of these apps can expand their TextExpander snippets while typing within these apps. TextExpander touch is the iPhone version of SmileOnMyMac's customizable typing shortcut tool. To celebrate the integration, TextExpander touch is on sale for 60% off until through February 14, 2010.

TextExpander touch, the iPhone version of SmileOnMyMac's customizable typing shortcut tool, is now integrated in the apps Notebook, iThoughts and iType2Go. Users of these apps can expand their TextExpander snippets while typing within these apps.

To celebrate the integration, SmileOnMyMac has a special sale on TextExpander touch. Through February 14, 2010, TextExpander touch is only $1.99, a 60% discount off the regular price of $4.99.

TextExpander touch integration has been added to 16 iPhone apps, including Tweetie 2, WriteRoom, Simplenote, and Twittelator. A complete list of TextExpander-integrated apps is available at the SmileOnMyMac website.

The TextExpander touch Software Development Kit (SDK), which allows iPhone developers to integrate TextExpander functionality into their applications, consists of a free TextExpander engine library and sample code.

Device Requirements:

TextExpander touch requires an iPhone or iPod touch running iPhone OS 3.0 or later.

TextExpander touch features:

  • Compose notes quickly and easily that contain frequently used text, addresses, phone numbers, email signatures, URLs, etc.
  • Automatically insert your notes into Mail and Twitter clients, or copy-and-paste into other apps on your iPhone
  • Integrated in Tweetie 2, Twittelator, WriteRoom, Simplenote and other apps
  • Add TextExpander snippets from your Mac via your local network
  • Save composed notes in an archive for reuse
  • Use multiple snippet groups
  • Add Predefined Groups such as accented words, symbols, HTML, and CSS

Wolfram|AlphaWolfram|Alpha 1.1 for iPhone and iPod touch

PR: Version 1.1 of the Wolfram|Alpha App for the iPhone & iPod is now available in the App Store. The new version includes a number of new features that continue to improve the app's unique mobile Wolfram|Alpha experience.

Perhaps its most iconic feature, the specialized keyboards that greet you when you first open the Wolfram|Alpha App, have been painstakingly constructed to ease the burden of entering queries, whether you're converting from pounds to euros or computing a numerical value for the Weierstrass p-function .

Wolfram|Alpha keyboards

Wolfram|Alpha's goal in creating these keyboards was to form families of characters that naturally occur together both in common use and in traditional mathematical applications. They also wanted mathematical expressions to look and feel natural to enhance usability and understanding.

Wolfram|Alpha math

Drawing on 20+ years of development, 50,000+ built-in algorithms, and 10+ trillion pieces of continually updated and curated data, the Wolfram|Alpha App is a replacement for almost any kind of calculator or reference book - and much more.


The breakthrough technology of Wolfram|Alpha for the first time lets you get expert-level answers to your specific freeform questions - complete with stunning, dynamically generated visualizations and tables, and richer and deeper information than you imagined possible.


Your palm-sized supercomputer

Wolfram|Alpha numbers

The Wolfram|Alpha App plugs directly into Wolfram|Alpha's supercomputing cloud to deliver the unrivaled power of the Wolfram|Alpha knowledge engine to the mobile environment.

A tool for everyone

The Wolfram|Alpha App is an indispensable tool for almost any iPhone user, including:

financial analysts physicians scientists engineers students teachers journalists parents economists nutritionists systems analysts marketing managers pilots sportsmen and many, many more...

Optimized for iPhone & iPod touch

The Wolfram|Alpha App brings Wolfram|Alpha power to the iPhone, with an elegant native iPhone interface that includes a special notation keyboard, customized iPhone output, editable history, and integration with maps and other iPhone services.

One-stop knowledge

With its simple interface the Wolfram|Alpha App lets you instantly compute answers to questions across thousands of domains - from finance and food, to math and medicine, to stocks and spacecraft, to wordplay and weather...

Wolfram|AlphaVersion 1.1 has four specialized keyboards: the default keyboard, the "math" keyboard accessed by the right-shift key , the "Greek" keyboard accessed by one press of the left-shift key , and the "symbol" keyboard accessed by a second press of the left-shift key.

To determine the optimal keyboard layout, Wolfram|Alpha's server logs were scoured for the most commonly entered phrases that have characters with meaning in Wolfram|Alpha. Given that Wolfram|Alpha is built on Mathematica, one of its core strengths is advanced mathematics. True to form most of the commonly typed characters are related to math. For example, you would generally type the word "integrate" to compute an integral on the Wolfram|Alpha website. In the Wolfram|Alpha App you could simply type the key on the math keyboard. The same is true for other symbols common in math, such as and . Specifying geometric shapes, such as a triangle, is straightforward as well.

With the specialized keyboards, currency conversions (accessed by a press-hold popup on the key) are exceptionally easy, as is finding the positions of the planets, or looking at the population of males in the UK.

Sums, limits, integrals, and derivatives can be expressed in their natural forms.

The keyboards also allow you to enter a formula naturally, such as for Ohm's law and frequency-wavelength relationships, and you can properly refer to units, physical constants, and elementary particles.

Of course, you can do advanced mathematics, as well.

This is just a small fraction of the ways the specialized keyboards make the Wolfram|Alpha App more useful. Give it a try, and don't be surprised if you find yourself leaving your calculator at home.

zoomIt SD Card Adapter for iPhone and iPod touch

PR: zoomMediaPlus' new zoomIt SD card adapter for iPhone and iPod touch is a revolution in managing content with the iPhone and iPod touch. Combining application software with an intelligent accessory, zoomIt allows you to view, listen to, and share all of your photos, music, video and files on the go without the need to connect to your camera, Mac or PC.

  • View and share photos on the go
  • Listen to and watch audio/video from your personal library on the go
  • View and share your files on the go

For a limited time a preorder for the zoomIt will receive a $10 per unit discount from the regular retail price of $59.95 (for a total price of $49.95 per unit).

There is no limit to the number of zoomIt units that can be purchased for this limited time promotional preorder price.

The first 250 buyers will receive a free 4 GB SDHC Card from Kingston Technology. This limited promotion has a total value of $28.

Pre orders are expected to begin shipping in April 2010.

Protection

Speck's Award-Winning SeeThru Satin for iPhone 3G and 3GS

Speck SeeThru Satin casesPR: Highly anticipated before it's CES 2010 launch, Speck's SeeThru Satin for iPhone greeted the world with much fanfare, hardly out of the box upon winning iLounge's coveted "Best in Show" award.

"MacBook owners have flocked to our SeeThru Satin hard shell cases and we're excited to bring this same rich look and feel to the iPhone."

Speck SeeThru Satin caseNow available at SpeckProducts.com and other dealers, this remarkable new one-piece case features a smooth, comfortable soft-touch finish on the exterior of a slim hard shell, giving your iPhone a cool, colorfully frosted look that is soft to the touch and tough against drops.

"SeeThru Satin's classy and elegant presentation brings a distinct softness and style to the iPhone," said Irene Baran, CEO of Speck. "MacBook owners have flocked to our SeeThru Satin hard shell cases and we're excited to bring this same rich look and feel to the iPhone."

The entire SeeThru Satin for iPhone 3G/3GS line includes six colors: black, blue, red, purple, pink and green.

Speck SeeThru Satin caseFeaturing the same hard-shell protection as its predecessor, Speck's glossy translucent "SeeThru" case line, SeeThru Satin increases in-hand comfort, tweaking its former look with the coveted soft-but-grippy, semi-translucent finish. This unique blend arrived on the scene to much critical acclaim last year in the form of cases for Apple's MacBook and MacBook Pro notebooks.

Speck SeeThru Satin cases for iPhone 3G/3GS are now available for $29.95 MSRP.

Come see the new SeeThru Satin and all of Speck's other iPhone, iPod and MacBook cases, packs and bags at Macworld 2010, booth S-1912 (inside the Dr. Bott area).

New Speck Candyshell Case Color Combinations for iPhone 3G and 3GS

Speck Candyshell CasesPR: With the release of six highly anticipated all-new color combinations, Speck has expanded its mouthwatering CandyShell case line to meet the tastes of and needs of even more iPhone aficionados everywhere. Now, on the one-year anniversary of CandyShell's debut, consumers can wrap their treasured iPhone 3G or 3GS in exciting new two-tone color combos: Nightshade Purple, JujuJulep Green, SeaGlass Blue, DarkHeart Black, Moonsicle White and Indigo Blue.

One color highlights the resilient front bezel, corner joints and interior lining of this delectable single-piece case, while the other complimentary color covers the smooth, sleek hard shell exterior.

Speck Candyshell CasesIt has been a challenge to enhance what is already such a stellar case, but the new color combinations truly bring CandyShell to a new level of style and function, said Irene Baran, CEO of Speck. The protection people love about CandyShell is there as always, and the new colors really create a delightfully sleek look.

These sweet new shades continue CandyShell's tradition of stylish protection by merging a soft rubberized interior that insulates against impacts with a hard, scratch resistant outer shell that slides easily in and out of pocket all in a single-piece design. Such a seamless blend of sleek looks, colors and protection has earned CandyShell numerous awards and accolades since its initial release.

Speck Candyshell CasesCome see the new CandyShell colors and all of Speck's other iPhone, iPod and MacBook cases, packs and bags at Macworld 2010, booth S-1912 (inside the Dr. Bott area).

These hot new CandyShell color combos for the iPhone 3G and 3GS are available now at Apple Stores and online at Apple.com and SpeckProducts.com for a MSRP of $34.95.

Wool-Made Pouch for iPhone 3G/3GS

Wool-Made Pouch for iPhonePR: Features:

  • Perfect fit for iPhone 3G/3GS
  • Made of Genuine Sheep's Wool
  • Super light weight and comfortable

Options: Color:

  • Red (default color to ship)
  • Grey

Wool-Made Pouch for iPhoneThis case is suitable for:

  • iPhone 3G
  • iPhone 3GS

$12.99

Slip Your iPad into a Protective Waterfield Designs Ultimate SleeveCase or Suede Jacket

SleeveCase for iPadPR: Waterfield Designs, a San Francisco, CA manufacturer renowned for its high-quality custom sleeves, bags and cases for digital gear, introduces the first of its several cases for the hotly anticipated Apple iPad: the iPad Ultimate SleeveCase and the Suede Jacket.

SleeveCase for iPadThe Ultimate SleeveCase includes shock-absorbing neoprene and screen protecting, impact-resistant plastic plus a scratch-free, screen cleaning Ultrasuede liner; the Suede Jacket's custom sizing coupled with UltraSuede stretch memory ensure a snug fit for scratch protection. Both are available for preorder

"People are likely to take the iPad with them everywhere," noted Gary Waterfield, company founder. "It's too big for your pants pocket, but our custom-fitted Ultimate SleeveCase and Suede Jacket are the next best thing they re both slim and protective and they travel easily.

Suede Jacket case for iPadThe Suede Jacket, with or without an optional stretch pocket, protects the iPad from the occasional ding in a scratch- and static-free Ultrasuede case that can double as a screen cleaner. Small pull-tabs help ease iPad insertion and removal.

The customizable iPad Ultimate SleeveCase provides scratch-free and compact, multilayer protection. The iPad case interior is fully lined with screen-cleaning Ultrasuede. A nearly indestructible, ballistic nylon outer shell is lined with high-grade shock-absorbing neoprene and an impact-resistant insert to protect the iPad screen. A bottom loop helps ease iPad removal.

Suede Jacket case for iPadUsers may customize with several options: horizontal or vertical case orientation, brown leather or Lead Indium trim, a shoulder strap and/or a removable Piggyback accessories pouch. These TSA friendly iPad cases allow travelers to breeze through airport security. Both Apple iPad cases can be used alone or in Waterfield's Muzetto, Cargo, Cozmo, or VertiGo bags.

Preorder now. Will ship within one week of iPad ship date.

Suede Jacket

  • Price: $19.
  • With pocket: $25
  • Color: Black
  • Vertical orientation.

SleeveCase with Flap

  • Price: $55.
  • Colors: Black with Lead Indium or Black with brown leather trim (+$4).

Additional options:

  • Simple Shoulder Strap ($7),
  • Piggyback accessory pouch: ($25),
  • Piggyback with brown leather trim (+$2).
  • Compatible with Waterfield's Personal Muzetto ($239), Small Cargo ($179-$209), Small Cozmo ($169-$199), and small VertiGo ($85). cases All are available now at sfbags.com .

TrendyDigital Design Unveils Waterproof Case for iPad

PR: TrendyDigital Design unveils the first of several tailor-made cases for the Apple iPad: the WaterGuard Waterproof Case. The WaterGuard Case features multi tiers of waterproof sealing and provides excellent protection when iPad owners use their gadgets in watery environments. It is the perfect companion for when you're taking a sun bath at the beach, reading poolside, or relaxing in your Jacuzzi with your iPad.

WaterGuard Waterproof Case for iPadTrendyDigital Design, a leading supplier of high-quality custom eReader jackets, sleeves, bags and cases for portable digital devices, unveils the first of several tailor-made cases for the Apple iPad: the WaterGuard Waterproof Case. The WaterGuard Case features a double waterproof zipper closure, press-and-fold seal, buttons, and a touch fastener. This multi tier sealing mechanism provides excellent protection when iPad owners use their gadget in watery environments. The WaterGuard Waterproof Case is currently the world's first and only waterproof case designed for the iPad.

Made of UV-stabilized plastic, the WaterGuard Waterproof Case guards against any wet environment that the iPad might be exposed to. It provides great protection when you get stuck in a rainstorm or accidentally drop your bag on a wet surface. When using the WaterGuard Case, the iPad can be slipped directly into the WaterGuard pocket and the transparent surface provides full access to the iPad's touch interface and keyboard.

"People are likely to take the iPad with them everywhere and use them in a variety of everyday situations," noted Mark Zheng, vice president of sales and marketing. "We would like to provide a broad range of stylish and protective cases when people use their iPad in different environments. The WaterGuard Case is an excellent example of how we anticipate our customers' needs and devise a solution to meet them."

The WaterGuard Waterproof Case is available for preorder from TrendyDigital or from Amazon online. It will be shipped the same week as the Apple iPad's ship date. It comes in two color selections: transparent with a blue border decor and transparent with a purple border decor. The retail price for the WatertGuard Waterproof Case for the iPad is $19.99.

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