iPhone 4 Preorder Sellout, Apple's Retina Display, iPad Munching Netbook Sales, and More

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.

iPhone 4 News

• Apple's Statement on Overwhelming iPhone 4 Preorders
• AT&T: iPhone 4 Preorders 10x Higher than iPhone 3GS
• The iPhone 4's 'Retina' Display
• Experts Weigh In on iPhone 4 Display Quality
• The Retina Display Controversy
• Is the iPad Going Retina?
• iPhone 4 Glass: It Will Break
• New York Assemblyman Calls for Ban of iPhone 4 Video-Calling from the Road

News, Reviews, & Opinion

• DisplaySearch: iPad Munching Netbook Sales
• Unboxing a Chocolate iPad
• 'The iPad Is a Remedy for Distraction'
• iPad: 'Scale Is All the Difference in the World'
• The Life-changing iPad
• iPad Life-changing? Not for Me
• Church Broadcasts Services on iPhone and iPad
• Scottish Church Streams Services to iPads
• To Refer or Not to Refer to the Bible App
• How to Make a Waterproof, Kitchen-Proof iPad Case and Stand
• iPad Replacing Owner's Manual for Hyundai Equus
• Turn a Macintosh Classic into an iPad Stand

Apps & Services

• AutoStitch 3.0 Brings Advanced Panoramic Photography to the iPhone
• Tiffany's iPhone App for Engagement Rings
• Top Bible Memorization App Now Supports Customized Verse Lists

Accessories

• StickUp: Solid, Pocket Sized, Adjustable Stand for the iPad
• New iPad Accessories from newPCgadgets
• Kensington Smart Travel Tips & Accessories: 6 Affordable, Grab & Go Must Haves for Summer Put You in Charge

Protection

• Hard Case for iPad: The Strongest, Hardest, Most Durable iPad Case in the World?
• WaterField Designs Smart Case Offers Sleek Protection for iPhone 4
• Proporta Says Hello to the New Range of iPhone 4 Accessories

iPod Deals

These price trackers are updated every month.

• Best iPad deals
• Best classic iPod deals
• Best iPod touch deals
• Best iPod nano deals
• Best iPod shuffle deals
• Best iPhone deals

iPhone 4 News

Apple's Statement on Overwhelming iPhone 4 Preorders

Apple and its carrier partners took preorders for more than 600,000 of Apple's new iPhone 4 the first day it was available for preorder. This is the largest number of preorders Apple has ever taken in a single day and is far higher than Apple anticipated, resulting in many order and approval system malfunctions. Many customers were turned away or abandoned the process in frustration. Apple issued and apology to anyone who encountered difficulties and hopes that they will try again or visit an Apple or carrier store once the iPhone 4 is in stock.

Link: Statement by Apple on iPhone 4 Pre-Orders

AT&T: iPhone 4 Preorders 10x Higher than iPhone 3GS

AT&T issued the following statement last Wednesday:

"iPhone 4 pre-order sales yesterday were 10-times higher than the first day of pre-ordering for the iPhone 3GS last year. Consumers are clearly excited about iPhone 4, AT&T's more affordable data plans and our early upgrade pricing.

"Given this unprecedented demand and our current expectations for our iPhone 4 inventory levels when the device is available June 24, we're suspending pre-ordering today in order to fulfill the orders we've already received.

"The availability of additional inventory will determine if we can resume taking pre-orders.

"In addition to unprecedented pre-order sales, yesterday there were more than 13 million visits to AT&T's website where customers can check to see if they are eligible to upgrade to a new phone; that number is about 3-times higher than the previous record for eligibility upgrade checks in one day.

"We are working hard to bring iPhone 4 to as many of our customers as soon as possible."

Link: AT&T Wireless

The iPhone 4's 'Retina' Display

PR: Apple says that thanks to the Retina display, everything you see and do on iPhone 4 looks amazing, with text in books, web pages, and email crisp at any size, and images in movies and photos stunning at almost any angle, because the Retina display's pixel density is so high that your eye is unable to distinguish individual pixels.

By developing pixels a mere 78 micrometers wide, Apple engineers were able to pack four times the number of pixels into the same 3.5" (diagonal) screen found on earlier iPhone models. The resulting pixel density of iPhone 4 - 326 pixels per inch (PPI) - makes text and graphics look smooth and continuous at any size.

The iPhone 4 Retina display uses technology called IPS (in-plane switching) - the same technology used in the Apple LED Cinema Display and iPad - to achieve a wider viewing angle than on typical LCDs. Which means you can hold iPhone 4 almost any way you want and still get a brilliant picture. In addition, the Retina display offers four times the contrast ratio of previous models, so whites are brighter and blacks are darker.

Made from "the same materials used in helicopters and high-speed trains," the Retina display glass is chemically strengthened to be harder, more scratch resistant, and more durable than ever, and also features an oil-resistant coating that helps keep the screen clean.

The Retina display includes LED backlighting and an ambient light sensor that intelligently adjusts the brightness of the screen for optimal viewing and battery life.

Link: Retina Display (Apple)

Experts Weigh In on iPhone 4 Display Quality

Macworld's Lex Friedman says:

"It's not every week that Apple ignites a controversy. Okay, maybe that's not true, but it's not every week that Apple ignites a controversy that pits physicists, astronomers and neuroscientists against one another. But that's what happened with the introduction of the iPhone 4 and its high-resolution Retina display."

Link: Experts Weigh In on iPhone 4 Display Quality

The Retina Display Controversy

Gizmodo says:

"Apple makes a pretty ballsy claim about the iPhone 4's display: 'The pixel density is so high that the human eye is unable to distinguish individual pixels.' They're pushing against the limits of the human body. Is it true?"

Link: The iPhone 4 Retina Display Controversy

Is the iPad Going Retina?

9 to 5 Mac's Mark Gurman says:

"With the launch of Apple's iPhone 4 and its gorgeous retina display, it's a high probability that Apple will soon update their other iOS devices with better displays as well. Perhaps you don't need 326 PPI on a device that is meant to sit on your lap? Nonsense!

"We have some that evidence of an iPad with a retina display is in the works, and this evidence comes from Apple's own Developer SDK documents...."

Editor's note: The iPhone 4's Retina display has 2.5x the linear pixel density of the iPad - 326 ppi vs. 132 ppi. Since the iPad will tend to be used at a greater distance, it wouldn't need the same density as the iPhone. Bringing resolution past 200 ppi would probably be adequate to give the iPad comparable image quality, which would mean a native resolution of 1536 x 1152 (vs. 1024 x 768 on the current iPad). Doubling to 264 dpi would be more than enough, requiring a 2096 x 1536 screen. dk

Link: Is the iPad Going Retina?

iPhone 4 Glass: It Will Break

iFixYouri's Chris says:

"We here at iFixYouri did a little science experiment the other day. Many people have been talking that the new iPhone has strong glass, less prone to scratching, 30 times stronger than plastic, etc. Will the new glass prove to be ultra strong and never break?

"I'm going to go with a no on this one...."

Link: iPhone 4 Glass - Will It Break?

New York Assemblyman Calls for Ban of iPhone 4 Video-Calling from the Road

New York Magazine reports that New York State Democratic assemblyman Felix Ortiz - who sponsored New York State's landmark 2001 "hands-free" cellphone law and legislation banning text messaging - is advocating that the iPhone 4's "FaceTime" video-calling feature be banned from the roadways.

Editor's note says: Sounds like a no-brainer to me, along with banning all other sorts of cellphone and texting distractions while driving - "hands-free" devices included, since research indicated that they pose no less a hazard to attention than handhelds. See "Hang Up and Drive - Side Glances" by Road & Track's Peter Egan on why phone-gabbing and texting behind the wheel should be as socially unacceptable as driving drunk. cm

Link: State Assemblyman: Ban iPhone 4 Video-Calling From the Road

News, Reviews, & Opinion

DisplaySearch: iPad Munching Netbook Sales

The Register's Cade Metz reports:

"Yes, the iPad will munch the netbook market, according to research firm DisplaySearch.

"With a new report released on Tuesday, DisplaySearch says that Apple shipped 700,000 iPads into the channel during Q1, accounting for 6.5 per cent of the combined netbook-tablet market by volume, and in Q2, the firm says, that share will rise to 30 per cent."

Link: Clamshell Dinner - Jobs and iPad Munch Netbook Sales

Unboxing a Chocolate iPad

aheadrobot.com's Stefan Magdalinski says:

"Anyone who knows my wife, @kerrching, knows that she's a Apple nut. Also, with a June birthday, she has conveniently positioned herself perfectly for the Apple release cycle. An iPad was inevitable for her birthday, but I knew that if I just delivered a wrapped box, there wouldn't be much of a surprise.

Unboxing a chocolate-covered iPad and chipping away at the chocolate.

"Where's the fun in that? So I rang my friends James and Paul, who happens to run the finest chocolate shop in London, Paul A. Young Fine Chocolates, and said: 'Could you freeze an iPad in chocolate carbonite, and have it survive? They weren't sure, but were willing to give it a go.

"Additionally, iPads aren't available yet in South Africa, so it had to smuggled over from London, without Kay finding out what was going on...."

Photo use authorized per Creative Commons license.

Link: iPad Un(chocolate)boxing

'The iPad Is a Remedy for Distraction'

BetaNews' Joe Wilcox says:

"The world does need an Apple tablet - and perhaps others - contrary to what I asserted in late January. Gloaters will circle my admission like vultures pecking a carcass, but that's the penalty for being wrong. Yes, I was wrong....

"I bought an iPad on April 17th; earlier, I gave 12 reasons why I wouldn't. One reason for buying outweighed the 12 for not: The need to test the tablet so I could write more authoritatively about it. Apple most assuredly wouldn't send me a review unit; I don't pucker up and kiss PR butt with loving soliloquies about how great are Apple products - although this post is about as close as there may be for a long time. On May 24th, I sold the 64 GB iPad to a friend for a little less than what I paid for it. He since bought two more iPads (one 3G). But I missed the iPad and couldn't quite say why at first . . . On June 10, I bought another 64 GB iPad...."

Link: I Was Wrong about Apple iPad

iPad: 'Scale Is All the Difference in the World'

Forbes' Rich Karlgaard says:

"Today's blog is being typed on a MacBook Pro, perhaps the favorite of all my Macs. Two years old, it still has everything I need in a computer, including an ethereally comfortable keyboard. And it weighs only 5.5 pounds.

"On the other hand, I never did get the appeal of Apple's iPhone. I've owned three of them; all are sitting in a drawer somewhere, unused. I much prefer a real keyboard....

"As a Mac lover but an iPhone atheist, I didn't know what to think of Apple's iPad when it came out. Consequently I was slow to board that train . . . Last week I joined the brave early adapters and became a happy iPad customer myself.

"And I do mean happy. Outrageously happy! If an iPad is merely a scaled-up iPhone, then scale is all the difference in the world...."

Link: A Late Love Note to Apple's iPad

The Life-changing iPad

Macworld's Christopher Breen says:

"Those who've purchased an HDTV understand that when making such a purchase you don't simply buy the TV. You have to upgrade your cable or satellite TV account for HD. And since you have this glorious picture, are you really going to settle for the weak stereo sound built into the TV or cough up the money necessary for a surround-sound receiver and speakers? And then there's the hunk of furniture large enough to hold the thing.

"The iPad has a similar power to compel change. After a couple of months with Apple's tablet, these are some of the changes it's wrought in my life...."

Link: The Life-changing iPad

iPad Life-changing? Not for Me

BetaNews' Tim Conneally says:

"An article published by Macworld's Christoper Breen today said the iPad has the 'power to compel change,' and that it had 'brought welcome changes' to his life.

"Sadly, most of the 'life changes' Breen spoke of were just new peripherals he added to make his iPad actually useable in his daily regimen.

"Well, I too have been testing an iPad. But unlike Breen, I don't change my life according to my gear . . . I change my gear to suit to my life

"I'm also not in the habit of buying new furniture just so I can comfortably use a new gadget.

"So for the last three weeks I've been on vacation touring around Eastern Europe . . . I equipped myself with the latest 2010 MacBook (2.4 GHz Core 2 Duo, 2 GB SDRAM) and a 3G iPad to test whether the iPad could actually 'cannibalize' Apple's lowest-end notebooks by equaling or surpassing their functionality....

"To make a very long story very short, the iPad does not threaten to replace the MacBook, and it is specifically because of all those additional 'life changes' you make for the device."

Link: Life-changing iPad? Not My Life

Church Broadcasts Services on iPhone and iPad

heraldscotland.com's Carrie McAdam reports:

"A church is tapping into new technology to allow people to worship without attending services.

"St Andrew's Church in Bo'ness, West Lothian, is to screen its services in real time on iPhones and iPads. It is hoped that the scheme will be expanded to other devices such as BlackBerries and Nokia phones."

Link: Digital Rev-olution: Church Shows Its Services on iPhone and iPad

St. Andrew's multimedia is provided by Sanctus Media, a company which spun out of St Andrew's church, and both the iPhone app and the sermon Godcasts are free.

Link: St. Andrew's Parish Church

Scottish Church Streams Services to iPads

eWeek Europe's Peter Judge reports:

"The HTML5 media format used by iPads has been blessed by St Andrew's Parish Church in West Lothian, with a regular live service

"[The church] believes it is the first to stream its services in real time to iPhones and iPads, and more than doubled its normal Sunday attendance with online participants. The church has had a Flash stream for a while, but added an iPhone-compatible stream for mobile devices for its service on 13 June....

"'I think it is amazing how the church is getting to that stage where local church is reaching out to people all over the world,' said Rev. [Alfred] Bogle in his sermon, suggesting that technology could allow churches to reach a level of maturity proposed by St Paul in his letter to the Ephesians. Through technology and the ability to travel, local churches can find themselves growing into a whole new dimension of living...."

Link: Scottish Church Streams Services to iPads

To Refer or Not to Refer to the Bible App

Apple Gazette's RJ Huneke says:

"How do millions of argumentative students, from the world's different cultures, read, study and translate the Bible for educational debate? How do the theologians keep their memories of a multi-thousand-page book sharp? Now everyone can do this easily and can refer to the Christian biblical writings, in 41 different translations, with LifeChurch.tv's free 'Bible' application for the iPhone....

"The 'Bible' App is incredibly in-depth, intuitive and essential to referencing the big book . . . well planned and well organized, and even comes with reading plans to help readers track their progress and bookmark select verses. The application's settings are phenomenally specific and allow the user to take control of the lighting background, the font size and the amount of the lines shown in the passages' previews...."

Link: To Refer or Not to Refer to the Bible App

How to Make a Waterproof, Kitchen-Proof iPad Case and Stand

Wired's Charlie Sorrel says:

"This is only a how-to in the loosest sense....

"But the surprise is just how amazingly well this combination works, alone or apart. Here's the video...."

Link: How-To Make a Waterproof, Kitchen-Proof iPad Case and Stand

iPad Replacing Owner's Manual for Hyundai Equus

The Age's Stephen Ottley reports:

"The humble car owner's manual looks like it's heading the way of the Dodo, with Hyundai instead issuing Apple iPads to owners of its new premium sedan in the United States.

"In a bid to demonstrate its technical savvy and premium intentions, Hyundai will load all the technical information about its range-topping Equus sedan on to an iPad.

"The move is believed to be a first for the car industry, although BMW offers a digital manual on its i-Drive database in the 7-Series."

Link: iPad Replaces Car Owner's Manual

Turn a Macintosh Classic into an iPad Stand

geek.com's Matthew Humphries says that when buying an iPad, there's always the temptation to get a few accessories as well, but before you do, consider if there's any old Apple hardware lying around at home. An iPad stand will cost $29 for the Dock or $69 for the Keyboard Dock. Gutting an old iBook or original Macintosh Classic will cost nothing and is surprisingly well-suited to being used as a stand for the iPad. That's because it shipped with a 9" screen allowing for an almost perfect fit with the iPad's 9.7" display....

Link: Turn Your Old iBook or Macintosh Classic into an iPad Stand

Apps & Services

AutoStitch 3.0 Brings Advanced Panoramic Photography to the iPhone

PR: Vancouver-based Cloudburst Research released AutoStitch 3.0, which brings major improvements in panoramic photography to the iPhone. AutoStitch is the only solution that can automatically combine any arrangement of photos into high resolution panoramas of up to 20 megapixels in size.

This latest release introduces advanced image compositing techniques, previously seen only on desktop computers, to give the highest quality output ever seen on a mobile device. With sophisticated new blending and exposure compensation algorithms, AutoStitch removes brightness differences while preserving the sharpness of the original images, giving seamless panoramas that rival the results of the best desktop software. Version 3.0 also introduces the ability to share panoramas with Facebook and email, a new in-app video tutorial, and a new improved icon. AutoStitch is available now on the iPhone 3G/3GS, iPad and iPod touch.

AutoStitch brings professional quality photography to the iPhone by providing two valuable capabilities: wide-angle photography and high-resolution imaging. Its fully automated stitching approach provides a user experience that has proven to be simple and fun for even the most casual user.

Supported Languages:

• US English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish

Device Requirements:

• iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad
• Requires iPhone OS 3.0 or later
• 9.1 MB

AutoStitch 3.0 is $2.99 and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Photography category. The full App Store name is AutoStitch Panorama.

Link: AutoStitch Panorama (download link)

Tiffany's iPhone App for Engagement Rings

PR: The Tiffany luxury shopping experience goes mobile with an iPhone app that features new ways to explore the world's most exquisite diamond engagement rings.

As the premier jeweler for engagement, Tiffany takes its celebrated diamonds directly to the customer with the Tiffany & Co. Engagement Ring Finder, the jeweler's first iPhone application. In response to a growing customer desire for mobile and interactive shopping, the app offers users the tools for selecting the perfect Tiffany diamond engagement ring, from viewing the range of styles to learning about the superior qualities of Tiffany diamonds.

The app includes an accurate Ring Sizer, the first tool of its kind from a jeweler, that lets users determine their size by placing an actual ring directly on the screen and aligning it with the correct circle in the guide. Browsing the collection according to shape, setting, metal or design is equally simple. The rings are shown true-to-size and each style may be viewed with diamonds of six different carat sizes. Users may zoom in on a ring's exquisite details, pair the rings with wedding bands, and save or share their favorites via e-mail, Facebook and Twitter.

In addition, users can make an appointment for a diamond consultation via phone or e-mail. The app will appear in English (in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia) and Japanese, with prices in local currency. Prices will not appear in the Chinese version or in the international English version that is available to all other countries.

For those looking to buy or hoping to receive a Tiffany diamond ring, the app is an extension of the world's diamond authority, reaching out with its exceptional brand of service to deliver the ultimate in quality and beauty.

Link: Tiffany & Co. Engagement Ring Finder (download link)

Top Bible Memorization App Now Supports Customized Verse Lists

PR: Mobilize Faith, LLC has announced the release of a free update to Bible Memory, its best-selling Bible study and verse memorization app for the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. The new update allows users to add, edit, and categorize an unlimited number of Bible verses in any translation and in any language. Past versions limited users to 250 preselected verses. Verses can be typed in manually or cut and pasted from any online Bible source.

"The Bible is personal. Scripture speaks differently to different people," says Petra Barrientos, Managing Partner of Mobilize Faith. "Our original version was designed to make it easy to commit Scripture to heart with preselected verses. With this upgrade we give our users complete flexibility in choosing the Bible verses they want to memorize."

Bible Memory can be used in conjunction with other Bible study and devotional guides that encourage Bible verse memorization. The Bible Memory app has been designed to creatively utilize the interactive features of the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad to help users have fun and stay engaged while memorizing Bible scripture:

• Each Bible verse is presented in three learning modes: read the Bible verse; review the verse a phrase at a time as users practice their ability to recall words of scripture; and complete three rounds of timed, fill-in-the-blank quizzes that become more difficult.
• Bible Memory not only helps users memorize verses, it also creates a support system for scripture study and extends the benefits through social networking and sharing. Users can share scripture via Facebook by posting verses directly onto their Facebook wall from within the Bible Memory App.
• The app allows users to identify up to three Bible study partners who are notified of progress and who can help keep users accountable.
• Users can set an audible alert to remind them that it is time to study.
• Automatic quizzes test retention of previously memorized verses.
• Metrics provide visual feedback on overall progress, by category, and by retention quiz results.
• Users can share any verse with integrated email and help others expand their Bible Memory library.

Bible Memory was designed and developed with the help of Hawk Ridge Consulting, LLC, a developer of unique and entertaining applications for the iPhone and iPod touch.

Device Requirements:

• iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad
• Requires iPhone OS 3.0 or later
• 2.2 MB

Bible Memory 1.2 is $5.99 (or equivalent amount in other currencies) and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Reference category. The upgrade is now available for free download.

Link: Bible Memory (download link)

Accessories

StickUp: Solid, Pocket Sized, Adjustable Stand for the iPad

PR: Your tablet needs a stand that you can take with you, that's strong enough to let you interact at a reclined angle, and which can raise your iPad vertically for more passive viewing.

The StickUp from Inchbald Limited of London supports your tablet at angles ranging between 30° and 80°, very solidly at lower angles; rubber grips hold your tablet in place on the table; and it folds up into a flat rectangle, easily small enough for your pocket, and weighing less than 50g or 2 oz., far smaller than anything with comparable functionality.

Black StickUp 17 sells for £24.99 (about $30)

Worldwide delivery in 1-5 days for £1.35 (under $2) per order.

Link: StickUp

New iPad Accessories from newPCgadgets

PR: newPCgadgets has been filling orders at a record pace since last month's introduction of three new accessories for the iPad. Each of these new products target improving the look and overall function of the iPad in a unique way.

The Security Case for the iPad has become one of the most popular, and swift selling aftermarket cases. The two digit combination lock, while easy to use, provides a secure solution to preventing unauthorized use. The black leather case gives the iPad an elegant look, while the three adjustable viewing positions improve comfort and functionality. In just the last four weeks newPCgadgets has shipped thousands of these cases, outpacing sales of all of their other products combined. At $44.95, the iPad Security Case is only a few dollars more than the Apple case, offering better quality and more features.

Link: Security Case for iPad

The new Pedestal Base for the iPad is a high-tech looking black acrylic stand designed for supporting the iPad at home or office. The Pedestal Base raises and improves the viewing angle of the iPad while showing off your latest Apple gadget. The Pedestal Base is designed similar to the acrylic bases you see in the Apple Store. At $29.95, the Pedestal Base will give your iPad the attention it deserves.

Link: Pedestal Base for iPad

One of the most clever new product introductions may be the new Vanity Plate for the iPad. Unlike the iPhone and the iPod touch, Apple does not offer engraving on the back of the iPad. The new Vanity Plate is a stainless steel plate engraved with the iPad owners valuable contact information which adheres to any iPad case with double sided adhesive. The Vanity Plate is the perfect solution to making sure good Samaritans have a way to contact you in the event you misplace your iPad. At $12.95, the Vanity Plate is insurance and elegance all-in-one.

Link: Vanity Plate for iPad

Kensington Smart Travel Tips & Accessories: 6 Affordable, Grab & Go Must Haves for Summer Put You in Charge

PR: Kensington Computer Products Group offers a wide variety of products to keep you connected wherever your journey takes you this summer travel season. Kensington's smart made simple™ accessories are with you every step of your vacation - from charging your iPhone on airplanes, to boosting your GPS volume in the car and packing your mobile devices safely on foot.

A recent 2010 USA Today report ("Summer travel rebound: Are we there yet?" by Larry Copeland and Gary Stoller, USA Today, May 21, 2010) indicates that travel professionals are ready to declare an end to the era of the stay-at-home vacation. With this increase in tourism, and to help travelers make the most of their summer vacations, Kensington offers the following smart tips and products for fun and safe journeys:

1. Get rid of the drain - Pack backup power that will work within any environment, as your travel takes you through hotels, rental cars, airplanes, trains, and nature scenes. Look for products that will charge many items simultaneously, such as a laptop, smartphone, e-reader, MP3 player, or digital camera.
2. Expect the unexpected - Don't leave home without your survival kit in case your tour guide takes a detour for a longer than planned trip! Bring water, snacks, GPS or maps, a mobile phone, a battery pack to stay fully powered, and a comfortable bag to pack it all in on your journey.
3. It's not the destination. It's the journey - Take a stand against "staycations." Summer travel can be fun and affordable, just by leaving your neighborhood and visiting local lakes for a swim or mountains for a hike. Take your loved ones, a camera, and iPod or other mobile device for a day trip just miles away to make new summer memories.
4. Only bring what you can carry - There's no point in packing your life away for a week's vacation, especially if your items won't be coming with you outside of a hotel. Try to bring only the essentials to save space and lighten your load, such as accessories to keep your personal technology safe and fully charged.

Kensington Travel Battery Pack and Charger for iPhone and iPod touch (K33456US; SRP $69.99)

Perfect for long flights and small travel bags, here's a big boost of power with zero charging cables to pack. Everything you need to charge and power your iPhone or iPod is built in to the Kensington Travel Battery Pack and Charger for iPhone and iPod touch. It even doubles as a kickstand for hands-free landscape viewing of movies and video when you're on the road.

• Built-in dock connector charges your iPhone and flip-out USB tip recharges battery pack
• Extends play time up to 23 hours music, up to 7 hours of video and up to 5 hours of talk time (designed for iPhone and iPod touch)
• Compatibility includes iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G, iPhone, iPod touch. It charges iPod nano (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th gen), iPod classic, iPod mini, and iPod (1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th gen).

Kensington Windshield/Vent Car Mount with Sound Amplified Cradle for iPhone (K66627US; SRP $39.99)

Give your phone calls a sound boost in the car with the Kensington Windshield/Vent Car Mount with Sound Amplified Cradle for iPhone. The built-in amplification system in the cradle doubles the volume coming from your iPhone speaker, making it easier to hear your turn-by-turn directions, calls and more. The cradle mounts in seconds to the windshield or vent and holds your iPhone securely on even the roughest terrain.

• Amplifies iPhone speaker for double the volume with no added battery drain
• Includes both windshield and vent mounts
• Cradle pivots for vertical or landscape modes
• Works with any navigation application for iPhone (inclusive of Navigon, TomTom, and more)
• Includes 4 sets of swappable rubber inserts to fit 2G/3G/3GS iPhones with and without a case

Kensington PowerBolt Micro Car Charger (K39224US; SRP $24.99)

Turn drive time into charge time with the Kensington PowerBolt Micro Car Charger. With 2.1 Amps, there's plenty of power to give your iPad, iPhone, and iPod a quick charge. And its ultra low-profile design blends nicely into your vehicle's interior.

• Now 2.1 Amps ready to provide quick iPad charging
• Detachable USB cable lets you charge and sync your iPad, iPhone or iPod
• Compatible with iPad, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G, iPhone, iPod touch, iPod nano (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th gen), iPod classic, iPod mini, iPod (1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th gen) excluding 3rd Generation iPod

Kensington Sling Bag (9"-10") (K62571US; SRP $19.99)

Your sleek iPad deserves better than a standard computer bag. And the Kensington Sling Bag delivers. Slide in your iPad, sling it over your shoulder and you're good to go in style while keeping your iPad safe from bumps and scratches. The Sling Bag has room for your iPad, netbook or tablet PC, plus all of your essentials.

• Over-the-shoulder, messenger bag style sling with adjustable Velcro strap
• Outside pocket with mobile phone compartment
• Inside soft padded safety compartment for your iPad protects it against bumps and scratches and accessory pocket for wallet, keys and more
• Fits iPad, netbooks or other tablet PC up to 10.2"

Kensington Wall/Air Ultra Compact Notebook Power Adapter (K38067US; SRP $119.99)

Fly through airports with the Kensington Wall/Air Ultra Compact Notebook Power Adapter. It also charges other mobile devices, even in the air, so you'll have fewer chargers to pack. And it's Energy Star qualified, so it uses an average of 30% less energy than conventional power adapters.

• 43% smaller and 32% lighter than standard power adapters (based on regular 90 watt adapter)
• Built-in USB power port charges mobile devices
• Travel pack includes airline charging cable, retractable mini USB charging cable, micro USB adapter tip and travel pouch
• Compatible with laptop computers from HP/Compaq, Dell, Acer, Toshiba, Lenovo/IBM, Sony, Gateway, and Asus (Editor's note: But not Apple MacBooks, alas, due to Apple's unwillingness to license third-parties to use its MagSafe connector. cm)

Kensington ComboSaver Combination Portable Notebook Lock (K64560US; SRP $24.99)

Protect your notebook from theft wherever you go. This easy-to-use combination lock has a low-profile design and self-coiling cable for easy travel to keep laptop securely anchored. The lock attaches to 99% of laptops with patented T-bar locking mechanism.

• 10,000 personalized combination codes and online registration makes it easy to retrieve lost combinations
• 4-wheel keyless combination lock
• 6' self-coiling steel cable retracts to 3"

These Kensington products are currently available for purchase at Amazon.com.

Protection

Hard Case for iPad: The Strongest, Hardest, Most Durable iPad Case in the World?

Despite my having conducted my journalistic endeavours on computers for some two decades now, I've never abandoned pens, pencils, and paper. I still draft most of my long form articles and columns longhand, submit my income tax returns on paper, and virtually all of my to-do lists are hard copy as well. I'm something of a clipboard aficionado, and I have about half a dozen of them - from basic masonite slabs with a clip, to hardwood clipboard boxes with compartments for paper and input devices (AKA pens and pencils).

Consequently, I'm quite smitten with the new Hard Case aluminum contractor clipboard-cum-iPad case, and if (when?) I get an iPad, I've gotta have one of these.

Hard Case is claimed to be the strongest, hardest, most durable iPad case in the world. It also keeps your iPad discretely hidden so it's less likely anyone will think of stealing it.

Hard Case for iPad is ideal for use in many industries including: law enforcement, film industry, medical, emergency crew, construction, contractors, plumbing, electricians, inspectors, appraisers, realtors, insurance, railroad, government, law, military, lumberjacks, mining, manufacturing, fire and rescue, mobile professionals.

Made from heavy duty aluminum with a weather resistant lacquer finish, the Hard Case for iPad has many great innovations not found in other iPad cases.

Hard Case features a high capacity clipboard to keep forms and papers securely in place. The Forms Shelf can hold work orders, receipts and blue prints. Your important documents are secure and can always be found when needed.

Hard Case offers the ultimate iPad protection. Your iPad is cradled securely within a high density polyurethane foam. The foam padding system is machined to fit perfectly around your iPad to offer extremely good shock protection. The iPad compartment is lidded with additional foam to keep your iPad safe and secure even under extreme conditions. The iPad compartment also includes a built-in tool tray to keep track of your pen and stylus or other accessories.

Hard Case is claimed to increase productivity. Customers can email photos from another job site. You can check supply costs over the Internet. You can complete the bid and return it hours before your competitors will even get back to their offices to check email. You can even take payments and mark up invoices on the spot - instead of spending hours of your home time catching up with paperwork.

The durable Hard Case features strong aluminum clasps to keep it from opening accidentally. Non-Skid backing strips prevent scratching on vehicles or furniture. Hard Case protects your iPad from construction site hazards that would scratch or break an iPad in any other case.

Another very important feature of Hard Case is stealth. Contractors know that any unattended computer or iPad left at the job site will probably be stolen. Hard Case keeps your iPad out of sight. It looks just like any other construction clipboard, and nobody wants to steal your clipboard.

Hard Case for iPad Early Adopter Special

Order Now to get the special Early Adopter price of $49.95 (+ $19.50 shipping & handling).

Approximate shipping date will be June 25th.

Link: Hard Case for iPad

WaterField Designs Smart Case Offers Sleek Protection for iPhone 4

PR: WaterField Designs unveils a new Smart Case design exclusively for the Apple iPhone 4. The new Smart Case sports distressed leather sides and a choice of six new colors. WaterField Designs, a leading maker of custom-fitted computer bags and cases for digital gear, manufactures all products locally in San Francisco and can thus offer new custom-sized cases quickly.

The iPhone 4 Smart Case

• Unique, multi-layered padding system with a high-impact, rigid insert to protect screen.
• Naturally tanned, distressed, brown leather flanks each side for an easy grip.
• Protective Ultrasuede scratch-free liner cleans iPhone 4 as it is inserted/extracted.
• Textured, highly water-resistant outer nylon material.
• All internal stitching and thin design for a sleek and smooth look.
• Six color options let users mix and match with their Muzetto and iPad Smart Case.

Three functional style options offer carrying options:

• Slip style: for stashing in a pocket or bag
• Flap style: for attaching to a bag or backpack strap for quick access.
• Clip style: for clipping to a belt or bag.

"For the new iPhone 4, we have updated the look of the slim protective Smart Case," explained owner Gary Waterfield. "Our intricate construction process for the Smart Case produces a clean, svelte look and protects the iPhone 4 screen - which all too many cases don't do. We added distressed leather - a favorite among our customers - to upgrade the popular design and to match the Muzetto and iPad Smart Case."

WaterField also offers the iPhone Travel Case designed to keep the iPhone 4 and its accessories organized and tangle-free. Custom-sized, padded interior compartments keep neat and separated. Self-locking zippers ensure the contents don't spill out accidentally. All three sizes maintain their thin and compact shape, even when fully packed.

The iPhone 4 Smart Case

• Three styles: Slip $39, Flap $45 and Clip $45
• Six colors: Black, Copper, Pine, Green, Flame or Pearl.
• Available now for pre-order at sfbags.com
• Shipping July 9, 2010

The iPhone 4 Travel Case

• Three sizes: Small $35, Medium $37, Large $39.
• Six colors: Black, Brown, Green, Blue, Red, Silver.
• Available now.

Link: WaterField Designs

Proporta Says Hello to the New Range of iPhone 4 Accessories

PR: Apple has announced its fastest and most powerful iPhone yet, offering critical new features including not one but two cameras with built-in LED flash, FaceTime calling, A4 processor, and at 9.3 millimeters thick it is the world's thinnest iPhone. Another gold star for Apple it seems.

Whether it's Proporta's signature traditional Aluminium Lined protection you're after, or a thin (but ridiculously tough) clear Mizu Shell that floats your boat, Proporta has custom made a collection of cases and accessories to protect your brand spanking new iPhone 4 and keep it looking slick and stylish to boot.

For the ladies, Proporta is delighted to announce a new collection of Shine Cases for the iPhone 4. Available in three colours (red,black and blue) with an internal mirror and a choice of beautiful print linings (floral, zebra print and nautical stripes).

Proporta Silicone Cases are available to order now and will be in stock a few days before the iPhone goes on sale, meaning you can protect your Apple iPhone 4 as soon as you get your hands on it.

For the fingerprint phobics among us, the Proporta Advanced Screen Protector is perfect for protecting the iPhone 4's precious screen from scratches, dust and fingerprints. The Echo Mirror Screen Protector becomes reflective when the iPhone is switched off.

Shine Case (Apple iPhone 4)

If you're lucky enough to get your mitts on an iPhone, you should protect it in style. Handmade from stylish patent leather, the Shine Case (Apple iPhone 4) not only protects your iPhone, but also features an internal mirror. So you can look almost as good as your iPhone.

$36.95

Aluminium Lined Leather Case (Apple iPhone 4)

The Proporta Aluminium Lined Leather Case Apple 4G iPhone is handmade to meet the exact specifications of your device

$42.95

Impact Protective Crystal Back Shell (Apple iPhone 4)

The Impact Protective Crystal Back Shell is designed to protect your Apple iPhone 4 without taking anything away from its sleek and stylish design. Super tough and robust, this crystal case protects against knocks and impact damage, whilst remaining soft and silky to the touch.

$21.95

Antimicrobial Silicone Case with SteriTouch (Apple iPhone 4)

Crafted from a super tough silicone skin, the Antimicrobial Silicone Case with SteriTouch (Apple iPhone 4) guards against scratching and impact damage, whilst an antimicrobial coating protects against germs and bacteria. This stylish and lightweight case doesn't just look after your iPhone 4 - it looks after you as well.

$28.95

Mizu Shell (Apple iPhone 4)

Protect your Apple iPhone 4 with Proporta's Mizu Shell Apple iPhone 4. Made from really tough silicone, this innovative case gives you the flexibility of a soft case, with the strength and toughness of a hard case, and all the design quality you'd expect from Proporta.

$30.95

Aluminium Lined Leather Pouch (Apple iPhone 4)

Protect your iPhone 4 in style with the Aluminium Lined Leather Pouch. It features Proporta's trademark "Screen Saver System", with a sheet of lightweight aircraft grade aluminium to protect against crushing and screen damage.

$43.95

Link: Proporta Cases for iPhone 4