GigaOM » Apple

Sponsor post: If You Hate Meetings, You’ll Love This. Online Meetings at join.me.

Edit Staff — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 21:59:16 +0000

Forget the commute. There’s no need to rush to the conference room. Have your meetings online, for free, at join.me. How will you use it? Here are a few time-saving — dare we say, life-saving — ideas.

1. Walk through your presentation.
There’s nothing worse than sending over a PDF before a meeting and having your client sneak a peek before you talk. Instead, start a join.me session so your participants can see one page at a time while you share your point of view.

2. Collaboratively build a document.
Start a join.me session to brainstorm on a topic, wherever you are. You can keep a document going live so everyone can see the updates as they happen. In the end, when your document is complete and agreed upon, you can instantly transfer it to everybody.

3. Have an impromptu meeting.
Good ideas don’t always happen when a meeting is scheduled. Grab your colleague on the fly whenever genius strikes by sharing your screen at join.me. It’s an instant ad-hoc meeting.

4. Start a cult.
The point is, you can do whatever you want with join.me because it’s so flexible, easy and instant. If you want to get people together and on the same page, whether it’s for a business presentation or to convince everyone to wear red sneakers and worship some lesser-known sea creature, then hey, to each his own.

Ready to try it out for yourself? Head over to join.me and start your meeting now.

Sponsor post: Quick Search Box or Quicksilver?

Nick Santilli — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 23:07:03 +0000

For years I (along with the rest of TheAppleBlog) have championed the launcher known as Quicksilver. Its versatility solidified it as a must-have utility on any Mac. But as OS X matured, the developer’s attention to Quicksilver waned, and he was eventually hired on at Google. Known for encouraging employee pet projects, Google soon announced Quick Search Box, which from all indications appeared to be the evolution of Quicksilver.

The story doesn’t end there. Quick Search Box started life as a fairly dumbed-down, albeit OS X-compatible, alternative to Quicksilver. It seemed that this new offering had the support of Google and would go far. In the meantime, Quicksilver’s code was open-sourced, and the community started slowly hacking away at it.

Now today, we have access to a community-supported version of Quicksilver that runs smoothly on OS X 10.6, as well as the Google-backed Quick Search Box which also works well enough. So which is the better choice for daily use?

I dumped Quicksilver a year or so ago in favor of Quick Search Box. The replacement was good enough for launching and finding files, and since that’s mostly what I used it for, things were good. However, as time passed, the functionality of Google’s product hasn’t closed the gap nearly as much as I’d like to see. Neither has the developer support really exploded in the form of plugins, as we’ve seen over the years for Quicksilver. Worst of all, Quick Search Box isn’t as responsive as I’d like.

So not too long ago, I went to Blacktree and downloaded the latest Quicksilver release. I found it to be much faster than the Google solution right away. Further use has shown it to be nowhere near as buggy as it once was (I have yet to experience a Quicksilver crash after a couple months’ use). But the best part is, all of the old functionality I knew and loved — both native (oh, how I missed complex triggers) as well as plugin support (let’s hear it for text and image manipulation) — is there and better than ever.

Whether you’re a current user of Google’s Quick Search Box, a past user of Quicksilver or new to both, I’d highly recommend taking a look at the latest build of Quicksilver. It’s been a happy homecoming for me, and I’m confident that the great functionality, speed, and extensibility that the app offers will make it of great use to you, too.

If you’ve found bliss with either program, please share your tale, and what it was that was the make or break feature for you.

Related content from GigaOM Pro (sub req’d):

Sponsor post: Akamai Launches Open Video Player for HTML5 Toolkit

Sponsor — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 16:00:19 +0000

Akamai has released a new Open Video Player for HTML5 < video > developer toolkit, aimed at simplifying the task of creating flexible HTML5-based video player applications for delivery of HTTP content.

The goal of the Open Video Player for HTML5 < video > is to provide a foundation to allow developers to quickly implement world-class solutions for cross- platform/device/format video applications, providing their users with a consistent, high-quality experience through Akamai’s rich media management, delivery and measurement solutions: www.akamai.com/HTML5.

With adaptive bitrate video technology that automatically adjusts video quality levels based on a user’s connection speed (Wi-Fi, 3G, Edge) consistent security and analytics –- all part of Akamai’s HD Network – content owners can deliver the highest-quality video experiences possible — even 24×7 TV channels — on portable devices. This toolkit will make it easier for them to create such experiences for the iPad and iPhone and better service their audiences through a portable, ‘best possible screen’ viewing approach.

The player provides a code library supporting industry best practices and standards such as CSS, JavaScript, HTML/HTML5 and Yahoo Media RSS 2.0. This means developers can dramatically reduce the time it takes to create an HTML5 < video >-based experience to support Apple’s iOS devices (iPhone, iPad, iPod touch), as well as other browsers/devices supporting HTML5 < video >: www.akamai.com/HTML5.

Sponsor post: Akamai Launches Open Video Player for HTML5 Toolkit

Sponsor — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 16:00:37 +0000

Sponsor post: iPads, Say Hello to Flash –- With LogMeIn Ignition

Sponsor — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 17:00:28 +0000

Beef up your iPad’s capabilities with LogMeIn Ignition. With just a simple touch, you can control your work or home computer (Mac or PC) –- including your applications, files, emails and databases, even programs not supported by iPad or iPhone (ahem, Flash). It turns a cool multimedia touchscreen device into a really powerful business tool.

Case in point: A businesswoman has a website that can only be updated using Internet Explorer; with Ignition, she can access IE through her iPad to get the job done. Using it, she’s managed her business remotely in coffee shops and while on the road. And her netbook has been gathering dust ever since.

Graphic designers can also keep doing business in a pinch. Everything on your work Mac can be accessed through your iPad, including your entire Adobe Creative Suite. While you wouldn’t necessarily want to build full websites on your iPad (hmm, sounds like a challenge), you can access and update your creative work wherever you are.

And couch potatoes, rejoice. Seriously, we’ve heard from people who use their iPad to access their upstairs computer because they didn’t want to get up. If you’re lounging remotely, you can play Flash-based games located on your home computer from your iPad, or bring up your entire photo library located on your home computer for the in-laws to see.

So who says the iPad has limitations? Break the barriers with LogMeIn Ignition. It’s fast, easy and secure, and makes a device that’s already really cool, über cool.

Sponsor post: SlingPlayer Lands on Android Phones

Sponsor — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 19:00:31 +0000

You could be motoring in your gadget-laden yacht, riding in your car (back seat, right?), waiting for a flight or be just about anywhere when you need to satisfy your mobile television addiction. We’re seeing lots of people who want to stay connected to the FIFA World Cup matches, the NBA finals or local MLB action.

To watch your home TV anywhere you are, Android-style, all it takes is a Slingbox connected to your home TV system and the slickest-ever version of SlingPlayer Mobile loaded on your phone. SlingPlayer mobile already works on a large variety of smartphones, but the bestest and fastest version just became available for Android phones.

And it’s easy. From your shiny new EVO 4G, just connect to a Slingbox SOLO, PRO or PRO-HD. SlingPlayer Mobile for Android makes it a snap for you to watch and control your home TV right on your phone. You are the master of your DVR. Change channels, watch and schedule recorded programs — even impress everyone in line at the DMV or jury duty.

This is the fastest version of SlingPlayer Mobile to date and the picture quality is first-rate. Startup of the app is quick, and its new interface is sleek, easy to use and responsive. Recent channels are always at your fingertips. So go get it.

Sponsor post: Are You Swimsuit-ready? How About Remote Access-ready?

Sponsor — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 17:00:23 +0000

Summer is just around the corner, and if you’re human, you’re not going to want to be stuck inside an office when it’s gorgeous out. But you can’t just shirk your responsibilities either. Don’t worry, there is a way you can get out, enjoy the summer and stay productive. Set up remote access from LogMeIn now, and you’ll be in business, wherever you are, all summer.

With LogMeIn Free, you can access your work computer from anywhere, at anytime, for (as the name implies) free. All you need is an Internet connection to control your work computer desktop, including all your files, emails and applications, from your home computer, laptop or tropical island beach resort computer station. Just sayin’.

Once you’ve set up your LogMeIn Free account, you can also get remote access on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and coming soon…Android. Look for LogMeIn Ignition to It puts all your computers at your fingertips.

So as you’re getting ready for summer, get your Mac ready, too. It’s a whole lot easier and faster than squat thrusts and ab crunches.

See LogMeIn in action and connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.

Enjoy the summer!

Sponsor post: Atimi – How to Successfully Market Your Mobile App

Sponsor — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 17:00:04 +0000

One of the most common mistakes companies make in developing an app, whether for iPhone, Android or BlackBerry devices, is the failure to create a broader marketing strategy. Without one, apps will go unnoticed in app stores or on the web. At Atimi Software Inc., app development integrates a marketing strategy that includes both traditional marketing and media outreach. Reaching out to the media to have your app written up or reviewed is not only a great way to gain publicity, but also a means to gain valuable feedback on the app.

Targeting your app to a specific demographic is also a key part of Atimi’s app development process. All too often the targeted demographics are too large. Given the level of competition in app stores, funds should be spent with a concise focus until the user base is large enough to further expand.

However, creating a marketing plan is only one (albeit a large one) aspect of marketing an app. Users are quick to make a decision in an app store, so having a compelling app icon will ensure your app stands out and isn’t confused with competitors. Moreover, screenshots in iTunes are another important opportunity for marketing. Whether the images describe the app or displays the app in action, consider the screenshots as another valuable marketing opportunity: use only the best. Atimi understands that app development is a significant investment, and that funds should be allocated to market the app using some of the outlined strategies.

Sponsor post: Atimi: One-Stop Shop for iPhone, iPad and Macintosh Application Development

Sponsor — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 17:00:43 +0000

Atimi is a cross-platform development company that specializes in Macintosh development, porting applications from Windows to the Macintosh, and mobile application development for the iPhone and iPad.

An innovator in the iPhone mobile space, Atimi has developed applications for leading global brands in media & entertainment (the New York Times and HBO); fashion (Donna Karan); health (ann-e); youth education and gaming (Etch-A-Sketch by Freeze Tag); finance (TIO Networks); sports (Vancouver Canucks) and utility (Drive Savers). More than 65% of the Atimi developed applications have been featured by Apple in TV ads, iTunes advertising, in-store or in Apple print ads, with many applications placing in the Top 10 Best/Best in Class App categories.

Atimi has several major iPad apps in the works. As an expert in app development, Atimi understands the unique approach to iPad development, what’s required to take advantage of all that this new product offers and produce an award-winning app.

Atimi’s comprehensive process for developing and launching apps leaves no stone unturned. Typically, the Atimi development process includes discovering what is going to make the app stand out, analyzing competitors, mocking up key screens and defining the marketing strategy. The Atimi Orchard iPhone rapid development framework provides the most asked-for features and facilitates the creation of quality apps in the shortest possible time.

Whether for iPhone, iPad or Macintosh, Atimi truly is a one-stop app development shop.

Sponsor post: Atimi Software and Its Global Pursuit of Talent

Sponsor — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 17:00:59 +0000

Recently Scott Michaels of Atimi Software Inc. accepted awards on behalf of the company from the Information and Communications Technology Council for its dedication to seeking, supporting and cultivating the talents of new Canadians. Finding Atimi-caliber team members whose skill sets include that right mix of technical experience, commitment to innovation and affable qualities sometimes requires going beyond a domestic search. The ICTC recognition is a great honor for a company that prides itself on promoting diversity, professionalism and a commitment to technological advancement in the realm of software development.

Atimi is proud to be a part of the ICTC initiative and its commitment to developing and integrating internationally educated professionals to the Canadian labor market.

Sponsor post: Atimi Software Inc. Canucks App Hits #1

Sponsor — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 17:00:25 +0000

The official Canucks iPhone application has become the #1 downloaded app in the free sports app category in the Canadian App Store. Released on February 9th, the app quickly hit 18,000 downloads within two weeks; that number now exceeds 33,000.

The first and only NHL team app to achieve such success allows fans to stay connected to the Vancouver Canucks team with exclusive news, features, message boards, videos, scores and statistics.

With over two hundred 5-star ratings, the app has attracted worldwide attention, with downloads from Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Click here to download the official Canucks App to be a part of the action.

Sponsor post: Sponsor post: LogMeIn Pro2 for Mac Is Here

Edit Staff — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:00:42 +0000

In case you haven’t seen our banners — above this post, to the right of it and down along the bottom of the page — or noticed the custom wallpaper, it’s worth repeating:

Pro2 for Mac is here!

We’re so excited we even made a little video about it. So if you’re the type of person that wants to go anywhere and do anything, at anytime, without worrying that you’re leaving something behind — if you want to be free to be you — try Pro2 free, today.

Sponsor post: Sponsor post: Calling All Macs!

Edit Staff — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:00:34 +0000

Free yourself from limitations with LogMeIn remote access.

The new LogMeIn Pro2 for Mac gives you the freedom to remotely access your Mac — anywhere, anytime. But don’t just imagine it. Try it free, today!

More freedom to be a Mac

Pro2 for Mac lets you access and manage your remote Mac from virtually any Internet-enabled device. Even a PC. It gives you more freedom to roam knowing you’re not leaving anything behind.

You can even transfer files, print from a remote Mac to the nearest printer and share your desktop so you can collaborate on the go.

Never settle for less

Look, you want to do what you want to do, when you want to do it. So why settle for products that put limitations on your abilities? Other alternatives are often more expensive, less flexible or just aren’t easy to use. Not cool.

So why settle for less when, in this case, more is better? More freedom, more control, more functions. Whether you want more mobility or easier access to apps and information, we invite you to try out LogMeIn. It’s simple, fast and comprehensive.

Anytime, anywhere remote “Maccess”

Try it free today.

This post may contain the trademarks and service marks of Apple, Inc. and such trademarks and service marks are the property of Apple, Inc.

Sponsor post: Sponsor post: LogMeIn Free Lets You Work From Anywhere

Edit Staff — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:00:54 +0000

You know what’s a bummer? Being tied to an office answering to the man. After all, getting work done on a beach, at a café or at home is still getting work done.

That’s why LogMeIn Free is perfect for the remote or flex-time worker. It provides free remote control to your Mac or PC from any Internet-connected device. So you can get whatever you need to get done anytime, anywhere.

Getting started is easy. Just create an account with LogMeIn and make sure you install the software on any computers you’re going to access remotely. Once that’s done, simply log in through the LogMeIn web site and access the remote computer to use all your files and applications without restrictions — from design software to email to databases to word processing.

It’s as if you are sitting right in front of the remote Mac or PC. And, as it turns out, all this freedom also makes you more productive since you are no longer “away” from your computers. No matter where you happen to be.

Get started with free remote access for your PC or Mac today.

Sponsor post: Sponsored Post: If It’s on Your Computer, It’s on Your iPhone

Edit Staff — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:00:55 +0000

Climbing at 14,000 feet? Sailing in Sydney Harbour? Sitting in the emergency room at 3 a.m.? You never know when access to your home or work computer will come in handy…

Some people say the iPhone isn’t for business. But in fact, a recent survey of 400 LogMeIn Ignition for iPhone users found that more than 65 percent of them are accessing their work computer with their iPhone. Perhaps even more amazing, 57 percent said they now ditch their laptop in favor of carrying their Apple device (and the LogMeIn app) at least half the time.

The survey results are revealed in a new e-book now available from LogMeIn entitled, “Hey, that guy is running his laptop from his iPhone.”

The e-book also shares true-life stories of iPhone users, from doctors to mountain climbers, who successfully used their iPhone and the LogMeIn app to stay connected and productive — no matter where work or life takes them. Download it today!

Sponsor post: Sponsor post: Atimi Software to Be Showcased During 2010 Games in Vancouver

Edit Staff — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 17:00:54 +0000

Atimi Software has been added to the top 20 Vancouver-based wireless and digital media companies that will be showcased in the city’s Robson Square during the upcoming Winter Olympics Games and Paralympic Games. The installation is part of VX — short for Vancouver Experience — which is aimed at highlighting the city’s world-class wireless and new media industry. It is a great honor and opportunity for Atimi and its iPhone clients to be able to both demonstrate current applications and reveal two new ones that will soon hit the marketplace.

Atimi Software Inc. is a cross-platform development company that specializes in Macintosh applications; porting applications from Windows to the Macintosh; and iPhone, BlackBerry and Android mobile application development for the new generation of smartphones. As a pure services company, Atimi handles high-value intellectual property for some of the largest technology companies in the world. Its processes ensure those companies reach their projected targets reliably and efficiently, allowing them to focus on building strong, lasting relationships with their own customers.