Similar Posts
1 Million Apple TVs Sold
The re-designed Apple TV is officially a hit. Apple this week confirmed having sold over 1 million units in a mere 3 months. The device’s rampant popularity is undoubtably due in part to its attractive price point of only $99.
Apple’s strategic redesign of the device’s feature set has likely played into the device’s popularity as well. With a greater emphasis on streaming rentals, and less on syncing and media management, Apple has targeted a wider audience beyond the “hobbyists” who adopted the first generation of the device.
Akin to a hockey puck, the Apple TV boats big software despite its diminutive size. In the months following its September release, Apple has already enhanced the device with AirPlay support and functionality with iOS apps such as “*Remote.*”:http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=19XpSnZWhPI&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fapp%2Fremote%2Fid284417350%3Fmt%3D8%2526uo%253D6%2526partnerId%253D30
Though many users are clamoring for an Apple TV App Store, for its price point the device is already sufficiently robust for the average user. While in theory, Pandora, Hulu, and other 3rd party apps would be welcome additions to the device’s repertoire, users will have to continue to wait for Apple to introduce such features.
As it stands, the Apple TV is a well rounded package that fits almost anyone’s budget and home theater. If you didn’t receive one this past holiday it’s a great way to spend a gift card!
To learn more about the Apple TV click “*here.*”:http://www.smalldog.com/product/76960/at_kb
Skype App Updated With Video Calling
Yesterday, Skype updated their popular VoIP app for iOS to version 3.0. The update brings a host of refinements and new features to the app, among which is two-way video calling over WiFi or 3G. This highly anticipated new feature lends functionality beyond Apple’s own FaceTime technology to the app.
Unlike FaceTime, which is currently only Wi-Fi compatible, Skype now allows for video calling over 3G. Though additional data charges may apply–for those with limited data plans–this is great news for many iPhone users with either higher tiered, or unlimited data plans.
Much like Apple’s FaceTime Beta OS X application, Skype 3.0 allows mobile users to initiate a video call with Skype desktop users on both Macs and PCs. Perhaps more interesting is the list of supported devices. While FaceTime is exclusive to the iPhone 4 and 4th generation iPod touch, video calling with Skype is supported–for better or worse–with a range of older iOS devices.
According to the release notes accompanying the update, two-way video calls are also supported on the iPhone 3GS, and receive-only video calls are supported on iPad and 3rd generation iPod touch.
While video calling devices with front facing cameras is certainly optimal, Kali and I experimented and tested a video call between an iPhone 4 and an iPhone 3GS. As the 3GS lacks a front-facing camera, it was a bit awkward maintaining a face-to-face conversation.
The chat itself worked flawlessly, but I found myself looking for a mirror–or periscope–around the office to no avail. This was more of a shortcoming of the device than the app though. I can see where a situation involving multiple people and or something cool to show the caller with the rear-facing camera would be useful.
Regardless of the limitations some users may encounter due to their devices, enabling video calling over 3G is surely the update’s greatest asset. Though Skype and Apple seem to boast an amicable relationship–the update did have to be approved after all, this seems like a clear gesture that Apple needs to step up FaceTime in order for it to succeed.
Skype is a free download, and is available “*here.*”:http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=19XpSnZWhPI&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fapp%2Fskype%2Fid304878510%3Fmt%3D8%2526uo%253D6%2526partnerId%253D30 Please note that video calling requires iOS 4.0 or above, and is fairly data-intensive over 3G.
For an app to help you keep better track of your monthly data stipend check out DataMan “*here.*”:http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=19XpSnZWhPI&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fapp%2Fdataman-real-time-data-usage%2Fid393282873%3Fmt%3D8%2526uo%253D6%2526partnerId%253D30
Mac New Year's Resolutions
With only hours left in 2010, it is high time to consider your New Year’s resolutions if you haven’t already. While you’re at it, you might want to add “not procrastinating on making resolutions” to the list. When considered, all resolutions essentially share the same theme.
Whether it’s getting into shape, doing better in school, or going for that big promotion at work, self improvement is the most common underlying trend. As such, we thought that it would be fitting to compile a list of Mac-themed resolutions. The following tips–when adhered to–will lead to an improved and enlightened Mac user experience in 2011.
*Clean Up That Desktop:*
Having a messy desktop can actually consume valuable system resources if left unchecked. Though it’s a subtle sluggishness, if you have hundreds of unkempt icons constructing your desktop “wallpaper,” your Mac’s performance is likely taking a hit. While moving your extraneous files into a single “stuff” folder will temporarily remedy the situation, a great resolution is to organize your files once and for all.
See if you can get your desktop down to just the Macintosh HD icon! Remember you have Stacks, Spotlight, and of course, your Home Folder to help keep you organized.
__Editor’s note: Remember that, depending on your back-up method, your desktop may not be included, so keeping your works-in-progress there is generally a bad idea. One thing I do is create shortcuts to current projects (in folders–and I try to keep the number to no more than two aside from the HD icon) on my desktop that really live somewhere else. -KH__
*Back it Up!*
Thanks to Apple’s automated Time Machine backup software, this resolution requires the least amount of effort. If you aren’t already backing up on a frequent basis with the included utility, then you are subjecting yourself and your data to a completely avoidable risk. Don’t wait until you’re personally struck by data loss!
The dollar-to-gigabyte ratio is better than it’s ever been, and there are drives to fit every lifestyle and budget. If you do nothing more for your Mac in 2011, pick up an external hard drive and start backing up.
__Editor’s note: My rule of thumb is to use a backup drive that has at least as much space on it as your internal drive, and then add 20%. (So if your internal drive is 250GB, get a 300GB backup drive.) That way, in case of emergency, you can use that drive to back up the entire contents of your internal drive even if it’s full. I can’t count the number of times I’ve seen people in a bind where they need to back up what’s on their computer, but there’s not enough room–no one ever believes they’ll use all of those GBs, but somehow they always manage to do so! -KH__
*Keep Software Up to Date*
Though the Mac App Store promises to make tediously sifting through your Applications folder checking for updates a thing of the past, it doesn’t mean this isn’t an important routine to follow for existing applications. Keeping software up to date–especially when it’s from Apple directly, keeps your machine running smoothly.
While Software Update automates the process when it comes to Apple’s own software, it’s a good habit to check third party apps for updates every so often. On the 6th of next year, this too will be partially automated thanks to the Mac App Store (though not every third party app will be immediately available on Apple’s debuting platform). Even if it’s just keeping an eye out for updates in iTunes and the Mac App Store, don’t run outdated software in 2011!
__Editor’s note: Software updates can be an easy way to troubleshoot when things aren’t acting the way they should. (We always ask, “Did you recently update?” or “Did you update the driver to make sure it’s the most recent version?” when helping to troubleshoot software and peripheral issues.) Word to the wise, though. If you run important third party applications, make sure you read their compatibility notes. You will always want to make sure that your operating system and additional apps stay in sync–for example, if an update to 10.6 comes out and you run Software Update, you *may* have a delay in complete compatibility with a third party plug-in. -KH__
*Take Out the Trash*
If you’re the digital equivalent to TLC’s ‘Hoarders,’ 2011 marks a great opportunity to start letting old files go. It always surprises me to find friends storing gigabytes of files in their Trash. Chances are those files are in the Trash for a reason… to be deleted.
If you’ve fallen into the habit of using the Trash as a organizational tool for files that you “probably don’t need,” it may be a good idea to reconsider your organizational process. Emptying your Trash regularly will enable you to reclaim precious disk space. If you keep regular backups of your data, parting with old files should be easy.
__Editor’s note: Too often, people wonder why they don’t have as much free space as they thought on their Macs; the assumption tends to be that if it’s in the Trash, it’s gone. Since that’s not the case (for safety purposes, giving you two chances to save something if it got there by accident), just get in the habit of doing it manually! -KH__
*Thin Your Inbox*
We’re all guilty of it. With flurries of work related and personal emails coming in on a daily basis, it’s easy for messages to clutter your inbox. Though Apple has implemented some great search features into Mail, they’re no replacement for a solid system of folders and smart folders (known as Mailboxes and Smart Mailboxes in Apple Mail).
Especially in the instance of Smart Mailboxes, you can task Mail with doing the hard organizational work for you. By customizing the Mailbox’s preferences around a set of criteria, messages can be sorted in a nearly limitless number of ways. It’s like having your own personal post office!
__Editor’s note: Keep in mind that Smart Folders do not actually move the messages out of your inbox, they merely just act as a sorting mechanism. While most email accounts handle large numbers of messages in the inbox very well (Gmail is a good example), there are others that will be bogged down considerably by thousands and thousands of messages. On average, I receive anywhere from 50-75 messages a day in my Small Dog inbox, so I’ve started archiving by a) time period and b) subject. Anything prior to 2010 is archived, and all of my listserv emails are divided into separate folders. Play around with what works best for you–Mail is a powerful tool! -KH__
Don's 2010 Predictions Recap
Here’s my review of the predictions I made for 2010. I’ll dust off the crystal ball for the first issue of Kibbles & Bytes in January and make the predictions for 2011.
*SPORTS*
* MLB Baseball: “I will once again predict that with new ownership will come a new found team spirit and finally a World Series Championship.”
NOT – just wait until next year!
* NBA Basketball: “The Celtics are banged up right now, but if they can get healthy, I think they are the team to beat! Celtics over the Lakers in 7.”
One injury to Kendrick Perkins and the Celtics lost to the Lakers in 7 and I had to wear a Lakers Jersey for a day.
“Check out the photo here.”:http://blog.smalldog.com/images/2105.jpg
* WNBA: “I see the Phoenix Mercury led by Diana Taurasi (WNBA Player of the Decade) repeating as WNBA Champs!”
Nope–Congrats to the Seattle Storm.
* NFL Football: “The Bears are out of it, so I’m going with the New Orleans Saints for the Superbowl.”
Winner winner, chicken dinner.
* NHL Hockey: I am going back to my standard–who cares?
Blackhawks!!!
*WEATHER*
* “It will be another warm winter in Vermont with only one day where the temperatures stay below 0 F all day. This year we will have one huge snowfall over 36 inches that will slow things down for a few hours.”
It WAS a warm winter–we did not have a day with temps staying below zero all day but did not get the big dump.
* “It will, however, be an early spring with early April motorcycling.”
YES!
* “This coming summer in Vermont will be one of the best with little rain after June 15th and warm temperatures cooled by mountain breezes.”
Just like every Vermont summer–perfect!
* “The western states will see a very hot and unusually dry summer.”
Hmmm–was it?
*POLITICS*
* “Health Care reform will pass and both the left and right will howl. States will have some freedom to experiment with other more comprehensive health care reform. Vermont will lead the way with a public option and true universal coverage.”
Health Care reform passed on the national level and Vermont bucked the national trend and elected a Governor who ran on a platform that promised a single-payer universal health care system for Vermont!
* “Afghanistan is not going to work. The new policy of increasing troop levels will need revision in the light of an expanded non-geographically limited war.”
Okay–why are we in that war again?
* “Iran will test a nuclear weapon, triggering ineffective sanctions.”
Not yet, thank you…
* “Relations with Cuba will continue to thaw.”
Minor thaws continue.
* “There will be renewed peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians after Israel signs a peace treaty with Syria and halts settlement construction.”
I am not giving myself the win here. Yes to peace talks; no to peace
* “Global Warming will continue to be talked about but no significant action taken. Cap and trade and carbon trading will get embroiled in partisan politics without any meaningful solution.”
An unfortunate yes for my predictions.
* “Vermont will elect a Democrat as governor.”
Congratulations, Peter Shumlin!
*ECONOMY*
* “Economic recovery will continue slowly, however, unemployment will significantly lag. More job addition incentives will be created.”
Yes.
* “Consumer Electric vehicles will hit the market with higher efficiency hybrids also becoming available, however, gasoline prices will remain below $4/gallon and that will make electric cars a niche market.”
This one is a push–the electric vehicles are still in the “coming” stage but gasoline will end the year barely under $4/gallon.
* “New incentives for renewable energy sources will be the fastest growing job creation sector.”
Yes.
* “Unemployment will reach 12% nationally before it starts to decline.”
It has not hit that level, thankfully!
* “Chrysler will close its doors.”
Nope, you can still buy a Dodge.
*APPLE*
* “Apple stock will hit $300/share.”
$325 as of today!
* “Apple will introduce a ‘game changing’ tablet computer.”
Of course, that was too easy.
* “Apple will post record revenues and profits.”
38 quarters of profitable earnings.
* “Steve Jobs will retire from Apple, Tim Cook will be named CEO while Steve becomes Chairman of the Board.”
Nope.
* “Apple will introduce an iPhone nano, basically adding cell phone functions to the iPod nano.”
No.
* “Apple will make remarkable gains in overall market-share for computers.”
Yes.
*SMALL DOG ELECTRONICS*
* “Small Dog Electronics will finally open its next store!”
YES! Manchester, NH is open for business!
* “Small Dog Electronics eWaste event will again collect over 150 tons of eWaste.”
Yes, we held events in Vermont and New Hampshire this year!
* “Small Dog Electronics will add several products to the Chill Pill Audio and Hammerhead product lines.”
Yes.
* “Small Dog will finally be authorized to sell the iPhone.”
Yes, we are now an AT&T dealer!
*MISC.*
* “There will be scientifically confirmed evidence of extra-terrestrial life.”
Not yet…
* “There will be a bunch of new stunning 3D movies, 3D television will be the next home entertainment product.”
Yes, with mixed reviews.
* “Cell phones and other portable devices will become mobile payment devices.”
Coming, but not here.
So, My overall grade this year is 17.5 Yes, 10.5NO and 3 ties–could be the best year yet. I’ll have to make the predictions harder for 2011!
_Dear Friends,_
Happy New Year!! Vermont pretty much missed the big snowfall last week. I talked to some friends in New York City who got stuck and were digging out their plowed-in cars with their hands and ice scrapers, and my co-author Kali got stranded in MD for a few days as the airports were closed and flights canceled up the coast.
Up here in the north country, we got about two inches at the headquarters (not the dump we had last year, left). I have a contest running with my employees to predict the first one-foot snowfall at our Waitsfield store. One lucky employee is going to win two plane tickets to wherever they want to go!
If I can stay up, I’ll probably head down to our neighbors for the traditional Prickly Mountain New Year’s Eve with lots of friends, champagne and dancing. I saw that our pond was shoveled off, so there will also be ice skating tonight (I’m definitely skipping that, though!).
I’ll be heading west next week for the Consumer Electronics Show where I will be looking for new products and will be helping to man the Chill Pill Audio booth as we exhibit at this huge show.
All of us here at Small Dog send our best wishes to you and your family for a healthy, happy and prosperous 2011! I am a half-full kinda guy and am really pumped about heading into a new year. I think 2011 is going to be a great year!
Thank you for your support in 2010! All of us here at Small Dog Electronics realize that ultimately it is you, our loyal customers, who pay our wages and we pledge to continue in 2011 to provide the very best in customer satisfaction.
We believe in making customers for life and want to hear from you with comments, suggestions, complaints, praise or just a friendly hello!
Happy New Year from Small Dog Electronics!
Your Kibbles & Bytes Team,
_Don, Kali, Ed & Ben_