Apple Releases New iMacs

This Wednesday, Apple released iOS 4.3.3 for its mobile devices. As announced during last week’s executive phone “*interview*”:http://blog.smalldog.com/article/jobs-apple-executives-speak-on-location-tracking-issues/ with All Things Digital, the update focuses exclusively on the controversial iOS crowd-sourced location database cache. The new software addresses the three major points of concern with the company’s previous builds of iOS software. According the the support document accompanying the update’s release, iOS 4.3.3:

* Reduces the size of the cache
* No longer backs the cache up to iTunes
* Deletes the cache entirely when Location Services is turned off

The update offers iOS device users greater control over how–and if–their location data is used. One aspect of the previous iterations of iOS that sparked controversy was the size of the location database cache. Though originally less than the size of a typical song, the cache was able to store more data than intended–up to one year’s worth. By shrinking the size of this file, users who elect to continue use of Location Services will not have cached files dating back as far.

Beyond initial privacy concerns, the fact that the location database cache was included in routine iTunes device backups worried some iOS users. Though largely innocuous, should the data fall into the wrong hands, problems could technically ensue. In an effort to eliminate this possibility, Apple has omitted the cache from future backups with 4.3.3.

A tertiary option for users who choose to forgo their device’s location functionality entirely, deletes the cache from the device when Location Services is disabled. As this option claims to delete the cache entirely, it can be assumed that users who periodically want to wipe their location cache can do so by toggling this feature on and off.

iOS 4.3.3 is available through iTunes and via direct download “*here*”:http://support.apple.com/kb/DL1358 (GSM version) and “*here*”:http://support.apple.com/kb/DL1373 (CDMA version). To update through iTunes, simply connect a compatible iOS device to your Mac, launch iTunes, and follow the on-screen prompts. As always, we recommend backing up your device prior to updating.

*Devices compatible with this software update:*
* iPhone 4 (GSM and CDMA models)
* iPhone 3GS
* iPad 2
* iPad
* iPod touch (4th gen.)
* iPod touch (3rd gen.)

Live near Vermont or New Hampshire? Have some tech stuff to recycle? We’re holding FREE eWaste Events in both Vermont and New Hampshire this year, so come on down!

*Our Vermont event is scheduled for Saturday, May 14th at National Life Insurance Headquarters in Montpelier, VT.*
“*View website here.*”:http://www.smalldog.com/ewastevt

*Our 2nd annual New Hampshire event will be held on Saturday, May 21st at the Mall of New Hampshire in Manchester, NH.*
“*View website here.*”:http://www.smalldog.com/ewastenh

Both events are completely free and are “all-you-can-ewaste!” Each event will take place between 9:00AM and 2:00PM. (While the vast majority of electronics are recyclable and will be accepted, there are a few exceptions–namely kitchen appliances and air conditioners.)

*Make sure we can take it–see our list of accepted materials on either page.* Read more about our “*ewaste collection programs here!*”:http://www.smalldog.com/ewaste

Spring is almost in full bloom, and I can tell we’re on the cusp of summer. There’s a palpable sense of energy in the air, and many neighborhoods are already laced with scents of charcoal grills in the evenings. Vermonters are out enjoying the weather, and soon Burlington will trade many of its college students for summertime vacationers and tourists.

I’ve been getting into spirit with my new bike, a 1970’s Murray Cruiser–pedal powered–sorry, Don! She’s already proven perfect for moseying alongside Lake Champlain on the Burlington bikeway. Though not a hog, I’m still on the lookout for a mean–think huge–set of Ape Hangers so I can ride in style. See you out there!

Thanks for reading this issue of Kibbles & Bytes!

Your Kibbles & Bytes team,
_Ben & Kali_

I caved. I bought an iPad 2. I couldn’t resist. From the moment I tried out the iPad 2 on demo, I fell in love. I thought the first generation iPad was a cool device, but I just didn’t think I needed one. Now, I can’t figure out how I lived without it.

As I write this article, I have my iPad 2 propped up vertically with the help of my “*Apple Smart Cover*”:http://www.smalldog.com/search/?find=smart+cover (in green) and I’m using the “*Apple Wireless Keyboard*”:http://www.smalldog.com/product/74730/apple-wireless-bluetooth-keyboard-2009/at_kb (that I originally purchased for home use with my MacBook Pro). This set up is ideal. I am totally a fan of the multi-touch keyboard, but when I have a lot of writing to do, like a blog or a long email, I prefer using the Apple Keyboard.

The thing I really like about the combo of iPad 2 and the Apple Keyboard is that I can move my iPad wherever I want on the table. For instance, if there is a glare, if I want to share the screen with someone else, or if I need to move it because my neck hurts. There are no limits to adjusting the screen because it’s not confined to a laptop–I feel FREE to do my thaaang!

The screen on iPad 2 is so clear and vibrant that you can easily see whatever you’re doing, and don’t need to worry about things showing up too small (use the pinch gesture, and life is good). With such a nice screen, you don’t want to risk scratching it. Yes, iPad 2 is supposed to fight scratches, but once your Apple Keyboard’s keys come into contact with the screen in your bag, well, you’ll think differently!

To make sure I didn’t fall victim to a keyed iPad, I purchased the “*PDO Crystal-Clear Screen Protector.*”:http://www.smalldog.com/product/77959/screenpro-screen-protectors-for-ipad-2-2-pack-crystal-clear/at_kb I opted against getting the “*PDO Anti-Glare Screen Protector*”:http://www.smalldog.com/product/77960/screenpro-screen-protectors-for-ipad-2-2-pack-anti-glare/at_kb because I think it really takes away from the amazing experience of the iPad 2 screen. Sometimes with anti-glare screens you get kind of a foggy look, and that’s the last thing I wanted.

To tote around my iPad 2 I purchased the “*Incase Nylon Sleeve for iPad*”:http://www.smalldog.com/product/77582/incase-nylon-sleeve-for-ipad-or-ipad-2-aubergine/at_kb __Yes,__ I do have the Smart Cover, but this little iPad 2 is like my baby; I want to protect it the best I can. The nylon sleeve from Incase allows me to bring my iPad around and not have to worry about banging it up. It has cute little handles and a pocket on the outside that fits the iPad’s sync cable, power block and my Hammerhead Cleaning Cloth (which is like magic, by the way). Fingerprints on my iPad and iPhone are gone with one swipe of the cloth. I highly recommend this product–we will have more in stock soon!

Even though I use my iPad 2 for almost everything, I still have my trusty iPhone 4 with me at all times. However, since I am a clumsy lady, a case is 100% necessary for me. I favor the “*Aura*”:http://www.smalldog.com/search/?find=hammerhead+aura case by Hammerhead, in the “*Red Diamond*”:http://www.smalldog.com/product/76564/hammerhead-aura-case-for-iphone-4-red-diamond/at_kb pattern because it’s silicon and will absorb the shock of a fall (which with me happens a lot).

The other great thing about the Aura is that it has an outer lip that goes around the front. This means if I drop it screen first the outer lip will hit the pavement first, not my iPhone’s screen. Another plus is that I can charge my iPhone, put it in a sound dock, and plug in the AUX cable in the car without ever having to take the case off.

The last item in my “collection” are my headphones. I am super picky about headphones and I feel like I have purchased about 30 pairs. However, I have finally found a pair that are comfortable, stay in place and have a good sound: “*Urbanears Bagis*”:http://www.smalldog.com/search/?find=urbanears+bagis headphones. These little puppies will stay in your ears whether you’re kicking back, doing work or jogging on the treadmill. I hardly notice I have them in–minus the fact that I’m jamming out to music. For $29.99, these are a great replacement for your Apple earbuds. The Bagis headphones also include a microphone and a button for play/pause on your iPhone/iPad/iPod touch.

I finally feel like I have a good mix of products that allow me to do my work–but are also fun. I am extremely happy with these products and highly recommend them to any iPad or iPhone user!

Monday morning, antivirus software company “*Intego*”:http://www.intego.com/ posted an article detailing a new malware threat for OS X users. This malicious software–masquerading as “MACDefender”–targets users through Safari via SEO poisoning attacks. Essentially when a rigged link is clicked after performing a search, users are redirected to a page containing JavaScript that automatically downloads a compressed file.

This malware presents the greatest threat to users who have enabled the option for their browser to automatically open “safe” files. Upon downloading, the malware will automatically open and infect the machines of any users with this browser configuration. It is worth noting, however, that by default Mac OS X prompts users whenever a downloaded application attempts to open itself or install. If you ever see an application you haven’t explicitly elected to download, deny it permission to open, and under no circumstance provide it your administrator password.

If you have enabled the option for Safari to automatically open downloaded applications, there is a chance–though slim–that your machine has been infected. MACDefender installs silently and with nothing more than a click on a deceitful link. If you believe the malware has been installed on your machine, “*Mac Rumors*”:http://www.macrumors.com/2011/05/02/new-macdefender-malware-threat-for-mac-os-x/ recommends taking the following precautions:

# Open Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor and quit any processes linked to MACDefender.
# Delete MACDefender from the Applications folder.
# Check System Preferences > Accounts > Login Items for suspicious entries.
# Run a Spotlight search for “MACDefender” to check for any associated files that might still be lingering.

Although these steps will effectively disable and remove MACDefender in the interim, Intego is further investigating the most efficient and complete means of removal. The company will post its findings on its “*blog*”:http://blog.intego.com/ shortly. As the number of Mac users who have consciously visited Safari preferences and enabled the “auto open” option are on the lower side, Intego has associated a low threat level with the malware.

However, it may behoove you to run–at the very least–a quick Spotlight search for any traces of MACDefender. To be as savvy as possible against attacks such as these in the future, refrain from ever offering a suspicious application your admin password, and keep a regular Time Machine backup.

_Dear Friends,_

This week it’s Ben writing for Don while he’s in San Jose attending this year’s ASMC conference. Each year, over 100 Apple Specialists from all over the US and Canada gather to network, attend special seminars and events and check out the latest in Apple gear. We’ve been busy holding down the office in VT, but as we’re in the midst of our fourth straight day of rain, we can’t help but be a little jealous of the ever present California sun.

The big Apple news this week was the release of updated iMacs. Though the inclusion of Thunderbolt and FaceTime HD on desktop Macs was inevitable, I wouldn’t have predicted it this soon. The latest generation of iMac takes an already perfected design and makes it even better. The implementation of quad-core i5 processors across the line gives every model a serious boost of horsepower. Combine that with updated graphics and the super fast Thunderbolt I/O technology and it equals another big winner from Apple.

I’m already excited to see how fast these new machines cut through HD video when Final Cut Pro X drops next month. While the Mac Pro still reigns supreme in terms of customization and raw power, Tuesday’s updates show that the iMac–especially the 27-incher–is quickly creeping into its territory for a tech turf war. Parents: cover your Mac mini’s eyes; this one could get rough!