Last week, we heard the news that Apple has partnered with GE regarding a new financing program. Set to launch June 1st, it provides no-interest financing for six months, 12 months or 18 months depending upon the amount on your invoice.

Each order must include an iPad or a Mac, but of course, it can include any additional accessories, services or other products to qualify. As with the majority of consumer financing programs, you must pay off the loan at the end of the term or you will be charged interest.

We’ve been spoiled with what Small Dog calls the “Hapy Plan”, which includes the chance to take payroll deduction on any purchase, so it’s easy to imagine that there are many (financially responsible) people out there who would like just a little more time to make the cash needed for a new Mac or iPad.

We will be rolling out this program initially in stores only, but it’s likely that website sales will follow. This is an exclusive program for Apple Specialists, and we are excited that it will provide a great opportunity to get that new iPad or Mac!

Click here for more details: “*Smalldog.com/retail*”:http://www.smalldog.com/retail

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Small Dog Electronics’ New Hampshire store has its own Facebook page!

Keep up to date with local news, classes, and specials. Follow this link to like us:

“**Manchester, NH Retail Store Facebook Page**”:https://www.facebook.com/smalldognh

It’s about this time of year that people start to ask, “when is that new MacBook Pro coming out?” or “how does the new iPhone look?” Photos get leaked, people start to talk, and rumors start flying! It’s madness! So, here’s what I think — no matter what time of year, no matter when the last refresh was, no matter how many iPads came out last month, there will always be a new Apple line-up to anticipate.

But, if you’re always waiting for the next big thing you won’t get to enjoy the last big thing! It’s a vicious cycle, I know. To combat this exhausting trend, Small Dog Electronics constantly offers sweet deals like the current Dads and Grads specials and End-of-Life (EOL) specials that can save you hundreds of dollars!

But wait, there’s more!

Apple has just announced a no-interest financing program if you purchase a Mac or iPad on the invoice (subject to credit approval). Details below. And, when Apple finally launches the iPad mini with Retina Display or new super-slim Thunderbolt Display, take advantage of our “**trade-in program!**”:http://www.smalldog.com/tradein Trade in your used gear to get even better prices on the new stuff. Now that’s a cycle worth hopping on!

-Zach
“**zach@smalldog.com**”:mailtozach@smalldog.com

Not that long ago, Microsoft introduced Office 365 for both Mac and Windows computers. What exactly is the difference between Office 365 and the normal Office program? There are a few major differences that I think you should be aware of.

Office 365 is a subscription-based program: pay the $99.99 each year or $9.99 per month. While your subscription is active, all updates and new versions are yours without any additional fee. Normal Office products have a disc or product key that you have to purchase every time you want to upgrade; this can be anywhere from $100 to $350 (or more) depending on your license.

For $125, you get to use these programs on one computer with one user. For $149.99, you get to use these programs on five computers and you also have access to use the programs on other tablet or smart phone devices.

The regular Office suite comes with Word, PowerPoint and Excel. Office 365 comes with Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, Publisher and Access. You will also get 20GB of online storage in SkyDrive and the ability to stream full-function Office programs on any internet-connected PC.

At this point, I don’t see a reason _not_ to buy Office 365 (unless, of course, you don’t want a subscription). As time goes on, with the evolution of technology and the prevalence of piracy in the tech world, most programs will be heading down this path. My take: jump on the bandwagon now until you’re forced to!

I don’t consider myself a “headphone” guy. I usually just go with what is initially provided to me (primarily the ear buds that come with Apple products). With the Beats HD Studio headphones, I saw sharp over-the-ear headphones that were very trendy. I had never heard the sound quality nor tried out the over-the-ear style. Then I got my hands on a pair. That’s when I realized: these headphones were not just about look.

The noise canceling is undeniable; I never knew I could get such silence out of the noisy world around me. You can feel the headphones bounce around your ear with every “beat” as you feel more immersed in your music. The look itself will turn heads due to all of the publicity they have gotten throughout the year. The stylistic red cable at 4 feet long is very distinguishable, and packs in a built-in mic with ControlTalk, plus your typical volume control.

The one drawback to these headphones would have to be the fact that the headphones are required to have AAA batteries. When the batteries are dead, so are the headphones. Another problem with that is that you will have to remember to turn them off in order to conserve the battery life. This is just one small gripe, because overall, I heartily approve of the Beats HD Studios. If you can afford the semi-steep $299.99 price tag, I would snag a pair!

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**For iPad**
New to iPad and iOS? Never used a computer before? Our **iPad Basics** class is designed strictly for beginners.

**For Mac**
New to Macs? Switching over from a Windows-based PC? Never used a computer before? Our **Absolute Mac Basics** class is designed strictly for beginners.

Give us a call for the schedule and to sign up:
**603.836.0003** | **802-281-4490**