Apple Maps Seeing Improvements

Apple has been receiving bad feedback about their new Maps app that rolled out with iOS 6.  It is often compared to Google Maps because that was the Map app of choice originally on the previous iPhones.  Tim Cook issued an apology and said Apple is working hard to correct the Map app.  This article says users can see some of the effort already as the Maps app is already improving.  I wouldn't say dramatically, but improving nonetheless.

Apple Map Improvements

Installed A SSD in 13" Macbook and Mac Mini

OCZ Technology 256GB Octane Series - Solid state drive (SSD) - Internal - 2.5" - SATA III (OCT1-25SAT3-256G) only $139.99 after Mail-in Rebate. Ends 10/10

I have a Macbook and a Mac Mini. You may know this already. Recently I decided to upgrade them both with Solid State Drives (SSD). Both had 80 GB drives and I was looking to increase storage and performance. I looked around the internet and was able to find 2- 120 GB SSDs at a reasonable price. Due to the price of SSDs, I couldn't find larger SSDs for a price I was willing to pay. After the fact, I found the special sale above and the company also had great prices on Apple computers and accessories. You may want to check it out and get the deal I missed. Here is a video of a hard drive replacement…pretty easy. The fast forward noise is a little cheesy but good information nonetheless. During the video, you can also see where the memory is located…2 modules stacked on top of each other...if you decide to upgrade it later.


 

Apple 4Q Earnings Oct 25

For those interested in how Apple is doing as a company, Apple will be announcing it's 4 Quarter earnings on Oct 25.  We will be able to see how sales have been doing.  Depending on the results, Apple's stock price will either go up, down, or stay the same.  What are your thoughts on this?


Apple 4Q Earnings

iPad Mini Production in Brazil

The latest news says that Foxconn is producing the iPad Mini in Brazil to get ready for a launch.  The device is expected to be announced this month.  Are you excited about the iPad Mini?


iPad Mini Production in Brazil

Apple Releases Update for Verizon iPhone 5

It looks like some users are having problems with their Verizon iPhone 5 using cellular data when the phone is connected to wifi networks.  That's not good!  No one wants to be wrongfully charged.  Apple released an update to correct the issue with the Verizon iPhone 5.  If you read through the comments of the article, some people wonder if the AT&T iPhone 5 has the same issue.  More details are below.

Verizon iPhone 5 Update

P.S.  If you like the case in the picture above, click it for more information.

Mac Desktops

What You Need to Know About Mac Desktops What set the distinction of Mac desktops were the reasons why they became the top choices of business and creative professionals: exceptional performance, unique style, and user-friendly applications. But before choosing your Mac desktop, it is necessary to know which of the choices best fit your lifestyle and professional needs. The diversity of the Mac desktop line has offered many options to enjoy the Mac experience. The current Mac desktop collection features three distinct yet equally remarkable machines you can choose from: the Mac mini, the iMac, and the Mac Pro. Get to know more of these items and find out which of the three desktops suit your needs the most for your enjoyment. Speed and Power: How Fast Do They Run? In desktops, performance is measured by the speed of the processor and the size of the memory. Mac desktops come with different configurations to cater to a wide range of advanced users and beginners with varying performance requirements. The new Mac Pro is the fastest, most powerful Mac ever, powered by either Intel Xeon Nehalem or Westmere processor, or even both. The Intel Xeon processor comes with a single-processor, quad–core configuration at speeds up to 3.2GHz; while the Westmere series is available in both quad–core and 6–core versions. And since Mac Pro can operate with the two processors, you can have a 6–core Mac Pro at 3.33GHz, an 8–core system at 2.4GHz, or, to max out your performance, a 12–core system at up to 2.93GHz. If your tasks are less demanding, the iMac offers quad-core Intel i7 processors with up to 2.93GHz and supports up to 8GB of RAM; while the Mac mini has Intel Core 2 Duo processors with speed that reaches up to 2.66GHz and supports up to 8GB of RAM. Multimedia Experience: How Enjoyable Are Macs? Your digital life will go beyond the usual with Mac desktops, as they use the latest wireless technology complemented by cutting-edge graphics and simple-to-use applications. For instance, the Mac Pro redefines graphics capabilities through the ATI Radeon HD 5770 with 1 GB GDDR5 SDRAM memory, giving you brand new audio and visual experiences. And since the iMac adopted the all-in-one design concept, it has combined a display screen in 21.5–inch and 27–inch glossy widescreen models with a webcam, a microphone, and speakers, making it the most complete multimedia package among the three desktops. But if you wish to enhance your multimedia experience by integrating a Mac desktop with home entertainment devices, the Mac mini is the best pick because of its tiny footprint and DVI/VGA output. Data Access and Storage: How Reliable Are Mac Desktops? All Mac desktops are equipped with two types of drives that serve distinct purposes: a hard drive for storing data and an optical drive for accessing and burning data on CDs and DVDs. Also, its Superdrive feature with double-layer support enables all three desktops to read and burn CDs and DVDs. The Mac mini comes with ample storage of up to 500GB while the iMac and the Mac Pro offer terabyte capacities at 7200-rpm. Additionally, the Mac Pro is assembled with an open optical drive bay to accommodate an extra Superdrive. Size and Design: Can Mac Desktops Complement Your Style? Apple has always blazed the design trail – never settling for the banal and constantly pushing the envelope of form and style. But it is not all about aesthetics; each element of design enhances the computer’s utility inside and out. If you prefer a unit that requires a minimal space, you can choose between the Mac mini and the iMac. The former has a small form factor with the simplicity of the Zen-like design. It weighs a mere 3.0 pounds, making it light enough to transport anywhere in your home. Meanwhile, the iMac saves your space with its svelte all–in–one construction that combines the display screen and CPU into a single unit, liberating your desk from clutter and the ghastly tangle of wires. The Mac Pro, on the other hand, is anything but small. With a height of 20.1 inches and a weight of over 40 pounds, the unit looks magnificent from the outside with its sleek, aluminum, industrial frame. But its interior is even more interesting due to its intelligent structure that makes DIY hardware upgrades quick and hassle–free. Which Mac Desktop Suits Your Budget? The cost always depends on your needs and demands. The most affordable way to get into the Mac experience is the Mac mini with a starting price of $599. Its minute dimensions and built-in wireless connectivity allow you to move the unit conveniently to any corner of your living space. With the Mac mini, you can always bring the Mac experience wherever you go. The price of iMac, on the other hand, starts at $1199. Its unique all–in–one design and solid overall performance make it an incredibly attractive package for mainstream PC users who wants to switch to a Mac desktop. The Mac Pro, which is purposely created to be a high performance machine, has the starting price of $2499 – a friendly rate for the many possibilities you can expect with this one ultimate desktop. Now that you are well–equipped with the necessary information about Mac desktops, it will be easier for you to choose which Mac is best for you.   1940 E. Mariposa Ave, El Segundo, CA 90245 - 800.MACMALL © 2011 MacMall - All rights reserved.

iPad, iPhone 5: IOS 6 Map Alternative

With the problems Apple has been having with their venture into the map world in iOS 6, Apple has added a map alternatives section to the App Store.  From what I've read, the map feature in iOS 6 has had a lot of complaints from customers.  I haven't used the feature yet so I am impartial.  Have you experienced any problems with Apple's map feature?  Let me know in the comments section.

IOS 6 Map Alternative

Flexible iPhone Designs/iPhone 5 Charge Costs

Today, there are 2 articles for your review.  First, Apple could be looking into flexible display designs for the future.  This is based on patents that were filed.  Second, there is an article that shows how much it costs to charge the iPhone 5 for a year.  How much do you think it costs?  Read the article and see if you're correct.

Flexible iPhone

iPhone 5 Charging Costs

Apple Exploring Carbon Fiber

Rumor has it Apple is exploring carbon fiber.  Carbon fiber is low weight but high strength.  People use it on tuned cars a lot to cut weight.  Most of Apple's devices aren't really bulky now so I'm curious what they are looking at with carbon fiber.

Apple Exploring Carbon Fiber

Latest iPhone 5 News

Foxconn reopened its facility after the riot.  The production lines are operating normally.  Check out the picture in the article.  The riot isn't funny but in past photos, they spoke about cars being flipped over.  This picture is of a cart!  I'm sure it was serious but that just looked a little humorous to me.  What do you think?

Foxconn Reopens Facility

The iPhone 5 is available now.  You just have to get your hands on one.  Apple is rolling out a new program to assist.  You can order your iPhone 5 online and pick it up in the store.  Do you think this is a good idea?  Would you purchase using this plan?  Have you contributed to iPhone 5 sales or do you plan to purchase one?

Order online, pick up in store

New Update for AppleTV

Knock knock
Who's there?
Orange
Orange who?
Orange you glad I didn't say iPhone 5?

Seriously, there has been a lot of news on the iPhone 5 recently.  It's nice to provide news about another device.  That device is the AppleTV.  Apple pushed out a new update for the device.  Read below for the complete details.

AppleTV Update

iPhone 5 Sales and Related News

Ok, there is a bit of iPhone 5 related news today.  First, Apple announced iPhone 5 sales of over 5 million for its opening weekend.  That's a good number (larger than iPhone 4S sales) but not quite what analysts expected.  Some analysts have chimed in about why they think Apple didn't sell more.

Some users have said they are having issues with WiFi on the new devices.  They are reporting slow connectivity.

Lastly, there was a riot at a Foxconn Plant and has caused the plant to shutdown.  Check out the article below to see the impact on iPhone 5 production.

iPhone 5 Sales

Analyst Opinions

WiFi Issues

Riot at Foxconn Plant

4 Commercials for iPhone 5

Apple has 4 commercials for the iPhone 5.  Below you can view them all and tell me what you think about them.

iPhone 5 Commercials

iPhone 5 Jailbroken?

Well, it looks like the iPhone 5 can be jailbroken.  I don't think it's available to the public yet but there is a proof of concept.  More details below.

iPhone 5 Jailbroken

iPhone 5 Jailbroke 2

Verizon iPhone 5 Unlocked?

There is a video that says the Verizon iPhone 5 comes unlocked.  The video shows that it not only works on Verizon's CDMA network but also on AT&T's GSM network.  You won't get AT&T's version of LTE but you will get a decent speed.  I guess that brings up the question of where this video took place.  There is no way to confirm what coverage the user had since AT&T's LTE has limited coverage.  Anyway, this makes me consider the Verizon iPhone but I'm still not sure yet.  I'll wait for a bit more info.


Verizon iPhone 5 Unlocked

Some iPhone 5 Orders Shipping Ahead of Schedule

Some people that preordered the iPhone 5 are getting unexpected news.  It looks like some iPhones will be arriving earlier than expected.  The details are below.

iPhone 5 Ahead of Schedule

More iPhone 5 News

The iPhone 5 is already being sold in some Apple Retail stores due to different timezones.  It seems like the demand remains high for Apple's new mobile device.  Feel free to check out the articles below that go into more detail and one article even has a teardown of the new device.

iPhone 5 in Stores

iPhone 5 Teardown

iPhone 4S Hacked for Sport

This is an important article because it notes that the iPhone 4S is one of the most secure mobile device.  Even with that being said, it 3 weeks for it to be hacked.  Read on for all the details.  It doesn't mean we are at any more risk than normal.  It just shows that anything can be hacked given enough time and resources.

iPhone 4S Hacked for Sport

IOS 6 News and Reviews

Today, Apple released iOS 6 which comes with over 200 new features.  As a common Apple theme, you can enjoy some features on older iOS devices but the newest features require the newest hardware. Along with the release, reviews are already coming in.  The roundup is below.


IOS 6

Troubleshoot Wireless Network

Here are some tips from Macworld to help you with troubleshooting your wireless network.  Hopefully, you won't need them but just in case.

Troubleshoot Wireless Network

Latest iPhone 5 News

First, there is already an unboxing of the iPhone 5.  Also, reviews are in!  Shipping estimates have slipped again to 3-4 weeks.  Check out the articles for all the details.

iPhone Unboxing

iPhone 5 Reviews

iPhone 5 Shipping Estimates

iPhone 5 Sales

The momentum behind iPhone 5 sales is great.  Apple reported they sold 2 million iPhones in the first 24 hours of preorders.  With that number, analysts are predicting about 8 million iPhones sold during launch weekend.

First Day Preorders

First Weekend Sales Prediction

iPhone 5 Setting Records for AT&T

It looks like the iPhone 5 is selling like crazy!  AT&T says the iPhone 5 is the fastest selling iPhone they've offered and the iPhone is setting new sales records.  That's just at AT&T.  There's still the other carriers and Apple.  Sounds like good news for iPhone buyers and Apple shareholders.

iPhone 5 Sales

iPhone 5 Has 1 GB of RAM and A6 Processor

The iPhone 5 has 1 GB of RAM and an A6 processor.  This is twice the RAM of the iPhone 4S and twice the CPU power.

iPhone 5 RAM

A6 Processor

Incredible iPhone 5 Preorders

Apple said the preorders have been incredible for the iPhone 5.  It only took hours for the initial shipment to sell out.  There is a lot of excitement for the iPhone 5.  More details below.

iPhone 5 Preorders

iPhone 5 Available for Preorder!

The iPhone 5 is now available for preorder!  You can preorder from Apple or from one of the carriers.  Along with that, shipping estimates are showing 2 weeks in the Apple Store.  Does that mean the iPhone is just selling that quickly?  We will probably find out how iPhone 5 sales did after the weekend.  My only disappointment is that I haven't seen where you can purchase an unlocked version of the iPhone 5.  That may come later.  If you're frugal, you may want to crunch the numbers.  It may be cheaper in the long run to pay in advance.  Just an idea.  Either way, I hope you enjoy your iPhone 5 when you get one.

iPhone 5 Preorder

iPhone 5 Shipping Estimates

The iPhone 5

If you didn't hear, Apple announced the iPhone 5 today!  Unfortunately, the rumor sites are very thorough  and there were few, if any, surprises.  Still, looking at the hardware and software aspects, this is a great device.  I can't wait to get one.  Here is a little roundup of the news on it.

iPhone 5 With 4" Display

Improved Antenna

Hands On Impressions

New iPod Touch and Nano!

Today, Apple announced the new iPhone!  They also announced a new iPod Touch and Nano.  You can start planning your Christmas shopping and wish list now!

New iPod Touch and Nano

IOS 6 Features and Release

This article talks about the features offered in IOS 6 and the release date of September 19th.

IOS 6

Big iTunes Update Next Month

Apple is releasing an iTunes update today but the major update won't come until next month.  Read on for more details.

iTunes Update

Apple Media Event

Apple Media event is currently going on.  So far, Apple has introduced the new iPhone and talked about IOS 6.  This is what we've been waiting for.  The connector is smaller and the screen is larger.  It seems like the rumors have been correct so far.  It's thinner and has a longer battery life.  Read below for all the details.

Apple Media Event

YouTube IOS App Review

In the world of iPhone, YouTube was normally included in the IOS but that has now changed.  It won't be included in IOS 6.  In preparation for that, there is a new standalone app that was recently released.  This review takes a look at the new app and what it offers.  I skimmed it briefly but the search feature looks promising.  Take a look.

YouTube App Review

Apple Prep for Preorders

Apple is preparing for iPhone preorders following its media event scheduled for September 12, 2012.  This article looks at a couple of different ways Apple may handle preorders based on history.


Apple Prep for Preorders

13" Retina Macbook Pro and iMacs Production

It looks like Apple is getting ready to produce a 13" Macbook Pro with Retina display and updated iMacs.  It doesn't look like they will be announced this week but maybe in the not so distant future.


13" Retina Macbook Pro and iMacs

Apple Media Event Update

Here is a more complete photo of Apple preparing for its media event.  The article talks about interpretations of the design.  Read through and see if you agree.

Apple Media Event

Shit Apple Fanatics Say

I thought this was somewhat amusing.  I don't take things too seriously.  I can laugh at this even though there are some things that I have probably said.  It's just a bit of light humor.

Shit Apple Fanatics Say Part 1

Shit Apple Fanatics Say Part 2

Apple Setting Up For iPhone Event

In normal fashion, Apple has begun setting the stage for its upcoming media event.  Yes, the same one that we expect to see the unveiling of the new iPhone.  Based on the rumors, they will have other gadgets to unveil but the majority of us are waiting for the iPhone.


iPhone Event Set Up

Apple May Compete With Pandora?

Could Apple be working on a Pandora like music service?  That is the topic of this rumor.  Honestly, I'm a little excited about the possibility.  I enjoy Pandora and I think Apple needs to rethink music delivery.  I think iTunes works...for the most part, but Pandora has created a new way for us to enjoy music.  I'm more into streaming media (music or video) as long as the internet provider can support it.  I hate when streaming has interruptions for buffering.  It can ruin a song or video.  Feel free to chime in.

Apple Looking At Pandora?

Apple Television Plans Stalled?

For a while, we have heard rumors of Apple's television plans...either strengthening the AppleTV or creating an Apple TV set.  The problem that always seems to surface is content.  How does Apple acquire more content?  Are content owners willing to part with so much control over their content?  Once again, it seems negotiations have halted.  Honestly, I think I would be content with HULU+, the ability to play my own content, browser capability, and an Apple subscription service that would give me unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows...plus Siri.  With that being said, they would need access to the shows I watch.  I'm not sure if Apple and Hulu do.  Maybe I'm asking for a lot.  Your thoughts?


Apple Television Plans Stall

Goodbye iPhone 3GS?

The latest rumor is that Apple may drop the iPhone 3GS and add the iPhone 4S with 8 GB storage capacity.  With this, it's possible that the iPhone 4 could move into the "free with contract" category.  Wow!  That's shocking!  I purchased my iPhone 4 without a contract years ago and I remember how much it cost.  Now it could potentially be free with a contract.

iPhone 3GS

Is Apple the Only Supplier of New Dock Connector?

The latest story is that Apple will be the only supplier of the new dock connector...at least initially.  Change is always difficult and Apple has to get a large group to accept the new connector.  Fortunately, this isn't a large change in my opinion.  More details and pricing are in the article.

Apple New Dock Connector

Updated iPods Expected at Media Event

While the new iPhone will easily still the spotlight, there are rumors that Apple will also showcase updated iPods.  Read below for the details.

Updated iPods?