News Archive for 02/02/21

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MacDeb 1.0 extracts .deb archives

02/21, 9:45pm

MacDeb 1.0 extracts .deb archives

MacDeb v1.0 is an open-source utility for Mac OS 9 that allows extraction of Debian (.deb) archives commonly used by Linux and Unix applications.

Strata 3D v3.7 released; reader comments

02/21, 9:35pm

Strata 3D v3.7 released; reader comments

Strata has released Strata 3D v3.7, an upgrade to its 3D modeling and rendering application. In the update are new features including 'Explode,' 'Shatter,' and more than 600 shapes and textures. Also included in the update is the Ravix II vector output plug-in, which saves stills and animations as Shockwave Flash files (similar to Electric Rains' $295 plug-in). Upgrades costs $100 for 3Dplus v3.5 users, $200 for 3Dbase users, and is $250 for a new liscense. A MacNN reader explains some problems with Strata's marketing strategy. [website not updated]; [updated story]

Synchronize! Pro X 1.0 brings OS X support

02/21, 9:20pm

Synchronize! Pro X 1.0 brings OS X support

Qdea has released Synchronize! Pro X 1.0, an OS X compatible version of its backup/sychronize utility. The application, which allows synchronization to almost any other storage device, is priced at $100 for an initial 1-yr license, $50 for a 2 year renewal, and $70 for an upgrade.

WebPics 2.4.4 adds better features, fix bugs

02/21, 9:10pm

WebPics 2.4.4 adds better features, fix bugs

WebPics v2.4.4 is an application that allows quick and easy building of image websites with digital pictures. The updated version adds support for opening full size images in new windows, more advanced manipulation of HTML, "cleaner" HTML code, and other small fixes; price is $16. [Classic,Carbon]

Extensis quietly releases Suitcase v10.1.1

02/21, 8:00pm

Extensis quietly releases Suitcase v10.1.1

Extensis has posted Extensis Suitcase 10.1.1, an update to its popular font mangement utility that enables MenuFonts to work in Mac OS X.

Mergemill 1.5: web content authoring

02/21, 7:05pm

Mergemill 1.5: web content authoring

The $95 shareware Mergemill 1.5 is described as a "versatile content merging, data formatting and web authoring shareware [that] introduces the EasyWeb feature which consolidates and improves on all the web tools in earlier versions. It reduces basic web production to a few simple steps and makes it really easy."

MPEG LA talks about MPEG-4, licensing

02/21, 7:00pm

MPEG LA talks about MPEG-4, licensing

MPEG LA has replied to numerous emails regarding licensing of MPEG-4. Included in the response is what role MPEG LA is playing, their goal (which is to promote MPEG-4), and the way they plan on dealing with the fees involved. For more information, join the discussion on the MacNN forums.

JumpStart Animal Adventures: early discovery

02/21, 7:00pm

JumpStart Animal Adventures: early discovery

Knowledge Adventure has announced JumpStart Animal Adventures, a new early discovery CD-ROM for children ages 3 and up. This latest interactive adventure in the JumpStart series will "immerse kids in the amazing world of wild animals and their natural habitats." It is expected to be available in April in a Windows/Macintosh CD-ROM format for $20.

HBImageProcessor 1.0 helps prep images

02/21, 6:55pm

HBImageProcessor 1.0 helps prep images

Hog Bay Software has released HBImageProcessor 1.0, a $15 shareware application designed for quickly preparing images: "simply drag your original image onto the application window. Rotate, crop, and resize your image. Set the desired file name, type, and compression settings. Finish by dragging the resulting image from the HBImageProcessor window directly to Mail, iDisk, or the Finder."

Vegastrike, OpenGL Flight Sim, wants Mac port

02/21, 6:40pm

Vegastrike, OpenGL Flight Sim, wants Mac port

Daniel, who is the Lead Developer of Vegastrike, an OpenGL flight simulator for Mac Linux and PC Linux, has had numerous requests in making a port of the game to Mac OS X. He has asked that anybody interested download the source code and send any working binaries to him. Join MacNN members in working on this project.

Smith Micro privately testing FaxSTF update

02/21, 6:25pm

Smith Micro privately testing FaxSTF update

An MacNN reader writes that Smith Micro is testing a version of FaxSTF X that works with the infrared port on Macs: "I just complained to Smith Micro that their faxSTF software for Mac OS X only works with the built in modem and they wrote back and offered to let me test a version that will allow users to use an infrared connection to their cell phones. Once they manage that I will be able to say goodbye to my land line. "

DA releases OS X compatible AE plug-ins

02/21, 4:20pm

DA releases OS X compatible AE plug-ins

Digital Anarchy has announced that their Adobe After Effects plug-ins are now Mac OS X compatible, including Elements of Anarchy: Text, Geomancy and Psunami. The upgrade is free to customers who purchased from Digital Anarchy and is $25 to users who purchased from Atomic Power.

iPod Free File SynX 2.2.1 supports OSX 10.1.3

02/21, 4:20pm

iPod Free File SynX 2.2.1 supports OSX 10.1.3

iPod Free File SynX 2.2.1 adds OS X 10.1.3 compatibility to the utility that can synchronize music from any source to any Mac. The "pay-what-you-like-ware" application also has several bug fixes.

iPods given to Grammy nominees, presenters

02/21, 4:15pm

iPods given to Grammy nominees, presenters

Jason Ferris notes that iPods are among the gifts being given to Grammy nominees and presenters: "I saw a news clip on either Entertainment Tonight or Extra and they panned past the table with all the goodies and gifts that nominees and presenters are receiving this year. I saw an iPod box in that stack!"

FMP plug-in, Brushfire v1.5, adds text search

02/21, 4:05pm

FMP plug-in, Brushfire v1.5, adds text search

A script analysis program for FileMaker Pro, Brushfire v1.5, analyzes related files, producing in depth reports that reveal script details, errors, and warnings. The "substantial" upgrade to the $250 application features complete script cross-referencing, text search capability, and improved reports for intermediate and advanced users. Upgrades start at $80.

Reader: Trash X won't work under OS X 10.1.3

02/21, 4:05pm

Reader: Trash X won't work under OS X 10.1.3

MacNN reader Harry Zink has noted that Trash X does not work with Mac OS X 10.1.3.

Adding to the list of issues with OS X 10.1.3, it seems that Apple's latest update has miraculously managed to break Trash X (the nifty utility that allows you to place the Trash Can back where it belongs - on the Desktop).

Now, trying to throw stuff away via Trash X yields: "This application cannot run on this system"

Analysts: new iMac sales looking up

02/21, 3:45pm

Analysts: new iMac sales looking up

Wall Street analysts, who cite anecdotal evidence in new reports, note the new iMac sales have outstripped expectations, with analysts saying "There is an overwhelming amount of demand for the new iMacs, despite the higher price points," and "demand had exceeded [the analysts'] initial expectations [of] 1.3 million new iMacs during the year," according to c|net.

Valentine 1.8.10 adds robust OS X support

02/21, 3:30pm

Valentine 1.8.10 adds robust OS X support

Paradigma's Valentina 1.8.10 provides database tools for OS X native application developers. It includes support for both C++ and Object-C development using Apple's Project Builder using the Valentina C++ SDK and offers OS X Java support for its Valentina for Java package. It also provides support for new SQL commands and includes CONVERT RDBLINK, which provides an SQL interface for automatically converting RDBMS-kind links into Valentina ObjectPtr links.

Epson Stylus Photo 750 now Mac OS X ready

02/21, 3:25pm

Epson Stylus Photo 750 now Mac OS X ready

Epson has released a driver for its Epson Stylus Photo 750 printer that is now compatible with Mac OS X.

MacPlay releases localized Baldur's Gate II

02/21, 3:25pm

MacPlay releases localized Baldur's Gate II

MacPlay has released localized-French and German versions of its Baldur's Gate II Shadows of Amn. The French version is distributed for MacPlay by Apacabar, and the German version is distributed by Application Systems Heidelberg.

VINC 1.0b offers document conversion

02/21, 2:25pm

VINC 1.0b offers document conversion

Recosoft has announced a public beta of VINC 1.0b, an integrated document viewer and converter application. It provides rapid viewing and conversion of files created in word processing and graphics software to "solve common document exchange problems. It also offers powerful batch conversion facility converts all files in a folder by simply selecting targeting the folder.

MaxMenus released to pre-order customers

02/21, 2:05pm

MaxMenus released to pre-order customers

MacNN reader "Boysimple" notes that Proteron's MaxMenus has been released to all customers who pre-ordered the system utility: "It installs as a PreferencePane in the System Preferences, and works very nicely. It is exactly the kind of utility that OS X has needed, and since it is anchored to the corner - very easy to get to." A public download, with a 2-week hassle trial, is expected to be available on Friday.

AAPLTalk System Shootouts updated

02/21, 2:00pm

AAPLTalk System Shootouts updated

Charles Gaba notes that AAPLTalk System Shootouts have been updated to reflect the latest system offerings from Apple, including the flat-panel iMac, 14" iBook, and Dual-GHz PowerMac G4. The "shootouts" compare system specifications with other PC vendors such as Dell, Compaq, and Gateway.

Atomik 3.0: QuarkXPress-to-XML conversion

02/21, 1:20pm

Atomik 3.0: QuarkXPress-to-XML conversion

Easypress has released Atomik 3.0, the latest version of its QuarkXPress-to-XML software. Version 3.0 now enables content to be identified at both a paragraph and character level, allowing specific phrases or text within documents to be converted into separate XML tags based on QuarkXPress character style sheets or the text's typographical properties such as font type, size and colour.

Macromedia posts Flash Player 6.0r2 plugin

02/21, 1:10pm

Macromedia posts Flash Player 6.0r2 plugin

Macromedia has posted Flash Player 6.0r2, a new version of its browser plugin for OS X browsers. It requires the Mac OS X 10.1 or higher and Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.1 (version 3408) or Netscape 6.2 or later.

Nikon introduces new CoolPix 2500

02/21, 1:05pm

Nikon introduces new CoolPix 2500

Nikon today introduced its Coolpix 2500, a stylish pocket-sized 2.0 megapixel digital camera featuring the world's first inner-swivel lens design that "makes shooting from various angles -- including a 180-degree flip for self-portraits -- easy and fun, while providing protection for the lens when not in use." The compact camer has inner-swivel 3x Optical Zoom-Nikkor lens and weighs only six-ounces. The camera package includes new NikonView 5 software, a suite of software from ArcSoft, rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery, battery charger and Nikon Coolpix Starter Memory CompactFlash Card. It is due in April for $380.

Pangea looks for retail distribution

02/21, 1:00pm

Pangea looks for retail distribution

Pangea Software has made a plea to the Mac community to help it with obtaining shelf space at CompUSA. In a message posted its Website the publisher of popular games such as Nanosaur, Bugdom, Cro-Mag Rally and Otto Matic, asks the Mac community to help convince the store to carry its titles.

Real promises support, but gives no timeline

02/21, 12:45pm

Real promises support, but gives no timeline

A MacNN reader forwarded a note from Real about OS X support for its products:

"I received your inquiry here at RealNetworks regarding our servers and players operating under Mac OS X. I get this question quite a bit and the answer is that we are working on it. We don't have it available quite yet but I am told they are in the process. So, we do have plans to support this OS in the future. They couldn't give me a time estimate but they assure me they are working on it. Our newest player, RealOne, focuses on a 3 pane interface and they are in the process of getting this working with OS X. I'm sorry that I don't have any definite information of when we will have it available but even the technicians aren't sure."

Secret Folder 2.0 protects documents

02/21, 12:45pm

Secret Folder 2.0 protects documents

Apimac has released Secret Folder 2.0, an update to its shareware application that lets you conceal a folder and its contents (as well as optionally password protect the folder). Version 2.0 adds OS X support, a new interface, and drag & drop support. The $15 shareware is a free update to registered owners. [Classic, Carbon]

OS X: OS X Server 10.1.3, sunShield beta

02/21, 10:10am

OS X: OS X Server 10.1.3, sunShield beta

osx.macnn.com reports on the release of Mac OS X Server 10.1.3, a new system utility for managing the system firewall, an update to Default FolderX 1.02, and QiPo 1.5.6.

Reader: Wipeout 2097 only available from UK

02/21, 10:10am

Reader: Wipeout 2097 only available from UK

John Hart notes problems with US availability of the classic 3D arcade racer, Wipeout 2097: "A large number of the Mac game sites have listed Wipeout 2097 as shipping for the Mac. Well, its not shipping in the US, the developer hasn't found US distribution partner. However, MacGames UK has the European release in stock. And they ship to the U.S. The cost in US dollars is about $47 including international shipping."

Sony intros new Mavica digital cameras

02/21, 10:00am

Sony intros new Mavica digital cameras

Sony has introduced two new CD Mavica digital still camera models, MVC-CD250 and MVC-CD400, which capture to mini CD-R/W media. They feature multi-point auto focus, multi-pattern and pre-flash exposure modes, as well as auto focus illumination, pre-set scene modes, MPEG HQX Movie mode with audio, and a three-shot burst mode. Both models feature a 3X optical/2X digital zoom and ship with a media pack of six CD-Rs and one CD-RW disc. The MVC-CD250 ($600) captures images with 2.0 megapixel (effective) resolution, while the MVC-CD400 is a 4.0 megapixel camera that includes a bright f2.0 Carl Zeiss lens and comes equipped with Hologram AF function. The CD400 is due in May for about $900.

Sony intros new P-Series digital cameras

02/21, 9:50am

Sony intros new P-Series digital cameras

Sony's new Cyber-shot P Series cameras include multi-point auto focus, multi-pattern and pre-flash exposure metering as well as a Twilight Picture mode, slow shutter noise reduction, multi-frame burst mode, an MPEG Movie HQX mode, and an auto-adjusting LCD monitor. Both the DSC-P31 ($220) and the DSC-P51 ($300), due at the end of March, offer 2.0 megapixel resolution, while the P31 offers a 3x digital zoom and the DSC-P51 offers a 2x digital/3xoptical zoom. The DSC-P71 ($400), due at the end of April, is a 3.2 megapixel camera with a 3x optical/2x digital zoom. All three models are supplied with rechargeable nickel metal hydride batteries and a charger as well as feature USB connectivity.

Mariner Write 3.03b1: word processing app

02/21, 9:35am

Mariner Write 3.03b1: word processing app

Mariner Write 3.03b1 is a public beta of the alternative word processing application. Version 3.0 introduces OS X compatibility, greater readability of Microsoft Word documents, mail merge functionality and spell checking-on-the-fly capabilities, while the latest beta now contains separate native OS X and Classic versions, offers vertical text features, and other enhancements. Mariner 5.1.2 also offers a few bugs fixes and enhancements to the company's ful spreadsheet designed for the analysis, simulation and forecasting of numerical data. [Mariner Write 3.03b1, Mariner]

MacZipIt not compatible with OS X 10.1.3

02/21, 9:25am

MacZipIt not compatible with OS X 10.1.3

Justin Beek notes that MacZipIt is no longer compatible with latest release of OS X 10.1.3, after receiving a confirmation note from the company.

mamgoo 1.0 day planner supports SMS messaging

02/21, 9:15am

mamgoo 1.0 day planner supports SMS messaging

mamgoo 1.0 is a day-planner/to-do list application, offering alarms (audio, visual and SMS messaging), reminders, event recurrence options, AppleScript support, color coding, notes, logging of completed tasks and an import option for Palm Desktop export files. [Classic, Carbon]

iWarning 2.0 checks for new mail

02/21, 9:10am

iWarning 2.0 checks for new mail

iWarning 2.0 is a free utility allowing that can watch several e-mail accounts for new mail and also delete unwanted messages.

MS Windows Media Player logs songs, movies

02/21, 9:00am

MS Windows Media Player logs songs, movies

Microsoft's Windows Media Player software is logging the songs and movies that customers play: "When a CD is played, the player downloads the disc name and titles for each song from a Web site licensed by Microsoft. That information is stored on a small file on each computer in the latest version of the software."

sunShield v.0.91b manages system firewall

02/21, 5:10am

sunShield v.0.91b manages system firewall

sunShield v.0.91b is a freeware preference pane for OS X designed to manage the built-in system firewall. It now uses Apple's security framework for authentication, adds stability improvements, and has an improved ipfw output parser.

Apple posts Mac OS X Server 10.1.3 update

02/21, 5:05am

Apple posts Mac OS X Server 10.1.3 update

Apple's Mac OS X Server 10.1.3 update includes new Mail server SMTP relay restriction options, and delivers improved reliability and performance of Apple file services, Apache web and Mail services under heavy load. It also includes security fixes for FTP and the BSD Line Printer Daemon as well as enhancements to improve server administration, SMB printer sharing, WINS registration and system clock accuracy.