Fastforward reviews; drums

In brief: MacNN reviews two new programs by Fastforward, Smart Loops releases drum samples in the Apple Loops format, nova media updates its iSync phone plug-ins, and a site offers free books to read through the iPhone. Reviews have been posted for two new programs by Fastforward Software. The first is Compost 1.8.8, which manages Mac OS X's Trash folder, handling functions such as maximum size limits, or automatic deletions based on time. It also comes with DeskTrash, a moveable Trash container. Bin-it is a dedicated version of the DeskTrash concept, and with a focus on displaying the amount of trash in the icon, and creating custom looks. Compost and Bin-it are $12.50 each.

Smart Loops releases new Apple Loops drum samples

Smart Loops has released an Apple Loops version of its Pro Drum Works Volume Two collection, making another 9,000 loops and samples available. Within this is 3,000 "shuffle-feel" grooves and one-shots; the pack as a whole is said to be suited to genres from rock and blues through to jazz and more. Volume Two costs approximately $100, and is also available in ACID and REX2 formats.

iSync plug-ins support more phones

nova media has added support for over 85 more phones to its collection of iSync plug-ins, which keeps iCal and Address Book data current with devices other than the iPhone. The v4.2.2 update supports phones such as the Nokia 6110 and 8600 Luna, as well as the Samsung D900i and E256, and Sony Ericsson K320i and S500i. The collection requires Mac OS X 10.4.7 and costs €10 ($14).

iPhone reader offers free books

The new site BooksoniPhone is a site exclusively for the Apple device, and features an interface designed to read a number of free books hosted online. As users go through text, they can adjust font size, change reading speed, add notes, or even view multiple books. An upcoming sister site (TextoniPhone) will soon allow users to submit their own material. Both services should remain free.

by MacNN Staff