Apple on Wednesday released an update to its audio burning app, Waveburner, for Logic Studio. Version 1.6.1 improves overall stability and provides a number of bug fixes. Mastering notes are now properly saved to disk, while the waveform display in the Mix Line renders more consistently.
MacUpdate has released MacUpdate Desktop 5, an update to its software management utility. The latest version features smart scanning, enabling automatic scanning and matching for more than 30,000 software titles. The user interface has been redesigned to be cleaner and easier to use, while users can download and install updates with a single click.
Apple on Wednesday released a Bluetooth firmware update designed for users running Windows via Boot Camp. The download is said to improve the wireless performance with Vista and XP on the latest 21.5- and 27-inch iMacs released earlier this month, although specific details have not been provided.
Apple has reportedly provided a second beta release of its Mac OS X 10.6.2 update (labeled 10C514f) to developers, which incorporates a series of bug fixes and improved support. The update is said to deal with almost 150 different areas including applications such as Address Book, QuickTime Player, and Photo Booth, as well as problems related to app switching within the Dock. Additionally, the update is believed to deal with issues involving Front Row, Spaces and Time Machine apps as well.
Microsoft on Tuesday released updates to several of its Mac programs; Office 2008 and Open XML Converter. The Office 12.1.9 update focuses on improved security by addressing a vulnerability that can be used to overwrite the computer memory with malicious code. Users that intend to install Entourage 2008 Web Services Edition for Mac must also install the update for compatibility. The release applies to users of Office 2008, Home and Student Edition, Special Media Edition, Word 2008, Excel 2008, PowerPoint 2008 and Entourage 2008.
EI Technology has released v8 of Electric Image Animation System. The update includes various new features such as textured Area lights that can replace a series of small lights to create a more realistic looking indoor scene. There is also an additional Area light function that creates light with arbitrary luminance shapes using real geometry instead of an abstract light shape. Photon Mapping can be used to calculate indirect illumination and light bouncing. The maps can also be stored and reused without re-rendering a setting.
Roland has released V-Synth GT 2.0, an update to the operating system used for the Elastic Audio Synthesizer keyboard. The upgrade adds 22 new multi-effects and five new reverbs, as well as a new chromatic-scale pitch bender function. The software provides more USB storage functionality and an improved user interface. Roland believes the upgrade is better at importing sound features such as patches, tones, waves, and samples than its predecessor.
Fetch Softworks has released an update to its flagship program, Fetch 5.5. The program uploads files to servers, where users can then download the content from remote locations. The update enables users to edit any sort of remote file using any application. The FTP program also utilizes Quick Look, allowing uploaded files to be viewed without leaving the software interface. The file transfer engine has been upgraded to handle larger file transfers and groups of files.
Anthropics has announced that an update to its image editing software, Portrait Professional 9, is available as both a standalone application and a Photoshop plug-in. The software allows users to airbrush photographs to correct undesirable skin appearance. Portrait Professional 9 utilizes the new ClearSkin technology and is claimed to be programed with a knowledge base of "human beauty," referenced to automatically fix pictures.
Yenco has released Finance 6.0, its banking software that provides tools for keeping track of bank accounts and managing budgets. Using an account import feature, the program can import files from the earlier Finance 5.0 version. The program also includes numerous features from the company's Framework application. The update also improves the account search feature and the repeating transactions feature which enters preset transactions.
Canto has updated its flagship product, Cumulus 8. The program is used to manage digital assets including digital images, animations, videos, and music over an online server. Cumulus 8 now gathers usage statistics and includes a reporting feature which assigns a value to assets by noting which are used most. The update can also organize assets via e-mail, enabling mobile device photos or security-camera feeds to be uploaded over a secure network.
Excel software has announced a June 1st release date for two software updates, QuickLicense 4 and Safe Activation Service 2. QuickLicense is used to protect applications, written in any programming language, from unauthorized software use. Safe Activation works in unison with QuickLicence, acting as a server for product vendors to securely enter license information.
Apple has released software updates for Aperture 2, iPhoto '08 and iPhoto '09, along with a firmware update that is designed to extend the battery life of MacBooks. Owners of Nikon D3X and Epson R-D1x digital cameras will now be able to upload RAW-format images to Apple's photo software. The update also addresses compatibility issues with specific cameras and improves overall stability.
Apple's QuickTime 7.6 update addresses seven security issues. The first issue involved accessing a maliciously crafted RTSP URL may lead to an unexpected application termination or arbitrary code execution Description: A heap buffer overflow exists in QuickTime's handling of RTSP URLs. Accessing a maliciously crafted RTSP URL may lead to an unexpected application termination or arbitrary code execution. Version 7.6 fixes the issue by performing additional validation of RTSP URLs.
Apple is reportedly polishing the last details for its Mac OS X 10.5.6 update, suggesting that a public release may be imminent, according to Apple Insider. Developers were provided with build 9G55 on Wednesday, less than a week after receiving build 9G52. Sources have claimed that the two builds do not include any noticeable differences, which could indicate that the formal release is right around the corner. Other sources reported that Mac OS X 10.5.6 Server now parallels the client software, with both now sharing the same build number.
Mozilla has released the latest update to its browser, Firefox 3.0.4. The company claims to have addressed several security and stability issues. Icelandic and Thai localizations have been integrated. Additional EV root certificates have been added, and the Public Suffix list updated. A bug fix corrects an issue that would prevent certain passwords saved in version 3.0.2 from functioning properly. Another improvement corrects a problem with the IME input tool and Japanese, Korean, Chinese and Indic characters.
A recent topic of interest in the MacNN forums revolves around one user questioning the benefits of the rumored update to the Mac OS, Snow Leopard. One forum member expresses their interest in the Netbook segment that has been gaining in popularity, and hopes that Apple will be coming out with a model to compete. Complaints about the MacBook Air bogging down when viewing such websites as YouTube is the topic of conversation in this thread. Forum goers discuss Alsoft: DiskWarrior and its incompatibility with the new MacBook, MacBook Pro, and MacBook Air models. Dedicated MacNNer, Robster1958, does not like the screen on the new MacBook and sparked a conversation comparing it to other competitors models.
Tension Software has released the latest version of its password management utility, Password Repository 2.5. The update offers an improved search function along with password print, preview, and PDF generation. Print settings can be customized to include only particular columns, with adjustments for the width. The main password table has been expanded to include additional columns and users can choose to show or hide passwords.
ExtendMac has announced an update to its FTP, SFTP, WebDAV and .Mac client, Flow. The software is designed to streamline certain tools that are normally excluded from FTP clients. Flow features a code editor that can be used for writing things such as HTML, and also includes features like tabs, colored syntax and code completion suggestions. Version 1.1 includes some of the most requested advancements, while also improving overall stability: it offers improved error-handeling, public iDisk support, as well as more secure WebDAV and MobileMe iDisk authentications.
Storyist Software has announced the latest version of its writing software, Storyist 1.5, and sponsorship of National Novel Writing Month's Night of Writing Dangerously. The update now offers word count and writing time tracking, with options to set specific goals for a session or project. Users can now set the program to automatically back up projects every day, week, or month, with a new window for managing the backup files. A user's guide is now available for learning the program features.
Despite being unveiled just this morning, Apple has already unveiled the MacBook, MacBook Pro Software Update 1.2, which allegedly resolves several bug fixes for the included software. While saying little else, the update does mention it resolves compatibility with external displays, in addition to "a variety of software fixes." Apple recommends the patch to all users who purchase the new aluminum/glass MacBook and MacBook Pros.
Apple on Tuesday offered new updates to Remote Desktop and its Server Admin tools. Apple Remote Desktop 3.2.2 Client and Admin both offer improved reliability when copying items, unicast packets when upgrading client software, and fixes to the Automator actions Force Quit All Applications and Copy Items to Computer. The updates also resolve a vulnerability that allowed local users to execute commands with elevated privileges.
Apple recently unveiled two new updates: Digital Camera RAW Compatibility Update 2.2, and WebObjects Update 5.4.3 for Mac OS X 10.5. The RAW update provides Aperture 2 and iPhoto 08 users compatibility with several new camera models, including the Canon Digital Rebel XS, the Nikon D700, Samsung's GX-10 and GX-20, as well as Sony's A300 and R1. Several Olympus and Kodak models are also covered in the update.
Supplemental to the plethora of Apple software releases on Tuesday, Apple noted that iTunes 8.0, Quicktime 7.5.5, Bonjour for Windows 1.0.5, and the iPod touch 2.1 OS updates offer various security fixes as well. iTunes 8.0 resolves a vulnerability on the Mac side that results in an erroneous Firewall warning dialogue, while the Windows side saw a fix pertaining to system privileges. iTunes 8.0 is available for download from Apple's website.
Apple has released MacBook Air Software Update 1.0, which addresses issues with video playback and core idling. It is warned that third-party software that modifies processor operating characteristics such as frequency and voltage is not supported and should be removed before installing the update. The Mac OS X 10.5.4 update is required before installing the MacBook Air Software Update 1.0.
Sonos System Software 2.6 was released today by Sonos, a developer of wireless multi-room music systems for the home environment. The software update includes support for SonosNet, MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output), larger music collections, NasBasic firmware and Mac OS X Leopard. Customers have been experiencing various issues when trying to connect to a Mac computer running OS X Leopard but version 2.6 should solve all of those conflicts.
Softpress systems has updated Freeway 5.2, its traditional page application designed to create dynamic sites without the need to write code. The update brings new features such as Google actions and Blogger templates as well as tools that allow users to easily create iPhone specific pages. Users now have the ability to specify the icon that will appear on an iPhone if the site is saved as a web clip. Links for iPhone applications, Mail, Phone, Maps, and YouTube, have also been added in this release to allow designers to create websites that move readers to appropriate locations for viewing information.
Punch! Software today announced the next major release of ViaCAD 2D/3D for PC and Mac. ViaCAD is a very functional, low cost 2D/3D design product that looks to revolutionize the entry point for general-purpose precision design. Version 6 includes enhancements related to usability, 2D drafting, 3D modeling, performance and data sharing. New to this version users will find additional verification tools, additional drafting tools including single click fill and hatch, 3Dconnexion SpaceNavigator support and new architectural drafting tools and a drawing setup wizard. ViaCAD includes a powerful array of tools that are not generally seen in similarly priced software. New to this release is the ability to view a drawing from multiple angles, such as top, side or front. Its innovative user interface supports LogiCursor technology that allows the software to anticipate a users actions.
In brief: The game Otis is now on the iPhone, iZen Garden was updated to version 1.5 and FlipBook for iPhone is now available for purchase. Wonder Wrap software has added a port of Otis to the App Store. The object of the game is to remove all the blocks from a board by clicking on grouped blocks of the same color. Additional points are added for clearing larger groups, but only through careful maneuvering can the player clear the entire board. The iPhone version is available for $4.
Mirye has announced that its Revolution line of products will begin to receive monthly updates - referred to as issues. Each issue may include updates to the software itself – Revolution Studio, Revolution Media and Revolution Enterprise – but will also offer users new items meant to enhance the media tool set offered in the product line. The Revolution product line looks to allow users to create applications and rich media products in one OS environment, and then easily port that creation to other major OS environments. Each issue can include both temporary and long term member benefits for Mirye Revolution users. Temporary items include materials, applications and useful content that is available for only a single month, and only for Mirye Runtime Revolution update customers. All users who have purchased a new license or upgraded after July 28th, 2008 will receive and email continuing download and activation information.
Apple released iPhone version 2.0.1 update via iTunes Monday evening. The 242MB update contains various "bug fixes," according to Apple's installation note. The update "supercedes all previous versions" of iPhone software. There's no word yet if the update contains any additional features. In addition, Apple also unveiled the iPod touch 2.0.1, most likely containing similar bug fixes. As with all previous versions of the iPhone and iPod touch operating systems, the update is available through iTunes.
Last night Apple released security update 2008-005 although even after the update it would seem that one of the most voiced issues still has not been addressed. This update was supposed to bring port randomization to make it more difficult to spoof the DNS response. However, in nCircle's test it seems as though this is not the case. nCircle found that even after installing the patch the client libraries in an OS X 10.4.11 still do not randomize the source port. A comparison of a patched FreeBSD 6.3 system and OS X 10.4.11 was given and here are the results:
Mesa Dynamics has released a completely overhauled version of its dedicated imagine search client, Beholder 3.0. Beholder searches the web for images, automatically querying web search engines and presenting thumbnail results in an organized window with URL and other link details. Beholder 3.0 has been rewritten from scratch as a Universal application and features a new WebKit-based image retrieval engine. New features such as size and safe search options for Google Image Search have been added, as well as new sorting options such as, sorting by image file and pixel size.
Apple has released Lexmark Printer Driver Update 1.1, which includes the latest drivers for the Lexmark line of printers. The 71MB update was released Tuesday and is only visible when a Lexmark printer is connected, or a print queue has been created for an earlier Lexmark driver.
Apple on Monday released Aperture 2..1.1, an update to its photograph organization and manipulation utility for Mac OS X. The update supports general compatibility issues, improves overall stability, and addresses a number of other minor issues. It is available via Mac OS X update or via the Web as a download (48MB). It requires Mac OS X 10.4.11 or later.
Aquafadas', "hassle-free" banner animation software has been updated to version 1.2. BannerZest takes any collection of images and can turn them into a gallery, navigation bar or slideshow. Using BannerZest requires no knowledge of Flash, as everything has been pre-integrated allowing users to quickly design animations to add interest to their sites. The update adds three new themes, TextSlideShow (Pro version), Hanging and HangingSliim as well as Sticker. BannerZest supports all of the major social websites as well as all major web development tools, such as iWeb and Dreamweaver.
Houdah Software has updated its popular search utility, HoudahSpot to version 2.2. The new version builds upon features offered in previous versions such as BlitzSearch, which combines the simplicity of Spotlight with the power of HoudahSpot. The update also improves AppleScript support as well as integration with third party tools PathFinder, LaunchBar and QuickSilver. HoudahSpot 2.2 introduces a completely rewritten BlitzSearch feature, which when called upon slides out of the top of the screen, and then allows a user to perform a customized search. HoudahSpot's enhanced AppleScript support, allows scripts to call upon BlitzSearch as well as allowing them to receive access to search results. By using HoudahSpot 2.2 users are able to create detailed queries to pinpoint the exact location of the file that they are looking for. Users may then set up templates for frequently performed searches and save queries for direct access to favorite files.
TiVo on Thursday announced that its Series3 and TiVo HD DVRs will soon support YouTube content, allowing users to browse and view videos on the Google-owned service. In the future, TiVo hopes to introduce a login interface, which would let users access their YouTube accounts, videos, channels, and playlists. Tivo expects to have the update delivered over "the next few weeks" for the aforementioned players.
Mach Software has released a new version of its popular clipboard manager, Clipboard Evolved. Designed to fit neatly into Mac OS X (and so that it offers the most functionality with the smallest learning curve) the software offers two views, a clipboard window plus a menu for easy access to copied items. Clipboard Evolved adds an icon into the menubar that allows access to all the programs features with very little hassle. Right-clicking on the menubar icon brings up a list of all the items in the clipboard which can then be clicked on to be copied, or if you have a new piece of data you would like to add to the clipboard just drag that item over the menubar icon and it will be instantly added to the current clipboard.
Feral Interactive has released a Universal patch for Chessmaster 9000 that allows the game to run natively on PowerPC- and now Intel-based Macs. The patch also includes a built-in auto-update feature that will alert the user to new updates when they are released. Chessmaster 9000 introduces players to the rules and strategies of chess, while building skills through tutorials. It provides resource materials to help players improve their gameplay and has over 150 opponent levels from novice to grandmaster. It also utilizes 3D graphics for an improved visual experience. Chessmaster 9000 works on Mac OS X 10.2 and above, requiring a minimum 700MHz processor, 256MB of RAM and a 16MB video card. It retails for $40.
Assistware says its KeyStrokes 4.1 on-screen keyboard for Mac users with physical impairments is now available as a Universal Binary. The company calls KeyStrokes 4.1 an "important” update with improved support for Mac OS X Leopard Spaces, automatic keyboard layout switching for Leopard and other improvements. Assistware has also included its new LayoutKitchen 2.1 layout editor, which allows users to design their own on-screen keyboards.
Aquafados says the new version of its PulpMotion Advanced slideshow software comes with a new animation theme. The “Pulse” theme includes “punchy animation,” lots of images and ”sophisticated transitions,” according to the company. Equipped with several presets, Pulse allows users to adjust the timing of each shot and to create “zones of interest” to focus viewer attention. The update is available immediately.
Plyxim has upated its QuickTime-based scheduling software for closed-circuit broadcasting systems. Exibia 1.2 Server allows users from multiple platforms to use their web browsers to upload content to a central server. Version 1.2 includes a "major overhaul" to Exibia's web client interface. Exibia supports iCal and LDAP integration, and works with third-party plug-ins including Flip4Mac, Perian and Divx.
RedleX has released Mellel 2.5, a significant update to the leading word processor for Mac OS X. The new release adds robust cross referencing capabilities, allowing users to refer from one point in the text to another (e.g., "see page 15"). Mellel's reference entry dialogue allows, accordingly, to create reference formats, composed of different elements such as reference to the page number, position in the text (above, next page, below, etc.), page range, and so on. Users can also save and re-use such formats again and again, making the necessary modifications as they go along.
