Ipod Product Reviews

Apple rolls out new iPods, social iTunes

2029-03-04T22:16:00.000-08:00

There were few surprises at Apple's annual music event Wednesday, but as usual there are new iPods for the holiday season and a new version of Apple TV.
Apple's new iPod Nano, one of several new products announced Wednesday.

Apple's new iPod Nano, one of several new products announced Wednesday.
(Credit: Apple)

Here's a quick recap of what Apple CEO Steve Jobs announced Wednesday in San Francisco. Check here for a replay of our live coverage of the event from earlier in the day.

• Apple released a new version of iOS--iOS 4.1--that fixes bugs and brings the previously announced Game Center API for developers to use in building social-networking games. Also, iOS 4.2 will be released later this year, which will unify the software on iPhones and iPads as well as stream music to other devices over Wi-Fi.

• Three new iPods were announced: an iPod Shuffle that ditches the previous no-button style in returning to a more classic look; a smaller iPod Nano that now has a touch screen but can no longer play video; and a thinner iPod Touch that has most of the features first introduced on the iPhone 4. The new iPods will be available next week.

• Apple announced iTunes 10, available immediately, which comes with a new logo and a social music service called Ping that lets you see what your friends are listening to and make comments and recommendations.

• A much cheaper and smaller Apple TV will ship later this month as Apple tries to revive interest in what Jobs has long called "a hobby." It will cost $99, and users can rent HD TV shows from iTunes as well as other partners, such as ABC and Fox. They can also access Netflix's streaming service from the box.

Read more: http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-20015342-37.html#ixzz1FlN3N6j2

Hot new iOS games for the long weekend

2011-09-03T08:43:00.000-07:00

Several great new games were released this week for iOS that are perfect for keeping you busy during downtime over the long Labor Day weekend.

A couple of days ago, I wrote about Spy Mouse, Firemint's latest game that has you play as Agent Squeak, the mouse who stealthily steals cheese across tons of cleverly made levels. I highly recommend that you grab that game in addition to this collection, but I found three more that will satisfy just about every gamer's personal taste.

This week's collection of iOS apps are all hot new games from different genres. The first lets you draw your path around a racetrack; the second lets you use a jetpack to go for distance; and the third is a beautifully made hack-and-slash RPG.
DrawRace2

During the race, you can see the faint line you drew as your car navigates the track.
(Credit: Screenshot by Jason Parker/CNET)

DrawRace2 (99 cents) is the sequel to DrawRace, an unconventional but very fun take on racing games for the iPhone. In DrawRace games, you don't actually drive a car around a track. Instead, you draw the path you will take around the track before the race even begins. When you're done drawing, you watch the race to see how you did.

While it sounds easy, you have to be very precise in the way you draw your line. As you come to sharp turns, for example, you'll need to draw more slowly, then speed up again as you hit straights. When the actual race begins, you only have one control: a turbo button you can use sparingly for a temporary boost out of turns. But often it will be the line you drew that determines whether you win the race.

What's particularly neat about this game is the number of tracks, cars, and racing styles you can play. Winning races gets you new cars and unlocks tracks. As you progress, you'll need to draw racing lines around street ovals, curvy dirt tracks, and even Nascar and formula speedways. Each type of track, car, and surface must be accounted for as you draw your lines and racing game fans will appreciate designing the perfect line to navigate the track at hand.

Along with the unique style of play, DrawRace2 has excellent graphics with realistic physics, and several environments that are all a joy to play through. Once you think you've mastered the game, you can play online against others, play a head-to-head game on one device (with each player drawing a racing line before the race), or challenge a friend over Bluetooth.

Overall, we were surprised by how much fun it was to plan a race before it happens, and the attention to detail in this well-made, graphically beautiful racing game. If you like racing games and want to try something different, DrawRace2 is an excellent option.
Jetpack Joyride

Use your machine-gun jetpack to maneuver past obstacles while you rain bullets down below.
(Credit: Screenshot by Jason Parker/CNET)

Jetpack Joyride (99 cents) is a new distance game from the makers of Monster Dash and Fruit Ninja, but in this game you use a machine-gun jetpack to maneuver past obstacles and use discovered vehicles to try to survive as long as possible. The control system is incredibly simple: touch the screen to propel your jetpack.

As in Monster Dash, you play hero Barry Steakfries, but in this game you'll break into a secret laboratory to steal and use experimental jetpacks. As you propel yourself through this side-scroller, you'll need to gather coins you can use between runs to buy new jetpacks, different outfits, upgrades for vehicles, and extra utilities that help you last longer. Some of the upgrades can be fairly expensive, but you can take your chances with a slot machine at the end of a game (if you gather Spin tokens floating through the level) that will add to your cash or give you bonuses usually found in the store.

Part of what makes Jetpack Joyride fun are the strange vehicles you'll discover and use along the way. Along with the already interesting machine-gun jetpack that fires downward, you'll also find a Profit Bird that eats coins and requires that you flap its wings; ride a motorcycle that speeds along the ground but can jump up to grab bonuses; or use a strange machine that lets you teleport out of the way of obstacles. There are several vehicles to discover and each adds to your frantic run as you try to survive as long as possible.

To keep the game interesting, you also can gain achievements by doing various things in the game. Once you earn enough, you'll level up, which gives you even more coins to use towards new jetpacks and items.

Overall, Jetpack Joyride is a fun and addictive distance/running game that offers plenty of replay value with the countless upgrades and strange vehicles you find in each game. If you like distance games, this is a must-have for only a buck.
Pocket RPG

The Blade Master wields dual swords and is the most effective for up-close combat.
(Credit: Screenshot by Jason Parker/CNET)

Pocket RPG (99 cents) was already available for iPad, but now brings the fun and mindless dual-stick hack-and-slash adventure to the smaller Retina Display on the iPhone.

You start by choosing from three character classes: Dark Ranger, Blade Master, and Battle Mage, each with a different fighting style and special moves. When you're done choosing according to your playing style, you'll be dropped into the first dungeon and will need to talk to the NPCs scattered about to learn the basics. From there, Pocket RPG is all about mindless hack-and-slash goodness, battling against swarms of enemies, and finding chests full of treasure, weapons, and items. As in many casual RPG games, at the end of each level you'll battle a boss and test all the skills you've learned up to that point.

Along with the fantastic hack-and-slash gameplay in beautiful randomly generated dungeons, what makes Pocket RPG great is the simple way it handles found items and weapons. There is no potion button to hit while battling--you simply drink healing and mana potions as you find them. You also don't need to struggle with your loadout very much--simply drag and drop weapons in, and you only need to worry about one ring and one necklace for extra skills and attribute boosts. Selling items only requires that you drag a weapon from your inventory to a sell-item button--no need to find a town or store in order to free up space. All of these game design elements make it easy to focus on what's important: hacking and slashing through hordes of bad guys.

Overall, Pocket RPG is an extremely fun and addictive game featuring great-looking graphics, tons of weapons to experiment with, and special moves gained simply by fighting. Whether you are new to RPGs or an old hand at the genre, you will appreciate the way Pocket RPG makes hack-and-slash both easy and fun.

New iPod Touch 'has dual cameras and Retina display

2011-07-10T02:22:00.000-07:00

Upgrades coming “in a few weeks” according to top Apple blogger John Gruber, as reports also suggest a new version for Apple TV.

Rumours about forthcoming announcements from iPhone maker Apple are gathering pace, with consistently accurate blogger John Gruber predicting that the iPod Touch will be upgraded to feature the same high resolution “Retina Display” used on the new iPhone, as well as two cameras.

“If you wait a few weeks to get buy the Touch, you’ll get one with a Retina Display and Dual Cameras”, he wrote on his Daring Fireball website. The addition of dual cameras would further enforce Apple’s commitement to its FaceTime video-calling functionality, currently only available via wifi to iPhone 4 users. Gruber was not specific about their resolution, however.

Discussing the US launch of the Dell Streak mobile phone/tablet hybrid, which has been available in the UK for several weeks, the blogger was scathing in his assessment. He concluded “If Dell can’t make an iPod Touch competitor, who can?”

Additionally, Engadget is also reporting that a cut-down version of Apple TV will soon be announced. The $99 device will be based on iPhone 4 hardware, and will offer 720p video playback, rather than the higher resolution 1080p or 1080i, the site claims. It is likely, however, gain access to applications via the App Store.

Engadget also reports that Apple TV is to be renamed iTV. Previously, however, this has been problematic for the UK market because of the clash with the name of broadcaster ITV.

Is Kindle (Wi-Fi) or Kindle 3G (Free 3G + Wi-Fi)

2011-06-04T09:27:00.000-07:00

Is Kindle (Wi-Fi) or Kindle 3G (Free 3G + Wi-Fi)

Kindle (Wi-Fi) is a great choice if you already have a high-speed internet connection and wireless router set up in your home and do not need the added convenience of a 3G connection. 3G enables you to download books anytime, anywhere, while on the go. If you do not have Wi-Fi set up in your home, Kindle 3G may be a better option.

Kindle 3G (Free 3G + Wi-Fi) is the easiest option because there is no wireless setup—you are ready to shop, purchase, and read right out of the box. Built-in Free 3G connectivity uses the same wireless signals that cell phones use, but there are no monthly fees or commitments—Amazon pays for Kindle’s 3G wireless connectivity. The added convenience of 3G enables you to download books anytime, anywhere, while on the go—without having to find a Wi-Fi hotspot connection. With wireless coverage in over 100 countries and territories, Kindle 3G is a great option for travelers. Check 3G coverage area

Kindle Wireless Reading Device, Free 3G, 6″ Display, White – 2nd Generation

About Today: Tax Deductions You Might Miss

2011-03-28T10:17:00.000-07:00

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From Jen Hubley, your About Today Editor

It's crunch time for those of us who forgot that April follows March, and have yet to do our taxes. And the question, as always, is: How much will I have to pay?

3 Basic Ways to Reduce Your Taxes

If you want to pay less - and who doesn't - you can use three different strategies: reduce your income, increase your deductions, or take advantage of tax credits.

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How to Deduct Your Job Search

Under some circumstances, you can deduct things like job search expenses - good news for the 150 percent of you who were looking for jobs at some point this year. (Number approximate and totally made up.)

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How to Deduct Your Move

Another deduction you might have missed: Moving expenses. As always, read the fine print before you start filling in numbers.

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Tax Deductions for Charitable Donations

Did you donate to charity this year? Here's how to tell if it's deductible.

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About Today: How to Get Rich

2011-03-25T10:17:00.000-07:00

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From Jen Hubley, your About Today Editor

I don't know about you, but I've had enough of this not-being-rich business, and I've decided it's time for a change. For one thing, it's a shame for me to be poor, because I'm so good at spending money. I'm sure that you are equally talented, and therefore deserving of riches.

How to Get Rich

The rich are very different from you and me: They have awesome toys. (OK, that's not quite the F. Scott Fitzgerald quote, but it's close.)

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How Much Money Does It Take to Be Rich?

I feel rich every time I get a raise or lose an expense. This is because I'm an optimistic sort (or else a sucker, depending on your point of view).

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7 Things the Rich Do Differently

To get really rich, though, you have to change your way of thinking.

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3 Secrets to Building a Fortune

One thing I can promise you: If I do become a zillionaire, you will all be invited over to swim in my vault of gold coins.

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About Today: How to Report a Bully on Facebook

2011-03-24T10:17:00.000-07:00

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From Jen Hubley, your About Today Editor

When I was a kid, it was easier to avoid bullies - you could pretty much just hide in your house or a convenient Dumpster. It wasn't an ideal solution, of course, and eventually, you'd have to go to school. But at least, when you were home, you were safe. Now? Not so much.

How to Use the Facebook Bullying Report Tool

That's because bullies can harass kids online, via Facebook or any number of social networking sites. (Some of which we're probably not cool enough to know about yet.)

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How Common Is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying encompasses harassment through chat rooms, instant messages, website comments, and distribution of embarrassing photos. And it's probably more common than you think.

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Facebook Do's and Don'ts for Teens

Here's the most important "don't," for everyone as well as just for teens: "Don't leave the default Facebook privacy settings as set."

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Dealing With Bullies

Here's the cheeriest statistic so far: "56 percent of tweens who observed a child being bullied said that they usually try to stop the bullying or report it to an adult."

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About Today: Best Excuses for Being Late for Work

2011-03-23T10:17:00.000-07:00

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From Jen Hubley, your About Today Editor

I've done everything from landscaping, to waitressing, to writing little stories for the interwebs. So I've heard my share of excuses for being late to work.

Best Excuses for Being Late for Work

My favorite was probably when I was landscaping. One of the bosses was late because she had to chase a goat. The best part was that it was a true story.

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What's the Best Excuse for Being Late?

First runner up goes to a coworker at a media company ten years ago, who was late because the dog ate her alarm clock. (My feeling is that she had been using the same excuse, in one form or another, since elementary school and got confused.)

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Why Are Your Employees Late for Work?

The best response to lateness was from a boss I had right out of college, who sent an email to our department saying, "I could have fired a cannon through your area at 9:05 this morning with zero injuries. Please get in before 9 o'clock."

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How to Negotiate a Flexible Schedule

Some people aren't morning people and never will be. For those people, flexible work hours might be the answer, if they can arrange them.

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About Today: Readers' Choice Awards - Your Favorites

2011-03-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

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From Jen Hubley, your About Today Editor

We asked for your favorite products, services, and sites and you told us. Here are your choices for the best of the best of everything in categories ranging from tech to travel, health to hobbies.

2011 Readers' Choice Awards: Best of the Best

This year was our largest Readers' Choice Awards ever, with more categories, nominees, and winners than ever before.

Readers' Choice: Computing and Technology

Computing and Tech is where it all started. Our IM awards are on their fourth year.

Readers' Choice: Health and Family

Perhaps the most important category, Health and Family offers a roundup of your favorite things related your nearest and dearest. After all, if you don't have your health, etc.

Readers' Choice: Hobbies and Home

Many of us are most passionate about the things we do in our spare time.

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About Today: Are You Ready to Buy a Home?

2011-03-21T10:17:00.000-07:00

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From Jen Hubley, your About Today Editor

Last month, my friends Matt and Liz finally moved into their new home. This is always exciting, but in their case, it's extra neat, because it's their first house. What they went through during the process of buying it, however ... well, let's just say, in retrospect, I think they wish they'd just built themselves a yurt out of aluminum cans and sticks.

Are You Ready to Buy a Home?

Whenever they make those lists of Things That Stress People out the Most, buying a home is right at the top. That's because it's a complicated process, especially for people who are doing it for the first time.

Before You Buy a Home

Should You Buy or Rent?

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Do First-Time Home Buyers Need an Agent?

There are a lot of questions to answer, as well. First and foremost is probably, can I afford all of this? But next up is "do I need an agent?"

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Before You Get a Mortgage

Secretly, I don't think most people really understand mortgages. (Or maybe I'm just trying to make myself feel better.) Here's a cheat sheet.

How to Find the Down Payment

And the biggest trick of all, of course, is finding the down payment. Most of us, it turns out, don't necessary have tens of thousands of dollars lying around.

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About iPhone / iPod: App Focus: Game On - March Madness & Baseball Apps

2011-03-18T13:24:00.001-07:00

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iPhone / iPod

iPhone / iPod

Basics

Tips & Tricks

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From Sam Costello, your Guide to iPhone / iPod

If it's early spring, that means there are two big sports events: March Madness and the opening of the Major League Baseball season. And, as with many other events, there are great iPhone apps to help you enjoy those events all the more.

Game On! 7 March Madness iPhone Apps

Barely two days in and we've already had great upsets. These apps will help you watch games online and not miss a minute ... read more

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Best iPhone Baseball Apps

Whether you can't wait to see your team take the field, or are preparing to win your fantasy league, these apps put you in the middle of the action ... read more

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Get It Done with 5 Great To-Do List Apps

Apps aren't just about fun and games. They're also about getting things done. Check out these 5 apps that will help you make and complete to-do lists ... read more

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2011 iPod/iPhone Readers' Choice Awards Winners

Who won best app? What about best running app? The competition was pretty intense and now you can see who took home the awards ... read more

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This newsletter is written by:
Sam Costello
iPhone / iPod Guide
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About Today: Fun Facts About the First Day of Spring

2011-03-18T10:17:00.000-07:00

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From Jen Hubley, your About Today Editor

Spring will be sprung as of this Sunday, and it's about time. We're sick of our winter coats and tired of the winter weather.

Fun Facts About the First Day of Spring

The first one was a shocker to me: The Vernal Equinox? Is not actually always equal. There is a day when there are twelve hours of day and twelve of night, but it might not necessarily be on the 20th of March.

Can You Balance Eggs on End During the Spring Equinox?

My favorite urban legend, resurrected for the nicer weather.

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All About Ostara, the Spring Equinox

For pagans, Sunday is a pretty big holiday. For other folks, this is still good reading. Especially if you ever wanted to know why the Easter bunny brings eggs, or why St. Patrick hated snakes.

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12 Ways to Have Fun With Your Kids in the Spring

Time to let your tiniest family members out of the house to enjoy the spring weather. You're probably just as ready as they are.

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About Today: How to Make Green Beer

2011-03-17T11:17:00.000-07:00

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From Jen Hubley, your About Today Editor

I love St. Patrick's Day. In general, I'm a huge fan of any and all holidays that revolve around food and drink, and don't ask much of us, other than to have a good time. St. Patrick's Day is pretty much the king of these holidays. (Well, OK: It's neck and neck with Halloween.)

How to Make Green Beer

The toughest thing you might be asked to do today is to learn how to make green beer. And that's not very tough at all.

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New St. Patrick's Day Drinks

Here's something I learned from this round-up of delicious St. Patrick's Day drinks: There is such a thing as Guinness gelato. I can die happy now.

St. Patrick's Day Menu

St Patrick's Day Green Recipes

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Food to Take You Through St Patrick's Day

Start with an Irish breakfast, continue with hale and hearty main dishes, and finish up with sweets and drinks.

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9 Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with Kids

Here's no. 10, at no extra charge: At your local St. Patrick's Day parade, look for a dog dressed up in a green hat. You will always find one, guaranteed. Bonus points if it's a bulldog.

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About Today: Help Japan Without Getting Scammed

2011-03-16T11:17:00.000-07:00

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Today

From Jen Hubley, your About Today Editor

I've been glued to the news the past few days, watching coverage of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. It's so awful, it's hard to even find room in our heads for everything that's happened. But as usual, when tragedy strikes, so does the opportunity to show human nature at its best. Here's how you can help out.

Help Japan Without Getting Scammed

The goal, of course, is to make sure that your hard-earned donations are going to the right place.

See More About: identity theft consumers consumer resources

Safe Ways to Help the Survivors

This page has at least 12 safe ways to give to the survivors in Japan.

See More About: giving to charity international giving

A Donor's Guide to Global Emergencies

These resources will help you figure out which organizations are helping in which ways, and donate safely.

See More About: safe giving online giving

Helpful Websites for Japan Earthquake Information

And these sites will help you stay up-to-date on all the news.

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About iPhone / iPod: iPad 2 Review & Where To Get One Now

2011-03-16T05:24:00.000-07:00

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iPhone / iPod

iPhone / iPod

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Support

From Sam Costello, your Guide to iPhone / iPod

I'm enjoying my iPad 2. So far, the coolest trick I've pulled with it is shooting video and then immediately streaming it via AirPlay to my Apple TV/HDTV. That's a pretty awesome trick.

iPad 2 Review - Initial Impressions

The iPad 2 makes a pretty favorable impression, but are its new insides and new case enough to overcome somewhat lackluster cameras? ... read more

See More About: ipad 2

Where to Buy the iPad

Not many stores have the iPad 2 in stock right now, ubt if you're going to get one at retail, here's where you'll do it ... read more

See More About: ipad

iPod Minis: iPad 2 Demand, Zune Is Dead

How is the wait to order an iPad 2 from Apple's online store? Might be worth it to wait in line at retail stores ... read more

2011 iPod/iPhone Readers' Choice Awards Winners

What do Angry Birds, mophie cases, BigOven.com, and New Potato Technologies have in common? They're all Readers' Choice Awards winners. Check out the fill list ... read more

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Featured Articles

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iPhone / iPod Guide
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About Today: Is It Safe to E-File Your Tax Return?

2011-03-15T11:17:00.000-07:00

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Today

From Jen Hubley, your About Today Editor

Here is how old I am: I have filed taxes before e-filing was a possibility. Naturally, then, the first time I used e-file, I was pretty sure that the internets would steal my identity and purchase an island with my credit. (A very small island, but still.)

Is It Safe to E-File Your Tax Return?

These days, if I can't do it online, I don't want to do it at all. Which is why it's a good thing that e-file exists. Taxes are sort of not optional.

See More About: choosing tax software free tax software income tax preparation

7 Free Tax Software Options Compared

Free + online = awesome. Here's how to pick the free tax software package that's right for you.

See More About: free tax software tax software reviews

How to Avoid an Audit

And here's the nightmare of tax season: The Dreaded Audit. Which you can avoid by watching for these common audit triggers.

5 Smart Ways to Spend a Tax Refund

Sadly, nowhere in here does it say that I should spend my refund on piles and piles of candy. Maybe that was no. 6?

See More About: getting out of debt

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iPod Trade In Programs

2011-03-12T20:29:00.000-08:00

Upgrading from an older iPod model to the latest, most wonderful, and cutting edge iPod can be an expensive proposition. Plus, you’ve got a perfectly good iPod on your hands, so can you use that to your advantage to cut the cost of your new toy?

Sure you can!

While you can always try selling your old iPod on eBay or Craigslist or other similar places, some retailers have iPod trade on programs in place that credit you for the purchase of a new iPod when you trade them your old one.

These programs all have different terms, so be sure to read closely and ask questions before parting with your iPod, but this is a great way to get that new gadget and pay a bit less for it.

Here are links to a few sites with iPod trade in programs:

BuyMyTronics
BuyMyTronics buys both working and broken iPods and iPhones, as well as a range of other electronics and gadgets. They fix and resell broken products (though not apparently on their website).
BuyMyTronics Review | Users Share Their Experiences with BuyMyTronics

Electronic Warehouse
Electronic Warehouse will give you a US$20 credit towards electronics or golf purchases when you trade them your stock Apple iPod earbuds. Lots of people get new headphones for their iPods or iPhones, so if you're one of them, here's a way to turn those earbuds that you're not using into something you will use.

Gazelle
Gazelle (formerly SecondRotation) buys all kinds of used electronics - from cell phones to iPods - based on their condition, the packaging and accessories they include, and more. Prices paid for iPods are good - a 4th-generation iPod in good condition nets US$54.
Gazelle Review | Users Share Their Experiences with Gazelle

NextWorth
This site offers a used iPod calculator tool that is both informative and interesting. Use it to gauge the value of your iPod and then decide if you want to sell. You can also buy used iPods from the site.
NextWorth Review| Users Share Their Experiences with NextWorth

PowerMax
Apple reseller PowerMax buy used iPads, iPhones, and iPods (as well as used Macs). Unlike other sites, though, you must email the details of the device you want to sell in order to get a quote, rather than getting a quote live on the website.
Users Share Their Experiences with PowerMax

Small Dog Electronics
This long-time Apple reseller offers $40-$135 credit for models starting with the iPod Shuffle. Non-working iPods can even net you a $25 credit!
Small Dog Profile and Reviews | Visit the Small Dog website

Secure Tradein
This off-shoot of electronics recycler ReCellular Inc. buys iPhones, but not iPods. Prices are based on the model and specs, not condition (which leads to odd situations like the site offering to pay more than retail price for an iPhone 4). You can be paid for your phone by check, or donate the money to charity.
Visit the Secure Tradein website

Recycling iPods
For those who want to protect the environment more than their wallets, Apple offers an iPod recycling program. This is especially good if your iPod is too old to trade or broken. iPods recycled through this program net you a 10% discount on a new iPod purchase.
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iPhone + iPad Games

2011-03-12T20:20:00.000-08:00

Welcome to this week’s edition of iPhone + iPad Gems! Today, we’re looking at three budget games from the App Store, including one universal iPad/iPhone/iPod touch title with high-resolution graphic support on all three devices, an iPad-specific game, and an iPhone/iPod touch-specific title that runs in upscaled mode on the iPad.

Our top pick of the bunch is Infinity Field, but all three games are worthy of at least our general-level recommendation. Read on for all the details.

Can Knockdown 2

Forgettable ideas can be transformed into impressive games by impressive execution. Infinite Dreams’ Can Knockdown 2 ($1, version 1.01) demonstrates exactly how this works: it is literally nothing more than Angry Birds on a different angle—first-person rather than side-scrolling—and without the funny animals. You use swipe gestures to toss balls at cans and other targets, moving from level to level by clearing everything from the screen. The primary mode involves knocking down sets of increasingly challenging but stationary cans, while others have pop-up wooden bullseyes and/or moving cans of various sizes instead. Each mode gives you a limitation, either in balls or time, that can be extended through proper play; otherwise, your game ends after a minute or two. That there’s nothing deeper here, such as a save game feature with a hundred levels, or different ball physics a la Angry Birds’ projectiles, is the biggest knock against this game.

But what Can Knockdown 2 offers as a reward to players is a graphics engine that makes outstanding use of the Retina Displays on new iPhones and iPod touches, as well as the full 9.7” screens of iPads. The 3-D balls, 3-D cans, and 2-D but animated backdrops are so impressively detailed and plausible that they could be mistaken for photorealistic; Infinite Dreams includes smoke plumes, shadows, and other little effects to spice up the scenes, too. Music is left out in favor of ambient sound effects that work with the art to provide urban grit; there could obviously be more and better audio, but what’s here suffices for a $1 game.

Can Knockdown 2 reaches its apex of challenge during the moving can levels, which force you to consider not just where the target is, but where it will be when your ball arrives. Learning to control the speed of your ball tosses isn’t easy—a practice mode would be great—but you effectively practice as you replay the levels. Unlike Angry Birds, the fact that you can alter the speed and/or power of a shot isn’t obvious from any sort of dotted line indicator; it’s just something you come to discover on your own. Can Knockdown 2 initially rewards this knowledge merely by letting you continue to play, then introduces bonus items; the moving can mode for instance brings up a wider variety of targets that can explode in different ways, slowing down or speeding up time, adding bonus points, and more.

In as much as the App Store now offers “full” games and bite-sized “casual” ones that aren’t going to set the world on fire but provide ample entertainment for their low prices, Can Knockdown 2 is clearly in the latter category—just an Angry Birds appeared to be prior to its post-release updates that added levels and improved its value. Thanks as much to its graphics engine and art as its familiar but fun gameplay, Infinite Dreams has the makings of a similar phenomenon on its hands here. With a little extra content and charm, Can Knockdown 2 could become as big of a deal as Rovio’s title. iLounge Rating: B+.

Infinity Field

While it would be fair to call Chillingo’s Infinity Field ($2, version 1.0.1) a clone of Activision’s Geometry Wars: Touch, there’s no doubt that what developer ForzeField Studios has accomplished with this title is thrilling enough to justify downloading on its own merits. As with Geometry Wars and earlier, similar iOS titles, Infinity Field gives you two virtual joysticks to separately control the movement and shooting of a spaceship trapped in a box with hordes of single-colored enemies. Survival mode lets you play for as long as you can survive with three lives, with six separate initially selectable scenarios, and Campaign mode offers roughly 50 levels to play through in sequence, generally requiring you to remain alive for 90 seconds per level as more and more enemies drop into the play area.

While this will all sound pretty familiar to Geometry Wars fans, and the glowing vector/line-based graphics with a pulsating background grid has plenty in common visually with Activision’s game, Infinity Field offers a lot of individual fun for the $2 asking price. The intensity of the line and particle artwork is increased by four different camera views, two of them with 3-D tilting and camera panning, guaranteeing that the screen will be filled with explosions and glow effects almost all the time. Floating power-ups offer temporary force fields, slow motion action, and occasionally even screen-clearing bombs, though the latter weapon is far less common here than in Geometry Wars. Chillingo instead uses other interesting gameplay tricks, such as levels that remove your gun in favor of Tilt to Live-style limited-area explosions, to keep the stages challenging. Boss encounters come every dozen levels, and are worth seeing. The virtual controls are responsive throughout, aided by the iPad’s extra screen real estate.

Infinity Field’s only major issues are generally forgivable for the low price. The in-game song is close to great, but doesn’t change—it just keeps playing level after level, without any sort of voice or other special audio effects to elevate the game’s sounds above “good.” An in-game ship upgrade system is at best confusingly implemented, using a system to acquire currency that isn’t anywhere near as obvious as it should be, though the occasional opportunity to boost your guns is entirely welcome. And multiplayer features are presently half-baked; there’s a split-screen way to play the Survival levels, with a wi-fi mode that’s listed as “Coming Soon.” While what’s here is better than nothing, it’s obvious that the game is unfinished, though many companies would have considered it complete enough for $2.

Despite the flaws, Infinity Field is a great game for the price—a better value for $2 than Geometry Wars: Touch was when it originally debuted for $10, if not quite as original. It’s currently an iPad-only release and very acceptably priced as such; hopefully iPhone and iPod touch support will be added alongside the multiplayer mode in the near future. iLounge Rating: A-.

Tiny Wings

While it would be unfair to write off the shocking success of Andreas Illiger’s recently-released iPhone and iPod touch title Tiny Wings ($1) as traceable merely to the combination of a happy bird theme, simple “casual” gameplay, and a low price point, we’re convinced that these elements have a lot to do with its rapid ascent to the top of the App Store’s charts. Tiny Wings has a lot in common with 2009’s Canabalt and 2010’s Solipskier, both one-trick-pony casual action games that rely upon the perpetual motion of a jumping main character to keep you focused on the screen. Appropriately, Canabalt was black-and-white, Solipskier added splashes of color to a largely black and white world, and Tiny Wings brings full-colored pastels and softer edges to the table, effectively gender-neutralizing or feminizing previously popular guys’ game concepts to appeal to a larger potential audience.

The gameplay in Tiny Wings is almost as simple as can be. You proceed from “island” to “island,” using a single button—almost anywhere on the screen—to exert the force of gravity on a bird whose wings are only capable of the most limited flight. Holding the button down brings the bird towards the ground like a rock, while not holding it down enables the bird to alternate between riding soft hills and catching air in little skips. Your major challenge is to figure out how to properly time button presses to build up the bird’s speed on the ground so that the jumps become larger. Simply continuing to make progress earns you points, while coins can be gathered by riding certain hills, and huge “cloudtouch” jumps are available when you figure out how to catch the maximum air through momentum.

Tiny Wings is most impressive in aesthetics. Both the soft visuals and the gentle music feel breezy and confident, mixing an upbeat single song and “keep moving” pacing of an early Sonic the Hedgehog game with the dreamy, almost storybook cutout looks of Nintendo’s 1990’s Super Mario/Yoshi’s Island games. Everything moves at a smooth frame rate—60 frames per second—and there are no rough edges to be seen in any of the art; everything’s curved and soft, though sadly without high-resolution iPad support. That aside, this is a thoroughly happy game that kids and parents alike can play, contrasting heavily with the gritty pixels and deliberately high-contrast colors in titles such as Canabalt and Solipskier.

Our major issue with Tiny Wings is one that seemingly hasn’t stopped similar games from being successful in the App Store: the gameplay is a one-trick pony, and relies upon the now well-worn “beat your high score” challenge to keep you playing. This isn’t to say that the levels aren’t challenging, or that the experience isn’t fun for a while, but it’s not very deep—there’s not a huge amount of variation in the hills or the action. You have one life per game, and need to restart from the beginning whenever day turns to night, which happens faster if you slow down on an island. The developer keeps the levels interesting by changing the artwork procedurally—through a limited collection of patterns, colors, and hillside graphic elements—each day, but that’s no substitute for greater depth.

Thanks far more to execution than to gameplay concept, Tiny Wings delivers just enough fun and charm to be worthy of the $1 asking price, but not much more than that. As compared with the other games in Gems today, it delivers a considerably more shallow experience, but one that’s more likely to leave you with a warm heart after your first or second play. Whether you continue to come back to it for more depends on how much you’re incentivized by high scores and simple artwork changes. iLounge Rating: B+.

About iPhone / iPod: Buying an iPad 2, Selling an iPad 1

2011-03-09T04:24:00.000-08:00

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iPhone / iPod

iPhone / iPod

Basics

Tips & Tricks

Reviews

From Sam Costello, your Guide to iPhone / iPod

Even though the iPad 2 starts at US$499, it doesn't have to cost you that much. Read on to learn where to grab your iPad 2, but also how you can save hundreds on it.

Where to Buy the iPad 2

When the original iPad went on sale, you could only buy it through Apple and faced long lines. This time, lines should be short thanks to so many stores selling iPad 2 ... read more

See More About: ipad

Trading In Your Old iPad

If you're upgrading to the iPad 2, you can turn your first-generation iPad into a couple of hundred dollars ... read more

See More About: ipod trade-ins ipod recycling

My Hard Drive Crashed, I Lost Everything. What Do I Do?

Hard drive crashes, especially the ones where you lose all your data, are traumatic. But they can be a little easier to recover from if you have an iPhone, iPod, or iPad ... read more

See More About: iphone help ipod troubleshooting transferring ipod libraries

iPhone 5 Rumors

The next big product introduction from Apple will be the iPhone 5, expected to debut this summer. Here's what we think we know about it right now ... read more

See More About: iphone 5

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This newsletter is written by:
Sam Costello
iPhone / iPod Guide
Email Me | My Blog | My Forum

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Apple iPad 2 vs. Tablets: Galaxy Tab, BlackBerry PlayBook, TouchPad, Xoom

2011-03-04T22:26:00.000-08:00

While Apple's iPad may have started the trend of affordable, exciting consumer-centric tablet computers, it's far from the only model on the market. With the iPad's success, lots of competitors - from those running the BlackBerry OS to Android - are hitting the scene.

The question is, of course, how do they stack and which one should you buy?

This chart compares the iPad 2 to some of its leading tablet competitors so you can see in one glance how their hardware and features stack up.

Pad 2 vs. Galaxy Tab vs. HP TouchPad vs. Motorola Xoom vs. PlayBook

	iPad 2	Samsung Galaxy Tab	HP TouchPad	Motorola Xoom	BlackBerry PlayBook
Capacity	16GB, 32GB, 64GB	16GB, 32GB	16GB, 32GB	32GB	16GB, 32GB
Expandable Memory?	no	up to 32GB microSD	no		TBD
Screen size (in inches)	9.7	7	9.7	10.1	7
Resolution	1024 x 768	1024 x 768	1024 x 768	1280 x 600	1024 x 600
Operating System	iOS 4.3	Android 2.2	WebOS 3.0	Android 3.0	BlackBerry Tablet OS
Connectivity	WiFi, optional 3G	WiFi/3G	WiFi/3G/4G	WiFi/EVDO	WiFi
Cellular Provider	AT&T, Verizon	Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint	TBA	Verizon	n/a
Contract Price (monthly)	$15 or $25	$20- $60	TBA	TBA	n/a
Assisted GPS?	iPad 3G only	yes	3G model only	yes
Camera Resolution (front, user)	HD video, VGA	3 megapixel with flash, 1.3 megapixel	1.3 megapixel	5 megapixel, with flash, 2 megapixel	3 megapixel, 5 megapixel
Records Video?	yes, 720p	yes	TBD	yes, 720p	yes, 1080p
Apps?	App Store	Android Market	App Catalog	Android Market	yes
Size (inches; w x t x d)	7.31 x 9.5 x 0.34	4.7 x 7.48 x 0.47	7.48 x 9.45 x 0.53	6.61 x 9.8 x 0.51	5.1 x 7.6 x 0.4
Weight (pounds)	1.3	0.84	1.6	1.6	0.9
US Price	$499 - $829	$399 (2-year contract) $599.99	TBA	TBA	TBD
Review	Coming Soon	Coming Soon	Coming Soon	Coming Soon	Coming Soon

iPad 2 Frequently Asked Questions

2011-03-04T22:22:00.000-08:00

With the first-generation iPad a runaway success, expectations for the iPad 2 were high. Apple may not have delivered on some of the wilder hopes and speculation, the iPad 2 adds a number of important and valuable features. Here are some of the most common questions about the iPad 2.

iPad Specs

What operating system does the iPad 2 use?
The iPad 2 will ship with iOS 4.3

How much storage does the iPad 2 offer?

16GB, 32GB, or 64GB.

How heavy is the iPad 2
1.3 pounds (1.34/1.35 pounds for the 3G version from Verizon and AT&T respectively). This is 0.2 pounds lighter than the first-generation model.

What are the iPad 2's dimensions
9.5 inches tall x 7.31 wide x 0.34 thick.

What is the screen size?
9.7 inches

What is the screen's resolution?
1024 x 768 pixels.

Does the iPad 2 support Bluetooth accessories?
Some, yes. See the full scope of the iOS's Bluetooth support.

What does the iPad 2 cost?
With six models, this is a complicated question. Check out this article for a breakdown.

When does it come out?
March 11 in the U.S. March 25 in 26 other countries.

Where can I buy an iPad?
The iPad 2 is for sale at many stores. Read this article for all the details.

iPad OS and Apps

Will my old iPhone apps work on the iPad? Will old iPad apps work?
Yes. Just as with the first-generation iPad, the iPad 2 is compatible with nearly all iPhone apps. Existing iPad apps should pose a problem either.

Does it run Flash?
Nope. Just like all iOS devices, still no Flash.

Can the iPad 2 run more than one app at the same time?

Wireless Features

Does the iPad 2 have GPS?
It depends on which model you have. The WiFi/3G models offer full assisted GPS (AGPS) like the iPhone 3GS. The WiFi-only models uses WiFi and like the original iPhone for their location services.

Do all iPad 2 models have 3G cellular connections?
No. There are three models - one in each capacity size - with 3G.

Who is the 3G carrier?
AT&T and Verizon in the U.S.

Can the iPad 2 work with other carriers?
Maybe. Apple touts the device as unlocked, but it doesn't work with T-Mobile in the U.S. due to differences in the networks and the chips used in the iPad 2.

Do I have to buy 3G service when I buy an iPad 2?
No. The 3G service is optional. If you don't want it, you can buy a WiFi-only model.

If I buy the 3G service, do I sign a two-year contract?
No. The iPhone requires a two-year contract, but the iPad 2 does not. With iPad 2, you pay month to month and can cancel at any time without penalty.

What is the cost of the service?
View all iPad 3G data plans in the U.S.

iPad Battery

What is the iPad 2's battery life?
Apple claims 10 hours of use on a full charge.

Can I squeeze even more life out of the iPad 2's battery?
Sure. Check out these 10 tips for conserving iPad battery life.

iPad 2 Compared

How does the iPad 2 stack up to other Apple products, as well as competing tablets and e-readers?

AIRCRAFT RENTAL

2011-02-11T19:10:00.000-08:00

SunCountry Flight

Piper Seneca Rental Aircraft

SunCountry Flight features the best maintained and the best equipped rental aircraft of any flight school or fixed base operation in Arizona.

Airplane Rental Rates
Make and Model Aircraft	Hourly Rate
Piper Archers	$95.00 dry
Twin Engine Seneca	$250.00 dry
Call for others.

Piper Archer
The rental rate of our aircraft starts at $95.00 per hour.

Minimum Rental Charges
A student or renter who reserves an aircraft overnight or for any eight (8) hour period or longer shall be charged a minimum of two (2) hours of flight time regardless of the actual time flown.

Cancellation Policy

All students and renters are expected to give a 24-hour cancellation notice or they will be assessed (1) one hour of instructor time and (1/2) one half the airplane time scheduled. Rental planes not picked up within 30 minutes of scheduled time become available for other renters. Exceptions may be made if you call ahead to advise of late arrival.

Renter's Insurance

Renters insurance must be purchased to cover the non-insured deductible portion of the physical damage aircraft insurance policy. Renters shall obtain their own renter's and or non-owned aircraft insurance policies with appropriate coverage limits.

Checkout Policy

All renters must take a check-flight with SunCountry CFI on an annual basis. Special authorization is required for IFR, VFR night, and mountain flying privileges. Anyone who has not flown in the previous 180 days will be required to do a check-out. SunCountry instructors will ensure that pilots are trained to proficiency prior to rental. Sorry: No instruction is permitted by non SunCountry flight instructors in SunCountry aircraft. No SunCountry aircraft are allowed outside the Continental United States, Mexico or Canada.

Airplane Rental Pilot Checkout

This aircraft checkout orientates rental pilots into company policy on fixed wing operations in general and to ensure they have complete knowledge of operations in and out of Falcon Field Airport, Mesa, Arizona or French Valley Airport, Temecula, California (F70) and surrounding flight areas. Before a renter operates any aircraft, renter must receive expressed authorization from SunCountry CFI. The manner of the checkout and the amount of time required for a successful check out is at the discretion of the SunCountry CFI and shall be conducted in accordance with prevailing FAA regulations, safety concerns, and insurance requirements.

Ground Checkout
Outline of airplane operations at Falcon Field Airport and flight procedures out from and into the airport.
Hazards associated with flight in the airspace and operations related to the density of aircraft.
Review of aircraft operations manual, including emergency procedures.
Review of company policies and requirements
Flight Checkout
Clearance procedures and departure routes out from Falcon Field Airport.
Flight maneuvers and operations in the airspace and operations related to the density of aircraft in the airspace.
Review of aircraft normal and emergency procedures.
Clearance procedures and arrival routes into Falcon Field Airport.

AIRCRAFT RENTAL

SunCountry Flight

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Is Kindle (Wi-Fi) or Kindle 3G (Free 3G + Wi-Fi)

Is Kindle (Wi-Fi) or Kindle 3G (Free 3G + Wi-Fi)

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About Today: Are You Ready to Buy a Home?

About iPhone / iPod: App Focus: Game On - March Madness & Baseball Apps

About Today: Fun Facts About the First Day of Spring

About Today: How to Make Green Beer

About Today: Help Japan Without Getting Scammed

About iPhone / iPod: iPad 2 Review & Where To Get One Now

About Today: Is It Safe to E-File Your Tax Return?

iPod Trade In Programs

iPhone + iPad Games

About iPhone / iPod: Buying an iPad 2, Selling an iPad 1

Apple iPad 2 vs. Tablets: Galaxy Tab, BlackBerry PlayBook, TouchPad, Xoom

Pad 2 vs. Galaxy Tab vs. HP TouchPad vs. Motorola Xoom vs. PlayBook

iPad 2

Samsung Galaxy Tab

iPad 2 Frequently Asked Questions

iPad Specs

AIRCRAFT RENTAL

AIRCRAFT RENTAL