http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/features/columns/ en The Mac Observer Copyright 2009 Fri, 17 Jul 2009 09:06:49 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fmacos_kendensed_apples_patent_lawsuit_antitrust_shuffle%2F&seed_title=MacOS+KenDensed%3A+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+Patent+Lawsuit+%26amp%3B+Antitrust+Shuffle http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/macos_kendensed_apples_patent_lawsuit_antitrust_shuffle/ Apple and Samsung didn’t kiss and make up this week, despite the hopes of Judge Koh. Windows RT might turn out to be a great iPad seller, Apple thinks the DOJ is lame for pushing its ebook price fixing lawsuit, Google closed its deal to buy Motorola Mobility, and the Webbys paid tribute to Steve Jobs. That’s a full plate, but it’s OK. Mac OS Ken’s Ken Ray is hungry. Columns and Opinions, MacOS KenDensed Sat, 26 May 2012 10:00:41 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2F3_free_ios_apps_for_the_news_hounds%2F&seed_title=3+Free+iOS+Apps+for+News+Hounds http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/3_free_ios_apps_for_the_news_hounds/ Need to keep up with current events and don’t want a lot of fluff and opinion to cloud your news? Three apps featured in this week’s Free on iTunes may be just what you need.  Vern Seward tells us about AP Mobile, Reuter’s News Pro, and NPR News. Columns and Opinions, Free on iTunes, iObserver, App Store, iPhone, iOS, iPad Fri, 25 May 2012 17:42:10 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fthe_tv_industrys_dreadful_little_secret%2F&seed_title=The+TV+Industry%26%238217%3Bs+Dreadful+Little+Secret http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/the_tv_industrys_dreadful_little_secret/ We all knew the business model, commercial breaks, for the TV industry is a mess. But now the foolishness has been taken to new heights. Fox has filed a lawsuit against Dish Network for taking care of its customers. The whole industry is ripe for disruption and may not even see it coming. Perhaps Apple does. Columns and Opinions, Particle Debris Fri, 25 May 2012 14:40:51 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fhow_the_ripples_in_Apples_techsphere_will_influence_us%2F&seed_title=How+the+Ripples+in+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+TechSphere+Will+Influence+Us http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/how_the_ripples_in_Apples_techsphere_will_influence_us/ Apple has become such a large company that its influence ripples throughout the market in ways we are just coming to understand. That, in turn, can dictate our personal technology choices in new ways. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Thu, 24 May 2012 16:44:08 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fmacos_kendensed_killing_off_unlimited_data_big_iphone_rumors%2F&seed_title=MacOS+KenDensed%3A+Killing+Off+Unlimited+Data+%26amp%3B+Big+iPhone+Rumors http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/macos_kendensed_killing_off_unlimited_data_big_iphone_rumors/ Foxconn waffles on its Apple television confirmation, Apple calls out Samsung for destroying evidence, investors are talking about a bigger iPhone, and cell carrier unlimited data plans are another step closer to the grave. This week may not have been all happy stories, but Mac OS Ken’s Ken Ray is man enough to take all of them on. Columns and Opinions, MacOS KenDensed Sat, 19 May 2012 13:09:16 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fa_free_art_exhibit_app_for_ipad%2F&seed_title=A+Free+Art+Exhibit+App+for+iPad http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/a_free_art_exhibit_app_for_ipad/ In this week’s episode of Free on iTunes, Vern Seward takes and exclusive look at a new art exhibiting app, artCircle. If you like looking at art, this is the app for you. Columns and Opinions, Free on iTunes, iObserver, App Store, iPad Fri, 18 May 2012 19:50:23 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapple_could_use_7_ipad_pricing_to_punish_competitors%2F&seed_title=Apple+Could+Use+7%26%238221%3B+iPad+Pricing+to+Punish+Competitors http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_could_use_7_ipad_pricing_to_punish_competitors/ Apple has gotten so good at manufacturing its devices, Bryan Chaffin thinks the company could use pricing to bludgeon would-be tablet competitors when it releases a 7.x inch iPad later this year. Columns and Opinions, The Back Page, Analysis, iObserver, iPad Fri, 18 May 2012 19:41:23 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fyes_but_will_anyone_actually_buy_an_apple_hdtv%2F&seed_title=Yes%2C+But+Will+Anyone+Actually+BUY+an+Apple+HDTV%3F http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/yes_but_will_anyone_actually_buy_an_apple_hdtv/ When Apple decides to build and market a new product, it has to be a quality product that stands on its own and has value.  However, Apple may have moved to a new place in the minds of customers, and that would weigh considerably on the success of the rumored Apple HDTV. Also, of course, there’s this week’s Tech News Debris. Columns and Opinions, Particle Debris Fri, 18 May 2012 16:25:33 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fhow_to_compete_against_apple_..._and_win%2F&seed_title=How+to+Compete+Against+Apple+%26%238230%3B+and+Win http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/how_to_compete_against_apple_..._and_win/ Smart, technical people have known for a long time why their company, their executives, and their CEO can’t seem to fight a winning battle against the competition, namely Apple. It’s a dirty little secret that no one wants to admit to. John Martellaro explores the problem. Columns and Opinions, Hidden Dimensions Tue, 15 May 2012 13:15:40 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapples_six_best_decisions_of_the_21st_century%2F&seed_title=Apple%26%238217%3Bs+Six+Best+Decisions+of+the+21st+Century http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apples_six_best_decisions_of_the_21st_century/ Looking back at Apple’s unprecedented financial success over the course of this century, Ted Landau asks: What were the key decisions that Apple made over the past 12 years that contributed most to its astounding ascent? What were the pivot points? He put together such a list, consisting of six items. Here they are… Columns and Opinions, Ted Landau's User Friendly View, Reports, Apple Stock Watch Tue, 15 May 2012 12:00:16 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fmacos_kendensed_google_hp_att_rant-a-paloosa%2F&seed_title=MacOS+KenDensed%3A+Google%2C+HP+%26amp%3B+AT%26amp%3BT+Rant-a-paloosa http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/macos_kendensed_google_hp_att_rant-a-paloosa/ What do you get when you throw together sneaky Google stuff, HP going copy-cat, and AT&T going on a cry-fest? Mac OS Ken’s Ken Ray on his soap box. We’ll sedate him later. Columns and Opinions, MacOS KenDensed Sat, 12 May 2012 12:05:25 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2F5_fabulous_favorite_free_ios_apps%2F&seed_title=5+Fabulous+Favorite+Free+iOS+Apps http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/5_fabulous_favorite_free_ios_apps/ This week in Free on iTunes Vern Seward looks back on 5 of his favorite iOS apps: NYPL Biblion, McSweeney’s, PlainText, With Friends games, and Instagram. Columns and Opinions, Free on iTunes, iObserver, App Store, iPhone, iOS, iTunes, iPad Fri, 11 May 2012 19:56:15 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fan_inconvenient_truth_about_e-books%2F&seed_title=An+Inconvenient+Truth+About+E-books http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/an_inconvenient_truth_about_e-books/ E-books seemed awfully cool at first, especially as Apple and Amazon popularized terrific tablets and e-readers on which to read them. Plus sales of e-books are greater than paper versions now. But there are lots of gotchas, and the whole industry is basically a mess. Columns and Opinions, Particle Debris Fri, 11 May 2012 17:20:05 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fgroupon_offers_motorola_xoom_tablet_for_32_discount%2F&seed_title=Groupon+Offers+Motorola+Xoom+Tablet+for+32%25+Discount http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/groupon_offers_motorola_xoom_tablet_for_32_discount/ If you’re looking for a cheap Android tablet, here’s your chance. Bryan Chaffin tells us that someone thinks its necessary to discount the devices by 32 percent in order to move them.  News, Columns and Opinions, Editorial, iObserver, iPad Thu, 10 May 2012 18:54:25 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapple_death_knell_59_-_apples_valuation_is_unsustainable%2F&seed_title=Apple+Death+Knell+%2359+-+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+Valuation+Is+Unsustainable http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_death_knell_59_-_apples_valuation_is_unsustainable/ Investment analyst Fred Hickey said in a newsletter that Apple’s valuation is unsustainable, and that the company is just another consumer electronics company with unsustainable margins subject to the whims of customers. Bryan Chaffin adds him to the Apple Death Knell Counter. News, Columns and Opinions, The Back Page, Analysis Thu, 10 May 2012 17:31:00 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Ftop_apps_for_word_processing_on_the_ipad%2F&seed_title=Top+Apps+for+Word+Processing+on+the+iPad http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/top_apps_for_word_processing_on_the_ipad/ You’ve decided to use your iPad for word processing. Not just for brief notes or email, but for tasks that require extended typing. The question is: Which app(s) should you use? In search of the answer, Ted Landau sorted through a diverse collection of text/word processing apps. Here are the results… Columns and Opinions, Ted Landau's User Friendly View, iObserver, iOS, iPad Wed, 09 May 2012 14:58:34 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fwhat_im_wishing_for_these_days%2F&seed_title=Products+I%26%238217%3Bm+Wishing+for+These+Days http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/what_im_wishing_for_these_days/ Technology continues to advance and amaze us. Off hand, one might think that we have everything we need, but John Martellaro has a long wish list of things he cannot yet buy, and here it is. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Wed, 09 May 2012 11:20:16 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fatt_ceo_loses_sleep_over_apples_imessage%2F&seed_title=AT%26amp%3BT+CEO+Loses+Sleep+Over+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+iMessage http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/att_ceo_loses_sleep_over_apples_imessage/ What keeps AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson awake at night? Is it war? Poverty? Hunger?  Nope, it’s Apple’s iMessage. Bryan Chaffin explains why AT&T is right to fear iMessage, but argues that fearing that kind of change is the wrong mindset for telcos. News, Columns and Opinions, The Back Page, Analysis, iObserver, App Store, iPhone, iOS Tue, 08 May 2012 16:31:10 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fmacos_kendensed_apples_taxes_rims_publicity_stunts%2F&seed_title=MacOS+KenDensed%3A+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+Taxes+%26amp%3B+RIM%26%238217%3Bs+Publicity+Stunts http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/macos_kendensed_apples_taxes_rims_publicity_stunts/ The New York Times doesn’t like Apple’s tax practices, more companies in China are increasing factory worker pay scales, and the U.K. is investigating the iPad plus 4G name. Again. As if that isn’t enough to keep to keep Mac OS Ken’s Ken Ray busy, there’s talk of Apple hunting for TV show deals, more Apple television talk, Apple and Samsung’s patent lawsuits, and RIM’s publicity stunts, too. Columns and Opinions, MacOS KenDensed Sat, 05 May 2012 12:24:37 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2F3_free_ios_word_games%2F&seed_title=3+Free+iOS+Word+Games http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/3_free_ios_word_games/ What’s in a word? A high score if you play it right. Vern Seward takes a look at Scramble With Friends, Scrabble, and Word Fu in this week’s installment of Free on iTunes. Columns and Opinions, Free on iTunes, Reports, Games, iObserver, App Store, iPhone, iOS, iPad Fri, 04 May 2012 20:06:06 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Ftim_cooks_style_is_working_bloggers_are_not%2F&seed_title=Tim+Cook%26%238217%3Bs+Style+is+Working%2C+Bloggers+Are+Not http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/tim_cooks_style_is_working_bloggers_are_not/ John Martellaro is getting tired of writers who are making a fuss about how Tim Cook can’t cut it and how Apple will slide into mediocrity under his leadership. Let’s look at the facts instead. Columns and Opinions, Particle Debris Fri, 04 May 2012 16:43:23 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fthe_mother_eats_her_young_ipad_vs._macbook%2F&seed_title=The+Mother+Eats+Her+Young%3A+iPad+vs.+MacBook http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/the_mother_eats_her_young_ipad_vs._macbook/ Could the iPad really cannibalize the MacBook line into extinction? Could there be a resurgence of the desktops? John Martellaro has more questions than answers, but gives it a shot. Columns and Opinions, Hidden Dimensions Fri, 04 May 2012 13:05:36 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Frim_claims_responsibility_for_aussie_wake_up_stunt%2F&seed_title=RIM+Claims+Responsibility+for+Aussie+%26%238220%3BWake+Up%26%238221%3B+Stunt http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/rim_claims_responsibility_for_aussie_wake_up_stunt/ Research In Motion confirmed on Tuesday that it, not Samsung, was behind the “Wake Up!” stunt staged outside an Australian Apple Store in April. Bryan Chaffin scratches his head and looks for meaning in the stunt. News, Columns and Opinions, The Back Page, Analysis, iObserver, iPhone Tue, 01 May 2012 20:27:56 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fshould_your_iphone_be_your_only_camera%2F&seed_title=Should+Your+iPhone+Be+Your+Only+Camera%3F http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/should_your_iphone_be_your_only_camera/ Are point-and-shoot cameras, especially ones at the low end of the price range, reaching the end of their useful life? Is it time to declare that, for the majority of iPhone 4S owners, the phone’s camera is all they need? Yes. But not without a few important caveats. Ted Landau takes an in-depth look at the factors to consider before making your final decision. Columns and Opinions, Ted Landau's User Friendly View, iObserver, iPhone Tue, 01 May 2012 10:20:52 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fmacos_kendensed_apples_killer_earnings_proviews_ipad_sort-of_win%2F&seed_title=MacOS+KenDensed%3A+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+Killer+Earnings+%26amp%3B+Proview%26%238217%3Bs+iPad+Sort-of+Win http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/macos_kendensed_apples_killer_earnings_proviews_ipad_sort-of_win/ Apple knocked everyone’s socks off this week with its second quarter earnings report figures, the iPhone alone brings in more money for Apple than most other companies make, Proview may have a claim on the iPad name after all, and we may be seeing the beginning of the end for eBook copy protection. Mac OS Ken’s Ken Ray shoveled through all of the week’s news to find the parts that matter to you. And his arms are tired, too. Columns and Opinions, MacOS KenDensed Sun, 29 Apr 2012 17:45:40 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapple_death_knell_58_apple_sony%2F&seed_title=Apple+Death+Knell+%2358%3A+Apple+%3D+Sony http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_death_knell_58_apple_sony/ Apple = Sony. So spaketh George Colony, and so landeth Mr. Colony in the Apple Death Knell Counter as entry #58. Writing for Forrester Research, Mr. Colony said that without a new charismatic leader to take over Apple, the company will go the way of other once-great companies like Sony, Polaroid, and Disney. Bryan Chaffin argues that Forrester is missing the boat. Columns and Opinions, The Back Page, Analysis Fri, 27 Apr 2012 21:40:48 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2F3_ios_items_for_writers%2F&seed_title=3+iOS+Items+For+Writers http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/3_ios_items_for_writers/ Got the urge to write? Vern Seward takes a look at three iOS items that may help in the week’s Free on iTunes. Writing Creatively: Fiction, I Should Be Writing, and Write2 Lite. Check it out. Columns and Opinions, Free on iTunes, iObserver, App Store, iPhone, iOS, iTunes, iPad Fri, 27 Apr 2012 17:25:50 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Ftips_for_iphone_fmac_older_icons_browser_privacy%2F&seed_title=Tips+for+iPhone%2C+Mac+Folder+Icons%2C+Browser+Privacy http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/tips_for_iphone_fmac_older_icons_browser_privacy/ Nancy Carroll Gravley offers tips for deleting videos from the iPhone, changing folder and file icons on your Mac, and protecting your online privacy from the big bad browsers. Tips, How-To, Columns and Opinions, Computing with Bifocals Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:26:46 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fare_apple_fans_in_denial_no_theyre_not%2F&seed_title=Are+Apple+Fans+in+Denial%3F+No+They%26%238217%3Bre+Not http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/are_apple_fans_in_denial_no_theyre_not/ Now that Apple has succeeded beyond our wildest dreams, some bloggers find it hard to resist exploring the idea that all companies have a natural business cycle: birth, maybe a mini-death, revival, and final demise.  It’s an intriguing proposition, especially for Apple fans who are especially touchy about the prospect. What’s a good approach to all this fuss? John Martellaro has some perspective. Columns and Opinions, Particle Debris Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:14:02 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fno_fridgetoaster_for_you_let_the_ipad_evolve%2F&seed_title=No+FridgeToaster+for+You%3A+Let+the+iPad+Evolve http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/no_fridgetoaster_for_you_let_the_ipad_evolve/ During Apple’s Financial Results Conference Call on Tuesday, Tim Cook dismissed the idea of a hybrid device, the convergence of the MacBook and an iPad. He clearly stated, “We’re not going to that party.”  John Martellaro has some thoughts on that related to the natural selection and evolution of the iPad. Columns and Opinions, Hidden Dimensions Thu, 26 Apr 2012 15:50:15 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fwhat_really_happened_with_wwdc_ticket_sales%2F&seed_title=What+Really+Happened+with+WWDC+Ticket+Sales http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/what_really_happened_with_wwdc_ticket_sales/ Tickets for this year’s Worldwide Developers Conference sold out in less than two hours, before most people on the U.S. West Coast were even awake. What was Apple thinking? Most likely, Apple miscalculated the demand. Ted Landau explains. Columns and Opinions, Ted Landau's User Friendly View, Reports, Conferences, WWDC Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:33:36 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fwwdc_ticket_sales_exactly_as_apple_planned_it%2F&seed_title=WWDC+Ticket+Sales%3A+Exactly+as+Apple+Planned+it http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/wwdc_ticket_sales_exactly_as_apple_planned_it/ WWDC 2012 sold out in two hours, and a lot of people were left out. However, Apple’s plan for those ticket sales went exactly according to plan. John Martellaro explains why. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:03:29 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fmacos_kendensed_apples_malware_patent_headache-fest%2F&seed_title=MacOS+KenDensed%3A+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+Malware+%26amp%3B+Patent+Headache-fest http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/macos_kendensed_apples_malware_patent_headache-fest/ Apple just can’t shake the malware news, just like it can’t shake the patent lawsuit headache it calls Samsung. Speaking of headaches, Greenpeace is on Apple’s back again, too. We prescribe a healthy dose of Mac OS Ken’s Ken Ray for this week’s headaches. Columns and Opinions, MacOS KenDensed Sat, 21 Apr 2012 09:45:46 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2F3_free_ios_apps_for_manly_men%2F&seed_title=3+Free+iOS+Apps+For+Manly+Men http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/3_free_ios_apps_for_manly_men/ Get in shape and learn man-stuff in this week’s Free on iTunes, where Vern Seward covers Lose The Belly, Men’s Fitness Complete Sports Traing Guide, and Manliness. Columns and Opinions, Free on iTunes, iObserver, App Store, iPhone, iOS, iTunes, iPad Fri, 20 Apr 2012 18:22:26 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapple_the_black_hole_of_the_big_business_trajectory%2F&seed_title=Apple+%26amp%3B+the+Black+Hole+of+the+Big+Business+Trajectory http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_the_black_hole_of_the_big_business_trajectory/ Apple certainly appears to be on a typical business arc. A struggling computer company hits the big time, suddenly has lots of money, new products are added, its list of competitors grows, and that takes the company into endless court proceedings against those competitors. Then serious security issues crop up. Suddenly the U.S. DOJ is interested in some business practices. What’s next? Columns and Opinions, Particle Debris Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:51:12 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapples_dream_of_appliance_computing_is_unobtainable%2F&seed_title=Apple%26%238217%3Bs+Dream+of+Appliance+Computing+is+Unobtainable http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apples_dream_of_appliance_computing_is_unobtainable/ When dial-up gave way to always-on broadband, and our computers came to be exposed to the Internet 24x7, a perpetual conflict sprang to life: the direct interests of Apple to tout care-free “appliance computing” versus the reality of technology, evil hackers, and the limits of a modern OS.  The Flashback Trojan renews the question: how’s Apple doing? Can the security war be won? Columns and Opinions, Hidden Dimensions Tue, 17 Apr 2012 17:00:44 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fstop_the_apple_game_center_cheaters%2F&seed_title=Stop+the+Apple+Game+Center+Cheaters%21 http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/stop_the_apple_game_center_cheaters/ Cheaters, who hack Apple’s Game Center to enter phony high scores, are threatening to ruin the leaderboards. What’s Apple doing about it? Apparently nothing, and Ted Landau wants that to change. Columns and Opinions, Ted Landau's User Friendly View, iObserver, App Store, Game Center, iPhone, iOS, iPad Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:06:32 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fmacos_kendensed_apples_flashback_ebook_conspiracy_battles%2F&seed_title=MacOS+KenDensed%3A+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+Flashback+%26amp%3B+Ebook+Conspiracy+Battles http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/macos_kendensed_apples_flashback_ebook_conspiracy_battles/ Apple had a busy week dealing with the Flashback trojan, and the Department of Justice’s ebook price antitrust allegations. There’s also someone who thinks they have a prototype Mac worth almost $100,000. Mac OS Ken’s Ken Ray slices it all apart for you with surgical precision. Or maybe a Benihana chef. Columns and Opinions, MacOS KenDensed Sat, 14 Apr 2012 22:25:19 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2F3_free_ipad_apps_for_going_places%2F&seed_title=3+Free+iPad+Apps+For+Going+Places http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/3_free_ipad_apps_for_going_places/ Go an itch to go places? Vern Seward help you scratch it with 3 iPad freebies featured in this week’s Free on iTunes. 1000 Places to Go Before You Die, National Geographic Today, and The Design Museum. Columns and Opinions, Free on iTunes, iObserver, App Store, iOS, iPad Fri, 13 Apr 2012 19:26:43 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapple_falls_behind_in_home_networking%2F&seed_title=Apple+Falls+Behind+in+Home+Networking http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_falls_behind_in_home_networking/ Apple, after many years of leading the way in home networking, Wi-Fi and IPv6, has suddenly become rather quiet about IPv6 and the AirPort Extreme. It’s a mystery, and one that’s fascinating to follow. In other tech news debris, Rich Mogull has published two thought-provoking articles on Mac security and CNET has published two fabulous articles on the technical details related to the Flashback Trojan. Columns and Opinions, Particle Debris Fri, 13 Apr 2012 16:59:35 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fthe_danger_in_quashing_apples_anticompetitive_publishing_deal1%2F&seed_title=The+Danger+in+Quashing+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+Anticompetitive+Publishing+Deal http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/the_danger_in_quashing_apples_anticompetitive_publishing_deal1/ To all outside appearances, Apple and five of the six major U.S. publishers colluded to raise prices on ebooks when Apple launched the iPad. Bryan Chaffin argues that this is one instance where collusion benefits consumers by preventing Amazon from gaining too much power in the book industry. Columns and Opinions, The Back Page, iObserver Fri, 06 Apr 2012 19:12:34 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2F3_free_apps_to_show_off_your_new_ipad%2F&seed_title=3+Free+Apps+To+Show+Off+Your+New+iPad http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/3_free_apps_to_show_off_your_new_ipad/ The new iPad 3 has a stunning display. Vern Seward helps you make the most of it with 3 free apps with stellar graphics: Pinball HD, Dark Meadow, And Paper by Fiftythree. Columns and Opinions, Free on iTunes, iObserver, App Store, iOS, iTunes, iPad Fri, 06 Apr 2012 19:09:59 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fmac_gaming_shines_with_release_of_the_witcher%2F&seed_title=Mac+Gaming+Shines+With+Release+of+%26%238216%3BThe+Witcher%26%238217%3B http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/mac_gaming_shines_with_release_of_the_witcher/ Mac fans of role-playing games need not wait for Diablo III; a great medieval RPG. The Witcher, has just made its debut on OS X. With excellent gameplay and an immersive story, this is one title you won’t want to miss! Jim Tanous thinks this shows the world of gaming on the Mac is improving. News, Product News, Columns and Opinions, Editorial Fri, 06 Apr 2012 16:16:55 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Ftim_cook_challenge_fix_apples_security_mentality%2F&seed_title=Tim+Cook+Challenge%3A+Fix+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+Security+Mentality http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/tim_cook_challenge_fix_apples_security_mentality/ Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, has been about the business of fine tuning Apple, making some needed improvements and taking decisive action. It would be nice to see heightened attention to Apple’s OS security methodology added to the list. Columns and Opinions, Particle Debris Fri, 06 Apr 2012 15:05:02 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fgoogle_glass_vs._the_vision_of_steve_jobs%2F&seed_title=Google+Glass+vs.+the+Vision+of+Steve+Jobs http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/google_glass_vs._the_vision_of_steve_jobs/ There’s been a lot of excitement about the Google Glass Project in the past 24 hours. John Martellaro has some thoughts on how that vision compares to Apple’s. Columns and Opinions, Hidden Dimensions Thu, 05 Apr 2012 15:25:50 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fatts_outrageous_iphone_and_ipad_rates%2F&seed_title=AT%26amp%3BT%26%238217%3Bs+Outrageous+iPhone+%26amp%3B+iPad+Rates http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/atts_outrageous_iphone_and_ipad_rates/ How many ways does AT&T overcharge its wireless customers? Every possible way. From text messaging to hot spots, AT&T’s rate plans are so inflated as to enter into the realm of the absurd. Other carriers aren’t much different. If you’re not annoyed by what you pay, you should be. Ted Landau wades through the mess… Columns and Opinions, Ted Landau's User Friendly View, iObserver, iPhone, iPad Wed, 04 Apr 2012 13:23:40 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fjeff_bezos_groks_tech_better_than_tech_companies%2F&seed_title=Jeff+Bezos+Groks+Tech+Better+Than+Tech+Companies http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/jeff_bezos_groks_tech_better_than_tech_companies/ Why does it seem that Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos understands at least some aspects of technology better than the technology world, especially when it comes to tablets? Bryan Chaffin argues that PC and device makers are stuck in an open licensing mindset, while a retail mogul was able to grasp the value proposition of Apple’s whole widget model. Columns and Opinions, The Back Page, Analysis, iObserver, App Store, iPhone, iOS, iTunes, iPad Tue, 03 Apr 2012 17:53:10 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fmacos_kendensed_the_new_foxconn_government_hacking_nokias_sim_hate%2F&seed_title=MacOS+KenDensed%3A+The+New+Foxconn%2C+Government+Hacking+%26amp%3B+Nokia%26%238217%3Bs+SIM+Hate http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/macos_kendensed_the_new_foxconn_government_hacking_nokias_sim_hate/ Foxconn is showing its factory workers some love, Nokia is buying some Lumia love and tossing some hate at Apple, governments are totally into hacking, and Samsung just wants some design love. Add in the magical wonder and danger of glass-fronted Apple Stores, and it’s all we could do this week to keep Mac OS Ken’s Ken Ray under control without sedation. Columns and Opinions, MacOS KenDensed Sat, 31 Mar 2012 12:55:51 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2F3_free_ios_apps_for_hunger_games_fans%2F&seed_title=3+Free+iOS+Apps+for+Hunger+Games+Fans http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/3_free_ios_apps_for_hunger_games_fans/ Can’t get enough of The Hunger Games? Vern Seward point out 3 iOS freebies that may sate your appetite; iTunes Movie Trailers, The Hunger Games iPhone game, and How to Survive the Hunger Games: A Brief Look at Katniss’s Survival Strategy. Columns and Opinions, Free on iTunes, iObserver, App Store, iPhone, iOS, iPad Fri, 30 Mar 2012 19:52:22 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Fcolumns&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fcaptain_cook_sails_to_china%2F&seed_title=Captain+Cook+Sails+to+China http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/captain_cook_sails_to_china/ Tim Cook has been in China this week to deal with a variety of issues. That’s very good news: the captain of the Apple ship is getting out and about, some wind in his hair. In other news debris, one deeper analysis article looks at why companies can’t compete with the iPad and are dropping into fear. Another takes a deep foray into the fiery plains of thermonuclear patent war. Columns and Opinions, Particle Debris Fri, 30 Mar 2012 16:50:14 -0400