http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/features/editorial/ en The Mac Observer Copyright 2009 Fri, 17 Jul 2009 09:06:49 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&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%2Feditorial&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%2Feditorial&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%2Feditorial&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%2Feditorial&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%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fthe_case_for_apple_to_preserve_the_mac_pro%2F&seed_title=The+Case+For+Apple+to+Preserve+the+Mac+Pro http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/the_case_for_apple_to_preserve_the_mac_pro/ Apple hasn’t updated the Mac Pro line since 2010. When the time between product updates stretches out, we worry about the viability of the product. Here are some thoughts related to why the Mac Pro line is such a good thing for us Apple customers. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Wed, 28 Mar 2012 15:43:23 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapples_ipad_competitors_should_just_give_up%2F&seed_title=Apple%26%238217%3Bs+iPad+Competitors+Should+Just+Give+up http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apples_ipad_competitors_should_just_give_up/ Apple’s competitors, companies that make tablets, have had two whole years to gear up, build infrastructure and create an alternative, compelling vision. Instead, they’ve fumbled away opportunity and simply built me-too devices. Now, it’s going to be even tougher. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:30:34 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapple_tv_growing_from_appliance_to_television%2F&seed_title=Apple+TV%3A+Growing+from+Appliance+to+Television http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_tv_growing_from_appliance_to_television/ Rumors are pointing to the introduction of a new Apple TV model this week along with the iPad 3. Rumors also claim Apple is planning on eventually unveiling its own television. Mac OS Ken’s Ken Ray isn’t buying into an Apple television, but he does have some ideas on how Apple could get there. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, iObserver, Apple TV Tue, 06 Mar 2012 17:54:09 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapple_makes_gatekeeper_a_friendly_signpost_in_mountain_lion%2F&seed_title=Apple+Makes+Gatekeeper+a+Friendly+Signpost+in+Mountain+Lion http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_makes_gatekeeper_a_friendly_signpost_in_mountain_lion/ It’s hard to put one’s finger on it. Announcements from Apple, from time to time, have been unhappy affairs. The new Gatekeeper in Mountain Lion, however, is elegant, thoughtful and pleasing. It builds confidence instead of concern. Perhaps it’s a sign of changes at Apple. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:46:20 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Ftim_cook_makes_his_first_mark_on_apple%2F&seed_title=Tim+Cook+Makes+His+First+Mark+on+Apple http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/tim_cook_makes_his_first_mark_on_apple/ During Tuesday’s Goldman Sachs Technology and Internet Conference, Apple CEO Tim Cook provided his first extensive, impromptu public appearance. He spoke from the heart about Apple, and John Martellaro thinks he’s made his first definable mark on the company. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, Analysis Wed, 15 Feb 2012 18:45:15 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapples_ibooks_2_gives_a_bright_future_to_home_schooling%2F&seed_title=Apple%26%238217%3Bs+iBooks+2+Gives+a+Bright+Future+to+Home+Schooling http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apples_ibooks_2_gives_a_bright_future_to_home_schooling/ Apple’s “reinvention” of the textbook has created a buzz throughout education, as educators and journalists alike try to predict what impact iBooks 2’s interactive textbooks might have on K-12 public and private schools. What hasn’t really been covered yet (outside the outlets covering home schooling), is what impact the new interactive textbooks might have on the growing number of home schoolers. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, iObserver, iPad Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:17:33 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fday_one_of_macworldiworld_its_not_ces%2F&seed_title=Day+One+of+Macworld%7CiWorld%3A+It%26%238217%3Bs+Not+CES http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/day_one_of_macworldiworld_its_not_ces/ SAN FRANCISCO - It’s day one of the newly rechristened Macworld iWorld trade show, and Bryan Chaffin says thank goodness it’s no CES. He talks about the differences in the two hows and reports that Macworld|iWorld was packed. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, Analysis, Reports, Conferences, CES, Macworld Expo Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:57:04 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Ffirst_thoughts_apples_attempts_to_revolutionize_education%2F&seed_title=First+Thoughts%3A+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+Attempts+to+Revolutionize+Education http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/first_thoughts_apples_attempts_to_revolutionize_education/ Today, Apple announced iBooks 2, iBooks Author, and a new, free iTunes U app. Apple executives tout these as efforts to reinvent education and curriculum, and at first blush, they look very exciting. When you dig down into the innards of how it all works, though, Jeff Butts thinks the plan seems to break down quite a bit, and he’s dubious. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, iObserver, iPhone, iOS, iTunes, iPad, iPod Thu, 19 Jan 2012 17:25:55 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fhow_steve_jobs_may_have_snookered_the_tv_industry%2F&seed_title=How+Steve+Jobs+May+Have+Snookered+the+TV+Industry http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/how_steve_jobs_may_have_snookered_the_tv_industry/ It is widely believed that when Steve Jobs told his biographer, Walter Isaacson, that he had “finally cracked it,” he was referring to a new way to operate TVs. That’s been interpreted as Siri for an Apple HDTV. That’s driven the TV manufacturers into a frenzy. Maybe a blind alley. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:44:06 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Ftwice_annual_ipad_launch_good_for_apple%2F&seed_title=Twice+Annual+iPad+Launch%3A+Good+for+Apple http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/twice_annual_ipad_launch_good_for_apple/ Rumors are again swirling that Apple will embark on a twice a year iPad launch.  Considering what the competition is up to, that’s beginning to make more and more sense. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, iObserver, iPad Fri, 06 Jan 2012 13:33:41 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapple_is_now_forced_to_build_a_7-inch_tablet%2F&seed_title=Apple+is+Now+Forced+to+Build+a+7-inch+Tablet http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_is_now_forced_to_build_a_7-inch_tablet/ With the success of the Amazon Kindle Fire, Apple can no longer sit idly by and watch this part of the market get gobbled up by a competitor. An avalanche must be averted. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, iObserver, iPad Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:50:47 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fpredictions_for_apple_in_2012%2F&seed_title=Predictions+for+Apple+in+2012 http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/predictions_for_apple_in_2012/ While Apple continues to grow and dominate many markets, the maturity of Apple’s product line will allow the competition to get its act together and raise the level of competition. Microsoft, Google (as Android plus other servies) and Amazon will all be breathing down Apple’s neck next year, and that will force some changes. Here are John’s predictions for Apple in 2012. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Tue, 13 Dec 2011 16:46:33 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fover-the-air_updates_other_ios_magic_-_living_in_the_future%2F&seed_title=Over-the-Air+Updates+%26amp%3B+Other+iOS+Magic+-+Living+in+the+Future http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/over-the-air_updates_other_ios_magic_-_living_in_the_future/ Like many of you, Contributing Editor Chuck La Tournous installed the first over-the-air update on his iOS devices yesterday. But it was a different update that gave him that “living in the future” feeling and got him wondering: have mobile devices reached First Citizen status? Columns and Opinions, Editorial, iObserver, iPhone, iCloud, iOS, iPad Fri, 11 Nov 2011 19:26:08 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fandroid_to_iphone_mine_is_bigger%2F&seed_title=Android+to+iPhone%3A+Mine+is+Bigger http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/android_to_iphone_mine_is_bigger/ Customers in the mobile phone market think differently than those who are buying a conventional computer, Mac or PC. Apple understands that completely, but from the approach the Android phone makers are taking, it’s clear they are clueless about a long-term strategy. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:32:42 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fthe_elephant_in_apples_icloud%2F&seed_title=The+Elephant+in+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+iCloud http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/the_elephant_in_apples_icloud/ Apple has done it again. Another one-day software palooza. Did Apple learn its lesson from the last time? John doesn’t think so. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Fri, 14 Oct 2011 15:17:44 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fthe_hidden_impact_of_applecare%2F&seed_title=The+Hidden+Impact+of+AppleCare%2B http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/the_hidden_impact_of_applecare/ Last week, Apple quietly released a new coverage plan for iPhones called AppleCare+. Although seemingly a minor release, MGG Jim discuss why it may have a significant role in changing the way Apple provides support at its retail stores. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, Analysis Tue, 11 Oct 2011 20:58:51 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fthe_fine_art_of_ganging_up_on_apple%2F&seed_title=The+Fine+Art+of+Ganging+Up+on+Apple http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/the_fine_art_of_ganging_up_on_apple/ The Apple blogosphere gets together and decides, based on rumors, what Apple should do.  They entice readers with these predictions.  Then Apple goes its own way, bound by its own realities. Then the bloggers get all upset and bash Apple. Then Apple sells millions of fill-in-the-blank.  Will it ever end? Columns and Opinions, Editorial, Analysis Wed, 05 Oct 2011 17:34:16 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fmeasuring_apples_iphone_4s_rollout%2F&seed_title=Measuring+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+iPhone+4S+Rollout http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/measuring_apples_iphone_4s_rollout/ There’s always a gap between our starry-eyed hopes and what’s practical for Apple to deliver.  However, Apple knows that, so it’s important for us to be as practical about our reaction as Apple was in its preparation. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, Analysis Tue, 04 Oct 2011 17:15:34 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fthe_macbook_air_tugs_at_my_heartstrings%2F&seed_title=The+MacBook+Air+Tugs+at+My+Heartstrings http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/the_macbook_air_tugs_at_my_heartstrings/ The iPad 2 is a fantastic device, especially when you own an older MacBook. However, if a new MacBook Air comes into your life, it’s suddenly a battle for your heart. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Fri, 16 Sep 2011 09:00:35 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Ffear_envy_drive_ipad_competitors%2F&seed_title=Fear+%26amp%3B+Envy+Drive+iPad+Competitors http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/fear_envy_drive_ipad_competitors/ This is a crucial time during which Apple’s competitors are seeking to carve out the legal territory so they can seize a piece of Apple’s iPad action. The future of personal computing is at stake, and Apple is determined to learn from the lessons of the past. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Fri, 09 Sep 2011 14:40:15 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fmy_polygamous_relationship_with_browsers%2F&seed_title=My+Polygamous+Relationship+with+Browsers http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/my_polygamous_relationship_with_browsers/ I’m an idealist. I want the one perfect browser as my mate. Regrettably, Safari has gone quirky on me, and so I’ve jilted her. Nowadays, I live the life of a browser polygamist. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Fri, 02 Sep 2011 14:03:17 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fim_not_liking_google_much_these_days%2F&seed_title=I%26%238217%3Bm+Not+Liking+Google+Much+These+Days http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/im_not_liking_google_much_these_days/ When a company becomes very wealthy, it has two choices. Use the money for mischief or use it for something worthwhile and earn our respect. I’m not liking the direction of Google these days. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Thu, 01 Sep 2011 15:15:31 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fa_breaking_fever_apple_lies_and_videotape%2F&seed_title=A+Breaking+Fever%3A+Apple%2C+Lies+and+Videotape http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/a_breaking_fever_apple_lies_and_videotape/ The Apple TV has remained a hobby because Apple isn’t in the driver’s seat when it comes to delivering home video. Getting there will require more than the unique Apple vision. It’ll be a special blend of technology and psychology that will break our TV fever and deliver us from affliction. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:19:02 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fos_x_lion_is_auto_save_a_savior_or_nightmare%2F&seed_title=OS+X+Lion%3A+Is+Auto+Save+a+Savior+or+Nightmare%3F http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/os_x_lion_is_auto_save_a_savior_or_nightmare/ Apple is a company that moves us relentlessly into the future. Sometimes those advances are seen as long overdue, and sometimes they’re perceived as an abuse of the customers. Auto Save in Lion is one of those technologies that outrages the experts, but is a boon for the average user. Deciding how to react is really a question about who’s in a better position to react, learn and adapt. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, Analysis, Reports, Mac OS, Lion Thu, 18 Aug 2011 15:05:45 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fmy_favorite_stealthy_lion_features%2F&seed_title=My+Favorite+%28Stealthy%29+Lion+Features http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/my_favorite_stealthy_lion_features/ Apple’s new OS X, Lion, has lots of new, glitzy, high-profile features, but there are some lesser features, not so widely discussed, that will really make your Mac life better in subtle ways. They’re really cool as well. Let’s take a look. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, Analysis, Reports, Mac OS, Lion Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:55:44 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fnew_netflix_plans_open_the_door_for_apple_others%2F&seed_title=New+Netflix+Plans+Open+the+Door+for+Apple%2C+Others http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/new_netflix_plans_open_the_door_for_apple_others/ With a miscalculated stroke of the pen, well, an untimely e-mail, Netflix has made its first major blunder in the online, streaming video wars. Netflix could end up losing money as well as help Apple cement its relationships with its movie watching customers. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, Analysis Wed, 13 Jul 2011 16:05:14 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Frecant_how_apple_could_enter_the_hdtv_business%2F&seed_title=Recant%3A+How+Apple+Could+Enter+the+HDTV+Business http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/recant_how_apple_could_enter_the_hdtv_business/ There have been several major stories recently that have revived the idea of Apple selling Apple-branded television sets in the near future. John never thought Apple could pull it off, but now he’s changed his mind.  After Apple deals with some minor technical issues, the door may in fact be open, providing the company has great patience and focus. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Thu, 23 Jun 2011 15:00:24 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapple_now_at_warp_speed_competition_debris_left_behind%2F&seed_title=Apple+Now+at+Warp+Speed%3A+Competition%26%238217%3Bs+Debris+Left+Behind http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_now_at_warp_speed_competition_debris_left_behind/ Apple has, with finality and punctuation, buried the idea that smartphones and tablets are devices with geeky features, specs, and nifty CPUs. Instead, Apple intends to deliver what no other company can: an intelligent ecosystem for your Internet life. Now at warp speed, no company can catch Apple.  Columns and Opinions, Editorial, Reports, Conferences, WWDC Mon, 06 Jun 2011 15:29:22 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fwwdc_brace_yourself_for_change%2F&seed_title=WWDC%3A+Brace+Yourself+for+Change http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/wwdc_brace_yourself_for_change/ WWDC is all about change. Dizzying change. If you’re attending WWDC next week, Apple will take you on a ride that reflects Apple’s ever aggressive technology development. So fasten your seat belt, hit the Mountain Dew and get ready for some jolts.   Columns and Opinions, Editorial, Reports, Conferences, WWDC Fri, 03 Jun 2011 12:31:27 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Famazons_mac_download_store_is_welcome%2F&seed_title=Amazon%26%238217%3Bs+Mac+Download+Store+is+Welcome http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/amazons_mac_download_store_is_welcome/ The news that Amazon has opened a Mac download store where apps can be directly download to a Mac has some bloggers in a tizzy. Amazon is competing with Apple. Oh, the horror.  In fact, this is just business as usual, and it’s actually very good for Macintosh customers. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Thu, 26 May 2011 17:32:33 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fnever_bring_a_mac_to_a_gun_fight%2F&seed_title=Never+Bring+a+Mac+to+a+Gun+Fight http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/never_bring_a_mac_to_a_gun_fight/ If you’re thinking that you’re prepared to do battle with the bad guys on the Internet, if you’re just a touch overconfident, then you’re lost. A better approach for Macintosh customers these days is to be defensive, humble, suspicious and alert. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, Analysis Thu, 26 May 2011 15:09:04 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fgiving_up_on_multi-function_printers%2F&seed_title=Giving+Up+on+Multi-function+Printers http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/giving_up_on_multi-function_printers/ Last fall, there was the crashing sound of silence as Hewlett Packard customers discovered that a Snow Leopard update killed the scanner function on their multi-function printers. The whole affair has soured me on these kinds of printers. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Wed, 18 May 2011 15:35:48 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fthe_day_software_changed_forever%2F&seed_title=The+Day+Software+Changed+Forever http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/the_day_software_changed_forever/ Like schools of fish seeking nutrients, Internet citizens swarm over the free software offered by large corporations. Then, later, they discover that they don’t like the terms of service or the protection of privacy. It happens over and over with the same results.  What’s going on? Columns and Opinions, Editorial Fri, 13 May 2011 12:54:18 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fwhy_apples_ipad_sales_for_q2_were_so_poor%2F&seed_title=Why+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+iPad+Sales+for+Q2+Were+so+Poor http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/why_apples_ipad_sales_for_q2_were_so_poor/ Apple’s iPad sales for the Q2 were disappointing, but that may reflect a customer savvy not seen before in the Apple world.  Columns and Opinions, Editorial Wed, 20 Apr 2011 18:09:30 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fnegative_feelings_about_aapl._whats_going_on_with_apple%2F&seed_title=Negative+Feelings+About+AAPL+%26%238212%3B+What%26%238217%3Bs+Going+On+with+Apple%3F http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/negative_feelings_about_aapl._whats_going_on_with_apple/ Apple stock (AAPL) has fallen off a small cliff today. Are there real problems to worry about? Are investors fatigued? Or is it all just another manipulation in advance of Apple’s earnings report? Columns and Opinions, Editorial, Reports, Apple Stock Watch Mon, 04 Apr 2011 13:41:15 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fwhat_could_go_wrong_with_wwdc_nothing._right%2F&seed_title=What+Could+Go+Wrong+with+WWDC%3F%26nbsp%3B+Nothing.+%28Right%3F%29 http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/what_could_go_wrong_with_wwdc_nothing._right/ Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference has always been about giving developers the information they need to build great apps. Along with that, there are some fun events, parties, and Apple Design Awards to stir the imagination of developers. Now, however, Apple’s success in the marketplace has placed immense strain on the WWDC attendees, and only acolyte-fever, for now, can overcome it. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Tue, 29 Mar 2011 14:45:06 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapple_promotes_ipad_in_education_with_seminars%2F&seed_title=Apple+Promotes+iPad+in+Education+with+Seminars http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_promotes_ipad_in_education_with_seminars/ Apple’s Education division has been quietly touring universities around the country, promoting the adoption of the iPad as a learning tool in higher education. The 60-minute seminar covers a number of features of the iPad, as well as Apple and third-party apps that carry great potential for students and educators alike. The seminar also highlights case studies of iPad adoption in universities, sharing the experiences from these early-adopting institutions. News, Reporter's Notebook, Columns and Opinions, Editorial, iObserver, iPad Fri, 04 Mar 2011 14:25:19 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fipad_2_specs_are_a_disappointment%2F&seed_title=iPad+2+Specs+Are+a+Disappointment http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/ipad_2_specs_are_a_disappointment/ Apple doesn’t generally compete using product specifications. But given that Apple had a year, and it knew big competition was coming, what happened to the iPad 2? Columns and Opinions, Editorial, iObserver, iPad Wed, 02 Mar 2011 16:00:49 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapple_ipad_vs._hp_touchpad_game_on%2F&seed_title=Apple+iPad+vs.+HP+TouchPad%3A+Game+On http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_ipad_vs._hp_touchpad_game_on/ The tablet wars are just beginning. HP won’t ship its touchpad until summer. Apple, it is rumored, will ship its second generation iPad in April. PlayBook and Xoom loom. The game has just begun, but we can still place some bets. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, iObserver, iPad Fri, 11 Feb 2011 14:24:34 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fwhy_apples_ipad_competitors_are_hopelessly_lost%2F&seed_title=Why+Apple%26%238217%3Bs+iPad+Competitors+are+Hopelessly+Lost http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/why_apples_ipad_competitors_are_hopelessly_lost/ If Apple’s competitors weren’t smart enough to figure out what their customers needed before the iPad came along, why should we believe they know now — even after Apple has shown them the way? Plus, important technical factors weigh against them. There’s no winning.  Columns and Opinions, Editorial, iObserver, iPad Mon, 07 Feb 2011 12:45:25 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fwhat_if_apple_continues_ipad_1_sales_after_april%2F&seed_title=What+if+Apple+Continues+iPad+1+Sales+After+April%3F http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/what_if_apple_continues_ipad_1_sales_after_april/ One might assume that when the iPad 2 ships in, perhaps, early April, the original iPad 1 would be discontinued. One might be wrong. Columns and Opinions, Editorial, iObserver, iPad Mon, 24 Jan 2011 13:05:03 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fapple_tv_has_cable_companies_running_scared%2F&seed_title=Apple+TV+has+Cable+Companies+Running+Scared http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_tv_has_cable_companies_running_scared/ This is the dawning era of Internet TV: Apple TV, Google TV, and now MS TV. All the while Apple TV was deceptively labelled a hobby, the cable (and satellite companies) appeared to be asleep at the wheel. No longer. Now they’re running scared, and that’s dangerous. Columns and Opinions, Editorial Thu, 06 Jan 2011 13:38:29 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fstorm_clouds_are_coming%2F&seed_title=Storm+Clouds+Are+Coming http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/storm_clouds_are_coming/ Many high tech services are thrown out to see what sticks, hoping that customers will misjudge the utility and security aspects. Sometimes, the service can slowly boil the customer’s frog into a financial commitment and generate a cash flow.  It’s the new game for tech entrepreneurs.  Columns and Opinions, Editorial Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:41:36 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fhow_the_daily_ipad_newspaper_will_succeed%2F&seed_title=How+The+Daily+iPad+Newspaper+Can+Succeed http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/how_the_daily_ipad_newspaper_will_succeed/ Rupert Murdoch’s The Daily, a prospective, paid newspaper for the iPad, won’t have to replace all our news sources on the iPad to be successful.  It merely needs to appeal to people who want a simpler, better informed life.  Columns and Opinions, Editorial Fri, 03 Dec 2010 10:00:58 -0500 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Feditorial&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fairplay_gets_it_right_google_tv_so_very_wrong%2F&seed_title=AirPlay+Gets+it+Right%2C+Google+TV+So+Very+Wrong http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/airplay_gets_it_right_google_tv_so_very_wrong/ Apple may not have figured out how to convert the Apple TV from a hobby to a consumer firestorm, but the company is thinking along fabulous lines with AirPlay.  AirPlay creates a giddy sense of the magical, while Google TV bogs us down with a keyboard and a browser. What a contrast in philosophies.  Columns and Opinions, Editorial Mon, 22 Nov 2010 15:24:52 -0500