http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/features/reviews/ en The Mac Observer Copyright 2009 Fri, 17 Jul 2009 09:06:49 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Ff18_carrier_landing_lite_a_boatload_of_fun%2F&seed_title=F18+Carrier+Landing+%28iOS%29+is+a+Boatload+of+Fun http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/f18_carrier_landing_lite_a_boatload_of_fun/ Landing a jet on an aircraft carrier is one of the hardest things humans do. So it’s a great candidate for a game, both as a challenge and as a sobering introduction to the real thing. This game has great visuals and is easy to fly, but it’s not really a technical flight simulator. That’s quite okay. Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone, iPad, iPod Fri, 25 May 2012 11:09:54 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fcasellet_iphone_4s_case_and_wallet_combined%2F&seed_title=Casellet%3A+iPhone+4S+Case+and+Wallet+Combined http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/casellet_iphone_4s_case_and_wallet_combined/ The Casellet is an iPhone case integrated with a wallet that can conceal a small amount of cash or credit cards. It’s perfect for those occasions when you need your iPhone (4 or 4S) but don’t want to carry a wallet or purse. Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone Thu, 24 May 2012 14:41:00 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fpitch_perfect_for_developers_is_a_perfect_pitch%2F&seed_title=Pitch+Perfect+for+Developers+is+a+Perfect+Pitch http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/pitch_perfect_for_developers_is_a_perfect_pitch/ Many smaller developers without access to a professional public relations agency, don’t always know how to approach a blogger/reviewer.  For that matter, some PR agencies are also somewhat mystified about how bloggers work. This new e-book by Erica Sadun and Steve Sande lays it all out: How to pitch your product to a publication. Reviews, Blogs, John Martellaro's Blog Wed, 23 May 2012 17:15:56 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fkuel_h12_stylus_for_ipad_almost_perfect%2F&seed_title=Kuel+H12+Stylus+for+iPad%3A+Almost+Perfect http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/kuel_h12_stylus_for_ipad_almost_perfect/ In a continuing series of reviews, John Martellaro has been looking at styluses for iOS devices, primarily an iPad. The SPIGEN Kuel H12 stylus, like the previously reviewed Wacom Bamboo, is almost perfect. But not quite. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPhone, iPad, iPod Wed, 23 May 2012 15:30:44 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fbuffalo_airstation_wzr-d1800h_802.11ac_router_video_review%2F&seed_title=Buffalo+AirStation+WZR-D1800H+802.11ac+Router+Video+Review http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/buffalo_airstation_wzr-d1800h_802.11ac_router_video_review/ Buffalo Technology recently released the market’s first 802.11ac router, capable of 1300 Mbps wireless link speeds. Dave Hamilton took some time to look at it, and he found that not only is it a great device to use at the new, faster speeds, it’s also a great, high-quality, dual-radio router to use with your existing 802.11n and 802.11g networks, too. Watch his video review for more. Reviews, Video Review Tue, 22 May 2012 15:20:32 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fgriffins_smarttalk_iphone_speakerphone_is_solar_powered%2F&seed_title=Griffin%26%238217%3Bs+SmartTalk+iPhone+Speakerphone+Is+Solar+Powered http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/griffins_smarttalk_iphone_speakerphone_is_solar_powered/ Griffin’s new, easy to use SmartTalk Solar Speakerphone connects to your iPhone for hands-free talk, and it’s solar powered.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone Mon, 21 May 2012 14:00:54 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fsatechis_divoom_ibase-1_does_double_duty_beautifully%2F&seed_title=Satechi%26%238217%3Bs+iDevice+Speaker%2FCharger+Does+Double+Duty+Beautifully http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/satechis_divoom_ibase-1_does_double_duty_beautifully/ We all know we don’t need or want that refrigerator with the built-in toaster, but the Divoom iBase-1 will charge your “i” products while it plays your music, and this double duty product has merit.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone, iPad, iPod Thu, 17 May 2012 14:20:13 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fspyder_powershadow_i4_battery_case_for_iphone_4_4s%2F&seed_title=Spyder+PowerShadow+i4+Battery+Case+for+iPhone+4%2F4S http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/spyder_powershadow_i4_battery_case_for_iphone_4_4s/ Dave Hamilton takes a moment to review the Spyder PowerShadow i4 Battery Case and charging stand for iPhone 4/4S.  Reviews, Video Review Wed, 16 May 2012 14:22:46 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fchicbuds_arts_earbuds_are_designed_for_females%2F&seed_title=ChicBud%26%238217%3Bs+Arts+Earbuds+are+Designed+For+Females http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/chicbuds_arts_earbuds_are_designed_for_females/ chicBuds obviously knows its target audience (females) and caters to the likes and desires of that audience. Their products are colorful and they provide good sound.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone, iPad, iPod Mon, 14 May 2012 13:24:48 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Ff-sim_space_shuttle_for_ios_a_superb_flight_simulator%2F&seed_title=F-Sim+Space+Shuttle+for+iOS%3A+A+Superb+Flight+Simulator http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/f-sim_space_shuttle_for_ios_a_superb_flight_simulator/ Sometimes there are apps that are so amazing, so well done, so technically pleasing, that one is in awe. Such is the case for F-Sim’s Space Shuttle landing simulator. The graphics on a retina display are astounding. The technical depth is amazing. If you’ve ever wanted to experience what it’s like to land the Space Shuttle orbiter, this is it. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPhone, iPad, iPod Fri, 11 May 2012 16:00:46 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fjust_mobiles_alucube_mini_can_solve_cable_chaos%2F&seed_title=Just+Mobile%26%238217%3Bs+AluCube+Mini+Can+Solve+Cable+Chaos http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/just_mobiles_alucube_mini_can_solve_cable_chaos/ Just Mobile has the answer for everyone who wants a clean and tidy desk with cables where they should be.  Reviews, Quick Look Review Fri, 11 May 2012 14:15:24 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fgriffins_elan_folio_ipad_case_is_stylish%2F&seed_title=Griffin%26%238217%3Bs+Elan+Folio+iPad+Case+Is+Stylish http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/griffins_elan_folio_ipad_case_is_stylish/ Griffin’s Elan Folio Case for either iPad 2 or the new iPad, is a basic slim, one-piece case with an interesting style.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Mon, 07 May 2012 15:45:51 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fbamboo_stylus_solo_for_ipad_almost_perfect%2F&seed_title=Bamboo+Stylus+Solo+for+iPad%3A+Almost+Perfect http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/bamboo_stylus_solo_for_ipad_almost_perfect/ The Wacom Bamboo Solo is the third iPad stylus reviewed by John Martellaro, and it’s the best he’s seen to date. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPad Mon, 07 May 2012 15:00:07 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fopenas_iphone_case_also_opens_bottles%2F&seed_title=Opena%26%238217%3Bs+iPhone+Case+Also+Opens+Bottles http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/openas_iphone_case_also_opens_bottles/ You got your iPhone, you got your bottle opener, you got your beverage of choice. The sun is shining and the iPhone case and bottle opener are one piece. What more do you need?  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone Fri, 04 May 2012 14:25:13 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fbenchmarking_the_sonnet_echo_expresscard_thunderbolt_adapter%2F&seed_title=Benchmarking+the+Sonnet+Echo+ExpressCard+Thunderbolt+Adapter http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/benchmarking_the_sonnet_echo_expresscard_thunderbolt_adapter/ Thunderbolt is an amazing high speed I/O technology but it hasn’t penetrated the world of memory card readers, which is crucial to professional photographers and videographers. Now, Sonnet Technologies has introduced the Echo ExpressCard Thunderbolt Adatper. We benchmark the Echo to see how much faster it is than traditional USB-based connections. Reviews, Quick Look Review Thu, 03 May 2012 15:24:52 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fnoteshelf_for_ios_is_a_must-have_ipad_app%2F&seed_title=Noteshelf+for+iPad+is+a+Must-Have+App http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/noteshelf_for_ios_is_a_must-have_ipad_app/ Noteshelf is an app designed to take written notes on an iPad, but it is so much more than that. It is so perfectly designed, so ingenious, so intuitive that it has to be considered one of the quintessential iPad apps. It’s a must-have tool and gets a 4.5/5 rating. Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Tue, 01 May 2012 16:15:08 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fthe_u-suit_folio_premium_is_an_excellent_case_for_the_new_ipad1%2F&seed_title=The+U-Suit+Folio+Premium+Is+An+Excellent+Case+for+The+New+iPad http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/the_u-suit_folio_premium_is_an_excellent_case_for_the_new_ipad1/ It’s not often that an iPad case distinguishes itself from the pack. This is one of those times. David Winograd explains why the Uniea U-Suit Folio Premium Case for the iPad improves upon every case he’s seen for the iPad and does it in a stylish and elegant manner. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPad Tue, 01 May 2012 13:36:07 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fballistics_hc_case_for_iphone_is_dual_purpose_rugged%2F&seed_title=Ballistic%26%238217%3Bs+HC+Case+For+iPhone+Is+Dual+Purpose+Rugged http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/ballistics_hc_case_for_iphone_is_dual_purpose_rugged/ The HC case for iPhone 4/4S from Ballistic provides rugged protection for on the job, on the trail or in your pocket. There are variable layers of protection available depending on the occasion.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone Tue, 01 May 2012 13:19:04 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fastronomy_buddy_is_unfriendly%2F&seed_title=Astronomy+Buddy+for+iOS+is+Unfriendly http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/astronomy_buddy_is_unfriendly/ Astronomy Buddy is an iOS app designed to be a tool for learning about astronomy as well as a helper for teachers.  It includes lessons, quizzes, news feeds, astronomy videos and maps to the major observatories. However, the visual presentation and depth of explanatory material are not well matched. Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone, iPad, iPod Tue, 01 May 2012 11:50:00 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fthe_indy_ipad_bag_is_handsome_and_comfortable%2F&seed_title=The+Indy+iPad+Bag+by+Waterfield+Is+Handsome+%26amp%3B+Comfortable http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/the_indy_ipad_bag_is_handsome_and_comfortable/ Waterfield’s new iPad bag, The Indy, is handsome, roomy, big enough to carry what you need, and finely made.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:30:40 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fg-form_extreme_edge_case_for_ipad_a_mixed_strong_bag%2F&seed_title=G-Form+Extreme+Edge+Case+for+iPad%3A+a+Mixed%2C+Strong+Bag http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/g-form_extreme_edge_case_for_ipad_a_mixed_strong_bag/ The G-Form Extreme Edge case for all iPads is an open face case with a very rugged, shock absorbing material everywhere else. Not only is it lightweight and water-resistant, but it offers a lot of protection. Missing, however, are the aesthetics usually associated with the iPad. And there’s a good reason for that. Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Wed, 25 Apr 2012 17:53:06 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fjust_mobiles_highway_car_charger_is_first-rate%2F&seed_title=Just+Mobile%26%238217%3Bs+Highway+Car+Charger+Is+First-Rate http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/just_mobiles_highway_car_charger_is_first-rate/ The Highway car charger from Just Mobile easily charges your iPod, iPhone, and iPad. That’s right. It charges your iPad in your vehicle.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone, iPad, iPod Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:45:33 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Ffull-diskfighter_isnt_the_best_way_to_slim_drive%2F&seed_title=FULL-DISKfighter+Isn%26%238217%3Bt+the+Best+Way+to+Slim+Down+Your+Drive http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/full-diskfighter_isnt_the_best_way_to_slim_drive/ FULL-DISKfighter is a new utility meant to slim down you Mac’s hard drive. David Winograd relates his experiences and technical problems while putting this OS X app through its paces in this illustrated review. Reviews, In-Depth Review Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:15:40 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Flapdawgs_x-4_laptop_table_is_unique_and_useful%2F&seed_title=LapDawg%26%238217%3Bs+X-4+Laptop+Table+is+Unique+And+Useful http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/lapdawgs_x-4_laptop_table_is_unique_and_useful/ LapDawg’s X-4 aluminum laptop table turns into a TV tray, a breakfast tray, or a laptop tray in moments, giving a sturdy, well balanced surface for each of those and more.  Reviews, Quick Look Review Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:15:19 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fistopmotion_brings_animation_magic_to_the_ipad%2F&seed_title=iStopMotion+Brings+Animation+Magic+to+the+iPad http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/istopmotion_brings_animation_magic_to_the_ipad/ In stop motion animation, the magic happens in between the movie’s frames: It’s what you can not see — namely the animator’s hands — that makes seemingly inanimate objects spring to life. With iStopMotion, Boinx Software promises to turn your iPad 2 or new iPad into a stop motion studio with all the tools you need to capture, edit, and publish your own animation clips. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPad Fri, 20 Apr 2012 18:52:22 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fballistics_sg_iphone_case_is_lean_and_tough%2F&seed_title=Ballistic%26%238217%3Bs+SG+iPhone+Case+Is+Lean+And+Tough http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/ballistics_sg_iphone_case_is_lean_and_tough/ With the Ballistic Shell Gel case, Ballistic has created an iPhone 4/4S case that provides three levels of compact protection.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:15:06 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fkuel_h10_stylus_for_ipad_not_so_cool%2F&seed_title=Kuel+H10+Stylus+for+iPad%3A+Not+so+Cool+as+a+Pen http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/kuel_h10_stylus_for_ipad_not_so_cool/ John Martellaro has been experimenting with styluses for the iPad lately, thinking about styluses as pens. Here is his second Quick Look review, the Kuel H10. Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone, iPad, iPod Mon, 16 Apr 2012 15:20:52 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Frocketfish_stylus_for_ipad_the_long_and_short%2F&seed_title=Rocketfish+Stylus+for+iPad%3A+The+Long+and+Short http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/rocketfish_stylus_for_ipad_the_long_and_short/ John Martellaro has been experimenting with styluses for the iPad lately.  Here is his first Quick Look review, the Rocketfish Stylus. Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone, iPad, iPod Fri, 13 Apr 2012 13:33:47 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fbluefire_e-book_reader_for_ipad_-_revisited%2F&seed_title=Bluefire+E-book+Reader+for+iPad+-+Revisited http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/bluefire_e-book_reader_for_ipad_-_revisited/ Recently, the very capable Bluefire E-book reader, version 1.6, for iPad was reviewed with a very favorable rating. After the review was published, the app was updated to version 1.7 with some significant improvements that are worth a mention. They include support for the new iPad’s Retina Display. Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Thu, 12 Apr 2012 15:44:46 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fx-dorias_cubit_iphone_case_lets_users_design_exterior%2F&seed_title=X-doria%26%238217%3Bs+Cubit+iPhone+Case+Lets+Users+Design+Exterior http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/x-dorias_cubit_iphone_case_lets_users_design_exterior/ X-doria’s Cubit iPhone case lets users express their creative side as they use colorful cubes to design their own case.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone Thu, 12 Apr 2012 14:01:23 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fexplore_the_sky_with_the_best_skysafari_for_ipad%2F&seed_title=Explore+the+Sky+with+the+Best%3A+SkySafari+for+iPad http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/explore_the_sky_with_the_best_skysafari_for_ipad/ With spring upon us and the constellation Orion hanging gloriously in the western sky at sunset, it’s a great time to explore the night sky with a telescope or binoculars and a personal guide to the sky on your iPad. SkySafari for iPad is a dynamic star chart that will help you identify stars, planets, nebulae and more.  It’s the best of all the star chart apps for iOS. Treat yourself or bestow it on a youngster. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPhone, iPad, iPod Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:00:27 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fthe_microshell_folio_case_or_the_new_ipad_is_near_perfect%2F&seed_title=The+MicroShell+Folio+Case+for+the+New+iPad+is+Near+Perfect http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/the_microshell_folio_case_or_the_new_ipad_is_near_perfect/ The MicroShell Folio Case for the new iPad is one of the sturdiest and best designed cases of this type so far. Find out why in David’s review. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPad Mon, 09 Apr 2012 15:05:19 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Farticle%2Fdisney_vacation_app_roundup_putting_it_all_together%2F&seed_title=Disney+Vacation+App+Roundup%3A+Putting+It+All+Together http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/disney_vacation_app_roundup_putting_it_all_together/ Over the last few weeks David Winograd has been reviewing half a dozen apps to save time, money and avoid aggravation when vacationing at Walt Disney World in Florida. This wrap-up includes some suggestions on what to do, tips on building your schedule, and how to prepare for what might be the best trip ever. Reviews, iObserver, iPhone, iPad Mon, 09 Apr 2012 14:23:15 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fxtrememacs_tuffwrap_is_custom_designed_for_new_ipad%2F&seed_title=XtremeMac%26%238217%3Bs+Tuffwrap+Is+Custom+Designed+For+New+iPad http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/xtrememacs_tuffwrap_is_custom_designed_for_new_ipad/ XtremeMac has designed their new Tuffwrap wrap around cover specifically to fit the iPad 3rd generation. However, the protection has limits. Nancy explains.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Mon, 09 Apr 2012 13:00:24 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fetrememacs_zip_folio_case_for_ipad_is_terrific%2F&seed_title=XtremeMac%26%238217%3Bs+Zip+Folio+Case+For+iPad+Is+Terrific http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/etrememacs_zip_folio_case_for_ipad_is_terrific/ ExtremeMac’s Zip Folio Case for iPad works with both iPad 2 and the iPad 3rd generation, providing total enclosure along with places for cards, documents, and a pen or stylus.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Wed, 04 Apr 2012 13:45:21 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fdisney_vacation_app_roundup_disney_world_lines1%2F&seed_title=Disney+Vacation+App+Roundup%3A+Disney+World+Lines http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/disney_vacation_app_roundup_disney_world_lines1/ The last of the Walt Disney World apps is Disney World Wait Times. David Winograd explains how, without maps, phone numbers, or nearly any of the information found in the previously reviewed apps, this is the most important one to buy. It will save you time, money and give you information not found elsewhere. Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone, iTunes, iPad Wed, 04 Apr 2012 13:25:49 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fexplore_the_sky_with_star_chart_on_ipad%2F&seed_title=Explore+the+Sky+with+the+Awe-Inspiring+Star+Chart+for+iPad http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/explore_the_sky_with_star_chart_on_ipad/ Star Chart is a universal app for iOS that charts the sky for any date from the ancient past well into the future. It’s a beautiful app, always being improved, a great introduction to the night sky, but suffers from a few astronomical errors and has limited settings. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPhone Wed, 04 Apr 2012 12:01:56 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fthe_aura_2_for_the_new_ipad_and_ipad_two_is_a_mixed_bag%2F&seed_title=The+aura2+For+The+New+iPad+%26amp%3B+iPad+2+is+a+Mixed+Bag http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/the_aura_2_for_the_new_ipad_and_ipad_two_is_a_mixed_bag/ The aura2 folio case for the new iPad and iPad 2 is a well made and good looking display and protective system.  David Winograd found a lot to like and a some things  to dislike —especially for owners of the new iPad — in this elegant case. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPad Tue, 03 Apr 2012 15:30:33 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fballistics_tough_jacket_for_ipad_2_rugged_protection%2F&seed_title=Ballistic%26%238217%3Bs+Tough+Jacket+For+iPad+2%3A+Rugged+Protection http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/ballistics_tough_jacket_for_ipad_2_rugged_protection/ The Tough Jacket case for iPad 2 from Ballistic has three layers of protection to keep an iPad 2 safe in almost any situation, and it’s easy to insert and remove the iPad.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Tue, 03 Apr 2012 12:01:04 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fgemini_the_duplicate_finder_helps_reduce_clutter%2F&seed_title=Gemini%3A+The+Duplicate+Finder+Helps+Reduce+Clutter http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/gemini_the_duplicate_finder_helps_reduce_clutter/ Jeff Butts is a self-avowed file hoarder, hanging on to downloads from more than five years ago. While hard drives are getting less expensive and more expansive, a drive with duplicates can get bogged down and slow. Even more importantly, SSD drives are short on space and long on cost, making it important to clean up duplicate files from time to time. Enter Gemini: The Duplicate Finder for OS X. Reviews, In-Depth Review Fri, 30 Mar 2012 14:00:03 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Ffatcats_powerbar_portable_battery_charger%2F&seed_title=FatCat%26%238217%3Bs+PowerBar%3A+Portable+Battery+Charger+With+Style http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/fatcats_powerbar_portable_battery_charger/ The FatCat PowerBar 4200 serves as a travel charger for iPhones and iPods as well as MP3 players, gaming devices and GPS devices.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPhone, iPad, iPod Fri, 30 Mar 2012 12:45:01 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fwonders_of_the_universe_for_ipad_is_amazing%2F&seed_title=Wonders+of+the+Universe+for+iPad+is+Amazing http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/wonders_of_the_universe_for_ipad_is_amazing/ Have you ever wanted a grand tour of the universe, with an astrophysicist as your tour guide, all wrapped up with text explanations, diagrams and awesome videos?  This is it, and you’ll love it. Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Thu, 29 Mar 2012 15:43:35 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fomniverse_case_is_great_for_all_ipads%2F&seed_title=Omniverse+Carry+Case+is+Great+For+All+iPads http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/omniverse_case_is_great_for_all_ipads/ The Omniverse iPad Case might just be the best carrying case for any version of the iPad to date. David Winograd explains why in this review. Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:30:32 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fbluefire_e-book_reader_for_ipad_beautiful_full_featured%2F&seed_title=Bluefire+E-book+Reader+for+iPad%3A+Beautiful+%26amp%3B+Full+Featured http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/bluefire_e-book_reader_for_ipad_beautiful_full_featured/ If you’re only interested in Apple’s iBooks and Amazon’s Kindle reader for the iPad, you can do a lot.  But if you want an alternative e-book reader from a third party and want to focus on books in EPUB or PDF format, generally without DRM, the Bluefire reader is an excellent alternative. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPhone, iPad, iPod Thu, 22 Mar 2012 17:00:06 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Funieas_caj_ipad2_case_offers_leather_and_denim%2F&seed_title=Uniea%26%238217%3Bs+Caj+iPad+2+Case+Offers+Protection+With+Style http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/unieas_caj_ipad2_case_offers_leather_and_denim/ Uniea has released a new iPad 2 case called the Caj. It’s available in leather or denim and features a folio cover that folds to form a stand.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Thu, 22 Mar 2012 13:00:41 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fiwguide_for_netflix_whats_coming_and_going%2F&seed_title=IWGuide+for+Netflix%3A+What%26%238217%3Bs+Coming+%26amp%3B+Going http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/iwguide_for_netflix_whats_coming_and_going/ The IWGuide for Netflix is a free iPad app that tells you what is coming and going on Streaming Netflix. Is it a help or just more noise? David Winograd takes a quick look in a brief, illustrated review. Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:50:29 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fthird_generation_ipad_its_all_in_the_pixels%2F&seed_title=Third+Generation+iPad%3A+It%26%238217%3Bs+All+in+the+Pixels http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/third_generation_ipad_its_all_in_the_pixels/ Apple’s third generation iPad, known simply as the new iPad, made it into stores only a couple days ago with the usual pre-launch hype and excitement. Customers broke the Internet trying to pre-order Apple’s latest and greatest tablet, and some of the company’s stores had lines forming days ahead of the launch. Was the new iPad worth the build up and the wait? Read on to see what The Mac Observer thinks. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPad Tue, 20 Mar 2012 08:35:31 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fsmk-links_paddock_for_ipad_is_just_stunning%2F&seed_title=SMK-link%26%238217%3Bs+PadDock+For+iPad+Is+Just+Stunning http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/smk-links_paddock_for_ipad_is_just_stunning/ Anyone who admires the beautiful lines of Apple products will love the look, feel, and versatility of the PadDock Stand for the iPad 2. It also works with the new iPad 3rd generation.  Reviews, Quick Look Review, iObserver, iPad Mon, 19 Mar 2012 13:30:50 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Fadobe_photoshop_touch_for_the_ipad%2F&seed_title=Adobe+Photoshop+Touch+for+the+iPad http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/adobe_photoshop_touch_for_the_ipad/ Adobe recently made a big jump into the iPad world with the release of Photoshop Touch. It isn’t a full-on match for Photoshop on the Mac or Windows, but is it enough to be your go-to image editor on your iPad? Read on to find out. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPad Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:58:50 -0400 http://mint.macobserver.com/feeder/?FeederAction=clicked&feed=features%2Frss%2Freviews&seed=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macobserver.com%2Ftmo%2Freview%2Folloclip_lens_kit_for_iphone_great_at_any_angle%2F&seed_title=olloclip+Lens+Kit+for+iPhone%3A+Great+at+Any+Angle http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/review/olloclip_lens_kit_for_iphone_great_at_any_angle/ The olloclip lens kit for the iPhone includes a macro lens, a fisheye, and a wide-angle lens.  It fits securely over the iPhone 4/4S camera lens and adds considerable capability for the casual photographer. John Martellaro takes an in-depth look. Reviews, In-Depth Review, iObserver, iPhone Wed, 14 Mar 2012 16:21:33 -0400