This week’s news revolves around the just-announced iPad 2, iOS 4.3, and new iMovie and GarageBand iOS apps. We have full coverage, complete with Jeff Carlson’s hands-on impressions of the iPad 2 from his time at Apple’s media event. Also this week, contributor Kirk McElhearn reveals a few hidden details in the just-released iTunes 10.2, Adam offers practical advice on Apple’s upcoming forced upgrade to the new MobileMe Calendar, and Glenn Fleishman can’t resist answering the question of whether Thunderbolt could maybe, possibly, conceivably drive two external monitors on a new MacBook Pro. Finally, anyone considering Windows virtualization should check out Joe Kissell’s “Take Control of Running Windows on a Mac, Fifth Edition.” Notable software releases this week include Firefox 3.6.15, SpamSieve 2.8.5, BusyCal 1.5.2, Dragon Dictate 2.0.3, and Airfoil 4.0.2.
Despite speculation and errant information on Apple’s Australian Web site, the new MacBook Pros can drive only a single external monitor using Thunderbolt.
If you’re trying to determine the best way to run Windows on a Mac, or if you have Windows running but need help with problems like printing documents, backing up Windows data, sharing files with Mac OS X, or running anti-virus software, Joe Kissell’s new “Take Control of Running Windows on a Mac, Fifth Edition” has the answers.
The new MobileMe Calendar will cease to be optional as of 5 May 2011, when calendar syncing among MobileMe-connected devices will stop working for everyone who has not yet upgraded. Read on for things to beware of when upgrading.
Apple has announced the iPad 2, featuring an industrial design that’s slightly thinner and lighter. It also includes a new A5 processor, front- and rear-facing cameras, a gyroscope, and, optionally, a new Smart Cover and Digital AV Adapter. Storage capacities, battery life, and prices all remain the same.
Jeff Carlson attended Apple’s iPad 2 event and got first-hand experience with the thinner, more powerful tablet.
Apple has let the cat out of the bag about iOS 4.3. Here’s a look at what’s coming, including faster Safari performance, iTunes Home Sharing, better AirPlay, and a personal hotspot feature.
Apple has just shoehorned a movie production company and a recording studio into a 1.3 pound package. For $10. Batteries included.
iTunes 10.2 is out to support the upcoming releases of the iPad 2 and iOS 4.3, but Kirk McElhearn’s eagle eye has spotted a few other minor changes, largely in the program’s preferences, along with slightly improved performance.
Notable software releases this week include Firefox 3.6.15, SpamSieve 2.8.5, BusyCal 1.5.2, Dragon Dictate 2.0.3, and Airfoil 4.0.2.
If you’re in need of more to read, check out John Gruber’s insightful look into Apple’s 30-percent business model along with the news that Verizon Wireless’s unlimited data plan for the iPhone will disappear in a few months.