Mike Beasley

iOS users looking to accept payments on their mobile devices now have another option. Flint has just been updated to version 2.0. The app adds several new and useful features for small businesses, such as the ability to create invoices right in the app.

The app also introduces support for Passbook coupons. Merchants can create their own coupons and issue them to customers as Passbook passes. The Flint app can then scan these coupons and apply them directly to a transaction.

The 2.0 update also allows merchants to create orders with multiple items, and scan credit and debit cards using the camera on their iOS device. Cash and check sales can also be tracked within the new app and customers can get receipts for their transactions.

VoIP app Viber announces Viber Out, allowing cheap outgoing calls to any number worldwide

Mike Beasley Dec 9 2013 - 11:00 pm PT

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Viber, the popular cross-platform VoIP app, released Viber 4.1 for iOS today. The new app introduces a new calling feature called Viber Out. This service allows users on any supported Viber platform to place outgoing calls to any landline or mobile number in the world at rates lower than many other similar offerings.

Viber Out also allows users to use their real phone number as their caller ID, meaning the party on the other end will see your number as if the call was coming from the users phone, so there’s no need for your contacts to save a new VoIP number in order to recognize you.

Viber 4.1 is rolling out for iPhone now on the iOS App Store.

Former Apple accessories engineer helps trim down the Square card reader

Mike Beasley Dec 9 2013 - 7:30 pm PT

Old Square reader compared to the new model (image via Wired)

While Apple’s former hardware chief was busy flattening the company’s iconic software, Apple’s former accessory hardware division leader Jesse Dorogusker was flattening something else entirely. The Square card reader has been an iconic staple for many small businesses for quite some time now. Compared to other card readers on the market, the Square is already pretty small, but Dorogusker set out to shrink it anyway.

The first order of business was to shrink and improve the reader head responsible for scanning the magnetic strip on the back of the card and transferring the data to the smartphone app. The chip that handles all of the data between the reader head and the smartphone also needed to be tweaked. Rather than have an outside party build a chip that suited Square’s needs, Dorogusker decided to build an in-house custom solution.

Apple launches 2013 “12 Days of Gifts” app on iTunes, available in U.S. for the first time

Mike Beasley Dec 9 2013 - 7:26 pm PT

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Apple has just launched its annual 12 Days of Gifts campaign for 2013. In previous years, this campaign was available only in a few select countries, but not in the United States. For the first time Apple will now allow U.S. customers to participate in the giveaway.

The 12 Days of Gifts app is available for free on the iTunes Store. Each day for twelve days the app will provide a special free item from the iTunes, iBooks, and App Stores. Each gift is only available for 24 hours, so users have to check in every day to make sure they get everything that’s offered. This year the giveaways start on December 26th and run through January 6th.

From 26 December – 6 January, you can download a gift each day—songs, apps, books, movies, and more—with the 12 Days of Gifts app. Each day’s gift will only be available for 24 hours, so download the free app to make sure you don’t miss out. Please note: Not all content is available in all countries.

Thanks, Rahul!

Apple joins tech titans in calling for government spying reform and limitations

Mike Beasley Dec 8 2013 - 9:46 pm PT

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The Wall Street Journal reports that Apple has joined Microsoft, Twitter, Google, Yahoo!, Facebook, and other giants in the tech industry in calling for a reform of the NSA’s surveillance tactics. Earlier this year it was revealed that the National Security Agency was using information from these companies and more to monitor citizens across the nation without warrants.

The companies allegedly involved in the “PRISM” program denied turning over any user data to the government, but a leaked NSA slidedeck (seen above) seemed to imply the opposite.

The new collaborative campaign, called Reform Government Surveillance, cites five driving principles in its drive to curb excessive government spying:

Microsoft updates Bing for iPad to version 2.0 with iOS 7 design, SkyDrive bookmarks, and more

Mike Beasley Dec 6 2013 - 9:07 pm PT

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Microsoft has released a major update for its Bing app for iPad. The new app features a revamped interface to match the aesthetic of Apple’s latest OS along with a host of other features and improvements. Users are now able to save the daily image found on the search engine’s home page to their camera rolls for use as a wallpaper or whatever other purpose they decide.

Images and bookmarks can now be saved in the app and synced via Mirosoft’s SkyDrive service to other devices. Search results can now be shared to Facebook, Twitter, and other social platforms. Improvements and updates have been made to maps results, the Bing logo, and other graphics throughout the app.

T-Mobile finally takes advantage of MetroPCS merger, will use new spectrum to enhance LTE network

Mike Beasley Dec 6 2013 - 4:45 pm PT

All Things D reports that T-Mobile is finally taking advantage of this year’s MetroPCS merger. The fourth-largest mobile carrier in the U.S. plans to use the new spectrum to offer even faster speeds on its LTE network nationwide. Some markets are already seeing an increase in speed, and more will see faster service next year. The company says it hopes to cover up to 90% of its current subscriber base with improved service.

In direct contrast to this data network improvement, T-Mobile is also planning to launch new pre-paid plans with no data allowance included, according to TMo News. The carrier confirmed that the new plans will come with unlimited talk and text, but will not include any data. These new pre-paid plans will be available on December 8th, the the same day AT&T is launching its new selection of plans.

1Password for Mac updated with a new layout option, improved search, custom password fields, and more

Mike Beasley Dec 6 2013 - 6:30 am PT

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1Password for Mac, the popular password management app that we love here at 9to5Mac, has been updated to version 4.1 with a huge list of improvements, fixes, and additions. The first of these new additions is a new multi-column display mode with customizable column sizes.

One of the key changes to the app’s browser plugin is an updated auto-save system for new logins. Whenever you enter a password on a site you haven’t previously saved, 1Password will offer to store the password for you. With today’s update, you’ll now be able to use this feature to update existing passwords that have been previously saved. You can also tag your new auto-saved items right from the auto-save panel.

WSJ: Apple and China Mobile strike a deal, iPhone finally headed to world’s largest mobile carrier around Dec. 18

Mike Beasley Dec 4 2013 - 5:52 pm PT

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The Wall Street Journal reports that Apple has finally reached an agreement with China Mobile to carry the iPhone. China Mobile is currently the world’s largest mobile carrier with well over 700 million subscribers. Yesterday a subsidiary of the carrier started taking pre-orders for the smartphone, though the page was quickly pulled from its website.

[tweet https://twitter.com/MarketWatch/status/408416053140946945 align=’center’]

In September the advertisment above leaked to the media. The image is a promotion for the iPhone 5s and 5c running on China Mobile’s network. The Chinese government, which controls China Mobile, confirmed that the phone would be available on December 18th last month, although neither Apple nor China Mobile would actually confirm the rumor.

Plex media player for iOS updated with new design for iOS 7

Mike Beasley Dec 4 2013 - 2:12 pm PT

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Plex, the popular media player for desktop and mobile devices, has been updated to version 3.3 today. The update introduces an updated look based on Apple’s iOS 7 design along with a new media player screen for music and videos. The iOS 7 design isn’t entirely new, but a tweaked version of the existing design. The update also includes miscellaneous bug fixes.

You can get Plex for iOS now on the App Store. For new users, the app is $4.99. Existing users can update to version 3.3 for free.

Court denies Samsung’s attempt to stay damages in Apple patent retrial

Mike Beasley Nov 25 2013 - 11:23 pm PT

Last week a jury determined that Samsung violated several of Apple’s smartphone patents, a ruling which resulted in Samsung being faced with hefty fees for damages and lost revenue to Apple. Following the decision, Samsung then filed an emergency motion with the court to stop the payments while the United States Patent and Trademark Office re-evaluates the validity of Apple’s key patent.

Specifically, the Patent Office has issued an advisory that declares the patent on Apple’s “pinch to zoom” gesture invalid. This is the only patent in this case for which Apple can collect damages for lost revenue. Samsung argues that the jury’s decision should also be overturned since Samsung cannot be held liable for violating an invalid patent.

Tonight the court disagreed with Samsung, however, noting that Apple still has several options for appealing the invalidation and reclaiming the patent, at which point the jury’s decision would remain valid. US District Court Judge Koh ruled that the $290 million in damages is to be paid until the final word on the patent’s validity is determined. Only then can Samsung petition for a stay of damages.

Tech Industry

Incipio announces waterproof, Touch ID-compatible Atlas ID case

Mike Beasley Nov 25 2013 - 2:58 pm PT

Incipio announced an updated version of its Atlas iPhone case today. The new case, dubbed “Atlas ID,” provides the same level of dirt, dust, drop, and water protection as the previous Atlas case for iPhone 5, but now supports the use of the Touch ID sensor built into the home button of the newer iPhone 5s.

Along with the standard physical protections afforded by the Atlas ID, the case also comes with a one-year warranty that cover any accidental water damage that may occur while your phone is in the case.

The Atlas ID is available for pre-order now and is expected to begin shipping in about two weeks. The case is available in four colors for $89.99.

Incipio® Announces ATLAS ID™ Ultra Protective, Rugged, Waterproof Case with Intelligent Touch ID Interface for iPhone 5/5s

Next Generation Technology: Incipio® Announces ATLAS ID™ Waterproof Case For iPhone 5/5s

IRVINE, CA –November 25, 2013 – Incipio®, designer and manufacturer of award-winning mobile device accessories, announces the launch of the ATLAS™ ID Waterproof Case for iPhone 5/5s. The ATLAS ID™ Case features intelligent Touch ID interface, compatible with the iPhone 5s’ Touch ID sensor and includes a device limited warranty and simple-to-use registration App. The ATLAS ID™ embodies the most important and essential elements of device protection; resistance to water, dust, drops, and defense against unforgiving circumstances.

The ATLAS ID™ Waterproof Case for iPhone 5/5s is designed with five layers of protection inclusive of a water-resistant structure, intelligent Touch ID interface layer, co-molded rugged exterior, protective inner core, and scratch resistant tempered glass for next-level screen protection.

“The ATLAS ID™ allows iPhone 5/5s users to stay connected and protected in all circumstances no matter the conditions,” said Andy Fathollahi, Chief Executive, Incipio. “We are pleased to offer the ATLAS ID™ as a follow-up to the highly lauded ATLAS™ Case for iPhone 5. The new ATLAS ID™ is by far and away the most advanced rugged waterproof accessory available for iPhone 5/5s.”

Incipio’s ATLAS ID™ Case is waterproof up to 2 meters (6.56 feet) for 30 minutes, meets US Military Standard 810G for drop protection, water and dust ingress, and has an IP68 ingress protection rating against water and dust. To ensure optimal protection, Incipio’s ATLAS ID™ Waterproof Case for iPhone 5/5s features a water-proof structure sealing the iPhone 5/5s off from external pressures while maintaining complete access to all ports, buttons and controls for extensive use. The case also offers water-proof seals for the charging port and headphone jack. The ATLAS ID™ allows users to capture pictures, video and enjoy uninterrupted mobile features without sacrificing the safety of their device.

Incipio’s ATLAS ID™ Waterproof Case for iPhone 5/5s includes a free one-year device limited warranty that covers accidental device water damage (US Domestic). Users can also enjoy the free, easy-to-use registration App to complete limited warranty registration in a matter of minutes and store their receipt for convenient future access.

Additionally, the ATLAS ID™ is engineered to deliver unsurpassed audio performance while remaining completely waterproof; convenient for use in and out of the water. The case’s precision engineered tempered glass screen provides optical clarity, offers a seamless touchscreen experience, and is the strongest screen protection available for a mobile device accessory.

Incipio’s ATLAS ID™ Waterproof Case for iPhone 5/5s is offered in 4 bold color combinations, including: Black/Dark Gray, Light Gray/Dark Gray, White/Gray and Pink/Gray for $89.99.

To download high-resolution images of Incipio’s ATLAS ID™ Waterproof Case for iPhone 5/5s visit, ATLAS ID™ high resolution images.

To purchase the ATLAS ID™ for US residents visit, ATLAS ID™ US

To purchase the ATLAS ID™ for International residents visit, ATLAS ID™ International

For the latest product news and announcements connect with Incipio on Facebook, Twitter @myincipio, and Instagram @incipio.

About Incipio:

Incipio® is a Southern California based designer and manufacturer of award winning mobile device accessories and technology. Established in 1999, Incipio® is widely recognized for consistently creating state of the art protective solutions for the mobile world. Through an untiring commitment to innovative and original designs, Incipio® is globally recognized for the functional and premium accessories the brand produces. Incipio’s products are sold worldwide in leading consumer and electronics retailers, mobile retailers and through www.incipio.com.

Talking Schmidt: Everyone’s switching from iPhone to Android because it’s more intuitive

Mike Beasley Nov 24 2013 - 3:44 pm PT

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Eric Schmidt decided to help all of his friends figure out what steps to take when switching from iOS devices to Android today with a post on Google+ (that’s Google’s social network, since you’ve probably forgotten about it by now).

In the post, Schmidt says that many of his friends are converting to smartphones using the mobile operating system created by the company he runs. He then goes on to list the steps required to move content, contacts, and other data from iOS to Android.

He goes on to describe Android’s interface as being “more intuitive” than Apple’s and suggests gifting iPhone users with devices running an entirely different operating system for the holidays in the hopes that they will go along with your not-so-subtle hint and switch their entire mobile ecosystem to Google’s.

Apple completes buyout of PrimeSense, the 3D body sensor company responsible for Microsoft’s Kinect

Mike Beasley Nov 24 2013 - 3:19 pm PT

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[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXKqIr4cjyo]

Globes reports that Apple has completed its purchase of PrimeSense, the Israel-based firm behind the technology in Microsoft’s Kinect sensor, and Apple confirmed the acquisition to AllThingsD. As noted earlier this year, the deal will cost Apple somewhere between $300-350 million. PrimeSense previously denied any talks with Apple.

On Friday, the acquisition of Israeli gesture recognition company PrimeSense Ltd. by Apple Inc. (Nasdaq: AAPL) was closed. The deal, which has not been formally announced, was made at a company value of $300-350 million, and follows lengthy negotiations by PrimeSense with several potential buyers.

The sensor firm is no longer working with Microsoft, as the Xbox manufacturer has moved to all in-house work for its latest Kinect-based technology. With Apple reportedly working on a gesture-controlled 3D interface, possibly for some sort of television-related product (or a media hub to rival the Xbox One, perhaps?), the PrimeSense purchase makes perfect sense.

Google+ for iOS updated with full-resolution photo backups, design tweaks, and more

Mike Beasley Nov 22 2013 - 4:35 pm PT

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Google has updated its Google+ app for iOS with a few new tweaks. Version 4.6 of the social networking application introduces full-quality photo backups for iOS 7 users, a few design tweaks in the notifications screen, and the ability to share your location with friends (similar to Apple’s own Find My Friends app which was recently updated).

What’s New in Version 4.6.0

– Full resolution backup of your photos and videos (iOS7 only)
– Updated design for the notification tray
– Share your location, see where your friends are, control who is displayed on the map
– Translate posts and comments inline
– Additional bug fixes and performance improvements

Google+ is available for free on the iOS App Store.

16 GB & 32 GB Wi-Fi Retina iPad minis join rest of the line in shipping in 5-10 days

Mike Beasley Nov 22 2013 - 4:26 pm PT

While most versions of the iPad mini with Retina display have been shipping in 5-10 days for a few weeks, the last two holdout models have finally dropped as well. The 16 GB and 32 GB Wi-Fi version of the recently-updated tablet, which were shipping in 1-3 business days just a few hours ago, have now dropped to the same shipping time as the rest of the lineup.

This doesn’t bode well for holiday shoppers looking to score a Retina iPad mini, since shipping times will likely continue to lag as the holiday demand ramps up.

Apple publishes “Life on iPad” web page highlighting stories of iPad usage across industries

Mike Beasley Nov 21 2013 - 6:52 pm PT

Apple has published a new page on its website titled “Life on iPad.” The page highlights stories of iPad usage in a variety of capacities from Broadway to the operating room. The page also features the video from the iPad Air keynote showing the iPad in many of these same uses.

There are six total stories on the page, each with an entirely different take on how businesses and individuals are using the iPad to to improve their jobs. For example, a page on Siemens Energy’s wind power division details how iPads have replaced countless pages of manuals and repair plans for workers working 250 feet in the air.

Dropbox updated with new design for iOS 7, AirDrop, and more

Mike Beasley Nov 21 2013 - 3:46 pm PT

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As first shown by 9to5Mac, Dropbox has updated its iOS app with an all-new design for iOS 7 and several new feature and improvements. The update brings a streamlined iPad interface, improvements to the sharing process, an updated PDF viewer, and AirDrop support on iOS 7 devices.

Version 3.0 also includes fixes for HTML rendering problems and a variety of crash bugs. Along with the bug fixes, users will find that the app is now faster at certain tasks.

The update is available free to all users on the iOS App Store. You can find the complete change log below.

What’s New in Version 3.0

• Beautiful new design for iOS 7
• Streamlined iPad experience: just tap on your files and photos to toggle fullscreen
• Improved sharing and exporting makes it easier than ever to send files to your favorite apps
• AirDrop support lets you send links and files in a snap
• Seamlessly save videos to your library
• Speed! Faster launch, photo loading, and video playback
• Vanquished our most common crashes
• Fixed bug that caused HTML to render as text
• Oodles of PDF viewing updates

Apple seeds OS X 10.9.1 beta build 13B35 to developers, includes release notes; Safari 6.1.1 seed also updated

Mike Beasley Nov 21 2013 - 2:42 pm PT

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Apple has just released an update for the developer seed of OS X 10.9.1. The new version has a build number of 13B35 and includes fixes for the Mail app, VoiceOver, Safari, and VPN server support. The presence of the release notes indicate that the update is nearing completion and will be available to the public soon.

This update comes just a few weeks after updates to the Mail and iBooks software were released to resolve issues with those apps. Despite the Mail app having been updated to resolve Gmail-related issues, many users are still experiencing problems. The 10.9.1 appears to contain fixes for the remaining bugs.

Apple has also issued a new beta version of Safari 6.1.1 for Lion and Mountain Lion users. This version of Safari is curiously absent from the Mavericks beta that was seeded today.

iMovie for Mac update enables installation on some older systems, fixes reliability issues

Mike Beasley Nov 20 2013 - 2:26 pm PT

Apple has released a small update to iMovie for Mac today which allows the app to be installed on some older Macs. The change log doesn’t specify which machines are included, stating only that “computers with some older video cards” can now run the latest version of the video-editing software.

The update also introduces fixes for unreliable behavior when importing old iMovie projects into the updated app, which uses a new format for storing and maintaining video footage, events, and projects.

The app is availble for $14.99 on the Mac App Store for new purchases, although users who already own previous versions of iLfe may be able to update for free.

What’s New in Version 10.0.1

• Allows iMovie to be installed on computers with some older video cards
• Addresses reliability issues when updating projects and events from previous versions of iMovie

Xbox One SmartGlass companion app for iPhone and iPad now available

Mike Beasley Nov 19 2013 - 4:13 pm PT

Microsoft has released its companion iOS app for the new Xbox One console today, according to Engadget. A similar app has existed for the Xbox 360 for some time now, but owners of the newest Microsoft console will need to use the app released today.

The app allows Xbox One users to control their Xbox remotely using their iOS device, enhance their gaming and media-viewing experience with second screen functionality, and access many Xbox Live features such as messaging, achievements, and more.

Xbox One SmartGlass is the perfect companion app for your Xbox One, both in your living room and on the go. Connect and control your Xbox One. Stay connected with the games and gamers you like. And add a new dimension to your console entertainment with the mobile device you already own.

In the living room:
•Navigate your Xbox One console using your device’s keyboard and touch
•Control your media and set top box with the SmartGlass remote control
•Browse the web on your TV using your mobile device
•Enhance what you are watching or playing with SmartGlass companions
•Increase performance with faster connections and reliability

In the living room and on the go:
•Search, browse, and pin content to play on your Xbox One console
•Track achievements, get game help, message friends, and watch game clips

The app is available for free on the iTunes App Store.

As the holidays approach, iPhone 5s shipping times once again improve to 3-5 days

Mike Beasley Nov 18 2013 - 6:09 pm PT

The iPhone 5s launch was initially plagued by constrained supply and lagging shipping times, but in the past few weeks those issues have been alleviated as shipping times dropped significantly. The shipping times have dropped yet again, this time to only 3-5 days. This is down quite a bit from the previous 2-3 weeks required to ship.

This is an especially welcome update for those buying iPhones as gifts this holiday season, although shipping times of 24 hours, which iPhone 5c buyers have enjoyed since the phone launched, would be ideal for last-minute shoppers.

Apple loosens restrictions on water-damaged iPhones for Apple Store trade-in program

Mike Beasley Nov 18 2013 - 5:15 pm PT

Starting this week the trade-in value for iPhones will no longer be impacted by the phone’s liquid damage indicator, according to Apple retail employees. Previously, if a device’s “liquid contact indicator” was tripped, the phone would be completely worthless as a trade-in under the company’s “Reuse and Recycle” program.

This week’s changes to the program, however, will allow more customers to trade in their devices. However, the company isn’t going to start allowing seriously water-damaged phones for trade-in anytime soon. If there is evidence of liquid under the phone’s display or corrosion in the ports, the phone will still be ineligible for any trade-in value regardless of what the liquid contact indicator looks like.

These changes are only valid in physical Apple Stores, so the new policy won’t affect online trade-in values.

iTunes Connect to shut down between December 21-27th for the holidays

Mike Beasley Nov 15 2013 - 2:48 pm PT