Apps

6,231 'Apps' stories April 2010 - March 2015

Learn about the latest news for iOS, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV apps

Apps for iOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS power our modern world. 9to5Mac will update you on the latest news, review, and updates for all types of apps. “There’s an App for that”.

The term came became part of our vocabulary when Steve Jobs announced The App Store as part of the iPhone 2.0 software update in 2008.

Over the years, the term has become as common as kleenex for describing applications on all of our devices. Apple’s platforms have apps for just about anything from finance, banking, sports, social media, podcasting, music, and more. We have a guide for helping you discover the best ones as well. Apps are now on everything from our TV, to our smartphones, on our laptops, and all the way down to our wrists.

As new ones are released or existing ones have major updates, the team here at 9to5Mac will bring you the latest news and reviews. If you want to follow along with video footage, be sure to follow 9to5Mac on YouTube. Scroll down below our latest updates on all things relating to applications on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Watch.

Facebook Messenger rolling out feature to let friends send money to each other

Benjamin Mayo Mar 17 2015 - 12:34 pm PT

7 Comments

Facebook has today announced it is rolling out a new feature for users that will let friends send money to each other, through its Facebook Messenger app. Like similar services, a simple tap allows users to send a cash amount to their recipient in a single step.
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Opinion: Don’t hold your breath for real Nintendo games on your iPhone or iPad

Jeremy Horwitz Mar 17 2015 - 8:56 am PT

26 Comments

My feelings for Nintendo are complicated. I’ve loved its games ever since the original Donkey Kong, owned every Nintendo console (including the Virtual Boy), and recommended the Wii U as the best game console for families and kids. But if I was mildly displeased with Nintendo as a company during its haughtiest years — the time when most of its key third-party developers walked away — I’m downright angry with it today. At a press conference in Japan this morning, Nintendo announced its second collaboration with a mobile game publisher in two months, the headline from which was what millions of people have been waiting years to read:

“Nintendo to start making iPhone games, including first-party IP like Mario.”

Sure, the official Nintendo press release actually says “smart devices” including phones and tablets, but iPhones and iPads are a safe bet. The press release also says “gaming applications” rather than games, but a press release from Nintendo’s new mobile partner DeNA confirms that the companies will indeed produce mobile games together. Just think about it: Super Mario World on the iPad! Donkey Kong Country on the iPhone! That’s just what everyone has wanted! But there’s a catch…

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Adobe unveils Document Cloud w/ Acrobat Mobile and Fill & Sign apps for iOS

Zac Hall Mar 16 2015 - 9:00 pm PT

2 Comments

Adobe is taking its document strategy to the cloud with its latest service. Taking the same approach as its Creative Cloud Suite of apps for creators, Adobe is revealing its new Document Cloud service alongside two new apps for iOS: Acrobat Mobile and Fill & Sign. The new service aims to make handling PDFs and other documents much more flexible, and the new iOS apps can bring paper documents into the Adobe Document Cloud for work on the go…
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Tado smart thermostat gets IFTTT channel and API, can now control other devices

Ben Lovejoy Mar 16 2015 - 7:30 am PT

2 Comments

Tado, the smart thermostat system I reviewed back in 2013, now has an IFTTT channel and an API, allowing it to control other home automation devices.

Tado° users will soon be able to connect their tado° Smart Thermostat to other appliances via IFTTT. This will enable the use of the tado° geolocation feature for purposes other than smart heating or cooling. In the very near future, when a tado° user leaves the house, not only will the heating automatically go to savings mode, but simultaneously the lights switch off, the alarm system activates, the garage door locks and landline calls reroute to their mobile.

The company says that the API will allow developers to integrate Tado into other home automation apps. The company is also working on HomeKit support.

IFTTT introduced three simplified apps last month to make the service more accessible to non-technical users, while rebranding its full-fat app as IF.

Neat Safari add-on lets you listen to Beats Music on your MacBook without Flash

Ben Lovejoy Mar 16 2015 - 4:06 am PT

0 Comments

If you enjoy listening to Beats Music on your MacBook, but hate having Flash on your machine (or just want better battery-life while listening to it), there’s now a Safari extension for that. BeatsMe allows you use the web player using HTML5 instead of Flash.

Developer Chris Aljoudi said he created the extension after being disappointed at finding the web player used Flash.

It’s completely free and very minimal. Install BeatsMe, and listen.beatsmusic.com just works using native HTML5 audio playback. No Flash required.

You even get better battery life in comparison as a free bonus!

Apple is slowly progressing its plans to relaunch the streaming music service as an Apple-branded product, the company folding Beats Music support into AppleCare earlier this month. Apple is expected to formally announce the service at WWDC in June, later than initially expected, having reportedly given up on plans to hit a $7.99/month price-point.

9to5Toys Last Call: iTunes gift cards 15% off, New Trent iPhone 6/Plus cases $10, Free App of the Week, more

Mar 13 2015 - 9:00 am PT

0 Comments

Keep up with the best gear and deals on the web by signing up for the 9to5Toys Newsletter. Also, be sure to check us out on: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+ and Safari push notifications.

Today’s can’t miss deals:

Last Call Updates:

Get ready for Game of Thrones season 5 w/ free iTunes music from Method Man, many more
iTunes HD movie downloads: Divergent $4 (Reg. $20), Ghostbusters $5 (Reg. $13)
The Atlas Wristband can discern between different fitness activities
ThinkGeek offers 20% off sitewide to celebrate Pi Day: Flux Capacitor Wristwatch $47
Samsung 48-inch 120Hz 1080P Smart LED HDTV $540 shipped (Reg. $650+)
Magazine subs from $4.20/yr: Wired, GQ, ESPN, Rolling Stone, many more
Home: Black & Decker hand vacs from $20, Biometric safe $140, more

Target takes 15% off iTunes Gift Cards w/ electronic delivery: $100 for $85, more

New Trent iPhone 6/Plus Trentium case w/ interchangeable back plates $10 Prime shipped (Reg. $22), more

iTunes Free App of the Week: 8bit Doves ($3 value)

13-inch Retina MacBook Pro (Mid-2014) 2.6GHz/8GB/128GB $1,060 (orig. $1,299), more

Apple extends deeper discounts to its refurbished store: AirPort Extreme $129, 13″ MacBook Air from $719, more

Apple laptops up to 25% off: MacBook Air from $750 w/ .edu, Pro w/ Retina display from $1,100 w/ .edu

Updated Apple TV pricing gets passed down as players refurbished by Apple hit a new low of $59

Mac app bundle w/ Parallels 10, 1Password 5 and more for $80 ($270 value)

Incase ICON MacBook and iPad sleeves from $40 shipped ($20 off)

Today is your last chance to enter to win this iPhone 6 dock from Grovemade, valued at $99 http://t.co/Axj96kF3id pic.twitter.com/XsVML3sP4z

— 9to5Toys (@9to5toys) March 13, 2015

More new gear from today:

New! Daily Deals: OtterBox Defender iPad Air Case $50, Toshiba 1TB Ext. HD $50, more
New! JBL J56 BT Wireless Bluetooth on-ear headphones $60 shipped (Reg. $90+)
New! Games/Apps: Shades $1, Ultimate Hangman free, more iOS freebies

Anker portable Bluetooth speaker w/ 20 hr battery (white or blue) $30 Prime shipped (Reg. $45) http://t.co/w6MpZdWmew pic.twitter.com/G9cUqOaKfD

— 9to5Toys (@9to5toys) March 13, 2015

More deals still alive:

Sabrent 60W/12A 10-Port USB Smart Charger: $23 shipped (Reg. $35), more

Seagate 4-Bay Diskless NAS $180 shipped (Reg. up to $270)
Samsung 850 Pro 256GB 2.5″ Internal Solid State Drive $130 shipped (Reg. $180)
LG 34-inch UltraWide LED IPS Monitor w/ Thunderbolt $750 shipped (Reg. $1,000)
Portable Bluetooth speakers: Sony SRSX2 w/ mic $68 (Reg. $80+), more
Two pack of D-Link Cloud Wireless IP Cameras $80 shipped (Reg. $100)
Incipio NGP impact-resistant iPhone 6 Plus case $10 Prime shipped (Reg. $20), more
Bluetooth Streaming Audio Adapters: Mpow $9, Aukey w/ hands-free calling $15
Sennheiser Urbanite On-Ear Headphones w/ remote & mic in denim: $132 (orig. $200)
BJ’s 60-day Membership + $10 Gift Card $5 ($20 value)
Magazine subs from $5 per yr. w/ digital access: Rolling Stone, Wired, GQ, more
Omaker iPhone 6 TPU case & Tempered Glass Screen Protector $5 w/ Prime
iPhone 6 Ultra-Thin 0.3mm case in multiple colors for $0.99 shipped
Seagate Expansion 4TB Desktop HD $110 shipped (orig. $170)
Roku 3 media player (refurb) $63 shipped (Reg. $100 new)
Wenger SwissGear 15.6-inch Granite Computer Backpack $29 (Reg. $40+)
$100 Staples gift card for $85 w/ email delivery (15% off)
Media: iTunes Kids/Family movies $10 each, more
Apple products/accessories 10-15% off: iPad Air 2 from $449, iTunes cards 15% off, more
Add Bluetooth phone calls and music streaming to your car for $35 shipped (orig. $60)
Home Audio: Logitech speakers w/ sub $25, Bose Acoustimass 6 system $399
Sennheiser HD 600 open-back pro headphones $245 shipped (Reg. $400)
Sky Gamblers: Cold War is IGN’s free iOS game of the month ($5 value)

New products & more:

LyfeLens dash cam pushes live video to your iPhone and doubles as a hotspot

Kitchen Tech: AeroPress lets you make fancy coffee and espresso at budget prices
New iOS/Mac game releases: Sid Meier’s Starships & Gameloft’s Dungeon Hunter 5
Moleskine announces new backpack and messenger style bags for travelers, artists, more
Straight Outta Springfield: LEGO announces new Simpsons inspired sets
Kitchenaid’s new Siphon Coffee Brewer brings fancy gourmet coffee to your kitchen
Amazon launches Exclusives storefront w/ specially curated gadgets
This Transformers Autobot look-alike projects a virtual Magic Trackpad on your desk
Here’s a look at the “world’s first” custom pancake printer bot
Das Keyboard makes its most compelling case yet for Mac users to go mechanical
WaterField Designs offers an early look at Apple Watch accessories for home and travel
These top-rated iPhone 6 fitness armbands start at only $10 Prime shipped

Apple adds App Store guidelines requiring devs obtain health research data consent, disclose Apple Pay policies, more

Jordan Kahn Mar 12 2015 - 12:24 pm PT

0 Comments

Apple has added some new entries to its App Store Review Guidelines that developers must follow when developing and submitting apps for iOS devices. Among the new additions, Apple is requiring developers to obtain consent from users for health-related human subject research, obtain explicit authorization for downloading music and video from third-party sources, and disclose policies related to Apple Pay…
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9to5Toys Last Call: Retina iMac $2,250 w/ .edu, iPhone car mount $18, 8bit Doves iOS Game Free, more

Mar 12 2015 - 9:00 am PT

0 Comments

Keep up with the best gear and deals on the web by signing up for the 9to5Toys Newsletter. Also, be sure to check us out on: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+ and Safari push notifications.

Today’s can’t miss deals:

Last Call Updates:

iTunes Free App of the Week: 8bit Doves ($3 value)
LG 34-inch UltraWide LED IPS Monitor w/ Thunderbolt $750 shipped (Reg. $1,000)
Portable Bluetooth speakers: Sony SRSX2 w/ mic $68 (Reg. $80+), more
New iOS/Mac game releases: Sid Meier’s Starships & Gameloft’s Dungeon Hunter 5
Moleskine announces new backpack and messenger style bags for travelers, artists, more
Straight Outta Springfield: LEGO announces new Simpsons inspired sets
LyfeLens dash cam pushes live video to your iPhone and doubles as a hotspot
Two pack of D-Link Cloud Wireless IP Cameras $80 shipped (Reg. $100)
Home: FoodSaver vacuum sealer kit $60 (Reg. up to $100), more
Kitchen Tech: AeroPress lets you make fancy coffee and espresso at budget prices

Best Buy 1 Day Sale: iPad mini 3 16GB WiFi $340, iMac w/ 5K display $2,250 w/ .edu, more

iOttie iTap Magnetic Air Vent Mount for iPhone 6/Plus & Galaxy devices $18 Prime shipped (Reg. $30)

Incase ICON MacBook and iPad sleeves from $40 shipped ($20 off)

13-inch Retina MacBook Pro (Mid-2014) 2.6GHz/8GB/128GB $1,060 (orig. $1,299), more

Apple extends deeper discounts to its refurbished store: AirPort Extreme $129, 13″ MacBook Air from $719, more

Apple laptops up to 25% off: MacBook Air from $750 w/ .edu, Pro w/ Retina display from $1,100 w/ .edu

Updated Apple TV pricing gets passed down as players refurbished by Apple hit a new low of $59

Mac app bundle w/ Parallels 10, 1Password 5 and more for $80 ($270 value)

Sabrent 60W/12A 10-Port USB Smart Charger: $23 shipped (Reg. $35), more

Small States Review: Grovemade’s iPhone 6 dock puts extra emphasis on design and materials, giveaway worth $99

More new gear from today:

Vinsic 3.3-ft MFi Lightning cable $7 Prime shipped (Orig. $25)

New! VIZIO 55″ M-Series 1080p Smart LED HDTV $600 w/ ship to store (Reg. $700)
New! Samsung 850 Pro 256GB 2.5″ Internal Solid State Drive $130 shipped (Reg. $180)
New! Incipio NGP impact-resistant iPhone 6 Plus case $10 Prime shipped (Reg. $20), more
New! Seagate 4-Bay Diskless NAS $180 shipped (Reg. up to $270)
New! Daily Deals: Pioneer 4K Receiver $250, iPad mini leather Smart Case $20, more
New! Games/Apps: Metal Gear Phantom Pain Day One preorder $54, iOS freebies, more

More deals still alive:

JBL Pebbles Plug and Play USB Desktop Speakers $25 shipped (Orig. $60)

Bluetooth Streaming Audio Adapters: Mpow $9, Aukey w/ hands-free calling $15
Sennheiser Urbanite On-Ear Headphones w/ remote & mic in denim: $132 (orig. $200)
BJ’s 60-day Membership + $10 Gift Card $5 ($20 value)
Magazine subs from $5 per yr. w/ digital access: Rolling Stone, Wired, GQ, more
Omaker iPhone 6 TPU case & Tempered Glass Screen Protector $5 w/ Prime
iPhone 6 Ultra-Thin 0.3mm case in multiple colors for $0.99 shipped
Seagate Expansion 4TB Desktop HD $110 shipped (orig. $170)
Roku 3 media player (refurb) $63 shipped (Reg. $100 new)
Wenger SwissGear 15.6-inch Granite Computer Backpack $29 (Reg. $40+)
$100 Staples gift card for $85 w/ email delivery (15% off)
Media: iTunes Kids/Family movies $10 each, more
Apple products/accessories 10-15% off: iPad Air 2 from $449, iTunes cards 15% off, more
Add Bluetooth phone calls and music streaming to your car for $35 shipped (orig. $60)
Home Audio: Logitech speakers w/ sub $25, Bose Acoustimass 6 system $399
Sennheiser HD 600 open-back pro headphones $245 shipped (Reg. $400)
Sky Gamblers: Cold War is IGN’s free iOS game of the month ($5 value)

New products & more:

Kitchenaid’s new Siphon Coffee Brewer brings fancy gourmet coffee to your kitchen

Amazon launches Exclusives storefront w/ specially curated gadgets
This Transformers Autobot look-alike projects a virtual Magic Trackpad on your desk
Here’s a look at the “world’s first” custom pancake printer bot
Das Keyboard makes its most compelling case yet for Mac users to go mechanical
WaterField Designs offers an early look at Apple Watch accessories for home and travel
These top-rated iPhone 6 fitness armbands start at only $10 Prime shipped
Here’s Logitech’s next gen Daedalus Apex gaming mouse with customizable RGB lighting

9to5Toys Last Call: 13″ Retina MacBook Pro $1,060, Parallels/1Password Bundle $80, JBL Pebbles Speakers $25, more

Justin Kahn Mar 11 2015 - 9:03 am PT

0 Comments

Keep up with the best gear and deals on the web by signing up for the 9to5Toys Newsletter. Also, be sure to check us out on: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+ and Safari push notifications.

Today’s can’t miss deals:

Last Call Updates:

13-inch Retina MacBook Pro (Mid-2014) 2.6GHz/8GB/128GB $1,060 (orig. $1,299), more
Mac app bundle w/ Parallels 10, 1Password 5 and more for $80 ($270 value)
JBL Pebbles Plug and Play USB Desktop Speakers $25 shipped (Orig. $60)
This Transformers Autobot look-alike projects a virtual Magic Trackpad on your desk
Bluetooth Streaming Audio Adapters: Mpow $9, Aukey w/ hands-free calling $15
Sennheiser Urbanite On-Ear Headphones w/ remote & mic in denim: $132 (orig. $200)
Amazon Gold Box: 40% off New Balance (from $32), up to 60% off Activewear (from $8)
Home: Cuisinart Stainless Steel Hand Blender $32 (orig. $100+), more
Kitchenaid’s new Siphon Coffee Brewer brings fancy gourmet coffee to your kitchen
BJ’s 60-day Membership + $10 Gift Card $5 ($20 value)
Magazine subs from $5 per yr. w/ digital access: Rolling Stone, Wired, GQ, more

Apple extends deeper discounts to its refurbished store: AirPort Extreme $129, 13″ MacBook Air from $719, more

Apple laptops up to 25% off: MacBook Air from $750 w/ .edu, Pro w/ Retina display from $1,100 w/ .edu

Updated Apple TV pricing gets passed down as players refurbished by Apple hit a new low of $59

Sabrent 60W/12A 10-Port USB Smart Charger: $23 shipped (Reg. $35), more

Canon imageCLASS AirPrint Wireless Color Laser Printer $150 shipped (Reg. $200+)

iPhone 6 Ultra-Thin 0.3mm case in multiple colors for $0.99 shipped

Omaker iPhone 6 Flexible TPU case & Tempered Glass Screen Protector $5 Prime shipped

Slicoo DualLayer iPhone 6 cases (multiple colors/styles) from $6 Prime shipped (Reg up to $13) http://t.co/7JCIyuCE5o pic.twitter.com/mFT4LwIV1B

— 9to5Toys (@9to5toys) March 11, 2015

Small States Review: Grovemade’s iPhone 6 dock puts extra emphasis on design and materials, giveaway worth $99

More new gear from today:

New! Daily Deals: Bose In-Ear headphones $89, Pioneer BT In-Dash Receiver $80, more
New! Roku 3 media player (refurb) $63 shipped (Reg. $100 new)
New! Games/Apps: LBP 3 $23, iOS freebies, more
New! Amazon launches Exclusives storefront w/ specially curated gadgets
New! Seagate Expansion 4TB Desktop HD $110 shipped (orig. $170)

More deals still alive:

Groupon 10% off: Logitech iPad Air keyboard cover (refurb) $27, iPhone battery case $18, PS4 bundle $360, more

Wenger SwissGear 15.6-inch Granite Computer Backpack $29 (Reg. $40+)
$100 Staples gift card for $85 w/ email delivery (15% off)
Media: iTunes Kids/Family movies $10 each, more
Roku’s flagship streaming media player is on sale for $77 shipped (Reg. $100)
Apple products/accessories 10-15% off: iPad Air 2 from $449, iTunes cards 15% off, more
Add Bluetooth phone calls and music streaming to your car for $35 shipped (orig. $60)
iOttie Easy One Touch 2 Car Mount for iPhone 6/Plus $18 Prime shipped (Reg. $25)
iTunes Free App of the Week – Temple Run: Oz ($1.99 value)
Home Audio: Logitech speakers w/ sub $25, Bose Acoustimass 6 system $399
Sennheiser HD 600 open-back pro headphones $245 shipped (Reg. $400)
Sky Gamblers: Cold War is IGN’s free iOS game of the month ($5 value)
Toys R Us 35% off LEGO Star Wars: X-Wing Starfighter $59, AT-AT $91, more
Wii U console bundle refurbished by Nintendo w/ warranty $230 (Reg. $300 new)
iPhone 6 ultimate party case includes a bottle opener and flameless lighter for $10
Download a free copy of the Transformers movie
PreSonus Speakers + Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones from $229

New products & more:

Here’s a look at the “world’s first” custom pancake printer bot

Das Keyboard makes its most compelling case yet for Mac users to go mechanical
WaterField Designs offers an early look at Apple Watch accessories for home and travel
These top-rated iPhone 6 fitness armbands start at only $10 Prime shipped
Here’s Logitech’s next gen Daedalus Apex gaming mouse with customizable RGB lighting
Rock Band 4 slated for a 2015 return w/ song collections transferring + all new hardware
The second gen Divoom Bluetune Bean speaker comes equipped with a remote selfie button
Kitchen Tech: Using Nitrous Oxide to make fresh whipped cream, airy waffles, more
SanDisk’s new microSD card will stuff an extra 200GB in your MacBook, GoPro, more
Aether’s Cone wireless speaker gains a couple new tricks, still looks beautiful
Treat yourself to sharper, better kitchen knives from Henckels and Wusthof for $20+
Sony’s new BSP60 voice-controlled smart Bluetooth speaker is a virtual assistant on wheels
Panasonic’s new Bluetooth smart air conditioner does more than just keep you cool
Best Buy cuts Gamers Club Unlocked to $30, 20% off new games and amiibo

Apps

Google releases Calendar for iPhone app

Jordan Kahn Mar 10 2015 - 10:15 am PT

8 Comments

[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4vkQAByALc]

Google just announced its much anticipated Google Calendar app for iPhone is now available on the App Store. The app is essentially an iPhone version of the standalone Calendar mobile app previously only available for Android devices. Google first unveiled the latest version of its Calendar app alongside the release of Android 5.0 Lollipop late last year.

The Google Calendar app for iPhone works with your Exchange and iCloud calendars and also integrates with Gmail to automatically turn events from emails into Calendar entries. Here’s a rundown on features from Google:

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Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath comes to Mac, syncs game progress over iCloud with iOS version

Jordan Kahn Mar 10 2015 - 7:49 am PT

0 Comments

After a remastered release of critically acclaimed console game ‘Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath’ on iOS devices last year, today the title officially arrives for Mac users via the Mac App Store.

New for the Mac version of the game: iCloud integration so you can save and continue playing on iOS, gamepad support and fully mappable keyboard/mouse controls, Game Center achievements/leaderboards, and support for all Mac resolutions including Retina displays and the new 5K iMac.

The 20+ hour game developed by Oddworld Inhabitant is one of the latest releases in the popular Oddworld series despite having first launched around 10 years ago on the original Xbox. The well-received game ditched the classic Oddworld scrolling puzzler gameplay and instead offers a half first-person shooter, half third-person platformer with lots of the usual Oddworld exploration and a theatrical soundtrack.

Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath is available for $9.99 on the Mac App Store now. Launch trailer below:

[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlxbXSXeHfU]

Starbucks expanding iPhone app ordering/payment to 650 more locations

Jordan Kahn Mar 10 2015 - 7:10 am PT

3 Comments

Starbucks announced today that it’s expanding a pilot for its iPhone app that allows customers to both order and pay for items on their mobile device.

Originally started as a test in Portland in December, the expansion will bring the feature to 650 Starbucks locations in the Pacific Northwest, including: Washington, Idaho, Oregon and Alaska. Starbucks also said it would continue a national roll out of the service to other locations throughout 2015:

Mobile Order & Pay represents a significant opportunity for Starbucks to continue its leadership position in mobile commerce and customer loyalty. Starbucks plans to continue a national rollout throughout 2015.

You can expect the additional 650 locations to go live later this month on March 17.

The Starbucks iPhone app is available for free on the App Store.

Apple Pay hits Kickstarter app & GameStop, coming soon to Etsy store & Marriott Hotels

Zac Hall Mar 10 2015 - 7:02 am PT

1 Comment

Tim Cook said in January that “2015 will be the year of Apple Pay,” and we’re steadily seeing more support for the mobile payment service from banks, merchants, and apps.

Released just this morning, Kickstarter version 2.3 for iPhone and iPad adds Apple Pay as a payment option for quickly making a pledge to a crowdfunding project. That means if you’re aren’t up for spending the $349-$17,000 on an Apple Watch next month, you can still back the Pebble Time or Pebble Time Steel … now with Apple Pay. Kickstarter supports Apple Pay on the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus as well as the iPad mini 3 and iPad Air 2.

Apple Pay is also coming to hotel check-in counters this summer…
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9to5Toys Last Call: Belkin iPhone car vent mount $14, GoPro HERO4 Black $399, Apple TV (refurb) $59, more

Justin Kahn Mar 9 2015 - 2:39 pm PT

0 Comments

Keep up with the best gear and deals on the web by signing up for the 9to5Toys Newsletter. Also, be sure to check us out on: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+ and Safari push notifications.

Today’s can’t miss deals:

Belkin Car Vent Mount for iPhone 6/Plus $14 Prime shipped (Reg. $25)

GoPro HERO4 Black 4K Action Camera $399 shipped ($100 off)

Updated Apple TV pricing gets passed down as players refurbished by Apple hit a new low of $59

iPhone 6 Ultra-Thin 0.3mm case in multiple colors for $0.99 shipped

As Apple Watch approaches, these top-rated iPhone 6 fitness armbands start at only $10 Prime shipped

iTunes Free App of the Week – Temple Run: Oz ($1.99 value)

Small States Review: Grovemade’s iPhone 6 dock puts extra emphasis on design and materials, giveaway worth $99

More new gear from today:

Apple products/accessories 10-15% off: iPad Air 2 from $449, iTunes cards 15% off, more

New! Roku’s flagship streaming media player is on sale for $77 shipped (Reg. $100)
New! Add Bluetooth phone calls and music streaming to your car for $35 shipped (orig. $60)
New! Samsung 850 2.5″ SSD: EVO 500GB $180 (Reg. $270), Pro 256GB $150 (Reg. $180)
New! Daily Deals: Samsung 55″ Smart TV $630, Logitech Wireless Mouse $9, more
New! Home Audio: Yamaha BT Soundbar $175, Logitech speakers w/ sub $25
New! Sennheiser HD 600 open-back pro headphones $245 shipped (Reg. $400)
New! Toys R Us 35% off LEGO Star Wars: X-Wing Starfighter $59, AT-AT $91, more
New! Games/Apps: Dying Light for Xbox One/PS4 $50, iOS freebies, more
New! Home: Dyson DC65 upright vac $300 (Reg. $400+), more

PSA: we know the new MacBook is tempting, but hold off and we’ll let you know when the first discounts hit. pic.twitter.com/yQQydCTpjY

— 9to5Toys (@9to5toys) March 9, 2015

Metal Gear Solid V Phantom Pain Collector's Edition is now available for preorder http://t.co/eahKIFZGuK pic.twitter.com/wSMVDy7Bl3

— 9to5Toys (@9to5toys) March 9, 2015

More deals still alive:

iOttie Easy One Touch 2 Car Mount for iPhone 6/Plus & Android devices $18 Prime shipped (Reg. $25), more

Sky Gamblers: Cold War is IGN’s free iOS game of the month ($5 value)
Wii U console bundle refurbished by Nintendo w/ warranty $230 (Reg. $300 new)
Sennheiser Momentum Over-Ear Headphones $150 (Reg. $200)
Elgato’s Game Capture records + streams PS4, Xbox + Wii U games for $153 (Reg. $180)
iPhone 6 ultimate party case includes a bottle opener and flameless lighter for $10
Download a free copy of the Transformers movie
PreSonus Speakers + Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones from $229
Download The Hobbit eBook on Google Play for $3 (Reg. $14)
Mac App Store sale: BioShock, LEGO, Metro, Transistor, more $10 each (Reg. up to $45)
Receive up to $100 off or Amazon credit w/ select Bose & HEOS by Denon products
HDTVs: Samsung 48″ 1080p $545 (Reg. $670), 55″ LG 4K UHDTV $1,300 (Reg. $1,799)
Download more than 300 hits from the 1960’s for $4
Apple MacBook Air 13.3″ Laptop (previous gen) 1.3GHz/4GB/128GB $830 (orig. $1,099)
Free download: Transparent soundtrack featuring Bob Dylan, Neil Young, more
Google Play’s Birthday Sale includes $0.99 albums, $3 movies, discounted apps, more
Pioneer’s SPH-DA120 adds Apple CarPlay to your car for $445 (Reg. $600)
Mood-Light Your Home From Your Phone, Was $50 now $34

Onkyo 7.2-Ch. A/V Receiver w/ WiFi and Bluetooth $270 shipped (Reg. up to $500) http://t.co/MZBN8CdEps pic.twitter.com/YEk03Aqdds

— 9to5Toys (@9to5toys) March 6, 2015

New products & more:

Here’s Logitech’s next gen Daedalus Apex gaming mouse with customizable RGB lighting

Rock Band 4 slated for a 2015 return w/ song collections transferring + all new hardware
The second gen Divoom Bluetune Bean speaker comes equipped with a remote selfie button
Kitchen Tech: Using Nitrous Oxide to make fresh whipped cream, airy waffles, more
SanDisk’s new microSD card will stuff an extra 200GB in your MacBook, GoPro, more
Aether’s Cone wireless speaker gains a couple new tricks, still looks beautiful
Treat yourself to sharper, better kitchen knives from Henckels and Wusthof for $20+
Sony’s new BSP60 voice-controlled smart Bluetooth speaker is a virtual assistant on wheels
Panasonic’s new Bluetooth smart air conditioner does more than just keep you cool
Best Buy cuts Gamers Club Unlocked to $30, 20% off new games and amiibo
ADATA found an ingenious home for a microSD card on its new microReader
senseFly’s eXom drone flies autonomously using sensors or iPad controls
Pansonic’s Nubo weatherproof, 4G-equipped monitoring camera is poised to slay Dropcam
NeatherRealm announces Mortal Kombat X hybrid card-battler for iOS and Android
Mad Catz brings console style controllers to Android devices with the L.Y.N.X.3

Hands on with the first medical apps using ResearchKit

Michael Steeber Mar 9 2015 - 12:37 pm PT

2 Comments

As part of ResearchKit, Apple’s new foray into medical research, five brand new apps have been launched in conjunction with leading medical institutions that utilize the new capabilities of ResearchKit. These first apps cover the areas of asthma, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, breast cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Below is a first look at some of the new application’s capabilities.

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Game developers seek Apple Watch event spotlight as major companies ready apps

Mark Gurman Mar 6 2015 - 4:30 pm PT

13 Comments

Hundreds of iOS developers have been working with Apple in secret Cupertino-based sessions on apps for the Apple Watch, and now we’ve learned that this list includes game developers. According to two sources, multiple “mass market, casual” game developers have been in the running to show off light games on stage during Monday’s “Spring Forward” event in San Francisco. While Apple could end up not showcasing games next week, we’re still told that they are championing the idea of light weight gaming on the Apple Watch. As one source said, “the iOS gaming ecosystem will be well represented on the Apple Watch despite [the simplicity] of the Software Development Kit (SDK)…

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9to5Toys Last Call: Sky Gamblers for iOS free, Griffin 20% off sitewide, iOttie iPhone 6/Plus car mount $18, more

Justin Kahn Mar 6 2015 - 9:02 am PT

0 Comments

Keep up with the best gear and deals on the web by signing up for the 9to5Toys Newsletter. Also, be sure to check us out on: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+ and Safari push notifications.

Today’s can’t miss deals:

Last Call Updates:

Sky Gamblers: Cold War is IGN’s free iOS game of the month ($5 value)
Griffin 20% off: Harris Tweed MacBook Bag $200 (Reg. $250), iPhone 6 cases, more
Belkin WeMo Light Switch + WeMo Switch & Motion Sensor $90 ($130 value)
Wii U console bundle refurbished by Nintendo w/ warranty $230 (Reg. $300 new)
Sennheiser Momentum Over-Ear Headphones $150 (Reg. $200)
Elgato’s Game Capture records + streams PS4, Xbox + Wii U games for $153 (Reg. $180)
Here’s Logitech’s next gen Daedalus Apex gaming mouse with customizable RGB lighting
Epson 1800 Lumens 3D 1080P Projector w/ HDMI $550 shipped (Reg. $650)
Home: T-fal 12 pc. Cookware Set $55, Schlage Touchscreen Deadbolt $160, more

iOttie Easy One Touch 2 Car Mount for iPhone 6/Plus & Android devices $18 Prime shipped (Reg. $25), more

HooToo TripMate Wireless N Travel Router w/ USB port: $15 Prime shipped (Reg. $20)

Apple iPad deals: iPad Air 32GB $380 (Reg. $449), iPad mini w/ free $50 gift card $239 ($299 value), more

Apple iPad mini 2 WiFi: 16GB $250/32GB $300 w/ free shipping ($50 off)

iTunes Free App of the Week – Temple Run: Oz ($1.99 value)

LAST CHANCE! Small States Review – Bolt Briefcase from WaterField Designs is an ideal work and travel companion, $249 giveaway

More new gear from today:

Headphones: JBL J55 on-ears (multiple colors) $20 (Reg. $43), Sennheiser HD 518 over-ears $65 (Reg. up to $130)

New! Daily Deals: JBL Lightning Docks from $23, Mophie Juice Pack refurb $25, more
New! Samsung 850 EVO 500GB Internal Solid-State Drive $190 shipped (Reg. $245+)
New! Monoprice 15% off sitewide: MHD Action Camera $150 (Reg. $177), more
New! Games/Apps: BioShock Infinite + all DLC 75% off, iOS freebies, more
New! SAS Handbook The Ultimate Guide to Surviving Anywhere $3 eBook download (Reg. $16)

Onkyo 7.2-Ch. A/V Receiver w/ WiFi and Bluetooth $270 shipped (Reg. up to $500) http://t.co/MZBN8CdEps pic.twitter.com/YEk03Aqdds

— 9to5Toys (@9to5toys) March 6, 2015

More deals still alive:

iPhone 6 ultimate party case includes a bottle opener and flameless lighter for $10

Download a free copy of the Transformers movie
PreSonus Speakers + Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones from $229
Media: Man of Steel Collectors Edition $10 (Reg. $40), more
Download The Hobbit eBook on Google Play for $3 (Reg. $14)
Home: Philips AirFryer $150, Thermos Vacuum Stainless Steel Bottle $29, more
PNY Turbo 256GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive: $70 shipped (Orig. $130)
Mac App Store sale: BioShock, LEGO, Metro, Transistor, more $10 each (Reg. up to $45)
Receive up to $100 off or Amazon credit w/ select Bose & HEOS by Denon products
HDTVs: Samsung 48″ 1080p $545 (Reg. $670), 55″ LG 4K UHDTV $1,300 (Reg. $1,799)
Download more than 300 hits from the 1960’s for $4
Apple MacBook Air 13.3″ Laptop (previous gen) 1.3GHz/4GB/128GB $830 (orig. $1,099)
Free download: Transparent soundtrack featuring Bob Dylan, Neil Young, more
Incase Maki Canvas Jacket for iPad 2/3/4 case $10 shipped (Reg. $40)
Google Play’s Birthday Sale includes $0.99 albums, $3 movies, discounted apps, more
Amazon Spring Break Fashion Sale: Reef Sandal $32, Oakley Sunglasses $72+, more
Pioneer’s SPH-DA120 adds Apple CarPlay to your car for $445 (Reg. $600)
Dr. Seuss Birthday Sale: up to 80% off more than 60 iOS book apps/collections
Mood-Light Your Home From Your Phone, Was $50 now $34

New products & more:

Rock Band 4 slated for a 2015 return w/ song collections transferring + all new hardware

The second gen Divoom Bluetune Bean speaker comes equipped with a remote selfie button
Kitchen Tech: Using Nitrous Oxide to make fresh whipped cream, airy waffles, more
SanDisk’s new microSD card will stuff an extra 200GB in your MacBook, GoPro, more
Aether’s Cone wireless speaker gains a couple new tricks, still looks beautiful
Treat yourself to sharper, better kitchen knives from Henckels and Wusthof for $20+
Sony’s new BSP60 voice-controlled smart Bluetooth speaker is a virtual assistant on wheels
Panasonic’s new Bluetooth smart air conditioner does more than just keep you cool
Best Buy cuts Gamers Club Unlocked to $30, 20% off new games and amiibo
ADATA found an ingenious home for a microSD card on its new microReader
senseFly’s eXom drone flies autonomously using sensors or iPad controls
Pansonic’s Nubo weatherproof, 4G-equipped monitoring camera is poised to slay Dropcam
NeatherRealm announces Mortal Kombat X hybrid card-battler for iOS and Android
Mad Catz brings console style controllers to Android devices with the L.Y.N.X.3

Amazon Game Studios announces four games coming soon to iOS

Jordan Kahn Mar 6 2015 - 7:26 am PT

0 Comments

Amazon Game Studios announced today that it’s bringing four games to iOS devices starting with two previously released only on Android and two new titles coming soon.
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CNN app gets a Notification Center widget, sports section on iOS

Mark Gurman Mar 5 2015 - 3:29 pm PT

0 Comments

CNN today pushed out an update to its iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch application with a pair of features that some users will find significant: a Today widget for iOS 8’s Notification Center and a sports section. The widget is populated with the latest top stories from CNN, while the sports section sources its content from Bleacher Report, which has a dedicated App Store app (iPhone, iPad). CNN also says this version includes various bug fixes, like every app update that has come before it.

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Disney’s latest app transforms you into your favorite characters from Star Wars, Frozen & Disney Parks

Mar 5 2015 - 3:20 pm PT

1 Comment

Today Disney Parks released a free iOS app called Show Your Disney Side, which transforms you into a 3D moving Disney character. Your Disney Side is the part of you that laughs a little bit louder, believes in magic, and never backs down from a pirate fight (even against Captain Hook!). This app was created to help you channel your inner Disney Side even when you’re nowhere near a Disney Park.

Turn yourself into a princess from Frozen, a X-Wing Pilot from Star Wars, Jafar from Aladdin, and several other Disney characters. You can even unlock new Haunted Mansion characters by visiting a Disney Park or sharing your Disney Side pics on social media.

The idea is pretty simple. Choose the character you’d like to become, snap a quick selfie, make a couple quick photo adjustments and you’re all set. The app will create a 3D moving image of yourself as the Disney character you picked. There’s also a share button so you can send your favorite shots to friends and family.

Download it for free.

Here’s a couple of tips from the Disney Parks Blog to help your transformation:

Smile big – but without your teeth showing.
Make sure your hair isn’t blocking your face.
Try to take your photo in front of a plain background.

Promo video and full App Store description follows:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MiJ7Va-Ase8?rel=0&w=853&h=480]

We all have a Disney Side—the side of us that comes out to play the moment we step through the gates at Disney Parks. The new Show Your Disney Side app will help bring YOURS to life! Transform into a Jedi, a pirate, or other Disney Parks characters wherever you are!

CREATE – Choose a Disney Parks character, take a selfie and transform into your Disney Side.

PLAY – Try different costumes, add a frame, then tap and swipe to watch your Disney Side come to life with special effects

SHARE – Whether you’re at a Disney Park or at home, you can share your Disney Side with your family and friends right from the app

EXPLORE – Select different characters from favorite Disney Parks attractions and experiences like Frozen, Star Tours®, Pirates of the Caribbean®, Villains of Disney Parks, and Haunted Mansion®

Visit the Disneyland® Resort and Walt Disney World® Resort where your Disney Side can be unleashed to the fullest!

DisneySideApp.com

Google Docs, Sheets, & Slides iOS apps now let you ‘Make a copy’, copy links to clipboard, more

Jordan Kahn Mar 5 2015 - 11:32 am PT

0 Comments

Google is rolling out updates to its Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides apps for the iPhone and iPad today bringing the ability to make a copy of a document and more.

In addition to the new “Make a copy” function for documents, spreadsheets, and presentations across all three apps, you’ll also now be able to copy links to your device’s clipboard. Sheets and Slides also receive a new “accessibility settings menu when VoiceOver is enabled.”

The updated apps also arrive with bug fixes and a few other minor enhancements.

The latest version of Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides will be hitting the App Store today.

What’s New in Version 1.2.6936

* Make a copy of a document
* Bug fixes and performance improvements

Gmail for iOS updated w/ share sheet support, ability to archive & reply to email via notifications

Chance Miller Mar 5 2015 - 9:16 am PT

1 Comment

Google this morning has released a major update for Gmail on iOS. The update bumps the app to version 4.0 and packs a handful of new features. First off, Gmail on iOS now supports the ability to archive and reply to messages directly from a notification, a feature many have been requesting since iOS 8 launched.

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9to5Toys Last Call: Beats Solo2 headphones $150, SanDisk 32GB wireless iOS flash drive $35, more

Mar 5 2015 - 9:02 am PT

0 Comments

Keep up with the best gear and deals on the web by signing up for the 9to5Toys Newsletter. Also, be sure to check us out on: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+ and Safari push notifications.

Today’s can’t miss deals:

Last Call Updates:

iTunes Free App of the Week – Temple Run: Oz ($1.99 value)
Anker iPhone 6 MFi 2850mAh battery case: $30 Prime shipped (Reg. $60)
Rock Band 4 slated for a 2015 return w/ song collections transferring + all new hardware
PreSonus Speakers + Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones from $229
Samsung 850 EVO 250GB 2.5-inch Internal Solid-State Drive $95 (Reg. $125+)
Media: Man of Steel Collectors Edition $10 (Reg. $40), more
Download The Hobbit eBook on Google Play for $3 (Reg. $14)
The second gen Divoom Bluetune Bean speaker comes equipped with a remote selfie button
Kitchen Tech: Using Nitrous Oxide to make fresh whipped cream, airy waffles, more
Home: Philips AirFryer $150, Thermos Vacuum Stainless Steel Bottle $29, more

Beats by Dr. Dre Solo2 wired and wireless on-ear headphones $50 off, deals from $150

SanDisk Connect 32GB Wireless iOS/Android Flash Drive $35 shipped (orig. $60)

ZAGGkeys MINI 7 Case/Keyboard (refurb) for iPad mini $9 shipped (orig. $90)

Charge up to 5 iPhones, iPads and other USB devices at once in your car for $14 Prime shipped

Put a 128GB microSD card in your Android phone/tablet, GoPro, MacBook + more for $80 shipped

SanDisk’s groundbreaking microSD card will stuff an extra 200GB in your MacBook, GoPro, more

Small States Review – Bolt Briefcase from WaterField Designs is an ideal work and travel companion, $249 giveaway

More new gear from today:

Onkyo 4K Ultra HD 5.2 Ch. A/V Home Theater Receiver w/ WiFi & Bluetooth $250 shipped (Reg. $300)

New! Download a free copy of the Transformers movie
New! Free download of Coldplay’s Ghost Stories album
New! iPhone 6 ultimate party case includes a bottle opener and flameless lighter for $10
New! Games/Apps: Tengami for iOS/Mac from $3 (Reg. up to $10), iOS freebies, more
New! Daily Deals: SanDisk 128GB USB 2.0 Flash Drive $30, much more
New! ZyXEL 1000Mbps AV2 Gigabit Powerline Starter Kit $63 shipped (Reg. $87+)
New! Motorola SB6141 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem (refurb) $58 shipped (orig. $90)
New! Treat yourself to sharper, better kitchen knives from Henckels and Wusthof for $20+

More deals still alive:

Groupon 10% off: Xbox One bundles $315, Lenmar iPhone battery case $18, more

PNY Turbo 256GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive: $70 shipped (Orig. $130)
Mac App Store sale: BioShock, LEGO, Metro, Transistor, more $10 each (Reg. up to $45)
Receive up to $100 off or Amazon credit w/ select Bose & HEOS by Denon products
Best Buy 2 Day Camera Sale: Canon Rebel T5 w/ lens kit $400, GoPro bundles, more
HDTVs: Samsung 48″ 1080p $545 (Reg. $670), 55″ LG 4K UHDTV $1,300 (Reg. $1,799)
Magazine subs from $5/yr: Wired, GQ, Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, more
Download more than 300 hits from the 1960’s for $4
Apple iPad mini 2 WiFi: 16GB $250/32GB $300 w/ free shipping ($50 off)
Apple MacBook Air 13.3″ Laptop (previous gen) 1.3GHz/4GB/128GB $830 (orig. $1,099)
Free download: Transparent soundtrack featuring Bob Dylan, Neil Young, more
Sennheiser HD 439 over-ear headphones in black $40 shipped (orig. $100)
JLab Grab Bag – headphones, Bluetooth speakers, more: $7.50 shipped
Incase Maki Canvas Jacket for iPad 2/3/4 case $10 shipped (Reg. $40)
Google Play’s Birthday Sale includes $0.99 albums, $3 movies, discounted apps, more
Readdle’s wireless printing app Printer Pro goes free on iOS (Reg. $7)
Amazon Spring Break Fashion Sale: Reef Sandal $32, Oakley Sunglasses $72+, more
Audio-Technica Headphones: PRO700MK2 on-ears $128 (Reg. $170+), more
Pioneer’s SPH-DA120 adds Apple CarPlay to your car for $445 (Reg. $600)
Dr. Seuss Birthday Sale: up to 80% off more than 60 iOS book apps/collections
Mood-Light Your Home From Your Phone, Was $50 now $34

New products & more:

Aether’s Cone wireless speaker gains a couple new tricks, still looks beautiful

Sony’s new BSP60 voice-controlled smart Bluetooth speaker is a virtual assistant on wheels
Panasonic’s new Bluetooth smart air conditioner does more than just keep you cool
Best Buy cuts Gamers Club Unlocked to $30, 20% off new games and amiibo
ADATA found an ingenious home for a microSD card on its new microReader
senseFly’s eXom drone flies autonomously using sensors or iPad controls
Pansonic’s Nubo weatherproof, 4G-equipped monitoring camera is poised to slay Dropcam
NeatherRealm announces Mortal Kombat X hybrid card-battler for iOS and Android
Mad Catz brings console style controllers to Android devices with the L.Y.N.X.3

Back to the Mac: Microsoft releases redesigned Office for Mac 2016 Preview w/ Retina support, collaboration, more

Zac Hall Mar 5 2015 - 8:55 am PT

72 Comments

Before today, the latest versions of Word, PowerPoint, and Excel for OS X came with Office for Mac 2011, a suite of productivity apps which you can tell from the name included dated software without many modern features Mac users expect. Office for Mac 2011 was actually first released in October 2010. A lot has changed since then.

Microsoft moved Office from a paid upgrade approach to a cloud subscription model, saw its CEO Steve Ballmer retire and buy a basketball team, appointed Satya Nadella as head of the company, and even released Office for iPad and iPhone.

For the Mac, though, the most capable versions of Word, PowerPoint, and Excel have only been available as Web apps—not native—until now. As promised, Microsoft is today releasing the public beta of Office for Mac 2016 including all new versions of the company’s go-to productivity apps.
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