Apps

6,255 'Apps' stories April 2010 - November 2014

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.

AirParrot 2 brings Mac & Windows screen mirroring to Chromecast, drag and drop media streaming

Jordan Kahn Nov 21 2014 - 8:54 am PT

7 Comments

AirParrot, the app that lets you send your desktop display to an Apple TV-connected TV, is today releasing version 2 with Chromecast support and number of other new features. Sure, you can mirror your Mac’s display to an Apple TV using Apple’s built-in AirPlay feature, but AirParrot provides features beyond what Apple offers and also support for screen mirroring from Chromebooks and Windows. Today’s release makes it the first to enable full screen mirroring support to Chromecast with audio support and more.

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iWork for iCloud updated with eight new languages, easier document renaming and more

Ben Lovejoy Nov 21 2014 - 5:25 am PT

5 Comments

Apple has updated its iWork for iCloud web-based productivity suite with eight new languages, the ability to rename documents in the editor and a few minor additional enhancements.

Pages gets all eight new languages: Arabic, Brazilian Portuguese, French, German, Hebrew, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, and Spanish – including bidirectional support for Arabic and Hebrew. Numbers and Keynote get all but Arabic and Hebrew …
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iPhone app predicts whether you’ll like the beer or wine you’re looking at in the store [Video]

Ben Lovejoy Nov 21 2014 - 3:58 am PT

14 Comments

Sure, there are shopping apps out there that will read the barcode of a product and let you know whether you could buy it more cheaply online, but someone has now tackled a far more more important issue: will you actually enjoy that bottle of beer or wine you’re eyeing up in the store?

Next Glass is a free iPhone app that uses your own personal taste preferences to predict how likely you are to enjoy a beer or wine you’ve never tried before. If you’re buying for a dinner party or other social occasion, you can link to friends using the same app and it’ll show you how much they’ll like it too …
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Dropbox says this week’s OS X 10.10.1 release fixes crashes on Yosemite

Jordan Kahn Nov 20 2014 - 3:08 pm PT

6 Comments

Dropbox is sending out an email to let users know that crashes related to Yosemite have been resolved in the latest OS X 10.10.1 release that landed earlier this week.

“We’re reaching out to let you know about an issue in Apple’s new OS X Yosemite that causes problems with Dropbox. You can resolve this issue by installing the latest Software for OS X Yosemite…

OS X Yosemite 10.10.1 arrived earlier this week for users bringing with it a number of bug fixes and Wi-Fi improvements. The problem for Dropbox, according to the company, is caused by a Yosemite bug related to how applications, not just Dropbox, use Yosemite’s official Finder integration. The bug can lead to crashing for Dropbox and other apps when using open, save, or save-as functions. Dropbox notes that “if the program crashes because of this interaction, unsaved changes may be lost.”

Fortunately, users can easily remedy the issue by updating to the latest OS X 10.10.1 release through Software Update in the Mac App Store.

In related news: earlier today Apple released its first seed of OS X Yosemite 10.10.2 beta to AppleSeed users and developers ahead of a public release.

The full email sent out by Dropbox to users today is below:

9to5Toys Last Call: Things iOS apps go free, iPhone 6 Plus bumper case $3, UE BOOM speaker giveaway, more

Nov 20 2014 - 2:10 pm PT

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Keep up with the best gear and deals on the web by signing up for the brand new 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:

Things task manager app for iOS goes free (Reg. up to $20), 30% off Mac version

iPhone 6 Plus TPU rubber ultra thin bumper case and stylus $3 shipped

Giveaway: 10 limited edition Skrillex Ultimate Ears BOOM Bluetooth speakers ($200 value)

Amazon announces its Black Friday gameplan and prices, new deals every 10 minutes

Upcoming Walmart Pre-Black Friday deals:

iPad Air 2 with free $100 gift card $489
Free $75 gift card with new iPhone 6 for $179 or iPhone 5s for $79 on contract
more

First look: LifeProof starts taking orders for its waterproof iPhone 6 frē case

Small States – TM1985: former Ralph Lauren designer goes American made w/ elegant backpacks, $407 giveaway + 25% discount

Other new deals:

New! Moleskin teams up w/ Adobe to take notes and sketches from paper to the cloud
New! Windows Tablets/PCs: 32GB Surface 2 (refurb): $199, Asus 15-inch laptop: $250, more
New! Games/Apps: Notes Plus $2, Skylanders Trap Team Pack $50, more
New! Logitech HD Pro Webcam w/ 1080p Widescreen $50 shipped (Reg. $100)
New! Daily Deals: Amazon Fire HD Tablets from $120, 4-port USB travel charger: $24, more
New! Hotel Tonight iOS/Android app offers $7 rooms on Black Friday
New! Audio-Technica Noise Isolation In-Ear Headphones $33 shipped (orig. $80)
New! Garmin nüvi 66LMT GPS w/ lifetime maps/traffic $140 (orig. $210)
New! Home: Capresso Espresso Machine (refurb) $70 (orig. $280), more
New! 40% off all prints at Shutterfly with free shipping on orders of $39 or higher
New! Newegg: $15 off of $50 or more w/ purchase via GoogleWallet on Android

More deals still alive:

Apple 13.3-inch Retina MacBook Pro (2013) 2.4GHz/8GB/256GB: $1,149 (orig. $1,399)
Harman Kardon CL Precision Headphones (refurb) $49 (orig. $250), more
Save up to 50% on some hilarious (and mildly offensive) Ugly Christmas Sweaters
Amazon offers $40 off Kindles, Fire TV and more w/ Prime membership purchases
Apple TV (newest version) at Black Friday pricing right now: $79 shipped (Reg. $99)
Kensington KeyCover keyboard case for iPad Air $15, more
Multi-yr magazine subs w/ digital from $4.50 per year: GQ, Wired, Time, more
B&H matches Amazon’s Pre-order sale on Samsung HDTVs for Black Friday
Refurb. Apple AirPorts: Extreme (newest) $120 (Reg. $199 new), Express $60 (Reg. $99 new)
Bluetooth car kits: MPOW FM transmitter: $35, Belkin handsfree $29
$80 mobile app prototyping software for Mac goes free
Omaker iPhone 6 slim bumper case $7 Prime shipped (orig. $30)
Lenmar Meridian MFi 2300mAh iPhone 5/5s Battery Case $30 Prime shipped (Reg. $90)
Free music downloads: Guardians Of The Galaxy (Awesome Mix Vol. 1), Lorde, more
Free download: “How to build an iPhone App Using Swift” guide
WD My Book 6TB USB 3.0 Desktop External Hard Drive $220 shipped (Reg. $249+)
Marshall Stanmore Bluetooth Speaker (multiple colors) $340 shipped (Reg. $400)
Worms 75% off iOS titles: Worms3, Armageddon, Crazy Golf HD, more
Brother MFC-7360N 4-in-1 Laser Printer: $100 shipped (orig. $200)
Amazon Prime deal: Adobe Photoshop Elements 13 (Mac/PC): $50 (Reg. $100)
Sennheiser RS 180 Wireless Headphones $200 shipped (orig. $390)
Sennheiser MM30i in-ear headphones w/ mic & remote $30 shipped (orig. $80), more
Minisuit selfie stick pro w/ built-in Bluetooth $15 shipped (Reg. $20+)
Minisuit selfie stick pro with built-in Bluetooth remote $15 shipped (Reg. $20+)

Black Friday:

We’re updating our email newsletter with Black Friday/holiday shopping ideas and savings

Top leaks:

Best Buy’s 2014 Black Friday ad is out! Samsung 55″ 4K $900, iPad Air 2 $100 off, more
Walmart’s Black Friday ad revealed: iPad mini w/ $30 GC $199, Xbox One/PS4 deals, more
Pre-order Samsung Black Friday: 40″ 4K Smart TV $600, Blu-ray player $55, more
Target Black Friday preview: iPad Air 2 w/$140 GC $499, iPad mini w/$80 GC $249, more
Toys R Us Black Friday ad leak: PS4 bundles, BOGO 40% off games, more
Staples Black Friday Ad: save 20% on iPad, printers, streaming devices, more
GameStop’s full Black Friday ad leak: PS4 bundle $400, Xbox One from $330, more

All other leaks/info:

BJ’s Wholesale Black Friday deals kick off this weekend
GameStop pre-Black Friday sale w/ discounts on Disney Infinity 2.0 Marvel, more
TigerDirect in-store Black Friday: WeMo, Xbox One bundles, Samsung 4K UHDTV, more
Black Friday Ad Roundup: Costco, Bed Bath and Beyond, Old Navy, more
hhgregg Black Friday Ad: Apple iPad Air $299, Beats by Dre Solo 2 $150, discounted HDTVs
Black Friday Ad Roundup: Costco, Macy’s, CVS, Big Lots, more
OfficeMax/Office Depot Black Friday: 20% off iTunes gift cards, more
Staples Black Friday preview: Jawbone or Fitbit w/$25 Visa GC, more
More Black Friday ad leaks: JCPenney, Kohl’s, Pier 1, Walgreens, more
Sam’s Club: 60″ VIZIO 4K Smart UHDTV for under $1,000 ahead of Black Friday
Sports Authority Black Friday: Garmin Vivofit $80, up to 70% off North Face, more
Meijer Black Friday: $100 credit w/ iPads, Xbox One bundle w/ $50 credit $330, more
Sears Black Friday leak: Samsung 55″ Smart HDTV $600, Dewalt drill kit $100, more
Dell Black Friday ad leak: discounts on monitors, Xbox One/PS4, HDTVS, more
Xbox One holiday price drop now live with prices starting at $349 (or lower)
Amazon’s countdown to Black Friday kicks off w/ thousands of Lightning Deals
Target announces free shipping for all items through the holiday shopping season

New products/ongoing promos:

ShotTracker brings Bluetooth LE and data collection to your hoop game
Twelve South makes the best iPhone 6/iPad dock even better
Logitech AnyAngle is a protective case with an ‘any-angle’ stand for your iPad
littleBits: DIY Smart Home Kit, options for creating an internet-connected home
Logitech announces limited ed. UE BOOM Bluetooth speaker designed by Skrillex
Ollie gets murdered-out with the new Darkside bundle, Sphero 2.0 $40 off
Internet Archive brings 900 classic arcade titles to your web browser for free
The thinnest iPhone 6/Plus cases we’ve found so far

Disney Store iPhone app adds Apple Pay checkout ahead of the holidays

Zac Hall Nov 20 2014 - 1:54 pm PT

0 Comments

Just in time for the holiday shopping season, the Disney Store has updated its iPhone app adding Apple Pay as a checkout option for paying for your purchases. That means iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus users can skip the process of having to manually enter debit or credit card information at checkout and instead pay with the touch of your fingerprint using Touch ID.
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Evernote for OS X updated w/ Yosemite design, performance improvements, more

Chance Miller Nov 20 2014 - 1:10 pm PT

5 Comments

Evernote this afternoon has released a major update to its OS X desktop app, making both major design enhancements for Yosemite and under-the-hood performance improvements. The update, which the company says is a total rewrite of the app, adds an entirely redesigned interface with a new, lighter color scheme, as well as new icons.

At Evernote, we believe that speed and stability are essential for productivity. That’s why we’ve completely rewritten Evernote for Mac. Everenote is significantly faster, more reliable and consumes less energy than ever before. We’ve also added a number of new features!

In addition to the design improvements, Evernote also touts a variety of new features.

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Twitter for iPhone rolling out Tweet sharing via Direct Messages

Zac Hall Nov 20 2014 - 12:49 pm PT

0 Comments

Last week, Twitter announced a list of improvements coming to the service including enhancements to Direct Messages and video capabilities slated for next year, and today the social network started rolling out its new features as promised. With the latest version of Twitter for iPhone, you can now share public Tweets privately over Direct Messages with native embedding. You can see the new feature in action below…
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Dropbox’s Carousel photo & video gallery app arrives on iPad & web

Jordan Kahn Nov 20 2014 - 10:05 am PT

0 Comments

First launched on iPhone earlier this year, Dropbox announced today that it’s launching its Carousel photo and video gallery app for iPad users. The company is also bringing the experience to the web at carousel.dropbox.com.

Part of making the best home for your photos is giving you a fast, simple, beautiful way to engage with your pictures, however and wherever you want. Today, we’re excited to announce big steps towards that goal: Carousel for web, iPad, and Android tablet.

In addition, the iOS apps add the ability to share to Instagram and WhatsApp with today’s update.

The Carousel app offers easy sharing of one or multiple photos to contacts or email addresses and allows users to get around many of the upload limitations usually associated with sharing photos. With everything backed up in full resolution directly to Dropbox, the app is essentially a standalone experience for managing to photos and videos stored in Dropbox.

A look at the Carousel UI for web is below:

The Carousel for iPad app is available on the App Store now for free.

What’s New in Version 1.7

We’ve updated Carousel with one of your most requested features: support for iPad! Now, view your photos and continue conversations on a bigger screen.

Plus, we’ve added support for posting to Instagram and WhatsApp!

Intuit’s Mint iPhone app updated with faster personal finance tracking including fees, alerts, more

Zac Hall Nov 20 2014 - 8:18 am PT

1 Comment

Users of Intuit’s Mint Personal Finance app for iPhone will be seeing a workflow speed boost with the latest version. Finance data like recent transactions and used accounts, fee and high spending alerts, and budget information is now available for tracking faster in an added Updates section. You can see an example of the new view in the screenshot above.

The newly added Updates section follows previously added features including the ability to track your credit score for free without having to add a credit card as well as support for unlocking the app with your fingerprint using Touch ID for iOS 8 users with iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus.

Intuit also released a redesigned Quicken 2015 for Mac earlier this year including sync support for the Quicken Money Management app for iPhone. You can view the latest change log for Mint below:

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Billboard 200 chart will include streaming listens from Beats, Spotify, Google Play, & others in album sales

Jordan Kahn Nov 20 2014 - 7:45 am PT

5 Comments

Billboard is about to add data from music streaming services to its weekly Billboard 200 charts for the first time as services like Spotify and Apple’s Beats Music become increasingly popular. The New York Times reports that Billboard and Nielsen SoundScan plan to start incorporating both streams and downloads from music streaming services, in addition to the music sales the chart already covered, in order to more accurately reflect popular albums based on what users are listening to. The first chart including streaming services will include data for next week and arrive online Dec. 4:
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9to5Toys Last Call: iPad Air 2 $489 w/ $100 gift card, iPhone 6 discounts, Retina MacBook Pro (2013) $1149, more

Nov 19 2014 - 2:48 pm PT

1 Comment

Today’s can’t miss deals:

16 GB iPad Air 2 (Wi-Fi model): $489 + get a $100 gift card (orig. $499)

iPhone deals at Walmart:

Get a $75 Walmart gift card when you buy a new iPhone 6 or iPhone 5s
iPhone 6 (16 GB) priced at $179 on contract (orig. $199)
iPhone 5s (16 GB) priced at $79 (orig. $99)

Apple 13.3-inch Retina MacBook Pro (2013) 2.4GHz/8GB/256GB: $1,149 shipped (orig. $1,399)

First look: LifeProof starts taking orders for its waterproof iPhone 6 frē case

Amazon offers $40 off Kindles, Fire TV and more w/ Prime membership purchases

Twelve South makes the best iPhone 6/iPad dock even better by simplifying its setup and adding a gold color option

Small States – TM1985: former Ralph Lauren designer goes American made w/ elegant backpacks, $407 giveaway + 25% discount

PNY Turbo USB 3.0 flash drives: 64GB $20, 128GB $35, 256GB $70, more http://t.co/zwkDXnqtdm pic.twitter.com/cHQ1kiGww8

— 9to5Toys (@9to5toys) November 19, 2014

Other new deals:

New! Harman Kardon CL Precision Headphones (refurb) $49 (orig. $250), more
New! Home: Amazon 50% or more off cookware, Pyrex measuring cups $12, more
New! ShotTracker brings Bluetooth LE and data collection to your hoop game
New! Save up to 50% on some hilarious (and mildly offensive) Ugly Christmas Sweaters
New! Bluetooth car kits: MPOW FM transmitter: $35, Belkin handsfree $29
New! BJ’s Wholesale Black Friday deals kick off this weekend
New! Sierra Trading Post 40% off sitewide: The North Face, Patagonia, Timbuk2, more
New! B&H matches Amazon’s Pre-order sale on Samsung HDTVs for Black Friday
New! Kensington KeyCover keyboard case for iPad Air $15, more
New! $80 mobile app prototyping software for Mac goes free
New! Logitech AnyAngle is a protective case with an ‘any-angle’ stand for your iPad
New! Multi-yr magazine subs w/ digital from $4.50 per year: GQ, Wired, Time, more

Back in stock! Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB USB 3.0 Portable Hard Drive: $80 (Reg. $100) http://t.co/bOj9WUWEWZ pic.twitter.com/6rB2HWI77p

— 9to5Toys (@9to5toys) November 19, 2014

More deals still alive:

Apple TV (newest version) at Black Friday pricing right now: $79 shipped (Reg. $99)
Refurb. Apple AirPorts: Extreme (newest) $120 (Reg. $199 new), Express $60 (Reg. $99 new)
Omaker iPhone 6 slim bumper case $7 Prime shipped (orig. $30)
Lenmar Meridian MFi 2300mAh iPhone 5/5s Battery Case $30 Prime shipped (Reg. $90)
Free music downloads: Guardians Of The Galaxy (Awesome Mix Vol. 1), Lorde, more
Free download: “How to build an iPhone App Using Swift” guide
WD My Book 6TB USB 3.0 Desktop External Hard Drive $220 shipped (Reg. $249+)
XYZprinting Da Vinci 1.0 3D Printer $399 shipped ($100 off)
Samsung Galaxy Cam 2 16.3MP w/12x Optical Zoom & WiFi (refurb) $220 (orig. $450)
$50 to spend at Saks Fifth Avenue for $35
Earn up to $100 referring friends and family to Google Wallet
Marshall Stanmore Bluetooth Speaker (multiple colors) $340 shipped (Reg. $400)
Worms 75% off iOS titles: Worms3, Armageddon, Crazy Golf HD, more
Brother MFC-7360N 4-in-1 Laser Printer: $100 shipped (orig. $200)
VIZIO S4221W-C4 2.1-Channel Soundbar w/ Wireless Subwoofer: $200 (Reg. $250)
Amazon Prime deal: Adobe Photoshop Elements 13 (Mac/PC): $50 (Reg. $100)
Sennheiser RS 180 Wireless Headphones $200 shipped (orig. $390)
Intocircuit Power Castle 11200mAh power bank: $20 Prime shipped (Reg. $27)
Sennheiser MM30i in-ear headphones w/ mic & remote $30 shipped (orig. $80), more
Minisuit selfie stick pro w/ built-in Bluetooth $15 shipped (Reg. $20+)
Acer 28-inch 4K LCD Monitor w/ speakers + Canon Laser Printer: $400 ($679 value)
Best Buy offers $5 – $30 off 3 accessory purchases
Minisuit selfie stick pro with built-in Bluetooth remote $15 shipped (Reg. $20+)
MacBook Pro w/ Retina (late 2013) up to $200 off: 15″ $2,000, 13″ $1,360, or less
MEElectronics Air-Fi AF52 wireless over-ear headphones $40 shipped (orig. $120), more
Free music from Google Play: Hunter Hayes, Skrillex, Tiësto, Avicii and more
BACtrack Vio – 14% off the Smartphone Breathalyzer
World’s Largest iOS 8 + Swift Elearning Bundle

Black Friday:

We’re updating our email newsletter with Black Friday/holiday shopping ideas and savings

Top leaks:

Best Buy’s 2014 Black Friday ad is out! Samsung 55″ 4K $900, iPad Air 2 $100 off, more
Walmart’s Black Friday ad revealed: iPad mini w/ $30 GC $199, Xbox One/PS4 deals, more
Pre-order Samsung Black Friday: 40″ 4K Smart TV $600, Blu-ray player $55, more
Target Black Friday preview: iPad Air 2 w/$140 GC $499, iPad mini w/$80 GC $249, more
Toys R Us Black Friday ad leak: PS4 bundles, BOGO 40% off games, more
Staples Black Friday Ad: save 20% on iPad, printers, streaming devices, more
GameStop’s full Black Friday ad leak: PS4 bundle $400, Xbox One from $330, more

All other leaks/info:

GameStop pre-Black Friday sale w/ discounts on Disney Infinity 2.0 Marvel, more
TigerDirect in-store Black Friday: WeMo, Xbox One bundles, Samsung 4K UHDTV, more
Black Friday Ad Roundup: Costco, Bed Bath and Beyond, Old Navy, more
hhgregg Black Friday Ad: Apple iPad Air $299, Beats by Dre Solo 2 $150, discounted HDTVs
Black Friday Ad Roundup: Costco, Macy’s, CVS, Big Lots, more
OfficeMax/Office Depot Black Friday: 20% off iTunes gift cards, more
Staples Black Friday preview: Jawbone or Fitbit w/$25 Visa GC, more
More Black Friday ad leaks: JCPenney, Kohl’s, Pier 1, Walgreens, more
Sam’s Club: 60″ VIZIO 4K Smart UHDTV for under $1,000 ahead of Black Friday
Sports Authority Black Friday: Garmin Vivofit $80, up to 70% off North Face, more
Meijer Black Friday: $100 credit w/ iPads, Xbox One bundle w/ $50 credit $330, more
Sears Black Friday leak: Samsung 55″ Smart HDTV $600, Dewalt drill kit $100, more
Dell Black Friday ad leak: discounts on monitors, Xbox One/PS4, HDTVS, more
Xbox One holiday price drop now live with prices starting at $349 (or lower)
Amazon’s countdown to Black Friday kicks off w/ thousands of Lightning Deals
Target announces free shipping for all items through the holiday shopping season

New products/ongoing promos:

littleBits: DIY Smart Home Kit, options for creating an internet-connected home
Logitech announces limited ed. UE BOOM Bluetooth speaker designed by Skrillex
Ollie gets murdered-out with the new Darkside bundle, Sphero 2.0 $40 off
Incase’s new iPhone 6/Plus accessories: Quick Snap Case, Leather Zip Wallet, more
SanDisk launches MFi ‘iXpand’ USB flash drive w/ Lightning connector
Belkin WeMo ‘Maker’: smartphone remote and IFTTT functionality
Satechi’s sleek F3 smart monitor stand: clutter-free environment at work or at home
JBL Horizon: audio streaming w/ ambient light to create the “perfect clock radio”
Internet Archive brings 900 classic arcade titles to your web browser for free
The thinnest iPhone 6/Plus cases we’ve found so far

This $80 mobile app prototyping software for Mac is now free courtesy of Google acquisition

Jordan Kahn Nov 19 2014 - 11:48 am PT

2 Comments

Google just bought RelativeWave, the company behind the mobile app prototyping software Form, and with the purchase it’s making the previously $80 Mac app available for free on the Mac App Store. The company made an announcement on its website noting that it will continue working on the Form app after joining Google:

I speak for the team when I say that we’re incredibly humbled by what the community has created with Form. We’ve seen people create designs that we could have never imagined. It’s one of the best feelings in the world to see people using your work.

The team adds that with new help from Google it will be “focused on improving the state of design and development tools.”

Form is a Mac app with an accompanying Form viewer app for iOS, but the company hints an Android version could be in the works noting to “stay tuned” for other platforms. The Form app for Mac pairs with the viewer on a mobile device and allows users to rapidly prototype native mobile app experiences in real-time using easy-to-use presets that the company says “are as powerful as their coded counterparts.” An example of a finished composition using Form is above.

The announcement also notes that users that previously paid for Form can get a refund by emailing support@relativewave.com.

The Form Mac app is available for free from the Mac App Store now.

App Store changes ‘Free’ button to ‘Get’, likely due to in-app purchase controversies

Zac Hall Nov 19 2014 - 9:47 am PT

24 Comments

Apple has introduced a small but interesting tweak to the way it markets apps on the App Store. As you can see in the screenshot above, non-paid apps are now presented with the word ‘GET’ rather than ‘FREE’. While the reason for the change in how Apple is presenting non-paid apps isn’t clear, it’s likely due to the popularity of ‘freemium’ apps and in-app purchases, something that has been the source of controversy for Apple in the past…
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Here’s why beacon networks are the way to go for retailers & app developers supporting iBeacon

Jordan Kahn Nov 19 2014 - 8:22 am PT

6 Comments

If you’re a retailer, you have two options when it comes to deploying Bluetooth beacons. You can deploy the hardware yourself and build an accompanying mobile app for the experience, or you can open the experience to existing apps that users already have on their device using a beacon network. Some retailers have decided they want to own the experience and have everything go through their own mobile app, but new data suggests that might not be the way to go.
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Fitbit users can finally view their data in the Health app thanks to 99 cent sync tool

Ben Lovejoy Nov 19 2014 - 6:54 am PT

15 Comments

A 99 cent app finally allows owners of Fitbit activity trackers to view their data in Apple’s Health app. Sync Solver for Fitbit provides a daily sync of ten different pieces of data to the Health app built into iOS 8 – a feature the company itself said it had no plans to introduce.

The first sync needs to be performed manually, by tapping a button in the app, after which it will sync data automatically every 24 hours …
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Adobe streamlines transition from Aperture to Lightroom with built-in migration tool

Ben Lovejoy Nov 19 2014 - 4:01 am PT

0 Comments

Aperture users worried about transitioning to Lightroom following Apple’s decision to cease support for its full-featured photo editing software will now find life a little easier. The latest version of Lightroom includes a built-in migration tool to import both photos and associated metadata from both Aperture and iPhoto.

Star ratings, keywords, color labels, face tags, GPS data, stacks, hidden files and rejects are all transferred into Lightroom to make the transition as painless as possible.

Apple announced back in June that it was ceasing development on Aperture in favor of a more basic Photos app launching next year – leaving pros and enthusiasts out in the cold. Adobe responded initially with a transition guide followed by a plugin migration tool. With Lightroom 5.7 (a free update for existing users), the migration tool is built-in.

Adobe also release DNG Converter 8.7, with support for 24 new cameras.

Google Chrome for Mac goes 64-bit in latest update, gains new APIs and other enhancements

Mike Beasley Nov 18 2014 - 3:39 pm PT

5 Comments

As promised in September, Google has launched the 64-bit of the Chrome browser for Mac to the public after a few months in beta. According to Google’s original announcement, the update drops support for 32-bit extensions, requiring all developers to update with 64-bit support.

The update also fixes over 40 security flaws and adds many new APIs for extension developers. Chrome uses a silent update mechanism that will automatically download and install the latest update, but if you find that you’re still on version 38 in the “About Chrome” window, you can manually download and install the update from Google.

9to5Toys Last Call: PNY storage up to 50% off, Lenmar iPhone 5 battery case $30, AirPort Express (refurb) $60, more

Nov 18 2014 - 11:29 am PT

0 Comments

Today’s can’t miss deals:

Updates:

Apple 13.3″Retina MacBook Pro (2013) 2.4GHz/8GB/256GB: $1,149 (orig. $1,399)
Samsung Galaxy Cam 2 16.3MP w/12x Optical Zoom & WiFi (refurb) $220 (orig. $450)
TigerDirect in-store Black Friday: WeMo, Xbox One bundles, Samsung 4K UHDTV, more
littleBits: DIY Smart Home Kit, options for creating an internet-connected home
$50 to spend at Saks Fifth Avenue for $35
Earn up to $100 referring friends and family to Google Wallet
Home: Rachel Ray cookware 40% off, Philips shaver $60 (orig. $130), more

Up to 50% off select PNY memory & mobile power chargers – 128GB as low as $30 Prime shipped

Lenmar Meridian MFi 2300mAh iPhone 5/5s Battery Case $30 Prime shipped (Reg. $90)

Certified refurbished Apple AirPorts: Extreme 802.11ac $120 (Reg. $199 new), Express 802.11n $60 (Reg. $99 new)

Twelve South makes the best iPhone 6/iPad dock even better by simplifying its setup and adding a gold color option

Apple TV (newest version) at Black Friday pricing right now: $79 shipped (Reg. $99)

We’re updating our email newsletter with Black Friday/holiday shopping ideas and savings

Small States – TM1985: former Ralph Lauren designer goes American made w/ elegant backpacks, $407 giveaway + 25% discount

Other new deals:

New! Omaker iPhone 6 slim bumper case $7 Prime shipped (orig. $30)
New! $10 Starbucks eGift Card for $5 (half off)
New! Free music downloads: Guardians Of The Galaxy (Awesome Mix Vol. 1), Lorde, more
New! Free download: “How to build an iPhone App Using Swift” guide
New! JetBlue coupon: 20% off domestic and 15% off international flights
New! Logitech announces limited ed. UE BOOM Bluetooth speaker designed by Skrillex
New! Games/Apps: Final Fantasy 1- 6 on iOS up to 50% off, more
New! XYZprinting Da Vinci 1.0 3D Printer $399 shipped ($100 off)
New! WD My Book 6TB USB 3.0 Desktop External Hard Drive $220 shipped (Reg. $249+)
New! Belkin Charge and Sync Dock with Lightning: $15 Prime shipped (Orig. $35)
New! GameStop pre-Black Friday sale w/ discounts on Disney Infinity 2.0 Marvel, more
New! Timbuk2 Sidebar iPad & laptop briefcase (black) $28 shipped (orig. $90)
New! 3-yr sub to Bloomberg Businessweek magazine $20 shipped (Reg. $150 – $749)
New! Daily Deals: Garmin nüvi 5″ GPS: $100, 2-Pack MFi lightning cables: $12, more
New! Apple iPad Mini 2nd Generation 16GB WiFi (refurb) $220 (Reg. $249)

Grand Theft Auto V for PS4/Xbox One $50 shipped (Reg. $60) http://t.co/aJILTGXxZC pic.twitter.com/NHotUSXKFP

— 9to5Toys (@9to5toys) November 18, 2014

More deals still alive:

Marshall Stanmore Bluetooth Speaker (multiple colors) $340 shipped (Reg. $400)
Worms 75% off iOS titles: Worms3, Armageddon, Crazy Golf HD, more
Brother MFC-7360N 4-in-1 Laser Printer: $100 shipped (orig. $200)
VIZIO S4221W-C4 2.1-Channel Soundbar w/ Wireless Subwoofer: $200 (Reg. $250)
Amazon Prime deal: Adobe Photoshop Elements 13 (Mac/PC): $50 (Reg. $100)
Parrot Zik Wireless NC Headphones w/ Touch Control $328 shipped (Reg. $400)
Sennheiser RS 180 Wireless Headphones $200 shipped (orig. $390)
Intocircuit Power Castle 11200mAh power bank: $20 Prime shipped (Reg. $27)
Sennheiser MM30i in-ear headphones w/ mic & remote $30 shipped (orig. $80), more
Minisuit selfie stick pro w/ built-in Bluetooth $15 shipped (Reg. $20+)
Acer 28-inch 4K LCD Monitor w/ speakers + Canon Laser Printer: $400 ($679 value)
Best Buy offers $5 – $30 off 3 accessory purchases
Minisuit selfie stick pro with built-in Bluetooth remote $15 shipped (Reg. $20+)
MacBook Pro w/ Retina (late 2013) up to $200 off: 15″ $2,000, 13″ $1,360, or less
MEElectronics Air-Fi AF52 wireless over-ear headphones $40 shipped (orig. $120), more
Free music from Google Play: Hunter Hayes, Skrillex, Tiësto, Avicii and more
BACtrack Vio – 14% off the Smartphone Breathalyzer
World’s Largest iOS 8 + Swift Elearning Bundle

Black Friday:

Top leaks:

Best Buy’s 2014 Black Friday ad is out! Samsung 55″ 4K $900, iPad Air 2 $100 off, more
Walmart’s Black Friday ad revealed: iPad mini w/ $30 GC $199, Xbox One/PS4 deals, more
Pre-order Samsung Black Friday: 40″ 4K Smart TV $600, Blu-ray player $55, more
Target Black Friday preview: iPad Air 2 w/$140 GC $499, iPad mini w/$80 GC $249, more
Toys R Us Black Friday ad leak: PS4 bundles, BOGO 40% off games, more
Staples Black Friday Ad: save 20% on iPad, printers, streaming devices, more
GameStop’s full Black Friday ad leak: PS4 bundle $400, Xbox One from $330, more

All other leaks/info:

Black Friday Ad Roundup: Costco, Bed Bath and Beyond, Old Navy, more
hhgregg Black Friday Ad: Apple iPad Air $299, Beats by Dre Solo 2 $150, discounted HDTVs
Black Friday Ad Roundup: Costco, Macy’s, CVS, Big Lots, more
OfficeMax/Office Depot Black Friday: 20% off iTunes gift cards, more
Staples Black Friday preview: Jawbone or Fitbit w/$25 Visa GC, more
More Black Friday ad leaks: JCPenney, Kohl’s, Pier 1, Walgreens, more
Sam’s Club: 60″ VIZIO 4K Smart UHDTV for under $1,000 ahead of Black Friday
Sports Authority Black Friday: Garmin Vivofit $80, up to 70% off North Face, more
Meijer Black Friday: $100 credit w/ iPads, Xbox One bundle w/ $50 credit $330, more
Sears Black Friday leak: Samsung 55″ Smart HDTV $600, Dewalt drill kit $100, more
Dell Black Friday ad leak: discounts on monitors, Xbox One/PS4, HDTVS, more
Xbox One holiday price drop now live with prices starting at $349 (or lower)
Sam’s Club’s Black Friday deal has iPhone 6 for $99 on-contract starting Nov. 15
Walmart’s Holiday Savings officially kick off tomorrow with more than 20,000 Rollbacks
Amazon’s countdown to Black Friday kicks off w/ thousands of Lightning Deals
Target announces free shipping for all items through the holiday shopping season

New products/ongoing promos:

Ollie gets murdered-out with the new Darkside bundle, Sphero 2.0 $40 off
Incase’s new iPhone 6/Plus accessories: Quick Snap Case, Leather Zip Wallet, more
SanDisk launches MFi ‘iXpand’ USB flash drive w/ Lightning connector
Belkin WeMo ‘Maker’: smartphone remote and IFTTT functionality
Satechi’s sleek F3 smart monitor stand: clutter-free environment at work or at home
JBL Horizon: audio streaming w/ ambient light to create the “perfect clock radio”
Smaller, more efficient Raspberry Pi A+ comes in at just $20 ($15 less)
Is the new Quirky Norm really the “death of the thermostat”?
IK Multimedia’s iRig HD-A is the “first digital guitar interface for Android”
Belkin’s smart coffeemaker with WeMo is now available, save 20% for a limited time
Joby adds GorillaPod & Locking Arm accessories to its Action Series
How Scribd’s new audiobook service stacks up against Audible & Kindle Unlimited
Amazon offers free unlimited Cloud Photo storage
Internet Archive brings 900 classic arcade titles to your web browser for free
The thinnest iPhone 6/Plus cases we’ve found so far

Facebook launches dedicated ‘Groups’ app for iPhone

Zac Hall Nov 18 2014 - 10:28 am PT

4 Comments

Today Facebook has added yet another app to its growing portfolio. Facebook Groups is its latest standalone app with features dedicated to managing and interacting with groups on the iPhone. Unlike its approach to Facebook Messenger, however, the social network says it will not remove existing group features from the primary Facebook app.
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WhatsApp Messenger is now optimized for iPhone 6/Plus

Zac Hall Nov 17 2014 - 12:44 pm PT

4 Comments

Huge news for frequent WhatsApp Messenger users: the app will no longer look huge on the latest iPhones.

If you bought an iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus between now and September when they were released, you’ve probably been waiting for WhatsApp to update with optimization for the bigger displays and that update is finally out. The Facebook-owned messaging app released version 2.11.14 today with iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus support and will “fix bugs and crashes” according to the release notes.
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9to5Toys Last Call: AirPort Extreme (newest, refurb) $120, Seagate 2TB Slim $80, Apple TV $79, GameStop Black Friday, more

Nov 17 2014 - 11:10 am PT

0 Comments

Today’s can’t miss deals:

Last Call updates:

Apple TV (newest version) at Black Friday pricing right now: $79 shipped (Reg. $99)
We’re updating our email newsletter with Black Friday/holiday shopping ideas and savings
Acer 28-inch 4K LCD Monitor w/ speakers + Canon Laser Printer: $400 shipped ($679 value)
Ollie gets murdered-out with the new Darkside bundle, Sphero 2.0 $40 off
Best Buy offers $5 – $30 off 3 accessory purchases
Minisuit selfie stick pro with built-in Bluetooth remote $15 shipped (Reg. $20+)

AirPort Extreme 802.11ac Wireless Base Station (Geek Squad Certified Refurb.) $120 (Reg. $199 new), more

Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB USB 3.0 Portable Hard Drive (multiple colors): $80 shipped (Reg. $100)

GameStop’s full Black Friday ad leak: PS4 bundle $400, Xbox One from $330, GTA V Shark cards 50% off, more

Small States – TM1985: former Ralph Lauren designer goes American made w/ elegant backpacks, $407 giveaway + 25% discount

Other new deals:

New! Sennheiser RS 180 Wireless Headphones $200 shipped (orig. $390)
New! Amazon Goldbox: Kindle Fire HDX 8.9″ Tablet $259 shipped (orig. $399)
New! Pre-order Samsung Black Friday: 40″ 4K Smart TV $600, Blu-ray player $55, more
New! Canon CP910 Portable Wireless w/ AirPrint $75 shipped (Reg. $100)
New! Intocircuit Power Castle 11200mAh power bank: $20 Prime shipped (Reg. $27)
New! Marshall Stanmore Bluetooth Speaker (multiple colors) $340 shipped (Reg. $400)
New! Parrot Zik Wireless NC Headphones w/ Touch Control $328 shipped (Reg. $400)
New! Amazon Prime deal: Adobe Photoshop Elements 13 (Mac/PC): $50 (Reg. $100)
New! Kensington Clicksafe Combination Laptop Lock $15 Prime shipped (Reg. $35)
New! Brother MFC-7360N 4-in-1 Laser Printer: $100 shipped (orig. $200)
New! VIZIO S4221W-C4 2.1-Channel Soundbar w/ Wireless Subwoofer: $200 (Reg. $250)
New! Minisuit selfie stick pro w/ built-in Bluetooth $15 shipped (Reg. $20+)
New! Games/Apps: Borderlands: Pre-Sequel $40, JotNot Pro $1 , iOS freebies, more
New! Home: Kryptonite bike lock w/ 4-ft Flex cable $30 (orig. $50+), more
New! Daily Deals: Pioneer 5.1-Ch. receiver: $149, Harman Bluetooth speaker: $150, more
New! Sennheiser MM30i in-ear headphones w/ mic & remote $30 shipped (orig. $80), more
New! Worms 75% off iOS titles: Worms3, Armageddon, Crazy Golf HD, more
New! Motorola 32GB MOTO X Developer Edition GSM Unlocked $230 shipped (Reg. $290)

More deals still alive:

MacBook Pro w/ Retina (late 2013) up to $200 off: 15″ $2,000, 13″ $1,360, or less
Best Buy MacBook sale: Pro w/ Retina: $1,800 or less (Reg. $2,000)
MEElectronics Air-Fi AF52 wireless over-ear headphones $40 shipped (orig. $120), more
USB Charging: 4-port wall charger $10, Lumsing 4000mAh powerbank $18, much more
Spigen Armor iPhone 6 Case $14 Prime shipped (Reg. $30), more
CowBoom: up to 10% off pre-owned and open-box items
Lumsing stereo BT/NFC portable speaker: $28 Prime shipped (Reg. $80)
Fashion: REI sale up to 30% off Patagonia, The North Face, Columbia, more
Samsung 840 Pro 512GB 2.5-inch SSD $243 shipped (orig. $500)
Dell 23″ 1080p LED monitor $150 shipped (orig. $250), more
Monster clarityHD micro Bluetooth speaker (refurb) $30 shipped (Reg. $40+)
Bluetooth speakers: Logitech UE BOOM $130, Jawbone Mini Jambox $69, more
Free music from Google Play: Hunter Hayes, Skrillex, Tiësto, Avicii and more
HDTVs: Samsung 55″ 4K UHDTV $1,398, 51″ 1080p HDTV $550
GoPro HERO3 Black Edition cam (man refurb) $255 (orig. $399)
Newegg 10% off w/ .edu email address: Bose SoundLink Color, more
Garmin nüvi 5″ BT GPS w/ lifetime maps/traffic: $135 shipped (orig. $220)
Ridge Racer Slipstream for iOS goes free ($2.99 value)
Verizon FIOS + 2yrs. of premium channels + $400 Visa Gift Card: $79.99/mo
BACtrack Vio – 14% off the Smartphone Breathalyzer
World’s Largest iOS 8 + Swift Elearning Bundle

Black Friday:

Top leaks:

Best Buy’s 2014 Black Friday ad is out! Samsung 55″ 4K $900, iPad Air 2 $100 off, more
Walmart’s Black Friday ad revealed: iPad mini w/ $30 GC $199, Xbox One/PS4 deals, more
Target Black Friday preview: iPad Air 2 w/$140 GC $499, iPad mini w/$80 GC $249, more
Toys R Us Black Friday ad leak: PS4 bundles, BOGO 40% off games, more
Staples Black Friday Ad: save 20% on iPad, printers, streaming devices, more

All other leaks/info:

Black Friday Ad Roundup: Costco, Bed Bath and Beyond, Old Navy, more
hhgregg Black Friday Ad: Apple iPad Air $299, Beats by Dre Solo 2 $150, discounted HDTVs
Black Friday Ad Roundup: Costco, Macy’s, CVS, Big Lots, more
OfficeMax/Office Depot Black Friday: 20% off iTunes gift cards, more
Staples Black Friday preview: Jawbone or Fitbit w/$25 Visa GC, more
More Black Friday ad leaks: JCPenney, Kohl’s, Pier 1, Walgreens, more
Sam’s Club: 60″ VIZIO 4K Smart UHDTV for under $1,000 ahead of Black Friday
Sports Authority Black Friday: Garmin Vivofit $80, up to 70% off North Face, more
Meijer Black Friday: $100 credit w/ iPads, Xbox One bundle w/ $50 credit $330, more
Sears Black Friday leak: Samsung 55″ Smart HDTV $600, Dewalt drill kit $100, more
Dell Black Friday ad leak: discounts on monitors, Xbox One/PS4, HDTVS, more
Xbox One holiday price drop now live with prices starting at $349 (or lower)
Sam’s Club’s Black Friday deal has iPhone 6 for $99 on-contract starting Nov. 15
Walmart’s Holiday Savings officially kick off tomorrow with more than 20,000 Rollbacks
Amazon’s countdown to Black Friday kicks off w/ thousands of Lightning Deals
Target announces free shipping for all items through the holiday shopping season

New products/ongoing promos:

Incase’s new iPhone 6/Plus accessories: Quick Snap Case, Leather Zip Wallet, more
SanDisk launches MFi ‘iXpand’ USB flash drive w/ Lightning connector
Belkin WeMo ‘Maker’: smartphone remote and IFTTT functionality
Satechi’s sleek F3 smart monitor stand: clutter-free environment at work or at home
JBL Horizon: audio streaming w/ ambient light to create the “perfect clock radio”
Smaller, more efficient Raspberry Pi A+ comes in at just $20 ($15 less)
Is the new Quirky Norm really the “death of the thermostat”?
IK Multimedia’s iRig HD-A is the “first digital guitar interface for Android”
Belkin’s smart coffeemaker with WeMo is now available, save 20% for a limited time
Joby adds GorillaPod & Locking Arm accessories to its Action Series
How Scribd’s new audiobook service stacks up against Audible & Kindle Unlimited
Amazon offers free unlimited Cloud Photo storage
Internet Archive brings 900 classic arcade titles to your web browser for free
The thinnest iPhone 6/Plus cases we’ve found so far

First ACEs Conference for Apple consultants scheduled for May 2015 in New Orleans

Zac Hall Nov 17 2014 - 8:33 am PT

2 Comments

A new Apple-focused meetup for consultants is kicking off its inaugural conference in New Orleans, Louisiana, this coming up May. The event is called the ACEs Conference and it’s put on by two members of the Apple community, Justin Esgar and Luis Giraldo, both of whom run Apple consultant businesses in Manhattan and Canada, respectively. The two describe the event as being for Apple consultants by Apple consultants:

The Aces Conference is the first of its kind. Apple consultants teaching Apple consultants not only tips and tricks of tech, but of business too. Learn how to be a better consultant, a better technician, a better everything at Aces Conf.

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Disney announces Disney Infinity 2.0 mobile built w/ Metal, new ESPN app, and more during today’s special event

Nov 14 2014 - 4:59 pm PT

8 Comments

Today’s Disney Mobile Product Showcase kicked off with Disney’s CEO, Bob Iger, sharing a Steve Jobs anecdote. No matter the time or place it’s always incredibly interesting to hear personal stories of Apple’s late leader.

Iger recalled the time when he contacted his buddy Jobs with what he thought was a novel idea: to unleash movies/TV shows like iTunes did for music. Of course, being the visionary he was, Jobs had already thought of this and even brought an early version of the iPod with video to the meeting. And of course, being the businessman he was, Jobs then asked Iger if he would commit Disney content to the project.

Iger used this story as a jump off for a two hour presentation in which other Disney, ESPN, and ABC executives would showcase a smattering of new mobile apps, games, and products…

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