Crystal Player Professional version 1.99
I used to have a dozens of video players, some for playing AVI's, other for playing MKV's, other for watch movies with subtitles, etc, until I found Crystal Player. At first it looked quite simple, but once I got more and more into it, I began to discover it's complexity, and all the settings that I wanted to have in a video player developed by myself!
I always had issues when I tried to load a subtitle in a movie, but Crystal Player makes it simple! Quick load, position the subtitles wherever I want, change the font or the color, even to correct the video-subtitle delay! Plus, if you have a wide video, you can arrange the subtitle “outside the screen” and you can watch all the video without any text on it! Tricky features such as the possibility to zoom the video as much as you need, render the movie left-side-right or otherwise up-side-down, take screen shot (press “C”) can also be performed with ease by Crystal Player.
 
Think of this scenario: Many times, in the night when you go to bed, you start a movie, and you fall asleep... Before using Crystal Player, you got up in the morning with your computer on...resulting in waste of electricity...but not anymore! Because Crystal Player has the option (if you activate it) to shut down the computer in 2 minutes after the movie is finished!!!(or when all the movies from the playlist are finished.)
 
Pro's: Best subtitle management, simple to use, can play almost any files (with the right codecs, it can play ALL the video files), can shut down computer after the movie playback, it has a “BOSS KEY” (if you watch movies at your office CTRL+SHIFT+BACKSPACE will instant close the program);
 
Con's: Doesn't have a playlist buffer...;
 
Conclusions: The best video player I ever used. The most complete and still simple to use! Is an enlightening experience, and once you try it, you will never use other video players! It has everything you need to watch your movies, even if you might need some additional codecs (I recommend CCCPack as the ultimate)

MozBackup version 1.5.1
As great as it is to use Mozilla Firefox for browsing the Internet, and Thunderbird for sending and receiving emails, backing them up is quite hard for most of us. I'm talking about all those things you care about: bookmarks, mail, contacts, history, extensions, passwords and so on.
No matter which scenario are you having in mind - you reinstall your OS, your profile file gets corrupted, you move to a newer computer - you'll want backup and than restore all the those thing you care about related to Firefox and Thunderbird. One of the best tools you could use to automatically back up Firefox and Thunderbird as well as Sunbird, Flock, Postbox (Express), SeaMonkey, Mozilla Suite, Spicebird, Songbird, Netscape and Wyzo is Mozbackup.Mozbackup is a light tool which makes the process of backing up all those programs a stress-free experience. Without further introduction, lets start backing up Mozilla Firefox and Thunderbird. Before launching MozBackup, make sure both programs are not running in the background. Now launch the application. Choose "Backup a profile", select Mozilla Firefox from the list and click Next to continue. In the next step, we'll have to choose a profile from the list and the backup location. If there is only one profile associated, click default. After this, MozBackup will offer you the option to password-protect your backup file, why not choose 'yes' - just in case. In the third step, choose which elements you want to back up and click Next to begin the process.
The same procedure goes for Thunderbird or any other supported applications. In case you want to restore your Firefox profile or your Thunderbid emails using a backup, launch MozBackup, choose "Restore a profile" and click Next. In the next step, select the profile you want to restore. An important thing to remember is that the profile you select will be overwritten by the contents of the profile that is backed up in the backup file. If you do not want to overwrite any of the profiles listed in the MozBackup screen, you should create a new profile by clicking on the "New Profile" button. After that, select the backup file that contains your backed-up profile. When done, click next to begin the restoration process.Pluses: offers encryption of the backup files;Drawbacks / flaws: In conclusion: MozBackup is a very handy tool which offers the quickest way to backup Firefox and Thunderbird, as well as Sunbird, Flock, Postbox (Express), SeaMonkey, Mozilla Suite, Spicebird, Songbird, Netscape and Wyzo is Mozbackup.version reviewed: 1.5.1

Stereostopic Player version 1.8.1
Make your room a real 3D cinema!
It's never been easyer! We all know that we live in the time of 3D technology, and I'm quite sure that anyone of us was shocked when we saw for the first time a 3D demo in a supermarket or cinema. Well, while the prices for special 3D devices and TV's are still high, I found a way to watch my favourite movies, at home, in front of my normal monitor, all of them in real 3D mode! Later I connected the PC to a bigger TV to enhance the "feeling" (combined with a 5.1 surround sound). And so, my normal TV became a full HD 3D Tv for all my movies. All you need is a cheap pair of glasses (red-cyan; red-magneta; polarized; etc), and you're ready! Stereostopic Player is the best 3D rendering software for movie playback and it supports a lot of filetypes (DVD,AVI,MPEG,MKW,DTS, etc), but like most programs, it has some weaknesses. It's a simple and easy-to-use software, but it's quite a challenge to configure the right type of 3D render for your glasses...But after you manage to set it up, you can enjoy the full 3D experience in your room!
Pro's: great 3D player for HD movies, easy to use after config, can open video URL's, can handle Windows Media Dual Stream files, supports separate left/right files, playback of any other format supported by third party DirectShow decoders, windows Media 7.1 and 5.1 multichannel audio decoding;
Con's: expensive, preety hard to configure, some issues the subtitle feature, might need other video codecs;
Conclusion: Stereostopic Player is a great video player for 3D movies, and if you consider that it's worth to transform your normal monitor into a 3D one,than you should buy it! (39EUR). Don't worry about the glasses, the price for some modern polarized glasses is quite low. I strongly suggest you use it on a powerfull computer if you want a smooth playback for HD movies.

FlashFXP version 4.2.3.1771
'FlashFXP' is a popular FTP client, which enables you to upload and download files to and from Internet using FTP (File Transfer Protocol). The program has many advanced features, but at the same time, it's easy-to-use. Most of the advanced features are available in the application's main menu. I liked the program because I didn't need to read countless tutorials and help files to learn how to use it. The user interface contains two panels. It resembles Total Commander. By default, the panel on the left is used for browsing your computer, while the one on the right shows the content of the remote site. Either one of these panels can be switched to a local or FTP browser mode, by clicking a button. On the bottom, another panel displays status information, along with messages from the FTP server. Resuming incomplete downloads, synchronizing directories, and scheduling tasks are some of this program's features worth mentioning. FlashFXP is able to compare directories based on the criteria you choose. It also supports searching on a FTP server. Pluses: Many users need to set permissions to directories on the server, after uploading. This is an easy task for FlashFXP. You just need to right-click the folder from the server, and you can set its permissions (properties). The application also supports sending RAW commands to the server. You can have a quick access via to the program using the Internet Explorer Plugin. Drawbacks / flaws: In conclusion: A very intuitive design, multi-language support, combined with powerful features make FlashFXP worth a try.

Tetris version 1.64
Stack up the blocks with this fun, retro, multi-platform game.
I remember getting an original 8-bit Nintendo for Christmas back in 1992. One of the games that I enjoyed the most was Tetris. It was challenging, fun, entertaining, and all the rage back in the day. This is one of the reasons why I really like Tetris Zone. It’s a fun, multi-platform game for your PC.
Tetris Zone offers four modes of play, from the simple, yet challenging 15-level Marathon mode to an instant hard-drop variation, and more. The game's stunning 3D graphics make the Tetris experience exciting as you experience new levels of play.
Tetris has four game variations to keep you entertained for hours. It also includes a full instant replay mode, so you can relive your best game, including your all-time hi-score and your daily best. You can automatically upload your scores to a world-wide Leader Board and compare your ranking against players from the around the world. Tetris is an authentic retro-Tetris game designed and optimized specifically for Windows and OS X.
Pros: Fun, easy to play.
Cons: The music for this game has always been distracting to me. I find it easier to play with the sound off.
Conclusion: Tetris Zone is a decent game and it’s a lot of fun. The graphics are good, and the sound is decent. I had a lot of fun with this, and it brought back a lot of fun memories. If you're looking for Tetris, this is a great implementation; and is a lot of fun.

Toast Titanium version 11.0.3
Take total control of multimedia on your Mac with this very cool tool.
Having a Mac usually means having a lot of multimedia on your PC. Having a lot of multimedia on your PC usually means you're going to need a tool to help you capture and preserve it. That's one of the reasons why I really like Toast Titanium. It's one of the premier multimedia tools available for your Mac.
Toast is the fastest way to capture video from your AVCHD camcorder, with no lengthy imports.  You can use just about any HD video source. With it, you can create stunning Blu-ray video or HD DVD discs for playback on compatible set top players as well as your PC.
Toast allows you to edit video clips.  You can trim start and end points, remove unwanted segments in the middle of video clips before export, or even apply audio effects.  You can capture any streaming Internet audio on your Mac, without interference from other apps or system sounds. Toast's MusicID automatically adds artist and title tags to captured music for easy syncing to your iTunes library.
Capturing streaming web video is just as easy with Toast.  You can save streaming video from your favorite web sites and then burn the content to DVD for viewing on your big-screen TV. Toast can even send it automatically to iTunes for syncing with your favorite iDevice.
You can digitize and restore your LP's and tapes, without the pops, clicks and hisses. Toast's audio filters and tools help you clean up your audio and then burn it to CD or DVD, or send to iTunes for syncing with your iDevice.  Ripping audiobook CDs to iTunes, with chapters, pause/resume support and variable playback speeds is also easy with Toast. You can convert for enjoyment on iPad, iPhone, or your favorite on-the-go-device with just a few clicks.
Pros: Easy audio and video capturing and editing
Cons: Expensive
Conclusion: Toast Titanium is THE audio and video editing and capture application for your PC or Mac.  There are very few apps out there, in my opinion that are better at these tasks than Toast. It's that good. The biggest problem, however with this app, is its price. At $79.99 as of this writing, it’s a bit on the pricey side unless you do a lot of audio-video editing on a regular basis or have a large project ahead of you, like converting your VHS-based home movies to DVD.

TDSSKiller version 2.6.17.0
Keep your PC malware free with this Windows utility.
Keeping your PC free from malware isn't always easy. Even with a malware scanner, it's not always easy to keep your PC clean. When it comes to removing tenacious malware, like rootkits, I'm glad there're tools like TDSSKiller. It’s a malware removal tool for Windows.
A rootkit is a program or a group of programs kit that hide the presence of malware on your system. A rootkit for Windows systems penetrates into the system and intercepts the system functions, replacing the proper instructions with their own. Moreover it can hide the presence of particular processes, folders, files and registry keys. Some rootkits install its own drivers and services in the system. They also remain "invisible."
Kaspersky Lab developed the TDSSKiller utility enabling the removal of rootkits. The utility supports both 32-bit and 64-bit Windows operating systems; and can be run in Normal and Safe Mode. TDSSKiller detects and removes malware family Rootkit.Win32.TDSS, bootkits, as well as rootkits.
Pros: Free, Removes stubborn rootkits and bootkits
Cons: Only removes specific malware
Conclusion: Rootkits are a very serious problem. They can be very destructive, and are very difficult to remove. TDSSKiller is a decent rootkit removal tool, but it doesn't remove any other kind of malware. If you have a rootkit, give TDSSKiller a try. It should remove the problem and leave you with a clean, manageable system.
 

HP Photo Creations version 2.6
Create stunning photo projects with this multiplatform digital photo printing app.
Digital photos...EVERYONE is taking them. Everyone is sharing them. Everyone is, well...wondering just what the heck to do WITH them once their taken. This is one of the reasons why I really like applications like HP Photo Creations – Image Zone. It’s a multi-platform digital photo creation app.
HP Photo Creations is free software that lets you easily create photo books, calendars, collages, greeting cards and other keepsakes that can be printed at home or shipped to you. With HP Photo Creations, you can quickly and easily make beautiful keepsakes with just a few mouse clicks; or you can take your time and customize them.  The application has over 1,800 high quality artwork designs, 1,300 placeable graphics, text boxes, custom fonts, borders, and dozens of photo editing tools.
With HP Photo Creations, you can easily create cards, calendars, photo books, and much more. You can customize your projects with backgrounds, styled text, hundreds of graphics and thousands of border styles. Drawing experience from film, television, and special effects, when you choose the Automatic Smart Arrangement option, the software analyzes your photos and arranges them into colorful, multi-layered designs that truly tell your story.
HP Photo Creations allows you to personalize almost every aspect of your project using text and graphics. You can use effects such as tinting, blending and airbrushing. Best of all, you can instantly add your design to any item and the real-time 3D preview will show you exactly how your finished project will look—there's no need to start over.
Pros: Free, easy and fun to use, home and "ship to" printing options
Cons: Your PC will need processing power to apply all included effects
Conclusion: HP Photo Creations - Image Zone is a lot of fun to use. The fact that projects can be printed at home or for shipment to your home is cool. This means you can purchase hard cover photo books and can truly preserve your memories for years and generations to come.

Open Clip Art Library version 0.18
Get clip art for your projects with this easy to access, multiplatform library.
Finding the right piece of clip art for your video or still photo project or even a presentation for work or school can be difficult at times. In many cases even if you find the right clip, there are copyright considerations that come to play when you actually try to download and use a clean, unwatermarked version. It can often get very messy...and expensive. That's one of the reasons why I like Open Clip Art Library. It’s a multiplatform clipart library.The Open Clip Art Library project aims to create an archive of clip art that can be used for any reason, free of charge. All graphics submitted to the project should have been waived of all rights, including copyright, according to the CC0 Public Domain Dedication. The project was started in early 2004 and all images are donated to the public domain by their contributors. They are stored in Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) format, often with thumbnails in Portable Network Graphics (PNG) format.  The release of Open Clip Art Library 2.0 introduces a new content management system made for Open Clip Art Library 2.0 that allows anyone to edit the website easily. Pro’s: Thousands of free clip art images, FreeCon’s: Distribution is hard to locate, library is large and may take time to search through for the exact image you want.Conclusion: The best way to find a recent distribution of the OCAL is through Soft32's product URL.  I had a hard time locating the most current distribution on OCAL's website.  After the library is installed, it's easy to use the images any way you want. You'll likely spend hours trying to find the right one for your needs, the library is THAT vast.  This is a great resource and one that just about everyone should have.

MusicMatch Jukebox version 10.00.4015b
Play and manage your music collection this this venerable Windows application.
Back in the day, "in the dark time...before the Empire," I remember using a Diamond Multimedia MP3 player to listen to a new kind of music format, called MP3's. Armed with a 8MB memory card, I was able to put about eight to ten songs on it before it filled up. I remember using this thing for about 4 or so years before I broke down and bought my first iPod. In the early days, before iTunes, MusicMatch JukeBox was the thing. It's still around and still a decent MP3 player for your Windows PC. MusicMatch JukeBox is a digital audio player which features a playlist library, CD ripping, and CD playback.  Its latest versions also touted online radio streaming and an online music store. The application has been around since 1992; and was originally developed by its founding company MusicMatch. Early versions only included simple jukebox features before becoming more advanced in later versions to include the ability to record mp3s from vinyl, cassette or microphone source. MusicMatch JukeBox is compatible for Windows NT/98/2000/XP.  It is possible to install MusicMatch JukeBox 10.0 on Windows 7; but only if you install the program in XP compatibility mode.  Most users consider any version prior to when Yahoo! acquired MusicMatch JukeBox as a preferred version.  Yahoo! incorporated too many changes leading to the software becoming bloated and confusing. MusicMatch JukeBox was discontinued in 2008. Pro’s: Easy to manage playlist library, AutoDJ feature creates playlists suited to your likes, easy to use, sleek UI.Con’s: Doesn't support Windows Vista and 7 without installing in Compatibility Mode; and may not run well afterwards; Plays audio only, Conclusion: MusicMatch JukeBox is old and a bit long in the tooth.  However, on older, underpowered systems that run XP or earlier, this is probably the best music player available. Stay away from Yahoo! powered versions of the app, as they are bloated and problematic. Your best bet is to use version 7.5, as it was the best one, prior to the Yahoo! acquisition.

EditPlus version 3.41
Edit text based files with this awesome Windows-based editor.
Sometimes, a word processor is just too much pomp for the circumstance. Having the right tool for the right job is important. My grandfather, a master carpenter, pounded this into my head as a child. This is one of the reasons why I really like EditPlus for coding and other programmatic tasks. It’s a text editor for Windows.EditPlus is a Windows-based text, HTML, PHP, Java editor and Hex Viewer. Its a good Notepad replacement, but it also offers many powerful features for programmers and Web page authors.EditPlus features syntax highlighting for HTML, PHP, Java, C/C++, CSS, ASP, Perl, JavaScript, VBScript, Python and Ruby on Rails. it can also be extended for other programming languages based on custom syntax files. It contains a seamless web browser for previewing HTML pages, and contains support for FTP commands for uploading local files directly to your FTP server. Other EditPlus features include a Hex Viewer, HTML toolbar, user tools, line number, ruler, URL highlighting, auto completion, clip text, column selection, powerful search and replace, multiple undo/redo, spell checker, and customizable keyboard shortcuts.Pro’s: Versatile, coding features, built in browser and support for FTP commandsCon’s: Expensive for a text editorConclusion: EditPlus is a decent text editor and programming tool. Its coding features make it a great choice for coding work and many of them will come in handy. As a text editor, it’s a bit on the pricey side at $35USD as of this writing. The value, however, to individuals that do a lot of coding is clear. If you're a contract programmer and need to provide your own tools or if you're a serious amateur, EditPlus is a great choice.

AnyReader version 3.10
Read and backup data from scratched CD/DVD/Blu-ray discs with this handy Windows utility.
Anyone with children has this problem – you've got CD/DVD's running around the house without the protection of their jewel cases, and they're scratched beyond belief. Disc Doctors and other physical repair tools are great for optical discs, but not for other faulty media like floppies, hard drives and flash drives.  This is the reason why I like AnyReader. It’s a must have data utility for Windows.AnyReader copies files from scratched CD/DVD/Blu-ray or defective floppy or hard disks. When your computer is unable to copy files from a damaged disk it aborts and deletes the part of the file it has copied. AnyReader will continue copying the file right to the end. Any data that hasn't been recovered after several retries is replaced with blanks. This will allow you to effectively read every byte of information that can be read at all for the media in question so that it can be copied to the destination of choice.AnyReader effectively copies corrupt data from erroneous network and/or internet connections if standard copying methods fail. It supports resumed downloads from the remote server if the connection was broken during the copy process.  This is especially useful for unreliable or spotty Wi-Fi networks.
Pro’s: Recovers seemingly unrecoverable data, works on physical media and network connectionsCon’s: Data that is completely unrecoverable is replaced with blanks, which will adversely affect the state of executables. Isn't multi-platformConclusion: AnyReader is an awesome tool. If you're trying to pull data off corrupt or damaged discs or media and nothing else you do seems to work, AnyReader is the type of application that can save your bacon. Its affordable and reasonably priced and is a welcomed edition to my stable of utilities.  The only real downside to the app is that it won't work with Macs or Mac discs. This would be a stone-cold ringer if it was a multi-platform utility.

fTalk version 3.0
Keep in touch with all of your Facebook friends with this free multiplatform chat tool.
Let's face it. You use Facebook to keep up with your friends and family. You share pictures, stories, and stuff, and it’s a lot of fun. When it comes to connecting with friends, sometimes, getting the cute fluff out of the way so you can chat with yo' peeps is just what is needed. This is the reason why I really like fTalk. It’s a multiplatform chat client, specifically designed to work with Facebook. fTalk enhances your social media experience by taking Facebook to the next level. With fTalk, you can chat with your Facebook friends directly from your desktop, without having to run a browser and surf to Facebook. fTalk enables you to chat with your friends even when you're at work or in a public environment where you don't necessarily want to; or can't open Facebook. You can see which of your friends have logged in, you can change your status, use emoticons and even video chat! fTalk offers a fun and light Facebook chat experience; and its free.Pro’s: Free! Doesn't require an open, active Facebook windowCon’s: Very 1990-ish, Facebook onlyConclusion: fTalk is a decent app. It allows you to chat with your FB friends even without having an active FB session going in your browser. It's very much like Skype for Facebook; or something similar. The app is great. I like it. However its only real value is that it automatically integrates with your FB account and pulls in all your FB Friends.  You could manually do that with Skype Windows Live Messenger, AIM or any other chat client that also supported video. While this doesn't kill the application's usefulness, it does limit you to just chatting or video calling to only your FB friends, and if someone does want to chat or video chat with you, they have to be your Facebook friend first.

Ashampoo Photo Commander 10 version 10.1.1
We all edit our photos in one way or the other. Either simply to remove the “red eyes” from our photos, either to resize, crop or rotate them. Ashampoo Photo Commander is a comprehensive photo tool that covers all that you need to edit, optimize or quick fix your photos, but it also offers all the features to organize, share and even present your digital photos.
The installation is simple and straightforward. However, I personally chose the custom method to avoid installing their toolbar. When you open Ashampoo Photo Commander, you'll can simply locate your photo collection in order to edit and to use your favorite shots to create slideshows, albums, collages, cards, calendars and more. Ashampoo Photo Commander also includes a handful of filters and special effects. 
One thing that I find really useful is the batch processing tools which allow you to convert, edit or add filters to a group of selected photos. Also, comparative with version 8, the latest version introduces an improved wizard to make the process much simpler and the quick-fix mode has been improved, adding an automatic red-eye removal tool and better eraser tool. When you're playing with the effects, you can see now “before” and “after” shots of the photo. Also, the video playback has been improved, and video files can now be easily rotated during playback. 
Another interesting feature is the Capture Mode. You can capture windows or just parts of the screen and you can take multiple captures at a time. The captured images can be modified later in the built-in image editor. Before capturing the screen, you can set some options including the color of the applied shadows or the shape of the captured images. Also, you can burn your images directly to a CD or DVD as an animated slide show or upload them to your homepage as an interactive photo album.
Pluses: You can burn your images directly to a CD or DVD,  editing tools with anti-aliasing for all objects for smooth images and high quality, great collection of photo tools.Drawbacks / flaws: A little bit complicated to figure if you're a new user.In conclusion: Compact, well designed, with a fully customizable GUI, integrating photo editing, video, and audio file management, Ahampoo Photo Commander is a very useful photo suite that lets you manage, view, optimize and add a personal touch to your photos.version reviewed: 9.4.0

Google Toolbar version 7.1.1920.1238
Take charge of your browser and make it your own with this must have browser add-on.
The World Wide Web is a big place; and it's easy to get lost when trolling around the internets.  Keeping track of where you are and what you're looking for isn't as straight forward as you think. This is one of the reasons why I like browser add-ins like Google Toolbar. It’s a multi-platform, multi-browser compatible add-on.
Google Toolbar is designed to help you find what you're looking for quickly; and to discover new things along the way. Google Toolbar lets you search Google from anywhere on the web. Start typing your search and you'll see selectable suggestions for what you might be looking for display instantly. Your searches will highlight search terms on your current page, and will even jump to relevant sections of the page via three easy-to-use tools.
Google Tool bar incorporates Google+, making it easy to share interesting things from across the web. It's easy to keep up with the people you care about. When you encounter search results in a different language, don't worry.  The Toolbar can automatically translate all of the text for you via Google Translate.
Pros: Free, easy to install and use.
Cons: It's easy to get overloaded with toolbars. Works best in Google's Chrome browser, but will work with all modern browsers.
Conclusion: Google Toolbar helps you make your browser your own.  This cool customization gives you easy access to your bookmarks, contains custom buttons, and has a display designed to feature only the tools you actually use.  The add-in is free and works with all browsers, but if you're using anything else other than Chrome, expect to see a bit of a performance hit.  It's been our experience that tools designed to run natively in Chrome don't always run well in other browsers.

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Review: Pelican i1075 Hardback Case for iPad

Outside, the case is made entirely of hard plastic, so it feels quite sturdy, with very little give. A latch on the front holds it securely shut, but can be easily lifted when necessary. Beneath that is a pressure release valve. Pelican claims its case can withstand three feet of submersion, as well as drops from the same height. Included with the holder is a nylon shoulder strap with an arm pad—not the fanciest thing in the world, but an easy…

News: Pulp adds iCloud sync, new Home Page

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Ask iLounge: Removing music from iTunes after copying to iPod

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News: WordPress for iOS adds Push Notifications

Automattic has released an update to its official WordPress app for iOS adding Push Notifications for WordPress.com blogs and a new moderation toolbar for comments. With the latest update users who host their blogs on WordPress.com can now opt to receive push notifications of new comments on their blog posts. A new Swipe-to-moderate feature has also been added in the comments list allowing users to bring up a moderation toolbar by swiping over any…

First Looks: Audio-Technica ATH-ANC9 QuietPoint Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones

How does a company that's already beating Bose in the active noise-cancelling headphone department find a way to up the ante? We're about to find out with the new ATH-ANC9 QuietPoint Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones ($300). Audio-Technica's new top-of-the-line model boasts what it calls Tri-Level Cancellation -- three preset noise reduction modes separately optimized for airplane (95% cancellation), office (95%) and study (85%) -- as well as 40mm…

Review: Skinit Skins for iPad (3rd-Generation)

Of the iPad stickers we’ve seen in the past, the Skins from Skinit most closely resemble those from GelaSkins, which retail for the same price. GelaSkins’ tolerances are a bit tighter, especially around the buttons and switches at the top left corner. Skinit leaves one opening that stretches from the top of the side switch to the bottom of the volume rocker, wheres GelaSkins offers individual cutouts for each. Otherwise, they’re…

Article: iOS Gems: Farm 123, Facebook Camera, Scribblenauts, Shoot the Zombirds + Virtua Tennis Challenge

Welcome to our latest edition of iOS Gems! Today, we’re quickly rounding up eight apps that we wanted to cover before the release of our New iPad Buyers’ Guide. Most of the apps below are recent additions to the App Store, but there were couple of earlier releases that we wanted to share with you, as well. Our top picks are Farm 123, Facebook Camera, Scribblenauts Remix, and Shoot the Zombirds; tennis fans with third-gen iPads or iPhone…

News: Sony launches Music Unlimited for iOS

Sony Entertainment Network has released an official iOS app for its Music Unlimited streaming music service. Music Unlimited is a subscription-based cloud music service with a global catalog of over 15 million licensed songs available on such devices as the sony PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita, BRAVIA TVs and Android smartphones and tablets. Use of the service requires payment of a monthly subscription fee. A Basic subscription ($4/month) allows…

News: Apple device poll ends, computing poll begins

With nearly 3,200 votes from iLounge readers, our latest poll—“What do you use today as your primary Apple device for media playback?”—has ended. Readers were given the choice between the iPad, the iPhone, each model of iPod, and the Apple TV. Unsurprisingly, iOS devices represented the bulk of the responses, accounting for 83 percent of votes—89 percent if the Apple TV is included. 42 percent of respondents said they…

News: Fruit Ninja adds new features and power-ups

Halfbrick Studios has released a major content update to Fruit Ninja in celebration of the game’s two year anniversary. The game update provides a range of new features to provide additional challenges and excitement for both new players and veteran fans alike. A new in-game currency and power-up shop have been added; players can earn Starfruit after each game which can then be spent at Gutsu’s Cart to boost their arsenal with unique super…

Review: Spigen SGP Steinheil Ultra Optics Screen Protector for iPad (3rd-Gen)

The installation process is the same as that of any other hard, dry-adhesive film: once the screen has been cleaned to perfection—a sometimes difficult task, depending on your environment—you peel the protector away from its backing, line it up, and let it adhere to the screen. We got very few bubbles in our installation, and were easily able to push out the ones that were there with the squeegee. Although we’ve preferred and recommended…

News: Apple to sell Nest Learning Thermostat

iLounge has learned that Apple will soon offer the Nest Learning Thermostat for sale through the Apple Store, an interesting development given both Nest’s history and the types of products commonly sold by Apple. Nest founder and CEO Tony Fadell is the former senior vice president of Apple’s iPod division, and is regarded by many as the “father of the iPod.” After leaving Apple for “personal reasons,” Fadell was replaced…

News: Third-gen iPad to launch in Guam, Philippines May 29

Apple will launch the third-generation iPad in Guam and the Philippines on May 29. The company’s iPad selection page for Asia shows both countries receiving the device on that date; Apple recently launched the third-generation iPad in 30 new countries on May 11 and 12. The device is currently available in roughly 90 countries around the world, and Apple has on several occasions noted that the worldwide rollout of the third-generation iPad has…

News: Apple tweaks App Store with Editors’ Choice, Free picks

Apple has made some minor but notable changes to its front page App Store listings. In place of the prior App of the Week listings are two new Editors’ Choice picks for both the iPhone and the iPad, which rotate in the top slot alongside traditional themed bundles of promoted apps—a number of apps dedicated to Dinosaurs is being highlighted this week, for instance. The App of the Week moniker is not being retired, however, as it is now…

Review: ZeroChroma VarioProtect for iPhone 4/4S

While VarioProtect’s case design isn’t revolutionary, the little touches make a big difference. Unlike Teatro-S, which was a simple shell with almost complete exposure for the iPhone’s top, bottom, and side controls, VarioProtect is a full-fledged plastic and rubber case on par with leading options we’ve tested from SwitchEasy and Speck, offering comprehensive protection for nearly everything save the iPhone’s glass face.…

News: Panic releases Diet Coda

Panic Software has released Diet Coda, an iPad adaptation of its popular web code editor and development app for Mac OS X. Designed to allow users to make quick edits and adjustments to their websites on the go, Diet Coda provides an advanced web editor with an intuitive touch interface that includes remote editing with syntax highlighting, FTP/SFTP file management and a built-in SSH terminal. A new Super-Loupe feature makes positioning the iOS…

Review: BodyGuardz UltraTough Clear Skins for iPad (3rd-Gen)

UltraTough Clear Skins is a wet-application set; the film for both the front and back of the tablet adheres when combined with the contents of the two packets of application gel. Also included in the set are a pre-moistened cleaning cloth and a fabric cleaning cloth. Installation involves putting a dozen or so drops of the gel on the film, spreading it around with your fingers, and then putting the film in place. Because it takes a little while for…

Review: Wrapsol Original + Ultra Hybrid Protective Film for iPad 2/iPad (3rd-Gen)

UltraTough Clear Skins is a wet-application set; the film for both the front and back of the tablet adheres when combined with the contents of the two packets of application gel. Also included in the set are a pre-moistened cleaning cloth and a fabric cleaning cloth. Installation involves putting a dozen or so drops of the gel on the film, spreading it around with your fingers, and then putting the film in place. Because it takes a little while for…

Ask iLounge: iTunes TV show size totals don’t match actual disk storage

Q: I’m seeing a really confusing inconsistency in iTunes that I’m hoping you can help explain how to fix as I’ve been tearing my hair out trying to figure out what’s wrong. The problem is that the total storage space that iTunes says it’s using for my TV shows is way off when compared to the actual disk space being used, by dozens of gigabytes in fact. At first I thought maybe I had some extra files in my iTunes folders…

News: Booq rolls out new Folio for iPad

Booq has rolled out its new Folio case for the third-generation iPad and iPad 2. Available in handcrafted natural fiber fabric or Nappa leather, the Folio features a tri-fold cover that allows for multiple viewing and typing angles and also sports built-in magnets for compatibility with the iPad’s automatic sleep/wake functionality, and open access to all ports, controls, and cameras. Booq’s new Folio case for the third-generation…

iLounge | All Things iPod, iPhone, iPad and Beyond
iLounge iPod Accessory Reviews

 

1. Born and Raised - John Mayer
Born and Raised by John Mayer

2. Phillip Phillips: Journey to the Finale - Phillip Phillips
Phillip Phillips: Journey to the Finale by Phillip Phillips

3. Once Upon Another Time - EP - Sara Bareilles
Once Upon Another Time - EP by Sara Bareilles

4. 21 - ADELE
21 by ADELE

5. Blown Away - Carrie Underwood
Blown Away by Carrie Underwood

6. Making Mirrors - Gotye
Making Mirrors by Gotye

7. American Idol - Season Finale - Season 11 - EP - Various Artists
American Idol - Season Finale - Season 11 - EP by Various Artists

8. Up All Night (Deluxe Version) - One Direction
Up All Night (Deluxe Version) by One Direction

9. Jessica Sanchez: Journey to the Finale - Jessica Sanchez
Jessica Sanchez: Journey to the Finale by Jessica Sanchez

10. Apocalyptic Love (Deluxe) [feat. Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators] - Slash
Apocalyptic Love (Deluxe) [feat. Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators] by Slash

11. Some Nights - Fun.
Some Nights by Fun.

12. Blunderbuss - Jack White
Blunderbuss by Jack White

13. Glee: The Music - The Graduation Album - Glee Cast
Glee: The Music - The Graduation Album by Glee Cast

14. Up All Night - One Direction
Up All Night by One Direction

15. The Lumineers - The Lumineers
The Lumineers by The Lumineers

16. Strange Clouds - B.o.B
Strange Clouds by B.o.B

17. Tailgates & Tanlines - Luke Bryan
Tailgates & Tanlines by Luke Bryan

18. Boys & Girls - Alabama Shakes
Boys & Girls by Alabama Shakes

19. Sigh No More - Mumford & Sons
Sigh No More by Mumford & Sons

20. My Head Is an Animal - Of Monsters and Men
My Head Is an Animal by Of Monsters and Men

21. Vows - Kimbra
Vows by Kimbra

22. Trespassing (Deluxe Version) - Adam Lambert
Trespassing (Deluxe Version) by Adam Lambert

23. Rize of the Fenix - Tenacious D
Rize of the Fenix by Tenacious D

24. Number Ones - Bee Gees
Number Ones by Bee Gees

25. Chief - Eric Church
Chief by Eric Church

iTunes Top 25 Albums
iTunes Store: Today's Top 25 Albums

 

The Struggle - Tenth Avenue North
The Struggle by Tenth Avenue North

The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than the Driver of the Screw and Whipping Cords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do (Deluxe Version) - Fiona Apple
The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than the Driver of the Screw and Whipping Cords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do (Deluxe Version) by Fiona Apple

Looking 4 Myself (Deluxe Version) - Usher
Looking 4 Myself (Deluxe Version) by Usher

There's No Leaving Now - The Tallest Man On Earth
There's No Leaving Now by The Tallest Man On Earth

Victorious 2. 0 (More Music from the Hit TV Show) - Victoria Justice & Victorious Cast
Victorious 2. 0 (More Music from the Hit TV Show) by Victoria Justice & Victorious Cast

Rock of Ages (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) - Various Artists
Rock of Ages (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) by Various Artists

Thirty Miles West - Alan Jackson
Thirty Miles West by Alan Jackson

Yellow Submarine Songtrack - The Beatles
Yellow Submarine Songtrack by The Beatles

Bear Creek - Brandi Carlile
Bear Creek by Brandi Carlile

Immortal - For Today
Immortal by For Today

Legendary Child - Single - Aerosmith
Legendary Child - Single by Aerosmith

Jessica Sanchez: Journey to the Finale - Jessica Sanchez
Jessica Sanchez: Journey to the Finale by Jessica Sanchez

Phillip Phillips: Journey to the Finale - Phillip Phillips
Phillip Phillips: Journey to the Finale by Phillip Phillips

American Idol - Season Finale - Season 11 - EP - Various Artists
American Idol - Season Finale - Season 11 - EP by Various Artists

Strike Up the Band (Remastered) - Tony Bennett
Strike Up the Band (Remastered) by Tony Bennett

Strange Feelings - Miles Davis
Strange Feelings by Miles Davis

Around My Way (Freedom Ain't Free) - Single - Lupe Fiasco
Around My Way (Freedom Ain't Free) - Single by Lupe Fiasco

Touch'N You (feat. Usher) - Single - Rick Ross
Touch'N You (feat. Usher) - Single by Rick Ross

Like That - Single - T.I.
Like That - Single by T.I.

Bring Me Home - Live 2011 - Sade
Bring Me Home - Live 2011 by Sade

Don't Wake Me Up (Free School/William Orbit Mix) - Single - Chris Brown
Don't Wake Me Up (Free School/William Orbit Mix) - Single by Chris Brown

Around My Way (Freedom Ain't Free) - Single - Lupe Fiasco
Around My Way (Freedom Ain't Free) - Single by Lupe Fiasco

Like That - Single - T.I.
Like That - Single by T.I.

Listen Up! (Deluxe Version) - Haley Reinhart
Listen Up! (Deluxe Version) by Haley Reinhart

Bring Me Home - Live 2011 (Deluxe Audio/Video Bundle) - Sade
Bring Me Home - Live 2011 (Deluxe Audio/Video Bundle) by Sade

iTunes 25 New Releases
iTunes Store: Today's 25 Newest Releases