Apple Planning to Add Bluetooth 4.0 Support For AirPlay

Japanese Mac blog Macotakara (via AppleInsider) reports that Apple is planning to add Bluetooth 4.0 support to its AirPlay wireless protocol.
Macotakara reports that Apple announced at MFi Technology Summit 2011 in Shenzhen that ended on Friday that it will be releasing a new certification chip for MFI (Made for iPhone/iPad/iPod touch) devices that will allow future AirPlay products to connect to iOS devices via Bluetooth 4.0.
Apple's AirPlay wireless protocol allows users to stream media content using Wi-Fi technology to AirPlay compatible devices like Apple TV from an iOS device or computer. The low power consumption of Bluetooth 4.0 makes it an excellent alternative to Wi-Fi especially for iOS devices.
By allowing its AirPlay wireless protocol to work over Bluetooth, Apple is expected to expand AirPlay wireless devices market by several times and create opportunities in the healthcare and gaming industry.

Apple added Bluetooth 4.0 support in iPhone 4S, Mac Mini and MacBook Air that were introduced this year. In fact, iPhone 4S that was launched two months back was the first smartphone in the world to support Bluetooth 4.0.
As Rounak had noted few months back:
New standards, however good they might be, need a major player to back them for mass adoption. Believe it or not during the media format war between VHS and BetaMax, VHS survived only because of porn industry's backing. Similarly, Apple's backing can play a huge role in the survival or death of a certain standard.
It looks like slowly but surely, Apple seems to be doing it for Bluetooth 4.0.
[Macotakara via AppleInsider]
View the original article here

Apple Gets Network Access Permit For iPhone 4S In China; Launch Imminent

Couple of weeks back we had reported that Apple had received an approval for iPhone 4S  from Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) - the state agency in China that regulates the Internet and wireless communications. But they had to wait for the network access permit to start selling their new iPhone in the country.
M.I.C Gadget now reports that Apple has received the network access permit for iPhone 4S.
M.I.C Gadget reports:
the 4S had cleared the required MIIT regulatory hurdles and the device obtained a three-year valid Radio Transmission Equipment Type Approval Certificate (RTETAC), which is one of the requirements for getting MIIT’s network access license. The model submitted for testing was compatible with GSM, WCDMA, HSDPA / HSUPA, Bluetooth, and WAPI (WLAN Authentication and Privacy Infrastructure).
M.I.C Gadget reports that Apple and China Unicom's, Apple's iPhone carrier partner in China, are hoping to launch iPhone 4S this month.
the iPhone 4S has finally been granted the permit, and China Unicom is now expecting to launch the device this month. The company told Chinese news website Sohu that the preparation work for sales channel, staff training and network testing is completed. They will try their best to make the iPhone 4S’s arrival official by Christmas and New Year.

M.I.C Gadget reports that China Unicom expects the 16GB iPhone 4S to be available for 4,999 yuan (approximately $789) without contract, which is more expensive than US prices, where a 16GB iPhone 4S is available for $649, but cheaper than India where the entry level iPhone 4S is available for approximately $875.
[MIC Gadget via Techmeme]
View the original article here

Apple Loses Appeal, Samsung Allowed To Sell Galaxy Tab 10.1 In Australia

The Apple Vs. Samsung lawsuit has come to an interesting point. Apple has lost its appeal in Australia, allowing the Galaxy Tab 10.1 to be sold.
Not too long ago, the Australian court lifted its ban on the Galaxy Tab 10.1. Then, in the US, Apple lost their bid to halt Galaxy series phones and tablets.
Now, the Australian high court has rejected Apple's appeal on the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1. PCMag has reported on Samsung's press release.

"The Full Court of Australia decision on November 30 clearly affirmed our view that Apple's claims lack merit and that an injunction should not have been imposed on the Galaxy Tab 10.1," Samsung said.

The Galaxy Tab 10.1 was slated to launch back in September, but Samsung volunteered to delay the launch in light of the lawsuit, which claimed Samsung blatantly copied Apple's iPad tablet. The overturning of the ban should give a big boost to Samsung as they will at least be able to sell the Galaxy Tab before Christmas shopping season ends.
Apple's had a hard time with some of its patent wars recently, especially considering Motorola Mobility's recent win in the German courts. It'll be interesting to see if this will follow in the other countries where Apple has made patent infringement claims.
[via PCMag]
View the original article here

Apple Airs New iPad 2 “Love” Commercial

Last night, Apple aired a new TV ad for its iPad 2. The commercial is fairly similar to previous adverts, showing people from all walks of life using the tablet in different ways.
The ads are actually an accurate reflection of how the slate has made its way into several industries. We’ve seen the iPad replace everything from voters ballads to NFL play books…

Apple has dominated the tablet market with its iPad line since it unveiled the original last year. It’ll be interesting to see if it can maintain that dominance in the face of stiff competition like the cheaper Kindle Fire.
What do you think of Apple’s new “Love” TV ad?
View the original article here

Apple Airs Commercials Featuring iCloud, Siri, iPhone 4S Camera

With each new product release, Apple launches a whole new advertising campaign around whatever fancy new features have been added, and the iPhone 4S is no exception.
Starting today, Apple is airing three new ads to help spread the word about the “most amazing iPhone yet.” The 30-second spots feature iCloud, Siri, and the supercharged 8 megapixel camera packed into the iPhone 4S. And in typical Apple fashion, we’re not sure where real products end and the hype machine begins…
The iCloud ad revolves around syncing and downloading, with the ad showing off iTunes in the iCloud as well as iWork syncing across iPhones and iPads. Apple is also keen to show off Photo Stream, too, with photos being taken of adorable kids and being instantly beamed back to an iMac.
Magical, indeed.

The second of the three ads shows off Siri, in an unusually muted video. That is, you don’t hear the ad’s voice-over guy until right at the end, with Apple seemingly happy to let Siri do the talking for itself.
All the usual demo material is present: checking a calendar, reading a text message, and asking what the weather will be doing at a random point in time. We’ve all seen it before, but it is the exact kind of thing that will get people interested.

The final ad covers the iPhone 4S’ new 8 megapixel camera, with red-eye reduction and cropping also shown off for good measure.
Apple also points out that perhaps you don’t need a separate camera if you own a 4S. A point that many have made since getting their hands on Apple’s latest iPhone.

Apple’s ads always attract —not that the iPhone 4S has been struggling—and showing Siri off to people that might not already understand it is probably a very good idea.
Now we just wait for the next quarter’s earnings call to see how well these ads have payed off!
View the original article here

Apple Stores Looking to Enable Self-Checkouts Via iOS App

Apple Stores are already considered trendsetters in the retail space. From their awe-inspiring architecture to their product-focused environments, the Cupertino company’s world-wide chain has other retailers turning green with envy.
Now it seems like the Mac-makers are looking to start another fad: self-checkout. No, we’re not talking about those big machines at your local Walmart. We’re talking about customers paying for items using their iPhones without the help of a sales clerk…
MacRumors is reporting that Apple is planning on releasing an update to its Apple Store application that will allow users to purchase accessories in-store without needing to flag down an Apple employee. Here’s how it will work:

“According to our source, self-checkout purchases will be charged via the Apple Store app to the customer’s iTunes Store account. It is not entirely clear what will happen once a user has checked out via the app, although store employees will of course be on the lookout for store visitors walking out with merchandise in hand, as they are already. Customers who have made a purchase through self-checkout will be able to show an emailed receipt to any employee, confirming their purchase.”

Obviously, Apple’s higher-end products won’t be eligible for the service due to being tucked away in the stock room, but accessories and other small purchases will be fair game.
Even current NFC-enabled checkouts generally require the presence of a store employee, so it’ll be interesting to see what Apple’s experience will be like. And with a predicted start date of November 3rd, we may not have to wait long to find out.
Theft concerns aside, Apple’s self-checkout project could be a big hit if it’s successful. The Cupertino company could potentially open the service up to other retailers or even convenience stores, allowing customers to make purchases through their iTunes accounts.
What’s your take on Apple’s self-checkout project?
View the original article here

Apple Purchases Another 3D Mapping Company

Aside from small additions like displaying alternate routes and the Show Traffic option, the Maps application received little attention from Apple during the recent iOS update. Some pundits expected the app to at least receive turn-by-turn directions.
But a revamped Maps app might still be in Apple’s plans. 9to5Mac is reporting that Apple has just quietly acquired “mind-blowing 3D mapping company” C3 Technologies, and that the Cupertino company is looking to take iOS maps to the next level…
The news comes shortly after the company’s website went down in July of this year, spawning tons of speculation. An announcement was made that C3 had indeed been bought-out by a Western-world company, but nothing more was ever revealed.
You might recall that Apple has made similar purchases in the past. Last year the company acquired Poly9, another 3D mapping startup team. And the year before it scooped up Placebase, a firm known for its mapping software.
Just as Apple did with Siri, you can bet that we’ll see the work of these companies eventually make their way into iOS — which is exciting considering some of their talents. Here’s a video of C3 Technologies rendering New York City:

If you recognize C3's work, it’s because it powers Nokia’s popular Ovi Maps. The Finnish handset maker has been praised for its high-powered 3D mapping software. It’ll be interesting to see how their relationship continues post-Apple acquisition.
With three strong mapping firms now in its stable, Apple is definitely setting the stage for something major. As 9to5Mac points out, Apple doesn’t scoop up companies nearly as often as its competitors. But when it does, it has a specific goal for them in mind.
View the original article here

Apple Getting Ready to Launch AirPort Utility iOS App?

A screenshot has surfaced of what is apparently an upcoming AirPort Utility app for the iPhone and iPad. As highlighted by TiPB and others, the iOS app would let you configure Apple’s AirPort Express and AirPort Extreme routers without a computer.
It’s unclear as to if Apple will launch an AirPort Utility app alongside iOS 5, but it’s assumed that the app will see the light of day soon…
If Apple offers such an app as an optional download in the App Store, then users who don’t own an AirPort router won’t have to ever see the utility app.
AirPort routers offer speedy wireless connectivity and storage options for home networks. An AirPort iOS app would assumedly allow users to manage their router settings and access stored content from an attached drive.
Would you like to see an AirPort Utility app on the iPhone and iPad?
View the original article here

CaseCrown Synthetic Leather Vertical Flip iPad Case (Black) for the Apple iPad Wifi / 3G Model 16GB, 32GB, 64GB

Store, protect, and carry the Apple iPad with this CaseCrown Synthetic Leather Flip iPad Case. This is the best carrying solution as it provides optimal utility and style. Slide your iPad easily into the framed carrying slot for form fitting protection. You can still access all of the iPad's features even while it's still installed in this case, including charging! The case is made from premium synthetic leather to provide durable protection from scratches, dust, and fingerprints and also a great aesthetic! There's an interior elastic band that has slots to carry cards, ids, and papers to hold it in place during travel. This is the only carrying solution for your iPad!
Price: $39.99

Click here to buy from Amazon

Transparent Clear Snap On Crystal Hard Cover Case for Apple Ipod Touch Itouch 8GB 16GB 32GB 2G 2nd Generation

Transparent Clear Snap On Crystal Hard Cover Case is brand new non-OEM, durable clear hard plastic material,custom made to fit your iPod perfectly,easy access to all buttons and features,Plug your charger, cable or headset without removing the case,easy installation, just snap on your ipod without any tools,prevents damage to your iPod from objects in your pockets or purse,iPod not included,does not fit Touch 1st generation
Price: $0.00

Click here to buy from Amazon

Apple Has Officially Set iPhone 5 Launch Event for October 4

Apple has officially set iPhone 5 launch event for October 4. According to the invitation received, the event will be held on October 4 at Apple’s Cupertino, Calif. campus. It will begin at 10:00 am PT. The company has been tight lipped about what new models it will be launching. Instead it has invited journalists to a ‘Special Event’, with the cryptic invitation ‘Let’s Talk iPhone’.
Apple iPhone 5 release – now it’s official at last: Invitations have been sent out for the iPhone 5 event to be held on October 4, saying, “Let’s talk iPhone”. So it is currently expected that Apple will hold its next big media event on Tuesday, October 4 when the tech giant is reported to be unveiling the next iteration of its popular iPhone.
There had been a lot of conflicting reports about the exact timing of the event. However, according to sources the Oct. 4 date has been finally selected by the company to showcase the iPhone 5. They also stated that the reason behind the selection of the October 4 date was that the company planned to make the new device available for purchase within a few weeks after the announcement.
If incase there is any doubt as to what this event might be about, the Loop actually has a picture of the invitation, which features four app icons, three of which represent the date, time and location, and the fourth of which shows the phone icon. Also there is this little sentence: “Let’s talk iPhone”, that doesn’t particularly say iPhone 5. This means only one thing – that Apple doesn’t want to give anything else away until the big reveal on October 4.

Although the iPhone 5 is a much-anticipated handset, the event itself holds much more importance for Apple than many such previous ones. That’s because it is going to be Apple’s new CEO Tim Cook’s first big product introduction which would give the public a first lengthy impression of him in his new role. Also, as he’s never sponsored an Apple product announcement before, Cook is certain to preside over this next generation iPhone rollout. During its unveiling on October 4, Apple is also expected to announce that the iPhone 5 will be available very soon which would obviously point to a mid-October launch.
While the next-generation iPhone’s design has been heavily debated, rumors indicate that it will use the faster A5 processor on which the iPad 2 runs, a Qualcomm dual-mode GSM/CDMA baseband, and will feature a higher-resolution eight megapixel rear camera. The new iPhone could be Apple’s best-selling product yet.
Source: The Loop, TechCrunch
You might want to check out all about iPhone 5 release date.


If you like this post, you can follow iPhoneStuffs4U on Twitter. Subscribe to iPhoneStuffs4U feed via RSS or EMAIL to receive instant updates.
View the original article here

Apple iPhone Event: What We Can Expect

Finally, after months of waiting, Apple’s iPhone event is nearly upon us. For some, Tuesday, October 4th basically feels like Judgment Day: Apple will either save us and quiet any iQualms we might have, or severely disappoint us, causing further anarchy across the web. It seems like this day has taken way too long to get here as speculation and rumors have hit a fever pitch on the Internet. I’ll admit it, I’ve followed these rumors for a while across multiple sites and lately I just can’t take it anymore. I’m happy the hours are dwindling and all will finally be revealed, hopefully leaving everyone more than satisfied. Hopefully…

For those who aren’t Apple fanatics, there have been back and forth rumors running wild: all claiming different and contradictory things about the next iPhone or even iPhones. Here’s a round-up of what we can expect to be announced on Tuesday.
I’ll start with the fifth-generation iPhone first because, really, this is all anyone cares about. From the rumors, there seems to be a possibility of one of two announcements. First, we might only see what is being dubbed the “iPhone 4S”. Many pictures of parts have leaked to the web pointing to an updated version of the iPhone 4. Improvements for the 4S are suspected to be the faster A5 chip, an 8 megapixel camera, and possibly 64GB of internal storage. The form factor would stay the same to the current iPhone 4 and probably have the same screen size.
The other possible announcement, and what everyone is hoping for, is the arrival of a drastic redesign the Internet has dubbed the “iPhone 5”. This would come alongside the iPhone 4S. The new form factor is what separates the 4S from the 5, even though it is technically the fifth iteration of the device either way. The iPhone 5 would also feature the A5 chip and an 8 megapixel camera. However, it would have a teardrop shape with tapered edges. The new phone would also be wider and have an edge-to-edge screen. Recent rumors from China Unicom point to the device having HSPA+ technology, sometimes called “4G”, which would bring data speeds up to 21 megabits per second.
There is no solid evidence currently available that points to the iPhone 5 announcement on Tuesday. However, case manufacturers in China have already produced millions of cases in the teardrop design, which would suggest that they have high confidence in a redesigned iPhone. The rumored release date for the new phone or phones is October 14th.
Personally, I don’t think Apple would push the release date of the next iPhone back 4 months from its usual summer release for a slight 4S upgrade. That’s an easy way to anger consumers. Besides, there are many Android devices that have surpassed the iPhone in specs and Apple needs to step its game up to stay competitive.
Aside from the iPhone, Apple will also most likely take the opportunity to announce some changes to its iPods. For one, a small refresh to its iPod Touch line will most likely occur. Expect a white model and a 128 gigabit model too. Additionally, a slight Nano refresh is also probable. On the other hand, it appears that the iPod Classic and Shuffle will be axed. Today, consumers want devices that are very functional and these two devices are mainly used to play music. The Touch would replace the Classic as the flagship iPod.
Despite all my rumor mongering, we really won’t know for sure what’s coming until new CEO Tim Cook has left the stage. For Apple’s sake, I hope we get the iPhone 5. I’d expect major repercussions in the form of verbal violence and lower stock prices if consumers’ hopes and dreams fail to come true.
Author bio: August Drilling, from the marketing department at CliqStudios.com, the online supplier of kitchen cabinets including maple cabinets, can’t wait for Apple’s announcement, and is a blogger and avid social media user.

If you like this post, you can follow iPhoneStuffs4U on Twitter. Subscribe to iPhoneStuffs4U feed via RSS or EMAIL to receive instant updates.
View the original article here