Category: apple
iTunes Library Syncs
I have been really happy with iTunes as a music player, only having one small gripe. iTunes does not monitor folders for additions or subtractions which can lead to syncing problems when music files are moved, renamed, etc…
While iTunes Library Updater isn’t perfect and no longer appears to be under development or supported, it works well enough and appears to offer a command line mode for those desiring to automate the process via Scheduled Tasks. One small note: after installing the program, issue the following command in the “Run” window if using iTunes 8+: “iTunes.exe /regserver”. Also, note the program is likely to choke and puke if any dialog boxes open after iTunes launches (version updates, etc...).
Other than that, the program seems to work as intended. Of course, your mileage may vary.
(via Lifehacker)
Posted: 05.15.2009Apple, Save Us! (snicker)
Apple has done a great job at insulating themselves from problems common in the modern computing world. Apple has insisted on maintaining control of their proprietary hardware and software starting with the Macintosh and continuing with the iPod and IPhone. This robust form of protectionism that "shields" Apple users from undesirable situations panders to the "least common demoninator" kind of user at the expense of those wanting freedom in use of their technology.
Apple seems intent to not only control all the hardware and software needed for operation of it's devices, but also seems to desire the role of content monitor. iLounge reports that Apple has rejected an iPhone app called Drivetrain. Drivetrain is a remote control app used to remotely Transmission sessions (an Apple BitTorrent client).
Apple's reasoning?
"this category of applications is often used for the purpose of infringing third party rights. We have chosen to not publish this type of application to the App Store."
Apple has missed two very basic points in making this decision and others like it. First of all, Drivetrain is not a BitTorrent client, it's an app that controls a BitTorrent client. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, BitTorrent and p2p is not in and of itself illegal, the act of downloading copyrighted material is. By Apple's logic, any app that has anything to to with DVRs, data backups, mobile browsing, network access, audio/video recording, etc. should be removed. Taking it a step further, Apple's lineup of devices and software should be removed as it could all be used in the commission of electronic crime.
I'm wondering when Apple is going to implement direct filtering of content within their devices. Sad part is that many will hail that as an advancement in safety.
Posted: 05.14.2009Apple Safari 3.1 - Windows (Part Deux)
A few days ago, I commented on my experience with Apple Safari 3.1 for WIndows. One of the things that I noted was that I wasn’t pleased with the stealth approach of how Apple was pushing it’s browser out to Windows iTunes users via the Software Update mechanism.
Per Wired, Apple has modified how Software Update presents the browser’s availability. The Software Update Window is now separated into two panes: “Updates” and “New Software”. People that aren’t careful with how they apply updates will still have Safari installed during their iTunes updates as it’s selected by default.
While I think Apple would have been smarter to leave Safari deselected by default, it’s good to see the change made.
Posted: 04.18.2008Apple Safari 3.1 - Windows
During a recent e-mail and verbal discussion with colleagues, the topic of favorite Windows/Vista browser was discussed (yet again). I.T. people discuss browser preferences like accountants discuss the intricacies of ‘expense vs. capitalization’. For people outside the industry, it’s generally a meaningless discussion; they want a browser that works and is both stable and fast.
Since I’m not adverse to trying new things, I decided to go grab Safari 3.1 and have a go with it. I was very hesitant to try Safari because of the rough shape of the previous beta. After giving Safari a try for about a week, I pleased to report that I am liking most of what it offers althogh there are a few oddities.
One thing that is a bit odd is Safari’s font appearance. Pages look very ‘Apple-like’ due to anti-aliasing display differences. This becomes problematic when looking at small fonts as many appear bolded or emphesized. In some cases, the font used appears unclear or even fuzzy.
I’m also puzzled as to why Apple doesn’t include a ‘home’ button on their default toolbar on a new installation. It’s not a huge deal for those that have used a few browsers in their time, but new-ish users might need to learn how to customize their browser configuration sooner than really necessary.
Lastly, I don’t particularly like the sneaky way that Apple is pushing out the software. It’s being pushed out through their software updates, and Safari is selected for download by default even if not previously on a system. I suppose this shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, Apple slipped in Itunes to it’s Quicktime customers the same way.
I’m still using Safari, so I guess that says something. But Apple still doesn’t get it when it comes to trying to woo PC users to it’s products. Many people that sit on the fence (like me) are turned off by the arrogance.
Posted: 04.08.2008