iOS 3.2.1 Released For iPad

In addition to releasing iOS 4.01 for the iPhone, Apple has released iOS 3.2.1 for the iPad. The update will hopefully resolve the WiFi issues many users are experiencing.  

The update should resolve the below issues:

• Improved Wi-Fi connectivity


• Addressed an issue that could cause video playback to freeze


• Improved reliability of video-out when using iPad Dock Connector to VGA Adapter


• Bing added as a Safari search option

One note of caution; if you have jailbroken your iPad, do not update it to iOS 3.2.1. The Spirit Jailbreak page is warning users that it will break Spirit if you do so.

Apple Release iOS 4.01 For iPhone

Today, Apple released iOS 4.01 for the iPhone.  This update will correct the formula for calculating "the number of bars of signal strength".  The iPhone has apparently been adding extra bars of signal strength since it was originally released in 2007.  Apple has a press conference scheduled for tomorrow 7/16/10 at 10 am PST to discuss the iPhone 4.

iPad Buying Guide

Recently, multiple people have asked me the question "What iPad should I get?", so I decided to put together a quick overview to help people make their decision. 

Below is a list of the available models and a brief summary of who would benefit from each model.

16GB WiFi ($499US) - People interested in web browsing, eBook reading, email & iOS apps.

32GB WiFi ($599US) - This model is suitable for most users.  There is enough space for everything mentioned in the 16GB model plus storage for some music and movies. (I use my iPod Touch for music so I don't need to fill up my 32GB iPad with mp3s.)

64GB WiFi ($699US) - The 64GB version adds additional space for people with large music & movie libraries. I recommend this model if you have a large music collection and do not have a sepate mp3 player.

3G Option - Adding 3G (This is a separate model and cannot be added at a later time to WiFi only models) to any of the 3 iPads costs an extra $130 US and provides "anywhere" access to AT&T's (Only current US carrier) network for $15 (250MB data limit) or $25 (2GB data limit) a month. This option also includes a built in GPS.

 

 Optional Accessories

iPad Camera Connection Kit ($29US) - This accessory allows you to download photos from your digital camera via SD card or USB. You can also connect a USB keyboard, microphone or headset via USB.  There are other uses for this if your device is jailbroken.

Case - You may want to consider a case for your iPad.  I found the aluminum backon the iPad causes my hands to sweat after holding it for a while.  A rubber case solves this issue.  Also, a sleeve can help protect the unit in the event it is dropped. 

Now the trick is to find one. Apple currently sells iPads in their Apple Stores, online, and at select Best Buy locations.  There is currently a 7-10 business day wait for orders placed on Apple.com.

Hand Held Items HHI iPad GriponPad iPad Case

When I purchased the GriponPad case, I wasn't expecting much.  At best, I was hoping for a case that would help me grip my iPad better.  This case fit that need perfectly plus threw in a little extra.

The iPad easily slides into the case and is properly secured.  A flexible rubber material covers the back of the iPad with the exception of a hole left to display the Apple logo.  The left and right sides are almost completely covered leaving a cut out for the volume and orientation lock switches.  On the top and bottom of the case, only the corners are covered.  This leaves the dock connector, speakers, and headphone jack unobstructed.  

The case also comes with a screen protector (I never use these, so mine is still in the package) and a kick stand that allows the iPad to stand in portrait, landscape, and typing positions.  My only concern with the stand is the iPad feels top heavy in portrait mode.  I fear this may cause the iPad to tip over, so I will only be using it in landscape view (great for watching movies).  The rubber material can be a fingerprint magnet, so you may need to wipe it off when you clean the screen.

 Overview:

• Rubber construction


• Improved grip while holding iPad


• Stand (landscape works great, portrait is questionable)


• Screen protector


• Fingerprint magnet


• Low Cost

 

Purchased from: HandHeldItems.com

Price: $16

Rating: 4/5 

Demo Of Pressure Sensitive Drawing On An iPad

Ten One has released a demo showing it's possibile to develop an application with pressure sensitive drawing capabilities.  Their plan is to release this capability as a free library that could be used in any application.  Currently, the technology uses private Apple APIs, so it is unclear if Apple will allow the technology.

Please Notify Microsoft's Next Of Kin

CNET reports Microsoft has decided to pull the plug on its Kin platform feature phones.  The decision comes just 2 months after the launch of the product.  Kin was marketed towards teenagers and college students.

The feature phone seemed to be designed as "training wheels" for future smart phone users.  It had social networking applications and the Zune software built in.  Since the phone was designed to be a feature phone, you could not install additional apps on the phone.  The downfall of the Kin may of been its data contract.  The cost of the contract was on par with smart phones like the iPhone.  RIP Kin.

If You Have Not Seen Idiocracy, Where Have You Been?

Seriously, you need to watch this movie.  Warning: Contains Crude Humor