System wide voice-to-text dictation, once exclusive to iPhone 4S, has now been replicated on other iOS devices thanks to a Jailbreak hack called Siri0us. In order to use the dictation hack, you will need to have a jailbroken iOS 5 device. A point to note, the hack does not use Apple's servers, it solely uses the Nuance speech recognition system on device, and it does not provide any of the Siri voice control features.
A new and improved version of the Steve Jobs action figure, simply called the “Pineapple CEO”, is now available. This time around M.I.C did their best to avoid any infringing features -- like the Apple logo stand -- while adding Ninja throwing stars.
If you want to get your hands on a Ninja Steve it will cost you $89.90 (that includes shipping) and you should probably make the purchase as soon as possible considering Apple's lawyers will be all over this in no time.
This week I had a chance to look at the black FlexGrip case for the iPad by Griffin, available in black, blue, purple and white. The FlexGrip manages to protect and look good. It's made from silicon, but the slick kind. The case it self is not slippery, but rather it does not stick to surfaces. This is good if you place your iPad in a bag and want to access it easily but bad if you want it to grip on a surface.
I used the case for a couple of weeks putting it in and out of my backpack, laid it on tables, watched content on it, etc. The only issue I had with the case is that the edge flashings do not grip the iPad's glass tightly. This is an issue for me as I seem to collect lint where ever I go. I found myself having to occasionally clean out the lint particles. Also, it is important to note that if you use the iPad dock like I do, it does not fit in the dock with the case on.
Ultimately I liked Griffin FlexGrip for iPad. Just be aware of the looser flashings and that it is the slip not sticky silicone.
MacRumors says they are recieving several reports from their sources claiming that Apple is ready to debut their official retail store application for all iOS devices.
"Apple is planning to launch a new iOS application tomorrow that will offer customers access to the company's online store and iPhone pre-ordering, as well as the ability to book Genius Bar appointments at brick-and-mortar retail stores."
If you are looking for even more next-gen iPhone hype you've found it as BGR has learned that AT&T currently may be preparing for the arrival of a new Apple device.
"AT&T has started to send engineers out to corporate store locations to try and plan / start setting up a “new kind of display.”
Update: This app seems to break core functionality, read my article here on uninstalling Wi-Fi Sync. Until the developer decides these issues need to be addressed, I can't recommend anyone pay for this application, or until another workaround is found. The developer has been completely unresponsive when I've tried to contact him about the issue and at this time, I have no current easy solution to resolving broken backups and upgrades.
Wi-Fi Sync for iPhone is a jailbreak app that allows you to wirelessly sync with iTunes as opposed to having to plug in your phone. It found it's way into Cydia after it was rejected by Apple.
As of now, Wi-Fi Sync is only Mac compatible. The developer is currently working on a PC version which he states on his website should be complete in about 8-10 weeks. If you have a Mac and want to try it out, simply click here to get the Mac desktop software, then go in Cydia and purchase Wi-Fi Sync [$9.99 - Cydia Link].
It's not surprise that Apple likes to keep things top secret when it comes to their new products not only from all of us but also from their very own employees as Reuters has just found out by interviewing current and past Apple Store employees.
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blockquote>"We haven't seen it; we never do" before a product is launched, said one employee, who asked not to be identified because workers are barred from speaking with the media. "Every store employee I know, including the managers, they haven't seen it."
According to a source, AppleInsider says that within a few weeks the larger Apple Retail locations will have a new "Expert" position. This position to fill that will serve as a roaming counterpart to existing "geniuses". According to the job description directly on Apple's site this position is not only available to current Apple employees who are seeking a promotion but with anyone outside of the company that is capable and has a good amount of retail experience
It looks as if the rumors of major publishers getting together to agree upon a set of open standards for a new digital storefront are indeed true. Today Apple Insider is reporting that Condé Nast, Hearst, News Corporation, Time Inc., and Meredith all have officially announced this collaboration.