iPhone News Blog: Reviews Archives

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Recently Reviewed: Vanquish, CataGugl, AstroRanch, ARGirl and Above & Below

October 14, 2010 4:38 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (3) | Permalink

This set of reviews has been a long time coming...I'm hoping that I'll be able to publish my reviews in a more timely fashion in the future, but for now let's focus on these 5 games.

First up is Gamevil's Vanquish. If you're a fan of RPGs, I'm sure you know that Gamevil also makes Hybrid, Hybrid 2, Zenonia and Zenonia 2...they also make a few baseball titles. In any case, this game is a bit different for Zenonia because there are less RPG elements to it and more button mashing elements to it (at least for me...)

In any case, a game like this one is better explained via video review, so if you're interested, feel free to watch my video review of VANQUISH: The Oath of Brothers

. Also available in a free version if you'd like to try before you buy: VANQUISH: The Oath of Brothers Free

Pioneer Duo Series XW-NAC3-K iPod/iPhone Docking Station

August 9, 2010 12:08 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (2) | Permalink

I'm sitting in my room, writing this review while listening to an internet radio jazz station on Pioneer's new Electronics Duo Series XW-NAC3-K Docking Station for iPod. The NAC3, for short, doesn't just look great, it sounds great too. This sleek speaker system is capped with a sharp looking white plastic deck that allows not one, but two iPods or iPhones to be attached. Blue LCD display along with blue LED accents for the buttons add to the slick details of this sound box. This unit would look right at home on the set of Star Wars with it's cool contemporary looks!

The Pioneer NAC3 is capable of docking, charging and playing two iPod or iPhone devices at once. This means that the NAC3 can shuffle music between the two connected iPod devices. When put into this mode, called Shuffle2, the two iPod/iPhone units play alternately and crossfade between each song. A moment before the end of a track playing on the first iPod/iPhone, the volume is raised on the track that begins to play on the second iPhone/iPod. Now anyone can play DJ with two iPods and be the life of the party!

iPhone App Development: The Missing Manual

August 1, 2010 8:55 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

I've been hoping to learn a little iPhone 4 development for a while now, and this summer I planned to try my hand at learning how to use the iPhone SDK and Objective C. The trouble is, I knew nothing about programing and really didn't know where to start aside from Apple's own documentation.

Luckily the Missing Manual series has just the thing I've been looking for: iPhone App Development: The Missing Manual by Craig Hockenberry, who just so happened to be the developer of Twitteriffic, a very popular Twitter client for the iPhone and iPad. The book promises to help you get to know the tools for developing an iPhone app and takes you through the steps of building one right off the bat. It also dives into the basics of Objective-C and Cocoa Touch as well.

App of the Day: Talking Carl

July 15, 2010 6:57 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

Talking Carl is a silly, fun $.99 iPhone app that features Carl, a lovable, red... ummm... monster? Carl responds in his hilarious voice when you touch him, poke him or tickle him. He also repeats everything you say in his hilarious voice!

While it sounds like a silly app (it is!) it's equally fun to play with and has brought my wife and I a lot of smiles and laughter. It's a great app for kids as well since Carl will answer back every single time.

I had fun trying to get carl to do different things. If you sing to him, he sings everything in his voice. Also, I noticed when switching apps, Carl goes into a spastic mode / time warp. Carls seems to stutter in place while the clouds go flying by! I'm not sure if this was done on purpose or if it's a bug, but I love seeing Carl do that.

Check out a video of Talking Carl after the cut! Talking Carl is just $.99 and available on iTunes.

Voodo - To Do Magic

May 22, 2010 7:58 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

VoodooTodo icon Voodo - Todo Magic is a very simple, yet powerful GTD (Getting Things Done) to do app. Don't let the name fool you though. The magic lies in how simple, easy and intuitive this app is to use.

Taito Corporation's Mikado Defenders Review

May 21, 2010 11:38 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

If you're looking for a fresh spin on the crowded Tower Defense genre, Taito Corporation's Mikado Defenders may be exactly what you're looking for.

In this game, you'll be protecting your castle against wave after wave of demons. In the time that I spent with the game, I found that there was a surprising amount of depth in the game mechanics. Players can:

Fortify their castles
"Call" on Guardian Spirits in a time of desperation
Use Samurai Commanders
and the list goes on...

[App Review] Super 7

May 21, 2010 11:13 AM • by Audra Furuichi • Posted to Reviews | iPhone Apps Comments (0) | Permalink

Good at crunching numbers or really like those Brain Age-type quick math games?

Maybe you're also great at keeping your eye on multiple moving targets and maneuvering them to their proper destination?

Perhaps No Monkeys Super 7 is the game for you!

Collins Machines and Tool Co. Inc's DANGLET

April 26, 2010 7:47 PM • by Audra Furuichi • Posted to Accessories | Reviews Comments (2) | Permalink

Every once in a great while, there is a pretty incredible accessory that comes out that one finds they just cannot live without.

For me, this is Collins Machines and Tool Co,'s Danglet.

It came as a surprise (to me, at least -- one of the other contributors handed it to me for review) in early December. Since unboxing it shortly after, I have been using this thing daily.

Literally.

Office² is Your Google Docs Secret Weapon

April 22, 2010 10:30 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews | iPhone Apps Comments (2) | Permalink

iPhone road warriors who need to access their Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and Microsoft Word documents are often stuck with compromises when it comes to choosing an app that works flawlessly on the iPhone. Many power users choose Google Docs to store and edit all of their spreadsheet and word processing files because the data syncs via Google's cloud whether they are on the desktop or a laptop remotely. While iPhone users could access their Google Documents via the Google webpage, they aren't able to do any sort of real editing... until now. Enter Office² .

Control Your Computer on Your iPhone with VNC Viewer

April 1, 2010 9:53 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

Remote access apps have been out for the iPhone for a while now, but this is really my first experience using them. My job requires that I have access to the various servers that I manage 24/7. In the past when I went on vacation, I've taken my trusty MacBook Pro so that I could always get to my servers through either remote access or via the terminal.

A year ago, during a short jaunt to Maui, I had a problem show up on one of my servers. I was notified via my iPhone that one of the servers was having difficulty, so I fired up my terminal app on my iPhone and was able to gain access. While the terminal app was really helpful and saved the day, it got me thinking that perhaps I should start looking into a remote access/VNC type app for the iPhone.

Chillingo's Cogs Review

February 12, 2010 9:29 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Cogs is a 3D rendition of the classic tile slider puzzle game. Remember those puzzles where you slide the pieces around to compose the picture? Well, Cogs is very reminiscent of that, in fact, I remember when the Mac OS (prior to OS X) used to include a game just like that. Anyway, if you watch my video review, you'll understand how this game is played. It is very challenging but yet keeps you coming back for more.

Make an iPhone app with AppMakr in Just 20 Minutes

February 9, 2010 8:12 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (3) | Permalink

If you've ever wanted to make your own iPhone app for your website or blog, now you can do so pretty easily with AppMakr. All you need to get started is an RSS feed and some graphics for a splash page and an icon for your app.

AppMakr makes creating iPhone and iPod Touch (2nd Generation and up) apps easily. No Cocoa coding knowledge needed. No learning the iPhone SDK either, although getting a Apple Developers Account can help you test your app out before you submit it for publication.

Pinger's TextFree Unlimited SMS Review

November 20, 2009 9:50 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (4) | Permalink

Are you tired of carriers (well, AT&T) charging you some insane monthly fee to get an unlimited amount of text messages? Well, Pinger's TextFree Unlimited application might just be your answer.

TextFree is able to use a phone number or email address to get messages to and from iPhone to iPod Touch. Not only that, all the replies are free.

The developer says that TextFree is:

The fastest and most reliable texting application
Is able to notify you of texts even when you're NOT in the app
Able to assign a different tone to each friend
Able to customize look and feel of chats/conversations
Horizontal keyboards
Emoticon support
Supports many U.S. carriers

My New iPhone: 52 Simple Projects to Get You Started - Book Review

November 19, 2009 9:50 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

I've never been a fan of reading books on any of Apple's devices. I mean I've owned desktops, laptops, and now an iPhone and till this book, I've never had to read a book on how to operate Apple's devices.

However, this book, "My New iPhone: 52 Projects for Every iPhone User" is unlike any other book that I've read and I think the format actually works for me.

My past experiences tell me that I learn best by doing and this book provides that in spades. The 500 pages guide readers through projects that are meaningful, fun and useful at the same time.

Not only does this book feature included applications but it also goes into some of the third party applications and that I found useful too....I really appreciated that this book was up to date (covering up to iPhone OS 3.0, if I'm not mistaken).

iON Universal Mobile Power Bank

November 10, 2009 9:24 AM • by Audra Furuichi • Posted to Accessories | Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

iON - Universal Mobile Power Bank

We've all be told at "great things come in small packages", but upon receiving this particular power bank from iON from FSP Direct, the package itself was the object of admiration!

Chillingo's Horror Racing Review

October 20, 2009 10:28 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

When I was growing up, I played A LOT of video games. Needless to say, one of my favorite video games of all time, was a game called Rock 'N' Roll Racing by Blizzard, Horror Racing

is just like Rock 'N' Roll racing.

In an nutshell, this is a top down racing game where you can blast your opponents with weapons that you find along the racetrack. I guess its sorta like Super Mario Kart, but from a top-down perspective. Can you tell that I really enjoyed this game, maybe I'm a little biased but I think that this game just nails the gameplay head-on.

The IconFactory & DS MediaLabs Ramp Champ Review

October 19, 2009 10:16 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

I have been eagerly awaiting this game. I've heard and read all about Ramp Champ

before it was published to the AppStore and when it came out I eagerly watched to see how people reacted to it. All the reviewers had very good things to say about it and all cited the high quality graphics and playability.

With that in mind, I'd like to say that Ramp Camp lives up to all the hype and is well worth the wait. After the initial purchase, users are greeted with four different "ramps." The four ramps are: Clown Town, Breakwater Bay, Icon Garden & Space Swarm.

YACA: Yet Another Camera App: Snapture

October 14, 2009 11:00 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (2) | Permalink

There are a ton of apps that take advantage of the iPhone's built-in camera. There was a lot of hype surrounding the release of Snapture so we decided to take a look and see how this camera app compared to the standard camera app that already comes with the iPhone.

We gave a demo copy to our good friend Mr. Lee who did a lot of testing and had this to say:

In reviewing and critiquing Snapture I needed to realize a few things. First, I needed to understand that a cell phone camera was not meant to be a replacement or the equal to a digital cameral. Second, I'm an old guy and don't like taking pictures of myself by holding the camera a foot away from my face. Okay, with those caveats, here goes:

Gamevil's Hybrid: Eternal Whisper RPG Review

October 14, 2009 10:29 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Gamevil is quickly becoming one of MY favorite game publishers. I feel they are off to a great start with their porting of RPGs to the iPhone...originally, they arrived on the scene with Zenonia, the awesome RPG i reviewed here. But, this review isn't about Zenonia, but rather an action/adventure RPG called Hybrid: Eternal Whisper

. I think that for the most part, Hybrid can be classified as an sort of a side scroller with RPG elements (weapon/armor/skill upgradeability.)

If i'm not mistaken Hybrid: Eternal Whisper was created the ground up for the iphone OS and it's amazing multi-touch capabilities. Not only do you slash at enemies using special button combinations, you can also "draw" spells on the screen to activate powers such as fire, wind and gravity to name a few.

Whatsapp Inc. Whatsapp Messenger

October 13, 2009 7:58 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

For some time now, I've been looking for an app to be written that was similar to the BlackBerry messenger but for the iPhone. In fact, it was one of my project ideas when I was starting to learn Objective-C. In any case, Whatsapp

has provided iPhone users with an app that provides just that; a direct messaging network that is exclusive to iPhone users.

Whatsapp makes use of the iPhone's built in Addressbook as a cross-reference to see if any of your contacts are using whatsapp. If they are, the people are instantly added to your whatsapp contact list. There is an upside and downside to this as 1) you need to know your contact's phone number BUT the feature comes in VERY handy because there is almost ZERO configuration when it comes to finding your friends.

Chillingo's Defender Chronicles - Legend of the Desert King

October 7, 2009 7:15 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

Review note:

At the time of this review, Defender Chronicles is on sale in the iTunes AppStore for $3.99; that's a 20% discount from the normal price.

Defender Chronicles is, in it's most basic gameplay design a tower defense game...However, where it differentiates itself is in the fact that it allows you to upgrade your hero character and give him/her more armor/weapons/abilities.

If you've been watching the AppStore, you'll notice that Defender Chronicles has been amongst the top games and with good reason...the graphics are top notch and the gameplay is easy to pick up and put down in a pinch.

Lingopal Holdings Lingopal - Fun Multilingual Phrasebook Review

October 5, 2009 6:59 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

Lingopal's Fun Multilingual Phrasebook

is a fun little app that will give you access to commonly used phrases in over 44 languages. It is however not meant to be used as a comprehensive dictionary by any means.

The application takes into account your native language and the language that you want to hear the phrase in. That's right, you read that right, the application will "speak" your phrase for you with the correct foreign inflection and pronunciation. No more bungled pronunciations and taking a chance that you might be saying something sillier than you originally meant...that alone is worth the $10 in my book.

I'm not sure if I'd rely on this application if I didn't know how to speak a foreign language at all, but it does come in handy for a quick reference and it does include over 900 phrases.

Shape Services IM+ Review

September 29, 2009 8:52 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

One of the most comprehensive all in one instant messenger apps for the iphone is the IM+

from Shape Services. In a nutshell, this little program can login to these following services:

Twitter
Skype
Facebook
MySpace
GoogleTalk
Yahoo
MSN
AIM
ICQ
and Jabber

Overall, this program is pretty straightforward and if you have accounts is more than one of these services, an application like this one makes a LOT of sense. Additionally, this app features in-app purchasing with speech recognition available as a download.

Gamevil's Zenonia RPG Review

September 28, 2009 7:28 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

In my opinion, Zenonia

by Gamevil has to be one of the BEST action RPG games in the iTunes AppStore to date. At $2.99 this game has amazing replay value and longevity. You can play as up to three different character classes and choose between good and evil.

So far I've played about 50 hours and I think the closest game that describes the gameplay is Zelda or Secret of Mana. I know what you're thinking, it's a tall order and yes it is. I have to say in my opinion, Zenonia delivers on all fronts.

FolderBuddy Review

August 28, 2009 10:17 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

If you've ever wanted to add, edit or delete folders on your IMAP email account, FolderBuddy

is the application for you. FolderBuddy is an invaluable too for folder editing of MobileMe, Gmail, Yahoo and AIM accounts.

The other interesting aspect of FolderBuddy is that it has a clean, easy to use AND understand interface along with iPhone-specific functions (like shake to refresh & swipe to delete).

iPwr SuperPack Follow-up Review

August 21, 2009 7:57 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (5) | Permalink

The iPhone is a terrific device, when it was introduced two years ago, it brought desktop internet browsing experience to a "phone-sized" device. Additionally, it could also check mail, tell you where you were (via GPS) and even watch YouTube videos. Ah, yes who could forget the ability to make and take phone calls.

However, the one of the major problems the device had was a terrible battery life. What you really come to learn quickly is that the problem with good all-in-one devices is that if you don't manage your power consumption correctly, you'll find phone/device out of power in no time...Play a game here, there, check email, surf a few sites and Voila you're down to 20% battery remaining and it's only 10:30 a.m.

Qik Finally Available in the iTunes AppStore - Albeit Crippled

August 14, 2009 8:32 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

Qik has unofficially been available on the iPhone since the 1st generation iPhone debuted in July 2007. Fast forward two years and the app is now "official," but crippled in the sense that live streaming has been disabled.

One of the reasons live streaming has been disabled is because AT&T's Terms of Service (TOS), especially when it comes to the iPhone prohibits the uploading of live video. The other reason was, prior to the 3GS, the iPhone didn't have the video recording capability...the only way versions prior to the 3GS were able to do it was via a hack made possible by Jailbreaking.

Aliph's Jawbone Prime Unboxing

August 13, 2009 7:30 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Accessories | Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

Although the first generation iPhone supported Bluetooth headsets in 2007, I feel that the technology is only now making its way into the mainstream market.

A lot of factors have contributed to the acceptance of these hands-free devices, among the reasons, the most probably are: 1) it's against the law to talk on your cellphone/mobile device directly and 2) the earpieces have gotten smaller more stylish.

SwitchEasy Colors for the iPhone 3G/3GS

August 10, 2009 10:09 PM • by Audra Furuichi • Posted to Accessories | Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

SwitchEasy Colors for the iPhone 3G/3Gs

Despite the iPhone's sleek and smooth design, one thing is for certain. It's not made for a klutz like me. I cannot count the number of times it has dropped from my hand, bags, lap... I'm duly surprised that it has managed thus far without anything more than one "dent" and a few minor scratches.

Upon the recommendation of a fashion savvy friend, I decided to check out SwitchEasy's "Colors" line of silicone cases. They not only came in a line of fashion forward colors (with equally appealing names like "Stealth", "Milk", "Truffle", and "Citrus") but included a revolutionary new feature: the world's first hard resin "Jelly Bean" tactile button.

So durable, fashionable, and innovative -- but how does it rate?

Chillingo's The Quest - 3D Fantasy RPG Review

August 10, 2009 7:25 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Miss the old days of the Dungeons & Dragons dungeon crawler? With The Quest - 3D Fantasy RPG

, you'll be able to hack, slash and interact with virtual characters for over 50 hours of gameplay.

I was amazed by the 3D graphics engine and even more so when I realized that I was playing this game on a phone. I was able to choose between 5 races, an array of skills, attributes, weapons, armor and other skills.

MEDIA [1fourFIVE] RecordStudio Pro Review

August 6, 2009 9:37 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

The iPhone is just an amazing device whose functionality doesn't cease to amaze me. Case in point, have a look at RecordStudio Pro

, the ONLY multi-track audio recording app for the iPhone.

This app give you the ability to record and mix up to four tracks. Not only that, the application has a built in metronome and is also able to either use imported tracks or tracks provided by the seller.

After you're done, RecordStudio Pro makes it easy to transfer the completed files to your computer via wifi. Mixing and editing can now be truly done anywhere.

iPhone Instant Messaging Application

August 5, 2009 3:20 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Agile Messenger is one of the pioneers in the mobile IM market and I have been using it on my Symbian and Windows Mobile devices long before the invasion of the iPhone legions. So when I heard that it was available for the iPhone, I jumped onto the band wagon and what I saw didn't disappoint.

Its features include:

Always-on connectivity
IM to email forwarding to notify you of incoming IM messages
Voice Messaging
Picture Messaging
Portrait and landscape mode keyboard
Side swipe navigation through chats

The Feel Good factor

A Messenger is a Messenger - Connect and Communicate, right? Wrong! There is always a feel good factor involved with Apps that last as long as Agile Messenger in the Mobile IM market. For Agile Messenger it is their award winning interface that has won over many fans since its launch back in the pre-Google / iPhone days.

Agile Messenger has Tabs for virtual socialites like myself so that I may switch between conversations easily. Just tap on the conversation tab or just swipe sideways to move forward and back through them, easy!

The Voice and Picture Messaging Features also brings Messaging to the next level allowing me to share pictures and voice messages with colleagues and friends everywhere with a click and tap.

Summary

Overall, the folks at Agile Messenger did not disappoint. Connecting and communicating was a breeze and the interface made it a pleasure to chat. If there is a Messenger that you need, this is it.

Agile Messenger is available in the App Store for $9.99.

Konami's Silent Scope Review

August 4, 2009 8:01 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

One of the cult video game hits of the 80's was a game called Silent Scope

...Basically a shooter on rails, this game relied heavily on 3D graphics and a unique fake-rifle shackled to the game cabinet.

This combination proved to be a winning combination as it quickly became an arcade hit. In any case, the story features you as a sniper and involves you trying to rescue the President and his family from the hands of terrorists.

Konami's Metal Gear Solid Touch Review

August 3, 2009 10:23 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

With 50+ million iPhone OS units out there, it's no wonder that arcade giant Konami Digital Entertainment has chosen to grace the iPhone with their amazing games...So far in the AppStore, we've seen Metal Gear Touch

, Silent Scope, Dance Dance Revolution, Silent Hill and Frogger just to name a few...

This particular game offers a fresh, unique take on the touch-shooting experience. Zoom around the screen using pinch and zooming gestures while tapping the screen to shoot targets.

[App Review] Taito's WaterWays

July 27, 2009 12:01 AM • by Audra Furuichi • Posted to Reviews | iPhone Apps Comments (0) | Permalink

So, the Caretaker 3000 has sprung a leak. It's a dirty job, but someone's gotta fix it!

Taito's latest release, WaterWays

, is an innovative puzzle game, and apparently a winner at the Japan GameJam 2008 competition!

It's your job to play a cute boxy cow named "Patch" whose job it is to keep the world from flooding. Daunting as it may seem, the concept is pretty simple. Navigate Patch around the WaterWays world by pressing the screen in the direction you'd like him to move. There will inevitably be obstacles of all sorts that will make Patch's journey a little more difficult - be it height differences in the land, geese, rams, pistons, or just plain water.

Chillingo's Knights Onrush Review

July 2, 2009 2:42 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

From the publishers of great games such as Toki Tori, The Quest, CS.One, Zen Bound, SpIn and many many more, comes the next big "easy to pick up and put down" game, Knights Onrush

. Knights Onrush is on sale now in the AppStore for $.99 or 80% off their normal price.

The game is an addictively simple concept...using your fingers, defend the castle gates using finger flicks, dragon sacrifices, boulders, fireballs and flamethrowers just to name a few...

Juugari's Jaadu RDP/VNC Review

June 29, 2009 9:49 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

With Jugaari's iPhone apps JaaduRDP

and JaaduVNC

, your desktop or laptop computer is never too far away. Imagine being able to remotely connect to your computer anywhere and anytime. Have you ever forgotten to send a file or an email only to remember once you arrived at your destination? Well, JaaduRDP and JaaduVNC may be the answer to your needs.

Now for a little bit of background: RDP or Remote Desktop Protocol is the method that is used to remotely control Windows-based computers. When you login using RDP, the computer will log any existing users out and allow the RDPer access the system. VNC or Virtual Network Computer is the protocol that allows you to log in to a remote computer while another user is using the computer and control the screen while they use it...Both methods do similar things but take different approaches.

Jaybird Stereo Bluetooth Headphones Review

June 27, 2009 11:10 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (3) | Permalink

I've been in the market for a pair of Stereo Bluetooth headphones..I've looked at and read reviews on headsets by Sony Ericsson, LG, Motorola, Nokia and many many more. I'm looking for something that I can use to listen to music and take calls at the same time, I don't want to be swapping out my headset for a particular function...I just want one headset to rule them all...

That said, I thought that the Jaybird Stereo Bluetooth headset was just what I wanted...they seemed to be the answer to all my wants in a headset: sweatproof, nice looking, reasonable, long-lasting batterywise and so on.

Second Gear's FitnessTrack

June 22, 2009 9:49 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Ever wanted an app to keep track of your workouts and what you've done on certain days? Well, FitnessTrack

is your answer...All you need to do is program the application for your needs and it will track your progress.

FitnessTrack includes an impressive 60 professionally designed exercises AND the ability to create your own workouts. You can write notes, track progress, attach them to certain dates and even mail yourself of someone your workouts/routines...

Apex Design's Payback Review

June 19, 2009 5:32 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

When Payback

was released for the iPhone, I couldn't believe my eyes...Apex Designs had brought an excellent Grand Theft Auto clone to the iPhone/iTouch platform...I mean can you believe it, I am now able to play Grand Theft Auto on my phone. Simply Amazing...

If you're a fan of the Grand Theft Auto series or genre type of games, you owe it to yourself to check this game out. It features 11 huge 3-D environments, great HDR lighting effects (shadows, blooms, etc.), many types of vehicles, weapons and many many missions. To make it even better, it has an auto-save system, so whenever you exit the program, your progress is saved.

Steph Thirion's Eliss Review

June 18, 2009 5:51 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

When I first came upon this game, it seemed to have some sort of cult-like status/following to it and that's what drew me in and peaked my curiosity.

In any case, the basic premise to Eliss

is simple...However, don't let that fool you...the execution and gameplay is complex and deeply satisfying.

Utilizing Apple's multi-touch technology, you need to either join or break apart solid shaded circles so that they fit into hollow circles. It might sound confusing at first, but once you watch my video, you'll understand what the concept is.

Chillingo's Zen Bound

June 16, 2009 5:15 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

One of MY most anticipated games this year was Zen Bound

. When I saw the preview movies of this game, I noticed how incredible the 3-D graphics and controls were. Taken from the publisher's description of the game: "Zen Bound is a calm and meditative puzzle game about wrapping wooden sculptures with rope." They go on to call it, "A game in which a high score is not the goal - instead it is something to focus on and enjoy at your own relaxed pace."

Illusion Labs Sway Review

June 14, 2009 4:33 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Sway

is an amazing 3-D platformer where you, as Lizzie must use your swinging skills to save your friends while avoiding obstacles likes spikes and rotating barriers. What makes this game challenging is the way in which you need glide your fingers across your iPhone or iTouch in order to make the characters move. The right part of the screen controls the right and and the left side of the screen controls the left hand...It's really hard to explain but is easier to see in the video provided...Here's a hint: you must gently and patiently move your thumbs left and right to get the timing down right

Advanced Preview of Chillingo's CS.One - Circuit Strike One

June 4, 2009 10:32 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (3) | Permalink

I have to admit something...Normally, I'm not one to really get into Asteroids-type games, but I feel that Chillingo's CS.One has hit their marks on almost all areas.

Let's start with the premise of the game...It's simple enough: 1) Destroy the power core 2) Destroy the Data Core 3) and above all else SURVIVE.

SlingPlayer Mobile Appears in AppStore

May 15, 2009 7:03 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

On Wednesday, after what seemed to be forever in the techworld, Sling Media's SlingPlayer

appeared in the iTunes AppStore. And, although the hotly anticipated app does allows users to watch TV over the internet, it does come at a heavy cost to the network and the wallet.

First off, before we go into details on what exactly this application will allow you to do, let's discuss some of the caveats of this long-awaited application.

[Review] Credit Card Transactions on your iPhone with iSwipe

May 5, 2009 9:11 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (10) | Permalink

If you've ever gone into the Apple Store (who hasn't?), you've seen that many of the employees have mobile checkout capability. Using a Windows Mobile based system, the Apple Store employee can charge your credit card and even email the receipt to you. I surmised that Apple has been forced to use the Windows Mobile based system because at the time they didn't have a portable device to do the transactions. With the iPhone / iPod Touch, those days may be over. Enter iSwipe Credit Card Terminal

technoBox Brings Roland 303, 808 and 909 sounds to iPhone

April 23, 2009 1:52 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews | iPhone Apps Comments (1) | Permalink

When I was a teenager I saw a guy named Bob Kilpatrick perform on stage at a youth camp I was at. He had only his acoustic guitar and two little silver plastic machines that he called his backup band. One of the machines I was familiar with was the Roland TR-606 drummatix drum machine. I knew about it because one of my friends had one and I had lots of fun programming drum patterns on it so we could jam to them when we played guitar. The other box was a Roland TB-303 which is highly sought after and revered as THE "acid" techno groove box to have. Both of these analog rhythm boxes gave me my first taste of playing with electronic music machines.

The TB-303 would later become very valuable. I've seen some of these things priced at $2500+ to this day! I suppose the reason for the demand is that these are classic analog synths and those sounds are wonderful to those in the know. When I saw that Audiorealism had released technoBox , complete with TB-303 and the ultra-popular TR-808 and 909 drum sounds and a built-in sequencer, I knew I had to try it out. I'd love to have those three rhythm machines right in my pocket to play with at any time!

[App Review] TAITO's Cooking Mama

April 22, 2009 8:31 AM • by Audra Furuichi • Posted to Reviews | iPhone Apps Comments (18) | Permalink

TAITO, a Japanese company famous for numerous arcade classics, has finally ported one of their most successful games to the iPhone - Cooking Mama

Don't know how to cook? Don't worry! Mama will teach you - and it's easy as 1-2-3!

[App Review] TAITO's Cameltry

April 21, 2009 8:35 AM • by Audra Furuichi • Posted to Reviews | iPhone Apps Comments (0) | Permalink

TAITO's Cameltry was originally released as both an arcade game and platform game for the Super Famicom in Japan in 1989, better known as "On the Ball" as it was released here in the US in 1992. An updated version was released a few years ago and now there's a brand new version - just for the iPhone!

The concept is simple, rotate a labyrinth board around a moving ball, collect artifacts and reach the goal. Sounds simple enough, right? It's a lot tougher than it sounds!

[App Review] VelaClock

April 21, 2009 8:03 AM • by Audra Furuichi • Posted to Reviews | iPhone Apps Comments (0) | Permalink

For the avid photographer, lighting is key to getting the perfect shot - especially when one contends with nature. However, nature may not be as totally unpredictable as we may think.

Vela Design Group come up with an all-in-one app that allows you to hold time in your hands - Vela Clock

It's a world clock, yes - but it does so much more!

Aragom Space War Review

April 13, 2009 9:50 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

When Stairways software announced that they had released an iPhone application called Aragom Space War that was reminiscent of the original TRS-80 Star Trek game, I was quite excited to try it out. I remember playing the game during my high school years and loving every minute of it. Stairways was kind enough to allow me to review their app and so I took some time to really get to know the game and see how it stacks up to the original.

4 Track Recording for the iPhone with Four Track

April 2, 2009 10:17 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (5) | Permalink

When I was in highschool, I saved all of my money to buy a Tascam 4 track portastudio so I could learn how to record my own songs. One of my friends had one and was creating some really cool music using it. Buying that 4 track machine was my first real adventure into jotting down musical ideas and working on individual arrangements with sound. Everything was recorded onto affordable cassette tape utilizing the 4 channels of the tape in one direction (hence 4 tracks). I learned so much about recording audio and it made me a better guitar player. It was money well spent.

Fast-forward to today: digital recording is everywhere. No longer are we confined to the analog limitations and 4 tracks has been replaced by 16 tracks minimum and unlimited tracks if you desire. Many recording studios take the form of a Mac or PC and a I/O box that converts the analog audio signal to digital. Most of the time, these setups require a lot of time and effort to set up... no where near as easy as my old 4 track analog recorder. Even the portable recorders aren't really all that portable. Most are the sizes of a small box and still require AC power.

Skype for iPhone Appears in AppStore 1 Day Early

March 31, 2009 6:39 AM • by R. Look • Posted to News | Reviews Comments (3) | Permalink

Loyal Skype users rejoiced yesterday when the official Skype client for iPhone became available in the AppStore yesterday afternoon HST. Skype if you weren't aware is a Voice Over IP (VOIP) service that allows users to place phone calls for free over the internet.

Although there were other iPhone apps that allow you to use Skype's services, this is the company's official client. In addition to being able to place calls via WiFi, there is also an included IM chat feature included, similar to what is available in the desktop client.

Tapinoma SAS EasyContact Review

March 30, 2009 6:15 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Have you ever needed a quick and easy way to transfer your contact information from your iPhone to another iPhone user? Well, EasyContact

might just be the app you're looking for.

Not only does EasyContact send your contact information to iPhone and iTouch devices, it can send your information (business card, vCard or any other contact information) to any email account.

CoreCase Aluminum Slider for iPhone 3G 1-Month Long-term Review

March 23, 2009 7:10 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

I have a confession to make, I'm always searching for a better case for my iPhone 3G. At times, I find myself being obsessive...not wanting a case to be too thick, too thin, rubbery or not too rubbery...and to top it off, I like change.

I've tried sliders, shell-like back protectors, skins and every one of them has good and bad features. Then, in my relentless pursuit of a case, out of nowhere, comes the CoreCase Aluminum slider.

Evangelion Vol. 2 Clock & Vol. 3 Stamp Review

March 16, 2009 10:11 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Fans of the hit Japanese anime series Evangelion can now enjoy the world of Evangelion on their iPhones with these two applications from Appliya.

The first application that I'm reviewing is the Evangelion Vol. 2 Clock app

. Now you can pull out your iPhone and impress your friends with this Evangelion-inspired clock. Imagine yourself at the NERV headquarters watching the time countdown. Also included in this app is a timer mode with authentic sounds and all.

Big Stone Phone's Twittlelator Pro ver. 1.6.2

March 13, 2009 6:25 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

In my opinion, one of the premier Twitter applications for the iPhone is an application developed by Stone Designs called Twittlelator Pro

. Twittlelator Pro, developed by Andrew Stone is a full-featured twitter client that brings desktop quality features to a mobile application.

I posted a vid review on YouTube on the previous version of Twittlelator Pro, however I wasn't able to complete my written review in time and ver. 2.0 has arrived in the AppStore. I will be sure to follow-up my vid review with a new one to cover the features in version 2.0.

NatsuLion for iPhone Review

March 12, 2009 8:16 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

From developer Takuma Mori comes a lightweight, fast and simple twitter client called NatsuLion. I have had NatsuLion on my iPhone on and off since I got it but depending on the situation, I like to fire it up. For example, if I want to do a quick post or see who I need to reply to, I may fire up NatsuLion especially if I have limited time.

The clean interface and shake to go fullscreen are just some of the features that make it stand out in the crowded twitter app arena.

Watch my video after the jump.

Beejive, Inc. BeejiveIM Review

March 4, 2009 8:14 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

One of the more noticeably missing applications from Apple's wunderphone, the iPhone is a solid instant messenger client. Thankfully, since the iPhone SDK was released, third-party developers have more than stepped to the plate and provided iPhone owners with an dizzying array of options.

In any case, today's review features the excellent, full-featured BeejiveIM.app

for the iPhone. Beejive Inc., the developer of this instant messenger aggregator for the iPhone has put a lot of thought into this application and has packed many iPhone-friendly features into it.

Yelp Review

March 3, 2009 5:49 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

For fans of location-based (GPS) restaurant and business finder applications, Yelp

is one of the more polished apps available in the Apple iTunes AppStore. This program works best with the iPhone 3G although I'm pretty sure it works with first generation iPhones and iTouches. If I'm incorrect, please let me know.

Oceanit Labs iFu Kung Fu App Review

March 2, 2009 5:54 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Did you enjoy the iPhone's lightsaber app and are you a fan of badly dubbed kung fu movies? Well, who isn't! Now you can relive your favorite kung fu movies with iFu

. Punching, kicking and taunting sounds are all included. If you aren't downloading it in iTunes yet, we've included a video demonstration to show you how this app works. Video after the jump.

Sudobility Air Photo Wifi Review

February 19, 2009 6:39 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Have you ever wanted to print a picture from your iphone without hooking it up to your computer? Well, Air Photo Wifi is the answer and a very good one at that...With Air Photo, you'll be able to print to your networked printer as long as you have the server application installed on your desktop or laptop machine.

Worldwide Coin Toss Review

February 18, 2009 5:59 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Chocolate or Vanilla ice cream? Burger King or McDonalds...Worldwide Coin Toss (WCT) aims to help you make those tough decisions in life by randomly or NOT falling on heads or tails. Worldwide Coin Toss simulates the tossing of a real coin, except you have a choice of coins from over 19 countries...not to mention that all those coins would be really heavy to carry around.

[Review] FL!P

February 4, 2009 12:01 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews | iPhone Apps Comments (0) | Permalink

In this full edition of the FLIP family, eBattalion has included their free "FL!P Lite"

as well as their 99 cent app, "FLIP! Puzzle"

, and a nice extra stage for good measure.

Not familiar with FL!P?

In short, FL!P utilizes the iPhone's accelerometer to push blocks around the board. The blocks will move until they hit either a wall or an obstacle. The goals are different per stage - I'll detail them below.

Newtonica2 & Newtonica2 Resort Review

February 3, 2009 9:45 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Well, that lovable space duck is back in Newtonica2 and Newtonica2 Resort, this time in his own game. These two games are $.99 in the AppStore and the object of the game is to get the space duck from one side of the screen to the next. All you need to do is avoid the enemy spheres while floating through space powered by sonic waves generated by spheres placed strategically around the map. On the way to your goal (the blue vortex), you can pick up donuts and even bounce of your friendly spheres....It's a really fun and challenging game at the same time.

Michael Krause's TiltShift Review

January 26, 2009 9:06 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

I have to admit, I'm a bit of a photo buff. Even though I don't have expensive cameras anymore, at one time, I was into 35 mm SLRs and buying lenses. In any case, one of the "effects" that I've always been intrigued by is the "tilt shift" effect.

Basically, as the name implies, the trick involves a rotation of the lens (tilt) PLUS moving of the lens (shift). In any case, the end result is a photo that has a very shallow depth of field...In other words, tilt shifting a photo will cause it to look like a miniature.

Tweetie ver.1.2 Review

January 21, 2009 6:43 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

When atebits' Tweetie entered the iPhone AppStore in Nov. 2008, it was well-received by iPhone owners because they liked it's clean and easy to navigate iChat-like interface. Now with it's latest release (ver. 1.2), tweetie adds a lot of new features to an already solid feature set.

Some of the new notable features in this build that I like are:

Addition of the Popularity Enhancer (Fart sounds upon tweet swiping & Flashlight functionality)
Capability to search for fellow twitterers around you (using the iPhone's GPS)
Ability to choose between chat bubbles or standard text interface
Ability to change the tweet font size
Image compression slider
Instapaper integration
and Landscape keyboard...just to name a few

Where to Golf Review

January 20, 2009 5:55 AM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (2) | Permalink

If you do a lot of travelling and find yourself constantly searching for the nearest golf course, Carpe Diem Venture "Where to Golf" may just be that iphone app that you're looking for. As I mentioned in the vid review, Where to Golf contains a database of over 19,000 golf courses in the United States.

Using the built in GPS of the iPhone, Where to Golf is able to tell you how far the nearest course is to your present location. Other useful information such as a website link, green fees are included if the course has provided them.

Dropship Review

January 19, 2009 3:08 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

If you enjoy space/shooter-type games, you'll be pleasantly surprised with NGMoco's Dropship. The gameplay is challenging yet easy enough to pick up for the casual gamer. The object of the game is to navigate around the map while picking up passengers and packages. While it seems easy enough, add complex maps and enemy fire to the mix and you'll soon find yourself coming back for more.

One of the first things off the bat you'll notice about Dropship are the wonderfully stylized retro graphics. The other thing that distinguishes Dropship from other similar titles is in the way that the ship is controlled. The ships thrust is controlled by your left thumb and the ship's cannons are controlled by your right thumb. It does take some getting use to, but in the end I really feel that the control scheme works. I must admit that the first few rounds I played were painful.

Touch Physics Review

January 15, 2009 10:01 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

As the AppStore matures and developers get familiar with the SDK, the quality of the games available have just been improving by leaps and bounds. Like some of the other games I've been reviewing as of late, Touch Physics is a well-polished game that has a simple concept: move/nudge the circle with shapes that you draw on the screen so that it touches the star.

The challenge comes in when obstacles/hills and other drawn-in environments get in the way. There are 30 levels and the game gets progressively harder. For a better explanation of how the game works, have a look at my video:

I strongly recommend this game to anyone who likes puzzles and needs a game they can pick up and put down at a moments notice. Have a look, it's on sale now for $.99.

Newtonica Review

January 14, 2009 5:32 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (2) | Permalink

One of the first apps I ever owned on the iPhone was an app called Newtonica. Newtonica was released on August 25, 2008 and it's a pretty simple game. It got great reviews in Japan so I wanted to see what it was all about...Basically you use the touch screen to move a three-dimensional sphere around to "catch" falling blocks. The game is simple in design and takes some time to ramp up. I played it a lot and still go back to it once in a while but the soundtrack is great. It's a pretty good deal if you like these type of puzzle games. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants a solid grade A game. Buy it now from the iTunes app Store for $4.99

Thanks and watch my short video review below:

Easy Wi-Fi for AT&T iPhone App Review

January 9, 2009 6:27 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

Over the next few days, I'm going to go through my list of favorite iPhone apps. First on my list is Devicescape's Easy Wi-Fi for AT&T iPhones. The premise of this iPhone app is very simple: It logs you into any AT&T hosted wi-fi hotspot location and it does it really fast too!

Subatomic Studios' Fieldrunners is a Solid, Must-Have Tower Defense Game

December 28, 2008 8:33 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews | iPhone Apps Comments (0) | Permalink

In the relatively short time that the Apple iTunes AppStore has been online, there has been an amazing number of "tower defense" games...At last count, I think there was at least three different ones that I knew of, including one from Square Enix.

In any case, one of the more popular games currently available is FieldRunners by Subatomic studios. If you don't know the premise for tower defense games, it's pretty simple: prevent the onslaught of enemies from reaching the other side...(i know it sounds like a bad chicken crossing the street joke)

NGMoco's iPhone Game Rolando a Must Buy

December 22, 2008 3:44 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

With the release of Rolando in the iTunes AppStore about two weeks ago, NGMoco has shown that the iPhone/iTouch platform can be a serious contender in the competitive handheld gaming market.

Rolando features 36 levels over four different environments, each with interactive environments that either you can manipulate directly or indirectly. iPhone features such as multi-touch, tilt-controls and physics can be used to move the Rolandos. For a more detailed explanation, watch our short video demonstration after the break.

Ocarina Review: A Real Musical Instrument for the iPhone

December 5, 2008 7:58 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

When the app store first launched, there were a pretty nice variety of beat box / drum machine type apps. Some of them good, some not so good. Then I started seeing a few keyboard based synths that used the iPhone's touch screen and had some really great sound. But to take things to the next level, Smule developed Ocarina, an actual instrument you can blow into on your iPhone.

Back in the 80's when the synthesizer was were gaining popularity was the first time I had ever seen a wind controlled synthesizer. Basically, it allows the musician to use any synthesized sound and control it using their own breath, just like a real wood wind instrument. I never dreamt that this technology would be found in the phone that I carry around in my pocket! Enter Ocarina from Smule.

FotoTimer iPhone App Review

December 4, 2008 11:07 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (2) | Permalink

While the Apple iPhone doesn't have the worlds best camera, it takes decent photos and I do use it quite often. It's also very frustrating as there are absolutely no controls for the camera except orientation and the ability to snap the photo. What is especially frustrating is that it's sometimes impossible to hold the camera steady and press the shutter button to take a photo in bad lighting conditions. Pressing the shutter button causes the camera to shake, and I end up having to retake the photo over and over again.

Well there's an iPhone app out called FotoTimer that can help solve that problem for you! FotoTimer is a replacement for Apple's built in camera that allows you to have a timer that automatically activates the shutter. FotoTimer allows you to choose the duration of time before it releases the shutter, and this allows you to hold the camera steady for a perfect shot!

[Reviews] Speck Fitted and SwitchWay Cases for iPhone 3G

December 3, 2008 6:35 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

Finding the perfect case for a iPhone is like finding the perfect pair of pants - it has to fit right and should match one's lifestyle.

Speck, a well-known accessories company here in the US has released a few noteworthy cases - the "Fitted" 3G case and the "SwitchWay" 3G case. Both styles came in a rather cute "milk box" style box with see-thru sections to get a good feel of the item's size. The "Fitted" boxes even came with a fabric swatch on the front of the box to preview the item's feel. The boxes open neatly with snaps on the top and the interiors slide out.

Finally! Crystal Quest for iPhone

November 27, 2008 3:38 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews | iPhone Apps Comments (0) | Permalink

I've been waiting.

Waiting and hoping for someone... anyone to port Crystal Quest to the iPhone. I'd search for it almost everyday in the iTunes App Store but nothing even close was introduced. Well the wait finally ended!

Crystal Quest [click takes you to iTunes Store] by Hands-On Mobile is here and I couldn't be happier.

[Reviews] Wireless Ground iPhone 3G Cradle

October 18, 2008 1:48 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (2) | Permalink

For those who regularly sync their iPhones to their computers for updates or the occasional recharge, having a cradle is a must. Sure, it's easy enough to just link via the USB cable, but having a designated spot to rest the phone is a real advantage. Instead of laying your phone down on your table where it's prone to scratches and getting lost in the clutter, prop it up where you can see it.

InspireTech iPhone 3G Full Protector Case

October 11, 2008 5:42 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

I've been looking for a good non-invasive case for my iPhone 3G ever since I got it. Since I had a first generation iPhone and had gone through a lot of cases, I already knew what I wanted, so when I came across the InspireTech Full Protector Case, I realized that this case was really close to what I wanted.

The case that I bought was the red case and its constructed out of two hard pieces of plastic with a felt lining on the back to minimize scratches to your iPhone. There are cut outs for the volume, the headset jack and the on/off button, not to mention the camera. In any case, when you slip the case on, I really liked how it didn't really get in the way of the bezel. Other cases I've tried would get in the way of the bezel and block my typing as I got closer to the edge. This case really hit the spot with the right combination of protection and access. I also have to add that the fit of this case is pretty good and doesn't have any noticeable warping.

That said, I'd like to leave you with some photos for some impressions of your own...Enjoy!

Overall, we like this case and if you'd like to check it out for yourself, head on over to InspireTech's website.

Ilium eWallet Review

August 27, 2008 4:11 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews | iPhone Apps Comments (1) | Permalink

Many of us would love an easy way to keep track of our credit cards, passwords and serial numbers on the go. There have been many times that I've needed access to a serial number during a software install at my job, but I end up writing it down on a piece of paper because storing it on my iPhone in the Notes app isn't an option. It's just too insecure!

Well the folks of Ilium software have brought eWallet to the iPhone. Ilium software is no stranger to the mobile application market as they've released a bunch of cool apps for Palm and Windows OS. I've been using eWallet for a few weeks now and I'll give you a quick overview of the app.

Kensington Mini Battery Extender and Charger Review

August 25, 2008 10:32 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (2) | Permalink

I've had the Kensington Mini Battery Extender and Charger since the first week I had my iPhone 3G and it's become a very handy accessory for me. There are many ways to save battery life on the iPhone 3G and first generation iPhone, but lets face it: eventually, you will have a day where you've used all of your iPhone's juice and you'll have no way to plug it in to recharge. Apple's design doesn't allow for a user replaceable battery, so until they design an iPhone with one, this is probably one of your best bets.

[Reviews] JAVOedge iPhone Bottom Covers

July 13, 2008 8:00 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

JAVOEdge Rubberized Bottom Cover

JAVOEdge Leather Wrapped Bottom Cover

JAVOEdge Embossed Leather Bottom Cover

When all iPhones look pretty much alike on the outside, one does what they can to customize theirs to their liking. (Or at least I do.) With a huge variety of styles and types to choose from, I found my preferences ran towards the cases that felt that they either protect my phone from potential drops or easy to attach and are seamless.

iPhone 3G Unboxing Photos

July 11, 2008 5:27 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to News | Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

So I got up at 5:30 am and got down to the AT&T Store down the street at 6 am. There was a small line of 17 people there. My wife and I were numbers 18 & 19. Before I could blink there was a line going around the parking lot of at least 100 or so people. Luckily we got there early enough to wait in the shade.

We got into the store at 8:20 am and were out by 8:35 am. I dropped my wife off and headed to work. I took these photos of the iPhone being unboxed while at work.

[Review] BoxWave FlexiSkin Nintendo DS Lite - Frost Clear

April 22, 2008 12:42 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

[Review] BoxWave FlexiSkin Nintendo DS Lite - Frost Clear

These days, just who doesn't have access to a Nintendo DS Lite? With great games for all ages and gamer types, just about anyone can get their hands on this console and have fun with it. Case and point, my mom has borrowed my Nintendo DS Lite for the past 3 months and has been playing all my puzzle games. What better way to spend your retirement?

We received this with our order and it was immediately welcomed at the office! BoxWave has fashioned a soft and flexible cover to protect the DS Lite and coined it "FlexiSkin". For those familiar with silicone cases for the iPod, this is a very similar concept - but improved!

Upon opening the package and feeling the FlexiSkin for the first time, I was surprised how buttery soft and almost silky it felt. It is thinner than most silicone cases and doesn't attract dust and grime, which is a great plus. The material is flexible and stretchy, allowing it to easily fit over the Nintendo DS Lite. The BoxWave logo is printed on the bottom, so it doesn't detract from the overall look of your personal console.

The cover is first slipped over the top lip and pulled over the bottom, held in place with 2 flaps that fit over the keypads. All of the accessory slots are readily accessible and the only buttons fully covered are the L and R buttons on the outer edge of the console. (The material is thinner there, so there is no difference to response time.)

In my opinion, the FlexiSkin is ideal for flat electronic accessories and phones, but may not be the right thing for the Nintendo DS Lite. The protective nature of the design also means the console will not fully shut, leaving it ajar about 1/8", which can be a concern to some. Also, if you have any charms or a lanyard attached, it will have to be removed to put the case on.

I immensely enjoy the look and feel of the product and would definitely look in to other protective cases made from BoxWave's FlexiSkin, especially for my iPhone - which comes in a variety of colors. As for the Nintendo DS, the product may not be suitable for its design, although it makes for a comfortable gaming experience!

Cost: $19.95 from BoxWave direct

[Review] BoxWave Dual Handsfree Stereo Adapter - Retractable Version

April 16, 2008 10:54 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

[Review] BoxWave Dual Handsfree Stereo Adapter - Retractable Version

For folks who enjoy their iPhone as their choice MP3-player, receiving calls can be a pain. The process of answering the call is much more graceful than ex-phones I've used in the past, but pulling out the phone to speak through the speaker can still be a clumsy process. I prefer to use my own earphones, rather than the supplied Apple Earbuds with attached microphone.

Boxwave has done a nice job of crafting a microphone adapter that immediately fits into the iPhone headphone jack with their Dual Handsfree Stereo Adapter. The one I am currently using is the retractable version, although they have a non-retractable version with a 41 inch cord.

The retractable cord extends from a compact 7.5 inches to 38 inches. The assumption is that you are already using a pair of earphones with a very short cable, wrapped around a cable holder, or are retractable so the cord isn't hanging to the floor. There is a small, removable clip that can be attached to clothes. It isn't very strong and fell off of my cord almost immediately upon use. There is also small plastic loop on the retracting mechanism, but I am not sure if was designed to hold any weight - if anything, a lanyard can be looped through it to hold the cord up.

To answer a call, simply press on the silver button on the remote microphone and talk. The calls come in clearly. To hang up, press the button again.

The sound quality of the microphone is dependent upon the earphones you are using, however the volume can be adjusted with the remote. The volume will not exceed the sound limit you have set up on your iPhone, so if the maximum level is too soft for your taste, you may need up the sound manually.

Overall, I enjoy the retractable design and compact size. Because the jack is made for the iPhone, there is no need for an additional adaptor, which is another plus to cut down on excessive accessory cost.

Design: **** (Great)
Cost: $25.95 - Retractable Design from BoxWave direct
Cost: $22.95 - Non-Retractable Design from BoxWave direct

[Review] BoxWave miniBuds headphones

April 7, 2008 2:37 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

BoxWave Retractable Earphones Boxwave miniBuds headphones

For a person on the go, tangled earphone cords are a pain to deal with. Boxwave has taken it upon themselves to design a convenient set of earphones for people just like me.

The earphones come in either black or silver white and come in both 3.5mm and 2.5mm headphone jack sizes to accommodate a variety of smartphones, MP3 platers and cellular phones. The retractable cord extends up to 41 inches in length. The earphone cords, are "glued" together when first opened and feature a zipper-like mechanism that both cuts open the cords to your preferred length and neatly aligns the cords when retracting. The earphones are standard in shape and size and come with an extra pair of "cushions". The back of the retracting mechanism is a metal clip to attach to clothes or belts.

The retractable cord is a great idea - saving me time and effort when I need to put away my earphones. With just a simple tug on both ends of the earphone cord, the retracting mechanism quickly pulls both ends in like a yoyo. The earphones are very compact, light-weight, and portable - ideal for students and commuters! The earphones themselves sit outside the ear canal and are a little large for my ears, but fit well for another reviewer.

BoxWave Retractable Earphones - Earphones/Zipper Shot The sound quality of the earphones is good. Midrange tones are prominent while the bass is somewhat drowned out. The overall sound is best described as "mellow".

At this time, miniBuds do not have headphone jacks that are compatible with iphones, but this can easily be resolved with an affordable adaptor.

Boxwave's miniBud headphones are a clean and efficient alternative way to avoid the usual mess of earphone cords!

Design: **** (Great)
Sound Quality: *** (Average)

[Review] JAVOedge Micro Swipes

April 6, 2008 5:23 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

JAVOedge Micro Swipes

So many electronic peripherals are a part of everyday life and keeping the screens clean help to maintain our accessories' longevity. Although these little, light-weight screen cleaning "puffs" may not be anything new, the JAVOedge screen cleaners stand apart from the rest with a stretchy bungee cord and lint-free, non-abrasive microfiber cloth backing. They even come in a variety of tech-wary colors: black, blue, silver, and white (with orange text). Each are individually packaged.

The puffs do a wonderful job at cleaning off dirty surfaces with minimal effort. I tested this on both my glasses and my iPhone. The results were spotless - lint-free and clean. The only downside is that my iPhone doesn't have a lanyard slot for me to attach the puff to directly.

JAVOedge Micro Swipes come in a handy 4-pack for $5.95. Perfect to share with tech-savvy friends, additions to goody bags, or to keep handy around the house for all your peripheral cleaning needs.

WirelessGround iPhone 3.5mm Stereo Head Jack Converter

March 2, 2008 1:11 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (2) | Permalink

First of all, I have to apologize for the delay in doing this review!

I've been searching for the perfect 3.5mm headphone jack converter for a while now. In my search for the perfect adapter I've purchased a Belkin and a Griffin adapter, but those were quite large and felt more like a dongle than an adapter. I was wondering why they couldn't just make it smaller?

WirelessGround has answered my question by introducing their right angled iPhone 3.5mm Stereo Head Jack convertor! The angled plug allows you to connect the adapter to your iPhone and not have a dongle like contraption protruding out of it like the others, which to me was a great improvement! Still not as small as I'd like though.

In addition to the compact design, the Wirelessground adapter seems to be gold plated and that will eventually be better for connectivity and will prevent corrosion in the future. Also notice that the WirelessGround version has three rings on it's tip so you can use headphones with that have controls on them to interact with the iPhone when using the adapter.

Testing out the adapter was easy and it worked just like an adapter should: without any hassle. Overall a great adapter that will be replacing the Belkin and the Griffin! Below are some photos of the adapter in action as well as some comparison photos.

You can purchase the WirelessGround iPhone 3.5mm Stereo Head Jack converter directly from WirelessGround!

Hands on: iPhone 1.1.3

January 16, 2008 6:38 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to News | Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

We were going to spend some time last night writing a hands on with iPhone Software Update 1.1.3 but MacNN already did one and their is pretty good, so we'll just refer you all to them.

They cover everything I was going to cover: new maps, auto locate feature, multiple SMS, and new home page configuration and arrangement! Way cool!

Read more here.

iPhone Car Adapter Review

December 12, 2007 9:25 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Accessories | Reviews Comments (3) | Permalink

How many of us are guilty of using our iPhones while we're driving? I'll be first to admit that I've done it at times even though I am fully aware that any cell phone usage while operating a car can be dangerous.

In any case, recently I was lucky enough to be able to review two products that make using your iPhone in the car a lot safer. The first product is actually a generic "PDA holder" that as the manufacturer puts it, "holds most handheld PC's." The second is the miCRADLE iPhone holder by Pro.Fit International.

The generic PDA holder takes a pretty good approach to holding your PDA or iPhone. Interestingly enough, it is able to accommodate a wide range of devices by using a spring-loaded latch that is able to expand an inch or so vertically. In fact, the generic PDA holder was even able to hold my iPhone in place with its contour showcase shell on...Definitely a plus in my book.

On the other hand, the miCRADLE is specifically designed for the iPhone and has been custom tailored to fit around the phone without a case. The product designers at Pro.Fit International have done a VERY good job of creating a superior fit and finish. All of the parts are very high quality and nice touches such as felt bumpers on the inside of the cradle have been included.

The only major downside to both of these holders was that installing them was a pain. In a nutshell, the first step was to remove part of the car's console. The next step was to drill holes into the frame behind the console and screw the holder's arm directly into the console. Lastly, the arm needed to be attached to the holder. The upside to screwing these holders into your car is that in the event of a crash or sudden stop, your iPhone would not go flying.

In the end, both of these products provide a good solution to the problem of freeing up your hands while you drive and talk on the phone at the same time. Detailed product shots are available in our gallery.

Generic PDA Holder Pros:

Able to expand vertically to fit a variety of devices
Can accommodate an iPhone with a case
Relatively Cheap

Generic PDA Holder Cons:

Constructed of cheap plastic
Need to drill holes into console for installation
Not so visually attractive
Not able to pivot horizontally

miCRADLE Pros:

Custom Designed for the iPhone
High quality construction
Will not scratch or mark iPhone

miCRADLE Cons:

Need to drill holes into console for installation
Not able to pivot horizontally
Cannot use holder if your iPhone is in a case/holster

Review of Monster iSoniTalk

December 2, 2007 9:34 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (1) | Permalink

Ever since the iPhone was released with its proprietary headset jack, people have been looking for ways to use their existing headsets with their iPhones.

A majority of complaints stemmed from the fact that people may have invested a lot of money in higher end headsets and no longer could use them anymore. One of the first companies to provide a solution was Belkin, but the Belkin adapter just allowed you to use your existing headset with your iPhone. The product I am reviewing today basically lets you use your existing headset and provides microphone functionality.

Enter the Monster iSoniTalk. Luckily, I got this as a gift, but I think that if I needed to buy an adapter/microphone combination, I would buy this device in an instant for a number of reasons.

First off, as a Monster product you can be sure that the product is a first-class product. As always, monster uses high quality materials such as gold contacts and Duraflex to strengthen the microphone cable.

Secondly, it seems as if Monster actually took the effort to engineer the product with the consumer in mind. I found that the "cable management" system (clips to hold your headset cord that were placed strategically along the microphone cord) really helped and the clip on the back of the microphone also came in handy.

In any case, if you are looking to replace Apple's standard OEM iPhone headset with your aftermarket headphones, then have a look at the Monster iSoniTalk. You will essentially be getting two products in one, a headset adapter and a hands-free microphone.

Pros:

* Allows you to use your existing headset
* Able to answer incoming calls without taking off your headset
* Backed by a 1-year limited replacement warranty and the "Monster" name

Cons:

* At times, wires may seem clumsy and get in the way
* May make you wish you had a bluetooth headset
* Price may be an issue as Monster products are usually expensive.

Contour Showcase Review

November 18, 2007 6:39 PM • by R. Look • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

One of the very first things new iPhone owners do is to look for a case that fits their particular lifestyle and how they want to be using the phone. Often times, the biggest challenges is that the amount of cases being manufactured is just amazing.

In my former life as a Windows Smartphone user(not by choice), I've had the holster style of case and it worked pretty well for me. With the iPhone I knew I was looking for a case that could be used both horizontally and vertically. On top of that, it had to have some sort of protective case/shell around it to protect the iphone from bumps and minor falls.

I started looking online and seeing what other people were saying and it seemed like a lot of them liked the Contour Showcase. Eventually I went down to our local Apple store and decided to take a look for myself. When I got to the store, and saw all the different cases, the Speck ToughSkin case caught my eye. It looked really good, so I bought it, went outside and quickly put it on the iPhone. Looking back on the experience, immediately putting on the case was a really good idea because although it fit well and I liked the feel of it, the belt clip plastic was weak and felt like it would break easily.

iPod Touch Arrives

September 17, 2007 12:23 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

This weekend we paid a visit to the local Apple Store just to see if the new iPod Touch was in stock. We were lucky enough to come home with a 16 gig version!

After unboxing and checking out the contents were surprised at what we found but more suprised with what we didn't find.

For those of you who were hoping that the iPod touch would be an iPhone minus the phone part, we hate to break this to you. The iPod not only doesn't come with the phone, it also leaves a lot of other things. More on this later.

The first thing we noticed with the iPod Touch (iTouch) is that the device is really, really thin. Thinner than an iPhone and almost as thin as the previous all aluminum nano. It's thin slick exterior is surrounded by black framed trim unlike the iphones chrome trim. the back of the iTouch has a full chrome back just like any othe iPod. Unlike any other iPod, it also has an antenna built into the rear top left corner.

Unboxing the iPod Touch was almost like opening the iPhone. The big difference is that the iPhone came with a charger and a dock. The iPod Touch comes with a iPod USB cable, headphones and a little plastic stand. It's sucks that Apple no longer includes a charger but they don't include one for any other iPod either.

The iTouch features the same "Slide to Unlock" feature as the iPhone as well as the iPhone's springboard application selector. But thats as far as the similarities go, because the iTouch features only a few apps from the iPhone. An updated version of Mobile Safari, You Tube videos, Calendar app (that you can't add to via iTouch), Contacts app (you can add to this via iTouch), Clock app, Calculator app, Settings and of course the iPod functions.

So what's different with the iPod Touch compared to the iPhone?

No blue tooth connectivity
No cellular radio so theres no Edge
You can't add calendar events to your Calendar app (lame)
but for some reason you can add people into your contacts.
No Mail app
No link sharing in Mobile Safari
No Notes app
No external playback of music
No external volume buttons
No camera, so no taking photos on the go.
No Stocks, Weather or Google Maps widget
and last but not least, no Jailbreak app (yet) to add more apps to the iPod Touch.
iPhone maxes out at 8 gigs, the iPod Touch has up to 16 gigs

That's a pretty big list, but I think if you are a music fan, and are stuck with cellular contract of some sort and can't get an iPhone, the touch is your ticket to OS X interface heaven and the best iPod we have to date. Add in the fact that this thing has wi-fi with mobile Safari and you've got a pretty nice entertainment device with a plus when you're in a wi-fi area.

While I didn't get the iPod Touch for myself (it's for my fiancé) I don't think I'll have any regrets not having one just yet since I have my iPhone. I'm too addicted to getting wireless access regardless of if I'm in the vicinity of a Wi-fi network.

iPhone rumors - who can you trust?

July 1, 2007 8:12 AM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Well now that the iPhone is out we'll do some rumor coverage to see who was telling the truth and who was... well not entirely truthful, or had bogus "inside sources".

Let's hop in the way back machine and take a look:

FALSE / iPhone Rumors and iPhone Lies
- CNET reports: iPhone Release Date: June 11, 2007. Start your countdown now!
CNBC: iPhone to be Available on June 20
- Jim Crammer from TheStreet.com reported that Cingular (the new AT&T) was going to give away 1.5 years of free service when purchasing an iPhone. (source)
- WR Hambrecht & Co: AT&T shops to have less than 40 phones each
- A Wall Street Journal article reports that Apple will be including Flash, Adobe/Macromedia's de facto standard media plug-in with the iPhone.

- Anything WordPress blogger "vim3" said:

iPhone will ship with more than 4 or 8 gigs of flash memory.

There will indeed be a user replaceable battery in the iPhone.

iPhone will support Wireless N.

iPhone will ship with a mobile version of... iWorks. Word processing, spreadsheet and slide shows.

iTunes will stream from a computer on your wi-fi network.

You'll be able to purchase tunes directly from the iTunes store from the iPhone.

AT&T will offer rebates on the iPhone.

We can't believe how much press this phoney got.
- Dr. Simon Croom of the Supply Chain Mangement Institute: The Apple iPhone may face shortages of four to eight weeks at it's June 29th launch.

TRUE Stuff
- iPhone will have no Cingular / AT&T branding
- AT&T soon have an "Unlimited" package for iPhone users.
- Leaked iPhone training manual
- iPhone to REQUIRE data plan
- Gizmodo: Insider has Hands-On with iPhone

There were probably more but we just couldn't cover it all. Hope you enjoyed this trip down memory lane. Let's hope the news has less gossip and more facts now that the iPhone is here.

Walt Mossberg: Wait for the iPhone if you can

January 16, 2007 3:53 PM • by iPhone News Blog Staff • Posted to Reviews Comments (0) | Permalink

Wall Street Journal columnist Walt Mossberg (affectionately called Uncle Walt by the Mac community) had a few minutes with the iPhone and had this to say in his review of the new Treo and Samsung Blackjack:

"Of these two phones, I prefer the BlackJack. But if you're in the market for a smart phone and can afford $499, you might want to wait until June for the Apple iPhone. The Apple entry is so full of promise that anyone buying a smart phone in 2007 should at least wait for the full reviews and a chance to try it out."

Read more of Walt Mossberg's article here.

We can't wait for Apple to send Uncle Walt the final version of the iPhone for review!

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