JotSpot re-launched as Google Sites
February 28, 2008
JotSpot, the company that was purchased by Google a while back has re-emerged and has been integrated into a service called Google Sites
Google Sites is the latest offering from Google Apps, a suit of products designed to improve communication and collaboration between employees, students etc…With Google sites you can create a team website, gather information, including videos, calendars, presentations and gadgets, and share it for viewing.
In the last 10 years, the way all of us work has changed. We’ve grown accustomed to always being connected through email and instant messaging. Consequently, people are working together in teams more often, with larger groups, and with others who may be in different parts of the country or the world. We are shifting our focus from personal to team productivity. It’s less about “you” and more about “us.”
But with this explosion in collaboration, how do you bring together everything your team needs to work? How do you take information, whether it is on your desktop or online, and share it with specific groups of people — your team, the company, the public?
Meet Google Sites, the newest addition to the Google Apps product suite. It was designed to allow you to easily create a network of sites and share them with whomever you choose. Google Sites lets you pull together information from across Google Apps by embedding documents, spreadsheets, presentations, videos, and calendars in your sites. Of course, we also harness the power of Google search technology so your search results are always fast and relevant.
Here is a Google Sites Tour
Zoho Writer gets an Update
February 27, 2008
Zoho Writer, the online word processor has today announced a few new features following up on the last batch of new stuff which included Pagination, Headers & Footers and Offline Support.
Some of the new features include
DocX Support:
Zoho Writer now supports exporting to DocX, the new Microsoft OOXML file format for Word. Ofcourse, we already support ODF Export/Import in Zoho Writer. Currently you can export any of your documents in Zoho Writer as a DocX file. This is added in addition to the already available export options - DOC, TXT, HTML, PDF, ODF, SXW and RTF. We will soon be supporting DocX import as well.
Thesaurus:
We now added Thesaurus option (in 10 languages). Right-click on a word, choose the ‘Thesaurus’ option from the contextual menu to view the synonyms and related words. The current version of Thesaurus is used more for lookup purposes. We plan to enhance this functionality further to replace the words with selected ones from thesaurus in the next version.
Languages supported in Thesaurus: English, Czech, German, Greek, French, Irish, Italian, Polish, Russian & Slovak. We will keep adding more language options in future updates.
Sharing with Groups:
You can now share documents with groups. This makes it a lot easier to share documents with multiple people avoiding entering of multiple email addresses each time you share a document. To share a document with a group, click on ‘Share’ and select the ‘Share with Groups’ tab. You can create new groups in your ‘My Account‘ section. These groups will be visible across all Zoho Applications.
Enhanced support for Endnotes/Footnotes:
As you may know, we recently added Endnotes & Footnotes capabilities in Zoho Writer. This updates enhances this functionality further. All your Zoho Writer documents when exported to DocX, ODF, SXW & RTF will retain the endnotes/footnotes correctly. We now also import endnotes/footnotes from DOC, ODF, SXW, RTF files.
Enhanced support for Headers/Footers:
Headers/Footers support is further enhanced in this latest update. Full support is available when you export documents to DocX, ODF, SXW & RTF.
[Via Zoho Blog]
eBay Desktop 1.0 is now available
February 27, 2008
eBay Desktop 1.0 is now available for download. This free application has been made as an alternative to the website. You can use it to search, browse, bid and keep track of your auctions.
The 1.0 release contains lots of bug fixes and performance enhancements and from user feedback some new features. eBay desktop takes advantage of the Adobe AIR platform which was recently released.
We have worked on the project for nearly 2 years, and I am very pleased with the end result. We have lots more enhancements planned for the coming weeks and months, but this the most important milestone so far. The eBay Desktop team from Effective UI has worked incredibly hard on this, and I’d like to thank them all: Sean, Greg O., Greg C. Jason, and all the project alumni: thank you! And thanks to all the eBay members who have provided great suggestions, ideas, bug reports, and words of praise. I hope that we can continue to provide great user experiences that make the eBay marketplace more fun and dynamic, and help connect more individuals through the simple act of commerce.
You can download the destop client here
[Via eBay Desktop Blog]
Apple Introduces New MacBook & MacBook Pro Models
February 26, 2008
Apple today updated its popular MacBook and MacBook Pro notebook lines with the latest Intel Core 2 Duo processors, larger hard drives and 2GB of memory standard in most models. In addition, MacBook Pro includes the latest NVIDIA graphics processors, now with up to 512MB of video memory, and Apple’s Multi-Touch trackpad, first introduced in MacBook Air. All Mac notebooks include the built-in iSight video camera for video conferencing, Apple’s MagSafe Power Adapter that safely disconnects when under strain and built-in 802.11n wireless networking
The new MacBook Pro features the Intel Core 2 Duo with up to a 2.6 GHz processor with 6MB of shared L2 cache; up to 4GB of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM memory and up to a 300GB hard drive, plus NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT graphics with up to 512MB of video memory. Every MacBook Pro now includes a trackpad with Multi-Touch gesture support for pinch, rotate and swipe, making it possible to zoom and rotate photos in iPhoto or Aperture 2 or browse web pages in Safari; an illuminated keyboard that makes it ideal for dimly lit environments such as airplanes, studios or conference halls and a built-in ambient light sensor, which automatically adjusts the brightness of the keys as well as the brightness of the display for optimal visibility.
Pricing & Availability
The new MacBook and MacBook Pro models are now shipping.
The 2.1 GHz, 13-inch white MacBook, for a suggested retail price of $1,099 (US), includes:
- 13.3-inch glossy widescreen 1280 x 800 display;
- 2.1 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor with 3MB shared L2 cache;
- 800 MHz front-side bus;
- 1GB of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM, expandable to 4GB;
- 120GB Serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor;
- a slot-load Combo (DVD-ROM/CD-RW) optical drive;
- Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100;
- Mini-DVI out (adapters for DVI, VGA and Composite/S-Video sold separately);
- built-in iSight video camera;
- Gigabit Ethernet port;
- built-in AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR;
- two USB 2.0 ports and one FireWire 400 port;
- one audio line in and one audio line out port, each supporting both optical digital and analog;
- Scrolling trackpad; and
- 60 Watt MagSafe Power Adapter.
The 2.4 GHz, 13-inch white MacBook, for a suggested retail price of $1,299 (US), includes:
- 13.3-inch glossy widescreen 1280 x 800 display;
- 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor with 3MB shared L2 cache;
- 800 MHz front-side bus;
- 2GB of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM, expandable to 4GB;
- 160GB Serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor;
- a slot-load 8x SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) optical drive;
- Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100;
- Mini-DVI out (adapters for DVI, VGA and Composite/S-Video sold separately);
- built-in iSight video camera;
- Gigabit Ethernet port;
- built-in AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR;
- two USB 2.0 ports and one FireWire 400 port;
- one audio line in and one audio line out port, each supporting both optical digital and analog;
- Scrolling trackpad; and
- 60 Watt MagSafe Power Adapter.
The 2.4 GHz, 13-inch black MacBook, for a suggested retail price of $1,499 (US), includes:
- 13.3-inch glossy widescreen 1280 x 800 display;
- 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor with 3MB shared L2 cache;
- 800 MHz front-side bus;
- 2GB of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM, expandable to 4GB;
- 250GB Serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor;
- a slot-load 8x SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) optical drive;
- Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100;
- Mini-DVI out (adapters for DVI, VGA and Composite/S-Video sold separately);
- built-in iSight video camera;
- Gigabit Ethernet port;
- built-in AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR;
- two USB 2.0 ports and one FireWire 400 port;
- one audio line in and one audio line out port, each supporting both optical digital and analog;
- Scrolling trackpad; and
- 60 Watt MagSafe Power Adapter.
Build-to-order options for the MacBook include the ability to upgrade to up to 4GB 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM, a 160GB or 250GB hard drive, Apple USB Modem, Apple Mini-DVI to DVI adapter, Apple Mini-DVI to VGA adapter, Apple Remote, Apple MagSafe Airline Adapter and the AppleCare® Protection Plan.
The 2.4 GHz, 15-inch MacBook Pro, for a suggested retail price of $1,999 (US), includes:
- 15.4-inch widescreen LED-backlit 1440 x 900 LCD display;
- 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor with 3MB shared L2 cache;
- 800 MHz front-side bus;
- 2GB of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM, expandable to 4GB;
- 200GB Serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor;
- a slot-load 8x SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) optical drive;
- NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT with 256MB GDDR3 memory;
- DVI-out port for external display (VGA-out adapter included, Composite/S-Video adapter sold separately);
- built-in Dual Link support for driving Apple 30-inch Cinema HD Display;
- built-in iSight video camera;
- Gigabit Ethernet port;
- built-in AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
- ExpressCard/34 expansion card slot;
- two USB 2.0 ports, one FireWire 800 port and one FireWire 400 port;
- one audio line in and one audio line out port, each supporting both optical digital and analog;
- Multi-Touch trackpad and illuminated keyboard; and
- 85 Watt Apple MagSafe Power Adapter.
The 2.5 GHz, 15-inch MacBook Pro, for a suggested retail price of $2,499 (US), includes:
- 15.4-inch widescreen LED-backlit 1440 x 900 LCD display;
- 2.5 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor with 6MB shared L2 cache;
- 800 MHz front-side bus;
- 2GB of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM, expandable to 4GB;
- 250GB Serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor;
- a slot-load 8x SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) optical drive;
- NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT with 512MB GDDR3 memory;
- DVI-out port for external display (VGA-out adapter included, Composite/S-Video out adapter sold separately);
- built-in Dual Link support for driving Apple 30-inch Cinema HD Display;
- built-in iSight video camera;
- Gigabit Ethernet port;
- built-in AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
- ExpressCard/34 expansion card slot;
- two USB 2.0 ports, one FireWire 800 port and one FireWire 400 port;
- one audio line in and one audio line out port, each supporting both optical digital and analog;
- Multi-Touch trackpad and illuminated keyboard; and
- 85 Watt Apple MagSafe Power Adapter.
The 2.5 GHz, 17-inch MacBook Pro, for a suggested retail price of $2,799 (US), includes:
- 17-inch widescreen 1680 x 1050 LCD display;
- 2.5 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor with 6MB shared L2 cache;
- 800 MHz front-side bus;
- 2GB of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM, expandable to 4GB;
- 250GB Serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor;
- a slot-load 8x SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) optical drive;
- NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT with 512MB GDDR3 memory;
- DVI-out port for external display (VGA-out adapter included, Composite/S-Video out adapter sold separately);
- built-in Dual Link support for driving Apple 30-inch Cinema HD Display;
- built-in iSight video camera;
- Gigabit Ethernet port;
- built-in AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
- ExpressCard/34 expansion card slot;
- three USB 2.0 ports, one FireWire 800 port and one FireWire 400 port;
- one audio line in and one audio line out port, each supporting both optical digital and analog;
- Multi-Touch trackpad and illuminated keyboard; and
- 85 Watt Apple MagSafe Power Adapter.
Yahoo Buzz Launches
February 26, 2008
Yahoo have today launched Yahoo buzz the Internet news and trends tracker. The service tracks content from around the internet and a story is ranked based on its Buzz Score. The score is derived from search term popularity, the number of times a story is emailed from Buzz, and the number of votes a story receives. Stories with the highest Buzz Scores may be published on the Yahoo! home page - you can impact what millions will see on Yahoo!
Check it out at buzz.yahoo.com
LinkedIn launch Mobile Version
February 25, 2008
LinkedIn have finally launched it’s mobile version of the service. The beta product includes a version specially optimised for the iPhone and is available immediately in English, French, German, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese with additional languages to follow.
Mobile features include
- Search LinkedIn profiles (including photos and bio) to help recall and connect with business acquaintances at events and conferences
- Research the common contacts they have with other professionals to help make real world referrals and introductions easier
- Invite professional acquaintances and peers you meet at events to LinkedIn with just their email address. Exchanging business cards is just not cool anymore!
- Receive regular Network update capabilities about your connections while on the go
- International versions currently launched include French, German, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese. More to follow.
Just point your mobile browser at http://m.linkedin.com
ShifD launches in Beta
February 25, 2008
Hot on the heals of the release of Adobe Air, the New York Times are releasing an application in public beta named ShifD.
ShifD is a mobile application that provides users the capability to seamlessly shift content back and forth between their desktop computers and mobile devices. Users cab update information from any Web browser, through their mobile web browser on the ShiftD mobile site or by using the downloadable Adobe Air application on there desktop. Information added through any of these methods is saved to the users id and automatically updated and accessible on all devices.
I’ve been using ShifD all day today and I’ve got to say it’s a excellent little app.
Transform your Windows User Interface with Cairo
February 23, 2008
Cairo on Wednesday have confirmed that the Alpha testing selections have gone out for the Windows UI software
With Cairo you can transform your desktop from the dated Windows user-interface to a brand new system that will change the way you use your computer forever. Taking advantage of proven functionality, and with stability and performance in mind, the Cairo Desktop system aims to give users a productive and easy to use shell that advances current technology standards. Welcome to the Revolution.
Cairo was originally created by Michael Ciarlo as a simple project containing a floating taskbar and hovering ’start’ menu. After a few weeks of work Michael abandoned the project; it had no future as a Samurize shell replacement and was limited by the program’s abilities.
A few weeks after development ended on the Samurize shell, Joseph LaFountain contacted Michael and offered to help develop the project in a different format: Desktop X. Accepting the offer, the two began working on concepts for the new Cairo shell. Once the project shifted away from the original floating taskbar and start menu concepts, both developers knew that Desktop X would not be an appropriate development platform. Days later, concept work began for a shell written in C#. Cairo was on its way to revolutionizing the Windows desktop.
Today, Cairo is being developed by a wonderful team of designers and programmers who all share a common goal: to redefine the desktop experience. Guided by fundamental design principles and attention to every detail, the following individuals distinguish Cairo as a leading shell replacement with their determination, wisdom, and selflessness.
From the early screens this is looking very nice can’t wait to get my hands on it to try..
Animoto Getting Massive Upgrade Tonight
February 23, 2008
Just seen this post on the animoto blog
Tonight at 11PM EST, we’ll be undergoing a massive system upgrade. The process will take about 6 hours.
What’s this all about? Well… we’re glad you asked.
Over the last few months, we’ve been hard at work… redesigning our entire system. This upgrade serves as the foundation for a bunch of new Animoto possibilities, and it marks the first of many cool feature & product releases to be announced over the next several months.
Thanks for your patience! We promise it’ll be totally worth it.
Can’t wait to see what these guys have in store…more to follow
Orkut Social apps coming soon
February 23, 2008
Orkut, Googles Social Network announced back in November of last year that the platform was open to developers. Over the last few months they have been busy building social applications that should make the Orkut experience better. And as such they have announced that the apps will be available to a subset of orkut users starting in a couple of weeks, and to all Orkut users several weeks after that.
If you are a developer and want to have your apps available to “Orketeers” in the last week of February you can find out more on how to submit your app here and for the latest news check out the orkut developer blog.
Here is a video on Orkut’s policies on OpenSocial Applications
