I feel that the iPad is the perfect platform for textbooks. Let’s look at this from a financial standpoint, and from the standpoint of having the most up to date information.  Schools will no longer have to purchase physical text books that tend to cost more than their digital counterparts. So the school districts will be saving money in the long run. In addition, Steve Jobs mentioned in his biography that the textbooks would be free with the iPads. Now that might, or might not come to fruition, only time will tell.

If you remember back to when you where in K-12 you generally had textbooks that were out of date when it came to certain subjects. Think of how convenient it would be to simply download an update to your textbook, and not feel like your learning something that is five to ten years old. This is something that happens now with eBooks. If a correction needs to be made; you receive a notification and then an update is performed.

One other key point I didn’t mention was that now kids will only need to carry an iPad instead of three to four heavy books. My daughter is in the fifth grade and she carries at least five to eight pounds of books in her backpack. With textbooks on an iPad she would no longer need to haul around that extra weight.

What do you think Apple will announce?  An update to iTunes U? Textbooks for the iPad?  Let us know what you thinks Apple will be announcing in the comments below.

Gerard Lagana

I'm a husband, dad of two great kids, and I have a passion for Apple products. I got my first Mac in 2005, and I haven't looked back. I like the simplicity of the Mac, and how does the motto go, oh yeah, It just works. I think that's the great thing about Macs how the hardware and software work harmoniously together. I've also been in the IT industry for over fourteen years. I've worked with everything from Windows computers to Mac computers. I can say I thoroughly enjoy working with Macs. I can also be found on Twitter, where I continue to geek out on Apple products.

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Skitch makes it very easy to take a photo or a screen shot and add arrows, text, or lines right on the top.

The interface is intuitive – right after the launch, you can see your options for importing images.  You can choose from your camera roll, your photos, and your photo stream which is a very handy option for editing screen shots taken on your iphone.  The editing tools are simple and easy to understand and the export options range from an interface to your TV (using additional hardware), sending to Evernote, tweeting, emailing and exporting to your camera roll.

Read below for additional information and check out the video link.

Business Value/productivity value – 5/5

This app is perfect for me.  It allows me to edit photos and screen shots very easily and will save me a lot of time.

Ease of use – 4/5

All the tools are simple, but not being able to resize text boxes without inserting hard returns in the text is a detriment.

Likelihood of usage 5/5

I plan to use often.  Many future reviews will feature screen shots annotated by Skitch.  The app has only been out for a few days and I’ve already found a few handy uses.

Graphics and Sound 4/5

There is no sound that I could hear.  It would be nice to have some simple sounds that give you an auditory confirmation of your actions though I hardly find this to be a problem.  The graphics are simple and easy to understand.

Overall 4.5/5 –

A great and FREE application from Evernote.

Where to get it

The Appstore

How much is it

Free as of this writing.

In the comments below, please let me know what is your favorite tool for annotating photos?

Lance

If the computer breaks, the network won’t connect or a cell phone is acting funny, the family calls me. I’ve worked in and around technology development for nearly 20 years. I’m a tech, information and football fanatic with a short attention span who is always trying out new things and sharing information about them with others. In my “free” time, I enjoy drawing, photography, writing, watching anime and spending time with my family. Follow me on Twitter | Facebook

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But wait, is that built in iOS functionality?  Nope.  If you had your laptop you could have controlled it with Remote (through iTunes) but you wanted to carry only the minimum stuff.  What to do now?

Enter Tango Remote.

The version I found and used this year is 5.0.23 and it’s a universal app (meaning you buy it once and it’ll run on iPhone, iPod touch and iPad).  I hadn’t read anything about it previously but I took the plunge and made the purchase.  In this instance, I depended on the iTunes rating system to help me make the choice.  Out of 27 reviews on the current version, it rated 4 stars so it seemed legit.  I bought it on the iPhone and the iPad, waited for them to load.  I made sure I was on the same wi-fi network with both devices.  Then I plugged the iPad to the stereo and launched Tango Remote.  I found my playlist and fired up the app on the iPhone.  It recognized the iPad immediately.  I selected the same playlist and started playing the media.  No issues. As the night went on, I was able to stop, start, skip and change the music at will.

Ratings

Productivity value – 4.5/5

I was able to perform nearly all needed functions without a hitch.  I would have liked to have seen the ability to switch between video playback, if showing a music video and showing a cover when playing a song.  Otherwise, top notch.  AND, not only does it look at your music play lists, it allows you to play all your media on your device including any movies, TV shows,  iTunes University, videos from your camera roll – amazing.

Ease of use 4/5

Extremely easy to use – no issue just downloading on the 2 devices, making sure they were on the same network and running it.  I read that Bluetooth was also an option but did not try it.  I would like it if there was an option to have videos remember their playback position, or at least make it optional.

Likelihood of usage 5/5

This was great – I had no issues and will certainly use it again.  This app will be granted a permanent home on my already cramped 32 GB iPad and my iPhone.

Graphics and Sound 4/5

Graphics are simple and effective.  I’m not rating this high because of the artistic value – I’m rating it this high because I could easily find everything I needed without a bunch of distracting colors or blinking lights.  Everything seemed to “just work” for me.  This includes different layouts for the iPad and the iPhone.  They used the larger screen space on the iPad effectively and made the iPhone version more compact as one would expect.

Overall  – 4.4/5

Great application – the price is more than what I normally want to pay for an app but I have NO regrets on this one.

Where to get it

The App Store 

How much is it

I paid 4.99 but it looks like it goes on sale pretty often.  Again, even at this price, I’m happy.

tap playlist to see the playlists on your device (iPad screen shot)

select individual songs from playlist (iPad screen shot)

different menu options let you select from all the playable content (iPad screen shot)

set a password if needed (iPad screen shot)

iPad playlist control from the iPhone (iPhone screen shot)

you can view all the iPad media from the iPhone (iPhone screen shot)

Lance

If the computer breaks, the network won’t connect or a cell phone is acting funny, the family calls me. I’ve worked in and around technology development for nearly 20 years. I’m a tech, information and football fanatic with a short attention span who is always trying out new things and sharing information about them with others. In my “free” time, I enjoy drawing, photography, writing, watching anime and spending time with my family. Follow me on Twitter | Facebook

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I control what they can and can’t install since they don’t know my iTunes password and even though iTunes will retain my password for 15 minutes after I load an application (by default), I keep an eye on the kids to make sure they’re not down loading more.

I was mistakenly allowing them to access YouTube and since they cannot spell yet I did not restrict access to safari or any specific web sites.

However, one day a few months back I happened to walk by and hear lots of giggling. With little ones, generally that either means fun or trouble.   Either way I’m interested to know what’s going on. So, I walk over to the kids and notice they are watching a video on the iPod touch where this annoying orange is yelling and cursing and they are cracking up about it. I don’t mind a humor in the least but I don’t want them running around using inappropriate language so it was time for a change.

I was interested in finding a way to block their web access but not completely. I did some research and ended up selecting OpenDNS.  It’s a free solution that will help block access to websites that I don’t want them to see yet.  Granted, this does not replace responsible parenting but it will help me have some comfort in knowing that most sites they are too young to view will not be visible to them. They have no need to social network or tweet yet so I’m good with a general block on most social sites since they often deal with more grown up oriented content.

On the flip side I do need social site access and so I don’t want to block everything for the whole house. There are a couple of places where a DNS entry can be effective for a home user (at the Router and on each device). In this case, since I want just the kids to be restricted, each iPod touch has to be set up individually.

Here are the basic steps

1. Go to Open DNS and set up a free account.

There are currently 2 free options and one paid – I’m content with the free Home option but you may want additional flexibility using a paid option.

You’ll want to make sure you’ve confirmed all your settings and the account is successfully set up before you go to the next step.

Note the name servers since you will need them

2. Find your iPod Touch, ipad or iPhone

3. Go  to Settings

4. Select General

5. Scroll to and select Network

6. Scroll to and select your Wi-Fi connection

7. Find your network connection and press the blue arrow off to the right side

8. Find the DNS entry and enter one of the “nameservers” provided by OpenDNS.

9. Save all your changes and you should be set.

Now most of the traffic going through your Wi-Fi connection from that one device will be routed through OpenDNS.  If it is deemed by them to be a “bad” site (depending on your settings) the device, and therefore your kids, will not be able to access them.  This works for me because the kids use the devices at home pretty much exclusively.  If they were to go to another house and connect to another Wi-Fi connection, the DNS server would need to be updated on that Wi-Fi account on the iDevice too.  As they get older, I’ll need more savvy solutions but for youngsters this works pretty well.

The kids get a little frustrated with me when they can’t go on YouTube but they can access other kid friendly video apps like Cartoon Network and still be entertained.

Lance

If the computer breaks, the network won’t connect or a cell phone is acting funny, the family calls me. I’ve worked in and around technology development for nearly 20 years. I’m a tech, information and football fanatic with a short attention span who is always trying out new things and sharing information about them with others. In my “free” time, I enjoy drawing, photography, writing, watching anime and spending time with my family. Follow me on Twitter | Facebook

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As part of their Every Third Thursday initiative, where the team takes time out of their busy board-making day to create something that has never been done before…they worked to integrate some Apple goodness into a board.

Check out the below video as the team shows us the unique materials, the trial-and-error and the eventual success of creating the iShred.

I wouldn’t be a bit surprised to see some of these making their way down the slopes this season.

For more on Signal Snowboards check them out on their website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube

James Hicks

James is the Founder and Chief Technologist of HicksNewMedia, a technology consulting and digital publishing firm providing effective and relevant solutions to individuals and businesses looking to utilize all things on the interweb. Follow him on Twitter | about.me | Facebook | Google+

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Computer Apparel has announced the next generation in business casual with their Original V-Neck Sleeves, designed to protect Apple laptops, iPhones, and iPads in style. Equipped with convenient pockets to stow chargers, papers, and even a place for an iPhone, this is one computer sleeve that will never go out of style.

Made from high-quality cottons and ultra-soft padding, the Original V-Neck Sleeve is not only a safe fit for computers and tablets, but it is also a machine washable one. Those of us with kids that use our Apple gear will greatly appreciate that fact…

“We wanted to create something that was fun, fashionable, and most importantly, of quality,” says Roger Ein of Computer Apparel. “The V-Neck Sleeve offers superior protection, convenience, and even security, meaning it is easy to mistake the V-Neck Sleeve for an actual folded up v-neck t-shirt.”

The V-Neck Sleeve is the talk of the town now, but according to Ein, there are many many more products being prepared for enthusiasts.

“We have hundreds of ideas for new computer sleeve fashions,” says Ein. “The Original V-Neck Sleeve is just the beginning. Imagine an entire wardrobe for your computer; that’s Computer Apparel.”

Right now, you can get your hands on the V-Neck Sleeve in four sizes (iPad, Small: 13″, Medium: 15″, Large: 17″) and five colors (Red, Blue, Silver, Black, White) ranging in price from $49.99 to $69.99.

Check them out online at http://www.computer-apparel.com/.

James Hicks

James is the Founder and Chief Technologist of HicksNewMedia, a technology consulting and digital publishing firm providing effective and relevant solutions to individuals and businesses looking to utilize all things on the interweb. Follow him on Twitter | about.me | Facebook | Google+

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Check out the Building 43 video below where Jean-Marie walks through a great explanation of what’s new and what to expect from Fotopedia and their recent integrations.

[video via YouTube]

James Hicks

James is the Founder and Chief Technologist of HicksNewMedia, a technology consulting and digital publishing firm providing effective and relevant solutions to individuals and businesses looking to utilize all things on the interweb. Follow him on Twitter | about.me | Facebook | Google+

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It brings functionality and mobility in one package because of its features like when it is in folded mode, it acts as a secured case which protects every side of your iPad 2. Aside from that, it can also hold the iPad with smart cover installed, so you won’t have the hassle of detaching it when you feel to use the Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard.

This all-in-one case can also be used as stand for the leisurely things that you do with the iPad. You can now watch movies, browse the net and play games without switching the case of your gadget. No need to worry about stiff neck because it holds the device at incredible ideal positions so that all of your activities will be done comfortably.

The most promising feature it has is its built-in keyboard which can split into two and be tucked underneath the gadget when you are not using it. Because of that special attribute, it conserves the battery life of the Bluetooth keyboard case. Since it has built-in rechargeable battery, recharging it is just as easy by putting the USB cord on it.

It also has support function and shortcut keys so you won’t have to resort on touching the screen of the iPad 2 to do some things which is a hassle. When the keyboard is unfolded, it greatly resembles a notebook which means that it is very efficient to use when you do some typing jobs.

With great features and functionality comes a grand price tag as well, this case is priced at $129.99 and is available at Logitech’s online store.

Pat Garde

Patrick is the co-founder of GeekyGuide.com which writes about geek stuff and focuses on geek shirts and consumer electronics. Follow Pat on LinkedIn.

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It’s actually a good day for CNN and their digital publishing efforts.

This morning, both organizations announced that Zite has been acquired by CNN

“Zite represents the next generation of content discovery and personalized publishing, and CNN wants to help lead in that space,” said KC Estenson, general manager of CNN Digital. “We think we can advance the industry in a meaningful way that helps content creators expand their businesses while growing the distribution of a product that people already love. The Zite technology can also help CNN’s Websites and apps serve more personalized content, making our current digital services even better.”

What is Zite?

Zite is a free, personalized iPad magazine that understands what you like and gets smarter as you use it. Zite helps you discover what you’ve been missing in one convenient app. Zite learns as you use it to bring you the articles you will find most interesting from a variety of sources across the web.

“Zite is thrilled about combining forces with CNN to create a world-class news discovery platform,” said Mark Johnson, CEO of Zite. “In CNN, we have found a partner who shares our vision and passion. Being part of the CNN family gives us the capital to grow Zite’s business and continue to innovate in the space.”

Johnson posted a letter on the Zite blog this morning here.

Follow Zite on Twitter

James Hicks

James is the Founder and Chief Technologist of HicksNewMedia, a technology consulting and digital publishing firm providing effective and relevant solutions to individuals and businesses looking to utilize all things on the interweb. Follow him on Twitter | about.me | Facebook | Google+

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The only question here is will the second generation case has got what it takes to surpass the success of its predecessor and the new other keyboard case competitors in the market.

Let’s check the new features of the Adonit Writer for your iPad 2.

First, the appearance of the case did not change at all which is good because it maintains the couture formal look of your gadget when you put it on. The cloth interior is unquestionably stunning, it makes the iPad much more elegant and striking when you are using it. The black polycarbonate cover which holds the iPad also adds glamour to the gadget plus it also protects the keyboard from any scratches, keeping the device protected.

Next are the things which make it unique compared to other keyboard cases for iPad 2. First on our list is the battery specification. Most of the battery packs of other keyboard cases are built-in that needs to be inserted in a USB port to charge but this one is different because it uses AAA batteries for power. The battery life depends on how you use the Bluetooth keyboard case, for heavy usage the life of the battery will last for a month, while using it in a normal and standby basis will last for two and seven months respectively. It also has an indicator which tells you if you need to replace the battery. Green for good, yellow for okay and blinking red means going replace the batter now or else it will drain out.

The iPad case also has a magnetic seal which can turn on and off your tablet like the Smart Cover plus a quick eject slot so that you can easily detach the device off the case. Another thing which we find special about this top rated keyboard case is the ultra soft rubber pads purposely made to preserve the beauty of your device. Because of this cool added feature, the lifespan of your device will definitely be extended, thanks to the protective cushioning they installed.

Finally, the most important thing is its Bluetooth keyboard. This one is the slimmest, compact and yet very comfortable keyboard for the iPad 2 that I’ve seen. One of the things which fascinated me about this keyboard is its shortcut keys and function keys. There are 17 useful keys on top of like home, and volume controls so that you don’t have to resort touching the screen of the iPad to do some simple task because it is already in the keyboard.

By the way, because it is so thin the weight of it is merely 17.6 oz. it’s just almost as the same weight of two glasses of water. It doesn’t add significant bulk, as if your iPad 2 doesn’t have anything attached to it when you carry it.

You may purchase the Adonit Writer on Amazon for only $99.99.

Follow Adonit online: Web | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube

[via Adonit]

Pat Garde

Patrick is the co-founder of GeekyGuide.com which writes about geek stuff and focuses on geek shirts and consumer electronics. Follow Pat on LinkedIn.

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