An ode to innovation

A complaint rippling through the pundit-sphere over the past year is that Apple has lost the ability to innovate. The echo chamber’s insistence of Apple’s inability to delve into unexplored territory has culminated in the rumor that Apple has initiated steps to replace CEO Tim Cook. Stock prices have plummeted, and critics gleefully prognosticate Apple’s slow slide back into the obscurity of the days before Steve Jobs‘ return.

Is there any validity to these claims? Has Apple truly lost their mojo? For an answer, let’s look closer at the core issue- innovation. By definition it is the act of introducing something new or unknown, and Apple has made their incredible fortune not both new products and the careful cultivation of the ecosystem behind them.

Apple earned the innovator title from the inception of the organization. The cobbled-together home brewed Apple I through the first Macintosh, the company was a trend setter in home computing. After floundering they righted the ship with the introduction of new product lines- the iPod, iMac, and OSX.

Skip forward to today: Apple has reaped the benefits of innovation well. New hardware such as the iPod line, iPhone and iPad, and software associated with it (iTunes and iOS) along with steady incremental improvement to their core Mac lineup have resulted in Apple being one of the wealthiest corporations in history. What has set pundits off has been the apparent lack of new products since the untimely demise of former CEO Jobs.

While Apple has continued to release new versions of their products on a regular basis (including the iPad Mini), those products are incremental refinements of existing devices or services. The iPhone improves with each version, becoming faster, more powerful, and with more screen real estate. The iPad has slimmed, gained cameras, increased in power and split into two product sizes. The core Mac lineup has evolved as well; the iMac has slimmed and been given a performance boost, the MacBook Pro lineup has split to include the Retina models, and the Air versions have been refined enough to be some of Apple’s best selling laptops. Where are the new, groundbreaking products to keep Apple ahead of competitors?

Time has dulled our sense of perspective. While Apple has been at the forefront often, groundbreaking products take years to develop and hone. Even though there have been numerous trendsetting releases they haven’t come at regular intervals, and have been separated by more time that is readily apparent. The product that appeared to spark Apple’s explosion was the iPod, first released in 2001. The iPhone didn’t make an appearance until 2007, followed by the iPad in 2010. By that timeline alone Apple is well within their typical product development window, even discounting the continual refinement of both hardware and software.

Then there’s the Mac lineup. One could consider the MacBook Air as an innovation; the physical form was unheard of when it was first released and competitors have flocked to create similar devices. The evolution of the MacBook Pro should be kept in mind when evaluating innovation as well; the construction and components of Apple’s premier laptops have set industry trends as well culminating in the Retina models, with their stunning display and solid state internals.

In comparison, the PC hasn’t changed much in the past ten years. Components have improved- processors, graphics, memory, and other internals have grown in power and speed, but the actual form and function of the PC hasn’t truly altered in a very long time. Until recently, input was via a keyboard and mouse (or similar device), with the computer consisting of a tower and monitor. There were a few all-in-ones similar to Apple’s iMac, but they were a small minority of the PC market. Yet no one championed the lack of progress or innovation in the PC market. The attempt by Microsoft to create a uniform interface across all devices (handheld and PC) via Windows 8 is a prime example of the peril of poorly implemented change; consumers have by and large shunned it to the point that Microsoft will be releasing a service pack to undo the most drastic changes to the operating system: the once-named “Metro” interface.

So what of Apple’s other competitors? Samsung has been heralded for their products, and they do have a very successful line of handsets. Yet Samsung’s innovation has been more of a hyper variant of what Apple has pursued in improving the iPhone. Samsung has offered a wide variety of products, some with massive screens (even one that needs a stylus), some with a hardware keyboard, and units that sport Android and Windows operating systems. Yet what groundbreaking innovation have they offered? The sole differentiating factor has been screen size (which Apple has notably followed with the slightly larger iPhone 5), but no true paradigm shift or new product categories. The ‘shotgun’ approach of releasing a wide variety of products has served both Samsung and Google well, but it doesn’t fit the concept of innovation that Apple has been faulted for lacking after the passing of their iconic CEO.

While I’d love to see a new product line released (what tech addict doesn’t like shiny new things?) the criticism Apple has faced is unwarranted. If we are to believe the recent claims of Tim Cook that new product lines will be introduced this year, Apple will have continued to follow the same timeline of innovation that has served them since the turn of the century.

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More Kickstarter Goodness

Just a couple quick notes on some very worth Apple-centric Kickstarter campaigns, and the Kickstarter iOS App:

Card cases have appealed to me since the first time I laid eyes on them. The ability to get yet one more function out of your iPhone and being able to carry one less thing with you is an irresistible siren song of practicality. I’ve been through many card cases before finally settling on my current CM4 Q card case. While not perfect, it offers the best mix of slim storage, phone protection, and style. Now a new device that’s gained runaway success in their Kickstarter campaign is offering a new paradigm- the Wally.

The Wally is an unusual concept. It’s not a card case per se; the accessory adheres to the back of your iPhone (or smooth surfaced case) and can be removed and replaced. The card holder is similar to the CM4, but has a contoured pocket rather than a flap that holds your cards snug. Cards are easily removed via a clever red ribbon that pulls them partly out for easy access- I often have to fumble with my CM4 to pull the card I’d like past the rubber edge of the case. The materials are high quality as well- the makers tout the Italian leather and careful stitching that make their product a cut above the competitors.

They’ve already surpassed their original goal and with just a few days left are within sight of their stretch goal. If you like the idea of being able to skip on carrying a wallet or clutch purse when out and about give the Wally a look- it’s a top notch idea.

While iOS devices have been touted for their multitasking nature, the Macbook can’t be overlooked. Apple’s unibody laptops are as powerful as they are stylish, and the newer models that sport Thunderbolt ports offer the ability to dock them in clamshell mode, transforming them into a slim desktop tower. There are several third party accessory manufacturers (like Twelve South) that have some outstanding devices to help you take advantage of this feature, but what is a user to do if you don’t have the funds for an Thunderbolt Display? Kickstarter to the rescue again thanks to the MacDock. The diminutive connector plugs into your MacBook Pro to provide a peripheral bridge made of the same aerospace grade aluminum sporting a monitor connection and USB ports for keyboard, mouse, or whatever you may need to connect. The device comes in two levels: the MacDock Mini with one USB 3.0 port and a Mini Display port, and the MacDock Pro with a MiniDisplay port, audio jack, and three USB 3.0 ports (including one 10 watt port capable of powering your iPad). The MacDock is compatible with the MacBook Pro 13, 15, and 17 inch models Summer 2009 and later, with an additional model for the MacBook Air and Retina should they manufacturers reach their funding goals.

The device is plug and play; no drivers or software needed. If you’d like the advantage of a larger monitor and the desktop experience with your MacBook but don’t have Bluetooth accessories or the cash and ability to use the Thunderbolt Display, the MacDock offers an excellent compromise. The simple plug and play ability of the device coupled with something like TwevleSouth’s BookArc and a decent monitor affords you the ability to instantly shift from the mobile laptop experience to a full desktop. While I love my iMac I’m sorely tempted to shift to a MacBook Pro teamed with something like this for my next desktop.

And if you’re as fascinated with Kickstarter as I am, good news: they have an official iOS App now so you can keep track of all of the campaigns you support (and maybe find a few new ones that catch your attention). I haven’t had a chance to spend much time with the app yet, so a full review is pending.

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You never miss it til it’s gone

While it may be very old school, perusing my RSS feeds is a big part of my internet interaction. The format has been around almost as long as the consumer-based internet, and the ease of collection and sorting RSS provides is far better than any competitor I’ve tried on any device, be it a full fledged PC, tablet, or smartphone. While I’ve changed RSS clients more than once, it’s remained my go to resource for amusement, education, and news. 

So it’s with no slight amount of consternation that I read about the misfiring of my RSS solution of choice, Google Reader. Much like Gmail, Google Reader was the RSS portal to rule them all- regardless of how I accessed it, be it the internet or a dedicated app, Reader worked perfectly as a cloud repository. I started using Google Reader as an alternative to the RSS function built into Firefox years ago, and still use the web version on my iMac. My primary use is via Mr Reader on the iPad; the touch controls work great and the sharing/social features are easy and provide everything I’d need from an RSS app.

While the ‘outage’ didn’t dramatically affect me (I just had a handful of posts reappear after they had been marked read), some lost subscriptions and others reported long-deleted subscriptions reappearing. Google was able to correct the glitch fairly quickly, but reports of the lapse in service brought more distressing rumors from pundits. Some claim that the lapse was brought on by a lack of focus on lesser-used services like Reader, and this lack of utilization has caused Google to consider phasing the RSS service out (as they’ve ended other less successful services like Buzz and Answers). While it wouldn’t kill the format, it would put a dent in my habits. Google Reader is more than just a way to easily consolidate and access feeds from multiple devices, it provides a top-notch search function to find and add new content. I wasn’t sad to see RSS removed from Apple’s Mail App; much as other built-in RSS readers it was functional but hardly feature-packed.

It may be an old format, but sometimes things hang around because they work, not from sheer nostalgia and stubbornness. Whether it’s old school traditional readers for your desktop/laptop or newer, flashier solutions like Flipboard (particularly good on the iPhone) or Google’s own app solution Currents (which I prefer on the iPad over Flipboard) RSS is a perfect way to easily obtain and enjoy your go-to internet sources. Here’s to hoping that Google agrees with me.

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Not another ‘best of’ list

A new year always sparks pundits to look back on what has been. While I’m no pundit, I’m not immune from the urge to evaluate all the tech and apps that I’ve had the privilege to use/evaluate. Unlike those pundits, I don’t want to rehash the tired “Best of the year” category- best is far too subjective; what’s best for me more than likely won’t be best for you, and I lack the clout or resources to be able to sample more than a fraction of what Apple and its ecosystem of app and accessory developers have to offer. Instead, I’d like to share with you the things that have made a lasting impact; the games that I just can’t put down, the apps that have proven far more useful than I had originally thought they could be, the accessories that I couldn’t live without.

Games: While I haven’t had them long, the games that I gravitate towards epitomize what I love about iOS gaming: a unique concept, innovative controls and gameplay, and an eye-catchingly well made display.

First, there’s Groove Coaster. I love the spartan Tempest-like vector graphics, the simple yet engaging interface, and the use of music as an integral part of the gameplay. It’s been consistently enjoyable.

Second, another relative newcomer- Into the Dead. It does a better job of creating a tense, gripping environment than just about any game I’ve played. This latecomer to the booming zombie game genre may not be as well known as other apps but it holds its own against the best of the category.

Honorable mention- Carmageddon. While not a great game (especially the dodgy controls) its an extremely faithful port of the DOS-based classic

Accessories: The Brydge iPad keyboard. There are plenty of Bluetooth iPad keyboards out there, and most are less expensive than the Brydge, but none offer the combination of durability and functionality that the Brydge does. It’s aluminum chassis pairs perfectly with the iPad (although I’d love to see a future model with softer, rounded edges like the iPad has), and it’s patented hinge allows it to be forward compatible with future iPad models.

iOS feature: iMessage. The ability to use the same messaging platform across all my devices has been very welcome. While the app isn’t perfected yet, it’s been far more useful than I had thought it would be when I installed the initial OSX beta app. I’d love to see Apple make the iOS app as functional as the OSX version, specifically compatibility with other chat platforms.

Honorable mention: Airplay. The Apple TV is a great device in its own right (more on that later) and Airplay provides a great way to expand its usefulness.

Device: The Apple TV. I’ve been able to move beyond a media center PC and TiVo thanks to Apple’s diminutive streaming device. It almost instantly became the integral part of my living room’s media center; it does a better job with streaming content than any other device I’ve used, syncs perfectly with my iMac‘s iTunes library, and offers a decent selection of integrated apps. I’m hoping that Apple fulfills the rumor of opening it to the App Store; it is just another iOS device after all.

News/Reading- Mr Reader. I still rely on RSS feeds for my daily news and entertainment, and Mr Reader has been the best RSS client for iOS that I’ve found so far. Some prefer the eye candy of Flipboard, but I get a great deal more out of Mr Reader’s classic interface and sharing features.

Audio- Stitcher. I’m a huge fan of podcasts, but the recently introduced iOS Podcast app isn’t quite ready for prime time. Stitcher does a great job of bringing me the content I want, without the need for iTunes syncing.

Honorable mention- Pandora. Spotify may be the rage lately, but Pandora is still my go-to source for personalized internet radio. I purchased a subscription over a year ago and have gotten more than my $36 worth out of it.

That’s my list of additions from the past year I can’t do without. Feel free to share yours with me in the comments section!

 

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It keeps me coming back

One of the unfortunate facets of owning gadgets is their nature to break. Regardless of how well something is manufactured, eventually even a brand new just out of the box item will have a manufacturing error or damage caused by shipping. In my past life as an electronic DIY-er the solution usually involved pulling my home constructed PC tower out of its nest of coiling black wires, cracking it open, and replacing the offending part (or salvaging what I could for my next cobbled together tower). Other devices were simply discarded when they went awry; support and customer service for the various non-Apple players I’ve owned was virtually nonexistent and the construction of the devices made tinkering with their innards a task beyond my skills at the time.

Since my conversion to all things Apple the story has been considerably different. On the whole my devices have been remarkably reliable, to date I’ve only had two instances where a device had to be returned (and I’ve owned a lot of Apple products). The consistent level of support and ease of obtaining it has become a main factor in my adoption of Apple products.

Case in point: my new iPhone 5 had a minor light leakage in its display; in the top right corner black backgrounds revealed a touch of light seeming to bleed in from just beyond the edge of the screen. The issue was minor enough that I didn’t deem it worthy of pursuing, but it devolved to other color bleeding (blue over white backgrounds as well) and then streaking pixel loss. Since my iPhone is my only home phone and my primary means of communication at work, I was more than a bit concerned. Unlike my experience with other handsets the solution was simple, quick, and easy. A trip to my local Apple retail store and a demonstration of the issue to an associate resulted in them taking my damaged phone and handing me a new replacement. The associate even backed my iPhone’s data to iCloud for me to insure that everything would transfer. Service was friendly, even though my iPhone had chosen the worst possible time for me to need to visit a retail outlet- the last few days before Christmas. Even though the store was teeming with customers picking up last minute gifts, the store associates were able to accommodate me with a smile.

Contrast this with the DMV-like line at the customer service desk of Best Buy, and the myriad different ways other PC and device manufacturers offer service. Many retailers offer refunds or replacements for defective merchandise, but the experience of dealing with the merchant usually leaves a great deal to be desired. If you purchase directly from the manufacturer your options for service are even more limited and almost certainly require you to ship your item back to them. When I had a possible issue with the Time Capsule router I had purchased online (and the issue was just as likely due to Comcast than a defect in the router) Apple happily replaced it with a new one off the shelf at my local store rather than requiring me to ship it back.

Apple’s support for their devices goes beyond just replacing devices. I was notified of a recall of the Seagate hard drive in my iMac, and was provided links to schedule an appointment to drop the desktop off at the Genius Bar. Even the ecosystem makes for a better overall experience, as my Time Capsule backups restored my iMac and the OSX App Store had all of my software purchases available for immediate download. The same can be said for all of the iOS devices I’ve had- each upgrade was immediately restored with the same apps and data saved automatically to iCloud when I sync the device. Any app that wasn’t part of the last backup is available via the App Store’s Purchased tab; every App you’ve ever bought/downloaded is listed. While there are several computer-agnostic backup services out there, you’ll have to purchase their coverage separately. The service may not offer the same seamless user experience that I had because of that openness; broad compatibility is typically inversely related to detailed compatibility.

I’ve made big financial choices in the past based on similar thinking and have been very happy with the results. Mini Cooper offers some outstanding customer service thanks to their affiliation with BMW; this friendly all-encompassing service (along with a superior product) resulted in my purchase of two consecutive Minis.

Not everyone is in the market for high-end products that Apple produces. Those that aren’t deride the perceived “Apple Tax”, those that do understand that quality and service come at a premium. When I chose Apple devices over competitors it was for more than the device, it was the support and ecosystem built around those devices that form the user experience. Provided they maintain their commitment to the customer experience, both using the device and supporting their products, Apple will have my business.

 

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Adventures in media center solutions

If you’ve read some of my earlier musings you’ve likely noticed I’m a rabid enthusiast of the Plex Media Center software. Apple‘s devices, from handheld iOS  gadgets to the entire Mac lineup, excel in the role of media consumption. My gateway Mac was an early 2009 Mac Mini, purchased specifically to act as a media center and server for my ever-expanding library of movies, TV series, and music. Thanks to the addition of Plex it excelled in that role.

The size of the Mac Mini made it perfect for my big screen TV’s entertainment center. It took up minimal space, and fit neatly into one of the media bays normally reserved for a cable box or other device (paired with an large capacity external hard drive). When interacting with Plex all that was needed was Apple’s minimalist remote; the flattened aluminum control worked perfectly and didn’t create too much clutter on the coffee table (unlike the multiple remote controls most seem to collect thanks to devices that don’t seem to want to play well together). The Bluetooth keyboard and magic trackpad were stowed away in a drawer in the coffee table, providing easy access should they be needed.

Sadly, this setup wasn’t a permanent one. After four years and a lot of use (the Mini was set up to never go to sleep or hibernation mode as it was configured to be a remote streaming server via the Plex iOS app), the bearings in the Mini’s fan finally started complaining. The occasional buzzing sound didn’t impact the Mini’s performance, but it was a sign that I’d have to make a decision soon- repair the Mini’s cooling fan (no minor job; swapping components out is doable but a bit labor intensive compared to other small PCs), upgrade to a new Mac Mini (enticing due to the dramatic improvements in power over the past few revisions and my uncontrollable gadget lust), or seek another answer for my media needs.

I was on the verge of choosing the newest generation of Mac Mini; trading the built-in Superdrive for an external USB model paired with a model of Mini that had a true HDMI port (my 2009 model had to use an adaptor and separate audio cable). Then I had the dawning realization that I really didn’t need that level of power; between my iMac and iPad I never used the Mini as a PC, just a means of getting media to a bigger screen. So if I didn’t need that much functionality, what were some other options?

Some of my friends at the dojo owned a version of the Roku and were fairly satisfied with it. I was intrigued; the price for the various models of Roku were much less than a Mini, and the streaming options were fairly robust. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t a viable option as I have purchased several season passes of TV shows on iTunes, and my TiVo already provided access to Hulu Plus and Netflix.

The second option was the Boxee Box, but it was quickly discarded. I had tried the Boxee software about a year ago, and while it’s not bad I didn’t particularly care for the interface compared to Plex (and it had the same lack of iTunes compatibility as the Roku).

Google’s TV box wasn’t really fully considered. I was excited when I first heard of it, but Google hasn’t had much headway with providers after introducing their TV interface (even though it’s being built into some sets now, and Google’s Play store is growing). Were I primarily a Google customer (Android handset, Chrome laptop, etc.) I would likely have chosen this route, but since I’m already heavily invested in Cupertino’s products I opted for their living room solution instead- the Apple TV.

Apple’s favorite ‘hobby’ has fascinated me every time I ventured into my local (and horribly overcrowded) Apple Store. The diminutive device matched it’s competitors well, but afforded a few extra benefits that sealed the deal for me. Not only can it access my iMac’s iTunes library, the media purchased from iTunes need not be present on any local device- I can stream it directly from Apple’s servers. The device’s solid state construction makes it completely silent, and the device is almost the same size as my Bose speaker control module. Were it not for my Tivo I wouldn’t even need a media cabinet; the media hard drive has been relocated to the desk that sports my iMac (and the TiVo may be discarded entirely).

Then there’s Airplay Mirroring; the Apple TV’s ability to render the audio and screen of any iOS device. With a tap and swipe I was able to push audio, video, Safari, even games to my 54″ TV. This was more than just eye candy. Any functionality that the Apple TV lacked natively (like a browser or Pandora) could be used via Airplay; sometimes with better interaction than a native app would have allowed. This afternoon after coming home from work, I had only to turn on my TV and push Pandora to the Apple TV; I was able to advance tracks and switch stations from everywhere my Time Capsule router (and the sound output of my media setup) could reach.

I’ve had the Apple TV for just over a week now, and have been more than pleased with it. Streaming video is surprisingly better than what the TiVo offered- Daily Show episodes via Hulu no longer look pixellated during the busier moments of the intro, and the interface is easier to navigate and control than what Tivo had built into their device. Now the only reason to change my TV’s input was to watch a rare live broadcast; since I don’t have cable or satellite everything we watch in my household is available through iTunes or streaming services: Hulu, Netflix, or dedicated iOS app via Airplay.

Sadly, even the best setup has disadvantages. My old Mac Mini had a Superdrive built in; without it if I want to watch a DVD on the TV I’ll have to push the video from a Mac with an optical drive (while they still exist!) or purchase a dedicated DVD player. I’ve considered shopping for a Blu Ray Player, but watching movies via DVD is so rare I’ve held off for now.

The Apple TV does offer paid sports programming via the NBA, NHL, and MLB apps built in. Sadly, the only major sport that interests me is football- NCAA or pro; there’s nothing else that gets me pumped. While I do have some access thanks to the ESPN and CBS iOS apps, it is a bit limited. I will dance a jig in the front yard the day that Apple negotiates the rights to broadcast NFL Sunday Ticket or develops a dedicated NCAA app, but that’s not going to happen in the forseeable future. Should you prefer one of the other major American sports, you’re all set.

While I do obtain quite a bit of media from iTunes, it’s not my only source. Plex has almost the same level of flexibility as VLC (my go-to video player and ultimate media multitasker); no matter what type of video format I threw at Plex it handled it with ease. iTunes is far pickier; it prefers MP4 files for video. I’ve slowly begun weeding out the AVI and MKV files for conversion to something iTunes-friendly with HandBrake, but the going is slow. In addition, Plex automatically added metadata to media (posters, background info, even theme music to TV shows when browsing your library); iTunes recognized some of my movies but almost a third of my library had to be manually given artwork.

Enjoying local content isn’t without its trifles: to stream content the host computer must be on and running iTunes,meaning my iMac’s power settings had to be altered so that it wouldn’t need to be aroused from sleep mode should I want to browse it’s library from the living room. Easily done, but still something to bear in mind; if I had obtained all of my video from iTunes I could have relied on streaming directly from Apple.

Lastly, I’ve lost my remote media server as iTunes won’t provide the out-of-home-network access that Plex will. I didn’t use my remote connection to the Mini’s Plex library often, but it was nice to have on occasion. While I could configure my iMac to run the Plex server software, I haven’t made the decision to do so yet as there are already plenty of apps running in the background on my primary desktop.

I’m still exploring the intricacies of the Apple TV, but I am fairly enthusiastic about it so far. The benefits have been more numerous that I had anticipated, and the cost savings over a new (or repaired) Mac Mini are considerate. Should I come to the conclusion that I just can’t live outside of the comforting confines of Plex, I may still stick with the Apple TV- it’s possible to hack it and install Plex as an app!

 

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Saying goodbye to an old friend

And we’re back! The good folks at the Apple store have returned my iMac to me in the same pristine condition I dropped it off, potentially faulty hard drive swapped out. It’s a happy day; I love my iPad but there’s too much computerwise I want to do to confine myself to just iOS devices.

Now that the latest round of Apple device refreshes are out and the dust is beginning to settle; some quick observations: am I alone in feeling the creeping notion of update fatigue? It seems that almost every other month now we’ve had a new product launch from Apple, not to mention all of their competitors. I am almost afraid to covet the new razor-thin iMacs; if the current pattern holds up in a year they may release some new device that blows it out of the water. Take the iPad, for instance: the third generation slate (dubbed simply the New iPad) has already been upgraded with a more powerful processor and a swap out of the old 30 pin connector for a Lightning input. Some resale outlets are allowing customers that purchased their iPad within the last 30 days to swap it out for the newer, slightly more powerful model (I’m opting not to upgrade due to the breadth of accessories I have that would no longer work sans adaptor). While new products are always fun, Apple is firing them out at an almost dizzying pace.

As for the marginally updated NEW new iPad, it marks another quickly approaching point in Apple’s lineup- the absolute retirement of the original data cable. The only device in Apple’s lineup that still uses it is the venerable iPod Classic (not counting the pre-refresh third generation iPads and iPad 2 models still being sold). It is amazing to realize that Apple is the only company I can think of that innovates, then works tirelessly to make that innovation obsolete. The only new Mac that offers Firewire (once a mainstay of Macs) is the new Mac Mini (not counting the not-so-new Mac Pro). The click wheel, once another hallmark of Apple innovation, has also been quietly escorted out of the limelight thanks to touchscreen controls (although the current iPod Shuffle does pay homage to the once cutting edge input with the layout of it’s button controls). Even the mouse is a bit of an afterthought in Apple’s Mac lineup; the multitouch controls are more widespread and far easier to implement via Magic Touchpad.

So here’s to innovation, and to the devastating impact it has on both my checking account and innovation past.

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Life Sans desktop

Thanks to Apple’s recent hard drive recall I am, for the first time since my original (and at the time very cutting-edge) custom Windows 98 PC, effectively without a desktop computer in my household. The realization came over me on my way out of my local Apple retail store; the associate’s assurance that I’d have my iMac back in a short five to seven days slowly sinking in. Surely I can make do with what I have left in my computing arsenal, I thought.
My first fallback option was my media center Mac Mini. The early 2009 model is a fantastic media jukebox, but its integrated graphics and less than powerful 1.6 GHz processor meant I would have to do without one of computing life’s greatest pleasures- gaming. Casual gaming and the occasional round of Infinity Blade II can only get one so far before the craving for some real FPS fun becomes too difficult to ignore (especially since I finally succumbed to installing a Boot Camp partition so I could enjoy Black Mesa Source) . Still, one makes do with what one has, not with what one wants.
My decision to rely on the Media Center Mac Mini was ultimately thwarted by something unexpected- the viewing angle. My 54 inch Samsung is wall-mounted at a perfect height and angle for viewing video content; but as I shortly discovered it was far from optimal for tasks like browsing. While it was easy to adjust the font size to be readily legible on the larger screen, the fact that browsing meant sitting on the floor using the coffee table as a makeshift desk for my keyboard and trackpad; putting the screen at an uncomfortably higher position that it would be if I were using my iMac in my office. Using a lapdesk while sitting on the couch made it a bit better, but still suboptimal due to the lower than normal position of the keyboard and trackpad and greater distance of the TV/monitor. I realize these are the very model of First World problems, but it was enough to make me shift gears.
On to my trump card- my trusty iPad and Zagg keyboard case. It handles browsing like a champ, is perfect for casual video or streaming downloaded content from the Media Center via Plex or shared iTunes library, and offers some functionality like ebooks that the desktop isn’t intended for.
As I’ve mentioned before, the Zagg Folio case provides a reasonable approximation of the functionality of a laptop. The hardware keyboard is a must if you want to type more than a paragraph or two, and the Zagg version is a fine choice (although I do look forward to getting my hands on the Brydge keyboard that I’ve preordered).
There’s something to be said for actually sitting at a desk when it comes to being productive. While some advertisements show smiling beautiful people happily finishing that best selling novel or sale-clinching spreadsheet while at the beach or park, actually sequestering yourself in an office at a desk does seem to have at least a subliminal effect on actually getting something done. I tend to take my iPad with me most days, but get little other than media consumption done when I’m out and about. When sitting at my iMac the only distractions I have to fight off are the call of my Steam games, Fark.com, and drinking more port than is helpful (Facebook is always there, but it rarely takes up more than five minutes unless I’ve picked another fight over politics).
I’ve used the iOS WordPress app to write this post, and it’s worked well, although I’d be hesitant to use it as my primary means of posting. It’s far easier to use the iMac’s expansive screen to keep multiple apps running; Safari for both WordPress and research, Pandora or iTunes for audio inspiration, Messages for staying in contact via multiple platforms, and ready access to saved images or press releases in the Downloads folder. App switching has been made much easier thanks to the inclusion of multitask gestures in iOS, but it’s not quite the same experience as a full OS.
So far I’ve successfully fought off the temptation to do an early hardware upgrade. I’ve been seriously considering bypassing the iMac entirely for my next setup for the more mobile configuration of MacBook Pro plus Thunderbolt Display paired with my current bluetooth keyboard and trackpad; the idea of being able to have both the desktop experience and the ability to take my full home Mac setup with me is a fantastic idea. The MacBook’s ability to run in clamshell mode, tucked conveniently behind the Thunderbolt Display like a diminutive PC tower is enticing, but sadly prohibitively expensive at the moment.
So for now, my iPad is my sole conduit to my second life online. It’s not a bad option, but I’ll be more than happy to have my iMac returned and its Time Capsule backup restored.

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Multipurpose accessories for wherever you need them

One of the factors I’ve loved about iOS devices has been the wealth of accessories available. While I have an admitted weakness for all things clever, when it comes to my accessories I’ll typically default to something utilitarian over flashy, multipurpose over single purpose.

My friends at Arkon have long been a reliable maker of accessories that fit this description perfectly. I’ve had the pleasure to evaluate a number of products from their expansive catalog, and have yet to be disappointed with anything they manufacture. From the PIP Boy-like Forearm Holder to to their innovative Smartphone Tripod, Arkon has produced one well-engineered product after another.

Their latest offerings make the point of showing that smartphones aren’t all they have on their minds. Not one but two new universal tablet stands have been shared with me; the 10″ Table Stand and the 4′ Extending Floor Stand, both sporting a quick-release universal tablet mount. The two tablet stands are almost identical, the only real difference is their height and size of the base.

I assembled the table mount in less than a full minute with no tools. The mount is as utilitarian as it’s name; its aluminum and industrial-grade black plastic construction aren’t going to win any beauty contests, but they are made for performance over appearance. As described earlier, the mounting assembly is designed for quick placement and release of your tablet. The bottom of the mount sports two reposition-able “fingers”, the top a single lockable clasp; both lined with soft foam to hold your tablet securely. A small tab on the side of the clamp body releases the top of the clasp, freeing your tablet in an instant. 

The mount mechanism sits atop the stand via an articulating ball joint and a locking hinge, providing a wide range of viewing positions. The base of the stand is a weighty metal V with felt coating the underside to prevent it from scratching or scuffing the surface it is placed on. The construction and mass of the base afford surprisingly secure footing for the stand; during testing it never moved, even during iMessage text typing.

The larger podium-like 4′ floor mount has a wider, heavier base but is just as stable. It took slightly longer to assemble, but was still a simple affair. As with its smaller sibling the floor stand was easy to position for use, and the mounting assembly is identical.

As mentioned before, these aren’t accessories you buy to compliment the sleek, stylish appearance of your tablet (although they are by no means ugly). These are well-made, sturdy stands that allow you to get more out of your iPad (or other tablet if you are so inclined). The desk stand worked perfectly in my office, keeping my iPad’s screen at the same level as my iMac‘s, and in the kitchen when using one of my many cooking apps. The taller stand would be perfect for lectures or presentations, especially if paired to something like an Apple TV that would allow wireless screen mirroring. I used mine in the living room, placing it alongside the arm of my couch so that I could use my iPad as a second screen device while watching football this past weekend (the stand is adjustable to heights from 2′ to 4′). Having your iPad held hands-free at the perfect height is something that you don’t value until you are afforded it, but consider me won over. The iPad may be light, but having it readily available hands-free was a boon. Both of these stands have proven useful in everyday tasks, not just specialized ones.

The stands are available now via Arkon’s website; the 10″ tabletop version lists for $39.95 and the 4′ floor version for $89.95.

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iPad or Laptop?

I’ve discussed iPad keyboard cases earlier, but since that time more accessories have come to market, offering multiple aspects of using the iPad for productivity. Most notable is the Brydge, a Kickstarter-funded accessory that does more than folio-style keyboard cases to turn your iPad into a faux Macbook Air. The device is impressive, offering both a model with stereo speakers that are touted to be superior to the iPad’s existing mono speaker and a bracket that holds your iPad firmly.

Another accessory offering the Macbook Air experience with your iPad is the ClamCase, affording full protection for your iPad along with a fully positionable keyboard that can fold behind your iPad. The ClamCase would be an excellent choice for those that want to quickly transition between laptop and tablet functionality without having to remove the iPad from the accessory.

While both of these products are excellent accessories (to go along with the folio-style cases discussed earlier) there is an elephant in the room that hasn’t been recognized: is this option a worthy investment? Even if you choose the least expensive iPad (16 gigabyte storage, wifi-only), adding one of the two keyboard cases above (ClamCase at $149, Brydge at $210 for speaker-equipped and $170 for speaker less) raises the price to around $700. That’s very close to the entry level price for a Macbook Air that offers a full OS as well even more cloud storage options than the iPad. Pick up a larger capacity iPad or one with LTE capacity and you could easily surpass the price of the least expensive Air. Bear in mind, if you don’t need the portability of an ultraportable and aren’t devoted to OSX there are options far less expensive than the Air (caveat emptor!).

So what’s your best option? The answer depends entirely on what you need to do. If you need network connectivity from where ever you are, the iPad/keyboard case is likely your best option provided you don’t need the power of a full OS. The latest generation of iPad’s LTE connection is blazingly fast, and even 3G connectivity is  sufficient for most productivity tasks. More than a few businesses have switched to using iPads as their primary device, relying on proprietary apps for ordering and inventory; in cases like this a ClamCase would work perfectly. If you need the best battery life possible the iPad/keyboard case might be your best choice as well. While the Air offers great battery life, it can’t touch the iPad’s 10 hours (I routinely use my iPad for a full business day, including constant Pandora play without falling below 50% battery charge).

There are some tasks that are simply better on a full fledged laptop, however. I can attest that while the WordPress app in iOS is fine for quick posts, it’s much easier to collect all of the references and information I like to use in a typical post on my iMac. Having the ability to have multiple apps windowed (even on the smaller screen of the 11 inch Air) is a great productivity tool. Then there’s the physical form of your device- while the ClamCase and Brydge are solid, there are times that the aluminum unibody of the Air offers an advantage. The form is even slimmer than the combined iPad/case and offers a slightly wider screen to go along with the more powerful processor and multitasking ability. Then there’s the far greater range of applications available to the Air, all the way to being able to boot or emulate a different operating system. While the Air typically has a smaller hard drive than other Apple computers, it does afford the ability to use Bootcamp or a virtual environment like Parallels to provide access to Windows or Linux.

The question of what setup provides the best experience is actually a good problem to have. More choices for consumers is always an advantage, allowing users to tailor their devices to exactly what their needs are. The only requirement is that customers be aware of their options and have all of the information needed to make an informed decision as to what best suits their needs.

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