5 in 1 Camera Connection Kit for Apple iPad ( USB 2.0, SD Card Slot, Micro SD card Slot, Sync data & charge, AV output ) (Electronics) newly tagged "ipad"

I was going to go with the Apple branded camera connection kit until I took a look at some of the reviews for it (on Apple's own website, no less); not a lot of happy campers over there with the Apple kit. So, I came on over here to Amazon to look for alternatives. I found this kit, which was priced a little higher than some others and didn't have any reviews to help guide me, but I decided to take the plunge on account of the 5-in-1 feature and the Prime shipping.

I'll use this kit with the New iPad, Kodak EasyshareOne camera and my iPhone 4. I've already used it to transfer a rather large (400MB+) video that was recorded on the iPhone 4 and it did pretty well (took about 3-4 mins with the USB cable--not the one included; the iPhone's USB syncing cable). I should mention here that this kit not only includes the base unit that you connect five different ways but also a USB-to-miniUSB cable and A/V cables for connecting to a television.

I'll have to test it with the Kodak and my Samsung HDTV to see how that works, but so far with the iPhone transfer (it loads the Photos app automatically upon being inserted, which is nice) I'm very happy. The only thing I can see right now that may be an issue is durability. The iPhone USB sync cable didn't seem to seat as snugly as I would like (the 30-pin connector on the bottom of the camera kit into the iPad itself seems stable enough, though) but I simply laid the iPad down while the transfer happened instead of holding it.

As I said, my initial impressions are quite favorable, but I did deduct a star for this sort-of/kind-of loose USB connection. As soon as I've tested a SD (I have a micro-SD in the Kodak), the camera and the TV I'll update.

UPDATE 3/31/12:
All right, so I tested the camera connection kit with my Kodak EasyShareOne as well as the HDTV and it performs pretty well. It was extremely easy to use with the digital camera (it should be noted the micro USB cable included with the kit wasn't small enough so I did have to use my own cable that came with the camera but it still worked flawlessly) and the image quality on the 1080p HDTV was passable (screen size is 52" so anything less than 1080p looks like crap to me:). I tested Star Trek which was purchased from iTunes and supposed to be HD; you could definitely tell it wasn't 1080p but if I needed to use that feature it works without fuss. I'm sure an iPad-to-HDMI connection would result in a clearer picture (as opposed to the A/V cable connection provided).

As a final note I also took the SD card directly from my camera and inserted it into the camera connection kit. I found I prefer this transfer method to the micro-USB cable since it doesn't require both devices being tethered together. Much easier to deal with, IMO. I'm leaving the rating at 4 stars, however, because in 2012 the TV-out connection really should be to an HD display not SD A/V ports and also due to the durability concerns. Until this kit has proven itself past the manufacturer warranty period I can't give a perfect rating.

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Apple iPad Smart Cover - Green For iPad 2 2nd generation ,iPad 3rd generation (Personal Computers) newly tagged "ipad"

I bought this at a little bit higher price than most of the other obvious "knockoff" smart covers on Amazon were selling for. This listing said Apple Smart Cover and had a "By Apple" listed below it. I had seen other listings from this seller than said not the genuine apple smart cover, and since the cover I ordered did not say this, I went ahead and ordered feeling pretty confident I was ordering what they described as the real deal. It wasn't until I received the email to review where it stated it was not the real Apple smart cover.

On to the cover, it works ok. It doesn't always line up perfectly as my genuine smart cover did and the it doesn't stick to the front as well, but when it closes it does put the ipad into sleep and take it out when opened. Can't really use it as a stand like the original because the magnets don't appear to be as strong, it just collapses. The edge opposite the hinges is starting to fray after having only used it a week (it has never left the house and used for 8 hours maybe tops) and there are quite a few strands of white threading sticking out the sides.

All in all, if you're just looking for something to protect the screen when not in use it would be okay, but if I had known to begin with I would have spent a little more and got a guaranteed genuine apple smart cover from another seller.

Update: After speaking with the seller it turns out the error was with how Amazon groups their product listings and the seller's listing of a non genuine cover was grouped under a cover made by Apple. After searching for a few other products and reading some reviews I see how this error could occur and wish Amazon would change their listing process to prevent it.

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5 must-have Apple accessories

Here’s the deal: Christmas is now right around the corner and chances are, someone on your guest list has an Apple product they love. Luckily, there are some fantastic gift options out there, and here are five of our favourites:

The Bluelounge Milo has recently been upgraded, and it’s definitely for the better for aesthetics. The iPhone stand features a technology-forward Japanese micro-suction that grips your iPhone at any angle. The well-designed micro-suction pad is reusable, easily cleaned, and does not leave any residues on your devices or tabletop. With the upgraded stand having a new aluminum finish, it looks great, too–we love that it coordinates with Mac’s sleek look. Available in Black, White, Aluminium Black and Aluminium White, the Bluelounge Milo starts at $14.95. Get it here.

This new sleeve is tailored to fit the mini iPad (with SmartCover attached) in a straightforward, minimalist look. Hand-crafted, the 100% wool felt holder combines both fashion and high functionality, with a high quality top-grain 100% vegetable-tanned leather that is hand-dyed using environmentally friendly dyes leather strap. A simple snap closure keeps it secure, and a storage pocket at the front is a handy compartment that allows you to store documents, earplugs and other accessories. It is available in Brown or White, and starts at €44.95. Get it here.

This gaming case from Incipio is the perfect contender for the new iPod touch. Guaranteed for life, the case is made up of thick, silicone rubber core, combined with a hard plastic central frame for support. There is also a built-in kickstand for easy viewing, and a comfort grip for using two hands. It is made up of a smooth anti-static coating that allows for easy storage in your pocket, with superior protection from the stretch and tear-resistant high-density silicone. The case also comes with a screen film, cloth, and applicator card. Available in Charcoal Gray/Navajo Turquoise, Obsidian Black/Obsidian Black, Optical White/Charcoal Gray, Vivid Violet/Royal Purple, Graphite Gray/Sunkissed Orange and starts at $24.95. Get it here.

The styluses of styluses, this one stands out for being different than the rest. Ten One has developed an electronic stylus that is superior in all ways, including improved writing accuracy and pressure sensitivity, the ability to work at all angles, no need for calibration, and no moving parts. It feature Bluetooth 4.0/Bluetooth Smart wireless functionality, has a long battery life, uses just an (included) AAA battery, and an auto shut-off. It’s compatible with hundreds of apps, and even features location finder if you misplace it, transmitting a unique signal to track down its location. Another bonus? The tip is not only replaceable, but upgradable, too. It is modestly priced at $79.95. Get it here.

The heavy-duty case is one of the best from Trident. The shock-absorbing silicone, combined with the hardened polycarbonate plastic shell, makes it an overall good option for exterior of the case, while the built-in screen protector keeps it fingerprint and scratch free. It includes a built-in, and removable, media stand, with dust covers over microphone and speaker bays. Port openings are covered by silicone, and it is equipped with convenient belt clip/holster. The case itself is black, and available with accents in pink, blue, red, black, and green, and is priced at $49.95. Get it here.

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Six tips for solid iPhone photographs

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Our six favourite iPhone 5 cases

Looking for the ultimate case to house your new iPhone 5? We’ve got you covered. Here’s a roundup of some of the newest iPhone 5 cases and why we love them.

OtterBox iPhone 5 Defender Series Case

We already know that OtterBox is one of the best out there, their new Defender version fo rhte iPhone 5 will hold up to every time we drop our phone just like its predecessors. Designed for demanding conditions, heavy use and random accidents, the Defender includes three layers of protection with a polycarbonate skeleton that cushions the iPhone, along with a built-in screen protector that prevents smudges and scratches. The outer layer and belt-clip holster balance it all out (and doubles as a media viewing stand) with rubber plugs that protect the ports.

Apple iPhone 5 Tasche

If you’re looking for something a little classier, this Genuine Leather Flip Case iPhone 5 Case Cover combines comfort, ease of use, and usability. It includes a practical magnetic closure that makes opening and closing the case a simple flip, with a the same protection against scratches and other damage. The soft inner lining protects the screen, and the real leather material makes the outside stand up to tough use. Hand-sewn, and not glued, it is durable and will last through daily use for the life of your iPhone. 

Belkin View Case for iPhone 5

If you want to be a show off, you’ll want to snag the View Case, offering basic protection with a fully transparent polycarbonate back that lets you keep your iPhone’s looks uncovered (while keeping it covered). It has a flexible, soft TPU border, making it easy to grip, and a slim, compact, lightweight design, making it easy to hold. The View Case provides both impact and scratch protection, covering all buttons without limiting access to any controls or ports, and beveled edges help keep the screen scratch free. The camera lens cutout means nothing will interfere with your perfect shot.

Grove iPhone 5 Case 

Stepping away from plastic, the Grove uses all-natural bamboo to protect your investment from scratches and wear and tear. Beautiful, natural, and durable, the case is built from a plant-fiber composite interior that laminates the bamboo exterior. It is developed from 100 percent post-consumer fibers, along with renewable bamboo, with a strong build, gorgeous feel, and a way to help the environment. You can even get your own custom design.

Pad & Quill Little Pocket Book for iPhone 5

Hand-made in the USA, this super thin pocket book for the iPhone 5 is created from unique baltic birch, built to be just over 9mm thick. The hand-stitched, genuine leather cover, is custom designed by PQ to meet their high standards of quality, with pockets to hold your license, credit cards, and cash–all while protecting your phone. It’s durable, allows easy access for all your needs, and has an attractive and professional look.

X-Doria Kick Case for iPhone 5

If you want to keep it simple, consider the X-Doria Kick Case. A pop-out kickstand allows for easy horizontal or vertical viewing, with a simple-to-use slide on attachment and a rubber grip for extra stability. The top of the case is smooth and glossy, and is made from durable, impact resistant polycarbonate to keep your iPhone safe and sound. It’s simple and clean, with easily accessible ports and controls and a variety of colors to choose from.

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New iMac and Mac minis are better than ever

With the recent release of the new iPad mini and 13-inch MacBook Pro with retina display, Apple has also unveiled a new iMac, with a whole lot to offer.

With a few key features–including a new design, display, and faster processor, along with graphics and storage options that’ll make you swoon, the new iMac trumps all of its predecessors, and everything else on the market.
The manufacturers took everything into consideration, redesigning the machine from the inside out. It has an aluminum and glass enclosure and is much thinner and lighter, weighing in at up to 40 percent less volume and an edge measuring a meer 5 mm thin. The new display is something to love, reducing reflection by 75 percent with an even better colour and contrast. The cover glass is fully laminated to the LCD, covered by an anti-reflective coating that is applied using a fancy high-precision plasma deposition process. Every iMac display is individually calibrated using an advanced spectroradiometer (you know, “designed to measure the  spectral power distributions of illuminants.” Obviously.)

On the inside, the new iMac has a third generation quad-core Intel Core i5 processor, which can easily be upgraded to Core i7. The processors, which are the latest NVIDIA GeForce processors, have up to 60 percent faster of a performance, which is perfect for those who are looking for advanced gaming and creating or utilizing graphics intensive apps. The new iMac’s standard is an 8GB of 1600 MHz memory and a 1TB hard drive, and if you’re interested, you can choose to configure your iMac with up to 32GB of memory and a new 3TB hard drive, or 768GB of flash storage for ultimate performance.

It also comes with two  Thunderbolt and four USB 3.0 ports, and the unique Fusion Drive, an innovative storage option that gives customers the performance of flash storage and the capacity of a hard drive. It is built upon the combination of 128GB of flash with a standard 1TB or 3TB hard drive to create a single storage volume which automatically manages files to optimize read and write performance. It will move the files and apps you use most often to flash storage to enable faster performance and quicker access.
Similarly, the Mac mini also has had an update, with third generation dual-core Intel Core i5 and quad-core Intel Core i7 processors, which are up to twice as fast, along with integrated graphics that are up to 65 percent faster. It has a standard 4GB of 1600 MHz memory with support for up to 16GB, four USB 3.0 ports in addition to its Thunderbolt, HDMI, SDXC, Gigabit Ethernet, and FireWire 800 ports.

Both new devices exceed Energy Star 5.2 requirements and achieve an EPEAT Gold rating

For complete technical specifications, check out apple.com/ca/imac or apple.com/ca/mac-mini.

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The new 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina Display

Just this week, Apple has unveiled some fantastic new products, including the new iPad mini, along with an updated version of its 13-inch MacBook Pro featuring a gorgeous Retina display, along with all flash storage. The new compact design comes in at just 0.75 inches and 3.57 pounds, making it 20 percent thinner and almost a pound lighter than its predecessors.

Given that it is their most popular Mac, the reinvention should be something that many folks are looking forward to. According to  Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing, “the Retina display completely changes what you expect from a notebook.”

And this is true, indeed. The new Pro has over 4 million pixels, nearly twice the number of pixels in an HD television. It’s actually so fancy that the human eye won’t even be able to distinguish individual pixels at a normal viewing distance. Compared to the current 13-inch Pro, it has four times the pixels.

This also offers a new way to edit, which is key for photo and video-driven folks. You can view and edit in pixel-accurate 1080p, and it uses IPS technology for a 178-degree wide viewing angle, along with 75 percent less reflection and 28 percent higher contrast than the models.

The flash storage is a great addition as well, clocking in at four times the speed of traditional notebook hard drives with the latest Intel dual-core processors, and 2.5 GHz Intel Core i5 processors with the option to choose faster 2.9 GHz Intel Core i7 processors, Intel HD Graphics 4000, 8GB of 1600 MHz memory, and up to 768GB of flash storage. On the sides, it is home to two Thunderbolt and two USB 3.0 ports allow users to connect to multiple displays and high-performance devices, and a new HDMI port which offers users quick connectivity to an HDTV. We also love the added bonus of a FaceTime HD camera, dual microphones, improved speakers, three-stream 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, and a MagSafe 2 power port.

Considering all this, the battery is still as fantastic as other versions, giving users up to 7 hours of wireless productivity and can remain in standby for up to 30 days. There is also a new Power Nap feature in OS X® Mountain Lion, which means your Pro stays up to date while it sleeps. Power Nap automatically refreshes your apps such as Mail, Contacts, Calendar, Reminders, and Photo Stream, and when the notebook is plugged in, downloads software updates and backs up using Time Machine.

With all of these updates, the new Pro still hits all of the Energy Star 5.2 requirements and achieves an EPEAT Gold rating. Each unibody enclosure is made of highly recyclable aluminum and comes standard with energy efficient LED-backlit displays that are free from both mercury, as well as arsenic, brominated flame retardants, are PVC.

Specs:

Retina display: 13.3-inch (diagonal) LED-backlit display with IPS technology2560-by-1600 native resolution at 227 pixels per inch with support for millions of colorsScaled resolutions: 1680 by 1050, 1440 by 900, and 1024 by 640 pixelsStarts at $1699 for  2.5GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor (Turbo Boost up to 3.1GHz) with 3MB shared L3 cacheUp to $1999 for 2.5GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor (Turbo Boost up to 3.1GHz) with 3MB shared L3 cacheIncludes 8GB of 1600MHz DDR3L onboard memorySee all details here

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