In today's infinitely connected workplace, the iPhone's popularity and usability make it a powerful platform for collaboration. With a few downloads from Apple's App Store, you can be managing projects, updating your team, tracking progress and sharing documents from anywhere you can get a signal.
These 10 apps, all of which are compatible with iOS 3.0 and higher, are among the best out there for working with others. Best of all, most of them leverage the cloud to let you shift seamlessly between your phone and your desktop as you move in and out of the office.
Storing and sharing files
To do any significant work on an iPhone, you have to get around one major limitation: By design, third-party apps can't share data with other apps. That's why, for instance, you can't open e-mail attachments in anything other than the Mail app's built-in viewer.
Fortunately, there are plenty of clever programmers who have designed their apps to use the online storage and sharing services Box.net and Dropbox. As long as you have an account with one of those services, you can access and save files there. Each of these storage services also offers an iPhone app of its own that lets you manage your stored files by, among other things, organizing, sharing and setting permissions for them.
View, share and comment on stored files with Box.net's iPhone app. Click to view larger image.
Box.net
Box.net has long been a popular online file storage service, and it gets better and better with each update. When you access the site on a computer, you can edit files with Zoho's full-featured Web 2.0 office suite, use third-party plug-ins and much more.
The iPhone app allows you to share individual files or whole folders stored on Box.net, open files using the iPhone's built-in file viewer, and leave comments on files. You can upload photos from the iPhone's Camera Roll; we'll be looking at applications that save other kinds of documents directly to Box.net below. (Of course, you can also add files from your computer by logging into your account at Box.net's Web site.)
The Box.net app is free; Box.net's free individual account offers 1GB of storage, with 10GB accounts starting at $9.95 a month.
Dropbox
Dropbox offers a different approach to file sharing, letting you sync files among your Windows, Mac and/or Linux computers and the Web, where you can share the files with others and monitor their changes. Dropbox creates a folder for automatic syncing on your computer(s). If you change any files in that folder or add any files to it, those changes will sync to other designated dropboxes.
You can create private subfolders that sync among your own computers, as well as shared subfolders that sync to clients, partners, teammates or anyone else you designate.
The Dropbox iPhone app lets you manage shared files from your phone. Click to view larger image.
As with the Box.net app, the Dropbox iPhone app lets you manage your shared Dropbox files from your phone. You can assign files to team members or other collaborators and see when a file has been viewed or updated so you can keep up with what your teammates are doing.
You can also use the app to view files others have shared with you, but you can't directly edit them or upload files of your own, except photos and videos from the Camera Roll. (Later in this story we'll look at some iPhone apps that let you download, edit and upload files to and from your Dropbox account.) An Events view in the app highlights whenever a file has been added or modified.
The Dropbox app is free; Dropbox accounts offer 2GB of free storage, with paid accounts starting at 50GB for $9.99 per month or $99 per year.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Gen4 iPod Touch First Impressions
The newest Apple iPod touch is such a sleek and slim device that it can almost go unnoticed in ones pocket. Screen display is sharper and resists glare more effectively when compared with the last generation Touch. When turned off, the face of the touch remains entirely black, unlike the first generation model that contrasted a shade of gray between the screen and its border. Also noticeable is its blazing performance speed from launching apps to navigating the menus. Bluetooth and WiFi have proved to be effective on the Touch, while the camera is waiting further testing. There is still much to be examined on the new Touch, but has so far been an impressive device.
Check back soon for a full review and take alook at some preliminary judgments in Brighthands first-look review.
Arrives fully assembled, lightweight
3.5-inch Retina display (640 x 960)
Virtual keyboard for text entry
Good speaker quality
iOS 4.1 operating system/ A4 processor
Impressive WiFi and Bluetooth
Pre-loaded calendar, contacts, notes, calculator, clock, maps, weather, and voice memo apps
No pre-loaded games
Camera Front and rear. Average first-impression. Being tested further
Battery being tested
Pricing - $230 8GB, $300 32GB, $400 64GB
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
HP Advances the Touch Experience for Consumers and Businesses
New HP TouchSmart PC and HP Omni100 make computing an immersive experience for customers
PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 20, 2010
Introducing a more personal, intuitive and entertaining computing experience for consumers, HP today unveiled the sleekly appealing HP TouchSmart310 PC, which features the most advanced version of the company’s exclusive TouchSmart software to date.
The company also announced the HP TouchSmart Apps Center for one-touch access to free and subscription-based applications, as well as the HP Omni100, which offers the performance users demand from a tower and monitor in an all-in-one design.
HP also is helping businesses make touch an integral part of the customer experience through relationships with American Airlines, ESPN and the National Football League’s San Francisco 49ers.
“Each generation of TouchSmart is a reflection of what HP has learned from its customers, complemented by the latest technologies,” said James Mouton, senior vice president, Desktop Organization, Personal Systems Group, HP. “The TouchSmart PC’s unique interface lets users do more than just basic computing – it acts as the anchor of one’s digital lifestyle, encouraging creativity, organization and a truly immersive experience.”
Create, communicate and personalize with just one touch
The latest version of HP TouchSmart software transforms the desktop into a “Magic Canvas” that enables users to freely drag applications, music, photos, videos and web content(1) directly onto the desktop as “Magnets.” Multilayered wallpapers bring depth and perspective to the screen, while the new “Carousel” and “Magic Menu” allow users to easily locate applications and content – all with the touch of a finger.
In addition to existing applications from Twitter, Hulu, Netflix, RecipeBox and the HP Music Store powered by Rhapsody, the software now features a built-for-touch Facebook application that makes it easier than ever to stay connected with friends and family. Users can create a personalized video greeting and post it directly to a friend’s Facebook Wall.(1)
The new HP TouchSmart Apps Center – available via an icon on the TouchSmart Carousel – provides seamless one-touch access to applications from partners such as Marvel Comics and the Cartoon Network.(1)
Applications include:
Marvel Comics: Featuring the Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited™ online library of more than 8,000 comics – tap and be immersed in the colorful stories of the world’s most popular superheroes, including Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, The Avengers, Spider-Man and Wolverine.
Cartoon Network: Offering regular news updates on Cartoon Network shows and characters.
A variety of touch-enabled games to entertain every member of the family.
The new version of the TouchSmart software will be available on the HP TouchSmart310 desktop PC and the current HP TouchSmart 600 desktop PC. The TouchSmart 600 PC also is available with Beats Audio – a unique, high-performance technology that provides an optimal sound experience – the way the artist intended it.(2)
The convertible HP TouchSmart tm2 notebook PC will include updated TouchSmart Mobile 2.0 software. Similar to the interface on the HP TouchSmart desktop PC, the software allows users to drag multimedia content to use the notebook’s desktop like a personal canvas and access applications through a carousel view. The tm2 features many of the same touch applications as the TouchSmart desktop PC and includes DigiFish Dolphin, a screensaver that recreates an interactive ocean environment.
The tm2 features a capacitive multitouch, 12.1-inch diagonal, LED BrightView touchscreen display and provides a full notebook PC experience with Intel® Core™ i3 and i5 processors and AMD Mobility Radeon HD 5450 switchable graphics.
High performance meets elegant design
The fourth generation of the HP TouchSmart PC is a balance of elegant design and performance. The slimmer 20-inch HD display(3) of the HP TouchSmart310 sits on a pedestal base that tilts up to 30 degrees. Built-in wireless LAN,(4) webcam, front-firing speakers and an optional TV tuner(5) provide a robust multimedia experience. Other features include AMD VISION processors and Radeon graphics and up to 2 terabytes (TB) of storage.(6)
Keeping the environment in mind, the HP TouchSmart310 PC is ENERGY STAR® qualified and meets the standards for silver registration in the Electronic Products Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT®).
Companies and independent software vendors choose HP TouchSmart PCs
HP TouchSmart 9100 installations are in progress with iconic brands such as American Airlines Admirals Club lounges, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and the San Francisco 49ers, showcasing diverse touch technology business use cases for new markets.
In addition, the National Gallery of Canada is using HP TouchSmart PCs to create the industry’s first interactive digital art catalog for antique photography, aiming to enhance the viewing experience for the museum’s visitors.
The HP Interactive Solutions ISV Partner Program offers a growing portfolio of touch-enabled applications within healthcare, hospitality, retail and education verticals.
HP Omni100 offers stylish simplicity
The sleek, all-in-one design of the HP Omni100 offers users simple setup, a 20-inch HD display,(3) AMD VISION technology and up to 1 TB of storage.(6) The PC also features the latest version of HP MediaSmart software, making it easier than ever to manage photos, videos and music.
Pricing and availability(7)
The HP TouchSmart310 desktop PC starts at $699.99 and is planned to be available Sept. 22 at www.hpdirect.com and at select retailers nationwide on Oct. 24.
The HP TouchSmart 600 desktop PC starts at $999.99 and is planned to be available Sept. 22 at www.hpdirect.com and at select retailers nationwide Oct. 24.
The HP TouchSmart tm2 notebook PC starts at $829.99 and is planned to be available Oct. 27 at www.hpdirect.com.
The HP Omni100 desktop PC starts at $499.99 is planned to be available Sept. 22 at www.hpdirect.com and at select retailers nationwide on Oct. 24.
More information about the products, including product specifications and images, is available at www.hp.com/personalagain.
24/7 service and support
HP PCs are backed by HP Total Care, the company’s award-winning service, solutions and support, both in and out of warranty. With HP Total Care, consumers can reach support agents 24/7 by phone or online support options like the HP consumer support forum.
On Sept. 28, HP will host a 24-hour Expert Day on the HP Consumer Support Forum. Experts from HP will be on the community forum to answer questions and give tips to help people get the most out of their HP printers, desktops and notebooks.
HP PCs also come with built-in support through HP Support Assistant, a simple software application that allows PCs to run smoothly right from the start. The software maintains PC performance and resolves problems with automated updates and tune-ups, onboard diagnostics and guided assistance.
About HP
HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world’s largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure to solve customer problems. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at http://www.hp.com/.
PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 20, 2010
Introducing a more personal, intuitive and entertaining computing experience for consumers, HP today unveiled the sleekly appealing HP TouchSmart310 PC, which features the most advanced version of the company’s exclusive TouchSmart software to date.
The company also announced the HP TouchSmart Apps Center for one-touch access to free and subscription-based applications, as well as the HP Omni100, which offers the performance users demand from a tower and monitor in an all-in-one design.
HP also is helping businesses make touch an integral part of the customer experience through relationships with American Airlines, ESPN and the National Football League’s San Francisco 49ers.
“Each generation of TouchSmart is a reflection of what HP has learned from its customers, complemented by the latest technologies,” said James Mouton, senior vice president, Desktop Organization, Personal Systems Group, HP. “The TouchSmart PC’s unique interface lets users do more than just basic computing – it acts as the anchor of one’s digital lifestyle, encouraging creativity, organization and a truly immersive experience.”
Create, communicate and personalize with just one touch
The latest version of HP TouchSmart software transforms the desktop into a “Magic Canvas” that enables users to freely drag applications, music, photos, videos and web content(1) directly onto the desktop as “Magnets.” Multilayered wallpapers bring depth and perspective to the screen, while the new “Carousel” and “Magic Menu” allow users to easily locate applications and content – all with the touch of a finger.
In addition to existing applications from Twitter, Hulu, Netflix, RecipeBox and the HP Music Store powered by Rhapsody, the software now features a built-for-touch Facebook application that makes it easier than ever to stay connected with friends and family. Users can create a personalized video greeting and post it directly to a friend’s Facebook Wall.(1)
The new HP TouchSmart Apps Center – available via an icon on the TouchSmart Carousel – provides seamless one-touch access to applications from partners such as Marvel Comics and the Cartoon Network.(1)
Applications include:
Marvel Comics: Featuring the Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited™ online library of more than 8,000 comics – tap and be immersed in the colorful stories of the world’s most popular superheroes, including Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, The Avengers, Spider-Man and Wolverine.
Cartoon Network: Offering regular news updates on Cartoon Network shows and characters.
A variety of touch-enabled games to entertain every member of the family.
The new version of the TouchSmart software will be available on the HP TouchSmart310 desktop PC and the current HP TouchSmart 600 desktop PC. The TouchSmart 600 PC also is available with Beats Audio – a unique, high-performance technology that provides an optimal sound experience – the way the artist intended it.(2)
The convertible HP TouchSmart tm2 notebook PC will include updated TouchSmart Mobile 2.0 software. Similar to the interface on the HP TouchSmart desktop PC, the software allows users to drag multimedia content to use the notebook’s desktop like a personal canvas and access applications through a carousel view. The tm2 features many of the same touch applications as the TouchSmart desktop PC and includes DigiFish Dolphin, a screensaver that recreates an interactive ocean environment.
The tm2 features a capacitive multitouch, 12.1-inch diagonal, LED BrightView touchscreen display and provides a full notebook PC experience with Intel® Core™ i3 and i5 processors and AMD Mobility Radeon HD 5450 switchable graphics.
High performance meets elegant design
The fourth generation of the HP TouchSmart PC is a balance of elegant design and performance. The slimmer 20-inch HD display(3) of the HP TouchSmart310 sits on a pedestal base that tilts up to 30 degrees. Built-in wireless LAN,(4) webcam, front-firing speakers and an optional TV tuner(5) provide a robust multimedia experience. Other features include AMD VISION processors and Radeon graphics and up to 2 terabytes (TB) of storage.(6)
Keeping the environment in mind, the HP TouchSmart310 PC is ENERGY STAR® qualified and meets the standards for silver registration in the Electronic Products Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT®).
Companies and independent software vendors choose HP TouchSmart PCs
HP TouchSmart 9100 installations are in progress with iconic brands such as American Airlines Admirals Club lounges, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and the San Francisco 49ers, showcasing diverse touch technology business use cases for new markets.
In addition, the National Gallery of Canada is using HP TouchSmart PCs to create the industry’s first interactive digital art catalog for antique photography, aiming to enhance the viewing experience for the museum’s visitors.
The HP Interactive Solutions ISV Partner Program offers a growing portfolio of touch-enabled applications within healthcare, hospitality, retail and education verticals.
HP Omni100 offers stylish simplicity
The sleek, all-in-one design of the HP Omni100 offers users simple setup, a 20-inch HD display,(3) AMD VISION technology and up to 1 TB of storage.(6) The PC also features the latest version of HP MediaSmart software, making it easier than ever to manage photos, videos and music.
Pricing and availability(7)
The HP TouchSmart310 desktop PC starts at $699.99 and is planned to be available Sept. 22 at www.hpdirect.com and at select retailers nationwide on Oct. 24.
The HP TouchSmart 600 desktop PC starts at $999.99 and is planned to be available Sept. 22 at www.hpdirect.com and at select retailers nationwide Oct. 24.
The HP TouchSmart tm2 notebook PC starts at $829.99 and is planned to be available Oct. 27 at www.hpdirect.com.
The HP Omni100 desktop PC starts at $499.99 is planned to be available Sept. 22 at www.hpdirect.com and at select retailers nationwide on Oct. 24.
More information about the products, including product specifications and images, is available at www.hp.com/personalagain.
24/7 service and support
HP PCs are backed by HP Total Care, the company’s award-winning service, solutions and support, both in and out of warranty. With HP Total Care, consumers can reach support agents 24/7 by phone or online support options like the HP consumer support forum.
On Sept. 28, HP will host a 24-hour Expert Day on the HP Consumer Support Forum. Experts from HP will be on the community forum to answer questions and give tips to help people get the most out of their HP printers, desktops and notebooks.
HP PCs also come with built-in support through HP Support Assistant, a simple software application that allows PCs to run smoothly right from the start. The software maintains PC performance and resolves problems with automated updates and tune-ups, onboard diagnostics and guided assistance.
About HP
HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world’s largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure to solve customer problems. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at http://www.hp.com/.
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