My Apple Announcement Predictions

A lot has been speculated about what Apple's next product announcement will reveal. Will it be a tablet, a new phone, both? Since Apple is very tight-lipped about it's announcements, no one really knows what will be shown at tomorrow's press event.

Here's my thoughts on what Apple will announce:

iLife 10 - It's time for an iLife update. At this stage in the game with the rumored tablet, iLife will need to be updated to work properly with the OS running on the tablet (which is reported to be a version of the iPhone OS). I also believe that we will see a version of iLife released to the App store (either for free or a small fee) for the iphone. Since we already have video editing and a decent camera on the iphone, I think Apple will take things to the next level and implement a version of iPhoto (replacing the camera roll) as well as a basic version of iMovie. This would line up with one aspect of the creative element to Apple's press for the announcement.

iPhone OS 4.0 - A major iPhone OS update is needed in order to take advantage of the thousands of apps already available in the App store. To do this and to maintain continuity across their product family, Apple will need to make the tablet and the iPhone play nice together. It wouldn't make sense for them to build a new OS ONLY to exist on the tablet. This is also likely a cost cutting measure for Apple. If the tablet runs on the iPhone OS architecture, it can also utilize lower cost hardware, which in turn keeps the price low(er), which is essential for this product to be a success.

E-BOOKS, E-MAGAZINES, E-NEWSPAPERS OH MY! - The iTunes Store will be updated to become more of an online outlet to sell all forms of Newspapers, magazines and digital books with subscription models for magazines and newspapers. So, you'll pick up your tablet in the morning and read the New York Times or your Time Magazine subscription will come full color (ads included) every other week to your device and be ready to read whenever you wish. The tablet will be front and center as the preferred device to read and view these publications on with it's large multi-touch screen, but more than likely this will also apply to the iPhone as well. If these new digital books, magazines and newspapers are in the iTunes store they will almost definitely be available on your iPhone with the ability to share between devices. Just one more reason for apple to make things universal across the iphone and tablet OS's.


The Tablet - So much has been said about this, I'm almost afraid to put my own opinion out there! I disagree with a lot of what TWIT and MacBreak Weekly are saying about this.

Here are my own opinions on what will make up the tablet.

• Multiple Tablet Models - This product will be dead at the gate if it exists solely as a carrier subsidized product (meaning that you purchase it on a contract just like your cell phone.) Forums all over the internet are rife with people stating they will not purchase a product (no matter how great it is, if it requires a contract and monthly fee). So I believe there will be a high end model for 3G networks which makes for instant purchase and delivery of books/magazines/newspapers (see next bulletpoint), available on a subscription plan, likely with an OLED screen (which, is less battery intensive than traditional LCDs) as well as a more basic model with wifi and a traditional LCD screen offered as a one time purchase. NOW....Here's the clincher! I'm going to predict that the high end model of the tablet will be offered at a lower initial price than the basic model simply because the high end tablet will be subsidized by a Cellular company, so if you're paying for it over a 2 or 3 year contract, the initial price will be lower. This will make all the gadget freaks think long and hard about the extra bells and whistles that Apple may sink into this higher end tablet before they make their decision and may be the best way for Apple to persuade customers into another long term contract.
• Stereo Speakers - This is a no brainer. Need I say more?
• Single Docking Port - There have been rumours that the tablet will include two docking ports for landscape and portrait mode. I don't think Steve's minimalist personality would allow for two ports (which could potentially create repair issues down the road) I believe the tablet will feature a landscape docking port. My reason is that pictures in portrait mode will still be viewable, you can still turn the device sideways and view content in portrait mode, but I believe that 3rd party docks, and potentially any new devices that will utilize the tablet as a control interface (if this becomes a possibility) will use the tablet in native (landscape mode).
• Two Wireless Receivers - Wifi (for the basic model) and 3G for the subsidized model.
• Ports - No USB or firewire ports.
• Web Access - There will be the same basic internet functionality available in the iPhone such as Youtube, Email, Safari etc. Apple will not make this device without the same internet functionality as the iPhone.
• Style - The tablet will feature the same style as the iMacs and current line of Macbooks. Glass and metal with a glowing mac symbol on the back.

Whatever happens, It'll be a major milestone for the company and a huge game changer in a variety of ways. I'll be watching for sure. What are your thoughts?

Bluetooth Headset Nightmares & Reviews

Sharper Image Headset

Price: $29.99

Battery Life: 5-8 hrs talktime / 150-180 hrs standby

Range: 3 FEET (according to manual)

So I've been on a mission to find a decent bluetooth headset these last few weeks. I started out going cheap ($20-$30.00) range and ended up with a very small model from Sharper Image. This headset is packaged VERY impressively (in the same style as the high end jawbone headsets) with heavy plastic cubes displaying the tiny headset on the top and 4 small screws holding the box together (the box actually requires a tiny screwdriver to open).

This headset is literally not much bigger than my thumbprint. The entire piece is less than an inch in length and appears quite high-end looking. The button on the front at first glance looks like it's made from light metal. When you touch it, you'll be disappointed to discover that it's made from light silver plastic and jiggles around when you put your finger on it.

There was really nothing on the outer box that suggested range or battery longevity (that should have been my first clue to stay away!). Inside however, the specs were laid out. Battery life was typical of most headsets 5-8 hours talktime and (150-180 standby). The most shocking spec. though was the range (distance that you can use the headset from your phone). The range on the sharper image bluetooth headset was 3 FEET!!

I didn't actually read all this until after I cracked open the package and charged the unit up. Unfortunatly, I never experienced this headset functioning on my iPhone 3GS as it would not pair with the headset. I tried several times (powering down the phone, turning off bluetooth mode and turning off headset). After contacting Sharper Image Technical Support (which is AlcaTel). I was asked to ship the unit back to Sharper Image (pay shipping) and they would send me out a new, more compatible model. It seems I wasn't the first customer to have this problem!

After pairing the headset with my wife's LG Shine, I found the audio quality to be very low, with significant delay and I also noticed that holding the phone in my hand straight away from the earpiece gave so much static that it all but disconnected the phonecall. So, I've learned my lesson. No longer will I be swept away by small, tiny and cute little tech gadgets from kitschy executive toy companys.

Once I returned the Sharper Image model (Against the Store's policy)I went across the street to our local mall and checked out the "Cell Booth" kiosk which sells phones from all cellular phone companies and offers a pretty decent selection of accessories. At this point, I realized I was going to have to raise the bar a little bit and probably spend a little more money if I wanted to stay away from the cheap little bluetooth models with the interchangeable plastic faceplates and crappy designs...

Sony Ericsson HBH-GV435a
Price: $49.99
Battery Life: 8 hrs talktime / 180 hrs standby
Range: 10 METERS (according to manual)

So I walked out with this model from Sony Ericsson. A very nice over-the-ear style headset (almost like a traditional hearing aid) with great rubberized arm for bending around your ear and an earpiece that swivels in about an 80degree angle to accommodate a comfortable placement inside your ear. Typically, from what I've read online, this headset retails for a lot more in a lot of places. And, my particular box had been repriced 3 times with a starting price of $149.99. So I figured I was getting a significantly higher quality headset. The unit charged in 2 hours and paired instantly with my iPhone. I made a quick phonecall and recieved a call with no problem. The controls are a little tricky to get used to since the buttons are located at the top of your ear. But sound quality was very good. Actually, impressive. There was no delay and noise cancellation was beautiful. I was thrilled. Until it dropped it's first call.

I was sitting at home and had the headset out and my phone rang. So I put the headset on and answered the call. We talked for a few minutes and with no warning, the headset stopped responding and I realized that the headset had not turned off, but had reverted back to my iPhone. I continued the call with the handset and just chalked it up to a fluke. Later on, while I was with my kids at the Santa Claus parade, I experienced exactly the same thing. A few minutes in and the audio goes out and goes back to the handset. So, back to the kiosk we go.

Nokia BH900

Price: $49.99

Battery Life: 8 hrs talktime / 180 hrs standby

Range: 10 METERS (according to manual)

Back we went to the kiosk. After really liking the quality and style of the Sony Ericsson model, I was really tempted to just exchange for the same headset. But, I didn't want to risk having the same issues with a new headset. So I opted this time for a slightly larger headset from Nokia. The BH900. This retailed originally for $99.99. It features a sliding boom mic and the headset itself hangs over your ear without sitting inside. I am not a fan of this particular style, so right off the bat I was apprehensive. The size was a bit of an issue too. This is not the small headset that I've been attracted to. This unit looks more like a mouse gnawing on your ear. As much as I'd like to tell you how the unit performed, I can't. When I plugged the headset in to charge, I got a green light. According to the manual I should have seen a red flashing light indicating charge mode. After more than two hours of being plugged in, I still had a green light. I unplugged the headset and pushed the power button. Nothing. I tried replugging in the headset, tried a new outlet, nothing. I was able to get a flashing green light if I plugged the headset in and pushed the power button. But as soon as I unplugged the headset, it went dead.

So, now I am 0 for 3. I am considering going for another price boost (to $99.00). I will post more on this story as I try to find a working and decent functioning bluetooth headset.

Brabus Motorcycle!

Brabus is a company that specializes in tuning already amazing cars (Maybachs, Mercedes) and making them even more amazing (But mostly faster). Lately, they have expanded into pimping out luxury yachts and specialized vehicles (law enforcement or mobile offices for the elite). But I was very surprised to see this parked at my local Starbucks.


As it turns out, the bike's owner is runs an ad agency. The agency was contacted to do some creative marketing for the Brabus company. The campaign centred around a vehicle that brabus would never manufacture. And so this bike was created. Apparently, the only one in existence. With a top speed of 300 mph.

I captured these pictures with my iPhone. The owner is a fan of Brabus products (and owns others). I didn't get too indepth taking pictures with the bike (and blurred the owners license plates). But it has a very "naked" design concept. Bare handlebars and foot operated break pedals. Speedometer is mounted between the oversized (but necessary) gas tank and the handlebars. Everything is made out of carbon fibre. Also, not in the picture is a Nitrous Oxide cannister on the ride side of the bike near where the rider's knees would be.



Any readers with knowledge of these types of bikes are welcome to comment. I really don't know a lot more about this particular bike (engine size or actual horsepower). I only got to chat with the owner a few minutes. But I did get to hear him start the bike and pull out of the parkinglot. The engine sounded much like a tuned Ferarri or Porsche revving at high RPM's. Not throaty and deep like a harley and not high pitched or whiney like a japanese crotch rocket. Very much in between.




That's all I got. Hope to see some comments and thoughts.

Marley Coffee

I came across something the other day that nearly melted my brain! Readers of this blog (if there are any left!) probably already know of my love for all styles of music (although Reggae is pretty dear to me) and you definitely know of my coffee addiction and love for all kinds of new and different coffees. Well, this changes EVERYTHING!

It turns out that Rohan Marley, a child of Reggae Legend Bob Marley has opened his very own plantation under the Marley name. "The Marley Estate sits atop the Blue Mountains of Jamaica, long revered as the region with the world’s most desirable coffee beans. Rohan remembers his grandmother drying their wild coffee berries in the sun, hulling and roasting them for her own cup of coffee each morning. Marley Coffee is determined to deliver that same intoxicating aroma and rich, smooth flavor into every cup that bears the Marley name. Marley Coffee offers a unique line of single origin and blended coffees. We produce and source the finest beans from the top growing regions in the world; Blue Mountain Jamaica, Central America, Indonesia and the birthplace of coffee, Ethiopia Yirgacheffe. Our ITAL Coffee's are certified organic and sustainably grown." - www.marleycoffee.com

WHAT?!! I can buy coffee from Bob Marley's son? How crazy is that? To say that I'm excited about this is a grand understatement. We are planning to order some this week!

Rohan Marley currently offers five different blends each with unique names all befitting of coffee from the estate of Jamaica's most famous!

Jammin' Java Organic Bold Full City Roast."Sultry, smoky, sweet, and yet unexpectedly smooth brew will leave you wanting more. Full bodied with traces of earthy overtones, dark chocolate berries that produce a zingy acidity and rich lingering finish." - www.marleycoffee.comMystic Morning Wakeup Medium Roast. "This rich but snappy coffee is medium to full bodied with wonderful acidity. Aromas and tastes of cocoa, spice, cedar, cinnamon and cooked pumpkin gives you the perfect morning kick." - www.marleycoffee.com

One Love Organic Ethiopian Yirgacheffe. "From the birthplace of coffee, One Love’s floral aromas unfold with hints of blueberry, cocoa and spice with a medium body and bright acidity. It tantalizes the palette leaving a profound cherry finish." - www.marleycoffee.com

Lively Up! 5 Bean Organic Espresso Blend. "Our exquisite 5-bean espresso is dynamically balanced and rich in body. Its dense, abundant taste leaves a long, savory finish with flavors of cocoa, candied fruit and buttery caramel notes. Enjoy as espresso, drip or press." - www.marleycoffee.com

Simmer Down Organic Swiss Water Decaf. "Aromas of cocoa, nutmeg, star anise and spices of the West Indies fill this cup. Simmer Down reveals chocolate, and smoky tastes with great body and mild acidity leaving a peppery finish." - www.marleycoffee.com

If you're a music fan or coffee drinker, you owe it to yourself to check this out! If you get some before I do, Please!!! post a comment with your review on the coffee you purchased and what it was like! As soon as we get our order I will be putting a full review of each blend on this blog.

Stay tuned! In the meantime, if you'd like to order some Marley Coffee click on the links to go directly to their online store!

1500 Records and a New Blog...

For those who don't know. I started this year without my Dad. He passed away boxing day (december 26, 2008). It was very unexpected and he was quite young (at 60) to leave us so soon. However, we were very blessed to spend quality time with him throughout the Christmas season and as a family who trusts in God, we also rest knowing that he is now without pain and suffering and that someday we will see him again.

I have recently begun the arduous task of converting my Dad's vinyl collection of over 1500 titles onto CD/Hard drive. I started this last night figuring that it would take me most of this year due to my schedule and family responsibilities. I came across a few gems that I would like to post here. So I will begin posting some of his old Southern Gospel and a few of his classical/Orchestra albums on this blog.

Keep your RSS reader locked to that blog for albums as I complete them.

More on this later.

Jeff.

Muppet Kits At FAO Schwartz!!!

Just noticed this via one of my favorite tech/gadget blogs. Starting in February, F.A.O. Schwartz will allow you to design and create your very own Muppet! Using either the online Muppet creator (at F.A.O. Schwartz beginning in February 2009) or in the form of a workbook/kit, you will be able to choose from physical features (nose, eyes, hair, clothing, body shape, head, etc.) and make a unique muppet character that you can either have shipped (3-5 Weeks) or you can take your gift card to the F.A.O. Schwartz store in New York City and have it made on the spot! At only 130.00, for a 16" rod and arm muppet, this is pretty amazing! I think I will have to add a custom muppet to my collection in the new year!

Reuben Turns Into The Hulk