Canonical Brightens the Future of Both Ubuntu and App Developers

Ubuntu is probably considered by most to be the most popular Linux distribution.  As of this writing, if you use Google to search the term 'Linux'; you may not be surprised to see that Ubuntu is the first hit to be returned.  And for good reason.  Ubuntu has been built up with great hardware support, ease of use for new users, and it has a higher chance of 'just working' out of the box.

One of the things that it seems like everybody wants more of are apps.  Whether it be on their iPhones, iPods/iPads, Android devices, and even some operating systems now include access to app stores or markets.  Even web browsers are getting in on the action.  So, it only seems to make sense that other operating systems try to further their application support.  And what better way to do this by assisting developers with creating, packaging, porting, and submitting their programs or applications to the Ubuntu Software Center?

That is what Canonical is aiming to do with the release of the Ubuntu App Developer Portal.  They even include a tool called 'Quickly' that is aimed at helping you build your app.  And what is even better, is it is free to use.  'Quickly' also helps with submitting your app to the Software Center.

What is even cooler?  You can either release your apps for free or for a price.  That's pretty cool.  I'm sure we'll start seeing the Ubuntu Software Center offerings grow as more people get turned on the the Developer Portal.

Check it out for yourself at: http://developer.ubuntu.com/

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Unreal 3 Engine Makes Debut on Apple's iDevices!

Been pretty busy as of late, so I have some catching up to do.  Last week an app by the name of 'Epic Citadel' arrived on Apple's App Store.  No big surprise, new apps show up all the time.  But two things picked my interest: 1- the name of 'Epic' being included in the title and 2- it runs off of the Unreal 3 Engine.

I downloaded it on the iPad right away.  And I must say, that I was immediately blown away.  For some time there has been rumor and speculation that the Unreal 3 engine would eventually bring forth a 'mobile' version.  But honestly, I wasn't sure how well it would hold up in the transition from being a major pc/console graphics engine to making the jump to small, handheld, mobile device.  But to be honest, it is pure awesomeness.

The app is pretty much a tech demo.  There are no goals or achievements to accomplish.  The app simply lets the player explore this lush environment.  And it is great.  From the fine details to the shaders.  It's all sweet.  There are no other players/people/npc's wandering the worls, so it feels a little lonely.  But keep in mind, it's only real purpose is for Epic to be able to show off what can be done with it's diverse graphics engine.  

From what I have been reading 'Epic Citadel' is actually a game that is in development, that should be arriving on the iDevices by year's end.  This app was Epic's way of showing us their hand of cards.  And I must say, it's pretty freakin' awesome.  Personally, at this point; I don't care what the final game will be about.  Story set aside, replayability set aside; I will purchase that app once it hits the App Store.  By the way, the 'Epic Citadel' demo is free.

Check out the section on Epic's site about this awesome app: http://www.epicgames.com/technology/epic-citadel

and the link to the Itunes App Store:

http://itunes.apple.com/app/epic-citadel/id388888815

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You Guessed It...More iPad News...

Apple started taking preorders today for it's new iPad.  According to the preorder site, customers who are in the market for the 'Wifi' only models will see that line of the iPad shipping on April 3rd.  The iPad is available in three different storage capacity sizes: 16GB ($499), 32GB ($599), and 64GB ($699).  Also, Apple is limiting the number of preorders to 2 units per customer.  Apple has also announced that they will be shipping the preordered units for free.

For those interested in the Wifi + 3G line of the iPad (same capacity sizes only 3G is added), you'll have to wait until they ship in late April.  The Wifi+3G line is somewhat more expensive: 16GB ($629), 32GB ($729), and 64GB ($829).  And the 3G data plan is not factored into the purchase price, this is sold seperately.

Apple will also throw in 90 days of complimentary telephone tech support, the hardware and it's accessories (yes, there are iPad accessories available too) all carry one year of waranty coverage.  The AppleCare Protection coverage is available as well for those who wish to buy it.

I love peripherals and accessories.  They help me geek out my stuff to my liking (as much as Apple let's a customer customize anything).  And the iPad is no exception, much like ebook readers there is a iPad cover/case and an iPad dock (both will ship for April 3rd), and an Apple keyboard dock will be available later in April; as well as other charging cables and a VGA adapter cable as well.

As far as other features, looks like the 3G features are a 'no-contract' offering.  Which means you can subscribe monthly to the 3G service without being tied to a contract with AT&T even though the service is provided via AT&T.  There looks to be two 3G plans available: 250MB/month ($14.99) or Unlimited ($29.99); as well as, access to the majority of the App Store apps, introduction of iBooks (surprised?), and the overall benefits of the larger size of the device when compared to the iPhone or iPod touch.

So hurry!  And go preorder one: http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/shop_ipad/family/ipad?mco=OTY2ODA0NQ.  And let me know how it works when you get it ;)!

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This Week In The News: Fake Processors, Energizer Bunny is Evil, and much more!

This week in the news we have several newsworthy topics to cover.
-Newegg Ships Fake Intel Processors
-Energizer DUO usb Charger = Security Risk for PC Users
-Apple giving the App Store a 'Weight-Watchers' Treatment?
-Mac Gamers <3 Steam?  Coming Soon!


First up is the 'Newegg Controversy'.  For those who don't know, Newegg.com is one of the leading online computer/computer parts and accessory retailers.  Over the weekend it was reported that a small number of 'fake' processors where shipped to and sold by Newegg.  According to reports, there were 300 counterfeit Intel Core i7-920 processors shipped to customers.  I hate this for Newegg, because even if this is just a mishap it could negatively reflect on the company. Personally, I have used Newegg several times and have been thoroughly satisfied each time.  According to reports the packaging looks pretty genuine, but the instruction manual is a stack of blank pages stapled together, there were no pinouts on the processor, and the packging included a bogus fan.  See this site for more details: http://hardocp.com/article/2010/03/05/newegg_selling_fake_intel_cpus



Next in the news, is the Energizer Bunny Evil?  Turns out, no is the answer.  But it's software utlility might be.  The product in question is the Energizer DUO USB charger for NiMH batteries.  The product is safe for use; but for  Windows computer users who downloaded the software utility for monitoring the recharging batteries via your computer, not so much.  According to reports, the software tool creates a 'back access' for someone to remotely see/send/recieve or even execute a file.  Don't worry, the trojan can be easily deleted without much trouble.  This issue did not affect Mac users.  Energizer has discontinued this product before this issue was ever brought to light, but the product is still out the for purchase.  Please keep in mind that the battery charging hardware itself has no known issues; only the extra software (which isn't required to operate the product).  For more info on how to remove this trojan, check here: http://www.pcworld.com/article/190990/the_energizer_duo_trojan_what_you_need_to_know.html



Thirdly this week, Apple is doing some Spring Cleaning in their App Store.  Over the last couple of weeks, the hot topic has been the removal of some 'promiscuous' apps in the Apple App Store.  This involved removing a lot of 'softcore' type apps which depicted sexually/sensual pictures of women and or parts of the female anatomy.  As a user of the App Store, I was personally glad to see some of this go.  If kept unchecked, eventually apps like this would overrun the app store if not careful.  However, now Apple is going after apps that allow Iphone/Ipod Touch users to locate or find Wi-Fi hotspots.

Apple's reasoning is that these apps use 'undocumented or private APIs'.  If an app violates this part of the developer agreement, Apple axes it.  Why should it matter?  Have you ever needed to get quick web access and wasn't sure were the nearest public library or Starbucks was located?  I have used these tools before on PDA's and even laptops to locate the nearest coffee shop with free wi-fi for email access (who hasn't?).  One of the reason's I suppose Apple is aiming at these apps is due to the slow decline of Iphone user's who are seeking wi-fi access over using their 3G data connection on their Iphone.  Phone providers put a data cap on how much data can be used via that connection during the course of a month.  Using Wi-Fi does not.  Common sense in my book.

Apple has a lot going on in the coming weeks, with their iron handed rule over the app store, the upcoming release of the iPad (which may or may not revolutionize table computing, who knows).  Apple has their hands filled.  Apple owns the App Store and technically they can do whatever they like, regardless how user's feel about it.  But also, when Iphone/Ipod Touch user's get ticked off at Apple's decisions regarding their platform; said user's have been known to take drastic measures in forms of jailbreaking their devices which brings a whole new set of challenges for Apple.  And with Apple's recent banning of several prominent members of the jailbreaking community from the App Store; all we can do is sit back and watch with great anticipation of months to come in the Apple world.


And finally, Mac user's rejoice!  Steam is on it's way to the Mac.  Look for it this coming May.  And with it's release, Portal 2 is expected to be one of the premier games available for the Mac.  This is a huge step in the right direction as far as gaming on a Mac is concerned.  Why?  Mac's have never been known for their gaming abilities.  Games have always been on the back burner, but never really delved into on a Mac.  Hopefully, this will bring a welcome addition to the gaming community.  Steam is one of the largest digital distribution platforms in the world and is widely adopted on Windows based computers.  All I can say is, 'It's About Time'.

Have a great week everybody!

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