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Mountain Lion Messages app brings iMessage to the Mac - download the beta now!
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Apple, PC / Laptop, Software,
Ever since iMessage was introduced as part of iOS 5, we've been waiting impatiently for Apple to bring that goodness over to the Mac. With OS X Mountain Lion, announced earlier this morning, it will be a reality. In Mountain Lion, Apple will be replacing iChat completely with a new app called Messages. We've installed Mountain Lion and have been playing with it a bit, and what we've basically found is that Messages is everything that iChat was, but with the addition of iMessage and FaceTime rolled in (still no MSN Messenger support.) Apple has actually released Messages in beta, so you don't need to wait for Mountain Lion to get in on the fun, as long as you're running OS X 10.7.3. Head on over to Apple's Messages page to download it.
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Skype for iPad now available
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Social Networking, Free Apps,
After a false start this morning, Skype today released its official iPad app.
Skype for iPad is now available for download in the Apple App Store. The free app is compatible with Apple tablets running iOS 4.0 or higher.
"Skype for iPad is beautifully designed and optimized for the iPad. It offers the best of both worlds for users who want a larger Skype experience, on-the-go," Skype said in a blog post. "The large iPad screen is perfect for bringing Skype video calls to life, in either landscape or portrait view, and because it is on the iPad, Skype video calls can be made at the beach, in a car or even lying on a couch."
Skype promised several iPad-optimized features, including two-way video calling for those with an iPad 2. Connect with other Skype users on PCs, Macs, or iPhones and Android phones with front-facing cameras.
Click to continue reading Skype for iPad now available
Facebook launching video calling, group chat, and chat redesign today
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Social Networks, Video Services,
Facebook is right in the middle of announcing three new changes that are happening today. The first is multi-person group chat, which has been one of the most requested features. Second, a redesign of chat that makes it easier to get to the people you chat with most, better see the avatars of yours friends, etc. Lastly, and this is the big one, instant video chat through a partnership with Skype. Just choose a friend and initiate a video call, and if they don't have the plugin installed, it takes 10 seconds to download, and you are chatting. No need for a Skype username, or Skype software, it all happens through Facebook. Hit the link below now to see the announcement happening live, with demos.
Read More 
| Facebook Live
Apple set to take on RIM with iMessage in iOS 5
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Apple, Smartphones, Storage,
Among the various iOS 5 features Apple chief Steve Jobs unveiled today at the company's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2011) was iMessage, a messaging option for iOS devices reminiscent of RIM's BlackBerry Messenger.
Apple said iMessage "brings the functionality of iPhone messaging to all of your iOS devices―iPhone, iPad and iPod touch." It is built into the Messages app, and allows users to send messages, photos, videos, or contact information to other iOS 5 users via Wi-Fi or 3G.
Like BBM, however, iMessage will include delivery and read receipts, and typing indication, so you know if the person has received your message and if they are typing back. Apple's iMessage will also have secure end-to-end encryption.
Click to continue reading Apple set to take on RIM with iMessage in iOS 5
Skype for Android update fixes some issues, ignores others
Posted by Jazz English Categories: Smartphones, Handhelds, Software,
Skype update it's Android application today with version 1.0.1.
The first thing addressed is the support for screen resolutions common to more Android phones. Skype also announced that the hardware back key will now send the application to the background, while still allowing calls and IMs. Skype stated that this fix should also lesson battery consumption. Other fixes include:
- Signing out from Skype now exits Skype.
- Improved login stability and behavior.
- Improved performance with large contact lists.
- Reduced application size.
Problems having to do with the Galaxy S line of phones remain and Skype simply states that they "do not recommend installing Skype 1.0.1 for Android on this device with Android 2.1 and below."
Read More | Skype Blog
Beejive 3.0 goes live, supports push notifications
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Social Networking, App Updates, $9.99,
Our favorite instant messaging app for the iPhone and iPod touch, Beejive (pronounced bee-hive,) just got updated to version 3.0. While there are a few nice additions, the biggest is that Beejive now supports push notifications on the iPhone. If you are unfamiliar, this means you can tell Beejive to stay persistently connected to Apple’s push servers, even when you close that app. So you can keep a conversation going, while you also check your email, surf the Internet, and more. If you get a new IM, you will get a text notification telling you so, which you can simply close, or use to launch Beejive and take you directly back to the conversation.
Seriously, if you want a downright amazing IM app on your iPhone, consider BeejiveIM.
Read More | BeejiveIM
Star Trek Communicator Internet Phone
Posted by Sheila Franklin Categories: Accessories, USB, Smartphones,
We found a very kewl Star Trek gadget in honor of the movie’s opening day. Plug the Communicator Internet Phone with built-in speaker, earphone and mic into your USB port and speak through Skype, MSN, AIM, Ichat and other IMs. Its LCD Moirà spins when the cover is open and of course it has 12 different side effects. Compatible with both Windows and Mac, it also has a 6 ft. cord, mute button and volume switch. The Communicator carries a MSRP of $44.00.
Read More | gadget4all
Hab.la On Site Chatting
Posted by Sheila Franklin Categories: Design, Hot Deals, Internet,
Want to IM without leaving your site? Hab.la is a fun, free application that allows you to chat with visitors on your website. Messages show up in a minimized box embedded in the lower right corner of your browser and if you are signed in, it displays “click to chat.” Connect using GTalk, Jabber, Aim or other IM. Installation is simple and customizable. Head over to the site to get a more detailed overview of the app.
Read More | Hab.la
Mintpad Wireless PMP with PDA
Posted by Sheila Franklin Categories: Portable Audio / Video, Wireless / WiFi,
Mintpad, a WiFi-enabled PMP with PDA function, is bound for a release outside of Korea in April. The Mintpass device supports video and music files, can schedule, has Instant Messaging and a camera. The PMP/PDA holds 4GB data and has Windows CE with 400MHz of power and 128 RAM. Mintpass’, which is a division of Reigncom (iRiver,) Mintpad has a 2.8-inch display, supports stylus input and has a $150.00 price.
Read More | PMP Today
Genkii Sparkle Virtual World
Posted by Sheila Franklin Categories: Entertainment, Social Networking, Videos, $4.99,
While most applications are meant for only the user, this should mark a change in the way they can be utilized. Tokyo based Genkii has created an app that lets iPhone users connect with others. Sparkle is claimed to be the first virtual world that links your phone to Second Life and OpenSim grids. Send teleport requests and IMs or chat with others. Sparkle is available for $4.99 now but plans include a 3D version to come with personal space, social networking, virtual games and goods, and more.
Read More | Genkii
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