I developed a new Mac OS X application called 'Safarilicious', which allows users to export Safari browser bookmarks directly to their del.icio.us accounts. This tool simplifies the process of managing bookmarks and enhances web browsing efficiency. More details are available on the Safarilicious page.
Field Notes.
I ordered a high-quality photo book using iPhoto, opting for the premium size and finish. The packaging process was reminiscent of Apple products, showcasing careful attention to detail. The book features impressive image quality and professional layouts, creating a brochure-like feel. The positive reaction from friends indicates a growing interest in creating similar personalized photo books.
Jakob Nielsen critiques Ajax, highlighting issues like non-functional back buttons, bookmarks, and search engine indexing. While his points are valid regarding Web 1.0, they become less relevant with the rise of Web 2.0 applications, which function more like desktop apps. Modern web applications can enhance user interaction without needing traditional web navigation features.
Sending large files can be cumbersome, often resorting to outdated methods like FTP due to limitations with email and instant messaging. An Automator action streamlines this process by automatically uploading files to an FTP server when saved in a designated folder, simplifying the task greatly. This efficient solution offers a modern alternative for file sharing.
Adobe offers a monthly design magazine called PROXY, featuring in-depth information across a wide range of topics. Even for those who don’t focus on print work, it provides valuable insights that can enhance design knowledge. The latest issues are available for registration and download on their website.
Recent commitments and various projects have led to a decrease in my blog activity. I have multiple updates to share, which I will present in separate posts. Currently, I’m in Stuttgart, and while my writing may reflect my state of inebriation, there’s much to discuss moving forward.
I discovered Navicat, a versatile MySQL GUI for Mac OS X and Linux, which offers a range of features during my database creation. Currently on a 30-day trial, I'm considering proposing its purchase for work. An alternative is CocoaMySQL, another rich option available for those seeking an open-source solution.
JavaScript libraries offer enhanced functionality for developers, but sometimes sticking to basic JavaScript is preferable. For those seeking simplifications without external libraries, consider exploring the top 10 custom JavaScript functions. These functions address common challenges in JavaScript programming, such as the absence of .getElementsByClass().
The choice between serif and sans-serif fonts often hinges on personal taste, but some believe serifs enhance readability by guiding the eye. An article by Alex Poole explores this long-held notion. His research offers intriguing insights that could impact how typography is used for informative designs.
Dublay from Module23.com aims to achieve a Guinness World Record by creating the longest link list ever. This unique initiative not only provides humor but also serves as an effective way to increase page visibility. As participants contribute, the list could gain widespread attention if promoted on platforms like Digg.
Wikipedia can be slow at peak times, leading to frustrating wait times for information. Lumrix offers a high-speed alternative for searching Wikipedia, providing faster results than Google by frequently indexing its database. This service can enhance productivity for research or learning about topics like the 'Frutiger' font.
Tokyo Designer's Week, an annual event, showcases Japanese design culture, offering insights beyond what is typically available in Western markets. It highlights the depth and influence of design within Japan, which surpasses external perceptions. Additional resources capture the brilliance of the exhibitions and provide further impressions of this notable event.
Firefox 1.5 enhances XML editing and validation functions, making it a valuable tool for web designers and developers. While Safari's XML support is limited, Firefox's new features cater to various web-related tasks, such as building Flash applications and coding Ajax frontends. A comprehensive overview of these improvements is available through IBM.
Learn how to effectively use text drag and drop functions in Mac OS X, which differ between Carbon and Cocoa applications. Carbon allows straightforward dragging, while Cocoa requires a brief pause after selecting text. Additional details explain how different applications respond when dragging text onto their dock symbols, potentially enhancing your workflow.
The G5-optimized Firefox builds are available again, offering improved speed on G5 computers due to the use of advanced compiler features. This version boots and runs faster, making it a valuable option for users who need or prefer Firefox.
Safe-Sleep is a software feature introduced in the Mac OS update 10.4.3, allowing Macs to save RAM contents to the hard drive and enter a low-power sleep mode. This is particularly useful for conserving battery life. A guide is available to activate Safe-Sleep on standard Apple hardware using terminal commands, making it accessible beyond just new PowerBooks.
Opera Mini, a small-screen rendering browser for mobile phones, creates a mobile-friendly version of web pages on its server, improving performance for low-processing devices. Despite some rendering issues with CSS, the browser offers quick loading times and an overall pleasant browsing experience. The compact size of just 99kb allows use on older phones without memory constraints.
Amazon is testing item tagging, reflecting its growing presence in mainstream applications. With this shift, there is hope for increased tagging options across various software. The potential to filter links, images, and files quickly could transform how we organize and access information in the future.
Ruby on Rails has gained popularity due to its built-in Ajax support and rapid development capabilities, simplifying web application creation. The differences from other models, like PHP, necessitate resources for easier entry and transitions. A collection of useful Ruby on Rails resources, including Mac-related links, is available on Edevil's weblog.
Rumors suggest that Intel-based Apple products may launch earlier than the anticipated July date, possibly in January at MacWorld. Initially thought to be the Mac Mini, reports now indicate the first Intel Mac could be the iBook, with expected new models and price drops. Additionally, Apple has begun rolling out Universal Binaries, hinting at imminent releases.
Controversy surrounds Apple's Finder, with many preferring the usability of the original Mac OS 9 version over the current Mac OS X interface. Anticipation builds as rumors suggest a completely redesigned Finder may be introduced in the upcoming Mac OS X 10.5, codenamed Leopard, potentially addressing long-standing usability concerns.
Jonathan Ive has significantly influenced modern gadget design, particularly with the iPod, which is praised for its integrity and user experience. An interview with him reveals insights about his journey to Apple and his thoughts on iconic products like the iPod and iMac, offering a deeper understanding of his design philosophy.
I'm excited to announce my new project: www.stylemac.com, dedicated to Apple and design news. The site aims to provide insights relevant to both Apple and Windows users. While some interface issues remain, I plan to post 5-10 news articles daily. The TagBag! Widget has also been relocated to enhance the user experience.
Copland was intended as the next OS after Mac OS 7.5, introducing features like preemptive multitasking and a new finder with real-time indexing. However, it remained in beta and Apple ultimately shifted its focus to NeXT. A detailed overview explores the potential of this unfulfilled project.
Camino v 1.0 Beta 1 has been released, featuring an improved native Cocoa interface that offers a faster experience on Powerbook devices compared to Firefox. For detailed information on this release, visit the Camino website.
OSNews provides insights for those transitioning from other object-oriented languages like Python or C++. It highlights a common challenge in mastering Objective-C: the delegate concept, contrasting it with subclass-based development. For individuals familiar with OO programming and keen to learn Objective-C, this serves as a valuable opportunity.
Automator now allows for custom actions, enabling users to incorporate open source libraries like ImageMagick and PIL. A recent guide on macnn.com details how to create these actions using XCode. While familiarity with Objective-C is necessary, this opens up new possibilities for automating various tasks efficiently.
This is my first video game remix in three years, submitted to JoeCam's 'Bound Together' project featuring 32 remixes. My track, inspired by the Coffee Break theme, reflects the relaxing atmosphere of Mykonos. Featuring guitar by Frank van't Ende, it captures a vital part of my life: coffee. The title translates to 'Coffee Break' in Greek.
Researchers at the University of California have combined 25 G5 computers to create an enormous display using 50 Apple 30' Cinema Displays. This innovative setup awaits Hollywood films to match its impressive resolution of (10*2560)*(5*1280). Further details and visuals can be found on the project's website.
Apple.com features a tribute to Rosa Parks, highlighting her impact on civil rights rather than showcasing products. This decision underscores the company's commitment to honoring significant historical figures and their contributions to society.