I noticed today that LaunchBar has released a beta of their new version 5. I’ve tried LaunchBar a few times in the past but I always seem back with my beloved Quicksilver. Tonight I loaded LaunchBar yet again. I’ll be using it for the next month and reporting back. If you are a LaunchBar power user, sound off in the comments or send me a note. I’d love to hear your tips.
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Once again, the Macalope nails it.
On the passive/aggressive scale, Krebs’s blog post [initially identifying the Apple virus support article] is like your Aunt Edna wondering aloud at the dinner table why you’re having a glass of wine when you’re always on Uncle Larry for his alcoholism.
Apple’s response wasn’t much healthier emotionally, though. They pulled the note.
That’s kind of like glaring at Aunt Edna and pouring the glass of wine out on the floor.
Ach, see, now it’s awkward.
Best Of 2008: Most Popular Top 10’s of 2008
My favorite remains “How To” #7. Fold your shirts in 2 steps. Good times.
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AppleInsider ran an article explaining Snow Leopard still needs a bit of work under the hood.
Although there’s been some evidence to suggest Snow Leopard could hit the market several months ahead of expectations, new information reveals that Apple remains heavily engaged in building out some of the features first previewed back in June.
There were some rumors that it could release as early as January 2009 but I always considered that unrealistic. When it comes to OS software, I’ll take quality over speed every day.
The whole question of virus software on Macs is back the last few days. First Apple put up a page advising users that virus software may not be a bad idea. Then they took it down. I’ve received several emails from readers asking what to do. I’m pretty careful about my computing. I’m anal about data encryption. But to be perfectly honest, I’m not very excited about running virus software. I’ve got no virus software on my Macs. Some day I may decide I need it but at present, I’m just not convinced.
As Apple marketshare increases, things may change and Mac users are probably going to end up needing virus at some point but for me, not yet.
There used to be an application on our vintage Macs that we all used. It served no real purpose, frequently caused system crashes, and was completely irresistible. I’m referring to the Talking Moose. I didn’t realize until recently that the Moose still exists in OS X. It is a lot of fun and nostalgic having the Moose return to randomly crack jokes and insult me. I won’t be running the Moose everyday but sometimes, there is no substitute.
1Password started a promotion today that allows registered license holders to gift a license for 1Password to a friend. If you are a registered owner, check your email and share the password generating, security providing 1Password love.
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As I was downloading the latest update to Default Folder X, I couldn’t help but think about the fantastic work Jon does over at St. Clair Software. It is a small shop but Jon truly is a software craftsman. He has been developing Default Folder X for years and he never stops making it better. I already reviewed it and even screencasted it. If you have found OS X’s default save/open dialogue boxes wanting, head over to St. Clair Software and check out Default Folder X.
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Working on a computer can be very distracting. You are bombarded with a constant stream of email, RSS reeds, and other internet content. If you want an excuse to avoid work, your mac has a big one sitting there, just a click away, tempting you. Sometimes I have enough discipline to avoid that siren song. Other times, I don’t. That is why I really like Freedom. It is like carrying a copy of your mom in your Mac always ready to make sure you get your work done. Freedom is a simple little application that turns off your internet tap for up to six hours.
Once you click “OK”, that is it. The airport turns off and you are officially out of the distraction business. You can’t get back online until the time elapses or you reboot your Mac. This is perfect when you really need to buckle down but don’t trust yourself to avoid checking MacSparky just one more time.
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My friend, Reid Trautz, just published his annual Holiday Gift Guide. It is actually aimed at lawyers and sports interesting products like a pocket projector but it is appropriate for all geeky business types on your list. Check it out.
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