Desktop Arcade Using iPad

Okay, up until now I haven’t been all that impressed with Apple’s iPad. “It’s a huge iPhone” and “Meh” were two of the most common responses to the iPad launch.

Other problems with the iPad:

No Flash

Apple’s iPad OS licensing agreement shows that users will only get one free major OS upgrade and will have to pay for any further upgrades.

Apple claims to have the right to restrict all content on its device

If your iPad requires service due to the battery’s diminished ability to hold an electrical charge, Apple will replace your iPad for a service fee ($105.95). You will receive a replacement iPad that will not contain any of your personal data.

No removable storage

No USB port

Can’t print anything

But, the guys at ThinkGeek.com have come up with a novel way to use your iPad. It’s called the iCade Arcade Cabinet. Just slide your iPad into the slot where it connects to a 30-pin connector, launch the free iCade app and it’s “game on”!

It has professional grade controls and a built-in iPad charger for unlimited play time.

What will they think of next?.
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The Video Streaming Format War Heats Up

Apple’s recently released iPad has brought video streaming formats to the forefront. Why? Because it doesn’t recognize Flash.

It wasn’t that big a deal when the iPhone shunned Flash, but when the iPad, suitable for Internet browsing, didn’t include Flash it meant that its users would have a limited view of the web.

NOTE: YouTube uses Flash video. Apple added an app that allows YouTube videos.

First, a little background on video streaming. True video streaming requires server software that handles the stream. It monitors the connection speed between the server and the viewer and matches the download speed to the connection speed.

Most web video uses progressive download. That’s where a portion of the video is downloaded and the rest downloads as it’s being viewed. The initial wait time (buffer) and streaming rate are built into the video.

The advantage of progressive downloads are its simplicity and ability to run from any web site. The disadvantage is people with slow connections having to wait during viewing for the video download to catch up and people with fast connections not receiving the optimal experience.

The Video Streaming Battle Begins…

Read more.
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