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Adobe's Lightroom 5.3 RC brings RAW support to Sony's A7, other new cameras
If you're tired of cludging RAW files from your spanking new Sony A7r or Fujifilm XQ1, there's now relief from Adobe with release candidates for Photoshop Camera Raw 8.3 and Lightroom 5.3. The latter app, part of Adobe's Creative Cloud suite, is purpose-built for manipulating RAW photos, making its support critical for early-adopting image pros. The software will also work now with the Sony A7, Nikon AW1, Phase One IQ260 and IQ280 and Nikon Coolpix P7800, with preliminary support for the Sony RX10, Nikon D5300 and Olympus Stylus 1. Adobe's also squashed some bugs, like auto white balance and Flickr publishing issues. There's still one yawning gap in Adobe's resume, though, as the first smartphone RAW camera, the Nokia Lumia 1520 isn't supported yet -- hopefully that'll be remedied shortly after its arrival.
Adobe Lightroom 3.5 will support Olympus, Panasonic and Sony RAW formats
Possessing a camera with RAW output is great, but working with those data-rich files often isn't -- not least because most manufacturers use proprietary file formats. However, Lightroom fans who update to version 3.5 (currently at release candidate stage) should discover that it effortlessly handles RAW images from a bunch of recent cameras including the Olympus E-P3 and E-PL3, Panasonic G3 and GF3, and the Sony Alpha NEX-C3 The update will also fix a number of bugs, such as inconsistent processing times and a loss of geo-tagging metadata when converting to Adobe's Digital Negative format. Time to get those psychedelic HDR images flowing. [Thanks, Rob]
Windows Phone beta app plays nice with WHS 2011, streams media from your network
Fancy accessing your Windows Home Server directly from your Windows Phone? Then you might want to experiment with the Phone Connector add-in for WHS 2011 beta (aka Vail). This lets you connect you to core network functions and settings via an app on your handset, including alerts, user accounts and connected devices. Crucially, it also streams all your lovely media, so long as it's in WP-supported codecs. And if you pin the app to your home screen, you'll get a nifty live tile with your network's name, free disk space and a breakdown of network health alerts. Sure, you might have a bit of fuss to get this RC working, but then that's half the fun.
Linus Torvalds releases Linux kernel version 3 to celebrate 20 years of penguin-powered computing
It's been nearly twenty years since Linus Torvalds let loose Linux on an unsuspecting world, and yesterday he finally updated the open source OS kernel to version 3.0. This third iteration, currently named 3.0.0-rc1, comes 15 years after 2.0 first hit the web and brings driver support for Microsoft Kinect -- a move that should have visions of sugar plum fairies (or maybe just Android avatars) dancing in hackers' heads. Also included is code optimized for AMD's Fusion and Intel's Ivy and Sandy Bridge silicon, and some updated graphics drivers, too. Despite these tasty new treats, Torvalds is quick to point out that this new release is an evolutionary change and unleashing the big three-oh was all about moving into a third decade of distribution, not about overhauling the OS. There's still work to be done, as it is a release candidate in need of refinement, but curious coders can grab the latest Linux at the Kernel.org source link below.
Internet Explorer 9 RC now available to download, tracking protection in tow (update)
The Internet Explorer 9 beta pleasantly surprised us with Microsoft's renewed competitiveness in the web browser wars, and the pinnable, hardware-accelerated experience is getting even better today -- you can download the IE9 release candidate right now, which streamlines and beautifies the tabbed browsing layout considerably, adds those previously promised, fully customizable tracking protection lists for privacy and freely toggled ActiveX filters, as well as an updated Javascript engine, geolocation support via HTML5, the ability to pin web apps to the taskbar, and a host of assorted speed and functionality improvements. Find the files you need at our source link below, and let us know if the Beauty of the Web captivates you this time around. Update: We spoke to Microsoft IE9 privacy guru Andy Ziegler, and learned to our dismay that tracking protection lists won't actually be included in the browser per se; rather, the company's created a feature where you can generate your own lists or download ready-made one from providers like TRUSTe. The thing is, IE9 won't suggest one for you, or even curate a group of them when you install -- you'll need to put on your power user hat and do the legwork there yourself.
Vail is now Windows Home Server 2011, Drive Extender's officially dead
Microsoft announced months ago that the artist formerly known as Vail -- now officially known as Windows Home Server 2011 -- was dropping Drive Extender functionality. Though we were given hope that the feature might be reinstated, the release candidate of WHS2011 went out to testers today... sans Drive Extender's 'drive pooling for dummies' capability. In its place, Microsoft has included a Move Folder Wizard that alerts you when a new hard drive has been added (for those who were visited by the HDD fairy without their knowledge, no doubt) and walks you through formatting and partitioning your new drive. However, partition size is limited to 2TB for it to work with the server backup feature, so your massive collection of ripped Blu-rays will require a veritable alphabet of drive letters. Not all the news is bad though, as the dev team has enabled Shadow Copy in the OS to allow data time traveling in case you accidentally delete something. If that sounds good to you, hit the source link below and get your download on.
Windows 7 and Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 sees public beta release
We knew good and well it was coming, and here it is. Microsoft has today introduced the Release Candidate (RC) of Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 (SP1) to the public, and for those unaware of how these software rollouts "work," the RC release generally signals that a final build is just about ready. As previously announced, the only new features added to the SP1 are the Windows Server 2008 R2-related virtualization technologies, Dynamic Memory and RemoteFX, and while Windows 7 SP1 will enable PCs to take advantage of these server-based features to provide a more scalable and richer VDI experience for end users, there are no additional new features specific to Windows 7. If that's cool with you, there's a source link (and a download) waiting for you just below. [Thanks, Logan]
Ubuntu 10.04 'Lucid Lynx' arrives on the scene
It's been less than a year since Ubuntu 9.10 "Karmic Koala" was released, but the next big version of the Linux OS has now already arrived to take its place: Ubuntu 10.04 "Lucid Lynx." In addition to the usual tweaks and fixes, this one promises a boot speed that is "noticeably quicker" on almost any machine (and especially on those with SSDs), along with a range of new features including a social networking-oriented "Me Menu," Ubuntu Software Centre 2.0 for easier access to new software, and a slew of new cloud-based services courtesy of Ubuntu One -- not to mention the Ubuntu One music store. The release also marks the first time that GIMP doesn't come pre-installed (you get F-Spot instead), and it is naturally complemented by Ubuntu 10.04 Netbook Edition, which promises even faster boot speeds and other optimizations. Ready to make the jump? Then you can grab the Release Candidate right now at the link below, or you can wait a bit for the final Long-Term Support (LTS) version, which is said to be "just around the corner." Update: And just like that, the LTS version is out! Get it at the source link below.
Adobe releases Flash Player 10.1 Release Candidate
There's still a ways to go before a final, proper release, but Adobe has now upgraded its once beta Flash Player 10.1 to Release Candidate status, and introduced a host of fixes and improvements in the process. From the looks of it, there's nothing too radical in terms of changes from previous betas, but the RC does promise improved stability and performance, and fixes for a range of video playback problems with different graphics cards (which may or may not also involve driver updates). Hit up the PDF link below for the complete release notes, and grab the RC yourself for Windows, Mac or Linux straight from Adobe Labs.
Windows 7 RTM begins rollout August 6th, OEMs and some beta testers to get early headstart
So last we heard Windows 7 would be officially hitting RTM status some time this month, but as to when we'd be able to get our hands on it, turns out that's a very tricky question. According to the official Windows blog, OEMs will be able to get it approximately two days after the OS goes RTM, and beta testers who are already subscribed to TechNet can download RTM shortly after it happens for free. Independent software and hardware vendors can download via Microsoft Connect / MSDN on August 6th. Same goes for MSDN-subscribed developers and IT Professionals with a TechNet account, but only the English language version. Microsoft Partner Program Gold / Certified members can join the fun August 16th via Microsoft Partner Network portal on the 16th, and Action Pack Subscribers on August 23rd -- both also English only. All other language versions for those groups are due out by October 1st. Finally, if you don't happen to fall in any of those categories, Microsoft is happy to remind you that Release Candidate doesn't start giving the annoying reboots until March 1st, 2010, with full expiration happening June 1st -- plenty of time to avoid picking up a copy if you didn't get a chance to pre-order at the much more reasonable discount price.
Windows 7 RC and XP given extensions on life well into 2010
Whether or not Windows 7 does launch in October as previously suggested, those who have (or plan to get) Release Candidate will be happy to hear that Microsoft won't be pulling the plug until June 1, 2010, well over a year from now and 11 months after its initial expiration date. After that, you're gonna have to fork over the Benjamins for one of the retail SKUs if you wanna keep 7 alive. As for those still living in Redmond's past, the company's also extended the life of XP, at least for OEMs. Companies using the older OS will still be able to install it on netbooks for up to one year after 7's official shape date. Seeing as the new system's likely to have a more expensive licensing fee, it's probably the best move if the company plans on keeping that 96% grip on the netbook OS market. [Via gadgetmix] Read - Windows 7 RC extension Read - Windows XP extension
Official: Windows 7 RC publicly available May 5th
We've seen plenty of speculation on this date, but thanks to a quick email from Microsoft reps -- and a handy post on the Windows Blog -- we now have confirmation. According to the cats and kittens in Redmond, the Windows 7 RC will be officially available to MSDN and TechNet subscribers on April 30th, and will be made publicly available on May 5th. End transmission... and bust out the champagne.
Windows 7 RC 7100 making its way to OEMs, a torrent tracker near you
It seems a little early in the game to be talking Windows 7 release candidates, but that's just the way we like it. Apparently build 7100 has made it into the wild, complete with release candidate plumage and naturally rapid dissemination. Word has it that this could be the RC version Microsoft is planning to release to its MSDN / TechNet subscribers on May 5th, but we'll have to wait until next month to find out for certain sure. The less scrupulous among us should have no trouble tracking down RC 7100 in the meantime.[Via ITavisen]Read - DailyTechRead - SevenForums
Windows 7 RC coming May 5 for public consumption, out now for MSDN / TechNet subscribers?
It's not as good as gold, but according to Microsoft's Partner Program website, Windows 7's release candidate is due out to the masses on May 5, a bit earlier than the BBC report had previously noted. MSDN and TechNet subscribers can apparently download the new build now, although Ars Technica is reporting it may not be up just yet. There's always the chance that this date was posted in error or will be pushed back, so in the meantime, perhaps marking your calendar with pencil or erasable pen isn't such a bad idea.[Via Ars Technica; thanks, John]
Windows 7 Touch logo program detailed, Release Candidate "at the end of May"
In a bid to help consumers recognize PCs optimized for new Windows 7 multi-touch controls, Microsoft has started... (can you guess?)... a logo program. Not that those "Vista Capable" stickers were of much use. Just think, now our new convertible laptops will be graced with loads of crapware and stickers touting Designed for Window 7, Intel inside, nVIDIA graphics or similar, and now Windows Touch, too. Of course, Microsoft's slide-ruled hearts are in the right place: the Windows Touch logo is meant to identify machines featuring all the required improvements in hardware (such as accuracy, sample rate, and resolution of the display) to ensure that gestures are recognized and that users can successfully target common UI elements like "I'm over 18" boxes. The logo program also quantifies the requirements for drivers (hooray!) and applications (natch). Certified machines must pass a 43-step test that validates the core requirements under different conditions. Every device submitted for logo will be tested in-house by Microsoft. Hit the read link for the exhaustive detail straight from the unicorn's mouth. P.S. The BBC's report on the new logo program says that Microsoft will kick out the Windows 7 release candidate for users "at the end of May," not April as previously rumored. [Via BBC]
Windows Vista and Server 2008 SP2 Release Candidates now available to download
That Windows Vista / Server 2008 Service Pack 2 that hit Release Candidate status last week? You can now download and try for yourself, should you feel inclined and not patient enough to wait for the final version that's rumored for sometime this quarter. It's available for Vista x86 and x64 platforms and Server 2008 in x86 / x64 / IA64 varieties. Of course, anyone keeping this in tuned to the going-ons at Redmond probably already installed Windows 7 beta, but if you kept Vista and want Bluetooth 2.1 support and the ability to record data to Blu-ray discs, now's your chance.Read - Windows Blog announcementRead - Download Service Pack 2 RC
XP Service Pack 3 release candidate ready to download
While Microsoft is quick to downplay XP when comparing it to Vista, the legacy OS continues to shackle the hearts (and systems) of many. Fortunately, Microsoft just opened up their XP service pack 3 release candidate for general download -- that means you. SP3 RC was previously only available by invitation. Now get going, you'll need time to download all 336MBs of the last major update to the six-year old OS. P.S. This is a "release candidate." The final SP3 release isn't expected until the first half of 2008.[Via PC World]
Microsoft announces Vista prices (for real this time)
Microsoft has just announced the official, real-deal prices for Windows Vista. So, without the benefit of a timpani drumroll, here's the deets, straight from the horse's mouth (this time): Windows Vista Business ($300 full, $200 upgrade); Windows Vista Home Premium ($240 full, $160 upgrade); Windows Vista Home Basic ($200 full, $100 upgrade); Windows Vista Ultimate ($400 full, $260 upgrade). Although Vista is to be released to the "volume license customers" in November 2006 and the general public in January 2007, what if you wanted a preview sooner than that? Our peeps up in Redmond have also said that the company will be make the Release Candidate 1 available through the soon to be re-opened Vista Customer Preview Program. The only question we have left is which VAR is going to release the first Mac with Vista pre-installed?[Thanks, srw985]
Thunderbird 1.5 RC2 released, gets shinier
Ok so I lied: Thunderbird isn't really any shinier, I just thought that headline might make C.K. download it faster on his quest for a Mail replacement. But seriously, it sounds like they've made some significant updates with RC2, when I thought release clients were simply about squashing bugs. Among the list of updates: better automatic updates, spell checking as you type (how 'bout it Firefox??), redesigned options UI, improvements to podcasting and RSS, built-in phishing detection and more. These sound like nice upgrades to an app that reportedly (and I agree) beats the pants off of Mail in the IMAP department. Still, as Hawk Wings points out, Thunderbird's inability to play well with lots of other OS X apps, lack of applescript support and just plain "butt-ugly" UI can tarnish the Thunderbird experience for some OS X users. Me? In my journey for Mail alternatives, I'm slowly settling into the Gmail way of things. It's certainly a new experience going from a desktop app to a web-app, especially for something as intensive as handling the army of email I collect in a day's time, but Gmail does most of the things that I was using Mail plugins for, such as MailTags. Plus, since Gmail went mobile, I don't necessarily need to keep my PowerBook glued to my head 24/7 to keep on top of things, so it's been working out so far.At the end of the day though, it's nice to see another large choice in email clients besides Mail and *shudder* Entourage, especially since Thunderbird has a few unique tricks like RSS reading up its sleeve.