14 DAY TRIAL // Xeric Design has released EarthDesk 5.0, an update to its real-time dynamic desktop map for Mac OS X. Version 5.0 is entirely Cocoa-based, and adds support for the current version of OS X Leopard as well as the next iteration of the OS, Snow Leopard. Many new features and enhancements are also to be had with the new version of the software.
“EarthDesk 5.0 is the latest release of our award-winning dynamic desktop application,” Xeric Design says. “EarthDesk replaces your Macintosh desktop or Windows wallpaper with a stunning, real-time dynamic image of our planet continuously updating in the background while you work. With 3 maps, 11 projections and 10,000 cities, EarthDesk is truly a map-lover's dream. Put it on your desktop today.”
EarthDesk shows current sun, moon and city illumination, as well as real-time global cloud coverage, by replacing the static desktop with an image of the Earth. The software allows users to track hurricanes and other weather systems on their Macs and operates silently in the background, keeping the desktop constantly updated.
EarthDesk automatically conforms its maps to the aspect ratio of one's screen, for a perfect fit with adjustable zoom control. EarthDesk’s dynamic desktop is continuously displayed as the user's desktop background, or as a screensaver – their choice.
The new version of EarthDesk includes faster rendering, lower processor usage, a more robust and a cleaner interface; seasonal maps, with snow and vegetation levels changing month-to-month; support for higher resolution maps and cloud data on large displays; adjustable brightness and background color; star-field background option; an updated political map now displays city lights and/or moonlight; support for dual GPUs controlling a single screen as with the new unibody Macs and the ability to check for updates automatically.
Users who purchased EarthDesk on or after 29 April 2009 should have been e-mailed a free EarthDesk 5.0 license. Existing customers of EarthDesk 1.x through 4.x for Mac (who already have a product key) can benefit from several upgrade discounts.