14 DAY TRIAL // Welcome to a new edition of our weekly software roundup. This week, we have two freeware apps and one that costs just a few bucks but is well worth every penny. If you're the religious type, there's also something here today that might interest you.
Ghost -
easily hide or reveal your files
Apple doesn't make it very easy for Mac users to access hidden files on their computer. But, while hidden system files is a good way to go, some Mac-savvy users might occasionally need access to them. Or, perhaps, they might want to hide others. Ghost can do both tasks with ease.
Since there was no easy way to create your own hidden files, or even to view the existing ones, developers over at OPT-6 thought out this cool freeware app that provides a simple, user-friendly way to do both. Users simply drag and drop a file or folder into the list, then uncheck (or check) its checkbox, and the item will be instantly hidden or un-hidden. However, Ghost is not a way to encrypt or secure files. If you want to be extra careful, you can encrypt the files too while you're at it, using BitEncrypt, from the same developing team.
A couple of rather important notes before you head over to the download link...
- Since Ghost actually uses the SetFile UNIX Executable to change the visibility attributes of files, the software DOES NOT just put a period in front of the file name, so be careful what you decide to hide.
- Speaking of which, it is not a good idea for you to try to hide your hard drive (Macintosh HD, or whatever you call it) with Ghost. The fact of the matter is that Ghost CAN hide it, but can't unhide it. It can still be recovered, plus, the software will ask for your permission (in most cases). However, OPT-6 advises you not to do so. If you do happen to hide your HDD, or have any other problem, the developing team also offers contact & support.
Air Mouse –
your iPhone becomes a remote for your Mac
Air Mouse instantly transforms your iPhone or iPod touch into an in air, wireless mouse for your computer. The solution allows you to sit back and surf the web, browse your photo library, or control your music player from the comfort of your couch.
Air Mouse uses the built-in accelerometer to translate your hand motions into mouse movements on your screen. It can also operate as a touchpad, allowing you to control your computer through the iPhone's touchscreen. If you have never used an in air mouse before, the first thing to keep in mind is that it can take time to get used to the movement and get good at controlling your mouse, says RPA Technology, the developers of Air Mouse. If you have used an in air mouse before, you will notice that the Air Mouse app works a little different from what you might be used to. The iPhone's accelerometer can only track the pitch and roll of the device. Because of that, moving the iPhone from side to side will do very little in terms of moving the mouse horizontally. Instead, you must tilt the phone over the horizontal axis to move the mouse left and right.
NOTE: The air mouse option is not meant for use in close range. If you are trying to navigate your computer while sitting right in front of it, you will notice very inaccurate movements, according to RPA Technology. To prevent this, you must step back a few feet and extend your arm out slightly so that you be able to perform longer, smoother movements. If you plan to work in close range of your computer, RPA Technology suggests using the touchpad option.
AirMouse is a two-piece solution. You will need to download AirMouse Server OS X or Windows for your computer, and Air Mouse the iPhone app from the iTunes App Store. While the desktop part is free of charge, the iPhone app costs $5.99.
Download Air Mouse Server OS X (Free)
Download Air Mouse iPhone App via iTunes App Store ($5.99)
Setting up an ad hoc network for your computer is the best way to go in order to be able to use Air Mouse by connecting directly to your computer, without the need for a Wi-Fi router. According to the makers of the app, “this is the next best thing to using Bluetooth.” To set up Air Mouse on your Mac, you will need to follow these steps:
1 - Click on the AirPort icon in your menu bar, and from the AirPort menu, select Create Network.
2 - A dialog box will open, asking you to name the connection. Give it a unique name, then check off the box to require a password.
3 - Click on OK. The AirPort icon in the system menu bar changes to a little computer in a gray signal field.
4 - On your iPhone, go to your Settings, then to Wi-Fi. Under "Choose a Network...", select the name of the network you just created and enter the password you specified.
5 - Launch Air Mouse and connect to your server.
Cornerstone Bible – One app, 15 Bible versions
Needless to point out, the title pretty much says everything about mankind. And, while there are numerous different operating systems out there that pretty much do the same thing, why wouldn't God have 15 different ways of telling a story?
Although not at its first release to the public (not by far, actually), Cornerstone Bible 5.0 is the first to bring Bible Maps and Time Lines, making this app worthy of our attention, as well as yours. There are help buttons on the pages, with bookmark options and searchable terms as well. The UI is pretty clogged, but that's mostly from the religiously-themed artwork.
To install Cornerstone Bible 5.0, drag Cornerstone Bible 5.0 Folder to your Applications folder. Open the folder, drag the app's icon into the dock, and click on it once to open.
NOTES: for BibleToons you have to be connected to the Internet to view them; to quickly go to a chapter - go to book needed - click on chapter button - scroll down list to the right chapter - click on Go To Button.
Download Cornerstone Bible (Free)
See you next week.
