Apple working on next-gen iPhone 5S and iPhone 6

Accoriding to rumors, Apple is working on several new iPhone models.  iPhone 5S and iPhone 6 parts were published online.  Apple stock has recentely taken a hit as Google continues to refine the Android OS.  Apple still has a few tricks in the bag and has a streamlined hardware software development cycle.  Google is obviously playing catchup with integrating Motorola, due to constant pressure from big hardware players like Samsung and HTC.

More info here:

http://bgr.com/2013/01/28/iphone-5s-iphone-6-photos-parts-leak-309500/

Apple Event October 23...iPad Mini Introduction?

The iPad’s kid brother could be introduced October 23, 2012 at an Apple Event.
Apple recently sent out invitations for an Oct. 23 event at which the tech company is widely expected to unveil a sized down version of the iPad. The invitation contains the phrase, “We’ve got a little more to show you."
Rumors have persisted about the existence of the "smaller" iPad. According to a recent Wall Street Journal story, the tablet will have a 7.85-inch screen with a lower resolution than the latest iPad released in March.
The screen on the current iPad measures almost 10 inches diagonally, a size that hasn't changed since the first model was released in 2010.
Apple has sold almost a 100 million iPads since its first release. The company aims to capitalize on that growth with the mini version, a somewhat smaller price tag might bring in new buyers worldwide.
The new "iPad Mini" is expected to help Apple compete with cheaper tablets with smaller screens. The Kindle Fire as the most popular of these products to date. An entry-level iPad 3 (or "the new iPad,") with 16GB of storage space and without 3G wireless connection sells for $499. Models run as high as $829.
The Kindle Fire is half the price of Apple's cheapest iPad.  Will Apple get the starting price low enough to capture a new audience and continue to boost App and iTunes sales?  Find out October 23rd at a live blog event near you!

Is the iPhone 5 a "Must Have" for Business

Let me start off by pointing out the increasing number of mobile computing platforms available to consumers today.  The platforms are improving year over year but are they being utilized?  The new iPhone 5 has some nice features, but it doesn't justify changing platforms if you are accustomed to Android for instance.  The phone just does not have any "Must Have" features.  Lets consider some of the changes in these technologies and how they may influence buisness phone upgrade decisions.  First thing I would consider is the need for 4G service.  Does your buisness need to download large pdf files?  Do you need to upload video or detailed pictures to your website?  Do you need to have these speeds anywhere and on the go?  If you answered yes to any one of these questions then you might want to consider 4G and I would consider Verizon as your service provider. 

Want to switch from Android? Then you might first consider what apps are needed and if they are available on the Apple App Store.  Also the Apps may behave differently on iOS. So keep all this in mind when you start discussing terms with your service provider.  It may be new and improved, but it might not be time for you to spend capital on an iPhone 5 upgrade just yet.  

Overengineering a Real Danger for Small Biz!

Overengineering is the new buzz word in Small business.  Capital is becoming precious and building too much too fast without the proper earnings and investors to fuel growth can be VERY DANGEROUS!  This does not mean cut every corner but limit performance that far exceeds needs.  If you foresee your business expanding in the near future choose products and services that are highly scalable. Avoid locking in high service costs.  When consulting an expert, it is important to mention these concerns.  Consultants will typically suggest a little more than what is necessary in order to ensure needs are met.  Consider limiting costs in low priority areas.

Dealing with a consultant can vary greatly depending on what information is provided to the expert.  It is important to convey needs in writing and priorities as well.  Force yourself to be specific and give as much information as you possibly can.  This will help avoid misunderstandings about the future use of technology.

Learn the pros and cons of open source.  Just because something is free and open does not make it the best fit for your business.  There is a lot of well priced software available that can be used to stay organized and keep your people working efficiently and productively.  Remember that not all software is created equal and try to avoid making major software changes when you already have software to do those tasks.

Once you have examined all the areas of improvement remember to think, "Am I overengineering this process."  Have I minimized the steps necessary to complete these tasks.  Do I really need this high end software?  And always remember KISS...keep it simple stupid! 

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Could the iPad Mini Be a Good Tool For Buisness?

Apple has spilled a little info on the iPad mini, the smaller version of the new iPad. Numerous other leaks have brought this product closer to a certain reality.  Suggested screen size is around 7.85 inches and likely a September launch. The Kindle Fire has that perfect $199 price tag, and Apple isn’t expected to dip that low, a $249 or $299 price is much more likely.  Look for a release around September 12, 2012 according to PCWorld.

All this being said...the ipad mini is a great price point for small buisnesses.  Cost is low enough to justify purchases for individiual employees.  This device could be of great use, depending on how apps will scale and play well on the new hardware.

Should I Buy a Retina MacBook Pro

Apple just released a suite of new MacBook products...and you are probably wondering "should I buy one?"  In the real world windows and Linux seem to rule the software world for business.  Since the MacBook Pro is portable, it might make a good carry on for travel and remote business.  The important part to understand is what applications will you need access to when away.  One think to consider, there are ways to remote into systems "at the office" to do your work away from home.  What is a must application for your business?

Everyone uses technology in different ways.  Perhaps you just need to check email and look at website changes or update log sheets online.  Maybe you need to do some accounting work.  Maybe you need to do graphic design work in which case you should already own at least one or two Apple products.  Consider all applications necessary and look at ways to use those applications as a Mac user.  Sometimes there are alternatives that are worth considering to existing solutions, but overall I suggest avoiding an overhaul of major processes and applications.

Spend some time at your local Apple store or Best Buy and get a feel for it.  Don't be too overwhelmed by differences from windows, it will come quickly and overall is more user friendly.  If you enjoy the feel of the machine now is the time to decide, how much bang do I need.  Again this will differ from person to person...however if this is not your primary machine try to cut back on the extras.  If you want and all in one machine to replace your desktop, perhaps spend a little more.  Remember storage options such as portable hard drives and network storage that could save a few bucks.