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April 8, 2008– This day in Apple updates

Apple issued another cluster of updates today. This time the theme is “Firmware Updates.” With the exception of the Keyboard update, Apple hasn’t gone into much detail yet on what stability issues are being addressed in the various Mac model Firmware updates.

Here’s your list:
Aluminum Keyboard Firmware Update 1.0

This firmware update addresses an issue with the aluminum Apple Keyboard and the aluminum Apple Wireless Keyboard where a key may repeat unexpectedly while typing. The update also addresses other issues. Mac OS X 10.5.2 is required before installing this update.

iMac EFI Firmware Update 1.3

This update fixes several issues to improve the stability of iMac computers.

MacBook Pro EFI Firmware Update 1.5

This update fixes several issues to improve the stability of MacBook Pro computers.

MacBook EFI Firmware Update 1.2

This update fixes several issues to improve the stability of MacBook computers.

MacBook Air EFI Firmware Update 1.0

This update fixes several issues to improve the stability of MacBook Air computers.

Firmware Restoration CD 1.6

The Firmware Restoration CD can restore the firmware of an Intel-based Macintosh computer.

Note:

KB Covers

covers 20080226 213601 KB Covers

KB Covers are durable silicone covers for Apple Keyboards and Laptops. I had the chance to test out a few of their products, including a few for the MacBook Pro and a few for the Apple Aluminum Keyboard. They have many different styles, and different designs, including Keyboard Covers that have printed shortcuts on them, such as for Photoshop or Final Cut.

These KB Covers are molded for the exact product you order them for, and look very good with the overall Apple design. They are washable, so if you happen to get them dirty, it is quite easy to clean. They help to protect your new shiny Mac or Keyboard for dust, spills, and wearing away. Its very easy to remove them, and switch between covers if you do happen to order a few.

I see KB Covers as great accessories for every Mac user, especially those who work on the go a lot, and those that work in messy places.

Product Info:

Name: KB Covers
Price: $24.95 to $39.99 depending on model

Apple drops the price on the 1GB iPod shuffle, announces 2GB model

07shuffle fam 20080219 213353 Apple drops the price on the 1GB iPod shuffle, announces 2GB modelPersonally, I hate the iPod shuffle. But it serves, if nothing else, as Apple’s least expensive gateway to the iTunes ecosystem. Today, that gateway got even less expensive. Previously selling for USD$79, the 1GB iPod shuffle (available in bland silver, disgustingly teal blue, putrid green, substandard purple and a passible (PRODUCT) RED special edition) is now selling for USD$49.

The price drop means that entering the world of iTunes is now $30 cheaper. It also means anyone who won a 1GB iPod on eBay for anything more than $50 after shipping is probably already weak from kicking themselves upon hearing the news this morning.

To make matters worse for recent buyers, for $10 less than 1GB shuffles were selling yesterday those willing to wait a little while can buy a 2GB iPod shuffle. That’s twice the musical uncertainty !

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