GoodReader, the app we just reviewed got updated with Support for the  AFP Protocol.  Support for AFP, the standard protocol which all Mac computers use to share folders on a local network, makes it easier to connect from GoodReader to a Mac for sharing files between the desktop and mobile device.  GoodReader users have already been able to exchange files between their iOS devices and their Macs using other protocols, such as WebDAV, FTP and SFTP, but supporting AFP makes the process easier than ever because it is the native protocol for Mac OS and requires practically zero set-up. Users simply turn on file-sharing and they are ready to share files between their Macs and mobile devices for viewing in GoodReader.  Not only is AFP the Mac OS standard protocol for sharing folders on a local network, it is also used by Apple Time Capsule, a 1, 2 or 3 TB standalone hard drive with WiFi access that Mac users often use to wirelessly backup their Macs, as well as by a number of other 3rd-party network-attached storage drives. GoodReader’s support for AFP now makes it easier for users to exhange files with such drives directly from GoodReader, without using a computer.

The new version of GoodReader also makes it easier to find servers on a local WiFi network for wirelessly sharing files. GoodReader’s “Local Servers (via WiFi)” section now uses Bonjour to find local AFP, SFTP, FTP, WebDAV and HTTP servers automatically. The update also includes a host of other user interface improvements, including the ability to publish several iCloud files at once, and the new “Back to reading” button, which instantly takes the reader to the last read file, saving from the hassle of finding the file in the folder hierarchy.

Recently, PhatPad for the iPad was updated to v1.2.  This $8 program is powerful in that it turns the iPad into an advanced brainstorming tool by enabling users to draw, write, and type on the iPad, then instantly share ideas via email, WiFi sync, Dropbox, or with PhatPad’s built-in presentation mode.

With version 1.2, the following features were included:

• The new Folders feature allows users to organize their documents in the folder hierarchy. The new Document manager UI allows users to create, rename, rearrange using drag and drop, and delete folders and documents. The updated Dropbox synchronization feature supports synchronization of the entire folder hierarchy.
• The new File Manager UI allows users to search all PhatPad documents for characters or words.
• File sharing feature now allows users to specify the remote access password. If the password is set, it will be required to access PhatPad documents via WiFi. The password is also required when uploading files onto the device.
• The new Autoinsert Recognition Results option allows for continuous writing in the Handwriting panel mode. When this option is on, an adjustable marker is displayed on the panel. Starting a new word on the left side of the marker (on top of the previous writing) will send the recognized text into the application and start a new recognition session.
• PhatPad now supports background playback and recording for voice notes and the remote control. The remote control can also be used in the Presentation mode while audio is playing.

Available for  iPad, iPhone (GSM), and iPod Touch, this update provides AirPlay and Home Sharing Enhancements for better streaming as well as a faster web browsing experience with a Safari capable of running javascript more efficiently.   The iPad switch which I was upset that they changed the function from screen rotation lock to mute switch is now customizable where the user can choose which function they would like.  (Why did they not think of that before?)  In any case, I’m glad it’s back.  Finally, with the new Personal Hotspot feature, you’ll be able to connect up to five devices over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB.  Just be sure to mind your data limits or suffer an extended bill.  I still look forward to the day where data limits are removed once again and not just for promotional periods.  Let’s face it…data is a necessity but can easily still break the bank when flurries of email come in and woah..this one came with a 3MB attachment?  Ow.  There goes a chunk of my allotted bandwidth.

Updating should be easy, you’ll first update your iTunes software.  After plugging in your iDevice, it will ask if you’d like to update.  It’ll take a bit of time to download but with the great new features it will be worth the time.

As to AppleTV, with 4.2 comes the ability to:

• AirPlay for apps and websites—Wirelessly stream video from AirPlay-enabled iOS apps and websites on iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch (running iOS 4.3).
• MLB.TV—Watch live and on-demand Major League Baseball games, access stats, scores, and standings.*
• NBA Game Time—Watch live and on-demand National Basketball Association games, access stats, scores, standings, and video highlights.**
• Netflix Dolby Digital 5.1—Enjoy Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound when watching Netflix movies and TV shows.***
• New slideshow themes—View photos with the new Scrapbook, Photo Mobile, and Holiday Mobile slideshow themes.
• Improved on-screen keyboard—Enter search terms, user names, and passwords more easily with the redesigned on-screen keyboard.

I’ve had only the oppurtunity to set up AppleTV for customers and have not had the time to extensively try it out.  I’m interested about the improved on-screen keyboard as it took some tap dancing to properly setup accounts for HomeSharing as well as NetFlix – so that’s something I’d like to check out.

Keep up with the cool new features Apple….and yes, I still want Flash…can’t you make a Safari that’s Flash enabled but still sandboxed?

$14,000 later, Google Chrome received the research and has patched up the holes.  13 high priority bugs were squashed and the world can Google with peace of mind.  Now only if other software companies could adopt a similar strategy…

You can update Chrome by going to the wrench and selecting “About Google Chrome”.  Then click on the update button.  A restart of the browser will be needed to complete the update.

There’s a certain buzz going through the networks that Apple is almost ready to give iPad users the version 4 treatment.  Amongst which include multi-tasking, folders, and the game center.  Some say the launch would be today.  But according to macnn.com, iOS 4.2 was delayed due to a Wi-Fi bug found in the Gold Master.  Further news from macnn is tha iOS 4.2 is expected around November 16.  Right before Thanksgiving!  There sure is much to be thankful for this year.  Family, friends, health, opportunities, and of course all the worldly possessions (like my iPad) which are great to use as both tool and toy.  Well, as soon as we get more info on the new iOS, you can be sure that you’ll find out about it here on JAMM.