Apple most likely did not create the iPhone, the iPod Touch, nor the iPad specifically with children in mind, but make no mistake – these Apple products have caught on quite strongly with kids. And, more and more, we are seeing an influx of

The beauty behind all of this is that parents can purchase an Apple product for themselves that their kids will also appreciate. And unlike purchasing a new Nintendo DS, which costs well over a hundred dollars, not to mention the price of purchasing additional games, children’s applications can be downloaded from the Apple Store for no cost at all. So even without purchasing their child an altogether new gaming unit, parents can download one or two applications to their iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad specifically for their children.

Of course, downloading one or two applications for children isn’t the only way to go for parents looking to make their kids happy. Another alternative is for children to get their very own iPod Touch. The Touch is rapidly becoming the gaming device of choice for many children around the nation, and rightfully so. Kids with iPod Touches don’t have to save their allowance for week after week to purchase a new game. Rather, game applications can be downloaded, if not for free, for only a few dollars per game. Doesn’t this seem quite a bit more practical and feasible for children than spending upwards of fifty dollars for every new game they purchase?

USA Today, on July 8, 2010, posted an article titled iPad Apps Entertain Kids on the Road, and the article couldn’t have hit the nail more on the head when it made reference to the fact that one iPad or one iTouch could make all of the difference in the world for a kid on a long car ride. Everybody knows that kids don’t tend to fare well when travelling long distances, and parents everywhere all seem to be looking for the perfect solution to their all too often problematic travel time with the kids. There was once a time when the possible remedies were limited to coloring books and Etch-a-Sketches, but those days have graciously come to an end.

The Apple App Store has hundreds upon hundreds of applications to choose from, many of which are children’s applications. Kids can choose from fun games to creative artistic applications to educational applications. Rarely does an application cost more than five dollars, so costly spending need not be a concern. For parents who already own an iPhone, all that is left to do is download a couple of apps. And, for parents without an iPhone, the iPod Touch costs under $200, and the iPad starts at just under $500. For those planning on taking a trip with the kids, it could very well be the best investment of the summer.

The following cases can all be found at the Apple Store, online:

Apple iPhone 4 Bumper: This iPhone case has been all over technology news lately because it is not only a protective case, but it also seems to remedy the spotty reception issues that the iPhone 4 has been reported to have. By simply placing this rubber bumper around the stainless steel casing of the iPhone, the bumper almost miraculously remedies the reception problems. And, the best part about this device is that Apple is presently offering it for free to all who purchase the iPhone 4.

Power Support Anti-Glare Film Set for iPhone: While this device is not an iPhone case per se, it certainly does its part to help protect the iPhone. It is a clear film that attaches to the face of the iPhone using static cling technology to protect the display. The clear coat protects the display from dirt, grime and scratches. Moreover, it even protects the iPhone from fingerprints and smudges that are so common to the touch screen display.

Marware Sportshell Convertible for iPhone: The Sportshell Convertible is quite the case, as it not only protects the iPhone but it also serves as an armband with a removable clip, for those who like to use their iPhone while working out at the gym or running. This case is unique from other cases of its type because it slides in and out of the armband smoothly, and without requiring the addition of a bulky clip on the back of the iPhone.

Mophie Juice Pack Air: This case is quite an amazing piece of technology. It has the world’s smallest rechargeable external battery concealed directly inside the case. In this fashion, it virtually doubles the battery life of the iPhone, so it makes for a perfect addition for those who require more battery life than the iPhone offers. Furthermore, it is a hard shell case, so it provides the iPhone with all the protection it needs.

This is just a small sample of what is available online at the Apple Store. In addition to the selection discussed here, the Apple Store has numerous other cases and protective devices to choose from. The best way to choose one is to look online for yourself, at www.apple.com.

Tech experts posted potential sources of the iPhone’s reception problem. Of the first theories to be promulgated was one that claimed the problem was due to the iPhone’s stainless steel perimeter. The iPhone, in an effort to enhance reception strength, was designed with a stainless steel band. The idea was that when users gripped the phone, the stainless steel band would act to magnify the reception strength. While the experts disputed this notion, and claimed that the band was actually to blame for the faulty reception, Apple maintained that the problem was in no way related to the iPhone’s design.

Apple was so sure of itself that it released an official letter claiming to have diagnosed the problem. According to this initial release by Apple, the problem was actually due to a software malfunction. This malfunction, according to Apple, was causing the iPhone to display more bars than were actually present, leading consumers to believe that they had a strong signal, when, in fact, they were in an area with little or no reception. To remedy this problem, Apple promised a software update that would surely resolve the issue.

Well, as it turns out, Apple is eating its own words, so to speak. The initial theory pushed by tech experts, it seems, is the real source of the problem. Steve Jobs addressed a crowd of Apple enthusiasts and consumers last week to discuss the iPhone’s reception problem. And, what he said had nothing to do with software malfunctions or problems with more bars being displayed than what were actually available. Rather, what Steve Jobs reported to the crowd was that the problem was, in fact, due to the stainless steel band.

And, just like the tech experts proposed early on in this debacle, the solution to the problem is quite easy. It turns out that the problem can be nearly fully eradicated by placing a bumper, or other rubber case, on the iPhone. By wrapping the stainless steel band in a rubber bumper, the reception problem seems to disappear. The best part of all of this is that Apple is doing its part to help iPhone consumers get their hands on one of these bumpers – and off of the stainless steel band that was causing the problems.

As it now stands, the rubber bumper is the most popular accessory for the new iPhone. Apple is offering a full refund for consumers who have already purchased this item, and for those who have yet to pick one up, Apple is providing it to them for free. While Jobs didn’t seem happy admitting that the problem was in the design of the hottest new phone on the market, he must have felt some sense of relief in appeasing the masses by providing a free and easy solution.

At the present time, the Staff Picks section is lead by the Wacom Bamboo Craft Pen and Touch. This product is just one more way in which Apple owners can add to their Apple product. In the words of Apple, the “Wacom Bamboo Craft Pen and Touch is a unique device to add to your creativity. It’s perfect if you want complete control with a choice of pen or finger tap input.”

So why would this device add to the Apple experience? Quite simple, the Pen and Touch device plugs into any Mac computer to make an external track pad that doubles to provide pen input. In other words, Mac owners can draw on the Pen and Touch device with a stylus so that they can have more control over the computerized paintings and drawings they create. In many ways, this device bridges the gap between traditional art and computer design. Using the Pen and Touch device is much like drawing on paper, but with the flexibility that is only provided by computer design.

Unlike other devices of this type, the Bamboo Craft Pen and Touch doubles as a multi-touch track pad. This means that the device retains all of the features that are afforded by the MacBook’s infamous track pad. So, while the device allows for creative design, it also provides all of the highly functional features that MacBooks track pad offers. In sum, the device allows for scroll, zoom, select and rotate functions, all using multi-touch technology.

The Pen and Touch device is not just for those who are artistically inclined. It is also quite useful to those looking to personalize their documents. Pen and Touch owners can use the device to add handwritten notes to their documents, or to simply add sketches or doodles to their documents. Moreover, the device can be used to retouch and manage photos, for those who enjoy working in iPhoto. All in all, the Wacom Bamboo Craft Pen and Touch adds to the over all Mac experience.

The Pen and Touch device is easy to use, much like Apple products. Even those with novice computer skills should be able to work with this product without a problem. It comes with a quick start guide, as well as an instructive manual that will answer any questions that may arise. Prospective purchasers should have no concerns about getting used to this product.

The MacBook Air has been overshadowed, it seems, as of late by other members of the Apple family. Over the course of the past several months, development after development has come from Apple. The list includes a new and improved MacBook, the new Mac Mini, and even a new MacBook Pro. And, this says nothing of Apple products such as the iPad and the iPhone, which have ultimately dominated the tech news headlines over the past six months or so. But just because the MacBook Air has not been in the headlines as much as it used to be does not mean that it has vanished from the face of Apple’s kingdom.

What was it that made the MacBook Air so special to begin with? The size, of course; for, as most people will recall, the MacBook Air was cutting edge when it was first released. And, while some of the hype as certainly worn off, the MacBook Air continues to pack a powerful computer into a sleek and slim body. While computers seem to be getting smaller and smaller, with the advent of the iPad and the release of a new iPhone, the fact remains that these types of devices are simply not notebook computers.

There is, of course, a place for an iPad, as well as an iPhone, but these types of devices are unique in their own right. They simply cannot replace a notebook computer. So, for those who are looking for portability without losing the advantages of a full size notebook computer, the MacBook Air is most definitely the solution. This is particularly true for those who are using the MacBook for leisure, and not for work, because the Air model doesn’t perform quite as well as the Pro model for certain types of functions.

When comparing the MacBook Air to the MacBook Pro, it is definitely wise to keep in mind exactly what you intend to use the notebook computer for. Simple physics dictates that where there is less size, there is less room for additional features. And, it is for this reason that the MacBook Air does not have the capacity to burn DVDs or CDs. However, for those who want the slimness of the MacBook Air, but also want the capacity to burn DVDs and CDs, there is always the option of adding an external drive. Apple offers these drives, as well as other manufacturers, and they are relatively cheap, so the fact that the Air does not burn DVDs or CDs should not deter somebody from purchasing the MacBook Air.

When looking at prices, the MacBook Air is quite comparable to the MacBook Pro. For under $1,500, consumers can acquire a 1.86GHz MacBook Air. And, for just under $1,800, consumers can acquire a 2.13GHz MacBook Air. For these prices, and considering the MacBook Air continues to deliver the most powerful ultrathin notebook computer on the market, there has never been a better time to purchase the MacBook Air.

Despite taking off relatively slowly, when compared with other Apple products such as the iPad, the iPhone or the iPod, it seems as if Apple has decided to go ahead with a

The big news from NewTeeVee about the new Apple TV is that it will feature 99-cent television show rentals. This is a significant improvement upon the rates that were heretofore available to Apple TV consumers. As of the present date, Apple offers television shows, but they are at a markedly higher rate. Those who wish to purchase standard-definition episodes can do so for $1.99 an episode. Those who wish to step up to high-definition episodes may do so for $2.99 an episode. Either way, the new rate of 99-cents will come as a welcome surprise to those who presently own an Apple TV.

And for those who have yet to purchase an Apple TV, perhaps this drastic price reduction will be precisely what is needed to trigger an increase in demand for Apple TV. Economists would say that as price of a good decreases, the demand for that good will increase. And by cutting the price of television episodes in half, Apple may very well inject the incentive into the marketplace that is needed to trigger newfound life into Apple TV.

Also according to NewTeeVee, once consumers purchase an episode on the new Apple TV, they will have 30 days in which to begin watching the episode. Then, once they begin playing the episode, they will have 24 hours to complete the episode before it is removed from their program. All in all, this will provide users with a great alternative to traditional televisions.

This will also provide a great alternative to watching television on the Web. First of all, only some of the aired television series are actually played on the Web. As such, consumers can never be assured that their favorite series will be played on the Internet. Moreover, while computer monitors have come a long way – particularly Apple’s 24-inch LCD Cinema Display – they still don’t measure up to some of the newer television displays. With Apple TV, consumers get the convenience of Web-based television, with the picture and display of their home television.

This is the first time that Apple has revisited Apple TV for quite some time. With the exception of some minor advances and updates, Apple has really done little in regards to advancing the Apple TV. It will be exciting to see whether the new Apple TV turns around this segment of Apple’s market for the better.

Many consumers wonder why it is such a necessity to purchase AppleCare Protection Plan for iPad. Doesn’t Apple cover every new iPad by warranty even without the purchase of additional AppleCare coverage, they ask? The answer to this is that while Apple does provide a certain degree of coverage on new iPads, consumers are best served by fully protecting their investment with AppleCare.

Without AppleCare Protection Plan for iPad, Apple provides only the basics, like telephone technical support for 90 days. This is indeed a helpful service, particularly with a brand new device such as the iPad, where many consumers are bound to have questions for Apple. In addition to the telephonic support, new iPads also come with a one-year limited warranty. This too is valuable in its own right, but it pales in comparison to the coverage provided by AppleCare.

Consumers who purchase AppleCare are making the ultimate upgrade in the world of warranties. Instead of a one-year limited warranty, AppleCare consumers avail themselves of two years of coverage beginning on the date of purchase. Moreover, the telephonic support is also extended quite significantly. Instead of only 90 days of support, AppleCare consumers are provided with two full years of unlimited support. This means that if at any time during the first two years, an iPad owner has a technical question, all he or she needs to do is pick up the phone and ask Apple for the answer. No better way of getting to a solution than by going directly to the source!

Unlike many other computers, Apple computers are fully integrated, meaning that Apple designs all of the hardware and the software on each of their models. This rule holds true with the iPad, which means that the only place to go for iPad questions and solutions is to Apple. And, as such, AppleCare makes all the more sense. For most problems, all it takes is one call to Apple and the solution is readily at hand.

AppleCare provides full coverage for iPads, including hardware coverage, as well as software support. The hardware covered by AppleCare Protection Plan for iPad includes the iPad itself, the iPad’s battery, and the iPad’s USB cable and power adapter. In regards to software support, some of the more commonly asked questions regard syncing with iTunes, connecting to Wi-Fi hotspots, email issues and using programs such as iWork with the iPad. In sum, AppleCare specialists are ultimately on standby to assist with any question or concern that iPad owners with AppleCare may have.

This is not to say that the iPod Touch does not hold its own as a portable mp3 player.  Rather, the iPod Touch provides a portable music device plus so much more.  But before getting on to that, it should be mentioned that the iPod Touch has the capacity to store up to 14,000 songs, making the Touch a “great iPod” indeed.  In other words, this iPod has up to 30 hours of playback time.  And even moreso than other iPods, the iPod Touch makes the music listening experience interactive in nature.

Apple’s Cover Flow feature adds to the music experience by adding a visual component to accompany music.  In the words of Apple, Cover Flow is a “virtual party for the senses.”  With Cover Flow, it is simple to browse through albums with the flick of a finger, display track lists, and view album art.  All in all, Cover Flow adds another dimension to music.  In addition to Cover Flow, iPod Touch provides users with Genius, which automatically searches iTunes libraries to find songs that sound great together, and then masterfully create playlists, known as Genius Mixes.

Not only is the iPod Touch a great iPod, but it is also a great pocket computer.  With an iPod Touch, users can surf the Web and send email from anywhere they can pick up a Wi-Fi signal.  And with the way most of the world is wired these days, Wi-Fi signals are strong in virtually every corner of the nation.  For browsing the Web, the iPod Touch comes equipped with Safari, which is the same Web browser that comes standard with other Apple products, such as MacBooks.  And as far as typing goes, the built in keyboard is much easier to use than it may seem.  All in all, the iPod Touch may be small, but it provides everything people need for a pocket computer and more.

In addition to being a great iPod and a great pocket computer, the iPod Touch is also a great portable game player.  In fact, more and more, people are buying the iPod Touch specifically to play games on.  With thousands of game apps to choose from on iTunes, an iPod Touch owner could play a new game daily for years on end.  And the iPod Touch’s performance is just as astounding as the selection of games is large.  Between playing games, listening to music, and surfing the Web, iPod Touch owners will have no shortage of great things to do on their Touch.

Rumblings began to spread shortly after the iPhone 4 was officially released about problems with the

Among the theories that were promulgated to explain why the iPhone could not seem to maintain its connection was one about the antenna placement. The iPhone 4 is designed with the antenna placed in the stainless steel band that surrounds the iPhone’s outer shell. The designers at Apple believed that this antenna placement would actually serve to strengthen the signal strength. But as problems began to surface with the new iPhone’s reception, people began to believe that the antenna placement could have been the cause of the issue.

On July 2, though, Apple released a letter regarding iPhone 4 that explained the real problem with the iPhone’s reception. Apple reported that it was shocked with the complaints and began investigating the problem immediately upon hearing about it. Apple went on to say that people were reporting that they were losing as many as four or five bars when they held their iPhones in a particular way, which they attributed to the antenna placement.

While Apple admitted that this problem is indeed occurring, it went on to say that the real problem does not lie in the antenna placement. Rather, the drop in bars is due to the formula that Apple uses to calculate how many bars of signal strength are actually available. According to Apple, the formula that the new iPhone uses is totally wrong. As such, the iPhone may report that five bars of signal strength are available when in fact only three bars are actually available. This being the case, it matters not how iPhone users grip their phone because the problem is that the signal is weak, not that the antenna is unable to pick up a signal.

The good news about the source of the problem is that Apple is able to provide a remedy to iPhone 4 owners. Apple plans on implementing the formula used by AT&T to calculate the signal strength at any given time. In doing so, Apple hopes to provide iPhone owners with an accurate depiction of signal strength wherever they may be. Of course, this will not prevent iPhones from dropping calls, for if there is no signal, there is simply no signal. Nevertheless, having an accurate reading of signal strength will eliminate much confusion and frustration.

Apple estimates that the fix will be available by free download within a few weeks time. The download will be available on Apple’s website, and should remedy the problem entirely. As a reassurance, Apple also reminded consumers that they can return their undamaged iPhone for a full refund within 30 days of purchasing it.