Software Jackpot
Some of the best software bargains you can download right now
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Finding great software for your Mac can sometimes feel like a gamble. But we’re here to help—each month in Macworld and every week in the Mac Gems Weblog, we deal out low-cost software that delivers big-time returns. We call these programs Mac Gems, and as we approach the discovery of our 500th gem, it seems appropriate to show off our aces—the very best low-cost Mac software. We’re including the 17 gems that have received a
rating, as well as apps with a rating of
or
that deserve special recognition. So don’t fold your hand—we’ve got some sure bets for you.
- Software Jackpot
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Best of Gems: Enhancers and troubleshooters
Our round-up of our favorite low-cost software gems of all time kicks off with a look at 18 must-have applications for getting more out of OS X. We also profile 14 programs that help you fix problems -- or spot them before they appear.
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Best of Gems: Multimedia apps
This installment of our favorite low-cost apps focuses on 10 multimedia apps that will help you edit photos, add special effects to your videos, and clean up audio files, among other things. We also look at five iPod and iTunes helpers as well as two podcasting tools.
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Best of Gems: Shortcuts, launchers, and search tools
Save time with seven must-have shortcut apps. We also profile a pair of search tools that improve upon OS X's Spotlight search technology. And we sing the praises of three launchers that will help you access applications, documents, and other data more easily.
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Best of Gems: Communication and Internet tools
The roll call of our favorite bargain programs continues with low-cost apps that make it easier to stay in touch via iChat and e-mail as well as top-flight Internet and networking tools.
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Best of Gems: Work, study, and play
Our five-part series on the best low-cost software available for the Mac wraps up with 10 programs that will have you working more efficiently, studying more effectively, and blowing off steam with a nice game of solitaire.
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Software Jackpot: Universal compatibility
See which of our favorite bargain applications will run natively on your Intel-based Mac.
Some of the best software bargains you can download right now
