Macworld Expo Best of Show
Once again, the editors of Macworld have selected the hottest new products to be introduced at Macworld Expo. The awards are open to products announced at, or shortly before, the trade show. We also had to see the products in action, although some evaluations were based on prototypes or beta versions. For the final word on these products, check out Macworld magazine or Macworld Online for authoritative reviews shortly after the products ship.
iBook/AirPort
The new consumer notebook looks like another hit for Apple ( https://www.apple.com ). Apple’s AirPort technology brings wireless networking capabilities to the iBook at an affordable price.
Studio Artist
This self-described “graphics synthesizer” from Synthetik Software ( https://www.synthetik.com ) offers a new metaphor for painting software. With it, you can create your own painting tools by modifying any of 200 painting parameters.
EPicture
Beatware ( https://www.beatware.com ) makes its Mac OS debut with a Web graphics program that holds it own against offerings from Adobe and Macromedia.
SkyLine Wireless Network Card
This PC card from Farallon Communications ( https://www.farallon.com ) brings industry-standard wireless networking capabilities to the PowerBook G3.
Rio PMP 500
RioPort ( https://www.rioport.com ) finally gives the Mac its due with the first Mac-compatible MP3 player.
SoundJam MP
New from Casady & Greene ( https://www.casadyg.com ), SoundJam is the first Mac software that encodes and plays back MP3 song titles. It’s bundled with the Rio PMP 500, but you can also use it without an MP3 player.
Microsoft Outlook Express 5.0
The latest version of Microsoft’s ( https://www.microsoft.com ) free e-mail client offers an improved interface, an easy-to-use junk-mail filter, and direct access to Hotmail accounts.
LiveStage 2.0
Totally Hip Software ( https://www.totallyhip.com ) has spruced up its QuickTime scripting software with an improved interface and simpler scripting tools.
Mach Carrier Upgrade
This G3 accelerator from XLR8 ( https://www.xlr8.com ) makes it easy to keep current with processor upgrades by letting you replace the chip when faster versions are released.
Madden 2000 Football
Aspyr Media ( https://www.aspyr.com ) gives us the first team sports game for the Mac. Hopefully others will follow.
MultiPass C635
The first multifunction peripheral for the Mac, the C635 from Canon ( https://www.usa.canon.com ) combines printing, scanning, and stand-alone copying and faxing capabilities.