Due to other reviews and the mad holiday and CES email avalanche, I totally missed the press release on this new Sunside game (recently also "greenlit" on Steam Greenlight) called Abducted, which is a space horror RPG that uses the Radiance game engine. The first episode (of several to come) was actually released for iOS back on December 19, 2013, and the game in the US app store has been discounted to $2.99 for a limited time. 

I admit to not having played it yet, but wanted to at least get the word out that it is now available, as we have mentioned it in previous posts. This immersive RPG looks amazing based on the included trailer, but so far only managing average ratings. Check out the trailer or the iTunes link above for more information. Hope to get time to check it out for a review soon... maybe before the real CES madness starts!

People want to have a personal connection with their gadgets. A unique case is one way to further personalize this relationship. But you don't have to settle for different colored plastic cases that offer little in the way of protection or luxury. I have tried cases from Piel Frama before and always came away impressed. Their latest case for my iPhone 5s is a prime example of luxury and choice.

First, you can choose flip designs, with or without an integrated swivel belt clip, and an assortment of leather finishes and colors. Looking at the choices on their website, I felt like a kid in a candy store! Finishes include crocodile, ostrich, lizard, smooth, or pebbled leather. Colors vary by case design, but include black, brown, tan, and even non-traditional leather colors like blue or red.

I have been looking for a case with a built-in swivel clip. The Piel Frama offering uses a metal swivel with 360 degree movement. If you don't want the swivel, you can use the included tool to unscrew the backing. I wasn't sure how to do it, so this tutorial on their website helped:

The case I chose has a flip cover that closes quite securely using hidden magnets at the edges. The cover can even be closed while speaking on the phone thanks to a porthole where the speaker is. This is a nice touch, as my cheek can often activate the mute button, and it also keeps the screen clear of facial oils.

Piel Frama offers so many choices for cases, and the materials, fit, and finish are of such quality you really can't go wrong.

We're in day five of Apple's free app 12 Days of Gifts, and today's present is the best yet: the award-winning 2011 film Hugo, directed by Martin Scorsese. If you haven't yet downloaded the app, now would be a good time to do it. 

Yesterday there were scattered reports online that people were complaining about Apple's gifts, especially since yesterday's offering was a game for kids. Some people who downloaded it and found out it was for children then actually went to the App Store and criticized it. But I  think most people would be happy with today's offering. So far we've gotten a couple games, a travel book, some Justin Timberlake music, a TV pilot episode, and a movie. And if you're adding it up, that totals more than five because one day there were actually two different gifts. I think this a fun app from Apple and am looking forward to seeing what else is coming up. I hope there are more gifts like today's.

Our iPhones and iPads are capable of amazing things, but most of us only use a small percentage of their abilities. In this weekly column I share tips and tricks for beginners, or anyone who wants to harness the full power of their iDevice. This week, I'm going to give you tips on weather, email, text messages, and refreshing apps.

1. More Weather Information

When you open the Weather app you'll see your location's temperature, weather for the next five hours, and a forecast for the next five days. For even more weather information, tap on the temperature and you'll see the humidity, wind speed, chance of precipitation, and what the temperature feels like.

2. Remove a Recent Contact in Email

One of the things I'm not crazy about in iOS 7 is that any new email sent or received automatically adds that person to your Contacts. I can see how it can be helpful at times, but as I'm creating a new email and enter the first letter of the name of the recipient, I don't always want to scroll through all these new contacts to get to the person I want. The way to remove that contact from the recents list is to tap the "i" next to the name and choose Remove From Recents.

3. Delete or Forward Individual Text Messages

Have you ever had an individual text that you want to delete from a conversation in Messages or something extremely interesting you want to forward along to another person? Here's a way to do that: double tap the speech bubble in your conversation, then in the pop-over menu, tap More, then tap the round button next to the message you want to delete or forward. Tap the trash can on the bottom left to delete the message, or the arrow on the bottom right to forward it.

4. Refresh Apps

If you use an app often, but don't want to refresh it every time you launch it you can set it to automatically update in the background. Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and enable all the apps you want updated regularly. Only choose the apps that are most important to you to be updated because this option can take a toll on your battery. 

Apple quietly introduced iBeacon this year as a feature in iOS 7. Basically this functionality uses the new Bluetooth technology called Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to let devices communicate with one another while using very little energy. This means that tiny transmitters can be placed at specific locations such that when you come in range, say within 10 feet, your phone alerts you with some information. Apple, for example, earlier this month deployed iBeacon transmitters in 254 of their US Apple Stores. If you have this feature enabled, you'll receive information as you browse in an Apple Store. For example, if you pause by the iPhone display, the iBeacon will inform you of your upgrade status and encourage you to trade in your old phone for a new one.

Other applications, for example, would be museums, in which you'd receive information about exhibits as you browse. Major League Baseball will be testing iBeacon this upcoming season in some stadiums, features of which will include directing you to your seat and offering coupons for nearby concessions. Macy's is also testing location-specific discounts in some of its stores using iBeacon.

As I understand it, iBeacon is app-specific, meaning that it's a feature that a developer builds into an app, similar to Apple's Passbook. In the case of the Apple Stores, you get access to iBeacon information by using the Apple Store app. Some companies, such as Estimote, are manufacturing iBeacon transmitters, with prices around $30, but iOS devices themselves can be used as transmitters. The image accompanying this post shows a selection of Estimote Beacons. 

Business Insider has a helpful article explaining what iBeacons are and why Apple is way out ahead with this new technology. And Wired has a great article titled "4 Reasons Why Apple’s iBeacon Is About to Disrupt Interaction Design." The article notes that location specific information is just one use, and gives an example of another great use for iBeacon: If you buy an Apple TV, you set it up just by tapping it with your iPhone, and iBeacon automatically does the rest. Other examples are in-store navigation and dynamic pricing. Maybe if you're recognized as a frequent customer, you'll get a special price.

One of the biggest trends being anticipated these days is the "Internet of things." Until now the Internet has basically been people accessing information on computers. But increasingly, our gadgets are talking to each other. Most tech experts see this as the future. And iBeacon will likely be a key element of this future.

David Mandell created Errands To-Do List (free), and it’s a winner! He also developed my favorite app, Alarmed - Reminders and Timers (free). I really liked that app, so I felt I would like Errands. I do. Everything I wrote about Alarmed applies to Errands also: It's simple to use, efficient in carrying out its purpose, and filled with just the right features. It is the simplest and most user-friendly task manager I have used. It may lack some of the glitz and glitter of other task managers, but it compensates by being very inclusive and surprisingly sophisticated.

Extensive customization is available: colorization, task iconizing, folder titling, priority highlighting, fonts variation, and personalization of alerts to name just a few. Modify more things: star tasks, repeat selected ones, insert explanatory notes and edit posted entries.

The power and effectiveness of this app are enhanced by the variety of available customizations and the wide assortment of dynamic task views. The app manages your tasks your way and it does so simply, easily and effectively.

A user manual may be redundant because the app is so intuitive but one is included within the app.

Created in 2009, the app may be, like me, a senior citizen, but it stands out in the crowd of its peers. Mandell emphasizes, “It is a solid tool for managing tasks just as it stands. Adding more bells and whistles to the app would not improve it substantially.” He is right. It is debatable whether other task managers with more vigorous features such as photo or audio data entry are significantly better at task-management. Some users may feel these entry methods are essential. I beg to differ, as the question becomes “Am I looking for a note-making tool or a task-listing one?” Errands To-Do List is the epitome of the latter group.

How I use Errands

Though you may prefer to use Errands in other ways, here is an example of how I use the app, which may help to demonstrate its easy simplicity and powerful effectiveness.

Create folders for your major task groups, as many as you think you will need. Then, in each folder, create the necessary and related tasks. In my example, I have a folder named "Home" for the things I need to do at home. Note the handy way the "Home" folder displays its number of tasks. Clicking on the folder displays what those tasks are with a detail line supplementing the title and the assigned due date. It's clear, concise, and comprehensive. One could not ask for more.

Errands has a useful backup feature saving backups to the iCloud from which users can access earlier saved versions of their errands/task should they wish to restore a previously saved backup or enter one to another device. This syncing feature is clean, fast, and straightforward. Some may lament the lack of Dropbox or Evernote connectivity but Mandell is of the “Keep it simple” school, which is ideal for those of us on the “gray side.” We like our apps to be easy to learn and simple to use. Like Alarmed,Errands fits the bill perfectly with its short and shallow learning curve, especially if you already use Alarmed. In short, Errands is almost as simple to use as pressing the “+” and adding a task title. With a bit of exploration, a user can modify many aspects of assigned tasks: priority, due date, alerts, repetition, and clarifying notes, each with but a few clicks.

There is a multitude of task managers out there, some of questionable value, others quite good. Errands To-Do List ranks near the top of the good ones. In my eyes, it should be your go-to task manager.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Thanks to everyone who entered iPhone Life's Biweekly Weekend Giveaway! We received entries from 436 people in 23 different countries this week! WOW! And are giving away 3 amazing accessories!

And the winners are... (drum roll please):

Eliza Peters, Lewie Edwards, Robert Jaworski. 

If you see your name but didn't receive an email, please check your spam folder.

Didn't Win This Week? No worries! Visit iphonelife.com/giveaways for the chance to win in the next giveaway round.

This weeks featured items are:

1. Trident Kraken AMS iPhone 5/5S Case + Arkon Bike Mount + Arkon Suction Cup Mount: Retail Price Total ≈ $90

Kraken A.M.S. Series cases are the absolute strongest, most durable cases we make. Kraken A.M.S. features a three-in-one case, transforming a heavy-duty Kraken A.M.S. case into a light-weight Perseus case. This feature allows you to choose your level of protection: Kraken A.M.S., standalone Perseus, or Perseus with Kraken front. The detachable aluminum media stand provides the option to attach a variety of interchangeable accessories, allowing you to use your device to its full potential. Kraken A.M.S. cases allow you to adapt your case to fit your lifestyle.

Arkon's Slim-Grip® smartphone mount is a low profile, versatile car mount that works with iPhone 5 & iPod touch 4", even with a case. Adjustable legs keep buttons and ports free.

2. Trident Kraken AMS iPad 4 Case + Trident iPad Stand + Arkon Car Mount: Retail Price Total ≈ $100

Kraken A.M.S. Series cases are the absolute strongest, most durable cases we make. This case Series includes an attachment port that supports a twist-and-lock feature to securely fit a variety of A.M.S. tablet attachments, allowing you to use your device to its full potential. Kraken A.M.S. cases allow you to adapt your case to fit your lifestyle.

3. Trident Kraken AMS iPad Mini Case: Retail Price $59.95

Kraken A.M.S. Series cases are the absolute strongest, most durable cases we make. This case Series includes an attachment port that supports a twist-and-lock feature to securely fit a variety of A.M.S. tablet attachments, allowing you to use your device to its full potential. Kraken A.M.S. cases allow you to adapt your case to fit your lifestyle.

Questions or comments? Email Brian@iphonelife.com. Good luck and remember to visit iphonelife.com/giveaways to enter! Also check out our other contests at iphonelife.com/contests. The next contest drawing is January 13th!

It used to take forever for new iPad cases to arrive. Now it takes days, at most weeks. Many of the new iPad Air cases got the size and shape right, but a few missed the magnets on folios that enable sleep/wake. This first batch of iPad Air cases doesn’t offer any new twists or innovations, instead continuing mostly with cases that are one-offs of earlier iPad cases. The variety does, however, suggest that iPad Air owners will have plenty of options to choose from.

Look for CES announcements to greatly expand the number of options available.

Tips

1. Know what you want your case to do before you invest.
2. Read the analysis below carefully so you can find the right quality, features, and price to meet your needs.

Analysis at a Glance

Best case if you only buy one: Otterbox Defender ($89.95)

Best case for everyday use: Moshi VersaCover ($60.00) or Dodocase Original Bookbound iPad Case ($84.90)

Worst case:  Cygnett Paradox ($39.99)

1. Incipio Watson ($49.99)

3 out of 5 stars

Pros

Clever dual insert design provides a light back cover for iPad Air that snaps into a folio for improved protection when traveling. Includes slots for business cards, ID or credit cards.

Cons

Snap-in tray design adds convenience, but also weight.  No sleep/wake.

2. Incipio Lexington ($39.99)

3 out of 5 stars

Pros

Good basic case with wrap around design. Leaves ports open but protects exterior surface. Flap closure keeps the case sealed when the iPad isn’t being used. The flap keeps the footing steady when in use as a stand.

Cons

Flap kind of gets in the way when the case is being used. No sleep/wake.

3.  TYLT RUGGD ($49.99)

2 out of 5 stars

Pros

Designed as heavy duty protection. Space age materials and style.

Cons

Integrated stand doesn’t sit flush and has a tendency to pop out. Very thin front bezel on charger/button end of case isn’t snug and feels like it will easily break if snagged. When stand is deployed a section of the back of the iPad is exposed.

4. Otterbox Defender ($89.95)

5 out of 5 stars

Pros

Otterbox continues to make the most elegantly engineered of the rugged cases. Protects front and rear of iPad with high-grade materials, perfect fit complete with tough, integrated screen protection. If you want one case for all environments, the Otterbox defender should be that case. Removable cover offers double-duty protection when iPad isn’t in use and a flexible stand when it is.

Cons

Heavier than most cases and the most difficult of the cases to remove. Not the right case if you swap out cases often, as it is difficult to remove. Keep the original box to store the components. A film can form between integrated screen saver and iPad screen that creates a moire pattern that degrades visuals a little bit.

5. Logitech FabricSkin Keyboard Folio ($149.99)

3 out of 5 stars

Pros

Good all-in-one Bluetooth keyboard in folio style.  Protects entire iPad when closed. Keyboard is sealed, so you don’t need to worry about spillage. Interesting material makes iPad feel like its wearing a wetsuit.

Cons

A little on the heavy side. Doesn’t match Logitech’s usual high standard for key layout design (small right shift key).

6. Proporta iPad Air Cover – Central Red Leather Style ($47.95)

3 out of 5 stars

Pros

Elegant, leather-like cover with unique magnetic closure. iPad fits securely in integrated back case. Folio base includes raised areas that offer two viewing angles. Nice stitching makes it look very professional.

Cons

Feel of leather-“style” material clearly betrays that the case isn’t leather.

7. Cygnett Node ($39.99)

2 out of 5 stars

Pros

Thin and light and nice looking, with nice “collegiate” styling. Inner document pock and integrated flap to transform into a stand.

Cons

Very light-weight material for minimal protection. Only elastic on the corners to hold iPad.

8. Cygnett Paradox ($39.99)

1 out of 5 stars

Pros

Good basic back cover with integrated “origami” style stand that also covers the iPad for a folio look.

Cons

Integrated stand easily collapses when in use.

9.  Cygnett Archive Classic folio case ($49.99)

3 out of 5 stars

Pros

Professional looking folio style case with magnetic closures to improve security on minor drops, and it keep cover closed in a bag.

Cons

Not a fan of the feel of the exterior material. Relies on weight of iPad and friction to hold it into position when used as a stand. No sleep/wake.

10. Dodocase Original Bookbound iPad Case ($84.90)

4 out of 5 stars

Pros

Beautiful, elegant, book-like case with bamboo frame. New metallic version particularly attractive. Sturdy and light-weight. Book bindery quality. Includes integrated magnetics for automatic sleep/wake. Even has a book plate.

Cons

Not sure about long-term wear of fabric covering the case. Elastic strap gets in the way. Same strap is used to hold case in place when used as stand, but it doesn’t feel secure and seems contrived.

11. ZAGG ZAGGkeys Backlit Cover ($99.99)

3 out of 5 stars

Pros

Well-designed Bluetooth keyboard with unique rubber seating edge that provides for almost any viewing angle. Well-spaced keys, even on small profile iPad Air—with good key travel. Love the multi-colored LEDs that let use select his/her own backlight color. Long-lasting battery. Metal construction is rugged and matches iPad styling well. Better keyboard than case.

Cons

Heavy. More than doubles iPad eight at 18.87 oz. Leaves back of iPad Air exposed. Recommend ZAGG’s folio version (not received for review) if complete protection is required. Alternatively, use a skin to protect back of iPad.

12. NewerTech Nuguard KX ($49.99)

4 out of 5 stars

Pros

High impact protection all in one piece, which makes removal easy. Feels good in the hand. Shock material on case surrounds iPad (it is even tucked along all of the edges.

Cons

Good for drops, not for water or dirt protection. No integrated screen protection to “seal” the deal, though NewerTech sells complementary Nugaurd KXs “screen armor” to protect the screen with three layers of clear film.

13. Moshi VersaCover ($60.00)

4 out of 5 stars

Pros

Clear back and origami-style folio cover make for appealing combination of looks and functionality. Origami stand folds for different angles, including standing portrait and typing. Magnets securely keep stand in place while in use. Rear metal branding strip act as magnet to hold cover in place when folded back. This is the case my iPad is sporting after completing this round-up. Sleep/wake integration.

Cons

Cover material doesn’t return to flat fast enough.

14. Moshi Concerti ($55.00)

3 out of 5 stars out of 5 stars

Pros

Portfolio-style case with swivel base snaps iPad in for secure fit. Slots permit decent, but not adjustable, viewing angles for landscape and portrait orientations. Interesting “hand pocket” design helps make case easier and more comfortable to hold.

Cons

Odd material on exterior of case looks and feels like rubberized seaweed. Heavy.  Not a fan of elastic straps for closure.

15. Griffin Back Bay Folio ($49.99)

3 out of 5 stars

Pros

Basic folio with two-position standard. Slip-in design makes for easy extraction of iPad. Looks professional. Light-weight. Comes in a lot of bright, fun colors, along with basic black/brown.

Cons

A magnetic snap would have been a better choice so people wouldn’t have to push the old-fashioned snap against iPad face to close (though it does have layers between snap and glass, still makes me cringe). No wake/sleep.

16. Griffin CinemaSeat for iPad Air ($79.99)

3 out of 5 stars

Pros

Does what it is designed to do, strap an iPad Air on the back of a headrest to provide children with things to watch and do while traveling. Integrated pocket on back holds cables.

Cons

Would benefit from an integrated screen cover to protect iPad from sharp flying toys, snick fingers and other random goo.

17. Griffin Survivor for iPad Air ($79.99)

4 out of 5 stars

Pros

Rugged, heavy duty, and well designed to fit the iPad Air snuggly and protect it from almost anything you can throw at it, or throw it in (dust, dirt, rain, vibration, drops). Integrated screen cover. Multiple colors to choose from. Improved fits between top and bottom of case compared to previous versions.

Cons

Difficult to take on and off. Not a big fan of the separate stand, which although nicely integrated, feels a bit cheap when in use (and as a part, it makes for something that can be lost).

18. Griffin Slim Keyboard Folio for iPad Air  ($79.99)

4 out of 5 stars

Pros

Bluetooth keyboard in folio design. Integrated stand secured by magnetic flap so it doesn’t deploy when it isn’t wanted. Magnets also secure corners of the folio.  Good key layout.

Cons

iPad fits snuggly, but perhaps a little too snuggly, as it is hard to get it all the way in. Poor closure between the top and bottom of case when iPad is inserted. Stand is only secured by thin ribbons that may not wear well. Compact keyboard design may prove a bit small for those with bigger fingers. No wake/sleep.

19. Kensington Comercio ($39.99)

3 out of 5 stars

Pros

Solid snap-on case protects edges of iPad Air, while softer bounded material offers a bit of shock absorption and a better grip than on cases that are hard only. Unique non-slip strips on cover hold iPad in place for multiple viewing angles. Includes protected business card slot for identification.

Cons

As a basic case at a reasonable price, not much to complain about.

Dear Apple,

I don't know whether you read this blog or not, but I'm going to assume (pretend?) that you do.

First Things First

I came over from the dark side in November 2012. That was when I purchased my first Apple product: the iPhone 4S. I'd always heard how great Apple products were and so I was not surprised that the 4S lived up to all the hype from my friends and colleagues regarding your products.

With the 4S, I immediately became an Apple fan. I began to follow what others wrote about you and your products. In the spring of 2013, I got excited about the iOS 7 rumors and was thrilled after the announcement when most of the rumors came true. I love almost everything about iOS 7.  

Then you went ahead and released the iPhone 5s and 5c. I was so stoked.

The day before Christmas 2013, I upgraded my 4S to the 5s (and gave my 4S to my wife, converting her to Apple too!)

But, Apple, We Have a Problem

When iTunes Radio was announced with the iOS 7 announcement, I was very happy. Once I had downloaded iOS 7, I subscribed to iTunes Match and canceled my Pandora One subscription. I thought life was grand. Until...

For reasons I can't understand, there are volume issues with iOS 7. I have spoken to your very helpful tech support people and they are unable to help me.

Bleeding Ears and Going Deaf:  My Choice  

When I was out on the trails riding my mountain bike or cutting my lawn (with a motorless lawn mower), I noticed that the volume for songs played on iTunes Radio or purchased via the iTunes Store was not as loud as Pandora One was. I also noticed that music I had the CD for (and had uploaded to iTunes Match) didn't have volume limiting issues either.

Things got even more confusing when I downloaded some songs from the same album that I had downloaded other songs from another site. The songs downloaded from iTunes didn't play as loudly as the songs I downloaded somewhere else. I found that very odd. You would think that all the songs from the same album would be played at the same volume. Not so with iTunes.

I experimented with the various EQ settings. Nope, that wasn't it.

It all comes down to the fact that songs from iTunes or played on iTunes Radio/iTunes Match are at a lower volume than songs that were not purchased from iTunes.

I don't know why there is a volume limiting issue with iTunes/iTunes Radio/iTunes Match. It's very frustrating. If I want to listen to music so loud that my ears bleed or I go deaf, that is my choice. It's not up to you to protect me.

Do you care? I Have no Way of Knowing  

And what's interesting is that with iTunes Match, you scan my computer for songs I have that are also available on iTunes Match. Theoretically, if the songs are in iTunes, there is no upload, but I get to listen to the high quality version that has been mastered for iTunes. However, as in the album I downloaded songs from someplace else, these songs still play louder than iTunes version.

I will not abandon you, Apple. You are a great company that produces great products. But I really wish you would take care of this volume issue. Maybe it's just me. But that's okay. I'm allowed to voice my disapproval. I want to be able to listen to music at the volume I want. Pandora lets me do that. Why don't you?

Signed,

A confused but happy Apple fan.

If any industry needs to be more efficient, it's the restaurant and bar business. Profit margins are tight, employee turnover is a problem, and customers can be fickle. That's why I love shows like Bar Rescue which feature new technological solutions for one of the oldest industries.

Case in point, managing beer keg inventory. Traditionally, bars are caught off guard when a key runs dry, but SteadyServ aims to bring some predictability to the market. The company says their SteadyServ keg sensor collects and sends information such as how much beer remains, the type and style of the beer in the keg, when it was delivered, when it was tapped, its age, and when the keg may run out. It sends this information to SteadyServ’s cloud-based software, where it is paired with other information, such as how much safety stock remains, the next delivery date, previous order information, past consumption trends, event information, beer consumption trends nearby, and even local weather forecasts which may impact patronage trends.

And what high tech solution would be complete without an app? The SteadyServ service comes with a free companion app, called iKeg, naturally! The app is free, but without a login, you can't really use it; However there are videos on their site that show it in action. There are also interfaces for retailers and for distributors.

The SteadyServ sensor, their intelligent cloud, and the iKeg app are a practical application of artificial intelligence that could make the difference between a profitable bar and a losing proposition!

I love the time between Christmas and the New Year. My business is slowing down, which gives me time to think and reflect about the past and dream about the future. And to make some New Year's resolutions. Do New Year's resolutions give you a a smile because they remind you of goals achieved, or a bad taste of broken promises?

For many, I suspect it is the second. Sometimes I think having a fitness center must be the best business ever. In January half the country signs up for a one-year membership and in February the place is empty. Having clients paying for something that they do not use must be very profitable.

What is the difference between someone setting a New Year's resolution and failing to follow through and an elite athlete setting and achieving the goal to be in the 2016 Olympics? Many times a clear roadmap is missing.

In this post I want to show how you can turn your New Year's resolutions into concrete results so that 2014 will be your best year ever! As always we have the help of our iPhone.

1. Take Time to Reflect

Go to a place where you will not be disturbed. Look back at your past year and notice the highs and the lows. What did you like and what did you not like in your previous year? What would you like to see more of and what would you like to see less off? Take notes in your iPhone. Go through your social media feeds and find some highlights.

2. Ask Yourself, "Where Am I Now?"

Look at your life at this point in time. Where are you when it comes to your health, relationships, career/business, and finances? What do you need to focus on in the next couple of months to design and live an extraordinary life? Rank yourself between 1 and 10 in the major parts of your life. Write it down in your iPhone and make sure to put a date next to it. This is a snapshot of your life at a given point in time. Try to check in with yourself at least once a month to see that you are going in the right direction.

3. Analyze

Look at everything you wrote down about your past and your present and look for patterns. When were you the happiest? Who were you with? What were you doing? What do you not want to happen again?

4. Dream!

If 2014 was your best year ever what would it look like? Write it down as a story as if it were December 2014. You can start with pen and paper, but when you are done I recommend you transfer everything into your iPhone so you can review often during the year.

5. Break it Down into Concrete Goals

From your dream find some highlights and make them into two to four measurable goals. Next find pictures that relate to these goals and put them in your 2014 goal folder in your iPhone. Review often.

6. Action Plan

Break down your goals into a clear action plan. What do you need to do today to get closer to your goal? Put some action steps into your to-do application. Schedule it!

7. Install New Habits

What new habit do you need to install to achieve your goal? Use the app Good Habits (free) to push yourself to put this new habit into place.

8. Commit

Make a commitment to make this happen. First to yourself by recording a voice memo: “Thanks to my commitment, 2014 has been the best year in my life!” (or something similar related to your goal). Put this voice memo in your favorite play list so you listen to it from time to time.

Next commit to your friends and family. Either by posting your goals on social media so everyone can read them or by sending to selected people that you know will support you.

That is the theory behind making 2014 an awesome year. Now do the exercises and go out and make it happen!

You can download a complete version of this goal exercise for free by clicking here.

I love my iPhone, but Apple has consistently positioned the speakers in a way that directs sound down and not toward the user. If I place my iPhone in my cup holder, it muffles the sound for music or voice calls. A Bluetooth speaker solves this problem, but it's hard to find one that fits well in a car, on your person, and at the gym. That was, until the Pulse from Felt ($79.99). This remarkably compact Bluetooth speaker fits nicely in your hand, or in a cup holder, or, thanks to the included clip, on your visor or seatbelt.

The compact Pulse is about the size of a deck of cards, and can be recharged via the included microUSB cable. I would like to have seen a car charger included, but that's not a big deal, especially with the 8 hour battery life.

The Pulse comes in a very attractive box with a cover that opens via a magnetic flap. This is smart because prospective customers can open the cover to see just how compact the Pulse is. You can use the clip to attach it to your backpack, clothing, car visor, or belt. They even offer a case for iPhones and other phones that lets you clip the Pulse to the back of your phone! 
 
 

Pad & Quill's offerings for device protection stand out from the rest of the competition for their attention to detail in the little things. Pad & Quill's products have a unique feel to them, both figuratively and literally. We go hands-on after the break.                                                                                                                          

Design

The Little Pocket Book for iPhone 5/5s ($69.99) is a simulated leather and wood wallet-style case that protects your phone, while offering three slots for credit cards or anything else that size, and a slot for paper bills.

The Contega Linen for iPad mini/Retina ($89.99) features a similar design to the Little Black Book; the device is on the right side, while the left side features a notch to display your iPad mini in landscape mode.

Each case features an elastic band to hold itself shut, while all ports, speakers, cameras, and buttons are left uncovered.

Functionality

Little Pocket Book

Typically, I stray from wallet-style cases to avoid losing all my valuables if a thief ever gets lucky and runs off with my stuff, but I took a chance by taking the Little Pocket Book into the real world, and it didn't disappoint. Using it is no different than using a normal wallet, although I had to make sure not to put it into my back pocket even though I'm sure sitting on the case wouldn't harm your phone in any way.

The case's limited room, which some might view as a downside, was actually nice to me, as it reduced the amount of needless cards I carried with me. Apart from my iPhone, the case held my driver's license, debit card, and credit card without a hitch.

Using the phone while in the case is just as simple as ever if you fold the cover back, but one handed use might be a bit awkward with the case on.

Contega Linen

There's something satisfying about pulling out your Contega-clad iPad mini for use. Maybe it's because it feels like pulling out a book you enjoy. Once you fold back that cover, you know what's next.

Despite the Contega offering full protection for your iPad mini, it's remarkably light. Using my iPad mini with the Contega's cover folded back wasn't at all cumbersome, unlike other thinner, floppy folio cases. In both portrait and landscape orientation, use with the Contega isn't at all hindered.

When using the case as a stand (with only one display angle), the case does its job. For my own taste, a slightly steeper display angle would have been appreciated, as it's obvious that the angle is intended for minimal input from the user (e.g. watching a movie, reading, etc.)

Pros:

Little Pocket Book

• Great looks
• Offers full protection
• Minimal, yet effective

Contega Linen

• Great looks
• Lightweight
• Offers full protection

Cons:

Little Pocket Book

• None

Contega Linen

• Display angle isn't as functional as it could be

Verdict

Pad & Quill's Little Pocket Book for iPhone 5/5s and Contega for iPad mini/Retina are great cases if you're looking for something a little different than what your local Target or Best Buy have to offer. Both provide solid protection with great looks and are definitely worth checking out.

As new iOS apps flood the App Store every day — recently topping 1,000,000 — we know it’s tough to tell which ones are worth their salt. But thanks to our Weekly Scoop, you can have the best for free! Here you’ll find a weekly roundup of the coolest apps free or at a discount for a limited-time only. Each week features the best and brightest from websites like Free App Report, AppsGoneFree, appsfire, and more.

Hurry! Get 'em while they’re hot!

1) Sleep Cycle alarm clock($.99 from $1.99)

Wake up rested with the Sleep Cycle alarm clock app! With the help of the accelerometer in your iPhone, the app analyzes your movements while you sleep and wakes you up at the right point during the lightest phase—which is exactly when you’re supposed to wake up! No more heavy lidded shuffling to the kitchen for a cup of coffee! Jump out of bed and take on the day (or at least don't be quite as tired!)

2)Beatburn($1.99 from $3.99)

This one goes out to all the treadmill troops! Now you can combine the expert guidance of a personal trainer with your favorite songs to help set the pace at the exact moment you need it. A real voice guides and motivates you during your workout while “BEAT-SYNC” shifts the tempo of your music to match how fast you’re going.

3)Su Chef(free from $2.99)

Featured in Huffington Post and BlogHer as a top ten essential for parents, this app will help you figure out what’s for dinner no matter what your dietary preferences or restrictions might be. You can even type or scan in the ingredients you have right now to get a recipe that uses the stuff you already have!

Last month when we announced Julia Gutierrez as the winner of our iPhone Life iPad Air Giveaway, we asked her to let us know what fun plans she had for her new iPad Air. Julia, who is a digital and print subscriber to the magazine, as well as an avid reader of our blog, recently emailed us to let us know how she plans to use her new iPad. 

"I was so very excited to read my notification email. I was also admittedly a bit skeptical that I had won, so I Googled and checked Snopes to see if the email was a phishing email. That's right, the link to the announcement did not convince me! 

"I plan to use my iPad Air for play, which includes reading my digital subscription to iPhone life. On my new iPad Air I will enjoy watching movies, editing photos, reading books, playing games, and browsing the web. One of my very favorite things about the iPhone Life blogs and magazine are the app reviews. I am always downloading and trying the apps mentioned by iPhone life. I love that I can work from the device if necessary, but I'd rather use it for playing!  

"I am still so stunned that I won.... Winning this has been uplifting for my spirit. THANK YOU SO MUCH!" 

We're thrilled that we could give a free iPad Air to Julia and can't wait for our first giveaway of 2014! Stay tuned...

This is the official announcement of the iPhone life Biweekly Giveaway! Be sure to enter the giveaway at iphoneLife.com/giveaways to win prizes, which we'll announce December 30th! We are raffling off tons of great apps and accessories for FREE.

Here's how it works: Every other Friday we will announce the prizes we're giving away through iphonelife.com, Facebook, Twitter, and Google+. To enter the giveaway, go to iphoneLife.com/giveaways. On the following Monday morning, we will randomly select the winners. If you win an app, we will email you the promo code to redeem the app for free. If you win an accessory, send us your address and we will mail it to you.

This weeks featured items are:

1. Trident Kraken AMS iPad 4 Case + Trident iPad Stand + Arkon Car Mount: Retail Price Total approximately $100

Kraken A.M.S. Series cases are the absolute strongest, most durable cases Trident makes. This case Series includes an attachment port that supports a twist-and-lock feature to securely fit a variety of A.M.S. tablet attachments, allowing you to use your device to its full potential. Kraken A.M.S. cases allow you to adapt your case to fit your lifestyle.

2. Trident Kraken AMS iPad Mini Case: Retail Price $59.95

Kraken A.M.S. Series cases are the absolute strongest, most durable cases Trident makes. This case Series includes an attachment port that supports a twist-and-lock feature to securely fit a variety of A.M.S. tablet attachments, allowing you to use your iPad mini to its full potential. 

3. Trident Kraken AMS iPhone 5/5S Case + Arkon Bike Mount + Arkon Suction Cup Mount: Retail Price Total approximately $90

 Kraken A.M.S. features a three-in-one case, transforming a heavy-duty Kraken A.M.S. case into a light-weight Perseus case. This feature allows you to choose your level of protection: Kraken A.M.S., standalone Perseus, or Perseus with Kraken front. The detachable aluminum media stand provides the option to attach a variety of interchangeable accessories, allowing you to use your device to its full potential. Kraken A.M.S. cases allow you to adapt your case to fit your lifestyle.

Arkon's Slim-Grip smartphone mount is a low profile, versatile car mount that works with iPhone 5 and iPod touch 4, even with a case. Adjustable legs keep buttons and ports free.

Questions or comments? Email Brian@iphonelife.com. Good luck and remember to visit iphonelife.com/giveaways to enter! Also check out our other contests at iphonelife.com/contests. The next contest drawing is January 13th!

As you likely know, a ton of documents pilfered and leaked by Edward Snowden, a former contractor for the US National Security Agency (NSA), have shown that that agency's surveillance has been shockingly widespread, including having access to the phone records of you and me. In recent days, the leaked documents have brought the NSA's snooping even closer to home, with the release of documents that say the agency had the ability in 2008 to take control of an iPhone. They were able to "remotely push/pull files from the device, SMS retrieval, contact list retrieval, voicemail, geolocation, hot mic, camera capture, cell tower location, etc. Command, control, and data exfiltration can occur over SMS messaging or a GPRS data connection. All communications with the implant will be covert and encrypted."

In other words, they're able to have complete control of your phone, and you won't have any idea it's happening. It's scary, and the news reports were startling. But a little context is in order. First of all, the documents say that close physical contact with the phone is required in order to compromise it. That is, they had to have the phone in hand to install the malware, or they had to somehow induce the user to install the malware. The documents say that in the future they intended to develop the ability to remotely install malware, but it's not known if they succeeded at that.

What does all this mean to you? Here are some caveats. First of all, it's unlikely you're a target of the NSA (and certainly they don't have the capacity or the intention to access everyone's phone). Second, they would have needed to have physical contact with your phone. Third, the iPhone back in 2008 was much less secure than the iPhone today, and hence easier to compromise. Fourth, it's not known whether subsequently the NSA developed the ability to have remote "back door access" to the iPhone. Fifth, "back door access" to a smartphone would almost necessarily entail the complicity of the manufacturer, and Apple immediately released a strongly worded statement in which they said they've never worked with the agency to create any back doors to the iPhone. Plus, they said they're continuing to make the phone ever more secure, implying that they'll do everything they can to disallow the NSA or anyone else to gain access to it.

Here's Apple's full statement:

Apple has never worked with the NSA to create a backdoor in any of our products, including iPhone. Additionally, we have been unaware of this alleged NSA program targeting our products. We care deeply about our customers' privacy and security. Our team is continuously working to make our products even more secure, and we make it easy for customers to keep their software up to date with the latest advancements.

Whenever we hear about attempts to undermine Apple's industry-leading security, we thoroughly investigate and take appropriate steps to protect our customers. We will continue to use our resources to stay ahead of malicious hackers and defend our customers from security attacks, regardless of who's behind them.

The software implant developed by the NSA was called Dropout Jeep. The leaked document that describes it is pasted below.

At this point, that's about as much as we know. A great article on Mashable gives more background information. To summarize, it appears that as of 2008 the NSA could compromise the original iPhone if they were able to get their hands on it in order to install some malware. It's not known if they ever developed the capability to remotely install malware on an iPhone.

What about the larger issues? I'll leave that for the privacy advocates and policymakers to sort out. But two court decisions so far have found that the NSA exceeded its authority, although a third found that it hadn't. Certainly no one imagined the widespread surveillance that has come to light. We want to be safe from terrorists, but at the same time, we don't want to our lives to be a complete open book to agency operatives.

Today two rumors have condensed into one. The first is that Apple is working on a 12-inch iPad that many are referring to as the "iPad Pro." The second is that Apple is working on a game-changing laptop that will be as portable as the 11-inch MacBook Air but as productive as the 13-inch MacBook Air. According to AppleInsider, one analyst has figured out that these two rumored projects may be the same one: Apple will come out with a tablet/laptop hybrid in the fall. This is possible, he says, because the new A7 64-bit processor gives the iPad much more robust computing power—on par with desktop computers. In addition, given that the A7 processor is less expensive than the processor currently used in the MacBook, this would also help lower costs.

The hybrid device might be similar in some ways to Microsoft's Surface tablet. However, as a report on Yahoo Finance notes, Apple CEO Tim Cook has in the past had a scornful attitude toward Microsoft's hybrid approach: "Our competition is confused. They're turning tablets into PCs and PCs into tablets." So it would be odd if Apple would itself take this direction. Still, if Apple is indeed going after the enterprise market with a 12-inch iPad, it would only make sense to offer an integrated keyboard as an option, and to make available a suite of enterprise-class software. 

So what else might Apple be working on for 2014? AppleInsiderhas posted an overview of the rumors so far, including wearable devices, larger iPhones and iPads, and a possible TV initiative. So far, the most likely candidate for a new class of product is the iWatch.

I love my iPad Air, but it's probably the most expensive gadget I carry around on a daily basis. And as an app developer, I depend upon my iPad Air. So I need to protect it. I was able to try the appropriately named Vault from Pelican ($99.95) and it's a serious case.

The Vault offers "Extreme Protection," which means dust, water, drop, and shock protection. It's not waterproof, but it is resistant to "momentary inversion and wind driven rain" according to their website. Indeed the ports are protected by rubber flaps and my iPad Air feels quite safe.

The cover uses a novel multi-hinge mechanism so you can fold it all the way around. The use of aluminum keeps the case light, while adding a rugged feel. The case meets the Military 810G and IP54 standards.

The case is available in black or white, but really it's dark gray regardless, with an accent of either black or white. The case screws on to your iPad Air, using a tiny screwdriver provided with the case; so don't expect to swap your iPad in and out of the case frequently. But you should feel comfortable letting young ones use your iPad! If you love your iPad Air, think of the Pelican case as "tough love!"