Apple Releases An App To Simplify Wireless Networking

Apple has released a free app called AirPort Utility. It is a simple app, which is why it is so great. Apple wants to simplify wireless networking moving into the post-pc era. Airport Utility does just that.

Setting up a wireless network can be a huge pain in the arse. Granted, it is a lot easier on a Mac than on a PC, but it is still impossible to do without access to a proper desktop computer. Going forward, Apple realizes that they will have to service a market which might not have access to a traditional desktop device. But their iPads, iPhones and other mobile devices will still require a wifi network. Airport Utility serves that market. 

The app works on iPhones, iPods and iPads. However, it can only connect to AirPort devices — Time Capsule, AirPort Express and AirPort Extreme. Head over to the iTunes Store to download.

Apple Helps You Find Your Friends

Apple released a new app today called Find My Friends. Find My Friends is a location-based app that helps you find your friends on a map. It uses the iPhone’s location services to pinpoint your exact location. Find My Friends then broadcasts that location to your friends and family. 

You get to choose who can see your exact location. Friends can be added for limited periods of time, like on a vacation. Unlike foursquare, the service updates your location in real-time, so no need to check in. Be careful, real-time tracking is a very invasive. Find My Friends has only been out for a day, and it has already caused a divorce.

Head over to iTunes Store to download the app. Not interested, huh? Sorry I warned you.

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UPDATE: Foursquare responded by launching a new feature — Foursquare Radar.

SOLD OUT! Apple Sells 1,000,000 iPhone 4S Preorders in 24hrs

Apple sold one million iPhone 4S preorders in 24 hours. Preorders have officially sold out. New orders placed on Apple’s website will ship within 1-2 weeks.

Last summer Apple sold 600,000 iPhone 4 preorders. One million is a sizable increase, roughly 167 percent better. This is yet another sign that the new iPhone will sell well. As Dan Frommer noted last week, “If you’re disappointed by the iPhone 4S, you’re nuts. This is still the best phone that money can buy.”

The iPhone 4S will debut at retail stores in the U.S. on Friday, October 14th. International expansion is planned for the end of October. For more information, check out Apple’s official press release.