Type of Article: MacMinute Web Site

Dr. Bott has released a new version of its high-end PowerBook G4 case that better accomodates the new PowerBook’s square power adapter and adds a pocket that snugly fits Apple’s iPod. The US$399 TiCase features a brushed aluminum shell, combination lock, and weighs about 6 lbs. The $539 TiCasePlus adds a side bag for additional storage and a shoulder strap.

Apple has posted QuickTime Streaming Server 4.0p2, a new pre-release version of its streaming media software for Mac OS X Server, as noted by VersionTracker. The new version adds administrative enhancements, including a new Setup Assistant, native Hinted MPEG-4 Streaming, quality of service enhancements, native MP3/Icecast streaming support, and playlist broadcaster user interface enhancements. The pre-release version expires on March 15, 2002.

Bigger Planet has released a new version of its unsupported, unofficial “satellite” client for music sharing Web site Audiogalaxy, Sputnix 0.4B. Version 0.4B adds faster reporting of shares to the server, an upload and download speed throttle, support for Gold accounts, the ability to play a selected song (even if it hasn’t fully downloaded yet), and more.

The Sibelius Group today announced the release of Sibelius 2, a “revolutionary” new version of its music notation software that adds more than 200 new features. Among the features is the use of artificial intelligence to arrange and orchestrate music automatically, making Sibelius 2 the first-ever commercial program capable of such a task. Sibelius 2 is currently available for Windows for US$599; a Mac OS X version is due in the first quarter of 2002.

America Online has released a new version of its AOL Instant Messenger software for Mac OS X. Version 4.5.494 improves compatibility with Mac OS X 10.1, includes a number of bug fixes, file transfer support, POP3 mail support, URL support, new buddy icons, and more.