PitchPerfect Android Guitar Tuning App

Recently we released an Android version of our PitchPerfect Tuning Software, a useful on the go solution for musicians to tune their instrument with before practice, rehearsals, or performances no matter where they are. And, like WavePad Audio Editor joins the list of programs that are now available on all the top platforms, Windows, Mac, iOS and Android. Providing our easy-to-use solutions across platforms is one of the ways we hope to make it even easier to find the tools you need, because your platform of choice shouldn't be a factor in finding a solution for your needs, whether you need to tune a guitar, trim an audio file or send an invoice.

Pocket Dictate for Android is Officially Here

It has been asked for repeatedly, and some of you may have started to lose hope, but the brand new Android version of Express Dictate has finally arrived.

Doctors, Lawyers, and other professionals will be glad to have the easy dictation-recording app on their Android phone, complete with HIPPA compliant encryption for keep client information safe when you send recordings off to be transcribed.

Transcriptionists too will want to take note of this wonderful new portable option for recording to recommend to clients.

We are really excited to have this Android dictation app available and we are only sad that we didn't get it into your hands sooner.

Music Mixing on Android

If you weren't already excited enough about having WavePad Audio Editor available for your Android tablet, being able to install WavePad's long time partner in audio crime, MixPad Music Mixer, on your Android too may just put you over the edge.


MixPad is a powerful multi-track mixer. Move from perfecting individual audio files with WavePad to mixing, remixing or mashing up multiple audio files into a full-fledged soundtrack or any other audio production project no matter the size. The app may be small, but the possibilities are huge. Download the MixPad Audio Mixing App from Google Play to have ready for the next time you want to put together some audio, whether you are hanging out in a waiting room, or recording on location.

Video Editing On The Go - VideoPad For Android Is Here

In May 2013, YouTube celebrated its 8th anniversary announcing that 100 hours worth of video is uploaded every minute—that's four days worth of video every minute! And YouTube isn't the only place to upload videos, there are lots of other sites to upload videos of our children, pets, vacations or just about any aspect of our daily lives.

A lot of us shoot videos in all kinds of locations and don't want to wait to get home to our computers to edit that video. We want to share that video with our family and friends as soon as possible.

With VideoPad for Android, NCH Software has made it incredibly easy to edit and enhance videos while on-the-go. This new release for Android lets you take advantage of all the powerful video recording and editing tools you have come to love, from the convenience of your Kindle or Android tablet.

With VideoPad for Android it's easier than ever to create top-quality videos and have the instant gratification of sharing your videos in record time.

VideoPad Movie & Video Editor for Android lets you record or import video from your tablet and get straight to editing instead of waiting to get to a computer. VideoPad includes features to fine-tune the brightness and color of videos and add other visual effects. You can rotate videos that were recorded at different orientations so their perspectives match. You can trim videos down to size, zoom in on clips, add music, narration, video effects, transitions and complete all edits quickly and easily.

Even though VideoPad for Android has only just been released it's already getting four- and five-star reviews on the Google Play app store, and we are certain you will love it too. If you're already shooting and editing lots of video, or if you're just getting started, VideoPad for Android tablets is one app you won't want to miss. Install it today to create videos you'll be proud to share from wherever you are.

Teaching Reading Fluency With Podcasts

We were excited to hear about the newly published book, From Fluency to Comprehension, part of a Teaching Practices That Work Series. Not only is this an important topic and a resource full of practical information for teachers, we first heard about this book from Sheri Vasinda and Julie McLeod who wrote one of the chapters on podcasting approaches to reading fluency. In that chapter they feature the Pocket WavePad mobile application, complete with illustrations, for recording and emailing scripts.

So if you are an educator or parent of a young reader, take a closer look at this new book about building the skills students need to read accurately, meaningfully and expressively. This guide incorporates activities, examples and technology—like our very own WavePad—to provide students with the essential components of reading comprehension. A fundamental skill for learning, and as someone who strongly believes in lifelong learning, a cause I am happy to see us support even in the littlest of ways.

Improvements to Home Security with Software & Technology

Guest post by Sara Stringer

Smartphone software apps are entering almost every industry at an astonishing pace. From finance to the entertainment industry, innovation in home security technology has made way for mobile apps that allow home owners to take control of monitoring while on the go. Software has also made monitoring much more affordable than conventional monitoring systems which likely also require technical knowledge to operate and use.

Authorized dealers of leading security providers such as www.selecthomesecurity.com dealing in ADT and other security companies have adapted to mobile software and their customers can take advantage of real-time monitoring, updates and the ability to arm or disarm the security system remotely.

Here are some benefits of software monitoring applications:

1. Video monitoring

Video monitoring was once considered as an expensive investment, but software like EyeLine home surveillance software has made video monitoring quite easy and accessible from any remote location with an active connection nearby.

Review the recorded video footage at any time. If you want know who left the microwave on or what the pet is getting into while you’re away, you just need to check the video recording. Eyeline can also be configured to allow 24-hour live streaming and to send alerts the moment when someone enters or goes out of the house.

2. Energy savings

Advanced monitoring systems can even link in with your appliances, including your television and air conditioner. For example, you can turn on the television to portray that someone is in the house while you’re away. Or, remotely turn off appliances in case you forgot to turn them off when leaving home for both energy savings and increased security.

3. Wider coverage

Security software has extended the monitoring coverage by leaps and bounds. Conventional systems only enabled users to monitor from a specific range, which was a barrier for those who were traveling but wanted to keep an eye on their home. Mobile home security monitoring is quite flexible in this regard and can be accessed when you are out of the city or state, and receiving alerts in the form of e-mail or SMS can provide further peace of mind no matter where you are.

Despite all the attractions software apps offer for home security, you should also note there are security issues that need to be taken into consideration. Your home would be at risk if you don’t configure passwords on your phone, Wi-Fi and other devices. Even with passwords there are still potential security vulnerabilities.

Your best bet is to keep your phone and mobile devices in your possession at all times. And it isn't recommended to feed your home address, social security number, or other private details into your phone in case it lands in someone else's hands.

Security systems, software and apps can also be used for other functions like parents making use of new technology to make sure their children are getting home after school, or checking in on a house sitter while you are away.

This kind of monitoring software may also be used to monitor investment properties, temporary vacation homes and more. Take your home security efforts to the next level as this industry continues to grow and discover itself.

WavePad Now Available for Android

The long time NCH favorite, WavePad Sound Editor, is now available for Android phones and tablets. With releases of the popular, easy-to-use audio editor already available for Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad we are extremely excited to round things off with the Android version.

Like the other versions, the WavePad Audio Editing Android App provides the same easy audio recording and editing tools you want, simply on another platform. So no matter what your preferred operating system is, or if you are at the desk or on the road, audio enthusiasts everywhere can rely on WavePad Audio Editing Software to be there to record and edit music, interviews and other audio.

PhotoStage Android Slideshow App

The Android releases are continuing, now one of our long-time favorites, and the best slideshow software, PhotoStage, is now available for Android tablets. So you can make and share slideshows of your vacations before you return home. Quickly combine photos, video clips, music, record narration and more to make fun slideshows that will make everyone wish they were there too. You can download it now from the Google Play app store.

Express Invoice Now Available for Android

Adding to the NCH Android collection and giving you the ability to create invoices from anywhere, the popular, Express Invoice invoicing program is now available for Android tablets on both Google Play and on the Amazon app store. So business people who couldn't jump on the recent Express Invoice iPad release because they have an Android device don't need to feel left out anymore.

Take your billing on the road with you for easy, streamlined invoicing that is less of a chore. And for an even more comprehensive invoicing solution for multiple users, you can still use the popular desktop versions of Express Invoice invoicing software.

Software from A to Z

A: Audio Software	B: Business Software	C: Converting Software	D: Dictation Software
E: Easy Software	F: FTP Software	G: Graphics Software	H: Hardware
I: International	J: Jamming Software	K: Keep (Protect & Save)	L: Live Broadcasting
M: Mobile Software	N: New Programs	O: Optimize	P: PDF Software
Q: Quick	R: Recording Software	S: Social Sharing	T: Typing Software
U: Utility Software	V: Video Software	W: Web Access	X: eXpress
Y: YouTube Software	Z: Zip Software

New iPad Express Invoice App

Now available in the iTunes store is the brand new iPad version of Express Invoice, providing a new portable and easy invoicing solution for business people on the go. Create and send invoices, quotes and estimates, automate recurring invoices and payment past due reminders, plus access up-to-the-minute statements and reports all from the convenience of your iPad.

Sales and business people who are always on the move and spend more time with customers than at their desk won't want to miss out on the convenience of the express invoice iPad app. And for a more comprehensive solution including support for multiple users, multiple businesses and remote access, be sure to check out the desktop versions of this popular invoicing software.

First NCH Software Android App

Those of you with Android devices won't want to miss our first android app, TempoPerfect, now available as a free app on Google Play. TempoPerfect is a free metronome app for musicians, providing a clear and precise beat that is also available for Windows and iPhone users, making it easy to always have a metronome on hand for reference from practicing your guitar at home to a jam session with your garage band.

This is just the beginning of our Android plans, so stay on the lookout for more apps in the coming months including the long awaited Pocket Dictate and WavePad audio editor which is popular on any platform.

M is for Mobile

NCH Software ABCs Series

Software On The Go

For those of you on the go, take NCH with you! Many of our software programs have a web access feature allowing you to log in over the Internet, no matter where you are. Learn more about business software web access and on the go dictation solutions. For the home user there are DesktopNow remote desktop software and EyeLine home surveillance software that you can try.

iPhone & iPad

If you have an iPhone or iPad you wouldn't want to miss the pocket edition of WavePad audio editor, which has always been an NCH favorite. Also available for your iPhone are RecordPad audio recorder, PitchPerfect guitar tuner, TempoPerfect metronome software and Pocket Dictate.

Android

NCH Android apps have been a long time in coming, but development has started. In addition to being able to log-in remotely to some of our desktop software from your Android phone, we expect to have our first Android app, TempoPerfect metronome software, available within three months, with more Android apps to follow.

<<< Previous: L is for Live Streaming

Next: N is for New >>>

Dictation Software On the Go: Four Ways to Save Time

If dictations are a major part of your practice or business, you know how it feels to be tied down to devices and software set up on a limited number of computers. We've anticipated the times you can't use your regular dictation setup, or when you're looking to add flexibility to the ways you can make dictations. No matter where you are, or what kind of device/computer/laptop you are or aren't carrying with you, we have dictation solutions for you to make your medical, law, or business dictations and send to your transcriptionist securely.

Pocket Dictate

This iPhone app gives you ultimate freedom to make dictations away from the office. Record into your phone, then send directly to your transcription service or typist.
Download Pocket Dictate free

Express Dictate

If you already have a dictation device, make sure you're familiar with the Express Dictate Dock feature to load dictations you record away from your desk. Express Dictate also makes it easy to send dictations to your transcriptionist and monitor the status of dictation jobs.
Download Express Dictate

Web Dictate

This program allows you to make your dictations over a web application and disburse them to any typist immediately. That means it doesn't matter where you are, as long as you have a microphone and a computer with web access, you can make and send dictations.
Download Web Dictate

Dial Dictate

When computers are out of reach for creating and sending dictations, this dictation program is a great solution. You can phone in your dictations from any phone or cell phone, and have it sent to your typist for transcription.
Download Dial Dictate

For more on the go solutions see business software on the go to learn how the web access feature in our business software programs can help you keep your business running smoothly no matter where you are.

Run Your Business from Anywhere

Small business owners frequently wear different hats, run errands and are pulled in a million directions. That is one of the many reasons why we built the web access feature into our business software applications. We know you aren’t always at your desk when you need to update your records and accounts, check your inventory levels, or check the status of a client’s account. Here’s an overview of a few of our business programs that include the web access feature:

• Inventoria stock control software–update stock levels as you buy or sell product from the road, or from any of your warehouse locations.
  
• Express Invoice invoicing software–send invoices or print customer receipts from tradeshows, or anywhere else your business takes you.
  
• Express Accounts accounting software–the value of seeing your business performance no matter where you are is invaluable
  

By setting up the web interface for any of these programs, you make it possible for other staff members to log into the system, and you can also log in and update information from your mobile phone or any remote computer. This means if you are at a meeting with a client you can make an invoice, and if you are at your warehouse you can update your inventory. To help make sure you take full advantage of this ability to access your data on the go, we created a video tutorial on setting up the Inventoria web access for easy access to your business inventory information wherever and whenever you need it. You can also view tutorials for setting up web access for Express Invoice and Express Accounts.

Business Software On the Go: Web Access

Do you feel tied down to your business? You shouldn’t; try taking it with you! Many of NCH Software’s business solutions have a web access feature that lets you check your business info and run your business no matter where you are. You can check sales data, create invoices, manage stock and keep your business running smoothly whether you are in your office, at any of your business locations, or on the road with these cost-effective business programs:

Express Invoice

Create and send invoices, print receipts for “quick sales,” and view client contact info and statements while you travel. Download Express Invoice and watch this tutorial about setting up the web access feature.

Express Accounts

Manage every financial aspect of your business, including sales and purchases, accounts receivable and accounts payable, access reports, and reconcile your accounts. Download Express Accounts and set up the web access feature. Also be sure to check out our essential guide to bookkeeping.

Inventoria

A great solution for a single or multiple locations, Inventoria’s web access feature lets you order stock, receive stock, manage stock, and view reports. Download Inventoria and watch this tutorial about setting up the web access feature.

And for those days you are in the office, check out our other Business Software for everything from customer relationship management to employee time management software.

Editing Video from a Cell Phone

With the majority of cell phones today coming with not only a built-in camera but also video recording capabilities, the amount of video the average home user takes is skyrocketing. It's just one of the many reasons there are so many videos being posted to YouTube every day. But not every video you record is going to be ready for the big time right away, so if you need to do a little bit of editing here are two extremely useful tools you should using try to clean up your cell phone videos.

Rotate Video

With the variety of flip phones, slide phones, and other shapes of phones, keeping track of which way is up while filming could be a challenge. You may quickly find out all your video needs to be rotated so that you don't have to watch it with your head tilted to the side. Prism Video Converter offers an easy solution. Not only can you convert your video from 3gp, a common video format recorded on phones, to something more computer friendly like avi you can also choose to rotate the video by going into "Effects" before hitting Convert.

Stabilize Video

Another common problem you might have—that you might not have even known you can fix—is with video clips that are shaky from an unsteady hand. If your video reminds you a little too much of The Blair Witch Project, you can stabilize your video with the stabilization feature in VideoPad Video Editor to eliminate jitter. See an example of video stabilization in action in our post A Quick Fix for Shaky Video Clips.

If you are really feeling your inner movie director come to life there are a lot more video editing transitions and effects available in VideoPad, but I think you will be surprised how big a difference even just a few adjustments like these can make to your videos.

New: iPad Pocket WavePad HD Audio Editing App

One more way to easily record and edit music, voice, and other audio on the go.

We are excited to announce the new iPad version of the NCH Software favorite, WavePad Audio Editor is now available for download from the Apple iTunes App Store. The iPhone Pocket WavePad App was released in October 2010, and since then we have had a lot of positive feedback on the free audio editing app. The release of the iPhone app prompted requests for an iPad version to make use of the larger screen, and to make precise audio selection and editing easier for iPad users—a request we are happy to now fulfill.

The iPad Pocket WavePad HD Audio Editor provides a remarkably easy way to record and edit audio, voice and other sound recordings while on the go. Normalize audio levels, apply audio effects, and reduce background noise. Recordings can be sent by email, ftp upload, or iTunes file sharing from Pocket WavePad for you to share, use, or even broadcast later.

Pocket WavePad the ideal solution for professionals such as journalists, scientists, and other audio enthusiasts on the go. It also makes significant strides in mobile audio editing, as WavePad user and audio aficionado Andrew Wardell said, "The very tactile method of manipulating audio in this app, combined with the amount and quality of features NCH has packed in has made iOS a serious competitor in the mobile audio editing space."

Users of Pocket WavePad should also try more of the NCH Software Audio Essentials Suite, as well the other NCH Software iPhone apps.

Looking Back at 2010

The New Year is always a time of reflection. What went well the last year? What could have been better? This is where many New Year’s resolutions come from. Not only is the New Year starting you off with a clean slate but it’s a good reason to find things you can do improve on years past. In the spirit of reflection I took a little time to look at what our most popular blog posts from the last year in hopes of finding a little bit of insight into what we should work on or write about in the year to come.

1. Change the speed of video clips in VideoPad
   
2. Practice audio transcription files now available
   
3. NCH Software iPhone Software Update, see all the NCH Software iPhone apps
   
4. Make a Glee Music Mash Up with MixPad
   
5. Record audio playing through your computer
   
6. WavePad recognized as top mac audio editing software
   
7. Zulu virtual DJ Software now avaialable for Mac
   
8. The Secret Life of Tone Generator Software
   
9. Complete transcription quickly and easily with FastFox word expansion software
   
10. Radio World User report on BroadWave streaming Audio server software
    
11. PitchPerfect Guitar Tuning Software Now an iPhone App
    
12. WavePad Audio Editor Software Now available as an iPhone App
    
13. FTC Bans Unsolicited robocalls
    
14. MixPad Multitrack audio recording and mixing software now available for Mac
    
15. New Sound Effect Library Added to WavePad Sound Editor
    
16. Create unique sounds with MixPad and WavePad Audio Software
    
17. TempoPerfect metronome software is now also an iPhone App
    
18. Internet Use in the Office and Cyberslacking is costing employers millions
    
19. A movie maker solution for Windows 7—Videopad
    
20. CardWorks new free business card designer software
    

What I take from this is that not only are our big announcements such as the addition of the sound effect library and adding speed control into VideoPad important, but that our readers like to see more about how software is being used by other people in interesting and creative ways. There also seem to be a fair amount of Mac users looking for software solutions who will be pleased to hear that we are going to continue to bring more of our popular software over to the Mac platform. We are also going to continue to try to write about a breadth of different software topics. If there is anything in particular you would like to hear about, let us know.

Good Things Do Come in Small Packages

Pocket WavePad for iPhone was released a mere month ago, but it didn't take long to generate some interest. Though this app is meant for quick recording and editing on the go, it was created in the spirit of the full desktop version--and users took notice. User and reviewer Andrew Wardell stated:

"The number of effects included in this app was staggering to me, considering the price. What really blew me away though was that they all work really very well! I could definitely compare the quality of the effects to those on the desktop version of WavePad..."

Another bonus Wardell points out is that Pocket WavePad has more features than comparable audio editing apps, and is free to boot. If you haven't downloaded Pocket WavePad for your iPhone yet, what are you waiting for?

If you need more convincing, you can Learn more about Pocket WavePad and read the rest of Wardell's Pocket WavePad iPhone User Review. Then we're sure you'll agree that the only thing left to do is go Download Pocket WavePad for iPhone from the Apple app store.