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    Bombich Software Updates Carbon Copy Cloner With APFS Snapshot Support (UPDATED)

    One of the most powerful new features of Apple’s APFS file system, used in High Sierra, is the snapshot. This is the ability to return a file system to a previous state, in time. Bombich Software has recently announced that version 5.1 of Carbon Copy Cloner (CCC) now offers extensive APFS snapshot support.

    The update notice continues…

    This is handy for restoring the older version of a file, but could be hugely helpful if you ever need to revert to a previous OS version after a problematic update. This is a true alternative to Time Machine that offers more flexibility for backup scheduling and snapshot retention. CCC starts with sensible defaults, but gives you all the flexibility you need to craft a backup strategy that’s tuned to your specific needs.

    If you’re running macOS High Sierra and have any CCC backup tasks that specify an APFS-formatted volume as the source or destination, you can enable snapshot support on those volumes by selecting the volume in CCC’s sidebar, then click on the button to turn on snapshot support. For future tasks, CCC will automatically enable snapshot support when you select an APFS-formatted volume as the source or destination. You can change that behavior in CCC’s Preferences window…

    You can read much more in the Bombich Software knowledge base last updated on May 3. The Mac Observer will have ongoing coverage of this important new capability in CCC.

    Source link: https://www.macobserver.com/news/bombich-software-carbon-copy-cloner-apfs-snapshots/

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    Apple clarifies list of HomeKit accessories in new categories

    apple homekit is a little more accessible with its accessories in list form, making it easier for you to pick the ones that are right for you.

    there are a lot of compatible homekit accessories, and that variety can leave consumers confused about what’s officially supported and what isn’t. with that in mind, apple has reorganized them all into categories on its homekit page, making it easier than ever to find the right smart-home gadget for you.

    apple’s homekit range encompasses a number of third-party devices that link together through your iphone to give you a much smarter home than you ever thought possible. everything from smart lighting, to wireless heating, wi-fi-connected plugs and outlets, to smart-controlled locks for your doors and windows. all of those compatible devices are now listed on apple’s homekit accessories page and placed in their own category.

    now it’s easy to go to apple’s homekit section and look through the various sensors you can pick from. if you’re looking for motion or floor sensors, they’re there. if you’re in the market for some new connected smoke alarms, they’re there too. there are also light switches, cameras, doorbells, garage door openers, fans, thermostats, outlets, and much more.

    more: amazon’s open alexa takes on apple’s closed homekit initiative

    apple even details a number of announced and upcoming devices, all of which will be compatible with its home app when they launch.

    this is all part of apple’s renovation of the homekit platform, which looks to demystify the idea of smart, connected home features by better explaining how it all works and how this sort of technology can benefit everyone — not just early adopters and tech-heads.

    we’re not saying apple copied our idea, but it wasn’t the only one that thought it was a good plan to make a list of compatible homekit products.

    where apple takes it a step further though, is in its recommendation of certain builders that know how to implement homekit products in your home. it has a list of four different building companies, each of which it gives the thumbs up to as a potential installer, for those who don’t want to get their hands dirty or risk messing with electric wiring in their home.

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    Source link: http://www.digitaltrends.com/home/apple-home-kit-accessories/