Cody Lee

Cody Lee, iDownloadBlog.com’s longest-serving Editor, joined the site in 2008. He specializes in uncovering the best deals on Apple products, apps, and accessories. With years of experience in technology journalism, Cody helps readers save money while staying informed about the latest trends and updates in the Apple ecosystem. Cody’s history with smartphones goes almost as far back as he does. As the son of a Nokia employee, he was exposed early on to handsets like the N91 and the Communicator. He has since been involved in nearly every aspect of the mobile phone industry. While going to college, he worked at a Nokia factory, building handsets, and later moved on to a sales position at a major wireless carrier.

Tweetbot for Mac updated with quick notification replies, smoother scrolling

Tapbots has updated Tweetbot for Mac this afternoon, bringing the app to version 1.4. The update brings about the ability for OS X Mavericks users to reply to tweets or direct messages, directly from notifications.

The new app also includes a number of other welcome improvements as well, such as smoother scrolling (10.9 only) and faster refreshing on lists and saved searches. And as usual, there are a flurry of bug fixes...

Macy’s becomes first retailer to implement iBeacon tech

Following reports that Apple is working to implement iBeacon tech in its retail stores comes word that Shopkick has beat it to the punch. The shopping app has teamed up with Macy's to deliver the first major retail iBeacon system.

The technology, which is new to iOS 7, uses Bluetooth LE signaling to enable micro-location services and is expected to be a huge hit with retailers. The tech will allow stores to deliver targeted sales and information to their customers...

Chrome for iOS updated with synced autofill, faster related image search

In line with its announcement last week, Google has updated its Chrome browser for iOS this afternoon, bringing the app to version 31.0.1650.18. The update includes several bug fixes, and a couple of handy new features.

The headlining new feature is called synced autofill, and it will auto-complete forms on the web that you’ve previously filled out while logged in under the same Google account. And there's also a new long-press function...

Apple reportedly shaking up supply chain to preserve more profits

Apple has long been known for its supply chain prowess, mostly thanks to one man: Tim Cook. Before taking over the CEO position in 2011, Cook was the company's chief operating officer and oversaw a number of successful product rollouts that garnered impressive profits.

But according to a new report, the iPad-maker isn't resting on its laurels. Apple is apparently adjusting its supply chain model from having OEMs being responsible for both component procurement and production, to purely production, as it moves to raise its product margins...

Logitech launches ‘PowerShell’ iOS 7 game controller for $99

Following months of rumors, and a few teasers from the company itself, Logitech has finally unveiled its first iOS 7 game controller. It's called the 'PowerShell,' and it works with any iPhone 5, iPhone 5s or 5th generation iPod touch.

The game pad features console-style controls, with a d-pad, an X-Y-B-A button cluster, and two shoulder triggers. It also features an integrated 1500mAh battery, which will keep your iOS device running long after it runs out of juice...

Cupertino City Council gives Apple green light to begin building new ‘Spaceship’ campus

Well, it's finally happened. After years of presentations, meetings and campaigning, Apple last night cleared the final hurdle in its 'Campus 2' initiative. The Cupertino City Council has given the iPad-maker the green light to begin construction on its so-called 'Spaceship' campus.

The final vote enabled Apple to enter into an official Development Agreement with the City of Cupertino. With its ancillary permits, the company is now allowed to begin demolition of current buildings on its lot, and it's set to receive its full set of building permits later today...

Microsoft releases new ‘Xbox One SmartGlass’ app for iOS

Ahead of its big Xbox One launch later this week, Microsoft has released a new companion app for the console called ‘Xbox One SmartGlass.’ Microsoft says it's "the perfect companion app for your Xbox One, both in your living room and on the go."

In the living room, the app will allow your iOS device to connect to your Xbox One console and do things like browse the web, navigate the dashboard, and control content. And on the go, the app will let you track achievements, messages and more...

Twitter for iOS updated with new search filters and more

Twitter has updated its official iOS client this evening, bringing the app to version 5.13. The update includes improvements for Search and Discover tabs, making it easier to find the content you're looking for.

Among these improvements are new search filters, which will allow you to quickly navigate to specific people and tweets, and toggle between relevant tweets and 'top tweets.' Full release notes are after the fold...

Leaked document shows White House in favor of banning unlocking, jailbreaking

The last we heard, things were looking good in the fight to reform out-of-date policies on device unlocking here in the US. Last week, the FCC chairman sent a letter to the CTIA saying he'd like to see changes made before the holidays. But don't get your hopes up just yet.

According to information recently leaked by WikiLeaks, the White House—despite publicly supporting unlocking—has been secretly negotiating a treaty with other countries and special interest lobbyists that would make this and other processes illegal by international law...

Apple updates Find My Friends for iOS 7

Apple has finally posted the iOS 7 update for its Find My Friends application this afternoon. The app, which allows iOS users to locate friends and family members, was the last notable mobile Apple title utilizing the old skeuomorphic design language.

In today's update, the app's leather stitching and paper-like textures have been replaced with open spaces and sharp text—the usual changes we've seen in iOS 7-flavored updates. And the UI now lines up with Apple's other iPhone and iPad offerings...

Samsung sells just 50,000 Galaxy Gear watches in first two months [update]

In September, Samsung launched a line of Galaxy Gear smartwatches. The move appeared to be little more than a response to rumors that Apple and other tech companies were working on similar products, and an effort to be "first" to market.

But going first in unknown territory doesn't always work in your favor, and it looks like the Galaxy Gear supports that theory. According to a new report, Samsung has sold just 50,000 smartwatches since it launched them nearly 3 months ago...

Moga’s ‘Ace Power’ iOS 7 game controller now available

Moga announced this morning that its first (and subsequently the first to market) iOS 7-compatible game controller is now available for purchase. It's called the 'Ace Power' and it works with the iPhone 5, 5c, 5s and the latest iPod touch.

The controller features an enclosed design, meaning it fits around your iPhone or iPod. It plugs into the Lightning port, and features a d-pad, dual analog sticks, 4 action buttons and triggers, a headphone jack, and can charge your device...