Apple Releases iPhone Software 2.0.2

Apple has released iPhone Software 2.0.2, the latest update to the iPhone and iPod touch software. As with software version 2.0.1, Apple describes the new software as containing simply “bug fixes.” It is currently unclear whether this update will address the reception problems currently being experienced by some iPhone 3G users. The download is 248.7MB in size for the iPhone 3G and 241.9MB for the iPhone, and is available now for the iPhone, the iPhone 3G, and iPod touch units running software version 2.0 or later through the update feature in iTunes.

Stephen King’s New Short Story, “The New York Times at Special Bargain Rates”

The October/November 2008 issue of Fantasy & Science Fiction Magazine will contain the short story, “The New York Times at Special Bargain Rates”.   This story will also be included in Just After Sunset.  The issue should be available on August 30th.

David Sedaris “Holidays on Ice: Featuring Six New Stories”

David Sedaris’s beloved holiday collection is new again with six more pieces, including a never before published story. Along with such favorites as the diaries of a Macy’s elf and the annals of two very competitive families, are Sedaris’s tales of tardy trick-or-treaters (“Us and Them”); the difficulties of explaining the Easter Bunny to the French (“Jesus Shaves”); what to do when you’ve been locked out in a snowstorm (“Let It Snow”); the puzzling Christmas traditions of other nations (“Six to Eight Black Men”); what Halloween at the medical examiner’s looks like (“The Monster Mash”); and a barnyard secret Santa scheme gone awry (“Cow and Turkey”). The 176 page hardcover will be available on October 1, 2008 and can be preordered HERE.

300 Limited Collector’s Edition DVD Just Announced

Warner Home Video has announced a 3-disc Limited Edition of 300 which stars Gerard Butler. The set will include all the features previously available on the Two Disc Special Edition, but now adds an additional bonus disc. This 3rd disc contains a new documentary (“To The Hot Gates: A Legend Retold”) which provides a comprehensive and dynamic description of the process filmmakers followed to take an ancient legend through a graphic novel and finally realizing it as a feature film. In addition there is a bonus Digital Copy of the film, a 52-page hardcover art book with a personal message from director Zack Snyder, and a lucite display with motion film image and six collectible photo cards. Retail will be $49.92 and the DVD set will be released on November 18^th.

 

The Return of The Banana Splits

Warners consumer products division has whipped up a new version of the Banana Splits.

Hanna-Barbera’s 1960s phenom is returning in a multiplatform effort starting Sept. 2, with shorts and musicvideos airing on Cartoon Network and its website. Future efforts will include DVD and audio CD releases, as well as live performances.

Turner Animation’s Stu Snyder noted that the Splits have “been entertaining kids for years,” but the return of the property will capitalize on boomer nostalgia as well. “Go Bananas Your Way,” the new Splits album, is “intended to appeal to kids and parents,” according to the release.

Bingo, Drooper, Fleegle and Snorky’s Web presence is targeted at 4- to 7-year-olds, and the live entertainment will include a section of Myrtle Beach, S.C.’s, Hard Rock Park, to be dubbed Banana Splitsville and devoted to the cartoon characters.

Nostalgic revivals of vintage properties are a dicey proposition when it comes to new content, but elderly brands like “Mr. Men” have found surprising support in lifestyle products such as T-shirts and accessories that preserve the original art for sentimental fans. Accordingly, Warners will release apparel, games and books as well. (From Variety)