November 1, 2012 (Vol. 32, No. 19)
URL:
http://bit.ly/TYopQk
Rating:
Strong Points: Customizable pointer/drawing tool, access to online files
Weak Points: Local file access limited, some options cost money
Platform:
iPad/iPhone
Cost:
Free
Summary:
Sometimes the simplest ideas can be the most useful, and that is exactly the case where the Pointer app is concerned. As you might have guessed from its name, the Pointer app provides a laser pointer (as well as an on-screen drawing tool) to people who give presentations from their iPads. The app provides a number of customization options, such as size, opacity, and color of the pointer and drawing tool. The user manual included in the app provides a good overview, including how to add files. Locally, files can only be accessed via iTunes file sharing (for free, that is); for a small fee, users can purchase access to Dropbox, Google Drive/Docs, or Microsoft SkyDrive. However, the inconvenience of having to upload via iTunes file sharing can be circumvented if users place their files onto an online server, as files can also be freely accessed from the internet.
