As an unabashed iPhone and field guide junkie, and self-confessed NON-fan of morcombe in the past (despite owning both the non and compact versions of the print guide), this particylar app, while pricey, is great.
Although I don’t like the illustrations, generally, in the Morcombe guides, they aren’t that bad, and the points of ID that are indicated are useful. This app has the ability to compare species – I can see that as being useful when in the field. Also having a truly poclet sized field guide is fantastic – I’m a long time slater disciple re: pocket field guides, but can’t get over the non-taxonomic order of the last edition. Now I have a guide that does fit in my piocket, with calls, maps, illustrations, descriptions, comparisons, and listing ability.
$36ish is steepish for an iPhone app, but I bought the new Simpson and Day guide for $40ish, looked through it, gave my old edition away (helping to foster the birding spirit!!) And it’s sat on the shelf since. I personally csan’t wait for my preferred guide, Pizzey et al to be iPhoned, as then we’ll have competition on a price and app front.
I’m reminded of a comic I read recently discussing the unrealistic reaction of iphone/pad/touch users to being charged money for -good- apps, and this makes me think of that.
All that said, I haven’t had loads of time to play with it – got my final ever exam on wednesday – but my early impressions are that this is a solid app, and despite the $36 price tag, is worth doing. If you disagree, good onya!
I have no financial benefit from this app, although I applaud the creators for finally filling the gap that has been evident for a few years now.
Cheers Troy
(Posted on my work blackberry that will -never- have the range of apps that the iPhone will) ============================== To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request@vicnet.net.au
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