iOS fans watch out. Apple has just launched updates to their own mobile applications, iBooks and Cards. Although the iBooks update is relatively minor, version 2.1.1 will solve an annoying problem that some users have experienced. The main bug addressed by the update is an issue where iBooks prompts you to sign in with your Apple ID at unexpected times.

Fans of Cards will be happy to install version 1.1 which brings all kinds of new options. Not only are there now letterpress cards specifically designed for Mother's Day coming up on May 13, but Apple has added additional cards for birthdays and more. Other improvements include new Get Well card designs.

The ultimate protective case for the iPhone has finally arrived. Marudai has designed this extraordinary iPhone case with a 1-inch thick armored plate capable of stopping a 12.7mm round. Pictured below is the case along with a commemorative dummy bullet that will ship with your case.

The manufacturer warns that calling should be performed with both hands, as dropping the rig on your foot could cause damage. Complete protection like this weighs in at a whopping 4.6 pounds. The iPhone is installed inside the case with an included hex wrench, used to tighten four M4 cap bolts.

Talk about convenience. A new jailbreak tweak called HeadphoneLauncher automatically brings up a media dock when the headphones are plugged in. The tweak can be configured using settings to provide access to multiple apps directly from the lock screen.

You can decide exactly which apps you want to appear in the lock screen launcher after the headphones are plugged in. Once the tweak detects the presence of headphones, these app icons pop up along with standard media controls (play, pause, etc).

Some iOS users have great app ideas, but maybe they're just not very good at programming. Apple could be seeking to broaden app development opportunities to people without typical developer skills if a patent revealed by AppleInsider means anything.

Apple has already released the iBooks Author software package to help streamline the process of publishing ebooks. Although there are already services that help build iOS apps, nothing would compare to a software package from Apple dedicated to the process. Drawings from the patent application show a variety of graphic interfaces that could be used to make apps.

Lonely Planet Travel Guides are no strangers to the iOS App Store. Now travelers have even more options, with the launch of six country guides to complement the already-popular city guides. Visitors to Australia, Italy, France, Spain, Costa Rica and Ireland can now grab a comprehensive guide for $9.99.

If you're already carrying an iPhone or iPod touch, this option makes it unnecessary to carry guide books and adds features that take advantage of your smartphone. GPS tracking linked with offline maps are provided for the entire country right down to individual neighborhoods.