Before we forge ahead into a new year, likely dominated by the onset of the Mac App Store and everything that entails, I thought it would be fun to take a look back at the past twelve months to remind ourselves of what happened.

I’d be honoured if you’d join me in this review of Mac software in 2011. You might just find some fantastic new software along the way!

1.Quicksilver

This single key launch application creates a catalog of frequently performed searches and tasks. Assign shortcut keys to frequently performed actions and frequently opened files, folders and applications. It’s more than Spotlight (the live search feature built into OS X since 10.4) on steroids. It’s like a mini-Finder and Spotlight in one.

Some users even report that it works faster than Spotlight. A December 2007 Lifehacker interview revealed that the current developer does not have plans to take Quicksilver much further, but since the program is open source, anyone can ride to the rescue. For now though, you can head to Blacktree, and download the latest version.

2.Adium

iChat is a great way for Mac users to use AIM, but iChat gets a little hairier to use with Google Talk, MSN Messenger or other chat networks. Adium is the best IM tool available. Enabling iChat for non-AIM protocols generally requires registering for a free account at open source chat provider Jabber.org. Adium connects to AIM as well as Google Talk, MSN, Yahoo Messenger, Jabber and many other protocols. Its all-in-one interface allows for tabbed chats in one window, smooth screename switching capabilities and skinned chatting. Currently, iChat’s primary advantage over Adium is its well-integrated video chatting, but a video chatting plug-in has recently been introduced for Adium as well. If you're not convinced, check the instant messaging category - you are sure to find one that suits your needs.

3.Mac dvd ripper

The free mac dvd ripper can rip DVD to various video formats (including MP4, AVI, M4V, MOV, 3GP, MPG, FLV) and audio formats (MP3, M4A, AAC, WAV, OGG, APE, etc.) for playback on iPad, iPod touch, iPod classic, iPod nano, iPhone, Apple TV, PSP, PS3, Youtube (web), Creative Zen, iRiver PMP, Archos, all kinds of video cell phones and digital video and audio players.

4.iSquint

Convert video files into an iPod or TV-friendly format with iSquint, a free alternative to QuickTime Pro. This drag-and-drop mini-app works with various video formats including .mov, .mp4, .avi, .mpg, .wmv, .flv, and .m4v. Help documentation is nonexistent, but the simple application is unlikely to confuse.

5.DVD creator for mac

The free dvd creator for mac lets you burn downloaded movies, self-made videos, and slideshows into DVD disc, or to DVD Folder, ISO or dvdmedia file that can be played with Apple DVD Player directly. Apart from making DVD, This DVD Creator Mac offers useful editing functions, slideshow building techniques, and lots of gorgeous animated DVD menu styles and themes for you to create a stylish DVD.