Decisions, Decisions: Palm Pre or iPhone?
Let me say up front that I don't have any investment in thinking of the Palm Pre as an "iPhone killer." I don't personally think it is (or needs to be), and I certainly don't gesture towards a "Palm Pre vs. iPhone" contest lightly. I understand this can be a sensitive subject. That said, as an unsatisfied Blackberry Pearl user who had been off contract with Sprint for four months, my choice--as I came to see it--was between the iPhone 3GS and the Beta Palm Pre. For the months leading up to the launch of the Palm Pre, I was certain (beyond all doubt) that I would buy the next iPhone when it came out this summer. I consider myself a Mac person: I love my Macbook Pro. I love my Nano. I even love iTunes. And, I'll admit it...I'm a total sucker for the Apple brand image and what I have come to associate with it: the user interfaces, the packaging, and perhaps most importantly, the fact that every Apple product I have purchased has worked for me without any grief. Until about a month ago, I was unwavering in my intent to purchase the new iPhone when it emerged. And then I started reading about the Palm Pre. It really wasn't until Pre launch day that I started to doubt my imminent iPhone purchase. I had started following the buzz on PreCentral.com as I waited for information to trickle in on MacRumors.com about what I was sure would be my new iPhone. However, by the time the disappointingly familiar iPhone 3GS was revealed at WWDC (say what you will...I was hoping for a much more exciting hardware upgrade), my interest in the Palm Pre's multitasking, notifications, and physical keyboard had grown quite a bit stronger--as had my interest in WebOS. Adding insult to injury, pricing monthly service at both AT&T and Sprint reminded me that iPhone users who want unlimited SMS and MMS are really not taken care of by AT&T: The SMS pricing seems excessive and MMS was not immediately available with the new iPhone.My decision, therefore, began to seem less and less obvious. So I did what any temporarily cell-phone-obsessed person would do: I read as many comparison reviews (found this user review particularly helpful) as I could find and made a list of reasons to get/not get the Pre, which I posted to the forums so that I could get feedback from other users. After all of my reading around, here's what ended up on my list:+ Get the Pre:1. Sprint service is fairly priced (AT&T's pricing is obnoxious). 2. Sprint service is stronger and faster in my home area.3. MMS messages *now* with Pre (AT&T says later this summer with iPhone).4. The Pre is slightly smaller, lighter, and has river stone-like feel in hand. 5. The physical keyboard is surprisingly easy to use.6. I really like the "cards" and multitasking with WebOS.7. I am interested in the WebOS potential. - Don't get the Pre:1. Very few Pre apps now (more to come soon?). 40,000+ apps for iPhone.2. New voice activation for iPhone looks promising.3. iPhone is a GSM phone (can use it overseas).4. iPhone offers twice the memory of Pre for same price (service costs more though).5. iPhone can record video and has video editing.6. New smudge free coating on iPhone a plus?7. Slightly faster browser of iPhone 3GS.Feedback on the forums helped me see that my decision was not going to come from a meticulous accounting process. Let's face it, they are both pretty cool phones--as are a few other smart phones available. My decision was going to have to come from figuring out what mattered most to me and choosing the phone that would meet those needs best.The DecisionUltimately, my decision to get the Palm Pre came down to four things that I determined mattered most to me:1. I don't want to pay as much as AT$T wants to charge per month. Over two years, that price difference in service could add up to $1,400. That's excessive and seems to take advantage of their exclusivity contract in a way that, quite simply, pisses me off. 2. I want a phone that facilitates multitasking and messaging and makes it fun. I love that the Pre is designed to be more than an applications launcher. I like multitasking. 3. I prefer the Pre hardware. It's light, it's small, it slides and clicks, and it does feel pretty nice in the hand.4. I really like the idea of the Palm Pre's WebOS. I like that WebOS is Linux-driven and relatively open and that developers are so excited about it. When the image of the ROM was found, the Konami code found to work, and developers started their code-diving, it was like reading a great techie Western without all of the interpersonal conflict. The organized chaos and apparent spirit of community and cooperation among developers really impressed and intrigued me. And so, while I realize the Pre is a Beta product, only launched with 12 applications and to-date offers only 29, and has a few other minor issues, there's an up-side to all of that for me. The phone seems pretty great as it is, and I see the promise of what it can be and am looking forward to being a part of the growth process. We'll see how it goes.NEXT: Out of the Box: My New New Palm Pre Unboxing!Catherine Gouge
rVibe makes your music library streamy, viral
rVibe makes your music library streamy, viral
Streaming a song will cost you $.03 a pop, while downloading an entire copy (sans-DRM and at a audiophile-friendly 320 kbps) runs $.99. RVibe has a built-in recommendation service that lets you suggest a track you've purchased to one of your friends. If they end up buying it, you get $.05 back, which can either be spent on more music or donated to charity. It's also worth noting that every time you pay for a streamed song, it will reduce the price of purchasing the track by subtracting the price of a streaming session, all the way down to $.78 a track (or seven streamed plays). While there's a preview portion of the service called "auditions" I wouldn't mind seeing a super low cost streaming option in other popular online music stores to avoid purchasing songs with deceptively good preview clips.Today they're launching "rVibe Anywhere" which is their personal streaming component. Assuming you've got a copy of rVibe running on the machine with your music library, you can get full access to all your tracks, along with the capability to share any purchased songs with others with an embeddable player widget. While the incredibly popular iTunes software from Apple can accomplish similar feats locally (and across the Web by fooling it with plug-ins), rVibe's solution is a little more extensible from the get go when it comes to making music sharing a social experience. Despite Apple launching their own set of Widgets earlier this year, clicking on a song still requires firing up iTunes, which everyone might not have.Songs from a friend come just like an e-mail, although clicking the link will open up the song's preview right in the player.CNET NetworksI spent some time playing with the software today, and although a little buggy (I had it go unresponsive on me several times while trying to play local tracks), it's definitely got the workings of something innovative. The previously mentioned social aspect is very well done, and you can manage friends and song recommendations like you would e-mail. While it's not as simple and intuitive as iTunes or Winamp when it comes to playlist and song management, any songs you purchase through the store can be carried over to your other favorite media player and played on portable devices because of the lack of DRM.Another service that's doing this is GrooveShark (review), which remains in private beta, and offers similar functionality with streaming and p2p sharing. The big differences are that GrooveShark runs entirely in your browser, and lets you stream any music file for free. GrooveShark also has a wider array of mainstream music. While rVibe isn't advertising itself as a place for indie bands, its labels include Naxos, Magnatune, and the V2 Music Group which isn't a bad collection by any means, but you're not going to find some of that top 40 stuff clogging up the Billboard charts.Related: Music site Jango in public beta
Streaming a song will cost you $.03 a pop, while downloading an entire copy (sans-DRM and at a audiophile-friendly 320 kbps) runs $.99. RVibe has a built-in recommendation service that lets you suggest a track you've purchased to one of your friends. If they end up buying it, you get $.05 back, which can either be spent on more music or donated to charity. It's also worth noting that every time you pay for a streamed song, it will reduce the price of purchasing the track by subtracting the price of a streaming session, all the way down to $.78 a track (or seven streamed plays). While there's a preview portion of the service called "auditions" I wouldn't mind seeing a super low cost streaming option in other popular online music stores to avoid purchasing songs with deceptively good preview clips.Today they're launching "rVibe Anywhere" which is their personal streaming component. Assuming you've got a copy of rVibe running on the machine with your music library, you can get full access to all your tracks, along with the capability to share any purchased songs with others with an embeddable player widget. While the incredibly popular iTunes software from Apple can accomplish similar feats locally (and across the Web by fooling it with plug-ins), rVibe's solution is a little more extensible from the get go when it comes to making music sharing a social experience. Despite Apple launching their own set of Widgets earlier this year, clicking on a song still requires firing up iTunes, which everyone might not have.Songs from a friend come just like an e-mail, although clicking the link will open up the song's preview right in the player.CNET NetworksI spent some time playing with the software today, and although a little buggy (I had it go unresponsive on me several times while trying to play local tracks), it's definitely got the workings of something innovative. The previously mentioned social aspect is very well done, and you can manage friends and song recommendations like you would e-mail. While it's not as simple and intuitive as iTunes or Winamp when it comes to playlist and song management, any songs you purchase through the store can be carried over to your other favorite media player and played on portable devices because of the lack of DRM.Another service that's doing this is GrooveShark (review), which remains in private beta, and offers similar functionality with streaming and p2p sharing. The big differences are that GrooveShark runs entirely in your browser, and lets you stream any music file for free. GrooveShark also has a wider array of mainstream music. While rVibe isn't advertising itself as a place for indie bands, its labels include Naxos, Magnatune, and the V2 Music Group which isn't a bad collection by any means, but you're not going to find some of that top 40 stuff clogging up the Billboard charts.Related: Music site Jango in public beta
PSA- install app updates before updating to iOS 7
PSA: install app updates before updating to iOS 7
Before you get overexcited and update to the new version of iOS due out today, it's important to perform a few housekeeping tasks to make sure you don't lose any of your data.The first thing you should do is open the App Store on your device and go to the updates tab. Many apps are updating in preparation for the operating system. If you don't update to the latest version of those apps, it is possible that you will lose all of your data. Tap "Update All" in the top right of the screen and wait for all updates to finish downloading.(Screenshot by Michelle Starr/CNET Australia)The next step is to back up your iDevice. There are two ways to do this: via iCloud and via iTunes. To back up via iCloud, open your device's settings. Scroll down and tap on iCloud, then scroll down the page and tap on Storage & Backup. If you haven't already done this, you can set your device to backup automatically via iCloud. This means that your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch will automatically back up photos, accounts, documents and settings â€" including contacts and app data, such as game save files â€" when the device is plugged into either a computer or power point, locked and connected to Wi-Fi.You can also hit the "Back Up Now" button to perform an iCloud backup, although you should make sure that you have enough battery power or your device is plugged in before doing so.To back up via iTunes, plug your device into your computer and launch the software. Click on your device's name in the top right-hand side of the screen. On that front launch page, you will see, in the second box down, information pertaining to backup. You can either choose iCloud or the connected computer to back up. Clicking "Back Up Now" will back your device up to the option of your choice.This is the important part: now wait for it to finish. Once all app updates are installed and your device is backed up, you are good to go. Enjoy!
Before you get overexcited and update to the new version of iOS due out today, it's important to perform a few housekeeping tasks to make sure you don't lose any of your data.The first thing you should do is open the App Store on your device and go to the updates tab. Many apps are updating in preparation for the operating system. If you don't update to the latest version of those apps, it is possible that you will lose all of your data. Tap "Update All" in the top right of the screen and wait for all updates to finish downloading.(Screenshot by Michelle Starr/CNET Australia)The next step is to back up your iDevice. There are two ways to do this: via iCloud and via iTunes. To back up via iCloud, open your device's settings. Scroll down and tap on iCloud, then scroll down the page and tap on Storage & Backup. If you haven't already done this, you can set your device to backup automatically via iCloud. This means that your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch will automatically back up photos, accounts, documents and settings â€" including contacts and app data, such as game save files â€" when the device is plugged into either a computer or power point, locked and connected to Wi-Fi.You can also hit the "Back Up Now" button to perform an iCloud backup, although you should make sure that you have enough battery power or your device is plugged in before doing so.To back up via iTunes, plug your device into your computer and launch the software. Click on your device's name in the top right-hand side of the screen. On that front launch page, you will see, in the second box down, information pertaining to backup. You can either choose iCloud or the connected computer to back up. Clicking "Back Up Now" will back your device up to the option of your choice.This is the important part: now wait for it to finish. Once all app updates are installed and your device is backed up, you are good to go. Enjoy!
Purported iPod Touch prototype sports new home button
Purported iPod Touch prototype sports new home button
Photos of a supposed fifth-generation iPod Touch have cropped up online today, first appearing on MacRumors, then later on gadget site Crunchgear. Both show an alleged prototype iPod Touch with two interesting features: 128GB of storage and a capacitive home button.The current generation iPod Touch tops out at 64GB, putting the version in the pictures at double the capacity. As for the home button, this would be an interesting move given that it has been a moving part on Apple's iOS devices since the original iPhone. Apple briefly dabbled in non-moving, touch-activated buttons with the third-generation iPod, before moving to the clickwheel, which remains as part of the iPod Classic's design. One oddity in the design, which MacRumors points out, is that the volume buttons on the supposed prototype are still joined, which was changed in the most recent model to match the split design found on the iPhone 4. Given that, this could very well have been a design candidate for the current generation that didn't quite make the cut.
Photos of a supposed fifth-generation iPod Touch have cropped up online today, first appearing on MacRumors, then later on gadget site Crunchgear. Both show an alleged prototype iPod Touch with two interesting features: 128GB of storage and a capacitive home button.The current generation iPod Touch tops out at 64GB, putting the version in the pictures at double the capacity. As for the home button, this would be an interesting move given that it has been a moving part on Apple's iOS devices since the original iPhone. Apple briefly dabbled in non-moving, touch-activated buttons with the third-generation iPod, before moving to the clickwheel, which remains as part of the iPod Classic's design. One oddity in the design, which MacRumors points out, is that the volume buttons on the supposed prototype are still joined, which was changed in the most recent model to match the split design found on the iPhone 4. Given that, this could very well have been a design candidate for the current generation that didn't quite make the cut.
Purported iPhone 5S pictures point to graphite shade
Purported iPhone 5S pictures point to graphite shade
Apple might not limit itself to three iPhone 5S versions after all.The company is planning to launch a fourth iPhone 5S model that won't come in the standard black or white, according to Apple tracker Sonny Dickson. He posted images to his blog on Monday featuring what he claims, is a new gray or "graphite" iPhone 5S, with black trim. Dickson didn't say how he obtained the images, but says that the gray model will accompany the black, white, and rumored champagne-colored version when it launches next month.Rumors have been swirling for weeks that Apple is at work on new colors for its iPhone 5S. Earlier this month, reports suggested that Apple will launch a "gold" iPhone 5S that will feature a champagne-like coloring. Whether the gray or graphite model will accompany that version is unknown.Furthermore, one should take the Dickson report with a grain of salt. Apple has not confirmed it has plans for new iPhone colors, and it's not clear from the photos whether the pictured device is actually something the company will launch.Luckily, though, we probably won't have long to wait -- Apple is expected to unveil the new iPhone on Sept. 10.You can see all of Dickson's iPhone 5S pictures here.
Apple might not limit itself to three iPhone 5S versions after all.The company is planning to launch a fourth iPhone 5S model that won't come in the standard black or white, according to Apple tracker Sonny Dickson. He posted images to his blog on Monday featuring what he claims, is a new gray or "graphite" iPhone 5S, with black trim. Dickson didn't say how he obtained the images, but says that the gray model will accompany the black, white, and rumored champagne-colored version when it launches next month.Rumors have been swirling for weeks that Apple is at work on new colors for its iPhone 5S. Earlier this month, reports suggested that Apple will launch a "gold" iPhone 5S that will feature a champagne-like coloring. Whether the gray or graphite model will accompany that version is unknown.Furthermore, one should take the Dickson report with a grain of salt. Apple has not confirmed it has plans for new iPhone colors, and it's not clear from the photos whether the pictured device is actually something the company will launch.Luckily, though, we probably won't have long to wait -- Apple is expected to unveil the new iPhone on Sept. 10.You can see all of Dickson's iPhone 5S pictures here.
Yep, even more iPhone 5 photos leak
Yep, even more iPhone 5 photos leak
So much for Apple's veil of secrecy.Another set of pictures and a video have emerged purportedly comparing the front face of the next iPhone, which many have taken to calling the iPhone 5, next to the face of an iPhone 4S. While the alleged images offer little in the way of new information beyond prior leaks, they offer up a good look at how the next iPhone may stack up against Apple's current flagship smartphone. For the full set of images and videos, check out French Web site Nowhereelse.fr.Of course, the photos could be fake, and Apple isn't in the habit (okay, that's an understatement) of confirming these kinds of reports. CNET contacted Apple, and we'll update the story if the company responds. If accurate, the photos would confirm the general consensus that the next iPhone will feature a larger screen. The larger screen will likely be welcome as the rest of the smartphone industry has opted for bigger displays and designs.The iPhone is expected to get a bump from 3.5 inches to 4 inches. We'll know more when Apple makes its official announcement, widely expected to be set for September 12. Until then, check out CNET's rumor roundup for the latest tidbits on the next iPhone. This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
So much for Apple's veil of secrecy.Another set of pictures and a video have emerged purportedly comparing the front face of the next iPhone, which many have taken to calling the iPhone 5, next to the face of an iPhone 4S. While the alleged images offer little in the way of new information beyond prior leaks, they offer up a good look at how the next iPhone may stack up against Apple's current flagship smartphone. For the full set of images and videos, check out French Web site Nowhereelse.fr.Of course, the photos could be fake, and Apple isn't in the habit (okay, that's an understatement) of confirming these kinds of reports. CNET contacted Apple, and we'll update the story if the company responds. If accurate, the photos would confirm the general consensus that the next iPhone will feature a larger screen. The larger screen will likely be welcome as the rest of the smartphone industry has opted for bigger displays and designs.The iPhone is expected to get a bump from 3.5 inches to 4 inches. We'll know more when Apple makes its official announcement, widely expected to be set for September 12. Until then, check out CNET's rumor roundup for the latest tidbits on the next iPhone. This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Wozniak criticizes cloud dependence in light of NSA
Wozniak criticizes cloud dependence in light of NSA
SAN FRANCISCO -- Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak says he has sympathy for companies at odds with the NSA and its surveillance tactics, but that their own dependence on server farms is part of the problem. "I think most companies, just like Apple, start out young and idealistic," Wozniak said at the Apps World North America convention here. "But now all these companies are going to the cloud. And with the cloud you don't have any control."Tech companies, of course, are on the defensive these days, after disclosures about the NSA last year. In October, The Washington Post reported that the NSA and its British counterpart, the GCHQ, had specifically infiltrated data stores belonging to Google and Yahoo by targeting information in transit between data centers. "We don't have any strong regulations or principles," he added, addressing the scope of the federal government's surveillance. Wozniak, who provided initial funding for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, said that when he was younger he understood that someone could wiretap your phone if you were suspected of wrongdoing but that some of the current tactics are another story. "We're on a bad path in that direction."On Monday, major tech firms -- Google, Microsoft, Apple, Yahoo, Facebook, and LinkedIn -- began disclosing more information about FISA requests from the government.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak says he has sympathy for companies at odds with the NSA and its surveillance tactics, but that their own dependence on server farms is part of the problem. "I think most companies, just like Apple, start out young and idealistic," Wozniak said at the Apps World North America convention here. "But now all these companies are going to the cloud. And with the cloud you don't have any control."Tech companies, of course, are on the defensive these days, after disclosures about the NSA last year. In October, The Washington Post reported that the NSA and its British counterpart, the GCHQ, had specifically infiltrated data stores belonging to Google and Yahoo by targeting information in transit between data centers. "We don't have any strong regulations or principles," he added, addressing the scope of the federal government's surveillance. Wozniak, who provided initial funding for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, said that when he was younger he understood that someone could wiretap your phone if you were suspected of wrongdoing but that some of the current tactics are another story. "We're on a bad path in that direction."On Monday, major tech firms -- Google, Microsoft, Apple, Yahoo, Facebook, and LinkedIn -- began disclosing more information about FISA requests from the government.
Xerox CFO heading to Apple to assume controller position
Xerox CFO heading to Apple to assume controller position
Apple will soon have a new top-level member in its financial-management team.Xerox Chief Financial Officer Luca Maestri will leave the company at the end of February to become Apple's corporate controller. Xerox made the announcement today, saying that Maestri was instrumental in strengthening Xerox's "financial foundation."As Apple's controller, Maestri will likely serve under Apple CFO Peter Oppenheimer. Last summer, Apple announced in an SEC filing that Betsy Rafael would retire in mid-October as the company's corporate controller and principal accounting officer.Over the last several months, Apple has been hit with some executive upheaval, with the ouster of former senior vice presidents for iOS software and retail, Scott Forstall and John Browett, respectively. Forstall's position has been replaced by Apple's current executive team. It's believed that Apple is currently looking for a replacement for Browett.
Apple will soon have a new top-level member in its financial-management team.Xerox Chief Financial Officer Luca Maestri will leave the company at the end of February to become Apple's corporate controller. Xerox made the announcement today, saying that Maestri was instrumental in strengthening Xerox's "financial foundation."As Apple's controller, Maestri will likely serve under Apple CFO Peter Oppenheimer. Last summer, Apple announced in an SEC filing that Betsy Rafael would retire in mid-October as the company's corporate controller and principal accounting officer.Over the last several months, Apple has been hit with some executive upheaval, with the ouster of former senior vice presidents for iOS software and retail, Scott Forstall and John Browett, respectively. Forstall's position has been replaced by Apple's current executive team. It's believed that Apple is currently looking for a replacement for Browett.
Woz wishes Jobs well during leave
Woz wishes Jobs well during leave
At first, Steve Wozniak was spooked by today's news that Apple CEO Steve Jobs is taking another leave of absence for health reasons, but now the co-founder of Apple says he supports Jobs' decision to take a break. "I haven't contacted Jobs yet," Wozniak wrote CNET in an e-mail. "The news actually frightened me because I did not expect it. If Steve is tired and wants a bit more normal life, more power to him."Apple revealed earlier today that Jobs had notified Apple employees about the new leave of absence. Jobs said that he was leaving to focus on his health and that he would still be involved in the company's "major strategic decisions," with COO Tim Cook handling day-to-day operations. Jobs did not say when he would be back. In 2009, Jobs took a six-month leave to deal with issues related to his battle with pancreatic cancer.Wozniak not only helped create Apple, along with Jobs and Ronald Wayne in 1976, but holds the unofficial title of being the company's No. 1 fan and one of the tech sector's most beloved elder statesmen.
At first, Steve Wozniak was spooked by today's news that Apple CEO Steve Jobs is taking another leave of absence for health reasons, but now the co-founder of Apple says he supports Jobs' decision to take a break. "I haven't contacted Jobs yet," Wozniak wrote CNET in an e-mail. "The news actually frightened me because I did not expect it. If Steve is tired and wants a bit more normal life, more power to him."Apple revealed earlier today that Jobs had notified Apple employees about the new leave of absence. Jobs said that he was leaving to focus on his health and that he would still be involved in the company's "major strategic decisions," with COO Tim Cook handling day-to-day operations. Jobs did not say when he would be back. In 2009, Jobs took a six-month leave to deal with issues related to his battle with pancreatic cancer.Wozniak not only helped create Apple, along with Jobs and Ronald Wayne in 1976, but holds the unofficial title of being the company's No. 1 fan and one of the tech sector's most beloved elder statesmen.
With iPad out, MacBook faithful getting peevish
With iPad out, MacBook faithful getting peevish
Instead of triggering the usual discussions of hoped-for features, weekly MacBook rumors (the latest rumor says Tuesday) are now drawing scorn and skepticism. Comments below an AppleInsider post discussing the latest MacBook rumor are rife with cynicism."I'm so sick (of the rumor)...I could puke," said one commenter. And at Mac Rumors, the tenor of many comments is similar: enough already.Of course, nanotech: the circuits blog (this blog) has not been immune to wry commentary about the conspicuous absence of new MacBooks.All of the negativity isn't just centered on the dime-a-dozen rumors.Contempt is also focused on the staleness of the MacBook Pro lineup--not updated since last June. You can almost hear people drumming their fingers on the table, waiting for Apple to catch up with a long list of PC makers like Hewlett-Packard, Dell, Acer, Sony, Toshiba, and Lenovo who now have fresh new lineups with fresh new Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 silicon. And some of these new systems have been available since January.As cool as the iPad may be, even with the keyboard dock, a MacBook it isn't. Update: Best Buyis showing no stock for certain MacBook Pro 13.3-inch and 15.4-inch models, both online and in-store at many locations.Whether this is indicative of an imminent MacBook update is problematic--and anybody's guess.Updated on April 9 at 11:30 a.m. PDT: adding Best Buy discussion.
Instead of triggering the usual discussions of hoped-for features, weekly MacBook rumors (the latest rumor says Tuesday) are now drawing scorn and skepticism. Comments below an AppleInsider post discussing the latest MacBook rumor are rife with cynicism."I'm so sick (of the rumor)...I could puke," said one commenter. And at Mac Rumors, the tenor of many comments is similar: enough already.Of course, nanotech: the circuits blog (this blog) has not been immune to wry commentary about the conspicuous absence of new MacBooks.All of the negativity isn't just centered on the dime-a-dozen rumors.Contempt is also focused on the staleness of the MacBook Pro lineup--not updated since last June. You can almost hear people drumming their fingers on the table, waiting for Apple to catch up with a long list of PC makers like Hewlett-Packard, Dell, Acer, Sony, Toshiba, and Lenovo who now have fresh new lineups with fresh new Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 silicon. And some of these new systems have been available since January.As cool as the iPad may be, even with the keyboard dock, a MacBook it isn't. Update: Best Buyis showing no stock for certain MacBook Pro 13.3-inch and 15.4-inch models, both online and in-store at many locations.Whether this is indicative of an imminent MacBook update is problematic--and anybody's guess.Updated on April 9 at 11:30 a.m. PDT: adding Best Buy discussion.
With Google's Nexus 7 rising, Microsoft needs to 'Surface'
With Google's Nexus 7 rising, Microsoft needs to 'Surface'
It's probably an understatement to say that Microsoft is in a hurry to release Windows 8 and the Surface tablets that run on top of it. Enough of a hurry that Redmond, on Wednesday, needed to make sure you knew that Windows 8 will arrive by October 26.Related storyCNET's Google Nexus 7 reviewI'm guessing the Surface products won't be too far behind. With Google Nexus 7 on the rise, Microsoft wants to (let's call it a hunch) get in the game before consumers begin focusing too much attention on Android. Android, you know, the OS that seemed to be stuck in neutral on tablets.Until the $199 Nexus 7 arrived.Now, apparently, Google can't make enough of them. The big question is how many Nexus 7 tablets will Google sell over the coming months.GoogleThat's only going to whet consumers' appetites.Instant cachet like this is priceless. It's what every vendor (Motorola comes to mind) dreams of.The kind of cachet that has been reserved for Apple's iPad.Yes, Surface is a different creature. It has a 10.6-inch screen and the Windows 8 Pro version will sport powerful Intel Ivy Bridge processors.But if the Android tablet's time has finally come, Microsoft will have yet another dragon to slay -- as if the iPad wasn't already enough.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
It's probably an understatement to say that Microsoft is in a hurry to release Windows 8 and the Surface tablets that run on top of it. Enough of a hurry that Redmond, on Wednesday, needed to make sure you knew that Windows 8 will arrive by October 26.Related storyCNET's Google Nexus 7 reviewI'm guessing the Surface products won't be too far behind. With Google Nexus 7 on the rise, Microsoft wants to (let's call it a hunch) get in the game before consumers begin focusing too much attention on Android. Android, you know, the OS that seemed to be stuck in neutral on tablets.Until the $199 Nexus 7 arrived.Now, apparently, Google can't make enough of them. The big question is how many Nexus 7 tablets will Google sell over the coming months.GoogleThat's only going to whet consumers' appetites.Instant cachet like this is priceless. It's what every vendor (Motorola comes to mind) dreams of.The kind of cachet that has been reserved for Apple's iPad.Yes, Surface is a different creature. It has a 10.6-inch screen and the Windows 8 Pro version will sport powerful Intel Ivy Bridge processors.But if the Android tablet's time has finally come, Microsoft will have yet another dragon to slay -- as if the iPad wasn't already enough.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
With 540 iPhone apps, an iPhone font is born
With 540 iPhone apps, an iPhone font is born
If you're having a rough start to your Monday, sit back, relax, and take a look at the iPhone Font found at Urikane.com. It's a perfect way to start your week.Rather than simply use apps on the iPhone, the designer--whose name may actually be Uri Kane--decided to create a font out of the multitude of applications in Apple's App Store. Even better, each letter is color-coded, which must have made it even more difficult to develop.In a video showing off the letters that were created, the designer wrote that the font was developed from 540 iPhone apps. The designer also indicated, as you might expect, that the work was the result of "too much free time."The font is definitely noteworthy, and the designer should be commended for the hard work that must have gone into creating it. But I have a problem: there is no "W" and there are no numbers.Complaints aside, it's a neat idea that once again shows off the ingenuity of the human race.If you're interested in seeing a video of the different letters, here it is:(Via Engadget)
If you're having a rough start to your Monday, sit back, relax, and take a look at the iPhone Font found at Urikane.com. It's a perfect way to start your week.Rather than simply use apps on the iPhone, the designer--whose name may actually be Uri Kane--decided to create a font out of the multitude of applications in Apple's App Store. Even better, each letter is color-coded, which must have made it even more difficult to develop.In a video showing off the letters that were created, the designer wrote that the font was developed from 540 iPhone apps. The designer also indicated, as you might expect, that the work was the result of "too much free time."The font is definitely noteworthy, and the designer should be commended for the hard work that must have gone into creating it. But I have a problem: there is no "W" and there are no numbers.Complaints aside, it's a neat idea that once again shows off the ingenuity of the human race.If you're interested in seeing a video of the different letters, here it is:(Via Engadget)
Windows 8 tablets hit 3 million shipped in first quarter
Windows 8 tablets hit 3 million shipped in first quarter
Microsoft and its partners have cracked the tablet market, according to a report from Strategy Analytics.Windows 8 tablets (which include Windows RT) took 7.5 percent of the global tablet market based on operating system (OS) market share in the first quarter, Strategy Analytics said. PC makers (including Microsoft) shipped 3.4 million units worldwide in Q1 2013, "for a niche 7.5 percent share," Neil Shah, a Strategy Analytics analyst, said in a response to an e-mail query. But the market research firm said things could have been better. "Very limited distribution, a shortage of top tier apps, and confusion in the market, are all holding back shipments," Strategy Analytics said in a statement. In total, global branded tablet shipments reached an all-time high of 40.6 million units in Q1 2013, surging 117 percent from 18.7 million in Q1 2012. Apple's iPad took the largest share (see chart at bottom), claiming a 48.2 percent share on 19.5 million units shipped. But that was down from a 63 percent share a year earlier, mostly because of market share gains by Android. Android captured 43 percent of the market, rising from 34 percent a year earlier.Preliminary Global Tablet Operating System Shipments and Market Share in Q1 2013.Strategy Analytics(Via Neowin)
Microsoft and its partners have cracked the tablet market, according to a report from Strategy Analytics.Windows 8 tablets (which include Windows RT) took 7.5 percent of the global tablet market based on operating system (OS) market share in the first quarter, Strategy Analytics said. PC makers (including Microsoft) shipped 3.4 million units worldwide in Q1 2013, "for a niche 7.5 percent share," Neil Shah, a Strategy Analytics analyst, said in a response to an e-mail query. But the market research firm said things could have been better. "Very limited distribution, a shortage of top tier apps, and confusion in the market, are all holding back shipments," Strategy Analytics said in a statement. In total, global branded tablet shipments reached an all-time high of 40.6 million units in Q1 2013, surging 117 percent from 18.7 million in Q1 2012. Apple's iPad took the largest share (see chart at bottom), claiming a 48.2 percent share on 19.5 million units shipped. But that was down from a 63 percent share a year earlier, mostly because of market share gains by Android. Android captured 43 percent of the market, rising from 34 percent a year earlier.Preliminary Global Tablet Operating System Shipments and Market Share in Q1 2013.Strategy Analytics(Via Neowin)
Why is Tim Cook at the Allen & Co. media confab-
Why is Tim Cook at the Allen & Co. media confab?
Every year, Apple's chief executive is invited to the Allen & Co. summer retreat for media executives. And each year, Apple declines. But this time around, Tim Cook has done quite the opposite.Cook was spotted in Sun Valley, Idaho, home to the Allen & Co. retreat, where he briefly spoke with reporters. He told the New York Times' Dealbook that he's "looking forward to all the private discussions" he set up for this week, and reported to the New York Post that he's "talking to a lot of people here." When pressed for more information, Cook declined to share more.Still, his presence at the event, which plays host to some of the most powerful people in the technology and media industries, has sparked speculation at the retreat, according to Dealbook, that he could be discussing Apple's plans for future home-entertainment initiatives, including the long-rumored television it reportedly has in the works.Related storiesApple earnings jump 50 percentApple event countdown brings new rumorsApple tablet iRoundup: The good, the bad, the uglyFor its part, the Post asked Cook if his discussions would relate to the Apple TV in some way. His response? "I can't tell you that."CNET has contacted Apple for comment on Cook's visit to the retreat. We will update this story when we have more information.
Every year, Apple's chief executive is invited to the Allen & Co. summer retreat for media executives. And each year, Apple declines. But this time around, Tim Cook has done quite the opposite.Cook was spotted in Sun Valley, Idaho, home to the Allen & Co. retreat, where he briefly spoke with reporters. He told the New York Times' Dealbook that he's "looking forward to all the private discussions" he set up for this week, and reported to the New York Post that he's "talking to a lot of people here." When pressed for more information, Cook declined to share more.Still, his presence at the event, which plays host to some of the most powerful people in the technology and media industries, has sparked speculation at the retreat, according to Dealbook, that he could be discussing Apple's plans for future home-entertainment initiatives, including the long-rumored television it reportedly has in the works.Related storiesApple earnings jump 50 percentApple event countdown brings new rumorsApple tablet iRoundup: The good, the bad, the uglyFor its part, the Post asked Cook if his discussions would relate to the Apple TV in some way. His response? "I can't tell you that."CNET has contacted Apple for comment on Cook's visit to the retreat. We will update this story when we have more information.
'Whitebox' tablets surge, gaining on Apple
'Whitebox' tablets surge, gaining on Apple
"It's a significant input into the market," Richard Shim, an analyst at DisplaySearch, said in a phone interview.Lots of whitebox vendors add up to a large chunk of the market. "It's like a series of raindrops falling into a bucket.And in this case (tablets), it's like a downpour," Shim said.Samsung, at just under a million units shipped in the first quarter, is the next biggest player, Shim said. China represented the largest market for whitebox tablets, accounting for 44 percent of worldwide shipments.Overall shipments in the tablet category were down 5.2 percent quarter-to-quarter, from 10.2 million units to 9.7 million units, but up nearly thirteen-fold year-to-year, from 668,000 units to 9.7 million units, DisplaySearch said. Many of these tablets use processors based on the ARM design and Google's Android operating system."Price is a significant influence on any consumer product, and tablets currently carry a healthy premium on the cost of the hardware components," Shim stated in the report. "The emergence of the whitebox tablet market is an indication that the market is reacting to that premium and trying to give consumers a lower price to drive adoption. In the short term, the tradeoff will likely result in a less than ideal user experience."
"It's a significant input into the market," Richard Shim, an analyst at DisplaySearch, said in a phone interview.Lots of whitebox vendors add up to a large chunk of the market. "It's like a series of raindrops falling into a bucket.And in this case (tablets), it's like a downpour," Shim said.Samsung, at just under a million units shipped in the first quarter, is the next biggest player, Shim said. China represented the largest market for whitebox tablets, accounting for 44 percent of worldwide shipments.Overall shipments in the tablet category were down 5.2 percent quarter-to-quarter, from 10.2 million units to 9.7 million units, but up nearly thirteen-fold year-to-year, from 668,000 units to 9.7 million units, DisplaySearch said. Many of these tablets use processors based on the ARM design and Google's Android operating system."Price is a significant influence on any consumer product, and tablets currently carry a healthy premium on the cost of the hardware components," Shim stated in the report. "The emergence of the whitebox tablet market is an indication that the market is reacting to that premium and trying to give consumers a lower price to drive adoption. In the short term, the tradeoff will likely result in a less than ideal user experience."
White iPhone 4 slips into wild in U.K.
White iPhone 4 slips into wild in U.K.
Adding extra legitimacy to credible reports that the white version of the iPhone 4 would arrive within the next few weeks, the unit has already popped up at a Vodafone UK retail store, and has even been sold to a customer before stock was pulled.Engadget has a photo from a reader who claims to have purchased the 16GB model of the yet-unreleased device from a Vodafone store in the U.K. Following the sale, the carrier is said to have sent a message to stores telling them to hold the stock until next week.The white version of the iPhone 4 was supposed to launch alongside the black one in 2010, but manufacturing difficulties have pushed its release back nearly a year. Following the original iPhone, the iPhone 3G and 3GS were both available in black and white, though with the iPhone 4, Apple radically changed the manufacturing process and added color to the front of the device as well as the back.According to Engadget, the model number on the white iPhone 4 the customer purchased (MC604B/A) is only slightly different than that on the currently available black version (MC603B/A). This suggests that any major differences between the two phones, other than color, are unlikely. Reports emerged last week that Apple planned to get the long-delayed white iPhone in stores by the end of the month. Apple later confirmed it was nearing its targeted launch timeline of "spring."
Adding extra legitimacy to credible reports that the white version of the iPhone 4 would arrive within the next few weeks, the unit has already popped up at a Vodafone UK retail store, and has even been sold to a customer before stock was pulled.Engadget has a photo from a reader who claims to have purchased the 16GB model of the yet-unreleased device from a Vodafone store in the U.K. Following the sale, the carrier is said to have sent a message to stores telling them to hold the stock until next week.The white version of the iPhone 4 was supposed to launch alongside the black one in 2010, but manufacturing difficulties have pushed its release back nearly a year. Following the original iPhone, the iPhone 3G and 3GS were both available in black and white, though with the iPhone 4, Apple radically changed the manufacturing process and added color to the front of the device as well as the back.According to Engadget, the model number on the white iPhone 4 the customer purchased (MC604B/A) is only slightly different than that on the currently available black version (MC603B/A). This suggests that any major differences between the two phones, other than color, are unlikely. Reports emerged last week that Apple planned to get the long-delayed white iPhone in stores by the end of the month. Apple later confirmed it was nearing its targeted launch timeline of "spring."
White iPhone 4 exists, but you still can't have one
White iPhone 4 exists, but you still can't have one
The white iPhone 4 may not be available in stores, but apparently they're stacked up in boxes at Apple's headquarters.At least that's what a random New Yorker spotted with one this week said. U.K.-based tech blog Pocket-lint noticed and photographed a man using the much-delayed white version of the iPhone 4 at a press event this week. When pressed for details, the man (who apparently didn't want to be identified) said a friend of his who works at Apple in Cupertino, Calif., "fixed him up" with one of the white iPhone 4s sitting around the office, according to Pocket-lint.So why aren't they in stores yet? Apple had said from the first day the iPhone 4 went on sale in June that the white version would be delayed a few weeks. A few weeks then turned into "later this year," citing manufacturing "challenges." The specifics of the problem were--not surprisingly--left unexplained.But according to the guy who has one, the issue is related to the paint. He told Pocket-lint that Apple said the company that is manufacturing the phone can't get the white home button to match the exact shade of the white faceplate of the phone.Until they figure that out, it looks like you can buy the iPhone 4 in any color you want, as long as it's black.
The white iPhone 4 may not be available in stores, but apparently they're stacked up in boxes at Apple's headquarters.At least that's what a random New Yorker spotted with one this week said. U.K.-based tech blog Pocket-lint noticed and photographed a man using the much-delayed white version of the iPhone 4 at a press event this week. When pressed for details, the man (who apparently didn't want to be identified) said a friend of his who works at Apple in Cupertino, Calif., "fixed him up" with one of the white iPhone 4s sitting around the office, according to Pocket-lint.So why aren't they in stores yet? Apple had said from the first day the iPhone 4 went on sale in June that the white version would be delayed a few weeks. A few weeks then turned into "later this year," citing manufacturing "challenges." The specifics of the problem were--not surprisingly--left unexplained.But according to the guy who has one, the issue is related to the paint. He told Pocket-lint that Apple said the company that is manufacturing the phone can't get the white home button to match the exact shade of the white faceplate of the phone.Until they figure that out, it looks like you can buy the iPhone 4 in any color you want, as long as it's black.
What's an 'Ultrabook'- Apple's already got one
What's an 'Ultrabook'? Apple's already got one
But there's more to come, too. A couple of future technologies will also find their way into Ultrabooks.Instant-on hibernation: Or what Intel now calls Rapid Start Technology.Hibernation mode is used today to put a PC in a deep sleep state, which uses very little power and extends battery life.The problem is that it can take as long as a minute to bring a laptop out of hibernation.With Rapid Start this can be accomplished in a few seconds, according to Umesh Shah, an Intel engineer, who demonstrated this technology earlier this month at Intel's investor meeting. The system must have either a solid-state drive or an ancillary flash drive, which works in conjunction with a standard magnetic hard disk drive to speed up certain operations. Smart Connect: This periodically wakes up the laptop from a sleep state to get updates, whether they be email or social networking accounts like Twitter and Facebook.The point is to keep the computer up to date even when it's off.
But there's more to come, too. A couple of future technologies will also find their way into Ultrabooks.Instant-on hibernation: Or what Intel now calls Rapid Start Technology.Hibernation mode is used today to put a PC in a deep sleep state, which uses very little power and extends battery life.The problem is that it can take as long as a minute to bring a laptop out of hibernation.With Rapid Start this can be accomplished in a few seconds, according to Umesh Shah, an Intel engineer, who demonstrated this technology earlier this month at Intel's investor meeting. The system must have either a solid-state drive or an ancillary flash drive, which works in conjunction with a standard magnetic hard disk drive to speed up certain operations. Smart Connect: This periodically wakes up the laptop from a sleep state to get updates, whether they be email or social networking accounts like Twitter and Facebook.The point is to keep the computer up to date even when it's off.
What kind of heat is the future 15-inch MacBook packing-
What kind of heat is the future 15-inch MacBook packing?
And in case you haven't noticed, Apple likes fast graphics.Look no further than the third-generation iPad, which went with quad-core graphics but stayed with basically the same dual-core central processing unit (CPU).Main processor: That would be Ivy Bridge.That's pretty much a no-brainer.Intel is already shipping the quad-core variety (see graphic) that Apple could use. Note that all of the quad-core Ivy Bridge chips shown in the graphic are fairly power-hungry 45-watt processors, with the exception of the 3612QM, which is 35 watts.The 3612QM would be considered a power-efficient quad-core processor and a candidate for the new 15-inch MacBook.Of course, Intel could come out with more power-efficient quad-core SKUs in the coming months.The other option is even more power-frugal dual-core variants due in early June -- around the same time that Apple may announce the new MacBook (at WWDC in June).Those Intel chips will have power envelopes of only 17 watts, making them suitable for sub 0.8-inch thick designs.Whichever Apple chooses, all Ivy Bridge chips will come with built-in support for USB 3.0, which would be a first for the MacBook. Related storiesSlimmer, retina MacBook to debut at WWDC, report saysIntel officially rolls out Ivy Bridge chipNvidia's Haas on being two places at once: Intel and ARM
And in case you haven't noticed, Apple likes fast graphics.Look no further than the third-generation iPad, which went with quad-core graphics but stayed with basically the same dual-core central processing unit (CPU).Main processor: That would be Ivy Bridge.That's pretty much a no-brainer.Intel is already shipping the quad-core variety (see graphic) that Apple could use. Note that all of the quad-core Ivy Bridge chips shown in the graphic are fairly power-hungry 45-watt processors, with the exception of the 3612QM, which is 35 watts.The 3612QM would be considered a power-efficient quad-core processor and a candidate for the new 15-inch MacBook.Of course, Intel could come out with more power-efficient quad-core SKUs in the coming months.The other option is even more power-frugal dual-core variants due in early June -- around the same time that Apple may announce the new MacBook (at WWDC in June).Those Intel chips will have power envelopes of only 17 watts, making them suitable for sub 0.8-inch thick designs.Whichever Apple chooses, all Ivy Bridge chips will come with built-in support for USB 3.0, which would be a first for the MacBook. Related storiesSlimmer, retina MacBook to debut at WWDC, report saysIntel officially rolls out Ivy Bridge chipNvidia's Haas on being two places at once: Intel and ARM
Wells Fargo downgrades Apple stock over market concerns
Wells Fargo downgrades Apple stock over market concerns
Apple's shares might have some trouble growing in 2014, a new analyst report claims.Wells Fargo analyst Maynard Um on Tuesday issued an Apple stock downgrade, pushing the company's shares from "Outperform" to "Market Perform." The move, however, did not include a change to Um's 12-month prediction on Apple's share price of $536 to $581. Apple is currently trading at $553.According to StreetInsider, which obtained a copy of the analyst note, Um said that there are three issues Apple will face in 2014 that could put a damper on its share price: the possibility of a declining profit on each iPhone 6 sale, limited market opportunities in Apple's current competitive landscape, and his believe that mobile power will side with carriers this year, rather than handset makers.The analyst note focuses heavily on financial data, but makes a clear point: despite the downgrade, Apple is still expected to have a solid year, thanks in large part to the iPhone 6. Um also believes an iWatch launch this year will help the company generate more revenue.Apple is still an overwhelming "Buy" on Wall Street, with 53 analysts giving the company that rating. Just two analysts say it's time to sell.
Apple's shares might have some trouble growing in 2014, a new analyst report claims.Wells Fargo analyst Maynard Um on Tuesday issued an Apple stock downgrade, pushing the company's shares from "Outperform" to "Market Perform." The move, however, did not include a change to Um's 12-month prediction on Apple's share price of $536 to $581. Apple is currently trading at $553.According to StreetInsider, which obtained a copy of the analyst note, Um said that there are three issues Apple will face in 2014 that could put a damper on its share price: the possibility of a declining profit on each iPhone 6 sale, limited market opportunities in Apple's current competitive landscape, and his believe that mobile power will side with carriers this year, rather than handset makers.The analyst note focuses heavily on financial data, but makes a clear point: despite the downgrade, Apple is still expected to have a solid year, thanks in large part to the iPhone 6. Um also believes an iWatch launch this year will help the company generate more revenue.Apple is still an overwhelming "Buy" on Wall Street, with 53 analysts giving the company that rating. Just two analysts say it's time to sell.
What are the weirdest interview questions from tech companies-
What are the weirdest interview questions from tech companies?
Almost as if job interviews were a hazing ritual, tech companies are notorious for putting potential employees through the wringer during the interview process. There have been rumors of being told to solve insane math problems, demands to figure out riddles, and then there's the interview questions...Company review site Glassdoor compiled its annual list of the top 25 oddball interview questions asked over the last year based on input from thousands of job candidates who shared the questions on the site. And, this year, the list is full of priceless laughs, unexpected doozies, and downright scary interrogations."If you were a pizza delivery man, how would you benefit from scissors?" Apple asked a candidate for a specialist position. "Why is a tennis ball fuzzy?" Xerox asked a person applying for a client manager job."What is your least favorite thing about humanity?" ZocDoc inquired to a potential hire for an operations associate position."How does the Internet work?" Akamai asked someone interviewing for a director job.Glassdoor's list covers all industries but tech seems to have a heavy presence. Of the top 25 questions, 16 came from technology companies. However, one of the most comical questions came from cruise ship operator Norwegian Cruise Line during an interview for a casino marketing coordinator job."Do you believe in Bigfoot?"
Almost as if job interviews were a hazing ritual, tech companies are notorious for putting potential employees through the wringer during the interview process. There have been rumors of being told to solve insane math problems, demands to figure out riddles, and then there's the interview questions...Company review site Glassdoor compiled its annual list of the top 25 oddball interview questions asked over the last year based on input from thousands of job candidates who shared the questions on the site. And, this year, the list is full of priceless laughs, unexpected doozies, and downright scary interrogations."If you were a pizza delivery man, how would you benefit from scissors?" Apple asked a candidate for a specialist position. "Why is a tennis ball fuzzy?" Xerox asked a person applying for a client manager job."What is your least favorite thing about humanity?" ZocDoc inquired to a potential hire for an operations associate position."How does the Internet work?" Akamai asked someone interviewing for a director job.Glassdoor's list covers all industries but tech seems to have a heavy presence. Of the top 25 questions, 16 came from technology companies. However, one of the most comical questions came from cruise ship operator Norwegian Cruise Line during an interview for a casino marketing coordinator job."Do you believe in Bigfoot?"
WebOS notifications designer leaves Palm for Apple
WebOS notifications designer leaves Palm for Apple
The blog PreCentral saw on Rich Dellinger's LinkedIn page that he was moving from Palm to Apple, and according to his Twitter, it appears he started on June 1. Dellinger worked at Apple from 1999 to 2006, back before the original iPhone and its iOS was made public. He returns to Apple as a senior user interface designer. It's not clear what he'll be working on, but it's easy to assume his expertise in multitasking and design could be put to good use on iOS 4.Palm has had a slight problem retaining some key people as it transitions from an independent company. Michael Abbott, senior vice president of software and a key representative to Palm developers, left Palm in April, right before the sale to HP was announced. Matias Duarte, Palm's head of mobile user interface design, departed two weeks ago.HP has not been shy about why it bought Palm: for its vast intellectual property portfolio and for the WebOS mobile operating system, which it plans to distribute on a host of its connected devices, including tablets, Web-connected printers, and smartphones. HP expects to close the acquisition by the end of July.
The blog PreCentral saw on Rich Dellinger's LinkedIn page that he was moving from Palm to Apple, and according to his Twitter, it appears he started on June 1. Dellinger worked at Apple from 1999 to 2006, back before the original iPhone and its iOS was made public. He returns to Apple as a senior user interface designer. It's not clear what he'll be working on, but it's easy to assume his expertise in multitasking and design could be put to good use on iOS 4.Palm has had a slight problem retaining some key people as it transitions from an independent company. Michael Abbott, senior vice president of software and a key representative to Palm developers, left Palm in April, right before the sale to HP was announced. Matias Duarte, Palm's head of mobile user interface design, departed two weeks ago.HP has not been shy about why it bought Palm: for its vast intellectual property portfolio and for the WebOS mobile operating system, which it plans to distribute on a host of its connected devices, including tablets, Web-connected printers, and smartphones. HP expects to close the acquisition by the end of July.
WatchKit to help Apple developers build for your wrist
WatchKit to help Apple developers build for your wrist
"WatchKit allows developers to create rich, actionable items with notifications," Kevin Lynch, a former Adobe executive who left to work on the Apple Watch, said at Apple's event on Tuesday morning.WatchKit will let developers build third-party apps for the watch, as they've built apps for the iPhone and iPad.Some third-party apps are already available for the wearable, including Twitter, American Airlines, Starwood Hotels (for unlocking your room door), Pinterest, BMW (with a car locator service), Honeywell (for connected home control) and others."The cleanliness of the design will make it usable. I think my mom could use one of these, but I'm not sure that's true of some of the other [Android Wear] devices that have come out so far," said Jeff Smith, CEO of Smule, which builds mobile music-making apps. Smule was one of the first third-party iPhone apps available. Apple has not revealed when WatchKit will be available to developers. The Apple Watch itself won't be available until spring 2015, Apple said.Apple Watch keeps up with the times (pic...See full gallery1 - 4 / 15NextPrev
"WatchKit allows developers to create rich, actionable items with notifications," Kevin Lynch, a former Adobe executive who left to work on the Apple Watch, said at Apple's event on Tuesday morning.WatchKit will let developers build third-party apps for the watch, as they've built apps for the iPhone and iPad.Some third-party apps are already available for the wearable, including Twitter, American Airlines, Starwood Hotels (for unlocking your room door), Pinterest, BMW (with a car locator service), Honeywell (for connected home control) and others."The cleanliness of the design will make it usable. I think my mom could use one of these, but I'm not sure that's true of some of the other [Android Wear] devices that have come out so far," said Jeff Smith, CEO of Smule, which builds mobile music-making apps. Smule was one of the first third-party iPhone apps available. Apple has not revealed when WatchKit will be available to developers. The Apple Watch itself won't be available until spring 2015, Apple said.Apple Watch keeps up with the times (pic...See full gallery1 - 4 / 15NextPrev
Want an iPhone 5- Head over to carrier sites, stores...now
Want an iPhone 5? Head over to carrier sites, stores...now
Consumers on the U.S. East Coast this morning awoke to a perhaps discouraging sight: Apple's iPhone 5 preorders had already exhausted their initial supply.According to Apple's Web site, people looking to order the iPhone 5 now will need to wait two weeks before they can get their hands on the new smartphone. The iPhone 5's official launch date is September 21, just one week away.However, those who aren't willing to wait aren't left out in the cold just yet. All three U.S. carriers -- AT&T, Verizon Wireless, and Sprint -- currently list on their Web sites the iPhone 5 as available for delivery on September 21. What's not clear, however, is how long it'll take for their supply to run out.As of 5 a.m. PT today, CNET was able to preorder an iPhone 5 from all three carriers and ensure shipment on September 21. However, Verizon's site is extremely slow at the moment, and Sprint took some time to load, indicating the companies' servers might be getting hit hard.Of course, it's possible to head into a carrier or Apple store to preorder the iPhone 5 as well. It's not currently clear how much supply the stores have.So be sure to act quickly if you want to get your hands on Apple's iPhone 5 on launch day. By the look of things, supplies won't last long.
Consumers on the U.S. East Coast this morning awoke to a perhaps discouraging sight: Apple's iPhone 5 preorders had already exhausted their initial supply.According to Apple's Web site, people looking to order the iPhone 5 now will need to wait two weeks before they can get their hands on the new smartphone. The iPhone 5's official launch date is September 21, just one week away.However, those who aren't willing to wait aren't left out in the cold just yet. All three U.S. carriers -- AT&T, Verizon Wireless, and Sprint -- currently list on their Web sites the iPhone 5 as available for delivery on September 21. What's not clear, however, is how long it'll take for their supply to run out.As of 5 a.m. PT today, CNET was able to preorder an iPhone 5 from all three carriers and ensure shipment on September 21. However, Verizon's site is extremely slow at the moment, and Sprint took some time to load, indicating the companies' servers might be getting hit hard.Of course, it's possible to head into a carrier or Apple store to preorder the iPhone 5 as well. It's not currently clear how much supply the stores have.So be sure to act quickly if you want to get your hands on Apple's iPhone 5 on launch day. By the look of things, supplies won't last long.
Walmart selling iPhone 5 for $127 in stores, 4S for $47
Walmart selling iPhone 5 for $127 in stores, 4S for $47
Walmart is apparently quite eager to get shoppers in its doors and is now selling the iPhone 5 for $72 less than Apple's retail price. The retailer today said it would be selling the iPhone 5 for $127 with a new 2-year contract, or to customers who are eligible for an upgrade through their carrier. Walmart also dropped the price of last year's iPhone 4S down to $47 from its previous $87.97 price tag, which also requires a carrier contract.9to5Mac, which reported on the price changes earlier today, notes that the third-generation iPad (a generation behind the current model) is also on sale for $399. Walmart also plans to throw in a $30 Walmart gift card to iPad buyers who purchase on Monday, December 17.Walmart says the details are available only in its retail store, and not online. The sale comes just a few days after retailer Best Buy shaved $50 off the price of both phones, a sale that runs through January 5.
Walmart is apparently quite eager to get shoppers in its doors and is now selling the iPhone 5 for $72 less than Apple's retail price. The retailer today said it would be selling the iPhone 5 for $127 with a new 2-year contract, or to customers who are eligible for an upgrade through their carrier. Walmart also dropped the price of last year's iPhone 4S down to $47 from its previous $87.97 price tag, which also requires a carrier contract.9to5Mac, which reported on the price changes earlier today, notes that the third-generation iPad (a generation behind the current model) is also on sale for $399. Walmart also plans to throw in a $30 Walmart gift card to iPad buyers who purchase on Monday, December 17.Walmart says the details are available only in its retail store, and not online. The sale comes just a few days after retailer Best Buy shaved $50 off the price of both phones, a sale that runs through January 5.
Walmart selling $50 iTunes gift card for $40
Walmart selling $50 iTunes gift card for $40
Holiday shoppers looking for a gift for their favorite Apple fan can save $10 on an iTunes gift card via Walmart.The retail company is now offering a $50 electronic iTunes gift card for $40. That seems to be the only deal since Walmart is selling all other iTunes gift cards at their regular prices.Buyers who opt for the deal receive an initial confirmation e-mail from Walmart and then a second e-mail with access to a PIN. After receiving the PIN, you can then send the card as a gift to your recipient. The turnaround seems to vary, however. Some buyers chiming in on the offer say they got the PIN e-mail within 15 minutes, while others said it took a couple of days.One person who placed an order said the offer was limited to two cards per purchase. No expiration date was listed.Walmart joins Best Buy in trimming prices on iTunes gift cards for holiday shoppers.On Tuesday, Best Buy was selling a $100 iTunes gift card for $85, but that offer was good for just one day. And late last month, Best Buy had offered 15 percent off all iTunes gift cards, a deal that has since expired.
Holiday shoppers looking for a gift for their favorite Apple fan can save $10 on an iTunes gift card via Walmart.The retail company is now offering a $50 electronic iTunes gift card for $40. That seems to be the only deal since Walmart is selling all other iTunes gift cards at their regular prices.Buyers who opt for the deal receive an initial confirmation e-mail from Walmart and then a second e-mail with access to a PIN. After receiving the PIN, you can then send the card as a gift to your recipient. The turnaround seems to vary, however. Some buyers chiming in on the offer say they got the PIN e-mail within 15 minutes, while others said it took a couple of days.One person who placed an order said the offer was limited to two cards per purchase. No expiration date was listed.Walmart joins Best Buy in trimming prices on iTunes gift cards for holiday shoppers.On Tuesday, Best Buy was selling a $100 iTunes gift card for $85, but that offer was good for just one day. And late last month, Best Buy had offered 15 percent off all iTunes gift cards, a deal that has since expired.
Walmart sale slashes iPad 2 price to $299
Walmart sale slashes iPad 2 price to $299
Anyone interested in an iPad 2 can save $100 through a new sale at Walmart.As of Thursday, the retailer has trimmed the cost of the 16GB Wi-Fi-only iPad to $299 from the regular $399. The sale will stretch for the next 30 days and is good both online and at retail stores.Walmart shoppers also can get money back by trading in their current iPad.Trading in any model of Apple's tablet will score you at least $100 and possibly more depending on the condition. That means people who give up an older iPad for an iPad 2 can trim the total price down to $199. The $100 comes in the form of an electronic gift card that consumers can use when shopping at Walmart either online or in the stores.Your local Walmart store also will give you at least $100 for any working smartphone when you upgrade to any of the following phones via a two-year agreement with AT&T or Verizon.Apple iPhone 5S 16GBApple iPhone 5C 16 GBSamsung Galaxy S3Samsung Galaxy S4Samsung Galaxy MegaSamsung Galaxy Note 3Consumers looking to trade in a phone or tablet can get as much as $300 back in the form of Walmart store credit. Walmart's Trade-in Promotion page will tell you how much your device is worth and which stores will take the trade-in.
Anyone interested in an iPad 2 can save $100 through a new sale at Walmart.As of Thursday, the retailer has trimmed the cost of the 16GB Wi-Fi-only iPad to $299 from the regular $399. The sale will stretch for the next 30 days and is good both online and at retail stores.Walmart shoppers also can get money back by trading in their current iPad.Trading in any model of Apple's tablet will score you at least $100 and possibly more depending on the condition. That means people who give up an older iPad for an iPad 2 can trim the total price down to $199. The $100 comes in the form of an electronic gift card that consumers can use when shopping at Walmart either online or in the stores.Your local Walmart store also will give you at least $100 for any working smartphone when you upgrade to any of the following phones via a two-year agreement with AT&T or Verizon.Apple iPhone 5S 16GBApple iPhone 5C 16 GBSamsung Galaxy S3Samsung Galaxy S4Samsung Galaxy MegaSamsung Galaxy Note 3Consumers looking to trade in a phone or tablet can get as much as $300 back in the form of Walmart store credit. Walmart's Trade-in Promotion page will tell you how much your device is worth and which stores will take the trade-in.
Wal-Mart offers $100 iTunes gift card for $80
Wal-Mart offers $100 iTunes gift card for $80
Looking for a gift for your favorite iTunes user, even if that's you? Here's a good deal from Wal-Mart.The retail giant has shaved $20 off a $100 iTunes electronic gift card. For your $80 purchase, Wal-Mart sends you a PIN, which you can use on an iTunes spending spree or e-mail to someone else as a gift.The PIN is usually delivered within a few minutes, according to the company, but could take as long as 48 hours, so be patient if you don't receive it right away.The gift cards are not returnable or refundable, so you or your recipient will have to spend the full amount on apps, music, movies, TV shows, books, or anything else you can find in Apple's store.And if the latest rumors are true, Apple buyers will have several new devices next month to load up with apps, music, and other items. Reports claim that the company will unveil not just a new iPhone but an iPad Mini at a September 12 launch event.
Looking for a gift for your favorite iTunes user, even if that's you? Here's a good deal from Wal-Mart.The retail giant has shaved $20 off a $100 iTunes electronic gift card. For your $80 purchase, Wal-Mart sends you a PIN, which you can use on an iTunes spending spree or e-mail to someone else as a gift.The PIN is usually delivered within a few minutes, according to the company, but could take as long as 48 hours, so be patient if you don't receive it right away.The gift cards are not returnable or refundable, so you or your recipient will have to spend the full amount on apps, music, movies, TV shows, books, or anything else you can find in Apple's store.And if the latest rumors are true, Apple buyers will have several new devices next month to load up with apps, music, and other items. Reports claim that the company will unveil not just a new iPhone but an iPad Mini at a September 12 launch event.
Welcome toThe Last Horror Blog, a biweekly column on all things horror
Welcome toThe Last Horror Blog, a biweekly column on all things horror. Cannes horror flick It Follows finds domestic distribution – Amidst all the artsy dramas and highbrow features at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, one horror film stood out: It Follows. Director David Robert Mitchell’s chiller earned praise from genre-friendly critics who found it creepy to the max – and now it’s headed to America. The film, which is about a teenage girl who can’t shake the feeling that someone – or something – is following her after a strange sexual encounter, was acquired by RADIUS. The company plans to release the feature domestically in the first quarter of 2015 (which seems further away than it really is). Hopefully this news means we’ll get an official trailer sooner rather than later. Bryan Bertino set to adapt killer robot short ABE – If you’ve been anxiously waiting for director Bryan Bertino to make his long-discussed sequel to The Strangers, then this news will not likely make you happy. Bertino has been hired to write a feature-length adaptation of Rob McLellan’s short film about a murderous robot for MGM. McLellan was originally hired to write and direct the adaptation, but will now simply helm the project while Bertino figures out how to expand the story. ABE is a pretty neat little short film, and I’m curious to see what Bertino will do with it. You might want to hold your breath while watching this Submerged clip – I’ve got the first trailer for Steven C. Miller’s newest effort, and while it’s a bit of a genre bender, there’s no denying that the thought of drowning is horrific. Here’s the breakdown: “A limo ride home from a party turns into a terrifying ordeal for a group of college kids. A young woman and her friends have been targeted by a ring of vengeful kidnappers and must do everything they can to survive after their limo is forced off the road and plunged into a canal.” Trailer looks interesting – but I’m hoping this one is more like Buried than ATM. Awesome short documentary We Come in Pieces explores horror anthologies – With the success of films like V/H/S and The ABCs of Death, the horror anthology film is once again a viable way of telling twisted tales for audiences. The format has been around for ages, and filmmaker Ryan Spindell is looking to make his very own anthology feature (titled The Mortuary Collection – you can help fund it here), but to show his love for the form, he’s crafted this 12-minute documentary titled We Come in Pieces. Spindell interviews directors like Joe Dante and horror writers from sites like FEARnet as he examines the enduring popularity of the subgenre. It’s a really great documentary – and if The Mortuary Collection doesn’t pan out, I’d gladly pay to see this blown up to feature length. Whatever you do, don’t split up after watching this supercut – It’s one of horror’s oldest tropes: people in a potentially dangerous situation split up to investigate something strange happening around them and then next thing you know, they’re dead. It’s a pretty standard genre cliché, but it’s fun to watch this supercut featuring dozens and dozens of people making this horror 101 mistake. Check it out below, and remember there’s safety in numbers. Will Ouija release in time for Halloween? – The planchette never lies, and it says yes. The film industry may have cooled off on the idea of building feature films around board games, but it;s still moving forward with the release of Ouija – a title centered on the popular board game that somehow figured into every “Satanic Panic” story to emerge in the 1980s. The plot blurb describes the film like this: “InOuija, a group of friends must confront their most terrifying fears when they awaken the dark powers of an ancient spirit board.” The film opens on October 24. The real question is, can it live up to the legacy established by Tawny Kitaen in Witchboard? Horror on the Horizon Things are pretty dead on the theatrical front, but not the good kind of dead horror fans tend to love. Things are a little better on the home video side of the equation. As pointed out last week, June 10 sees the arrival of Patrick: Evil Awakens and The Devil’s Knot. The week of June 17 features new versions of old favorites like John Carpenter’s Ghosts of Mars, Picnic at Hanging Rock and Flatliners alongside stuff like Joyride 3. Not the greatest options, but not terrible either.
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