Apple hears the music on subscriptions with Beats. Now what?
Read into it what you will: Apple is staying coy about its math behind the $3 billion acquisition of Beats, but Beats Music -- the headphones company's fledgling subscription-streaming music service -- got the first shout-out in the computer maker's release about the deal.A potential focus on Beats Music hints at how Apple plans to stay relevant as consumers' preferences for music change by finally embracing a subscription model it has long shunned. But why Beats? And what will the acceptance mean for the future of Apple? From early signs, Apple seems willing to tap its enormous stockpile of cash to buy what is hard for anyone to build: the cool factor that comes with Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine. And early signs elsewhere point to a future where all-you-can-eat music helps downloads rather than hurts them.Apple has consistently been dismissive of subscription music services like Beats Music, which launched in January with the model that $9.99 gets you all the music you want to hear for a month. Subscription services have been around since Rhapsody launched in 2001, but Apple co-founder Steve Jobs referred to the model as "bankrupt" and insisted "people want to own their music." He was right, for a long time -- download sales in the US grew every year for a decade.Until last year, that is, when they shrank for the first time ever. Meanwhile, subscription streaming services like current market leader Spotify -- though still small compared to music downloading -- posted the best growth rate of all digital categories, according to data from the Recording Industry Association of America.Jimmy Iovine, Apple executiveLess tangible is the benefit of bringing Iovine, a significant figure in the music industry, to Apple. Iovine, Apple noted in its release, "has been at the forefront of innovation in the music industry for decades, and he has been an instrumental partner for Apple and iTunes for more than a decade." Related Links:Apple finally confirms it's buying Beats for $3BWhy does Apple want Beats? No one really seems to knowGoogle Play Music quietly coats the globe (Q&A)How Apple's iTunes Radio will rock the world Iovine worked as a recording engineer with legends like John Lennon and Bruce Springsteen and as a producer for big acts like Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Patti Smith, and U2. He founded Interscope Records in 1990, which eventually became part of Vivendi's Universal Music Group, one of the remaining big three music labels. His label hosted such stars as Dr. Dre (shockingly), Eminem, the Black Eyed Peas, and Lady Gaga. He also pitched a subscription service to Jobs in 2003. The Apple founder, clearly, was not persuaded.But Iovine eventually followed that path on his own. He founded Beats with rapper and producer Dr. Dre in 2006, first as a licensor of its brand to headphone maker Monster and then as the maker of Beats headphones itself in 2012. That same year, Beats bought MOG, an on-demand subscription service that won solid reviews but failed to gain much traction. Iovine said that he plans to combine that MOG technology with the Beats brand to create what eventually launched as Beats Music in January.So what makes him valuable to Apple? Beats headphones success -- the company leads the high-end headphones market -- proves his track record in cultivating coolness and bulldozing savvy marketing to sell high-margin, high price-tag electronics."We can see the strategic value in having talent" like Dr. Dre and Iovine join the Apple team, ISI analyst Brian Marshall said in a note, adding that Beats' nascent subscription business can bolster iTunes Radio. Jimmy Iovine with Tim Cook, Dr. Dre and Apple executive Eddy CueTim CookThe 'star-struck' premiumLike those who pay top dollar for a set of cans with the ubiquitous lower case "b" on the sides, Apple is paying a premium, too.PrivCo, a provider of financial data on private companies, estimates Beats Electronics made about $1.02 billion in revenue last year for a profit of $40 million, which was weighed down by debt payments linked to private equity firm Carlyle Group's leveraged investment last year and big dividend payouts to Dr. Dre, Iovine, and Vivendi, a corporate backer through its Universal Media Group."Apple is paying a star-struck valuation for Beats Electronics, based on PrivCo's analysis of Beat's private financials and comparable consumer electronics companies," the data provider said. "No rational analysis can justify Beat's valuation of $3 billion without some unknown strategy only Apple is privy to, such as expanding into headphones used as wearable tech."The acceleration of subscription music services may have contributed to the premium Apple paid, too. Although Apple could craft its own subscription service, and likely will need to negotiate new licensing deals with major music labels after Beats acquisition anyway, it will gain the human curatorial cachet that Beats Music has marketed as its identity. And though Beats Music's subscriber numbers are limited by its lifespan of just four months, a major partnership with AT&T gave it a jump start into a huge base of potential customers, and it will soon have iTunes' 800 million global registered users to work with.Music downloads in jeopardy?But what of the fear that subscriptions will cannibalize downloads? It's a paramount worry for Apple, with its iTunes store still considered the king of the format.Downloads are the biggest source of music sales in the US, and while physical sales still beat digital ones globally, the inflection point is coming based on data trends from the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, an organization that represents the recorded music industry worldwide.The deal wasn't turning any investors' heads Wednesday, with Apple shares up just 28 cents, or less than a percentage point, at $624.29, in after-hours trading.Apple hasn't shunned the streaming business entirely. In September, it launched iTunes Radio, a Pandora-like streaming radio service that generates revenue from advertising -- but the product was largely a support system for the iTunes store, with red and green "BUY SONG" links included on every screen as tracks play.Of all the major online music services, only Google's Play Music has offered both a music download store and a subscription streaming service alongside one another. Executives there told CNET the two services are additive to one another, rather than eating the other's lunch.Put that way, the Beats buy may be an expensive way for Apple to jump into the subscription race and, with the massive scope of iTunes to fuel it, leave all the others in the dust.
IT pricing inquiry verdict- Australia is consistently ripped off
IT pricing inquiry verdict: Australia is consistently ripped off
After a 12-month investigation into the pricing of IT products in Australia, the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Infrastructure and Communications has delivered its findings. It has recommended that the federal government lift the current restrictions on parallel importing and place a ban on geo-blocking.In a report titled "At What Cost?", committee chairman Nick Champion wrote, "The committee has concluded that in many cases, the price differences for IT products cannot be explained by the cost of doing business in Australia. Particularly when it comes to digitally delivered content, the committee concluded that many IT products are more expensive in Australia because of regional pricing strategies implemented by major vendors and copyright holders."On average, Australians pay:50 per cent more for professional software46 per cent more for hardware52 per cent more for music84 per cent more for games16 per cent more for ebooks.In March, Microsoft, Apple and Adobe were summonsed to appear before the committee to explain their pricing practices. Microsoft argued that its higher Australian prices are not illegal. Apple argued that higher prices in the iTunes store were set by copyright holders and, where Apple itself sets pricing, it is equitable. Adobe danced around the questions, but announced a whole new pricing structure two months later.The committee made a list of 10 recommendations to the federal government, including an ongoing Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) audit on spending on IT products. In addition, it recommended that the government lift the restrictions on parallel importation â€" that is, imports that bypass the official local distribution channels â€" found in the Copyright Act 1968, allowing vendors to operate on the "grey" market.It also recommended that consumers be granted the right to circumvent geo-blocking, and provided education on the most effective ways to do so to allow Australians access to more equitable prices. It added a proposal "that the Australian government consider enacting a ban on geo-blocking as an option of last resort, should persistent market failure exist in spite of the changes to the Competition and Consumer Act and the Copyright Act recommended in this report."Champion said in a statement, "While companies should remain free to set their own prices, the committee took the view that there are a number of ways in which Australia can act to increase competition in IT markets, which should reduce prices over time."
After a 12-month investigation into the pricing of IT products in Australia, the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Infrastructure and Communications has delivered its findings. It has recommended that the federal government lift the current restrictions on parallel importing and place a ban on geo-blocking.In a report titled "At What Cost?", committee chairman Nick Champion wrote, "The committee has concluded that in many cases, the price differences for IT products cannot be explained by the cost of doing business in Australia. Particularly when it comes to digitally delivered content, the committee concluded that many IT products are more expensive in Australia because of regional pricing strategies implemented by major vendors and copyright holders."On average, Australians pay:50 per cent more for professional software46 per cent more for hardware52 per cent more for music84 per cent more for games16 per cent more for ebooks.In March, Microsoft, Apple and Adobe were summonsed to appear before the committee to explain their pricing practices. Microsoft argued that its higher Australian prices are not illegal. Apple argued that higher prices in the iTunes store were set by copyright holders and, where Apple itself sets pricing, it is equitable. Adobe danced around the questions, but announced a whole new pricing structure two months later.The committee made a list of 10 recommendations to the federal government, including an ongoing Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) audit on spending on IT products. In addition, it recommended that the government lift the restrictions on parallel importation â€" that is, imports that bypass the official local distribution channels â€" found in the Copyright Act 1968, allowing vendors to operate on the "grey" market.It also recommended that consumers be granted the right to circumvent geo-blocking, and provided education on the most effective ways to do so to allow Australians access to more equitable prices. It added a proposal "that the Australian government consider enacting a ban on geo-blocking as an option of last resort, should persistent market failure exist in spite of the changes to the Competition and Consumer Act and the Copyright Act recommended in this report."Champion said in a statement, "While companies should remain free to set their own prices, the committee took the view that there are a number of ways in which Australia can act to increase competition in IT markets, which should reduce prices over time."
Apple taps Beats Music CEO as iTunes Radio's band leader
Apple taps Beats Music CEO as iTunes Radio's band leader
As Apple closed its $3 billion takeover of Beats Electronics Friday, it installed the head of subscription service Beats Music as the leader of its own streaming product iTunes Radio. But Beats Music will keep its own identity for now. Beats Music Chief Executive Ian C. Rogers is becoming the head of iTunes Radio, Apple's Pandora-like streaming music service, and will report to the head of iTunes, who in turn reports to Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of Internet software and services, according to a source familiar with the matter. That doesn't mean Beats Music will be absorbed by the iTunes brand necessarily: though the two will pool expertise and resources, they'll remain as two separate services for now, this person said. Apple also has eliminated about 200 of Beats' 700 full-time positions, a person familiar with the matter said.The cuts largely come from human resources, finance, and other positions that overlap with current Apple workers, the person said. The people in eliminated positions have time to find other jobs within Apple, and some been given support for up to a year to find other jobs.Related storiesApple closes $3B Beats deal, welcomes the company 'to the family'iTunes head Cue and Beats' Iovine: Apple will put Beats on steroidsApple hears the music on subscriptions with Beats. Now what?Rogers' appointment was reported earlier by The Wall Street Journal, while reports that Beats could be eliminating about 200 jobs as part of the transition surfaced earlier this week.Apple launched iTunes Radio with fanfare in September as its arrival to the streaming-music scene. Streaming music, while still a small part of the bigger recorded music industry, is growing rapidly. Global revenue from subscription and streaming services was up 51 percent to top $1 billion for the first time last year.Though iTunes Radio notched 20 million users listening in to a billion songs in its first five weeks, the service has dropped off the radar since. Its prime competitor, Pandora, didn't see much difference in its audience growth in the months after Apple rolled out iTunes Radio. Other streaming services have also made splashy entrances to divert attention away, like Amazon Prime Music in June and, of course, Beats Music in January.The addition of Beats Music to the Apple family was an about face for a company that for years dismissed a subscription model of payment for entertainment. Beat Musics provides all-you-can-eat access to a catalog of 20 million songs for about $10 a month.In a statement, Apple said Friday that the company is excited to have the Beats team join and that it has extended job offers to every Beats employee. "Because of some overlap in our operations, some offers are for a limited period and we'll work hard during this time to find as many of these Beats employees as we can another permanent job within Apple," the company said.
As Apple closed its $3 billion takeover of Beats Electronics Friday, it installed the head of subscription service Beats Music as the leader of its own streaming product iTunes Radio. But Beats Music will keep its own identity for now. Beats Music Chief Executive Ian C. Rogers is becoming the head of iTunes Radio, Apple's Pandora-like streaming music service, and will report to the head of iTunes, who in turn reports to Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of Internet software and services, according to a source familiar with the matter. That doesn't mean Beats Music will be absorbed by the iTunes brand necessarily: though the two will pool expertise and resources, they'll remain as two separate services for now, this person said. Apple also has eliminated about 200 of Beats' 700 full-time positions, a person familiar with the matter said.The cuts largely come from human resources, finance, and other positions that overlap with current Apple workers, the person said. The people in eliminated positions have time to find other jobs within Apple, and some been given support for up to a year to find other jobs.Related storiesApple closes $3B Beats deal, welcomes the company 'to the family'iTunes head Cue and Beats' Iovine: Apple will put Beats on steroidsApple hears the music on subscriptions with Beats. Now what?Rogers' appointment was reported earlier by The Wall Street Journal, while reports that Beats could be eliminating about 200 jobs as part of the transition surfaced earlier this week.Apple launched iTunes Radio with fanfare in September as its arrival to the streaming-music scene. Streaming music, while still a small part of the bigger recorded music industry, is growing rapidly. Global revenue from subscription and streaming services was up 51 percent to top $1 billion for the first time last year.Though iTunes Radio notched 20 million users listening in to a billion songs in its first five weeks, the service has dropped off the radar since. Its prime competitor, Pandora, didn't see much difference in its audience growth in the months after Apple rolled out iTunes Radio. Other streaming services have also made splashy entrances to divert attention away, like Amazon Prime Music in June and, of course, Beats Music in January.The addition of Beats Music to the Apple family was an about face for a company that for years dismissed a subscription model of payment for entertainment. Beat Musics provides all-you-can-eat access to a catalog of 20 million songs for about $10 a month.In a statement, Apple said Friday that the company is excited to have the Beats team join and that it has extended job offers to every Beats employee. "Because of some overlap in our operations, some offers are for a limited period and we'll work hard during this time to find as many of these Beats employees as we can another permanent job within Apple," the company said.
Sony warns of income drop as demand for disc-based media evaporates
Sony warns of income drop as demand for disc-based media evaporates
Sony is warning of heavy cash losses, saying that its withdrawal from the PC business and a shrinking demand for disc-based media has hit the company's coffers.Sony, which invented such iconic tech products as the Walkman and the PlayStation, has struggled recently in the face of stiff competition from the likes of Apple and Samsung, in February revealing it would sell its Vaio PC business.The latest financial statement is a revision of Sony's February earnings forecast. Back then the company predicted it would rake in an operating income of ¥80 billion (roughly $783 million) over the financial year, but now expects to collect just ¥26 billion (about $255 million).Sony blames the expected cash dip on two things. Firstly, on "additional expenses" incurred in ditching the PC business, and secondly on charges related to its disc-making business, which Sony says is facing rapidly diminishing demand, particularly in Europe. "Primarily due to demand for physical media contracting faster than anticipated, mainly in the European region, the future profitability of the disc manufacturing business has been revised," Sony's statement reads. With the rise of on-demand streaming video from services such as iTunes, and subscription companies like Netflix, Sony's DVD and Blu-ray manufacturing business is facing obsoletion. Sony will unveil its actual earnings for the fiscal year on 14 May. Do you still buy Blu-ray discs and DVDs? Let me know in the comments below, and relive Sony's glory days with our video feature on the historic Sony Walkman. 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
Sony is warning of heavy cash losses, saying that its withdrawal from the PC business and a shrinking demand for disc-based media has hit the company's coffers.Sony, which invented such iconic tech products as the Walkman and the PlayStation, has struggled recently in the face of stiff competition from the likes of Apple and Samsung, in February revealing it would sell its Vaio PC business.The latest financial statement is a revision of Sony's February earnings forecast. Back then the company predicted it would rake in an operating income of ¥80 billion (roughly $783 million) over the financial year, but now expects to collect just ¥26 billion (about $255 million).Sony blames the expected cash dip on two things. Firstly, on "additional expenses" incurred in ditching the PC business, and secondly on charges related to its disc-making business, which Sony says is facing rapidly diminishing demand, particularly in Europe. "Primarily due to demand for physical media contracting faster than anticipated, mainly in the European region, the future profitability of the disc manufacturing business has been revised," Sony's statement reads. With the rise of on-demand streaming video from services such as iTunes, and subscription companies like Netflix, Sony's DVD and Blu-ray manufacturing business is facing obsoletion. Sony will unveil its actual earnings for the fiscal year on 14 May. Do you still buy Blu-ray discs and DVDs? Let me know in the comments below, and relive Sony's glory days with our video feature on the historic Sony Walkman. 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
iOS 4.3 hitting March 11
iOS 4.3 hitting March 11
We previewed iOS 4.3 back in January, and now the time has almost come: the latest version of Apple's iOS software will be available March 11.What's new this time around? Well, not as much as iOS 4.2, but there are some notable upgrades--especially if you're an iPad owner.New features in iOS 4.3 (photos)See full gallery1 - 4 / 7NextPrevSupport for additional multifinger multitouch gestures and swipes adds four-finger fast-swapping between open apps and a one-handed way to flick the app dock up, instead of double-clicking the home button. In fact, you'll probably be using that lone physical button a whole lot less now.There's also a new app, Photo Booth, that will add tools for taking and tweaking self portraits, similar to what exist already on Mac OS X. Obviously, this app's limited to the camera-equipped iPad 2.Home Sharing will allow other PC or Mac iTunes libraries with Home Sharing turned on to be accessible on your iPad, locally streamed.Wi-Fi hot-spot support will finally enable AT&T iPhones to share their wireless connection with other devices, much like the Verizon iPhone 4.For Apple TV owners, there are some improvements to video streaming and AirPlay support. AirPlay will also support photo slideshows, as well as well video and audio streaming from third-party apps to other devices.The built-in Safari browser should also see performance improvements running JavaScript, thanks to a new nitro JavaScript engine.DragCloseThis 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.Other small changes include yet another font switch for Notes, extra notification beep settings, and--thank goodness--an ability to restore the use of the physical iPad's orientation lock switch, which has been co-opted to become a "silencer" switch since iOS 4.2.Meanwhile, make sure you check out the rest of the news of today's iPad 2 announcement.
We previewed iOS 4.3 back in January, and now the time has almost come: the latest version of Apple's iOS software will be available March 11.What's new this time around? Well, not as much as iOS 4.2, but there are some notable upgrades--especially if you're an iPad owner.New features in iOS 4.3 (photos)See full gallery1 - 4 / 7NextPrevSupport for additional multifinger multitouch gestures and swipes adds four-finger fast-swapping between open apps and a one-handed way to flick the app dock up, instead of double-clicking the home button. In fact, you'll probably be using that lone physical button a whole lot less now.There's also a new app, Photo Booth, that will add tools for taking and tweaking self portraits, similar to what exist already on Mac OS X. Obviously, this app's limited to the camera-equipped iPad 2.Home Sharing will allow other PC or Mac iTunes libraries with Home Sharing turned on to be accessible on your iPad, locally streamed.Wi-Fi hot-spot support will finally enable AT&T iPhones to share their wireless connection with other devices, much like the Verizon iPhone 4.For Apple TV owners, there are some improvements to video streaming and AirPlay support. AirPlay will also support photo slideshows, as well as well video and audio streaming from third-party apps to other devices.The built-in Safari browser should also see performance improvements running JavaScript, thanks to a new nitro JavaScript engine.DragCloseThis 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.Other small changes include yet another font switch for Notes, extra notification beep settings, and--thank goodness--an ability to restore the use of the physical iPad's orientation lock switch, which has been co-opted to become a "silencer" switch since iOS 4.2.Meanwhile, make sure you check out the rest of the news of today's iPad 2 announcement.
Vic Gundotra- How we claim 170M Google+ users (Reporters' Roundtable)
Vic Gundotra: How we claim 170M Google+ users (Reporters' Roundtable)
Google execs see Google+'s features as a layer of social functionality on top of Google's services. More specifically, users' social signals, like those from the +1 feature, don't just show up on Google+. Rather, the change Google's core function, search -- at least for people you're socially connected to.As Bradley Horowitz says, "The +1 button gives you the opportunity to provide contextual value. It changes what used to be spam into a gesture of generosity."Google's Google+ leaders say they are happy with the way people are using the service, while effectively avoiding a discussion about the success of Google+ as a standalone destination.Meanwhile, however, it's clear that Google+ is being prepped as a platform for major new initiatives. Horowitz said that a big reason for the redesign was to "make space in an information architecture sense, for where to put new stuff." He wouldn't say what this new stuff is, but in the new page design there's a lot of white space where information from other services could show up. The new, customizable nav bar could also handle apps, either from Google or other developers.Listen nowYour browser does not support the audio element.Subscribe to the Roundtable:iTunes:MP3 |320x180 |640x360Podcast RSS:MP3 |320x180 |640x360
Google execs see Google+'s features as a layer of social functionality on top of Google's services. More specifically, users' social signals, like those from the +1 feature, don't just show up on Google+. Rather, the change Google's core function, search -- at least for people you're socially connected to.As Bradley Horowitz says, "The +1 button gives you the opportunity to provide contextual value. It changes what used to be spam into a gesture of generosity."Google's Google+ leaders say they are happy with the way people are using the service, while effectively avoiding a discussion about the success of Google+ as a standalone destination.Meanwhile, however, it's clear that Google+ is being prepped as a platform for major new initiatives. Horowitz said that a big reason for the redesign was to "make space in an information architecture sense, for where to put new stuff." He wouldn't say what this new stuff is, but in the new page design there's a lot of white space where information from other services could show up. The new, customizable nav bar could also handle apps, either from Google or other developers.Listen nowYour browser does not support the audio element.Subscribe to the Roundtable:iTunes:MP3 |320x180 |640x360Podcast RSS:MP3 |320x180 |640x360
Verizon offers free iPhone 6 with trade-in, 2-year contract
Verizon offers free iPhone 6 with trade-in, 2-year contract
Hot on the heels of Apple announcing its new line of smartphones, Verizon is already offering up deals.The wireless carrier announced Tuesday that it will give customers a free 16GB iPhone 6 when they trade in their old phone and re-up their contract for two more years. That means a savings of $199, which is the cost of the iPhone 6 with a two-year contract.Related StoriesApple supersizes the iPhone 6, joins the big-screen era at lastWhen and where to buy the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 PlusApple iPhone 6, 6 Plus get updated cameras with optical image stabilization, faster autofocusSprint CEO tries to get back in the game with Apple's iPhone 6Verizon said eligible trade-in devices include the iPhone 4, 4S, 5, 5C, and 5S. This offer does not apply to Apple's new iPhone 6 Plus.Apple unveiled both the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus on Tuesday. The iPhone 6 is equipped with a 4.7-inch Retina display, while the larger iPhone 6 Plus has a 5.5-inch Retina display. In addition to being slimmer and lighter, both models also include an improved camera, graphics, and battery life.Sprint announced Tuesday that it plans to introduce a new $50 unlimited data plan for Apple's two new smartphones. T-Mobile also said on Monday that it will match any other carriers' trade-in deals, along with bestowing customers with a $50 credit.The Apple iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus have...See full gallery1 - 4 / 22NextPrev
Hot on the heels of Apple announcing its new line of smartphones, Verizon is already offering up deals.The wireless carrier announced Tuesday that it will give customers a free 16GB iPhone 6 when they trade in their old phone and re-up their contract for two more years. That means a savings of $199, which is the cost of the iPhone 6 with a two-year contract.Related StoriesApple supersizes the iPhone 6, joins the big-screen era at lastWhen and where to buy the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 PlusApple iPhone 6, 6 Plus get updated cameras with optical image stabilization, faster autofocusSprint CEO tries to get back in the game with Apple's iPhone 6Verizon said eligible trade-in devices include the iPhone 4, 4S, 5, 5C, and 5S. This offer does not apply to Apple's new iPhone 6 Plus.Apple unveiled both the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus on Tuesday. The iPhone 6 is equipped with a 4.7-inch Retina display, while the larger iPhone 6 Plus has a 5.5-inch Retina display. In addition to being slimmer and lighter, both models also include an improved camera, graphics, and battery life.Sprint announced Tuesday that it plans to introduce a new $50 unlimited data plan for Apple's two new smartphones. T-Mobile also said on Monday that it will match any other carriers' trade-in deals, along with bestowing customers with a $50 credit.The Apple iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus have...See full gallery1 - 4 / 22NextPrev
Check your processor- Toshiba T135-S1310 thin-and-light worth a buy
Check your processor: Toshiba T135-S1310 thin-and-light worth a buy
I had a hard time coming up with a title to this post: Intel processors are confusing? Dual-core ultra-low-voltage processors make a difference? How about, what a difference a config makes? All could apply to the Toshiba Satellite T135, a Windows 7 thin-and-light that we've reviewed two configurations of here at CNET. Although similar in design and shape, the small shift from an SU2700 to an SU4100 Intel Pentium processor in the slightly more expensive Satellite T135-S1310 makes a world of difference. Here's why it's worth a look.First of all, the Intel Pentium SU4100 in the T135-S1310 is a dual-core processor. The SU2700 in the previously reviewed laptop, the T135-S1300, isn't. You wouldn't know the difference from the "Pentium Inside" sticker below the keyboard, but the dual-core T135-S1310 is far better at multitasking, and also gave a significant boost in dedicated media tests like our iTunes benchmark. For all intents and purposes, it behaves much like an ultra-low-voltage Core 2 Duo processor.What do you get in the T135-S1310? For just $100 more than the S1300, the S1310 includes an extra 80GB of hard drive space, an extra gig of RAM at a faster speed, Bluetooth, and the far better SU4100 processor. Throw in $10 for a red or white paint job, or stay at $699 for the black config. Either way, with the mere change of a number, the Toshiba T135-S1310 has suddenly become a highly recommended budget thin-and-light with Windows 7 Home Premium preinstalled and excellent battery life. Just make sure you get this model, and not the very similar-looking (and similar-named) Toshiba T135-S1300.We still don't like the keyboard very much, though.Read the rest of our review.Toshiba Satellite T135-S1310: Windows 7...See full gallery1 - 4 / 5NextPrev
I had a hard time coming up with a title to this post: Intel processors are confusing? Dual-core ultra-low-voltage processors make a difference? How about, what a difference a config makes? All could apply to the Toshiba Satellite T135, a Windows 7 thin-and-light that we've reviewed two configurations of here at CNET. Although similar in design and shape, the small shift from an SU2700 to an SU4100 Intel Pentium processor in the slightly more expensive Satellite T135-S1310 makes a world of difference. Here's why it's worth a look.First of all, the Intel Pentium SU4100 in the T135-S1310 is a dual-core processor. The SU2700 in the previously reviewed laptop, the T135-S1300, isn't. You wouldn't know the difference from the "Pentium Inside" sticker below the keyboard, but the dual-core T135-S1310 is far better at multitasking, and also gave a significant boost in dedicated media tests like our iTunes benchmark. For all intents and purposes, it behaves much like an ultra-low-voltage Core 2 Duo processor.What do you get in the T135-S1310? For just $100 more than the S1300, the S1310 includes an extra 80GB of hard drive space, an extra gig of RAM at a faster speed, Bluetooth, and the far better SU4100 processor. Throw in $10 for a red or white paint job, or stay at $699 for the black config. Either way, with the mere change of a number, the Toshiba T135-S1310 has suddenly become a highly recommended budget thin-and-light with Windows 7 Home Premium preinstalled and excellent battery life. Just make sure you get this model, and not the very similar-looking (and similar-named) Toshiba T135-S1300.We still don't like the keyboard very much, though.Read the rest of our review.Toshiba Satellite T135-S1310: Windows 7...See full gallery1 - 4 / 5NextPrev
CES- Tiwi from Inthinc prevents texting while driving (podcast)
CES: Tiwi from Inthinc prevents texting while driving (podcast)
A 2009 study (PDF)from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found that truck drivers who were texting were 23 times more at risk of a "crash or near crash event" than "nondistracted driving." As reported by CNET's Jennifer Guevin, the study also found that "texting took a driver's focus away from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds--enough time...to travel the length of a football field at 55 mph." Teenage drivers are especially vulnerable.In addition to being less experienced drivers, they are more likely to text than adults.A Federal Communications Commission consumer advisory on texting while driving quotes the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as reporting that driver distraction was the cause of 16 percent of all fatal crashes in 2008, resulting in5,800 fatalities and 515,000 injuries.The American Automobile Association says that "taking your eyes off of the road for two seconds doubles your risk of getting into a crash."Inthinc, a Salt Lake City company, was at the Consumer Electronics Show with a solution for parents and companies whose employees have company issued phones.The product, which is called Tiwi and costs $299 plus a $29.95 monthlysubscription fee, can disable a cell phone for calling or texting, according to CEO Todd Follmer.It can also report the person's speed, whether they're engaged in aggressive driving, and even if they're using their seat belt.Parents or employers can check in via an Internet portal. Inthinc CEO Todd FollmerInthincTo learn more, I spoke with CEO Todd Follmer at the Showstoppers press event at CES 2011.Listen nowYour browser does not support the audio element.Subscribe now:iTunes (audio) |RSS (audio)
A 2009 study (PDF)from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found that truck drivers who were texting were 23 times more at risk of a "crash or near crash event" than "nondistracted driving." As reported by CNET's Jennifer Guevin, the study also found that "texting took a driver's focus away from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds--enough time...to travel the length of a football field at 55 mph." Teenage drivers are especially vulnerable.In addition to being less experienced drivers, they are more likely to text than adults.A Federal Communications Commission consumer advisory on texting while driving quotes the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as reporting that driver distraction was the cause of 16 percent of all fatal crashes in 2008, resulting in5,800 fatalities and 515,000 injuries.The American Automobile Association says that "taking your eyes off of the road for two seconds doubles your risk of getting into a crash."Inthinc, a Salt Lake City company, was at the Consumer Electronics Show with a solution for parents and companies whose employees have company issued phones.The product, which is called Tiwi and costs $299 plus a $29.95 monthlysubscription fee, can disable a cell phone for calling or texting, according to CEO Todd Follmer.It can also report the person's speed, whether they're engaged in aggressive driving, and even if they're using their seat belt.Parents or employers can check in via an Internet portal. Inthinc CEO Todd FollmerInthincTo learn more, I spoke with CEO Todd Follmer at the Showstoppers press event at CES 2011.Listen nowYour browser does not support the audio element.Subscribe now:iTunes (audio) |RSS (audio)
Apple scores $30 million to sell iPads to LA schools
Apple scores $30 million to sell iPads to LA schools
Apple will add $30 million to its coffers in a deal to outfit students in the LA school district with an iPad.On Tuesday, following a collective thumbs-up for Apple from both students and senior staff, the Los Angeles Board of Education voted 6-0 to approve the contract, The Los Angeles Times reported.Among the devices considered, the iPad came out on top in both quality and price, at least according to the school district's requirements. The vote means that an iPad will be doled out to every student across 47 campuses of the LA district, one of the largest school districts in the U.S.Despite the unanimous vote, some board members expressed concerns about the cost and the commitment to Apple, the Times added. One member asked whether devices other than tablets would be more appropriate for the students. Another was worried because the board didn't have all the details on the overall costs.The school district will pay $678 per iPad, a cost higher than the retail price, since the tablets will come with educational software and include a three-year warranty.Not surprisingly, a representative from Microsoft also questioned the deal. Robyn Hines, senior director of state government affairs for Microsoft, said that schools shouldn't focus just on one platform and that students should be exposed to products they'll use in the business world, such as those from Microsoft.Apple, naturally, applauded the deal."Education is in Apple's DNA," Apple Senior VP of Worldwide Marketing Phil Schiller said in a statement, "and we're thrilled to work with Los Angeles Unified public schools on this major initiative...Schools around the world have embraced the engaging and interactive quality of iPad with nearly 10 million iPads already in schools today."
Apple will add $30 million to its coffers in a deal to outfit students in the LA school district with an iPad.On Tuesday, following a collective thumbs-up for Apple from both students and senior staff, the Los Angeles Board of Education voted 6-0 to approve the contract, The Los Angeles Times reported.Among the devices considered, the iPad came out on top in both quality and price, at least according to the school district's requirements. The vote means that an iPad will be doled out to every student across 47 campuses of the LA district, one of the largest school districts in the U.S.Despite the unanimous vote, some board members expressed concerns about the cost and the commitment to Apple, the Times added. One member asked whether devices other than tablets would be more appropriate for the students. Another was worried because the board didn't have all the details on the overall costs.The school district will pay $678 per iPad, a cost higher than the retail price, since the tablets will come with educational software and include a three-year warranty.Not surprisingly, a representative from Microsoft also questioned the deal. Robyn Hines, senior director of state government affairs for Microsoft, said that schools shouldn't focus just on one platform and that students should be exposed to products they'll use in the business world, such as those from Microsoft.Apple, naturally, applauded the deal."Education is in Apple's DNA," Apple Senior VP of Worldwide Marketing Phil Schiller said in a statement, "and we're thrilled to work with Los Angeles Unified public schools on this major initiative...Schools around the world have embraced the engaging and interactive quality of iPad with nearly 10 million iPads already in schools today."
Apple schedules media event for September 11 in China
Apple schedules media event for September 11 in China
Hours after inviting the media to an event to be held September 10 at Apple's Cupertino, Calif., headquarters, the company has sent out similar invitations to a media event to be held the next day in China.Chinese media outlets, including Sina Tech (English translation), reported receiving the invitations on Wednesday to an Apple event at Beijing's World Trade Center on September 11. The invitations to the Beijing event are identical to those sent out for the US event, except they are printed in Chinese.Thought to be the first time the iPhone maker has scheduled a standalone event in China, the move suggests that Apple is increasing its focus on the country. It also seems to lend credence to reports that Apple is getting ready to launch a much-rumored iPhone 5C -- said to be a budget-friendly version of the smartphone made of plastic that might have greater appeal in the Chinese market. The company is also said to be prepping a high-end model. A series of leaks in the run-up to next week's event have shown colors of both models, though not a fully functioning device.While China is considered a key market for Apple, the company's growth in the country has been hobbled by its inability to strike a deal with China Mobile, the biggest carrier in the largest smartphone market in the world with 740 million subscribers. Although Apple CEO Tim Cook has visited China twice this year, meeting with China Mobile Chairman Xi Guohua as recently as July, no deal has yet been announced.UBS forecast last month that Apple could sell 17 million iPhonesthrough China Mobile next year, with the bulk of those expected to be the 5C.[Via The Next Web]
Hours after inviting the media to an event to be held September 10 at Apple's Cupertino, Calif., headquarters, the company has sent out similar invitations to a media event to be held the next day in China.Chinese media outlets, including Sina Tech (English translation), reported receiving the invitations on Wednesday to an Apple event at Beijing's World Trade Center on September 11. The invitations to the Beijing event are identical to those sent out for the US event, except they are printed in Chinese.Thought to be the first time the iPhone maker has scheduled a standalone event in China, the move suggests that Apple is increasing its focus on the country. It also seems to lend credence to reports that Apple is getting ready to launch a much-rumored iPhone 5C -- said to be a budget-friendly version of the smartphone made of plastic that might have greater appeal in the Chinese market. The company is also said to be prepping a high-end model. A series of leaks in the run-up to next week's event have shown colors of both models, though not a fully functioning device.While China is considered a key market for Apple, the company's growth in the country has been hobbled by its inability to strike a deal with China Mobile, the biggest carrier in the largest smartphone market in the world with 740 million subscribers. Although Apple CEO Tim Cook has visited China twice this year, meeting with China Mobile Chairman Xi Guohua as recently as July, no deal has yet been announced.UBS forecast last month that Apple could sell 17 million iPhonesthrough China Mobile next year, with the bulk of those expected to be the 5C.[Via The Next Web]
Apple says it's unaware of NSA iPhone backdoor program
Apple says it's unaware of NSA iPhone backdoor program
Apple says it has never worked with the US National Security Agency to give the agency backdoor access to the iPhone, responding to leaked documents that were published by German news magazine Der Spiegel on Monday.The statement comes after documents shared by security researcher Jacob Appelbaum and Der Spiegel disclosed an NSA program called DROPOUTJEEP, which is said to allow the agency to do things like intercept text messages, access contact lists, and activate the phone's microphone and camera. The company also said it was unaware of such a program. According to a slide leaked by Der Spiegel, which is dated from 2008 -- when the phone was running earlier versions of iOS -- the DROPOUTJEEP software implant can remotely push and pull files from the device and "all communications with the implant will be covert and encrypted." The implant described in the slide also requires physical access of a phone, but the slide also says that a remote installation capability was being pursued.Here is the full statement Apple provided to CNET:Apple has never worked with the NSA to create a backdoor in any of our products, including iPhone. Additionally, we have been unaware of this alleged NSA program targeting our products. We care deeply about our customers' privacy and security.Our team is continuously working to make our products even more secure, and we make it easy for customers to keep their software up to date with the latest advancements.Whenever we hear about attempts to undermine Apple's industry-leading security, we thoroughly investigate and take appropriate steps to protect our customers. We will continue to use our resources to stay ahead of malicious hackers and defend our customers from security attacks, regardless of who's behind them.
Apple says it has never worked with the US National Security Agency to give the agency backdoor access to the iPhone, responding to leaked documents that were published by German news magazine Der Spiegel on Monday.The statement comes after documents shared by security researcher Jacob Appelbaum and Der Spiegel disclosed an NSA program called DROPOUTJEEP, which is said to allow the agency to do things like intercept text messages, access contact lists, and activate the phone's microphone and camera. The company also said it was unaware of such a program. According to a slide leaked by Der Spiegel, which is dated from 2008 -- when the phone was running earlier versions of iOS -- the DROPOUTJEEP software implant can remotely push and pull files from the device and "all communications with the implant will be covert and encrypted." The implant described in the slide also requires physical access of a phone, but the slide also says that a remote installation capability was being pursued.Here is the full statement Apple provided to CNET:Apple has never worked with the NSA to create a backdoor in any of our products, including iPhone. Additionally, we have been unaware of this alleged NSA program targeting our products. We care deeply about our customers' privacy and security.Our team is continuously working to make our products even more secure, and we make it easy for customers to keep their software up to date with the latest advancements.Whenever we hear about attempts to undermine Apple's industry-leading security, we thoroughly investigate and take appropriate steps to protect our customers. We will continue to use our resources to stay ahead of malicious hackers and defend our customers from security attacks, regardless of who's behind them.
Apple says it's 'blown away' by iPhone 5 preorders
Apple says it's 'blown away' by iPhone 5 preorders
Just how many iPhone 5s did Apple sell since pre-orders began in the wee hours of Friday?We don't have a number, but the company now says it was off the charts."Preorders for iPhone 5 have been incredible," an Apple spokeswoman told AllThingsD. "We've been completely blown away by the customer response."New preorders for the device began being pushed back earlier today. Apple was the first to do so, exhausting its initial supply of launch day deliveries within the first hour of going on sale. The carriers, including AT&T and Verizon followed, extending new orders by two or more weeks. In the early rush for the device, some carrier sites buckled, something that happened with both the iPhone 4S and the 4 before it.Related storiesCNET's iPhone 5 preview (hands-on)iPhone 5 preorders indicate hot demandApple's iPhone 5: Everything you need to know (FAQ)The iPhone 5, which was announced earlier this week and hits stores September 21, is thinner, longer, lighter, and comes with a faster processor and faster LTE wireless networking. And it comes with greater sales ambitions: Apple is releasing it for sale in more countries sooner. Some analysts expect that faster opening of sales will mean more revenue for Apple in the fourth quarter of 2012.This is not the first time Apple says it has been "blown away" by pre-orders. Apple sold more than 1 million iPhone 4Ses in its first 24 hours of pre-sales last October, and said that it had been the "most for any new product" the company had launched. The year prior Apple sold 600,000 iPhone 4s during the same time period. Eyes on Apple's new iPhone 5 (pictures)See full gallery1 - 4 / 22NextPrev
Just how many iPhone 5s did Apple sell since pre-orders began in the wee hours of Friday?We don't have a number, but the company now says it was off the charts."Preorders for iPhone 5 have been incredible," an Apple spokeswoman told AllThingsD. "We've been completely blown away by the customer response."New preorders for the device began being pushed back earlier today. Apple was the first to do so, exhausting its initial supply of launch day deliveries within the first hour of going on sale. The carriers, including AT&T and Verizon followed, extending new orders by two or more weeks. In the early rush for the device, some carrier sites buckled, something that happened with both the iPhone 4S and the 4 before it.Related storiesCNET's iPhone 5 preview (hands-on)iPhone 5 preorders indicate hot demandApple's iPhone 5: Everything you need to know (FAQ)The iPhone 5, which was announced earlier this week and hits stores September 21, is thinner, longer, lighter, and comes with a faster processor and faster LTE wireless networking. And it comes with greater sales ambitions: Apple is releasing it for sale in more countries sooner. Some analysts expect that faster opening of sales will mean more revenue for Apple in the fourth quarter of 2012.This is not the first time Apple says it has been "blown away" by pre-orders. Apple sold more than 1 million iPhone 4Ses in its first 24 hours of pre-sales last October, and said that it had been the "most for any new product" the company had launched. The year prior Apple sold 600,000 iPhone 4s during the same time period. Eyes on Apple's new iPhone 5 (pictures)See full gallery1 - 4 / 22NextPrev
Apple says it did not give FBI or 'any organization' device IDs
Apple says it did not give FBI or 'any organization' device IDs
Apple says it doesn't know anything about a massive list of unique identifiers released on the Web earlier this week. In a statement this morning, Apple said it did not furnish a list of Unique Device Identifiers (UDIDs) to the FBI or anyone else, and that the feature was soon to be removed."The FBI has not requested this information from Apple, nor have we provided it to the FBI or any organization," Apple said in a statement provided to AllThingsD. "Additionally, with iOS 6 we introduced a new set of APIs meant to replace the use of the UDID and will soon be banning the use of UDID."Earlier this week Anonymous-affiliated group AntiSec said it had obtained 12 million Apple UDIDs from the laptop of FBI Supervisory Special Agent Christopher K. Stangl by exploiting a Java vulnerability. In a statement yesterday theFBI rebutted that claim, saying it did not know anything about the laptop.The list itself originally included user names, device names, device types, ZIP codes, cell phone numbers, addresses, and Apple Push Notification Service tokens. Some of that information was scrubbed by AntiSec, and only a portion of the list -- about a million UDIDs -- was shared.Apple's iOS 6 is expected to be released alongside the company's next iPhone later this month. Developers have been working on beta versions of the software since early June. CNET's Elinor Mills contributed to this report.
Apple says it doesn't know anything about a massive list of unique identifiers released on the Web earlier this week. In a statement this morning, Apple said it did not furnish a list of Unique Device Identifiers (UDIDs) to the FBI or anyone else, and that the feature was soon to be removed."The FBI has not requested this information from Apple, nor have we provided it to the FBI or any organization," Apple said in a statement provided to AllThingsD. "Additionally, with iOS 6 we introduced a new set of APIs meant to replace the use of the UDID and will soon be banning the use of UDID."Earlier this week Anonymous-affiliated group AntiSec said it had obtained 12 million Apple UDIDs from the laptop of FBI Supervisory Special Agent Christopher K. Stangl by exploiting a Java vulnerability. In a statement yesterday theFBI rebutted that claim, saying it did not know anything about the laptop.The list itself originally included user names, device names, device types, ZIP codes, cell phone numbers, addresses, and Apple Push Notification Service tokens. Some of that information was scrubbed by AntiSec, and only a portion of the list -- about a million UDIDs -- was shared.Apple's iOS 6 is expected to be released alongside the company's next iPhone later this month. Developers have been working on beta versions of the software since early June. CNET's Elinor Mills contributed to this report.
What Was the Best Movie of Summer 2014
Every year, there;s an unofficial song of the summer, a particular jam that makes the season special. Not that this is something universally agreed upon by anyone, just a topic for discussion and a means to good times. If there had to be any movie equivalent in 2014, it;s Guardians of the Galaxy. Of course, it helps that the movie has a great soundtrack full of retro tunes that could count as songs of the summer. It;s an awesome mixtape for playing out by the pool.As far as this summer;s blockbusters go, Guardians might just be the best. But it has some strong competition from movies that are so differently great that it;s hard to compare them. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes proved once again that sequels can be as great as if not better than the original -- not to mention that franchise reboots in general can be done really well. That was also evidenced in Godzilla, a remake with flaws that don;t matter in the grand scheme of its impeccable execution.Oh, and I can;t forget Edge of Tomorrow -- or are we calling it Live Die Repeat now? The Tom Cruise sci-fi actioner wasn;t a big hit at the box office, which is a shame since it was the greatest theatrical thrill ride of this year so far, in any season. For many of us, the actor redeemed himself after last year;s immensely faulted sci-fi flick Oblivion, as well as especially his last summertime release, 2012;s Rock of Ages. There;s nothing like a good Cruise in the summer (then again, I likeKnight & Day and War of the Worlds).As for the smaller movies, often referred to as counterprogramming in the summer, I;ve regrettably not seen the films with the best buzz, such as Boyhood, Snowpiercer, The Rover, Ida, Chef, The Trip to Italy and Calvary. But I did finally seeObvious Child, and it;s hilarious and surely will still be among my favorites once I catch up.There have also been a lot of excellent documentaries released over the past few months, some that will definitely be on my best of the year list, including Life Itself, The Internet;s Own Boy, Rich Hill, The Kill Team and Expedition to the End of the World, which opens this week. If you think docs can;t be as exciting as most summer blockbusters, definitely check that last one out. It beautifully and humorously follows a ship full of artists and scientists to the Arctic to another awesome soundtrack mixing up Mozart and Metallica.What was the best movie of this summer?Here are some responses received so far via Twitter:@thefilmcynic Guardians of the Galaxy— Justin S. Robinson (@TheJSRobinson) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic It;s hard to decide between Edge of Tomorrow and Guardians of the Galaxy.— Ashwin (@ShinobivsGast) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic Best blockbuster was GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY, best indie was BOYHOOD.— Ethan Anderton (@Ethan_Anderton) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic Boyhood (honorable mentions to Guardians of the Galaxy, Neighbors, and Chef)— Trevor Cox (@Trevor_R_Cox) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic boyhood— Love Too Tweet Chris (@NationalTragedy) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic BOYHOOD was good, as well as CHEF— Garry Swanson (@Garry_S) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic I;m going with BOYHOOD. It;s the one we;ll remember most, and it;s the one I can;t stop thinking about.— ErikDavis (@ErikDavis) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic Boyhood, though Frank and We Are The Best! were great fun.— Kyle Pinion (@kylepinion) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic best overall: Boyhood (obviously). Best Blockbuster: Edge of Tomorrow.— Daniel Howat (@howatdk) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic Boyhood, but The November Man has yet to be screened.— Jordan Raup (@jpraup) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic Boyhood.— Matty Mcboy (@RealMattyMcBoy) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic For me - Dawn of the Planet of the Apes along with Guardians, Godzilla, Boyhood.— Alex Billington (@firstshowing) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic Good q. Honestly, Edge of Tomorrow or Chef.— Alex Rosenberg (@workinpractice) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic Edge of Tomorrow.— Jack Giroux (@JackGi) August 18, 2014@firstshowing @thefilmcynic Big: Edge of Tomorrow. Small: Ida.— Justin Kownacki (@JustinKownacki) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic IDA.— Jacob (@MercuryMN) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic The Purge: Anarchy— Jamie (@filmnerdjamie) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic Snowpiercer.— Noah Gittell (@ReelChanger) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic A MOST WANTED MAN for small, GODZILLA for large.— Josh Rosenfield (@JoshRosenfield) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic I have not seen BOYHOOD yet so CALVARY is the one to beat. Though I reserve the right to actually see BOYHOOD.— Matthew Monagle (@LabSplice) August 18, 2014@thefilmcynic UNDER THE SKIN (opened in may over here).— Point de vues (@Pointdevues) August 18, 2014Join in the next discussion:and
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