Caution: Streaming video will chew through your 4G iPad data
Your first order of business with Apple's third-generation iPad: fill up that stunning Retina Display with plenty of video. But hang on; if you're getting the 4G model, better watch that over-the-air video consumption. Lightning-fast as it is, over LTE, you'll be tempted to burn through your data plan in less time than you might think.Here's a breakdown of what a 5GB data plan will get you on the 4G LTE iPad, for moments when you're not on Wi-Fi.AT&T and Verizon both offer $50 5GB monthly data plans for LTE tablets like the iPad--the only plan in which they overlap, so let's start there. AT&T versus Verizon data rates for Apple's new iPad.Screenshot by Jessica Dolcourt/CNETData calculatorsDays ahead of the new iPad launch, it's hard to pinpoint exact numbers. Apple is famously secretive about these kinds of claims, but Verizon and AT&T offer online data calculators that give ballpark figures for data use. The results are far from gospel, since the carriers include caveats: devices handle data differently; all numbers are averages and guidelines. AT&T's calculator doesn't attempt to break out 4G or LTE data allotments, and Verizon's offers mobile broadband estimates for computers only. (Note: A Verizon spokesperson pointed me to the mobile broadband setting as the most similar to the tablet scenario.)Click to enlarge the image. If you do nothing but stream HD video, you'll hit 2GB in a single hour, according to Verizon's tool.Screenshot by Jessica Dolcourt/CNETWhat the two calculators can agree on is that streaming video consumes the most data by far, with streaming music as its hungry sidekick. Verizon's online tool calculates that 1 hour of 4G HD video streaming use--and nothing else--will cost you 2GB; so, 2.5 hours of streaming HD video will use up 5GB of 4G data.AT&T's online calculator presents wildly different results, suggesting 1,000 minutes (or 16.6 hours) of HD video streaming--as your sole activity--to reach your 5GB cap. However, since AT&T never promises to isolate its 4G numbers in this tool, 3G speeds are likely lumped in as well. Since LTE and 3G networks use different technology to deliver data, I caution against using it to predict your iPad data usage. As a general rule, since LTE delivers data much faster than 3G, it's easier to blow through your cap in a shorter period of time.Click image to enlarge. AT&T's monthly data use calculator doesn't break out '4G' or LTE.Screenshot by Jessica Dolcourt/CNETOf course, you can tweak the calculator to simulate more of a real-world scenario. For example, using Verizon's calculator, 4.75GB per month could net you the following: 25 e-mails; 25 Web site visits; 15 minutes of streaming music; an hour of HD video streaming plus 2 minutes of standard video streaming; 5 minutes of HD VoIP video chats; and 2 hours of online gaming.Video is everythingStreaming video will rocket you toward your data limit, and the new iPad gains support for 1080p HD video. The more detailed picture will take a little longer to download than the 720p version, and will therefore drain more of your data allowance over LTE.To that point, Ars Technica tested the video quality of both 720p and 1080p HD video on the third-generation Apple TV (also announced last week), and discovered that although the file size of the download was larger with 1080p, some compression tricks and new support for the H.264 standard help keep the actual download time from doubling.Similarly, current iPad users can expect a heavier data load for 1080p video than the 720p video would demand. Streaming video, say from iTunes or Netflix, instead of downloading it, will also affect data consumption.Click to enlarge the image. Verizon's monthly data calculator takes 4G into account.Screenshot by Jessica Dolcourt/CNETWhat about hot spots and overage charges?There's also your hot-spot use to consider. Verizon won't charge you extra to use your LTE iPad as a hot spot for up to five devices (AT&T won't offer the hot-spotting capability at launch, but will add it later), but any data you use will be deducted from your monthly plan. As for overages, both AT&T and Verizon ding you $10 per GB anytime you so much as inch over your plan threshold, though neither one threatens punitive throttling. Those who opt in to AT&T's 250MB plan will see an extra $15 overage fee for every additional 250MB they use. So, how much data is enough?The surest way to avoid data insecurity? Stick to Wi-Fi for the big things, like downloading video to watch later. Think of LTE as your lifeline when you're out and about, so use it sparingly. That said, it's fairly safe to go nuts with Web searches and sending e-mail. Verizon's calculator reckons you can visit 3,000 Web sites and send 7,500 e-mails in a single month and use just 3GB of data.Go ahead and pay up for that 4G iPad if you frequently need mission-critical access to the Web in places rife with cellular coverage but dry on Wi-Fi.However, if you expect to stream movies, music, and video 24-7 over 4G, then save yourself the $130 extra for the device, the monthly data charge, and the potential overage fees and stick to Wi-Fi--or drastically adjust your expectations. Even with Verizon's 10GB plan for $80, wanton data use will have you busting through your limit in just a couple of days.
RealNetworks surrenders in RealDVD case
RealNetworks surrenders in RealDVD case
Real and the Motion Picture Association of America reached a settlement, according to statements issued by both companies, that called for Real to stop selling RealDVD or any similar products and to pay $4.5 million to reimburse the studios for legal fees. "We are gratified by the successful conclusion of this important matter," said Daniel Mandil, the MPAA's general counsel. "Judge Patel's rulings and this settlement affirm what we have said from the very start of this litigation: it is illegal to bypass the copyright protections built into DVDs designed to protect movies against theft." It appears that Real, the maker of the RealPlayer and other media software, has suffered total defeat in the court battle with the MPAA, the trade group representing the six largest Hollywood film studios, which began in 2008. The MPAA filed suit to stop the sale of RealDVD, a software that hands users the ability to copy and store films to a hard drive.From the outset of Real's struggle, the company appeared to be on shaky ground. Real argued that consumers possessed the right to backup their DVDs, just as they have a right to make a copy of their songs for personal use. Real told the court the company was just trying to offer consumers the means to do that and that they had a fair use right to do that. "The message this sends is if you get into the business of enabling consumers to do with DVDs what they've long done with CDs, you'll get sued out of the business."--Fred von Lohmann, EFF attorney But after hearing initial arguments from Real and the studios, Patel quickly slapped a preliminary injunction that prevented sales of RealDVD. Things went down hill from there.Fred von Lohmann, senior staff attorney with the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a group that advocates for tech companies and Internet users, defended Real's pursuit of the case. He said Real could have provided real benefit to consumers, if not with RealDVD, then eventually with a DVD player that would have incorporated some of the software's copying abilities. Real was working on a player, codenamed Facet, which would have created copies of DVDs and stored more than 70 films on its hard drive. "(Real's testimony) made it clear that Real was out to deliver to consumers a product that people wanted to see," von Lohmann said. "I think the message this sends is if you get into the business of enabling consumers to do with DVDs what they've long done with CDs, you'll get sued out of the business. I think that's bad news for consumers. What that means is that if you want to create a digital back-up of your movies, you have to pay for that a second time on iTunes." Judging from statements made by Real previously, pursuing the case will end up costing it well over $10 million. This is part of Rob Glaser's legacy. Glaser founded the company and oversaw operations as CEO for a decade before being eased out by Real's board last year. He remains at the company as chairman. He led Real to a huge court victory against Microsoft after accusing the company of illegally using its Windows monopoly to hurt digital media rivals. Since then, critics have accused Glaser of being too focused on trying to litigate Real into becoming a successful company. While interest in streaming media skyrocketed, an area that Real should have dominated, the company under Glaser's leadership sat on the sidelines.
Real and the Motion Picture Association of America reached a settlement, according to statements issued by both companies, that called for Real to stop selling RealDVD or any similar products and to pay $4.5 million to reimburse the studios for legal fees. "We are gratified by the successful conclusion of this important matter," said Daniel Mandil, the MPAA's general counsel. "Judge Patel's rulings and this settlement affirm what we have said from the very start of this litigation: it is illegal to bypass the copyright protections built into DVDs designed to protect movies against theft." It appears that Real, the maker of the RealPlayer and other media software, has suffered total defeat in the court battle with the MPAA, the trade group representing the six largest Hollywood film studios, which began in 2008. The MPAA filed suit to stop the sale of RealDVD, a software that hands users the ability to copy and store films to a hard drive.From the outset of Real's struggle, the company appeared to be on shaky ground. Real argued that consumers possessed the right to backup their DVDs, just as they have a right to make a copy of their songs for personal use. Real told the court the company was just trying to offer consumers the means to do that and that they had a fair use right to do that. "The message this sends is if you get into the business of enabling consumers to do with DVDs what they've long done with CDs, you'll get sued out of the business."--Fred von Lohmann, EFF attorney But after hearing initial arguments from Real and the studios, Patel quickly slapped a preliminary injunction that prevented sales of RealDVD. Things went down hill from there.Fred von Lohmann, senior staff attorney with the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a group that advocates for tech companies and Internet users, defended Real's pursuit of the case. He said Real could have provided real benefit to consumers, if not with RealDVD, then eventually with a DVD player that would have incorporated some of the software's copying abilities. Real was working on a player, codenamed Facet, which would have created copies of DVDs and stored more than 70 films on its hard drive. "(Real's testimony) made it clear that Real was out to deliver to consumers a product that people wanted to see," von Lohmann said. "I think the message this sends is if you get into the business of enabling consumers to do with DVDs what they've long done with CDs, you'll get sued out of the business. I think that's bad news for consumers. What that means is that if you want to create a digital back-up of your movies, you have to pay for that a second time on iTunes." Judging from statements made by Real previously, pursuing the case will end up costing it well over $10 million. This is part of Rob Glaser's legacy. Glaser founded the company and oversaw operations as CEO for a decade before being eased out by Real's board last year. He remains at the company as chairman. He led Real to a huge court victory against Microsoft after accusing the company of illegally using its Windows monopoly to hurt digital media rivals. Since then, critics have accused Glaser of being too focused on trying to litigate Real into becoming a successful company. While interest in streaming media skyrocketed, an area that Real should have dominated, the company under Glaser's leadership sat on the sidelines.
Expect Apple to charge for music cloud
Expect Apple to charge for music cloud
Music industry insiders told me that Apple has indicated it could offer the service free of charge initially but that company will eventually require a fee. Google is also expected to charge for a similar service. Billboard writer Ed Christman reported last September that Google was considering a plan to charge $25 a yearfor a subscription for its cloud service. Last month, the blog Wayne's World reported that Apple would charge $20 annually, but nobody I spoke with seems to know for sure what Apple may ask. An Apple spokesman did not respond to an interview request. Both Apple and Google began discussing plans more than a year ago with the largest four recording companies about enabling users to upload their songs to the companies' servers. Music could then be streamed to users' songs via Internet-connected devices. This kind of third-party computing is known as the cloud.It's going to be interesting to see how online music stores make their cloud-music offerings sweet enough to get consumers to pay--especially the early adopters (and if you're reading CNET that means you). Subscription services have yet to attract any significant market share in digital music. It's generally accepted that consumers prefer to own their tunes rather than renting them and there are some who suspect that the cloud is a way for the Web stores and the labels to charge consumers to access songs they already own. What the music industry is banking on is that consumers will see the sense in paying a relatively small monthly fee for access an endless supply of songs. Right now, to obtain music legally, people have to pay $1 or more for each song. Decision makers in the industry hope people will conclude that ownership doesn't provide the best bang for the buck, just as they have concluded with movies. DVD sales have fallen the past couple of years just as consumers have begun flocking to Netflix, a subscription service that charges $8 a month for all-you-can-eat viewing of films and TV shows. Meanwhile, Apple and Google continue to seek licenses for their services. So far, Apple has a deal with Warner Music Group, But Google's negotiations with the four top labels have stalled. Amazon got off the ground with a cloud music service last month and charges based on the amount of data a user stores. Update 11:00 a.m. PT: Billboard reporter Glenn Peoples has postedan interesting opinion piece today about why the music sector should adopt Netflix's business model. You can read it here.
Music industry insiders told me that Apple has indicated it could offer the service free of charge initially but that company will eventually require a fee. Google is also expected to charge for a similar service. Billboard writer Ed Christman reported last September that Google was considering a plan to charge $25 a yearfor a subscription for its cloud service. Last month, the blog Wayne's World reported that Apple would charge $20 annually, but nobody I spoke with seems to know for sure what Apple may ask. An Apple spokesman did not respond to an interview request. Both Apple and Google began discussing plans more than a year ago with the largest four recording companies about enabling users to upload their songs to the companies' servers. Music could then be streamed to users' songs via Internet-connected devices. This kind of third-party computing is known as the cloud.It's going to be interesting to see how online music stores make their cloud-music offerings sweet enough to get consumers to pay--especially the early adopters (and if you're reading CNET that means you). Subscription services have yet to attract any significant market share in digital music. It's generally accepted that consumers prefer to own their tunes rather than renting them and there are some who suspect that the cloud is a way for the Web stores and the labels to charge consumers to access songs they already own. What the music industry is banking on is that consumers will see the sense in paying a relatively small monthly fee for access an endless supply of songs. Right now, to obtain music legally, people have to pay $1 or more for each song. Decision makers in the industry hope people will conclude that ownership doesn't provide the best bang for the buck, just as they have concluded with movies. DVD sales have fallen the past couple of years just as consumers have begun flocking to Netflix, a subscription service that charges $8 a month for all-you-can-eat viewing of films and TV shows. Meanwhile, Apple and Google continue to seek licenses for their services. So far, Apple has a deal with Warner Music Group, But Google's negotiations with the four top labels have stalled. Amazon got off the ground with a cloud music service last month and charges based on the amount of data a user stores. Update 11:00 a.m. PT: Billboard reporter Glenn Peoples has postedan interesting opinion piece today about why the music sector should adopt Netflix's business model. You can read it here.
The 404 680- Where you really should be working right now (podcast)
The 404 680: Where you really should be working right now (podcast)
Sonic the Hedgehog is one of the most recognizable titles of all time, right up there with Mario and Tetris. Even an anti-gaming Luddite like myself can appreciate its simple objective: to run as fast as possible while decimating anything that gets in your way. Also, coins.The next evolution, Sonic 4, is a throwback to the original games but this time with HD gameplay, so look for it in stores for the Nintendo Wii, Sony PS3, and the Xbox 360, and it'll be featured on a future episode of CNET's PreGame as well!The next story in the daily rundown is a public Twitter booth spotted in Russia, but it'll have to wait until tomorrow because we'd rather talk about the most inappropriate Halloween costumes of all time. Watch Wilson's head explode and follow along as we show off a couple controversial costumes, including the sexy Finding Nemo, the Suicide Bomber children's outfit, the "Shocker," and one other play on word costume that brings Wilson to tears- don't miss this segment!We spent the first half of yesterday's show talking about the disturbing world of Renaissance faires, and I told a story about a young fan of The 404 who spotted me in attendance but couldn't stay long to talk with his mother in tow.Meet up with The 404 this Thursday!MeetupWell, he actually called us up with a voice mail that illustrates exactly how bad my sense of observation is--sorry dude! Come to our Meetup at The Frying Pan this Thursday, October 7, and I'll buy you a drink! If you're not a member of our Meetup Group, sign up for more details and RSVP if you can make it!Here are the meetup details.Episode 680PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video  Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
Sonic the Hedgehog is one of the most recognizable titles of all time, right up there with Mario and Tetris. Even an anti-gaming Luddite like myself can appreciate its simple objective: to run as fast as possible while decimating anything that gets in your way. Also, coins.The next evolution, Sonic 4, is a throwback to the original games but this time with HD gameplay, so look for it in stores for the Nintendo Wii, Sony PS3, and the Xbox 360, and it'll be featured on a future episode of CNET's PreGame as well!The next story in the daily rundown is a public Twitter booth spotted in Russia, but it'll have to wait until tomorrow because we'd rather talk about the most inappropriate Halloween costumes of all time. Watch Wilson's head explode and follow along as we show off a couple controversial costumes, including the sexy Finding Nemo, the Suicide Bomber children's outfit, the "Shocker," and one other play on word costume that brings Wilson to tears- don't miss this segment!We spent the first half of yesterday's show talking about the disturbing world of Renaissance faires, and I told a story about a young fan of The 404 who spotted me in attendance but couldn't stay long to talk with his mother in tow.Meet up with The 404 this Thursday!MeetupWell, he actually called us up with a voice mail that illustrates exactly how bad my sense of observation is--sorry dude! Come to our Meetup at The Frying Pan this Thursday, October 7, and I'll buy you a drink! If you're not a member of our Meetup Group, sign up for more details and RSVP if you can make it!Here are the meetup details.Episode 680PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video  Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
Nokia to buy Oz Communications
Nokia to buy Oz Communications
Nokia is bulking up its communications platform with the acquisition of Oz Communications, a privately held Montreal-based company that offers mobile e-mail and instant messaging.On Tuesday, Nokia said it would buy Oz for an undisclosed amount, bringing Oz into its services and software unit. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter. Oz has been around for about five years. And the company, which has been working with Nokia since 2003, has raised more than $71 million. Its IM, e-mail, and social-networking technologies are used by several mobile operators, including Verizon Wireless, Sprint Nextel, T-Mobile USA, Alltel, and Rogers Wireless. With just 220 employees, Oz claims to have 5.5 million monthly paid users using its products.The acquisition should fit nicely with other mobile social media and communication buys Nokia has made over the past couple of years, including those of Twango, Plazes, Enpocket, and Navteq.With these acquisitions, Nokia has been amassing a portfolio that extends far beyond handsets. It is looking to extend its reach to services and applications, integrating devices with services and packing them with cool features such as navigation, mapping, and music. The idea is that the services will help differentiate the handsets from others on the market and also provide the company with additional revenue.Nokia is still in the early days of executing on this strategy. It just officially launched its Ovi platform, which serves as a hub for many of its services. So it's difficult to say how successful it will be. The company leads the market, in terms of handset sales worldwide. But it's had a weak standing in the United States, where some of these more advanced services would likely play well.Meanwhile, Nokia is facing competition from new entrants in the mobile market, such as Apple, with the iPhone, and Google, with the new Android operating system. These companies are also emphasizing services and applications as way to differentiate their products. Apple launched the App Store earlier this year, when it released the new iPhone 3G. And the first Google Android phone will go on sale next month on T-Mobile USA's network. Like Apple's App store, Android also has a marketplace in which third-party developers can distribute applications for Android phones.
Nokia is bulking up its communications platform with the acquisition of Oz Communications, a privately held Montreal-based company that offers mobile e-mail and instant messaging.On Tuesday, Nokia said it would buy Oz for an undisclosed amount, bringing Oz into its services and software unit. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter. Oz has been around for about five years. And the company, which has been working with Nokia since 2003, has raised more than $71 million. Its IM, e-mail, and social-networking technologies are used by several mobile operators, including Verizon Wireless, Sprint Nextel, T-Mobile USA, Alltel, and Rogers Wireless. With just 220 employees, Oz claims to have 5.5 million monthly paid users using its products.The acquisition should fit nicely with other mobile social media and communication buys Nokia has made over the past couple of years, including those of Twango, Plazes, Enpocket, and Navteq.With these acquisitions, Nokia has been amassing a portfolio that extends far beyond handsets. It is looking to extend its reach to services and applications, integrating devices with services and packing them with cool features such as navigation, mapping, and music. The idea is that the services will help differentiate the handsets from others on the market and also provide the company with additional revenue.Nokia is still in the early days of executing on this strategy. It just officially launched its Ovi platform, which serves as a hub for many of its services. So it's difficult to say how successful it will be. The company leads the market, in terms of handset sales worldwide. But it's had a weak standing in the United States, where some of these more advanced services would likely play well.Meanwhile, Nokia is facing competition from new entrants in the mobile market, such as Apple, with the iPhone, and Google, with the new Android operating system. These companies are also emphasizing services and applications as way to differentiate their products. Apple launched the App Store earlier this year, when it released the new iPhone 3G. And the first Google Android phone will go on sale next month on T-Mobile USA's network. Like Apple's App store, Android also has a marketplace in which third-party developers can distribute applications for Android phones.
Elgato releases EyeTV for the iPhone
Elgato releases EyeTV for the iPhone
Elgato has released EyeTV for iPhone and iPod Touch (iTunes link), a new, $4.99 app that connects to any Mac running the latest version of Elgato's EyeTV 3.2 software. The app allows EyeTV users to view TV recordings and live TV from a remote location with one limitation: a Wi-Fi connection is required for viewing live TV. (Restrictions on the app by Apple and AT&T prevent live streaming via 3G.) The mobile app accesses EyeTV running on a home Mac, allowing users to perform the following actions via their iPhone:Watch live TV and change channels anywhere (Wi-Fi connection required).Channel 2 News Houston live morning newsChannel 2 News HoustonWatch your EyeTV recordings.David's video recording libraryDavid MartinBrowse the comprehensive program guide.Local TV guideDavid MartinStart recordings back home on your Mac immediately, schedule them for later, or watch directly from the TV guide.Watch or record from the TV guideDavid MartinView and edit your recording schedules.Scheduled recordingsDavid MartinEyeTV connects automatically to any Mac and will find a Mac on the local network using Bonjour. The app can also find and access a remote Mac using "My EyeTV," a free service introduced with the EyeTV 3.2 update that allows you to connect to your Mac using any router that supports UPnP or NAT-PMP protocols. If that isn't sufficient, users have the option of configuring their routers manually or using a dynamic DNS service to make the connection.EyeTV running on your Mac converts live TV to the correct format for streaming to the iPhone, ensuring optimal picture quality. Already recorded video will need to be converted in order to be viewed on the iPhone--if not, you'll see the error below.Video has to be prepared prior to viewing on the iPhone or iPod Touch.David MartinOverall, Elgato's EyeTV app looks exciting and it is a welcome add-on for EyeTV for the Mac.
Elgato has released EyeTV for iPhone and iPod Touch (iTunes link), a new, $4.99 app that connects to any Mac running the latest version of Elgato's EyeTV 3.2 software. The app allows EyeTV users to view TV recordings and live TV from a remote location with one limitation: a Wi-Fi connection is required for viewing live TV. (Restrictions on the app by Apple and AT&T prevent live streaming via 3G.) The mobile app accesses EyeTV running on a home Mac, allowing users to perform the following actions via their iPhone:Watch live TV and change channels anywhere (Wi-Fi connection required).Channel 2 News Houston live morning newsChannel 2 News HoustonWatch your EyeTV recordings.David's video recording libraryDavid MartinBrowse the comprehensive program guide.Local TV guideDavid MartinStart recordings back home on your Mac immediately, schedule them for later, or watch directly from the TV guide.Watch or record from the TV guideDavid MartinView and edit your recording schedules.Scheduled recordingsDavid MartinEyeTV connects automatically to any Mac and will find a Mac on the local network using Bonjour. The app can also find and access a remote Mac using "My EyeTV," a free service introduced with the EyeTV 3.2 update that allows you to connect to your Mac using any router that supports UPnP or NAT-PMP protocols. If that isn't sufficient, users have the option of configuring their routers manually or using a dynamic DNS service to make the connection.EyeTV running on your Mac converts live TV to the correct format for streaming to the iPhone, ensuring optimal picture quality. Already recorded video will need to be converted in order to be viewed on the iPhone--if not, you'll see the error below.Video has to be prepared prior to viewing on the iPhone or iPod Touch.David MartinOverall, Elgato's EyeTV app looks exciting and it is a welcome add-on for EyeTV for the Mac.
Effin Genius is like Pandora's smart little brother
Effin Genius is like Pandora's smart little brother
A new app called Effin Genius, from Seattle company Melodeo, takes a different approach: instead of forcing you to enter the name of an artist or musical genre--or anything at all--Effin Genius analyzes the playlists in the iTunes library on your iPhone or iPod Touch, then creates identically named playlists of other music it thinks you would like. I tried it out last night. It took about 10 minutes to analyze the 3,000-plus songs on my Touch, but once the process was done, it came up with some pretty amazing playlists. For example, I have an playlist called "Psych," which contains rock and jazz songs that are a little noisy or abrasive, but not completely insane. For the most part, Effin Genius looked at the artists in that playlist and recommended other songs by them. The new Can and My Bloody Valentine songs alone made it worth listening to. Other good picks included guitar goddess Marnie Stern, a freak-folk song by Helio Sequence, and the always reliable Kings of Leon, none of which I own. If you really love a particular song, there's a link to buy it on iTunes.Unfortunately it also included some horrible rap and hip-hop--including, hilariously, "U Can't Touch This" by Hammer--and '80s pop hits from Def Leppard and George Michael. I don't have those artists, or anybody like them, on this playlist, although I do have some Police and other '80s pop elsewhere on my iPod. Of course, any time a song comes up that you don't like, you can skip it and tell the app never to play it again. Presumably, Effin Genius learns more about your preferences over time and adjusts accordingly. As is the case with other radio apps for iPhone, you can't go straight to a particular song on the playlist--you must listen in the order the songs are delivered--and you need an active Internet connection. The streaming worked great over my home Wi-Fi network.Effin Genius, whose name is a take-off on the Genius feature introduced in iTunes 8, costs $1.99. That's not much, but it's more than Pandora and Slacker, which are free.Overall, Effin Genius is an interesting take on the problem of what to do when you're bored with your own music collection. But I'll have to play with it a little more before I decide whether to remove Pandora.
A new app called Effin Genius, from Seattle company Melodeo, takes a different approach: instead of forcing you to enter the name of an artist or musical genre--or anything at all--Effin Genius analyzes the playlists in the iTunes library on your iPhone or iPod Touch, then creates identically named playlists of other music it thinks you would like. I tried it out last night. It took about 10 minutes to analyze the 3,000-plus songs on my Touch, but once the process was done, it came up with some pretty amazing playlists. For example, I have an playlist called "Psych," which contains rock and jazz songs that are a little noisy or abrasive, but not completely insane. For the most part, Effin Genius looked at the artists in that playlist and recommended other songs by them. The new Can and My Bloody Valentine songs alone made it worth listening to. Other good picks included guitar goddess Marnie Stern, a freak-folk song by Helio Sequence, and the always reliable Kings of Leon, none of which I own. If you really love a particular song, there's a link to buy it on iTunes.Unfortunately it also included some horrible rap and hip-hop--including, hilariously, "U Can't Touch This" by Hammer--and '80s pop hits from Def Leppard and George Michael. I don't have those artists, or anybody like them, on this playlist, although I do have some Police and other '80s pop elsewhere on my iPod. Of course, any time a song comes up that you don't like, you can skip it and tell the app never to play it again. Presumably, Effin Genius learns more about your preferences over time and adjusts accordingly. As is the case with other radio apps for iPhone, you can't go straight to a particular song on the playlist--you must listen in the order the songs are delivered--and you need an active Internet connection. The streaming worked great over my home Wi-Fi network.Effin Genius, whose name is a take-off on the Genius feature introduced in iTunes 8, costs $1.99. That's not much, but it's more than Pandora and Slacker, which are free.Overall, Effin Genius is an interesting take on the problem of what to do when you're bored with your own music collection. But I'll have to play with it a little more before I decide whether to remove Pandora.
Rumor- iPhone 5 may use curved glass screen
Rumor: iPhone 5 may use curved glass screen
The latest news to hit the iPhone 5 rumor mill is that Apple's next smartphone may sport a curved glass screen, similar to the one found on the iPod Nano 4G.This latest report comes from Taiwan's DigiTimes. Citing industry sources, DigiTimes reported today that Apple has bought 200 or 300 glass-cutting machines to be used by glass makers, who are apparently hesitant to invest in the expensive equipment on their own.To no surprise, no time frame has been released yet as to when the iPhone 5 may ramp up production, as DigiTimes says that Apple is still working with suppliers of the glass cover, glass cutting, lamination, and touch sensors to make sure everything works together.If the rumors are true, the iPhone 5 would follow in the footsteps of Samsung's Nexus S, which was the first smartphone to offer a "Contour Display," as the company calls it. The idea behind using a curved display is to create a device that fits more comfortably in your palm. CNET found the contour display in the Nexus S gimmicky. However, the iPhone would not necessarily adopt the same design found in the Nexus S.Tech enthusiast sites such as MacRumors have raised some skepticism over the DigiTimes report, citing other claims that the iPhone 5 would use the same form factor as the iPhone 4, with just a few tweaks, and may even be dubbed the iPhone 4S.However, one commenter at MacRumors dubbed AppleScruff1 may have just come up with the best design idea yet, suggesting that Apple make the iPhone 5 round like a rubber ball. That way if you drop it, it won't break and will just bounce back up into your hand.
The latest news to hit the iPhone 5 rumor mill is that Apple's next smartphone may sport a curved glass screen, similar to the one found on the iPod Nano 4G.This latest report comes from Taiwan's DigiTimes. Citing industry sources, DigiTimes reported today that Apple has bought 200 or 300 glass-cutting machines to be used by glass makers, who are apparently hesitant to invest in the expensive equipment on their own.To no surprise, no time frame has been released yet as to when the iPhone 5 may ramp up production, as DigiTimes says that Apple is still working with suppliers of the glass cover, glass cutting, lamination, and touch sensors to make sure everything works together.If the rumors are true, the iPhone 5 would follow in the footsteps of Samsung's Nexus S, which was the first smartphone to offer a "Contour Display," as the company calls it. The idea behind using a curved display is to create a device that fits more comfortably in your palm. CNET found the contour display in the Nexus S gimmicky. However, the iPhone would not necessarily adopt the same design found in the Nexus S.Tech enthusiast sites such as MacRumors have raised some skepticism over the DigiTimes report, citing other claims that the iPhone 5 would use the same form factor as the iPhone 4, with just a few tweaks, and may even be dubbed the iPhone 4S.However, one commenter at MacRumors dubbed AppleScruff1 may have just come up with the best design idea yet, suggesting that Apple make the iPhone 5 round like a rubber ball. That way if you drop it, it won't break and will just bounce back up into your hand.
Rumor- Apple already drumming up parts for iPad 3
Rumor: Apple already drumming up parts for iPad 3
Although the iPad 2 is only a few months old, Apple is already trying to gather up the necessary parts for the iPad 3, according to a report from DigiTimes yesterday.Citing industry sources, DigiTimes said that Apple has begun certifying components for the next-generation iPad, a process that's triggered quick responses from many Taiwan-based hardware manufacturers.The sources said that Radiant Opto-Electronics has already won certification for its LED backlight units, while makers of backlight modules and light bars have received certification as well.One component still to be certified is the tablet's touch-screen panel itself. Companies such as Samsung and LG have typically supplied panels for Apple, but DigiTimes said that Apple is close to certifying panels made by Taiwan-based Chimei Innolux.DigiTimes also mentioned rumors that Apple would use AMOLED (active-matrix organic light-emitting diode) panels made by Samsung for the next iPad, however, industry sources said they believe the tablet will still sport the same 9.7-inch LCD display used in the first two iPads. Apple and Samsung have also been embroiled in a couple of dicey lawsuits with each other, potentially making it difficult for the two companies to work together right now.To no surprise, component makers say the iPad 3 will launch in 2012. But some of the Taiwanese parts suppliers believe Apple will lower the price to compete with rival tablet makers.
Although the iPad 2 is only a few months old, Apple is already trying to gather up the necessary parts for the iPad 3, according to a report from DigiTimes yesterday.Citing industry sources, DigiTimes said that Apple has begun certifying components for the next-generation iPad, a process that's triggered quick responses from many Taiwan-based hardware manufacturers.The sources said that Radiant Opto-Electronics has already won certification for its LED backlight units, while makers of backlight modules and light bars have received certification as well.One component still to be certified is the tablet's touch-screen panel itself. Companies such as Samsung and LG have typically supplied panels for Apple, but DigiTimes said that Apple is close to certifying panels made by Taiwan-based Chimei Innolux.DigiTimes also mentioned rumors that Apple would use AMOLED (active-matrix organic light-emitting diode) panels made by Samsung for the next iPad, however, industry sources said they believe the tablet will still sport the same 9.7-inch LCD display used in the first two iPads. Apple and Samsung have also been embroiled in a couple of dicey lawsuits with each other, potentially making it difficult for the two companies to work together right now.To no surprise, component makers say the iPad 3 will launch in 2012. But some of the Taiwanese parts suppliers believe Apple will lower the price to compete with rival tablet makers.
Rolling Stone lands on iPad with iTunes integration in tow
Rolling Stone lands on iPad with iTunes integration in tow
Longtime Apple Newsstand holdout Rolling Stone magazine has caved, and is now available on Apple's subscription service.Rolling Stone's new app works like any other publication in Newsstand, with a way to buy a single issue or subscribe using an iTunes account. Rolling Stone is pricing issues at $4.99 apiece, and there are two subscription options: one month for $1.99 (Rolling Stone comes out twice a month), or one year for $19.99 -- both with the first month for free. The addition is noteworthy given comments made by publisher Jann Wenner of Wenner Media, who in 2011 said he was "not in any rush to break what I consider fundamental principles of what the magazine industry is" in order to make a deal with Apple that "will mortgage me into the future on the basis of getting 2,000 copies sold a month."Nonetheless, a few months after that interview, Wenner's position appeared to have softened, with a Newsstand version of celebrity news and gossip magazine US Weekly arriving in early 2012.Given the music-oriented focus of the magazine, what's worth noting is that the app ties into Apple's iTunes store. Reviews of entire albums or mentions of particular songs get linked so you can stream, and potentially buy, without switching devices. The app was made with Adobe's Digital Publishing Suite, the nearly 2-year-old software Adobe sells to companies that want to make interactive publications on tablets. The Rolling Stone app is already drawing some ire from early users, who are complaining that they don't get access to a free copy of the digital version with their existing print subscription. That practice has been popularized by others, including publisher Conde Nast.
Longtime Apple Newsstand holdout Rolling Stone magazine has caved, and is now available on Apple's subscription service.Rolling Stone's new app works like any other publication in Newsstand, with a way to buy a single issue or subscribe using an iTunes account. Rolling Stone is pricing issues at $4.99 apiece, and there are two subscription options: one month for $1.99 (Rolling Stone comes out twice a month), or one year for $19.99 -- both with the first month for free. The addition is noteworthy given comments made by publisher Jann Wenner of Wenner Media, who in 2011 said he was "not in any rush to break what I consider fundamental principles of what the magazine industry is" in order to make a deal with Apple that "will mortgage me into the future on the basis of getting 2,000 copies sold a month."Nonetheless, a few months after that interview, Wenner's position appeared to have softened, with a Newsstand version of celebrity news and gossip magazine US Weekly arriving in early 2012.Given the music-oriented focus of the magazine, what's worth noting is that the app ties into Apple's iTunes store. Reviews of entire albums or mentions of particular songs get linked so you can stream, and potentially buy, without switching devices. The app was made with Adobe's Digital Publishing Suite, the nearly 2-year-old software Adobe sells to companies that want to make interactive publications on tablets. The Rolling Stone app is already drawing some ire from early users, who are complaining that they don't get access to a free copy of the digital version with their existing print subscription. That practice has been popularized by others, including publisher Conde Nast.
Rights group alleges worker abuse at Apple partner Pegatron
Rights group alleges worker abuse at Apple partner Pegatron
An Apple hardware manufacturing partner in China is under fire for alleged labor abuses.In a report to be released Monday, labor watchdog China Labor Watch accuses Pegatron of myriad labor abuses, including safety violations, withholding of worker identification cards, and poor living conditions, according to the Wall Street Journal. According to the Journal, the group reported that Pegatron plant workers' workweek regularly exceed 60 hours in violation of Apple's Supplier Code of Conduct. Workers complained of having their wages garnished by third-party labor recruiters if they didn't complete a fixed term of service, the group reportedly alleges in its report.Apple told the Journal that it was "committed to providing safe and fair working conditions throughout our supply chain." Apple confirmed to the paper that some of Pegatron's labor brokers were withholding worker ID cards but stated that it had demanded Pegatron "put a stop" to the practice, which prevents workers from taking jobs with other employers.China Labor Watch is the same labor rights group that detailed poor and dangerous working conditions at Foxconn, another China-based Apple manufacturing partner. Despite a New York Times report detailing hazardous factory conditions at Foxconn, the group found in May 2012 that exhausting workloads, humiliating discipline, and cramped dormitories were still "the norm."The new allegations come as Apple is reportedly reducing its dependence on Foxconn by throwing more business toward Pegatron, which already makes some iPhones and iPad Minis. Pegatrong has reportedly been chosen to be the primary assembler of a low-cost iPhone expected to be unveiled later this year.
An Apple hardware manufacturing partner in China is under fire for alleged labor abuses.In a report to be released Monday, labor watchdog China Labor Watch accuses Pegatron of myriad labor abuses, including safety violations, withholding of worker identification cards, and poor living conditions, according to the Wall Street Journal. According to the Journal, the group reported that Pegatron plant workers' workweek regularly exceed 60 hours in violation of Apple's Supplier Code of Conduct. Workers complained of having their wages garnished by third-party labor recruiters if they didn't complete a fixed term of service, the group reportedly alleges in its report.Apple told the Journal that it was "committed to providing safe and fair working conditions throughout our supply chain." Apple confirmed to the paper that some of Pegatron's labor brokers were withholding worker ID cards but stated that it had demanded Pegatron "put a stop" to the practice, which prevents workers from taking jobs with other employers.China Labor Watch is the same labor rights group that detailed poor and dangerous working conditions at Foxconn, another China-based Apple manufacturing partner. Despite a New York Times report detailing hazardous factory conditions at Foxconn, the group found in May 2012 that exhausting workloads, humiliating discipline, and cramped dormitories were still "the norm."The new allegations come as Apple is reportedly reducing its dependence on Foxconn by throwing more business toward Pegatron, which already makes some iPhones and iPad Minis. Pegatrong has reportedly been chosen to be the primary assembler of a low-cost iPhone expected to be unveiled later this year.
Retina-equipped iPad Mini faces delays, says report
Retina-equipped iPad Mini faces delays, says report
Apple's plans to offer an iPad Mini with a Retina display could be in jeopardy, according to a new report.The company has only recently asked its supply chain to start producing an iPad Mini with Retina in large quantities, potentially causing the device to be in short supply this year, Reuters is reporting, citing people in the Apple supply chain.Rumors have been swirling for months that Apple wants to deliver its high-resolution Retina display to the iPad Mini sooner rather than later. Amazon recently unveiled its Kindle Fire HDX featuring a similarly equipped high-resolution display, putting pressure on Apple to respond. According to Reuters, the company wants to respond soon, but getting enough devices to store shelves could prove troublesome.Apple will unveil the new iPad Mini this month, according to Reuters' sources. Those people did not say what other features might come to the smaller slate.Exactly why Apple is having trouble getting Retina to the iPad Mini hasn't been clearly identified. According to Reuters, it's heard several stories from supply chain members, including word that Apple wanted to reduce costs first and that Apple took too long to certify panel producers.For its part, Apple hasn't confirmed that it'll even be launching a new iPad Mini, let alone one with a Retina display. However, over the last couple of years, the rumor mill has been somewhat accurate at predicting Apple's next moves, and the fact that its top competitors are already offering high-resolution displays makes it increasingly likely Retina will be coming to the next iPad Mini.This story has been updated throughout the morning.
Apple's plans to offer an iPad Mini with a Retina display could be in jeopardy, according to a new report.The company has only recently asked its supply chain to start producing an iPad Mini with Retina in large quantities, potentially causing the device to be in short supply this year, Reuters is reporting, citing people in the Apple supply chain.Rumors have been swirling for months that Apple wants to deliver its high-resolution Retina display to the iPad Mini sooner rather than later. Amazon recently unveiled its Kindle Fire HDX featuring a similarly equipped high-resolution display, putting pressure on Apple to respond. According to Reuters, the company wants to respond soon, but getting enough devices to store shelves could prove troublesome.Apple will unveil the new iPad Mini this month, according to Reuters' sources. Those people did not say what other features might come to the smaller slate.Exactly why Apple is having trouble getting Retina to the iPad Mini hasn't been clearly identified. According to Reuters, it's heard several stories from supply chain members, including word that Apple wanted to reduce costs first and that Apple took too long to certify panel producers.For its part, Apple hasn't confirmed that it'll even be launching a new iPad Mini, let alone one with a Retina display. However, over the last couple of years, the rumor mill has been somewhat accurate at predicting Apple's next moves, and the fact that its top competitors are already offering high-resolution displays makes it increasingly likely Retina will be coming to the next iPad Mini.This story has been updated throughout the morning.
Why the 'Step Up' Series and 'Fast and Furious' Are Pretty Much the Same Thing
Hey, you: fan of car movies. And you: fan of dance movies. Why don;t you sit down so I can lay some cold hard truth on you. You know how one of you loves the Fast and Furious movies and how the other loves the Step Up movies? Well, guess what? You both love pretty much the same thing. Seriously. The differences are almost entirely cosmetic. Swap out the cars for dancing and vice versa and you;ll essentially end with the same movie in the end. But don;t mistake this for a criticism: this is all said with love. Both franchises are a ton of fun and the fact that they;re ultimately the exact same thing only makes us more fond of them both. Let;s break this down. Straight-faced Wackiness It may seem weird to think about it now, but there was a time when the Fast and Furious and Step Up movies took themselves pretty seriously. Go back and watch the first films again. Sure, they;re silly, but they don;t feel intentionally goofy. In fact, they;re straight-faced enough to elicit more laughs than they would if they went out of their way to get silly. Interestingly, this similar starting point accidentally set the tone for both franchises -- after their first entry proved unintentionally wacky, each subsequent film decided to simply embrace it and roll into the crazy. Most importantly, both do it with a straight face. As the plots get more ludicrous, both franchises keep their poker faces strong... which only makes everything even crazier. Fetishizing a Very Specific Niche Although most people will acknowledge or appreciate the talent involved in dancing and driving, they;re relatively niche hobbies/activities/lifestyles at the end of the day. But to the characters in the Fast and Furious and Step Up series, their entire lives revolve around their chosen skill. Every breath every character takes is in service of dancing/driving and it doesn;t look obsessive or deranged. Nah, it looks downright sexy. When you watch these movies, you don;t think these people are sad for having one interest and one interest only. Instead, you wonder why you aren;t out street racing or street dancing or something in between. Their lives really do look so much more interesting than yours and they only care about one thing! Willingness to Take Wild Left Turns We;ve already mentioned how both franchises have embraced the inherent silliness that;s been at their core since the start, but what;s more important than that is how they;ve refused to get stuck in a rut. It would have been extremely easy for every Fast and Furious movie to follow the cops vs. street racers template set by the first film and for every Step Up movie to replicate the drama in a dance school formula of the first movie, but almost every subsequent sequel has denied going down the easy path. Although the Step Up 2: The Streets also revolves around a dance school, the type of dancing at the core of the film and how it;s utilized in the plot is wildly different. And if you think the Fast and Furious series turning its cast of crooks into superheroes over six films was crazy, just look to Step Up Revolution (the fourth one), which finds its protagonists using dance as a unique form of political protest. All of these movie are ultimately about driving/dancing, but the packaging is always different enough to throw you for a loop. Unexpected Longevity When The Fast and the Furious opened in 2001, no one could have predicted that it would spawn five sequels (with a sixth in development), with the later films eclipsing the box office of the earlier entries. The Step Up films haven;t been quite as consistent at the box office, but it;s hard to imagine anyone seeing the franchise pump out a film every two years like clockwork, leading to five films in less than a decade. Whether you see them or skip them, the Fast and Furious and Step Up movies have become a unmovable part of the modern movie landscape. They;re here, they feel like they;ve always been here, and they;re probably not going away for a long time. Both films have burrowed themselves in for the long haul. No one saw them sticking around, but they;re going to hang around no matter what. Cast Members Reunite... and It Feels Like an Event When Vin Diesel officially returned to the franchise with Fast and Furious, it felt like an event. So the franchise doubled down on that with Fast Five, which reunited as many cast members from the previous films as possible... and it worked. Hell, it didn;t just work, it reinvigorated the entire series, transforming it into an ensemble piece where any combination of characters could prove wildly entertaining. Although cast members from previous Step Up films have popped up in later movies before, the newest film, Step Up All In, is doubling down on this concept, hoping to capture that Fast and Furious magic. Taking place at a major dance competition in Las Vegas, the film reunites characters from all four previous films, pitting them head-to-head to see who will come out on top. And Step Up 6 will probably have these characters challenging invading aliens to a dance-off. We can only hope!
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