Apple's WWDC 2013: Rumors and expectations
As a frame of reference from last year: OS X Mountain Lion went out as a developer preview in February, and was released as a finished product near the end of July. iOS 6 went out as a developer preview at WWDC in June, and was released to everyone else in late September. Apple patched bugs and added a few more features along the way. iOS 7 is expected as a follow-up to iOS 6, which first debuted at last year's WWDC. There's been much rumbling about a complete visual overhaul led by Apple's top designer Jony Ive, a detail that was confirmed by CEO Tim Cook in an interview last week. Impressively, few details of new features and functionality have leaked out ahead of Apple's reveal. Here are some of the big ones: New interface -- A report from 9to5Mac in April, as well as the New York Times in October suggested Apple was changing the design to do away with many longstanding visual features of iOS. 9to5Mac's report, in particular, suggested Apple would keep the functionality of iOS apps and features the same, but lose some of the digital facsimiles of real world objects in favor of simpler designs. A purportedly leaked shot of the new look cropped up earlier this week (pictured above). More gestures -- Also from the 9to5Mac report, Apple was said to be looking into additional ways to access basic information with gestures, similar to what it currently uses with a one-finger swipe to bring up Notification Center, and a four-finger swipe on the iPad to pull up the multitasking menu.More sharing tools - Once again from 9to5Mac is a report Apple plans to add its AirDrop file-sharing service, which is built into OS X, into iOS so that users can swap files with one another if they're on the same Wi-Fi network. The blog also adds that Apple intends to build in system-level integration to send media to Flickr and Vimeo. More Yahoo -- An April report from The Wall Street Journal (subscription required) says Apple and Yahoo are working together to bring more of Yahoo's content and services to Apple's devices. That includes more content from Yahoo's sports and news sites.OS X 10.9 is also expected to be unveiled at WWDC. This is Apple's operating system for Macs. This time last year, Apple had already taken the wraps off 10.8 as part of a developer preview, all so that it could release the software in the summer. As for what to expect this time around, the rumors have been very, very thin, with nearly every single major detail coming from a report from 9to5Mac in April:Finder with tabs -- Apple's infrequently updated file browser is said to be getting tabs, solving an age old problem that left people with multiple floating windows on their desktop. Apple Siri and Apple Maps integration-- The greatest thrust in the last two versions of OS X were bringing iOS features over to Apple's computers, and more of that is expected. Apple added a voice dictation tool in Mountain Lion, and more is expected. In November, 9to5Mac said the company was testing full-fledged versions of Siri in early builds of the software. The same report also suggested Apple was planning to integrate its homegrown maps too. Full screen apps that work -- Full-screen apps were the big new feature in Mountain Lion, but Apple botched how they worked for people with multiple monitors. This too is said to be fixed in the new version, something Apple's iOS and OS X software chief hinted at in an e-mail to a customer in October.New multitasking features -- Multitasking is a very old, and basic feature of Macs, though is said to be getting some behind-the-scenes changes that improve battery life and processing power. That's boring, but important if true.The one big question is timing on a public release, and just how ready the software will be. A report from Daring Fireball in April suggested Apple was shifting some engineers from OS X to help get the new version of iOS out the door, something that could lead to a release in the fall, or later.New hardwareEven though WWDC is about Apple's platforms, it's also been a time when the company updates and introduces new hardware. This year is no different and, in fact, ripe for improvements with a new generation of chips from Intel just hitting the market. Apple's MacBook Air.AppleBoth the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air are due for an update. There are plenty of questions surrounding just what exactly Apple's got up its sleeve though. Apple is expected to eventually add a pixel-dense Retina Display to the MacBook Air, but right now that's one of the main selling points of its highest-end MacBook Pro, which is thicker and heavier in order to power the display, not to mention more expensive. For the MacBook Pro (the non-Retina version), Apple's said to be slimming things down, according to Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst at KGI Securities who has a good track record of Apple's hardware plans. That same report also suggested Apple was further increasing the quality of its built-in FaceTime camera to support 1080p.Apple could also finally debut the Mac Pro, its desktop tower that the company publicly noted it would be relaunching at some point this year. Recent rumors suggest it's going to be a drastic change from the large, expandable tower into something akin to a souped-up Mac Minithat relies heavily on Thunderbolt for expansion.On the accessories side, there are a few things to look forward to, though mainly networking gear. Apple last updated its AirPort Extreme and Time Capsule in mid-2011, and its Airport Express about a year ago.Apple's Thunderbolt display sports some outdated tech.AppleA trio of what could be leaked product model numbers obtained by 9to5Mac are strongly believed to be new versions of Apple's AirPort wireless line that support the speedier, and increasingly ubiquitous 802.11ac standard. What were alleged to be leaked 802.11ac components headed for iMacs, were posted in the forums of an Apple enthusiast site earlier this year. More recently, code within OS X 10.8.4 (which was released on Wednesday) suggests 802.11ac support is baked into Apple's software already. Apple could also use WWDC to debut a new version of its Thunderbolt display, a product that's been outdated for close to a year since it uses an older version of Apple's MagSafe connector (version 1, instead of version 2), as well as slower USB 2.0 instead of USB 3.0. Apple's launched updated models of its displays at several developers conferences, which made a lot more sense when the product was more than three times its current $999 price tag.New servicesA new music service at a developers conference? It's happened before. Look no further than the introduction of iTunes Match at 2011's WWDC keynote. This year, all the chatter is about Apple's Pandora-like Internet radio service, commonly referred to as "iRadio."Apple's been rushing to make deals with record labels, most recently securing one with Warner Music Group and its publishing arm, Warner Chappell, to stream music to users as part of a free, ad-supported service for iOS devices. The company's already made deals with Universal Music, which is the world's largest label, and is working to close a deal with Sony, CNET has previously reported. If it can do that in time, we might just see a preview of the service at the show.Sarah Tew/CNETApple certainly has plenty of incentive to get its music service out the door. While a completely different service, rival Google launched a subscription music program at its developers conference last month, and it's headed to iOS. Meanwhile, Amazon too is said to be in talks with record labels to release its own subscription service, according to a report from The Verge in March. Sources familiar with the talks between the two companies tell CNET they are still very exploratory.Not to be left out is iCloud, the successor to the company's botched MobileMe service. It's been two years since it was introduced, and there's still plenty of room for improvement. That includes areas that consumers see, as well as what developers have been given to integrate iCloud features into their software. Case in point: the cost of the service, which gives users 5GB free, though its paid expansion offers half the storage as Dropbox at the same price, and falls even shorter when compared to plans offered by Google (both of which can be leveraged on Android devices). Developers have also complained about how difficult it is to integrate iCloud's storage and data-syncing tools into their apps.No new iPhone, iPadLast, but certainly not least, it's worth pointing out you're unlikely to see either a new iPhone or iPad at WWDC this year. While Apple has used WWDC as a launchpad for a new iPhone in the past -- specifically the iPhone 4 in 2010 -- that's highly unlikely to happen at Monday's event. One key thing to back that up is that new iPhones have come in step with the release of new versions of iOS. And as mentioned earlier, Apple relies on developers to spend several months working out bugs on that software before it's released to the public, typically just days before a new iPhone. There's also the fact that Apple's last iPhone model came out a little more than eight months ago, which is ages in the world of smartphones, but several months shy of how long Apple's gone between models in the past. Apple's Phil Schiller introduces the iPad Mini in October.James Martin/CNETAs for the iPad, it's a little more complicated. The company ticked off many when it released a fourth-generation iPad in October, just a few months after debuting the third-generation model. It's only been seven months since this last model went on sale, but there have already been plenty of rumors the company's readying a new version that takes design cues from its younger sibling.Adding to the intrigue, casemaker Gumdrop Cases has already readied a $59.99 protective cover for the next iPad, which the company says matches up with specifications it's confirmed from sources.You can get the full scoop on everything Apple ends up announcing by tuning into CNET's live blog on Monday. We plan to kick things off well before the keynote starts at 10 a.m. Pacific. You'll be able to follow along right here: CNET's live coverage of Apple's WWDC 2013 keynote
Nexus One- Smartphone revolution still on hold
Nexus One: Smartphone revolution still on hold
Google's Nexus One (complete coverage) is just a phone. It's a good phone, but does it break new ground for consumers? Not so much. Looked at in context of the history of mobile phones, it's a solid step in Google's continuing assault on new markets in general and on Apple in particular, but it's not revolutionary the way the iPhone was, and not, to my mind, worthy of the frenzy that I awoke to this morning on the blogs. Of course, the Nexus One has solid consumer advantages over Apple's phones. In the U.S., it doesn't run on AT&T, for one thing--you can get it on T-Mobile (now), Verizon (in the spring), or unlocked. It looks like it has a better screen, and it has active noise cancellation and voice control, both very cool. It has nice integration with online services like Google Maps, Facebook, and Picasa. For industry watchers, the Android platform's openness is important. Developers don't have to funnel their apps through the Google, and the platform itself is open to other manufacturers, which can lead to rapid product innovation.But none of these features is as important to the industry as the iPhone was. The iPhone was the first smartphone to really bring consumers to the mobile Web. The Android phones are riding that wave. The iPhone's second act--the App Store--changed the way applications are distributed and priced. Android is riding that as well. The iPhone is also a great iPod and iTunes client, and Android doesn't yet offer a competitive experience.The Nexus One, as shown on Google's product page.GoogleSo is the Nexus One a revolution? No. And it's a shame, since Google could--still can--upset the mobile phone market to benefit consumers. This revolution would be economic. With Google Voice, its end-run around traditional phones and voice mail, and with its newly acquired VoIP platform Gizmo5, Google could create a mobile phone infrastructure that upends the traditional lock-in and cost structure that cellular companies impose on consumers. Of course, someone still has to run the data networks and get paid for that, but we've seen businesses that hide that relationship from consumers already. MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) like Virgin Mobile resell other company's cellular bandwidth, and connected e-book readers like the Kindle and Nook hide their mobile carrier relationships as well.Google execs have said they have no plans to compete with their carriers, and it would be economically unsound for the company to do so now, when the company needs carriers for bandwidth, marketing, and distribution. But as the Apple iPhone has demonstrated, on the marketing side that need is diminishing. With the Nexus One, Google is pulling an Apple. It's pushing the carrier relationships down the marketing stack by running its own Nexus One store, on which you choose your phone first, and the carrier second, and where you pay for the new product with your Google account. I'd like to see Google take over the monthly billing and let its users switch carriers at will or manage the reselling and switching of bandwidth effectively so users don't know or care which carrier they're on (or none at all--think Wi-Fi and VoIP). Freeing U.S. consumers from the yokes of the carriers would be the real revolution. Selling a$529 unlocked Nokia-like version of the phone is a tiny step forward, but it's not a mass-market solution to carrier woes. Google could do more.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
Google's Nexus One (complete coverage) is just a phone. It's a good phone, but does it break new ground for consumers? Not so much. Looked at in context of the history of mobile phones, it's a solid step in Google's continuing assault on new markets in general and on Apple in particular, but it's not revolutionary the way the iPhone was, and not, to my mind, worthy of the frenzy that I awoke to this morning on the blogs. Of course, the Nexus One has solid consumer advantages over Apple's phones. In the U.S., it doesn't run on AT&T, for one thing--you can get it on T-Mobile (now), Verizon (in the spring), or unlocked. It looks like it has a better screen, and it has active noise cancellation and voice control, both very cool. It has nice integration with online services like Google Maps, Facebook, and Picasa. For industry watchers, the Android platform's openness is important. Developers don't have to funnel their apps through the Google, and the platform itself is open to other manufacturers, which can lead to rapid product innovation.But none of these features is as important to the industry as the iPhone was. The iPhone was the first smartphone to really bring consumers to the mobile Web. The Android phones are riding that wave. The iPhone's second act--the App Store--changed the way applications are distributed and priced. Android is riding that as well. The iPhone is also a great iPod and iTunes client, and Android doesn't yet offer a competitive experience.The Nexus One, as shown on Google's product page.GoogleSo is the Nexus One a revolution? No. And it's a shame, since Google could--still can--upset the mobile phone market to benefit consumers. This revolution would be economic. With Google Voice, its end-run around traditional phones and voice mail, and with its newly acquired VoIP platform Gizmo5, Google could create a mobile phone infrastructure that upends the traditional lock-in and cost structure that cellular companies impose on consumers. Of course, someone still has to run the data networks and get paid for that, but we've seen businesses that hide that relationship from consumers already. MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) like Virgin Mobile resell other company's cellular bandwidth, and connected e-book readers like the Kindle and Nook hide their mobile carrier relationships as well.Google execs have said they have no plans to compete with their carriers, and it would be economically unsound for the company to do so now, when the company needs carriers for bandwidth, marketing, and distribution. But as the Apple iPhone has demonstrated, on the marketing side that need is diminishing. With the Nexus One, Google is pulling an Apple. It's pushing the carrier relationships down the marketing stack by running its own Nexus One store, on which you choose your phone first, and the carrier second, and where you pay for the new product with your Google account. I'd like to see Google take over the monthly billing and let its users switch carriers at will or manage the reselling and switching of bandwidth effectively so users don't know or care which carrier they're on (or none at all--think Wi-Fi and VoIP). Freeing U.S. consumers from the yokes of the carriers would be the real revolution. Selling a$529 unlocked Nokia-like version of the phone is a tiny step forward, but it's not a mass-market solution to carrier woes. Google could do more.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
By giving credits, Apple gets credit
By giving credits, Apple gets credit
Some iPhone 3G S customers are having trouble getting their new handhelds activated.An Apple e-mail sent to those being affected by the issue said that it could take up to 48 hours to complete the device's activation.The e-mail claims the delay was due to "system issues" and "high activation volumes."It started after the iPhone 3G S was released last Friday.But not all is lost.Apple told affected customers that it would offer them a $30 iTunes Store credit for "the inconvenience this delay has caused."Apple has a proven record of trying to do what's right after it makes mistakes; this is no exception.Last year, when the writers' strike brought the entertainment industry to a halt, Apple issued a refund to all customers who purchased season passes for their favorite television shows.It didn't refund them for the entire season, but it paid them back for the episodes that were promised but not delivered.After making the controversial decision to drop the price of the first-generation 8GB iPhone from $599 to $399 in 2007, Apple gave early adopters who paid the original price a $100 Apple Store credit."Even though we are making the right decision to lower the price of iPhone, and even though the technology road is bumpy, we need to do a better job taking care of our early iPhone customers as we aggressively go after new ones with a lower price," Apple CEO Steve Jobs wrote at the time."Our early customers trusted us, and we must live up to that trust with our actions in moments like these."When iPod battery lives weren't as long as Apple claimed they would be in 2005, and class action lawsuits were filed, the company offered extended warranties and $50 store credits to consumers who issued complaints.Apple has shown a track record of responding to its mistakes.A $30 credit might not be ideal for customers, but it's better than nothing, isn't it?How many times have we dealt with tech companies that do nothing to make a situation right?On numerous occasions, I've called tech support on Windows PCs, and after trying to perform some basic troubleshooting, representatives from Dell, Hewlett-Packard, and others told me to install the Windows Recovery disc and start anew.When Twitter was down so often last year, all we heard were excuses and promises of better service.It came, but in the meantime, we were left wondering what other alternatives were available.The tech industry is filled with too many companies offering too many products that don't offer what we expect.In many cases, those problems are ignored.But Apple is one of few companies that doesn't ignore its problems.Unlike Palm, which has stayed relatively silent on its Pre's battery problems, Apple generally addresses issues with its products and gives a little something back for our trouble.It might not be ideal, but it's better than the alternative.So say what you will about the iPhone 3G S activation problems, but in handling issues like this, the company should generally get credit for giving it.Check out Don's Facebook profile, Twitter stream, and FriendFeed.
Some iPhone 3G S customers are having trouble getting their new handhelds activated.An Apple e-mail sent to those being affected by the issue said that it could take up to 48 hours to complete the device's activation.The e-mail claims the delay was due to "system issues" and "high activation volumes."It started after the iPhone 3G S was released last Friday.But not all is lost.Apple told affected customers that it would offer them a $30 iTunes Store credit for "the inconvenience this delay has caused."Apple has a proven record of trying to do what's right after it makes mistakes; this is no exception.Last year, when the writers' strike brought the entertainment industry to a halt, Apple issued a refund to all customers who purchased season passes for their favorite television shows.It didn't refund them for the entire season, but it paid them back for the episodes that were promised but not delivered.After making the controversial decision to drop the price of the first-generation 8GB iPhone from $599 to $399 in 2007, Apple gave early adopters who paid the original price a $100 Apple Store credit."Even though we are making the right decision to lower the price of iPhone, and even though the technology road is bumpy, we need to do a better job taking care of our early iPhone customers as we aggressively go after new ones with a lower price," Apple CEO Steve Jobs wrote at the time."Our early customers trusted us, and we must live up to that trust with our actions in moments like these."When iPod battery lives weren't as long as Apple claimed they would be in 2005, and class action lawsuits were filed, the company offered extended warranties and $50 store credits to consumers who issued complaints.Apple has shown a track record of responding to its mistakes.A $30 credit might not be ideal for customers, but it's better than nothing, isn't it?How many times have we dealt with tech companies that do nothing to make a situation right?On numerous occasions, I've called tech support on Windows PCs, and after trying to perform some basic troubleshooting, representatives from Dell, Hewlett-Packard, and others told me to install the Windows Recovery disc and start anew.When Twitter was down so often last year, all we heard were excuses and promises of better service.It came, but in the meantime, we were left wondering what other alternatives were available.The tech industry is filled with too many companies offering too many products that don't offer what we expect.In many cases, those problems are ignored.But Apple is one of few companies that doesn't ignore its problems.Unlike Palm, which has stayed relatively silent on its Pre's battery problems, Apple generally addresses issues with its products and gives a little something back for our trouble.It might not be ideal, but it's better than the alternative.So say what you will about the iPhone 3G S activation problems, but in handling issues like this, the company should generally get credit for giving it.Check out Don's Facebook profile, Twitter stream, and FriendFeed.
The 404 416- Where our stocks are on fire and Jill hoses us down
The 404 416: Where our stocks are on fire and Jill hoses us down
For the last couple of months, stocks have been soaring more than 50 percent since their March low. Jill says all that means is that the market doesn't think we're headed for Great Depression 2.0, but that doesn't mean we're out of trouble. In the dark, we imagine what V-, U-, and W- recoveries would look like. Strange... Justin, is that your hand on my leg?Further down the line, we jump into the health care debate. Jill tells us her generation is screwing our generation and not in a good way. Essentially, they took all the good health care, and we (the 20-somethings) will just not be able to afford the premium "best health care" in the world, when we really need it. And somehow, Wilson reveals some of his Republican leanings? Say what?Finally, we get into personal savings for the future, and we pick up the ashes of our 401(k)s. So while your parents may have lost a bundle on their retirement funds, we 20-somethings still have another 40 years before we really have to worry about our returns. Meanwhile, Social Security is a toss-up. Jill wants to advise President "Barry" Obama that the easy solution to fixing the "Third Rail" of American politics is just tying benefits to an age index. People are just living too long...death panels, any one?Wow! So we hope you finally learned something on The 404. We sure did! Send in your feedback to the usual at the404 [at] cnet [dot] com. Follow Jill on Twitter. Or leave us a voice mail at 1-866-404-CNET, and you can debate us on the finer points of the liquidity of the money supply and U6 unemployment figures.Episode 416PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Subscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio |Subscribe in RSS Video 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 Jill Schlesinger's Financial Decoder blog Jill Schlesinger's TwitterFollow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
For the last couple of months, stocks have been soaring more than 50 percent since their March low. Jill says all that means is that the market doesn't think we're headed for Great Depression 2.0, but that doesn't mean we're out of trouble. In the dark, we imagine what V-, U-, and W- recoveries would look like. Strange... Justin, is that your hand on my leg?Further down the line, we jump into the health care debate. Jill tells us her generation is screwing our generation and not in a good way. Essentially, they took all the good health care, and we (the 20-somethings) will just not be able to afford the premium "best health care" in the world, when we really need it. And somehow, Wilson reveals some of his Republican leanings? Say what?Finally, we get into personal savings for the future, and we pick up the ashes of our 401(k)s. So while your parents may have lost a bundle on their retirement funds, we 20-somethings still have another 40 years before we really have to worry about our returns. Meanwhile, Social Security is a toss-up. Jill wants to advise President "Barry" Obama that the easy solution to fixing the "Third Rail" of American politics is just tying benefits to an age index. People are just living too long...death panels, any one?Wow! So we hope you finally learned something on The 404. We sure did! Send in your feedback to the usual at the404 [at] cnet [dot] com. Follow Jill on Twitter. Or leave us a voice mail at 1-866-404-CNET, and you can debate us on the finer points of the liquidity of the money supply and U6 unemployment figures.Episode 416PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Subscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio |Subscribe in RSS Video 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 Jill Schlesinger's Financial Decoder blog Jill Schlesinger's TwitterFollow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
Microsoft still pushing 'Apple tax' notion
Microsoft still pushing 'Apple tax' notion
I made the argument when Microsoft first brought up the concept that, if it is a tax, it is a tax that a growing number of buyers seem willing to pay.Brooks said on Monday, though, that he expects the weakening economy will limit the number of people willing to pay more for a computer."More and more people are going to be scratching their head and say is that a tax I am really willing to pay," he said.He noted that the tax isn't just about the higher sticker price, but also about the lack of choice that Mac users have. Certainly there are fewer hardware options and the Mac software aisles remain far narrower as well. Brooks also tried to position the Mac as less open, pointing to the iTunes App Store as an example of Apple forcing a "walled garden" on users. Were he to be comparing the iPhone and Windows Mobile, he might arguably have a point, but last I checkeddevelopers are free to write whatever program they want for the Mac.Although I don't buy the idea that Mac users don't know there are cheaper PC options, I think the sorry state of the economy will pose challenges for all PC makers, including Apple. Consumers are clearly going to have to weigh any computer purchase against more basic needs, the prospect of not having a job, etc.That said, it is unclear who will be hurt more by the economy. Apple is in many ways akin to BMW or another automaker that plays only at the high end of the market. I expect Apple will have a tough time keeping up with recent growth trends. But, as the car market shows, the Fords, GMs, and Hyundais of the world are also taking a huge hit.I don't want to take this auto analogy too far, either. I don't see Microsoft running to Capitol Hill for a bailout anytime soon. Microsoft makes huge margins on its products. And while I hear layoffs may indeed be in the works, the company doesn't face anywhere near the structural issues of the auto industry (the Google threat notwithstanding).Brooks would not specifically comment on whether Microsoft has trimmed its PC outlook for 2009, but did say that clearly the whole global economy is far weaker than it was in October, when Microsoft issued its last forecast."It continues to be a tough economic time for everybody," Brooks said. "We continue to see that our customers are suffering out there. Click here for more Macworld Expo coverage from CNET News.
I made the argument when Microsoft first brought up the concept that, if it is a tax, it is a tax that a growing number of buyers seem willing to pay.Brooks said on Monday, though, that he expects the weakening economy will limit the number of people willing to pay more for a computer."More and more people are going to be scratching their head and say is that a tax I am really willing to pay," he said.He noted that the tax isn't just about the higher sticker price, but also about the lack of choice that Mac users have. Certainly there are fewer hardware options and the Mac software aisles remain far narrower as well. Brooks also tried to position the Mac as less open, pointing to the iTunes App Store as an example of Apple forcing a "walled garden" on users. Were he to be comparing the iPhone and Windows Mobile, he might arguably have a point, but last I checkeddevelopers are free to write whatever program they want for the Mac.Although I don't buy the idea that Mac users don't know there are cheaper PC options, I think the sorry state of the economy will pose challenges for all PC makers, including Apple. Consumers are clearly going to have to weigh any computer purchase against more basic needs, the prospect of not having a job, etc.That said, it is unclear who will be hurt more by the economy. Apple is in many ways akin to BMW or another automaker that plays only at the high end of the market. I expect Apple will have a tough time keeping up with recent growth trends. But, as the car market shows, the Fords, GMs, and Hyundais of the world are also taking a huge hit.I don't want to take this auto analogy too far, either. I don't see Microsoft running to Capitol Hill for a bailout anytime soon. Microsoft makes huge margins on its products. And while I hear layoffs may indeed be in the works, the company doesn't face anywhere near the structural issues of the auto industry (the Google threat notwithstanding).Brooks would not specifically comment on whether Microsoft has trimmed its PC outlook for 2009, but did say that clearly the whole global economy is far weaker than it was in October, when Microsoft issued its last forecast."It continues to be a tough economic time for everybody," Brooks said. "We continue to see that our customers are suffering out there. Click here for more Macworld Expo coverage from CNET News.
Google Maps for iOS gets first big update
Google Maps for iOS gets first big update
Google today pushed out its first update to its mapping software on Apple's iOS, adding a few new features. Chief among them is integration with a user's Google contact list, a feature that will pull up any addresses you have stored with Google, and not just on your phone. The update (iTunes) also adds a new option in the search menu that will quickly look for nearby points of interest, including restaurants, gas stations, movie theaters, and coffee shops. You could search for these things before, but the new menu means you don't actually have to type out the search.Google released a standalone maps app for iOS in December, three months afterApple replaced Google's technology with its own inside the Maps app that ships on iOS devices. The main attraction, besides Google's more mature set of mapping data, was spoken turn-by-turn directions, something that Android users had enjoyed for years but wasn't offered out of the box for iOS users until iOS 6.Other features in the update are the option to toggle between kilometers or miles, regardless of what country you're in, and the app's release in Bahrain, Egypt, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.Google's iOS app is still missing a few things found on the Android version. That list includes mapping layers, the offline mode that lets you save mapping tiles to your phone for use if you're away from a data connection (though it will temporarily save them once loaded), biking directions, and indoor maps. Google has not spelled out if those features will be carried over.
Google today pushed out its first update to its mapping software on Apple's iOS, adding a few new features. Chief among them is integration with a user's Google contact list, a feature that will pull up any addresses you have stored with Google, and not just on your phone. The update (iTunes) also adds a new option in the search menu that will quickly look for nearby points of interest, including restaurants, gas stations, movie theaters, and coffee shops. You could search for these things before, but the new menu means you don't actually have to type out the search.Google released a standalone maps app for iOS in December, three months afterApple replaced Google's technology with its own inside the Maps app that ships on iOS devices. The main attraction, besides Google's more mature set of mapping data, was spoken turn-by-turn directions, something that Android users had enjoyed for years but wasn't offered out of the box for iOS users until iOS 6.Other features in the update are the option to toggle between kilometers or miles, regardless of what country you're in, and the app's release in Bahrain, Egypt, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.Google's iOS app is still missing a few things found on the Android version. That list includes mapping layers, the offline mode that lets you save mapping tiles to your phone for use if you're away from a data connection (though it will temporarily save them once loaded), biking directions, and indoor maps. Google has not spelled out if those features will be carried over.
Google laptop shows Apple a thing or two
Google laptop shows Apple a thing or two
Thank you, Google. For obsoleting my MacBook. Question: What two killer hardware features are missing on MacBooks? My answer: a touch screen and 4G. What a coincidence.Just what Google is offering on the Chromebook Pixel. And in a package that comes close to matching the MacBook's aesthetics. Not everyone may agree with that.Take the laptop flat-earthers.They will say touch is stupid (or "pointless" as one columnist said) on a laptop.Yeah right, just like the mouse was a stupid idea.Related storiesGoogle Chromebook Pixel reviewThen there's Apple's your-arm-wants-to-fall-off on vertical touch surfaces excuse. That will eventually give way to a touch-screen MacBook of some sort. You heard it here first. The point is, Google knows (they're not stupid) that touch is important on a laptop. As does Microsoft (Windows 8 and Surface).That leaves Apple in Luddite land. 4G: And some might say that a Chromebook needs 4G more than a MacBook because the Chromebook is so immersed in the cloud. Hmm, my MacBook spends lots of time in the cloud too. And the last time I used it on the road, I was constantly hauling out my Verizon MiFi or running down my iPhone's battery with the Personal Hotspot.Come on, LTE belongs in a laptop.And the operating system?I believe that cool hardware is the first step in luring consumers to a new operating environment.While Chrome OS is still a work in progress (and lacks key features that many users need), with the success of Android, I do think it's possible that an improved Chrome OS combined with a second-generation Chromebook Pixel could reel in more consumers. Google certainly has my attention. Google Chromebook Pixel.CNET
Thank you, Google. For obsoleting my MacBook. Question: What two killer hardware features are missing on MacBooks? My answer: a touch screen and 4G. What a coincidence.Just what Google is offering on the Chromebook Pixel. And in a package that comes close to matching the MacBook's aesthetics. Not everyone may agree with that.Take the laptop flat-earthers.They will say touch is stupid (or "pointless" as one columnist said) on a laptop.Yeah right, just like the mouse was a stupid idea.Related storiesGoogle Chromebook Pixel reviewThen there's Apple's your-arm-wants-to-fall-off on vertical touch surfaces excuse. That will eventually give way to a touch-screen MacBook of some sort. You heard it here first. The point is, Google knows (they're not stupid) that touch is important on a laptop. As does Microsoft (Windows 8 and Surface).That leaves Apple in Luddite land. 4G: And some might say that a Chromebook needs 4G more than a MacBook because the Chromebook is so immersed in the cloud. Hmm, my MacBook spends lots of time in the cloud too. And the last time I used it on the road, I was constantly hauling out my Verizon MiFi or running down my iPhone's battery with the Personal Hotspot.Come on, LTE belongs in a laptop.And the operating system?I believe that cool hardware is the first step in luring consumers to a new operating environment.While Chrome OS is still a work in progress (and lacks key features that many users need), with the success of Android, I do think it's possible that an improved Chrome OS combined with a second-generation Chromebook Pixel could reel in more consumers. Google certainly has my attention. Google Chromebook Pixel.CNET
Google Chrome already No. 1 among free iOS apps
Google Chrome already No. 1 among free iOS apps
Google's new Chrome browser for Apple's iOS seems to be a hit.Released on Tuesday but available only since yesterday, the new mobile version is the top free app in both the iPhone and iPad categories. Google created dedicated versions for both devices, so iPad users running the browser can take advantage of the tablet's ample 9.7-inch screen.Chrome now joins Opera, Dolphin, and other browsers as yet another alternative to mobile Safari for iOS users. The Chrome app has also made its splash in the Android world, officially out of beta mode and available through Google Play.Mobile Chrome offers some of the same features as its larger desktop cousin, including an integrated address and search box, tabbed browsing, and the ability to switch the position of tabs. An Incognito feature lets you browse securely without having your history tracked.Chrome for iOS also lets you view your open tabs, bookmarks, and passwords from other computers and devices running the browser. And you can send Web pages from your PC to your iOS device to read them remotely, even if you're not online.The new app has been garnering rave reviews from the iOS crowd. A peek at the 3,574 ratings tallied so far reveals a full 2,855 users rewarding Chrome with a 5-star thumbs up.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.PlayDownload.com review: Google Chrome for iOS
Google's new Chrome browser for Apple's iOS seems to be a hit.Released on Tuesday but available only since yesterday, the new mobile version is the top free app in both the iPhone and iPad categories. Google created dedicated versions for both devices, so iPad users running the browser can take advantage of the tablet's ample 9.7-inch screen.Chrome now joins Opera, Dolphin, and other browsers as yet another alternative to mobile Safari for iOS users. The Chrome app has also made its splash in the Android world, officially out of beta mode and available through Google Play.Mobile Chrome offers some of the same features as its larger desktop cousin, including an integrated address and search box, tabbed browsing, and the ability to switch the position of tabs. An Incognito feature lets you browse securely without having your history tracked.Chrome for iOS also lets you view your open tabs, bookmarks, and passwords from other computers and devices running the browser. And you can send Web pages from your PC to your iOS device to read them remotely, even if you're not online.The new app has been garnering rave reviews from the iOS crowd. A peek at the 3,574 ratings tallied so far reveals a full 2,855 users rewarding Chrome with a 5-star thumbs up.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.PlayDownload.com review: Google Chrome for iOS
Google brand reputation tops all others in U.S.
Google brand reputation tops all others in U.S.
Google has the best reputation of any company in the U.S., a new study from Harris Interactive has found.According to the research firm, Google secured a reputation quotient (RQ) of 84.05, easily besting the second-place company, Johnson & Johnson. The conglomerate 3M and conglomerate holding company Berkshire Hathaway came in third place and fourth place, respectively. Apple was able to nab the fifth spot in the study with an 82.05 RQ.Harris Interactive's reputation quotient is determined by surveying more than 30,000 Americans on their opinions of the top 60 "most visible companies" in the U.S. Harris Interactive groups the responses into six categories that matter most to a firm's reputation, including emotional appeal, products and services, social responsibility, vision and leadership, workplace environment, and financial performance.Aside from earning the best reputation, Google secured the top spot in financial performance and workplace environment. Intel earned top honors in products and services.Outside of the top five, the technology industry performed exceptionally well in Harris Interactive's study. Intel, Amazon, Sony, and Microsoft all made it into the top 16. For the first time, Facebook made a showing in the list, securing the 31st spot. All told, the technology sector was viewed most favorably by Americans--75 percent of respondents gave the industry a "positive rating," Harris said today.One other interesting tidbit from Harris Interactive's study: insurance and financial services giant AIG was the lowest-ranked corporation, followed closely by oil and giant company BP and investment banking and securities firm Goldman Sachs.Here are the lowest-rated companies per Harris' survey.Harris Interactive
Google has the best reputation of any company in the U.S., a new study from Harris Interactive has found.According to the research firm, Google secured a reputation quotient (RQ) of 84.05, easily besting the second-place company, Johnson & Johnson. The conglomerate 3M and conglomerate holding company Berkshire Hathaway came in third place and fourth place, respectively. Apple was able to nab the fifth spot in the study with an 82.05 RQ.Harris Interactive's reputation quotient is determined by surveying more than 30,000 Americans on their opinions of the top 60 "most visible companies" in the U.S. Harris Interactive groups the responses into six categories that matter most to a firm's reputation, including emotional appeal, products and services, social responsibility, vision and leadership, workplace environment, and financial performance.Aside from earning the best reputation, Google secured the top spot in financial performance and workplace environment. Intel earned top honors in products and services.Outside of the top five, the technology industry performed exceptionally well in Harris Interactive's study. Intel, Amazon, Sony, and Microsoft all made it into the top 16. For the first time, Facebook made a showing in the list, securing the 31st spot. All told, the technology sector was viewed most favorably by Americans--75 percent of respondents gave the industry a "positive rating," Harris said today.One other interesting tidbit from Harris Interactive's study: insurance and financial services giant AIG was the lowest-ranked corporation, followed closely by oil and giant company BP and investment banking and securities firm Goldman Sachs.Here are the lowest-rated companies per Harris' survey.Harris Interactive
Google axes UDID support with updated SDK for AdMob
Google axes UDID support with updated SDK for AdMob
Google released an AdMob SDK for iOS developers today that completes its transition away from allowing apps access to Unique Device Identifiers, weeks before Apple's official deadline for retiring the system.UDIDs are the unique string of numbers that individually identifies each cellular device. Typically, they have been used by developers to track app installations across Apple's user base. Tracking users lets companies tailor advertising to each individual, but it also raises a host of privacy concerns.In response to those concerns, Apple announced last month that, as of May 1, it would no longer accept new apps or app updates that access UDIDs, but the announcement wasn't a total surprise. The company announced in March 2012 that it was beginning to roll out a rejection process for apps that access UDIDs.The update, which was announced on Google's Developer blog, includes a number of bug fixes and maintenance updates: Fix for GADInterstitial crash that occurs when app is running in the backgroundFix for GADMRAIDInterceptor threading crashRenaming symbols to prevent duplicate symbol errorsSupport for receiving test ads when using AdMob through mediationTest ads are only available on devices running iOS 6 and above Google acquired AdMob for $750 million in 2010, giving the Web giant a leg up in the quickly evolving world of mobile advertising. In addition to serving up ads on thousands of Web sites, the acquisition also offered Google direct access to data on mobile trends gleaned from the traffic AdMob managed.
Google released an AdMob SDK for iOS developers today that completes its transition away from allowing apps access to Unique Device Identifiers, weeks before Apple's official deadline for retiring the system.UDIDs are the unique string of numbers that individually identifies each cellular device. Typically, they have been used by developers to track app installations across Apple's user base. Tracking users lets companies tailor advertising to each individual, but it also raises a host of privacy concerns.In response to those concerns, Apple announced last month that, as of May 1, it would no longer accept new apps or app updates that access UDIDs, but the announcement wasn't a total surprise. The company announced in March 2012 that it was beginning to roll out a rejection process for apps that access UDIDs.The update, which was announced on Google's Developer blog, includes a number of bug fixes and maintenance updates: Fix for GADInterstitial crash that occurs when app is running in the backgroundFix for GADMRAIDInterceptor threading crashRenaming symbols to prevent duplicate symbol errorsSupport for receiving test ads when using AdMob through mediationTest ads are only available on devices running iOS 6 and above Google acquired AdMob for $750 million in 2010, giving the Web giant a leg up in the quickly evolving world of mobile advertising. In addition to serving up ads on thousands of Web sites, the acquisition also offered Google direct access to data on mobile trends gleaned from the traffic AdMob managed.
Apple posts, removes Sharp 4K display: Sign of things to come
Apple briefly posted a Sharp 4K monitor for sale on its European online stores, then removed it. Could this herald 4K displays from Apple? On Friday, IDG News Service and other Apple blogs posted news about a Sharp 4K display for sale on Apple's European online stores. Then -- as of Sunday night Pacific Time -- Apple removed the display, as MacRumors pointed out. The phantom Sharp display is the 32-inch PN-K321.Its specs include a 3,840x2,160 4K Ultra HD screen based on Sharp's IGZO technology,1.07 billion color palette, 350 cd/m2 brightness; and a 800:1 contrast ratio. Apple's new Retina MacBook Pros are able to support a 4K monitor and the upcoming Mac Pro can handle three 4K displays. The new Mac Pro has fueled speculation that Apple will have to meet the need from professionals for an ultra-high-resolution display. Apple's current 27-inch Thunderbolt display is good for resolutions up to 2,560x1,440 pixels. This development follows Dell's introduction of a 24-inch 4K display that will retail for $3,499.
Apple posts Steve Jobs celebration video
Following an employees' memorial to its late co-founder, Apple is posting a video recording of the event on its Web site.Apple held the Steve Jobs celebration for its employees at its headquarters and at its retail locations on October 19. The video was visible a first, but later the Celebrating Steve page said. "Available soon. Please check back later." (As of 9:45 a.m. PT Monday, the page and video are up and running just fine.) Former Vice President and Apple board member Al Gore spoke, as did new chief executive Tim Cook and Apple design guru Jonathan Ive. The 80-minute video also features musical performances by Coldplay and Nora Jones. That event at the Cupertino, Calif., campus followed a private memorial for Jobs on October 16 in which friends, family, and colleagues gathered amid heavy security on Stanford University's campus to pay tribute to the late Apple co-founder. Jobs, who died October 5 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer, was buried a few days later during a private, non-denominational funeral in Santa Clara County.
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