A year out, where's RIAA's promised ISP help?
Music execs had told me much the same thing and I wrote last year that AT&T and Comcast were testing their own graduated responses. But a year after the Journal's initial story, the number of ISPs that have acknowledged adopting the RIAA's graduated response program is zero. In addition, many of the big ISPs, such as AT&T and Comcast, have gone out of their way to deny that they would ever interrupt service to customers simply because they were accused of copyright violations by the film or music industries. To do that, they would need a court order. Some ISPs, including AT&T, Comcast, and Verizon, appear to be sending greater numbers of their own warning letters--in addition to those sent by content owners--to customers suspected of file sharing. The letters typically notify customers that they have been accused of illegally sharing songs and informed them that such activity is illegal.But here's the big question about the RIAA's graduated response plan: is it worth anything without a legitimate threat backing it up? It's difficult to believe that sending letters is enough of a deterrent.Mitch Bainwol, the RIAA's chairman and CEO, acknowledges that his organization hasn't achieved all of the goals it laid out a year ago, but he says that the ISP strategy is well thought out, progressing, and has already seen dramatic results. "We've seen a million notices [from ISPs to customers suspected of file sharing] go out over the past year and that is certainly meaningful," Bainwol told CNET last week. "Are we prepared to make an announcement that is broad in scope and cuts across ISPs? No. Are we engaged in significant discussions that we believe will ultimately prove productive? Hell yes."Maybe so, but these deals were supposed to have been done or nearly done a year ago. What happened to those "hashed out preliminary agreements" that the Journal wrote about?Missing teethMultiple music sources have told me over the past month the RIAA leaders were feeling pressure to drop the lawsuit campaign, but were also being lobbied by some at the labels to put some kind of deterrent in place, even if totally toothless. They didn't want the public to think there weren't any consequences to pirating music, even if the reality was exactly that. "Are we prepared to make an announcement that is broad in scope and cuts across ISPs? No. Are we engaged in significant discussions that we believe will ultimately prove productive? Hell yes."--RIAA CEO Mitch BainwolAccording to those sources, the announcement about the ISP strategy last December was little more than a scarecrow. Bainwol didn't comment on that but did say: "The substance of our pivot to ISPs is in fact accurate. The broader arrangement that cuts across the ISP community is still out there to be tied down. There clearly are discussions going on."The reason that some at the labels wanted an end to the litigation is that for years it brought down mountains of public scorn. The lawsuits were also expensive and RIAA's members wanted costs slashed, which happened earlier this year. The decision was made to continue to pursue the suits already in the courts, but the widescale practice of suing individuals was over. Here's the other reason that several of the music-industry sources say the RIAA acted before any deal was done: to fire a shot across the bow of some of ISPs that were dragging their feet. By spreading the word that the RIAA had sewn up a deal with a group of big ISPs, RIAA managers hoped they were ratcheting up the pressure to join, sources say.They alsoturned to Andrew Cuomo, New York's state attorney general, to nudge the ISPs into fighting piracy in the same way he pushed them to combat child pornography, said two music industry sources. This not only rubbed some ISP execs the wrong way, but unlike with the porn problem, the law was all on the side of the ISPs. Nothing in the Digital Millennium Copyright Act requires ISPs to adopt a graduated response or even send their own warning letters. "I don't know that the (ISPs) are legally obliged to do it," said Jonathan Zittrain, a noted cyberlaw expert and author. "I don't know any ISP that has been sued over it...The industry has chosen not to provoke a fight."One reason for that may be that many bandwith providers want greater access to top entertainment content. The best example of that is Comcast's proposed acquisition of NBC Universal. To many in the film and music sectors, it appears that the interests of entertainment companies and ISPs are aligning. "We've seen great progress and great cooperation from many of the ISPs," Bainwol said. "Getting to a public uniform understanding about how we're going to work together is obviously an extraordinarily complicated endeavor...[piracy] is a problem that developed over years and a solution is going to take time but we're achieving progress toward that goal."Some progressTo be sure, in some ways the music industry's digital strategy has never been in better shape. It's never been easier or less expensive to acquire music legally than it is at such sources as iTunes, Amazon, and Pandora. The music sector hasn't obtained a three-strikes policy in the United States, but it's been much more successful in forcing ISPs based overseas to boot repeat copyright offenders from their networks. And some ISPs, including Cox Communications, established antipiracy policies long ago that were similar to the RIAA's graduated response. But since the U.S. is a tougher environment when it comes to discussing service interruption, has Bainwol altered his definition of "graduated response"?"I'm not locked into any particular definition," Bainwol said. "I think the parties that are negotiating and having discussions about what kind of program is appropriate will define how you work a graduated response program. The question here is: Are we working with the ISPs? Will there be some kind of graduated response program, where the infringer is made aware when they're caught and also when there are escalating tensions. "We'll be flexible about how we get to a deal," Bainwol continued. "We'll let others define the poles of the position."
Sunday, May 10, 2015
Thursday, May 7, 2015
How to use Spotlight search in iOS 8 to find more results
How to use Spotlight search in iOS 8 to find more results
With the launch of iOS 8, Apple has beefed up the search capabilities in its Spotlight feature. Previously designed to search for items just on your iPhone or iPad, Spotlight has been a handy tool for finding emails, appointments, contacts, music and other locally stored items. But in iOS 8, the search universe has expanded way beyond just your local device. Here's how the new Spotlight works: Trigger Spotlight by swiping your finger down from just below the top of your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch. The search field now says: "Spotlight Search" instead of just "Search iPhone" or "Search iPad." The screen also explains the types of items you can now find. Beyond searching your local device, Spotlight will offer suggestions from the Internet, iTunes and the App Store. It can also locate nearby locations, showtimes for movies, the latest news and even items from Wikipedia. For example, I opened Spotlight and typed "Guardians of the Galaxy," the new movie that's been in theaters for a while. In response, Spotlight pointed me to a local theater where I could see the film, as well as to a Wikipedia entry on the movie. It also served up links to various Web sites about the film, including the flick's IMDB page, an Amazon page selling the soundtrack and a Marvel website on the movie. A search for "CNET" pointed me to the CNET website as well as websites about CNET, various CNET contacts, emails, events and the CNET mobile app. Asking Spotlight to track down "Mexican restaurants" showed me a couple such restaurants in my neighborhood, along with a few related websites. And searching for "Robin Williams" conjured up a Wikipedia entry on the late actor and comedian, a Robin Williams comedy album stored on my iPhone and a different album that I could purchase on iTunes. In most cases, Spotlight shows you just a link to the item you want, so you have to tap the link to drill down further and see the full entry. The new Spotlight is a handy way to delve beyond content that's stored on your local device. But you can limit its capabilities through the Settings page should you wish.30 tips every new iOS 8 user should knowSee full gallery1 - 4 / 31NextPrev Open the Settings app on your iOS device. Tap the General tab and then tap Spotlight Search. The results show you check marks in front of all the different types of items Spotlight will find in a search. To filter out a certain item from the search, simply tap it to remove the check mark. For example, tapping off Bing Web Results will prevent Spotlight from scouring the Web for information. By default, your Spotlight searches and related information are sent to Apple. On its privacy screen for Spotlight, the company says it doesn't store your searches and instead uses the data to try to make its search suggestions more relevant. However, those of you concerned about privacy may still wish to turn off the entry for Spotlight Suggestions to prevent your search queries from being shared in this way.For more helpful iOS 8 tips, be sure to check out our complete guide to iOS 8.
With the launch of iOS 8, Apple has beefed up the search capabilities in its Spotlight feature. Previously designed to search for items just on your iPhone or iPad, Spotlight has been a handy tool for finding emails, appointments, contacts, music and other locally stored items. But in iOS 8, the search universe has expanded way beyond just your local device. Here's how the new Spotlight works: Trigger Spotlight by swiping your finger down from just below the top of your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch. The search field now says: "Spotlight Search" instead of just "Search iPhone" or "Search iPad." The screen also explains the types of items you can now find. Beyond searching your local device, Spotlight will offer suggestions from the Internet, iTunes and the App Store. It can also locate nearby locations, showtimes for movies, the latest news and even items from Wikipedia. For example, I opened Spotlight and typed "Guardians of the Galaxy," the new movie that's been in theaters for a while. In response, Spotlight pointed me to a local theater where I could see the film, as well as to a Wikipedia entry on the movie. It also served up links to various Web sites about the film, including the flick's IMDB page, an Amazon page selling the soundtrack and a Marvel website on the movie. A search for "CNET" pointed me to the CNET website as well as websites about CNET, various CNET contacts, emails, events and the CNET mobile app. Asking Spotlight to track down "Mexican restaurants" showed me a couple such restaurants in my neighborhood, along with a few related websites. And searching for "Robin Williams" conjured up a Wikipedia entry on the late actor and comedian, a Robin Williams comedy album stored on my iPhone and a different album that I could purchase on iTunes. In most cases, Spotlight shows you just a link to the item you want, so you have to tap the link to drill down further and see the full entry. The new Spotlight is a handy way to delve beyond content that's stored on your local device. But you can limit its capabilities through the Settings page should you wish.30 tips every new iOS 8 user should knowSee full gallery1 - 4 / 31NextPrev Open the Settings app on your iOS device. Tap the General tab and then tap Spotlight Search. The results show you check marks in front of all the different types of items Spotlight will find in a search. To filter out a certain item from the search, simply tap it to remove the check mark. For example, tapping off Bing Web Results will prevent Spotlight from scouring the Web for information. By default, your Spotlight searches and related information are sent to Apple. On its privacy screen for Spotlight, the company says it doesn't store your searches and instead uses the data to try to make its search suggestions more relevant. However, those of you concerned about privacy may still wish to turn off the entry for Spotlight Suggestions to prevent your search queries from being shared in this way.For more helpful iOS 8 tips, be sure to check out our complete guide to iOS 8.
Sunday, May 3, 2015
App Store price fluctuation angering some iPhone users
App Store price fluctuation angering some iPhone users
When Konami's Frogger popped up in the iPhone App Store early Wednesday, the $9.99 price tag immediately set off a firestorm of angry user reviews. Apple's review system has doubled as a forum for users who find bugs, or otherwise feel the need to vent about the shortcomings of various developer-built applications.The rather exorbitant price tag for a 26-year-old software title has been met with overwhelmingly negative reaction from potential customers, even though it's been rewritten to include iPhone-hardware-specific controls using the accelerometer and touch screen. Similar offerings that have started out at the same price point have succumbed to outspoken users and have issued price drops.On the other end of the spectrum, there's something very different going on with developers who have offered their applications for free. They've found a fairly simple way to work Apple's own ranking system to their advantage. Since developers are able to change their price point at any time, some have offered early versions of their applications free of charge then switched the price over once it reaches a critical mass.While this move is perfectly reasonable for the people who created a good application to profit from their success, it's also taking advantage of the way Apple displays its information. Apple's top applications section as seen from both the mobile application store and iTunes lists both the free and the paid titles. Once a popular free application switches to being paid, it can jump lists. In most cases the number of free downloads jumps it to the top of the paid applications list, even if that doesn't necessarily mean the proportionate number of users has paid for it.Some users have called for Apple to reset or make separate an application's download counter in the case that a free application goes paid, if only to bring a sense of order. Meanwhile, some paid applications that have been running the paid leaderboard for weeks have been knocked out by these smaller, older applications.In the case of Crazy Lighter developed by Ezone.com, the switch from free to paid put it on top of the paid applications list. Coming up just behind is BreakClassic, another free app that switched to being paid. Both are only 99 cents, but users seem far more content with BreakClassic's approach, which has added more levels and functionality than it had before.Ultimately, it will be up to consumers, not Apple, to police the applications marketplace. To an extent, equilibrium has already been reached; Apple's built-in review system has managed to at least offer warning to would-be buyers about potential problems others have been having--something quite different from the the original intent of the same review system put in place for music, movies, and audio books. Going forward, it would be wise for Apple to offer much deeper capabilities in the rating system to give users commenting, threaded discussion forums, and a way to track price changes throughout the history of an application.
When Konami's Frogger popped up in the iPhone App Store early Wednesday, the $9.99 price tag immediately set off a firestorm of angry user reviews. Apple's review system has doubled as a forum for users who find bugs, or otherwise feel the need to vent about the shortcomings of various developer-built applications.The rather exorbitant price tag for a 26-year-old software title has been met with overwhelmingly negative reaction from potential customers, even though it's been rewritten to include iPhone-hardware-specific controls using the accelerometer and touch screen. Similar offerings that have started out at the same price point have succumbed to outspoken users and have issued price drops.On the other end of the spectrum, there's something very different going on with developers who have offered their applications for free. They've found a fairly simple way to work Apple's own ranking system to their advantage. Since developers are able to change their price point at any time, some have offered early versions of their applications free of charge then switched the price over once it reaches a critical mass.While this move is perfectly reasonable for the people who created a good application to profit from their success, it's also taking advantage of the way Apple displays its information. Apple's top applications section as seen from both the mobile application store and iTunes lists both the free and the paid titles. Once a popular free application switches to being paid, it can jump lists. In most cases the number of free downloads jumps it to the top of the paid applications list, even if that doesn't necessarily mean the proportionate number of users has paid for it.Some users have called for Apple to reset or make separate an application's download counter in the case that a free application goes paid, if only to bring a sense of order. Meanwhile, some paid applications that have been running the paid leaderboard for weeks have been knocked out by these smaller, older applications.In the case of Crazy Lighter developed by Ezone.com, the switch from free to paid put it on top of the paid applications list. Coming up just behind is BreakClassic, another free app that switched to being paid. Both are only 99 cents, but users seem far more content with BreakClassic's approach, which has added more levels and functionality than it had before.Ultimately, it will be up to consumers, not Apple, to police the applications marketplace. To an extent, equilibrium has already been reached; Apple's built-in review system has managed to at least offer warning to would-be buyers about potential problems others have been having--something quite different from the the original intent of the same review system put in place for music, movies, and audio books. Going forward, it would be wise for Apple to offer much deeper capabilities in the rating system to give users commenting, threaded discussion forums, and a way to track price changes throughout the history of an application.
Sunday, April 19, 2015
Rumor Has It, Ep. 2- Amazon grosses us out (podcast)
Rumor Has It, Ep. 2: Amazon grosses us out (podcast)
We changed the rules a little and decided to vote on all the rumors, rather than picking just one. That way we can get more points on the board; remember that the winner at the end of the month gets to make the other person do something embarrassing (as if the "Muffin Top" song wasn't embarrassing enough). Also this week, Yahoo puts on some lipstick and waits for suitors, and Karyne wonders why; Samsung stirs the rumor pot by sending out an invite for an event where it will announce something big and swoopy; cable providers might fulfill Emily's dreams; and Amazon Silk may just be the grossest name for anything ever. In the entire world.Check out the show and see which one of us got a point this week (hint: it might not have been fair, but at least one of us is a gentleman about it). And tune in next Tuesday at 10 a.m. PT, when Sharon Vaknin will step in for Emily and bet on her behalf. EPISODE 2DragCloseThis 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.Subscribe:Â RSS (MP3) |Â RSS (320x180) |Â RSS (640x360) |Â iTunes (MP3) |Â iTunes (320x180) |Â iTunes (640x360)PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Show notes:Yahoo no longer playing hard-to-get, report saysReuters reports Microsoft wants to buy, againSamsung to show off Nexus Prime at Oct. 11 event?Samsung's next Android phone looks a lot swoopierSamsung flexy phone!In switch, cable operators want to go 'a la carte'Amazon Silk is not just for Fire tabletsFollow us on Twitter! @EmilyDreyfuss, @karynelevy, @RumorShow. Heard a tech rumor you think we should cover? E-mail karyne.levy [at] cnet.com.
We changed the rules a little and decided to vote on all the rumors, rather than picking just one. That way we can get more points on the board; remember that the winner at the end of the month gets to make the other person do something embarrassing (as if the "Muffin Top" song wasn't embarrassing enough). Also this week, Yahoo puts on some lipstick and waits for suitors, and Karyne wonders why; Samsung stirs the rumor pot by sending out an invite for an event where it will announce something big and swoopy; cable providers might fulfill Emily's dreams; and Amazon Silk may just be the grossest name for anything ever. In the entire world.Check out the show and see which one of us got a point this week (hint: it might not have been fair, but at least one of us is a gentleman about it). And tune in next Tuesday at 10 a.m. PT, when Sharon Vaknin will step in for Emily and bet on her behalf. EPISODE 2DragCloseThis 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.Subscribe:Â RSS (MP3) |Â RSS (320x180) |Â RSS (640x360) |Â iTunes (MP3) |Â iTunes (320x180) |Â iTunes (640x360)PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Show notes:Yahoo no longer playing hard-to-get, report saysReuters reports Microsoft wants to buy, againSamsung to show off Nexus Prime at Oct. 11 event?Samsung's next Android phone looks a lot swoopierSamsung flexy phone!In switch, cable operators want to go 'a la carte'Amazon Silk is not just for Fire tabletsFollow us on Twitter! @EmilyDreyfuss, @karynelevy, @RumorShow. Heard a tech rumor you think we should cover? E-mail karyne.levy [at] cnet.com.
Friday, April 17, 2015
How to download the free U2 album
How to download the free U2 album
If you haven't already heard, Apple and U2 are giving away a copy of the band's latest album "Songs of Innocence" to more than 500 million users to tie in with the launch of the iPhone 6 and Watch.Related stories5.5-inch iPhone 6 Plus makes a splashSapphire-display Apple iWatch is hereAll the news from Apple's Sept 9 eventThe album is available to stream or to download from the iTunes store, but finding the album can be a bit tricky if you don't know where to look. Here are the steps to help you find the free download.There are two slightly different methods depending on whether you are using a desktop with iTunes or an iOS device. iTunes on desktopFirst, you'll need to open up iTunes and be signed in with your Apple ID. Then, head to the Store. The easiest way to grab the album is to click on the U2 banner in the rotating carousel at the top of the screen. However, if you can't see this option, here's the alternate method.On the right hand side of the screen under "Quick Links" and click on Purchased.The next screen you see should look like the one below, otherwise select the Albums tab. From here, click the cloud icon to begin the download. Screenshot by Lexy Savvides/CNETThe album will also be streaming on iTunes Radio shortly. iPhone and iOS devicesThe easiest way to find "Songs of Innocence" on iOS is to open the Music app. From here head to Artists and look under for U2, or press More and search under Albums for the title.Tap on the album title and press the cloud icon to download to your device. Alternatively, the album may show up if you open the iTunes Store and look under Purchased items. The release does seem to be staggered across Apple IDs, so if you can't download it just yet, keep checking back. If you want to download the album, make sure you do it before October 13, which is when the offer ends.
If you haven't already heard, Apple and U2 are giving away a copy of the band's latest album "Songs of Innocence" to more than 500 million users to tie in with the launch of the iPhone 6 and Watch.Related stories5.5-inch iPhone 6 Plus makes a splashSapphire-display Apple iWatch is hereAll the news from Apple's Sept 9 eventThe album is available to stream or to download from the iTunes store, but finding the album can be a bit tricky if you don't know where to look. Here are the steps to help you find the free download.There are two slightly different methods depending on whether you are using a desktop with iTunes or an iOS device. iTunes on desktopFirst, you'll need to open up iTunes and be signed in with your Apple ID. Then, head to the Store. The easiest way to grab the album is to click on the U2 banner in the rotating carousel at the top of the screen. However, if you can't see this option, here's the alternate method.On the right hand side of the screen under "Quick Links" and click on Purchased.The next screen you see should look like the one below, otherwise select the Albums tab. From here, click the cloud icon to begin the download. Screenshot by Lexy Savvides/CNETThe album will also be streaming on iTunes Radio shortly. iPhone and iOS devicesThe easiest way to find "Songs of Innocence" on iOS is to open the Music app. From here head to Artists and look under for U2, or press More and search under Albums for the title.Tap on the album title and press the cloud icon to download to your device. Alternatively, the album may show up if you open the iTunes Store and look under Purchased items. The release does seem to be staggered across Apple IDs, so if you can't download it just yet, keep checking back. If you want to download the album, make sure you do it before October 13, which is when the offer ends.
Sorry devs, Apple's WWDC lottery is now closed
Sorry devs, Apple's WWDC lottery is now closed
For those who didn't already register for Apple's annual developers confab, you're now out of luck. Ticket selection this year will be determined by lottery, and the deadline to enter your name was 10 a.m. PT on Monday. Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference, which takes place in San Francisco's Moscone Center West from June 2 to 6, usually sells out within minutes. So this year, in an effort to open up the process, the company has opted for a lottery system. Chosen developers will be notified by 5 p.m. on Monday. Tickets cost $1,599.Related storiesiOS 8 will have health focus, work with iWatch, sources sayApple reportedly eyes iTunes Radio as separate app in iOS 8Part of the allure of a gathering like this is exclusivity, but given the high demand of the conference, it's a wonder Apple hasn't moved it to another venue, like it has sometimes in the past when there have been scheduling conflicts at Moscone West. Apple didn't immediately respond to questions about venue considerations.As always around Apple events, the rumor mill is churning in the months leading up to the conference. Some speculate that the company could introduce iOS 8, which is expected to have a health-tracking bent. There's also the question of iTunes Radio being made into a standalone app in the new mobile OS. As it stands now, the service is bundled with the main iTunes app.
For those who didn't already register for Apple's annual developers confab, you're now out of luck. Ticket selection this year will be determined by lottery, and the deadline to enter your name was 10 a.m. PT on Monday. Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference, which takes place in San Francisco's Moscone Center West from June 2 to 6, usually sells out within minutes. So this year, in an effort to open up the process, the company has opted for a lottery system. Chosen developers will be notified by 5 p.m. on Monday. Tickets cost $1,599.Related storiesiOS 8 will have health focus, work with iWatch, sources sayApple reportedly eyes iTunes Radio as separate app in iOS 8Part of the allure of a gathering like this is exclusivity, but given the high demand of the conference, it's a wonder Apple hasn't moved it to another venue, like it has sometimes in the past when there have been scheduling conflicts at Moscone West. Apple didn't immediately respond to questions about venue considerations.As always around Apple events, the rumor mill is churning in the months leading up to the conference. Some speculate that the company could introduce iOS 8, which is expected to have a health-tracking bent. There's also the question of iTunes Radio being made into a standalone app in the new mobile OS. As it stands now, the service is bundled with the main iTunes app.
Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac is free (and a good idea)
Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac is free (and a good idea)
Many Mac users also don't realize that your Mac can still transmit and spread Windows-targeted viruses. If you get a file with a virus, it may not affect your machine, but if you send it to a friend with a PC, his or her computer could get infected. The Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac solution promises to catch these types of files and help you get rid of them safely."You get business-grade protection for your Mac backed by our SophosLabs experts--they're on the job every day of the year, 24 hours a day. We'll stop, quarantine and clean up Mac or Windows threats that try to infect your computer. We can even stop new, unknown threats." Get all your disks, files, and connections cleared.SophosYou can download Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac here. Two more reviews can be read here and here. You can also check out a video preview from Sophos here.What are your thoughts about antivirus protection on Macs? Let me know in the comments!Be sure to follow MacFixIt on Twitter and contribute to the CNET Mac forums.
Many Mac users also don't realize that your Mac can still transmit and spread Windows-targeted viruses. If you get a file with a virus, it may not affect your machine, but if you send it to a friend with a PC, his or her computer could get infected. The Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac solution promises to catch these types of files and help you get rid of them safely."You get business-grade protection for your Mac backed by our SophosLabs experts--they're on the job every day of the year, 24 hours a day. We'll stop, quarantine and clean up Mac or Windows threats that try to infect your computer. We can even stop new, unknown threats." Get all your disks, files, and connections cleared.SophosYou can download Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac here. Two more reviews can be read here and here. You can also check out a video preview from Sophos here.What are your thoughts about antivirus protection on Macs? Let me know in the comments!Be sure to follow MacFixIt on Twitter and contribute to the CNET Mac forums.
Thursday, April 16, 2015
Apple now shipping new iPod Touch
Apple now shipping new iPod Touch
Those of you who ordered Apple's new iPod Touch may soon see one at your doorstep.Apple seems to have just started shipping the latest iPod Touch to buyers today. A notice received by a Gigaom writer in Pennsylvania cited October 9 as the ship date from China and October 15 as the estimated delivery date.The new iPod Touch was unveiled last month at Apple's iPhone 5 launch event. But the company never revealed a specific availability date for the Touch as it did for the new iPhone. Apple's online store still lists October as the "available to ship" date. The new iPod Nano also points to October as its time frame for shipping.CNET contacted Apple for comment and will update the story if the company responds.Apple has also just released a user guide for the new iPod Touch. Available for free through iTunes, the 138-page e-book covers all of the device's features and services with iOS 6 at the helm.Related storiesApple iPod Touch returns thinner, lighterThe new iPod Touch: A 4-inch screen, and Siri tooSiri comes to iPod TouchiPod Touch vs. iPod Nano: Apple's 2012 iPods comparedThe iPod Touch 5G is closer than ever to the iPhone in several ways.Like the iPhone 5, the new Touch sports a 4-inch screen with a 16:9 aspect ratio. A 5-megapixel camera rests on the back, offering better photos in low-light conditions. The front-facing camera can handle FaceTime HD at a resolution of 720 pixels. Voice assistant Siri is also part of the package.Unlike the iPhone, the iPod Touch is available in six colors. The iPod Touch 5G costs $299 for the 32GB version and $399 for the 64GB version.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
Those of you who ordered Apple's new iPod Touch may soon see one at your doorstep.Apple seems to have just started shipping the latest iPod Touch to buyers today. A notice received by a Gigaom writer in Pennsylvania cited October 9 as the ship date from China and October 15 as the estimated delivery date.The new iPod Touch was unveiled last month at Apple's iPhone 5 launch event. But the company never revealed a specific availability date for the Touch as it did for the new iPhone. Apple's online store still lists October as the "available to ship" date. The new iPod Nano also points to October as its time frame for shipping.CNET contacted Apple for comment and will update the story if the company responds.Apple has also just released a user guide for the new iPod Touch. Available for free through iTunes, the 138-page e-book covers all of the device's features and services with iOS 6 at the helm.Related storiesApple iPod Touch returns thinner, lighterThe new iPod Touch: A 4-inch screen, and Siri tooSiri comes to iPod TouchiPod Touch vs. iPod Nano: Apple's 2012 iPods comparedThe iPod Touch 5G is closer than ever to the iPhone in several ways.Like the iPhone 5, the new Touch sports a 4-inch screen with a 16:9 aspect ratio. A 5-megapixel camera rests on the back, offering better photos in low-light conditions. The front-facing camera can handle FaceTime HD at a resolution of 720 pixels. Voice assistant Siri is also part of the package.Unlike the iPhone, the iPod Touch is available in six colors. The iPod Touch 5G costs $299 for the 32GB version and $399 for the 64GB version.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
Apple notifies parents of in-app purchase settlement details
Apple notifies parents of in-app purchase settlement details
Apple has begun notifying the parents how they will be compensated for large bills racked up by their children through unauthorized use of in-app purchases in games and apps sold through the App Store.An e-mail sent by the "Apple In-App Purchase Litigation Administrator" describes how the approximately 23 million people, as part of a class-action lawsuit, can apply for compensation. Parents have until January 13, 2014, to claim a $5 iTunesgift cards for charges less than $30, according to the e-mail. The maximum compensation parents can expect is the total amount charged during a single 45-day period without their permission.Related storiesDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)The 404 Podcast 498: Where Jeff battles the TriadBuzz Out Loud Podcast 1145: China to Google: Suck itParents who complained that it was far too easy to buy digital goods in games without the need to re-enter an Apple ID password sued Apple in 2011. After a parent downloaded a free or paid title using their password, the child (or someone else) could proceed to make purchases without those credentials, as long as it was within a certain time period. Apple changed that behavior as part of a system software update in March 2011, but not before some parents were hit with massive bills. The lawsuit was unrelated to another legal complaint involving in-app purchases. A patent holder named Lodsys made waves in early 2011, suing companies large and small, alleging that they were infringing on its intellectual property by including the option to buy things within the software. Apple joined that suit in April of last year in an effort to defend those developing on its platform.
Apple has begun notifying the parents how they will be compensated for large bills racked up by their children through unauthorized use of in-app purchases in games and apps sold through the App Store.An e-mail sent by the "Apple In-App Purchase Litigation Administrator" describes how the approximately 23 million people, as part of a class-action lawsuit, can apply for compensation. Parents have until January 13, 2014, to claim a $5 iTunesgift cards for charges less than $30, according to the e-mail. The maximum compensation parents can expect is the total amount charged during a single 45-day period without their permission.Related storiesDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)The 404 Podcast 498: Where Jeff battles the TriadBuzz Out Loud Podcast 1145: China to Google: Suck itParents who complained that it was far too easy to buy digital goods in games without the need to re-enter an Apple ID password sued Apple in 2011. After a parent downloaded a free or paid title using their password, the child (or someone else) could proceed to make purchases without those credentials, as long as it was within a certain time period. Apple changed that behavior as part of a system software update in March 2011, but not before some parents were hit with massive bills. The lawsuit was unrelated to another legal complaint involving in-app purchases. A patent holder named Lodsys made waves in early 2011, suing companies large and small, alleging that they were infringing on its intellectual property by including the option to buy things within the software. Apple joined that suit in April of last year in an effort to defend those developing on its platform.
Sunday, April 12, 2015
Apple eyes way for authors to autograph your e-books
Apple eyes way for authors to autograph your e-books
How do you get your favorite author to autograph a book when it's digitally stored in iTunes? Apple may have a way.Published Thursday by the US Patent and Trademark Office, a patent appropriately called "Embedding an autograph in an electronic book" envisions how an author can wirelessly send an autograph to a nearby mobile device.The e-book would contain a special autograph page, or the device itself would allow the page to be generated on the fly by the author. Using a special app such as iBooks Author, the author would send an autograph to the page via Bluetooth or another wireless technology. The author and the receiving device would naturally have to be near each other for all of this to work.Related postsDOJ, schools settle over Kindle's blind accessFingers-on with Stantum's touch-screen Dell tablet prototypeTop 5 CES trendsA certificate would be transferred as proof that the autograph is authentic. An autograph could also first pass through Apple's online system to encrypt it and confirm that it's the real thing.What if you can't find your favorite author in person? The patent application also envisions a virtual signing that can be conducted online. The author could invite people to a chat room or fire up an instant messaging program and securely transmit an autograph to the authenticated devices of people on the receiving end.Apple uses e-books as an example, but the technology can extend to music, videos, and other digital media.(Via AppleInsider)
How do you get your favorite author to autograph a book when it's digitally stored in iTunes? Apple may have a way.Published Thursday by the US Patent and Trademark Office, a patent appropriately called "Embedding an autograph in an electronic book" envisions how an author can wirelessly send an autograph to a nearby mobile device.The e-book would contain a special autograph page, or the device itself would allow the page to be generated on the fly by the author. Using a special app such as iBooks Author, the author would send an autograph to the page via Bluetooth or another wireless technology. The author and the receiving device would naturally have to be near each other for all of this to work.Related postsDOJ, schools settle over Kindle's blind accessFingers-on with Stantum's touch-screen Dell tablet prototypeTop 5 CES trendsA certificate would be transferred as proof that the autograph is authentic. An autograph could also first pass through Apple's online system to encrypt it and confirm that it's the real thing.What if you can't find your favorite author in person? The patent application also envisions a virtual signing that can be conducted online. The author could invite people to a chat room or fire up an instant messaging program and securely transmit an autograph to the authenticated devices of people on the receiving end.Apple uses e-books as an example, but the technology can extend to music, videos, and other digital media.(Via AppleInsider)
Apple eyes smart magnets to attach accessories to your iPad
Apple eyes smart magnets to attach accessories to your iPad
The iPad's magnetic personality could help users attach an array of accessories to their tablets.Published Thursday by the US Patent and Trademark Office, a patent fittingly named "Magnetic Attachment Unit" describes how the iPad's current magnet system could be expanded to hook up with docks, stands, touchpads, joysticks, cameras, other iPads, and even a special magnetic ring. iPad owners would be able to couple the tablet with an accessory without having to rely on the dock connector.Accessories would connect to any side of the iPad, including the bottom, letting the tablet attach to compatible docks and stands. Apple's iOS would support the technology, so iPad users could attach or detach an accessory by pressing the home button.Two iPads might even hook up with each other to expand their capabilities. Content displayed on the screen would extend from one iPad to the other. You could also view the screen on one iPad and use the virtual keyboard on the other iPad. Finally, the patent filing describes a magnetic ring that would let you swipe your hand over the screen to activate certain features.As always, a patent filing doesn't mean the technology will ever appear in the real world. However, since magnets are already built into the iPad to support smart covers, expanding that idea to other accessories seems a natural next step.And whether or not Apple moves forward on this front, at least one other company wants to tap into the power of magnets. Unveiled by Nano Magnetics at CES in January, a patent-pending device called Nanoport would use magnets to connect mobile devices with each other and with separate accessories.(Via AppleInsider)
The iPad's magnetic personality could help users attach an array of accessories to their tablets.Published Thursday by the US Patent and Trademark Office, a patent fittingly named "Magnetic Attachment Unit" describes how the iPad's current magnet system could be expanded to hook up with docks, stands, touchpads, joysticks, cameras, other iPads, and even a special magnetic ring. iPad owners would be able to couple the tablet with an accessory without having to rely on the dock connector.Accessories would connect to any side of the iPad, including the bottom, letting the tablet attach to compatible docks and stands. Apple's iOS would support the technology, so iPad users could attach or detach an accessory by pressing the home button.Two iPads might even hook up with each other to expand their capabilities. Content displayed on the screen would extend from one iPad to the other. You could also view the screen on one iPad and use the virtual keyboard on the other iPad. Finally, the patent filing describes a magnetic ring that would let you swipe your hand over the screen to activate certain features.As always, a patent filing doesn't mean the technology will ever appear in the real world. However, since magnets are already built into the iPad to support smart covers, expanding that idea to other accessories seems a natural next step.And whether or not Apple moves forward on this front, at least one other company wants to tap into the power of magnets. Unveiled by Nano Magnetics at CES in January, a patent-pending device called Nanoport would use magnets to connect mobile devices with each other and with separate accessories.(Via AppleInsider)
Apple eyes NFC to sync data between devices
Apple eyes NFC to sync data between devices
Apple apparently still has its eye on NFC, at least as described in a freshly won patent.Awarded Tuesday by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, an Apple patent called "System and method for simplified data transfer" describes a way of automatically transferring data from one device to another.Both devices would be configured to copy data from one to the other. The first device may be set up to save and transfer data associated with specific apps. Powering up the second device would automatically tell the first device to transfer the data. The devices outlined in the patent could both be mobile gadets, or one could be a smartphone or tablet and the other a computer. Other devices could also be added to the mix, including a game controller or an Apple TV and remote.Though the patent mentions NFC,the data transfer could occur using another wireless technology."A method of performing the simplified data transfer may include initiating communication using near-field communication (NFC) between two devices," the patent said. "Next, data associated with open applications on one of the two devices may be saved and then transferred to the other. Transferring the data may take place using a peer-to-peer connection other than via NFC."NFC is typically thought of as a way to initiate mobile payments. But it can also be used for file transfers and other types of communications, as the patent clearly spells out. Apple has so far resisted jumping onto the NFC bandwagon, but the patent shows that the company sees it as a viable technology. So, it's likely only a matter of time before the iPhone and iPad are outfitted with a dose of NFC.(Via AppleInsider)
Apple apparently still has its eye on NFC, at least as described in a freshly won patent.Awarded Tuesday by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, an Apple patent called "System and method for simplified data transfer" describes a way of automatically transferring data from one device to another.Both devices would be configured to copy data from one to the other. The first device may be set up to save and transfer data associated with specific apps. Powering up the second device would automatically tell the first device to transfer the data. The devices outlined in the patent could both be mobile gadets, or one could be a smartphone or tablet and the other a computer. Other devices could also be added to the mix, including a game controller or an Apple TV and remote.Though the patent mentions NFC,the data transfer could occur using another wireless technology."A method of performing the simplified data transfer may include initiating communication using near-field communication (NFC) between two devices," the patent said. "Next, data associated with open applications on one of the two devices may be saved and then transferred to the other. Transferring the data may take place using a peer-to-peer connection other than via NFC."NFC is typically thought of as a way to initiate mobile payments. But it can also be used for file transfers and other types of communications, as the patent clearly spells out. Apple has so far resisted jumping onto the NFC bandwagon, but the patent shows that the company sees it as a viable technology. So, it's likely only a matter of time before the iPhone and iPad are outfitted with a dose of NFC.(Via AppleInsider)
Apple eyes device that's smart to all music, video streams
Apple eyes device that's smart to all music, video streams
Apple is eyeing a way to make devices smarter about the media you want to see and hear. Dubbed "Auto-station tuning," a patent published Tuesday by the US Patent and Trademark Office envisions a media player that will analyze content streams -- over-the-air radio or television, satellite, cable, Internet content, fiber optic, etc. -- to figure out what's playing and what content will be forthcoming and switch from one source of content to another to match user preferences or criteria.That could mean switching from one source to another "based a user's tastes for music, a give volume level, an aversion to talk radio, or other user preferences or criteria," the patent said. Diagrams in the patent envision three possible media players under the scope of the invention described in the patent, one that looks like an iPod, another that looks like an iPad, and a third that looks like an iPod with an integrated receiver. It also raised the example of a configuration that would have the media player automatically move from one FM radio station to a different one when an advertisement comes on.The media player may generate playlists based on the matching content, and switch between sources of the matching content automatically, according to the patent. "As if the user were tuning a radio dial," the media player may determine what content to play back for each station, the patent says. "The media player may procure content and generate playlists to represent each station focus on by the user."Apple is already delivering on some of these features with its iTunes Radio product, but the prospect of an Apple device that integrates all sources of video content -- even live TV -- is a further tease of a longtime Apple ghost: an Apple HDTV. The latest discussion around Apple's television aspirations -- as it has been for more than a year -- is that late 2014 will be the time for a launch of any ultra-high definition Apple TV.The patent was originally filed more than five years ago, in the September 2008.(Via Apple Insider.)
Apple is eyeing a way to make devices smarter about the media you want to see and hear. Dubbed "Auto-station tuning," a patent published Tuesday by the US Patent and Trademark Office envisions a media player that will analyze content streams -- over-the-air radio or television, satellite, cable, Internet content, fiber optic, etc. -- to figure out what's playing and what content will be forthcoming and switch from one source of content to another to match user preferences or criteria.That could mean switching from one source to another "based a user's tastes for music, a give volume level, an aversion to talk radio, or other user preferences or criteria," the patent said. Diagrams in the patent envision three possible media players under the scope of the invention described in the patent, one that looks like an iPod, another that looks like an iPad, and a third that looks like an iPod with an integrated receiver. It also raised the example of a configuration that would have the media player automatically move from one FM radio station to a different one when an advertisement comes on.The media player may generate playlists based on the matching content, and switch between sources of the matching content automatically, according to the patent. "As if the user were tuning a radio dial," the media player may determine what content to play back for each station, the patent says. "The media player may procure content and generate playlists to represent each station focus on by the user."Apple is already delivering on some of these features with its iTunes Radio product, but the prospect of an Apple device that integrates all sources of video content -- even live TV -- is a further tease of a longtime Apple ghost: an Apple HDTV. The latest discussion around Apple's television aspirations -- as it has been for more than a year -- is that late 2014 will be the time for a launch of any ultra-high definition Apple TV.The patent was originally filed more than five years ago, in the September 2008.(Via Apple Insider.)
Apple eyes another patent for solar-powered iPhone
Apple eyes another patent for solar-powered iPhone
The U.S. Patent and Trademark office published a patent application from Apple today for solar-paneled technology designed for devices with small screens, such as iPhones or iPods.This "integrated touch sensor and solar assembly" would involve integrating social cells into a touch screen by using electrodes that can pull double duty as a solar cell and a touch sensor. Apple envisions this technology for handheld devices, like "a media player or phone," according to the patent application. In addition to images of different size iPods, the patent application also comes with an image of a screen that's sized for an iPad. If done, iPhone and iPod owners could use solar power to charge their devices. It's not the first time Apple has pursued solar technology. The Cupertino, Calif., company has applied for four other solar-power-related patents in the last several years.Though this kind of tech seems like a good alternative to plugging in your smartphone, don't expect it to be a reality soon. After all, patent applications don't necessarily mean Apple will make a go of this technology. And, despite rapid growth the last several years -- even Apple has built its own solar arrays -- solar still faces challenges, especially after the very public downfall of solar company Solyndra in 2011. Once seen as a promising investment in American clean energy, the company went bankrupt, along with several other U.S.-based solar companies.Clarification, February 7 at 12:43 p.m. PT: The language describing the solar industry was changed and information on Apple's solar arrays was added.
The U.S. Patent and Trademark office published a patent application from Apple today for solar-paneled technology designed for devices with small screens, such as iPhones or iPods.This "integrated touch sensor and solar assembly" would involve integrating social cells into a touch screen by using electrodes that can pull double duty as a solar cell and a touch sensor. Apple envisions this technology for handheld devices, like "a media player or phone," according to the patent application. In addition to images of different size iPods, the patent application also comes with an image of a screen that's sized for an iPad. If done, iPhone and iPod owners could use solar power to charge their devices. It's not the first time Apple has pursued solar technology. The Cupertino, Calif., company has applied for four other solar-power-related patents in the last several years.Though this kind of tech seems like a good alternative to plugging in your smartphone, don't expect it to be a reality soon. After all, patent applications don't necessarily mean Apple will make a go of this technology. And, despite rapid growth the last several years -- even Apple has built its own solar arrays -- solar still faces challenges, especially after the very public downfall of solar company Solyndra in 2011. Once seen as a promising investment in American clean energy, the company went bankrupt, along with several other U.S.-based solar companies.Clarification, February 7 at 12:43 p.m. PT: The language describing the solar industry was changed and information on Apple's solar arrays was added.
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Apple has paid $8B to developers, Cook says
The amount of money Apple has paid to developers continues to soar, with the company having already distributed $8 billion to app makers, Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook said today.Cook, speaking during a Goldman Sachs conference, said Apple has "enormous momentum" in the smartphone market, and a big reason for that is the ecosystem around the company's devices."We built an ecosystem that is the best customer experience on the planet," Cook said.The $8 billion compares to Apple's comments in January that the developers had made more than $7 billion from Apple's App Store. At that time, the company also noted that its store topped 40 billion downloads, with almost half coming in 2012. One of the key advantages Apple has over rivals is the number of apps available in its online store. A healthy app ecosystem can make or break an operating system, and keeping developers happy in terms of the money they're making is key. "You don't see a lot of people doing PC apps," Cook said today. "The innovation has all moved to tablets and smartphones."
Apple giving some a second run at WWDC tickets
Apple is giving some developers a second chance at purchasing tickets to its annual developers conference, which sold out in just two minutes on Thursday.The company has been getting in touch with what appears to be a handful of developers who attempted to make purchases when the $1,599 tickets for Apple's WWDC went on sale at 10 a.m. PT, MacRumors reports. Those developers have a ticket reserved for them, and will be able to make the purchase at a later date.Related storiesApple's WWDC 2013 sells out in two minutesBidding for coffee with Apple's CEO hits $210,000The purchasing window, which spanned about two hours last year, was brief enough that some could not even enter their payment information before the tickets were snapped up. Several developers also complained about receiving errors when attempting to make purchases, with so many descending on Apple's site all at once. Apple has said it will show off new versions of iOS and OS X at this year's confab, which hosts about 5,000 developer attendees as well as press and partners. The show runs June 10-14 at the Moscone Center in San Francisco.
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