20-app showdown: iPhone vs. iPad
2. Box.net (free, universal)We got a preview of the Box.net iPad app ahead of its launch. The obvious benefit (as seen below) is that you can see the source list of a folder alongside its content. When held sideways, this list stays on screen--that is, unless you want to hide it. As mentioned in an earlier look, the iPad version is miles ahead of its pocket-size sibling in ease of reading and skipping around but is currently missing a way to upload files to your account. Both versions are also missing a way to store files locally--something we've been told is coming. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET3. eBay (free: iPad version, iPhone version)For skimming things like item descriptions and checking out the close-ups of a used gadget you want to buy, the iPad version of eBay is far more efficient. It's also got a neat way to narrow down how much you want to pay for items in the search results by selection a portion of a timeline--just as if you were editing a movie clip in QuickTime or on the iPhone 3GS. Sadly missing from the iPad version, however, are push notifications. This means you won't be able to get a quick heads up if you've been outbid on an item. You're also unable to view other items from a seller, which can be a good way to tell if you're barking up the wrong tree on what you think is a one-of-a-kind piece. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET4. Soundhound (free, universal)Midomi's Soundhound (formerly known simply as "music identifier") is an app that can ID whatever music is playing in just a few seconds. Fortunately, it has made a graceful transition to a larger screen.Just like the iPhone and iPod Touch version of the app, it can be set to start listening to a song right when you launch it. The big difference is that the app automatically begins showing you the most popular songs that have been tagged on the service, as well as tagged items that aren't getting radio air time. Both of these lists can be expanded and sit on top of a ticker of the most recently tagged songs by users. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET5. Shazam (free: iPad version, iPhone version)Like Midomi, Shazam is a music identification service. On the iPad, all the UI has been pushed from the bottom to the sides where you can now hop around the various features by tab. The core identifier, however, remains unchanged. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET6. Pandora Radio (free, universal)Pandora is one of the more dramatic face lifts in this group. Like Apple's rejiggering of the iPod app to more closely resemble the company's iTunes jukebox software, iPad users can now do other things within the Pandora app while the music is playing--all without losing access to the player controls. Other niceties include being able to see the album art of the last few songs that have played and start a search no matter what part of the app you're using. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET7. Google (free, universal)The voice-powered search app for the iPhone and iPod Touch is not all that much different for the pocket-size version, except for the fact that iPad users are getting the "full" version of Google's search results. While the mobile version can do Web, image, local, and news searches, the iPad version tacks on shopping, blogs, books, and translate (just to name a few). While the two apps may not be all that different right now, we wouldn't expect it to stay that way for long. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET8. Wolfram Alpha ($1.99, universal)Wolfram Alpha is now a much more affordable app than when it first came on the market. Those with an elephant's memory will remember that when it first became available on the App Store, it cost $49.99. It was later dropped down to $19.99, then returned back to $49.99 At the beginning of April, the company dropped the price to $1.99 for good, as well as giving everyone who bought it a refund.On the iPad, the Wolfram Alpha app shines. This is the case not only for the results, which often contain large, colorful charts but also for the enormous, three story keyboard that stretches out like a cat waking up from a nap. On the iPhone you need to scroll through three different sub menus to view all the keys, whereas on the iPad it's all there for you--all at once. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET9. Kayak (free: iPad version, iPhone version)Kayak's travel search is essentially the same as the iPhone app, but its menus have been snapped together in a four-up display. Surprisingly, this ends up working rather well. One thing iPad users do miss out on though, is the neat pop up effect the iPhone/iPod version has when jumping around the various search features. On the other hand, when browsing through the business end of Kayak, which is filtering through search results, the iPad version blows it out of the water. There, you can see close to three times the number of flights as well as what airlines you want to pick from--all on the same screen. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET10. WordPress (free, universal)WordPress is another app that like Google's may not be all that impressive with a screenshot, but it really is when you think about what you're supposed to do with it. Penning a blog post on the iPhone never really felt like it was designed to be a normal task. If anything, it felt more like an app that was set up to let people manage comments and make small changes while on the go. On the iPad, however, it has the larger area to work with and larger landscape keyboard lends itself more easily to crafting a full post. That said, it's a long way from being as easy to use as WordPress' own Web interface, which works fairly well in Safari as long as you don't want to add images or media. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET11. Air Video (free, $2.99, universal)Media-viewing apps looking better on the iPad is a bit of a no-brainer, and in the case of Air Video this rings true. The two apps are almost identical in appearance in functionality. The big change in the case of the iPad version is that you can see a preview of what the videos look like alongside the source list. The app can also be set to transcode your media content to the larger screen. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET12. Amazon Kindle (free, universal)Amazon's Kindle app is an alternative to Apple's iBooks service and lets users access books they've purchased off Amazon's Kindle store onto the iPad. The differences between the iPhone version and the iPad version are night and day. Yes, both have the same features, but the amount of page you can see on the iPad version is (obviously) much larger. Though one shortcoming that remains in both applications is that the app will jettison you out to Safari to go browse and purchase new titles for it, which can be a bit jarring. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET13. Tweetdeck (free: iPad version, iPhone version)Tweetdeck is popular Twitter browsing and posting software. This is one of the few apps on this list that's actually more desirable on the iPhone for reasons of performance. In our testing, we were able to get new tweets and search results to load faster on the iPhone version of TweetDeck, long before they loaded up on the iPad. The one obvious benefit of the iPad is that you can turn it sideways and get three columns in view at once. The only bummer there is that the iPad's optional dock accessory puts the device in portrait mode, so you wouldn't be able to leave it in this position on your desk without propping it up some other way.Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET14. Twitterrific (free: iPad version, iPhone version)Twitterrific is another application for Twitter. Its iPad version is simply super-size and adds a very large and simple options panel that drops down from the top of the screen, or sits in sight when your device is in landscape mode. The really odd thing about Twitterrific for the iPad is that it doesn't end up giving you that many more tweets to see, even though you've got extra pixels for days. This certainly makes tweets easier to read from a few feet away, but it involves what feels like quite a bit more scrolling on your part to work your way down the timeline. It's also missing any way to change the size of the text in tweets, which is something you can do on the pocket-size version. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET15. USA Today (free: iPad version, iPhone version)USA Today has always had a very good looking iPhone app, and the publication's iPad app follows suit. What's really neat about the iPad version is that it goes out of its way to emulate the look of a real newspaper, complete with a feathered edge on top of the screen and a textured page grip on the side of the page. These, along with the zooming animations of articles, opening up go a long way to make the experience feel more organic. One of the areas where USA Today's iPad app really shines is in its "day in pictures" feature, which is a compilation of news photography. On the iPhone, this feature works well enough, but on the iPad you can read captions without them overlapping onto the photos, as well as scroll your finger through a timeline viewer at the bottom of the screen to change photos. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET16. New York Times (free: iPad version, iPhone version)First things first, it's probably a little unfair to compare the two different iPhone and iPad apps from The New York Times, but we're going to do it anyway. The main reason not to is that the one on the iPhone is the full version of the publication, whereas the current iPad iteration is a selection of articles that have been picked by NYT editors. Still, a quick comparison to the front page section of both apps is filled with the same stories. On the iPad version you get a very similar experience to what can be found in USA Today's, with an off-white background and aesthetically pleasing column widths. The one area where the iPhone version actually outshines the iPad version is in how you can then share an article you're reading. On the iPad you've got e-mail, whereas on the iPhone version you can send it to Twitter and Facebook, or to someone's phone by text message (even if you're on an iPod Touch).Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET17. LogMeIn Ignition ($29.99, universal)LogMeIn Ignition for the iPad easily tops our list as the most dramatically better experience than what can be had on the iPhone or iPod Touch. Don't get us wrong, accessing your computer's desktop while out and about on an iPhone is just awesome, but it doesn't come close to using it on a display that's four times larger. As far as functionality goes, using it on the two devices is the same (it is, after all a "universal" application), though we noticed that it was easier to mouse around the page and not cover up what you were trying to click on when using the iPad. And on the iPad version, it's a bit easier to "throw" the mouse in any given direction using a quick swipe. This makes it easy to get around if you're connecting to a machine with a considerably large resolution. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET18. Zagat To Go ($9.99, universal)Zagat's food, drink, hotel, and shopping ratings app has made a very slick transition to the larger screen. The most obvious way to show this off is to head to the map view, which is given more than two-thirds of the screen. The use of the map in the iPad version more closely resembles Google Maps, so instead of clicking the back and forth button like you do on the iPhone, you can simply click on a Zagat pin to see what restaurant it is. Here again, the app makes use of the extra screen real estate and will give you a quick breakdown of what it is without leaving the map mode. One really nice thing about the iPhone and iPod Touch version (which the iPad version does not yet have) is a way to download Zagat's ratings database for offline use. This stores a locally cached version of the ratings onto the device, so you don't have to worry about tracking down a data signal when you want to do a search. Since Zagat's app requires an Internet connection to pull up results, it's more likely to be useful with users who pick up the version of the iPad with the 3G hardware on board. We've been told the offline functionality will be brought to the iPad in the next big update. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET19. Epicurious Recipes and Shopping List (free, universal)You probably shouldn't put an iPad near a pot of boiling water, but people have been doing it with their laptops and cell phones for years. Epicurious' universal app seems like it was meant to be used on the iPad, and between the two screens below, you'll probably agree. The one edge the app has when being used on a smaller device is that it fits more easily in your pocket, which can be useful when taking advantage of the app's shopping list feature. But if you're in the kitchen and cooking something, using this app in landscape mode (not pictured) puts the ingredients side-by-side with the instructions--something that makes a recipe easy to hop back to if you prop up the iPad on something. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNET20. The Weather Channel (free: iPad version, iPhone version)Apple did not include its pretty, Yahoo-powered weather app on the iPad, which means you've got to go elsewhere to find out whether to bring an umbrella or a pair of sunglasses when leaving the house. The difference between the two apps is remarkable. While the iPhone version takes a tabbed approach, you can quite clearly see the current weather, a 36-hour forecast, six days of a 10-day forecast, and live radar all on one screen. The iPad version is even animated.The iPad version is also packing something the iPhone and iPod Touch version isn't, which is a list of official Twitter feeds from The Weather Channel and its anchors, which you can view right within the app. You could quite easily create your own list like this and do it in a Twitter app like the aforementioned TweetDeck or Twitterrific, but it's a nice thing to have in this case. Screenshot by Josh Lowensohn/CNETAny big ones we missed? Leave them in the comments.
How to import sound clips into the iOS Voice Memo app
How to import sound clips into the iOS Voice Memo app
A Twitter follower recently asked how he could go about importing some MP3 files into the iOS Voice Memo app. After doing some research, and trial and error, we were able to come up with a solution that worked.Using iTunes, people can import their own voice notes or sound clips, regardless of device or platform they were originally made with. In just a few short steps you will convert the files, import into iTunes, mark as a Voice Memo, and finally sync them to your iPhone. Let's get started.First, you will need to convert any sound clips that are not in M4A format, which will more than likely be most of the clips you want to import. The easiest way to do this is to use a free app, for both Mac and Windows alike, called Adapter. Part of the trial and error mentioned above was concerning the file format. In some instances iTunes would allow an MP3 or even a WAV to be imported and synced to the iPhone without issue. Upon the next device sync, the sound clips would disappear from the Voice Memo app, and iTunes would state they were not compatible. The easiest way we found to reliably sync files to the Voice Memo app was to convert them to M4A files. Jason Cipriani/CNETAfter downloading and installing Adapter, you can drag and drop any audio file into the queue. Make sure to identify where you would like Adapter to place the new files, as well as change the Output Format to M4A. Once all the settings are right, click on Start Conversion! The conversion process won't take long. Once it is finished, import the new files into iTunes by either drag and drop, or going to File>Add to library and selecting the files.Make sure to change the Media Kind to Voice Memo.Jason Cipriani/CNETNext, you will need to change the Media Kind setting for each file from Music to Voice Memo. Right-click on the fileSelect Get InfoSelect the Options TabChange the Media Kind from Music to Voice MemoPress OKAfter you have changed the media kind on all the files you wish to import to your iPhone to Voice Memo, you are ready to sync the files to your device. Jason Cipriani/CNETWith your iPhone connected to your computer via the sync cable, select the Music tab. Here you want to make sure you have the "Include voice memos" option turned on by checking the box next to it. Sync your device.Voice Memo app with imported soundsJason Cipriani/CNETAfter iTunes has finished syncing your device, when you view the voice memos in the iOS app, you should then see your files. From here you can either listen to them, or share them via e-mail or MMS. One more thing, to help organize your Voice Memos in iTunes, making them easier to keep track of, change the Artist Name to Voice Memos or create a Voice Memo playlist and import only your voice memo files into the playlist. By importing prerecorded voice memos you can easily listen to and share them, whether you recorded them yourself or they are a favorite movie clip or sound.
A Twitter follower recently asked how he could go about importing some MP3 files into the iOS Voice Memo app. After doing some research, and trial and error, we were able to come up with a solution that worked.Using iTunes, people can import their own voice notes or sound clips, regardless of device or platform they were originally made with. In just a few short steps you will convert the files, import into iTunes, mark as a Voice Memo, and finally sync them to your iPhone. Let's get started.First, you will need to convert any sound clips that are not in M4A format, which will more than likely be most of the clips you want to import. The easiest way to do this is to use a free app, for both Mac and Windows alike, called Adapter. Part of the trial and error mentioned above was concerning the file format. In some instances iTunes would allow an MP3 or even a WAV to be imported and synced to the iPhone without issue. Upon the next device sync, the sound clips would disappear from the Voice Memo app, and iTunes would state they were not compatible. The easiest way we found to reliably sync files to the Voice Memo app was to convert them to M4A files. Jason Cipriani/CNETAfter downloading and installing Adapter, you can drag and drop any audio file into the queue. Make sure to identify where you would like Adapter to place the new files, as well as change the Output Format to M4A. Once all the settings are right, click on Start Conversion! The conversion process won't take long. Once it is finished, import the new files into iTunes by either drag and drop, or going to File>Add to library and selecting the files.Make sure to change the Media Kind to Voice Memo.Jason Cipriani/CNETNext, you will need to change the Media Kind setting for each file from Music to Voice Memo. Right-click on the fileSelect Get InfoSelect the Options TabChange the Media Kind from Music to Voice MemoPress OKAfter you have changed the media kind on all the files you wish to import to your iPhone to Voice Memo, you are ready to sync the files to your device. Jason Cipriani/CNETWith your iPhone connected to your computer via the sync cable, select the Music tab. Here you want to make sure you have the "Include voice memos" option turned on by checking the box next to it. Sync your device.Voice Memo app with imported soundsJason Cipriani/CNETAfter iTunes has finished syncing your device, when you view the voice memos in the iOS app, you should then see your files. From here you can either listen to them, or share them via e-mail or MMS. One more thing, to help organize your Voice Memos in iTunes, making them easier to keep track of, change the Artist Name to Voice Memos or create a Voice Memo playlist and import only your voice memo files into the playlist. By importing prerecorded voice memos you can easily listen to and share them, whether you recorded them yourself or they are a favorite movie clip or sound.
Amazon plans Hulu-like ad-supported video too-
Amazon plans Hulu-like ad-supported video too?
Amazon is planning to round out its video services with an new ad-supported model in the coming months, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.An Amazon spokeswoman told CNET that the company doesn't have plans for a free streaming service. "We have a video advertising business that currently offers programs like First Episode Free and ads associated with movie and game trailers, and we're often experimenting with new things, but we have no plans to offer a free streaming media service," Sally Fouts said. The company already makes money like iTunes -- selling or renting digital video downloads -- through its Instant Video service.It also makes money like Netflix -- supplying subscribers to $99-a-year Amazon Prime with ad-free television and movies, though the video element to Prime is generally a consumer afterthought to its two-day shipping.The new ad-supported service would create a Hulu-like product on Amazon's site, one that is free for viewers to watch with advertising. The WSJ article, citing unnamed people familiar with the matter, said the service would stream television -- including originals and licensed content from others -- and music videos. The ad-supported service could be used as a tool to "upsell" customers to become members of Prime and as a way to learn more about shoppers' purchasing proclivities, turning it into an avenue to selling more stuff. But the article suggested a blurring of lines between an ad-supported service and the current subscription-based Prime Instant Video. The show "Betas" -- one of Amazon's two inaugural original series for Prime -- is unlikely to be renewed for a second season on that service but may be produced for the ad-supported streaming project instead, according to the report. The ad-supported model already has a predecessor in Amazon Studios latest "pilot" season, in which Amazon's Hollywood arm puts up one test episode of several series it is considering for full runs. During the latest "pilot season," the episodes -- available to be watched by all Amazon customers -- were preceded by an ad. The latest report joins a number of rumors about Amazon's video ambitions. The company is widely expected to unveil a video-streaming device at an event next week in New York. Before that, Amazon was said to be exploring a short-form video service along the lines of YouTube. Earlier this year, a report indicated Amazon had discussed the possibility of licensing entire channels that could put it en route to a full-fledged Web TV service, but Amazon later said it didn't have any such plans, in a rare comment from a company that typically keeps all its cards close to the vest. Update, 5:25 p.m. PT: Adds response from Amazon.
Amazon is planning to round out its video services with an new ad-supported model in the coming months, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.An Amazon spokeswoman told CNET that the company doesn't have plans for a free streaming service. "We have a video advertising business that currently offers programs like First Episode Free and ads associated with movie and game trailers, and we're often experimenting with new things, but we have no plans to offer a free streaming media service," Sally Fouts said. The company already makes money like iTunes -- selling or renting digital video downloads -- through its Instant Video service.It also makes money like Netflix -- supplying subscribers to $99-a-year Amazon Prime with ad-free television and movies, though the video element to Prime is generally a consumer afterthought to its two-day shipping.The new ad-supported service would create a Hulu-like product on Amazon's site, one that is free for viewers to watch with advertising. The WSJ article, citing unnamed people familiar with the matter, said the service would stream television -- including originals and licensed content from others -- and music videos. The ad-supported service could be used as a tool to "upsell" customers to become members of Prime and as a way to learn more about shoppers' purchasing proclivities, turning it into an avenue to selling more stuff. But the article suggested a blurring of lines between an ad-supported service and the current subscription-based Prime Instant Video. The show "Betas" -- one of Amazon's two inaugural original series for Prime -- is unlikely to be renewed for a second season on that service but may be produced for the ad-supported streaming project instead, according to the report. The ad-supported model already has a predecessor in Amazon Studios latest "pilot" season, in which Amazon's Hollywood arm puts up one test episode of several series it is considering for full runs. During the latest "pilot season," the episodes -- available to be watched by all Amazon customers -- were preceded by an ad. The latest report joins a number of rumors about Amazon's video ambitions. The company is widely expected to unveil a video-streaming device at an event next week in New York. Before that, Amazon was said to be exploring a short-form video service along the lines of YouTube. Earlier this year, a report indicated Amazon had discussed the possibility of licensing entire channels that could put it en route to a full-fledged Web TV service, but Amazon later said it didn't have any such plans, in a rare comment from a company that typically keeps all its cards close to the vest. Update, 5:25 p.m. PT: Adds response from Amazon.
Report- Half of Android users have not purchased apps
Report: Half of Android users have not purchased apps
According to a recent survey from AdMob, more than half of Google Android users (55 percent) have never downloaded a paid application. The amount is double the 23 percent of iPhone users who have chose not to purchase apps.So what is preventing Android users from spending their cash? Though many people from other countries still lack access to paid applications, some developers are blaming the structure of the Android Market. Currently, customers can only purchase applications using Google Checkout, which requires a Google account and a credit card.The iTunes App Store also requires a credit card for purchases, but customers without access to a credit card can also use an iTunes gift card. Google has told us it will be adding more payment options like carrier billing, but I'd argue that it could benefit from a similar gift card strategy.Developers also have blamed the Market features that allows customers to easily refund a purchase if they uninstall the app within 24 hours. This may have an effect on overall app purchases, but I don't think it's amajor factor. Users must actually register a Google Checkout account and complete a purchase with a credit card before being able to make a return. Also, I like the 24-hour trial policy and have found that it actually encourages me to sample more paid apps and thus make more purchases.A more plausible theory is the lack of quality apps available in the Android Market. For example, comparing games on the two platforms reveals a large gap in the number of quality titles. Android also lacks many of the compelling mainstream software that is targeted only for iPhone. As Google is trying to actively recruit developers with events such as their Android Developers Challenge, we should begin to see some results in the coming months.Finally, it could just come down to the huge number of end users that Apple currently enjoys. The iPhone offers a much larger market size, which attracts more developers. For August 2009, AdMob estimates the iPhone and iPod Touch market at around $200 million, which is 40 times larger than the $5 million for Android. Analyst predict this gap will narrow over the next few years, but Android has a large hill to climb.If you own an Android phone and have never purchased a paid application, what is stopping you?
According to a recent survey from AdMob, more than half of Google Android users (55 percent) have never downloaded a paid application. The amount is double the 23 percent of iPhone users who have chose not to purchase apps.So what is preventing Android users from spending their cash? Though many people from other countries still lack access to paid applications, some developers are blaming the structure of the Android Market. Currently, customers can only purchase applications using Google Checkout, which requires a Google account and a credit card.The iTunes App Store also requires a credit card for purchases, but customers without access to a credit card can also use an iTunes gift card. Google has told us it will be adding more payment options like carrier billing, but I'd argue that it could benefit from a similar gift card strategy.Developers also have blamed the Market features that allows customers to easily refund a purchase if they uninstall the app within 24 hours. This may have an effect on overall app purchases, but I don't think it's amajor factor. Users must actually register a Google Checkout account and complete a purchase with a credit card before being able to make a return. Also, I like the 24-hour trial policy and have found that it actually encourages me to sample more paid apps and thus make more purchases.A more plausible theory is the lack of quality apps available in the Android Market. For example, comparing games on the two platforms reveals a large gap in the number of quality titles. Android also lacks many of the compelling mainstream software that is targeted only for iPhone. As Google is trying to actively recruit developers with events such as their Android Developers Challenge, we should begin to see some results in the coming months.Finally, it could just come down to the huge number of end users that Apple currently enjoys. The iPhone offers a much larger market size, which attracts more developers. For August 2009, AdMob estimates the iPhone and iPod Touch market at around $200 million, which is 40 times larger than the $5 million for Android. Analyst predict this gap will narrow over the next few years, but Android has a large hill to climb.If you own an Android phone and have never purchased a paid application, what is stopping you?
Harman's got the Rx for poor-quality music
Harman's got the Rx for poor-quality music
LAS VEGAS -- The connected car brings many advantages to the driver, but will also mean degraded music quality as people increasingly use streaming audio-services. At CES 2014, Harman announced Signal Doctor, a digital signal processor technology that attempts to restore fidelity to compressed audio.Typical digital audio tracks bought from Amazon and iTunes are compressed to 128 or 256Kbps, and streaming audio from the likes of Pandora and Spotify is often down to 64 or 96Kbps. That much compression means a lot of lost information from a music track, which diminishes the sound quality.Signal Doctor analyzes the audio signal in real time, and attempts to predict and restore the part of the signal that was lost.The technology restores peak levels and high frequencies, all of which compression technology tends to discard. It also isolates vocals and enhances them.Catch CNET's complete coverage of CES 2014During a demonstration here at CES, Harman played a variety of low-bit-rate tracks, including AC/DC's "Back in Black" and Sarah McLachlan's "Building a Mystery," using a graphic audio analyzer to show where compression had cut off the frequencies. When the Signal Doctor bypass was switched on, areas that appeared flat in the original graphic analysis were filled in.The listening experience was greatly improved. The unprocessed compressed tracks often sounded muffled and lifeless. Signal Doctor added richer tones to the music. When played in a Kia Sorento, the soundstage for the music widened considerably.Signal Doctor is a software algorithm that Harman can load into digital signal processor hardware. It dynamically scales itself depending on how much music is compressed, applying its full capability to the most compressed music, and letting uncompressed audio, such as from a CD, play through without interference.Currently, the Signal Doctor technology is available in the JBL Authentics line of powered speakers. Harman, as a major automotive supplier, will also make the technology available to automakers.
LAS VEGAS -- The connected car brings many advantages to the driver, but will also mean degraded music quality as people increasingly use streaming audio-services. At CES 2014, Harman announced Signal Doctor, a digital signal processor technology that attempts to restore fidelity to compressed audio.Typical digital audio tracks bought from Amazon and iTunes are compressed to 128 or 256Kbps, and streaming audio from the likes of Pandora and Spotify is often down to 64 or 96Kbps. That much compression means a lot of lost information from a music track, which diminishes the sound quality.Signal Doctor analyzes the audio signal in real time, and attempts to predict and restore the part of the signal that was lost.The technology restores peak levels and high frequencies, all of which compression technology tends to discard. It also isolates vocals and enhances them.Catch CNET's complete coverage of CES 2014During a demonstration here at CES, Harman played a variety of low-bit-rate tracks, including AC/DC's "Back in Black" and Sarah McLachlan's "Building a Mystery," using a graphic audio analyzer to show where compression had cut off the frequencies. When the Signal Doctor bypass was switched on, areas that appeared flat in the original graphic analysis were filled in.The listening experience was greatly improved. The unprocessed compressed tracks often sounded muffled and lifeless. Signal Doctor added richer tones to the music. When played in a Kia Sorento, the soundstage for the music widened considerably.Signal Doctor is a software algorithm that Harman can load into digital signal processor hardware. It dynamically scales itself depending on how much music is compressed, applying its full capability to the most compressed music, and letting uncompressed audio, such as from a CD, play through without interference.Currently, the Signal Doctor technology is available in the JBL Authentics line of powered speakers. Harman, as a major automotive supplier, will also make the technology available to automakers.
Rumor- Apple to open Mac App Store December 13th
Rumor: Apple to open Mac App Store December 13th
By streamlining the way Mac users buy and install their applications and games, Apple is creating an ecosystem that makes it easier for users to install Apps, thereby eliminating many of the issue we often find with installation of new software. The Mac App Store should also provide an easier way for developers to stay in contact with their customers, provide support, get feedback, and create much-needed buzz. Just like your iOS device, you'll be able to keep all your Apps up-to-date, which should also eliminate many of the Mac OS X update issues with Apps that many developers and users face.Only time will tell if the Mac App Store will release earlier than January, but I for one am excited either way. The easier it is to get great Apps on the Mac, the better the user (and developer) experience will be.Will the Mac App Store make a big impact on the way Mac users get their applications? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
By streamlining the way Mac users buy and install their applications and games, Apple is creating an ecosystem that makes it easier for users to install Apps, thereby eliminating many of the issue we often find with installation of new software. The Mac App Store should also provide an easier way for developers to stay in contact with their customers, provide support, get feedback, and create much-needed buzz. Just like your iOS device, you'll be able to keep all your Apps up-to-date, which should also eliminate many of the Mac OS X update issues with Apps that many developers and users face.Only time will tell if the Mac App Store will release earlier than January, but I for one am excited either way. The easier it is to get great Apps on the Mac, the better the user (and developer) experience will be.Will the Mac App Store make a big impact on the way Mac users get their applications? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
Roku hits 1 billion streams to televisions
Roku hits 1 billion streams to televisions
Roku has delivered 1 billion streams via its set-top boxes, the company said yesterday.According to Roku, which also announced that it has sold 1 million set-top boxes, the average user watched 11 hours of content on a Roku device in December. The company said that at the end of 2010, its set-top boxes had 135 channels available, including Netflix, Hulu Plus, and Amazon Video On Demand.Roku currently sells three set-top box units, the Roku HD, the Roku XD, and the Roku XDS. Prices start at $59.99.Roku, which launched its first set-top box in mid-2008, finds itself in a real battle among several set-top-box makers, including Logitech and Boxee. But one of its top competitors is Apple, which announced late last year that it would sell 1 million Apple TV units by Christmas. However, unlike Roku, which offers content from several different companies via channels, Apple offers television and movie rentals through its iTunes platform. Apple also provides access to Netflix's streaming service and Flickr images.2011 is shaping up to be another hard-fought year for set-top-box makers, and Apple and Roku seem to be at the forefront of that fight.
Roku has delivered 1 billion streams via its set-top boxes, the company said yesterday.According to Roku, which also announced that it has sold 1 million set-top boxes, the average user watched 11 hours of content on a Roku device in December. The company said that at the end of 2010, its set-top boxes had 135 channels available, including Netflix, Hulu Plus, and Amazon Video On Demand.Roku currently sells three set-top box units, the Roku HD, the Roku XD, and the Roku XDS. Prices start at $59.99.Roku, which launched its first set-top box in mid-2008, finds itself in a real battle among several set-top-box makers, including Logitech and Boxee. But one of its top competitors is Apple, which announced late last year that it would sell 1 million Apple TV units by Christmas. However, unlike Roku, which offers content from several different companies via channels, Apple offers television and movie rentals through its iTunes platform. Apple also provides access to Netflix's streaming service and Flickr images.2011 is shaping up to be another hard-fought year for set-top-box makers, and Apple and Roku seem to be at the forefront of that fight.
Apple and Google ordered to revise app store refund policies in South Korea
Apple and Google ordered to revise app store refund policies in South Korea
South Korea's Fair Trade Commission (FTC) has ordered Google and Apple to remove specific clauses pertaining to refunds in the terms and services of applications on Google's Play Store and Apple's App Store. The watchdog deemed the clauses explicitly unfair and responsible for damages to the consumer.On the Play Store, all Android apps have had their non-refundable clauses removed, with developers now required to develop refund policies. Apps that automatically charged consumers at the end of a free trial period will no longer be allowed to use the label "free trial." Instead, they will be labeled as paid apps that offer free services for a limited time, at which point the consumer can decide to cancel their subscription. Consumers who download faulty apps will also be able to recover damages beyond the purchase price of the app.Related StoriesHow the App Store became software development's holy grailApple scores $10B in App Store sales for 2013Thousands of secret keys found in Android appsGet a refund on apps in Google Play after 15 minutes On the App Store, developers must notify customers of any modified terms and conditions beforehand and give the option to cancel and receive a refund should they not agree with the new terms. In-app purchases can also be fully recoverable. The FTC is hoping that this change in policy will serve as an example for other countries around the world and promote fair practice.Hwang Won-chul, the head of the Korean FTC's adhesion contract division, told the Korea Herald, "Google will limit its response to the Korea, while Apple is considering applying the revised contract terms globally."The new policy does not only affect developers. Should the consumer violate the apps' terms and conditions, they are responsible for any damages, according to the ruling. The violation must clearly be stated and evident, and the damages claimed by the developer must be causally relevant to the violation made by the customer, the FTC ruling says.Also, whereas before developer employees were exempt from any blame, if there are reasons attributable to employees, they can now be responsible for damages, whether negligent or not.In March, Korea's FTC pushed through similar corrective measures for app marketplaces belonging to domestic carriers SK Telecom, KT and LG Uplus.
South Korea's Fair Trade Commission (FTC) has ordered Google and Apple to remove specific clauses pertaining to refunds in the terms and services of applications on Google's Play Store and Apple's App Store. The watchdog deemed the clauses explicitly unfair and responsible for damages to the consumer.On the Play Store, all Android apps have had their non-refundable clauses removed, with developers now required to develop refund policies. Apps that automatically charged consumers at the end of a free trial period will no longer be allowed to use the label "free trial." Instead, they will be labeled as paid apps that offer free services for a limited time, at which point the consumer can decide to cancel their subscription. Consumers who download faulty apps will also be able to recover damages beyond the purchase price of the app.Related StoriesHow the App Store became software development's holy grailApple scores $10B in App Store sales for 2013Thousands of secret keys found in Android appsGet a refund on apps in Google Play after 15 minutes On the App Store, developers must notify customers of any modified terms and conditions beforehand and give the option to cancel and receive a refund should they not agree with the new terms. In-app purchases can also be fully recoverable. The FTC is hoping that this change in policy will serve as an example for other countries around the world and promote fair practice.Hwang Won-chul, the head of the Korean FTC's adhesion contract division, told the Korea Herald, "Google will limit its response to the Korea, while Apple is considering applying the revised contract terms globally."The new policy does not only affect developers. Should the consumer violate the apps' terms and conditions, they are responsible for any damages, according to the ruling. The violation must clearly be stated and evident, and the damages claimed by the developer must be causally relevant to the violation made by the customer, the FTC ruling says.Also, whereas before developer employees were exempt from any blame, if there are reasons attributable to employees, they can now be responsible for damages, whether negligent or not.In March, Korea's FTC pushed through similar corrective measures for app marketplaces belonging to domestic carriers SK Telecom, KT and LG Uplus.
Apple adds Siri support to its Podcasts app
Apple adds Siri support to its Podcasts app
iPhone and iPad users can now ask Siri to play their favorite podcasts thanks to the latest update to Apple's Podcasts app.Rolled out on Thursday, version 2.1 of Podcasts now responds directly to Siri. You can ask Siri to play all of your podcasts one after another by saying "Play podcasts." Or you can play a specific podcast by including the station or episode name, such as "Play Relaxation Meditation podcast."The Podcasts app also now integrates with Apple's CarPlay and lets you share links via AirDrop. Further, you can immediately play any station from the stations list by tapping on the Play button.Related storiesApple's OS X 10.9.3 improves Retina tech on 4K displaysApple aims to prevent misdirected text messagesShipments of larger Apple tablet overtake iPad MiniA date with Tim Cook is a bargain in 2014What else is new with Podcasts? Apple has tried to enhance the way you browse and manage individual episodes.A new Unplayed tab shows you all podcast episodes that you have yet to play. A new Feed tab displays episodes ready to be downloaded or streamed. You can save episodes to listen to them offline and tell the app to automatically delete episodes after you have played them. Finally, you can tap on links in a podcast description to open them in Safari.The update throws in the usual bug fixes as well. One fix promises to resolve playback issues after syncing with iTunes and another improves stability while downloading podcasts.Apple has also tweaked the Podcast feature in iTunes courtesy of the latest update -- iTunes 11.2. The improvements mimic those in the mobile app, namely the ability to better browse and manage your podcast episodes.To sync your podcasts between your computer and iPhone or iPad, Apple recommends that you update to iTunes 11.2 if you've already installed the latest version of the Podcasts app.
iPhone and iPad users can now ask Siri to play their favorite podcasts thanks to the latest update to Apple's Podcasts app.Rolled out on Thursday, version 2.1 of Podcasts now responds directly to Siri. You can ask Siri to play all of your podcasts one after another by saying "Play podcasts." Or you can play a specific podcast by including the station or episode name, such as "Play Relaxation Meditation podcast."The Podcasts app also now integrates with Apple's CarPlay and lets you share links via AirDrop. Further, you can immediately play any station from the stations list by tapping on the Play button.Related storiesApple's OS X 10.9.3 improves Retina tech on 4K displaysApple aims to prevent misdirected text messagesShipments of larger Apple tablet overtake iPad MiniA date with Tim Cook is a bargain in 2014What else is new with Podcasts? Apple has tried to enhance the way you browse and manage individual episodes.A new Unplayed tab shows you all podcast episodes that you have yet to play. A new Feed tab displays episodes ready to be downloaded or streamed. You can save episodes to listen to them offline and tell the app to automatically delete episodes after you have played them. Finally, you can tap on links in a podcast description to open them in Safari.The update throws in the usual bug fixes as well. One fix promises to resolve playback issues after syncing with iTunes and another improves stability while downloading podcasts.Apple has also tweaked the Podcast feature in iTunes courtesy of the latest update -- iTunes 11.2. The improvements mimic those in the mobile app, namely the ability to better browse and manage your podcast episodes.To sync your podcasts between your computer and iPhone or iPad, Apple recommends that you update to iTunes 11.2 if you've already installed the latest version of the Podcasts app.
Apple approves 1 millionth iOS app, tracker says
Apple approves 1 millionth iOS app, tracker says
Apple has approved 1 million iOS apps, according to an application discovery company.Appsfire revealed the findings on its Twitter account yesterday. In an e-mailed statement to CNET, an Appsfire spokesperson said that its tally includes all of the apps "that have been submitted and approved by Apple and that went live in the App Store" since its launch in 2008. The spokesperson was quick to point out that the tally does not include those apps that have been submitted and rejected.The Next Web was first to report on the Appsfire tally.Apple announced last month that its App Store has 700,000 applications available. According to Appsfire, the disparity includes apps that have either been removed by developers or Apple.Apple is notorious for keeping App Store information close to the vest, leaving some doubt in the accuracy of Appsfire's findings. However, the company, which offers an app that helps users find programs worth downloading to their mobile devices, says that it has been able to keep up with app submissions with help from an iTunes feed."It is available on-demand, but needs work to be digested," Appsfire's spokesperson told CNET.Right now, Appsfire said it believes that Apple's App Store has over 736,000 applications available to users. Out of those apps, a bit over 336,000 are paid.CNET has contacted Apple for comment on the Appsfire claim. We will update this story when we have more information.
Apple has approved 1 million iOS apps, according to an application discovery company.Appsfire revealed the findings on its Twitter account yesterday. In an e-mailed statement to CNET, an Appsfire spokesperson said that its tally includes all of the apps "that have been submitted and approved by Apple and that went live in the App Store" since its launch in 2008. The spokesperson was quick to point out that the tally does not include those apps that have been submitted and rejected.The Next Web was first to report on the Appsfire tally.Apple announced last month that its App Store has 700,000 applications available. According to Appsfire, the disparity includes apps that have either been removed by developers or Apple.Apple is notorious for keeping App Store information close to the vest, leaving some doubt in the accuracy of Appsfire's findings. However, the company, which offers an app that helps users find programs worth downloading to their mobile devices, says that it has been able to keep up with app submissions with help from an iTunes feed."It is available on-demand, but needs work to be digested," Appsfire's spokesperson told CNET.Right now, Appsfire said it believes that Apple's App Store has over 736,000 applications available to users. Out of those apps, a bit over 336,000 are paid.CNET has contacted Apple for comment on the Appsfire claim. We will update this story when we have more information.
Apple applies for photo-correcting patent
Apple applies for photo-correcting patent
Apple applied for a patent today for technology to use a mobile device's orientation sensors to help correct common photo problems.One claim in the patent application involves using gyroscopes, compasses, or accelerometers to determine a device's orientation, then using that data to fix problems such as a tilt that would keep a horizontal line from being level.A related claim involves a correction to distortion that can be caused when a camera isn't held vertically--for example when a view looking up makes the parallel vertical lines of a building converge. Here, a distance measurement to the subject could be factored in, too.A photo could be corrected either after it was taken or on the fly as it's being taken.The application is a new twist on hardware fixes for common photography problems. Modern digital cameras can move sensors or lens elements to counteract camera shake, and cameras or comptuer software can correct optical shortcomings of lenses. Start-up Lytro even hopes focusing errors can be avoided with light-field technology that lets people focus shots after they're taken. Smile detection technology can snap a photo only when you see the whites of their teeth, and face detection helps set exposure and focus.The iPhone 4, with a backside-illumination sensor that's more sensitive than conventional models, is highly regarded as phone cameras go, and it's highly used, too, topping Flickr's camera usage charts. No doubt Apple would like to help its customers avoid those embarrassingly tilted oceans.Now all we need is technology to ensure camera subjects look as healthy, vivacious, and beautiful as all the people in Apple's promotional illustrations.
Apple applied for a patent today for technology to use a mobile device's orientation sensors to help correct common photo problems.One claim in the patent application involves using gyroscopes, compasses, or accelerometers to determine a device's orientation, then using that data to fix problems such as a tilt that would keep a horizontal line from being level.A related claim involves a correction to distortion that can be caused when a camera isn't held vertically--for example when a view looking up makes the parallel vertical lines of a building converge. Here, a distance measurement to the subject could be factored in, too.A photo could be corrected either after it was taken or on the fly as it's being taken.The application is a new twist on hardware fixes for common photography problems. Modern digital cameras can move sensors or lens elements to counteract camera shake, and cameras or comptuer software can correct optical shortcomings of lenses. Start-up Lytro even hopes focusing errors can be avoided with light-field technology that lets people focus shots after they're taken. Smile detection technology can snap a photo only when you see the whites of their teeth, and face detection helps set exposure and focus.The iPhone 4, with a backside-illumination sensor that's more sensitive than conventional models, is highly regarded as phone cameras go, and it's highly used, too, topping Flickr's camera usage charts. No doubt Apple would like to help its customers avoid those embarrassingly tilted oceans.Now all we need is technology to ensure camera subjects look as healthy, vivacious, and beautiful as all the people in Apple's promotional illustrations.
Apple applies for another facial unlock patent for iOS devices
Apple applies for another facial unlock patent for iOS devices
Your face is once again the subject of a patent Apple has filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.The technology described in the patent, which was discovered by Patently Apple and AppleInsider, isn't all that different from one that surfaced from the iPhone maker in December, which described a method for users to lock and unlock their handsets with their face. However, the latest technology uses the front-facing camera on a mobile device to determine whether to lock or unlock the product.According to Patently Apple, the front-facing camera takes rapid snapshots that then translate into an action. If a phone is on but the camera can't see a person looking at the display, it'll lock the product. Conversely, if a person picks up the device, the camera will recognize that and unlock it.Related storiesPatents suggest stylus; Mode-based interface customizationKodak patent complaints target Apple, RIMCNET News Daily Podcast: Tech industry opens wallets for HaitiApple files patents to manage home energyApple seeks ban on U.S. Nokia importsTo add a bit more flavor to the patent, Apple also describes the use of sensors in a respective device that can determine whether a device should be locked or unlocked. For example, the respective device could sense someone holding it, gripping it, or moving it in some fashion, and then execute a locking or unlocking function.It's the face, though, that has proven most appealing to companies. Back in December, in fact, Apple filed for a patent on a technology that would recognize a person's face and use that as the authentication needed to access user profiles or other important information. Earlier this month, Google was awarded a patent on a technology that will identify a person's face and deliver full access to personal information.Face-to-unlock is already available in the wild. The Samsung Galaxy S3, for example, has a face unlock application. Samsung's Galaxy Nexus also comes with the feature and allows people to snap a picture of themselves to unlock their smartphone.
Your face is once again the subject of a patent Apple has filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.The technology described in the patent, which was discovered by Patently Apple and AppleInsider, isn't all that different from one that surfaced from the iPhone maker in December, which described a method for users to lock and unlock their handsets with their face. However, the latest technology uses the front-facing camera on a mobile device to determine whether to lock or unlock the product.According to Patently Apple, the front-facing camera takes rapid snapshots that then translate into an action. If a phone is on but the camera can't see a person looking at the display, it'll lock the product. Conversely, if a person picks up the device, the camera will recognize that and unlock it.Related storiesPatents suggest stylus; Mode-based interface customizationKodak patent complaints target Apple, RIMCNET News Daily Podcast: Tech industry opens wallets for HaitiApple files patents to manage home energyApple seeks ban on U.S. Nokia importsTo add a bit more flavor to the patent, Apple also describes the use of sensors in a respective device that can determine whether a device should be locked or unlocked. For example, the respective device could sense someone holding it, gripping it, or moving it in some fashion, and then execute a locking or unlocking function.It's the face, though, that has proven most appealing to companies. Back in December, in fact, Apple filed for a patent on a technology that would recognize a person's face and use that as the authentication needed to access user profiles or other important information. Earlier this month, Google was awarded a patent on a technology that will identify a person's face and deliver full access to personal information.Face-to-unlock is already available in the wild. The Samsung Galaxy S3, for example, has a face unlock application. Samsung's Galaxy Nexus also comes with the feature and allows people to snap a picture of themselves to unlock their smartphone.
Apple application to trademark iPad Mini denied
Apple application to trademark iPad Mini denied
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has denied Apple's bid to trademark the term "iPad Mini," contending that "mini" is "merely descriptive" of goods or services sold in miniature form.In a letter sent to Apple in January but only recently published, the USPTO reviewer denied Apple's application because "the applied-for mark merely describes a feature or characteristic of applicant's goods." Apple can appeal the decision, but to win a reversal the company will need to address the office's reasons for denial. The reviewer argues that "iPad" is descriptive of the products services, specifically that the "i" denotes Internet-related services, while "mini" describes the product as a distinctly smaller version of similar products. Marks that combine descriptive terms that retain their descriptive meaning in relation to goods or services are composite marks that are not registrable, the letter states (see below)."In this case, both the individual components and the composite result are descriptive of applicant's goods and do not create a unique, incongruous, or non-descriptive meaning in relation to the goods being small handheld mobile devices comprising tablet computers capable of providing Internet access," the office said.The reviewer also found evidence from the Internet showing that widespread use of the term "mini" to describe the small size of various handheld digital devices, and that "the wording merely describes a feature of applicant's goods, namely, a small sized handheld tablet computer.CNET has contacted Apple for comment and will update this report when we learn more.Apple filed a trademark application last November for a "handheld mobile digital electronic device comprising a tablet computer, electronic book and periodical reader, digital audio and video player, camera, electronic personal organizer, personal digital assistant, electronic calendar, and mapping and global positioning system (GPS) device, and capable of providing access to the Internet and sending, receiving, and storing messages and other data." USPTO Refuses Apple s iPad Mini Trademark Application
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has denied Apple's bid to trademark the term "iPad Mini," contending that "mini" is "merely descriptive" of goods or services sold in miniature form.In a letter sent to Apple in January but only recently published, the USPTO reviewer denied Apple's application because "the applied-for mark merely describes a feature or characteristic of applicant's goods." Apple can appeal the decision, but to win a reversal the company will need to address the office's reasons for denial. The reviewer argues that "iPad" is descriptive of the products services, specifically that the "i" denotes Internet-related services, while "mini" describes the product as a distinctly smaller version of similar products. Marks that combine descriptive terms that retain their descriptive meaning in relation to goods or services are composite marks that are not registrable, the letter states (see below)."In this case, both the individual components and the composite result are descriptive of applicant's goods and do not create a unique, incongruous, or non-descriptive meaning in relation to the goods being small handheld mobile devices comprising tablet computers capable of providing Internet access," the office said.The reviewer also found evidence from the Internet showing that widespread use of the term "mini" to describe the small size of various handheld digital devices, and that "the wording merely describes a feature of applicant's goods, namely, a small sized handheld tablet computer.CNET has contacted Apple for comment and will update this report when we learn more.Apple filed a trademark application last November for a "handheld mobile digital electronic device comprising a tablet computer, electronic book and periodical reader, digital audio and video player, camera, electronic personal organizer, personal digital assistant, electronic calendar, and mapping and global positioning system (GPS) device, and capable of providing access to the Internet and sending, receiving, and storing messages and other data." USPTO Refuses Apple s iPad Mini Trademark Application
Apple appeals judge's denial of Samsung sales ban
Apple appeals judge's denial of Samsung sales ban
Apple on Friday filed an appeal to a judge's ruling from earlier this week that denied a sales ban on Samsung devices.US District Judge Lucy Koh ruled Wednesday not to place a permanent injunction against Samsung for selling certain older-model smartphones. Those devices named by Apple included the Admire, Galaxy Nexus, Galaxy Note, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy S2, Galaxy S2 Epic 4G Touch, Galaxy S2 Skyrocket, Galaxy S3, and Stratosphere.Apple's injunction request stems back to its winning a $119.6 million jury verdict against Samsung in May. The jury found Samsung infringed on several Apple patents -- and it was these infringed-upon patents that Apple wanted included in its injunction request.One of the reasons that Koh may have decided not to impose the injunction against Samsung is that Apple reported stellar profit and solid iPhone sales in its third-quarter financial report released in July."Apple has not demonstrated that it will suffer irreparable harm to its reputation or goodwill as an innovator without an injunction," Koh wrote in her ruling.The two companies have been battling over patents for years in various suits, countersuits, and trials. But, it looks like the warring could soon come to an end. Earlier this month, the two companies agreed to drop all patent lawsuits against each other outside of the US.We've contacted Samsung about Apple's appeal and will update the report when we have more information. Apple v. Samsung 2014: The infringing devices...See full gallery1 - 4 / 13NextPrev
Apple on Friday filed an appeal to a judge's ruling from earlier this week that denied a sales ban on Samsung devices.US District Judge Lucy Koh ruled Wednesday not to place a permanent injunction against Samsung for selling certain older-model smartphones. Those devices named by Apple included the Admire, Galaxy Nexus, Galaxy Note, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy S2, Galaxy S2 Epic 4G Touch, Galaxy S2 Skyrocket, Galaxy S3, and Stratosphere.Apple's injunction request stems back to its winning a $119.6 million jury verdict against Samsung in May. The jury found Samsung infringed on several Apple patents -- and it was these infringed-upon patents that Apple wanted included in its injunction request.One of the reasons that Koh may have decided not to impose the injunction against Samsung is that Apple reported stellar profit and solid iPhone sales in its third-quarter financial report released in July."Apple has not demonstrated that it will suffer irreparable harm to its reputation or goodwill as an innovator without an injunction," Koh wrote in her ruling.The two companies have been battling over patents for years in various suits, countersuits, and trials. But, it looks like the warring could soon come to an end. Earlier this month, the two companies agreed to drop all patent lawsuits against each other outside of the US.We've contacted Samsung about Apple's appeal and will update the report when we have more information. Apple v. Samsung 2014: The infringing devices...See full gallery1 - 4 / 13NextPrev
Apple extends iMac hard drive replacements to '09-10 models
Apple has quietly extended a hard drive replacement program for its iMac all-in-one computers by an additional one year and seven months to cover machines made as far back as October 2009.The change, noticed by CNET readers, means that users with Seagate's 1TB hard drive can get it swapped out by Apple or one of the company's authorized service provider for free if it fails. The issue in question affected a batch of 1TB Seagate hard drives that shipped in Apple's iMac systems, originally between May and July of 2011. That drive was found in both the 21.5-inch and 27-inch model. Apple now says both of those models with the drive, sold between October 2009 and July 2011, are covered if something goes wrong. Normally, a hard drive replacement would be no big deal in the world of desktop computers, but over the years Apple has shifted toward designs that are less serviceable. As my CNET colleague David Carnoy found after experiencing issues with his 2010 iMac hard drive in August, actually getting to the hard drive required special tools, including suction cups to remove the glass panel display. To see if your machine is eligible, you can plug in your iMac's serial number on this page.
Apple explores swipe gestures for iOS device keyboards
iPhone and iPad users may one day be able to add swipe gestures to their keyboard repertoire.A patent awarded to Apple by the US Patent and Trademark Office on Tuesday reveals that Apple has been looking into the use of swipe gestures as an alternative to various keyboard functions. Dubbed "Swipe gestures for touch-screen keyboards," the patent describes how swiping could be more effective than tapping on the virtual keyboard.The technology envisioned in the patent wouldn't let you use swipes to type actual characters. Instead, a swipe would invoke specific keys, such as space, backspace, shift, and return. Such actions could be performed with a single swipe. More possibilities would open up through multi-finger swipes.A two-finger swipe might turn on the caps lock key, delete the current word, or add a period and a space to end a sentence. A three-finger swipe could bring up an alternative keyboard for adding punctuation or numbers.As always, even an awarded patent doesn't necessarily mean the technology will see the light of day. But it's good to see Apple looking into a feature currently enjoyed by Android users.(Via AppleInsider)
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