Alpine iPod car stereo features big screen
Alpine Electronics broke from the pack a couple of years ago and launched a new series of in-dash radios designed specifically for the iPod user. The company's studies had shown that iPod listeners rarely listened to the CD format in their vehicles, and almost exclusively used their iPods for listening to their favorite artists.Alpine reasoned that if it dispensed with the CD mechanism and focused on features that iPod users would appreciate, it would have a hit. It was only partially right, but momentum is gaining.These "mechless" head units were a real break from tradition, and many of the Alpine dealers ran into a mental stumbling block selling radios that could not play the CD format.Their iPod customers didn't care, though, and soon the "IDAX" series of products were some of Alpine's best sellers.They keep getting better and better each year, and recently I had the opportunity to test drive the newest unit, the IXAW404.AlpineThe Alpine IXAW404 is the company's first double-DiN offering in the iPod lineup. Most cars built today use this size of radio, and it offers a lot of advantages over the aftermarket's standard single-DIN design.Besides looking more factory-like when installed, the double-DIN format provides more physical real estate for the designers to work with, so the consumer gets the benefit of a larger display screen, larger and easier-to-use knobs and buttons, and a generally less cluttered appearance.My overall impression of the IXAW404 was very favorable. The unit is dominated by a 4.3-inch QGVA color monitor and large control knob.The screen is used to inform the driver of the functions being performed by the deck. When in iPod mode, it will show artist, song and title information, as well as cover art (if loaded onto the iPod). The resolution is very good, and the smallest detail on the cover art is well represented. It's not necessary, but it's a nice touch that ties the user to his or her iPod experience.The screen also has an input for an optional navigation system and also a dedicated backup camera input. The IXAW404 has typical Alpine fit and finish. Everything looks well made and it "feels right" when you twist knobs or push buttons. The large center button is plastic, but it looks good. I would have preferred something in aluminum for a knob this large, but it comes off OK.Alpine was one of the first manufacturers to work directly with Apple instead of "reverse engineering" its iPod interface. The result is an Apple-certified "Made for iPod" and "Works with iPhone" rating. All iPod and iPhone functions are supported, including video file search and playback, and you won't get the annoying "Airplane Mode?" warning with iPhones. The connection to the unit is through a supplied iPod/iPhone dock to USB, and it is superfast. The rest of the unit is AM/FM and...well, that's it. AM/FM/iPod is all you really need, but it is fully upgradable with optional HD Radio tuners, Sirius/XM satellite radio, Bluetooth, navigation, and even a DVD/CD Changer for the die-hards who still need some plastic in their playback. One interesting feature on the HD tuner this year is iTunes Tagging. If you are listening to HD and hear a song you like, one touch on the main control knob tags that song and stores it in your iPod. The next time you hook up with iTunes, you will be asked if you want to download the song from the iTunes store. I definitely liked this unit. If you are an iPod user, and can't remember the last time you played an actual CD in your car, don't even think twice. Good fit and finish, ease of use, great song search features, and an easy-to-see screen make this piece a winner. (Editor's note:John Haynes, aka Mr. Mobile of Al & Ed's Autosound, contributes articles from the shop floor about car stereo and electronics to CNET. Al & Ed's Autosound is a multistore, professional installer of car audio systems and electronics.)
If the rumors are true, buy the Zune HD
If the rumors are true, buy the Zune HD
The Zune HD is one of the most interesting, possibly fake, products in the portable player market.Almost every week there's a different rumor swirling about the device.And yet, we still have no idea if it will ever hit store shelves.But if the latest rumors are true, the Zune HD will be the best portable music player on the market.According to a report at Windows Mobile Power User, the Zune HD will sport a multitouch OLED screen, playback of HD media from the Zune Marketplace, TV-out with a mini-HDMI port, HD radio, and wireless sync.It will come in 16GB or 32GB flavors, offer a browser that supports multitouch, and support 3D Xbox games.Though the report makes no mention of price, it claims the device will be made available in September.And just look at that picture--it's gorgeous.I know this all sounds fantastical.I'll be the first to admit that we need to be wary of all rumors.But for the purposes of this column, let's assume for a moment that this really is the Zune HD.Judging by those specs, wouldn't you want one?I certainly would.When you compare the rumored specs of the Zune HD to the iPod Touch, it's clear that they're similar on many levels.They both sport multitouch capabilities, they offer the same storage, and you can play games on either device.Where the rumored Zune HD trumps the iPod Touch is on the extras like HD radio and wireless sync, which could become a major selling point for the device.Plus, its mini-HD port could transform the way you enjoy video through a portable music player.We also can't forget that Microsoft has teamed up with Nvidia as a featured partner on its Tegra chip, which is specifically designed for mobile devices.It supports HD video and could be the power behind the Zune HD.And if its "3D gaming" capabilities bring XNA into the mix, we could have a serious gaming device sitting in our pockets.But the major issue with the Zune since its release has little to do with the device itself.The Zune Marketplace is, in many respects, a joke.I've used it on numerous occasions and each time I end up missing the iTunes store.But now that iTunes is DRM-free, I finally have the option to use it as my music store, port the tracks to my Zune HD, and only use the Zune Marketplace for games and video.Meantime, I can use any device that might be better than the iPod.The Zune HD looks like just that device.Once again, there's no way to know if the Zune HD is real.And if it is, there's no way to prove that it will feature that design or boast those specs.But if the rumors are true, I'll be the first in line for a Zune HD.Look for my iPod on eBay.Check out Don's Digital Home podcast, Twitter stream, and FriendFeed.
The Zune HD is one of the most interesting, possibly fake, products in the portable player market.Almost every week there's a different rumor swirling about the device.And yet, we still have no idea if it will ever hit store shelves.But if the latest rumors are true, the Zune HD will be the best portable music player on the market.According to a report at Windows Mobile Power User, the Zune HD will sport a multitouch OLED screen, playback of HD media from the Zune Marketplace, TV-out with a mini-HDMI port, HD radio, and wireless sync.It will come in 16GB or 32GB flavors, offer a browser that supports multitouch, and support 3D Xbox games.Though the report makes no mention of price, it claims the device will be made available in September.And just look at that picture--it's gorgeous.I know this all sounds fantastical.I'll be the first to admit that we need to be wary of all rumors.But for the purposes of this column, let's assume for a moment that this really is the Zune HD.Judging by those specs, wouldn't you want one?I certainly would.When you compare the rumored specs of the Zune HD to the iPod Touch, it's clear that they're similar on many levels.They both sport multitouch capabilities, they offer the same storage, and you can play games on either device.Where the rumored Zune HD trumps the iPod Touch is on the extras like HD radio and wireless sync, which could become a major selling point for the device.Plus, its mini-HD port could transform the way you enjoy video through a portable music player.We also can't forget that Microsoft has teamed up with Nvidia as a featured partner on its Tegra chip, which is specifically designed for mobile devices.It supports HD video and could be the power behind the Zune HD.And if its "3D gaming" capabilities bring XNA into the mix, we could have a serious gaming device sitting in our pockets.But the major issue with the Zune since its release has little to do with the device itself.The Zune Marketplace is, in many respects, a joke.I've used it on numerous occasions and each time I end up missing the iTunes store.But now that iTunes is DRM-free, I finally have the option to use it as my music store, port the tracks to my Zune HD, and only use the Zune Marketplace for games and video.Meantime, I can use any device that might be better than the iPod.The Zune HD looks like just that device.Once again, there's no way to know if the Zune HD is real.And if it is, there's no way to prove that it will feature that design or boast those specs.But if the rumors are true, I'll be the first in line for a Zune HD.Look for my iPod on eBay.Check out Don's Digital Home podcast, Twitter stream, and FriendFeed.
Apple buys Topsy, could integrate it into iTunes Radio -- report
Apple buys Topsy, could integrate it into iTunes Radio -- report
Apple could automatically give users of its iTunes Radio service real-time information about songs or artists trending on Twitter, or could offer a wide variety of other real-time analysis, thanks to its reported purchase today of social-media analytics firm Topsy Labs.Related postsTwitter airport bomb joker arrestedTwitter grows up in aftermath of Haiti earthquakeBill Gates joins TwitterPrivacy is over. Here comes sociality.Baidu.com sues U.S. domain registrar over hackingAccording to the Wall Street Journal (subscription required), Apple paid more than $200 million for San Francisco-based Topsy, which develops tools that help companies mine Twitter for sentiment analysis. Topsy frequently issues data about how information has spread across Twitter during big events such as Hurricane Sandy or the Super Bowl. Many companies use that information to better understand how to reach current or prospective customers. Topsy's tools can reveal how often a specific term is tweeted and who is doing the tweeting.Neither Apple nor Topsy immediately responded to a request for comment. However, Apple confirmed the acquisition to the Journal, though it didn't offer any rationale for the deal. "Apple buys smaller technology companies from time to time," the company told the Journal, "and we generally do not discuss our purpose or plans."Although Topsy is a Twitter partner with access to the social network's "firehose," the full stream of tweets from all of the more than 220 million Twitter users, it's not clear exactly what Apple might do with the analytics firm. The Journal speculated that the tech giant might well be interested in bringing more real-time data about songs or artists trending on Twitter.But the deal may be more about helping Apple understand what its millions of customers are saying about it, said Brian Blau, an analyst at Gartner. Though Blau had no direct information about the acquisition, he said that Apple may view a service like Topsy as a way to "figure out how to inject themselves into the social conversation."For some time, said Blau, Apple has been a "somewhat anti-social" company in that they haven't put too much emphasis on interacting with customers directly. But, Blau said, "I think a company like Apple certainly can't ignore what's being said in social these days....You need to know who your customers are, and what they're doing."Indeed, Blau added that it makes sense for Apple to buy Topsy. "There's been a couple times where they've been caught off guard," he said. "Maybe having a tool like this would help them better prepare" next time.
Apple could automatically give users of its iTunes Radio service real-time information about songs or artists trending on Twitter, or could offer a wide variety of other real-time analysis, thanks to its reported purchase today of social-media analytics firm Topsy Labs.Related postsTwitter airport bomb joker arrestedTwitter grows up in aftermath of Haiti earthquakeBill Gates joins TwitterPrivacy is over. Here comes sociality.Baidu.com sues U.S. domain registrar over hackingAccording to the Wall Street Journal (subscription required), Apple paid more than $200 million for San Francisco-based Topsy, which develops tools that help companies mine Twitter for sentiment analysis. Topsy frequently issues data about how information has spread across Twitter during big events such as Hurricane Sandy or the Super Bowl. Many companies use that information to better understand how to reach current or prospective customers. Topsy's tools can reveal how often a specific term is tweeted and who is doing the tweeting.Neither Apple nor Topsy immediately responded to a request for comment. However, Apple confirmed the acquisition to the Journal, though it didn't offer any rationale for the deal. "Apple buys smaller technology companies from time to time," the company told the Journal, "and we generally do not discuss our purpose or plans."Although Topsy is a Twitter partner with access to the social network's "firehose," the full stream of tweets from all of the more than 220 million Twitter users, it's not clear exactly what Apple might do with the analytics firm. The Journal speculated that the tech giant might well be interested in bringing more real-time data about songs or artists trending on Twitter.But the deal may be more about helping Apple understand what its millions of customers are saying about it, said Brian Blau, an analyst at Gartner. Though Blau had no direct information about the acquisition, he said that Apple may view a service like Topsy as a way to "figure out how to inject themselves into the social conversation."For some time, said Blau, Apple has been a "somewhat anti-social" company in that they haven't put too much emphasis on interacting with customers directly. But, Blau said, "I think a company like Apple certainly can't ignore what's being said in social these days....You need to know who your customers are, and what they're doing."Indeed, Blau added that it makes sense for Apple to buy Topsy. "There's been a couple times where they've been caught off guard," he said. "Maybe having a tool like this would help them better prepare" next time.
Rumor Has It, Ep. 23- The iPad is so close, we can taste it (podcast)
Rumor Has It, Ep. 23: The iPad is so close, we can taste it (podcast)
We start out today's show with a very important message to all you copycats out there: give credit where credit is due! And that's all we have to say about that. Whew! Tomorrow's iPad event means we can finally stop talking about the elusive iPad...3? Or maybe it's the iPad HD? Or maybe it's the iPad YouKnowYouWantOne? We'll find out tomorrow, where undoubtedly a million points will get on the board. And then we can finally put that baby to rest.Also on today's show, we talk about something not Apple related (if you can believe it), play our Yay or Nay game (copyright, trademark, all rights reserved 2012), and count how many accents Emily whips out. (Our last count was nine.) EPISODE 23This 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.PlaySubscribe: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.Links from the show!The next iPad will be the iPad HD, not the iPad 3iPads running iOS 6 crop up in Web traffic logsThe curious case of the missing iPad 3 home buttonIs Apple prepping an 8GB iPad 2 to launch March 7?Portal's Valve to release 'Steam Box' console, says reportApple pushing ahead with plans for subscription TV service by ChristmasYay or Nay?Is the HTC Titan the first Windows Phone in China?Will the Samsung Galaxy S III to debut by April?Is Google planning a Siri rival for later this yearApple is reportedly cooking up new audio file format. Is that going to happen?Will HBO and Microsoft answer all of Karyne's dreams and offer HBO Go on the Xbox?Will Apple add variable precision location sharing to Find My Friends app?Heard a tech rumor you think we should cover?E-mail us at Rumorhasit [at] cnet.com, or directly at karyne.levy [at] cnet.com or emily.dreyfuss [at] cbsinteractive.com. And call and leave us a voice mail at 1-800-750-CNET!And don't forget to follow us on Twitter! @EmilyDreyfuss, @karynelevy, @RumorShow, @stephenbeacham.
We start out today's show with a very important message to all you copycats out there: give credit where credit is due! And that's all we have to say about that. Whew! Tomorrow's iPad event means we can finally stop talking about the elusive iPad...3? Or maybe it's the iPad HD? Or maybe it's the iPad YouKnowYouWantOne? We'll find out tomorrow, where undoubtedly a million points will get on the board. And then we can finally put that baby to rest.Also on today's show, we talk about something not Apple related (if you can believe it), play our Yay or Nay game (copyright, trademark, all rights reserved 2012), and count how many accents Emily whips out. (Our last count was nine.) EPISODE 23This 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.PlaySubscribe: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.Links from the show!The next iPad will be the iPad HD, not the iPad 3iPads running iOS 6 crop up in Web traffic logsThe curious case of the missing iPad 3 home buttonIs Apple prepping an 8GB iPad 2 to launch March 7?Portal's Valve to release 'Steam Box' console, says reportApple pushing ahead with plans for subscription TV service by ChristmasYay or Nay?Is the HTC Titan the first Windows Phone in China?Will the Samsung Galaxy S III to debut by April?Is Google planning a Siri rival for later this yearApple is reportedly cooking up new audio file format. Is that going to happen?Will HBO and Microsoft answer all of Karyne's dreams and offer HBO Go on the Xbox?Will Apple add variable precision location sharing to Find My Friends app?Heard a tech rumor you think we should cover?E-mail us at Rumorhasit [at] cnet.com, or directly at karyne.levy [at] cnet.com or emily.dreyfuss [at] cbsinteractive.com. And call and leave us a voice mail at 1-800-750-CNET!And don't forget to follow us on Twitter! @EmilyDreyfuss, @karynelevy, @RumorShow, @stephenbeacham.
How to gift an app from the App Store
How to gift an app from the App Store
You can gift an app using an iPad, iPod Touch, or iPhone. Launch the App Store and find the app you want to send as a gift. Once you have found the app and are viewing all of the details, scroll down to the bottom. There you will find aGift This App button. Tap on it. Screenshot by Jason CiprianiYou will be provided with a summary of the app; press Next after you have confirmed it is the app you would like to send. Screenshot by Jason CiprianiEnter your name followed by the recipient's name and e-mail address. You can also scroll down and enter a note to be sent with the app if you'd like. Press Next when you're done. Screenshot by Jason CiprianiOn the last screen you will see an order summary. Verify that the name, e-mail address, and app are all correct. Once you are satisfied, tap on Buy Gift. The recipient will then be sent an e-mail to alert him or her of your gift. Now that we have seen the process for using an iOS device, let's look at how to gift an app using iTunes. The process is basically the same, with a few minor tweaks. Screenshot by Jason CiprianiNavigate to the app you would like to gift. While on the detail page for the app, you can click on the arrow to the right of the price of the app. Doing so will provide you with a list of options. Select Gift This App.Screenshot by Jason CiprianiUsing iTunes you are given an option to have the gift e-mailed, or you can print it out and hand deliver it. Enter the required information to e-mail the certificate and click on Continue. If you are printing the certificate, you will only be required to enter your name, recipient's name, and a note.If want to send this same app to more than one person, you can enter multiple e-mail address by placing a comma between each of them. This allows you to go through the purchase process only once. Screenshot by Jason CiprianiConfirm your purchase by clicking on Buy Gift. Sorry, an iTunes gift card can't be used to gift apps to other family members. Nice try, though.
You can gift an app using an iPad, iPod Touch, or iPhone. Launch the App Store and find the app you want to send as a gift. Once you have found the app and are viewing all of the details, scroll down to the bottom. There you will find aGift This App button. Tap on it. Screenshot by Jason CiprianiYou will be provided with a summary of the app; press Next after you have confirmed it is the app you would like to send. Screenshot by Jason CiprianiEnter your name followed by the recipient's name and e-mail address. You can also scroll down and enter a note to be sent with the app if you'd like. Press Next when you're done. Screenshot by Jason CiprianiOn the last screen you will see an order summary. Verify that the name, e-mail address, and app are all correct. Once you are satisfied, tap on Buy Gift. The recipient will then be sent an e-mail to alert him or her of your gift. Now that we have seen the process for using an iOS device, let's look at how to gift an app using iTunes. The process is basically the same, with a few minor tweaks. Screenshot by Jason CiprianiNavigate to the app you would like to gift. While on the detail page for the app, you can click on the arrow to the right of the price of the app. Doing so will provide you with a list of options. Select Gift This App.Screenshot by Jason CiprianiUsing iTunes you are given an option to have the gift e-mailed, or you can print it out and hand deliver it. Enter the required information to e-mail the certificate and click on Continue. If you are printing the certificate, you will only be required to enter your name, recipient's name, and a note.If want to send this same app to more than one person, you can enter multiple e-mail address by placing a comma between each of them. This allows you to go through the purchase process only once. Screenshot by Jason CiprianiConfirm your purchase by clicking on Buy Gift. Sorry, an iTunes gift card can't be used to gift apps to other family members. Nice try, though.
Steve Jobs biopic 'jOBS' to arrive in theaters in April
Steve Jobs biopic 'jOBS' to arrive in theaters in April
The first film about Apple co-founder Steve Jobs since his death in 2011 will be released in theaters in April, the movie's creators said today.Open Road Films and Five Star Feature Films today said the two companies reached a distribution deal for "jOBS." The film, which is not to be confused with a separate production penned by "The Social Network" and "The West Wing" writer Aaron Sorkin, stars Ashton Kutcher as Jobs. The movie will cover the years 1971 through 2000. That bit of Jobs' history includes the founding of Apple, as well as his ouster, the forming of NeXT and Pixar, and then his return to the company when Apple acquired NeXT.Principal photography on "jOBS" began in the Jobs family's original house in June. Photos from the production have since leaked out, showing Kutcher and others in costume.The film is set to premiere later this month at the annual Sundance film festival in Park City, Utah.Along with Kutcher, the movie also stars Matthew Modine as former Apple CEO John Sculley, Josh Gad as Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, and "The Help" star Ahna O'Reilly playing Chris-Ann Brennan, Jobs' girlfriend, and the mother of his daughter Lisa. Other additions include J.K. Simmons and Kevin Dunn, who will play venture capitalist Arthur Rock and former Apple CEO Gil Amelio respectively.
The first film about Apple co-founder Steve Jobs since his death in 2011 will be released in theaters in April, the movie's creators said today.Open Road Films and Five Star Feature Films today said the two companies reached a distribution deal for "jOBS." The film, which is not to be confused with a separate production penned by "The Social Network" and "The West Wing" writer Aaron Sorkin, stars Ashton Kutcher as Jobs. The movie will cover the years 1971 through 2000. That bit of Jobs' history includes the founding of Apple, as well as his ouster, the forming of NeXT and Pixar, and then his return to the company when Apple acquired NeXT.Principal photography on "jOBS" began in the Jobs family's original house in June. Photos from the production have since leaked out, showing Kutcher and others in costume.The film is set to premiere later this month at the annual Sundance film festival in Park City, Utah.Along with Kutcher, the movie also stars Matthew Modine as former Apple CEO John Sculley, Josh Gad as Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, and "The Help" star Ahna O'Reilly playing Chris-Ann Brennan, Jobs' girlfriend, and the mother of his daughter Lisa. Other additions include J.K. Simmons and Kevin Dunn, who will play venture capitalist Arthur Rock and former Apple CEO Gil Amelio respectively.
Steve Jobs biography gets new title
Steve Jobs biography gets new title
Steve Jobs' biography was only announced a few months ago and it already has a new title."iSteve: The Book of Jobs," the first authorized biography of the Apple co-founder and chief executive, has been rechristened simply "Steve Jobs." The book, which was announced in April and is due to be published next year by Simon & Schuster, is being penned by biographer Walter Isaacson from interviews with Jobs, family members, and colleagues. (Simon & Schuster is a unit of CBS Corp., whose CBS Interactive unit is the publisher of CNET.)Amazon.comHowever, the previous title was chosen by Simon & Schuster's publicity department and was not popular with Isaacson, according to a Fortune report. The author's wife and daughter agreed, saying the title was "too cutesy," according to the report.The book is slated to be published March 6, 2012, and is available for preorder on Amazon.com.Although there have been other biographies printed about Apple's iconic co-founder, this is being billed as the first published with his participation. An unauthorized biography titled "iCon: Steve Jobs, The Greatest Second Act in the History of Business" by Jeffrey Young was published in 2005 by John Wiley & Sons. The publisher promised "insider scoops and no-holds-barred style" but was criticized by Jobs and led to the removal of all Wiley books from Apple stores.
Steve Jobs' biography was only announced a few months ago and it already has a new title."iSteve: The Book of Jobs," the first authorized biography of the Apple co-founder and chief executive, has been rechristened simply "Steve Jobs." The book, which was announced in April and is due to be published next year by Simon & Schuster, is being penned by biographer Walter Isaacson from interviews with Jobs, family members, and colleagues. (Simon & Schuster is a unit of CBS Corp., whose CBS Interactive unit is the publisher of CNET.)Amazon.comHowever, the previous title was chosen by Simon & Schuster's publicity department and was not popular with Isaacson, according to a Fortune report. The author's wife and daughter agreed, saying the title was "too cutesy," according to the report.The book is slated to be published March 6, 2012, and is available for preorder on Amazon.com.Although there have been other biographies printed about Apple's iconic co-founder, this is being billed as the first published with his participation. An unauthorized biography titled "iCon: Steve Jobs, The Greatest Second Act in the History of Business" by Jeffrey Young was published in 2005 by John Wiley & Sons. The publisher promised "insider scoops and no-holds-barred style" but was criticized by Jobs and led to the removal of all Wiley books from Apple stores.
Apple reportedly mulling all-you-can-eat iTunes
Apple reportedly mulling all-you-can-eat iTunes
The company reportedly is still in discussions, according to sources speaking on background to the FT."The 'all you can eat' model, a replica of Nokia's 'comes with music' deal with Universal Music last December, could provide the struggling recorded music industry with a much-needed fillip, and drive demand for a new generation of Apple's hardware."Apple would not comment on the plan, but executives familiar with the negotiations said they hinged on a dispute over the price the computer maker would be willing to pay for access to the labels' libraries. "Nokia is understood to be offering almost $80 per handset to music industry partners, to be divided according to their share of the market. However, Apple has so far offered only about $20 per device, two executives said. 'It's who blinks first, and whether or not anyone does blink,' one executive said." If accurate, this would mark a big about-face for Steve Jobs, who previously has dismissed the rental music model. So far this evening, nobody's been able to confirm the FT story. But the story has triggered a fury of interest over at Techmeme. For instance, VentureBeat's MG Siegler raises an interesting question: with iPod sales said to be slowing down, what's the sense of adding a premium to the products? What's more, he asks:"Another question is if Apple really wants to complicate the store known for its simplicity?If consumers who bought these 'unlimited' iPods have access to all the music for free, they'll still have to pay for all video content presumably. Also, what happens if someone doesn't want to go out and buy a new iPod to get this deal, do they opt-in by paying Apple $100? The FT report also suggests that a subscription package may only work with the iPhone and that such a deal would simply be added on to a user's monthly AT&T bill--so what about those users without iPhones?"Hopefully, we'll be able to answer some of these questions with more clarity in a few hours. Stay tuned. Editors' note, March 19, 7:45 AM PDT: News.com's Greg Sandoval now has the lowdown from a source close to the deal. See "Apple could split device sales with music labels.")
The company reportedly is still in discussions, according to sources speaking on background to the FT."The 'all you can eat' model, a replica of Nokia's 'comes with music' deal with Universal Music last December, could provide the struggling recorded music industry with a much-needed fillip, and drive demand for a new generation of Apple's hardware."Apple would not comment on the plan, but executives familiar with the negotiations said they hinged on a dispute over the price the computer maker would be willing to pay for access to the labels' libraries. "Nokia is understood to be offering almost $80 per handset to music industry partners, to be divided according to their share of the market. However, Apple has so far offered only about $20 per device, two executives said. 'It's who blinks first, and whether or not anyone does blink,' one executive said." If accurate, this would mark a big about-face for Steve Jobs, who previously has dismissed the rental music model. So far this evening, nobody's been able to confirm the FT story. But the story has triggered a fury of interest over at Techmeme. For instance, VentureBeat's MG Siegler raises an interesting question: with iPod sales said to be slowing down, what's the sense of adding a premium to the products? What's more, he asks:"Another question is if Apple really wants to complicate the store known for its simplicity?If consumers who bought these 'unlimited' iPods have access to all the music for free, they'll still have to pay for all video content presumably. Also, what happens if someone doesn't want to go out and buy a new iPod to get this deal, do they opt-in by paying Apple $100? The FT report also suggests that a subscription package may only work with the iPhone and that such a deal would simply be added on to a user's monthly AT&T bill--so what about those users without iPhones?"Hopefully, we'll be able to answer some of these questions with more clarity in a few hours. Stay tuned. Editors' note, March 19, 7:45 AM PDT: News.com's Greg Sandoval now has the lowdown from a source close to the deal. See "Apple could split device sales with music labels.")
Apple reportedly eyes iTunes Radio as separate app in iOS 8
Apple reportedly eyes iTunes Radio as separate app in iOS 8
iTunes Radio could split off as its own separate app for iOS 8.Apple is now testing its music service as a standalone app for the next version of iOS, according to 9to5Mac, which cited "sources briefed on the plans." The idea is that Apple could feature and market iTunes Radio more readily as its own app than as an option tucked away into the iOS Music app.For iOS 8, iTunes Radio would be pre-installed and borrow its look and feel from the familiar Music app. iOS users could listen to Featured Stations, create and manage their own stations, and purchase songs and albums from iTunes. Apple was looking at iTunes Radio as a standalone app for iOS 6, 9to5Mac said. But complications over record label deals pushed the launch back to iOS 7.Related postsDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)The 404 Podcast 498: Where Jeff battles the TriadBuzz Out Loud Podcast 1145: China to Google: Suck itNutsie brings iTunes to Android via the cloudThe Real Deal 193: Road Test - CES edition (podcast) Though this tidbit comes from unnamed sources, Apple certainly would want to consider new ways to boost the reach of iTunes Radio. The service is actually doing pretty well, at least according to a recent survey from Edison Research. A poll of 2,000 people in the US tagged iTunes Radio as the third most popular streaming radio service in the US.Still, there's much more room for growth. Since its debut last September, iTunes Radio had won more than 20 million users by just a month later. But that number is but a drop in the bucket of more than 600 million iTunes users. And iTunes Radio faces competition from Pandora, Spotify, and similar services, all of which have their own dedicated apps in the App Store.Apple also has a history of separating different features into their own apps. The iOS Music app once included podcasts and iTunes University content. Both of those have since been split off into their own unique apps. iTunes Music seems particular ripe for this type of move -- since it's currently nestled into the Music app, some people may not even know it exists.
iTunes Radio could split off as its own separate app for iOS 8.Apple is now testing its music service as a standalone app for the next version of iOS, according to 9to5Mac, which cited "sources briefed on the plans." The idea is that Apple could feature and market iTunes Radio more readily as its own app than as an option tucked away into the iOS Music app.For iOS 8, iTunes Radio would be pre-installed and borrow its look and feel from the familiar Music app. iOS users could listen to Featured Stations, create and manage their own stations, and purchase songs and albums from iTunes. Apple was looking at iTunes Radio as a standalone app for iOS 6, 9to5Mac said. But complications over record label deals pushed the launch back to iOS 7.Related postsDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)The 404 Podcast 498: Where Jeff battles the TriadBuzz Out Loud Podcast 1145: China to Google: Suck itNutsie brings iTunes to Android via the cloudThe Real Deal 193: Road Test - CES edition (podcast) Though this tidbit comes from unnamed sources, Apple certainly would want to consider new ways to boost the reach of iTunes Radio. The service is actually doing pretty well, at least according to a recent survey from Edison Research. A poll of 2,000 people in the US tagged iTunes Radio as the third most popular streaming radio service in the US.Still, there's much more room for growth. Since its debut last September, iTunes Radio had won more than 20 million users by just a month later. But that number is but a drop in the bucket of more than 600 million iTunes users. And iTunes Radio faces competition from Pandora, Spotify, and similar services, all of which have their own dedicated apps in the App Store.Apple also has a history of separating different features into their own apps. The iOS Music app once included podcasts and iTunes University content. Both of those have since been split off into their own unique apps. iTunes Music seems particular ripe for this type of move -- since it's currently nestled into the Music app, some people may not even know it exists.
Apple highlights better way to juggle your browser tabs
Apple highlights better way to juggle your browser tabs
The more tabbed pages you open in your browser, the more difficult it becomes to navigate them all. Apple has one remedy in mind, as shown in a newly published patent filing.Published Thursday by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, a patent application called "Gesture-based navigation among content items" envisions a way to scroll through your tabbed pages in an array mode to find a specific one.Desktop browsers typically display your tabs side by side. That's fine until you open so many tabbed pages that you can't keep track of them or even see their full names. Instead, Apple's approach would let you view your tabbed pages in a scrollable grid, allowing you to see them one at a time. When you find the page you wish to open, simply click on it to launch it full-screen.As the patent describes it:In response to user input the display can be switched to an array mode, in which all of the content items are visible in a scrollable array. Selecting a content item in array mode can result in the display returning to the full-frame mode, with the selected content item becoming visible and active. Smoothly animated transitions between the full-frame and array modes and a gesture-based interface for controlling the transitions can also be provided.The concept sounds good, though it's hardly new.The mobile version of Safari for iOS lets you swipe across your array of tabs. And in last year's release of Mountain Lion, Apple added a tabbed scrolling feature to Safari. Selecting a "Show All Tab" view in Safari lets you scroll through each open window and select the one you wish to launch.But the patent application, which was filed on January 25, 2013, envisions the feature extending beyond just Web browsers."In any context where a user can view multiple different content items, such as a Web browser or word processing program or the like, switching among open (or currently loaded) content items is provided using an array mode," Apple said in its application.(Via Patently Apple)
The more tabbed pages you open in your browser, the more difficult it becomes to navigate them all. Apple has one remedy in mind, as shown in a newly published patent filing.Published Thursday by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, a patent application called "Gesture-based navigation among content items" envisions a way to scroll through your tabbed pages in an array mode to find a specific one.Desktop browsers typically display your tabs side by side. That's fine until you open so many tabbed pages that you can't keep track of them or even see their full names. Instead, Apple's approach would let you view your tabbed pages in a scrollable grid, allowing you to see them one at a time. When you find the page you wish to open, simply click on it to launch it full-screen.As the patent describes it:In response to user input the display can be switched to an array mode, in which all of the content items are visible in a scrollable array. Selecting a content item in array mode can result in the display returning to the full-frame mode, with the selected content item becoming visible and active. Smoothly animated transitions between the full-frame and array modes and a gesture-based interface for controlling the transitions can also be provided.The concept sounds good, though it's hardly new.The mobile version of Safari for iOS lets you swipe across your array of tabs. And in last year's release of Mountain Lion, Apple added a tabbed scrolling feature to Safari. Selecting a "Show All Tab" view in Safari lets you scroll through each open window and select the one you wish to launch.But the patent application, which was filed on January 25, 2013, envisions the feature extending beyond just Web browsers."In any context where a user can view multiple different content items, such as a Web browser or word processing program or the like, switching among open (or currently loaded) content items is provided using an array mode," Apple said in its application.(Via Patently Apple)
Apple HDTV would lure about 1 in 2 iPhone owners, survey says
Apple HDTV would lure about 1 in 2 iPhone owners, survey says
If you own an iPhone, you're pretty likely to buy Apple's much-rumored TV set, according to the results of a new study.Market research firm Strategy Analytics today released findings from its 2012 ConsumerMetrix survey, which says "nearly half" of those who already own an iPhone would be "very or somewhat likely" to buy an Apple TV set. The survey, which took place in March, was limited to the U.S. and Europe, and consisted of about 6,000 individuals, most of whom were located in Europe. According to Jia Wu, a Director at Strategy Analytics and the report's author, less than a quarter of those polled (read: not just iPhone owners) said they'd end up buying the device in its first year out. About 5 percent they'd be "very likely" to buy, and less than 20 percent said they were "somewhat likely." Worth noting is that the poll didn't specify an actual feature set for the device, just a price range and the fact that it would be sold by Apple. In the U.S., 35 percent of those polled said they'd pay $1,000 or more for the set, a number that falls to 14 percent at a price above $1,600, the firm said. All told, Wu says that could lead to first year sales of 5 to 17 million units in North America and Western Europe."It's more based on the assumption that the TV will be sold at $1,000 or $1,500, and also we don't know many details of the product, only the consumer interest and willingness to pay," Wu said in an interview. Apple's TV-set ambitions remain a rumor, but one that's rooted in some suggestive fact. Late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs told biographer Walter Isaacson that he wanted "to create an integrated television set that is completely easy to use," and that he "finally cracked it." Since then there has been no shortage of rumors that suggest Apple is still at work on such a product. (See CNET's full rundown here.)
If you own an iPhone, you're pretty likely to buy Apple's much-rumored TV set, according to the results of a new study.Market research firm Strategy Analytics today released findings from its 2012 ConsumerMetrix survey, which says "nearly half" of those who already own an iPhone would be "very or somewhat likely" to buy an Apple TV set. The survey, which took place in March, was limited to the U.S. and Europe, and consisted of about 6,000 individuals, most of whom were located in Europe. According to Jia Wu, a Director at Strategy Analytics and the report's author, less than a quarter of those polled (read: not just iPhone owners) said they'd end up buying the device in its first year out. About 5 percent they'd be "very likely" to buy, and less than 20 percent said they were "somewhat likely." Worth noting is that the poll didn't specify an actual feature set for the device, just a price range and the fact that it would be sold by Apple. In the U.S., 35 percent of those polled said they'd pay $1,000 or more for the set, a number that falls to 14 percent at a price above $1,600, the firm said. All told, Wu says that could lead to first year sales of 5 to 17 million units in North America and Western Europe."It's more based on the assumption that the TV will be sold at $1,000 or $1,500, and also we don't know many details of the product, only the consumer interest and willingness to pay," Wu said in an interview. Apple's TV-set ambitions remain a rumor, but one that's rooted in some suggestive fact. Late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs told biographer Walter Isaacson that he wanted "to create an integrated television set that is completely easy to use," and that he "finally cracked it." Since then there has been no shortage of rumors that suggest Apple is still at work on such a product. (See CNET's full rundown here.)
Apple has been an LTE straggler -- maybe that's a good thing
Apple has been an LTE straggler -- maybe that's a good thing
Apple has taken a wait-and-see approach to 4G LTE, and that may pay off for the iPhone 5. While LTE on Verizon's network has become a standard offering for Android phones over the last year or so, Apple CEO Tim Cook has resisted -- until Wednesday. Cook always said pretty much the same thing: iPhone-use LTE chipsets aren't good enough yet for Apple. And he had a point.Previous generations of LTE tech had power-consumption and chip-integration tradeoffs. Plus,Verizon's build-out of LTE has been steady but slow.(It just reached an area near my stomping grounds, an immediate suburb of Los Angeles.) Now, Apple is saying it is doing"LTE...The right way," according to Apple's iPhone 5 Web page, where it addresses past issues. "LTE wireless technology is built for speed, but adding it to a phone can create bulk and drain battery life quickly. iPhone 5 does LTE the right way -- optimized for better battery life and designed for ultrafast connectivity in a thin profile." Related stories2009 PC shipments inch into positive territoryMicrosoft brings kids developer tool to the PC Apple obviously thinks it has met the LTE challenge by offering "up to 8 hours" of "Internet use" on LTE.Even better than the stated 6 hours of Internet use on 3G for the iPhone 4S.Only reviews will show if the claims are real, but Apple tends to be relatively conservative, so the numbers are encouraging.But what isn't clear is how it gets there. For example, the iPhone can't do simultaneous voice and data on Verizon's and Sprint's networks.That's an issueI thought about long and hard before I eventually decided to go with Verizon's 3G on my iPhone 4S. (Though, to be honest, it hasn't been a big issue for me.) Will this impact buying decisions in a big way?I don't think so.The most important thing for most users is battery life.So, Apple's laggard-by-design strategy may pay off.
Apple has taken a wait-and-see approach to 4G LTE, and that may pay off for the iPhone 5. While LTE on Verizon's network has become a standard offering for Android phones over the last year or so, Apple CEO Tim Cook has resisted -- until Wednesday. Cook always said pretty much the same thing: iPhone-use LTE chipsets aren't good enough yet for Apple. And he had a point.Previous generations of LTE tech had power-consumption and chip-integration tradeoffs. Plus,Verizon's build-out of LTE has been steady but slow.(It just reached an area near my stomping grounds, an immediate suburb of Los Angeles.) Now, Apple is saying it is doing"LTE...The right way," according to Apple's iPhone 5 Web page, where it addresses past issues. "LTE wireless technology is built for speed, but adding it to a phone can create bulk and drain battery life quickly. iPhone 5 does LTE the right way -- optimized for better battery life and designed for ultrafast connectivity in a thin profile." Related stories2009 PC shipments inch into positive territoryMicrosoft brings kids developer tool to the PC Apple obviously thinks it has met the LTE challenge by offering "up to 8 hours" of "Internet use" on LTE.Even better than the stated 6 hours of Internet use on 3G for the iPhone 4S.Only reviews will show if the claims are real, but Apple tends to be relatively conservative, so the numbers are encouraging.But what isn't clear is how it gets there. For example, the iPhone can't do simultaneous voice and data on Verizon's and Sprint's networks.That's an issueI thought about long and hard before I eventually decided to go with Verizon's 3G on my iPhone 4S. (Though, to be honest, it hasn't been a big issue for me.) Will this impact buying decisions in a big way?I don't think so.The most important thing for most users is battery life.So, Apple's laggard-by-design strategy may pay off.
Apple has an ally; Electromagnetic engineer says Consumer Reports iPhone 4 study flawed
Apple has an ally; Electromagnetic engineer says Consumer Reports iPhone 4 study flawed
Bob Egan, now a technology blogger and Global Head of Research & Chief Analyst at the TowerGroup, claims that the Consumer Reports study that had the popular independent customer advocacy group unable to recommend purchasing iPhone 4 has many inherent flaws and can barely be counted as scientific.Egan writes, "Bottom line. From what I can see in the reports, Consumer Reports replicated the same uncontrolled, unscientific experiments that many of the blogging sites have done."Egan also wonders if the issue is even entirely Apple's, supposing that AT&T could share some of the blame for the signal variance and call dropping problems that have since become endless blogging fodder for every technology website reporting on Apple's affairs. "We also don't know if placing a finger on the antenna bridge is detuning the antenna or detuning the receiver itself."Since this issue has come to light, I have carefully monitored my own 3G reception while using iPhone 4. My conclusions, though completely unscientific, are that while I can replicate the signal bar indicator issue (where the number of bars drops significantly when covering the antenna gap on the lower-left of the device), it does not seem to affect call quality or cause any dropped calls. That would lead me to believe that the indicator problem is a result of a software miscalculation and I fully expect a software fix to silence this issue for good.So the question looms, who do you believe? Has Consumer Reports done its due diligence in testing iPhone 4 or did it miss some steps along the way that would make the report more valid? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!Be sure to check us out on Twitter and the CNET Mac forums.Submit a fix to MacFixIt! Email Us.
Bob Egan, now a technology blogger and Global Head of Research & Chief Analyst at the TowerGroup, claims that the Consumer Reports study that had the popular independent customer advocacy group unable to recommend purchasing iPhone 4 has many inherent flaws and can barely be counted as scientific.Egan writes, "Bottom line. From what I can see in the reports, Consumer Reports replicated the same uncontrolled, unscientific experiments that many of the blogging sites have done."Egan also wonders if the issue is even entirely Apple's, supposing that AT&T could share some of the blame for the signal variance and call dropping problems that have since become endless blogging fodder for every technology website reporting on Apple's affairs. "We also don't know if placing a finger on the antenna bridge is detuning the antenna or detuning the receiver itself."Since this issue has come to light, I have carefully monitored my own 3G reception while using iPhone 4. My conclusions, though completely unscientific, are that while I can replicate the signal bar indicator issue (where the number of bars drops significantly when covering the antenna gap on the lower-left of the device), it does not seem to affect call quality or cause any dropped calls. That would lead me to believe that the indicator problem is a result of a software miscalculation and I fully expect a software fix to silence this issue for good.So the question looms, who do you believe? Has Consumer Reports done its due diligence in testing iPhone 4 or did it miss some steps along the way that would make the report more valid? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!Be sure to check us out on Twitter and the CNET Mac forums.Submit a fix to MacFixIt! Email Us.
Apple has a good Christmas, then gets a lump of coal from Italy
Apple has a good Christmas, then gets a lump of coal from Italy
Next-gen iPhone to sport metal back?Reviving a rumor that had been debunked by the release of the iPhone 4S earlier this year, Boy Genius Report this week claimed that Apple's working to bring metal backing to its next iPhone. Citing "a close source," the blog said Apple's next iPhone will be delivered in the fall, and sport a back made out of metal with a new side material akin to its plastic and rubber bumper cases. Reports earlier this year claimed Apple was planning to swap out the glass for a metal back in its next iPhone, but that turned out not to be the case with the 4S, which stuck with the same design.Apple sourcing parts for 32-inch, 37-inch TV setsThe Apple TV set could be here sooner than later if a new report is to be believed. Citing sources in the supply chain, DigiTimes this week said that Apple is pulling together components to build 32-inch and 37-inch TV sets that will be ready to go on sale in the second half of 2012. The report also suggests that another Apple TV set top box is due next year.Is this the iPad 3's home button?It may not may be as exciting as a leaked screen or spy photo, but shots of purported home buttons for Apple's third-generation iPad made the rounds this week. Is it a different color, shape or size? No, but there are apparently a lot of them floating around says 9to5mac, which posted photos of the button next to those from the iPad 2. If anything, the part suggests Apple's not ditching the home button in the next version of the hardware, as some previous rumors have asserted. Alongside the home button, 30-pin adapter parts for the next iPad are also said to be in the wild.
Next-gen iPhone to sport metal back?Reviving a rumor that had been debunked by the release of the iPhone 4S earlier this year, Boy Genius Report this week claimed that Apple's working to bring metal backing to its next iPhone. Citing "a close source," the blog said Apple's next iPhone will be delivered in the fall, and sport a back made out of metal with a new side material akin to its plastic and rubber bumper cases. Reports earlier this year claimed Apple was planning to swap out the glass for a metal back in its next iPhone, but that turned out not to be the case with the 4S, which stuck with the same design.Apple sourcing parts for 32-inch, 37-inch TV setsThe Apple TV set could be here sooner than later if a new report is to be believed. Citing sources in the supply chain, DigiTimes this week said that Apple is pulling together components to build 32-inch and 37-inch TV sets that will be ready to go on sale in the second half of 2012. The report also suggests that another Apple TV set top box is due next year.Is this the iPad 3's home button?It may not may be as exciting as a leaked screen or spy photo, but shots of purported home buttons for Apple's third-generation iPad made the rounds this week. Is it a different color, shape or size? No, but there are apparently a lot of them floating around says 9to5mac, which posted photos of the button next to those from the iPad 2. If anything, the part suggests Apple's not ditching the home button in the next version of the hardware, as some previous rumors have asserted. Alongside the home button, 30-pin adapter parts for the next iPad are also said to be in the wild.
Apple invites some MacBook Air owners to test Wi-Fi fix
Apple is asking certain MacBook Air owners for help in resolving a Wi-Fi bug.Released in early June, the new 11-inch and 13-inch MacBook Airs come with the latest version of Wi-Fi, namely 802.11ac. However, some people who bought the new models have complained of lost wireless connections. After investigating the issue, Apple has been providing affected users with replacement Airs and now has a new fix ready for field testing.MacBook Air owners invited to check out the MacBook Air WiFi Update 1.0 fix have received the following message, according to 9to5Mac:You have been selected to join our AppleSeed program. If you accept, we will provide you with a pre-release version of the MacBookAir WiFi Update 1.0 to install and use.While trying out MacBookAir WiFi Update 1.0, we ask that you provide us with your feedback. Our program includes a bug reporting program for our participants. If you wish to be a seed volunteer and help Apple release high-quality software, follow the instructions below...Wi-Fi troubles aren't exactly uncommon for new Apple products. The iPhone and iPad have seen their share. The new MacBook Airs also represent Apple's first support of 802.11ac Wi-Fi in its notebook lineup.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 investigating Verizon iPad 2 3G issue
Apple says it's looking into an issue that requires some iPad 2 owners with built-in Verizon 3G to reboot their devices to re-enable 3G after turning it off.In a statement by an Apple representative released to All Things Digital today, the company said it is aware that some iPad 2 owners with the Verizon 3G model are having connectivity issues and is investigating it. The number of those affected is "small," the company said. Complaints began mounting on an Apple Support Discussions board in the days following the release of the iPad 2 with some users finding that the software switch to turn the 3G antenna on and off was not reactivating without first powering down the unit.The Verizon version of the iPad 2 is the first iPad to ship with CDMA service. Verizon's 3G service is also offered on the CDMA version of the iPhone 4, which went on sale earlier this year. Both devices use the same software mechanism to turn the 3G modem on and off.
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