Saturday, September 29, 2012
Apple Apologizes for Misstep on Maps
Apple Apologizes for Misstep on Maps
Peter DaSilva for The New York Times
Scott Forstall showing the Maps app at the iPhone 5 debut.
By NICK WINGFIELD and BRIAN X. CHEN
Published: September 28, 2012
IPhone users grew more annoyed all week. When they used Apple’s new mobile maps, they found nonsensical routes and misplaced landmarks. Bloggers and talk-show hosts mocked the sometimes bizarre errors.
Multimedia
Apple's Misses
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Times Topic: iPhone
Apple's new mobile maps show the Washington Monument across the highway from the actual monument, which appears correctly in the satellite view.
Nine days after the maps’ release, the Washington Monument was still on the wrong side of the street. But something else changed.
Timothy D. Cook, Apple’s chief executive, released an apologetic letter to customers on Friday, making the remarkable suggestion that they try alternative map services from rivals like Microsoft and Google while Apple improves its own maps. “We are extremely sorry for the frustration this has caused our customers, and we are doing everything we can to make Maps better,” Mr. Cook wrote.
The map problems were an embarrassing misstep for a company that strives for perfection in its products and, in the eyes of consumers, often gets pretty close to the mark. Its track record in delivering quality is one reason Apple is now the most valuable public company in the world.
Apple executives have tried to explain their move into maps by saying that the company could no longer afford to rely on Google, its former map provider and growing rival, for such a crucial function. Many analysts and technology executives agree that this was the right move for the long term. But Apple appears to have rushed its map service out prematurely, even though it could have continued to rely on Google until next year.
The outcry shows how map services, which Apple treated as an afterthought when it built the first iPhone, have become critical tools for millions of people. And the company’s stumble fits in with its pattern of bungling services that rely heavily on the Internet.
Apple has a reputation for obsessive attention to detail in its hardware and software products, down to the beveled edges of the iPhone 5 and the shade of the icons on its screen. But it has stubbed its toe again and again when it comes to releasing reliable, well-designed Internet services. Its less proud moments include Ping, a social network for music that never took off; MobileMe, an error-plagued service for synchronizing data between devices; and, more recently, Siri, the voice-activated virtual assistant that is often hard of hearing.
The company’s weakness in this area could become a bigger problem over time as smartphones become more intimately tied to information and software on the Internet — a field where Google, which makes the competing Android phone software, has the home-turf advantage.
“I always felt if you had to name an Achilles’ heel at Apple, it’s Internet services,” said Andrew Borovsky, a former Apple product designer who worked on MobileMe and now runs his own design firm in New York. “It’s clearly an issue.”
An Apple spokeswoman, Natalie Kerris, declined to comment.
Some have sought to pin the blame for the maps debacle on a relaxing of standards under Mr. Cook, who was elevated from the No. 2 position at Apple just over a year ago. He took over shortly before the death of Steven P. Jobs, a notorious perfectionist known to shelve products that did not pass muster.
But numerous interviews with former Apple employees in the wake of the maps controversy made it clear that Mr. Jobs and other executives rarely paid as much attention to Internet services as they did to the devices for which Apple is best known. Nor did they show the kind of consistent foresight in this area that has served the company so well in designing hardware and software.
Including a maps app on the first iPhone was not even part of the company’s original plan as the phone’s unveiling approached in January 2007. Just weeks before the event, Mr. Jobs ordered a mapping app to show off the capabilities of the touch-screen device.
Two engineers put together a maps app for the presentation in three weeks, said a former Apple engineer who worked on iPhone software, and who declined to be named because he did not want to speak publicly about his previous employer. The company hastily cut a deal with Google to use its map data.
At the time, relying on Google, which had introduced its map service a couple of years earlier, made sense. Apple and Google had generally friendly relations, and Google’s chief executive at the time, Eric E. Schmidt, served on Apple’s board.
technologie
Beaucoup de gens voient la technologie comme la solution à certains des problèmes qui existent sur notre planète. Il est vrai que la technologie peut être utilisée pour le bien, mais avec de nouveaux développements viennent des nouveaux de défis. La fracture numérique est une telle issue, celui que les gens essayent activement de surmonter. Les Telecentres ont pour but de combler la fracture numérique en fournissant aux personnes l'accès et la connaissance au sujet des technologies de l'information. Un mouvement global de telecentre se développe en ce moment. Malheureusement, même où les installations informatiques sont aisément disponibles, la fracture numérique persiste —même dans les pays les plus riches du monde, l'accès aux dernières et les plus bénéfiques technologies est limité pour ceux dans des milieux ruraux et des personnes avec des handicapes.
Il y a beaucoup d'autres issues à considérer parlants des TIC et leur rôle dans nos vies, au delà de la fracture numérique et l'accessibilité universelle. L'Internet a créé de nouvelles et innovatrices manières pour les personnes de former et de partager leur identité, et de s'exprimer. Cependant, pour certains, l'Internet peut sembler être un jour moderne " le far West, " ou quelque chose à craindre. L'accroissance du réseau de travail social en ligne, les achats, et d'autres interactions en ligne qui demandent à des personnes de partager une grande quantité de l'information personnelle ont entraîné un certain nombre de risques que chaque utilisateur d'Internet doit considérer.
L'Internet peut semblé non contrôlé; cependant, les compagnies de télécommunication et les gouvernements dans le monde possèdent une infrastructure derrière l'Internet, et les différents gouvernements et compagnies affirment cette propriété de différentes manières. Aucune entité propriétaire ne control l'Internet, qui fait le concept de gouvernance Internet ou l'application uniforme des règles un problème très compliqué.
Il y a beaucoup d'autres issues à considérer parlants des TIC et leur rôle dans nos vies, au delà de la fracture numérique et l'accessibilité universelle. L'Internet a créé de nouvelles et innovatrices manières pour les personnes de former et de partager leur identité, et de s'exprimer. Cependant, pour certains, l'Internet peut sembler être un jour moderne " le far West, " ou quelque chose à craindre. L'accroissance du réseau de travail social en ligne, les achats, et d'autres interactions en ligne qui demandent à des personnes de partager une grande quantité de l'information personnelle ont entraîné un certain nombre de risques que chaque utilisateur d'Internet doit considérer.
L'Internet peut semblé non contrôlé; cependant, les compagnies de télécommunication et les gouvernements dans le monde possèdent une infrastructure derrière l'Internet, et les différents gouvernements et compagnies affirment cette propriété de différentes manières. Aucune entité propriétaire ne control l'Internet, qui fait le concept de gouvernance Internet ou l'application uniforme des règles un problème très compliqué.
macnewworld rating
"Bastion"
The action role-playing game "Bastion" has been around on the Xbox 360, PC, Mac and a few other places for a while now, but I failed to notice or care until I stumbled upon it in the App Store on my iPad 2. It has fighting action, so that's good. I'm a sucker for hammers, pistols and bows. It has a lush and vivid landscape. Fantastic.
And yet none of this sparked me to download and buy. The excellent reviews kept my interest, but it wasn't until I learned that "Bastion" comes with a reactive narrator that comments during gameplay that I decided to give it a whirl.
Best $4.99 I've spent in a month.
Bastion' Blends Monster-Smashing Fun With Great Color Commentary
Bastion' Blends Monster-Smashing Fun With Great Color Commentary
"Bastion" is a role-playing game with plenty of hard-hitting action. The player character is never short on monsters to smash, shoot and obliterate. The game lays out its world in an interesting fashion, and the soundtrack is well-done also. But perhaps the best part is the reactive narration -- as you play, a narrator adds excellent and often hilarious color commentary.
Why It Should Be an iPod HD, Not an iPad Mini
Why It Should Be an iPod HD, Not an iPad Mini
July 12, 2012
Ever since the Amazon Kindle Fire came out late last year, I've been wondering when Apple would release a big iPod -- not a small iPad "mini," but a larger iPod sibling. On the surface, it's all just a game of semantics. What does an iPod "HD" have that an iPad "mini" does not? Or vice versa? Not much, of course, just marketing and perception, which happen to be two areas where Apple excels
July 12, 2012
Ever since the Amazon Kindle Fire came out late last year, I've been wondering when Apple would release a big iPod -- not a small iPad "mini," but a larger iPod sibling. On the surface, it's all just a game of semantics. What does an iPod "HD" have that an iPad "mini" does not? Or vice versa? Not much, of course, just marketing and perception, which happen to be two areas where Apple excelspple Widens Its Lead in Sizzling Tablet Market
pple Widens Its Lead in Sizzling Tablet Market
August 03, 2012
Apple shows no signs of yielding its clear lead position in tablet sales following a record second quarter in a tablet market that's hotter than ever, according to research from IDC. Tablet makers worldwide shipped 25 million units in the second quarter of 2012, IDC found
August 03, 2012
Apple shows no signs of yielding its clear lead position in tablet sales following a record second quarter in a tablet market that's hotter than ever, according to research from IDC. Tablet makers worldwide shipped 25 million units in the second quarter of 2012, IDC foundTrial Reveals Apple, Microsoft Played Nice on Patent Deals
Trial Reveals Apple, Microsoft Played Nice on Patent Deals
August 14, 2012
Apple licensed some of its design and feature patents to Microsoft, according to reports from the iPhone maker's ongoing patent trial against Samsung. Apple patent licensing director Boris Teksler loosely discussed the deal in his courtroom testimony. The patents involved in the Microsoft deal weren't the same ones under debate currently in the California court, he said.
August 14, 2012
Apple licensed some of its design and feature patents to Microsoft, according to reports from the iPhone maker's ongoing patent trial against Samsung. Apple patent licensing director Boris Teksler loosely discussed the deal in his courtroom testimony. The patents involved in the Microsoft deal weren't the same ones under debate currently in the California court, he said.AAPL Investors Hold Hands Out for Long-Awaited Dividend
AAPL Investors Hold Hands Out for Long-Awaited Dividend
August 15, 2012
Apple shareholders will be paid a dividend on Thursday as part of the company's $10 billion share buyback program announced in March. Starting on Aug. 16, shareholders of record will receive $2.65 per share each quarter. When it announced the dividend, Apple was coming off a quarter that blew away Wall Street expectations
August 15, 2012
Apple shareholders will be paid a dividend on Thursday as part of the company's $10 billion share buyback program announced in March. Starting on Aug. 16, shareholders of record will receive $2.65 per share each quarter. When it announced the dividend, Apple was coming off a quarter that blew away Wall Street expectationse Glare of the Spotlight Keeps Apple From Dazzling Us
e Glare of the Spotlight Keeps Apple From Dazzling Us
September 06, 2012
Apple's invitation to media professionals made the date official, but September 12 has been the likely date for the company's iPhone 5 rollout event for more than a month. Did that date come from supposition or an outright leak? Doesn't matter. Industry consensus knows that Apple traditionally has an iPod and iTunes sort of announcement in September
September 06, 2012
Apple's invitation to media professionals made the date official, but September 12 has been the likely date for the company's iPhone 5 rollout event for more than a month. Did that date come from supposition or an outright leak? Doesn't matter. Industry consensus knows that Apple traditionally has an iPod and iTunes sort of announcement in Septembermazon Fires Up Kindle for Battle With iPad
mazon Fires Up Kindle for Battle With iPad
September 06, 2012
Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos on Thursday announced a slew of new tablets in the company's Kindle line that could give that device family new life. The Kindle Fire HD dominated the announcement. It will be offered in three versions: a 7-inch and two 9-inch varieties.
September 06, 2012
Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos on Thursday announced a slew of new tablets in the company's Kindle line that could give that device family new life. The Kindle Fire HD dominated the announcement. It will be offered in three versions: a 7-inch and two 9-inch varieties.Phone Hype Hits Pre-Launch Frenzy
Phone Hype Hits Pre-Launch Frenzy
September 12, 2012
Apple is no stranger to much-hyped product releases, but Wednesday's press event, where the company is expected to unveil the latest iPhone, has been the subject of some of the biggest buzz in the Apple's recent history. Mobile analyst predictions are mostly very bullish on the newest iPhone, stopping just short of saying the upgrade will singlehandedly lift the United States out of its financial crisis
September 12, 2012
Apple is no stranger to much-hyped product releases, but Wednesday's press event, where the company is expected to unveil the latest iPhone, has been the subject of some of the biggest buzz in the Apple's recent history. Mobile analyst predictions are mostly very bullish on the newest iPhone, stopping just short of saying the upgrade will singlehandedly lift the United States out of its financial crisisThe Best Baby Monitor App Isn't Just for Babies
The Best Baby Monitor App Isn't Just for Babies
September 17, 2012
This Friday I know right where I'll be: waiting in my home office for my iPhone 5 to show up at my door. The problem? I might not hear the delivery driver knock knock knocking on my door. The last time I ordered a big product directly from Apple -- I think it was my iPad -- I was happily working away in my office. Maybe I was on the phone.
September 17, 2012
This Friday I know right where I'll be: waiting in my home office for my iPhone 5 to show up at my door. The problem? I might not hear the delivery driver knock knock knocking on my door. The last time I ordered a big product directly from Apple -- I think it was my iPad -- I was happily working away in my office. Maybe I was on the phone.iScape: A Fun Way to Try a New Look for Your Yard
iScape: A Fun Way to Try a New Look for Your Yard
September 18, 2012
One of my favorite boredom killers is to plan out a new yard for my house. Every couple of weeks, I build a picture in my head of what my improved yard will look like: Lush green grass, maybe a nice shady tree with a bench under it, or perhaps a peeing cherub water feature.
September 18, 2012
One of my favorite boredom killers is to plan out a new yard for my house. Every couple of weeks, I build a picture in my head of what my improved yard will look like: Lush green grass, maybe a nice shady tree with a bench under it, or perhaps a peeing cherub water feature.7-Inch Tablets Gobbling Up Market Share
September 18, 2012
The media tablet market is poised for robust growth -- driven in large part by the emerging 7.x-inch form factor, according to new figures from IHS iSuppli. Tablet shipments will reach 126.6 million units this year, the firm predicted, which amounts to a 56 percent annual increase.Why iPhone Users Hate Mobile WiFi Slightly Less Than Android Users Do
Why iPhone Users Hate Mobile WiFi Slightly Less Than Android Users Do
It appears that iPhone owners tend to use WiFi significantly more often than Android users. There could be several reasons for this. For one thing, Apple's devices seem to get along with WiFi networks a little better. iPhone users might be more aware of carriers' data limits -- or more trusting of strange WiFi networks. All in all, though, mobile WiFi still isn't a picnic for anyone, regardless of platform.
Facebook Jettisons Phony Likes
Facebook Jettisons Phony Likes
September 28, 2012
As promised last month, Facebook is beginning a purge of so-called fake Likes from its social network. These are Likes that have been generated by malware, fake accounts or bulk purchase services. When Facebook announced its initiative last month, it theorized that less than 1 percent of Likes on any given Facebook page would be removed.
September 28, 2012
As promised last month, Facebook is beginning a purge of so-called fake Likes from its social network. These are Likes that have been generated by malware, fake accounts or bulk purchase services. When Facebook announced its initiative last month, it theorized that less than 1 percent of Likes on any given Facebook page would be removed.acebook, Twitter Poke Holes in China's Great Firewall
acebook, Twitter Poke Holes in China's Great Firewall
September 28, 2012
Despite government-imposed bans, Facebook and Twitter have tens of millions of users in China. Facebook use in China has reportedly swelled to 63.5 million people, a roughly eightfold increase over the 7.9 million who used the site two years ago. Twitter, meanwhile, has nearly 36 million users in China.
September 28, 2012
Despite government-imposed bans, Facebook and Twitter have tens of millions of users in China. Facebook use in China has reportedly swelled to 63.5 million people, a roughly eightfold increase over the 7.9 million who used the site two years ago. Twitter, meanwhile, has nearly 36 million users in China.pple-Samsung Verdict Carries Implications Large and Small
Apple-Samsung Verdict Carries Implications Large and Small
August 24, 2012
The outcome of the patent infringement trial between Apple and Samsung is now in the hands of the jury, and while the verdict will have a significant impact on both companies, it will also send ripples through the patent world and smartphone industry. If Samsung is found not to have violated Apple's patents, it could put the brakes on the current arms race in intellectual property
August 24, 2012
The outcome of the patent infringement trial between Apple and Samsung is now in the hands of the jury, and while the verdict will have a significant impact on both companies, it will also send ripples through the patent world and smartphone industry. If Samsung is found not to have violated Apple's patents, it could put the brakes on the current arms race in intellectual propertyDecision in SK Apple-Samsung Case Could Mold the Shape of Verdicts to Come
Decision in SK Apple-Samsung Case Could Mold the Shape of Verdicts to Come
August 24, 2012
While a verdict has yet to be reached in the Apple vs. Samsung court case going on in California, across the world a similar trial resulted in a split decision. A court in South Korea on Friday ruled that Apple and Samsung both infringed on each others' patents.
August 24, 2012
While a verdict has yet to be reached in the Apple vs. Samsung court case going on in California, across the world a similar trial resulted in a split decision. A court in South Korea on Friday ruled that Apple and Samsung both infringed on each others' patents.Apple, Google Patent Bloodbath May Be Indefinitely Postponed
Apple, Google Patent Bloodbath May Be Indefinitely Postponed
September 04, 2012
The great patent showdown expected to eventually take place between Apple and Google in some courtroom, somewhere, may never happen. The two companies are reportedly in talks on a range of intellectual property issues, in particular their differences over mobile patents.
September 04, 2012
The great patent showdown expected to eventually take place between Apple and Google in some courtroom, somewhere, may never happen. The two companies are reportedly in talks on a range of intellectual property issues, in particular their differences over mobile patents.Is Facebook Stuck in the Sub-$20 Cellar?
Is Facebook Stuck in the Sub-$20 Cellar?
September 05, 2012
Facebook executives and employees must dread publicity these days. Every bit of critical news or commentary -- and there have been quite a few items that could be characterized as such lately -- seems to send the share price downward. The latest push apparently came on Monday from a negative article in The New York Timestaking CFO David Ebersman to task.
September 05, 2012
Facebook executives and employees must dread publicity these days. Every bit of critical news or commentary -- and there have been quite a few items that could be characterized as such lately -- seems to send the share price downward. The latest push apparently came on Monday from a negative article in The New York Timestaking CFO David Ebersman to task.BitTorrent Sharers Beware: You Are Being Watched
BitTorrent Sharers Beware: You Are Being Watched
September 05, 2012
Swappers using the popular file-sharing protocol BitTorrent are spied on constantly by monitoring services, some of them seeking to identify media pirates, researchers at the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom reported Tuesday. Monitoring is particularly intense for files that are currently popular among sharers.
September 05, 2012
Swappers using the popular file-sharing protocol BitTorrent are spied on constantly by monitoring services, some of them seeking to identify media pirates, researchers at the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom reported Tuesday. Monitoring is particularly intense for files that are currently popular among sharers.erners-Lee: Internet Can't Be Killed, Speech Can't Be Silenced
erners-Lee: Internet Can't Be Killed, Speech Can't Be Silenced
September 06, 2012
There is no off switch for the Internet, Sir Tim Berners-Lee, who's widely acknowledged as the father of the Web, said in London when launching the World Wide Web Index report for 2012. The Index assesses the use, utility and impact of the Web around the world. It looked at 61 countries.
September 06, 2012
There is no off switch for the Internet, Sir Tim Berners-Lee, who's widely acknowledged as the father of the Web, said in London when launching the World Wide Web Index report for 2012. The Index assesses the use, utility and impact of the Web around the world. It looked at 61 countries.pple Ready to Rumble in Samsung's Home Turf
pple Ready to Rumble in Samsung's Home Turf
September 07, 2012
South Korea's Fair Trade Commission is investigating complaints by Apple that Samsung Electronics is abusing its position in wireless technology. The news, first reported by Reuters, is only eyebrow-raising because of the country in which it is occurring: South Korea is Samsung's home market.
September 07, 2012
South Korea's Fair Trade Commission is investigating complaints by Apple that Samsung Electronics is abusing its position in wireless technology. The news, first reported by Reuters, is only eyebrow-raising because of the country in which it is occurring: South Korea is Samsung's home market.Nokia Muddies Lumia's Image With Faked Footage
Nokia Muddies Lumia's Image With Faked Footage
September 10, 2012
Seeing is believing, the old saying goes, but anyone who has attended a press conference typically knows that seeing isn't always enough to inspire belief. Nokia underscored this fact with last week's unveiling of its new Lumia 920 smartphone. The impressive image-stabilized video that was supposedly shot using the handset's PureView camera system was actually obtained with a different camera.
September 10, 2012
Seeing is believing, the old saying goes, but anyone who has attended a press conference typically knows that seeing isn't always enough to inspire belief. Nokia underscored this fact with last week's unveiling of its new Lumia 920 smartphone. The impressive image-stabilized video that was supposedly shot using the handset's PureView camera system was actually obtained with a different camera.YouTube Spiffs Up Its App on Eve of iPhone Launch
YouTube Spiffs Up Its App on Eve of iPhone Launch
September 11, 2012
YouTube has been re-inflated, so to speak, for the iPhone -- but it is unlikely the video app, which Google released Tuesday, will help patch things up between the search giant and Apple. The release of the free app follows the companies' decision not to renew a five-year licensing agreement that established the Google-owned YouTube video service as a default on iOS devices.
September 11, 2012
YouTube has been re-inflated, so to speak, for the iPhone -- but it is unlikely the video app, which Google released Tuesday, will help patch things up between the search giant and Apple. The release of the free app follows the companies' decision not to renew a five-year licensing agreement that established the Google-owned YouTube video service as a default on iOS devices.Email Trashing May Cost Samsung More Than $1B
Email Trashing May Cost Samsung More Than $1B
September 12, 2012
If Apple gets its way, Samsung will no longer be able to sell any cell devices that it claims infringe on Apple's patents. This could be devastating, since as of July 2012, Samsung owned 25.6 percent and Apple just 6.3 percent of the mobile market, according to a comScore report. However, the Apple v. Samsung battles will continue for quite some time.
September 12, 2012
If Apple gets its way, Samsung will no longer be able to sell any cell devices that it claims infringe on Apple's patents. This could be devastating, since as of July 2012, Samsung owned 25.6 percent and Apple just 6.3 percent of the mobile market, according to a comScore report. However, the Apple v. Samsung battles will continue for quite some time.When iPhone 5 Lands, Samsung's Ready to Pounce
When iPhone 5 Lands, Samsung's Ready to Pounce
September 12, 2012
The long-awaited unveiling of the iPhone 5 may not be the only Apple news in circulation. Also expected to make headlines Wednesday will be the news that Samsung is filing suit against Apple in Europe and the United States for infringing on several patents it holds relating to LTE. Samsung reportedly has decided to take immediate legal action.
September 12, 2012
The long-awaited unveiling of the iPhone 5 may not be the only Apple news in circulation. Also expected to make headlines Wednesday will be the news that Samsung is filing suit against Apple in Europe and the United States for infringing on several patents it holds relating to LTE. Samsung reportedly has decided to take immediate legal action.Lack of NFC Tech Slightly Deflates iPhone 5's Balloon
Lack of NFC Tech Slightly Deflates iPhone 5's Balloon
September 13, 2012
The iPhone 5 is a lean, mean consumer-oriented shopping machine. It has improved camera functions, audio and processing power -- perfect for showrooming in a brick-and-mortar environment, not to mention for m-commerce. Then there is the larger screen and improved video quality.
September 13, 2012
The iPhone 5 is a lean, mean consumer-oriented shopping machine. It has improved camera functions, audio and processing power -- perfect for showrooming in a brick-and-mortar environment, not to mention for m-commerce. Then there is the larger screen and improved video quality.Twitter Fought the Law and the Law Won
Twitter Fought the Law and the Law Won
September 14, 2012
Despite pending appeals, on Friday Twitter handed over an Occupy Wall Street protestor's tweets to a New York criminal court judge. The capitulation comes after months of attempts by the social networking company to fight a subpoena from prosecutors by claiming that that micro-blog posts were private conversations.Winklevoss Twins Give Social Networking Another Spin
Winklevoss Twins Give Social Networking Another Spin
September 18, 2012
Brothers Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss -- famed for their dispute with Mark Zuckerberg over the formation of Facebook -- are trying their hand at the social media space again. They have invested $1 million in SumZero, founded in 2008 by fellow Harvard alum Divya Narendra, who also had a hand in bringing Facebook to life.
September 18, 2012
Brothers Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss -- famed for their dispute with Mark Zuckerberg over the formation of Facebook -- are trying their hand at the social media space again. They have invested $1 million in SumZero, founded in 2008 by fellow Harvard alum Divya Narendra, who also had a hand in bringing Facebook to life.AT&T Could Lose Face in Net Neutrality Fuss Over FaceTime
AT&T Could Lose Face in Net Neutrality Fuss Over FaceTime
September 19, 2012
Three public interest groups, Free Press, Public Knowledge, and the New America Foundation's Open Technology Institute, have taken the first formal step in lodging a complaint against a carrier with the Federal Communications Commission. They have served notice to AT&T that in 10 days, they intend to file an official complaint that it violates Net neutrality.
September 19, 2012
Three public interest groups, Free Press, Public Knowledge, and the New America Foundation's Open Technology Institute, have taken the first formal step in lodging a complaint against a carrier with the Federal Communications Commission. They have served notice to AT&T that in 10 days, they intend to file an official complaint that it violates Net neutrality.The Linux Desktop: Not Dead, Just Broken
The Linux Desktop: Not Dead, Just Broken
September 20, 2012
Faithful readers of the Linux Blog Safari column here at LinuxInsider may recall the woeful report a few weeks back that a murder had been committed -- by Apple, no less! -- and that the Linux desktop was dead. It was a distressing report, to be sure, not least because there was no corpse in sight.
September 20, 2012
Faithful readers of the Linux Blog Safari column here at LinuxInsider may recall the woeful report a few weeks back that a murder had been committed -- by Apple, no less! -- and that the Linux desktop was dead. It was a distressing report, to be sure, not least because there was no corpse in sight.Discover Bank Pays Up to Settle Deceptive Marketing Charges
Discover Bank Pays Up to Settle Deceptive Marketing Charges
September 25, 2012
Discover Bank is refunding approximately $200 million to more than 3.5 million customers under a joint enforcement action by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. and the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. Discover will also pay a $14 million civil money penalty, with half going to the U.S. Treasury and half to the CFPB's civil penalty fund.
September 25, 2012
Discover Bank is refunding approximately $200 million to more than 3.5 million customers under a joint enforcement action by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. and the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. Discover will also pay a $14 million civil money penalty, with half going to the U.S. Treasury and half to the CFPB's civil penalty fund.Mayer Sketches Out Her Vision of a New Yahoo
Mayer Sketches Out Her Vision of a New Yahoo
September 26, 2012
The revolving door at Yahoo continued to turn on Tuesday as the CEO Marissa Mayer announced bold new plans that included bringing in a new CFO, Ken Goldman. Mayer is the latest in a string of chiefs to take turns at the company's helm. Yahoo has had three CEOs and two interim CEOs in just a little more than a year, following the firing of Carol Bartz last September.
September 26, 2012
The revolving door at Yahoo continued to turn on Tuesday as the CEO Marissa Mayer announced bold new plans that included bringing in a new CFO, Ken Goldman. Mayer is the latest in a string of chiefs to take turns at the company's helm. Yahoo has had three CEOs and two interim CEOs in just a little more than a year, following the firing of Carol Bartz last September.Google, Acer and the Red-Headed Stepchild
Google, Acer and the Red-Headed Stepchild
September 27, 2012
Android may not be as fully open as many FOSS fans would like it to be, but the fact remains that it's essentially the poster child for Linux's success in the mobile world. So it was with some dismay we looked on at the impromptu battle that sprang up recently between Google and Acer over Alibaba's Aliyun OS.
September 27, 2012
Android may not be as fully open as many FOSS fans would like it to be, but the fact remains that it's essentially the poster child for Linux's success in the mobile world. So it was with some dismay we looked on at the impromptu battle that sprang up recently between Google and Acer over Alibaba's Aliyun OS. EC Tightens Noose Over Microsoft's Browser Choice Blunder
EC Tightens Noose Over Microsoft's Browser Choice Blunder
September 27, 2012
The European Commission will charge Microsoft for failing to comply with a 2009 ruling that had ordered the software giant to provide users in the European Union with a choice of Web browsers, the EU's antitrust chief said Thursday. The EC will likely levy a hefty fine on the company. This is just the latest round in a battle that has been waged between the EC and Microsoft for more than a decade.
September 27, 2012
The European Commission will charge Microsoft for failing to comply with a 2009 ruling that had ordered the software giant to provide users in the European Union with a choice of Web browsers, the EU's antitrust chief said Thursday. The EC will likely levy a hefty fine on the company. This is just the latest round in a battle that has been waged between the EC and Microsoft for more than a decade.Apple Maps flap opens road for alternatives
Apple Maps flap opens road for alternatives
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10:45AM EST September 28. 2012 - Who knew a map app could trigger so much brouhaha?
Apple removed the popular Google Maps from its iOS 6 mobile operating system released earlier this month and substituted its own map app. Apple's Maps, while containing some gee-whiz features such as voice-guided navigation and a 3-D Flyover feature, has been panned widely for its woefully incomplete maps and missing information.
On Friday, Apple CEO Tim Cook issued a public apology for the flaws. "We are extremely sorry for the frustration this has caused our customers and we are doing everything we can to make Maps better," he said in a letter to customers posted on Apple's web site.
The amount of backlash attests to the importance of a dependable map app in a smartphone, a mobile device whose value depends on its ability to get things done while its owners are on the move. Google confirmed that it is working on a replacement for its iPhone app, and advises iPhone users in the meantime to use the browser to access its maps. One touch easily adds maps.google.com on the phone screen, and it works well enough, though it lacks voice navigation.
STORY:Apple CEO apologizes for Maps flaws
And other map developers -- who have long felt ignored by the virtual duopoly of Apple and Google -- now see a tiny crack in which they can try to win a bit of mindshare from disillusioned-by-Apple Maps fans willing to try something new.
"This market has gotten crowded recently. There are sort of these openings that come up," says Vijay Bangaru, vice president of product for Mapquest.
In his note to customers, Cook even suggested that customers turn to alternative maps service -- including Google, Bing, Waze and Mapquest.
Here is a look at some other phone map apps that include voice-guided navigation:
--Waze. It's a more-or-less-3-D map that stands out from the pack with comprehensive data submitted by users. With 25 million members worldwide, its crowd-generated information includes real-time traffic updates, accidents, police traps, estimates of commuting hours and even gas station locations -- all pointed out with cartoony icons that can be somewhat distracting.
Tapping into the phone's sensor, Waze knows when and how fast you're driving, in itself a source of data that gets sent back to Waze for its traffic algorithm. While the car is moving, Waze also turns off the typing capability, but users can contribute traffic information by waving a hand over the phone and speaking to the app.
--Mapquest. The AOL-owned service has lost some luster through the years with the emergence of Google Maps. But it has been enhancing mobile features to win back customers, including adding voice navigation in 2010 and integrating more local points of interest directly on the map so users don't have flip to other guide apps such as Yelp.
Because turn-by-turn direction often can be confusing to follow without visible, distinct street signs, Mapquest has also added some context information. For example, it may instruct drivers to "turn right on Arapahoe street, near Safeway," says Bangaru.
--Skobbler. Using open-sourced map data called OpenStreetMap with 750,000 users contributing information, Skobbler sells a 99-cent app that appeals more to walkers, hikers and bikers, says co-founder Marcus Thielking.
Google Maps and other driver-oriented maps have tweaked and incorporated data that are relevant to drivers, such as road surface types, crossings, one-way streets and ramps. OpenStreetMap, which works like Wikipedia, is often missing such information, Thielking says.
Apple removed the popular Google Maps from its iOS 6 mobile operating system released earlier this month and substituted its own map app. Apple's Maps, while containing some gee-whiz features such as voice-guided navigation and a 3-D Flyover feature, has been panned widely for its woefully incomplete maps and missing information.
On Friday, Apple CEO Tim Cook issued a public apology for the flaws. "We are extremely sorry for the frustration this has caused our customers and we are doing everything we can to make Maps better," he said in a letter to customers posted on Apple's web site.
The amount of backlash attests to the importance of a dependable map app in a smartphone, a mobile device whose value depends on its ability to get things done while its owners are on the move. Google confirmed that it is working on a replacement for its iPhone app, and advises iPhone users in the meantime to use the browser to access its maps. One touch easily adds maps.google.com on the phone screen, and it works well enough, though it lacks voice navigation.
STORY:Apple CEO apologizes for Maps flaws
And other map developers -- who have long felt ignored by the virtual duopoly of Apple and Google -- now see a tiny crack in which they can try to win a bit of mindshare from disillusioned-by-Apple Maps fans willing to try something new.
"This market has gotten crowded recently. There are sort of these openings that come up," says Vijay Bangaru, vice president of product for Mapquest.
In his note to customers, Cook even suggested that customers turn to alternative maps service -- including Google, Bing, Waze and Mapquest.
Here is a look at some other phone map apps that include voice-guided navigation:
--Waze. It's a more-or-less-3-D map that stands out from the pack with comprehensive data submitted by users. With 25 million members worldwide, its crowd-generated information includes real-time traffic updates, accidents, police traps, estimates of commuting hours and even gas station locations -- all pointed out with cartoony icons that can be somewhat distracting.
Tapping into the phone's sensor, Waze knows when and how fast you're driving, in itself a source of data that gets sent back to Waze for its traffic algorithm. While the car is moving, Waze also turns off the typing capability, but users can contribute traffic information by waving a hand over the phone and speaking to the app.
--Mapquest. The AOL-owned service has lost some luster through the years with the emergence of Google Maps. But it has been enhancing mobile features to win back customers, including adding voice navigation in 2010 and integrating more local points of interest directly on the map so users don't have flip to other guide apps such as Yelp.
Because turn-by-turn direction often can be confusing to follow without visible, distinct street signs, Mapquest has also added some context information. For example, it may instruct drivers to "turn right on Arapahoe street, near Safeway," says Bangaru.
--Skobbler. Using open-sourced map data called OpenStreetMap with 750,000 users contributing information, Skobbler sells a 99-cent app that appeals more to walkers, hikers and bikers, says co-founder Marcus Thielking.
Google Maps and other driver-oriented maps have tweaked and incorporated data that are relevant to drivers, such as road surface types, crossings, one-way streets and ramps. OpenStreetMap, which works like Wikipedia, is often missing such information, Thielking says.
Who wins drop test: iPhone 5 or Galaxy S3?
Who wins drop test: iPhone 5 or Galaxy S3?
Yahoo! Newsroom – Wed, Sep 26, 2012
The battle continues to rage between Apple's iPhone 5 and Samsung's Galaxy S3 with a recent Samsung ad decidedly taking a very snarky turn.
In a different take on the merits of each, tech blog Android Authority recently simulated a "drop test" of which smartphone would "take the hit" better if it accidentally fell on the ground.
Blogger Darcy LaCouvee dropped the Galaxy S3 and the iPhone 5 a total of four times, each time from an increasing height to simulate real-life instances of people dropping the phone while taking it out of the pocket or at ear level when talking on the phone.
Both devices were allowed to drop on the floor to see which had the most damage. The results may surprise you.
Watch.
In a different take on the merits of each, tech blog Android Authority recently simulated a "drop test" of which smartphone would "take the hit" better if it accidentally fell on the ground.
Blogger Darcy LaCouvee dropped the Galaxy S3 and the iPhone 5 a total of four times, each time from an increasing height to simulate real-life instances of people dropping the phone while taking it out of the pocket or at ear level when talking on the phone.
Both devices were allowed to drop on the floor to see which had the most damage. The results may surprise you.
Watch.
0830 ABC Mid North Coast News 29/9/2012
29/08/2012 , 10:42 AM by ABC Mid North Coast News
ABC Mid North Coast News, good morning I'm Helen Merkell,
A young man has been flown to a Sydney spinal unit after being injured in a car crash north of Coffs Harbour.
Efforts continue on the mid north coast to prevent coal seam gas drilling at Gloucester.
There is a call for more dredging of Lake Cathie, with water levels in the upper catchment now critically low.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Ten Most Beautiful Resorts in Asia
Asia is a beautiful land packed with resorts and luxury hotels. Some resorts are romantic hideaways which nest with absolute privacy. The resorts rest in the midst of stunning beaches, lush coconut groves, with never-ending views of idyllic landscapes. The beauty makes it uniquely private and intimate retreat. It not only combines natural beauty with modern utilities, but also provides entertainment cultural shows. It brings the sophisticated part of the city and the rustic charm of the wild. If you demand uncompromising service, these resorts will give the best of it. The arresting view of the blue waters and the exotic tropical greenery will charm anyone. Some resorts have brilliantly created spaces which diminish the difference between interior and exterior. If you crave for the idyllic and refreshing atmosphere to spend your vacation, these places will be ideal. Raw sensuality and industrial chic will provide tantalizing culinary experience. Create your own memories by visiting in some of Asia’s most magical destinations.
Berjaya Langkawi Beach and Spa Resort (Malaysia)
Dusit Laguna Resort Hotel (Thailand)
Grand Hyatt Bali (Indonesia)
Pangkor Laut Resort (Malaysia)
Regent Resort Chiang Mai (Thailand)
Shangri-La Golden Sands Resort (Malaysia)
Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort (Philippines)
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort (Malaysia)
Sheraton Laguna Nusa Dua (Indonesia)
Tanjung Rhu Resort (Malaysia)
Dusit Laguna Resort Hotel (Thailand)
Grand Hyatt Bali (Indonesia)
Pangkor Laut Resort (Malaysia)
Regent Resort Chiang Mai (Thailand)
Shangri-La Golden Sands Resort (Malaysia)
Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort (Philippines)
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort (Malaysia)
Sheraton Laguna Nusa Dua (Indonesia)
Tanjung Rhu Resort (Malaysia)
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