Apple launches iPhone 5S and $99 iPhone 5C with five colors
Apple on Tuesday unveiled its new flagship iPhone 5S and a new budget smartphone, the iPhone 5C, as it seeks to attract more customers and revitalize interest in its devices.The iPhone 5S includes updated components, comes in three colors, and includes a fingerprint sensor to unlock the device and make purchases. It will retail for $199 for 16GB, $299 for 32GB, or $399 for 64GB, all with a contract. The iPhone 5C, which is made of plastic, starts at $99 for the 16GB version or $199 for 32GB with a two-year contact.Preorders start Friday. The devices will be available in stores on September 20. "The iPhone 5C is made with all the incredible technology that customers have loved with the iPhone 5, but there's more, too," Phil Schiller said during the event. "It has an incredible new design -- one that's more fun, and more colorful than anything we've made before."Related stories:Apple's new announcements (pictures)Apple to release iOS 7 on Sept. 18A look at the iPhone 5C announcement (pictures)Apple launches iPhone 5CiPhone 5C First TakeiPhone 5S First TakeApple takes wraps off high-end iPhone 5S (pictures)Apple to offer color cases for new iPhone 5C and 5SThe budget device has a polycarbonate wrap-around back. It will come in five colors -- green, white, blue, red, and yellow. The screen wallpaper will match the exterior of the phone. For the new iPhone 5C, Apple also designed $29 custom cases made of silicon with a microfiber lining. The iPhone 5C will sport a 4-inch retina display, like the iPhone 5, as well as an A6 chip inside with "blazing-fast performance." The battery is larger than in the iPhone 5, and it includes an 8MP iSight camera, with the five-element lens and IR filter as seen on the 5.Meanwhile, Apple also unveiled its latest flagship device, the iPhone 5S, which it called "the most forward-thinking phone anyone has ever made." It's made of high-grade aluminum and comes in silver, gold, and "a new space gray." The device also sports a new A7 processor. The A7 chip includes 64-bit capabilities, which makes it on par with PC chips. The iPhone 5S is "up to twice as fast" as the previous-generation system and has twice the graphics performance as well.Apple also incorporated a chip that it calls the M7. This is a "motion co-processor" that aggregates and monitors accelerometer, gyroscope, and compass data and offloads it from the A7. That enables a new generation of health and fitness apps, such as a new Nike+ Move app. The app keeps track of what users do, tracks their Fuel points, and lets them compete with friends. 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.PlayBattery life is on par with the iPhone 5. The 5S has 10 hours of 3G talk time, 10 hours of browsing over LTE cellular networks or Wi-Fi, 40 hours of music playing, and 250 hours of standby.The device also includes a new Apple-designed camera lens with a larger aperture and sensor. When a user takes a picture, it actually takes multiple shots and chooses the sharpest. There's also a "true-tone flash" that analyzes and presents the proper-color flash, as well as other shooting modes.In addition, the device includes the much-expected fingerprint sensor, dubbed Touch ID. It's built right into the home button. It's still a physical button that a user needs to push down, but there's a metal ring that senses the person's finger. It can be used to unlock the phone or purchase items from iTunes.The iPhone 5 is going away, but the iPhone 4S will now be available for free with a two-year contract.The launch comes as the Cupertino, Calif., company faces heightened competition. Apple has been losing market share to rivals, such as Samsung, with its position in the most recent quarter falling to its lowest level in three years. As growth in the high-end smartphone market slows, Apple must find ways to attract new buyers, as well as expand into lower-priced phones. The iPhone 5C also represents Apple's chance to broaden its market. While its smartphones are popular around the world, the majority of people in places like China can't afford $800 phones. The company plans to host an event in China later this week, where it is believed that Apple will announce a partnership with China Mobile, the world's biggest carrier. Updated at 10:30 a.m. PT and again at 10:40 a.m. and 11:10 a.m. with additional details.
Jobs makes it clear he's back in charge at Apple
Jobs makes it clear he's back in charge at Apple
SAN FRANCISCO--Though technically he returned to work two months ago, it was as the host of Wednesday's Apple music event that Steve Jobs publicly retook the reins of the company he founded.Jobs was the first person to emerge on stage at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts here to open the now-annual September iPod introduction. Appearing notably thin, he received a prolonged standing ovation from the audience, much of it composed of members of the media, but also a range of guests including app developers, entertainers, and music industry types. Jobs quietly took in the applause and then began to speak fairly candidly about the well-known medical problems that kept him away from work for the first half of the year."I'm very happy to be here today with you all," he said. "As you may know, I had a liver transplant. So I have the liver of a mid-20s person who died in a car crash, and was generous enough to donate their organs. And I wouldn't be here without such generosity."He used the moment to encourage more people to do the same, calling on everyone to be an organ donor. He also thanked everyone at Apple and the Apple community for the support he received while he was gone. At that point, it wasn't yet clear whether this was a farewell or a welcome home event for Jobs. But it became very apparent soon after, when he thanked the man who had taken over day-to-day duties running Apple between January and June, COO Tim Cook, and all of the Apple executive team."They really ran the company very ably during that time," Jobs said. "So, I'm vertical, I'm back at Apple, and loving every day of it."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.PlayThe statement was clearly Jobs' way of saying that he's reassumed full responsibility as the leader of his company. There had been speculation that, though he was back at work, if he did appear at the event Wednesday he would use it as a way to say goodbye and step into the background while a new successor began to be groomed. That was not what happened.Jobs was the host of the entire 75-minute event, just as he always had been at similar events in years past. Though other executives joined him, including Phil Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of marketing, and Jeff Robbin, lead iTunes software designer, it was clearly his show. He also revived two well-known trademarks of his public appearances: his outfit of black turtleneck, jeans, and white tennis shoes, and his "one more thing" phrase. He also hinted there'd be more public appearances to come, signing off the event by thanking everyone for coming and promising, "See you all again soon."
SAN FRANCISCO--Though technically he returned to work two months ago, it was as the host of Wednesday's Apple music event that Steve Jobs publicly retook the reins of the company he founded.Jobs was the first person to emerge on stage at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts here to open the now-annual September iPod introduction. Appearing notably thin, he received a prolonged standing ovation from the audience, much of it composed of members of the media, but also a range of guests including app developers, entertainers, and music industry types. Jobs quietly took in the applause and then began to speak fairly candidly about the well-known medical problems that kept him away from work for the first half of the year."I'm very happy to be here today with you all," he said. "As you may know, I had a liver transplant. So I have the liver of a mid-20s person who died in a car crash, and was generous enough to donate their organs. And I wouldn't be here without such generosity."He used the moment to encourage more people to do the same, calling on everyone to be an organ donor. He also thanked everyone at Apple and the Apple community for the support he received while he was gone. At that point, it wasn't yet clear whether this was a farewell or a welcome home event for Jobs. But it became very apparent soon after, when he thanked the man who had taken over day-to-day duties running Apple between January and June, COO Tim Cook, and all of the Apple executive team."They really ran the company very ably during that time," Jobs said. "So, I'm vertical, I'm back at Apple, and loving every day of it."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.PlayThe statement was clearly Jobs' way of saying that he's reassumed full responsibility as the leader of his company. There had been speculation that, though he was back at work, if he did appear at the event Wednesday he would use it as a way to say goodbye and step into the background while a new successor began to be groomed. That was not what happened.Jobs was the host of the entire 75-minute event, just as he always had been at similar events in years past. Though other executives joined him, including Phil Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of marketing, and Jeff Robbin, lead iTunes software designer, it was clearly his show. He also revived two well-known trademarks of his public appearances: his outfit of black turtleneck, jeans, and white tennis shoes, and his "one more thing" phrase. He also hinted there'd be more public appearances to come, signing off the event by thanking everyone for coming and promising, "See you all again soon."
Apple TV sets will be mighty pricey, analyst says
Apple TV sets will be mighty pricey, analyst says
Rumors have been swirling that Apple is thinking about launching a television next year, and Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster claims to have some insight into what the iPhone maker has planned.Speaking yesterday at Business Insider's Ignition: Future of Media conference, Munster said, according to the blog, that Apple thinks customers want an all-in-one television that isn't tied down to external boxes.But in order to deliver that, Munster says, Apple will charge a steep premium for its television. According to Business Insider, Munster said that if a given television costs $800, Apple's alternative will set customers back $1,600--twice as much.What will consumers get for that premium? According to Munster, Apple will offer a range of screen sizes to appeal to many different consumer needs. Munster also believes the television will come with Siri support, allowing users to control their television with their voices. And in addition to iCloud integration, Munster expects the television to also be controllable from an iPhone or iPad, Business Insider is reporting. Related LinksWas Jobs' next big thing an integrated Apple TVApple TV: Did Steve Jobs crack the code?iTunes creator working on Apple TV, report saysMunster has been speculating on Apple's desire to launch a television for years. In 2009, he said that Apple would launch a set this year. In August, he once again said that an Apple television was coming, but he now believes it will launch in late 2012 or early 2013.Munster's argument gained more credibility in October when Walter Isaacson's authorized Steve Jobs biography included a quote from the Apple co-founder saying that he had "cracked" the code for creating an integrated television."I'd like to create an integrated television set that is completely easy to use," Jobs told his biographer. "It would be seamlessly synched with all of your devices and with iCloud. It will have the simplest user interface you could imagine. I finally cracked it."That said, in an interview with CNET last month, Isaacson tossed some cold water on hopes that an Apple television is launching anytime soon, saying that the company wasn't "close at all" to getting it to store shelves."He told me it was very theoretical," Isaacson said of Jobs. "These were theoretical things they were thinking about in the future."But that hasn't stopped the rumor mill from speculating on Apple's plans. Bloomberg reported in October, citing sources, that Apple has tapped iTunes creator Jeff Robbin to head up the television's development. Those sources said Apple currently has a TV prototype, but there is still a possibility that it won't go beyond that stage.Munster, however, seems convinced of the launch. And he's so sure it'll be a winner, he told attendees at Ignition yesterday to wait until Apple unveils its television before they buy their next HDTV.Apple did not immediately respond to CNET's request for comment.
Rumors have been swirling that Apple is thinking about launching a television next year, and Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster claims to have some insight into what the iPhone maker has planned.Speaking yesterday at Business Insider's Ignition: Future of Media conference, Munster said, according to the blog, that Apple thinks customers want an all-in-one television that isn't tied down to external boxes.But in order to deliver that, Munster says, Apple will charge a steep premium for its television. According to Business Insider, Munster said that if a given television costs $800, Apple's alternative will set customers back $1,600--twice as much.What will consumers get for that premium? According to Munster, Apple will offer a range of screen sizes to appeal to many different consumer needs. Munster also believes the television will come with Siri support, allowing users to control their television with their voices. And in addition to iCloud integration, Munster expects the television to also be controllable from an iPhone or iPad, Business Insider is reporting. Related LinksWas Jobs' next big thing an integrated Apple TVApple TV: Did Steve Jobs crack the code?iTunes creator working on Apple TV, report saysMunster has been speculating on Apple's desire to launch a television for years. In 2009, he said that Apple would launch a set this year. In August, he once again said that an Apple television was coming, but he now believes it will launch in late 2012 or early 2013.Munster's argument gained more credibility in October when Walter Isaacson's authorized Steve Jobs biography included a quote from the Apple co-founder saying that he had "cracked" the code for creating an integrated television."I'd like to create an integrated television set that is completely easy to use," Jobs told his biographer. "It would be seamlessly synched with all of your devices and with iCloud. It will have the simplest user interface you could imagine. I finally cracked it."That said, in an interview with CNET last month, Isaacson tossed some cold water on hopes that an Apple television is launching anytime soon, saying that the company wasn't "close at all" to getting it to store shelves."He told me it was very theoretical," Isaacson said of Jobs. "These were theoretical things they were thinking about in the future."But that hasn't stopped the rumor mill from speculating on Apple's plans. Bloomberg reported in October, citing sources, that Apple has tapped iTunes creator Jeff Robbin to head up the television's development. Those sources said Apple currently has a TV prototype, but there is still a possibility that it won't go beyond that stage.Munster, however, seems convinced of the launch. And he's so sure it'll be a winner, he told attendees at Ignition yesterday to wait until Apple unveils its television before they buy their next HDTV.Apple did not immediately respond to CNET's request for comment.
Spotify hits growth spurt to 60M active users
Spotify hits growth spurt to 60M active users
Music-streaming service Spotify has grown substantially over the last year, new data from the company shows.By the end of 2014, Spotify had reached 15 million paid subscribers and 60 million active users worldwide, the streaming provider announced Monday. The company provided no other information on its growth.But Spotify's expansion does seem to be coming along nicely. In May, Spotify announced that it had reached 10 million paid subscribers and 40 million active users. In a span of seven months, therefore, the company had added 5 million paid subscribers and 20 million active users -- that is, its user ranks swelled by about 50 percent.In March 2013, Spotify said that it had 6 million paid subscribers, so in an earlier phase of growth it took the company over a year to add 4 million paid subscribers.Spotify is competing in a crowdedmosh pit ofmusic services, from Pandora to Google Play Music and from Amazon Music to iTunes Radio. One of the latest to enter the fray in the big US market, after establishing itself in scores of countries around the globe, is Deezer, often compared with Spotify. Deezer has formed partnerships with speaker makers Bose and Sonos, and just last week struck a deal with Cricket Wireless.A key component in Spotify's growth has been its willingness to let users stream content to mobile devices for free. Spotify's paid service costs customers $9.99 per month and allows for offline listening, no ads, and improved sound quality.Even with its growth, Spotify is still has some catching up to do. Pandora announced at the end of October that it had reached 76.5 million "active listeners." That was up nearly 4 million people compared from a year earlier.Spotify did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Music-streaming service Spotify has grown substantially over the last year, new data from the company shows.By the end of 2014, Spotify had reached 15 million paid subscribers and 60 million active users worldwide, the streaming provider announced Monday. The company provided no other information on its growth.But Spotify's expansion does seem to be coming along nicely. In May, Spotify announced that it had reached 10 million paid subscribers and 40 million active users. In a span of seven months, therefore, the company had added 5 million paid subscribers and 20 million active users -- that is, its user ranks swelled by about 50 percent.In March 2013, Spotify said that it had 6 million paid subscribers, so in an earlier phase of growth it took the company over a year to add 4 million paid subscribers.Spotify is competing in a crowdedmosh pit ofmusic services, from Pandora to Google Play Music and from Amazon Music to iTunes Radio. One of the latest to enter the fray in the big US market, after establishing itself in scores of countries around the globe, is Deezer, often compared with Spotify. Deezer has formed partnerships with speaker makers Bose and Sonos, and just last week struck a deal with Cricket Wireless.A key component in Spotify's growth has been its willingness to let users stream content to mobile devices for free. Spotify's paid service costs customers $9.99 per month and allows for offline listening, no ads, and improved sound quality.Even with its growth, Spotify is still has some catching up to do. Pandora announced at the end of October that it had reached 76.5 million "active listeners." That was up nearly 4 million people compared from a year earlier.Spotify did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
iPhone 4 truth time- Which apps do you really use-
iPhone 4 truth time: Which apps do you really use?
Getting any new geek toy takes me through the usual unboxing and tinkering routines, particularly if it's the shiny black iPhone 4 (full CNET review) I just got in on preorder that's so coveted that people are willing to sell spots in line for Thursday's retail launch.Plugging the boxier, edgier iPhone 4 into iTunes was my first task. Staring at my roster of apps certainly forced me to consider which ones I use frequently enough to sync to this new, practically pristine device with its mere 18 preinstalled programs--only 14, really, if you don't count the phone, e-mail, Safari, and iPod buttons on the home screen.The nature of my job as a mobile-apps reviewer keeps me in a steady stream of newly downloaded apps to test, but even with the previous iPhone always in tote, there are only a handful of programs I use--really use--enough to warrant moving over from the iPhone 3G to the iPhone 4.OK, so by "handful" I actually mean that more than two dozen apps are making the jump, including essential social-networking apps for Facebook, Twitter (like TweetDeck), and IM (Palringo and Meebo). There are media apps I'd like to have onhand (Slacker Radio, SoundHound, Photoshop.com, Photogene), and utilities (Documents To Go, ToDo, Wikiamo). Some lifestyle apps also make my personal cut (Movies, Top Shelf Drinks, Epicurious, Yelp, Zagat). The rest I'll live without for now until new iOS 4 features make them must-haves, or the need arises.On one hand it's nice to have iTunes transfer my purchases in a bundle to keep me from having to manually pick through the entire App Store, but syncing isn't a lickety-split process. The wait is especially aggravating if you can't wait to put your shiny, new hardware to the test out in the real world and far, far away from your computer. So a reminder if you've already got an iPhone but are upgrading to the new iPhone 4 in the next couple days: pick the bare essentials judiciously for instant transferring, or move over your apps after you're finished oohing and ahhing for the night. That goes double if you're moving over music as well.If you've got or are getting an iPhone 4, which apps make your list of iTunes transfers?
Getting any new geek toy takes me through the usual unboxing and tinkering routines, particularly if it's the shiny black iPhone 4 (full CNET review) I just got in on preorder that's so coveted that people are willing to sell spots in line for Thursday's retail launch.Plugging the boxier, edgier iPhone 4 into iTunes was my first task. Staring at my roster of apps certainly forced me to consider which ones I use frequently enough to sync to this new, practically pristine device with its mere 18 preinstalled programs--only 14, really, if you don't count the phone, e-mail, Safari, and iPod buttons on the home screen.The nature of my job as a mobile-apps reviewer keeps me in a steady stream of newly downloaded apps to test, but even with the previous iPhone always in tote, there are only a handful of programs I use--really use--enough to warrant moving over from the iPhone 3G to the iPhone 4.OK, so by "handful" I actually mean that more than two dozen apps are making the jump, including essential social-networking apps for Facebook, Twitter (like TweetDeck), and IM (Palringo and Meebo). There are media apps I'd like to have onhand (Slacker Radio, SoundHound, Photoshop.com, Photogene), and utilities (Documents To Go, ToDo, Wikiamo). Some lifestyle apps also make my personal cut (Movies, Top Shelf Drinks, Epicurious, Yelp, Zagat). The rest I'll live without for now until new iOS 4 features make them must-haves, or the need arises.On one hand it's nice to have iTunes transfer my purchases in a bundle to keep me from having to manually pick through the entire App Store, but syncing isn't a lickety-split process. The wait is especially aggravating if you can't wait to put your shiny, new hardware to the test out in the real world and far, far away from your computer. So a reminder if you've already got an iPhone but are upgrading to the new iPhone 4 in the next couple days: pick the bare essentials judiciously for instant transferring, or move over your apps after you're finished oohing and ahhing for the night. That goes double if you're moving over music as well.If you've got or are getting an iPhone 4, which apps make your list of iTunes transfers?
Western Digital unveils new ShareSpace NAS server
Western Digital unveils new ShareSpace NAS server
Western Digital (WD), introduced on Tuesday its all-new NAS server called ShareSpace. The server somewhat resembles the design of the company's My Book external hard drives with easily accessible drive bays, eco-friendly hard drives, and quiet performance.The new NAS server has four hard-drive bays: each can accommodate a 3.5-inch SATA internal hard drive up to 1TB in capacity, making the server's total storage space up to 4TB. The four hard drives can be installed or removed completely without using a tool and set up in RAID 0, RAID 1, or RAID 5 configurations. The NAS server features Gigabit Ethernet for network connectivity and three USB 2.0 ports for additional external storage or power management with a UPS unit. Unfortunately, these USB ports can't be used for any other USB-related functions such as print-serving or USB cameras.The ShareSpace offers a good set of features found collectively in other NAS servers including FTP, iTunes servers, HTTP and FTP download capabilities, free Web-access via MioNet, and support for Microsoft Active Directory. The server also comes with backup software licensed to be used with up to three computers. Its front USB port can be used to quickly back up the entire contents of an external hard drive, such as the WD My Passport or any other USB hard drive.The ShareSpace is equipped with WD's GreenPower hard drives, used also in the My Book series, that are said to use up to 33 percent less energy than other SATA hard drives. There are two versions of the ShareSpace, 2TB and 4TB, that cost $700 and $1,000, respectively, and both come with a three-year warranty.
Western Digital (WD), introduced on Tuesday its all-new NAS server called ShareSpace. The server somewhat resembles the design of the company's My Book external hard drives with easily accessible drive bays, eco-friendly hard drives, and quiet performance.The new NAS server has four hard-drive bays: each can accommodate a 3.5-inch SATA internal hard drive up to 1TB in capacity, making the server's total storage space up to 4TB. The four hard drives can be installed or removed completely without using a tool and set up in RAID 0, RAID 1, or RAID 5 configurations. The NAS server features Gigabit Ethernet for network connectivity and three USB 2.0 ports for additional external storage or power management with a UPS unit. Unfortunately, these USB ports can't be used for any other USB-related functions such as print-serving or USB cameras.The ShareSpace offers a good set of features found collectively in other NAS servers including FTP, iTunes servers, HTTP and FTP download capabilities, free Web-access via MioNet, and support for Microsoft Active Directory. The server also comes with backup software licensed to be used with up to three computers. Its front USB port can be used to quickly back up the entire contents of an external hard drive, such as the WD My Passport or any other USB hard drive.The ShareSpace is equipped with WD's GreenPower hard drives, used also in the My Book series, that are said to use up to 33 percent less energy than other SATA hard drives. There are two versions of the ShareSpace, 2TB and 4TB, that cost $700 and $1,000, respectively, and both come with a three-year warranty.
We're putting CNET video on every screen
We're putting CNET video on every screen
CNET's second-screen appAndroid and iOS tablet and mobile owners get a special treat later this month: a new CNET app called CNET Video+ that pairs with your TV or set-top box to provide extra context, polls, links, and more while you're watching CNET video. The apps will be available in the Google Play and iTunes stores and will work seamlessly with our Samsung Smart TV app. In early 2013, we'll roll out compatibility with many more partner brands and platforms.This is how you pair the CNET Video+ iOS or Android app with your TV.CNETCNET on RokuIf you currently own a Roku, you already get the CNET channel. But we've now updated our Roku app with a design overhaul, so it looks shiny-new. Check in and tell us what you think. CNET's native Android appYou've waited patiently, and now your patience will pay off. CNET's totally revamped Android app is now in the Google Play store.CNET on Windows 8Get the full lineup--world class tech reviews, reporting, photos, and video--on CNET's Windows 8 app. We keep you living in the future with award-winning tech coverage in a fast, beautiful, and easy-to-use package.
CNET's second-screen appAndroid and iOS tablet and mobile owners get a special treat later this month: a new CNET app called CNET Video+ that pairs with your TV or set-top box to provide extra context, polls, links, and more while you're watching CNET video. The apps will be available in the Google Play and iTunes stores and will work seamlessly with our Samsung Smart TV app. In early 2013, we'll roll out compatibility with many more partner brands and platforms.This is how you pair the CNET Video+ iOS or Android app with your TV.CNETCNET on RokuIf you currently own a Roku, you already get the CNET channel. But we've now updated our Roku app with a design overhaul, so it looks shiny-new. Check in and tell us what you think. CNET's native Android appYou've waited patiently, and now your patience will pay off. CNET's totally revamped Android app is now in the Google Play store.CNET on Windows 8Get the full lineup--world class tech reviews, reporting, photos, and video--on CNET's Windows 8 app. We keep you living in the future with award-winning tech coverage in a fast, beautiful, and easy-to-use package.
Country superstar Garth Brooks no longer a digital holdout, except for iTunes
Country superstar Garth Brooks no longer a digital holdout, except for iTunes
There's a certain purity about country music.It depicts a world in which there is love, heartbreak, trucks, cowboys, trains, guns, family, and dreams. Oh, and the open road. Life ought to be that simple, but cruder forms of music and technology have muddied its crystal waters.Indeed, another of the great principles of life has been compromised. Garth Brooks, the country singer whose success is legendary, is returning in November with a new album. "Album" is a term Brooks doesn't use lightly. He has always refused to have his music catalog dumped online, as he doesn't want the tasteless and unwashed cherry-picking of individual songs. An opus shouldn't be put in the hands of the hopeless.This time around, however, he is succumbing to the reality that everyone's phone is full of tunes. As my religious reading of Taste of Country tells me, Brooks is to send his new album out into the digital ether. However, he will not sully his hands with either streaming services or Apple's heinous iTunes. No, he will release the new music on his own Web site. To prepare for this, the site will have an official relaunch on July 15. One can only hope that it will cope with the sudden influx of the insanely frustrated, who will not only be able to download Brooks's new material but also the whole of his catalog.More Technically IncorrectSamsung smacks Apple again (twice)LeBron heads back to Cleveland. Was big data right?No, Apple, phones can't solve all parenting problemsPerhaps it seems archaic that Brooks, like AC/DC, refused for so long to let his music get iTuned. He believed he was fighting for the songwriters, the good people.Now even he has succumbed. No, he won't allow Apple to become his friend in a low place. However, in an interview -- on his own site, naturally -- Brooks claims he's introducing a new version of social media. "It's not for the world," he explained. Instead, it's "for you and me."You see, Brooks understands the new personalization.At heart, he's a businessman, one of the only ones to stand up to Steve Jobs and say: "Ain't Going Down."To which Jobs may have muttered: "You're no Dylan."
There's a certain purity about country music.It depicts a world in which there is love, heartbreak, trucks, cowboys, trains, guns, family, and dreams. Oh, and the open road. Life ought to be that simple, but cruder forms of music and technology have muddied its crystal waters.Indeed, another of the great principles of life has been compromised. Garth Brooks, the country singer whose success is legendary, is returning in November with a new album. "Album" is a term Brooks doesn't use lightly. He has always refused to have his music catalog dumped online, as he doesn't want the tasteless and unwashed cherry-picking of individual songs. An opus shouldn't be put in the hands of the hopeless.This time around, however, he is succumbing to the reality that everyone's phone is full of tunes. As my religious reading of Taste of Country tells me, Brooks is to send his new album out into the digital ether. However, he will not sully his hands with either streaming services or Apple's heinous iTunes. No, he will release the new music on his own Web site. To prepare for this, the site will have an official relaunch on July 15. One can only hope that it will cope with the sudden influx of the insanely frustrated, who will not only be able to download Brooks's new material but also the whole of his catalog.More Technically IncorrectSamsung smacks Apple again (twice)LeBron heads back to Cleveland. Was big data right?No, Apple, phones can't solve all parenting problemsPerhaps it seems archaic that Brooks, like AC/DC, refused for so long to let his music get iTuned. He believed he was fighting for the songwriters, the good people.Now even he has succumbed. No, he won't allow Apple to become his friend in a low place. However, in an interview -- on his own site, naturally -- Brooks claims he's introducing a new version of social media. "It's not for the world," he explained. Instead, it's "for you and me."You see, Brooks understands the new personalization.At heart, he's a businessman, one of the only ones to stand up to Steve Jobs and say: "Ain't Going Down."To which Jobs may have muttered: "You're no Dylan."
Could a Zune phone come with free music-
Could a Zune phone come with free music?
Now I understand why it's taking so long. According to this unsourced rumor at WMPoweruser, Microsoft is planning to allow mobile operators to be involved in the process of selling downloads. In other words, when you download a song from the Zune Marketplace to your Windows Mobile phone over 3G, your carrier will set the price and handle the billing. Adding a third party--the carriers--to your development process introduces delay.I believe the rumor for a couple reasons. The last time I talked to the Windows Mobile team, they emphasized that they consider carriers as a major customer, alongside end-users and handset makers. This is unlike Apple, which built the iPhone primarily to appeal to end-users, then told carriers they'd have to agree with Apple's terms to sell it--in other words, all downloads go through iTunes. Carriers want to keep control of the customer billing relationship, and they want to dictate prices for content downloads, especially ringtones. So I could see Microsoft capitulating here.Second, Microsoft acquired a company called Musiwave in 2007, and has posted job ads for developers to work for Musiwave to help power the Zune Marketplace. Musiwave was a provider of back-end platforms for carriers such as Orange and Vodafone. That kind of expertise could be helpful in transitioning the Zune Marketplace to a model in which some transactions are handled by carriers instead of Microsoft. Personally, I like Apple's all-in-one model, and if Microsoft's not careful, allowing the carriers in could create a usability nightmare. What if, for instance, Wi-Fi and PC downloads are handled by Microsoft, but 3G downloads are handled by carriers, leading to two bills and different prices for the same content? Epic fail. But I could see some advantages as well. For instance, today carriers subsidize the price of many phones (including, of course, the iPhone). What if Microsoft could convince them to subsidize the cost of a Zune Pass (Microsoft's all-you-can-hear subscription plan), or even build it into the monthly data plan fee? The result would be similar to Nokia's Comes With Music phones--a phone that offers you unlimited over-the-air music for a year or two. Whatever the case may be, we probably won't see any Zune-Windows Mobile integration until Windows Mobile 7, which won't be out until 2010. Follow Matt on Twitter
Now I understand why it's taking so long. According to this unsourced rumor at WMPoweruser, Microsoft is planning to allow mobile operators to be involved in the process of selling downloads. In other words, when you download a song from the Zune Marketplace to your Windows Mobile phone over 3G, your carrier will set the price and handle the billing. Adding a third party--the carriers--to your development process introduces delay.I believe the rumor for a couple reasons. The last time I talked to the Windows Mobile team, they emphasized that they consider carriers as a major customer, alongside end-users and handset makers. This is unlike Apple, which built the iPhone primarily to appeal to end-users, then told carriers they'd have to agree with Apple's terms to sell it--in other words, all downloads go through iTunes. Carriers want to keep control of the customer billing relationship, and they want to dictate prices for content downloads, especially ringtones. So I could see Microsoft capitulating here.Second, Microsoft acquired a company called Musiwave in 2007, and has posted job ads for developers to work for Musiwave to help power the Zune Marketplace. Musiwave was a provider of back-end platforms for carriers such as Orange and Vodafone. That kind of expertise could be helpful in transitioning the Zune Marketplace to a model in which some transactions are handled by carriers instead of Microsoft. Personally, I like Apple's all-in-one model, and if Microsoft's not careful, allowing the carriers in could create a usability nightmare. What if, for instance, Wi-Fi and PC downloads are handled by Microsoft, but 3G downloads are handled by carriers, leading to two bills and different prices for the same content? Epic fail. But I could see some advantages as well. For instance, today carriers subsidize the price of many phones (including, of course, the iPhone). What if Microsoft could convince them to subsidize the cost of a Zune Pass (Microsoft's all-you-can-hear subscription plan), or even build it into the monthly data plan fee? The result would be similar to Nokia's Comes With Music phones--a phone that offers you unlimited over-the-air music for a year or two. Whatever the case may be, we probably won't see any Zune-Windows Mobile integration until Windows Mobile 7, which won't be out until 2010. Follow Matt on Twitter
Apple stores still top earners per square foot, study says
Apple stores still top earners per square foot, study says
Apple's retail stores have once again nabbed the top spot when it comes to sales per square foot.According to research firm RetailSails, compared with more than 200 chains in 15 different retail genres, Apple brought in the most money per square foot at its stores during the year.RetailSailsAccording to the rankings (seen right), Apple made $6,050 per square foot during 2012, a little more than twice that of the runner-up, jewelry maker Tiffany & Co., which brought in $3,017 per square foot. By comparison, RetailSails pegged Apple for $5,626 per square foot in its 2011 listing, in which Apple also led the field.Despite topping the list for highest sales per square foot, Apple did not top a related list from RetailSailes tracking the highest sales per store. That honor went to Costco, with Apple coming in at ninth place, just below BJ's Wholesale and above Village Super Market. Dropping off the list from its spot at number 10 last year was big box retailer Best Buy, which is currently in the midst of restructuring.Apple's retail empire turned 11 this past May, and has proved to be an integral part of the company's success. Apple closed out its fiscal year at the end of September with 390 stores, and plans to open another 30 to 35 next year. The company's operations are under a closer watch given the recent departure of retail chief John Browett, who Apple last month said no longer works for the company. (Via AppleInsider)Related stories:Another Apple win: Retail sales per square footApple's fiscal 2012 in numbers: 125M iPhones, 58.31M iPadsApple's shopping for a new shopkeeper, again
Apple's retail stores have once again nabbed the top spot when it comes to sales per square foot.According to research firm RetailSails, compared with more than 200 chains in 15 different retail genres, Apple brought in the most money per square foot at its stores during the year.RetailSailsAccording to the rankings (seen right), Apple made $6,050 per square foot during 2012, a little more than twice that of the runner-up, jewelry maker Tiffany & Co., which brought in $3,017 per square foot. By comparison, RetailSails pegged Apple for $5,626 per square foot in its 2011 listing, in which Apple also led the field.Despite topping the list for highest sales per square foot, Apple did not top a related list from RetailSailes tracking the highest sales per store. That honor went to Costco, with Apple coming in at ninth place, just below BJ's Wholesale and above Village Super Market. Dropping off the list from its spot at number 10 last year was big box retailer Best Buy, which is currently in the midst of restructuring.Apple's retail empire turned 11 this past May, and has proved to be an integral part of the company's success. Apple closed out its fiscal year at the end of September with 390 stores, and plans to open another 30 to 35 next year. The company's operations are under a closer watch given the recent departure of retail chief John Browett, who Apple last month said no longer works for the company. (Via AppleInsider)Related stories:Another Apple win: Retail sales per square footApple's fiscal 2012 in numbers: 125M iPhones, 58.31M iPadsApple's shopping for a new shopkeeper, again
Apple stores ramp up iPhone trade-in program, report says
Apple stores ramp up iPhone trade-in program, report says
Apple is widely expected to hold an event unveiling the new iPhone on September 10, and the company is firing up a new trade-in service for its flagship smartphone in anticipation, according to a report on MacRumors.Word of such a service cropped up in June, when Bloomberg reported that Apple was working with Miami-based trade-in company Brightstar on a program that would let consumers bring in their used iPhones for a discount on newer models and potentially for credit on other items in Apple's stores. At the time, the program was said to be imminent that month, but little has been heard of it until Monday's report that Apple is starting to prepare retail workers. The first trainers are reportedly getting their instructions Monday, and they will begin teaching other employees about the program next week. Apple representatives didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. Next month's Apple event has the rumor mill churning out speculation at top speed, but the computer maker is generally expected to be introducing a high-end flagship iPhone, called the iPhone 5S, along with a lower-cost option, called the iPhone 5C.Reports later Monday from AllThingsD and TechCrunch reiterated movement by Apple to get the service off the ground, with the latter saying Apple is already piloting a program in some stores. Updated at 2:19 p.m. PT with further reports about the trade-in program.
Apple is widely expected to hold an event unveiling the new iPhone on September 10, and the company is firing up a new trade-in service for its flagship smartphone in anticipation, according to a report on MacRumors.Word of such a service cropped up in June, when Bloomberg reported that Apple was working with Miami-based trade-in company Brightstar on a program that would let consumers bring in their used iPhones for a discount on newer models and potentially for credit on other items in Apple's stores. At the time, the program was said to be imminent that month, but little has been heard of it until Monday's report that Apple is starting to prepare retail workers. The first trainers are reportedly getting their instructions Monday, and they will begin teaching other employees about the program next week. Apple representatives didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. Next month's Apple event has the rumor mill churning out speculation at top speed, but the computer maker is generally expected to be introducing a high-end flagship iPhone, called the iPhone 5S, along with a lower-cost option, called the iPhone 5C.Reports later Monday from AllThingsD and TechCrunch reiterated movement by Apple to get the service off the ground, with the latter saying Apple is already piloting a program in some stores. Updated at 2:19 p.m. PT with further reports about the trade-in program.
Apple stores get ready for Passbook payments
Apple stores get ready for Passbook payments
Apple customers will soon be able to pay for store items via the Passbook app, according to Tuaw and 9to5Mac.Citing an "unnamed Apple source," TUAW said the company will update the EasyPay software used by store employees to scan Passbook-enabled Apple Store gift cards.Slated to roll out soon, the update would let iPhone and iPod Touch owners with Passbook pay for items using payment card codes, 9to5Mac said.In preparation, Apple has reportedly just finished replacing the cases on the EasyPay-equipped iPod Touch units used by store staffers in order to allow access to the rear camera. Previous cases obscured the lens, which would have preventing the devices from scanning the Apple Store cards.Already used by Starbucks and other retailers, Passbook lets customers pay for items via store cards, eliminating the need for cash or credit cards. Coupons, tickets, loyalty cards, and other items can also be stored in Passbook.It seems a natural move for Apple to adopt its own payment app at its retail stores.Apple Store customers can currently use the Apple Store app to pay for an item online and then pick it up at their local store. They can also tap into the EasyPay feature to pay for products themselves without having to go through a salesperson. In both cases, an electronic copy of the receipt is downloaded to the customer's device.Related storiesGetting started with Passbook on iOS 6Giving Apple's Passbook a real-world spinHow to add almost any gift card to PassbookHow to use Passbook passes on Android with PassWalletUsing Passbook is the next logical step in these paperless transactions. Passbook support may be restricted to Apple's prepaid gift cards for now, TUAW added.But if the program takes off, the company will certainly want to expand it and perhaps offer its own store cards just like other vendors.CNET contacted Apple for comment and will update the story if we receive a response.Updated story 7:00 a.m. PT to list 9to5Mac as source.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 customers will soon be able to pay for store items via the Passbook app, according to Tuaw and 9to5Mac.Citing an "unnamed Apple source," TUAW said the company will update the EasyPay software used by store employees to scan Passbook-enabled Apple Store gift cards.Slated to roll out soon, the update would let iPhone and iPod Touch owners with Passbook pay for items using payment card codes, 9to5Mac said.In preparation, Apple has reportedly just finished replacing the cases on the EasyPay-equipped iPod Touch units used by store staffers in order to allow access to the rear camera. Previous cases obscured the lens, which would have preventing the devices from scanning the Apple Store cards.Already used by Starbucks and other retailers, Passbook lets customers pay for items via store cards, eliminating the need for cash or credit cards. Coupons, tickets, loyalty cards, and other items can also be stored in Passbook.It seems a natural move for Apple to adopt its own payment app at its retail stores.Apple Store customers can currently use the Apple Store app to pay for an item online and then pick it up at their local store. They can also tap into the EasyPay feature to pay for products themselves without having to go through a salesperson. In both cases, an electronic copy of the receipt is downloaded to the customer's device.Related storiesGetting started with Passbook on iOS 6Giving Apple's Passbook a real-world spinHow to add almost any gift card to PassbookHow to use Passbook passes on Android with PassWalletUsing Passbook is the next logical step in these paperless transactions. Passbook support may be restricted to Apple's prepaid gift cards for now, TUAW added.But if the program takes off, the company will certainly want to expand it and perhaps offer its own store cards just like other vendors.CNET contacted Apple for comment and will update the story if we receive a response.Updated story 7:00 a.m. PT to list 9to5Mac as source.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 stores batten down their hatches for Sandy
Apple stores batten down their hatches for Sandy
Apple is among countless retailers striving to defend their East Coast stores against the onslaught of Hurricane Sandy.The company has already closed some stores in New York and four other states, as well as in Washington, D.C., and is bracing for potential flooding and other damage, says blog site ifoAppleStore.At least 35 Apple stores are within the hurricane's landfall zone as predicted by the National Weather Service, ifoAppleStore said, while another 15 are right outside the zone, including those in New York City and areas north of the city.Apple stores across Manhattan were closed as of Sunday night. But Apple staffers were still busy placing sandbags around the stores to defend against possible flooding. Employees at the city's Fifth Avenue store also wrapped plastic around the display tablets to protect the products from damage.Related storiesHurricane Sandy: Keeping tabs onlineNASA satellites watch as Sandy intensifies (pictures)Hurricane Sandy blows down paywalls at NY Times, WSJGoogle cancels Monday's Android event over hurricaneStores in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and other nearby states reportedly closed early Sunday, while employees were told that they might be closed Monday and Tuesday, according to 9to5Mac. But damage could extend as far north as Canada, where Apple has some stores in and around Toronto.CNET contacted Apple for comment and will update the story if we receive any information.
Apple is among countless retailers striving to defend their East Coast stores against the onslaught of Hurricane Sandy.The company has already closed some stores in New York and four other states, as well as in Washington, D.C., and is bracing for potential flooding and other damage, says blog site ifoAppleStore.At least 35 Apple stores are within the hurricane's landfall zone as predicted by the National Weather Service, ifoAppleStore said, while another 15 are right outside the zone, including those in New York City and areas north of the city.Apple stores across Manhattan were closed as of Sunday night. But Apple staffers were still busy placing sandbags around the stores to defend against possible flooding. Employees at the city's Fifth Avenue store also wrapped plastic around the display tablets to protect the products from damage.Related storiesHurricane Sandy: Keeping tabs onlineNASA satellites watch as Sandy intensifies (pictures)Hurricane Sandy blows down paywalls at NY Times, WSJGoogle cancels Monday's Android event over hurricaneStores in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and other nearby states reportedly closed early Sunday, while employees were told that they might be closed Monday and Tuesday, according to 9to5Mac. But damage could extend as far north as Canada, where Apple has some stores in and around Toronto.CNET contacted Apple for comment and will update the story if we receive any information.
Apple Store opens online in China
Apple Store opens online in China
Apple has launched an online Apple Store in China.Opening for business yesterday, the new Chinese version of the Apple Store lets customers in China buy iPhones, iPads, Macs, and other Apple products online. Beyond providing the traditional Apple lineup, the store is also selling certain third-party products. Apple is offering free shipping and discounts for students and teachers.Shoppers can also get free personalized engraving on an iPod or iPad and can configure Macs with the options and features they want, Apple said. And prepping for the holiday season, Apple is offering personalized gift wrapping on the iPhone, iPad, iPod, and other products."We are thrilled to open our newest online store in China," Apple Chief Operating Officer Tim Cook said in a statement. "With personalized engraving, configure-to-order options, and free shipping on everything, the Apple Store is a great destination for our customers in China."Beyond the new Apple Store, users in China can now access Apple's App Store in Simplified Chinese, featuring local apps and charts of China's most popular paid and free apps.The iPhone without Wi-Fi capability has been available in China for the past year. But it wasn't until last month that Apple introduced a Wi-Fi-enabled version of the iPhone 4 and the Wi-Fi-only edition of the iPad.Liu Chuanzhi, chairman of China-based PC maker Lenovo, told the Financial Times in July that Apple is missing a tremendous opportunity in China. Chuanzhi was quoted as saying: "We are lucky that Steve Jobs has such a bad temper and doesn't care about China. If Apple were to spend the same effort on the Chinese consumer as we do, we would be in trouble."But Apple has been pushing to make a greater dent in the Chinese market. In addition to its new online store, the company has launched retail outlets in China this year. Starting with its existing stores in Shanghai and Beijing, Apple has said it plans to open up a total of 25 retail outlets in China by the end of 2011.
Apple has launched an online Apple Store in China.Opening for business yesterday, the new Chinese version of the Apple Store lets customers in China buy iPhones, iPads, Macs, and other Apple products online. Beyond providing the traditional Apple lineup, the store is also selling certain third-party products. Apple is offering free shipping and discounts for students and teachers.Shoppers can also get free personalized engraving on an iPod or iPad and can configure Macs with the options and features they want, Apple said. And prepping for the holiday season, Apple is offering personalized gift wrapping on the iPhone, iPad, iPod, and other products."We are thrilled to open our newest online store in China," Apple Chief Operating Officer Tim Cook said in a statement. "With personalized engraving, configure-to-order options, and free shipping on everything, the Apple Store is a great destination for our customers in China."Beyond the new Apple Store, users in China can now access Apple's App Store in Simplified Chinese, featuring local apps and charts of China's most popular paid and free apps.The iPhone without Wi-Fi capability has been available in China for the past year. But it wasn't until last month that Apple introduced a Wi-Fi-enabled version of the iPhone 4 and the Wi-Fi-only edition of the iPad.Liu Chuanzhi, chairman of China-based PC maker Lenovo, told the Financial Times in July that Apple is missing a tremendous opportunity in China. Chuanzhi was quoted as saying: "We are lucky that Steve Jobs has such a bad temper and doesn't care about China. If Apple were to spend the same effort on the Chinese consumer as we do, we would be in trouble."But Apple has been pushing to make a greater dent in the Chinese market. In addition to its new online store, the company has launched retail outlets in China this year. Starting with its existing stores in Shanghai and Beijing, Apple has said it plans to open up a total of 25 retail outlets in China by the end of 2011.
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