Apple iPad hands-on review
Editors' note: CNET's rated review of the Apple iPad is now available.The Apple iPad is an unprecedented device. It doesn't shoot rainbows or make puppies, but this roughly 8x10-inch tablet computer melds your laptop, smartphone, gaming console, and iPod into a single, affordable, unfortunately named thing. Of course, we come to you with a standard list of complaints. The absence of an integrated video camera puts the kibosh on any hope of using the iPad for video chats, and without Flash video support, many Web pages look like Swiss cheese. But the biggest problem with the device is coming up with bullet-proof reasons to buy one.Apple iPad from every angle (photos)See full gallery1 - 4 / 16NextPrevBecause the iPad is an entirely new class of device, you'll probably need to lie to yourself a little to justify the purchase. But at this point, any CNET readers worth their salt have mastered the art of making excuses to buy new gadgets. For the uninitiated, Apple has posted a cheat sheet of demo videos that provide a smorgasbord of reasonable answers to the question: "Why do I need an iPad?" To hear Apple tell it, the iPad is a Web browser for your living room, an e-book reader for the den, a movie player for the kids, a photo album, a jukebox, a gamer's best friend, a word processor, an e-mail machine, and a YouTube junkie's dream come true. No excuse good enough for you? Wait a few minutes and a developer will inevitably make an app for it. Whatever you need to tell yourself to buy an iPad, we can safely say the device is a worthwhile addition to any wired home. We don't give much weight to the pundits who say that the iPad is the future of the personal computer, but we think it's the most entertaining gadget we'll see all year.What is it, exactly?If you're coming to this review already versed on the nitty gritty of what the iPad is and its roots in the iPhone and iPod Touch, feel free to skip ahead. Otherwise, here's the scoop: The iPad is a touch-screen tablet computer, roughly the size of a magazine, with three models that connect to the Internet strictly over Wi-Fi (16GB for $499, 32GB for $599, 64GB for $699) and three that use a combination of Wi-Fi and AT&T's 3G wireless (16GB for $629, 32GB for $729, and 64GB for $829--pay-as-you go for the data subscription). The iPad runs the same software found on Apple's popular iPhone and iPod Touch. Apple calls this software the iPhone OS, and it's generally regarded as one of the most successful operating systems designed for use with touch-screen devices. Unlike conventional computer OS software, designed around the mouse and the keyboard, the iPhone OS responds only to touch input and is generally capable of running only one application at a time.If you've ever used an iPhone or iPod Touch, the iPad will feel immediately familiar. Out of the box, you get many of the iPhone's capabilities, including Apple-designed applications (apps) for Web browsing, e-mail, maps, photos, music, video, YouTube, and more. More apps can be installed using the built-in App Store software or by connecting the iPad to iTunes via your computer using the included cable. If you already own apps purchased for an iPhone or iPod Touch, you can transfer these apps to the iPad, as well.Donald Bell/CNETDesignApple rarely skimps on design and the iPad is no exception. The screen is made of the same oleophobic-coated glass as the iPhone 3GS', making it relatively easy to wipe away fingerprints. Behind the glass is an LED-backlit, 9.7-inch capacitive touch screen that uses IPS (in-plane switching) technology for above-average viewing angles. Below the screen sits a home button that looks and behaves exactly like the one on the iPhone and iPod Touch, bouncing you out of any open app and placing you back in the main menu. Matte aluminum wraps around the backs and sides of the iPad, tapering a bit around the edges. If you've ever held one of Apple's unibody MacBooks, you know exactly the kind of feel and finish of the iPad's aluminum. Unlike the polished chrome of the iPod or glossy plastic of the iPhone, the back of the iPad seems less likely to show wear. Of course--as with any Apple product--there are already hundreds of cases for the iPad, should you feel the need to give it extra protection.The iPad measures 7.47 inches wide by 9.56 inches tall by 0.5 inch thick, and weighs 1.5 pounds (or 1.6 pounds for the 3G model). Held in your hands, the dimensions and heft have a natural, magazine-like feel. Like the iPhone and iPod Touch, the iPad sports a finger-friendly OS with an onscreen QWERTY keyboard, and an accelerometer that can detect whether the device is in portrait or landscape mode. The buttons, switches, and ports around the edges of the iPad also mimic those of the iPhone. A 30-pin dock connector sits on the bottom, along with a small integrated speaker. On the right edge you have a volume rocker and a switch that works to disable the iPad's automatic screen rotation in case you need to look at something sideways without the iPad assuming you want it rotated. The iPad's refined feel and high-quality materials won't surprise Apple devotees, but in the larger landscape of tablets, Netbook computers, and e-readers, the design feels distinctly upscale--especially given its price. Next to the Asus Eee PC, Amazon Kindle, or Fusion Garage JooJoo, the iPad looks like it was made on a different planet (where plastic doesn't exist). We don't make the point to be snobby, but looks matter considering that all these devices are marketed as living-room accessories. Size also matters. As one of the first tablet computers to go mainstream, you'll need to assess the iPad's size on a case-by-case basis. For the advertised purposes of Web browsing, reading books, and checking your e-mail, we found the magazine-size screen perfectly adequate. After years of watching videos on devices like the iPod Touch, or even dedicated video players like the Archos 5, video playback on the iPad's 9.7-inch screen feels downright luxurious. For all its charms, however, the iPad is not as portable as we'd like. Part of the problem is psychological. Logically, you know the iPad's dimensions are no less portable than a book. But when a book costs between $500 and $800 and is made of glass, you treat it differently. Without being tucked away in a messenger bag or protective case, walking outside with an iPad in your hand feels like slapping the laws of gravity in the face. We'd also be lying if we didn't say we wish the iPad could be a little thinner and lighter. At 1.5 pounds and half an inch thick, it makes most Netbooks look bloated, but the iPad is slightly heavier and thicker than most dedicated e-book readers, including the relatively large Kindle DX. If your dream is to relax in a hammock with an e-book in one hand and a tropical drink in the other, plan to avoid the iPad's glass screen hurtling toward your face when you doze off.iPhone OSUnlike many of the tablet-style devices we've encountered, the iPad doesn't run a conventional OS (operating system) such as Windows, Linux, or Mac OS X. Instead, Apple decided to use the mobile version of OS X from what is arguably its most successful and fastest-growing product: the iPhone .In our view, Apple's use of the iPhone OS distinguishes the iPad from the competition. As dozens of iPad alternatives come out of the woodwork, touting all sorts of advantages and added features, the iPad will remain the only tablet computer on the market with access to Apple's App Store.For the most part, the iPhone OS feels like a natural fit for a device like this. You don't need to worry about traditional computer headaches, such as scattered files on your desktop, installing drivers for third-party hardware, or trying to figure out where you put a downloaded image. Instead, all your apps are clearly laid out, organized in a grid of nickel-size icons that respond to a single touch. If you download an image from a Web page or e-mail, it appears in your photo library, without fail. If you need to search for anything--a song, an e-mail, a photo, or a Web page--double-clicking the home button brings up a Spotlight search feature that covers just about everything on the device. On the iPad, the organizational metaphor of the folder does not exist, and the effect feels liberating.We think that most users will appreciate this simplicity and reliability compared with a traditional, budget-priced personal computer. Some of you, however, will probably feel suffocated by Apple's totalitarian control over the iPad's OS. If you get a kick out of running your computer using command lines and viewing device contents as a hierarchical file tree, the iPad will probably give you an aneurysm. Purchasing software and media on the device makes Apple's "walled-garden" approach to the iPhone OS frustrating to a wider audience. The only way for users to purchase and download movies and music on the iPad is to use Apple's integrated iTunes store. If you want to buy new software for the device, you'll need to go through Apple's integrated App Store, which displays only applications deemed acceptable by Apple. Compared with the more laissez-faire approach of a Windows Netbook, for example, the iPad user is giving away freedom of choice in exchange for convenience. (One upside: In theory, Apple's top-down control over the iPhone OS and the commerce within it also serves to minimize the iPad's vulnerability to computer viruses.)Everything old is new againYou can't place calls with the iPad (at least, not without a VoIP app) or easily text message your friends, but the other built-in capabilities are essentially the same as those on the iPhone 3GS.That said, the iPad can be pushed much further than any non-laptop mobile device we've tested, including the iPhone. Because of the iPad's extra screen size, default apps such as the Safari Web browser, e-mail, iPod, video, maps, photos, and YouTube all look and behave much more like full-blown applications. The iPad's e-mail app, for example, is a doppelganger for the Mail application in Apple OS X, offering an overview of your in-box alongside the text of any currently selected message. The photos app could easily be mistaken for Apple's iPhoto, with its opening view of photos arranged in event-specific stacks. The iPod app looks and behaves like an abbreviated version of iTunes, for better or worse. And the YouTube app plays out like a prettier version of the actual Web site. Paradoxically, the two apps that have changed the least, Maps and the Safari browser, give the most radically different experience thanks to the iPad's big screen.Size is meaningless without grace. Luckily, the iPad has both qualities in equal measure, helped by a new 1GHz Apple A4 processor, capacitive multitouch display technology, and an integrated Wi-Fi antenna compatible with the latest 802.1n wireless spec. Apps launch within seconds; waking from sleep mode is nearly instantaneous; and even a cold boot-up takes just 10 seconds. Even if your local Wi-Fi network isn't up to 802.11n speeds, the Web-browsing experience often feels faster than on an iPhone or iPod Touch on the same network, simply because you're doing a lot less scrolling and zooming to get to the information you need.Other hardware features include Bluetooth 2.1, a stereo audio output (headphone jack), a built-in speaker, an integrated lithium ion rechargeable battery, NAND flash memory, an integrated accelerometer (tilt sensor), and an ambient light sensor. Apple's third-generation iPod Touch can claim many of the same features, but lacks the iPad's integrated digital compass, built-in microphone, and mute switch. It's also worth noting that the iPad's speaker is noticeably louder than the speaker included on the iPhone and iPod Touch, with a slightly beefier sound (though still ugly to listen to). Apple doesn't include earbuds with the iPad, so do yourself a favor and treat yourself to a nice pair.A 3G wireless-compatible version of the iPad is also available, which includes a SIM card tray, as well as assisted GPS capabilities.BluetoothJust like the iPhone 3GS and iPod Touch, the iPad includes wireless Bluetooth audio capabilities. We tested the iPad with an Altec Lansing BackBeat stereo Bluetooth headset, and the audio quality was on par with results from the third-generation iPod Touch. The pairing process was easy and incident-free. In the music player, a small Bluetooth icon appears next to the player controls and toggles audio back and forth between the speaker and the headset. The iPad's Bluetooth capabilities also allow peer-to-peer networking for gaming and wireless keyboard support for compatible writing applications.iTunes Store and App StoreIn the same way the iPad's apps all look and behave much more like Apple's full-blown OS X applications, the iPad's integrated iTunes Store could easily be mistaken for the desktop iTunes Store. Size aside, all the same capabilities are here, including movie rentals and purchases, TV show downloads, audiobooks, and access to iTunes U. You can pay for purchases by setting up an iTunes account with a credit card, or by redeeming iTunes gift cards.The same can be said for the iPad version of the App Store; it looks and acts more like the store experience within Apple's iTunes software. Because the App Store is running on the iPad, however, the default display will bring up apps that are optimized specifically for the iPad. Apple is encouraging developers to create new apps specifically for the iPad, which are not necessarily backward-compatible with the iPhone or iPod Touch. Because this is potentially an expensive proposition for users, we would like it to be easier to distinguish between an app designed for the iPhone and the same app designed for the iPad. There are dual-compatibility apps on offer that include both iPad versions and iPhone versions embedded within the same file, which Apple specially designates with a "+" symbol within the iPad App Store. We wish more apps were bundled this way to ensure broad compatibility, but we understand there's more money to be made in selling apps separately. Fortunately, in the world of apps, the iPad is at the top of the food chain. Most apps designed for the iPhone or Touch can run on the iPad, either scaled-up to fit the screen, or presented at their original resolution framed at the center of the screen in black. This capability is good news for anyone bringing their existing apps over from an iPhone or iPod Touch, although users will likely want to purchase separate iPad-optimized versions of the apps they use regularly, which could get pricey.AccessoriesBeyond the deluge of third-party accessories already hitting store shelves, Apple is offering a handful of its own accessories for the iPad, including a physical keyboard with an integrated dock ($69), a charging dock without the keyboard ($29) that engages the iPad's photo frame mode, a camera connection kit ($30) that includes both a USB and an SD card adapter for importing images from a digital camera, and a wrap-around leather case ($40) that doubles as a kickstand. If you're interested in using the iPad for presentations, Apple offers a $30 VGA adapter that can connect to a projector or computer monitor. Video output is only compatible with specific apps, such as Apple's Keynote. The maximum output resolution is only 1,024x768 pixels, so keep your HD expectations in check. We'll be working on writing up individual reviews for several of these accessories, which we will link to as they become available. Off hand, though, we believe a protective case of some kind is a good investment. Also, given the alternative of charging the iPad using a basic wall adapter, $29 seems a fair price for a charging dock that transforms an otherwise techy device into an attractive digital photo frame.RequirementsThough the iPad can be used without a computer most of the time, you will need to connect to a computer running Apple's iTunes 9.1 or later to set up the device and sync any existing media, contacts, e-mail, photos, or browser bookmarks. Computer specification requirements for iTunes 9.1 can be found on Apple's Web site.If you plan to use the iPad at home for surfing the Web and you don't have a 3G-capable model, you will need to make sure your home is set up for wireless Internet. iPad 3GOne of the big questions facing potential buyers is whether to buy an iPad model that supports wireless 3G service. (The 3G models won't be available till late April, according to Apple's Web site.) The benefit of 3G support is that you can use itto access Web and e-mail through the iPad anywhere with AT&T 3G wireless coverage. For a device so heavily focused on the Internet, the extra freedom of 3G compatibility is a clear advantage. Aside from a negligible added heft of 0.1 pound and the fact that buyers are paying an extra $130 for the 3G capability (compared with Wi-Fi-only models), there's no downside to owning a 3G-compatible model. Unlike the data plans for most smartphones, the iPad doesn't come with any contractual obligations. If you don't end up using the iPad's 3G capability, you can cancel the data plan at any time.In fact, Apple and AT&T are offering a pretty good deal on 3G service for the iPad. There are two options: $15 a month for 250MB of data, or unlimited data for $29.99 a month. Each option can be prepaid for a month in advance. The 3G service is compatible with only the iPad models that offer both Wi-Fi and 3G, which are priced at $629 (16GB), $729 (32GB), and $829 (64GB).Another advantage to the 3G-compatible iPad is the extra capability of assisted-GPS, allowing users to accurately pinpoint their locations on a map, making the device more useful for navigation and location-aware apps, such as restaurant finders and tour guides. The Wi-Fi-only models of the iPad can use rudimentary Wi-Fi hot-spot triangulation techniques to guess locations, but are much less accurate and consistent.If you have no plans on regularly using the iPad outside of your home, you'd do just as well to save some money and stick with a Wi-Fi model. It's also worth noting that AT&T's 3G service might not be all it's cracked up to be, considering the complaints many iPhone 3G users have made over the years.The Apple iBooks app.James Martin/CNETiPad as e-readerThe iPad marks Apple's first foray into the world of e-book readers. With Apple's iBooks app (a free download, but not included), you can browse an e-bookstore stocked with bestsellers and textbooks. At launch, the iBooks store includes content from five major publishers: HarperCollins, Hachette, Penguin, Macmillan, and Simon & Schuster. Just as in iTunes, titles in the iBooks store are organized by popularity and by genre. Users can preview the first few pages before purchasing, and downloaded books are sent directly to the user's virtual bookshelf. Unlike most dedicated e-book readers, the iPad allows you to read books in either portrait or a landscape mode that shows two pages at once. Onscreen settings also allow you to change the size of the text, search text within the book, look up words in a built-in dictionary, and hop around using a persistent table of contents.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.PlayFree public domain books are also available within the iBooks store, and any EPUB book format (including titles from Project Gutenberg and Google Books) can also be transferred to iPad via iTunes. Competing e-book software, such as the Amazon Kindle app, is also available on the iPad.From a software perspective, the iPad's capability to integrate multiple e-book formats and third-party online stores makes it one of the most flexible, all-encompassing e-book readers on the market. With a 9.7-inch screen, it's also one of the largest readers we've tested, tied with Amazon's $489 Kindle DX.One of the easiest criticisms to lay against the iPad as an e-reader is its lack of e-ink technology. There are good reasons why Sony, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and others don't use backlit LCDs on their e-book readers: they drain battery life; fatigue the eye; and become difficult to read in direct sunlight. All of these criticisms are fair. You can read for four days on the Kindle DX without a recharge, compared with approximately 10 hours on the iPad. As on any LCD (including the one you're probably reading on right this minute), text isn't as easy on the eye as it could be with printed paper. Under bright outdoor lighting conditions, the iPad is very reflective, but fairs well in the shade. And at 1.5 pounds, the iPad is hefty for a reader, warranting a lap or a two-hand grasp for extended reading.Under direct sunlight, the iPad's screen can be hard to read, compared with the Kindle's e-ink display.Seth RosenblattBut for all its potential pitfalls, the iPad as an e-book reader has an equal share of advantages, provided you confine yourself to reading indoors. The presentation of books on the iPad is gorgeous. Cover graphics and illustrations display in rich color, book pages have a deliberately paperlike tone, and turning pages by tapping or flipping is intuitive. Page turns also render much faster than with e-ink technology, allowing you to quickly flip through pages. Unique features, such as in-book music and video playback (when supported), and one-touch dictionary definitions further distinguish the iPad from its e-reader competitors.Let's also not forget that there are a lot of books and periodicals that traditional e-ink readers do a poor job of presenting. For magazines, travel guides, photo essays, and graphic novels, the iPad's color screen has the upper hand. We also enjoy how the iPad's ambient-light-sensing screen provides just enough light for an in-bed read and automatically ramps up the brightness near the kitchen window. The only annoyance of reading in bed with the iPad is that lying flat on your back and holding the iPad over your head, or reading on your side, can cause the tilt-sensor to wonder if it's being held is landscape or portrait orientation. A flip of the orientation lock switch will freeze the screen orientation into position, but at the end of a long day, you tend to forget these details.GamesJust like the iPhone and iPod Touch, third-party apps for the iPad are a big deal. Generally speaking, apps made by these developers branch off in every conceivable direction, from cooking recipe journals to Twitter clients. But if there's one type of app that rules over all the rest in both quantity and popularity, it's games.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.PlayAll of the thousands games available for the iPhone and iPod Touch can be played on the iPad, scaled up to fit the screen or played at their native resolution. The more than 21,000 games account for more titles than the Sony PSP and Nintendo DS, combined. And those are the games that predate the iPad.The handful of games we tested on the iPad included N.O.V.A. (a first-person shooter reminiscent of HALO), Igga Arcade (a bundled series of children's games), Fieldrunners (war strategy), Scrabble, and Labyrinth 2 (puzzles). In every instance, the iPad-optimized games look and feel radically different from the experience of playing on an iPhone, or even a PSP. N.O.V.A., in particular, features the kind of responsiveness, graphics, and sharp resolution we'd expect from an Xbox 360. Unfortunately, the closer the iPad comes to delivering the kind of games we're used to seeing on traditional gaming machines, the more we hunger for practical game controls. Some games are a natural fit for the iPad's touch input and tilt-sensor, others could really benefit from a standard direction pad or joystick.Minor complaints aside, as a portable way to stay distracted for hours at a time, the iPad's gaming capabilities and deep catalog of compatible titles will appeal to thrill seekers of all types. Keynote for iPad brings a unique spin to presentation software.James Martin/CNETiWorkUnsatisfied to leave the iPad as an entertainment and casual computing device, Apple had to go and spoil the fun by offering the iWork suite of productivity software redesigned for the iPad. Already a familiar staple on Mac computers, the iWork software suite for iPad includes three apps: Pages (word processing), Numbers (spreadsheets), and Keynote (presentations). It's the first version of the software to run on one of Apple's portable devices and makes full use of the iPad's touch screen. Each app is offered separately at $9.99 apiece. We'll be covering the iPad's iWork apps in greater depth on CNET's Download.com. For the purposes of our iPad review, however, we think it's fair to say that the apps represent a good value, especially considering that the Mac version of the suite sells for $70. More importantly, iWork (and similar third-party apps that are sure to follow) shows how the iPad can hold its own against inexpensive Netbooks running Microsoft's tried-and-true Office software, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. In fact, iWork apps are capable of opening and editing common Office documents, though exporting options are somewhat meager. Pages documents can be saved as a Word, PDF, or Pages file. Keynote and Numbers documents canbe saved only in their native format or exported as PDFs.Capabilities aside, there are certain inherent design constraints that prevent the iPad from working gracefully as a productivity tool. The first hurdle is the keyboard. To Apple's credit, the iPad's onscreen keyboard is one of the largest and most responsive we've encountered on a tablet device. Chalk it up to an old dog's aptitude for new tricks, but when it comes to writing multiple pages of text (reports, term papers, rambling manifestos) our fingers just seem to fly faster on a real keyboard. In response to this possible complaint, Apple's $69 keyboard dock or Bluetooth keyboard accessory can be used to give apps like Pages the kind of real keyboard they deserve. Unfortunately, once you've crossed over to a keyboard accessory, your brain might balk a little at the absence of a mouse. You're still stuck jumping around pages and making edits by reaching out and touching the display. It's an awkward disconnect that isn't impossible to power through, but isn't ideal, either.Getting files off the iPad isn't as simple as plugging in a thumb drive or burning a CD. You either need to e-mail them, upload them to an Apple iWork.com account, or save them to a shared folder on the iPad's internal memory. You can access this shared folder by connecting the iPad to iTunes on a Mac or PC with the included cable, but if the connected computer isn't your own, it may prove impossible to grab the files. You face a similar dilemma printing a document you've composed on the iPad--or anything else via the iPad, for that matter. We may see an elegant solution for this in time, but your best bet at the moment is e-mailing or transferring the document to a printer-equipped computer--not a good solution for printing out airline boarding passes, for instance.Could a high school or college student get away with using an iPad as a primary computer? With the iWorks suite, a keyboard dock accessory, and a "can do" spirit, it's certainly possible, but a similarly priced Netbook, though not as sexy, will offer more flexibility and better typing and editing performance. MobileMeApple's MobileMe service gives iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch owners a way to keep e-mail, contacts, and calendars in sync with their computers without ever having to dock the device. The service runs $99 per year (after a 60-day free trial) and also provides a Web-based photo gallery for your digital photo collection, an iDisk service for storing files remotely, a utility for locating the device if it becomes lost, and a security feature that can remotely erase the device in case of theft.CNET has a separate review of Apple's MobileMe service, which goes into more depth. As it relates to the iPad, we think that MobileMe features such as remote wipe and location look-up are less relevant, since the product is less prone to loss than the iPhone or iPod Touch. Without a built-in camera on the iPad, the photo-hosting capabilities of MobileMe are less of a draw, as well. For households with multiple computers and/or iPhones, MobileMe's capability to keep e-mails, contacts, and calendars updated across all your devices can be worth every penny. It's not for everyone, but for those who need it, MobileMe solves a real problem.Accessibility featuresAt first glance, a touch-screen tablet may seem like a poor choice for anyone dealing with a physical impairment, but Apple's pioneering work with improving the accessibility of the iPhone and iPod brings some noteworthy enhancements to the iPad. Visually impaired users may find using Apple's Voice Over feature a functional method for navigating menus and typing messages and e-mails. As you drag your finger around the display and tap a button, the iPad will read a description of that button. The iPad will also read the text of dialog boxes, the time of day, the status and orientation of the display (locked or unlocked, portrait or landscape), and detail information, such as the battery level and Wi-Fi signals. What's more, it speaks each character as you type a message, and it will suggest autocorrection choices. Voice Over can read text messages, e-mails, and even Web pages.To use Voice Over in accessibility mode, you will need to learn a different set of gestures--for example, you'll have to double-tap to open an item--but the feature provides audible instruction. You can set the speaking rate and choose from 21 supported languages. Voice Over works with all of the iPad's native applications, but support for third-party apps varies. Though we're sighted and our Voice Over user experience can't compare with someone who is visually impaired, we were impressed by the feature's capabilities. The iPad also adds multitouch zoom support for the Home, Unlock, and Spotlight screens for all applications, both native and third-party. Previously, zoom worked only in the photo gallery, e-mail in-boxes, and the Safari browser. You can activate the enhanced zoom in the Settings menu, but you can't use it and Voice Over simultaneously.You also can reverse the display's contrast to white on black. Menus will show white text on a black background, and the Home screen will change to a white background. Just be aware that the contrast change alters the appearance of photos in the gallery so that they look like negatives. It has a similar effect for app icons on the Home screen.PerformanceFor a product that's between $500 and $900, the iPad smokes. The custom Apple 1GHz A4 processor wields some power, which is most evident in apps that don't depend on the Web, such as photos, iBooks, or games. Hand in hand with the processor speed is the responsiveness of the multitouch screen, which also manages to dazzle the eye with its sharp 1,024x768-pixel resolution backlit by even-toned LEDs. Screen angles are unbelievably good, thanks to the same IPS (in-plane-switching) screen technology Apple uses in its desktop displays. Audio quality is indistinguishable from our trusty iPod Touch, offering a smooth and balanced sound, provided you pair it with quality headphones.Apple rates the iPad at 10 hours of continuous use, including video playback. Our experience so far shows this to be a somewhat conservative estimate, especially if you're spending much of your time in less-intensive apps, such as iBooks or e-mail. We'll post a detailed breakdown of battery-drain results from CNET Labs, once testing is complete.Final thoughtsDepending on who you talk to, the iPad is either the future of personal computing, the best distraction money can buy, or Apple's most doomed product since the Apple QuickTake digital camera. Even Apple's marketing team seems to be having a hard time nailing down exactly what the iPad is; in commercials, one minute it's a digital book, the next it's the photo album of the future. There's nothing specific we can tell you that will justify paying $499 for the 16GB base model, much less $829 for a juiced-up 64GB version with 3G wireless. The only concrete reason to buy an Apple iPad is to be able to play around with the most celebrated gadget of the year. For CNET readers, we expect that is reason enough.
iTunes customers reportedly under threat from digital thieves
iTunes customers reportedly under threat from digital thieves
According to a report from The Global Mail, Apple's iTunes accounts have been susceptible to hacker attacks for some time. Users have been complaining for more than a year about a relatively similar issue--namely, an account is accessed without permission, any gift card credit available is spent on apps, and information, including PayPal account information, is used and/or changed.Those are some serious issues. But Apple is only responding with a generic statement:"Apple takes precautions to safeguard your personal information against loss, theft, and misuse, as well as against unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction," the company said in a statement issued to The Globe and Mail. "Apple online services such as the Apple Online Store and iTunes Store use Secure Sockets Layer encryption on all Web pages where personal information is collected."It's not uncommon for Apple to remain silent about potential issues involving its products or services. The company has said in the past that it likes to gather all the facts, investigate, and come up with a solution before issuing public statements about problems, as it's done with the antenna issue on the iPhone 4 and the location-tracking file discovered last year. But in the case of people's account information, some are calling for more transparency.In addition to the statement, Apple has reportedly been in touch on an individual basis with customers who say they've had their accounts compromised. Most of them describe the same experience and response: Apple acknowledges that the particular account shows irregularity but does not concede a systemwide issue. Many customers might disagree, due to the similarity in which apps are purchased and what information is affected. To Apple's credit, it seems most customers have been refunded their lost credits or balances without too much hassle.While many will view a lack of response from Apple as a sign that there isn't a serious problem, many people posting comments seem to be concerned that Apple hasn't fixed the problem, and feel Apple is instead attempting to keep it quiet by issuing refunds to users.If you believe your account may have been accessed without your authorization, there are a few simple steps to take. First, change your password. One of the easiest ways to keep yourself safe online is to have a strong password. That means, no dictionary words, include a number, and include a capitalized letter or two. Make it easy for you to remember, but hard for anyone, even people that know you well, to guess.You can also deauthorize all the machines on your iTunes Account and reset your account. If all else fails, contact Apple through the iTunes Store and let the company know that your account may have been hacked.Have you had a hacked iTunes account experience? Let me know your story in the comments!
According to a report from The Global Mail, Apple's iTunes accounts have been susceptible to hacker attacks for some time. Users have been complaining for more than a year about a relatively similar issue--namely, an account is accessed without permission, any gift card credit available is spent on apps, and information, including PayPal account information, is used and/or changed.Those are some serious issues. But Apple is only responding with a generic statement:"Apple takes precautions to safeguard your personal information against loss, theft, and misuse, as well as against unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction," the company said in a statement issued to The Globe and Mail. "Apple online services such as the Apple Online Store and iTunes Store use Secure Sockets Layer encryption on all Web pages where personal information is collected."It's not uncommon for Apple to remain silent about potential issues involving its products or services. The company has said in the past that it likes to gather all the facts, investigate, and come up with a solution before issuing public statements about problems, as it's done with the antenna issue on the iPhone 4 and the location-tracking file discovered last year. But in the case of people's account information, some are calling for more transparency.In addition to the statement, Apple has reportedly been in touch on an individual basis with customers who say they've had their accounts compromised. Most of them describe the same experience and response: Apple acknowledges that the particular account shows irregularity but does not concede a systemwide issue. Many customers might disagree, due to the similarity in which apps are purchased and what information is affected. To Apple's credit, it seems most customers have been refunded their lost credits or balances without too much hassle.While many will view a lack of response from Apple as a sign that there isn't a serious problem, many people posting comments seem to be concerned that Apple hasn't fixed the problem, and feel Apple is instead attempting to keep it quiet by issuing refunds to users.If you believe your account may have been accessed without your authorization, there are a few simple steps to take. First, change your password. One of the easiest ways to keep yourself safe online is to have a strong password. That means, no dictionary words, include a number, and include a capitalized letter or two. Make it easy for you to remember, but hard for anyone, even people that know you well, to guess.You can also deauthorize all the machines on your iTunes Account and reset your account. If all else fails, contact Apple through the iTunes Store and let the company know that your account may have been hacked.Have you had a hacked iTunes account experience? Let me know your story in the comments!
Apple to iPhone developers- No more low-res screenshots
Apple to iPhone developers: No more low-res screenshots
The screen resolution shared by the first three iPhones and iPod Touches is expected to be phased out eventually, but in a new note to developers, the company appears to want to move that process along--at least on its digital storefront.In an e-mail to developers today, republished by The Next Web, Apple notes that it now requires developers to include high-resolution screenshots of their applications when submitting them for approval, something that was previously optional:When you create or update your apps in iTunes Connect, you must upload screenshots that are high-resolution. We require your screenshots as high-resolution images so that your app is optimized for the Retina display.The requirements for high-resolution images are 960 x 640, 960 x 600, 640 x 960, or 640 x 920 pixels. Images must be at least 72 dpi, in the RGB color space, and the file must be .jpeg, .jpg, .tif, .tiff, or .png. You can update your screenshot files at any time in iTunes Connect. While seemingly a minor detail, it's of special note given that Apple continues to sell only one iPhone-sized device with the non-Retina (480 by 320 pixel) display: the iPhone 3GS. It's expected that Apple will continue to sell that device up until it releases a new iPhone model, which if the company's track record is any indication, will be later this year. The same goes for developers, which continue to offer lower resolution versions of apps and games given a large base of potential users with older devices. Related storiesBehind the specs of Apple's Retina displayiPad 3 rumor roundupiPad 3's dense display a challenge for manufacturersSo does that mean developers can't produce apps and games for these lower resolution devices? Not quite. Developers can still make versions that work on older devices. It's just that under this new guideline they need to upload the spiffy looking, high-resolution screens when uploading their work for its presence on App Store listings.One reason for the change, besides nudging developers to optimize their apps for newer devices, could be upcoming changes to App Store listings. As it stands, viewing screenshots on an iPhone or iPod Touch is a limited affair compared with viewing them on an iPad in iTunes on a computer. Perhaps this is a pre-emptive move on Apple's part to give buyers a way to view full-sized screenshots from their device.The Next Web offers up that another reason could simply be a pre-emptive move by Apple to dress up iPhone-sized screenshots ahead of announcing an iPad 3 that packs a Retina Display of its own. A handful of rumors and reports have suggested just such a device will be unveiled sometime next month, leading to new and first-time iPad buyers eyeballing (and potentially buying) iPhone apps that may not be universal.
The screen resolution shared by the first three iPhones and iPod Touches is expected to be phased out eventually, but in a new note to developers, the company appears to want to move that process along--at least on its digital storefront.In an e-mail to developers today, republished by The Next Web, Apple notes that it now requires developers to include high-resolution screenshots of their applications when submitting them for approval, something that was previously optional:When you create or update your apps in iTunes Connect, you must upload screenshots that are high-resolution. We require your screenshots as high-resolution images so that your app is optimized for the Retina display.The requirements for high-resolution images are 960 x 640, 960 x 600, 640 x 960, or 640 x 920 pixels. Images must be at least 72 dpi, in the RGB color space, and the file must be .jpeg, .jpg, .tif, .tiff, or .png. You can update your screenshot files at any time in iTunes Connect. While seemingly a minor detail, it's of special note given that Apple continues to sell only one iPhone-sized device with the non-Retina (480 by 320 pixel) display: the iPhone 3GS. It's expected that Apple will continue to sell that device up until it releases a new iPhone model, which if the company's track record is any indication, will be later this year. The same goes for developers, which continue to offer lower resolution versions of apps and games given a large base of potential users with older devices. Related storiesBehind the specs of Apple's Retina displayiPad 3 rumor roundupiPad 3's dense display a challenge for manufacturersSo does that mean developers can't produce apps and games for these lower resolution devices? Not quite. Developers can still make versions that work on older devices. It's just that under this new guideline they need to upload the spiffy looking, high-resolution screens when uploading their work for its presence on App Store listings.One reason for the change, besides nudging developers to optimize their apps for newer devices, could be upcoming changes to App Store listings. As it stands, viewing screenshots on an iPhone or iPod Touch is a limited affair compared with viewing them on an iPad in iTunes on a computer. Perhaps this is a pre-emptive move on Apple's part to give buyers a way to view full-sized screenshots from their device.The Next Web offers up that another reason could simply be a pre-emptive move by Apple to dress up iPhone-sized screenshots ahead of announcing an iPad 3 that packs a Retina Display of its own. A handful of rumors and reports have suggested just such a device will be unveiled sometime next month, leading to new and first-time iPad buyers eyeballing (and potentially buying) iPhone apps that may not be universal.
Specs showdown- iPhone 5s vs. iPhone 5c vs. iPhone 5
Specs showdown: iPhone 5s vs. iPhone 5c vs. iPhone 5
To look at, there doesn't seem to be a lot of difference between the now-defunct iPhone 5 and the iPhone 5s apart from the colours. But that's because a lot of the differences have been packed in under the hood. While the screen technology is the same (in fact, it's even the same screen on the "low-end" iPhone 5c), it's the A7 processor in the 5s that makes the biggest difference. Apple is claiming that this 64-bit processor is twice as fast as the A6 in the old iPhone 5 (and in the 5c).There have also been some camera tweaks, with Apple increasing the pixel size of the image sensor and making the flash a dual-element number that can adjust colour temperature for different lighting conditions, but at the end of the day, it's still an 8-megapixel camera.That leaves the fingerprint sensor on the 5s, which can detect your fingerprint with a surprising degree of accuracy â€" currently, you can use it for unlocking the phone and approving iTunes purchases. More applications are bound to be on the way.At the time of writing, we were still waiting for carriers to release pricing information for individual plans, so the carrier availability refers on to those telcos specifically mentioned by Apple. Both devices will be in store on 20 September.iPhone 5s vs. iPhone 5c vs. iPhone 5iPhone 5siPhone 5ciPhone 5Operating systemiOS 7iOS 7iOS 6Display4-inch IPS LCD; 1136x640 pixels; 326ppi4-inch IPS LCD; 1136x640 pixels; 326ppi4-inch IPS LCD; 1136x640 pixels; 326ppiPriceAU$869 for 16GB; AU$999 for 32GB; AU$1129 for 64GBAU$739 for 16GB; AU$869 for 32GBNo longer soldCarrierTelstra, Optus, VodafoneTelstra, Optus, VodafoneTelstra, Optus, Vodafone, Virgin4GYesYesYesCamera8-megapixel, 1080p, front facing, dual-element flash8-megapixel, 720p, front facing8-megapixel, 720p, front facingProcessorProprietary A7 CPU (64-bit)Proprietary A6 CPU (32-bit)Proprietary A6 CPU (32-bit)Memory16GB, 32GB, 64GB16GB, 32GB16GB, 32GB, 64GBBatteryTalk time up to 10 hours on 3G; embeddedTalk time up to 10 hours on 3G; embeddedTalk time up to 8 hours on 3G; embeddedNFCNoNoNoFingerprint scannerYesNoNoDedicated fitness trackingYesNoNoWeight and thickness7.6mm; 112g8.97mm; 132g7.6mm; 112gColoursGrey, gold, silverBlue, green, pink, yellow, whiteBlack, white
To look at, there doesn't seem to be a lot of difference between the now-defunct iPhone 5 and the iPhone 5s apart from the colours. But that's because a lot of the differences have been packed in under the hood. While the screen technology is the same (in fact, it's even the same screen on the "low-end" iPhone 5c), it's the A7 processor in the 5s that makes the biggest difference. Apple is claiming that this 64-bit processor is twice as fast as the A6 in the old iPhone 5 (and in the 5c).There have also been some camera tweaks, with Apple increasing the pixel size of the image sensor and making the flash a dual-element number that can adjust colour temperature for different lighting conditions, but at the end of the day, it's still an 8-megapixel camera.That leaves the fingerprint sensor on the 5s, which can detect your fingerprint with a surprising degree of accuracy â€" currently, you can use it for unlocking the phone and approving iTunes purchases. More applications are bound to be on the way.At the time of writing, we were still waiting for carriers to release pricing information for individual plans, so the carrier availability refers on to those telcos specifically mentioned by Apple. Both devices will be in store on 20 September.iPhone 5s vs. iPhone 5c vs. iPhone 5iPhone 5siPhone 5ciPhone 5Operating systemiOS 7iOS 7iOS 6Display4-inch IPS LCD; 1136x640 pixels; 326ppi4-inch IPS LCD; 1136x640 pixels; 326ppi4-inch IPS LCD; 1136x640 pixels; 326ppiPriceAU$869 for 16GB; AU$999 for 32GB; AU$1129 for 64GBAU$739 for 16GB; AU$869 for 32GBNo longer soldCarrierTelstra, Optus, VodafoneTelstra, Optus, VodafoneTelstra, Optus, Vodafone, Virgin4GYesYesYesCamera8-megapixel, 1080p, front facing, dual-element flash8-megapixel, 720p, front facing8-megapixel, 720p, front facingProcessorProprietary A7 CPU (64-bit)Proprietary A6 CPU (32-bit)Proprietary A6 CPU (32-bit)Memory16GB, 32GB, 64GB16GB, 32GB16GB, 32GB, 64GBBatteryTalk time up to 10 hours on 3G; embeddedTalk time up to 10 hours on 3G; embeddedTalk time up to 8 hours on 3G; embeddedNFCNoNoNoFingerprint scannerYesNoNoDedicated fitness trackingYesNoNoWeight and thickness7.6mm; 112g8.97mm; 132g7.6mm; 112gColoursGrey, gold, silverBlue, green, pink, yellow, whiteBlack, white
iOS 6.1 wins over 22 percent of iOS users, says report
iOS 6.1 wins over 22 percent of iOS users, says report
Apple's iOS 6.1 has lured in a hefty number of users, at least according to data out yesterday from Onswipe.Released on Monday, Apple's latest OS update was downloaded by 21.8 percent of iOS users within just 36 hours. Among the iOS users tracked by Onswipe, 24 percent were iPhone owners and 21 percent iPad owners.Further, Onswipe data sent to CNET showed that 11.3 percent of users had already upgraded to iOS 6.1 within the first 24 hours. Based on the stats, the latest iOS version hit a record for the quickest adoption rate.Of course, the data doesn't include all iOS users, just those tracked by Onswipe. The company provides customers with tools to create Web sites designed to be viewed on mobile devices. As such, Onswipe's platform tracks 13 million active iOS users, up from 10 million last month.That's a small slice of the total number of iOS users, even those who've been running iOS 6. Unveiling iOS 6.1 on Monday, Apple marketing VP Phil Schiller said that iOS 6 reached almost 300 million iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch users in just five months.Related storiesApple releases iOS 6.1 with additional LTE supportHow to purchase movie tickets using SiriYou can jailbreak iOS 6.1, but there are some catchesBut even the cross section of Onswipe users provides a good clue as to the overall adoption of iOS 6.1.And just why has the latest update proved so popular?Onswipe CEO Jason Baptiste offered one theory to the folks at TechChunch.Apple introduced its over-the-air update feature with iOS 5 in October of 2011. As such, users can update their devices directly without having to go through iTunes as the middleman. Baptiste believes people have finally grown comfortable with the OTA feature and know how it works, making it easier for them to update their devices on the fly.
Apple's iOS 6.1 has lured in a hefty number of users, at least according to data out yesterday from Onswipe.Released on Monday, Apple's latest OS update was downloaded by 21.8 percent of iOS users within just 36 hours. Among the iOS users tracked by Onswipe, 24 percent were iPhone owners and 21 percent iPad owners.Further, Onswipe data sent to CNET showed that 11.3 percent of users had already upgraded to iOS 6.1 within the first 24 hours. Based on the stats, the latest iOS version hit a record for the quickest adoption rate.Of course, the data doesn't include all iOS users, just those tracked by Onswipe. The company provides customers with tools to create Web sites designed to be viewed on mobile devices. As such, Onswipe's platform tracks 13 million active iOS users, up from 10 million last month.That's a small slice of the total number of iOS users, even those who've been running iOS 6. Unveiling iOS 6.1 on Monday, Apple marketing VP Phil Schiller said that iOS 6 reached almost 300 million iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch users in just five months.Related storiesApple releases iOS 6.1 with additional LTE supportHow to purchase movie tickets using SiriYou can jailbreak iOS 6.1, but there are some catchesBut even the cross section of Onswipe users provides a good clue as to the overall adoption of iOS 6.1.And just why has the latest update proved so popular?Onswipe CEO Jason Baptiste offered one theory to the folks at TechChunch.Apple introduced its over-the-air update feature with iOS 5 in October of 2011. As such, users can update their devices directly without having to go through iTunes as the middleman. Baptiste believes people have finally grown comfortable with the OTA feature and know how it works, making it easier for them to update their devices on the fly.
Waiting for Pacemaker
Waiting for Pacemaker
There's also a software application, the Pacemaker Editor, that functions like a traditional music player and library manager (think iTunes, Windows Media Player, or WinAmp), only with support for creating mixes. It's coming out in December, according to the Web site.Well, today's the last day of December, and the Pacemaker Editor page hasn't been updated since August 29. A message in the forums says it's available only to folks who registered on the site before December 16. The release date for the device itself has already been postponed from November to December to February. The only in-depth review I could find was of a prototype. But here's the really weird part: if you want to buy one, you can't just wait for a release date and go to a store or order it online. Instead, you have to pre-register. According to the auto-response I got, registrants can expect receive an e-mail some time in January asking for payment in full of 520 Euros (about $760). Then, they'll ship you one.All this sets my phantom alert system a-tingling. But the demos look great, so if anybody's had a chance to test the software or a real device, I'd love to hear from you--e-mail me at mattrosoff (all one word) at hotmail dot com. And here's hoping Tonium follows through in 2008.
There's also a software application, the Pacemaker Editor, that functions like a traditional music player and library manager (think iTunes, Windows Media Player, or WinAmp), only with support for creating mixes. It's coming out in December, according to the Web site.Well, today's the last day of December, and the Pacemaker Editor page hasn't been updated since August 29. A message in the forums says it's available only to folks who registered on the site before December 16. The release date for the device itself has already been postponed from November to December to February. The only in-depth review I could find was of a prototype. But here's the really weird part: if you want to buy one, you can't just wait for a release date and go to a store or order it online. Instead, you have to pre-register. According to the auto-response I got, registrants can expect receive an e-mail some time in January asking for payment in full of 520 Euros (about $760). Then, they'll ship you one.All this sets my phantom alert system a-tingling. But the demos look great, so if anybody's had a chance to test the software or a real device, I'd love to hear from you--e-mail me at mattrosoff (all one word) at hotmail dot com. And here's hoping Tonium follows through in 2008.
Vuzix glasses see iPhone in 3D
Vuzix glasses see iPhone in 3D
The iPhone-compatible Vuzix iWear AV230XL is now available for $199. For people who happen to already have Vuzix 3D eyewear, the company is also selling a cable for $39.95 that will make other models work with the iPhone.3D content is becoming more prevalent. Nvidia, among others, are increasingly promoting 3D video games. And 3D films are getting a revival, with the recent "Coraline" and "Monsters vs. Aliens" movies. James Cameron's big-budget 3D film, "Avatar," is due out around the holidays and is already generating buzz. While it's expensive to retrofit movie theaters for 3D films, 3D technology for the home market is getting more affordable and more readily available, according to Vuzix. Whether the company promotions that appear every now and then will make 3D video anything more than a reoccurring fad is yet to be seen. People who remember the 3D-movie pushes in the '50s and '70s will likely remain skeptical. Selecting 3D content from the overall ocean of films and games being released can be tricky, but a Vuzix spokesman said that "Vuzix has put together a sort of iTunes for 3D content. It should be launched soon."
The iPhone-compatible Vuzix iWear AV230XL is now available for $199. For people who happen to already have Vuzix 3D eyewear, the company is also selling a cable for $39.95 that will make other models work with the iPhone.3D content is becoming more prevalent. Nvidia, among others, are increasingly promoting 3D video games. And 3D films are getting a revival, with the recent "Coraline" and "Monsters vs. Aliens" movies. James Cameron's big-budget 3D film, "Avatar," is due out around the holidays and is already generating buzz. While it's expensive to retrofit movie theaters for 3D films, 3D technology for the home market is getting more affordable and more readily available, according to Vuzix. Whether the company promotions that appear every now and then will make 3D video anything more than a reoccurring fad is yet to be seen. People who remember the 3D-movie pushes in the '50s and '70s will likely remain skeptical. Selecting 3D content from the overall ocean of films and games being released can be tricky, but a Vuzix spokesman said that "Vuzix has put together a sort of iTunes for 3D content. It should be launched soon."
Color CEO pictures world of shared photos (Podcast)
Color CEO pictures world of shared photos (Podcast)
In addition to making it very clear that everything on Color is public, Nguyen stressed accountability and the cost of violating Color's terms of service (which include avoiding nudity and other inappropriate content). "The amazing thing about smartphones and this post-PC thing that Steve Jobs invented," he said, "is that there is actually real accountability. So when you take pictures in public and in the open using Color, what happens is those pictures come with you, so you're not going to take inappropriate photos because when you go to work those people nearby you at work will see them." Also, because your Color account is linked to your cell phone, the company can determine who you are in case you violate their rules or the law. Ngyuen said that users can block individuals if there is someone they don't want to share photos with.In its press materials, the company said that it "maintains a strict public use policy to ensure that everything shared is appropriate for all ages" and that "Color requires real-life etiquette and accountability for all actions. Any violation of decency can result in permanent suspension of service for a specific smartphone."Anne Collier, who is my co-director at ConnectSafely (a nonprofit Internet safety organization), worries that the service could be used by "a bunch of 11-year-olds in various stages of undress, snapping away at a slumber party; or slightly more grown-up people in the late stages of a frat party, experiencing reduced levels of critical thinking."She said that "permanent suspension of service is definitely a deterrent, but there are certain times and situations in our lives when we're not terribly focused on consequences."For more on privacy issues and the service in general, click below to listen to my 12-minute interview with Bill Nguyen.PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element.Subscribe now: iTunes (audio) | RSS (audio)
In addition to making it very clear that everything on Color is public, Nguyen stressed accountability and the cost of violating Color's terms of service (which include avoiding nudity and other inappropriate content). "The amazing thing about smartphones and this post-PC thing that Steve Jobs invented," he said, "is that there is actually real accountability. So when you take pictures in public and in the open using Color, what happens is those pictures come with you, so you're not going to take inappropriate photos because when you go to work those people nearby you at work will see them." Also, because your Color account is linked to your cell phone, the company can determine who you are in case you violate their rules or the law. Ngyuen said that users can block individuals if there is someone they don't want to share photos with.In its press materials, the company said that it "maintains a strict public use policy to ensure that everything shared is appropriate for all ages" and that "Color requires real-life etiquette and accountability for all actions. Any violation of decency can result in permanent suspension of service for a specific smartphone."Anne Collier, who is my co-director at ConnectSafely (a nonprofit Internet safety organization), worries that the service could be used by "a bunch of 11-year-olds in various stages of undress, snapping away at a slumber party; or slightly more grown-up people in the late stages of a frat party, experiencing reduced levels of critical thinking."She said that "permanent suspension of service is definitely a deterrent, but there are certain times and situations in our lives when we're not terribly focused on consequences."For more on privacy issues and the service in general, click below to listen to my 12-minute interview with Bill Nguyen.PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element.Subscribe now: iTunes (audio) | RSS (audio)
Cocktail part of Apple's September event
Cocktail part of Apple's September event
But much of the substance of Apple's announcement--at least as it relates to music--is old news, according to multiple music industry sources. Last month, the Financial Times broke the story that Apple is working on the next-generation album cover, code named Cocktail. Whatever else Apple intends to announce at the still not officially announced event, expect Cocktail to be part of it. An Apple spokesman declined to comment on Friday.It would also be a surprise if Apple didn't update its iPod Touch line, or at least cut prices to match the pricing of Microsoft's new Zune HD, which goes on sale September 15. It's also reasonable to think that some of the features from the iPhone 3GS, such as its video camera, might make their way over to the iPod Touch. Some are still holding out hope that Apple will introduce a tablet, which many think will be akin to a large iPod Touch. However, that is appearing less likely, with several Web sites saying a 2010 launch is more reasonable.And there's plenty of speculation that Apple CEO Steve Jobs will make an appearance at the September event.Cocktail will feature interactive material, including photos, lyric sheets, liner notes and clips from music videos, according to the Financial Times. As first reported by CNET News, the labels are planning a revamped digital album experience called CMX, which would be offered to other online music stores. The music industry is trying to reinvigorate the digital music experience while at the same time encourage people to buy albums, or at least pay more for packaged songs. Music fans once enjoyed poring over liner notes or album art from their favorite acts. The idea now is to offer some of the same kinds of experiences but use digital technology to modernize it. Update: Also of note, Apple has current promotion that offers educational buyers a free iPod Touch with purchase of a Mac runs. And that promotion just happens to run through Sept. 8. Hmmm....CNET staff writer Ina Fried contributed to this report.
But much of the substance of Apple's announcement--at least as it relates to music--is old news, according to multiple music industry sources. Last month, the Financial Times broke the story that Apple is working on the next-generation album cover, code named Cocktail. Whatever else Apple intends to announce at the still not officially announced event, expect Cocktail to be part of it. An Apple spokesman declined to comment on Friday.It would also be a surprise if Apple didn't update its iPod Touch line, or at least cut prices to match the pricing of Microsoft's new Zune HD, which goes on sale September 15. It's also reasonable to think that some of the features from the iPhone 3GS, such as its video camera, might make their way over to the iPod Touch. Some are still holding out hope that Apple will introduce a tablet, which many think will be akin to a large iPod Touch. However, that is appearing less likely, with several Web sites saying a 2010 launch is more reasonable.And there's plenty of speculation that Apple CEO Steve Jobs will make an appearance at the September event.Cocktail will feature interactive material, including photos, lyric sheets, liner notes and clips from music videos, according to the Financial Times. As first reported by CNET News, the labels are planning a revamped digital album experience called CMX, which would be offered to other online music stores. The music industry is trying to reinvigorate the digital music experience while at the same time encourage people to buy albums, or at least pay more for packaged songs. Music fans once enjoyed poring over liner notes or album art from their favorite acts. The idea now is to offer some of the same kinds of experiences but use digital technology to modernize it. Update: Also of note, Apple has current promotion that offers educational buyers a free iPod Touch with purchase of a Mac runs. And that promotion just happens to run through Sept. 8. Hmmm....CNET staff writer Ina Fried contributed to this report.
Apple shares bounce back after tough few weeks
Apple shares bounce back after tough few weeks
Apple's stock is up nearly 6 percent in midday trading today, marking a minor recovery for the stock, which has declined more than 20 percent since reaching an all-time high in September.Shares of Apple were at $557.99, up $30.31, or 5.74 percent, in trading on Monday, coming close to where the stock sat 12 days ago, but far from the high of $705.10 two months ago. The stock hit a nine-month low on Friday, before closing up later in the day. The recovery comes amid reports that Apple's seeing strong sales of its mobile devices in China, one of its key growth markets. There are also fresh rumors that Apple is working on a successor to the iPhone 5 due out the middle of next year, a change from the fall release the company has gone with for its past two models. This morning Apple also announced that it's offering the full catalog of rock band AC/DC on iTunes, which so far had held off on selling its music digitally. A number of analysts remain bullish on the stock, including Brian White of Topeka Capital Markets, who in a note to investors this morning referred to the recent sell-off of Apple stock as "insanely insane." White's got Apple pegged for $1,111 a share in the next 12 months, which remains far above the $760 or so average Wall Street analysts expect the stock to reach in that same period of time. Apple's currently in what has historically been its most profitable quarter, fueled by holiday device sales. The company refreshed most of its product line, including the iPad and its Mac desktops and notebooks, at an event last month where it introduced the iPad Mini. Update at 1:01 p.m. PT: Apple closed at 566.44, up 38.76 or 7.35 percent for the day.
Apple's stock is up nearly 6 percent in midday trading today, marking a minor recovery for the stock, which has declined more than 20 percent since reaching an all-time high in September.Shares of Apple were at $557.99, up $30.31, or 5.74 percent, in trading on Monday, coming close to where the stock sat 12 days ago, but far from the high of $705.10 two months ago. The stock hit a nine-month low on Friday, before closing up later in the day. The recovery comes amid reports that Apple's seeing strong sales of its mobile devices in China, one of its key growth markets. There are also fresh rumors that Apple is working on a successor to the iPhone 5 due out the middle of next year, a change from the fall release the company has gone with for its past two models. This morning Apple also announced that it's offering the full catalog of rock band AC/DC on iTunes, which so far had held off on selling its music digitally. A number of analysts remain bullish on the stock, including Brian White of Topeka Capital Markets, who in a note to investors this morning referred to the recent sell-off of Apple stock as "insanely insane." White's got Apple pegged for $1,111 a share in the next 12 months, which remains far above the $760 or so average Wall Street analysts expect the stock to reach in that same period of time. Apple's currently in what has historically been its most profitable quarter, fueled by holiday device sales. The company refreshed most of its product line, including the iPad and its Mac desktops and notebooks, at an event last month where it introduced the iPad Mini. Update at 1:01 p.m. PT: Apple closed at 566.44, up 38.76 or 7.35 percent for the day.
Apple shareholders to Samsung- Thank you
Apple shareholders to Samsung: Thank you
Samsung's newest smartphone, the Galaxy S4 -- evolutionary or revolutionary? Given the hype leading up to yesterday evening's product debut, that debate likely will rage for days, if not weeks. But the news is a boon for shares of Apple as jittery investors finally saw reason to hit the "buy" button. At the close of today's trading, Apple's stock was up 2.58 percent to $443.66 -- and this on a day when the overall stock market has been trading in the red.In the lead-up to the Galaxy S4 announcement, there had been no small amount of hand-wringing among the chattering class about whether Apple would ever recapture its mojo against a surging Samsung. But while the early reviews gave the new smartphone good marks, the tone was more respectful than breathless about what essentially is an incremental upgrade. So it was that Apple's shares were up out of the gate today as analyst reviews of the Samsung news began to filter in. Such as:"While the S4 is likely to be the iPhone's biggest competitor this year at the high end of the market, we remain confident in our iPhone estimate for this year of 177.5 million, which includes a cheaper phone in the September quarter," wrote Gene Munster of Piper Jaffray. And this from Jefferies analyst Peter Misek who said that he wanted to see the real-world uses for the new device and whether they actually got used: "We believe the S4 will certainly sell well and it is incrementally negative for Apple," Misek said. "However, the device is not revolutionary, in our view."For Apple shareholders, that kind of talk was the equivalent of a buy recommendation -- at least for a day.Updated at 4:01 p.m. PT with the closing price of Apple's stock.
Samsung's newest smartphone, the Galaxy S4 -- evolutionary or revolutionary? Given the hype leading up to yesterday evening's product debut, that debate likely will rage for days, if not weeks. But the news is a boon for shares of Apple as jittery investors finally saw reason to hit the "buy" button. At the close of today's trading, Apple's stock was up 2.58 percent to $443.66 -- and this on a day when the overall stock market has been trading in the red.In the lead-up to the Galaxy S4 announcement, there had been no small amount of hand-wringing among the chattering class about whether Apple would ever recapture its mojo against a surging Samsung. But while the early reviews gave the new smartphone good marks, the tone was more respectful than breathless about what essentially is an incremental upgrade. So it was that Apple's shares were up out of the gate today as analyst reviews of the Samsung news began to filter in. Such as:"While the S4 is likely to be the iPhone's biggest competitor this year at the high end of the market, we remain confident in our iPhone estimate for this year of 177.5 million, which includes a cheaper phone in the September quarter," wrote Gene Munster of Piper Jaffray. And this from Jefferies analyst Peter Misek who said that he wanted to see the real-world uses for the new device and whether they actually got used: "We believe the S4 will certainly sell well and it is incrementally negative for Apple," Misek said. "However, the device is not revolutionary, in our view."For Apple shareholders, that kind of talk was the equivalent of a buy recommendation -- at least for a day.Updated at 4:01 p.m. PT with the closing price of Apple's stock.
Apple settles split cord MagSafe lawsuit
Apple settles split cord MagSafe lawsuit
Apple notes that users with the issue can take it in for an inspection at one of the company's retail stores, calling up its technical support line, or visiting an Apple-authorized service provider. The settlement opens up additional avenues for those who ended up purchasing replacements after the problem occurred. This is broken down into three categories of cash payment customers can get, depending on when they purchased the replacement adapter. If it was within the first year they bought the computer, they get whatever they paid for a replacement, up to $79. Those who purchased an adapter two or three years after buying their computer can get $50 and $35 respectively. All those options require proof of purchasing the replacement adapter, and some paperwork.Apple introduced its proprietary MagSafe power adapter in early 2006 as a replacement for its socket-style plug. The technology's main advantage over its predecessor was that the cord would break away when tugged out from sideways directions, keeping the computer from being pulled with it. The previous design needed to be pulled straight out in order to be disconnected. The technology was patented in 2007, and later became the focus of an unrelated lawsuit from Apple targeting SanHo, a company that was selling MagSafe-compatible power adapters. Last year, SanHo announced it would cease that activity and has since come up with an alternate way of providing external battery technology to Apple notebook users. Apple also took aim at three separate companies in a patent infringement suit last year that claimed resellers were mimicking the look and feel of the company's power iconic white power adapters.An Apple representative declined to comment on the settlement.
Apple notes that users with the issue can take it in for an inspection at one of the company's retail stores, calling up its technical support line, or visiting an Apple-authorized service provider. The settlement opens up additional avenues for those who ended up purchasing replacements after the problem occurred. This is broken down into three categories of cash payment customers can get, depending on when they purchased the replacement adapter. If it was within the first year they bought the computer, they get whatever they paid for a replacement, up to $79. Those who purchased an adapter two or three years after buying their computer can get $50 and $35 respectively. All those options require proof of purchasing the replacement adapter, and some paperwork.Apple introduced its proprietary MagSafe power adapter in early 2006 as a replacement for its socket-style plug. The technology's main advantage over its predecessor was that the cord would break away when tugged out from sideways directions, keeping the computer from being pulled with it. The previous design needed to be pulled straight out in order to be disconnected. The technology was patented in 2007, and later became the focus of an unrelated lawsuit from Apple targeting SanHo, a company that was selling MagSafe-compatible power adapters. Last year, SanHo announced it would cease that activity and has since come up with an alternate way of providing external battery technology to Apple notebook users. Apple also took aim at three separate companies in a patent infringement suit last year that claimed resellers were mimicking the look and feel of the company's power iconic white power adapters.An Apple representative declined to comment on the settlement.
Apple settles lawsuit over in-app purchases by kids
Apple settles lawsuit over in-app purchases by kids
Apple has settled a lawsuit over the unauthorized use of in-app purchase in games and apps sold through the App Store.As part of a preliminary deal that has yet to be finalized by a U.S. district court judge, Apple will pay those eligible class members a $5 iTunes gift card. Users that spent more than $30 can choose to get a cash refund, as long as they meet a handful of requirements, including filling out a form that details what apps the charges originated from.The 2011 suitstemmed from parents who complained that it was far too easy to buy digital goods in games without the need to re-enter an Apple ID password. In practice, this meant that a parent could download a free or paid title using their password, then the child (or someone else) could proceed to make purchases without those credentials, as long as it was within a certain time period. Apple changed that behavior as part of a system software update in March 2011, but not before some parents were hit with massive bills. As part of the proposed settlement, Apple will be required to send notices to more than 23 million iTunes account holders who bought something in-game from one of of the "qualified apps." However the settlement filings, which were spotted by Law360 (via GigaOm), note that the affected class action size remains unclear.The lawsuit is not to be confused with a separate legal complaint involving in-app purchases. A patent holder named Lodsys made waves in early 2011, suing companies large and small, alleging that they were infringing on its intellectual property by including the option to buy things within the software. Apple joined that suit in April of last year in an effort to defend those developing on its platform. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the settlement deal.
Apple has settled a lawsuit over the unauthorized use of in-app purchase in games and apps sold through the App Store.As part of a preliminary deal that has yet to be finalized by a U.S. district court judge, Apple will pay those eligible class members a $5 iTunes gift card. Users that spent more than $30 can choose to get a cash refund, as long as they meet a handful of requirements, including filling out a form that details what apps the charges originated from.The 2011 suitstemmed from parents who complained that it was far too easy to buy digital goods in games without the need to re-enter an Apple ID password. In practice, this meant that a parent could download a free or paid title using their password, then the child (or someone else) could proceed to make purchases without those credentials, as long as it was within a certain time period. Apple changed that behavior as part of a system software update in March 2011, but not before some parents were hit with massive bills. As part of the proposed settlement, Apple will be required to send notices to more than 23 million iTunes account holders who bought something in-game from one of of the "qualified apps." However the settlement filings, which were spotted by Law360 (via GigaOm), note that the affected class action size remains unclear.The lawsuit is not to be confused with a separate legal complaint involving in-app purchases. A patent holder named Lodsys made waves in early 2011, suing companies large and small, alleging that they were infringing on its intellectual property by including the option to buy things within the software. Apple joined that suit in April of last year in an effort to defend those developing on its platform. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the settlement deal.
Apple sets WWDC for June 10-14
Apple sets WWDC for June 10-14
This year's edition of Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference, the place to find out about what's in the works for Mac OS and iOS, is set for June 10 to 14.The five-day event will take place at San Francisco's Moscone West Center, bringing together Apple executives and engineers with developers from around the world working on apps and other software technologies for the iPhone, iPad, and Macs."Our developers have had the most prolific and profitable year ever, and we're excited to show them the latest advances in software technologies and developer tools to help them create innovative new apps," Philip Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of worldwide marketing, said in a statement Wednesday morning. We can't wait to get new versions of iOS and OS X into their hands at WWDC."While WWDC focuses on software, new devices will also be on the minds of attendees and Apple watchers. Rumors have been swirling, as they tend to do, about upcoming versions of the iPad and iPhone, and during yesterday's conference call regarding the company's fiscal second-quarter earnings, Apple CEO Tim Cook spoke broadly of "amazing new hardware, software, and services" that the company will introduce this fall and on into 2014. He also left some wiggle room for Apple eventually, perhaps, to deliver a larger iPhone.There's also been a long-running waiting game for users of the Mac Pro, many of whom have been frustrated by a lack of communication from Apple about what it might have in store for the line of high-end computers favored by designers and other creative types.Last year's WWDC was heavy on news about Apple's Mac array, with long-awaited updates to its MacBook Pro, Mac Pro, and MacBook Air lines, and also gave a look ahead toward iOS 6.Tickets for the 2013 edition of the developer conference, priced at $1,599, will go on sale Thursday, April 25, at 10 a.m. PT. They can be purchased via Apple's WWDC Web site, which also offers more information on the event's programs.
This year's edition of Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference, the place to find out about what's in the works for Mac OS and iOS, is set for June 10 to 14.The five-day event will take place at San Francisco's Moscone West Center, bringing together Apple executives and engineers with developers from around the world working on apps and other software technologies for the iPhone, iPad, and Macs."Our developers have had the most prolific and profitable year ever, and we're excited to show them the latest advances in software technologies and developer tools to help them create innovative new apps," Philip Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of worldwide marketing, said in a statement Wednesday morning. We can't wait to get new versions of iOS and OS X into their hands at WWDC."While WWDC focuses on software, new devices will also be on the minds of attendees and Apple watchers. Rumors have been swirling, as they tend to do, about upcoming versions of the iPad and iPhone, and during yesterday's conference call regarding the company's fiscal second-quarter earnings, Apple CEO Tim Cook spoke broadly of "amazing new hardware, software, and services" that the company will introduce this fall and on into 2014. He also left some wiggle room for Apple eventually, perhaps, to deliver a larger iPhone.There's also been a long-running waiting game for users of the Mac Pro, many of whom have been frustrated by a lack of communication from Apple about what it might have in store for the line of high-end computers favored by designers and other creative types.Last year's WWDC was heavy on news about Apple's Mac array, with long-awaited updates to its MacBook Pro, Mac Pro, and MacBook Air lines, and also gave a look ahead toward iOS 6.Tickets for the 2013 edition of the developer conference, priced at $1,599, will go on sale Thursday, April 25, at 10 a.m. PT. They can be purchased via Apple's WWDC Web site, which also offers more information on the event's programs.
Marvel Studios Countdown: Strange Moments in Marvel Casting History
As a Marvel fan, you owe it to yourself to dive into Sean Howe’s Marvel Comics: The Untold Story (new to paperback), an exhaustive history of the company from its golden-age roots to its purchase by Disney in 2009. There’s high drama in there that rivals the material offered in Marvel’s own books, from the conflict between Stan Lee and creators Steve Ditko and Jack Kirby, to the editorial micromanagement of Jim Shooter, to skirting the brink of destruction with the company’s bankruptcy in the 1990s. But amongst all of these conflicts that drive Howe’s narrative, there are also tidbits of trivia that might come as a surprise to even the most dedicated Marvel fans. We were particularly amused by some of the TV and film projects that failed to get off the ground in one way or another. Stan Lee may have been pushing for films and television for Marvel’s properties from the get-go, but we’re probably lucky that Marvel movies didn’t start coming at us in full force until technology was ready to deliver on the comic book fantasy within the pages. Surprisingly, out-of-the-box casting ideas have pretty much always been a part of comic book film history. Even without Twitter and Facebook, fans still found the time to let their voice be heard on casting rumors by firing off letters to Marvel. Nice to know some things never change. Here are just a few of the oddball Marvel projects that never got off the ground. Bo Derek or Donna Summer As Dazzler The mutant pop star (and X-Men teammate) Alison Blair, aka Dazzler, had a strange, bumpy path to her eventual creation. She was intended to be the Disco Queen, the center of a multimedia event partnering Marvel with Casablanca Records. Marvel would handle the Disco Queen comic, while Casablanca would release a Disco Queen concept album and feature film spotlighting the dancing superhero. John Romita Jr., one of the few Marvel staffers who was into the disco scene at the time, modeled the comic character on avant garde model/musician/actress Grace Jones. That look might have worked fine for Donna Summer, who was intended to portray the character on a nationwide musical tour, but a lawsuit between Summer and Casablanca sidelined those plans. The “Grace Jones” design was tossed when Bo Derek expressed an interest in playing the character on film. Unfortunately for Marvel and Casablanca, these plans were all cooked up while disco took its last breath and died. There was no Disco Queen film, and the “Disco Dazzler” as she’d been renamed in X-Men comic guest appearances, finally got her own book, Dazzler, in 1981. Instead of laying claim to being Marvel’s first female-led superhero film, it earned its own footnote in comic history -- it was the first monthly comic offered exclusively to comic book shops, unavailable on the newsstand. Angela Bowie As Black Widow and BenCarruthersAs Daredevil While Daredevil preps for a television revival in an upcoming Netflix-exclusive series, he almost hit TV screens over 30 years ago, as a backup player in a proposedBlack WidowTV series. The rights to the characters were procured by model-actress and Widow fan Angela Bowie (David Bowie’s wife at the time, and mother ofMoondirector Duncan Jones). Daredevil and Black Widow were romantically entangled in the comic books, and she saw the potential in them as a passionate crime-fighting TV couple. Despite anelaboratephotoshootto help sell the visuals of the series (with her as spy NatashaRomanoffand BenCarruthersas Daredevil), Bowie could never get it off the ground within the one-year licensing agreement she had. Elton John or Mick Jagger As Spider-Man How long have fans been complaining about casting? Since at least 1975, as a memo from movie producer Steve Krantz backed up his off-the-wall choices for Peter Parker in a live-action Spider-Man film -- Elton John or Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger. “We will undoubtedly have the most orthodox complain bitterly about the casting, even if we played it as a straight action adventure,” Krantz predicted. Based on the letter Sean Howe procured, Krantz seemed to be trying to talk Stan Lee into the idea, which at least shows that Lee thought it was as bonkers as we do. While no casting was announced for it, we’ve also covered the Silver Surfer movie that never happened, another piece of interest from Howe’s fantastic book. Whether you’re a die-hard comic collector or just a fan of Marvel through their films, there’s all kinds of information like this to be learned from Marvel Comics: The Untold Story. Why just impress your friends with your knowledge of the Marvel Universe when you can also impress them with an understanding of the real-life backstory that built that universe? Excelsior!
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