Could an Apple HDTV plus an iPhone remote equal living room bliss?
In a note to clients Thursday, Gene Munster, a senior analyst at investment bank Piper Jaffray, floated the notion that Apple would take a bite out of the TV market in 2011 by introducing its first television. To help support his claim, Munster cited the more than 48 million iPhones and iPod Touches out there that could be used as TV remotes or interactive game controllers. Of course it's just speculation at this point, but that describes 99 percent of Apple-related blogging anyway, right? And in that vein I think an iPhone/iTouch enabled HDTV would be pretty dang cool if the company did it right. Let's call it the "iHDTV."Of course any Apple-branded HDTV should have an Apple TV box built-in...but that's just the beginning.CNETImagine a television that's smoothly integrated into both your home network--for streaming your videos, photos and music--and the Internet at large, including not just iTunes for music and movies but the whole array of Web-based content currently available through the browser on your computer. The company's Apple TV box works great already for many of those functions, and the first step a future iHDTV would need to take is to build that functionality right into the flat-screen TV itself, without the need for an external box.Even with a built-in Apple TV box and a big, shiny Apple logo, the iHDTV would barely rate a "ho-hum" from jaded tech reviewers like myself. Nope, the real coolness and opportunity for innovation would be the seamless integration of a high-powered, Web-enabled touch-screen remote control--especially one 48 million people already own. Like, say, an iPhone.Touch-screen remotes aren't new. From the groundbreaking Philips Pronto to the current Logitech 1100, they've always raised jealous eyebrows from visitors to living rooms swanky (or wasteful) enough to include them. Sure, I prefer the "hard" buttons of my good old universal remote, but with subtle vibration feedback and customizable buttons I could be convinced to go touch screen. Especially given Apple's well deserved reputation for ease of use and slick interface design.The Logitech DiNovo mini-keyboard is great, but an iPhone is even better.CNETMeanwhile any devoted owner of a living-room-based home theater PC, or HTPC, will tell you that a keyboard is necessary for full functionality. But few mainstream couch potatoes want a bulky full-sized keyboard cluttering up the living room table--let alone the hassle of buying, configuring and maintaining an HTPC. Elegant solutions already exist of course, including the Logitech diNovo Mini Keyboard, which earned an Editors' Choice award and high praise: "If you're a home theater PC owner looking for the perfect input device, look no further." I think an iPhone or iPod Touch, mated to an Internet-enabled television, makes an even more perfect input device. We love the current iTunes remote app, which controls iTunes or an Apple TV box, as well as the Sonos app, which does the same thing with the Sonos multi-room audio system. How much cooler could an iHDTV/iPhone combo be?When mated via Bluetooth to the TV the default skin on your iPhone could automatically mimic a standard remote control, complete with customizable buttons.You could use the touch-screen keyboard to enter info sent to the TV. But instead of devoting valuable TV screen space to text or information, the phone could be the "words" and the TV the "images" component of an integrated Web/content browser.The phone's accelerometer or the screen itself can serve as a mouse on a browser or to otherwise manipulate the TV interface. Bluetooth and the 3G network connection would mean you wouldn't have to aim the remote at the TV, or even be in the same room or the house. You could browse channel listings, lists of recorded DVR shows or movies and video-on-demand offerings right on the phone, select one and have it start playing on the TV. TV content could be duplicated on the remote's screen, so you could take it into other rooms, outside or even across the country to follow the TV action (e.g. Slingbox for iPhone). A video from the iTunes store you began watching on the commute home could be finished on the TV.When your iPhone rings the TV show you're watching could automatically pause, then resume when you hang up. Caller ID info could show up on the TV.A camera on the TV could be used for video chat that employs the iPhone's speaker and mic.The TV could serve as an extra-large monitor for the iPhone's camera/camcorder.The remote could serve as the small window of a PIP (picture-in-picture) function, allowing you to keep tabs on two channels or content pieces at once full-screen.Notifications for new e-mails, texts and instant messages could appear on both the phone and the TV, and allow you to read/reply on either the big or the small screen.Apps like iTunes, Facebook, and YouTube could display the photos and video on the big screen but be searched and controlled via the touch-screen remote.Game apps could be designed for or adapted to the iHDTV, allowing a big-screen gaming experience controlled via the touch-screen iPhone or iPod Touch.The TV could interface with multiple iPhones or iPod touches in the same room for collaborative casual gaming. Many of these functions are possible now, naturally, but only with extra gear and the accompanying headaches. I'm sure the people at Apple and the app developers themselves could think up even better uses for the iPhone/HDTV combo. You probably can too--let us know in comments.Before 2011, of course, significant hurdles remain between today and the perfect union I'm envisioning. The TV market has its established players, who have their own (mostly, currently) weak attempts at Internet-enabled TVs, as well as track records at producing high-quality display devices. Apple needs to get the content side right, which means adding Netflix streaming at least, or even "opening up" a sort of media browser in the TV to Hulu and similar Web-based providers. And oh yeah: it needs to make a TV with a good picture (and a frame that isn't white, please!). There's no doubt that the iHDTV would be an expensive beast, however, so why not go all-out with OLED? I can dream, right?
Rhapsody move revs up independence march
Rhapsody move revs up independence march
Tomorrow, the company is set to announce that it's moving its streaming service from several data centers owned by RealNetworks to a single facility leased from managed-hosting provider Internap. Plumbing isn't very sexy, but Internap has some interesting technology that allows it to offer a 100 percent uptime guarantee--among other things, it monitors the big Internet backbone providers for latency and outages, and automatically reroutes traffic accordingly. Ideally, Rhapsody customers won't notice the transition, which will take place over the next few months, but Rhapsody President Jon Irwin said it would help reduce the company's costs. That's critical, if Rhapsody wants to survive.InternapThe company must be experiencing some bittersweet vindication--after pioneering legal subscription-based music in 2001, and almost being written off for dead last year, Rhapsody has watched as subscription services are suddenly being hailed as the savior of the music industry. Unfortunately for the company, newer services like MOG, Spotify, and Rdio are grabbing much of the attention. I asked Irwin how he expects to compete with these newcomers, and he pointed out that Rhapsody's longevity has given it a sizable user base and revenue, and longstanding relationships with content providers--Rhapsody has licensed content from all four major record labels and more than 500 independent labels, giving it a library of more than 10 million songs. Content owners trust Rhapsody, which is why they were willing to go along with its price cut. Equally important, Rhapsody has strong relationships with companies that provide "end points" for the service, such as Verizon Wireless, TV maker Vizio, DVR pioneer TiVo, and multiroom audio provider Sonos. The goal: to give users access to a massive storehouse of tunes on as many devices as possible. If Apple's iTunes ever goes subscription, you can bet that it'll be for iPhone and iPod only. Microsoft's Zune Pass works only with the Zune and forthcoming Windows Phone 7 platform. Whatever Google comes up with will probably be for Android. Rhapsody, in theory, could be everywhere. Commenting on subscriber numbers, which have fallen from about 800,000 in 2008 to about 675,000 by the end of 2009, Irwin said the subscription price drop had reversed the slide and that the company had been steadily adding subscribers since then. Updated 11:30 a.m. Oct 2: For this week's TechFlash Podcast, I had a fun 35-minute conversation about digital music with host Todd Bishop and Rhapsody chief product officer Brendan Benzing. We discussed subscriptions, Apple's ill-conceived Ping launch, and the 800-pound gorilla: Google. Check it out.
Tomorrow, the company is set to announce that it's moving its streaming service from several data centers owned by RealNetworks to a single facility leased from managed-hosting provider Internap. Plumbing isn't very sexy, but Internap has some interesting technology that allows it to offer a 100 percent uptime guarantee--among other things, it monitors the big Internet backbone providers for latency and outages, and automatically reroutes traffic accordingly. Ideally, Rhapsody customers won't notice the transition, which will take place over the next few months, but Rhapsody President Jon Irwin said it would help reduce the company's costs. That's critical, if Rhapsody wants to survive.InternapThe company must be experiencing some bittersweet vindication--after pioneering legal subscription-based music in 2001, and almost being written off for dead last year, Rhapsody has watched as subscription services are suddenly being hailed as the savior of the music industry. Unfortunately for the company, newer services like MOG, Spotify, and Rdio are grabbing much of the attention. I asked Irwin how he expects to compete with these newcomers, and he pointed out that Rhapsody's longevity has given it a sizable user base and revenue, and longstanding relationships with content providers--Rhapsody has licensed content from all four major record labels and more than 500 independent labels, giving it a library of more than 10 million songs. Content owners trust Rhapsody, which is why they were willing to go along with its price cut. Equally important, Rhapsody has strong relationships with companies that provide "end points" for the service, such as Verizon Wireless, TV maker Vizio, DVR pioneer TiVo, and multiroom audio provider Sonos. The goal: to give users access to a massive storehouse of tunes on as many devices as possible. If Apple's iTunes ever goes subscription, you can bet that it'll be for iPhone and iPod only. Microsoft's Zune Pass works only with the Zune and forthcoming Windows Phone 7 platform. Whatever Google comes up with will probably be for Android. Rhapsody, in theory, could be everywhere. Commenting on subscriber numbers, which have fallen from about 800,000 in 2008 to about 675,000 by the end of 2009, Irwin said the subscription price drop had reversed the slide and that the company had been steadily adding subscribers since then. Updated 11:30 a.m. Oct 2: For this week's TechFlash Podcast, I had a fun 35-minute conversation about digital music with host Todd Bishop and Rhapsody chief product officer Brendan Benzing. We discussed subscriptions, Apple's ill-conceived Ping launch, and the 800-pound gorilla: Google. Check it out.
The 404 764- Where evil has its winning ways (podcast)
The 404 764: Where evil has its winning ways (podcast)
The new 13, 15, and 17 inch sizes all have a high def web cam and Intel's new Sandy Bridge processors, but they're also the first to include Intel's new hardware connector called Thunderbolt, the official name for Intel's Light Peak I/O data transfer technology.Thunderbolt is a big step for Apple and computers in general as it's a new cable system that unifies the way that devices like smartphones, hard drives, and other accesories interface with computers.The technology boosts the speed and responsiveness of media files along a single wire, and Intel claims it can transfer a full HD movie in less than 30 seconds. It also uses the exact same shape as Apple's current Mini DisplayPort for backward compatibility with existing Apple displays.How much would you pay for a lock of Justin Bieber's hair? The teen hearthrob recently got a haircut (to the soundtrack of a thousand crying tweens) and donated a lock of it for an eBay auction sponsored by Ellen DeGeneres. It's currently priced at almost $7000 with six days left to bid, so act soon if you want to add the final touches to your JB doll. Read on...Although Jeff surprisingly isn't one of them, fans of the Robocop movie are surprised to hear that the sequel may still be happening. MGM reportedly had trouble last year raising the funds to support the remake, but plans have resumed with Black Swan director Darren Aronofsky at the helm. The interest may have also gotten a kick in the butt thanks to last week's successful Kickstarter Project to build a RoboCop statue in the city of Detroit.Be sure to check out today's Kodak-sponsored deal of the day, a Western Digital My Passport Essential 500GB USB external hard drive for $50 plus free shipping.Add two to your cart for $99.98. Pad your order over $100 and apply coupon code "WDCARES" for a final price of $84.98. Check out the Western Digital Web site for more details.Episode 764PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video  Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
The new 13, 15, and 17 inch sizes all have a high def web cam and Intel's new Sandy Bridge processors, but they're also the first to include Intel's new hardware connector called Thunderbolt, the official name for Intel's Light Peak I/O data transfer technology.Thunderbolt is a big step for Apple and computers in general as it's a new cable system that unifies the way that devices like smartphones, hard drives, and other accesories interface with computers.The technology boosts the speed and responsiveness of media files along a single wire, and Intel claims it can transfer a full HD movie in less than 30 seconds. It also uses the exact same shape as Apple's current Mini DisplayPort for backward compatibility with existing Apple displays.How much would you pay for a lock of Justin Bieber's hair? The teen hearthrob recently got a haircut (to the soundtrack of a thousand crying tweens) and donated a lock of it for an eBay auction sponsored by Ellen DeGeneres. It's currently priced at almost $7000 with six days left to bid, so act soon if you want to add the final touches to your JB doll. Read on...Although Jeff surprisingly isn't one of them, fans of the Robocop movie are surprised to hear that the sequel may still be happening. MGM reportedly had trouble last year raising the funds to support the remake, but plans have resumed with Black Swan director Darren Aronofsky at the helm. The interest may have also gotten a kick in the butt thanks to last week's successful Kickstarter Project to build a RoboCop statue in the city of Detroit.Be sure to check out today's Kodak-sponsored deal of the day, a Western Digital My Passport Essential 500GB USB external hard drive for $50 plus free shipping.Add two to your cart for $99.98. Pad your order over $100 and apply coupon code "WDCARES" for a final price of $84.98. Check out the Western Digital Web site for more details.Episode 764PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video  Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
Paul McCartney pulls tracks from streaming services
Paul McCartney pulls tracks from streaming services
McCartney pulled his music from services such as Rhapsody, a broader move than some of the high-profile acts who have declined to license their latest releases to streaming sites recently, including Coldplay, Tom Waits, and Adele. Not only has he blocked streaming services from licensing his songs, he's decided to yank his entire music collection from streaming outlets, according to Digital Music News. (Spotify has contacted CNET to say that McCartney first removed his music from that site in 2010.) A spokeswoman for Rhapsody confirmed that McCartney has indeed removed his music from that service. The Beatles, it should be noted, have never made their music available on the streaming services. Artists have recently started complaining that these sites don't pay well enough for the use of their music. Spotify, Rhapsody, MOG, and others deny that, but they also argue that their services are relatively new and that their revenue and subscribers continue to grow. Payouts to artists will also continue to increase, they claim.That message may have started to resonate with some acts. In October, CNET broke the news that Coldplay would not make its album "Mylo Xyloto," available via streaming services. However, according to the Rhapsody spokesperson, the album is now available for streaming. One more note: The artists who have rejected most streaming services still seem to enjoy a good relationship with iTunes. McCartney is streaming his upcoming concert on iTunes and the Beatles iconic catalog is available there for download. Coldplay fans couldn't stream its songs from "Mylo Xyloto" when it debuted, but the album was available at iTunes.So these music acts aren't totally anti-digital. Just selectively so.Correction 10:48 a.m. PT:An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated when Paul McCartney removed his music from Spotify. The former Beatle pulled his songs from that service in 2010.
McCartney pulled his music from services such as Rhapsody, a broader move than some of the high-profile acts who have declined to license their latest releases to streaming sites recently, including Coldplay, Tom Waits, and Adele. Not only has he blocked streaming services from licensing his songs, he's decided to yank his entire music collection from streaming outlets, according to Digital Music News. (Spotify has contacted CNET to say that McCartney first removed his music from that site in 2010.) A spokeswoman for Rhapsody confirmed that McCartney has indeed removed his music from that service. The Beatles, it should be noted, have never made their music available on the streaming services. Artists have recently started complaining that these sites don't pay well enough for the use of their music. Spotify, Rhapsody, MOG, and others deny that, but they also argue that their services are relatively new and that their revenue and subscribers continue to grow. Payouts to artists will also continue to increase, they claim.That message may have started to resonate with some acts. In October, CNET broke the news that Coldplay would not make its album "Mylo Xyloto," available via streaming services. However, according to the Rhapsody spokesperson, the album is now available for streaming. One more note: The artists who have rejected most streaming services still seem to enjoy a good relationship with iTunes. McCartney is streaming his upcoming concert on iTunes and the Beatles iconic catalog is available there for download. Coldplay fans couldn't stream its songs from "Mylo Xyloto" when it debuted, but the album was available at iTunes.So these music acts aren't totally anti-digital. Just selectively so.Correction 10:48 a.m. PT:An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated when Paul McCartney removed his music from Spotify. The former Beatle pulled his songs from that service in 2010.
No big raise for Tim Cook- Apple pays CEO $4.25 million in 2013
No big raise for Tim Cook: Apple pays CEO $4.25 million in 2013
CEO Tim Cook made $4.25 million in 2013 for leading Apple, the company reported Friday in financial documents.Apple noted the figure in its preliminary proxy statement, along with the compensation of its top executives, who got about $2.6 million a piece. The amounts are all a tiny fraction of what the company gets from sales.Cook's pay included a base salary of $1.4 million, more than $53,000 worth of benefits, and a $2.8 million bonus, which is the maximum bonus Apple could give him.His total compensation didn't change much from last year. Cook pulled in $4.2 million in 2012,a 99 percent reduction from 2011.The proxy statement also revealed that Apple's annual shareholder meeting will be held on February 28, at which point shareholders will get a chance to vote on investor Carl Icahn's proposal to increase Apple's stock buyback program to $50 billion in 2014.Update, 5 p.m. PT: Added compensation details.
CEO Tim Cook made $4.25 million in 2013 for leading Apple, the company reported Friday in financial documents.Apple noted the figure in its preliminary proxy statement, along with the compensation of its top executives, who got about $2.6 million a piece. The amounts are all a tiny fraction of what the company gets from sales.Cook's pay included a base salary of $1.4 million, more than $53,000 worth of benefits, and a $2.8 million bonus, which is the maximum bonus Apple could give him.His total compensation didn't change much from last year. Cook pulled in $4.2 million in 2012,a 99 percent reduction from 2011.The proxy statement also revealed that Apple's annual shareholder meeting will be held on February 28, at which point shareholders will get a chance to vote on investor Carl Icahn's proposal to increase Apple's stock buyback program to $50 billion in 2014.Update, 5 p.m. PT: Added compensation details.
Nintendo's Iwata dismisses iPad, 3D gaming
Nintendo's Iwata dismisses iPad, 3D gaming
Nintendo President Satoru Iwata reportedly believes that Apple's newly unveiled iPad leaves much to be desired when it comes to consumer appeal.Speaking to the Associated Press, the Nintendo boss said the iPad was nothing more than "a bigger iPod Touch." He went on to say that he was unimpressed with the iPad and unfortunately, "there were no surprises" when Steve Jobs unveiled the device earlier this week.Iwata's position on the iPad might have something to do with the device's gaming capabilities. Thanks to its App Store, Apple's iPad can run games from major developers, including EA, making it a mobile competitor to Nintendo's DS.Beyond Apple, the Nintendo chief said there is no chance his company would offer a DS with motion-sensing technology, similar to what's offered on the Wii. He also rebuffed the idea of Nintendo offering an HD-capable Wii."I question whether those features would be enough to get people to buy new machines," he told the AP.Iwata also fails to see value in 3D gaming. He said that he doesn't see people wanting to wear glasses while gaming at home. He even worried that some folks would feel embarrassed."How is that going to look to other people?" he asked.
Nintendo President Satoru Iwata reportedly believes that Apple's newly unveiled iPad leaves much to be desired when it comes to consumer appeal.Speaking to the Associated Press, the Nintendo boss said the iPad was nothing more than "a bigger iPod Touch." He went on to say that he was unimpressed with the iPad and unfortunately, "there were no surprises" when Steve Jobs unveiled the device earlier this week.Iwata's position on the iPad might have something to do with the device's gaming capabilities. Thanks to its App Store, Apple's iPad can run games from major developers, including EA, making it a mobile competitor to Nintendo's DS.Beyond Apple, the Nintendo chief said there is no chance his company would offer a DS with motion-sensing technology, similar to what's offered on the Wii. He also rebuffed the idea of Nintendo offering an HD-capable Wii."I question whether those features would be enough to get people to buy new machines," he told the AP.Iwata also fails to see value in 3D gaming. He said that he doesn't see people wanting to wear glasses while gaming at home. He even worried that some folks would feel embarrassed."How is that going to look to other people?" he asked.
Vevo reportedly inks music video deals with Apple, Samsung
Vevo reportedly inks music video deals with Apple, Samsung
Apple TV is reportedly getting ready to launch a Vevo channel to showcase the music site's vast library of music videos, but it won't be likely be alone.Echoing rumors from earlier this month, The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday that Vevo has signed deals to provide programming to Apple's set-top boxes and Samsung television sets. Apple's TV app could be released as early as this week, while the launch of Samsung counterpart could be a few weeks off, people familiar with the matter told the Journal.CNET has contacted Vevo for comment and will update this report when we learn more.Related storiesApple TV snags Vevo, Disney channels in major updateVevo on Chromecast, one dongle closer to world domination (Q&A)Vevo's viewership jumps on TV-like tacticsLaunched in 2009, Vevo offers on-demand access to the platform's catalog of more than 50,000 videos from three of the four major record labels, including Universal, Sony, and the bygone EMI. AdAge reported in early August that the free entertainment platform was said to be developing an app for Apple TV that will let users watch music videos 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service already has apps for the Roku, Xbox Live, and BlackBerry's PlayBook tablet, as well as apps for iOS, Android, and Windows mobile devices.Vevo has become a hot play in tech in recent months. In July, the music video site renewed its agreement with Google to ensure the service's music videos stay on YouTube. As part of the deal, Google made an investment in Vevo that was speculated to be between $40 million and $50 million.
Apple TV is reportedly getting ready to launch a Vevo channel to showcase the music site's vast library of music videos, but it won't be likely be alone.Echoing rumors from earlier this month, The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday that Vevo has signed deals to provide programming to Apple's set-top boxes and Samsung television sets. Apple's TV app could be released as early as this week, while the launch of Samsung counterpart could be a few weeks off, people familiar with the matter told the Journal.CNET has contacted Vevo for comment and will update this report when we learn more.Related storiesApple TV snags Vevo, Disney channels in major updateVevo on Chromecast, one dongle closer to world domination (Q&A)Vevo's viewership jumps on TV-like tacticsLaunched in 2009, Vevo offers on-demand access to the platform's catalog of more than 50,000 videos from three of the four major record labels, including Universal, Sony, and the bygone EMI. AdAge reported in early August that the free entertainment platform was said to be developing an app for Apple TV that will let users watch music videos 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service already has apps for the Roku, Xbox Live, and BlackBerry's PlayBook tablet, as well as apps for iOS, Android, and Windows mobile devices.Vevo has become a hot play in tech in recent months. In July, the music video site renewed its agreement with Google to ensure the service's music videos stay on YouTube. As part of the deal, Google made an investment in Vevo that was speculated to be between $40 million and $50 million.
Verizon Wireless to include FaceTime on all data plans
Verizon Wireless to include FaceTime on all data plans
Apple's iOS 6 will allow iPhone users to make FaceTime calls over a cellular network, and Verizon Wireless doesn't want to limit the video-calling feature.The nation's largest carrier confirmed this evening that will make the data-intensive app available on all its data plans at no additional charge, including those still on unlimited data plans. The move was first reported byThe Wall Street Journal.Previously operational only on Wi-Fi networks, the app will work on cellular networks when the update to Apple's operating system is released on September 19.The offering stands in contrast to AT&T, which announced last month it would make the popular video chat app available for use on its 3G and 4G networks, but only customers with its new Family Share plans would be able to access the feature over a cellular network. Consumer advocates criticized the move, accusing AT&T of violating the Federal Communications Commission's Open Internet rules.While the offer may sound generous, Verizon isn't likely making the service available out of choice. So-called open access rules established as part of Verizon's purchase of the 700 MHz spectrum, which it's using to build its 4G LTE network, prohibit the carrier from restricting the usability of apps on the spectrum. The Federal Communications Commission has found Verizon in violation of the rules at least once, fining the carrier $1.25 million in July for blocking apps that allow people to use their 4G LTE smartphones as Wi-Fi hotspots.Updated at 8:45 p.m. PTwith Verizon confirmation.
Apple's iOS 6 will allow iPhone users to make FaceTime calls over a cellular network, and Verizon Wireless doesn't want to limit the video-calling feature.The nation's largest carrier confirmed this evening that will make the data-intensive app available on all its data plans at no additional charge, including those still on unlimited data plans. The move was first reported byThe Wall Street Journal.Previously operational only on Wi-Fi networks, the app will work on cellular networks when the update to Apple's operating system is released on September 19.The offering stands in contrast to AT&T, which announced last month it would make the popular video chat app available for use on its 3G and 4G networks, but only customers with its new Family Share plans would be able to access the feature over a cellular network. Consumer advocates criticized the move, accusing AT&T of violating the Federal Communications Commission's Open Internet rules.While the offer may sound generous, Verizon isn't likely making the service available out of choice. So-called open access rules established as part of Verizon's purchase of the 700 MHz spectrum, which it's using to build its 4G LTE network, prohibit the carrier from restricting the usability of apps on the spectrum. The Federal Communications Commission has found Verizon in violation of the rules at least once, fining the carrier $1.25 million in July for blocking apps that allow people to use their 4G LTE smartphones as Wi-Fi hotspots.Updated at 8:45 p.m. PTwith Verizon confirmation.
Verizon to offer 3GB, 5GB iPad data plans
Verizon to offer 3GB, 5GB iPad data plans
Verizon Wireless will offer 3GB and 5GB data plans for the Apple iPad, in addition to the 1GB plan it initially announced yesterday morning. According to a Verizon iPad FAQ, a 3GB data plan will cost $35 per month and a 5GB plan will lay you back $50. The 1GB plan costs $20 monthly.Verizon's decision to offer 3GB and 5GB plans could force AT&T's hand. AT&T currently offers a 250MB and 2GB option for $14.99 and $25, respectively. AT&T said in an e-mailed statement that it would not comment on whether it will offer more data plans for the iPad.Connecting to Verizon's 3G network on an iPad will take a little more effort than connecting to AT&T's service. Verizon will be selling Wi-Fi-only iPads that come with its MiFi 2200 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot. Those bundles will cost $630, $730, and $830 for the 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB iPad models, respectively. When Verizon iPad owners are away from a Wi-Fi connection, they will need to connect their tablet to the MiFi 2200 to access Verizon's 3G network. The MiFi 2200 allows up to five wireless devices to connect to the network simultaneously.AT&T customers can simply buy an iPad featuring Wi-Fi and 3G for $629, $729, or $829, depending on hard drive size, and automatically connect to the carrier's high-speed service from the tablet without needing an additional device.Both Verizon and AT&T will start selling Apple's iPad in their stores on October 28.
Verizon Wireless will offer 3GB and 5GB data plans for the Apple iPad, in addition to the 1GB plan it initially announced yesterday morning. According to a Verizon iPad FAQ, a 3GB data plan will cost $35 per month and a 5GB plan will lay you back $50. The 1GB plan costs $20 monthly.Verizon's decision to offer 3GB and 5GB plans could force AT&T's hand. AT&T currently offers a 250MB and 2GB option for $14.99 and $25, respectively. AT&T said in an e-mailed statement that it would not comment on whether it will offer more data plans for the iPad.Connecting to Verizon's 3G network on an iPad will take a little more effort than connecting to AT&T's service. Verizon will be selling Wi-Fi-only iPads that come with its MiFi 2200 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot. Those bundles will cost $630, $730, and $830 for the 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB iPad models, respectively. When Verizon iPad owners are away from a Wi-Fi connection, they will need to connect their tablet to the MiFi 2200 to access Verizon's 3G network. The MiFi 2200 allows up to five wireless devices to connect to the network simultaneously.AT&T customers can simply buy an iPad featuring Wi-Fi and 3G for $629, $729, or $829, depending on hard drive size, and automatically connect to the carrier's high-speed service from the tablet without needing an additional device.Both Verizon and AT&T will start selling Apple's iPad in their stores on October 28.
Verizon testing iPads-
Verizon testing iPads?
Verizon does not currently offer service for any Apple devices, but a new report suggests it might be at least testing one out.The Boy Genius Report blog reported Wednesday that according to one of its "highly placed sources," Verizon is testing the iPad on its network."We have been told that the model they are testing is a CDMA-compatible device, and while our source mentioned LTE in some capacity (possibly another model), we haven't been able to independently confirm that part of it," the BGR report says.A Verizon spokesman said the company had no comment on the report.Verizon is one of a few wireless networks that uses CDMA. AT&T is currently the only wireless operator in the U.S. that offers 3G service for the iPad, and it employs GSM technology. LTE (which stands for Long-Term Evolution), which several carriers including Verizon and AT&Tare adopting, is a 4G technology that promises peak download speeds of at least 50Mbps.It's important to remember that companies test devices all the time, and Verizon looking at how any device operates on its network does not necessarily mean it will offer it.The timing of the source's tip to BGR is interesting, however: it comes the same day that AT&T announced it is changing its mobile-data plans, including the plan for the iPad. Instead of the original choice of $15 for 250MB per month and $30 for unlimited mobile-broadband use, AT&T now saysiPad users can pay $15 for 200MB of data per month, or $25 for 2GB each month, with no unlimited-use option.Updated 5:15 p.m. PDT: A different Verizon spokesman than the one CNET spoke to tells Beet.TV it has no plans to support any Apple products in the "immediate future."
Verizon does not currently offer service for any Apple devices, but a new report suggests it might be at least testing one out.The Boy Genius Report blog reported Wednesday that according to one of its "highly placed sources," Verizon is testing the iPad on its network."We have been told that the model they are testing is a CDMA-compatible device, and while our source mentioned LTE in some capacity (possibly another model), we haven't been able to independently confirm that part of it," the BGR report says.A Verizon spokesman said the company had no comment on the report.Verizon is one of a few wireless networks that uses CDMA. AT&T is currently the only wireless operator in the U.S. that offers 3G service for the iPad, and it employs GSM technology. LTE (which stands for Long-Term Evolution), which several carriers including Verizon and AT&Tare adopting, is a 4G technology that promises peak download speeds of at least 50Mbps.It's important to remember that companies test devices all the time, and Verizon looking at how any device operates on its network does not necessarily mean it will offer it.The timing of the source's tip to BGR is interesting, however: it comes the same day that AT&T announced it is changing its mobile-data plans, including the plan for the iPad. Instead of the original choice of $15 for 250MB per month and $30 for unlimited mobile-broadband use, AT&T now saysiPad users can pay $15 for 200MB of data per month, or $25 for 2GB each month, with no unlimited-use option.Updated 5:15 p.m. PDT: A different Verizon spokesman than the one CNET spoke to tells Beet.TV it has no plans to support any Apple products in the "immediate future."
Verizon offering $100 to smartphone upgraders
Verizon offering $100 to smartphone upgraders
Verizon Wireless is offering some incentives to convince basic feature phone owners to upgrade to a smartphone.Verizon spokeswoman Brenda Raney told CNET that customers with basic phones who are eligible to upgrade between now and the end of the year can currently upgrade to a smartphone. Such customers have until September 30 to make the switch.In return for trading in their current feature phone, subscribers will receive a $100 gift card from the carrier via its Wireless Trade-In Program. The gift card can then be used for any type of purchase at Verizon, including paying off a bill. There are no restrictions as to which smartphone a subscriber chooses as long as they currently have a feature phone.Raney explained that many Verizon customers are using basic phones but are starting to consume more data. So the company set up this promotion to help them move to a more "data-centric device."Why the September 30 deadline? Raney said that such promotional dates are always strategic, but she declined to share the specific reason in this case.With the impending launch of the next iPhone, the carrier would certainly want to drive new customers over to Apple's flagship phone as well as any of Verizon's Android phones. But recent reports say the next iPhone will hit the market in early October, with one source pointing to October 7 as the actual date.Updated 9/2 at 4:30 a.m. PT with further details from Verizon.
Verizon Wireless is offering some incentives to convince basic feature phone owners to upgrade to a smartphone.Verizon spokeswoman Brenda Raney told CNET that customers with basic phones who are eligible to upgrade between now and the end of the year can currently upgrade to a smartphone. Such customers have until September 30 to make the switch.In return for trading in their current feature phone, subscribers will receive a $100 gift card from the carrier via its Wireless Trade-In Program. The gift card can then be used for any type of purchase at Verizon, including paying off a bill. There are no restrictions as to which smartphone a subscriber chooses as long as they currently have a feature phone.Raney explained that many Verizon customers are using basic phones but are starting to consume more data. So the company set up this promotion to help them move to a more "data-centric device."Why the September 30 deadline? Raney said that such promotional dates are always strategic, but she declined to share the specific reason in this case.With the impending launch of the next iPhone, the carrier would certainly want to drive new customers over to Apple's flagship phone as well as any of Verizon's Android phones. But recent reports say the next iPhone will hit the market in early October, with one source pointing to October 7 as the actual date.Updated 9/2 at 4:30 a.m. PT with further details from Verizon.
Analyst says Apple has a hardware fix for iPhone 4
In a note sent out Thursday morning, Ashok Kumar, an analyst at Rodman & Renshaw, said the long-term fix is mechanical."Our supply chain checks reveal that Apple has instituted a design fix for the iPhone 4 that more adequately insulates the transceiver module," he wrote in the note. How, or when, Apple would implement a fix for existing iPhone 4 owners, however, is unclear. Ever since the iPhone 4 was released on June 24, some iPhone owners have complained that when gripping the phone around the lower left-hand corner of the device, the signal degrades or calls are dropped.The company has acknowledged an antenna issue but has said it is a software problem.Apple has also suggested that consumers should hold the phone differently. Another piece of advice from the company has been to buy its $29 rubber bumper to put around the phone to avoid covering up the antenna. Apple is expected to hold a press conference Friday that may address the antenna issue.Apple did not respond to a request for comment Thursday.
Kindle tablet to support streaming video
Code-named Hollywood, the new Kindle tablet would include a promotional video service with Amazon reportedly offering the same movie service that it now offers for free to its Prime customers. The service would be free to Hollywood buyers for a certain amount of time, according to Detwiler Fenton.The new Kindle would be powered by a more robust processor than is found in the smaller Kindle e-book readers and is expected to debut in time for the holiday season.E-book readers and rival tablets alike have faced strong competition from the iPad, but Detwiler Fenton said it believes Hollywood's $399 price tag should be low enough to give it some traction against the iPad. This could put pressure on more expensive tablets, such as Motorola's Xoom and RIM's BlackBerry Playbook, each of which is expected to sell around 1 million units this year,said the investment firm.It comes as no secret that Amazon has reportedly been busy readying its own lineup of tablets, according to various sources and some hints from CEO Jeff Bezos. One of the reports refers to "Hollywood" as the code name for a new 10-inch tablet from Amazon, to be powered by Nvidia's quad-core Kal-El chipset.
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