'98 to '08: What we lost along the way
In the '90s, when the MP3 was new, it was difficult to predict the medium's effect on the music industry and our culture. Today, the results of the MP3 revolution are starting to show, and I sometimes wonder what we won.It's fitting that 2008 marks the 10-year anniversary of two of the first MP3 players, the Eiger Labs MPMan F10, and the Rio PMP300, but chances are you didn't listen to a first-gen MP3 player in 1998. With the first iPod still three years off, most of us were in the heights of our compact disc addiction 10 years ago, content to hear our music on portable CD players. Hell, some of us still listened to cassettes.The Sony Discman pictured above belongs to me. I never use it, but I like holding on to it because it reminds me of how amazing I once thought CDs were. Sure, they would skip like crazy, get scratched, or even break, but compact discs were the first medium to usher in the idea of "permanent" music--albums that (if treated kindly) would never degrade over time. After a lifetime of warped LPs and worn-out cassettes, CDs seemed almost magical.Today, most of us take for granted that our MP3s won't wear out or skip. In fact, there's tons of antiquated annoyances we no longer worry about in the age of the MP3. For instance, when was the last time you had to special-order your music at a record store and wait a week or more for it to arrive? When was the last time you wanted to hear an album you know you own but couldn't locate in the mess of your apartment? As the music in our lives has evaporated into noncorporeal ones and zeros, the troubled memories of acquiring and maintaining a physical music collection are quickly fading into the past.Despite the advantages of the MP3, I'm willing to wager that somewhere in your home you have a shelf, closet, or box filled with CDs, records, or cassettes (maybe even MiniDiscs). Why do we hang on to these antiques? Is it nostalgia? Is it the fear of losing something we can't regain? Or are we just lazy?Programs such as iTunes perfectly sort my digital music collection, but also homogenize artists into a spreadsheet of flat, impersonal squares. As a music lover, I can't decide whether technology has improved my relationship with music or simply sanitized it.Call it the MP3-era hangover, but even as online music providers are finally offering the DRM-free downloads we asked for years ago, I'm starting to realize that my fascination with the MP3 is starting to wane. As a music fan, I can't completely accept that MP3s are the end of the line. I won't be reviving my old Discman anytime soon, but I can't help but wonder if we've lost more than we realize in the process of virtualizing our music collections.I want to hear what you guys think, but to start you off, here's my list of music listening habits I had in 1998 that for reasons directly or indirectly related to the advent of the MP3, have died off. Admittedly, some of these habits are also related to the difference between being 19 and 29 (you can decide which are which).Borrowing musicI know this may sound weird considering all the P2P music "sharing" going on these days, not to mention music-focused social networks such as Last.fm, but I miss borrowing CDs from friends. Like lending out a good book, lending music used to mean the lender actually gave up something, and that sacrifice imbued the music with personal meaning. Borrowing physical media also involves face-to-face interaction, oftentimes leading to great conversations. The modern age of copying, uploading, and linking to music has allowed me to discover new music at a much faster rate, but those discoveries seem much less personal.Album artwork and liner notesAs far back as I can remember, whenever I brought home a new cassette or CD I would pop it in my stereo and immediately look over the album artwork and liner notes. Back then, I remember feeling ripped off if a group didn't include printed lyrics, but these days, I don't think twice that most of my music collection exists as a grid of basic metatags. Sure I can always jump on a band's MySpace page or Wikipedia entry if I want to know where they're from, what they're singing about, who their drummer is, or what their album cover looks like at full size, but I wish that information was still a part of the "product." Used musicI spent more than two years of my life working in a new and used record store in Sacramento, where used CDs outsold new CDs about four to one. Used CDs not only offered our customers an inexpensive way to acquire new music, it gave people who were bored with their music a way to put money back in their pocket. Putting aside my nostalgia for used music stores, I think we forget that MP3s are the first music format consumers cannot legally resell. Maybe I'm weird, but over the past 10 years, I've been happy to find myself on both sides of the used music economy--selling CDs to make rent, and buying great old records at garage sales. iTunes has never helped me pay the bills, and aside from illegal file sharing, there's no way to put your MP3s back into circulation after you're tired of them.Music as furnitureI've known people with CD and record collections that take up an entire room of their home. Personally, I love going over to a friend's home and seeing what's on their shelves (books, CDs, DVDs). As our music collections disappear from our shelves and become entombed in our computers and iPods, something gets lost. Sure, it means dinner guests can no longer judge your bad taste in music, but it also means that when you want to hear Nick Drake on a on rainy Sunday afternoon, you'll need to boot up Windows Media Player or scroll through your iPod. Personally, I miss having Nick Drake live on my shelf as a tangible part of my life, and I miss seeing friend's music collections laid bare for me to analyze and admire.So how about you? What do you miss about how you experienced music 10 years ago? Has today's technology made you feel more or less connected to the bands and musicians behind the music you hear today? Has the shuffle feature on your iPod opened you to new music, or just erased your attention span? I really want to know, so sound off in the comments.
How to install iOS 6 developer preview
How to install iOS 6 developer preview
During the WWDC keynote, Apple demoed several of the new features in iOS 6, including Facebook integration, the new Maps app, turn-by-turn directions, a "Do Not Disturb" feature for when you don't want to answer your phone, and several enhancements that make Siri "smarter." In total, iOS 6 brings more than 200 new features over iOS 5 and, with today's announcement, tons of app developers are flocking to Apple's iOS Dev Center to download the beta.Related storiesComplete WWDC 2012 coverageApple's WWDC news: New MacBook Pros, iOS 6, upgraded SiriFirst take: MacBook Pro with Retina DisplayApple unveils iOS 6 with 200 new features, Siri gets updateApple's WWDC keynote: What we didn't getBefore you can even think about installing the iOS 6 beta you'll need to have an iOS developer account, or know someone who has an iOS developer account. The iOS developer program costs $99 per year for individuals and $299 for companies wishing to develop iOS apps. Next, you'll need to make sure the UDID of the iOS device or devices you wish to test on are registered with the iOS developer program, thus making your device eligible to install beta iOS software from Apple on. Before I go any further, I want to make it clear that this software is intended for developers who are working on creating or updating apps. If you load iOS 6 beta you'll have horrible battery life, some features flat-out won't work, and the overall experience will be trying at times. And there is no easy way to revert your device to running iOS 5 once you have loaded iOS 6 on it. Beta testing isn't for everyone, no matter how cool it may seem to be on the bleeding edge of software. Bottom line: don't load iOS 6 if you aren't prepared for hours of frustration.Let's get started with loading iOS 6. You'll need to be running iTunes 10.6.3, which was released shortly after the keynote speech. You'll also need the iOS 6 beta file or files for your respective device or devices. All of the files are available in the developer center for registered developers.Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNETConnect and back up your device using iTunes. Restoring from an iCloud backup is possible with iOS 6, but I wouldn't recommend it. This is a beta; things go wrong. Make sure you encrypt the local backup, as doing so saves you from having to enter account passwords and the like after a restore.Hold down Option on your Mac keyboard and click on Restore.Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNETOnce the backup is complete, hold down Option on your keyboard and click on Restore.Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNETSelect the matching IPSW file for the device you are loading iOS 6 on.Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNETiTunes will then extract the software and install it on your iOS device. You'll see your device reboot a few times and the screen will flash some different graphics during the install process. The entire installation should take about 10 minutes. But don't be alarmed if it does take longer, just be patient.After the installation is finished, restore your device from the backup you created in step 1. You should then have iOS 6, complete with your apps and information, up and running on your iOS device. If you have any issues, the Apple Developer Forums are a great place to start looking for help.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
During the WWDC keynote, Apple demoed several of the new features in iOS 6, including Facebook integration, the new Maps app, turn-by-turn directions, a "Do Not Disturb" feature for when you don't want to answer your phone, and several enhancements that make Siri "smarter." In total, iOS 6 brings more than 200 new features over iOS 5 and, with today's announcement, tons of app developers are flocking to Apple's iOS Dev Center to download the beta.Related storiesComplete WWDC 2012 coverageApple's WWDC news: New MacBook Pros, iOS 6, upgraded SiriFirst take: MacBook Pro with Retina DisplayApple unveils iOS 6 with 200 new features, Siri gets updateApple's WWDC keynote: What we didn't getBefore you can even think about installing the iOS 6 beta you'll need to have an iOS developer account, or know someone who has an iOS developer account. The iOS developer program costs $99 per year for individuals and $299 for companies wishing to develop iOS apps. Next, you'll need to make sure the UDID of the iOS device or devices you wish to test on are registered with the iOS developer program, thus making your device eligible to install beta iOS software from Apple on. Before I go any further, I want to make it clear that this software is intended for developers who are working on creating or updating apps. If you load iOS 6 beta you'll have horrible battery life, some features flat-out won't work, and the overall experience will be trying at times. And there is no easy way to revert your device to running iOS 5 once you have loaded iOS 6 on it. Beta testing isn't for everyone, no matter how cool it may seem to be on the bleeding edge of software. Bottom line: don't load iOS 6 if you aren't prepared for hours of frustration.Let's get started with loading iOS 6. You'll need to be running iTunes 10.6.3, which was released shortly after the keynote speech. You'll also need the iOS 6 beta file or files for your respective device or devices. All of the files are available in the developer center for registered developers.Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNETConnect and back up your device using iTunes. Restoring from an iCloud backup is possible with iOS 6, but I wouldn't recommend it. This is a beta; things go wrong. Make sure you encrypt the local backup, as doing so saves you from having to enter account passwords and the like after a restore.Hold down Option on your Mac keyboard and click on Restore.Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNETOnce the backup is complete, hold down Option on your keyboard and click on Restore.Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNETSelect the matching IPSW file for the device you are loading iOS 6 on.Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNETiTunes will then extract the software and install it on your iOS device. You'll see your device reboot a few times and the screen will flash some different graphics during the install process. The entire installation should take about 10 minutes. But don't be alarmed if it does take longer, just be patient.After the installation is finished, restore your device from the backup you created in step 1. You should then have iOS 6, complete with your apps and information, up and running on your iOS device. If you have any issues, the Apple Developer Forums are a great place to start looking for help.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Amazon to launch auto rip, an effort to sex up CDs
Amazon to launch auto rip, an effort to sex up CDs
Update January 10 at 6:10 a.m. PT: Amazon has now introduced its AutoRip service.)LAS VEGAS -- The compact disc has long been left for dead by most tech-savvy music fans, but Amazon apparently still sees some life left in the format.Amazon managers are expected to announce soon that CD buyers from now on will automatically receive copies of the same tracks stored in their Amazon cloud, free of charge, multiple sources with knowledge of the plan told CNET. The cloud-stored tunes can then be accessed from Web-enabled devices. The feature is being referred to internally as "auto rip," but the sources cautioned that the name could change. An Amazon representative wasn't immediately available. I'll update as soon as I hear back from the company. Related storiesDOJ, schools settle over Kindle's blind accessThe Amazon.com of potAmazon expands Kindle self-publishing worldwideWhat's the difference: Dynamic vs. lossy audio compression?Fingers-on with Stantum's touch-screen Dell tablet prototypeThis is the most significant initiative involving the CD in years, but try this one on: Amazon may also decide to store songs from past CD purchases free of charge, according to the sources. That could represent a lot of music. A decade ago, before iTunes launched, it was Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos who was king of online music sales. This was in the days when purchasing Web music meant ordering a CD, back before downloading songs became popular.Amazon's strategy is similar to what Hollywood has done in the past year. Five of the six top film studios are trying to breathe life into DVD and Blu-ray discs with an effort they call UltraViolet. A consortium of studios, hardware and software companies teamed together to develop standards for distributing movies in the cloud. The group seeks to make movies purchased off the Web compatible with any device or service in the hope of enticing people to buy and collect these movies the same way as DVDs. One of the ways UV backers are trying to generate interest is by rewarding disc buyers with access to a cloud-stored copies of their films. The entertainment industry hasn't given up on physical media and there's a good reason for that. Lots of people still buy discs. According to 2012 music sales compiled by research firm Nielsen Soundscan, the CD is still the dominant music format. Still, the CD is definitely in decline -- sales fell 12.8 percent last year while digital album sales increased 14 percent and digital tracks rose 5 percent. CDs and DVDs certainly do not represent the future.But Amazon, which is well back of Apple's iTunes in music sales, will be able to tell the large number of consumers who still prefer their music on disc that they're getting more value for their money, and this could help the retailer take a larger share of that business. It's a smart move.
Update January 10 at 6:10 a.m. PT: Amazon has now introduced its AutoRip service.)LAS VEGAS -- The compact disc has long been left for dead by most tech-savvy music fans, but Amazon apparently still sees some life left in the format.Amazon managers are expected to announce soon that CD buyers from now on will automatically receive copies of the same tracks stored in their Amazon cloud, free of charge, multiple sources with knowledge of the plan told CNET. The cloud-stored tunes can then be accessed from Web-enabled devices. The feature is being referred to internally as "auto rip," but the sources cautioned that the name could change. An Amazon representative wasn't immediately available. I'll update as soon as I hear back from the company. Related storiesDOJ, schools settle over Kindle's blind accessThe Amazon.com of potAmazon expands Kindle self-publishing worldwideWhat's the difference: Dynamic vs. lossy audio compression?Fingers-on with Stantum's touch-screen Dell tablet prototypeThis is the most significant initiative involving the CD in years, but try this one on: Amazon may also decide to store songs from past CD purchases free of charge, according to the sources. That could represent a lot of music. A decade ago, before iTunes launched, it was Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos who was king of online music sales. This was in the days when purchasing Web music meant ordering a CD, back before downloading songs became popular.Amazon's strategy is similar to what Hollywood has done in the past year. Five of the six top film studios are trying to breathe life into DVD and Blu-ray discs with an effort they call UltraViolet. A consortium of studios, hardware and software companies teamed together to develop standards for distributing movies in the cloud. The group seeks to make movies purchased off the Web compatible with any device or service in the hope of enticing people to buy and collect these movies the same way as DVDs. One of the ways UV backers are trying to generate interest is by rewarding disc buyers with access to a cloud-stored copies of their films. The entertainment industry hasn't given up on physical media and there's a good reason for that. Lots of people still buy discs. According to 2012 music sales compiled by research firm Nielsen Soundscan, the CD is still the dominant music format. Still, the CD is definitely in decline -- sales fell 12.8 percent last year while digital album sales increased 14 percent and digital tracks rose 5 percent. CDs and DVDs certainly do not represent the future.But Amazon, which is well back of Apple's iTunes in music sales, will be able to tell the large number of consumers who still prefer their music on disc that they're getting more value for their money, and this could help the retailer take a larger share of that business. It's a smart move.
Report- Nokia paying Universal $33.50 per phone
Report: Nokia paying Universal $33.50 per phone
It sounds like the download model will not be strict all-you-can-eat, but instead will be similar to eMusic--users will be able to download a limited number of songs over a certain time period, and those songs will be theirs to keep. It's not clear what happens when the period's up--the latest reports say that Comes With Music will not be a subscription model, so perhaps users will just be able to add a la carte downloads after their time expires. As I've said before, any music service that's limited to a particular label will fail--music buyers don't shop by label, and often don't even know (or care) which label their favorite artists are on. So assume that Nokia signs the other majors and a few big indies for the same rate. Glenn at Coolfer estimates that such a deal would cost Nokia $116.32 per phone.Hypothetically, imagine Nokia or the carriers subsidizes some of the cost to get the program rolling, and charges an extra $80 per phone. Most cellphone contracts are two years long, so it would make sense for the free music download period to last the same amount of time. So the last variable would be number of songs. How many songs would they have to offer to convince you to buy a Comes With Music phone?My next phone's probably going to be an iPhone--the interface, apps, and browsing are excellent, and I seldom purchase music from iTunes anyway, so the $0.99 per song seems fine. To be swayed to buy another phone, I'd want enough content to fill it--say 1,000 songs. Otherwise, I'll just stick with my current MP3 players. But the labels are probably imagining a number closer to the $0.99-per-download paradigm that still rules the industry--say 100 songs.
It sounds like the download model will not be strict all-you-can-eat, but instead will be similar to eMusic--users will be able to download a limited number of songs over a certain time period, and those songs will be theirs to keep. It's not clear what happens when the period's up--the latest reports say that Comes With Music will not be a subscription model, so perhaps users will just be able to add a la carte downloads after their time expires. As I've said before, any music service that's limited to a particular label will fail--music buyers don't shop by label, and often don't even know (or care) which label their favorite artists are on. So assume that Nokia signs the other majors and a few big indies for the same rate. Glenn at Coolfer estimates that such a deal would cost Nokia $116.32 per phone.Hypothetically, imagine Nokia or the carriers subsidizes some of the cost to get the program rolling, and charges an extra $80 per phone. Most cellphone contracts are two years long, so it would make sense for the free music download period to last the same amount of time. So the last variable would be number of songs. How many songs would they have to offer to convince you to buy a Comes With Music phone?My next phone's probably going to be an iPhone--the interface, apps, and browsing are excellent, and I seldom purchase music from iTunes anyway, so the $0.99 per song seems fine. To be swayed to buy another phone, I'd want enough content to fill it--say 1,000 songs. Otherwise, I'll just stick with my current MP3 players. But the labels are probably imagining a number closer to the $0.99-per-download paradigm that still rules the industry--say 100 songs.
HDtracks- Why settle for iTunes now that you can get CD quality music downloads-
HDtracks: Why settle for iTunes now that you can get CD quality music downloads?
Even hardcore audiophiles have to face the music--brick and mortar record stores are fading fast--and it's starting to look like the CD is on its way out. Sure, no card carrying audiophile would be caught dead downloading MP3s or iTunes, the sonic sacrifices are too drastic. Well, what if there was a site that offered bona fide CD quality downloads, would audiophiles go for it? That's HDtracks' prime directive, but I don't think the high-resolution download store is just for audiophiles.Then again I never understood why anyone would pay more or less the same price for a low quality download as for a CD. Well, now that iTunes has become the #1 U.S. music retailer I have to admit the answer must be that buyers put a higher value on convenience than sound. Well alright, HDtracks offers three higher-resolution download alternatives: "CD quality" UNcompressed AIFF and lossless FLAC files or 320kbps MP3s. All three are DRM free. Oh, and when you buy a complete album you also get the cover art and liner notes as a PDF. Complete albums go for $11.98, individual tracks, $1.49.True, iTunes isn't in any immediate danger of losing market share--HDtracks is just starting up--so you're not going to find Radiohead, R.E.M., or the Rolling Stones' music there just yet. HDtracks' selection is quirkier, less mainstream, with folk, gospel, blues, jazz, Latin, pop, R&B, rock, classical and soundtracks from a wide spectrum of independent labels. HDtracks is adding new labels all the time. HDtracks was started by David and Norman Chesky, who will continue to run their audiophile record label, Chesky Records. HDtracks will in the coming months begin to offer ultra high resolution 96-khz/24-bit files, which will sound even better, much better than CD quality downloads, for a limited number of titles. In the interest of full disclosure: I have worked for Chesky Records as a producer and writer, and written for HDtracks.
Even hardcore audiophiles have to face the music--brick and mortar record stores are fading fast--and it's starting to look like the CD is on its way out. Sure, no card carrying audiophile would be caught dead downloading MP3s or iTunes, the sonic sacrifices are too drastic. Well, what if there was a site that offered bona fide CD quality downloads, would audiophiles go for it? That's HDtracks' prime directive, but I don't think the high-resolution download store is just for audiophiles.Then again I never understood why anyone would pay more or less the same price for a low quality download as for a CD. Well, now that iTunes has become the #1 U.S. music retailer I have to admit the answer must be that buyers put a higher value on convenience than sound. Well alright, HDtracks offers three higher-resolution download alternatives: "CD quality" UNcompressed AIFF and lossless FLAC files or 320kbps MP3s. All three are DRM free. Oh, and when you buy a complete album you also get the cover art and liner notes as a PDF. Complete albums go for $11.98, individual tracks, $1.49.True, iTunes isn't in any immediate danger of losing market share--HDtracks is just starting up--so you're not going to find Radiohead, R.E.M., or the Rolling Stones' music there just yet. HDtracks' selection is quirkier, less mainstream, with folk, gospel, blues, jazz, Latin, pop, R&B, rock, classical and soundtracks from a wide spectrum of independent labels. HDtracks is adding new labels all the time. HDtracks was started by David and Norman Chesky, who will continue to run their audiophile record label, Chesky Records. HDtracks will in the coming months begin to offer ultra high resolution 96-khz/24-bit files, which will sound even better, much better than CD quality downloads, for a limited number of titles. In the interest of full disclosure: I have worked for Chesky Records as a producer and writer, and written for HDtracks.
Rumor- Updated MacBook Pros, iMac in early '11
Rumor: Updated MacBook Pros, iMac in early '11
Apple may be planning to offer new options in its iMac and MacBook Pro lines within the next six months, a report from DigiTimes claims.Citing "sources from upstream component makers," DigiTimes reported today that Apple will offer "a slight change in chassis design" on its MacBook Pro models next year. The sources also told the publication that Apple is planning to introduce a new display size for the iMac, as well as a new price on the all-in-one computer.DigiTimes' report, which should be classified as an absolute rumor until Apple comments, follows earlier evidence that some changes are afoot in Apple's MacBook product line.Last week, sources told CNET that Apple is planning to ditch Nvidia GPUs in the next update to its MacBook line to make way for Intel's Sandy Bridge processors. The sources told CNET that Sandy Bridge processors will be made available in MacBooks that feature 13-inch screen sizes and under. In its larger MacBook Pro models, the sources expect Apple to offer Advanced Micro Devices' GPUs.The Sandy Bridge processor from Intel is notable for being the first of its kind in the "mainstream" market to feature a graphics chip grafted atop a processor. Sandy Bridge is expected to deliver better performance than competing components, potentially making it a fine choice in Apple's refreshed MacBook line.Apple did not immediately respond to request for comment.
Apple may be planning to offer new options in its iMac and MacBook Pro lines within the next six months, a report from DigiTimes claims.Citing "sources from upstream component makers," DigiTimes reported today that Apple will offer "a slight change in chassis design" on its MacBook Pro models next year. The sources also told the publication that Apple is planning to introduce a new display size for the iMac, as well as a new price on the all-in-one computer.DigiTimes' report, which should be classified as an absolute rumor until Apple comments, follows earlier evidence that some changes are afoot in Apple's MacBook product line.Last week, sources told CNET that Apple is planning to ditch Nvidia GPUs in the next update to its MacBook line to make way for Intel's Sandy Bridge processors. The sources told CNET that Sandy Bridge processors will be made available in MacBooks that feature 13-inch screen sizes and under. In its larger MacBook Pro models, the sources expect Apple to offer Advanced Micro Devices' GPUs.The Sandy Bridge processor from Intel is notable for being the first of its kind in the "mainstream" market to feature a graphics chip grafted atop a processor. Sandy Bridge is expected to deliver better performance than competing components, potentially making it a fine choice in Apple's refreshed MacBook line.Apple did not immediately respond to request for comment.
Rumor- Microsoft cameo at WWDC keynote
Rumor: Microsoft cameo at WWDC keynote
Today's addition to the crazy Apple rumor file: Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer might appear on stage with Apple CEO Steve Jobs at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference.That's what Wall Street analyst Trip Chowdhry of Global Equities Research said in a note to investors. According to Chowdhry, seven minutes have been set aside for Microsoft to talk up its Visual Studio development tools to Apple developers during Jobs' June 7 keynote speech.It would certainly be a big deal for Microsoft to come to what is Apple's biggest annual media event, though it wouldn't be unprecedented. The last time a Microsoft CEO made an appearance at a Jobs keynote was in 1997 to announce its $150 million investment in the then-struggling Mac-maker. That clearly won't be necessary this time: as of Wednesday, Apple is officially worth more than Microsoft.And while it is the time of year for an onslaught of wild Apple-related rumors, there are any number of reasons Ballmer might show up at an Apple developer conference.Some have speculated that Microsoft might be bringing Silverlight to the iPhone, or that perhaps the company has struck a deal to make Bing the default search engine on the iPhone. Microsoft also has a new version of Office for Mac coming this fall.Update 11:45 a.m. PDT: False alarm. Microsoft says it will not be appearing at WWDC. Or Dancing with the Stars.Ina Fried contributed to this report.
Today's addition to the crazy Apple rumor file: Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer might appear on stage with Apple CEO Steve Jobs at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference.That's what Wall Street analyst Trip Chowdhry of Global Equities Research said in a note to investors. According to Chowdhry, seven minutes have been set aside for Microsoft to talk up its Visual Studio development tools to Apple developers during Jobs' June 7 keynote speech.It would certainly be a big deal for Microsoft to come to what is Apple's biggest annual media event, though it wouldn't be unprecedented. The last time a Microsoft CEO made an appearance at a Jobs keynote was in 1997 to announce its $150 million investment in the then-struggling Mac-maker. That clearly won't be necessary this time: as of Wednesday, Apple is officially worth more than Microsoft.And while it is the time of year for an onslaught of wild Apple-related rumors, there are any number of reasons Ballmer might show up at an Apple developer conference.Some have speculated that Microsoft might be bringing Silverlight to the iPhone, or that perhaps the company has struck a deal to make Bing the default search engine on the iPhone. Microsoft also has a new version of Office for Mac coming this fall.Update 11:45 a.m. PDT: False alarm. Microsoft says it will not be appearing at WWDC. Or Dancing with the Stars.Ina Fried contributed to this report.
Apple CEO Tim Cook gets AT&T to unlock an iPhone
Apple CEO Tim Cook gets AT&T to unlock an iPhone
The customer, someone 9to5 Mac calls a "trusted tipster," told the tech Web site that he reached out to Cook after a series of customer support calls to both AT&T and Apple failed to resolve his issue.The man in question had recently been transferred to Canada for work and decided to try and use his iPhone 3GS (now off-contract, formerly with AT&T) on a Canadian carrier's pay-as-you-go plan, according to 9to5 MacUnfortunately for the man, AT&T refused to unlock his iPhone, saying that only Apple was able to do so. Apple, of course, told the man that only AT&T could perform the unlock. In my personal experience managing an Apple Store and having dealt with a product with two companies sharing responsibilities of customer support, I can say that this situation is very frustrating for consumers. I was often required to bridge the communications gap between AT&T's customer service and our own Genius Bar, untangling the confusing web of who can (and will) do what.After calling AT&T again, the man was told to jailbreak his iPhone. Jailbreaking your iPhone requires users to perform a number of tasks to help bypass Apple's iOS security implementations, a procedure that on the one hand promises greater flexibility as compared with Apple's "walled garden" approach, but also opens your device to unchecked malware attacks.And besides, the correct procedure for what this man wanted to do is performing a carrier unlock, which does not involve jailbreaking at all. In either case, this particular customer preferred Apple's iOS and the security that goes along with it. His last attempt to resolve the issue came through e-mailing Apple CEO Tim Cook. Though Cook did not personally respond to the man's e-mail, later correspondence with AT&T Partnership Operations (confirmed by 9to5 Mac) referenced the man's e-mail to Cook.The man was then given instructions on how to officially unlock his iPhone through iTunes. Later, Tim Cook's assistant followed up with a phone call to be sure the man's iPhone had been unlocked.Clearly this is was an isolated incident and most e-mails sent directly to Apple's CEO will probably go unanswered. But, it's nice to see that the CEO of one of the world's top companies still has time to help out a single customer. I think Steve would be proud, don't you?
The customer, someone 9to5 Mac calls a "trusted tipster," told the tech Web site that he reached out to Cook after a series of customer support calls to both AT&T and Apple failed to resolve his issue.The man in question had recently been transferred to Canada for work and decided to try and use his iPhone 3GS (now off-contract, formerly with AT&T) on a Canadian carrier's pay-as-you-go plan, according to 9to5 MacUnfortunately for the man, AT&T refused to unlock his iPhone, saying that only Apple was able to do so. Apple, of course, told the man that only AT&T could perform the unlock. In my personal experience managing an Apple Store and having dealt with a product with two companies sharing responsibilities of customer support, I can say that this situation is very frustrating for consumers. I was often required to bridge the communications gap between AT&T's customer service and our own Genius Bar, untangling the confusing web of who can (and will) do what.After calling AT&T again, the man was told to jailbreak his iPhone. Jailbreaking your iPhone requires users to perform a number of tasks to help bypass Apple's iOS security implementations, a procedure that on the one hand promises greater flexibility as compared with Apple's "walled garden" approach, but also opens your device to unchecked malware attacks.And besides, the correct procedure for what this man wanted to do is performing a carrier unlock, which does not involve jailbreaking at all. In either case, this particular customer preferred Apple's iOS and the security that goes along with it. His last attempt to resolve the issue came through e-mailing Apple CEO Tim Cook. Though Cook did not personally respond to the man's e-mail, later correspondence with AT&T Partnership Operations (confirmed by 9to5 Mac) referenced the man's e-mail to Cook.The man was then given instructions on how to officially unlock his iPhone through iTunes. Later, Tim Cook's assistant followed up with a phone call to be sure the man's iPhone had been unlocked.Clearly this is was an isolated incident and most e-mails sent directly to Apple's CEO will probably go unanswered. But, it's nice to see that the CEO of one of the world's top companies still has time to help out a single customer. I think Steve would be proud, don't you?
Apple CEO says company won't be going after Facebook, Twitter
Apple CEO says company won't be going after Facebook, Twitter
"We have no plans to be in the social-networking area." That's basically all you need to know about Apple's plans in social -- coming from Tim Cook, Apple's CEO, in an interview with Charlie Rose airing Friday on PBS. Why do we care? Well, the same day that more than 2,000 reporters descended on an auditorium in Cupertino, Calif., to watch the consumer-electronics giant announce its first smartwatch and some new iPhones, PandoDaily published a story saying "a single well-placed source inside Apple's engineering team" had said the company was going to acquire the Path social network. The service counts 5 million people who use its network daily, up from 4 million in June, according to aremark from Dave Morin, Path's CEO, at a tech conference Wednesday. Morin declined to comment on what he called speculation about Apple's purchase of his company. Now, Apple could always choose to buy Path just to acquire its staff. Apple could also change its mind, or Cook could be telling a slight fib. But all that seems unlikely. Apple does have a history with social networking. In 2010 it announced Ping, a music-based social network tied to iTunes. The network's launch, alongside new iPods and a new Apple TV, had big-name music stars including Lady Gaga and Chris Martin. Apple shuttered the service two years later. Since then, Apple has created deep ties with Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Yahoo, allowing users to connect the respective networks to their phones and computers to easily upload photos and update their profiles. Apple also built iMessage, a text, photo and video messaging service, to help users more easily send missives to each other. Even its new Apple Watch has social-networking functions to send a friend anything from a scribble to a heartbeat. But what Apple won't be doing, Cook says, is competing directly with Facebook or Twitter. "We're not in the social-networking business," Cook said in his interview, adding that he considers the two services to be partners rather than competitors. "We like both companies." An Apple spokeswoman did not immediately respond to a request for clarification about Cook's comments. CNET's Shara Tibken contributed to this report.
"We have no plans to be in the social-networking area." That's basically all you need to know about Apple's plans in social -- coming from Tim Cook, Apple's CEO, in an interview with Charlie Rose airing Friday on PBS. Why do we care? Well, the same day that more than 2,000 reporters descended on an auditorium in Cupertino, Calif., to watch the consumer-electronics giant announce its first smartwatch and some new iPhones, PandoDaily published a story saying "a single well-placed source inside Apple's engineering team" had said the company was going to acquire the Path social network. The service counts 5 million people who use its network daily, up from 4 million in June, according to aremark from Dave Morin, Path's CEO, at a tech conference Wednesday. Morin declined to comment on what he called speculation about Apple's purchase of his company. Now, Apple could always choose to buy Path just to acquire its staff. Apple could also change its mind, or Cook could be telling a slight fib. But all that seems unlikely. Apple does have a history with social networking. In 2010 it announced Ping, a music-based social network tied to iTunes. The network's launch, alongside new iPods and a new Apple TV, had big-name music stars including Lady Gaga and Chris Martin. Apple shuttered the service two years later. Since then, Apple has created deep ties with Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Yahoo, allowing users to connect the respective networks to their phones and computers to easily upload photos and update their profiles. Apple also built iMessage, a text, photo and video messaging service, to help users more easily send missives to each other. Even its new Apple Watch has social-networking functions to send a friend anything from a scribble to a heartbeat. But what Apple won't be doing, Cook says, is competing directly with Facebook or Twitter. "We're not in the social-networking business," Cook said in his interview, adding that he considers the two services to be partners rather than competitors. "We like both companies." An Apple spokeswoman did not immediately respond to a request for clarification about Cook's comments. CNET's Shara Tibken contributed to this report.
Apple brings on sales exec for iTunes Radio
Apple brings on sales exec for iTunes Radio
Apple has brought on a new sales executive to help it generate more cash off its streaming-music service iTunes Radio.Apple has hired Michael Pallad to oversee part of the company's iTunes Radio ad sales, CNET has heard from industry sources. AdAge was first to report on the hiring on Tuesday. Pallad previously served as the executive vice president of sales at major radio company Cumulus Media.Related storiesDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)The 404 Podcast 498: Where Jeff battles the TriadBuzz Out Loud Podcast 1145: China to Google: Suck itNutsie brings iTunes to Android via the cloudThe Real Deal 193: Road Test - CES edition (podcast)iTunes Radio launched in September. The service is Apple's foray into music streaming and represents stiff competition to services like Pandora, Spotify, and others. Apple has been sprinkling in ads into iTunes Radio for some time, but apparently wants to start attracting more brands.Actually getting companies to drop some cash into iTunes Radio might be a heavy lift. According to AdAge, Apple is reportedly asking brands to invest in 12-month advertising commitments through iTunes Radio valued at $1 million or more.CNET has heard from industry sources that Pallad will not in fact head up all of iTunes Radio sales. Instead, he will be tasked with generating sales through broadcast channels and will report to the iTunes Radio sales chief.Apple declined to comment on Pallad's hiring.Update 10:47 a.m. PT to include source details.
Apple has brought on a new sales executive to help it generate more cash off its streaming-music service iTunes Radio.Apple has hired Michael Pallad to oversee part of the company's iTunes Radio ad sales, CNET has heard from industry sources. AdAge was first to report on the hiring on Tuesday. Pallad previously served as the executive vice president of sales at major radio company Cumulus Media.Related storiesDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)The 404 Podcast 498: Where Jeff battles the TriadBuzz Out Loud Podcast 1145: China to Google: Suck itNutsie brings iTunes to Android via the cloudThe Real Deal 193: Road Test - CES edition (podcast)iTunes Radio launched in September. The service is Apple's foray into music streaming and represents stiff competition to services like Pandora, Spotify, and others. Apple has been sprinkling in ads into iTunes Radio for some time, but apparently wants to start attracting more brands.Actually getting companies to drop some cash into iTunes Radio might be a heavy lift. According to AdAge, Apple is reportedly asking brands to invest in 12-month advertising commitments through iTunes Radio valued at $1 million or more.CNET has heard from industry sources that Pallad will not in fact head up all of iTunes Radio sales. Instead, he will be tasked with generating sales through broadcast channels and will report to the iTunes Radio sales chief.Apple declined to comment on Pallad's hiring.Update 10:47 a.m. PT to include source details.
Apple bringing ultra-high-resolution display to MacBook Pro-
Apple bringing ultra-high-resolution display to MacBook Pro?
Apple's iPhone 4 and 4S have already set the gold standard for resolution in mobile devices, and now the company has its sights set on reaching the same milestone in the notebook market, a new report claims.Citing industry sources, DigiTimes is reporting today that Apple is currently planning to launch a new MacBook Pro in the second quarter that would come with a 2,880x1,800 ultra-high-resolution display. The display would be a significant step up over what it currently offers. The company's 17-inch MacBook Pro, for example, features a 1,920x1,200 LED-backlit display.A 2,880x1,800 screen would even be a major improvement over the company's top-of-the-line Thunderbolt Display. That 27-inch monitor, which goes for $999, has a 2,560x1,440 screen. Whether or not Apple would want to trump its display or bring even better picture quality to the monitor to keep it ahead of the MacBook Pro, remains to be seen. Related storiesShould you upgrade to the new MacBook Pro?Apple upgrades MacBook Pro lineCNET's review of the Apple MacBook ProApple made waves last year when it unveiled the iPhone 4's Retina Display. That technology, which is also available in the iPhone 4S, delivers greater pixel density than other products on store shelves, giving users far better resolution than they can find elsewhere. The move prompted other companies to try and match the Retina Display with high-quality HD displays of their own.According to DigiTimes' sources, the same scenario might play out in the notebook market as other vendors try to catch up to Apple's ultra-high-resolution displays. However, even without Apple's help, Asus and Acer are already planning to boost resolutions in their ultrabook lines to 1,920x1,080 during the first half of next year, DigiTimes' sources say.Apple did not immediately respond to CNET's request for comment.
Apple's iPhone 4 and 4S have already set the gold standard for resolution in mobile devices, and now the company has its sights set on reaching the same milestone in the notebook market, a new report claims.Citing industry sources, DigiTimes is reporting today that Apple is currently planning to launch a new MacBook Pro in the second quarter that would come with a 2,880x1,800 ultra-high-resolution display. The display would be a significant step up over what it currently offers. The company's 17-inch MacBook Pro, for example, features a 1,920x1,200 LED-backlit display.A 2,880x1,800 screen would even be a major improvement over the company's top-of-the-line Thunderbolt Display. That 27-inch monitor, which goes for $999, has a 2,560x1,440 screen. Whether or not Apple would want to trump its display or bring even better picture quality to the monitor to keep it ahead of the MacBook Pro, remains to be seen. Related storiesShould you upgrade to the new MacBook Pro?Apple upgrades MacBook Pro lineCNET's review of the Apple MacBook ProApple made waves last year when it unveiled the iPhone 4's Retina Display. That technology, which is also available in the iPhone 4S, delivers greater pixel density than other products on store shelves, giving users far better resolution than they can find elsewhere. The move prompted other companies to try and match the Retina Display with high-quality HD displays of their own.According to DigiTimes' sources, the same scenario might play out in the notebook market as other vendors try to catch up to Apple's ultra-high-resolution displays. However, even without Apple's help, Asus and Acer are already planning to boost resolutions in their ultrabook lines to 1,920x1,080 during the first half of next year, DigiTimes' sources say.Apple did not immediately respond to CNET's request for comment.
Apple bows out of program for environment-minded products
Apple bows out of program for environment-minded products
According to The Wall Street Journal's CIO Journal site, 39 of Apple's products had received EPEAT's green stamp of approval, including laptops such as the MacBook Pro and the MacBook Air.EPEAT, or the Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool, receives funding from the Environmental Protection Agency and calls itself "the leading global environmental rating system for electronic products, connecting purchasers to environmentally preferable choices and benefiting producers who demonstrate environmental responsibility and innovation."The U.S. government requires that 95 percent of its electronics bear the EPEAT seal of approval; large companies such as Ford and Kaiser Permanente require their CIOs to buy from EPEAT-certified firms; and many of the largest universities in the U.S. prefer to buy EPEAT-friendly gear, CIO Journal reports.Apple "said their design direction was no longer consistent with the EPEAT requirements," CIO Journal quotes EPEAT CEO Robert Frisbee as saying. "They were important supporters and we are disappointed that they don't want their products measured by this standard anymore."Among other things, the EPEAT requirements hold that electronics must be easy to disassemble, so their components can be recycled. The iPhone, the iPad, and the new MacBook Pro with Retina display don't pass muster because of things like batteries and glass displays that are glued to casings and backings. Apple may soon introduce an alternate green standard to apply to its products, CIO Journal reports.We've contacted Apple for comment and will update this post if and when we hear back. CIO Journal said Apple had declined to comment but had referred the site to the Environment section of Apple's Web site.The Verge points out that Apple had touted an EPEAT Gold rating for its iMac computer (see screenshot of the relevant Apple page below). Screenshot by Edward Moyer/CNET
According to The Wall Street Journal's CIO Journal site, 39 of Apple's products had received EPEAT's green stamp of approval, including laptops such as the MacBook Pro and the MacBook Air.EPEAT, or the Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool, receives funding from the Environmental Protection Agency and calls itself "the leading global environmental rating system for electronic products, connecting purchasers to environmentally preferable choices and benefiting producers who demonstrate environmental responsibility and innovation."The U.S. government requires that 95 percent of its electronics bear the EPEAT seal of approval; large companies such as Ford and Kaiser Permanente require their CIOs to buy from EPEAT-certified firms; and many of the largest universities in the U.S. prefer to buy EPEAT-friendly gear, CIO Journal reports.Apple "said their design direction was no longer consistent with the EPEAT requirements," CIO Journal quotes EPEAT CEO Robert Frisbee as saying. "They were important supporters and we are disappointed that they don't want their products measured by this standard anymore."Among other things, the EPEAT requirements hold that electronics must be easy to disassemble, so their components can be recycled. The iPhone, the iPad, and the new MacBook Pro with Retina display don't pass muster because of things like batteries and glass displays that are glued to casings and backings. Apple may soon introduce an alternate green standard to apply to its products, CIO Journal reports.We've contacted Apple for comment and will update this post if and when we hear back. CIO Journal said Apple had declined to comment but had referred the site to the Environment section of Apple's Web site.The Verge points out that Apple had touted an EPEAT Gold rating for its iMac computer (see screenshot of the relevant Apple page below). Screenshot by Edward Moyer/CNET
Apple boosts R&D spending
Apple boosts R&D spending
Apple is increasing its research and development spending and is now at 3 percent of revenue compared with 2 percent in recent years.The R&D spending was detailed in Apple's quarterly 10-Q filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As Apple's sales have ramped, the company hasn't been able to increase its R&D spending. As a result, Apple's R&D spending as a percentage of revenue was in line with what Dell and Hewlett-Packard spend.Apple CEO Tim Cook obviously sees the discrepancy. He should, since Cook was a former IBMer. IBM keeps its R&D spending at 6 percent of sales hell or high water.Specifically, Apple spent $1.12 billion on R&D for the three months ended March 30, up from $841 million the year before. For the six months ending March 30, Apple's R&D spending is up 33 percent from a year ago. Apple's Cook had mentioned new content and services going forward. Apple also shook up its management team last year, and Bob Mansfield was tasked with developing the company's chip and networking technologies.Regarding R&D spending, Apple said:R&D expense increased $278 million or 33 percent during the second quarter of 2013 compared to the second quarter of 2012 and increased $530 million or 33 percent during the first six months of 2013 compared to the same period in 2012. These increases were primarily due to an increase in headcount and related expenses to support expanded R&D activities.The company continues to believe that focused investments in R&D are critical to its future growth and competitive position in the marketplace and are directly related to timely development of new and enhanced products that are central to the company's core business strategy. As such, the company expects to make further investments in R&D to remain competitive.As a percentage of sales, Apple's R&D spending could be higher, but it is certainly a step in the right direction.This story originally appeared as "Apple boosts R&D spend, now 3 percent of revenue" on ZDNet.
Apple is increasing its research and development spending and is now at 3 percent of revenue compared with 2 percent in recent years.The R&D spending was detailed in Apple's quarterly 10-Q filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As Apple's sales have ramped, the company hasn't been able to increase its R&D spending. As a result, Apple's R&D spending as a percentage of revenue was in line with what Dell and Hewlett-Packard spend.Apple CEO Tim Cook obviously sees the discrepancy. He should, since Cook was a former IBMer. IBM keeps its R&D spending at 6 percent of sales hell or high water.Specifically, Apple spent $1.12 billion on R&D for the three months ended March 30, up from $841 million the year before. For the six months ending March 30, Apple's R&D spending is up 33 percent from a year ago. Apple's Cook had mentioned new content and services going forward. Apple also shook up its management team last year, and Bob Mansfield was tasked with developing the company's chip and networking technologies.Regarding R&D spending, Apple said:R&D expense increased $278 million or 33 percent during the second quarter of 2013 compared to the second quarter of 2012 and increased $530 million or 33 percent during the first six months of 2013 compared to the same period in 2012. These increases were primarily due to an increase in headcount and related expenses to support expanded R&D activities.The company continues to believe that focused investments in R&D are critical to its future growth and competitive position in the marketplace and are directly related to timely development of new and enhanced products that are central to the company's core business strategy. As such, the company expects to make further investments in R&D to remain competitive.As a percentage of sales, Apple's R&D spending could be higher, but it is certainly a step in the right direction.This story originally appeared as "Apple boosts R&D spend, now 3 percent of revenue" on ZDNet.
Apple boosts MacBook Air processor, slashes prices
Apple boosts MacBook Air processor, slashes prices
Apple reduced prices on all four preconfigured MacBook Air models and gave the line a minor processor upgrade. The 11.6-inch MacBook Air dropped to a starting price of $899 from $999 in the US and from £849 to £749 in the UK, while the entry-level 13.3-inch Air dropped to $999 from $1,099 in the US and from £949 to £849 in the UK.Those models come standard with a 128GB solid-state drive and 4GB of memory. The higher-end 11.6- and 1.3.3-inch configurations with a 256GB SSD also saw prices drop $100 in the US and £100 in the UK. As before, Apple's most portable laptops come with non-Retina 1,366x768 (11.6-inch) and 1,440x900 (13.3-inch) resolution displays powered by Intel's HD 5000 graphics.See alsoCNET's MacBook Air review On the processor front, the Air now comes with a 1.4GHz Core i5 -- upgraded from a 1.3GHz chip. While that is a relatively minor performance upgrade, Intel may have improved the chip in other ways. For instance, newer versions of a processor typically include manufacturing improvements, which can result in better power efficiency and cooling.Most consumers, however, will notice the new starting price of $899 (£749).And it's a pretty good deal when you're getting both a price drop and a processor boost.Finally, it's worth noting that the MacBook Air hasn't seen a major redesign since the fall of 2010. But that could change later this year. KGI Securities, NPD DisplaySearch, and others have gotten wind of an all-new, MacBook Air that's even thinner and boasts a 12-inch Retina display.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Apple reduced prices on all four preconfigured MacBook Air models and gave the line a minor processor upgrade. The 11.6-inch MacBook Air dropped to a starting price of $899 from $999 in the US and from £849 to £749 in the UK, while the entry-level 13.3-inch Air dropped to $999 from $1,099 in the US and from £949 to £849 in the UK.Those models come standard with a 128GB solid-state drive and 4GB of memory. The higher-end 11.6- and 1.3.3-inch configurations with a 256GB SSD also saw prices drop $100 in the US and £100 in the UK. As before, Apple's most portable laptops come with non-Retina 1,366x768 (11.6-inch) and 1,440x900 (13.3-inch) resolution displays powered by Intel's HD 5000 graphics.See alsoCNET's MacBook Air review On the processor front, the Air now comes with a 1.4GHz Core i5 -- upgraded from a 1.3GHz chip. While that is a relatively minor performance upgrade, Intel may have improved the chip in other ways. For instance, newer versions of a processor typically include manufacturing improvements, which can result in better power efficiency and cooling.Most consumers, however, will notice the new starting price of $899 (£749).And it's a pretty good deal when you're getting both a price drop and a processor boost.Finally, it's worth noting that the MacBook Air hasn't seen a major redesign since the fall of 2010. But that could change later this year. KGI Securities, NPD DisplaySearch, and others have gotten wind of an all-new, MacBook Air that's even thinner and boasts a 12-inch Retina display.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Apple envisions trackpad with sensors instead of click buttons
Apple wants to tweak the traditional trackpad, at least as described in a patent filing.Published on Tuesday by the US Patent and Trademark office, a patent application named "Touch pad with force sensors and actuator feedback" floats the idea of a trackpad that doesn't need a click button to respond to your touch and offer you feedback. Instead, the pad would be built with sensors to detect how hard you tap.Many laptops still include click buttons above or below the touchpad. Others, such as Apple's own MacBook, integrate the click feature into the trackpad itself. Either way, you still have to press down for the device to register your touch.In Apple's invention, sensors would be outfitted at all four corners of the trackpad. Those sensors would determine the pressure of your touch and respond accordingly. Further, the sensors could provide tactile feedback so you can feel the response of the trackpad without it having to physically move down. Audible vibrations could mimic the sound of a click as you tap down on the touch pad.You could also control the sensitivity of the sensors and the tactile feedback based on whether you have a lighter or heavier touch. Finally, Apple's invention would save space under and around the trackpad by eliminating the need for dedicated click controls.(Via AppleInsider)
Apple envisions three sensors to improve iPhone's color photos
Your iPhone of the future could deliver better color photos if equipped with three separate sensors.Granted Tuesday by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, an Apple patent dubbed "Image capture using luminance and chrominance sensors" envisions a way to include one sensor for luminance and two for chrominance as a way to better capture colors in your moble device's photographs.Luminance measures the amount of light reflected from an object, while chrominance defines the color of an image. The technology built into the iPhone would combine the luminance from the first sensor and the chrominance from the other two sensors to form a single composite image. As such, the final image would more faithfully reproduce the actual colors, resulting in a higher quality and more accurate photo.Each sensor may have a blind spot where it can't detect a certain region included in the photograph. The three-sensor approach would compensate for this by ensuring that the blind regions are all offset by other sensors. So, if one sensor doesn't "see" a certain region, another sensor would pick it up.A multi-sensor technology has been on Apple's mind. A patent granted to the iPhone maker on July 23 described a way to combine two or more sensors in a mobile device to create better photos and videos.(Via AppleInsider)
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