External battery may overcome Apple MacBook Pro 17" limitationCONTENTS:
The batteries also come with a USB power port so you can charge an iPhone at the same time or separately. The first thing I thought of when I saw this announcement was how the company was able to offer a charger with a MagSafe adapter, because that design is protected by Apple patents. I checked with the company president, Daniel Chin, and he told me: "What we did is obtain the MagSafe connector and cable from the original MacBook AC adapter, remove the adapter and splice in our own charger plug, which interfaces with our battery and car charger products. Since we are using the original Apple MagSafe plug and did not modify the actual plug (which the patent in question covers) in any way, we are still respecting Apple's IP and in no way infringing upon their patent." That might or might not satisfy Apple, but it did allow the company to offer these chargers which are likely to be highly desired by some customers. [1] I thought Apple had a 12V Magsafe adapter? It's $50, but it's pretty slick as car adapters go, and there's no brick or anything, just a cigarette lighter plug and a Magsafe cable. Yeah, power inverters are cool, but it's pretty inefficient to convert DC to AC, then use the power brick to turn AC back into DC. There's a good amount of heat generated on both ends (which equals wasted energy), the inverter (and power supply for that matter) weigh a good amount, and it's two extra boxes to float around in your car. All this to do what could theoretically be accomplished with a few resistors to get the required voltage drop. BUT, having one of these external batteries would be pretty cool. The smallest one looks like it's a little bigger than an iPhone and not very heavy for what it is.[1] Nice to have for an emergency juice-up if you're on the road and need a little more time at the keyboard. I wonder if, instead of splicing cables from AC power supplies, they could maybe put an airliner 12V plug on it, and then you could plug an Apple-sourced Magsafe adapter directly? I guess with the pack only being.85 inches thick, it might be a tight fit to put that size jack on it.[1] Update: Several commenters have pointed out the QuickerTek and MikeGyver power solutions for the MBP line, which predate the Sanho offering and use the same approach of sacrificing a MagSafe adapter to provide the plug connector.[1] Billed as the world's first and only universal power solution for Apple's entire MacBook line, the HyperMac battery comes in four different capacities: 60 watt hours, 100 watt hours, 150 watt hours, and 222 watt hours.[2] The HyperMac product page has an extensive chart detailing how much extra life you can get out of the batteries, depending on which model MacBook and which model battery you're using, but it appears to be a pretty decent gain on average (as always with batteries, your mileage may vary). Extra power isn't without its drawbacks, either: you're going to have to lug an external battery around, and the HyperMac models range between 0.8 pounds for the 60-watt-hour model to a hefty 4.7 pounds for the 222-watt-hour version (which, I'll note, is weightier than just toting an extra 13-inch MacBook with you). The batteries, which are due to ship later this month and are currently available for pre-order, start at US$200 for the 60Wh model, with the 100Wh version costing $300, the 150Wh costing $400, and the 222Wh costing $500. Cheap, they aren't, it's true, but it might be just what you're looking for if you're frequently running out of juice.[2] Until now, If the battery died, the user was forced to find an AC power outlet. Presumably the Sanho HyperMac external battery along with a newly announced car charger would overcome this limitation to keep field users up and running.[3] With clean lines, laser engraved logo and all-white accessories completing the Applesque look. The HyperMac battery and car charger are now available for pre-order at www.HyperMac.com ]] www.HyperMac.com and will be shipping later this month for $149.95 (car charger), $199.95 (60-watt-hour battery), $299.95 (100Wh), $399.95 (150Wh) and $499.95 (222Wh).[4] When on the road, there is also the HyperMac car charger which powers and recharges the MacBook directly from the automobile cigarette slot.[4] The company is also offering a car charger. These items are all available for pre-order and will ship later this month.[1]  Available in 4 different capacities of 60Wh, 100Wh, 150Wh and 222Wh (compared to MacBook Air 37Wh only internal battery), the external battery is capable of powering the MacBook for up to 32 hours - allowing for long haul flights, extended outdoor shoots, expeditions to remote locations or any situation where electricity is simply not an option. [4] Apple custom designed the MacBook Pro 17" battery to sustain up eight hours of light-duty use, with an expected battery lifespan of five years (1,000 charges.) One way they achieved this while also designing what is currently the thinnest and lightest 17" notebook was by custom sizing the battery and permanently mounting it inside the chassis.[3] The batteries also include a battery indicator and a USB port so you can charge your other devices, like your iPod or iPhone, simultaneously. If nothing else, it's potentially a nice addition for those who are unhappy with the 17-inch MacBook Pro's sealed battery.[2] I've requested a review unit, but if the line of four external batteries (60/100/150/220 Wh) batteries work as described, this would overcome the most significant limitation I noted in my review of the MacBook Pro 17" laptop.[3] With a great attention to detail, HyperMac batteries' silver color aluminum housing are color matched to the MacBook.[4] Proprietary technology adjust battery charging power automatically according to the connected MacBook model.[4] If there's one thing we could all use, it's a little more staying power. Great as running and push-ups are, they'll do nary a thing to help improve your MacBook's battery life.[2] Sanho's Hypermac amounts to little more than a large external battery pack. Sure, it's a great idea.[5] Who wouldn't want that kind of performance from a battery? We're talking 32 hours here. That's more than a full day. Seriously, most of us have an outlet handy which is far less painful than dropping $500 on this 222Wh unit. If this appeals to your need for power, it ships later this month. Ask yourself this.[5] Not looking to argue but apple power adapters run at a higher voltage, I believe it's somewhere in the 18-24 volt range. It's much higher than the typical ~13.4 max volts in a car. Since you are stepping up DC voltage, it's gonna require a bit more than a few resisters.[1] Apple's Airline adaptor, while electrically similar to a car adapter, is not recommended for automotive use (some have tried it with success, your mileage may vary). Lastly, you can of course use a DC inverter for in-car charging, but please be careful not to obstruct vents or leave the device plugged in and unattended. they can get very hot while in use.[1] These aren't the first to do this. Someone I work with has one, by another firm, not sure who by though off the top of my head - its jet black, very long and has a kettle lead to connect it to the mains. Again, like the company in the article they all hack a MagSafe onto the end of their own cabling, which is something I doubt Apple have an issue with, since I can think of a few instances a least two to three years ago of other companies doing the same for their own powerbricks. (They charged more than Apple did for the official PSU's to take into account the cost of hacking the end off multiple Apple PSU's at the time. These were likely short lived.) [1] REFERENCES 1. External battery packs for Mac laptops 2. HyperMac External Battery Plays Nice With All MacBooks - Business Center - PC World 3. Permit/Deny - apple - External battery may overcome Apple MacBook Pro 17" limitation 4. HyperMac - World's Exclusive Apple MacBook External Battery Pack That Works With All MacBook, MacBook Pro And MacBook Air Models. - Sanho Corporation - pitchengine.com 5. HyperMac lives up to it's name, powers MacBooks for 32 hours - SlipperyBrick.com Apple, EFF square off over jailbreakingCONTENTS:Vice President of iPod and iPhone Product Marketing Greg Joswiak testified Friday afternoon in Palo Alto, California, as the Copyright Office held the first in a series of hearings on possible exemptions to the nation's copyright law. The office holds these hearings every three years. In the past it has granted copy exemptions to people such as college film professors who want to make compilations for their students or users of obsolete software who need to copy their programs to new media formats. Via Technologies may try to extend the use of its Nano processors from netbooks to servers in a potential challenge to Intel and Advanced Micro Devices, although the battle will be an uphill one, analysts said. [1] Who is it in the end that owns the iPhone? The user who paid for it, or the company who manufactured it? That is the question that has led to a lot of bitterness between those who want to jailbreak their iPhone without feeling like a criminal, and Apple who wants to maintain control over the device after it is sold. Now Apple is set to head to court to defend their stance against jailbreaking. Their opponents, Apple customers themselves, are wishing for the U.S. Copyright Office to allow for an exception in the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), so jailbreaking is no longer considered illegal. This could be troublesome for Apple, who currently acts quickly to take down sites and servers that host jailbreaking software or provide information on how to get it done. It's a common move for them, which unfortunately often puts them at odds with their own user base. Apple isn't the only company who could be affected by this lawsuit ' Google also attempts to discourage, if not outright ban, the ability to jailbreak Android on T-Mobile phones, however Apple certainly remains the most covered opponent of jailbreaking, primarily due to the sheer success of the iPhone and its App Store.[2] Because Congress has already explicitly addressed circumvention for interoperability in Section 1201(f) of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA),4 the Copyright Office should not create interoperability exemptions outside that statutory structure, at least without a clear showing of specific and significant harm, which has not been put forth here. The way we see this is that Apple is against Jailbreaking for the simple fact that it can and will cost them money. Common sense will tell you that Apple does not get any money from iPhone users if they do not use the App Store for installing applications and they also run the risk of legit App Store apps being pirated, which we have already seen.[3] "Granting an exemption will not reduce the availability of iPhone firmware or apps - in fact, it is likely to increase the availability of both, by creating a more competitive, vibrant, consumer-driven marketplace." If the EFF wins its case, users will not only be able to jailbreak the iPhone without running the risk of facing a DMCA lawsuit. They will be able to legally bypass similar technology on other phones too, such as T-Mobile’s Android-based G1 phone. The Copyright Office isn’t expected to make a decision on the jailbreaking issue until October, von Lohmann says, but, even if Apple loses, Apple could still decide to go after jailbreakers, saying that they have violated their iPhone licence agreement. "But an exemption would be a significant step toward legalising jailbreaking," he adds. Whatever happens, these arguments will probably be made again in 2012.[4] Technical users have been jailbreaking the iPhone since soon after it was released two years ago, despite Apple’s best efforts to make it impossible. Apple strictly controls what software can run on the iPhone, but jailbroken phones have no such restrictions. The problem is that the iPhone’s digital rights management system not only prevents people from illegally copying its software, it also blocks legitimate users who want to run software on the device that is not approved by Apple, according to EFF attorney Fred von Lohmann. "When an iPhone owner jailbreaks her iPhone, no copyrights are infringed," he says.[4] Then, by your own admission, then you can do whatever you want with it. Nobody's trying to take Apple's software and pass it off as their own. Jailbreaking, at its core, is about developing new software with new capabilities'''same as any old type of software development. Much of this software has to do with implementing capabilities that Apple did not implement on the iPhone: ssh, tethering, shell access, copy and paste. The difference is that the "kosher" way to get your app onto the iPhone requires you to go through Apple's approval process, so developers who want to develop software with capabilities that won't meet Apple's approval are forced to use this back door to get it onto the device. Can you imagine the hue and cry you'd be raising if your computer manufacturer told you every app you installed on your computer had to be approved by them'''whether the process was as arbitrary as Apple's or not? You'd be out in the streets: "I bought it, so I should be able to install whatever I like on it!" This is exactly the problem with the iPhone. Nonsensejailbreakers bought their own phones.[3] All the legal mumbo jumbo aside. If a hardware device has the potential to perform certain tasks electronically (no pun intended) then a developer should be able to write software to perform these tasks on that hardware. Especially when the vendor of the hardware has mysteriously left this functionality out. Apple are heralded as innovator, but the type of tactics they are using with iPhone app approval by limiting its capabilities is stifling innovation. Some of these limitations are imposed by 3rd parties such as telcos, but most are just a clear case of restricting the functions so they can be released later as a new innovative features, which the masses will embrace as amazing Apple innovation.[3] Apple is opposed to the proposed Class #1 exemption because it will destroy the technological protection of Apple'''s key copyrighted computer programs in the iPhone™ device itself and of copyrighted content owned by Apple that plays on the iPhone, resulting in copyright infringement, potential damage to the device and other potential harmful physical effects, adverse effects on the functioning of the device, and breach of contract. The proponents of the exemption have also not satisfied their burden of proof of showing harm to non-infringing uses of the copyrighted works protected by the technological protection measures on the iPhone.[3] TiPb can see where Apple is coming from but at the end of the day, if you purchase an iPhone or any other device for that matter, it is yours to do with what ever you'd like. For a complete rundown of all the shenanagins that took place this past Friday be sure to check out Wired.com's Jailbreaking Showdown.[3] Depends. If people want to cover their iPhones with rhinestones, or spray paint them neon green, they have every right. Jailbreak developers are using (not buying) Apple's product to develop their own product and "re-selling" or giving away (apps) to the public as their own. They are making money off Apple's billions of dollars in investment and sweat. I can buy GMs and do with them whatever I'''d like, too. I can't steal GMs, alter a few things, then re-sell them as my own brand of automobiles and take credit after GM spent billions creating 99% of the vehicles' design.[3] Well there is lots of people out there (including me) wouldn't by a iphone because of the lack of futures. With jailbreak u get what u need not what apple allows u to have on YOUR IPHONE! ( u paid for it!!) If apple was worried about making or losing money that much they wouldn't pay bunch of money to lawyers so they can make jail break illegal.[3] I tend to agree with Apple. we bought the iPhone knowing it's done on Apples terms, and jailbreaking breaches those terms AND causes Apple to lose money. Jailbreaking is absolutely pointless in my opinion, particularly with OS 3.0 - it's falling more into the "piracy" community more than anything.[3] If Apple is in the process of making jailbreaking illegal then it stands to reason that there is currently no legal precedent. I still pay for app store apps and since my jb apps were free Apple didn't lose their 30% cut.[3] Obviously some that allow free tethering or piracy of apps are illegal as well as wrong. It is not illegal or wrong to write software that runs on the phone and abides by the laws of the nation that the phone is operated in and abides by the terms of your carrier contract.[3] Although it has not prosecuted hackers who have developed jailbreak software, Apple maintains that the practice violates the DMCA, which prohibits the circumvention of copy control mechanisms.[4] What you are doing is using a pre-defined set of tools made by Apple, and you use the tools in a certain fashion to get the result you want. If everyone were to think the way you do, any website that gets made is not that persons property because they used PHP to make it. Anyone who makes programs using Visual Studio to make VB or C# programs don't actually own it because they used something Microsoft made and are distributing it as their own.[3] Via could offer the Nano as a co-processor to offload specific server workloads and tasks, or it could group the chips together in a blade server to act as the primary computing engine. LexisNexis acknowledged Friday that criminals used its information retrieval service for more than three years to gather data that was used to commit credit card fraud. LexisNexis has started warning about 32,000 people that "a few" customers used its service to help them illegally obtain credit cards. "These individuals were operating businesses that at one time were both ChoicePoint and LexisNexis customers," the company said in a notification letter that it began sending out Friday.[1] REFERENCES 1. Apple, EFF square off over jailbreaking - Computerworld Blogs 2. iPhone Jailbreak dispute heads to court - TechSpot News 3. Apple Faces Off Against the EFF in Jailbreak Showdown | The iPhone Blog 4. Computing SA - News Apple Updates Firmware for IMacs With Radeon 4850 GraphicsCONTENTS:According to Apple, the EFI Firmware specifically targets wake-from-sleep issues in Boot Camp. It also sounds as if this fix may address some overall freezing issues for ATI Radeon HD 4850 users that began making the rounds on the Mac Web last month. At that time, users had begun reporting that their iMacs were freezing up regardless of what software or OS was running, though some users noted that it was occurring more frequently when running Windows through Boot Camp. If you're affected by the problem, this update is definitely for you. [1] The company hasn't explained what has caused the problems, which have triggered lengthy discussions on Apple's support forums and, though producing different symptoms, have drawn parallels with an earlier ATI graphics freezing issue from 2007.[2] REFERENCES 1. iMac EFI Firmware Update 1.4 addresses Boot Camp freezing - Ars Technica 2. AppleInsider | Apple offers fix for iMac's Radeon HD 4850 freezing issues Consumer Reports Takes a Shine to AppleCONTENTS:
Surveying technical support also gave Apple the best results in both desktops and notebooks. Apple couldn't quite claim the top spot in desktops but did manage second place in both of the two categories it competed in: among standard desktops, the Mac Mini's 59 was two points behind the HP Pavillion Slimline's 61, while the 20-inch iMac's 70 was enough to earn a runner-up position behind the Dell XPS One 24. The seemingly near-complete control of Consumer Reports' ratings appears at a critical time for Apple, as the company has posted its best non-holiday quarterly results ever but is under pressure to justify the at times higher prices of Macs versus PCs in light of Microsoft's attack ads. For now, the study supports Apple's notion that it wants to make the best computers, not the most computers and that it's therefore willing to give up market share for a better reputation. [1] Rumors have Apple mulling price cuts for its 13" MacBook and desktop models. According to the site Apple Insider, "extremely reliable" sources are saying that Apple is considering price cuts on its desktop machines and on the 13" MacBook. It might prove to be a good time for the move, with sales slowing on Macs, and the company laying off staff in its retail outlets. Apple's pricing has always been on the high side, and that's recently made it a target for competition, such as Microsoft, in ads. Those who do go Apple, however, tend to become brand evangelists. The company has scored highly on customer satisfaction for its computers, as well as for the iPhone.[2] For shoppers on the cusp of a purchase decision, I'''d suggest holding off another month or so. There'''s a buzz about, detailed at Apple Insider, that price cuts may be imminent for some of their desktop (as in iMac) and portable (low-end MacBook) models. It'''s a good bet that Apple will again offer a back-to-school promotion for students this summer; last year, the company gave away iPod touch models with most computer purchases. That promotion usually starts in June and runs until September.[3] I do not believe Apple will bring out new, lower models. Not only will it cheapen the brand image it would show a large number of people that they can get away with less Mac and that would forever harm their ability to up-sell people in the future. If Apple does anything with prices it will involve squeezing their suppliers for better pricing so they can make some small retail price cuts without hurting margins. I think they are moving in this direction, waiting to strike. They already own the majority of all purchases above $1000.[4] No, I don't think Apple will introduce new, cheaper machines to bolster Mac sales. They have to do something, though, if the dip repeats itself for a second quarter in a row. No doubt their solution will be much more interesting than just a price/quality cut, which is exactly the kind of uninspired move a PC manufacturer would make. If Apple really wanted to cause people to sit up and take notice, and sell computers to customers like me who already own multiple Mac desktops and laptops and to people looking for their first Mac, they'd give us a reason to look at a Mac Pro. Or not the Mac Pro exactly, but something like it.[4] Intel Macs use generic RAM, generic hard drives, generic optical drives, etc. Some day soon PCs will adopt EFI instead of BIOS and even generic video cards will work, provided there are drivers. Apple won't be able to sell blades so they need to charge a premium price for the razor. Apple really only succeeds where they control the entire widget like they do with their laptops and iMacs or when dealing with Pro customers who think nothing of paying 3 times too much for a hard drive.[4] While consumers are always willing to welcome price cuts, a drop of $150 USD still leaves Apple's product portfolio some way short of rival PC systems offered up by the likes of HP and Sony ' as Microsoft's Laptop Hunters commercials have attempted to highlight. It's also worth noting that $849 USD MacBooks (while massively superior in specs) aren't likely to tip the balance in Apple's favour when it comes to Netbooks ' not least because pennywise general consumers are presently being drawn en masse towards the truly portable Web-centric platforms for half that price.[5] Even with the full $150 reduction, the 13 inch MacBook would still cost around $849. That's more than double some of the most popular netbooks, and still exceeds many if not most PC laptops. While Apple may be eager to promote its newly priced computers as offering good value, the problem is that the firm will likely never cut costs enough to satisfy buyers driven mainly by price, simply because Apple's brand strategy does not allow its products to appear 'cheap'.[6] According to AppleInsider's Kasper Jade, Cupertino-based Apple is likely to introduce sweeping Mac price cuts during the summer as an 'interim solution' to the rising popularity of ultra-mobile and budget-priced Netbook systems ' which continue to pull in punters looking for a safe and familiar bargain via sub-$500 USD prices and pre-installed Windows XP. Offering up information gleaned from anonymous sources that are, as always, 'familiar with the matter,' AppleInsider indicates that Apple could lop off as much as $150 USD from its systems, which would bring the 13-inch MacBook from $999 USD to $849 USD, while the 20-inch iMac (2.66GHz) could drop from $1,119 USD to a more palatable $969 USD.[5] Price cuts would be a major change in tactics for Apple. When it avoided significant reductions in the prices of its last range of new models, it appeared clear the firm was not interested in competing on price and instead wanted to position itself as a premium brand. If the price cut rumors are true, they will inevitably be seen as a response to the recent stinging advertising campaign by Microsoft which uses 'ordinary shoppers' to directly attack Macs as overpriced.[6] What is clear is that Apple is testing 3G wireless hardware in new Apple CPU products in the Mac group.'' If they are in hurry-up " time pressure and stress" software QA mode at this point, it means that we'll see some hardware relatively soon. Recent reports have had Apple cozying up with Verizon so perhaps this hardware will be the EVDO variety.'' It could even work on both types of U.S. 3G networks with a Quallcom Gobi wireless radio.'' That would allow Apple customers to use any of the wireless carriers in the U.S. as well as the most international 3G carriers.[7] As I've just mentioned, the new machines would probably have to offer big concessions in terms of hardware (they'd never sacrifice build quality) in order to provide profit margins acceptable to Apple. Crippled specs would just have people complaining that they could get a Dell with 10 times better internals for the same price, which would put us exactly where we are now: Apple fans saying the product is better overall, even if on paper it doesn't look it, and PC faithful clamoring about the Apple Tax.[4] While price is something Apple has never really competed on in comparison to the generic PC, it may have to soon in some fashion. Apple's 13.3" aluminum MacBook may see a price dip from its current $1,299 to $999 (possibly with a new model?), while the current plastic entry-level MacBook could go for $799 (from the current $999). Another iMac could be introduced to hit the sub-$900 level, kind of like the current 20" iMac model that is offered to educational institutions for $899 (but retails for over $1,000 for normal retail).[8] Hard evidence: Canadian Apple Store wants $360 for a 1TB drive that costs only $110 at my local PC shop. The Mac mini is as far as they're willing to go with a modular Mac and once you add a usable amount of RAM, decent HD, keyboard and mouse you're up into iMac price range and you've got an inferior box with no display.[4] The cost of the machines reviewed, however, varied widely with computers ranging from $600 to $2800 being compared in the same categories. These results come shortly after Microsoft's most recent laptop hunters ad which features a film-maker looking for a laptop computer for video editing. Microsoft's is pushing the price argument strongly in their recent ad campaign, while Apple has argued that "a PC is no bargain when it doesn't do what you want."[9] Consumer Reports rates laptop computers on performance, ergonomics, versatility, display, speakers, battery life and weight and provides an aggregate score. Scores for Apple's MacBook, 15" MacBook Pro, and 17" MacBook Pro exceeded all others in each of their categories, earning high recommendations from the publication.[9] In a minor coup against Microsoft' claims of better value for money in Windows notebooks, Apple has earned the crown in Consumer Reports' latest computer study for its current generation of MacBooks -- as well as in tech support and, very nearly, desktops.[1] so has Apple's tech support. Though some of the rankings may be arguable depending on how much awesomeness you think Apple's logo (and the premium pricing that comes with it) is worth, it's clear that Consumer Reports and its readers continue to hold the company's offerings in high regard.[10] Last month, Apple topped Forrester Research's list of computer companies in customer support and came in first for J.D. Power's list of customer satisfaction in smart phones. The Consumer Reports review gives Apple yet another notch in its belt and certainly seems to make it the company to beat in the consumer arena.[11] A recent Consumer Reports issue compared a variety of computer systems, giving high ranks to Apple in several categories.[12] When you go three for threeas Apple has in the recent laptop computer-ratings issue'''and score highly in other categories, it'''s worth at least a nod. Whether you purchase religiously at retail based on the opinions of CR tests or pooh-pooh their findings altogether'''I fall into some middle ground there when it comes to electronics'''an educated consumer might do well to examine the charts in the current June issue, just released.[3] Given that chilling scenario, recent rumors that Apple is prepping some lower-cost hardware to bring to market makes sense. They showed recently that they were relatively resilient, even in tough economic times, by posting record gains yet again for the second quarter of 2009, but Mac sales actually slowed during the same period, meaning that Apple is likely looking for a way to improve those sagging numbers. Their source maintains that the cheaper hardware to be introduced is designed as a stop-gap solution to counter the runaway success of netbooks until Apple is ready to release its own Newton-esque tablet-style device, which is taking longer to develop than anticipated. Apple's new, lower-cost menu is said to include cheaper versions of both the 13-inch MacBook and a new entry-level iMac, possibly priced in line with its education-only predecessor. [4] Apple arguably could do a better job of educating their non'''tech oriented customers about the advisability and desirability of periodic software especially OS version upgrades. That epiphany dawned on me during a telephone conversation last weekend with a friend I don't see or talk to very often. This individual bought a G5 iMac several years ago, partly on my recommendation, and it has served him well, but he said he recently discovered his favorite tax software wouldn't work on his own Mac anymore, and was perplexed that it still seem to run fine on his niece's newer Mac.[13] Macs just typically keep chugging along obliviously. I appreciate that Apple likes to keep things as simple as possible for general, non-enthusiast users, and that low-hassle is one of the Mac's most attractive selling points, but it would still be desirable to gently inform purchasers that in order to keep getting the best performance and software compatibility from their Mac, they need to upgrade the operating system once in awhile. There is still an unfortunate tendency to identify issues like my friend being unable to run the latest edition of his tax software on his middle-aged Mac as "Mac problems," his logic being that he can run the Windows version on his IT department-maintained PC at work. That's, of course, an unfair assessment, but it's of a sort that is likely quite frequent and not helpful in retention of return customers.[13] "You need to install Mac OS 10.5," I ventured. "Oh, can I do that?" he asked. I explained that Leopard should work very well on his G5, but that he would need to purchase an installation disk. Again, the entire concept seemed quite foreign and exotic to my friend, and I suspect he's not alone in that among Mac users. I hazily recall reading somewhere that an astonishingly large percentage of Mac users never upgrade their operating systems from whatever version comes installed on them between purchasing new CPUs, which at least, in some instances, would be analogous to trading your car in because the tires were worn out. I suppose this issue is more common with Macs because PC users are obliged by the Windows malware siege to pay attention to patching and upgrading their operating systems.[13] For many, the desire to own a Mac is often quashed by the sizable monetary hike separating Apple's powerful hardware platforms from generic PC systems and their considerably cheaper price points. [5] Sounds like a good idea, and there's no doubt consumers would appreciate it, but does it make sense from Apple's perspective? I think not, for a couple of reasons. They would be coming pretty close to interfering with their own clear price level demarcations. Apple is very good at pricing their products in such a way that each fits into its own clearly demarcated space, but that you also see the obvious value of going up to the next level. To start introducing products that clear the next level up by only a hundred dollars (and ones that probably offer significantly downgraded specs) would throw this delicate balance out of whack.[4] With reduced consumer spending combining with Microsoft's shameless 'Laptop Hunters' television commercials, which deride the hefty retail tags associated with Macs, emerging Net chatter suggests Apple Inc. might ' just might ' be mulling over the possibility of slightly more pocket-friendly prices.[5] Disagree. The reason there seems to be an Apple Tax at all is because Apple doesn't cripple their specs or build quality. If they did, as you suggest, then the prices would be comparable with a Dell with the same specs, not to one with with better specs. Who is engaging in wishful thinking now? Apple has had years to re-introduce an affordable desktop or tower and they've steadfastly refused to do so. Those of us who've been waiting for what seems like forever have given up on ever seeing one.[4] A 6.6 inch screen in 16/10 format at 240 dots per inch would have 1344 by 840 pixels. This would create a device about six inches by 3.75 inches which would fit in a purse or back pocket. It would be ideally sized for a movie viewer, e-book reader and personal game player. It would build on Apple's success. It would do everything you would want an Netbook to do, but it would cost only about $299 to $399. It doesn'''t seem likely, to me, that Apple will produce anything that looks like a Netbook. Why? Because the people who are arguing for this are demanding that Apple act like a copycat.[4] Something like 2/3 of all machines over $1000 are Apples. That is huge, and it's the hardest part, not the low hanging fruit. They can easily come out with a low spec'ed machine, perhaps with their own processor, and a small screen that won't compete with their laptops.[4] If it weren't for the magazine's legendary reliability and highest ethical standards, we might have gone so far as to say that CR had a little crush on the Infinite Loop folks. The venerable publication gave the company top rankings in three of its notebook categories: 13-inch machines, 14-inch to 16-inch laptops, and 17-inch models. The MacBooks bested their competitors, despite the lower cost of many of the Windows machines rated.[11] When it came to the 13-inch notebook category, Apple's offerings occupied all three of the top spots, with the unibody MacBook at the top, the MacBook Air in second place, and the plastic MacBook in third.[10] Until the tablet is available, Apple is reportedly hoping to deter defectors by dropping prices, most notably on the 13 inch MacBook.[6] Probably based on conjecture due to analysts saying that Apple needs to lower prices to stay somewhat competitive against those nickel and dime netbooks.[8] Apple interim chief Tom Cook recently said that netbooks are full of "cramped keyboards, terrible software, junky hardware, very small screens, and consumer experience." That still is not dampening customer demand, which went through the roof in 2008 and is still red-hot this year.[8] Apple has traditionally had a pretty good track record with Consumer Reports, so the latest findings aren't exactly shocking.[10] Apple scores high on the consumer magazine's test sheet. Gmail's unloved "on behalf of" address tag disappeared recently, but don't get too excitedit's coming back.[3] Analysts theorize that a company is best served by nearly giving away products to gain vast amounts of market share. I'm glad that most of those so-called analysts don't run Apple which is sitting on close to $30 billion of cash and doesn't seem to be in much danger as analysts claim from companies willing to operate on razor-thin profit margins.[8] Give us a tower with accessible internals, with minimal specs but lots of potential for self-installed upgrades down the road. Then sell us those upgrade parts through the Apple Store with official Apple branding. It's almost a cheap razor/expensive blades sales model, but I admit it involves a lot of risk, since you might get undercut by third-party providers on the upgrade components. It would be unexpected coming from Apple, and that is sort of their thing.[4] To add to your point, you should not forget that if you want to run a software (like your friends tax software) that just works on leopard you have to upgrade to leopard.[13] The new overview from the researchers' June report gives the Mac portables the lead in every size category, ranging from near-ultraportables up through desktop replacements. [1] The Mac-maker once again held a clear lead in a comparison of tech support services, taking the first position in the desktop and notebook categories.[12] Symbolically embarrassing for Microsoft, the exact same HP Pavilion dv7 that actress Lauren thought was a better deal in the first Microsoft commercial placed well behind Apple's contender, sitting in fourth place with 59. [1] REFERENCES 1. AppleInsider | MacBooks sweep latest Consumer Reports scores 2. Apple To Cut Computer Prices? - Computing News - Digital Trends 3. Consumer Reports Takes a Shine to Apple - Gadgetwise Blog - NYTimes.com 4. Apple's Budget Macs: Real Possibility or Wishful Thinking? 5. Netbook surge prompts Apple to drop Mac prices? - Hardware 6. Netbook Success Could Bring MacBook Prices Down / Infopackets.com 7. Evidence points to 3G radios in MacBooks, Tablets? - Computerworld Blogs 8. Apple to roll out new lower-priced Macs? - BloggingStocks 9. Apple Sweeps Consumer Reports' Laptop Recommendations - Mac Rumors 10. Consumer Reports continues to dote on Apple's notebooks - Ars Technica 11. MacBooks Sweep Consumer Reports Laptop Ratings - Business Center - PC World 12. Electronista | Apple's MacBooks rank high in Consumer Reports, again 13. OS Upgrading: More Customer Education Needed Microsoft Xbox Exec Defects To AppleCONTENTS:
Teversham had worked at Microsoft for over 15 years. He held the role of Xbox director for platform and marketing between 2005 and 2007 before becoming strategy boss. A Microsoft spokesperson told MCV this week: "We can confirm that Richard Teversham, director of business, insights and strategy, has taken a new opportunity outside of Microsoft. A process is underway for recruiting his replacement." While Teversham's role at Apple remains unclear, the addition of a significant player in Microsoft's international strategy and marketing for Xbox suggests the possibility of Apple further increasing its efforts in the gaming industry. Apple has been positioning the iPod touch as a gaming platform in much of its promotional material. [1] Richard Teversham was Xbox Europe's senior director of business, insights, and strategy, a Microsoft employee for the last 15 years. Now he's moved to Apple's camp, and we think it's pretty safe to say that he'll be doing something game related there, though MCV says something about an "eductation-related role." Gizmodo reminds that this hire follows another high-profile gaming-related hire, that of ATi's former graphics CTO, the designer of the GameCube graphics chip.[2] "Apple appears to be preparing an all-out assault on the handheld gaming market, moving to snap up gaming industry insiders from Microsoft to go with its growing team of graphics-chip specialists," Brian Caulfield reports for Forbes. "News that Apple has poached Richard Teversham from Microsoft's Xbox business this week is only the latest sign Apple has gotten serious about the gaming business," Caulfield reports. "Earlier this week Apple hired Bob Drebin, chief technologist at Advanced Micro Device's graphics group and the creator of the Nintendo Gamecube's graphics processor," Caulfield reports. "That move came as IBM ( IBM - news - people ) chip designer Mark Papermaster began his role as head of Apple's iPod business last month." "Apple is also putting some of its huge pile of cash into semiconductor technology. In December, Apple purchased 3.6% of U.K. -based ImagInation, licensing its PowerVR graphics technology.[3] The news only just broke that Apple had hired at least two top chip executives, but it looks like that wasn't the only skill set they were after. Another recent hire is raising eyebrows, because it seems to indicate that Apple is taking very seriously a group it appears to have largely ignored in the past. That group is gamers, who will hopefully be more of a focus for Apple now that former Xbox strategy guru Richard Teversham has joined the team. Teversham has worked at Microsoft since 2005, and as such is the perfect person to consult if you want to learn how to successfully market your product as a gaming platform. The Xbox 360 continues to be one of the most popular game consoles, largely outpacing its Sony competitor, the PlayStation 3. The job he's apparently signed up for with Apple is in an education-related capacity at their European office. Maybe Apple's planning on adding more educational gaming to their line-up? Hopefully the unusual department switch is just Apple learning from their non-compete trials and tribulations with Mark Papermaster, and involves them landing Teversham somewhere safe before they move him into a gaming-related capacity. As I mentioned before, this is only the latest in a string of hires, which seems to indicate that Apple is either in a growth phase or is shaking things up in a big way.[4] Microsoft's Xbox strategy boss Richard Teversham has quit the company after 15 years to assume a new role in Apple's European offices related to education.[5] Although Microsoft itself will only confirm that Teversham has left for a "new opportunity" beyond the company, MCV understands that he has quit his employer of 15 years to take up an education-related position at a European Apple office. Why he has made the switch or his specific role at Apple haven't been made public. At present, Teversham's LinkedIn profile only refers to his recently-ended tenure at the company. The departure follows a series of new hires from AMD's graphics brand ATI with the likely intent of producing custom mobile chip designs, though the former Microsoft executive's role isn't connected with these same activities. Apple is most likely to depend on Teversham to help revitalize its educational Mac sales, which have been hurt by the economic crisis and a resulting freeze on spending at schools.[6] Microsoft confirmed to MCV that Teversham has step down to take "a new opportunity outside" of the company without identifying Apple by name. "A process is underway for recruiting his replacement," the software giant said. Once presumed to be racing towards the finish line with Mac OS X 10.5.7 ]] Mac OS X 10.5.7, Apple's now said to be easing into the release of the Leopard update and making sure all its ends are tied. Rumors of the software's imminent release have swirled for about two weeks now but on Wednesday developers were reportedly asked to put their weight on yet another pre-release distribution carrying build number 9J58. Like those that came before it, the latest build corrects just a couple of issues -- one related to iChat and the other Safari -- and continues to list incompatibility with the public beta of Safari 4.0 as its lone issue. MacMall, one of AppleInsider's sponsors, dropped us a note earlier this week about a deal it's running on first-generation MacBook Airs. It's offering the original $1799 1.6GHz model with Intel graphics for $999 after instant discounts and a $200 mail-in-rebate.[5] another high-level executive from a major company has joined the expanding Apple Umbrella. Richard Teversham, a 15 year veteran of Microsoft and the leader of the X-Box's strategy team has joined Apple. This is big news for the industry, as it means Apple has pulled another extremely experienced executive into their fold.[7] '''We can confirm that Richard Teversham, director of business, insights and strategy, has taken a new opportunity outside of Microsoft. A process is underway for recruiting his replacement.[8] More pointedly, while its iPhone games continue to forge forward in the handheld market with more than 9,000 titles now available, Forbes reports that Cupertino-based Apple has this week plucked Richard Teversham away from Microsoft in order to bolster the strength of its steadily evolving team of graphics-chips specialists.[9] Teversham has done some amazing work turning the X-box into the cash cow that it is. Apple has some big developments underway, and it's likely they'll be using Teversham's expertise to help establish an edge in the exploding netbook industry. Considering how long it's taken Apple to throw its hat into the ring, they are likely to need it. When I look at this hiring alongside Bill Drebin's, I can't help but think it means Apple has something very graphically intensive coming down the pipe. They could be underway developing a dedicated graphics card for the iPhone. The iPhone has already proven to be able to hold its own as a gaming device, and video game apps are extremely popular. If Apple were to develop the first dedicated graphics card for a phone, they could create some incredibly complex and graphically advanced games, up there with console games in complexity and quality. Apple knows that the market is there, and I think they're hoping to be the first company to really establish the market.[7] Its not just its own chips that Apple is working on, its the entire ecosystem to build an efficient gaming device! Apple already has a killer mobile OS, an amazing multi-touch technology, a platform which attracts developers and some really cool games already live on the App Store. Its no secret that future iPhones / iPod Touch would be much more in to gaming than today, multi-core chips & premium App Store section are already rumored since long.[10] Very interesting. It looks like they're developing the iphone into a real game console. For that to happen they need to create a more centralized gaming section. Xbox live can actually be seen a the 'app store' of online gaming (or its really vice versa), so it would make sense for apple to image itself as a live sort of service.[11] By poaching the man who arguably has been instrumental in positioning the Xbox as a successful console against other gaming devices like the Nintendo Wii and Playstation 3, Apple gets a leg up on the competition. Teversham can bring his expertise and industry knowledge to a fresh platform that is quickly changing the way individuals game.[12] I do play an iPhone game at least a couple minutes every day I'm on the move.) Apple's got a very real gaming platform, they've got their own chips in place, and now they have a legit gaming strategist. If Nintendo and Sony weren't concerned at all previously, I imagine at least a bead or two of sweat is dripping down their forehead now, even if direct, bloody conflict between their consoles and the iPhone is still a generation or two away.[13] The iphone and iPod touch are great at casual games and some action games. That multi-touch screen will never be enough of a control mechanism for first person shooters. If Apple can find a way to add more controls to their mobile devices besides the touchscreen in such a way that their out of the way, clean and pleases Steve Jobs. then your going to have something extremely dangerous to the other players. that would be you Nintendo and you Sony. If I was an exec of one of those companies I would be extremely nervous over what Apple might be planning to do.[3] Apple will experiment with new form factors, launching a netbook or tablet computer that may use the same software that powers the iPhone and iPod touch. Such a device might be a terrible phone--it's hard to imagine shoving a 10-inch screen in your pocket--but it could be an ideal platform for games and social networking.[14] While you might not instantly associate Apple with the cutthroat arena of videogames, the growing popularity of iPhone and iPod Touch software and some executive poaching from the ranks of Microsoft's Xbox division might suggest the gadget specialist is looking to extend the gaming reach of its handheld platforms.[9] The evidence keeps coming that Apple is getting serious about gaming. In just the past week, the company has hired a senior Xbox executive from Microsoft, and earlier this week, a graphics expert from ATI. Apple's headhunting follows its investment in a graphics chip maker in December.[15] I think it very unlikely Teversham would be working on anything gaming wise for Apple with the contracts he signed to work for Microsoft all those years. There are protections built into high level exec jobs like his to stop them running off to their main competitor like how Apple got in legal trouble with IBM for poaching one of their engineers for chip design.[16] Duh, Apple should have gotten into gaming a long time ago like we old timers always said. It's a consumer electronics product company after all. Instead they let Microsoft, a mediocre corporation products company, beat them to the punch.[3] Apple has never been known for gaming devices, a fact to which the mid-90s Pippin can sadly attest. With more than 9,000 games now available for download via the iTunes App store, however, such stigmas may become a thing of the past. The real question here, I think is whether this hire also signals an improvement in the gaming capabilities of the company's computers.[17] Considering the profound success of the iTunes App Store, which just passed a billion downloads, and gold-rush tales of indie developers striking it rich with simple games, Apple's investment in creating more robust games and apps is a no-brainer.[18] "Apple has told us from the beginning to be sure to write our new software in a way that will accommodate different resolutions and screen sizes," Tapulus Chief Executive Bart Decrem says. Those developers are building applications that are wildly different from the quick and casual games that have appeared on mobile phones in the past. That's in part because of the device's lack of buttons.[14] Neil Young, chief executive of gaming startup Ngcomo, is betting that the iPhone's touch screen can handle more complex, fast-moving games than are found on today's mobile phones or handheld gaming consoles possible.[14] Big game houses are still figuring out the perfect formula for multi-touch + accelerometer control. There are already 37M iPhone OS devices in people's hands, by the end of this years, I wouldn't be surprised to see iPhone platform out pacing PSP to be the second largest mobile gaming platform or at least a very close third.[19] I find myself using this platform for gaming quite a bit because it's a device I always have on me, unlike the DS or PSP. I also enjoy playing one of the various tower defense games while listening to podcasts. It will never replace a dedicated gaming platform (for me), but I can see it being just perfect for the casual gamer.[2] Someone should tell him that the iphone/ipod touch platform has over 9,000 games in 9 months. No other gaming platform has reached such a feat. Sell is an odd word to use when the price is free for the bulk and majority of them.[19] The Steve Jobs crew is working hard on turning the iPhone and iPod touch into a viable gaming platform.[12] Apple will look to improve and expand the gaming capabilities of the iPhone and iPod Touch, and possibly the Apple tablet -- if it ever shows up.[20] Sooner or later the iPhone and iPod touch will get a new, faster processor, most likely an ARM-based design customized by Apple's in-house designers.[14] Of course, guessing what Apple will do next is a tricky business. The problem with Apple is that while it appears to plan long-term--keeping projects such as its 2005 shift to Intel ( INTC - news - people ) processors under wraps for years-- it says very little about even its short-term plans. Talk to a few of the thousands of developers who have flocked to build software for Apple's iPhone since last year and they'll say that Apple's instructions have always been very clear: Build your applications so that they're compatible with different screen resolutions and screen sizes.[14] Then there's "Star Defense," a real-time strategy game where players protect a planet from swarming invaders. Such games are certainly a preview of what's to come as developers continue to explore the iPhone's possibilities. They might also be the best hint at where Apple's hardware could go next.[14] Steve Jobs aversion to games and gamers has done Apple no favors in the past or the present with Mac hardware. Although this seems to be improving, and modern GPUs are somewhat available for MacPro only a couple of months later than their PC equivalents rather than the half-a-year or more of recent times. I think Apple's interesting in gaming has emerged with their surprise with the success of games on the iPhone AppStore. I do not believe this was planned at all, however reactive they have been, I think even Steve Jobs might now think that gaming is important.[3] I have an iPhone myself, and while I don't really consider it a "serious" portable gaming device it does have some neat shitter games for it.[2] "You've got a lot more fine control," Young says. "It is a very precise interface." He's betting big on a pair of games based on genres that have had mediocre success, at best, on small gaming devices. "Live Fire," slated for later this year, is a fast-moving shoot 'em up.[14] Previous to leading the charge on the gaming device, Teversham was the director of the platform and marketing.[12] At the moment, insiders report that Teversham will fulfill an "education-related role" with Apple. One suspects that means he'll be helping advance the company's immature gaming department.[21] The Cupertino company knows very well that gaming is one market willing to be conquered by Apple's smartphone and thus, is willing to take all the necessary steps.[22] Apple is looking to up their presence in the gaming space with a new hire, pulled right from Microsoft.[2] Microsoft's head of video game strategy in Europe has resigned. and will apparently be taking up an education-related position with Apple.[23] I think this is the one time Apple is gonna follow Microsoft's lead. They might be thinking about making their own home console a la Xbox 360. Not so sure it's a good idea though, but then again Apple has a track record if proving doubters wrong. He's from Microsoft. Apple probably just hired him to work in the cafeteria. This is really exciting.[19] The move marks the latest defection of a top Microsoft executive--although the first time in recent memory that one has moved directly to Apple.[23] Although non-compete clauses and other contractual obligations will probably prevent Teversham from working on gaming-related projects for Apple, the move illustrates the sorts of problems Microsoft can have attracting (and retaining) top industry talent, especially now that Microsoft's days of constantly-inflating stock prices seem to be long gone.[23] The Wall Street Journal Thursday reported that Apple also recently hired Raja Koduri, another former chief technology officer of AMD's graphics chip group. The hirings and other recent moves have rekindled suggestions that Apple is handpicking a team of engineers and semiconductor specialists as it seeks to create its own semiconductor design business.[24] The deal may be a compelling option for anyone in the market for an ultra-portable Mac for basic email, internet and business use, and who isn't concerned with the NVIDIA graphics boost delivered by the latest models. The Apple authorized reseller let us know that its 3% off coupons on the current 13-inch MacBook line are going on hiatus until at least June, and will therefore expire tonight at 12:00 am Pacific.[5] Handheld and pocket computing is CLEARLY the next frontier and Apple is miles ahead of everyone. When a platform like iPhone/touch finds appeal with everyone from business, science, medicine. to their kids. multiple industries must be shitting proverbial bricks (see: Zune).[3] While the FPS market is large and in many ways has driven the computer market, Apple has proven with the iPhone/touch platform that so-called "casual" gaming is a huge untapped market. Apple built such a wide array of functionality into the iPhone/touch it's made heads spin in competitors' HQs.[3] The iphone is an ok gaming platform because it's mobile and the expectations aren't that high for mobile platforms.[11] In fact the only good Pippen out there was Scottie. If it is indeed for some gaming platform they are picking a poor time to join the fight, just like they did last time.[19] I also like not having to carry another portable gaming device with me if I want to pass some time waiting around somewhere.[2] That's what I've thought too-with a charging dock connection, the iPhone itself could be the console. I know these kinds of experiments have to be going on whether or not we ever see the results publicly. It makes sense as more and more gaming content from major developers becomes downloadable too-physical media will not be an issue, distribution wise, anyway (piracy being a little trickier with an app store style system in place). [3] I stopped buying DS titles because there was so much good free content in the app store for my iPod touch.[15] Love my iPod Touch, a larger screen size for viewing and playing games would only be that much better.[3] Cool stuff is coming. I haven't bought many games, but my son has a couple dozen downloaded for his iPod touch.[3] I would greatly appreciate it if Apple upgraded the iPod touch with a physical keyboard, and trackball + d-pad.[15] The iPod touch is " The funnest iPod ever." In addition to these high-level hires, Apple is also hunting for average-Joe (or, more likely, average-Amit) engineers in a number of areas relating to its handheld efforts.[25] MCV understands that Teversham has accepted an education-related role at the iPod creator's European office. [16] MCV is the leading trade news and community site for all professionals working within the UK and international video games market. It reaches everyone from store manager to CEO, covering the entire industry.[16] The iPhone will almost certainly get a better camera and multi-media capabilities. That could unleash a new generation of applications that integrate video and still images into games and social applications, as Nintendo's new DSi has done.[14] Games like all iPhone apps are frequently tasted, then dropped. None of them measure up to the most basic game console games.[19] In iPhone 3.0, app software can access hardware connected to the dock connector. Those extra controls are coming real soon now from 3rd parties (or even Apple).[3] Console gaming is a whole 'nother world. I don't see Apple making it in the console/PC gaming world (should they go that route). They've never done well here. Not to mention these guys are second tier guys.[11] MacDailyNews.com article summary: Apple appears to be preparing an all-out assault on the handheld gaming market.[3] PSP designers may be in trouble. The billion-dollar question is, will Nintendo take Apple's threat seriously, or will they laugh them off, like Apple's cellphone, music retail, and MP3 player competitors laughed them off before? We all know how that ended.[3] I guess this means a tablet really could be on the cards. It could also mean Apple doesn't want to repeat the mistakes they made with the Apple II and early Mac software. It makes obvious sense to want to change the screen resolution & aspect ratio in the future, and you certainly want software built in anticipation of that as early as possible. (Nobody wants another "compatibility mode" that runs software letterboxed, wasting rest of the screen).[3] Teversham may be attracted by the iPhone'''s potential to become a disruptive games device. [26] Rene, you need to take a tour of the gaming platforms out there and the games available for them.[19] Short, a 19-year Microsoft veteran, led the team responsible for designing, developing, and testing core components of the Windows operating system. Microsoft business division president Jeff Raikes stepped down in September, replaced by former Juniper Networks chief operating officer Stephen Elop. Microsoft's merger and acquisitions chief, Bruce Jaffe, left his post last February. [27] REFERENCES 1. Microsoft Xbox Strategy and Marketing Executive to Join Apple? - Mac Rumors 2. Destructoid - Apple hires Xbox senior director of strategy 3. MacDailyNews - Forbes: Apple's interest in gaming isn't casual 4. Another New Apple Hire, This Time It's All Fun and Games 5. AppleInsider | Apple lands Xbox boss, Mac OS X 10.5.7, $999 MacBook Air deal 6. Electronista | Apple recruits former Xbox director 7. X-Box Strategy Director Defects to Apple! 8. Xbox strategy chief quits Microsoft for Apple 9. Xbox executive adds weight to Apple's gaming value - Gaming 10. Apple getting serious about gaming day by day! | iPhone Help ! 11. TG Daily - Apple snaps up senior Xbox strategist 12. Xbox Strategy Boss Decides To Bite Apple - The Channel Wire - IT Channel News And Views by CRN and VARBusiness 13. Gizmodo - Apple Is Serious About Gaming: Steals Xbox Senior Director of Strategy - iPhone Apps 14. Apple's Interest In Gaming Isn't Casual - Forbes.com 15. Apple is Headhunting Gaming Executives | Technologizer 16. Teversham quits Xbox for Apple | Gaming Industry | MCV 17. Apple Hires Former Xbox Exec - News and Analysis by PC Magazine 18. Kotaku - Apple Getting More Serious About Mobile Gaming? - iPhone 19. Microsoft Head of Xbox BI and Strategy Leaving for Apple? | The iPhone Blog 20. Apple Snags Xbox Exec -- More Games for iPhone? - PC World 21. MS Xbox Exec Flies Coop to Apple / Infopackets.com 22. Xbox Top Exec Moves To Apple - Business news 23. European Xbox Exec Leaves Microsoft for Apple - Lifestyle News - Digital Trends 24. EETimes.com - Apple reportedly lures European Xbox director 25. Apple hooks Microsoft Xbox tactician ''' The Register 26. Microsoft loses Xbox exec to Apple :: StrategyEye Digital Media 27. Microsoft Xbox Exec Defects To Apple -- InformationWeek A great gadget doesn't guarantee successCONTENTS:
People familiar with the matter have said Apple Inc. is readying a device that may make it easier to read digital books and periodicals, a prospect some publishers are eagerly awaiting. Go ahead and grab the salt shaker, 'cause this one's nowhere near carved in stone… or is it? A breaking report from The New York Times has it that Amazon will introduce a larger version of its Kindle e-reader "as early as this week," one that's tailored for "displaying newspapers, magazines and perhaps textbooks." If you'll recall, magazine publisher Hearst made its intentions public to produce such a device earlier this year, noting that a larger panel would be more conducive to traditional print media layouts, and thus, additional revenue from ads. All users have acknowledged and agreed that the submission of their story and its contents is in compliance with our Terms of Use. [1] I've been trying the Kindle for two weeks, and I can confidently say my birthday is coming right up. (To see my video about using the Kindle, go to TBO.com, Keyword: Kindle.) This generation Kindle is easy to use, thin, lightweight, looks great, and makes it fun to buy books and read newspapers and magazines.[2] Some newspaper and magazine companies, feeling let down by the Kindle electronic reader from Amazon.com Inc., are pushing for alternatives. A few publishers are forging alliances with consumer-electronics firms to support e-readers that meet their needs. Chief among their complaints about the Amazon portable reading gadget is the way Amazon acts as a middleman with subscribers and controls pricing. [3] A couple of dozen newspaper and magazine companies have signed up to be on the Kindle. Most subscriptions cost about $10 a month and electronic editions arrive automatically, wirelessly the instant they're published - often long before the paper versions would hit doorsteps. (Bonus: No advertisements. yet.)[2] If enough people buy Kindles or Sony's rival device or a yet-to-debut electronic newspaper from Plastic Logic, the world of publishing could change forever ''' from how the written word is sold to how easy it would be to have your novel published. It even would alter the meaning of publishing.[4] As good as the device might be, a consumer first has to gamble on the $359 purchase. It's like asking someone who has never driven to order a car online. It must be easy for people to observe the device's new advantage. Because it was hard for illiterate Peruvian villagers without a grasp of germ theory to see better health from boiled water, they didn't bother with it.[4] Bookstore owners I talked with in town remember people predicting the death of the paper book due to CD-Rom books in the 1990s. I think this is the more interesting question: What about the new things e-book readers can do that are different? Once you make a book digital and wireless, you can offer dynamic books published over time - like a chapter a week.[2] The Kindle, which looks kind of like a giant white calculator, is the technology equivalent of a plain brown wrapper. If people jettison their book collections or stop buying new volumes, it will grow increasingly hard to form snap opinions about them by wandering casually into their living rooms.[5] To other writers and editors, the Kindle is the ultimate bad idea whose time has come. Anne Fadiman, the author, was relieved to learn that her essay collection, "Ex Libris," was not available on Kindle. "It would really be ironic if it were," she said of the book, which evokes her abiding passion for books as objects. "There's a little box on Amazon that reads 'Tell the publisher I'd like to read this book on Kindle,'" she said.[5] Amazon's Kindle bookstore offers most books for a flat $9.99. While it lacks the Apple mystique, Amazon has a broad customer base that already is comfy with buying things at its Web site.[4] For her, the ownership of an electronic book reader, while not necessarily a badge of literary honor, at least telegraphs a commitment to books. "It's really expensive," she said of the Kindle 2, which Amazon sells for $359.[5] I expect Amazon will start a Kindle "App store" for inventors to come up with new applications. I'll predict Amazon opens up a self-publishing shop, so aspiring authors can upload their works and Amazon takes a small cut of any sales. Other e-book readers are coming as well.[2] Of course, there's lots of talk about whether the Kindle or other e-book readers will kill off paper books.[2] A long line of companies have tried selling electronic book readers, and they just didn't work out. Once, an Internet entrepreneur joked with me that he helped "spawn the great e-book bubble of March 2000." That was way back when PalmPilots (remember those?) offered a few digital books, and no less than Stephen King jumped into the fray to write them.[2] Digital books you bought online with Amazon show up for free on your iPhone through the Kindle app.[2] Does the new thing have some relative advantage? For Collins, the ability to cram thousands of books into a device that's more compact than a single paperback makes the Kindle a winner.[4] The Times also stated that the new device's main application will be making it easier to read newspapers, magazines and other old-media content on the device.[6] Is it compatible with past experience? Certainly the Kindle is easy to read. The letters look identical to those on a printed page (and they can be expanded to large print).[4] Oddly, blogs that are free online cost a subscription of 99 cents to $1.99 per month to read on a Kindle.[2] "I am the exact target audience for the Kindle ''' precisely the mix of book reader and tech lover who should want one.[4] As for battery life, I found the Kindle lasted a few days of reading, but only lasted a day when half my family played with it, downloading books.[2] Nicholson Baker, who writes fiction and nonfiction books, feels much the same way. Years ago, he walked into a temporary job with a copy of "Ulysses." "I wanted people to know I wasn't just a temp," he said, "but rather a temp who was reading 'Ulysses.'"[5] "I always notice how many books there are on the bookshelves, and what the books are," said Ammon Shea, who spent a year reading the entire Oxford English Dictionary and published a book about it. "It's the faux-intellectual version of sniffing through someone's medicine cabinet."[5] As books migrate from paper, it means the death of the pickup line, "Oh, I see you're reading the latest (insert highbrow author's name here)."[5] "I hope no one tells the publisher." The practice of judging people by the covers of their books is old and time-honored.[5] Please be reminded, however, that in accordance with our Terms of Use and federal law, we are under no obligation to remove any third party comments posted on our Web site. [4] Any number of confounding variables will figure in whether the Kindle will do to reading what the iPod has done to music, or wind up on the trash heap of gadget history.[4] REFERENCES 1. Big-screen Kindle coming from Amazon '''as early as this week''' at The Insider 2. Amazon's Kindle 2 is an intriguing e-book reader you should keep an eye on 3. Publishers Nurture Rivals to Kindle - WSJ.com 4. A great gadget doesn't guarantee success 5. With Kindle, can they tell it's Proust?: Times Argus Online 6. Report: Bigger Kindle Coming As Soon As This Week : Dealerscope Apple Rejects Nine Inch Nails Application UpdateCONTENTS:The content was references to the band's album "The Downward Spiral." Reznor informed is fans via Twitter this week. One of the most confusing facts of this case is the exact same content, the music album and lyrics, are still available on iTunes and have been for years. The same content is also available, apparently, on the first version of the already approved Nine Inch Nails application. [1] The free app would have extended the web of connectivity between fans already offered by the band's website, nin.com, where official content mingles with images and videos taken by the fans themselves. Reznor, who supplied the music and sound for Quake back in 1996, announced Apple's decision via his twitter feed, saying: "Apple rejects the NIN iPhone update because it contains objectionable content.[2] Reznor tonight responded in more detail to the rejection in a post to the NIN forums. In it he points out the hypocrisy of his app's rejected for objectionable content while the exact same song is available for purchase in the iTunes store.[3] I needed that in my pocket. After the initial envy passed, I began to wonder whether or not Android would ever get this app. Based on a tweet from Trent tonight, I believe Android might be something he and NIN need start seriously considering. In typical Apple hypocracy, they've decided to withhold the latest build of the app from the iTunes store over "objectionable content."[4] The NIN app update v1.0.3 was released last week to fix an app crash causing bug that existed for international users. After Apple's email stating the 'The Download Spiral' as the reason of rejection, the NIN app dev team removed respective song from its servers. Looking at this from Apple's point of view, we can gauge that the white fruit themed toy maker is restraining any possibility of allowing profanity through any probable mode. It fails to provide proper laid out guidelines for the app submitters.[5] Everyone - let me be clear. I love Apple products and as goofy and out-of-touch as their app approval process / policy is, I will still use them because they work 1000X better than the competition. This is not a debate, it's a fact. The iPhone is THE most elegant, modern smartphone at this point in time and it's perfect for what we want to do with the NIN app - except for the ludicrous approval process, and that's what I want to draw attention to.[6] Not even sure where to start with that one." It's hard to blame Apple for being extra-cautious after the outrage caused by the baby-shaking app that managed to make it past Apple's screening process, but commenters have pointed out that Apple are more than happy to sell 'The Downward Spiral' via its iTunes service.[2] According to many developers, getting iPhone applications approved can be a difficult and irritating process. Often when you are given reasons for denial they are difficult to understand. This newest reject from Apple raises questions about how easy it was for the Baby Shaker application to make it past the approval process while the popular band's update is suddenly too controversial.[1] "Applications must not contain any obscene, pornographic, offensive or defamatory content or materials of any kind (text, graphics, images, photographs, etc.), or other content or materials that in Apple's reasonable judgement may be found objectionable by iPhone or iPod touch users."[4] As it turns out, there was no new content added in the update, all that was included were simple bug fixes yet Apple still rejected it.[6] The app developers discussed the details of the update at the official NIN forum.[5] If Apple doesn't get it together, we will most certainly make it available to the jailbreak community. I didn't invest in this app to see it languish on the sidelines from an idiotic policy while this tour is in full swing.[6] REFERENCES 1. Apple Rejects Nine Inch Nails Application Update » Tech Jackal 2. The Escapist : News : Apple Pulls Plug On Nine Inch Nails App 3. Trent Reznor responds to NIN app denial | The Apple Core | ZDNet.com 4. Hey Trent Bring the App to Android! | AndroidGuys 5. Techtree.com India > News > Software > Nine Inch Nails App Update for iPhone Gets Dunked 6. NIN Frontman Speaks Out: Apple, BlackBerry, Android, Windows Mobile, and Jailbreaking? | The iPhone Blog Girls lacrosse: Mayo falls to Apple ValleyCONTENTS:The content was references to the band's album "The Downward Spiral." Reznor informed is fans via Twitter this week. One of the most confusing facts of this case is the exact same content, the music album and lyrics, are still available on iTunes and have been for years. The same content is also available, apparently, on the first version of the already approved Nine Inch Nails application. [1] The free app would have extended the web of connectivity between fans already offered by the band's website, nin.com, where official content mingles with images and videos taken by the fans themselves. Reznor, who supplied the music and sound for Quake back in 1996, announced Apple's decision via his twitter feed, saying: "Apple rejects the NIN iPhone update because it contains objectionable content.[2] Reznor tonight responded in more detail to the rejection in a post to the NIN forums. In it he points out the hypocrisy of his app's rejected for objectionable content while the exact same song is available for purchase in the iTunes store.[3] I needed that in my pocket. After the initial envy passed, I began to wonder whether or not Android would ever get this app. Based on a tweet from Trent tonight, I believe Android might be something he and NIN need start seriously considering. In typical Apple hypocracy, they've decided to withhold the latest build of the app from the iTunes store over "objectionable content."[4] The NIN app update v1.0.3 was released last week to fix an app crash causing bug that existed for international users. After Apple's email stating the 'The Download Spiral' as the reason of rejection, the NIN app dev team removed respective song from its servers. Looking at this from Apple's point of view, we can gauge that the white fruit themed toy maker is restraining any possibility of allowing profanity through any probable mode. It fails to provide proper laid out guidelines for the app submitters.[5] Everyone - let me be clear. I love Apple products and as goofy and out-of-touch as their app approval process / policy is, I will still use them because they work 1000X better than the competition. This is not a debate, it's a fact. The iPhone is THE most elegant, modern smartphone at this point in time and it's perfect for what we want to do with the NIN app - except for the ludicrous approval process, and that's what I want to draw attention to.[6] Not even sure where to start with that one." It's hard to blame Apple for being extra-cautious after the outrage caused by the baby-shaking app that managed to make it past Apple's screening process, but commenters have pointed out that Apple are more than happy to sell 'The Downward Spiral' via its iTunes service.[2] According to many developers, getting iPhone applications approved can be a difficult and irritating process. Often when you are given reasons for denial they are difficult to understand. This newest reject from Apple raises questions about how easy it was for the Baby Shaker application to make it past the approval process while the popular band's update is suddenly too controversial.[1] "Applications must not contain any obscene, pornographic, offensive or defamatory content or materials of any kind (text, graphics, images, photographs, etc.), or other content or materials that in Apple's reasonable judgement may be found objectionable by iPhone or iPod touch users."[4] As it turns out, there was no new content added in the update, all that was included were simple bug fixes yet Apple still rejected it.[6] Last year, many businesses deferred the purchase of new laptops in favor of smartphones, and why not? Offering phone, calendar, email, IM and Web access, they're arguably the most practical business tools.[3] Imagine the possibilities of GPS-based features that can run in the background of your phone.'' Rather than shutting an app off when it's not up, you could make nin: access more functional, allowing for notifications and push alerts.[4] The app developers discussed the details of the update at the official NIN forum.[5] If Apple doesn't get it together, we will most certainly make it available to the jailbreak community. I didn't invest in this app to see it languish on the sidelines from an idiotic policy while this tour is in full swing.[6] REFERENCES 1. Apple Rejects Nine Inch Nails Application Update » Tech Jackal 2. The Escapist : News : Apple Pulls Plug On Nine Inch Nails App 3. Trent Reznor responds to NIN app denial | The Apple Core | ZDNet.com 4. Hey Trent Bring the App to Android! | AndroidGuys 5. Techtree.com India > News > Software > Nine Inch Nails App Update for iPhone Gets Dunked 6. NIN Frontman Speaks Out: Apple, BlackBerry, Android, Windows Mobile, and Jailbreaking? | The iPhone Blog From The Big Apple To Little SiouxCONTENTS:
The free app would have extended the web of connectivity between fans already offered by the band's website, nin.com, where official content mingles with images and videos taken by the fans themselves. Reznor, who supplied the music and sound for Quake back in 1996, announced Apple's decision via his twitter feed, saying: "Apple rejects the NIN iPhone update because it contains objectionable content. [1] Reznor tonight responded in more detail to the rejection in a post to the NIN forums. In it he points out the hypocrisy of his app's rejected for objectionable content while the exact same song is available for purchase in the iTunes store.[2] I needed that in my pocket. After the initial envy passed, I began to wonder whether or not Android would ever get this app. Based on a tweet from Trent tonight, I believe Android might be something he and NIN need start seriously considering. In typical Apple hypocracy, they've decided to withhold the latest build of the app from the iTunes store over "objectionable content."[3] The NIN app update v1.0.3 was released last week to fix an app crash causing bug that existed for international users. After Apple's email stating the 'The Download Spiral' as the reason of rejection, the NIN app dev team removed respective song from its servers. Looking at this from Apple's point of view, we can gauge that the white fruit themed toy maker is restraining any possibility of allowing profanity through any probable mode. It fails to provide proper laid out guidelines for the app submitters.[4] Everyone - let me be clear. I love Apple products and as goofy and out-of-touch as their app approval process / policy is, I will still use them because they work 1000X better than the competition. This is not a debate, it's a fact. The iPhone is THE most elegant, modern smartphone at this point in time and it's perfect for what we want to do with the NIN app - except for the ludicrous approval process, and that's what I want to draw attention to.[5] According to many developers, getting iPhone applications approved can be a difficult and irritating process. Often when you are given reasons for denial they are difficult to understand. This newest reject from Apple raises questions about how easy it was for the Baby Shaker application to make it past the approval process while the popular band's update is suddenly too controversial.[6] The content was references to the band's album "The Downward Spiral." Reznor informed is fans via Twitter this week. One of the most confusing facts of this case is the exact same content, the music album and lyrics, are still available on iTunes and have been for years. The same content is also available, apparently, on the first version of the already approved Nine Inch Nails application.[6] "In case u havent heard the news, mariqueen got engaged. everyone in the west indian girl camp is super. All users have acknowledged and agreed that the submission of their story and its contents is in compliance with our Terms of Use.[7] As it turns out, there was no new content added in the update, all that was included were simple bug fixes yet Apple still rejected it.[5] "Applications must not contain any obscene, pornographic, offensive or defamatory content or materials of any kind (text, graphics, images, photographs, etc.), or other content or materials that in Apple's reasonable judgement may be found objectionable by iPhone or iPod touch users."[3] Not even sure where to start with that one." It's hard to blame Apple for being extra-cautious after the outrage caused by the baby-shaking app that managed to make it past Apple's screening process, but commenters have pointed out that Apple are more than happy to sell 'The Downward Spiral' via its iTunes service.[1] If Apple doesn't get it together, we will most certainly make it available to the jailbreak community. I didn't invest in this app to see it languish on the sidelines from an idiotic policy while this tour is in full swing.[5] The app developers discussed the details of the update at the official NIN forum. [4] Imagine the possibilities of GPS-based features that can run in the background of your phone.'' Rather than shutting an app off when it's not up, you could make nin: access more functional, allowing for notifications and push alerts.[3] Last year, many businesses deferred the purchase of new laptops in favor of smartphones, and why not? Offering phone, calendar, email, IM and Web access, they're arguably the most practical business tools.[2] REFERENCES 1. The Escapist : News : Apple Pulls Plug On Nine Inch Nails App 2. Trent Reznor responds to NIN app denial | The Apple Core | ZDNet.com 3. Hey Trent Bring the App to Android! | AndroidGuys 4. Techtree.com India > News > Software > Nine Inch Nails App Update for iPhone Gets Dunked 5. NIN Frontman Speaks Out: Apple, BlackBerry, Android, Windows Mobile, and Jailbreaking? | The iPhone Blog 6. Apple Rejects Nine Inch Nails Application Update » Tech Jackal 7. Trent Reznor and Mariqueen Maandig Are Engaged at The Insider All about the iPhone, iPod touch, and App Store from the Apple expertsCONTENTS:
The free app would have extended the web of connectivity between fans already offered by the band's website, nin.com, where official content mingles with images and videos taken by the fans themselves. Reznor, who supplied the music and sound for Quake back in 1996, announced Apple's decision via his twitter feed, saying: "Apple rejects the NIN iPhone update because it contains objectionable content. [1] Reznor tonight responded in more detail to the rejection in a post to the NIN forums. In it he points out the hypocrisy of his app's rejected for objectionable content while the exact same song is available for purchase in the iTunes store.[2] The NIN app update v1.0.3 was released last week to fix an app crash causing bug that existed for international users. After Apple's email stating the 'The Download Spiral' as the reason of rejection, the NIN app dev team removed respective song from its servers. Looking at this from Apple's point of view, we can gauge that the white fruit themed toy maker is restraining any possibility of allowing profanity through any probable mode. It fails to provide proper laid out guidelines for the app submitters.[3] Everyone - let me be clear. I love Apple products and as goofy and out-of-touch as their app approval process / policy is, I will still use them because they work 1000X better than the competition. This is not a debate, it's a fact. The iPhone is THE most elegant, modern smartphone at this point in time and it's perfect for what we want to do with the NIN app - except for the ludicrous approval process, and that's what I want to draw attention to.[4] According to many developers, getting iPhone applications approved can be a difficult and irritating process. Often when you are given reasons for denial they are difficult to understand. This newest reject from Apple raises questions about how easy it was for the Baby Shaker application to make it past the approval process while the popular band's update is suddenly too controversial.[5] The content was references to the band's album "The Downward Spiral." Reznor informed is fans via Twitter this week. One of the most confusing facts of this case is the exact same content, the music album and lyrics, are still available on iTunes and have been for years. The same content is also available, apparently, on the first version of the already approved Nine Inch Nails application.[5] "In case u havent heard the news, mariqueen got engaged. everyone in the west indian girl camp is super. All users have acknowledged and agreed that the submission of their story and its contents is in compliance with our Terms of Use.[6] As it turns out, there was no new content added in the update, all that was included were simple bug fixes yet Apple still rejected it.[4] I needed that in my pocket. After the initial envy passed, I began to wonder whether or not Android would ever get this app. Based on a tweet from Trent tonight, I believe Android might be something he and NIN need start seriously considering. In typical Apple hypocracy, they've decided to withhold the latest build of the app from the iTunes store over "objectionable content."[7] "Applications must not contain any obscene, pornographic, offensive or defamatory content or materials of any kind (text, graphics, images, photographs, etc.), or other content or materials that in Apple's reasonable judgement may be found objectionable by iPhone or iPod touch users."[7] If you'''ve got an iPhone or iPod touch, there'''s no reason you have to spring for a standalone picture frame'''not when Chilli X???s PhotoFrame can add that functionality to your mobile device.[8] The app overrides the auto-lock setting on your mobile device, meaning your phone won'''t go to sleep in the middle of your slideshow; that way, you can keep PhotoFrame running like a real digital photo frame while you charge your iPhone at your desk.[8] The app also tells you the date and the time. The $1 PhotoFrame provides most of the basic features you'''d find in other calendar-clock iPhone apps, but adds its own twist'''a much-welcomed photo slideshow.[8] You can set whether the time appears in a 12- or 24-hour clock. That'''s about it for PhotoFrame'''it'''s an extremely simple app. Still, after testing several different desk clock applications, I'''ve found this one to make the most sensible use of screen real estate. You sacrifice the full calendar view you'''d get from DeskClock, another Chilli X app. But in exchange, you get a great slideshow feature'''and as someone who changes his iPhone'''s wallpaper once a month, I feel like that'''s a fair trade-off.[8] Not even sure where to start with that one." It's hard to blame Apple for being extra-cautious after the outrage caused by the baby-shaking app that managed to make it past Apple's screening process, but commenters have pointed out that Apple are more than happy to sell 'The Downward Spiral' via its iTunes service. [1] If Apple doesn't get it together, we will most certainly make it available to the jailbreak community. I didn't invest in this app to see it languish on the sidelines from an idiotic policy while this tour is in full swing.[4] The app developers discussed the details of the update at the official NIN forum. [3] Imagine the possibilities of GPS-based features that can run in the background of your phone.'' Rather than shutting an app off when it's not up, you could make nin: access more functional, allowing for notifications and push alerts.[7] Last year, many businesses deferred the purchase of new laptops in favor of smartphones, and why not? Offering phone, calendar, email, IM and Web access, they're arguably the most practical business tools.[2] Late last month, there was the infamous baby shaking app, which inexplicably managed to get through the approval process, before getting quickly pulled. [9] REFERENCES 1. The Escapist : News : Apple Pulls Plug On Nine Inch Nails App 2. Trent Reznor responds to NIN app denial | The Apple Core | ZDNet.com 3. Techtree.com India > News > Software > Nine Inch Nails App Update for iPhone Gets Dunked 4. NIN Frontman Speaks Out: Apple, BlackBerry, Android, Windows Mobile, and Jailbreaking? | The iPhone Blog 5. Apple Rejects Nine Inch Nails Application Update » Tech Jackal 6. Trent Reznor and Mariqueen Maandig Are Engaged at The Insider 7. Hey Trent Bring the App to Android! | AndroidGuys 8. PhotoFrame for iPhone Review | Software | iPhone Central | Macworld 9. Gizmodo - Heresy! Apple Rejects Trent Reznor's NIN iPhone App Update For 'Objectionable Content' - nin Microsoft loses executive to AppleCONTENTS:
Teversham had worked at Microsoft for over 15 years. He held the role of Xbox director for platform and marketing between 2005 and 2007 before becoming strategy boss. A Microsoft spokesperson told MCV this week: "We can confirm that Richard Teversham, director of business, insights and strategy, has taken a new opportunity outside of Microsoft. A process is underway for recruiting his replacement." While Teversham's role at Apple remains unclear, the addition of a significant player in Microsoft's international strategy and marketing for Xbox suggests the possibility of Apple further increasing its efforts in the gaming industry. Apple has been positioning the iPod touch as a gaming platform in much of its promotional material. [1] "Apple appears to be preparing an all-out assault on the handheld gaming market, moving to snap up gaming industry insiders from Microsoft to go with its growing team of graphics-chip specialists," Brian Caulfield reports for Forbes. "News that Apple has poached Richard Teversham from Microsoft's Xbox business this week is only the latest sign Apple has gotten serious about the gaming business," Caulfield reports. "Earlier this week Apple hired Bob Drebin, chief technologist at Advanced Micro Device's graphics group and the creator of the Nintendo Gamecube's graphics processor," Caulfield reports. "That move came as IBM ( IBM - news - people ) chip designer Mark Papermaster began his role as head of Apple's iPod business last month." "Apple is also putting some of its huge pile of cash into semiconductor technology. In December, Apple purchased 3.6% of U.K. -based ImagInation, licensing its PowerVR graphics technology.[2] The news only just broke that Apple had hired at least two top chip executives, but it looks like that wasn't the only skill set they were after. Another recent hire is raising eyebrows, because it seems to indicate that Apple is taking very seriously a group it appears to have largely ignored in the past. That group is gamers, who will hopefully be more of a focus for Apple now that former Xbox strategy guru Richard Teversham has joined the team. Teversham has worked at Microsoft since 2005, and as such is the perfect person to consult if you want to learn how to successfully market your product as a gaming platform. The Xbox 360 continues to be one of the most popular game consoles, largely outpacing its Sony competitor, the PlayStation 3. The job he's apparently signed up for with Apple is in an education-related capacity at their European office. Maybe Apple's planning on adding more educational gaming to their line-up? Hopefully the unusual department switch is just Apple learning from their non-compete trials and tribulations with Mark Papermaster, and involves them landing Teversham somewhere safe before they move him into a gaming-related capacity. As I mentioned before, this is only the latest in a string of hires, which seems to indicate that Apple is either in a growth phase or is shaking things up in a big way.[3] Anybody who said Apple wasn't serious about gaming can swallow their pundit nuggets right now: They just hired Richard Teversham, Xbox Europe's (now former) senior director of business, insights and strategy. It's especially interesting when you take into consideration Apple's other recent major hire, ATI's former graphics CTO, the guy who designed the GameCube's graphics card. For the love of all that is holy and Jobsian, however, it doesn't mean they're going to make a MacBoxStationCube 1080--the iPhone (and maybe that tablet/pad thing) is Apple's gaming platform. 15 of the top 20 paid apps of all time are games.[4] Teversham has done some amazing work turning the X-box into the cash cow that it is. Apple has some big developments underway, and it's likely they'll be using Teversham's expertise to help establish an edge in the exploding netbook industry. Considering how long it's taken Apple to throw its hat into the ring, they are likely to need it. When I look at this hiring alongside Bill Drebin's, I can't help but think it means Apple has something very graphically intensive coming down the pipe. They could be underway developing a dedicated graphics card for the iPhone. The iPhone has already proven to be able to hold its own as a gaming device, and video game apps are extremely popular. If Apple were to develop the first dedicated graphics card for a phone, they could create some incredibly complex and graphically advanced games, up there with console games in complexity and quality. Apple knows that the market is there, and I think they're hoping to be the first company to really establish the market.[5] Its not just its own chips that Apple is working on, its the entire ecosystem to build an efficient gaming device! Apple already has a killer mobile OS, an amazing multi-touch technology, a platform which attracts developers and some really cool games already live on the App Store. Its no secret that future iPhones / iPod Touch would be much more in to gaming than today, multi-core chips & premium App Store section are already rumored since long.[6] By poaching the man who arguably has been instrumental in positioning the Xbox as a successful console against other gaming devices like the Nintendo Wii and Playstation 3, Apple gets a leg up on the competition. Teversham can bring his expertise and industry knowledge to a fresh platform that is quickly changing the way individuals game.[7] Microsoft '''s head of Xbox strategy is leaving the company to join Apple, indicating that Apple is serious about promoting its iPhone and iPod Touch as gaming devices.[8] Microsoft's Xbox strategy boss Richard Teversham has quit the company after 15 years to assume a new role in Apple's European offices related to education.[9] Although Microsoft itself will only confirm that Teversham has left for a "new opportunity" beyond the company, MCV understands that he has quit his employer of 15 years to take up an education-related position at a European Apple office. Why he has made the switch or his specific role at Apple haven't been made public. At present, Teversham's LinkedIn profile only refers to his recently-ended tenure at the company. The departure follows a series of new hires from AMD's graphics brand ATI with the likely intent of producing custom mobile chip designs, though the former Microsoft executive's role isn't connected with these same activities. Apple is most likely to depend on Teversham to help revitalize its educational Mac sales, which have been hurt by the economic crisis and a resulting freeze on spending at schools.[10] Microsoft confirmed to MCV that Teversham has step down to take "a new opportunity outside" of the company without identifying Apple by name. "A process is underway for recruiting his replacement," the software giant said. Once presumed to be racing towards the finish line with Mac OS X 10.5.7 ]] Mac OS X 10.5.7, Apple's now said to be easing into the release of the Leopard update and making sure all its ends are tied. Rumors of the software's imminent release have swirled for about two weeks now but on Wednesday developers were reportedly asked to put their weight on yet another pre-release distribution carrying build number 9J58. Like those that came before it, the latest build corrects just a couple of issues -- one related to iChat and the other Safari -- and continues to list incompatibility with the public beta of Safari 4.0 as its lone issue. MacMall, one of AppleInsider's sponsors, dropped us a note earlier this week about a deal it's running on first-generation MacBook Airs. It's offering the original $1799 1.6GHz model with Intel graphics for $999 after instant discounts and a $200 mail-in-rebate.[9] another high-level executive from a major company has joined the expanding Apple Umbrella. Richard Teversham, a 15 year veteran of Microsoft and the leader of the X-Box's strategy team has joined Apple. This is big news for the industry, as it means Apple has pulled another extremely experienced executive into their fold.[5] '''We can confirm that Richard Teversham, director of business, insights and strategy, has taken a new opportunity outside of Microsoft. A process is underway for recruiting his replacement.[11] I think it very unlikely Teversham would be working on anything gaming wise for Apple with the contracts he signed to work for Microsoft all those years. There are protections built into high level exec jobs like his to stop them running off to their main competitor like how Apple got in legal trouble with IBM for poaching one of their engineers for chip design. [12] The evidence keeps coming that Apple is getting serious about gaming. In just the past week, the company has hired a senior Xbox executive from Microsoft, and earlier this week, a graphics expert from ATI. Apple's headhunting follows its investment in a graphics chip maker in December.[13] Duh, Apple should have gotten into gaming a long time ago like we old timers always said. It's a consumer electronics product company after all. Instead they let Microsoft, a mediocre corporation products company, beat them to the punch.[2] Apple has never been known for gaming devices, a fact to which the mid-90s Pippin can sadly attest. With more than 9,000 games now available for download via the iTunes App store, however, such stigmas may become a thing of the past. The real question here, I think is whether this hire also signals an improvement in the gaming capabilities of the company's computers.[14] Considering the profound success of the iTunes App Store, which just passed a billion downloads, and gold-rush tales of indie developers striking it rich with simple games, Apple's investment in creating more robust games and apps is a no-brainer.[15] 'Apple has told us from the beginning to be sure to write our new software in a way that will accommodate different resolutions and screen sizes,' Tapulus Chief Executive Bart Decrem says." "And those developers are building applications that are wildly different from the quick and casual games that have appeared on mobile phones in the past."[2] Of course, guessing what Apple will do next is a tricky business. The problem with Apple is that while it appears to plan long-term--keeping projects such as its 2005 shift to Intel ( INTC - news - people ) processors under wraps for years-- it says very little about even its short-term plans. Talk to a few of the thousands of developers who have flocked to build software for Apple's iPhone since last year and they'll say that Apple's instructions have always been very clear: Build your applications so that they're compatible with different screen resolutions and screen sizes.[16] Apple will experiment with new form factors, launching a netbook or tablet computer that may use the same software that powers the iPhone and iPod touch. Such a device might be a terrible phone--it's hard to imagine shoving a 10-inch screen in your pocket--but it could be an ideal platform for games and social networking.[16] The iphone and iPod touch are great at casual games and some action games. That multi-touch screen will never be enough of a control mechanism for first person shooters. If Apple can find a way to add more controls to their mobile devices besides the touchscreen in such a way that their out of the way, clean and pleases Steve Jobs. then your going to have something extremely dangerous to the other players. that would be you Nintendo and you Sony. If I was an exec of one of those companies I would be extremely nervous over what Apple might be planning to do.[2] I do play an iPhone game at least a couple minutes every day I'm on the move.) Apple's got a very real gaming platform, they've got their own chips in place, and now they have a legit gaming strategist. If Nintendo and Sony weren't concerned at all previously, I imagine at least a bead or two of sweat is dripping down their forehead now, even if direct, bloody conflict between their consoles and the iPhone is still a generation or two away.[4] Big game houses are still figuring out the perfect formula for multi-touch + accelerometer control. There are already 37M iPhone OS devices in people's hands, by the end of this years, I wouldn't be surprised to see iPhone platform out pacing PSP to be the second largest mobile gaming platform or at least a very close third.[17] Neil Young, chief executive of gaming startup Ngcomo, is betting that the iPhone's touch screen can handle more complex, fast-moving games than are found on today's mobile phones or handheld gaming consoles possible.[16] Steve Jobs aversion to games and gamers has done Apple no favors in the past or the present with Mac hardware. Although this seems to be improving, and modern GPUs are somewhat available for MacPro only a couple of months later than their PC equivalents rather than the half-a-year or more of recent times. I think Apple's interesting in gaming has emerged with their surprise with the success of games on the iPhone AppStore. I do not believe this was planned at all, however reactive they have been, I think even Steve Jobs might now think that gaming is important.[2] I think this is the one time Apple is gonna follow Microsoft's lead. They might be thinking about making their own home console a la Xbox 360. Not so sure it's a good idea though, but then again Apple has a track record if proving doubters wrong. He's from Microsoft. Apple probably just hired him to work in the cafeteria. This is really exciting.[17] Teversham joins Raja Koduri as the newest well-known member of the Apple team, Koduri being the man behind many of the AMD graphics chips that serve as Nvidia's only legitimate competitor in the PC market. This comes on the wind of Apple's billionth app download from iPhones and iPod touches and that Apple now has 9000 available apps to download from those portable machines. [18] The Wall Street Journal Thursday reported that Apple also recently hired Raja Koduri, another former chief technology officer of AMD's graphics chip group. The hirings and other recent moves have rekindled suggestions that Apple is handpicking a team of engineers and semiconductor specialists as it seeks to create its own semiconductor design business.[19] The deal may be a compelling option for anyone in the market for an ultra-portable Mac for basic email, internet and business use, and who isn't concerned with the NVIDIA graphics boost delivered by the latest models. The Apple authorized reseller let us know that its 3% off coupons on the current 13-inch MacBook line are going on hiatus until at least June, and will therefore expire tonight at 12:00 am Pacific.[9] I guess this means a tablet really could be on the cards. It could also mean Apple doesn't want to repeat the mistakes they made with the Apple II and early Mac software. It makes obvious sense to want to change the screen resolution & aspect ratio in the future, and you certainly want software built in anticipation of that as early as possible. (Nobody wants another "compatibility mode" that runs software letterboxed, wasting rest of the screen).[2] In iPhone 3.0, app software can access hardware connected to the dock connector. Those extra controls are coming real soon now from 3rd parties (or even Apple).[2] Sooner or later the iPhone and iPod touch will get a new, faster processor, most likely an ARM-based design customized by Apple's in-house designers.[16] The Steve Jobs crew is working hard on turning the iPhone and iPod touch into a viable gaming platform.[7] Someone should tell him that the iphone/ipod touch platform has over 9,000 games in 9 months. No other gaming platform has reached such a feat. Sell is an odd word to use when the price is free for the bulk and majority of them.[17] The sony psp will be the biggest victim to Apple's handheld gaming platform.[2] While the FPS market is large and in many ways has driven the computer market, Apple has proven with the iPhone/touch platform that so-called "casual" gaming is a huge untapped market. Apple built such a wide array of functionality into the iPhone/touch it's made heads spin in competitors' HQs.[2] Previous to leading the charge on the gaming device, Teversham was the director of the platform and marketing.[7] "You've got a lot more fine control," Young says. "It is a very precise interface." He's betting big on a pair of games based on genres that have had mediocre success, at best, on small gaming devices. "Live Fire," slated for later this year, is a fast-moving shoot 'em up.[16] Teversham may be attracted by the iPhone'''s potential to become a disruptive games device.[8] Then there's "Star Defense," a real-time strategy game where players protect a planet from swarming invaders. Such games are certainly a preview of what's to come as developers continue to explore the iPhone's possibilities. They might also be the best hint at where Apple's hardware could go next.[16] That's what I've thought too-with a charging dock connection, the iPhone itself could be the console. I know these kinds of experiments have to be going on whether or not we ever see the results publicly. It makes sense as more and more gaming content from major developers becomes downloadable too-physical media will not be an issue, distribution wise, anyway (piracy being a little trickier with an app store style system in place).[2] I stopped buying DS titles because there was so much good free content in the app store for my iPod touch.[13] Love my iPod Touch, a larger screen size for viewing and playing games would only be that much better.[2] I would greatly appreciate it if Apple upgraded the iPod touch with a physical keyboard, and trackball + d-pad.[13] Games like all iPhone apps are frequently tasted, then dropped. None of them measure up to the most basic game console games. [17] The iPhone will almost certainly get a better camera and multi-media capabilities. That could unleash a new generation of applications that integrate video and still images into games and social applications, as Nintendo's new DSi has done.[16] PSP designers may be in trouble. The billion-dollar question is, will Nintendo take Apple's threat seriously, or will they laugh them off, like Apple's cellphone, music retail, and MP3 player competitors laughed them off before? We all know how that ended.[2] Handheld and pocket computing is CLEARLY the next frontier and Apple is miles ahead of everyone. When a platform like iPhone/touch finds appeal with everyone from business, science, medicine. to their kids. multiple industries must be shitting proverbial bricks (see: Zune).[2] In fact the only good Pippen out there was Scottie. If it is indeed for some gaming platform they are picking a poor time to join the fight, just like they did last time.[17] REFERENCES 1. Microsoft Xbox Strategy and Marketing Executive to Join Apple? - Mac Rumors 2. MacDailyNews - Forbes: Apple's interest in gaming isn't casual 3. Another New Apple Hire, This Time It's All Fun and Games 4. Gizmodo - Apple Is Serious About Gaming: Steals Xbox Senior Director of Strategy - iPhone Apps 5. X-Box Strategy Director Defects to Apple! 6. Apple getting serious about gaming day by day! | iPhone Help ! 7. Xbox Strategy Boss Decides To Bite Apple - The Channel Wire - IT Channel News And Views by CRN and VARBusiness 8. Microsoft loses Xbox exec to Apple :: StrategyEye Digital Media 9. AppleInsider | Apple lands Xbox boss, Mac OS X 10.5.7, $999 MacBook Air deal 10. Electronista | Apple recruits former Xbox director 11. Xbox strategy chief quits Microsoft for Apple 12. Teversham quits Xbox for Apple | Gaming Industry | MCV 13. Apple is Headhunting Gaming Executives | Technologizer 14. Apple Hires Former Xbox Exec - News and Analysis by PC Magazine 15. Kotaku - Apple Getting More Serious About Mobile Gaming? - iPhone 16. Apple's Interest In Gaming Isn't Casual - Forbes.com 17. Microsoft Head of Xbox BI and Strategy Leaving for Apple? | The iPhone Blog 18. Microsoft Exec Jumps Ship to Apple - Gaming Front Network 19. EETimes.com - Apple reportedly lures European Xbox director Open Letter to Apple: Go Easy on the FeesCONTENTS:
The myriad of useful and relatively inexpensive applications on the new iTunes App store alone have proved to be a compelling reason to invest in one of Apple co.' s high end mobile devices. Once you already have one, and it works fine, do you need to replace it so quickly? This particularly goes to the first generation iPhone buyers who paid between $500 and $600 to Apple on top of the highest average monthly service charges of any smart phone user. The rise in technology in this country was fueled this past decade by the fact that rapid change incited, rather than discouraged, consumers to buy more. The contraction in the economy is pushing each and every consumer to look closely at where their dollar and cents are going and then use this information to make sober decisions on future expenditures. This doesn't mean a company like Apple is in any serious trouble. It just means it has to be quick to adjust. Apple and any company hawking $300 entertainment items need to be clear-eyed to thrive in this economic malaise. [1] We as consumers have wrapped the mobile phone into our daily routine so thoroughly that it partially insulates the phone industry from the slowed economy. Some consumers have a downright emotional connection to the conveniences the mobile phone has brought us and that makes it easier for them to justify continued upgrades in both service and device. It helps that the phone companies have already trained a generation of users to upgrade their unit with each new contract. Let us not forget Apple co's brand power? That elicits additional emotional resonance. I suspect this will keep the Apple iPhone train chugging along reasonably well, even if Mac and iPod revenues drop. Still, cautious consumers will look to save money.[1] As I think more about it, it demonstrates how important the iPhone is for Apple and how that importance will grow over the coming year. Remember when I said earlier that portable music and video hardly qualify as necessities in life? The truth is there are a lot of people out there who will say they would die if you took their mobile phone away. It doesn't matter that they survived this world quite adeptly before they owned one; mobile phones have become a critical necessity (at least in their minds) to a sizeable segment of this country's consumer population.[1] A year later, the "video iPod" became the first portable device on which most mainstream consumers would even consider watching a TV show, video podcast or the occasional movie. Since the iPhone debuted in 2007, tens of millions of people think nothing of downloading an e-book, using GPS maps to find a desination, or watching YouTube clips on their phone.[2] Apple's new approach sounds like it may be the answer. People will shoot more video, since they will usually have their phone with them. Since they don't need to mess with any PC or editing program, they may actually go to the trouble of editing it down to a bearable length (and given the excellent synching in iTunes, they won't simply forget they shot the footage or forget where they put it). While there is at least one great device for recording video (that Flip) and plenty for playing it back (any laptop will do), the iPhone could turn out to be the best at handling both of these tasks at once.[2] Apple's entire iPhone campaignindeed, the company's entire product lineis predicated on consumerism, the purchase of expensive technology, owning the trendiest gadgets, and creating a sense of need in people who never knew their lives were incomplete without a glossy black phone. As with most companies, Apple stands to lose big if people truly "need much less" and turn their backs on U.S. consumption patterns. It's a truly odd pairing of image and lyrics, which is no doubt part of the reason that the lyrics are not, in fact, in any of the commercials. (This is unlike older Apple ads featuring Feist and Chairlift.)[3] "What do you need" is the mindset in today's economy. That does not have to mean feast or famine. It just means all manufacturers have to make doubly sure they deliver to consumers that sense of value. Apple is very adept at delivering perceived value as a walk through their Apple stores demonstrated back in March. It will certainly help if Steve Jobs is healthy enough to man the next product unveiling come summer. When talking about films of the depression a famed critic astutely pointed out that while 25% of working population was unemployed during its worst moments, 75% still had a job. Conspicuous consumerism was considered reckless by those who still had their money. Conspicuous consumerism is how they mocked Wall Street fat cats in films of the 30's.[1] I do considerable web surfing on-the-go with my iPod touch and while a larger screen would be easier for reading, a bigger footprint makes it harder to fit in the pocket. A bigger iPod touch falls closer to frivolity than necessity for those who already own one the first two generation Apple touchscreen portable. What if the iTablet is much more than a pumped-up iPod touch? While it's highly improbable it will ever fall under the "necessity" category a strongly compelling product could transcend cautious consumerism. Again, Apple needs to adjust their strategic goals from everything from pricing to feature set to anticipate as best they can what the market will cater to.[1] Everyone will be glued to Apple co's next product announcement, expected in June. Many are expecting the introduction of multiple iPhone models at tiered price points and possibly a newer larger iPod touch (or iTablet if Apple decides that a bigger iPod touch requires they define a new niche that sells to a different audience). Rough times can be a challenge for the introduction of new products, even if those products do have an Apple logo on them. I suspect it will mostly depend on how Apple differentiates it from their existing products.[1] The new iPhone release is said to offer portable camcorder capabilities, allowing users to shoot video, edit it, view it on the iPhone's generous sized screen and easily share it friends, perhaps with wireless MMS support. This of course, is all breathless speculation at this point, with no official statements coming from Apple management. The Post article suggests Apple is developing its iPhone camcorder features in secret. Peter Burrows of BusinessWeek believes "we'''re about six weeks away from the next big thing," a pronouncement he bases on his "gut," an unnamed source and Apple's silence regarding video in its March iPhone 3.0 advance preview.[4] The new iPhone is said to be really simple to use, much like the Flip, for shooting videos, and is expected to come with an on-board iMovie app for editing and direct video uploads to YouTube. Not forgetting an earlier report also from MacRumors.com about the possibility of incorporating gesture and motion user interfaces, and a Digitimes article about Apple buying large quantities of flash memory, it looks like fanboyz can expect more than just a refresh of the iPhone this June.[5] I'm referring to the loud silence from Apple--a company that is famous for pre-launch misdirection in order to maintain some element of surprise. Apple made no mention of any video recording capability when it unveiled its iPhone 3.0 software a few months back. Yet blog posts from Gizmodo and others have pretty much confirmed that it's in there. The timing seems just about right for Apple to make one of its famous late arrivals into a hot market. That's what happened with music. Recall that in the late 90s, Macs didn't even have CD burners so Napster fans could create their own CDs. With iPod and the opening of the iTunes Music Store, Apple quickly put its stamp on the digital music market.[2] Then there's the marketing opportunity. This one is right in Apple's wheelhouse; the company should have no problem coming up with great ads that poke fun at how difficult it's been to simply send grandma a video of the kids, and how Apple makes it easier. My hunch is that Apple will be selling loads of iPhones to people who want to create their own videos, rather than just watch those made by the pros.[2] There are always Apple rumors right before the company appears at a major conference and is ready to release a new product update.[4] I would also like to point out that consumers turned to entertainment as an escape from troubled times. The radio industry had its biggest growth during this era, so Apple's dominance in digital media can keep things moving along even as Microsoft continues to position $500 Windows machines against $1,500 Macs. Apple products clearly fall in the "what do you want" category, but their best products fall under the "what do you desire" heading.[1] Steve Jobs is widely reputed to have Buddhist leanings; how the man pairs "nonattachment" with "running Apple" is a mystery we may never plumb. The song may resonate with a Jobsian "billionaire's detachment" from the material world that binds us to a cycle of suffering, but it stands in stark counterpoint to the product it's being used to sell.[3] Ah, to have been a fly on the meeting in which Apple marketing execs picked The Submarines' song " You, Me, and the Bourgeoisie " as the main theme for their iPhone ads ! The catchy song was a stroke of marketing genius (and one imagines that it worked out pretty well for The Submarines, too), but a closer look at the song's lyrics makes it a surprising choice for the iPhone campaign. Why's that? It's an anti-consumerism anthem.[3] To also replicate all the editing functions of a traditional camcorder into an iPhone device is a tall order, but if it can be done, Apple would certainly be the company to make it happen.[4] At long last, after decades of having to mess with camcorders and cables and PC video editing software and hard drives, my gut tells me Apple will make the iPhone a one-stop studio for recording, editing, viewing and sharing your own videos.[2] The iPhone, despite being a great device, only has photo capability. It makes sense a new release would offer video recording.[4] I can forget the facts that you now have variable priced songs; don't offer a solution for putting movies I have on DVD on iTunes; and that my iPod, like the two before it, mysteriously started acting quirky as soon as you released a new model.[6] I admit I could probably raise funds to buy a new iPod, but the last thing I want is to pay $30 a month for it after that for data service. That's right, I don't have an iPhone.[6] Is the love affair we have with our pricey toys coming to an end? In the world of "what do you need" it is hard to justify replacing a perfectly good iPhone or iPod touch just to get the latest model.[1] "What do you need?" just made the most sense. I selected a Honda Accord for myself and she chose the Chrysler PT Cruiser as her mode of transportation. We didn't load them up with extras either as commutation was our key need. Both cars cost us under $20K after negotiations and I bought them both outright. Now, there are a lot of people in this country who view buying one, let alone two, cars for cash as nothing more than a wonderful pipe dream; something great for the affluent, but far out of their reach. I'm very fortunate I had this option and very thankful as we have since added a child and subtracted an income. In my neighborhood at that time this was clearly not enough for many of my neighbors.[1] Portable music and video hardly qualify as necessities in life. Apple makes truly compelling equipment and, for many, upgrading to the latest greatest means that they are an active participant of the mobile revolution. [1] Same with the app store concept. Palm had one years ago (complete with TV ads which, like Apple, promoted apps more than its device), as have various carriers.[2] The trick for Apple is to fine-tune that recipe of brand, price, service, and features to keep the registers ringing.[1] Based on the March iPhone 3.0 preview, we do know the new iPhone will have 100 new features, including a copy, cut and paste feature, MMS support, file sharing, peer to peer Blu-tooth support and advanced SDK features.[4] Other than using snapshots as wallpaper on their camera-equipped cell-phones, few consumers bothered to keep all or even some of their favorite pics on a small portable device until the iPod photo was introduced in 2004. [2] REFERENCES 1. Apple Thoughts: Apple, the iPhone, the iTablet, and the Theory of "What do you Need?" 2. Making movies: The next big thing in iPhones? : News : Hardware - ZDNet Asia 3. Song bashing "corporate enablers" used to move iPhones - Ars Technica 4. Latest Apple Rumor: Will the New iPhone Replace Camcorders? | ChattahBox News Blog 5. iMovie for new iPhone? - Smartphones & PDA Phones 6. Open Letter to Apple: Go Easy on the Fees - PC World |