Amazon e-book subscription? Publishers should join
Digital disintermediationIncreasingly, digital technology is radically transforming the old ways of exchanging information--on paper, on CDs, on DVDs, on TV, in movie theaters. There are three reasons.First, the underlying information now can be encoded in digital form. Second, digital data can be copied with trivial ease. Third, those copies can be distributed globally over the Internet with trivial ease.Of course, that's just the mechanics that underlie the digital revolution. Higher-level factors keep the industries from transforming overnight: how do you build a business around digital distribution of media by getting customers to pay? Should data be wrapped with digital-rights management (DRM) encryption to curtail uncontrolled copying? Who finds, cultivates, edits, and pays the content creators that generate the actual product?Gradually, though, a few companies such as Amazon, Netflix, Google, Spotify, Hulu, and Apple are settling those questions, for good or ill. Apple's iTunes has led the music industry into the Digital Age; Spotify is accelerating it with subscription plans; Netflix probably has the best chance of any company to bring movies along, too; Hulu is following suit with TV; and Amazon jump-started the e-book industry with its Kindle reader and apps. With Google Music, Google Books, and YouTube, Google is working the angles, too.Do you see a trend here? Few of these companies are the ones actually in the business of generating the content. The exception is Hulu, whose investors include NBCUniversal, News Corp., and Walt Disney, which run the NBC, Fox, and ABC TV businesses, respectively. Going the other direction, Google and Netflix have dabbled with the idea of coming up with their own premium content, but not with much effect so far.Simon & Schuster offers direct sales of e-books, but getting them to a reader isn't simple.Screenshot by Stephen Shankland/CNETHere's the thing, though. The Internet is famously good at disintermediation--a useful bit of jargon that means taking away the middleman. In the book business, the middlemen are bookstores. They're essential for getting the product into the hands of customers, because distribution of physical books is hard--trucks, inventory, paying the rent for a spot in the mall.With the Internet and digital books, distribution is vastly easier, of course. There's no inventory problem. People can buy a sequel on impulse moments after finishing a can't-put-it-down page-turner at 3 a.m. The arrival of e-book apps for smartphones and tablets has reduced the difficulties of providing people something besides a PC as a vessel for the book. People will still browse bookstores of some sort, physical or online, to see what strikes their fancy, but now that process comes with the ability to even read an excerpt.Go direct?So if it's so easy, why aren't book sellers supplying them directly to the buyers?For one thing, they have a sales, marketing, and support staff geared toward selling wholesale to middlemen, not retail to the vast number of potential customers. Distribution may be easy, but getting people to buy stuff isn't, and publishers' don't have consumer relationships and brands the way Ford, Kraft, and Timex do.For another, it's a classic innovator's dilemma: how much of a difficult transitional period can a publisher endure making a transition to direct sales while angering the bookstores that, while fading in importance, still are essential to today's revenue?Last, customers don't just want to buy books from one publisher any more than they want to buy an MP3 and video player that only will play music from Sony Entertainment's music and video catalog. Middlemen can consolidate offerings from multiple suppliers--as indeed Hulu does in the TV business.A look at the e-book business today shows how things are changing. Random House touts its e-book bestsellers, with links to six different online bookstores. Simon & Schuster (disclaimer: it, like CNET News, is a part of CBS) offers direct sales--but then requires a complicated installation process for readers to get their books onto tablets, phones, or Sony e-reader. HarperCollins lets people read some of the book online, then hands transactions off to retail bookstores. It's getting more direct, though, for example with its Bookperk site to drum up reader enthusiasm with promotions to buy physical books from the publisher.Bookish is an effort by three publishers to provide an online hub for people to discover and buy books. It's set to launch in the summer of 2011.screenshot by Stephen Shankland/CNETChange, yes, but small steps compared with what's going on with the online specialists. I'm sure negotiations between Amazon and the publishers are tense at times as one side works to create something that's priced to move and the other side works to keep it from undermining individual e-book revenue. Amazon would have to pay enough to compensate for the fact that the customers who buy the most e-books are the ones for whom a subscription would hold the greatest appeal.But it's probably better for the publishers to get on board with a subscription offer. The pride of ownership is already much reduced with e-books--pulling out the Kindle just doesn't compare with an imposing, well-stocked bookshelf when it comes to showing off your erudition when the dinner party guests arrive. E-books lack the "furniture factor," as one publishing executive phrased it to me. Books are becoming an entertainment service, and publishers' catalogs are becoming live assets, not inventory to be shifted out of the warehouse.One wild card is Bookish, a site backed by publishers Hachette Book Group, Simon & Schuster, and the U.S. arm of Penguin Group with some advertising and sales support from AOL. The site was announced in May and is scheduled to go live this summer. The announcement describes Bookish this way:Designed to answer the question "What should I read next?" as well as to deepen the reading experience around books, authors, and genres, Bookish will feature exclusive content covering a wide selection of titles and formats. It will also offer readers the convenience of purchasing print and digital books directly or through other retailers. Bookish is dedicated to working closely with book retailers, and in the coming weeks will reach out to explore ways to complement the retailers' efforts and enhance all reader experiences.It's not clear how well the effort will fare. One person in the publishing industry said Bookish is designed to accommodate other publishers besides the named backers--something that's important to create critical mass.No doubt publishers are reluctant to hand any more power to Amazon, the premier online bookseller already. But Amazon is a company with lots of paying customers already, and they come to Amazon for much more than just books. Bookish will have a lot of work to do to catch up with Amazon--might it not be better to have it as an ally than an enemy in building the future of e-books?Which brings me back to libraries.Digital librariesA couple decades ago, it wasn't a big deal for libraries to buy some small fraction of books that went into circulation as a freely lent copy. Probably many people who checked a book out of the library wouldn't have bought it in the first place. The used-book market was probably a worse devaluation of a book's cover price.With digital content, I've seen some libraries move to the electronic era with e-books, though I haven't seen any options for streaming music, movies, or TV. But library e-books raise awkward problems: libraries tend to serve a geographic region, but e-books are downloaded from the global Internet. People typically need a local library card to use a library's services, but relatively few e-books are intrinsically local.So maybe libraries should band together to offer a unified e-book service. That would make the technology easier, and the scale could make it easier to obtain rights to a broad range of e-books. But it could be expensive to operate, especially when it comes to obtaining e-book rights, so perhaps the libraries would want to charge a fee--the way some do today for lending DVDs, for example.Hmmm. A large-scale service for lending e-books for a fee. Sounds an awful lot like what Amazon is apparently trying to do.I have no idea how relevant libraries will remain, but certainly the Internet has somewhat undermined their utility as a community resource, and I'd say the private sector is well on its way to supplanting some of libraries' raison d'etre.Sounds like a good time for the publishers to hammer out that Amazon deal.Updated 10:03 a.m. PT to add discussion about the Bookish project.
In defense of Sprint and the Palm Pre
In defense of Sprint and the Palm Pre
As you may have seen by now, PreCentral.net got ahold of an internal memo from AT&T comparing its precious iPhone 3G with the Palm Pre, and not surprisingly, bashing the Pre as an inferior device.Now, you know I haven't been particular happy with Sprint or Palm about the way the company's been handling the Pre, but I'm coming to its defense here and saying that this is just plain laughable. Let's take a closer look, shall we?First off, AT&T has a couple of legitimate points. The iPhone has the advantage of international world roaming and comes in a 16GB capacity, whereas the Pre isn't a world phone and only comes in an 8GB model. Fair enough. However, the carrier then criticizes the Pre for only coming in black and being thicker and heavier than the iPhone. Well, if you want to nitpick, AT&T, the Pre is shorter and smaller in width, and I'm sure the whole 0.07 ounce of extra weight will slow all Pre owners down. Next, AT&T makes several baseless statements, saying that the Pre's touch-screen gesture controls are "not intuitive" and that it has an "unproven App catalog." Unless AT&T has some moles embedded in Sprint's and Palm's labs, how do we know this is the case? Hey, I'll be the first to give Apple credit for the iPhone's ease of use, multitouch screen, and iTunes App Store, but does that mean the Pre will be unintuitive and have a crappy app store? No. The fact is, we won't know for sure until it's out, and to make this argument on pure conjecture is weak. What else? Oh, right. The Pre's limited, free Wi-Fi access. While Sprint's customers might not have free access to 17,000 AT&T and Starbucks hot spots, AT&T, can we talk about your wonky 3G coverage? Also, the poor Pre "can't receive map updates or location assist in most of the world due to the lack of GSM capability." True, that's unfortunate for the around-the-clock globetrotter, but I'm guessing a majority of the time these smartphones will be used domestically, and, correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't it the Pre that will have turn-by-turn navigation at launch while the iPhone will be dependent on third-party apps? It's also funny how AT&T left out the parts about the Pre having a removable battery, a better camera, multitasking, and support for Bluetooth tethering.Listen, this post isn't meant to be an iPhone bashing session/Pre lovefest. It's just about putting things into perspective. Many people are saying that this is a sign that AT&T and Apple feel threatened by the Pre and felt they needed to go on the offensive--could be. I'd agree that the Pre is a formidable competitor to the iPhone, but the fact is, until the Pre actually launches and we see how it performs in real life, we simply don't know. Trust me: whenever we get the Pre, we'll put it through the wringer and see how it stacks up against the competition. But, until then, it's unfair to pick one as the "winner." I won't do it. Also, here's a thought: Does the Palm Pre really have to beat out the iPhone? Can't it just be about giving customers a choice? Discuss.
As you may have seen by now, PreCentral.net got ahold of an internal memo from AT&T comparing its precious iPhone 3G with the Palm Pre, and not surprisingly, bashing the Pre as an inferior device.Now, you know I haven't been particular happy with Sprint or Palm about the way the company's been handling the Pre, but I'm coming to its defense here and saying that this is just plain laughable. Let's take a closer look, shall we?First off, AT&T has a couple of legitimate points. The iPhone has the advantage of international world roaming and comes in a 16GB capacity, whereas the Pre isn't a world phone and only comes in an 8GB model. Fair enough. However, the carrier then criticizes the Pre for only coming in black and being thicker and heavier than the iPhone. Well, if you want to nitpick, AT&T, the Pre is shorter and smaller in width, and I'm sure the whole 0.07 ounce of extra weight will slow all Pre owners down. Next, AT&T makes several baseless statements, saying that the Pre's touch-screen gesture controls are "not intuitive" and that it has an "unproven App catalog." Unless AT&T has some moles embedded in Sprint's and Palm's labs, how do we know this is the case? Hey, I'll be the first to give Apple credit for the iPhone's ease of use, multitouch screen, and iTunes App Store, but does that mean the Pre will be unintuitive and have a crappy app store? No. The fact is, we won't know for sure until it's out, and to make this argument on pure conjecture is weak. What else? Oh, right. The Pre's limited, free Wi-Fi access. While Sprint's customers might not have free access to 17,000 AT&T and Starbucks hot spots, AT&T, can we talk about your wonky 3G coverage? Also, the poor Pre "can't receive map updates or location assist in most of the world due to the lack of GSM capability." True, that's unfortunate for the around-the-clock globetrotter, but I'm guessing a majority of the time these smartphones will be used domestically, and, correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't it the Pre that will have turn-by-turn navigation at launch while the iPhone will be dependent on third-party apps? It's also funny how AT&T left out the parts about the Pre having a removable battery, a better camera, multitasking, and support for Bluetooth tethering.Listen, this post isn't meant to be an iPhone bashing session/Pre lovefest. It's just about putting things into perspective. Many people are saying that this is a sign that AT&T and Apple feel threatened by the Pre and felt they needed to go on the offensive--could be. I'd agree that the Pre is a formidable competitor to the iPhone, but the fact is, until the Pre actually launches and we see how it performs in real life, we simply don't know. Trust me: whenever we get the Pre, we'll put it through the wringer and see how it stacks up against the competition. But, until then, it's unfair to pick one as the "winner." I won't do it. Also, here's a thought: Does the Palm Pre really have to beat out the iPhone? Can't it just be about giving customers a choice? Discuss.
Apple eyes new way to give gifts on iTunes
Apple eyes new way to give gifts on iTunes
iTunes users may one day be able to send apps, music, videos, and books as gifts to other people -- at least, that's what Apple envisioned in a recently published patent filing.Published Thursday by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, a patent application called "Media Gifting Devices and Methods" describes a couple of ways to give your favorite iTunes user a present.Related storiesDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)The 404 Podcast 498: Where Jeff battles the TriadBuzz Out Loud Podcast 1145: China to Google: Suck itIn one method, you'd select a specific item from the iTunes Store, such as a song, movie, or book. Your own account is charged the cost of the content, while your recipient receives a notice to download the gifted file.In another method, you'd select an item to gift from your own iTunes library. Again, you get charged the cost of the content via your own account. Your recipient then receives a notice to download that same item directly from iTunes.The patent filing also describes a method for gifting content without having to be online. In such a scenario, you'd send a locked version of the item from your library to your recipient's mobile device via near-field communications. Since NFC is involved, you'd both presumably need to be together for the transaction to occur. Once both of you are online again, your recipient's device talks to Apple's servers to unlock the item, while your account gets charged.Apple/USPTOAs the patent application explains it:An offer and acceptance of a selected gift file is accomplished between a gifter device and a receiving giftee device using a near-field communication (NFC) connection. If a connection to the online provider is available, the gifter device may transmit a gift request by which the gifter's account is charged for the gift file. Thereafter, a gift file created using DRM keys associated with the giftee's account may be downloaded to the giftee device. If a network connection is unavailable, the giftee device may transfer a locked gift file and a corresponding gift license to the giftee device using a peer-to-peer connection. The giftee device may authenticate the license and unlock the gift file once a connection to the online provider is available.iTunes gift cards have already proven to be a popular present. The invention outlined by Apple takes that concept further by letting you tap into your own iTunes library for gift ideas.Unlike some other mobile devices, the iPhone and iPad don't come with NFC. Rumors have swirled in the past about Apple outfitting its devices with the necessary hardware. But none of the recent reports around the next-generation iPhone and iPad mention NFC.Still, several of Apple's patent filings describe inventions that would rely on NFC. So, it's likely only a matter of time before we see Apple finally adopt the technology.(Via AppleInsider)
iTunes users may one day be able to send apps, music, videos, and books as gifts to other people -- at least, that's what Apple envisioned in a recently published patent filing.Published Thursday by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, a patent application called "Media Gifting Devices and Methods" describes a couple of ways to give your favorite iTunes user a present.Related storiesDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)The 404 Podcast 498: Where Jeff battles the TriadBuzz Out Loud Podcast 1145: China to Google: Suck itIn one method, you'd select a specific item from the iTunes Store, such as a song, movie, or book. Your own account is charged the cost of the content, while your recipient receives a notice to download the gifted file.In another method, you'd select an item to gift from your own iTunes library. Again, you get charged the cost of the content via your own account. Your recipient then receives a notice to download that same item directly from iTunes.The patent filing also describes a method for gifting content without having to be online. In such a scenario, you'd send a locked version of the item from your library to your recipient's mobile device via near-field communications. Since NFC is involved, you'd both presumably need to be together for the transaction to occur. Once both of you are online again, your recipient's device talks to Apple's servers to unlock the item, while your account gets charged.Apple/USPTOAs the patent application explains it:An offer and acceptance of a selected gift file is accomplished between a gifter device and a receiving giftee device using a near-field communication (NFC) connection. If a connection to the online provider is available, the gifter device may transmit a gift request by which the gifter's account is charged for the gift file. Thereafter, a gift file created using DRM keys associated with the giftee's account may be downloaded to the giftee device. If a network connection is unavailable, the giftee device may transfer a locked gift file and a corresponding gift license to the giftee device using a peer-to-peer connection. The giftee device may authenticate the license and unlock the gift file once a connection to the online provider is available.iTunes gift cards have already proven to be a popular present. The invention outlined by Apple takes that concept further by letting you tap into your own iTunes library for gift ideas.Unlike some other mobile devices, the iPhone and iPad don't come with NFC. Rumors have swirled in the past about Apple outfitting its devices with the necessary hardware. But none of the recent reports around the next-generation iPhone and iPad mention NFC.Still, several of Apple's patent filings describe inventions that would rely on NFC. So, it's likely only a matter of time before we see Apple finally adopt the technology.(Via AppleInsider)
Rumor- iOS 4.3 to arrive Thursday, support subscription-based apps
Rumor: iOS 4.3 to arrive Thursday, support subscription-based apps
Magazines and newspapers are migrating to iOS devices (most notably the iPad) at a steady clip, but there's one problem: publishers don't have a way to sell subscriptions--not yet, anyway.That may change with the arrival of iOS 4.3, which is rumored to be arriving (or at least announced) as early as this Thursday, December 9.As CNET's Joe Aimonetti reported last month, this build was already in the works when Apple rolled out iOS 4.2. And despite the latter's brief delay, it appears iOS 4.3 may still arrive on schedule (at least if you believe the rumor mill's version of Apple's schedule).Unlike 4.2, which introduced a host of new features (like AirPlay and AirPrint), 4.3 will include just one major addition: subscription billing, which would allow content providers to charge weekly, monthly, or annually for subscriptions.Currently, iOS supports only single app payments, meaning you have to make a new in-app purchase every time you want the latest issue of, say, "Wired."According to eWeek Europe, "further fuel was added to the fire when The Guardian newspaper used a blog to reveal a new subscription-based app, which it said would be released soon." (Actually, the blog in question doesn't specifically mention a subscription-based app, but rather subscription pricing--not quite the same thing.)Even so, given that so many high-profile publishers have already introduced apps to convey their content (check out Richard Branson's Project), it's a no-brainer that Apple will give them the iOS tools needed to better monetize it. At this point, it's really just a matter of when.And if you believe Gadgets and Gizmos, the big day will be this Thursday, so Apple can steal a bit of thunder from whatever Sony announces that same day (possibly a PlayStation phone).What are your thoughts on iOS 4.3? Think it'll drop this week? And are you ready to start paying for digital editions of your favorite print mags? Me, I want to keep my print editions but also get the iOS versions as part of my paid subscriptions. What say you, publishers? (I'm guessing, "Er, no.")
Magazines and newspapers are migrating to iOS devices (most notably the iPad) at a steady clip, but there's one problem: publishers don't have a way to sell subscriptions--not yet, anyway.That may change with the arrival of iOS 4.3, which is rumored to be arriving (or at least announced) as early as this Thursday, December 9.As CNET's Joe Aimonetti reported last month, this build was already in the works when Apple rolled out iOS 4.2. And despite the latter's brief delay, it appears iOS 4.3 may still arrive on schedule (at least if you believe the rumor mill's version of Apple's schedule).Unlike 4.2, which introduced a host of new features (like AirPlay and AirPrint), 4.3 will include just one major addition: subscription billing, which would allow content providers to charge weekly, monthly, or annually for subscriptions.Currently, iOS supports only single app payments, meaning you have to make a new in-app purchase every time you want the latest issue of, say, "Wired."According to eWeek Europe, "further fuel was added to the fire when The Guardian newspaper used a blog to reveal a new subscription-based app, which it said would be released soon." (Actually, the blog in question doesn't specifically mention a subscription-based app, but rather subscription pricing--not quite the same thing.)Even so, given that so many high-profile publishers have already introduced apps to convey their content (check out Richard Branson's Project), it's a no-brainer that Apple will give them the iOS tools needed to better monetize it. At this point, it's really just a matter of when.And if you believe Gadgets and Gizmos, the big day will be this Thursday, so Apple can steal a bit of thunder from whatever Sony announces that same day (possibly a PlayStation phone).What are your thoughts on iOS 4.3? Think it'll drop this week? And are you ready to start paying for digital editions of your favorite print mags? Me, I want to keep my print editions but also get the iOS versions as part of my paid subscriptions. What say you, publishers? (I'm guessing, "Er, no.")
How to manage downloads in iTunes 11
How to manage downloads in iTunes 11
Related storiesReports: Tech recovery driven by developing nations, cloudSony rules out OLED this year, accidentally pays plasma a complimentLexus LFA requires lots of cash, coolLast week Apple released the much anticipated, and delayed, update to iTunes. iTunes 11 has a new look and feel, as well as some new features such as "Up Next." Along with the new look and feel comes new methods of interacting and accomplishing once familiar tasks in iTunes. One of those tasks, managing downloads, isn't as obvious as it used to be. When iTunes 11 was first released I had a few apps with updates available, so I started the downloads. In the previous version(s) of iTunes you could manage active downloads in the sidebar, but after revealing the sidebar in iTunes 11 I noticed that the downloads category was missing. I could see that the downloads were still active from the progress bar along the top of iTunes, but I had no way of viewing all of the downloads at once.Click to enlarge.Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNETI looked through all the different menu items to no avail. Then I noticed a download icon, similar to the Download All button on the app update page, next to the search bar. Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNETClicking on it revealed the app updates, and the traditional methods for managing them. Keep in mind the downloads icon will only appear while you have an active download. Once your downloads are finished, the icon disappears.Why the downloads section was moved -- and almost hidden -- is beyond me. It would be nice if Apple added it back to the sidebar view, or at least made it a bit more clear where it could be found.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Related storiesReports: Tech recovery driven by developing nations, cloudSony rules out OLED this year, accidentally pays plasma a complimentLexus LFA requires lots of cash, coolLast week Apple released the much anticipated, and delayed, update to iTunes. iTunes 11 has a new look and feel, as well as some new features such as "Up Next." Along with the new look and feel comes new methods of interacting and accomplishing once familiar tasks in iTunes. One of those tasks, managing downloads, isn't as obvious as it used to be. When iTunes 11 was first released I had a few apps with updates available, so I started the downloads. In the previous version(s) of iTunes you could manage active downloads in the sidebar, but after revealing the sidebar in iTunes 11 I noticed that the downloads category was missing. I could see that the downloads were still active from the progress bar along the top of iTunes, but I had no way of viewing all of the downloads at once.Click to enlarge.Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNETI looked through all the different menu items to no avail. Then I noticed a download icon, similar to the Download All button on the app update page, next to the search bar. Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNETClicking on it revealed the app updates, and the traditional methods for managing them. Keep in mind the downloads icon will only appear while you have an active download. Once your downloads are finished, the icon disappears.Why the downloads section was moved -- and almost hidden -- is beyond me. It would be nice if Apple added it back to the sidebar view, or at least made it a bit more clear where it could be found.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Steve Jobs will stay on Disney board (report)
Steve Jobs will stay on Disney board (report)
Apple co-founder Steve Jobs will remain on the board of Walt Disney, according to a published report. Citing an unnamed source with knowledge of the matter, Bloomberg reported today that Jobs' position as a board member at Disney is unchanged. What's easy to forget in all the coverage this week about Jobs resigning as CEO of Apple is that he also helped build Pixar into the mammoth animation studio it became.In May 2006, Jobs sold Pixar to Disney for $7.4 billion, giving him a 7.4 percent stake in Disney, one of the six largest Hollywood film studios. In his resignation letter Wednesday, Jobs said he's no longer able to fulfill his duties as CEO but will remain at Apple as chairman.Disney continues to list Jobs as a board member on its Web site, though it has not updated Jobs' information page to note that he is no longer Apple's chief executive.Disney did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Apple co-founder Steve Jobs will remain on the board of Walt Disney, according to a published report. Citing an unnamed source with knowledge of the matter, Bloomberg reported today that Jobs' position as a board member at Disney is unchanged. What's easy to forget in all the coverage this week about Jobs resigning as CEO of Apple is that he also helped build Pixar into the mammoth animation studio it became.In May 2006, Jobs sold Pixar to Disney for $7.4 billion, giving him a 7.4 percent stake in Disney, one of the six largest Hollywood film studios. In his resignation letter Wednesday, Jobs said he's no longer able to fulfill his duties as CEO but will remain at Apple as chairman.Disney continues to list Jobs as a board member on its Web site, though it has not updated Jobs' information page to note that he is no longer Apple's chief executive.Disney did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Steve Jobs to be interviewed at D Conference
Steve Jobs to be interviewed at D Conference
Steve Jobs doesn't submit to many interviews, so when he does, it's pretty big news.Tech blog AllThingsD on Tuesday announced that Jobs will headline the eighth annual D: All Things Digital conference, scheduled for June 1 through 3 in Palos Verdes, Calif. He is scheduled to be the main interviewee on opening night.The Wall Street Journal's Walt Mossberg and AllThingsD's Kara Swisher will be conducting the interview.Jobs last appeared at the D Conference in 2007, in a joint interview with Microsoft founder Bill Gates, in which the two reflected on each other's legacies in technology.While Gates is not on the D8 schedule, there's plenty for Mossberg and Swisher to discuss with Jobs. Swisher specifically mentions that she'll be asking about the iPad and about Apple's contentious relationship with Google. There's also that "4G" iPhone-Gizmodo situation, which we can't imagine wouldn't be addressed in some way.
Steve Jobs doesn't submit to many interviews, so when he does, it's pretty big news.Tech blog AllThingsD on Tuesday announced that Jobs will headline the eighth annual D: All Things Digital conference, scheduled for June 1 through 3 in Palos Verdes, Calif. He is scheduled to be the main interviewee on opening night.The Wall Street Journal's Walt Mossberg and AllThingsD's Kara Swisher will be conducting the interview.Jobs last appeared at the D Conference in 2007, in a joint interview with Microsoft founder Bill Gates, in which the two reflected on each other's legacies in technology.While Gates is not on the D8 schedule, there's plenty for Mossberg and Swisher to discuss with Jobs. Swisher specifically mentions that she'll be asking about the iPad and about Apple's contentious relationship with Google. There's also that "4G" iPhone-Gizmodo situation, which we can't imagine wouldn't be addressed in some way.
Apple sells 350,000 textbooks in three days, analyst says
Apple sells 350,000 textbooks in three days, analyst says
Since digital textbooks are still in their infancy, it might be tough to determine success in that market just yet. But so far, it appears Apple is doing quite well.The iPhone maker reportedly sold 350,000 digital textbooks through its iBookstore in just its first three days of availability, Global Equities Research has revealed, according to All Things Digital, which obtained the data from the analyst firm. Global Equities Research monitors textbook downloads through its own "proprietary tracking system," All Things Digital said today. The firm doesn't disclose how that system works.Last week, Apple unveiled digital textbooks for its iPad. The books, which are coming through major textbook publishers McGraw-Hill and Pearson, among others, allow for far more interactivity than physical editions. The textbooks come with video, 3D images, instant glossaries, and the ability to highlight and add notes. In addition, Apple is charging $14.99 or less for the high school textbooks available so far, making them more affordable than their traditional counterparts. Related storiesApple launches iBooks 2 digital textbooksiBooks 2 was Steve Jobs' vision, textbook publisher saysApple revamps iTunes U, makes it class portalAccording to All Things Digital, citing Global Equities Research's data, that pricewon't necessarily hurt textbook publishers, which are accustomed to a typical markup on textbooks of between33 and 35 percent, due to the number of parties that handle books throughout the supply chain to get them into classrooms. With Apple's direct-to-consumer option, the middleman and production costs are cut out of the equation, allowing publishers to sell textbooks at a discount.Moving away from the books themselves, Apple also unveiled iBooks Author at last week's event. That Mac OS X-based application is designed to make it easier for authors to publish interactive iBooks and textbooks. According to Global Equities Research, iBooks Author was downloaded 90,000 times during its first three days of availability, indicating that authors have designs on self-publishing books in the coming months.For its part, Apple hasn't divulged download figures. The company did not immediately respond to CNET's request for comment on the Global Equities Research findings.
Since digital textbooks are still in their infancy, it might be tough to determine success in that market just yet. But so far, it appears Apple is doing quite well.The iPhone maker reportedly sold 350,000 digital textbooks through its iBookstore in just its first three days of availability, Global Equities Research has revealed, according to All Things Digital, which obtained the data from the analyst firm. Global Equities Research monitors textbook downloads through its own "proprietary tracking system," All Things Digital said today. The firm doesn't disclose how that system works.Last week, Apple unveiled digital textbooks for its iPad. The books, which are coming through major textbook publishers McGraw-Hill and Pearson, among others, allow for far more interactivity than physical editions. The textbooks come with video, 3D images, instant glossaries, and the ability to highlight and add notes. In addition, Apple is charging $14.99 or less for the high school textbooks available so far, making them more affordable than their traditional counterparts. Related storiesApple launches iBooks 2 digital textbooksiBooks 2 was Steve Jobs' vision, textbook publisher saysApple revamps iTunes U, makes it class portalAccording to All Things Digital, citing Global Equities Research's data, that pricewon't necessarily hurt textbook publishers, which are accustomed to a typical markup on textbooks of between33 and 35 percent, due to the number of parties that handle books throughout the supply chain to get them into classrooms. With Apple's direct-to-consumer option, the middleman and production costs are cut out of the equation, allowing publishers to sell textbooks at a discount.Moving away from the books themselves, Apple also unveiled iBooks Author at last week's event. That Mac OS X-based application is designed to make it easier for authors to publish interactive iBooks and textbooks. According to Global Equities Research, iBooks Author was downloaded 90,000 times during its first three days of availability, indicating that authors have designs on self-publishing books in the coming months.For its part, Apple hasn't divulged download figures. The company did not immediately respond to CNET's request for comment on the Global Equities Research findings.
Apple said to be 'serious' about moving into mobile payments
Apple said to be 'serious' about moving into mobile payments
Several clues have surfaced over the past few months that point to Apple working on its own mobile payments business. We've seen patent filings, rumors of secret meetings, and analyst predictions. Now, the company appears to be hiring for two new senior electronic payments positions, according to Re/code. Citing anonymous sources, Re/code writes that Apple is looking to fill positions for head of product and head of business development."Their ambitions are very, very serious," one of the sources told Re/code.Related storiesApple looking to build mobile-payments service, report saysSquare discussing possible sale with Google, Apple -- reportApple patent filing reveals digital wallet systemApple to develop digital wallet in next year or two, says analystApple already lets hundreds of millions of users buy music, books, and apps through an iTunes account linked to their credit cards. So, expanding this payment process into a digital wallet, or some other sort of mobile payment service, could be a feasible shift for the company.In January, it was rumored that Apple was exploring a move beyond the digital realm into letting users pay for physical goods and services -- such as clothes or a taxi ride -- with an iTunes account. Reportedly, Apple has been conducting on-going meetings with industry executives to discuss the topic. Expanding into a mobile-payments business could put the company in direct competition with services like Stripe and eBay's PayPal. According to Re/code, there's the possibility that Apple could even partner with PayPal in some sort of joint payment system.CNET contacted Apple for comment. We'll update the story when we get more information.
Several clues have surfaced over the past few months that point to Apple working on its own mobile payments business. We've seen patent filings, rumors of secret meetings, and analyst predictions. Now, the company appears to be hiring for two new senior electronic payments positions, according to Re/code. Citing anonymous sources, Re/code writes that Apple is looking to fill positions for head of product and head of business development."Their ambitions are very, very serious," one of the sources told Re/code.Related storiesApple looking to build mobile-payments service, report saysSquare discussing possible sale with Google, Apple -- reportApple patent filing reveals digital wallet systemApple to develop digital wallet in next year or two, says analystApple already lets hundreds of millions of users buy music, books, and apps through an iTunes account linked to their credit cards. So, expanding this payment process into a digital wallet, or some other sort of mobile payment service, could be a feasible shift for the company.In January, it was rumored that Apple was exploring a move beyond the digital realm into letting users pay for physical goods and services -- such as clothes or a taxi ride -- with an iTunes account. Reportedly, Apple has been conducting on-going meetings with industry executives to discuss the topic. Expanding into a mobile-payments business could put the company in direct competition with services like Stripe and eBay's PayPal. According to Re/code, there's the possibility that Apple could even partner with PayPal in some sort of joint payment system.CNET contacted Apple for comment. We'll update the story when we get more information.
Apple iPhone enters prepaid world with Cricket
Apple iPhone enters prepaid world with Cricket
Apple's iPhone will make the leap to the prepaid world through Leap Wireless's Cricket wireless service. The regional prepaid carrier plans to sell the iPhone on June 22, although its no-contract plans means a higher upfront cost. The 16GB iPhone 4S will cost $499.99, while the 8GB iPhone 4 will cost $399.99.The iPhone moving to Cricket marks the continued expansion of the availability of Apple's blockbuster device, highlighting the company's push to get the device in as many hands as possible. The iPhone is an unusual device to hit the prepaid world, since it is such an expensive product relative to other prepaid phones.The iPhone will be sold with a $55 no-contract plan that includes unlimited calling and text messages. The plan also includes 2.3GB of data, after which the carrier will throttle, or slow the connection down. Despite a hefty price tag, the iPhone's popularity should help Cricket recapture a bit of momentum lost in recent quarters. The company, as with other prepaid services, has seen growth slow as the larger carriers enter the prepaid business. "Launching iPhone is a major milestone for us and we are proud to offer iPhone customers attractive nationwide coverage, a robust 3G data network and a value-packed, no-contract plan," Leap CEO Doug Hutchison said in a statement.While prepaid carriers typically don't offer subsidies, it appears Leap is paying Apple a small subsidy to keep the iPhone somewhat reasonably priced. AT&T and Verizon Wireless lists the 16GB iPhone 4S for $649.99 without a two-year contract. Prepaid customers are required to buy an iPhone through Cricket; they are unable to bring in an iPhone from another carrier. Customer can go here to find out more information. • See CNET's review of the iPhone 4SThis content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Apple's iPhone will make the leap to the prepaid world through Leap Wireless's Cricket wireless service. The regional prepaid carrier plans to sell the iPhone on June 22, although its no-contract plans means a higher upfront cost. The 16GB iPhone 4S will cost $499.99, while the 8GB iPhone 4 will cost $399.99.The iPhone moving to Cricket marks the continued expansion of the availability of Apple's blockbuster device, highlighting the company's push to get the device in as many hands as possible. The iPhone is an unusual device to hit the prepaid world, since it is such an expensive product relative to other prepaid phones.The iPhone will be sold with a $55 no-contract plan that includes unlimited calling and text messages. The plan also includes 2.3GB of data, after which the carrier will throttle, or slow the connection down. Despite a hefty price tag, the iPhone's popularity should help Cricket recapture a bit of momentum lost in recent quarters. The company, as with other prepaid services, has seen growth slow as the larger carriers enter the prepaid business. "Launching iPhone is a major milestone for us and we are proud to offer iPhone customers attractive nationwide coverage, a robust 3G data network and a value-packed, no-contract plan," Leap CEO Doug Hutchison said in a statement.While prepaid carriers typically don't offer subsidies, it appears Leap is paying Apple a small subsidy to keep the iPhone somewhat reasonably priced. AT&T and Verizon Wireless lists the 16GB iPhone 4S for $649.99 without a two-year contract. Prepaid customers are required to buy an iPhone through Cricket; they are unable to bring in an iPhone from another carrier. Customer can go here to find out more information. • See CNET's review of the iPhone 4SThis content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Apple iPhone 6, 6 Plus get updated cameras with optical image stabilization, faster autofocus
Apple iPhone 6, 6 Plus get updated cameras with optical image stabilization, faster autofocus
As part of the announcement of the new iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, Apple revealed some of the new tech you'll find helping you get those perfect shots. For starters, you'll find optical image stabilization in the 6 Plus (it's just electronic for the 6), faster autofocus, and slow-motion video up to 240 frames per second, which doubles the iPhone 5S' capabilities. Carried over from the 5S, the iSight camera features an 8-megapixel backside-illuminated CMOS sensor with 1.5μm pixels, an f2.2 aperture lens, and the True Tone flash that dynamically adjusts color to match lighting conditions. James Martin/CNETIt is a new image sensor, though, with phase-detection autofocus that should improve focusing speeds over the contrast AF system used for previous iPhone's. (For those keeping Android-to-Apple scorecards,Samsung's Galaxy S5 also has phase-detection AF.)Apple unveils iPhone 6, Apple WatchiPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, Apple Pay and the Apple Watch: Here's everything Apple just announcedApple's September 9 event: CNET's complete coverageHere's what we didn't get from Apple's iPhone eventLow-light photos should be a little cleaner thanks to the iPhone 6's A8 image signal processor. Panoramic images get a resolution bump to 43 megapixels and a new gyroscope improves stitching.Video capabilities include 1080p capture at 30fps or 60fps. It can also record slow-motion video at 120fps or 240fps, which is great for analyzing your golf swing among other things. It has continuous autofocus (which can be a blessing and a curse) and to help with camera shake, it has cinematic image stabilization. There is also a new HD FaceTime sensor that does single-shot HDR photos as well as HDR video, so no more getting lost in the shadows when you or your subject is backlit. The FaceTime camera also gets a burst mode for, what else, burst selfies. Read back through CNET's Apple live blog and see all of today's Apple news.
As part of the announcement of the new iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, Apple revealed some of the new tech you'll find helping you get those perfect shots. For starters, you'll find optical image stabilization in the 6 Plus (it's just electronic for the 6), faster autofocus, and slow-motion video up to 240 frames per second, which doubles the iPhone 5S' capabilities. Carried over from the 5S, the iSight camera features an 8-megapixel backside-illuminated CMOS sensor with 1.5μm pixels, an f2.2 aperture lens, and the True Tone flash that dynamically adjusts color to match lighting conditions. James Martin/CNETIt is a new image sensor, though, with phase-detection autofocus that should improve focusing speeds over the contrast AF system used for previous iPhone's. (For those keeping Android-to-Apple scorecards,Samsung's Galaxy S5 also has phase-detection AF.)Apple unveils iPhone 6, Apple WatchiPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, Apple Pay and the Apple Watch: Here's everything Apple just announcedApple's September 9 event: CNET's complete coverageHere's what we didn't get from Apple's iPhone eventLow-light photos should be a little cleaner thanks to the iPhone 6's A8 image signal processor. Panoramic images get a resolution bump to 43 megapixels and a new gyroscope improves stitching.Video capabilities include 1080p capture at 30fps or 60fps. It can also record slow-motion video at 120fps or 240fps, which is great for analyzing your golf swing among other things. It has continuous autofocus (which can be a blessing and a curse) and to help with camera shake, it has cinematic image stabilization. There is also a new HD FaceTime sensor that does single-shot HDR photos as well as HDR video, so no more getting lost in the shadows when you or your subject is backlit. The FaceTime camera also gets a burst mode for, what else, burst selfies. Read back through CNET's Apple live blog and see all of today's Apple news.
Apple iPhone 4S launching October 14, report says
Apple iPhone 4S launching October 14, report says
Even though Apple's iPhone event is just hours away, the rumor mill hasn't stopped producing possible hints into the company's plans.This morning, 9to5Mac is reporting, citing sources, that Apple will launch the rumored iPhone 4S on October 14. The blog's sources say that the company's stores will open their doors at 7 a.m. local time to accommodate what could be strong demand for the device. In addition, the blog says, Apple employees will be subject to "overnights," so they can get the stores ready for the next day.Apple will hold its iPhone event today. Although the company hasn't said what it has planned, the latest rumors suggest it will unveil both an iPhone 4S, featuring some improvements over its predecessor, as well as the iPhone 5.Related stories:• Apple's iPhone event plus Buzz Out Loud: Join us Tuesday (live blog)• Full coverage: Apple's iPhone event• Play along with CNET's iPhone event bingo!Over the last several months, rumors have been swirling over when Apple might eventually make the new iPhone (or iPhones) available for purchase. In August, 9to5Mac reported, citing sources, that Apple would launch the iPhone 5 on October 7 or October 14. That report echoed TiPb's claim that Apple would launch the iPhone 5 on October 7. Many analysts, on the other hand, haven't been so specific, deciding instead to say that Apple's new entries will launch in October some time.Luckily, all the speculation surrounding Apple's plans for its iPhone line should finally come to an end later today when the company takes the stage at its Cupertino, Calif. headquarters. And when it does, CNET will be there to cover every second, so be sure to check back at 9:30 a.m. PT when pre-game coverage begins.Apple did not immediately respond to CNET's request for comment.
Even though Apple's iPhone event is just hours away, the rumor mill hasn't stopped producing possible hints into the company's plans.This morning, 9to5Mac is reporting, citing sources, that Apple will launch the rumored iPhone 4S on October 14. The blog's sources say that the company's stores will open their doors at 7 a.m. local time to accommodate what could be strong demand for the device. In addition, the blog says, Apple employees will be subject to "overnights," so they can get the stores ready for the next day.Apple will hold its iPhone event today. Although the company hasn't said what it has planned, the latest rumors suggest it will unveil both an iPhone 4S, featuring some improvements over its predecessor, as well as the iPhone 5.Related stories:• Apple's iPhone event plus Buzz Out Loud: Join us Tuesday (live blog)• Full coverage: Apple's iPhone event• Play along with CNET's iPhone event bingo!Over the last several months, rumors have been swirling over when Apple might eventually make the new iPhone (or iPhones) available for purchase. In August, 9to5Mac reported, citing sources, that Apple would launch the iPhone 5 on October 7 or October 14. That report echoed TiPb's claim that Apple would launch the iPhone 5 on October 7. Many analysts, on the other hand, haven't been so specific, deciding instead to say that Apple's new entries will launch in October some time.Luckily, all the speculation surrounding Apple's plans for its iPhone line should finally come to an end later today when the company takes the stage at its Cupertino, Calif. headquarters. And when it does, CNET will be there to cover every second, so be sure to check back at 9:30 a.m. PT when pre-game coverage begins.Apple did not immediately respond to CNET's request for comment.
Apple iPhone 4S gets benchmarked; slower than iPad 2
Apple iPhone 4S gets benchmarked; slower than iPad 2
Apple's iPhone 4S smartphone isn't even on store shelves yet, but benchmarks have leaked out on the Web, suggesting the device holds up quite well against most products, except the iPad 2.According to benchmark data obtained by Anandtech from a host of sources, Apple's iPhone 4S beats out all devices, except for the Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 in a JavaScript benchmark, but easily bests that tablet (and all other Android-based devices) in a Rightware BrowserMark benchmark. However, when the smartphone is pitted against the iPad 2, it falls short in processor integer performance and in a 720p-frames-per-second test, according to Anandtech.That data makes Anandtech believe that theiPhone 4S comes with an 800MHz A5 dual-core processor, and not the same 1GHz A5 dual-core processor found in the iPad 2. Geekbench, which provided some benchmark information, says the processor frequency is about 716MHz.Apple unveiled the iPhone 4S last week at a special event in its Cupertino, Calif., headquarters. The company touted the iPhone 4S' dual-core processor, but stopped short of providing detailed information on the chip. That said, the company did say that the processor in the iPhone 4S will easily overshadow the A4 chip found in the iPhone 4.Related stories:• Apple spending $203 for each iPhone 4S, report says• iPhone 4S First Take• Apple unveils iPhone 4SBased on the data published by Anandtech, that appears to be the case. In nearly every benchmark, the iPhone 4S doubled the performance of its predecessor.Still, it's worth noting that the iPhone 4S has yet to launch, and there is no way to prove the validity of the benchmarks. So, while they might be accurate, for now, it's advised to take them with a grain of salt.Apple's iPhone 4S launches later this week on Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint networks. The device starts at $199 for 16GB of storage, and goes up to $299 and $399 for 32GB and 64GB of storage, respectively. So far, the smartphone has proven successful, setting a new preorder record of 1 million sales in its first day of availability.
Apple's iPhone 4S smartphone isn't even on store shelves yet, but benchmarks have leaked out on the Web, suggesting the device holds up quite well against most products, except the iPad 2.According to benchmark data obtained by Anandtech from a host of sources, Apple's iPhone 4S beats out all devices, except for the Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 in a JavaScript benchmark, but easily bests that tablet (and all other Android-based devices) in a Rightware BrowserMark benchmark. However, when the smartphone is pitted against the iPad 2, it falls short in processor integer performance and in a 720p-frames-per-second test, according to Anandtech.That data makes Anandtech believe that theiPhone 4S comes with an 800MHz A5 dual-core processor, and not the same 1GHz A5 dual-core processor found in the iPad 2. Geekbench, which provided some benchmark information, says the processor frequency is about 716MHz.Apple unveiled the iPhone 4S last week at a special event in its Cupertino, Calif., headquarters. The company touted the iPhone 4S' dual-core processor, but stopped short of providing detailed information on the chip. That said, the company did say that the processor in the iPhone 4S will easily overshadow the A4 chip found in the iPhone 4.Related stories:• Apple spending $203 for each iPhone 4S, report says• iPhone 4S First Take• Apple unveils iPhone 4SBased on the data published by Anandtech, that appears to be the case. In nearly every benchmark, the iPhone 4S doubled the performance of its predecessor.Still, it's worth noting that the iPhone 4S has yet to launch, and there is no way to prove the validity of the benchmarks. So, while they might be accurate, for now, it's advised to take them with a grain of salt.Apple's iPhone 4S launches later this week on Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint networks. The device starts at $199 for 16GB of storage, and goes up to $299 and $399 for 32GB and 64GB of storage, respectively. So far, the smartphone has proven successful, setting a new preorder record of 1 million sales in its first day of availability.
Apple iPad 'Mini' rumors heat up; launch seen by year's end
Apple iPad 'Mini' rumors heat up; launch seen by year's end
The Wall Street Journal's two sources --- who asked not to be named --- claim the new tablet will "likely come with a screen smaller than 8-inches," compared to the iPad's 9.7-inch screen. Since its launch in 2010, the iPad has not seen a screen size change, though the iPad 3 boasts a high-definition, pixel-packed Retina display.Apple is said to be working with LG Display for the "iPad Mini" screens, according to one of the sources, while the other said Apple had signaled to manufacturing partners to prepare for mass production on the smaller tablet.It follows earlier reports that the so-called "iPad Mini" would arrive in the third-quarter in time for the Christmas holiday, and corroborating recent rumblings that the technology giant is preparing to launch the production lines for the highly-anticipated device.NPD DisplaySearch's Richard Shim told CNET on Tuesday that there was a "business plan" for a 7.85-inch iPad. He also noted how supply chain companies -- firms that make the components and build the end-product -- were gearing up the production lines, but noted that "plans can be altered."Bloomberg reports the long-awaited "smaller, cheaper iPad" may be announced by October, but will lack the high-definition Retina display that the iPad 3 boasts.Sterne Agee & Leache analyst Shaw Wu said the "iPad mini" will likely sell at a similar price tag to that of the Amazon's Kindle Fire and Google's Nexus 7 tablet.Last week, Google debuted the 7-inch Nexus 7 tablet, selling at $199 -- the same price as the Android-powered Kindle Fire -- and will likely end up serving as the prime competition to Apple's anticipated 7-inch iPad. Microsoft's Windows-powered Surface tablet, announced in June, has a larger 10.6-inch display, but pricing has yet to be announced. Windows division president Steven Sinofsky said the device will be "priced like comparable tablets." Surface is also expected to debut on store shelves this fall in time for Christmas.Apple declined to comment to CNET.
The Wall Street Journal's two sources --- who asked not to be named --- claim the new tablet will "likely come with a screen smaller than 8-inches," compared to the iPad's 9.7-inch screen. Since its launch in 2010, the iPad has not seen a screen size change, though the iPad 3 boasts a high-definition, pixel-packed Retina display.Apple is said to be working with LG Display for the "iPad Mini" screens, according to one of the sources, while the other said Apple had signaled to manufacturing partners to prepare for mass production on the smaller tablet.It follows earlier reports that the so-called "iPad Mini" would arrive in the third-quarter in time for the Christmas holiday, and corroborating recent rumblings that the technology giant is preparing to launch the production lines for the highly-anticipated device.NPD DisplaySearch's Richard Shim told CNET on Tuesday that there was a "business plan" for a 7.85-inch iPad. He also noted how supply chain companies -- firms that make the components and build the end-product -- were gearing up the production lines, but noted that "plans can be altered."Bloomberg reports the long-awaited "smaller, cheaper iPad" may be announced by October, but will lack the high-definition Retina display that the iPad 3 boasts.Sterne Agee & Leache analyst Shaw Wu said the "iPad mini" will likely sell at a similar price tag to that of the Amazon's Kindle Fire and Google's Nexus 7 tablet.Last week, Google debuted the 7-inch Nexus 7 tablet, selling at $199 -- the same price as the Android-powered Kindle Fire -- and will likely end up serving as the prime competition to Apple's anticipated 7-inch iPad. Microsoft's Windows-powered Surface tablet, announced in June, has a larger 10.6-inch display, but pricing has yet to be announced. Windows division president Steven Sinofsky said the device will be "priced like comparable tablets." Surface is also expected to debut on store shelves this fall in time for Christmas.Apple declined to comment to CNET.
Apple looking to build mobile-payments service, report says
Apple already lets users buy music, books, and apps through an iTunes account. But the tech giant has plans to expand its mobile-payment efforts, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.Citing anonymous sources, the report says Apple is exploring moving beyond the realm of digital goods and letting users pay for physical goods and services -- such as clothes or a taxi ride -- with an iTunes account. The Journal says Eddy Cue, the Apple executive in charge of iTunes and the App Store, has already met with industry executives to discuss the topic.The company has also moved Jennifer Bailey, a longtime executive who is running the company's online store, into a new role building the payments business, the article said.Expanding into a mobile-payments business would leverage the hundreds of millions of credit cards Apple already has on file thanks to iTunes. The move would put the company in direct competition with services like Stripe and eBay's PayPal.The space has been heating up of late. Stripe recently raised $80 million in funding, at a valuation of $1.75 billion. And activist investor Carl Icahn has also called for eBay to spin off PayPal. Later, he said Apple would make a good suitor for the mobile-payments service.Apple did not immediately return a request for comment. We'll update this post if we hear back.
Apple looking into new iPad Wi-Fi issues
Apple is investigating Wi-Fi connection issues on the new iPad, according to a report at 9to5Mac.The Apple-centric Web site has posted what it says is an AppleCare internal document citing "intermittent connectivity...slow Wi-Fi speeds...[and] Wi-Fi network not seen." At the top, the document states in red, "Issue/Investigation in Progress" and, under that, "Products Affected, iPad (3rd generation)."Retail stores and "contact centers" are instructed to "capture" third-generation iPads if they exhibit any Wi-Fi issues, according to the document. In this case, capture refers to picking up a unit and shipping to Apple engineering centers, according to 9to5Mac. Related storiesHow to fix Wi-Fi issues on the new iPadThis isn't the first time this issue has been raised, but it appears to be the first evidence of official Apple documentation recognizing the problem. Wi-Fi connectivityhas been discussed extensively on Apple Support Communities. Apple did not respond to a request for comment.
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