The iPod may become a rarity in the U.S. Image: strollers/Flickr/CC BY-SA

Court disputes over intellectual property continue between Korean-based Samsung and Apple, Inc. The disputes are surrounding patents for the iPod, iPad and iPhone devices. The suits could have a far-reaching affect on American consumers.

Samsung petitions ITC

Samsung, the world’s largest maker of computer memory chips, filed a suit yesterday in the High Court in London to block iPhones, iPads and iPods — manufactured in the U.K. — from being imported into the U.S. On June 28, the Korean firm also asked the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) to block importation of the devices. Samsung asserts that the Apple products contain components which violate their patents.

Apple has a suit of their own

Two months ago Apple filed a suit of their own against Samsung in a California federal court. Apple claims that Samsung slavishly copied the look, feel and design of their iPhone, iPad and iPod devices. Apple further claimed harassment by the Korean firm, which is allegedly demanding to see prototypes of the new iPad 3 and iPhone 5.

An ironic dispute

This is the most recent round in an ongoing dispute between the two electronics giants. Samsung has previously sued Apple in Seoul, San Francisco, Tokyo  and Mannheim, Germany. The ongoing spat is ironic, since the companies rely so heavily upon one another. Samsung is Apple’s chief supplier of memory chips.

Both court battles could take several months to settle. Should Samsung succeed, the iPod could become a rare and much-sought-after collector’s item in the U.S.

Disputes are nothing new

Disputes of this kind are nothing new. In 2006, the American wireless firm Qualcomm petitioned the ITC to block the import of products from Finnish corporation Nokia over patent infringements. The ITC disapproved the request, but Nokia was concerned enough to pay Qualcomm a settlement in 2008 to avoid a lawsuit over the same issues.

Apple also asked the ITC to block the U.S. importation of Nokia phones last year. Yet just last month, Apple decided to pay Nokia around $1 billion for the rights to use its patents.

Importation has been blocked in the past

The ITC did agree to block the importation of a phone containing Qualcomm chips in 2007. California-based Broadcom petitioned the block, claiming patent violations. A federal court eventually overturned the decision. Verizon Wireless, whose phones use Qualcomm chips, feared the decision would greatly harm their business at the time.

Sources

Daily Finance
Bloomberg

Android has finally overtaken Research in Motion and the Blackberry as the dominant platform of smartphones. Image from Wikimedia Commons.

In the war for supremacy in the market for smartphones, the Android operating system has finally toppled Research in Motion and the Blackberry line. Google’s popular Android line has spread quickly, overtaking Apple and Microsoft products within months of the the first launch of an Android phone. More than types of 170 devices use the Android system.

Blackberry loses some juice among consumers

The Blackberry line of phones made by Research in Motion has held the the top spot for sales of smartphones for a long time, but the company has finally been dethroned, according to CNN. The Google based Android platform has surpassed RIM in sales after steadily outpacing all other domestic competition and safely pulling into the lead with more than 31 percent of sales. The first phone using the Android operating system was the HTC G1, which was released in November 2009 and carried exclusively by T-Mobile. In early 2010, Android had only a 7 percent share of the smartphone market, but the platform has enjoyed constant growth since its introduction. An Android OS is now the base of more than 170 types of phones and tablet computers across numerous carriers.

Other phones have their jobs cut out for them

Of the four popular smartphone platforms in the U.S., the only one that has constantly grown market share is Android. Research in Motion at one point sold 42 percent of all smartphones, but RIM sales have dwindled to 30.4 percent between February of 2010 and the end of January of 2011. Windows phones have been constantly on the decline, and now make up less than 10 percent of the smartphone market. Apple, with its flagship product the iPhone, has held fairly constant. An estimated 350,000 new Android devices are activated daily. The Symbian OS offered by Nokia held a larger share of the market than Android until late 2010, when Symbian sales finally were eclipsed by Android.

Android Nokia phone not likely

Just about every phone company makes an Android phone, as Google licenses it for free, and adapting it is fairly easy for any developer, but Nokia isn’t having it, according to the Los Angeles Times. It was recently announced that Nokia is planning to revamp its offerings by partnering with Microsoft and installing Windows Mobile on Nokia phones. Microsoft is reportedly going to pay Nokia $1 billion for the rights to put Windows Phone 7 on Nokia devices, which could be a net benefit for both companies if it is successful.

Sources

CNN

Los Angeles Times

Verizon is coming up with ways to handle increased data with iPhones. CC by Linux insidev2/Wikimedia Commons

The Verizon iPhone is finally on the market, officially. The first reports from customers are that Verizon service is pretty good, if a bit slow. Verizon has officially stated it will follow a policy that is sure to be unpopular: data throttling.

Reports of the Verizon iPhone have come out

Feb. 3 the iPhone was delivered to Verizon customers. The network is being tested by new customers after years of speculation. There aren’t dropped calls in most large cities and high traffic areas yet. Download and upload speeds are a bit slower than AT&T’s peak service, but it does appear to be fulfilling the service promise of “more reliable.”

Data throttling policy

Individual data use isn’t throttled by AT&T, which has been officially stated. However, the company is moving to a tiered data system in which the heaviest users of data will have to pay more for their data transfers. In a memo posted on the Verizon website this morning, the company officially took the stance that it will data throttle, which means it will purposely slow the connections of certain users. There are two reasons to do this. First, the unlimited data plan will be used and maintained by Verizon. Second, Verizon plans to throttle the top 5 percent of users only during peak hours in order to prevent unreliable service for others.

How users are affected by data overuse

During heavy use, Verizon Wireless will throttle iPhone data, but that’s not what’s causing outrage. Verizon plans to throttle service for users who are in the top 5 percent limit of data usage during the month they join the top 5 percent — and the next month as well. In other words, if you get into the top once, your service will be slowed for two months. Customers are really upset about it even though Verizon says it is just to keep things reliable.

Article cited

Venture Beat

You can engrave just about anything you want on your iPad -- but how else can you customize? Image: Flickr / matt_gibson / CC-BY

In announcement timed perfectly for the holiday shopping season, Apple will be offering free iPad engraving. This engraving has long been offered on iPods and has proven popular. Plus, there are other options for improving the look of your iPad that go far beyond just two lines of iPad engraving.

Free iPad engraving

When you order an iPad from Apple, you can now get free engraving. The two lines of engraving can say just about anything. The free iPad engraving adds two to three days to the shipping time for your iPad, so you will have to plan ahead. If you want to customize your iPad beyond just a few lines of text, though, there are plenty of other iPad customization options out there.

Steampunk your iPad

With an aesthetic based on wood, brass and all things Victorian, steampunk may seem to be an odd choice for iPad. By combining new technology with an old-style look, though, steampunking your iPad can create a classy aesthetic. iPad charging docks and syncing docks in steampunk style are available all over the web. You can also get steampunk-style leather carrying cases.

Sticker your iPad

Decals and stickers to customize your iPad are among the least expensive and most creative ways you can customize your iPad. Pre-printed decals are available online, or you can contact your local sign or decal shop to print custom stickers. If you are going for a “full wrap” look, ask for a perforated material that will help prevent bubbles and keep the heat of the iPad from building up.

Protecting your iPad with a fabric case

If you plan on using your iPad regularly, it is definitely worth it to buy or make a fabric case. Not only will it customize the look of your iPad, it will protect your investment. You can start by checking out your local fabric store or purchasing a handmade case — either way, the fabric will ensure your only iPad engraving is what you choose, not accidental scratches.

The newly patented anti-sexting technology could monitor more than just sexually explicit messages. Image: Joi / Flickr / CC-BY

Tuesday morning, Apple, Inc. was awarded a patent on its new anti-sexting technology. Intended as a filter to control kids’ and teen’s text-messaging, the program goes beyond just sexting. Apple’s “anti-sexting technology” is built to regulate and control a full range of mobile communications.

Anti-sexting technology patent

Apple computers has been awarded a U.S. Patent on what the company is calling “anti-sexting” programming. The program is written in such a way that it “reads” and takes action based on the “content and intent” of a message, rather than on particular words or phrases used. Apple claims that this will work better than current tools available, because it is flexible enough to address multiple criteria. The technology is only intended for text messages and does not address images sent through the phone. The newly patented technology has not yet been integrated with any Apple products.

Anti-sexting programming goes beyond sexting

The patent application for this Apple anti-sexting product cited several examples of how the product could go beyond controlling sexting. The program could also be used to require a certain number of a certain kind of texts to be sent. It could also block messages with grammar and spelling errors from being sent. In short, any kind of text message criteria could be set and required on just about any Apple device that carries this product.

Current text message control products

There are dozens, if not hundreds of current applications and programs intended to help limit or control text messaging. TigerText deletes text messages to keep them private. One application turns off texting functionality if the GPS if the device indicates it is going more than a certain number of miles per hour. There are also programs that can limit text messaging to a certain pre-set list of people or phone numbers.

Sexting as a personal right

The anti-sexting technology patented by Apple leaves a larger question open, however. At what point are rights being invaded? Some would say that children and teenagers need controls and limits on their communication and use of mobile technology. Adults, however, may find their communication recorded, monitored and even cut off depending on use of their own devices.

Apple is still dominating the cell phone industry. CC by a_whisper_of_unremitting_demand/Flickr

The mobile industry has been looking for an answer to Apple’s iPhone, but it continues to suck all the air out of the room. Apple’s emphasis on brand and refusal to compete on price has resulted in the biggest chunk of mobile industry profits despite having the smallest market share. Apple’s iPhone is so popular the “Antennagate” issue of last summer had virtually no effect on sales. Analysts are saying Apple’s domination of the mobile industry makes it unlikely that Android, which depends on devices that compete on price, could ever pose a threat.

Apple prospers through innovation

The iPhone has always attracted a great deal of media attention. But the true nature of Apple’s money-making machine was detailed by Fortune on CNN.com. Giving its stock a “buy” rating, the fund market analyst Canaccord Genuity projected out Apple stock as high as $356 per share. The analyst’s recommendations included data showing how Apple is turning its innovations into cash. From January to June this year, Apple sold 17 million iPhones. That total represents a market share of just 3 percent. Samsung, Nokia and LG–the world’s three largest handset makers–sold 400 million units combined. Apple racked up the numbers where they counted. The company amassed 39 percent of industry profits in that time frame. The top three heavyweights fought over 32 percent of mobile industry profits. Canaccord Genuity pointed out that most handset companies struggle to make a profit or even 10 percent operating margins. With its iPhone, it is believed that Apple enjoys a 50 percent gross profit on top of a 30 percent operating margin.

Beneath the surface of Apple’s success

Capturing just 3 percent of a market while reaping 40 percent of its profit was impossible. Then Apple created the iPhone. Apple has far outgained its rivals with more than slick marketing campaigns, according to Jason Mick at Daily Tech. Mick writes that because the iPhone is so popular, AT&T has given Apple an extremely lucrative contract to grow its subscriber base. Apple gains another profit advantage over Android competitors by using less expensive hardware. It uses the popularity of its products to get high volumes at lower prices. This strategy gives Apple plenty of money to innovate in the battle against Android. But Mick said, why bother?. All Apple has to do is keep its loyal customers happy.

It’s tough to tarnish Apple’s brand

Apple haters hoped Antennagate would be Apple’s comeuppance. But the media maelstrom amounted to nothing. When the iPhone 4G was unveiled, a concerted media effort to inflate a reception issue with the new model didn’t make it much further than the blogosphere. When Consumer reports tested the iPhone reception problem and said it could not recommend the iPhone, Apple bashers reacted with glee. It still won’t. But the iPhone marches on. According to Computerworld, the J.D. Power and Associates customer satisfaction rankings for smartphones lists the iPhone at the top of the list—its fourth consecutive first place finish.

Sources

CNN
Daily Tech
Computerworld

Apple wants to be able to lock down your jailbroken iPhone, even though it's legal for you to do so. (Photo Credit: CC BY-SA/Dylan Parker/Flickr)

Jailbreaking your iPhone is currently legal according to U.S. copyright officials, but that doesn’t mean that Apple is happy to sit back while users break free of their proprietary corporate mold and utilize the full potential of the handheld device. The Register reports that the technology giant has applied for a patent “covering an elaborate series of measures” that will “protect iPhone owners from thieves” and other non-authorized users. That patent, entitled “Systems and Methods for Identifying Unauthorized Users of an Electronic Device,” would protect Apple liability in jailbreaking exploits, but it would also allegedly lock down a user’s phone.

Jailbroken iPhones can offer up data to prying eyes

Jailbreaking your iPhone makes your personal data available to identity thieves; that’s Apple’s story, and the company is sticking to it when it comes to the iPhone and jailbreaking. Apple’s proposed patent identifies numerous ways that unauthorized users could activate a jailbroken iPhone’s camera remotely, or track geotagging info and other private data. If the patent is approved, Apple would be able to tag and lock down any jailbroken iPhone it detects – and the company says it’s for the user’s own good.

Big Apple is watching you

If a user’s iPhone suddenly shows an increase in memory usage, The Register suggests, then Apple could identify the phone as having been jailbroken, as such activity is, in Apple’s estimation, consistent with hacking programs. Unlocking an iPhone (opening it up so that it can be used on cellular networks other than AT&T) would also be detectable if Apple’s patent is approved. The Register reports that Apple would also be able to detect “fraudulent use” by tapping into the iPhone’s accelerometer to determine whether the device is being carried by “thieves in transit.” Thus, the company believes that such new security measures as required voice-print identification is necessary, although technical experts and consumer rights groups are having a field day with that idea.

Who can active your iPhone camera with this patent?

Apple will be able to activate your iPhone camera if the patent is approved. Imagine yourself in a world where Steve Jobs can see what you’re doing at any time. Regardless of how much you like the style and convenience of Apple devices, do you want Apple to be able to turn on your camera at any time it chooses? Perhaps Steve Jobs won’t approve of what you’re doing.

Sources:

The Register

Is the iPhone 4 headed to T-Mobile? This celebrity spokeswoman won't say. (Photo Credit: Nhy Nguyen/Flickr/CC BY-SA)

Apple may not be recalling the iPhone 4, but it certainly isn’t because the company is strapped for cash. Its profit in fiscal third quarter 2010, per PC Magazine, was massive thanks to the iPad. Apple made $3.25 billion net profit on revenue of $15.7 billion. Yet that may not even be the most explosive news coming out of the land of Steve Jobs. If the Cult of Mac’s “highly placed source” is accurate, T-Mobile may begin selling the iPhone 4 by third quarter 2010. PC World writes that talks are far along between Apple and the carrier, and that there’s an “80 percent chance” this will happen in two months.

iPhone 4 would make T-Mobile a heavyweight

Currently the fourth-largest carrier in the U.S., T-Mobile would certainly vault over AT&T, Verizon and Sprint if the iPhone 4 deal happens. According to PC World, there could be a major stumbling block regarding T-Mobile’s 3G frequencies. As the carrier uses a non-standard band (1700/2100 MHz) and it is unknown whether the iPhone 4 will work at the lower end of T-Mobile’s frequency range, there could be major reception issues.

Another day, another iPhone 4 rumor

PC World reminds us that Cult of Mac’s predictions don’t always stick, so don’t get too excited yet. Considering the network cap problems Apple has encountered with AT&T (and the relative animosity Verizon has shown toward Steve Jobs and crew), it could be that T-Mobile has the bandwidth to spare for iPhone users and an as-yet clean and clear relationship with Apple. Another plus on T-Mobile’s side is that Apple already works with its parent company (Deustche Telekom) in Europe.

Smartphone owners: would you make the jump to T-Mobile?

If T-Mobile does indeed enter a partnership with Apple, the pool won’t stay sparsely populated for long. Antenna issues aside, iPhone 4 remains wildly popular. It is the most serious competition for Droid and other top smartphones. Let us know what you think by sounding off below.

Sources:

PC Magazine

PC World

iPhone happenings, straight from the Techno Buffalo’s mouth

A chief complaint of consumers is the need to constantly re-purchase films after the format goes out of date. Ultraviolet aims to fix this. Image: Flickr/jayceeloop

A huge consortium of media and technology companies have announced the launch of UltraViolet. Designed to be a “digital movie locker” and media management system, UltraViolet aims to allow consumers to view movies they’ve purchased on multiple devices. UltraViolet has a huge list of supporters, but a competitor called KeyChest is already on the horizon.

UltraViolet creates a cloud-based ‘movie token’

With about 60 member companies, the digital consortium that has created UltraViolet is full of heavy hitters. The basic idea is that a cloud-based account at UltraViolet — uvvu.com — will track and record film purchases. Customers will then be able to use this “digital token” that will allow them to play the film on a wide variety of devices and services. In other words, buy a movie on Comcast, then play it on Netflix. Buy a Blu-ray DVD, then play the film on your smartphone. The goal is ultimate cross-compatibility with minimal hassle.

Ultraviolet’s competitors and challenges

Though UltraViolet has a huge list of supporting companies, a format war is already shaping up. Much like the Blu-ray versus HD-DVD and BetaMax versus VHS wars, this one has two major players. Disney is working on its own digital rights management system called KeyChest. With a huge movie library that includes Marvel Entertainment and Pixar studios, Disney controls a large number of movies. Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple, also serves as a board member and stockholder of the company. Apple has not signed onto UltraViolet, and it is likely that its iOS technology will not allow app developers to put UltraViolet on their devices.

Which digital management system will win?

If previous format wars are any indication, there will be several years where both formats for digital rights management will co-exist. Eventually, whichever format the pornography industry sides with is likely to win. However, the music industry has long tried to create similar digital rights management systems, most of which have failed rather spectacularly because of lack of corporate support and customer backlash. The way to win for either Ultraviolet or KeyChest will be a compelling library, huge amounts of corporate support and the ease of use that so many customers have come to expect.

Steve Jobs put the record straight at the Apple press conference, and there will be no iPhone recall. Image from Wikimedia Commons

In the wake of turmoil over a possibly faulty antenna on the iPhone 4.0, an Apple Press Conference was scheduled for today. A potential iPhone recall was on a lot of minds, but there will be no iPhone recall. Instead, iPhone 4.0 owners can sign up to get a free case for their iPhones to fix the antenna problem. Apple CEO Steve Jobs addressed the antenna as well as some other issues at the Apple press conference.

Hardware issues dubbed ‘Antennagate’

A partial transcript is available on the Wall Street Journal website. Steve Jobs began the Apple press conference by referring to the issue as “Antennagate”  and saying the issue is common to all smartphones, not just the iPhone 4.0. He pointed out that other smartphones, like the Blackberry, have the same problem.  Jobs did confess that the iPhone 4.0 dropped more calls than the iPhone 3GS, but the rate at which the new iPhone dropped calls was less than one more per 100 calls than the iPhone 3GS.

What will Apple do about it?

There are bumpers for the phone, but there aren’t enough to go around. Instead, Apple is offering a free case to everyone that owns an iPhone 4.0. The offer will be good until Sept. 30, and anyone who bought bumpers can get a refund for the bumpers and a free case. However, those who bought a case from a third party for iPhone 4.0 won’t get refunds. For the next 30 days, people who still aren’t happy with the iPhone 4.0 with or without the free case from Apple can return the phone for a full refund.

What ‘Antennagate’ was all about

What happened in “Antennagate” was that first, a design flaw common to all smartphones was discovered in the iPhone 4.0.  It drops an almost negligent amount of calls more than the iPhone 3GS. Essentially, what happened was that a small amount of people (just more than 0.5 percent actually complained to Apple about the phone) noticed this flaw. It was then exploited by the media.

Apple is working on fixing it and spent $100 million designing the antenna to begin with. AT&T reported to Apple that less than 2 percent of iPhone 4.0 buyers have returned their phones, compared with 6 percent of iPhone 3GS buyers.

Sources

Wall Street Journal live coverage

Providing your e-mail address to activate your iPad 3G may have turned out to be a very bad idea, thanks to an iPad e-mail leak. Image from Flickr.

An iPad e-mail leak has revealed every single one of more than 114,000 early-adopter iPad e-mail addresses. These e-mail addresses were required for 3G iPad owners to activate their devices. This iPad e-mail leak has compromised not only the e-mail addresses of people like your tech-savvy neighbor down the street but White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel. This information leak not only exposes hundreds of thousands of AT&T customers to security concerns, it raises questions about the exclusive contract between Apple and AT&T.

iPad e-mail leak affects all iPad 3G users

The iPad e-mail leak has, as far as most sources can tell, affected all owners of the iPad 3G. AT&T requires an e-mail address to activate the wireless data capabilities of the $800+ device. On the market for only two months, the iPad 3G has been purchased and activated by more than 114,000 users. Each one of these e-mail addresses is associated with an ICC-ID, an integrated circuit card identifier — essentially, proof of identity of the device. With the ICC-ID and e-mail address, hackers could easily launch a mass attack to gain access to the information contained on the iPad.

Big names affected by the iPad e-mail leak

The iPad e-mail leak affects many people, but there are serious concerns about some of the biggest names. The list of leaked iPad 3G e-mail addresses include William Eldridge, commander of a strategic bomber group in the air force. Hundreds of U.S. Department of Justice, NASA, FCC and Army addresses are included on the list. Federal court system employees, House and Senate staffers, FAA, National Institutes of Health, Citigroup, Microsoft and Dow Jones corporate e-mail addresses were also found. It is certain that some of these companies and agencies have used developers to create extra layers of security; but unlike Android devices, the notoriously closed-loop Apple systems can be difficult to upgrade the security on.

Exposing the iPad e-mail leak

The iPad e-mail leak is based on a vulnerability within the AT&T network that was released by Goatse Security. This security group has revealed security holes in Amazon, Firefox, and Safari in the past. According to Goatse, they used only data and scripts that were publicly available to find the security hole that the iPad e-mail leak exploited. Before going public with the iPad e-mail leak, Goatse notified AT&T, who closed the security hole. AT&T has not yet notified owners of the iPad 3G whose e-mail addresses may have been compromised, two days after they were informed of the security hole.

Questions about the AT&T/Apple Contract

The iPad e-mail leak is just the latest in problems that Apple device users have encountered with AT&T. The carrier, more than anything, has become known for slow networks and dropped calls on the iPhone and iPad. The problems with AT&T’s network have gotten so bad that even Steve Jobs couldn’t get the new iPhone to work during his WWDC presentation. Apple has announced that AT&T has an exclusive contract for their devices for at least a few more years. Given security breaches like this, slow networks and a lack of customer communication, one has to wonder if that contract will be honored.

Rumors of an Apple TV update barely a week after the Google TV demo signal a high stakes battle brewing for advertising billions as TV and the web become one. Flickr photo.

Apple TV has been around since about four years before Google dominated tech headlines last month with the Google TV demo at Google I/O. The enthusiastic response to the Google TV demo apparently was a wake-up call for an Apple TV update. Barely a week after Google TV was announced, rumors about a new and improved Apple TV are flying in Silicon Valley. Apple’s renewed initiative for Apple TV sets the scene for a high stakes battle between technological superpowers for future control of  a $150-billion dollar advertising market.

The Apple TV update

The Apple TV update had been in development long before Google TV made its splash. The technology blog engadget.com reports that it received a tip confirmed by a “source very close to Apple” that the Apple TV update will be based directly on the Apple iPhone 4 operating system and be capable of full 1080p HD. The Apple TV device has been described as an ultra simplified, streamlined Apple  iPhone without a screen and with just a power socket and video out. The most compelling feature of the Apple TV update may be that consumers won’t need emergency loans to jump on the bandwagon: its rumored price tag is $99. The current version of Apple TV is based on the Apple OS and costs $230.

Apple TV vs. Google TV

Apple TV is entering a high stakes game with Google. The Los Angeles Times reports that the winner will take the lead in a historical transformation of technology. Nearly 40 percent of consumers said they wanted to connect their computers to their televisions to watch online video, according to a recent survey by Frank N. Magid Associates. The Times quotes Jim Lanzone, chief executive of Clicker.com, as saying:

“A generation from now, people simply won’t believe how limited the world of linear programming was, the same way people under 30 today can’t relate to 12 channels and a knob.”

Apple TV goes to the cloud

Apple TV’s new set-top box may have much of the functionality found on the Apple iPhone. Inside, it’s got the A4 processor that powers its computers, along with 16GB of flash storage. Engadget says there will be a Time Capsule option for external storage, but the main purpose of Apple TV is all about streaming. Apple is moving away from local storage to focus the new Apple TV on cloud-based storage. Engadget said there was no information on whether the new device would support Apple’s App Store and apps, but given the runaway success of both, that feature could be assumed.

Apple TV: high expectations

Apple TV today is a little box that allows users to buy or rent HD movies and stream iTunes content through their set top boxes. Unlike the Apple iPhone and the iPad, most people don’t know it exists. Crienglish.com reports that the seamless integration of the Web and TV has eluded Apple and Microsoft for some time now, but Google TV and the overwhelming power of Google over the Internet has gotten everyone’s attention. Google TV will enable users to quickly pull up Web content on their TVs, including photos, video and music, using an on-screen search box like the one on Google’s website. Now the ball is in Apple’s court. The public is eager to see what Apple, a company that defines the state-of-the-art user experience, will come up with.

Nokia claims that Apple has stolen some of its mobile technologies. Image from Flickr.

In the mobile phone market, Nokia and Apple are the two siblings that just can’t seem to get along. Nokia has sued Apple several times. Apple has counter-sued Nokia. At issue? More than 40 billion in online cash loans invested in research and development of cellular technologies. So what is the latest volley in this international debate?

Nokia sues over Apple iPad

The latest Nokia Apple lawsuit is based on the question of 3G technology. Specifically, five separate Nokia patents on the “technologies for enhanced speech and data transmission … and innovations in antenna configurations.”  The design of the Apple iPad uses the technology Nokia believes it designed. Nokia believes that Apple is illegally using Nokia technology without paying licensing or asking permission.

Previous Nokia-Apple lawsuit

This is the second major lawsuit Nokia has filed against Apple. In 2009, Nokia sued Apple for patent violation on Nokia’s cellular telephones. Nokia is hoping to prevent Apple from importing Nokia products to European countries. In response to the 2009 lawsuit, Apple counter-sued Nokia. Apple’s claims against Nokia are also being investigated by the U.S. International Trade Commission. If Nokia wins the lawsuits, Apple may be forced to change the technology it uses in 3G phones and may be barred from importing its older handsets and iPads into Europe. If Apple wins the counter-suits, Nokia may be required to change its technology and will be barred from importing into the United States. Either way, there are billions of dollars of mobile phone market share at stake.

What Apple and Nokia suits mean

The real question that sits in the center of the Nokia and Apple lawsuits is intellectual property. Both Apple and Nokia have spent millions of dollars on research and development. The way United States patent law works is that processes and products can be patented, but programs must be copyrighted. The slightest change in process or product can change a patent. This means that when a company has hired dedicated developers, intellectual property rights must be negotiated. Different countries have differing intellectual property protections, so multi-national companies may be handling dozens of different legal frameworks.

The Steve Jobs/Flash war of words intensified Thursday when Jobs published his thoughts on Flash at apple.com. Flickr photo.

The Steve Jobs vs. Flash confrontation over Apple’s decision not to support Adobe’s software heated up on Thursday. In a letter available to the public on Apple’s site, Jobs called flash unreliable, “100 percent proprietary,” a battery hog and ultimately a “closed system” that “falls short.” In the letter Jobs rebuts Adobe claims that Apple’s no-Flash policy on the iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad is “primarily business-driven,” and says Flash is the number one reason Macs crash.

The Steve Jobs flash fight intensifies

The Steve Jobs/Flash fight is has higher stakes than a pay day loan, especially after Adobe accused Apple of running a closed shop because of its App Store policies. Adobe’s argument stems from Apple’s complete control over what it accepts or rejects from iPhone developers. In the letter, Jobs counters that “Symantec recently highlighted Flash for having one of the worst security records in 2009, and that the video on almost all Flash sites relies not on hardware decoding but on software, which uses too much power.” According to Jobs, Flash is dead because even if Flash-powered Web interfaces could technically be made to work on iPhones and iPads, most would have to be rewritten because mouse-over gestures — common on Flash sites — aren’t possible on a touch interface.

Steve Jobs: Flash is wrong

Jobs is particularly bothered by the issue of whether Apple or Adobe is more open. “Adobe claims that we are a closed system, and that Flash is open, but in fact the opposite is true,” he says in the letter. “Flash products are 100 percent proprietary. They are only available from Adobe, and Adobe has sole authority as to their future enhancement, pricing, etc.” Jobs qualifies that Apple’s iPhone and iPad are proprietary, but he goes on to say “all standards pertaining to the Web should be open.”

Steve Jobs: Flash is dead

According to Steve Jobs, Flash is dead. The Steve Jobs/Flash standoff has been getting ugly as Apple has been criticized for refusing to add Flash support to the iPhone and iPad, while Adobe sets up its new Flash player for the latest Androids and Blackberries. Jobs calls Flash a relic of the “PC era” that “falls short” when it comes to the needs of mobile devices.

Steve Jobs demonstrating the iPhone: yet another Apple product that doesn't use Flash. (Photo: Flickr)

Steve Jobs says Abode Flash and Apple products like the iPod, iPhone and iPad will never be seen together, according to Fox News. Many tech fans had wondered if Jobs would eventually cave to the pressure, as Flash videos are still widely used on many websites. However, Steve Jobs’ “Thoughts on Flash” letter should mean less cash today for Adobe, as the Apple CEO gives six well-reasoned arguments for why Flash video won’t mix with the iCrowd. Jobs has serious philosophical and technical concerns about Adobe Flash, chief among them the fact that Flash videos frequently cause OS crashes.

Steve Jobs Flash call draws Adobe’s ire

Fox News reports that Adobe Flash evangelist Lee Brimelow didn’t mince words regarding Steve Jobs and his Flash stance: “Speaking purely for myself, I would like to make it clear what is going through my mind at the moment. Go screw yourself, Apple.”

Apple didn’t feel it was necessary to respond to such a well-constructed missive. Jobs is more interested in pointing out that Flash is proprietary product, and that he is against closed products that “stifle innovation.” He is more in favor of HTML5 as an open standards platform. That most Apple products are also proprietary didn’t seem to enter into Jobs’ argument, but he was just getting started. He continued by reminding readers that Flash is an old technology that could be replaced with “more modern formats” like H.264 that don’t cause as many crashes.

Flash, Flash, crash

What’s the real problem here? Steve Jobs explains that Flash tends to get in the way. As he states in his “Thoughts on Flash,”

“We know from painful experience that letting a third-party layer of software come between the platform and the developer ultimately results in sub-standard apps and hinders the enhancement and progress of the platform. We cannot be at the mercy of a third party deciding if and when they will make our enhancements available to our developers.”

How did Adobe feel about being called a balding third wheel? Aside from such eloquent statements as Brimelow’s, all is quiet on the Adobe front. There is a definite sense among the media that Flash is dying as a platform, something that most developers would second – and then some. Lance Ulanoff of PC Magazine called the Steve Jobs Flash bash “an incredible attack on Flash, (one that) could shake its very foundations.”

(Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/sour_patch/ / CC BY-SA 2.0)

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No, the new iPhone prototype isn't this big. But Gizmodo says it has features that should please the fans. (Photo: Flickr)

So a tech blogger walks into a bar and finds the next iPhone prototype. Stop me if you’ve heard this one…

Seriously, Gizmodo may have gotten the serious scoop on the rest of the tech journalism universe with a fortuitous discovery of what appears to be a prototype of the next iPhone (iPhone 4G?). A Gizmodo reporter actually found it in a Redwood City bar. After checking with Apple-connected John Gruber of Daring Fireball, Gizmodo discovered that Apple had lost a prototype and was “very interested” in getting it back. Whether they were ready to use payday loans to sic Sherlock Holmes on the case is unclear.

An iPhone prototype in 3GS clothing

On the surface, the plastic case of the iPhone prototype looks more or less like an iPhone 3GS. However, there are numerous details that make this new iPhone something quite different:

• Front-facing video camera in addition to a back camera with a flash and larger lens
• Micro-SIM – more secure, more storage, more allowable connections. This would be the first use of this tech in a U.S. cell phone
• Higher-res display (exact numbers unclear so far)
• A second microphone port and second volume button
• Metal buttons
• A flatter, more squared-off design
• Higher-powered battery… 5.25 WHr (watt hours) at 3.7V, compared with 4.75 WHr in the iPhone 3GS

New iPhone or red herring?

Gizmodo believes this new iPhone is a real discovery for a number of reasons. First of all, it was running the iPhone 4.0 operating system before that OS was even announced. Second, the iPhone prototype was remotely killed before Gizmodo could dig any further into the OS. When connected to a Mac OS X system, the device was recognized as an iPhone in both Xcode and iTunes, but no firmware updates were available, which indicated to Gizmodo that this was an unreleased unit. According to Gizmodo, the fact that the Mac OS X System Profiler reported it as an iPhone in restore mode is consistent with the phone having been “remotely wiped.”

The proof is under the hood

The internal components are Apple-labeled and fit together well inside the case. If this were 3G or 3GS parts in some modified housing, Gizmodo claims the parts wouldn’t fit so well. Thus, they feel it was designed for that case. Speaking of the case, it’s thinner than the 3GS, but slightly heavier (perhaps because of the metal buttons). However, the design appeared to be somewhat less sleek than consumers are used to with Apple products. It’s boxier and kind of ugly (like tax debt), whereas previous iPhones have had more curves. This could be chalked up to this iPhone being a prototype, however.

What this could mean for consumers

This summer, the next-gen iPhone is going to be announced. If the iPhone prototype discovered by Gizmodo is any indication, people waiting to upgrade may want to take the plunge. Front video cam, a better back camera, better battery and a second microphone for better voice clarity address some of fans’ major concerns. Sexy up the case and Apple may just have a deal.

(Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mwilkie/ / CC BY-SA 2.0)

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Apple seems to have entirely snubbed Adobe products in the iPhone 4.0 OS. Image from Flickr.

When Apple announced the new iPhone 4.0 operating system yesterday, there was a clause buried in the developer agreement that has raised Adobe’s hackles. The Apple Adobe rivalry has been going for years, but Apple has now officially snubbed Adobe’s Flash platform for the new OS 4.0 iPhone. If you want to watch video on your OS 4.0 device, you may need a loan to buy the right iPhone app.

Adobe Flash not allowed on the iPhone

The basic reason Apple gives for not allowing Adobe Flash programs on their operating systems is simple – that Flash will use more than its fair share of operating resources. Steve Jobs and Apple have answered all questions about allowing Adobe Flash to run on the Apple operating systems with simple a simple “no.”

Adobe’s response to Apple

Adobe systems, recognizing that not being allowed on any of the millions of Apple devices could be a business killer, has created a workaround. It is an embedded program that re-renders all Adobe Flash programs into a non-flash, iPhone OS friendly system. However, Apple has not yet approved the Adobe workaround App, and has not stated it has any intentions of doing so.

Is Adobe really better for Apple devices?

Of course, the biggest argument for why Apple devices should include Adobe Flash is that many websites already use flash. About 70% of online gaming sites use Flash.Of all online video sites, including YouTube and Hulu, 75 percent use Adobe Flash as well. However, Apple developers insist that their proprietary programs and HTML-5 based systems simply work better. Though like payday advances, the best user experience depends on many factors.

How will the Apple Adobe rivalry work out?

Adobe is not saying that the Apple snubbing of Adobe Flash will be the death knell for the company. Adobe is working with many other hand held device manufacturers, and over 1.2 billion mobile phones on the market are still Flash-capable. The iPad competitor WePad is also set to run Adobe Flash, as will the HP Slate.

Soon, some iPhones will be running OS 4.0, which includes iBook and more. Image from Flickr.

It’s only been a few days since the iPad came out, and though most of us are barely over our iPad hangovers, Steve Jobs hosted a big event today to announce OS 4.0 iPhone features. OS 4.0 iPhone is based on seven “tentpole” features, each of which is supposed to make the iPhone better. However, only the iPhone 3G or 3rd generation iPod Touch models will be able to support OS 4.0 for the iPhone. Otherwise, you’ll need same day loans to get the new operating system.

OS 4.0 iPhone Feature 1: Multitasking

It’s what many, many people were hoping OS 4.0 iPhone features would include – and now it’s here. Multitasking for the iPhone isn’t going to be true multitasking. Instead, OS 4.0 iPhone multitasking will be based on “pausing” or “minimizing” the processor load of applications. Pandora, VOIP calls and games will continue to “run” in a “dock” at the bottom of your screen, and OS 4.0 iPhone operations will switch quickly between the apps. Any conversations, such as IM or Twitter, are not currently included in the multitasking on OS 4.0 iPhone operations.

OS 4.0 iPhone Feature 2: Folders

One of the most popular hacks for unlocked iPhone and iPad systems was simple – adding folder management. Now, OS 4.0 iPhone users will be able to organize their apps into folders without hacking the iPhone.

OS 4.0 iPhone Feature 3: Enhanced Mail

First and foremost, the enhanced mail in OS 4.0 iPhones will have a unified inbox. This means your e-mails from any source can all be dumped into one inbox – or sorted into their own folders. Additionally, OS 4.0 iPhone will be able to sort messages according to conversation.

OS 4.0 iPhone Feature 4: iBook

Now, just like the iPad, users of the OS 4.0 iPhone will be able to use the iBook app. Buy, read and enjoy books on your iPhone. Pretty simple, though dangerous to any bibliophile’s debt management plan.

OS 4.0 iPhone Feature 5: Enterprise Features

The fifth feature of the OS 4.0 iPhone is really a suite of features targeted for the 80 percent of Fortune 100 companies that use the iPhone. There will be better data protection, mobile device management, app distribution, and VPN options. Ask your IT guy if you need help breaking those down.

OS 4.0 iPhone Feature 6: Game Center

The iPhone currently has over 50,000 game titles in the App store. Now, OS 4.0 iPhone users will be able to have a “social gaming platform” – kind of like XBox Live for iPhone users. Leaderboards, matchmaking and achievement tracking for all the time-wasting games that are great on the bus ride to work.

OS 4.0 iPhone Feature 7: iAd

Steve Jobs didn’t pull any punches when he talked about the advertising platform on OS 4.0 iPhones. To put it bluntly, he said “we think most of this kind of advertising sucks.”Supposedly, iAd will give the opportunity for over 1 billion advertising impressions a day – basically, 10 ads a day will show up on your OS 4.0 iPhone if you use apps for 30 minutes. The ads on iAd, though, look more like apps that run in apps. Jobs promises “interactive” and “emotion-filled” ads. App developers who allow iAds on their app will get a 40% split of the advertising profit.

When will OS 4.0 iPhone options be available?

If you are a developer, then OS 4.0 iPhone kits are available today. This is to ensure that when OS 4.0 iPhone sales start – in the summer – that there are lots of applications available. If you are an iPad user, then the OS 4.0 iPhone will be released in the fall.

Currently the only way to get an iPhone off the AT&T network is to "jailbreak" it. Image from Flickr.

Ever since its original release, non-AT&T cell phone users have been hoping for a Verizon iPhone release date. Though rumors have been running rampant for at least two years, an article in the Wall Street Journal sent stock markets and customers’ hearts thumping with a supposedly confirmed Verizon iPhone release date. According to the Wall Street Journal article, a Verizon iPhone release date could be as early as September or October. However, many are saying that this Verizon iPhone release date rumor is simply not true. Should you run out and get payday loans to cover the cost of your new gadget, or are all these rumors just that — unsubstantiated?

Verizon iPhone release date depends on  network

The Wall Street Journal report quotes several unnamed sources that are “close to Verizon” in saying that the Verizon iPhone release date will be in fall of this year. Apple is also suspected to be working on a thinner, faster iPhone. Both of these rumors are predicated on the idea that Apple is working on a CDMA wireless network chip for the iPhone.

Qualcomm has said it is designing a CDMA chip for Apple products that would work on the Verizon network, but the company tells CNN it would be “hard pressed” to launch that chip in 2010. No amount of easy cash loans can speed up the manufacturing process for a chip that has been in development for years. Even if Qualcomm has a functioning CDMA or multi-network chip, Apple would need to remanufacture the iPhone to handle the new chip manufacturer.

Verizon iPhone release date may be 2011

There are technology issues with the possibility of a Verizon iPhone release date, yes. On top of this, though, there is also the fact that even the Wall Street Journal article quotes that Apple “appears to be” working on a Verizon-compatible iPhone. It is no secret that Apple has been working on a CDMA chip for the iPhone, and is in fact working with Qualcomm on WCDMA multi-channel chip that would allow the phone to work across most cellular networks.

Just because Apple “appears to be working on” something and admitted to be working on does not make the Verizon iPhone relase date immenient. The best guess of most industry analysts and stock analysts is that the Verizon iPhone release date will most likely be sometime in 2011, depending on the type of chip they choose to use.

Sources:

PC World
CNN Money
Wall Street Journal

Will the Apple iPad make keyboards a thing of the past?

From the looks of Twitter, Facebook and Google trends, the Apple press conference, including the release of the iPad, is the only thing going on in the world today. Google news says something about a Toyota recall and Holocaust Remembrance Day, but it’s pretty clear that everyone in the world is interested in the Apple tablet computer, and only the Apple tablet computer.

How has Apple managed to suck everyone in? For some reason people have been looking forward to the release of the iPad for months. It appears to me that the Apple iPad tablet computer is just a really big iPhone. Am I way off about this? Is everyone going to run out, get a small loan, and buy one?

The price to pay

Prices for the Apple iPad range between $499 and $829 depending on features. So the low-end model still costs a bit more than a netbook. I am having a hard time picturing people using the iPad. I can see why it would be nice for watching videos and such, but to use it as a phone? Awkward.

I have heard a lot of musings about how it can be used in education and other good things like that. However, I am still having a hard time understanding what it has that computers don’t already have. And it’s a bit big to be carrying it around everywhere. It won’t fit in most purses.

Sellability

As New Jersey Business News put it, “Apple would have to show why consumers ought to pay for yet another Internet-connected screen, on top of the TVs, computers and smart phones they already have.”

Do you think Apple will be able to do it? If you had an Apple iPad, what would you use it for? According to NJ.com, tablet computers have already been around for a decade, but they haven’t been successful. Only time will tell if Apple has discovered the magic formula for selling tablet computers.