7 things ultrabooks need next
From one perspective, ultrabooks and the MacBook Air are the most exciting laptops to come around the pike in a long while. From another perspective, they're the sort of laptops that provide the least amount of computing value for the dollar, and are precisely the sort of fancy gadgets that cash-strapped holiday buyers will skip for better deals. After all, computers are commodity devices, right?Well, yes and no. The iPad and the Kindle Fire have quickly shown that stylish, fun devices can quickly trump beefy specs, although in both cases they're relatively affordable buys. A friend of mine who recently e-mailed me summarizes the ultrabook situation perfectly:"From my Luddite perspective, it's completely invigorated the laptop market for consumers just when everyone was beginning to crank out the same old 5-pound, 15.6-inch, DVD/Webcam, dual-core whatever machine." Related storiesThe problem with ultrabooks, thus farUltrabooks to MacBook Air: Time to step up your gameThe ultrabook dilemmaHe argued that the size and weight of these laptops are far more important than performance, gaining a family acceptance factor that trumps an ability, for instance, to play PC games with higher-end graphics.I've had a hard time recommending ultrabooks for everyone, though. While they're getting awfully close to being the "laptop for everybody" that Apple's MacBook Air is currently gunning to be, a few key improvements still need to happen in 2012. As we look ahead to the Consumer Electronics Show, where new laptop announcements are a common occurrence (stunningly enough, CES is less than six weeks away), this is what I hope happens to make ultrabooks more relevant.1. More storage. This is key. Solid-state drive (SSD) storage has been hovering in the 128GB range for what seems like years. User storage needs are increasing; photo file sizes and smartphone video files are getting larger, music libraries are expanding, and we're collecting apps and games like baseball cards. Cloud storage helps alleviate some of these concerns, but nothing substitutes for ample local storage. Case in point: my iTunes library has exceeded my hard-drive space, so I ported it to a NAS drive. It technically works, but file access using iTunes is much slower and has made sync times for my iPhone and iPad tremendously long. I'm not asking for a terabyte, but getting up to the 256GB to 512GB range would make my opinion of MacBook Airs and ultrabooks shift from "consider" to "must-buy." In the meantime, hybrid drives incorporating less-expensive, larger-size magnetic hard drives and smaller-size SSDs could work, like we saw in the Acer Aspire S3. I'd love if a smarter, more versatile home "media cube" server could help me with my storage woes, too, but sadly, such a product doesn't seem to exist yet.2. Better battery life. What? How can I say this when ultrabooks and the MacBook Air already are better than average? While that may be true, our expectations for battery life keep increasing. iPads and other tablets have ushered in a new age of longer-life devices. It's completely unfair to compare these with full-fledged laptops, but if someone's considering buying an ultrabook or an iPad and weighs in battery life, that could factor into a decision in the other direction. I'd expect, with ever-more-efficient processors and improvements in standby time, that batteries could take another small leap forward.3. More ports. Yes, the port real estate on most of these slimmed-down laptops is limited at best, but we've seen some odd solutions on a few of the ultrabooks that have come through CNET. Plug-in dongles for Ethernet? No SD card slot? Come on. There are only a few essential ports you need on a laptop: HDMI, USB 2.0/3.0, SD card slot, Ethernet. Get all of those in. It shouldn't be hard.4. Lower prices. The current sticker price of $800 to more than $1,000 for an ultrabook is pricey territory compared with the values available elsewhere, such as sub-$500 11-inch AMD Fusion-powered ultraportables. For the same price, you can get a completely full-featured laptop with absolutely no compromises...except size. I'm not asking for the impossible--margins are apparently already close as is--but $600 to $700 seems like the ideal price for an entry-level ultrabook.5. Better cloud-based software. Ultrabooks are banking on people power-using the cloud for their needs, but the cloud thus far has been a hit-and-miss assortment of services as far as I'm concerned. Apple has pushed the Mac App Store as a way of providing an easy-to-redownload way of installing disc-free software, but it's not a universal solution for Mac users. The more I can download my apps, media, and games as needed and archive my other tools in the cloud, the more I'd consider an ultrabook to be a perfect solution. Plenty of solutions exist, but none of them is well integrated to each other, forcing customers to make awkward choices and possibly find their software and media fragmented.6. Bolder designs. We've laughed at the idea of laptops that swivel their screens around to turn into tablets, but in the case of ultrabooks, the time might be coming to revisit the idea. Recent Windows 7 tablets have been impressive--see the Samsung Series 7 Slate--and the thin SSD-equipped chassis of an ultrabook would make for a far less bulky convertible tablet. It might take until the launch of Windows 8 for this idea to make sense, but with the growth in tablet use, why not consider it, as long as it doesn't compromise the laptop's design as...well, as a laptop?7. Docking solutions, or better Thunderbolt peripherals. The potential for Thunderbolt is great--high-speed storage, monitors, even off-board graphics like that on the Sony Vaio Z. Docks already exist or are in development, but there's never been a better time to create solutions for transforming a small laptop into a more full-featured device.Anything I missed? Have you been considering an ultrabook (MacBook Air included)? Share below.
How to convert video for the Zune
How to convert video for the Zune
Microsoft struggled through two rounds of Zune before hitting the nail on the head with the third generation of the MP3 player, but the company got at least one thing right from the start. Even the first pass offered a larger-than-average screen, clocking in at 3 inches diagonally, and the latest version packs a video-worthy 3.2-inch screen. Of course, getting video content was a bit of a challenge at first, but the Zune Marketplace continues to expand its catalog, which now offers TV shows from several major networks such as NBC and Comedy Central.However, that video content is going to cost you--about $2 per episode, to be exact--and the Marketplace currently does not offer movies to rent or buy (unlike iTunes). That's where this tutorial comes in: if you already have a collection of digital video content, this step-by-step guide will show you how to convert it for playback on the Zune. The software used in this how-to can convert from any of the following formats: MP4, 3GP, MPG, AVI, WMV, FLV, and SWF.Note: Unfortunately, ripping most commercial DVDs is currently illegal in the United States, as it requires circumventing the copyright protection found on the DVDs. For unprotected DVDs, try Handbrake.Cost: freeLevel: beginnerTime commitment: Varies, but figure on about 15 to 30 minutes per hour of video (unmonitored)System requirements: WindowsDownload and install FormatFactory Select format In the left column, under Video, select All to WMV. Adjust the output settings (optional)Click the Output Settings button. The default output is Medium Quality, which is 320x240 WMV. This is just right for portable use (also, it's a fairly standard format that may work with other players you may have). However, if you plan to use your Zune to output video to a TV, you may want to select High Quality or Custom and increase the resolution. (The Zune supports up to 720x480 at 30fps.)Add videoClick the Add File button, then navigate to the video you want to convert. (You may chose to add an entire folder by clicking the Add Folder button.) Repeat this for as many videos as you wish to queue up for conversion. After you've made your selections, click OK.Select output directoryThe FormatFactory default is to save your completed video files to My Documents > FF Output. If you want to select your own output directory, click Option. Then, under the Output Folder section, click Change and select the folder where you would like the files saved. (I use My Videos > Zune.) Now is also a good time to decide if you want the computer to shut down after conversion, a consideration for those who time the process to run overnight. Once your preferences are set, click Apply.Start conversion and monitor progressClick Start at the top of the window. You can monitor the conversion process in the middle of the main window.Set up Zune software If it isn't already, set the Zune Software to monitor the output folder for your videos. Go to Settings > Collection and click Add Folder under the videos section. You can then transfer the files to the Zune player.FormatFactor will also work for converting video to play back on various other portable devices, such as the Creative Zen and Sony Walkman.
Microsoft struggled through two rounds of Zune before hitting the nail on the head with the third generation of the MP3 player, but the company got at least one thing right from the start. Even the first pass offered a larger-than-average screen, clocking in at 3 inches diagonally, and the latest version packs a video-worthy 3.2-inch screen. Of course, getting video content was a bit of a challenge at first, but the Zune Marketplace continues to expand its catalog, which now offers TV shows from several major networks such as NBC and Comedy Central.However, that video content is going to cost you--about $2 per episode, to be exact--and the Marketplace currently does not offer movies to rent or buy (unlike iTunes). That's where this tutorial comes in: if you already have a collection of digital video content, this step-by-step guide will show you how to convert it for playback on the Zune. The software used in this how-to can convert from any of the following formats: MP4, 3GP, MPG, AVI, WMV, FLV, and SWF.Note: Unfortunately, ripping most commercial DVDs is currently illegal in the United States, as it requires circumventing the copyright protection found on the DVDs. For unprotected DVDs, try Handbrake.Cost: freeLevel: beginnerTime commitment: Varies, but figure on about 15 to 30 minutes per hour of video (unmonitored)System requirements: WindowsDownload and install FormatFactory Select format In the left column, under Video, select All to WMV. Adjust the output settings (optional)Click the Output Settings button. The default output is Medium Quality, which is 320x240 WMV. This is just right for portable use (also, it's a fairly standard format that may work with other players you may have). However, if you plan to use your Zune to output video to a TV, you may want to select High Quality or Custom and increase the resolution. (The Zune supports up to 720x480 at 30fps.)Add videoClick the Add File button, then navigate to the video you want to convert. (You may chose to add an entire folder by clicking the Add Folder button.) Repeat this for as many videos as you wish to queue up for conversion. After you've made your selections, click OK.Select output directoryThe FormatFactory default is to save your completed video files to My Documents > FF Output. If you want to select your own output directory, click Option. Then, under the Output Folder section, click Change and select the folder where you would like the files saved. (I use My Videos > Zune.) Now is also a good time to decide if you want the computer to shut down after conversion, a consideration for those who time the process to run overnight. Once your preferences are set, click Apply.Start conversion and monitor progressClick Start at the top of the window. You can monitor the conversion process in the middle of the main window.Set up Zune software If it isn't already, set the Zune Software to monitor the output folder for your videos. Go to Settings > Collection and click Add Folder under the videos section. You can then transfer the files to the Zune player.FormatFactor will also work for converting video to play back on various other portable devices, such as the Creative Zen and Sony Walkman.
7digital's DRM-free music store goes global
7digital's DRM-free music store goes global
The DRM-free 7digital download store is often discussed alongside iTunes, eMusic, and Amazon as a major player in the music download world. It was one of the first online stores to host EMI's DRM-free catalog and now offers more than 3million tracks, the majority of which are sans-DRM.Today it announced it's set to receive 4.25 million pounds of investor funding (about $8.44 million). The deal is expected to be finalized toward the end of next month. The U.S. is expected to receive a big fat intravenous injection of 7digital love as a result of this deal, meaning that the well-established iTunes and Amazon could be in for a tussle.This news is one of a string of interesting moves made by the U.K.-based firm. Last year it struck a deal with Last.fm--which itself is hitting the headlines again lately--that allows users of the popular music-streaming site to buy songs from 7digital within the Last.fm environment. Later in '07 it announced DRM-free songs were outselling DRMed versions at a rate of four to one--news that surprised no-one.We spoke today to 7digital's CEO Ben Drury regarding the company's announcement. He told us that the plan is to offer the same service in the U.S. as is currently available in the U.K., but that licences differing from region to region make offering identical services tricky.Amazon's recently struck deals with all four major labels for DRM-free downloads is something 7digital wasn't likely to ignore. When asked how the company intended to compete with Amazon in the U.S., Drury said the plan was of course to secure the same deals, and that they were "in talks" with the remaining major labels.Regarding Amazon's announcement to invade the U.K. with its roster of major label backing, he said, "We welcome [Amazon] into the U.K. marketplace" and that it "will help move [the DRM-free industry] forward."Finally, with more and more companies pedaling ahead in the mobile downloads market, Drury told us "we've been looking at the mobile market for four years now." Not surprisingly, he saw the previous lack of flat-rate mobile data plans as having been one of the main issues, but now they're becoming more common Drury expects 7digital to move into the mobile download arena.This is probably going to be one of the most exciting and productive years not just for digital music, but for DRM-free and wireless downloads of digital music, regardless of what device you choose to invest in. You should also expect lossless downloads, as we've previously predicted. Curiously 7digital has offered lossless downloads of Radiohead songs before, as did Russian rebels AllOfMP3.com on a vast range of titles. Excitement builds.(Source: Crave UK)
The DRM-free 7digital download store is often discussed alongside iTunes, eMusic, and Amazon as a major player in the music download world. It was one of the first online stores to host EMI's DRM-free catalog and now offers more than 3million tracks, the majority of which are sans-DRM.Today it announced it's set to receive 4.25 million pounds of investor funding (about $8.44 million). The deal is expected to be finalized toward the end of next month. The U.S. is expected to receive a big fat intravenous injection of 7digital love as a result of this deal, meaning that the well-established iTunes and Amazon could be in for a tussle.This news is one of a string of interesting moves made by the U.K.-based firm. Last year it struck a deal with Last.fm--which itself is hitting the headlines again lately--that allows users of the popular music-streaming site to buy songs from 7digital within the Last.fm environment. Later in '07 it announced DRM-free songs were outselling DRMed versions at a rate of four to one--news that surprised no-one.We spoke today to 7digital's CEO Ben Drury regarding the company's announcement. He told us that the plan is to offer the same service in the U.S. as is currently available in the U.K., but that licences differing from region to region make offering identical services tricky.Amazon's recently struck deals with all four major labels for DRM-free downloads is something 7digital wasn't likely to ignore. When asked how the company intended to compete with Amazon in the U.S., Drury said the plan was of course to secure the same deals, and that they were "in talks" with the remaining major labels.Regarding Amazon's announcement to invade the U.K. with its roster of major label backing, he said, "We welcome [Amazon] into the U.K. marketplace" and that it "will help move [the DRM-free industry] forward."Finally, with more and more companies pedaling ahead in the mobile downloads market, Drury told us "we've been looking at the mobile market for four years now." Not surprisingly, he saw the previous lack of flat-rate mobile data plans as having been one of the main issues, but now they're becoming more common Drury expects 7digital to move into the mobile download arena.This is probably going to be one of the most exciting and productive years not just for digital music, but for DRM-free and wireless downloads of digital music, regardless of what device you choose to invest in. You should also expect lossless downloads, as we've previously predicted. Curiously 7digital has offered lossless downloads of Radiohead songs before, as did Russian rebels AllOfMP3.com on a vast range of titles. Excitement builds.(Source: Crave UK)
Read It Later goes free, becomes Pocket
Read It Later goes free, becomes Pocket
Meet Pocket, the successor to the megapopular short-term bookmarking tool Read It Later. Just as simple and platform-compatible as Read It Later, this new incarnation adds extra features and shows off a completely redesigned interface. If you're not familiar with Read It Later, it's an incredibly convenient app that's useful in countless scenarios. Say you're on your morning commute and you come across a lengthy article that you can't quite (or don't want to) finish reading. Just add it to your RIL list, and go back to it later. Or say you come across an HD movie trailer while surfing on your phone. Go ahead and add it to your RIL list; then you can watch it when you get back to your desktop. The beauty of Read It Later has always been its simplicity and cross-platform compatibility. It was easy to use anywhere, anytime, and on any device.Fortunately, with today's news we don't lose any of the features we came to love in Read It Later. In fact, in Pocket we get all of the previous app's core functionality, plus a number of significant improvements. Most noticeably, Pocket is head and shoulders above Read It Later when it comes to visual interface. With sleeker colors, icons, panels, and fonts, not only is content more attractive in the new app, it's also easier to read. And it's more than just a face-lift, as Pocket brings new features to the table. Now there's bulk editing, which lets you mark as favorite, tag, or delete multiple items at once, potentially saving a lot of time for power users. Also, you can filter your list by content type, so you can choose to see only videos, images, or articles. Finally, Pocket is completely free to all users, unlike Read It Later, which came in both free and paid Pro versions. This means there are no limits on your list, and the searching and sorting features are always unlocked.After my initial test drive, I have to say I am impressed by the new Pocket app. It looks and feels better than its predecessor, it offers enhanced features, and I even like the name better. Sure, "Read It Later" had a nice ring to it, but it felt a bit constrictive, no? With the new name, Pocket, I feel like the app has a lot more room to grow, and I'm excited to see it do just that.Pocket (Android| iOS) is available now for free download from Google Play and Apple's iTunes App Store.
Meet Pocket, the successor to the megapopular short-term bookmarking tool Read It Later. Just as simple and platform-compatible as Read It Later, this new incarnation adds extra features and shows off a completely redesigned interface. If you're not familiar with Read It Later, it's an incredibly convenient app that's useful in countless scenarios. Say you're on your morning commute and you come across a lengthy article that you can't quite (or don't want to) finish reading. Just add it to your RIL list, and go back to it later. Or say you come across an HD movie trailer while surfing on your phone. Go ahead and add it to your RIL list; then you can watch it when you get back to your desktop. The beauty of Read It Later has always been its simplicity and cross-platform compatibility. It was easy to use anywhere, anytime, and on any device.Fortunately, with today's news we don't lose any of the features we came to love in Read It Later. In fact, in Pocket we get all of the previous app's core functionality, plus a number of significant improvements. Most noticeably, Pocket is head and shoulders above Read It Later when it comes to visual interface. With sleeker colors, icons, panels, and fonts, not only is content more attractive in the new app, it's also easier to read. And it's more than just a face-lift, as Pocket brings new features to the table. Now there's bulk editing, which lets you mark as favorite, tag, or delete multiple items at once, potentially saving a lot of time for power users. Also, you can filter your list by content type, so you can choose to see only videos, images, or articles. Finally, Pocket is completely free to all users, unlike Read It Later, which came in both free and paid Pro versions. This means there are no limits on your list, and the searching and sorting features are always unlocked.After my initial test drive, I have to say I am impressed by the new Pocket app. It looks and feels better than its predecessor, it offers enhanced features, and I even like the name better. Sure, "Read It Later" had a nice ring to it, but it felt a bit constrictive, no? With the new name, Pocket, I feel like the app has a lot more room to grow, and I'm excited to see it do just that.Pocket (Android| iOS) is available now for free download from Google Play and Apple's iTunes App Store.
Google unveils new photo-sharing social network
Google unveils new photo-sharing social network
Google has begun rolling out a new social-networking photo service, dubbed Photovine.Though Google has said little publicly about Photovine, the service appears to be one in which consumers can take snaps from their phones and have them upload in a stream of pictures in the same way that tweets flow into Twitter. Presumably, if you subscribe to someone else's Photovine, you'll see their latest photos almost as soon as they shoot them.The service, though, isn't yet live. There's only the opportunity to request an invitation on Photovine's Web site, with no indication of when the service will launch.Business Insider was the first to notice thatphotovine.com went live. In addition to requesting an invitation, potential customers can also watch a video of how Google envisions the service working.Google has offered few details about the service and said little in response to a query."Photovine is a photo-sharing service built by a few folks at Slide," the company said in a statement, referring to the social-media company it acquired in August. "It's a fun way to learn more about your friends, meet new people and share your world with others."Photovine comes just as Google is ramping up its Google+ social-networking service. But it's unclear if the two services will be aligned.The video Google posted features folks taking photos with iPhones, which clearly suggests that Photovine will be an iPhone app. The app is available in iTunes, and Google says it's "working hard" on a version for customers using phones that run its Android mobile operating system. Updated at 4:32 p.m. PT: Added Google comment. Updated at 10:35 a.m. PT on July 14: Added that the app is now available on iTunes and Google comment regarding Android version.
Google has begun rolling out a new social-networking photo service, dubbed Photovine.Though Google has said little publicly about Photovine, the service appears to be one in which consumers can take snaps from their phones and have them upload in a stream of pictures in the same way that tweets flow into Twitter. Presumably, if you subscribe to someone else's Photovine, you'll see their latest photos almost as soon as they shoot them.The service, though, isn't yet live. There's only the opportunity to request an invitation on Photovine's Web site, with no indication of when the service will launch.Business Insider was the first to notice thatphotovine.com went live. In addition to requesting an invitation, potential customers can also watch a video of how Google envisions the service working.Google has offered few details about the service and said little in response to a query."Photovine is a photo-sharing service built by a few folks at Slide," the company said in a statement, referring to the social-media company it acquired in August. "It's a fun way to learn more about your friends, meet new people and share your world with others."Photovine comes just as Google is ramping up its Google+ social-networking service. But it's unclear if the two services will be aligned.The video Google posted features folks taking photos with iPhones, which clearly suggests that Photovine will be an iPhone app. The app is available in iTunes, and Google says it's "working hard" on a version for customers using phones that run its Android mobile operating system. Updated at 4:32 p.m. PT: Added Google comment. Updated at 10:35 a.m. PT on July 14: Added that the app is now available on iTunes and Google comment regarding Android version.
Report- Apple gears up for new MacBook Air
Report: Apple gears up for new MacBook Air
And the Intel chip refresh would follow the update to the 13-inch MacBook Pro in February.Like the existing MacBook Air, the 13-inch MacBooks had been on an old Intel chip diet before Apple finally beefed them up with new Sandy Bridge processors. One outstanding question is whether the new Airs will get the coveted, high-performance Thunderbolt port that is now standard on all MacBook Pros.A recent report claimed that is indeed the case. Graphics silicon is also expected to change.The first-gen MacBook Air used Intel graphics, while the second-gen and third-gen Airs got an Nvidia graphics chip. This time, Apple is expected to return to the Intel fold (as it has done with 13-inch MacBook Pro already). Why? Intel's Sandy Bridge graphics offer good-enough performance for a heat-challenged, ultrathin laptop like the Air.Plus, real estate is precious. There just isn't room for a lot of extra chips.
And the Intel chip refresh would follow the update to the 13-inch MacBook Pro in February.Like the existing MacBook Air, the 13-inch MacBooks had been on an old Intel chip diet before Apple finally beefed them up with new Sandy Bridge processors. One outstanding question is whether the new Airs will get the coveted, high-performance Thunderbolt port that is now standard on all MacBook Pros.A recent report claimed that is indeed the case. Graphics silicon is also expected to change.The first-gen MacBook Air used Intel graphics, while the second-gen and third-gen Airs got an Nvidia graphics chip. This time, Apple is expected to return to the Intel fold (as it has done with 13-inch MacBook Pro already). Why? Intel's Sandy Bridge graphics offer good-enough performance for a heat-challenged, ultrathin laptop like the Air.Plus, real estate is precious. There just isn't room for a lot of extra chips.
Report- Apple did not acquire Wi-Gear
Report: Apple did not acquire Wi-Gear
A report suggesting Apple acquired wireless headset maker Wi-Gear is inaccurate, the company's CEO told Barron's in an interview today."The rumor is false," Wi-Gear CEO Mark Pundsack told Barron's.Pundsack was responding to a report from 9to5 Mac claiming his company was acquired by Apple two months ago. The Apple blog claimed to have a "source" confirming Wi-Gear's sale to Apple. The blog also pointed to a LinkedIn page of Wi-Gear employee Michael Kim, which claims that he started working at Apple two months ago.As CNET noted in its report yesterday on 9to5 Mac's claims, the LinkedIn page wasn't necessarily the smoking gun that the blog thought it was. And until either party confirmed the sale, it was very much a rumor. Now it seems that it might have been just that--a rumor.Apple did not respond to multiple requests for confirmation on the matter.In addition to telling Barron's that Apple did not acquire Wi-Gear, Pundsack made it clear that the company "and its intellectual property are still available for sale." He also confirmed with Barron's that Wi-Gear has "ceased operations," as the company notes on its Web site.While it was in operation, Wi-Gear sold wireless headphones that connected to Apple's iPod and Bluetooth-equipped phones.
A report suggesting Apple acquired wireless headset maker Wi-Gear is inaccurate, the company's CEO told Barron's in an interview today."The rumor is false," Wi-Gear CEO Mark Pundsack told Barron's.Pundsack was responding to a report from 9to5 Mac claiming his company was acquired by Apple two months ago. The Apple blog claimed to have a "source" confirming Wi-Gear's sale to Apple. The blog also pointed to a LinkedIn page of Wi-Gear employee Michael Kim, which claims that he started working at Apple two months ago.As CNET noted in its report yesterday on 9to5 Mac's claims, the LinkedIn page wasn't necessarily the smoking gun that the blog thought it was. And until either party confirmed the sale, it was very much a rumor. Now it seems that it might have been just that--a rumor.Apple did not respond to multiple requests for confirmation on the matter.In addition to telling Barron's that Apple did not acquire Wi-Gear, Pundsack made it clear that the company "and its intellectual property are still available for sale." He also confirmed with Barron's that Wi-Gear has "ceased operations," as the company notes on its Web site.While it was in operation, Wi-Gear sold wireless headphones that connected to Apple's iPod and Bluetooth-equipped phones.
Amazon lets rip with AutoRip music service
Amazon lets rip with AutoRip music service
As expected, Amazon has launched a service called AutoRip designed to store consumers' CD music tracks in the cloud.The AutoRip service debuted this morning. When consumers buy an AutoRip-enabled CD, they automatically get the MP3 version for free, and those MP3 versions will be available for streaming or downloading from Amazon's Cloud Player. The MP3 tracks are available immediately, even before the buyer receives the CD.CNET's Greg Sandoval had first reported on the likely launch, citing multiple sources with knowledge of the plan. "This is the most significant initiative involving the CD in years," Sandoval wrote:Amazon, which is well back of Apple's iTunes in music sales, will be able to tell the large number of consumers who still prefer their music on disc that they're getting more value for their money, and this could help the retailer take a larger share of that business. It's a smart move. The service is available for CDs purchased well before now, too. Amazon said that it applies to any AutoRip-eligible CD purchased since 1998.Here's how to listen to AutoRip music, per Amazon:You can find all of your AutoRip music in the Purchased playlist in your Amazon Cloud Player library. AutoRip purchases are marked with an AutoRip logo in your Cloud Player library. You can stream and download all of your music from your Cloud Player library on your computer's browser or any of your Amazon Cloud Player enabled devices.Amazon said that "thousands" of AutoRip CDs are available. Titles that appear on the list include Green Day's "Tre," Mumford & Sons' "Babel," Taylor Swift's "Red," Paul Simon's remastered "Graceland," and Eric Clapton's 1970s classic "Slowhand." Only U.S. customers can take advantage of the service at the moment.Editors' note, 9:07 a.m. PT: This story was updated several times during the morning with additional details.
As expected, Amazon has launched a service called AutoRip designed to store consumers' CD music tracks in the cloud.The AutoRip service debuted this morning. When consumers buy an AutoRip-enabled CD, they automatically get the MP3 version for free, and those MP3 versions will be available for streaming or downloading from Amazon's Cloud Player. The MP3 tracks are available immediately, even before the buyer receives the CD.CNET's Greg Sandoval had first reported on the likely launch, citing multiple sources with knowledge of the plan. "This is the most significant initiative involving the CD in years," Sandoval wrote:Amazon, which is well back of Apple's iTunes in music sales, will be able to tell the large number of consumers who still prefer their music on disc that they're getting more value for their money, and this could help the retailer take a larger share of that business. It's a smart move. The service is available for CDs purchased well before now, too. Amazon said that it applies to any AutoRip-eligible CD purchased since 1998.Here's how to listen to AutoRip music, per Amazon:You can find all of your AutoRip music in the Purchased playlist in your Amazon Cloud Player library. AutoRip purchases are marked with an AutoRip logo in your Cloud Player library. You can stream and download all of your music from your Cloud Player library on your computer's browser or any of your Amazon Cloud Player enabled devices.Amazon said that "thousands" of AutoRip CDs are available. Titles that appear on the list include Green Day's "Tre," Mumford & Sons' "Babel," Taylor Swift's "Red," Paul Simon's remastered "Graceland," and Eric Clapton's 1970s classic "Slowhand." Only U.S. customers can take advantage of the service at the moment.Editors' note, 9:07 a.m. PT: This story was updated several times during the morning with additional details.
Alpine, SXV100 SiriusXM tuner offer advanced satellite radio functions
Alpine, SXV100 SiriusXM tuner offer advanced satellite radio functions
Alpine Electronics puts its weight behind SiriusXM satellite radio in the car with its announcement of a new line of single-DIN CD receivers that will bear the new SiriusXM-Ready badge, marking their compatibility with the car audio supplier's new SVX100 SiriusXM Connect Vehicle Tuner Kit. For the first time, Alpine is offering a bundled SiriusXM tuner and CD receiver package, giving customers a turn-key option for getting satellite radio content through their cars' speakers.The star of the show is the SXV100 SiriusXM tuner, which provides access to a number of advanced satellite radio features in addition to the standard 180-plus channels received through its magnetic rooftop antenna. For example, users are now able to pause, rewind, and replay up to 30 minutes of satellite radio content from the tuner's internal cache. There's also support for iTunes Tagging to save the info of a playing song for later purchase in the iTunes store--a feature that debuted on HD Radio tuners. Additionally, a selection of notification functions--SongAlert, ArtistAlert, and GameAlert--inform the user when a favorite song, artist, or professional or college sport team is playing on any SiriusXM channel.The CDE-124SXM package consists of a CD receiver and the SXV100 SiriusXM Connect vehicle tuner.Inc.,Alpine Electronic of AmericaThe SXV100 tuner is compatible with Alpine's new CDE-123 CD receiver, which features front and rear USB ports, an iPod interface cable, an auxiliary input, and an internal amplifier that outputs 18 continuous watts through each of its four channels. The CDE-123 CD receiver and SVX100 satellite tuner can be purchased separately for $199.95 and $69.99, respectively. Those looking to save a few bucks off of the combined $269.94 cost can have the SXV100 bundled with the CDE-122 CD receiver--which is mostly identical to the CDE-123, but with the omission of the rear USB port and iPod cable--as part of the new Alpine CDE-124SXM package for $229.95.
Alpine Electronics puts its weight behind SiriusXM satellite radio in the car with its announcement of a new line of single-DIN CD receivers that will bear the new SiriusXM-Ready badge, marking their compatibility with the car audio supplier's new SVX100 SiriusXM Connect Vehicle Tuner Kit. For the first time, Alpine is offering a bundled SiriusXM tuner and CD receiver package, giving customers a turn-key option for getting satellite radio content through their cars' speakers.The star of the show is the SXV100 SiriusXM tuner, which provides access to a number of advanced satellite radio features in addition to the standard 180-plus channels received through its magnetic rooftop antenna. For example, users are now able to pause, rewind, and replay up to 30 minutes of satellite radio content from the tuner's internal cache. There's also support for iTunes Tagging to save the info of a playing song for later purchase in the iTunes store--a feature that debuted on HD Radio tuners. Additionally, a selection of notification functions--SongAlert, ArtistAlert, and GameAlert--inform the user when a favorite song, artist, or professional or college sport team is playing on any SiriusXM channel.The CDE-124SXM package consists of a CD receiver and the SXV100 SiriusXM Connect vehicle tuner.Inc.,Alpine Electronic of AmericaThe SXV100 tuner is compatible with Alpine's new CDE-123 CD receiver, which features front and rear USB ports, an iPod interface cable, an auxiliary input, and an internal amplifier that outputs 18 continuous watts through each of its four channels. The CDE-123 CD receiver and SVX100 satellite tuner can be purchased separately for $199.95 and $69.99, respectively. Those looking to save a few bucks off of the combined $269.94 cost can have the SXV100 bundled with the CDE-122 CD receiver--which is mostly identical to the CDE-123, but with the omission of the rear USB port and iPod cable--as part of the new Alpine CDE-124SXM package for $229.95.
Analyst- New MacBook Air with Lion due in July
Analyst: New MacBook Air with Lion due in July
Apple's refresh of the MacBook Air should come in July packing Apple's newest OS X Lion operating system, a Deutsche Bank analyst said today. "Our checks suggest a forthcoming MacBook Air refresh in July where we believe units could ramp to as high as 1.5M units per [quarter] or 50 percent of the MacBook business," analyst Chris Whitmore wrote in a research note distributed via e-mail.If the MacBook Air garnered half of all of Apple's MacBook business, that would be a significant milestone, as early versions of the Air, dating back to January 2008, were not that popular compared with other MacBook offerings. The most significant upgrade to the Air is expected to be the switch to Intel's new Sandy Bridge processors.Less certain is whether the new models get the high-speed Thunderbolt port, though it has been widely reported that they will. Whitmore's note continued: "We also believe Lion will drive a strong upgrade cycle due to: 1) low ASP; 2) significant enhancements/feature upgrades; and 3) arrives in conjunction with MacBook Air refresh."Whitmore also commented on OS X Lion, saying that among its 250-plus new features, the most important improvements include iCloud, multitouch gestures, "mission control," and "resume."These will "spur a large part of the 54 [million] Mac installed base to upgrade," he wrote.OS X Lion also benefits Apple because it is available only through Apple's App store, which means no retail distribution costs for Apple, Whitmore said.
Apple's refresh of the MacBook Air should come in July packing Apple's newest OS X Lion operating system, a Deutsche Bank analyst said today. "Our checks suggest a forthcoming MacBook Air refresh in July where we believe units could ramp to as high as 1.5M units per [quarter] or 50 percent of the MacBook business," analyst Chris Whitmore wrote in a research note distributed via e-mail.If the MacBook Air garnered half of all of Apple's MacBook business, that would be a significant milestone, as early versions of the Air, dating back to January 2008, were not that popular compared with other MacBook offerings. The most significant upgrade to the Air is expected to be the switch to Intel's new Sandy Bridge processors.Less certain is whether the new models get the high-speed Thunderbolt port, though it has been widely reported that they will. Whitmore's note continued: "We also believe Lion will drive a strong upgrade cycle due to: 1) low ASP; 2) significant enhancements/feature upgrades; and 3) arrives in conjunction with MacBook Air refresh."Whitmore also commented on OS X Lion, saying that among its 250-plus new features, the most important improvements include iCloud, multitouch gestures, "mission control," and "resume."These will "spur a large part of the 54 [million] Mac installed base to upgrade," he wrote.OS X Lion also benefits Apple because it is available only through Apple's App store, which means no retail distribution costs for Apple, Whitmore said.
Analyst- Most Verizon iPhone adopters to switch from AT&T
Analyst: Most Verizon iPhone adopters to switch from AT&T
Now factoring in the likely launch of a Verizon iPhone during the first half of 2011, Munster expects Verizon will add around 2.5 million iPhones on its own next year but cannibalize around 6.5 million from AT&T.Under this scenario, the number of iPhone units sold through AT&T will drop 30 percent next year as U.S. consumers shift toward Verizon, and AT&T subscribers wait for their contracts to expire before they can jump ship to Verizon. As a result, Apple will likely sell a total of 20 million iPhones in the U.S., according to Munster, with AT&T accounting for 11 million and Verizon for 9 million.What if a Verizon iPhone fails to materialize next year? In that case, Munster believes AT&T will still sell around 17.5 million iPhones on its own.Despite ongoing complaints about AT&T's network (it was recently pegged as the worst carrier nationwide by Consumer Reports readers), the company has still captured a huge number of customers through the iPhone. Though AT&T offers a variety of smartphones, the record 5.2 million iPhones that it activated during its recent third quarter represented about 80 percent of all the smartphones it sells.The number of iPhone activations at Verizon may account for a much smaller percentage of its total smartphone numbers. Munster is estimating that of the 25 million smartphones that Verizon is expected to activate next year, only 9 million, or 36 percent, will be iPhones.Munster concedes that his overall forecast could prove conservative. If AT&T manages to sell 15 million iPhones next year, the same number as it did this year, and Verizon is able to sell the same number, Apple would see 30 million iPhones sold in the U.S. between the two carriers.Neither Apple nor Verizon has yet to confirm a Verizon iPhone, let alone a possible launch date. But Piper Jaffray's model calls for the phone to debut midway through the first quarter of next year.
Now factoring in the likely launch of a Verizon iPhone during the first half of 2011, Munster expects Verizon will add around 2.5 million iPhones on its own next year but cannibalize around 6.5 million from AT&T.Under this scenario, the number of iPhone units sold through AT&T will drop 30 percent next year as U.S. consumers shift toward Verizon, and AT&T subscribers wait for their contracts to expire before they can jump ship to Verizon. As a result, Apple will likely sell a total of 20 million iPhones in the U.S., according to Munster, with AT&T accounting for 11 million and Verizon for 9 million.What if a Verizon iPhone fails to materialize next year? In that case, Munster believes AT&T will still sell around 17.5 million iPhones on its own.Despite ongoing complaints about AT&T's network (it was recently pegged as the worst carrier nationwide by Consumer Reports readers), the company has still captured a huge number of customers through the iPhone. Though AT&T offers a variety of smartphones, the record 5.2 million iPhones that it activated during its recent third quarter represented about 80 percent of all the smartphones it sells.The number of iPhone activations at Verizon may account for a much smaller percentage of its total smartphone numbers. Munster is estimating that of the 25 million smartphones that Verizon is expected to activate next year, only 9 million, or 36 percent, will be iPhones.Munster concedes that his overall forecast could prove conservative. If AT&T manages to sell 15 million iPhones next year, the same number as it did this year, and Verizon is able to sell the same number, Apple would see 30 million iPhones sold in the U.S. between the two carriers.Neither Apple nor Verizon has yet to confirm a Verizon iPhone, let alone a possible launch date. But Piper Jaffray's model calls for the phone to debut midway through the first quarter of next year.
Analyst- MacBook Air sales continue to be strong
Analyst: MacBook Air sales continue to be strong
The second-generation MacBook Air is proving to be a strong seller for Apple, and one that could bring the company $2.2 billion in annual revenue if the current pace keeps up. That's according to a note by J.P. Morgan analyst Mark Moskowitz sent to investors earlier today, and picked up by the Financial Post.Citing data from Gartner, Moskowitz notes that Apple shipped 420,000 MacBook Air units in the fourth quarter of 2010, which is up 333 percent from the same quarter last year, and 326.8 percent from the previous quarter. Moskowitz said that if Apple can keep up that pace, both in production and sales of the Air line, it could go on to pull in revenue of $2.2 billion or more. Even if that target isn't hit, Moskowitz contended that the MacBook Air is becoming a bigger player in the Mac lineup, representing more than 10 percent of Mac units in the fourth quarter, and 15 percent of total notebook unit sales versus the 5 percent from the year before. The big sales jump coincides with the release of the second-generation MacBook Air, which went on sale in late October and represents the first major redesign since the Air's introduction in early 2008. During that time, the Air received two updates, which tweaked things like processor speed, graphics power, storage, and the price (which went down). Apple offered up the newest version of the Air in two different sizes, as well as lowering the entry-level price to $999.
The second-generation MacBook Air is proving to be a strong seller for Apple, and one that could bring the company $2.2 billion in annual revenue if the current pace keeps up. That's according to a note by J.P. Morgan analyst Mark Moskowitz sent to investors earlier today, and picked up by the Financial Post.Citing data from Gartner, Moskowitz notes that Apple shipped 420,000 MacBook Air units in the fourth quarter of 2010, which is up 333 percent from the same quarter last year, and 326.8 percent from the previous quarter. Moskowitz said that if Apple can keep up that pace, both in production and sales of the Air line, it could go on to pull in revenue of $2.2 billion or more. Even if that target isn't hit, Moskowitz contended that the MacBook Air is becoming a bigger player in the Mac lineup, representing more than 10 percent of Mac units in the fourth quarter, and 15 percent of total notebook unit sales versus the 5 percent from the year before. The big sales jump coincides with the release of the second-generation MacBook Air, which went on sale in late October and represents the first major redesign since the Air's introduction in early 2008. During that time, the Air received two updates, which tweaked things like processor speed, graphics power, storage, and the price (which went down). Apple offered up the newest version of the Air in two different sizes, as well as lowering the entry-level price to $999.
Analyst- iPhone 5 could double Apple's market share
Analyst: iPhone 5 could double Apple's market share
With pent-up demand for the iPhone 5, the new phone could double Apple's market share, according to an investor's report released yesterday by Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster.Surveying a sampling of 216 mobile phone users, Munster found huge demand for the iPhone 5 among both current iPhone users and those who own other smartphones.Looking at all those surveyed, 29 percent currently own iPhones and 17 percent have an Android phone, leaving 28 percent with a BlackBerry and the rest with other types of phones.Among existing iPhone owners, 94 percent of those surveyed expect to buy another iPhone, leaving only 6 percent eyeing an Android device. But among current Android smartphone users, 42 percent said they're likely to switch to the iPhone.Among Verizon subscribers in general who don't presently own an iPhone, 55 percent expect to buy one, with 74 percent specifically waiting for the iPhone 5. That number compares with 53 percent of AT&T customers specifically awaiting the next model iPhone.Related stories• iPhone 5 rumor roundup• 8 great iOS 5 tips• iPhone 5 slated for September or October?Of all the respondents, 64 percent plan to pick up an iPhone when it's time to buy a new phone. Further, 60 percent are waiting for the iPhone 5 as opposed to allowing their contract to expire or their current phone to break down.Though the survey targeted only a small number of mobile phone users, it does highlight a demand build-up for the next iPhone. Such demand is due in large part to the longer wait time (14 months assuming the iPhone 5 debuts in September versus the usual 12-month cycle), according to Munster.In light of the demand, Munster believes the iPhone 5 may push Verizon's numbers even higher than the 3.8 million iPhones that Piper Jaffray is estimating the carrier will sell in the September quarter. And the overall iPhone unit estimate of 22 million for the quarter may also "prove to be conservative."
With pent-up demand for the iPhone 5, the new phone could double Apple's market share, according to an investor's report released yesterday by Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster.Surveying a sampling of 216 mobile phone users, Munster found huge demand for the iPhone 5 among both current iPhone users and those who own other smartphones.Looking at all those surveyed, 29 percent currently own iPhones and 17 percent have an Android phone, leaving 28 percent with a BlackBerry and the rest with other types of phones.Among existing iPhone owners, 94 percent of those surveyed expect to buy another iPhone, leaving only 6 percent eyeing an Android device. But among current Android smartphone users, 42 percent said they're likely to switch to the iPhone.Among Verizon subscribers in general who don't presently own an iPhone, 55 percent expect to buy one, with 74 percent specifically waiting for the iPhone 5. That number compares with 53 percent of AT&T customers specifically awaiting the next model iPhone.Related stories• iPhone 5 rumor roundup• 8 great iOS 5 tips• iPhone 5 slated for September or October?Of all the respondents, 64 percent plan to pick up an iPhone when it's time to buy a new phone. Further, 60 percent are waiting for the iPhone 5 as opposed to allowing their contract to expire or their current phone to break down.Though the survey targeted only a small number of mobile phone users, it does highlight a demand build-up for the next iPhone. Such demand is due in large part to the longer wait time (14 months assuming the iPhone 5 debuts in September versus the usual 12-month cycle), according to Munster.In light of the demand, Munster believes the iPhone 5 may push Verizon's numbers even higher than the 3.8 million iPhones that Piper Jaffray is estimating the carrier will sell in the September quarter. And the overall iPhone unit estimate of 22 million for the quarter may also "prove to be conservative."
Analyst- iPad Mini to hurt sales of Windows 8 devices
Analyst: iPad Mini to hurt sales of Windows 8 devices
The iPad Mini will cause major agita for Windows 8 device makers, according to Sterne Agee analyst Shaw Wu.In an investor's note out yesterday, Wu said that the iPad's main rivals are not 7-inch Android tablets, as other analysts have asserted, but rather Windows 8 PCs and tablets."We continue to believe iPad Mini is the competition's worst nightmare and will likely slow down adoption of competitor tablets," Wu said in the note. "In particular, we believe this could end up being a very tough holiday season for Windows 8."The analyst expects the Mini's $329 price tag to tempt buyers away from some of the new Windows 8 devices. As one example, he cited Microsoft's $599 Surface RT tablet, which he called "arguably overpriced." Some Apple watchers believe the iPad Mini itself is overpriced compared with other 7-inch tablets. But Wu feels Apple is simply following its usual strategy."This controversy reminds us of what happened with iPod Mini and iPod Nano," the analyst said. "Both predecessors were criticized as being overpriced but went on to do much better than expected. The key reason being high quality at a reasonable price, and we see something similar here.The iPad Mini and the fourth-generation iPad reach consumers throughout 34 different countries today, including the U.S., the U.K., Canada, Italy, Japan, Korea, and Hong Kong.iPad Mini units were available through pre-orders on Apple's Web site starting a week ago but quickly sold out. Apple currently shows a wait time of two weeks for the Wi-Fi-only version. The Wi-Fi plus cellular edition will be available in mid-November.Updated 9:45 a.m. PT with details directly from investors note.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
The iPad Mini will cause major agita for Windows 8 device makers, according to Sterne Agee analyst Shaw Wu.In an investor's note out yesterday, Wu said that the iPad's main rivals are not 7-inch Android tablets, as other analysts have asserted, but rather Windows 8 PCs and tablets."We continue to believe iPad Mini is the competition's worst nightmare and will likely slow down adoption of competitor tablets," Wu said in the note. "In particular, we believe this could end up being a very tough holiday season for Windows 8."The analyst expects the Mini's $329 price tag to tempt buyers away from some of the new Windows 8 devices. As one example, he cited Microsoft's $599 Surface RT tablet, which he called "arguably overpriced." Some Apple watchers believe the iPad Mini itself is overpriced compared with other 7-inch tablets. But Wu feels Apple is simply following its usual strategy."This controversy reminds us of what happened with iPod Mini and iPod Nano," the analyst said. "Both predecessors were criticized as being overpriced but went on to do much better than expected. The key reason being high quality at a reasonable price, and we see something similar here.The iPad Mini and the fourth-generation iPad reach consumers throughout 34 different countries today, including the U.S., the U.K., Canada, Italy, Japan, Korea, and Hong Kong.iPad Mini units were available through pre-orders on Apple's Web site starting a week ago but quickly sold out. Apple currently shows a wait time of two weeks for the Wi-Fi-only version. The Wi-Fi plus cellular edition will be available in mid-November.Updated 9:45 a.m. PT with details directly from investors note.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Amazon's Kindle Fire- The Android tablet developers love most
Amazon's Kindle Fire: The Android tablet developers love most
Amazon's Kindle Fire has managed to do what many other Android tablets have failed to do: drum up interest from developers in North America.Among developers surveyed by Appcelerator and IDC, 49 percent said they considered the Kindle Fire their primary target. It narrowly beat Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Tab, which garnered 48 percent of the vote. Pocketgamer reported on the survey results. The rival Nook Color from Barnes & Noble only garnered 24 percent of the vote. The Kindle Fire has managed to captivate the consumer electronics industry with its $200 price point, significantly undercutting other tablets. The lower price point coupled with Amazon's well-known brand and large media library are poised to turn the Fire into the second hit tablet after the iPad. Consumers are already buzzing about the product.As a result, developers are excited too. The level of developer interest is roughly equal to that of the iPad before it launched, according to the Appcelerator study, which found interest at 53 percent in April 2010.Globally, Samsung remains the top dog among Android tablets, surpassing interesting in the Kindle Fire. While other companies have slowly rolled out one or even two tablets, Samsung has rapidly released one tablet after another, offering the Galaxy Tab in multiple sizes. The company was the first to follow the iPad with a tablet, the original Galaxy Tab, and kept its momentum going. Relative to other troubled tablets, including the Xoom, PlayBook and Flyer, Samsung's line has seen modest success.The Kindle Fire, however, could be poised for an even bigger bang.
Amazon's Kindle Fire has managed to do what many other Android tablets have failed to do: drum up interest from developers in North America.Among developers surveyed by Appcelerator and IDC, 49 percent said they considered the Kindle Fire their primary target. It narrowly beat Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Tab, which garnered 48 percent of the vote. Pocketgamer reported on the survey results. The rival Nook Color from Barnes & Noble only garnered 24 percent of the vote. The Kindle Fire has managed to captivate the consumer electronics industry with its $200 price point, significantly undercutting other tablets. The lower price point coupled with Amazon's well-known brand and large media library are poised to turn the Fire into the second hit tablet after the iPad. Consumers are already buzzing about the product.As a result, developers are excited too. The level of developer interest is roughly equal to that of the iPad before it launched, according to the Appcelerator study, which found interest at 53 percent in April 2010.Globally, Samsung remains the top dog among Android tablets, surpassing interesting in the Kindle Fire. While other companies have slowly rolled out one or even two tablets, Samsung has rapidly released one tablet after another, offering the Galaxy Tab in multiple sizes. The company was the first to follow the iPad with a tablet, the original Galaxy Tab, and kept its momentum going. Relative to other troubled tablets, including the Xoom, PlayBook and Flyer, Samsung's line has seen modest success.The Kindle Fire, however, could be poised for an even bigger bang.
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