Category Archives: Tech News

Google pays Apple $1bn

Apple and Google have a “per-device” deal rather than a revenue sharing deal, according to Devitt’s report, titled “The Next Google Is Google.” So for every $1 of search revenue Google makes on iOS, Apple gets 75 cents. This is to simplify accounting and allows Apple to collect its payment up-front.

This deal also allows Google to be the default search engine on Apple devices.

Tim Cook Live Today

Apple has announced that CEO Tim Cook will speak at the Goldman Sachs Technology and Internet Conference, and his presentation will be streamed live tomorrow, February 12 at 10:15 a.m. Eastern on Apple’s site.

While Cook will probably discuss Apple’s business, it’s rumoured who will announce 2 new products. Personally I doubt it. More a case of gloating on the sales figures of the iPhone and iPad if anything at all.

Microsoft Surface Pro sales figures – just how good are they?

Shortly after the Surface Pro went on sale, Microsoft announced the 128gb version was sold out in many locations. This seems fairly similar to a situation when the Zune went on sale, then sold out and ultimately didn’t sell too many.

When sales speech like this occurs, it is not really possible to believe anything unless you are given the hard numbers of actual sales, and not shipped items. Microsoft hasn’t released the actual numbers yet, but just states it working hard to replenish stock at its retail partners.

According to feedback on forums and blogs, many people were left frustrated as stores like Best Buy had less than 5 units in some cases. Or most cases if you believe some of the posts. It is no surprise that they were flying off the shelves. It must have been a stampede to get to the few stock items first!

Now don’t get me wrong the Surface Pro is a decently designed bit of kit albeit expensive and remember if Apple had stock shortages, it would get heavily criticised by the media and investors.

And if you are looking to get a 128gb model, just remember the available space is just over 83gb.
Do not be alarmed by this as this is normal for any product on any platform to allow space for the operating system.

Or Maybe Belkin have other ideas

So Logitech have shown their hand with a new slick iPad Mini keyboard, but not to be left out Belkin just announced details of their offering.

The specification includes :-

At A Glance:

-Well-Spaced, TruType Comfortable Keys
-Function-specific keys for copying and pasting text, moderating volume and controlling music
-Built-in stand accommodates the iPad mini in both portrait and landscape modes
-Pairs with iPad through Bluetooth® v3.0
-Up to 3 months of battery life when on stand-by
-Durable anodized aluminum construction makes it lightweight and protects from scratches and scuffs
-Sleek design to minimize bulk
-Compatible with iPad mini
– 1-Year Limited Warranty

The keyboard keys and spacing look excellent from the photo. I can’t wait to see this in the flesh.

20130207-175137.jpg

A 7 inch phone that’s not gigantic

Now before you wonder what I’m drinking, hear me out. Imagine having a 7 inch phone that’s as easy to use as a 4 inch phone. In fact it’s far easier, has great one handed use and doesn’t look daft using it for phone calls.

Not possible I hear you say. But it is if the 7 inch screen rolls up on to your arm. Now, part of the screen displays the salient info and if you need full browsing mode, you simply unravel the screen and use it like you would any tablet of today incarnation.

Now lets take this one step further. The tablet is rolled up on your arm and you need to send an email. Instead of unravelling and tapping the screen, you simply are able to think the words, and they will appear on the screen. Voice dictation is so yesterday.

A weekend futuristic view of technology.