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Google today made ARCore 1.0 available to developers and the public, bringing augmented reality to some 100 million smartphones around the world. Handsets compatible with ARCore include Google’s Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2, and Pixel 2 XL; Samsung’s Galaxy S8, S8+, Note8, S7, and S7 edge; LGE’s V30 and V30+; Asus’s Zenfone AR; and OnePlus’s OnePlus 5. More devices from Samsung, Huawei, LG, Motorola, Asus, Xiaomi, HMD/Nokia, ZTE, Sony Mobile, and Vivo will be compatible with ARCore later this year. The 1.0 release gives developers an updated set of tools to create virtual content. For example, it features improved environmental understanding that lets people put virtual objects on surfaces like posters, furniture, toy boxes, books, cans, and more. The refreshed Android Studio Beta supports ARCore in the Emulator, so developers can get to work right away. Some of the first brands to offer ARCore content include Porsche, FC Barcelona, and Sotheby's. Google says it is expanding the availability of the Google Lens Preview, which lets you take a picture and gather information about what's in the image. Google says Lens will hit all Google Photos English-language users over the coming weeks. Further, Google is going to add Google Lens to its Google Assistant on select Android flagship devices. Lens lets people create contacts from business cards, recognize plants and animals, and add events to their calendar by taking photos.
Google says its Android Messages app is on the upswing thanks to new RCS-based tools and growing support from phone makers and wireless network operators. To start, brands now have more power to interact with consumers thanks to RCS business messaging. Google says brands can "send more useful and interactive messages" to their customers with photos, videos, and links for purchasing. A number of companies have been testing RCS business messaging via Google's Early Access Program. Some include 1-800 Contacts, 1-800-Flowers.com, Booking.com, SnapTravel, and Subway — all on Sprint in the U.S. Google says more businesses will be deploying richer messaging via the Android Messages app over the coming months. The Android Messages app has gained a lot of traction with phone makers and carriers, and more support is on the way. Moving forward, Alcatel, BlackBerry, Transsion, Blu, Positivo, Multilaser, Mobiwire, Azumi, and Essential will all preload Android Messages as the default SMS/messaging app. A number of phone makers already offer Android Messages, including Huawei, LG, HMD Global, HTC, Kyocera, Motorola, Sony, and ZTE. The app has a growing footprint with carriers, as well. Google says America Movil, AT&T in Mexico, Celcom Axiata Berhad, Freedom Mobile, Oi, Telia Company, and Telefonica have joined Deutsche Telekom, Globe Telecom, Orange, Rogers Communications, Sprint, and Telenor in their commitment to launch RCS messaging. Sprint is the lone U.S. carrier to go all-in with Google's RCS and Android Messages. AT&T and Verizon each offers its own RCS-based messaging client for Android handsets. Google believes this new momentum for RCS and Android Messages will eventually mean a better messaging experience between people, brands, and more.
T-Moble says it has attained download speeds of 1.3 Gbps using LTE-LAA technology from Nokia. The result was reached in a lab using Nokia's commercial Nokia AirScale Micro RRH platform. The companies paired licensed and unlicensed bands using five-channel carrier aggregation, 256 QAM, 4x4 MIMO, and LAA on 14 antenna layers. LTE-LAA is a stepping stone between today's 4G and future 5G networks. T-Mobile says it plans to deploy LTE-LAA in small cell configurations in high-traffic urban locations to help densify its network, boost speeds, and improve capacity. T-Mobile didn't say what markets might gain access to this network technology, nor what devices might support it.
Google today said the Google Assistant is prepared to grow in a number of significant ways. First, the voice-activated tool is picking up some new languages. Google says Assistant will speak Danish, Dutch, Hindi, Indonesian, Norwegian, Swedish, and Thai on Android phones and iPhones in the next few months, with more languages on the way. Google expects Assistant to understand as many as 30 languages by the end of the year. Further, Google Assistant will be able to understand multiple languages at a time, meaning people can speak both English and German to their Assistant without changing settings. This feature will first be available between English, French, and German, with other languages to follow. Google also noted that it is working more directly from carriers and phone makers to improve Assistant. For example, LG, Sony, and Xiaomi are all prepared to rollout device-specific commands and features based on Google Assistant. Moreover, carriers Sprint, Koodo, Telus, and Vodafone are developing integrations with Assistant. Between the phone makers and carriers, Google expects Assistant to support individual device features, customer service queries, and more. Last, Google Assistant is adding two new tools to help people manage their day. Routines let people issue one command and set off a chain of actions. For example, say "Hey Google, I’m home" and the Assistant on Google Home or phone can turn on the lights, share any home reminders, play your favorite music, and more. Location-based reminders have now expanded to Google Home speakers. People can tell Assistant on their speaker to set reminders for specific locations, such as to get milk when at the store, and the alert will popup when appropriate. Google expects to bring even more features to Assistant throughout the year.
Samsung today announced Samsung Max, a free app for Android devices that will provide new data conservation and security tools. The app, a reborn version of the former Opera Max app, includes Data Saving Mode to help people stretch their mobile data buckets a bit further each month. The app can monitor which apps are using data and alert users to apps that consume too much. It also helps by actively compressing images, videos, music files, and web pages within apps and the browser to keep data consumption down. People can fine-tune how Data Saving Mode polices other apps in the advanced settings tools. On the security front, Samsung Max includes Privacy Protection Mode, a VPN for securing phones when on WiFi. It encrypts WiFi traffic with a single tap, blocks trackers and cookies, and includes a Domain Name System masking service to hide the user's location. Samsung says Samsung Max will reach the Google Play Store on February 23. The company will also preinstall it on some devices later this year.
Google today highlighted some forthcoming announcements that should have Android fans excited. To start, the company says a number of its handset partners are bringing new Android Oreo Go devices to market, and that the phones will be available for purchase soon. Android Oreo Go is a lightweight version of Android that can run on inexpensive devices with 1G of RAM or less. Google has built light versions of Gmail, YouTube, Search, and other apps so people with Android Go devices can still access information and entertainment on the go. Further, Google's hardware partners have new Android One phones in the works. Android One is a pure version of the platform that includes a streamlined user interface, regular security updates, major system upgrades, and solid performance. Google said it also has news regarding Google Assistant, Google Lens, and its RCS efforts for mobile messaging. Specific announcements are expected as soon as Sunday, February 25.
Cat Phones today unveiled the S61, an update to the S60. The S61 is a fully rugged Android smartphone that is waterproof, dirtproof, and able to handle temperature extremes, drops, vibration, and salt water. The S61 provides a major upgrade to the FLIR Lepton thermal imaging camera, which now offers higher resolution imagery (up to full HD) and a wider range of readable temperatures (-20C to 400C). Owners can even livestream thermal video to Facebook if they wish. A new indoor air quality sensor alerts people to high levels of indoor air pollutants, such as paints or solvents, and will sound an alarm of levels become dangerous. The S61 packs a laser-assisted distance/area measuring tool that has a range of 32 feet. The S61 includes a 5.2-inch full HD display with Gorilla Glass 5, glove sensitivity, and wet-finger tracking. The phone is powered by a Snapdragon 630 processor with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage. A standard 16-megapixel camera adorns the back and an 8-megapixel shooter is on front. Other specs include USB-C, 3.5mm headphone jack, FM radio, Bluetooth 5.0, and a 4,500mAh battery with Quick Charge 4.0. Cat says the S61 will go on sale during the second quarter. Pricing in the U.S. is expected to be in excess of $1,000.
The FCC today published its "Restoring Internet Freedom" rules governing net neutrality in the Federal Register. Per the filing, the agency will repeal the Obama-era net neutrality rules effective April 23. FCC Chairman Ajit Pai believes the open market, rather than actual rules, will prevent telecommunications companies from acting in bad faith. Pai is doing away with bright-line rules that prevent throttling and paid-prioritization and suggests that as long as companies are transparent about their policies all will be good. Further, the FCC believes the FTC should take on a greater role in protecting consumers. The FTC, however, is a reactionary body that takes steps only after grievances have occurred. The move is seen as a victory for telecommunications companies such as AT&T and Verizon. April 23 may mark the official end of net neutrality rules, but the FCC's order is the target of litigation. The attorneys general from 21 states plan to sue the FCC in a bid to overturn the reversal. Further, the governors of Montana, New Jersey, and New York have introduced their own rules that compel telecommunications firms to abide by at least some elements to treat web traffic equally. Similarly, some 50 senators have agreed to introduce legislation that would keep net neutrality rules in place, as well as give control over the matter to Congress. Many consumer groups have also vowed to fight the new rules.
Intel today announced a range of efforts in the 5G space, including its timeline for bringing new Intel-powered 5G devices to market. The company says it has been developing 5G technology for some now, including virtualized network functionality and software defined networks. It is relying on the 3GPP 5G NR spec and is working with vendors and partners to create an ecosystem of products to support 5G as it rolls out. One of the primary pieces of the 5G puzzle is Intel's recently announced Xeon D-2100 system-on-a-chip (SoC) processor. It can handle intensive compute and network workloads demanded by 5G at the network edge. Further, Intel has partnered with China's Unigroup Spreadtrum and will pair a Spreadtrum processor with its own XMM 8000 5G modem. Intel expects to see phones packing the combined Spreadtrum/Intel SoC during the second half of 2019. PCs with embedded 5G are on the horizon, too. PC makers Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Microsoft all plan to enable their mobile computers to support 5G connections with the Intel XMM 8060 modem. Intel and its partners will have some concepts on display at the forthcoming Mobile World Congress trade show. They also expect to bring these concepts to market during the second half of 2019.
LG today revealed two new handsets, 2018 updates to its K8 and K10 mid-range series. Both phones carry over the previous generations' pebble-shaped contours and 2.5D arc glass, but make advancements in the materials. The K10, for example, has a U-shaped metal frame while the K8 relies on polycarbonate. Shared features between the new K8 and K10 include improved low-light photography thanks to Low Light Noise reduction that's combined with HDR to eliminate grain and provide more luminosity and contrast. The cameras also gain a new Timer Helper feature that uses the flash as a visual guide during timer countdowns. The Flash Jump Shot feature takes one photo every three seconds and pastes them together into a shareable GIF. Shared specs include LTE, GPS, Bluetooth 4.2, WiFi, FM radio, microUSB, and Android 7 Nougat.
- K10: The larger of the two phones includes a 5.3-inch 720p display and a 1.5 GHz octa-core processor. It will ship with 2 or 3 GB of RAM and 16 or 32 GB of storage, depending on the variant. The phone features a 13-megapixel main camera and either a 5- or 8-megapixel wide-angle front camera. The selfie camera can capture bokeh-style shots. Other features include a 3,000mAh battery and fingerprint reader.
- K8: The K8 steps down to a 5-inch 720p display and a 1.3 GHz quad-core processor with 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage. The rear camera has an 8-megapixel sensor while the front camera has a 5-megapixel sensor. It has a 2,500mAh battery.
Qualcomm today said it has expanded its long-standing agreement with Samsung to use the company's foundries to manufacture Snapdragon 5G mobile chipsets. Samsung's new 7-nanometer, low power plus (LPP), extreme ultra violet (EUV) lithography techniques produce significantly smaller chips that give phone makers more space in their designs. The 7LPP process also provides significant improvements to battery life. Compared to Samsung's older 10nm FinFET process, the 7LPP EUV process boosts chip efficiency by 40%, with a 10% increase in performance or a 35% drop in power consumption. Neither company provided a timeline for expected manufacturing of the chips, nor did they suggest when such chips might reach phones or other mobile devices.
Broadcom revised its offer to acquire Qualcomm downward by $3 per share after Qualcomm increased its own bid to buy NXP Semiconductors. Broadcom said, "Qualcomm's board acted against the best interests of its stockholders by unilaterally transferring excessive value to NXP's activist stockholders." Broadcom would have preferred to see Qualcomm act together with Broadcom to broker the right deal for NXP while still allowing Broadcom to move forward with its own offer to buy Qualcomm. Qualcomm wasn't impressed with Broadcom's revised offer. "Broadcom’s reduced proposal has made an inadequate offer even worse despite the clear increase in value to Qualcomm stockholders from providing certainty around the NXP acquisition," said the company in a statement. "Broadcom has refused and continues to refuse to engage with Qualcomm on price." Broadcom says it is still committed to buying Qualcomm, but Qualcomm feels Broadcom's current plan doesn't properly value Qualcomm and, most importantly, has little chance of success.
Apple today made iOS 11.3 Beta 3 available to those signed up to test pre-release versions of the platform. iOS 11.3 tweaks performance and includes the battery health meter for certain devices. The tool is meant to help people balance battery life and speed/performance of older iPhones. Other new features of iOS 11.3 include new animoji, new business chat functions in iMessages, and an update version of Apple’s ARKit augmented reality. Of note, the AirPlay 2 features that appeared in the second beta has been removed for the time being. Apple said the final version of iOS 11.3 will be available to all consumers this spring. Earlier this week, the company released iOS 11.2.6 to resolve several bugs. Apple also released tvOS 11.3 Beta 3 and macOS 10.13 Beta 3.
Google today announced the Android Enterprise Recommended program and an initial batch of handsets that meet the qualifications. Google says the Android Enterprise Recommended program “establishes best practices and common requirements for devices and services, backed by a thorough testing process conducted by Google.” In order to qualify, devices have to meet a number of specifications concerning their hardware, deployment, security updates, and user help programs. For example, devices approved must run at least Android 7 Nougat, and receive security updates no later than 90 days from their release from Google. Further, device makers must commit to offering security patches to unlocked devices for a minimum of three years. Some of the initial devices that meet the requirements — and are thus recommended for business users — include the Google Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2, and Pixel 2 XL; the BlackBerry KEYone and Motion; the Huawei Mate 10 and Mate 10 Pro; the LG V30 and G6; the Motorola X4 and Z2 ; the Nokia 8; and the Sony Xperia XZ1, XZ Premium, XA2, and XA2 Ultra. Google says it will update the requirements with each new Android platform release to “raise the bar to ensure we are delivering the best experience for our enterprise customers.”
T-Mobile has a new promotion targeting Apple products. First, T-Mobile is offering a $200 rebate to those who purchase an iPhone X, 8, 8 Plus, 7, or 7 Plus. The rebate is being offered in addition to the value of a trade-in. People who trade a device in at T-Mobile stores will be given instant credit for the trade, though T-Mobile will accept trades sent via mail. Further, T-Mobile is offering a buy-one, get-one deal on iPhones. Customers who buy two iPhones and port-in or activate a new line of service on at least one device can receive the second device for free (via monthly bill credits). Customers will have to pay tax on purchases at the point of sale. People who cancel service will be responsible for paying the balance of any devices on their account. Last, T-Mobile is offering a deal on the Apple Watch 3. Those who buy one Apple Watch 3 can snag a second for half price ($215). These promotions kick off on February 23 and will be available for a limited time.
Blu Products today announced the Vivo X, a flagship handset that costs less than $300. The phone is among the first from Blu to jump to the 18:9 aspect ratio for its 6-inch 1440 by 720p display. The screen is protected by Gorilla Glass 3. A MediaTek Helio P25 processor powers the phone with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage. The Vivo X features two sets of dual cameras. A 13-megapixel main camera adorns the rear of the phone with LED flash, f/2.0 aperture, PDAF, and full HD video capture. The secondary camera has a 5-megapixel sensor. Together, they can produce bokeh-style images. On the front, the Vivo X features a 20-megapixel standard-angle camera with user-facing LED flash, f/2.0 aperture, and face unlock, and an 8-megapixel wide-angle camera. Other features include a 4,010mAh battery with rapid charging, fingerprint reader, MaxxAudio speakers, dual SIM card support, Bluetooth 4.1, WiFi, GPS, and support for GSM networks in the U.S. It runs Android 7 Nougat. Blu is selling the Vivo X unlocked from its own web site as well as Amazon for $249.
Facebook today improved the video call tool in Facebook Messenger by making it a snap to add more people to the conversation. As it works today, creating group video calls requires people to initiate the call as such from the onset. With the new update, people who have an in-progress call with one person can simply add others without interrupting the existing call. A new button makes it easy to find and add other Messenger contacts. Facebook says this new feature is rolling out to its Facebook Messenger app for Android and iOS devices worldwide.
AT&T today said Dallas and Waco, Texas, and Atlanta will be its first three mobile 5G markets and it plans to launch before the end of the year. AT&T has more markets prepped for mobile 5G and will name them later. AT&T said it will offer 5G based on the current 3GPP 5G NR spec, which has yet to be fully finalized. The company will use mmWave spectrum, though it didn’t specify which bands. AT&T expects to offer a puck-style mobile hotspot as its first 5G device and will bring 5G-capable phones to market in early 2019. As part of its 5G rollout, AT&T is relying on software-defined network (SDN) technology. It expects to rely on SDN on as much as 75% of its network by 2020. AT&T says its mobile 5G service will eventually deliver multi-gigabit-per-second speeds and incredibly low latency. In the meantime, AT&T has expanded the reach of its LTE-LAA technology, which is available in Indianapolis, Los Angelas, Chicago, and San Francisco. AT&T and competitors Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless are racing to be the first to deploy 5G and all have adopted aggressive rollout schedules.
Qualcomm today introduced two improvements to audio technology that should improve the experience of listening to music wirelessly. First, Broadast Audio will let people stream Bluetooth to more devices. The one-to-many streaming technology, which is proprietary to the Snapdragon 845 mobile platform, allows one Bluetooth source to stream audio to numerous headsets or speakers with "near perfect" synchronization. The idea is to allow one person to push music via Bluetooth to multiple speakers, headphones, or other devices. Qualcomm claims Broadcast Audio delivers simpler pairing, connecting, and managing devices; support for dozens of devices in range; and automatic retransmission and packet-loss concealment for a drop-out-free listening experience. Qualcomm's TrueWireless Stereo technology is the second audio tech on deck and is meant for truly wireless products, such as ear buds. The technology broadcasts Bluetooth content to each bud independently to eliminate the need for any wires whatsoever. (Many ear buds maintain one Bluetooth connection between the phone and the primary bud, and retransmit from the main bud to the secondary bud.) TrueWireless Stereo can deliver a good experience no matter the smartphone platform, and gives people the option to switch the role of earbuds between primary and secondary in order to balance power consumption for improved playback time. Qualcomm's TrueWireless Stereo tech is meant to be used with the recently-announced QCC5100 series Bluetooth SoC, which can help reduce power needs for voice calls and streaming audio by 65%. Broadcast Audio and TrueWireless Stereo are already available to developers and device makers.
Qualcomm today announced the WCN3998, a pre-standard 802.11ax WiFi radio for smartphones, tablets, and notebooks. Qualcomm says the WCN3998 is faster, more power efficient, and more secure than previous designs. To start, the 802.11ax spec allows for more throughput for each user, thanks to 8x8 MU-MIMO, even on congested access points. This ensures that end users see an increase of speeds by a factor of two. Moreover, the WCN3998 puts strict power management algorithms to work in order to reduce power consumption by up to 67%. The WiFi radio is among the first to adopt WPA3 encryption from the WiFi Alliance. WPA3 provides a much greater degree of security on home, public, and enterprise networks, and can even protect those who fail to pick strong passwords. Last, the WCN3998 adopts Bluetooth 5.1 with extended data rate and low energy mode. This makes for more robust wireless audio connections and battery life improvements of up to 75%. Qualcomm says the WCN3998 supports pre-draft access points that it expects to reach the market later this year and early next year. The WiFi radio will find its way into flagship smartphones by the end of 2018.
Qualcomm today announced the Snapdragon 820E embedded platform, a variant of its former flagship mobile processor meant to power internet-of-things equipment. The Snapdragon 820E is intended for connected computing, or devices that need a network connection and powerful processing at the same time. Qualcomm suggests the Snapdragon 820E would be good for virtual reality applications, digital signage, smart retail, robotics, and more. In addition to the 820E, Qualcomm is offering the DragonBoard 820c development board so developers can design and test their applications and/or inventions ahead of receiving the 820E. Qualcomm says developers will have access to off-the-shelf and custom modules when building their 820E embedded platform. The 820E joins the Snapdragon 410E and 600E as a top-tier offering, compared to the entry-level and mid-range capabilities of the other platforms, respectively. Qualcomm says developers can express interest in the Snapdragon 820E through Arrow Electronics.
Qualcomm today announced the Qualcomm Artificial Intelligence Engine, a package of hardware and software components meant to help developers bring AI-assisted apps and services to Qualcomm-powered handsets. The AI Engine is supported on the Snapdragon 845, 835, 820, and 660 mobile platforms, though it shines brightest on the 845, which has its own AI processing built in. The AI Engine relies on three core hardware components: the Hexagon Vector Processor, the Adreno GPU, and the Kryo CPU. On the software side, Qualcomm's AI Engine runs on the Snapdragon Neural Processing Engine, software that was created so developers can target the exact core they want powering their apps. The NPE supports Tensorflow, Caffe and Caffe2, and the Open Neural Network Exchange for developers. The AI Engine supports the Android Neural Networks API, which is baked into Android 8 Oreo, and gives developers access to Snapdragon hardware directly through the Android operating system. Last, the AI Engine banks on the Hexagon Neural Network Library so developers can run AI algorithms directly on the Hexagon Vector Processor. This powers machine learning and accelerates AI operations. Qualcomm says the sum of all these parts is real-time responsiveness, improved privacy, and enhanced reliability on the supported Snapdragon mobile platforms. Phone companies including Xiaomi, OnePlus, Vivo, Oppo, Motorola, Asus, ZTE, Nubia, Smartisan, and Blackshark were among the first to commit to using the AI Engine on future handsets. Qualcomm will be demonstrating the technology at the forthcoming Mobile World Congress trade show.
The FCC is prepared to publish its order abolishing Obama-era net neutrality rules in the Federal Register on Thursday, the last act needed to put the change into effect. The rules will be made public in their final form on Wednesday, according to an unnamed source cited by Reuters, and will appear in the Federal Register the following day. In December, the FCC voted 3-2 along party lines to do away with the previous administration's rules governing openness on the web. The move was seen as a victory for telecommunications companies such as AT&T and Verizon. The attorneys general from 21 states plan to sue the FCC in a bid to overturn the reversal once the rules reach the Federal Register. Further, the governors of Montana, New Jersey, and New York have introduced their own rules that compel telecommunications firms to abide by at least some elements to treat web traffic equally. Similarly, some 50 senators have agreed to introduce legislation that would keep net neutrality rules in place, as well as give control over the matter to congress. Without a simply majority, however, it's doubtful the democratic effort will make much headway.
AT&T’s prepaid customers are being given access to the company’s sponsored data program. The sponsored data program allows companies to sponsor the data usage for specific content on behalf of eligible AT&T wireless customers, meaning customers can consume select content and not be charged for it. This program has been available to AT&T’s postpaid customers for some time. AT&T’s prepaid customers can now, for example, make use of the DirecTV Now streaming video service without it impacting their monthly data allotment. The sponsored data program also applies to other AT&T-owned services, such as U-Verse. Customers who subscribe to AT&T’s $35 and $45 prepaid plans are automatically opted in to the sponsored data program. AT&T gives customers the ability to opt out if they so wish. AT&T has been notifying customers of the change via text message since last week.
Snapchat is pushing an update to its mobile app that adds several new features, including support for Giphy stickers and Tabs. With Giphy on board, Snapchat users can add GIF stickers to their snaps by tapping the sticker button. The GIF stickers can be placed anywhere on the photo or video, as well as resized and pinned in place. The Tabs tool is meant to help people keep tabs on their preferred stories. The Tabs section is built into the Friends and Discover pages. It lets people sift through the active stories and group chats shared by their friends. Giphy support is available in the latest version of Snapchat for Android and iOS, while the Tabs tool is rolling in phases over the next few weeks.
Apple today made a new beta version of iOS 11.3 available to developers. iOS 11.3 Beta 3 tweaks performance and includes the battery health meter for certain devices. The tool is meant to help people balance battery life and speed/performance of older iPhones. The public version of iOS 11.3 will likely be released later this week. Apple said the final version of iOS 11.3 will be available to all consumers this spring. Earlier this week, the company released iOS 11.2.6 to resolve several bugs.
Google today released Google Pay, the revised payment application and service that replaces Android Pay. Google Pay encompasses most features of Google Wallet and Android Pay in a single app, allowing people to use Google Pay to make payments online and via mobile devices. Google Pay is already accepted on some apps and web sites, including Airbnb, Dice, Fandango, HungryHouse, and Instacart. Google expects Google Pay to become more widely available online quickly, as developers don't have to do much to alter their existing Google Wallet- and Android Pay-backed services for full Google Pay integration. Google Pay for Android features information about nearby stores, recent purchases, and access to rewards. A new tab helps users collect and organize their loyalty and membership cards. Google Pay supports mass transit payments in Kiev, London, and Portland, with more cities coming soon. The Google Wallet app is being rebranded to Google Pay Send and will soon allow people in the U.S. and U.K. to send/request money to/from their peers. Google Pay is available from the Google Play Store.
Nuance says its Swype+Dragon application for Android and iOS has reached end of development. "Nuance will no longer be updating the Swype+Dragon keyboard for Android. We’re sorry to leave the direct-to-consumer keyboard business, but this change is necessary to allow us to concentrate on developing our AI solutions for sale directly to businesses," confirmed Nuance to XDA Developers. Swype was an early leader in the swiping-keyboard space. It started as an independent app, but was later acquired by Nuance. Nuance continued to develop the app and eventually integrated the swiping keyboard with its own Dragon voice dictation technology. The space is competitive, however, and Google's own GBoard application has garnered quick adoption on many Android devices. Swype+Dragon is still available from the Play Store for the time being, but it will no longer receive updates.
Qualcomm today increased its offer to acquire NXP Semiconductors to $127.50 per share, or about $44 billion. The new offer reflects the increased value of each company, both of which have grown since the deal originated. Qualcomm first proposed to acquire NXP in October of 2016. The process of gaining shareholder approval and clearing regulatory hurdles has consumed more than a year. The new deal was approved by the boards of both Qualcomm and NXP. NXP is a co-inventor and key patent holder of NFC technology. Qualcomm already integrates NXP secure element technology into its Snapdragon chips. NXP is the fifth-largest semiconductor maker (excluding memory chips). NXP is also a leader in chips for automotive networks, IoT, and most types of wireless radios. Qualcomm believes this new offer will find support within the ranks of NXP's shareholders.
Apple today released iOS 11.2.6 to resolve several bugs. Primarily, the minor update tackles an issue where using certain characters could cause apps such as iMessage and WhatsApp to crash. The update also patches a problem where some third-party apps could fail to connect to external accessories. The iOS 11.2.6 is free to download over the air.
Microsoft says devices running Windows Phone 7.5 and 8.0 have reached end-of-life status and will no longer be supported. Beginning February 20, Microsoft will turn off push notification services for Windows Phone 7.5 and Windows Phone 8.0. This means devices running those platforms will no longer receive notifications, will not receive live tile updates, and will not be able to use Find My Phone to locate the device. Microsoft says Windows Phone 8.1 and Windows 10 Mobile remain fully supported for the time being. Devices running Windows Phone 7.5 and Windows Phone 8.0 were originally sold in the 2011 and 2012 timeframe.
Essential Products today outed a fourth new color of its PH-1 Essential Phone that's exclusive to Amazon. The Halo Gray version of the Essential Phone is available for preorder from Amazon.com for $449 starting today. In addition to the fresh coat of paint, this Amazon exclusive ships with the Alexa app preinstalled. It will ship starting February 21. Essential recently revealed new black, blue, and gray models that are for sale directly from Essential's web site. The Essential Phone includes an edge-to-edge display, 13-megapixel rear cameras, 128 GB of storage, Snapdragon 835 processor, and magnetic connectors for modular attachments.
Verizon Wireless today changed up its prepaid service offerings by adding a new low-cost option and other features previously reserved for postpaid customers. Verizon Prepaid service now starts at $30 per month, which buys unlimited talk and text with 500 MB of data. Verizon Prepaid also offers 3 GB of data for $40 per month, 7 GB for $50, or 10 GB for $60. Verizon says all its prepaid plans include carryover data (for one month), mobile hotspot, and unlimited international texting to 200 countries. Customers who subscribe to the Prepaid Unlimited plan, which costs $75 per month, will enjoy unlimited use of mobile hotspot at 3G speeds (600 Kbps). Prepaid customers who travel to Canada or Mexico will be happy to learn that Verizon now offers Travel Pass for $5 per day. Customers who tack on Travel Pass when in Canada or Mexico will have access to unlimited talk and text, and their normal monthly data allotment. Verizon suggests customers should add Travel Pass via the My Verizon app before they travel. New customers who switch to Verizon Prepaid and subscribe to a $50 plan or higher will receive a $50 bill credit. These new options will be available to Verizon Prepaid customers starting February 20.
Qualcomm today said Broadcom's acquisition offer simply isn't good enough as currently proposed. The companies met earlier this week to go over some of the finer points of Broadcom's $121 billion bid to purchase Qualcomm, and Qualcomm still came away leery that the deal won't work out. To start, Broadcom reiterated that its offer of $82 per share is its best offer, a figure that Qualcomm insists undervalues the company. Further, Qualcomm said Broadcom resisted the idea of agreeing to "commitments that could be expected to be required by ... government regulatory bodies." Moreover, Broadcom refused to discuss how it would treat Qualcomm's licensing business, a matter that would make predicting antitrust-related issues difficult. Broadcom insisted on controlling all materials regarding the licensing business between signing the deal and closing the deal — something Qualcomm says violates antitrust laws. Last, Qualcomm called Broadcom's breakup fee, should the deal not pass regulatory muster, far short of what might be needed to compensate Qualcomm stockholders for the risks involved. Qualcomm concluded by saying, "The current Broadcom proposal is unacceptable." As it did earlier, however, Qualcomm left the door open for Broadcom to improve its offer. Qualcomm said it would meet with Broadcom again should Broadcom up the ante and make more assurances concerning the risks involved.
Apple says it has a patch in the works that will counter a bug causing iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and even Macs to crash. The bug occurs when people receive a message with certain Indian language characters in apps including iMessage, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp. According to The Verge, Apple will push the patch "soon." This means the bug will be fixed through a minor update (iOS 11.2.x) rather than the larger iOS 11.3 update expected later this spring. Apple also plans to issue patches for macOS and watchOS to resolve the issue on those devices.
Google announced plans to acquire Xively, an internet-of-things provider, from LogMeIn. The company's technology will be added to Google's Cloud IoT Core unit, helping it with device management, messaging, and dashboard features. Google says its customers will reap the rewards of Xively's flexible, secure platform as they bring IoT products based on Clout IoT Core to market. Together with Google Cloud's data analytics and machine learning, Google expects the acquisition to benefit IoT device makers and service providers, as well as the customers of those companies. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. It is subject to regulatory approval.
Apple today told developers that soon all new apps submitted to the iTunes App Store must support the screen of the latest iPhone. "Starting April 2018, all new iOS apps submitted to the App Store must be built with the iOS 11 SDK, included in Xcode 9 or later," said Apple in an email to developers. "All new apps for iPhone, including universal apps, must support the Super Retina display of iPhone X." The iPhone X display swaps the 16:9 aspect ratio found on the iPhone 6, 7, and 8 for a 2:1 aspect ratio with a notch at the top. It also boosts the resolution beyond full HD. Apps that haven't yet been updated for the iPhone X often have black bars at the top and bottom, which look unsightly. Developers can find the iOS 11 SDK on Apple's developer web site.
Google has made a light and quick version of Gmail available to select handsets. Gmail Go is a slimmed-down version of Gmail that works better on devices with limited resources or spotty network connections. The app consumes less space on devices and requires less storage for email messages. It includes many of Gmail's signature features, including 15 GB of online storage, notifications, focused inbox, spam protection, and support for multiple accounts (IMAP/POP). Gmail Go is free to download from the Google Play Store, though Google hasn't specified which devices are able to use it. The majority fo Google's "Go" apps are reserved for entry-level devices in emerging markets. Gmail Go is not compatible with many of today's high-end phones.
Nokia today said it is weighing strategic options for its Digital Health business. Nokia acquired wearable-maker Withings in 2016 and used that as the basis of its Digital Health business, with is part of the Nokia Technologies group. The Digital Health unit is responsible for smartwatches, scales, and other digital health devices for both consumers and businesses. "The strategic review of the Digital Health business may or may not result in any transaction or other changes," said the company. "Any further announcements about the Digital Health business will be made if and when appropriate." Nokia didn't say if or when it might make a decision. Nokia's main business is in developing and selling telecommunications gear.
Google today updated Google Maps for iOS devices with new real-time tools to make finding information on the go even quicker. iPhone owners can now swipe up when using Google Maps to open three tabs: explore, driving, and transit. These tabs contain information about nearby restaurants, real-time traffic conditions, and train/bus schedules. These features have been available to Google Maps for Android since last year. Google Maps for iOS is free to download from the iTunes App Store.
What do you want to hear about? We're already working on a number of articles for the coming months, but we want to write about the things you're most interested in. So sound off: tell us what you want to know more about!


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Nick Sherry, the Australian minister for small businesses started an uproar after predicting that "in five years, other than a few speciality bookshops in capital cities, you will not see a bookstore. They will cease to exist because of what's happening with internet-based, web-based distribution."
His comments, as the Guardian reported, followed the collapse of Australia's largest bookseller, Angus & Robertson, and Australian high street chain Borders earlier this year. Still, Sherry got many book lovers and bookstore owners angry, but is there a chance he might be right, and as much as we hate to hear it, this is the future we're heading to?
I write here extensively about the challenges of brick and mortar bookstores and about the fact that both large retailers (B&N, Borders) and indies haven't found yet the right strategy to bring customers back to the stores. So you might guess I wasn't surprised to hear Sherry's remark. Still I was curious to see what arguments were made against his prediction as I thought they might be a good indicator whether he has a point or not.
So let's look at some of the arguments made against Sherry's prediction:
1. Joel Becker, chief executive of the Australian Booksellers Association, said he was "gobsmacked" at the "extraordinarily unhelpful" remarks, and had written to the minister asking him to explain himself. "It's an industry that's obviously going through changes, and we're responding to those changes by working out ways for even the smallest bookstores to go online and sell ebooks; we've been doing it so far without any support from the government," he told the Sydney Morning Herald.
2. Jon Page, president of the ABA and a bookseller at Sydney's Pages and Pages, insisted on Twitter that "we are not a dead or dying industry". There is "still a place for an independent that services their local community", said Page, telling the SMH that Sherry had shown "a distinct lack of understanding about the Australian book industry".
3. Daniel Jordan, managing director of Collins Booksellers, also dismissed the comment, stating: “To assume that bricks-and-mortar retailing won’t exist in five years is just plain wrong.”
4. Shadow Small Business Minister Bruce Billson also slammed Sherry’s comment, describing the minister as a “prophet of doom”. “Senator Sherry’s defeatist and demoralising commentary adds insult to the injury of his lack of support for retailing as small business adapts and innovates to respond to market trends and difficult trading conditions,” Billson said in a statement.
5. Page has had the same response in his Mosman store, and says it started in February when RedGroup Retail, the parent company of Borders and Angus and Robertson, called in administrators. ''Ever since the collapse of the RedGroup, customers have been coming into my bookshop asking if I am going to close, too,'' he told me yesterday. ''The minister's comments have been very damaging because they have reinforced in some customers' minds the idea that bookshops are on the way out.''My impression from all these arguments and comments is that they don't really challenge Sherry's assumptions. They don't show in any way how the future of bookstores can be different from the one Sherry predicts and how bookstores can fight back online stores and be relevant to e-book consumers. His prediction might be unpleasant and even wrong in terms of timeframe, but it still important to be aware of this possibility, especially given the fact that we see so many bookstores closing and as we see from Borders' case, even the large retailers are not immune.
Bottom line: Let's not shoot the messenger. It won't help the future of bookstores even a bit.
Raz @ Eco-Libris
The Best Running Shoes Come From The Ocean
2 days ago

domain: news


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Broadcom said that its high-definition (HD) system-on-chip (SoC) technology enabled Korea Telecom to launch 4K in-home IPTV media service.
Olleh GiGA UHD (4K) set-top box (STB) used by Korea Telecom delivers fluid 60 frame-per-second (fps) video with vivid 10-bit color at 4X the resolution conventional HD displays.
Korea Telecom’s Olleh GiGA UHD(4K) service allows subscribers to search for programs via voice commands and watch four different channels simultaneously.
Consumers can check for live statistics during sporting event broadcasts and view content in multiple languages.
Korea Telecom plans to launch a variety of programming options, offering more than 500 Ultra HD program choices by the end of this year.
Broadcom’s HEVC-enabled devices enable operators to reduce the bandwidth required for Ultra HD or HD content transmission over IP, cable or satellite networks, and deliver these services to more locations throughout the home.
“The launch of our GiGA UHD (4K) STB and IPTV service provides consumers with an exciting new home entertainment experience while contributing to the broader proliferation of Ultra HD content production and delivery,” said B.K.Jeon, Korea Telecom Media business Department Vice President.


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COMMENTARY--Best Buy provided further evidence that PCs are just passé.
The electronics retailer just reported a terrific fourth quarter, easily topping analyst estimates and telling Wall Street to raise its expectations for fiscal 2001. Investors cheered the report, boosting Best Buy (NYSE: BBY) shares more than 9 percent today.
It's easy to see why. A 27 percent increase in overall revenue is impressive enough, but even more noteworthy is Best Buy's ability to increase its comparable store sales, or revenue from stores open at least a year. Best Buy's comps didn't rise by much, only 1.8 percent year-over-year, but considering the U.S. economy these days, any improvement deserves commendation, especially when it's related to the technology business.
But the company's future vision won't make PC lovers smile.
Home office products--mainly computers and related peripherals--are Best Buy's single largest segment for now. The company expects that to change.
"Suffice it to say that while we expect and had planned all along for the home office category to diminish in its total size against our complete mix, the consumer electronics will continue to grow in the other direction," Best Buy CEO Richard Schulze said during the company's conference call with analysts this morning.
"Wouldn't be a bit surprised to see these two categories shift in their total financial contributions to the company over the next four to five years, with consumer electronics becoming far and away the larger category, with much stronger gross margins," he said.
As for PCs, the company does see some strength in notebooks, personal digital assistants and related accessories, but desktop computer sales remain soft. Schulze cited a saturated market and a weak product cycle in the first half of this year (read: no new chips) as reasons. In any case, computers are the most competitive and lowest gross margin category for Best Buy.
The retailer's willingness to quickly embrace consumer trends explains much of the company's recent success. Schulze noted that demand is high for digital cameras and camcorders, DVD players, wireless communications, and digital television. By year's end, digital consumer electronics should generate 18 to 19 percent of Best Buy's total revenue, executives said.
The retailer is pushing these items, especially digital TV, while they can still command high prices. The average price of a digital TV is $2,300, or more than your average PC, and with a fatter profit margin to boot. Schulze expects TV prices to drop below $2,000 by the end of the year.
Still too expensive for my tastes and probably yours too, but there are enough idio...uh, cutting-edge aficionados willing to shell out five figures to watch sharper versions of "Honeymooners" re-runs, and Best Buy is smart to cater to them.
Research firms joined the investor applause. Immediately following Best Buy's conference call, Deutsche Banc Alex Brown analyst Dan Wewer upgraded BBY to "buy" from a "market perform" rating. Merrill Lynch analyst Peter Caruso boosted his BBY earnings estimates.
"We believe that Best Buy gaining market share rapidly provides a buffer against the consumer spending slowdown," Caruso wrote.
Best Buy's solid performance offers a marked contrast to its main publicly traded competitor, Circuit City (NYSE: CC), which reported quarterly results yesterday. Circuit City topped estimates, but its comparable store sales dropped 11 percent year-over-year, and the company offered a comparatively weak forecast for the year.
"BBY is probably the most important beneficiary of Circuit City's weakness, given that roughly 50 percent of BBY's store base overlaps with that of CC's," Wewer said in his research note. "We have seen and continue to expect to see BBY gaining share at the expense of CC."
Circuit City still relies too much on PCs and older types of home electronics. Robinson-Humphrey analyst David Schick summed up Circuit City's biggest hurdle. "First they need to have the products that people want and have to let the people know they have them," he told Reuters.
It sounds like a simple formula, yet companies have a hard time figuring it out. Too many people are afraid of de-emphasizing the product lines that worked in the past. Maybe Best Buy's results will convince folks to look to the future. 22GO>


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June 15 is the date chosen by Apple to open its second store in Taiwan, Apple Xinyi A13 in Taipei . As is often the case with large Apple Store openings, the company has shown a series of public photographs of the exterior and interior of the new store.
At AppleThe second Apple Store in Taiwan will soon open its doors, that’s how striking it is from above
While the Apple Xinyi A13 is not the company’s first store in Taiwan (Apple Taipei 101 Mall has that honor), it is the first with a state-of-the-art design for the Apple Store. It is therefore also the first to offer Today ar Apple sessions in the country. Apple says that free sessions will be offered every day for design, photography, video, music, programming, app development and more.
As for the architectural part, Apple has opted for a lower space where the Today at Apple forum, the space for Genius Grove and the exhibition of some of the products are located. There are also trees inside the building itself, which is already a “classic” in the new generation of Apple stores.
But what is interesting is the upper part facing the outside, it has only two cement and opaque walls, while the other two are huge transparent crystals . In this upper space we can see some of the products on display, such as the Apple Watch, the iPhone and the iPad. It also has a ceiling that simulates a huge MacBook.
Apple also says that more than half of its 155 employees come from stores in the region and together they speak more than 10 different languages. One of the classes of employees that this store will have are the Creative Pro, experts in artistic themes from different disciplines that will help users to take advantage of their devices as it happens in the Today at Apple sessions.
Apple Xinyi A13 opens its doors this coming Saturday, June 15. It is not the only Apple store that opens soon, remember that in Spain next June 20 will open Apple Passeig de Gracia in Barcelona.


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Web-based marketplace for independent pharmacies MatchRX successfully upgraded from its former Troy headquarters to a 5,000-square-foot spot in downtown Royal Oak.
The move brought the existing support staff, directors, managers, designers and technicians to the new space for improved member service and growth. All of MRX’s phone numbers, e-mails and fax numbers will remain the same after the move.
“Our Troy office doubled in business and size within one year, and our new location accommodates our rapid expansion with upgraded amenities, conferencing, enhanced customer service capabilities and an exhilarating workplace environment for our staff,” said John Kello, CEO of MatchRX.
“The internet company connects neighborhood pharmacists across the US, enabling members to buy and sell overstocked prescription drugs at 10 to 90 percent off from one another. Since 2010, the award-winning MRX has provided effective solutions to minimize waste and improve bottom lines. The unique Web-based marketplace enables MRX to provide a simple, secure way for members to better manage inventory on a daily basis.”
Find out more here.


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Four years after the production of the three-door option, Ford presented the much-anticipated five door hatchback Fiesta ST to European consumers this month. And they’re amped up about it!
One might worry that the five-door option isn’t quite as versatile in road handling as the three door, but you’d be mistaken. Much like the three-door, the five-door Ford Fiesta ST can go from zero to 62 miles per hour in just 6.9 seconds. There’s no change in the engine output either, with the five-door boasting 180 horsepower and 177 pounds per foot of torque.
If you’re looking for a sporty drive, then the Fiesta ST will not fail to produce. With an electronic stability control system and torque vectoring control, you’ll be hugging those curves like a shy toddler hugs his momma’s leg.
Ford is certain the five-door will be as successful in Europe as its three-door predecessor. “Ford has now sold more than 38,000 Fiesta STs in Europe since we introduced the acclaimed hot hatchback in 2013,” says Roelant de Waard, vice president of marketing, sales and service at Ford of Europe. “and a growing number of customers have been asking for a five-door version. The Fiesta ST with five doors makes an affordable Ford Performance driving experience accessible to an even greater number of customers.”


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Follow-up on The State of Technology in 2018: the different types of regulation, whether or not the Internet is different, and why consumer tech companies may be weaker than they seem.
Follow-up to Data Factories, then Amazon’s pay raise, which is of course good for workers and also, unsurprisingly, good for Amazon.
San Francisco has decreed which scooters should win, and acquiesce to regulators appears to be top of the list. Plus, why the differences between scooters and ride-sharing should result in very different strategies.
New York City has enacted a moratorium and pay floor on ride-sharing services. Uber may be losing its political power, and the effects could be wide-ranging.
Examining the history of Android explains why the European Commission may be right to fine Google for its actions around Android, even as the reasoning feels off.
It is no surprise that a judge allowed the AT&T-Time Warner acquisition to proceed given the government’s poor case; the question is if a better case could have been made. What is ultimately needed, though, are new laws.
Following up on The Bill Gates Line, applying it to Twitter, and then why Facebook portability is a bad idea.
Understanding the differences between aggregators and platforms matters for companies interacting with them and also regulators considering antitrust.
Just as encryption is only viable on closed systems, so it is that increased privacy regulations will only entrench walled gardens. That should affect thinking on regulation.
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg was back on the hill, using his usual talking points; the contrast with a Chinese news app, facing its own political pressure, was striking. Plus, why Apple’s Siri hire is so important.


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By now, the news of cryptocurrencies becoming one of the most valued assets in the world has reached every corner of the planet. As the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry continues to grow, more and more countries are attracted to the technology.
It is understandable why countries such as the United States, China, or Russia, would want to excel in these technologies. The reason is that China and Russia are competing with each other to take down the United States. For now, it is clear that China is taking the lead and may end up becoming the largest economy.
China is doing whatever it can with blockchain technology to ensure it gains prowess over all other digital currencies. It is following the same goal it has been following for several decades and that is to overtake the United States. China can only do it by making its currency the top global reserve currency defeating the United States dollar.
Then there are countries such as India, Pakistan, South Korea, and many more that have one main agenda. The goal is to adopt cryptocurrency and blockchain technology to improve their economy. India and Pakistan are working to adopt crypto-blockchain technology so they can improve their economy and pay off their debts.
Although South Korea is doing the same, it has a different goal in mind while doing so. That goal is to bring itself among the top economies in the world. It was a title that South Korea once held but it lost it due to the pandemic.
In the end, there are countries like Cuba, Venezuela, and Iran that are using crypto-blockchain technology for different purposes. Their purpose is to keep their economies alive while they continue facing harsh sanctions from the United States.
These countries have already suffered enough in terms of their economy and inflation rates. Now they are trying to make a comeback with the help of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.
Now, there is another country aiming to boost its adoption of blockchain and cryptocurrency technology. Luxembourg is a country whose population is even less than a million, is getting ready to adopt crypto-blockchain technology.
Xavier Bettel, the Prime Minister of Luxembourg recently shared the government’s plan for crypto-blockchain adoption. He stated during a conference that their government is exploring crypto-blockchain technology. However, the country will eventually enter the crypto-blockchain space, as they are willing to take the risk.
He added that this is not the first time Luxembourg has taken a risk in terms of technological advancements and this will not be the last time either.
He stated that the government aims to bring Luxembourg to the frontlines of the crypto-blockchain industry. Therefore, they would need the support of the citizens of Luxembourg to make this possible. He has encouraged the entire nation to become part of the crypto-blockchain technology and see how it works out for them.


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Are you ready for some iPhone 3G tethering, that is, being able to connect your laptop to the Internet by using the iPhone’s 3G network? Sure is useful when you’re at a café or whatever that, shockingly, doesn’t have Wi-Fi.
Moving on. Some details have leaked to MacBlogz regarding AT&T’s plans for iPhone tethering. The big news, I’d say, is that AT&T plans to limit data consumption to 5GB per month—go over that and you’re paying through the nose. (Those of you who need more than 5GB of 3G connectivity will be encouraged to purchase one of those wireless cards, which will no doubt be all over CES in January.)
The second bit of news is that AT&T plans to charge an additional $30 per month for iPhone tethering. So, if you’re paying $80 per month for your iPhone 3G, you’ll be paying at least $110 if you want a tethering plan. Keep in mind that AT&T may well release new iPhone 3G plans with tethering built into your monthly bill—maybe you’ll save a few dollars that way?
Now, none of this has any release date whatsoever; AT&T is a fickle, fussy nut to crack. Then there’s the fact that AT&T’s 3G networks might not be robust enough for millions of people to cruise YouTube or other bandwidth-heavy sites.


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A latte great options when it comes to coffee shop food, columnist says
Some places make great food in-house, others rely on local artisans
Vancouver is home to countless coffee shops, but they're not all created equal — especially when it comes to their food offerings.
However, On the Coast food columnist Gail Johnson has your back when it comes to biscotti and told On The Coast host Stephen Quinn about some of her favourites.
"Food at the coffee shop is the kind of thing you might not pay much attention to until you end up with something really lousy to go with your Americano," she said. "The worst example has got to be Starbucks … It's awful! The stuff is either sickly sweet or grossly dry. It actually makes me angry. And I also get angry when I go to other places and order a muffin and it has a single blueberry or cranberry in it or when it's completely flavourless."
- Want to get out of the house this Thanksgiving season? Some food events to try
- Think you're eating real wasabi with your sushi? Chances are you're getting rolled
- Vietnamese cuisine growing in Vancouver pho sure, says food columnist
But thankfully, there are more choices than Starbucks in the city.
"One that really stands out is Bows and Arrows Coffee Roasters, a new spot on Fraser Street at 26th Avenue. It's the company's second location. It started in Victoria," she said. "Their pastry chef, Trevor Pruegger, used to work at Thomas Haas. He makes really lovely items like citrus morning buns, flaky galettes and big buttermilk biscuits. He also makes all of the bread in-house."
Matchstick is another place that bakes its own bread at its Chinatown location: "Their bread is really the linchpin of the café's entire menu, which includes things like eggs on toast with ratatouille and salsa verde," Johnson said.
Finally, Milano Coffee Roasters has good food offerings too, she says, but it turns to local artisans to do its baking.
Vendors like Livia Sweets and Eightfold Eats provide rose petal shortbread, salty caramel brownies, lemon squares and quinoa-almond butter cookies.
With files from CBC Radio One's On The Coast


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Lady Gaga has had a pretty quite year thus far. It’s seems like forever since we’ve seen a headline mentioning the pop singer, or even a photograph of her in one of her many outrageous outfits. But Gaga is not done with music just yet. She has announced that she’ll be releasing ARTPOP this fall and will be accompanied with an app.
Gaga’s third album will drop Nov. 11 alongside an app that is “a musical and visual engineering system that combines music, art, fashion and technology.”
In a statement published on Gaga’s Facebook, it was revealed that ARTPOP “musically mirrors Gaga’s creative process as she passes through the medium of each artist she collaborates with, scoring a blueprint on her journey.”
Earlier this year, the pop diva had to cancel her Born This Way Ball tour due to an injured hip. 22 shows were canceled, forcing the refund of roughly 200,000 tickets worth about $25 million in gross ticket sales. It’s still too early to tell if she’ll embark on a world tour to support ARTPOP, but word is that Lady Gaga will return to the stage this September for the iTunes Festival at the refurbished Camden Roundhouse in London.
Before ARTPOP hits stores in the fall, a single will arrive on Aug. 19. But feel free to start preordering the new album on Sept. 1.


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Get ready for travel prices to surge, experts say
Travelers with high ground turn their engines.
With Friday guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that fully vaccinated people can travel again at low risk to themselves, millions of Americans got the green light to begin planning their next trips.
And while CDC director Rochelle Walensky told a news conference on Friday that the agency was still not offering travel due to the growing number of cases of Koran virus, travel numbers have already risen sharply in recent weeks – an upward trend that is expected to accelerate the announcement is yet to come.
The Transportation Safety Administration has been checking more than 1 million passengers every day for weeks and hiring thousands of new agents to prepare for the impending explosion. The Hopper travel booking app has seen a 58% increase in summer travel searches. Airlines are adding many new routes to leisure destinations to meet changing travel demand.
So what impact will CDC’s updated guidance have on the industry? According to travel experts, it is possible to see an increase in prices as customers start booking tours again.
As demand increases, supply will find it difficult to keep up, making travel more expensive. Many hotels, bars, excursions and attractions still operate at reduced capacity. car rental agencies reduced their fleet to reduce costs. and more people are asking for all of the above.
We spoke with six domestic travelers about what would happen next and why.
Scott Keyes, founder of Scott’s Cheap Flights, says the fivefold increase in travel demand is unlike anything the industry has ever seen. The news from the CDC could affect flight prices as more people start pursuing travel plans.
“I think there will be a short-term increase in airfare for the summer,” says Keyes. “Everyone wants to travel, they are looking to make up for lost time, and they especially want to do it this summer, while the weather is good and eventually it will be safe and [everyone’s] comfortable to do.
Keyes does not expect the fare to last longer than the summer.
“There are many reasons why I think airfare will continue to be very, very affordable,” he says. “The golden age of cheap travel, like the one we have been living through since 2015, will continue to emerge from the pandemic.”
Lin Chen, director of the Travel Medicine Center at Mount Auburn Hospital and an associate professor at Harvard Medical School, said it was quite unknown to the coronavirus – especially as new variants emerged – that travelers should be careful.
“I think people should not disappoint their whole guard,” he said.
He added: “I think that for the general public, even if they are fully vaccinated and traveling, they should continue to take all other precautions such as wearing masks and avoiding crowds and washing their hands well and staying away from strangers. ».
Chen, who is president of the International Society of Travel Medicine, said vaccinated travelers should look for destinations that have good healthcare facilities and vaccinate their own populations at a steady rate.
The CDC said fully vaccinated people did not need a coronavirus test before or after their domestic trip and did not need to self-quarantine after traveling within the United States. Prior to international travel, the agency said, tests are only required if the destinations require it. However, even fully vaccinated people must have a negative test no later than three days before returning to the United States and must be tested within three to five days of arriving home.
“I think domestic travel is probably the safest yet, or the easiest and least burdensome,” Chen said.
Misty Belles, global public relations director for travel agency Virtuoso, says travel demand is growing exponentially as Americans promise to get vaccinated soon. The CDC announcement has added fuel to this fire and will give people the confidence to book travel. He predicts that prices will change depending on new demand.
“You still have some limited availability problems because the hotels are running – in some areas – with reduced capacity. So they are going to fill it a lot faster,” he says.
In places where it has already seen an increase in travel, such as Florida, Belles says prices are already higher than they normally would be.
“It will continue to rise,” he says. “And it will be the same for airline tickets.”
Mark Crossey, a U.S. travel expert at Skyscanner booking site, says many holidaymakers are waiting for this announcement to eventually book a major trip, though that will come with some extra effort.
“The possible easing of restrictions by the summer and the successful launch of vaccines, combined with this new announcement, have increased the positive,” Crossey said in an email. “But these are just a few pieces of the puzzle with clear guidance on travel restrictions, quarantine measures, digital health passes and tests needed to let travelers know what is safe to book and within directions.”
Crossey says travel for Americans in 2020 was dominated mainly by domestic travel, as well as visits to Mexico and the Caribbean. Now that vaccine progress could help open borders, he expects a higher rate of international travel.
As more people travel – and pay higher prices for hotels, airline tickets and rental cars – the summer travel season is still not normal, said Henry Harteveldt, a travel industry analyst at Atmosphere Research Group.
Flights and hotel rooms may be available, and vaccinated people can be assured that they are safe, but certain rules such as capacity limits at theme parks, sporting events, museums or other attractions are likely to remain in place.
“Before booking your flights and hotels, make sure you can do the things you want – and whether it involves going to a baseball game or theme park, do your research on ticket availability and prices and anything. another before you start buying, “he said.” You do not want to get stuck spending a lot of money just to find something that is not available or is going to be much more expensive than you thought.
He said that because some popular travel options such as cruising and visiting Europe are still limited, more travelers are likely to flood places that are open to Americans – meaning people could be in the crowds again.
Tori Emerson Barnes, executive vice president of public affairs and policy at the American Travel Association, said the travel sentiment still shows that people want to spend time outdoors on beaches, national parks and mountain sites. But with new guidance from the CDC, he said he expects other types of destinations to gain popularity.
“I think those who were more careful when traveling by plane or staying in a hotel or going to a city will start to feel more comfortable when they have been vaccinated,” he said.
He said there are still some big questions to be addressed about the CDC, such as opening up international travel and expanding larger concentrations so that business meetings and events can be repeated.
“From an industry standpoint, these are two very important parts of our business,” he said.


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There are not a lot of details at this point, but it appears that yet another major US retailer has suffered a breach of its POS system. The online blog krebsonsecurity.com has reported that banks have tied credit and debit card fraud activity to cards used at Staples stores in the Northeast US region. This indicates that Staples is the victim of a POS data breach.
This appears to have been news to Staples, the office supply giant, which has now announced an investigation. This continues a disturbing pattern where, as in the Home Depot breach last month, a compromised retailer appears to have only learned of the threat when fraudulent activity is identified by banks and protect financial institutions.
Staples Sr. Public Relations Manager Mark Cautela has stated “If Staples discovers an issue, it is important to note that customers are not responsible for any fraudulent activity on their credit cards that is reported on [in] a timely basis.”
Blogger Brian Krebs has broken numerous breach stories over the past year, including the Target and Home Depot data breaches which have impacted over 100 million cardholders.
At this point, the Staples POS data breach may have impacted only a small number of Staples 1,800 stores nationwide. It fits the pattern of the Backoff malware involved in Home Depot and numerous breaches of point-of-sale systems over the past two months. Backoff was the subject of a Homeland Security cyber alert in July.
Earlier this week, President Obama issued an Executive Order that all cards issued for or on the behalf of the Federal Government and its agencies to used Chip and Pin technologies that protect against malware such as Backoff. This technology is used in most European countries and has been successful in stopping this type of data breach
Comodo provides the most advanced security protections available, including SecureBox which especially designed to secure financial transactions and POS systems at the endpoint.
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GA: Governor Deal Announces That Proximus Mobility Will Open Headquarters in Atlanta
10 Aug, 2011
Mobile marketing solutions provider to create 100 jobs
Image via Wikipedia
Gov. Nathan Deal announced today that Proximus Mobility will open its headquarters and development operations in Atlanta, creating 100 jobs over three years. Proximus Mobility is a location-based proximity marketing solutions provider that works with retailers, hotels, advertising agencies and other clients to provide localized and high-value digital content to consumers’ mobile phones regardless of phone type or carrier network without the need of an application.
“Proximus Mobility’s decision to choose Georgia for its headquarters is a great credit to our state’s established infrastructure for high-tech companies that provides them with access to intellectual capital and some of the nation’s brightest talent for this industry,” Deal said. “The company joins a growing list of interactive technology companies that have made a home in the Atlanta region. I am confident that Proximus will benefit from our state’s competitive resources for this industry, and I am glad to welcome them to Georgia.”
Proximus Mobility is a location-based proximity marketing company that provides a turnkey, end-to-end solution to retailers, hotels and casinos, venues, advertising agencies and small to medium-sized businesses. The start-up company offers solutions for its clients to reach consumers through interactive methods using their mobile phones using localized and tailored marketing content. Proximus Mobility’s hyper-local marketing solutions allow mobile users to download premium offers or coupons, product information, rich media and other content in the out-of-home environment.
The company will move its operations from Naples, Fla., to Atlanta to tap into the region’s resources for technology businesses, skilled workforce and market growth opportunities. The company will partner with the Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC) at the Georgia Institute of Technology to launch its Atlanta operations, and will be located in Technology Square in Midtown.
“Atlanta offers us the opportunity to be located near potential clients and partners like Delta Air Lines, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, CNN, Coca-Cola, The Home Depot and NCR, and have access to experienced wireless and mobile software development talent. These assets, along with overall lower costs of doing business in the state, helped make it a clear choice for us,” said Michael Zeto, CEO of Proximus Mobility. “Being in a world-class incubator like the ATDC and affiliated with Georgia Tech gives us access to top notch R&D and innovative software developers both as interns and as graduates to fill the many Java Developer positions we have open.”
The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) partnered with the Atlanta Development Authority, the Metro Atlanta Chamber and Electric Cities of Georgia to secure this business opportunity for the state.
“Atlanta’s creative class stemming from our colleges and universities offer technology-driven companies like Proximus Mobility a steady stream of talent to ensure they remain globally competitive now and in the future,” says Brian McGowan, president and CEO for the Atlanta Development Authority. “Their investment here shows, once again, that Atlanta is an ideal location for business and for enhancing our growing technology cluster. We welcome Proximus Mobility to our great city.”
“Proximus Mobility’s decision to relocate to metro Atlanta is a testament to our region’s strength and attractiveness to high-tech companies,” said Hans Gant, senior vice president of economic development for the Metro Atlanta Chamber. “Atlanta has a strong talent pool, a network of colleges and universities and expertise in the high-tech industry which forms an ideal environment for continued growth.”
Interactive technology companies in Georgia benefit from the state’s comprehensive technology infrastructure that makes Georgia a competitive location for media industries such as video game development, animation and digital entertainment. The industry in Georgia is fed by a pipeline of talent matriculating from more than 15 Georgia colleges and universities that offer full industry-related curriculum.
“In Georgia, Proximus Mobility will find a business environment that supports companies in the digital, creative and high-tech industries that allows them to compete in our state and in strategic global markets,” said GDEcD Commissioner Chris Cummiskey. “Georgia has significant resources for this industry that make our state an ideal location and encourages success for Proximus and others in this industry.”
GDEcD statewide project manager Glen Whitley managed this project on behalf of the state.
About Proximus Mobility
Based in Atlanta, Proximus Mobility is a location-based proximity marketing software company that provides a turnkey, end-to-end solution to retailers, hotels and casinos, venues, advertising agencies and small-to-medium-sized businesses. This solution offers relevant, high-value digital content to consumers’ mobile phones near the point of influence or point of sale regardless of the phone type or carrier. Proximus enables brands to effectively reach and track their customers in the out-of home environment, facilitating the ability to make cost-effective and educated purchase decisions and to receive helpful and valuable location-based information and offers completing the value chain for advertiser and consumer.


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Brazil inflation falls to 2.89%, lowest since May last year
BRASILIA (Reuters) - Brazilian consumer price inflation fell to its lowest in more than a year in September, official figures on Wednesday showed, a reading below the central bank's target that is likely to strengthen expectations of another cut in interest rates.
The benchmark IPCA index of inflation rose 2.89% in the 12 months through September, down from an increase of 3.43% in the previous month, government statistics agency IBGE said on Wednesday.
This was below the median consensus forecast of 2.97% in a Reuters poll of economists and marked the first time since May last year that the annual rate of inflation has been below 3.0%.
The central bank's official year-end goal for 2019 remains 4.25%, a target most economists think will be undershot. In the first nine months of the year, the annual rate of inflation was running at 2.49%, IBGE said.
On a monthly basis, prices fell in September for the first time this year, slipping 0.04%. This is only the fourth month of consumer price deflation in the last five years, IBGE figures show.
The biggest weight in September's data was a 0.43% month-on-month fall in food and drink prices, IBGE said, followed by a 0.76% decline in the cost of household goods. Communications was the only other category that saw a fall in prices, albeit a slender 0.01%.
Of the remaining six categories, the biggest driver was a 0.58% increase in the cost of health and personal care items, IBGE said.
Citing low inflation, Brazil's central bank reduced benchmark borrowing costs last month to a new low of 5.50%. Economists widely expect it to cut again later this year.
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text:
As many as four million workers labor in clusters of warehouses scattered across the United States. Many are mislabeled as ‘temps’; all are poorly paid, and on-the-job injuries are high.
In the article “The Warehouse Archipelago”, John Lippert and Stephen Franklin investigate the current state of staffing in the warehouse industry.
Part Three of the weekly Chicago Reporter series Lippert and Franklin explore how staffing companies exploited the 9/11 terror attacks to get workers at lower pay rates.
In the wake of the 9/11 terror attacks, when many employers fired workers who lacked papers showing they were legally in the U.S., staffing companies stepped into the breach. According to Tim Bell of the Chicago Workers’ Collaborative, they told employers they could have the same workers back on the job but at the lower pay rates of the agencies.
The fissuring of the warehouse economy accelerated accordingly, and the pay of the people who worked there was reduced, as a lawsuit that involved several Walmart warehouses in Southern California made clear.
The company had hired Schneider Logistics, one of the nation’s largest logistics firms, and Schneider had turned
to two staffing firms to hire the predominantly Latino immigrant workforce. A nearly three-year court battle resulted in a $21 million class action suit settlement in 2014 for the workers.
Under an alleged scheme triggered by the hiring of the staffing companies, according to the workers’ complaint, employees’ wages were lowered. They weren’t paid for overtime work. They also were fired or threatened with retaliation if they inquired about their pay.
Once Walmart’s effort to be dismissed as a defendant
was rejected by the court, and it saw that a jury trial would expose its role, Walmart, then the world’s largest company by revenue, agreed to a settlement (as did Schneider). It’s not clear, says Michael Rubin, an attorney for the workers, which company made the payment, since Walmart and Schneider were both sued by the workers. What made the suit unique, according to Rubin, was that it laid out the dealings of the giant retailer, the logistics firm, and the staffing company. “It was a three-tiered joint employer case,” he explained. Staffing companies have been cited for several questionable strategies. They have been cited for price-fixing and agreeing not to hire from other firms.
Laura Padin, an attorney with the National Employment Law Project, points to other staffing company strategies.
One is their use of the federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which rewards companies for hiring minorities and workers with troubled histories, such as former prison inmates. It can provide more than $6,000 for each worker. The problem with this, she explains, is it doesn’t launch new careers for struggling workers hired under this program. Rather, the staffing companies hire the workers “for a few months in dead-end jobs.” At the same time, staffing companies, operating on low profit margins, rely on the subsidies “to make their money,” she said.
An equally troubling staffing company strategy, experts say, is a conversion fee. Some staffing firms, according to data collected by Temp Worker Justice, charge a potential employer up to $2,000 or 10 percent of a worker’s yearly salary if a company directly hires the worker after several months on the job. “The whole model is built on keeping workers in temp worker conditions,” Padin said.
Dan Shomon, a spokesman for the Staffing Services Association of Illinois, refutes such criticism, saying that agencies want to benefit workers. “Illinois has one of the strongest laws in the country to protect temporary staffing workers,” adds Shomon, whose group represents ten firms that hire lightindustrial workers.
But some of these agencies have had legal problems with Illinois officials. In 2020, three staffing agencies that belong
to the organization were accused in a lawsuit by the Illinois attorney general of colluding to set low wages and agreeing not to “poach” workers from each other. The case is ongoing.
In Part Four of the “The Warehouse Archipelago” series, the reopening of the economy battered by COVID-19 mitigations provides new hope for warehouse workers.
“The Warehouse Archipelago” was first published in The American Prospect.
About the writers:
John Lippert was a line worker for eight years at General Motors before becoming a reporter at the Detroit Free Press and then Bloomberg, where he was a senior writer.
Stephen Franklin is a former labor reporter for the Chicago Tribune and author of ‘Three Strikes: Labor’s Heartland Losses and What They Mean for Working Americans.’