TOTA - APPLE iPHONE & iPAD & Mobile News Thread PT1 (CLOSED)
*** DO NOT TALK ABOUT PIRATED APPS ***
Rare Photo Shows Steve Jobs�s Rebellious Spirit As He Flips The Bird To IBM
This rare photograph of Steve Jobs demonstrates the Apple co-founder�s infamous rebellious spirit as he �flips the bird� outside an IBM building in New York City. It was taken in 1983 when the Macintosh team visited the city for a meeting with Newsweek, and was posted to Google+ today by Andy Hertzfield, a member of the original Macintosh development team.
Hertzfield posted the image �in memoriam for Steve Jobs as 2011 draws to a close�:
In memoriam for Steve Jobs as 2011 draws to a close, here�s one more rare photo that illustrates his rebellious spirit. In December 1983, a few weeks before the Mac launch, we made a quick trip to New York City to meet with Newsweek, who was considering doing a cover story on the Mac. The photo was taken spontaneously as we walked around Manhattan by Jean Pigozzi, a wild French jet setter who was hanging out with us at the time. Somehow I ended up with a copy of it.
Hertzfield reports that his editor previously begged him to include the image in his book, but that he was too timid to ask for Steve�s permission at the time, �especially since IBM was still making CPUs for Apple at the time.�
12.30.11
iPhone 4S best-selling phone at three top U.S. carriers in November, Samsung sales strong
Apple�s iPhone 4S was the best-selling smartphone at Verizon Wireless, AT&T and Sprint in November according to a report released Monday night by Canaccord Genuity. According to checks performed by analyst Mike Walkley and his team, Apple�s iPhone 4S remained a top-seller across the board while Samsung�s Galaxy S II picked up momentum ahead of the holidays. Samsung�s flagship handset was the top-selling smartphone at T-Mobile and it jumped up into the No.2 spot at AT&T. Sprint�s Galaxy S II Epic 4G Touch was the second best-selling smartphone at Sprint as well in November, and Motorola�s DROID RAZR was No.2 at Verizon Wireless. Read on for more.
(click to enlarge)
�IPhone 4S sales strength continues as distribution increases � Our November checks indicated iPhone sales remained strong in the US, particularly at AT&T and Sprint. Further, our checks indicated strong global share gains,� Walkley wrote. �With the iPhone 4S launching in new markets including China, Brazil, and Russia during December, we anticipate strong December quarter iPhone sales and have increased our estimate from 29.0 to 30.5M units.�
The analyst also noted that Apple�s iPad 2 is still the world�s top-selling tablet, though he did lower his unit sales estimates to 13 million in the December quarter, down from an earlier estimate of 14 million units.
HTC lost share in November according to Walkley, in line with the expectations set last month when the Taiwan-based vendor cut its fourth-quarter forecast. �Our November checks indicated weaker sales trends for both RIM and HTC, consistent with negative pre-announcements from both companies, as we believe weak trends are company-specific for both OEMs rather than indications of a weaker smartphone macro,� he wrote in his report. �Our checks indicated HTC has lost significant share at all four US carriers following the iPhone 4S and Samsung Galaxy S II launches.�
Walkley�s checks also indicated that sales of BlackBerry smartphones in the U.S. slowed significantly in November, with the high-end Bold 9900 in particular showing slowed adoption. �Following early strength for the Bold 9900, our checks indicated BlackBerry sales slowed significantly during November due to high-end smartphone share losses combined with lower-priced Nokia feature-phones and sub-$200 Android smartphones adversely impacting BlackBerry sales in emerging markets,� Walkley said.
12.06.11
Carrier IQ references discovered in Apple's iOS
To date, the user tracking controversy surrounding Carrier IQ has focused primarily on Android, but today details are surfacing that the company also may have hooks into Apple's iOS. Well-known iPhone hacker Chpwn tweeted today that versions at least as recent as iPhone OS 3.1.3 contained references to Carrier IQ.
We were able to independently verify that at the very least, references to Carrier IQ's servers do exist within iPhoneOS 3.1.3 in a file located at /usr/bin/IQAgent. What exactly that binary is able to access or how it may communicate with either carriers or Carrier IQ is not yet known, though there are references to an IQAgent log on the device as well as references to collector.sky.carrieriq.com.
For versions 4.0 and up, Intell on MacRumors' forums has found similar references to the http://collector.sky.carrieriq.com location within /usr/bin/awd_ice2, although we have not independently verified that yet. Again, no clear word on just what is or is not being tracked or collected.
The story is developing, with chpwn promising a post providing as many details as he's been able to uncover thus far, including the possibility that the code wasn't enabled by default in iOS. We should emphasize that all we can say for sure at the moment is that iOS definitely contained references to Carrier IQ � but given how the story has progressed thus far, we expect there will be more to report on soon.
Update: "Carrier IQ Android, Symbian and BlackBerry Spyware Records Everything Users Do, No Easy Way to Disable"
The Story has been updated to emphasize the fact the Carrier IQ software is not solely installed on Android. The article mentioned this, but needed to be more clearly stated. Also, this isn't just an Android, Symbian or BlackBerry issue, it is a carrier issue. Regardless of whether you use an iPhone, Android handset, BlackBerry or Nokia phone everyone subscribes to the same large carriers. Don't think for a second these same people didn't try to negotiate with Apple to get the Carrier IQ Spyware on your iPhone. To assume otherwise is naive.
This is an issue of consumer privacy and violation of trust and applicable law. It extends far beyond whatever fanboyish boundaries iOS, Android and others love to erect. At best this is a woefully negligant oversite by an enormous number of people and at worst its a conscious effort between carriers, handset manufacturers and Carrier IQ to deceive their consumers.
from chpwn:
However, from what I can tell /so far/, Carrier IQ /may/ only enabled on the iPhone when diagnostic logging is enabled.
Just turned it off and did a restore and no diagnostic data is recorded.
My IP4 diagnostic were turned on time to fix this. I turned it on to help Apple improve iOS 5 from June until today. Before that it was never on, since I was so into JB back then lol
11.30.11
Security Expert: iOS Will Not Be Malware-Free Forever
Android has a lot of malware available, and continues to adopt more. How long will iOS be malware-free?
iOS has been the most secure mobile operating system for many years. People will deny that, but to an extent it's true. An unjailbroken iPhone has no way of installing applications outside of Apple's App Store, and the applications that get into the App Store are topped with a layer of extreme scrutiny by the people who accept and reject the applications into the App Store. Android, on the other hand, can install applications that are not on the Android Market by either remote intentions or by the user themselves. Because of this, Android has the better chance of being infected by user ignorance. iOS users have it good in that applications which are accepted into the App Store are checked thoroughly for functionality. There have been rare cases when applications 'with a little extra' have been sneaked into the App Store. Such cases include PayUpSucker which would let you tether your data for free even though it claimed to be an I.O.U. application. Even though this has happened, users weren't complaining because it didn't do anything bad � the developer added the functionality to give people who do not jailbreak their phones the opportunity to have a way to use their data freely.
Android on the other hand, has a myriad of drive-by-malware no matter where you turn. As Phillip Swanson reported not too long ago, Android malware hits are up by 472% since July while iOS remains untouched. So what does this prove?
Not much, but it is hard data. It shows that Android, being a popular operating system and also being easy to install things on, is an easy target for hackers with malicious intentions. Security expert, Bruce Schneier, doesn't see iOS being secure from malware forever. As hackers become more and more accustomed with the way that iOS works and as long as jailbreaking is legal, hackers will learn more and more about what makes iOS tick. As hackers become more and more able with their abilities, they can turn to the dark side. That's not to say that jailbreak hackers will do so, we trust them with our devices because they hack for the greater good of all of us. But, there are evil hackers out there. Bruce Schneier had this to say about iOS and malware:
Originally Posted by Bruce Schneier
I believe that smart phones are going to become the primary platform of attack for cybercriminals in the coming years. As the phones become more integrated into people�s lives they�re simply going to become the most valuable device for criminals to go after. I don�t believe the iPhone will be more secure because of Apple�s rigid policies for the app store.
10.27.11
1,000,000 Views
11.20.11
Adobe Kills Flash for Mobile
Adobe will soon discontinue development of Flash Player for mobile devices according to a recent report. Citing sources with knowledge of Adobe�s future plans, ZDNet�s Tech Broiler blog claims that Adobe will no longer develop Flash Player for mobile browsers, instead focusing on mobile apps, �expressive� desktop content and increasing the company�s investment in HTML5. �Our future work with Flash on mobile devices will be focused on enabling Flash developers to package native apps with Adobe AIR for all the major app stores,� Adobe reportedly wrote in a memo. �We will no longer adapt Flash Player for mobile devices to new browser, OS version or device configurations.� The purported memo adds that Adobe will continue to support mobile Flash on Android and the BlackBerry PlayBook, supplying critical bug fixes and security updates as required.
11.09.11
iPhone 4S Goes On Sale In 22 New Countries Today; Greeted With Long Lines
The iPhone 4S goes on sale in 22 new countries starting today.
iPhone 4S comes with a number of new features and improvements, which includes Apple's faster dual-core A5 processor, improvement 8-megapixel camera, Siri - Apple's revolutionary intelligent personal assistant, slightly improved battery life, world phone, faster network speeds and lots more.
The countries in this round include Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. Apple had started accepting pre-orders in these countries from last Friday, October 21st.
iPhone 4S first went on sale in US, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan and UK two weeks back on October 14th.
We're hearing reports of long lines for the iPhone 4S launch in countries like Singapore with people waiting for as much as 12 hours. Straits Times of Singapore reports:
At the stroke of midnight, the three telcos here started selling the coveted phone, and were staying open through the night. Before midnight, about 700 people were queueing at M1's Paragon store.
StarHub was accepting only a few hundred invited customers, each with a specified time slot, so as to avoid overcrowding.
SingTel, however, expected a larger turnout. The telco had booked the entire convention hall at Suntec, and had already taken more than 10,000 pre-orders.
Some photos of the long queues in Singapore courtesy Strait Times:
(Very impressive for a non-redesigned iPhone, most of these regions are allowed to HUP yearly)
10.28.11
Steve Jobs: �I�m going to destroy Android, because it�s a stolen product. I�m willing to go thermonuclear war on this.�
I have a feeling the next couple days are going to be busy as the Steve Jobs bio comes out in bits and pieces. Next up, according to the AP, which bought a copy Thursday (where can I get one?), Jobs had extremely harsh words for Eric Schmidt and Google after Android started looking more and more like iOS.
Isaacson wrote that Jobs was livid in January 2010 when HTC introduced an Android phone that boasted many of the touch and other popular features of the iPhone. Apple sued, and Jobs told Isaacson in an expletive-laced rant that Google�s actions amounted to �grand theft.�
�I will spend my last dying breath if I need to, and I will spend every penny of Apple�s $40 billion in the bank, to right this wrong,� Jobs said. �I�m going to destroy Android, because it�s a stolen product. I�m willing to go thermonuclear war on this.�
Jobs used an expletive to describe Android and Google Docs, Google�s Internet-based word processing program. In a subsequent meeting with Schmidt at a Palo Alto, Calif., cafe, Jobs told Schmidt that he wasn�t interested in settling the lawsuit, the book says.
�I don�t want your money. If you offer me $5 billion, I won�t want it. I�ve got plenty of money. I want you to stop using our ideas in Android, that�s all I want.� The meeting, Isaacson wrote, resolved nothing.
So it is fair to say Jobs is not a fan of Android. While I can see why he�s upset about Android, the jab at Docs doesn�t see be as obvious.
But there is moar�
According to the account, which will be Monday before we can get our hands on it, Jony Ive was Jobs� spiritual partner and, at least while Jobs reigned, no one could tell him what to do.
He called Jonathan Ive, Apple�s design chief, his �spiritual partner� at Apple. He told Isaacson that Ive had �more operation power� at Apple than anyone besides Jobs himself � that there�s no one at the company who can tell Ive what to do. That, says Jobs, is �the way I set it up.�
Steve Jobs� harsh words for Bill Gates and his biological father
Before Steve Jobs� biography drops Monday, many news outlets have already gotten their hands on excerpts from the book. Huffington Post has posted tonight some excerpts from the biography regarding Steve Jobs� harsh comments on Bill Gates. Steve said:
�He�d be a broader guy if he had dropped acid once or gone off to an ashram when he was younger.�
Bill said regarding Steve:
�He really never knew much about technology, but he had an amazing instinct for what works.�
Steve said:
�Bill is basically unimaginative and has never invented anything, which is why I think he�s more comfortable now in philanthropy than technology. He just shamelessly ripped off other people�s ideas.�
When it comes to Steve Jobs� biological father, who we profiled a few months ago, Steve also harshly said..
�I had been to that restaurant[That his biological father had owned] a few times, and I remember meeting the owner. He was Syrian. Balding. We shook hands.�
Later Steve said, � �I was a wealthy man by then, and I didn�t trust him not to try to blackmail me or go to the press about it.�
10.20.11
Apple sells over 4 million iPhone 4S handsets first weekend
Apple has just announced that company moved over 4 million iPhone 4S handsets opening weekend, an incredible number. Additionally, Apple says that over 25 million customers are already using iOS 5, and over 20 million have signed up for iCloud. Apple is planning on launching the iPhone 4S in more than 90 countries by the end of the year, and has launched the device in 7 countries so far.
Apple today announced it has sold over four million of its new iPhone� 4S, just three days after its launch on October 14. In addition, more than 25 million customers are already using iOS 5, the world�s most advanced mobile operating system, in the first five days of its release, and more than 20 million customers have signed up for iCloud�, a breakthrough set of free cloud services that automatically and wirelessly store your content in iCloud and push it to all your devices. iPhone 4S is available today in the US, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan and the UK, and will be available in 22 more countries on October 28 and more than 70 countries by the end of the year.
�iPhone 4S is off to a great start with more than four million sold in its first weekend�the most ever for a phone and more than double the iPhone 4 launch during its first three days�
�iPhone 4S is off to a great start with more than four million sold in its first weekend�the most ever for a phone and more than double the iPhone 4 launch during its first three days,� said Philip Schiller, Apple�s senior vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. �iPhone 4S is a hit with customers around the world, and together with iOS 5 and iCloud, is the best iPhone ever.�
iPhone 4S is the most amazing iPhone yet, packed with incredible new features including Apple�s dual-core A5 chip for blazing fast performance and stunning graphics; an all new camera with advanced optics; full 1080p HD resolution video recording; and Siri�, an intelligent assistant that helps you get things done just by asking.
iPhone 4S iOS 5 vs iPhone 4 iOS 5 - Speed Test
I got the same results when I tested it this morning, it's upto you if you want to HUP and we all know we can't HUP every year in Canada. Saving your HUP for the next gen could be a very smart idea, but it's all up to you.
(You will only see a major diff in Browser speed, network speed, game loading and maybe the camera)
10.14.11
iPhone 4S Processor is Throttled
Tech reports seem to point to the fact that the iPhone 4S has a throttled processor � like the iPhone 4.
The dual core A5 chip in the iPhone 4S is the most powerful iPhone processor yet. It even blows every other mobile phone out of the water in benchmarks. The power of this phone is absolutely astounding and it even competes with some of the highest performance tablets in speed.
The A5 processor is currently found in two of Apple's devices, the iPad 2 and the iPhone 4S. The iPod Touch does not have it yet; it remains at an A4 level processor. However, would you believe me if I said that the iPhone 4S had a throttled processor? It appears so. Geekbench, a popular benchmarking program for machines shows that the iPhone 4S indeed runs an 800Mhz A5 processor. The iPad 2 runs a 1Ghz A5 processor.
Although the A5 processor is throttled to 800Mhz, it still holds water in what Apple said, "It's up to 2x faster than the iPhone 4." Shown by the Geekbench benchmark test above, the iPhone 4S is way above the iPhone 4 however is slightly lower than the iPad 2. Of course, it really wouldn't make too much sense for Apple to make a mobile phone as powerful as their golden tablet, would it? That being said, don't count out the A5 processor just yet. Let's compare it to some of its competition.
The iPhone 4S, without a doubt, blows every mobile phone out of the water in performance. It's almost as powerful as Apple's market-leading tablet. The graphics power of the dual core A5 chip is absolutely unmatched by any phone out there as of late. According to Apple, the iPhone 4 has 7x slower graphics rendering than the iPhone 4S. They may have been very liberal on those numbers because according to the benchmark tests, the iPhone 4S has 8x faster graphics instead of 7x.
If I were you, I wouldn't let the throttle get in the way of my decision. The power is still unmatched by a long shot. Most of it probably has to do with battery life.
Some iPhone 4S's are already being obtained in Europe. What do you think about the dual core A5 processor? Share below!
iOS 5 and iPhone 4S Show Huge Performance Leap According To BrowserMark Scores
According to new benchmark tests performed on the iPhone 4S, the new device shows a significant increase in performance over the existing iPhone 4. Furthermore, iOS 5 shows a huge improvement in Apple�s devices as well. The test goes to show that software plays a big role in performance and Apple seems to be headed in the right direction in terms of efficiency.
If you look at the table, you�ll notice the that an iPhone 4 running iOS 4.2.1 achieved a score of 31,375 in Rightware�s BrowserMark suite of tests (which profiles the web browser proficiency of the system). In this specific table, you�ll see that a number of smartphones beat out the iPhone 4 including: Motorola�s Atrix 4G, LG�s Optimus 2X, and Samsung�s Galaxy S II. Each of these phones seem to have better processors though, but it should be noted that when upgraded to iOS 5, my iPhone 4 achieves a score much similar to these phones, with a score of 53,609. This information can conclude that Apple did quite a bit of tweaking in iOS 5 to enhance performance (at least on the browser front and we imagine the increase in performance isn�t limited to just the browser).
A quick note for everyone, you yourself can run the test on your own devices by heading to the following link: BrowserMark� - The Browser Benchmark from Rightware
(State your firmware and post your results below as a quick comparison to test accuracy)
According to the folks over at AppVV (who have somehow managed to get their hands on the iPhone 4S early), the new iPhone 4S hardware received a score of 89,567 when running the same test. This goes to show that the iPhone 4S is packing some mean hardware improvements over its predecessors � worthy of an update, especially for those who were or still are arguing against the improvements the iPhone 4S brings to the table.
After being announced, the iPhone 4S disappointed many, as the rumors caused many to raise the bar on what to expect out of the newest iteration of the iPhone. Since then, people have started to slowly change their minds and with more information being revealed, the 4S is now seen in a new light. Furthermore, preorder sales have been the highest this year for the iPhone 4S than any other iPhone in the past as the Apple continues to broaden their audience not only by releasing the flagship device in more countries at launch but also by releasing the device on AT&T, Verizon, AND Sprint simultaneously for the first time.
The iPhone 4S is expected to be released on October 14 and hopefully many of you will be receiving your shipments that day and/or getting your hands on the device one way or another (even if it means waiting on a long line). The newest software update (iOS 5) will be available to the public on October 12, and for those of you who are too anxious and haven�t already, you should be able to get your hands on iOS 5 GM if you look around hard enough.
10.11.11
Steve Jobs resigns as CEO of Apple, Tim Cook takes his place
Apple co-founder Steve Jobs announced on Wednesday that he is no longer fit to serve as the company's chief executive officer, officially resigning from the position, which has been be filled by Chief Operating Officer Tim Cook.
The announcement came Wednesday evening in a press release directed at the Apple Board of Directors, as well as the company's community. Jobs said he would like to stay on as Chairman of the Board, director and Apple employee, a wish that was granted by the board.
"Steve's extraordinary vision and leadership saved Apple and guided it to its position as the world's most innovative and valuable technology company," said Art Levinson, Chairman of Genentech, on behalf of Apple's Board. "Steve has made countless contributions to Apple's success, and he has attracted and inspired Apple's immensely creative employees and world class executive team. In his new role as Chairman of the Board, Steve will continue to serve Apple with his unique insights, creativity and inspiration."
He also recommended that Cook, who has fulfilled Jobs' duties as CEO during his medical leave, take over as the chief executive. The board also agreed with Jobs' assessment, and Cook is now CEO.
"The board has complete confidence that Tim is the right person to be our next CEO," Levinson said. "Tim's 13 years of service to Apple have been marked by outstanding performance, and he has demonstrated remarkable talent and sound judgment in everything he does."
Jobs' resignation was submitted to the Apple Board of Directors Wednesday. His role on the board, as well as Cook's election to the board, are both effective immediately.
Jobs has long maintained that his health is a private matter. His public letter issued on Wednesday made no mention of his current medical condition. Jobs had been on medical leave since January, and has had a long bout with cancer.
Jobs' full letter is included below:
To the Apple Board of Directors and the Apple Community:
I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple�s CEO, I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come.
I hereby resign as CEO of Apple. I would like to serve, if the Board sees fit, as Chairman of the Board, director and Apple employee.
As far as my successor goes, I strongly recommend that we execute our succession plan and name Tim Cook as CEO of Apple.
I believe Apple�s brightest and most innovative days are ahead of it. And I look forward to watching and contributing to its success in a new role.
I have made some of the best friends of my life at Apple, and I thank you all for the many years of being able to work alongside you.
08.24.11
Steve Jobs Describes His Vision for iCloud - In 1997
Steve Jobs describes his vision for iCloud during his Q&A session with developers at WWDC 1997.
"I can't communicate to you how awesome this is until you use it. And what you would decide within a day or two is that carrying around these non-connected computers or computers with tons of state in them -- tons of data and state in them -- is Byzantine by comparison."
(Indeed iCloud must of been a pain in the ass for Apple to setup, hence the major delay with the next gen iPhone, until the public uses iOS5 ... they don't know jack shit and never understand the "delay")
09.23.11
Apple passes Exxon to become world�s most valuable company
As of market close on Wednesday, Apple�s market capitalization totals $337.17 billion � $6 billion higher than Exxon Mobile at $330.77 billion � making Apple the most valuable company in the world. Apple�s market cap topped Exxon�s briefly during trading on Tuesday, but Exxon rallied ahead of close to regain the No. 1 spot. Shares of Apple stock fell 2.8% to $363.69 on Wednesday, while Exxon�s stock dropped 4.4% to $68.03 as trading closed. Mobile devices like the iPhone and iPad have helped breathe new life into Apple, which found itself on the verge of bankruptcy 15 years ago. While Apple and Exxon may bounce around as No. 1 and No. 2 in the days and weeks to come, Apple�s climb from dire straights to the world�s most valuable company will likely be studied in business schools around the world for decades. Apple is expected to launch new iPhone and iPad models this fall.
08.10.11
One of RIM�s biggest investors says �Steve Jobs is a much better marketer�, sells over 5 million shares
The bloodbath continues today for RIM. After announcing disappointing financial results and declaring their upcoming devices will be delayed, the market is reacting and their share price is currently down over 20%, or $7.00/share. To make matters worse their 6th biggest shareholders with approximately 10.2 million shares has lost faith, selling over 50% of their stake in the company.
Jarislowsky Fraser Ltd had about $361 million tied up in RIM stock but Chairman Stephen Jarislowsky said �We are on the way out. The stake has been reduced by more than 50% or even more� They are resting on their laurels� Steve Jobs is a much better marketer than RIM�.
What do you think� will RIM make it back to the glory days?
Apple Could Acquire Nokia, RIM, HTC, Motorola With Cash
Apple could buy out every major phone vendor except Samsung in cash, according to Asymco's Horace Dediu. The analyst expects Apple to have about $70 billion in Cash, Cash Equivalents, Short-term marketable securities and long-term Marketable Securities.
Dediu estimates the enterprise values of the public companies selling 75% of all phones sold world-wide are as follows:
�� Nokia $22.6b
�� RIM $13.8b
�� HTC $25.4b
�� Motorola Mobility $4.2b
�� Sony Ericsson $0.21b x 14 = $3.0b
�� Samsung (Phone Business) $3.76b x 14 = $53b
�� LG (Phone Business) $10b
He also notes that "as market values of phone vendors continue to decline, Apple's cash will continue to grow dramatically. Indeed, a time may soon come when Apple's cash will be worth more than the entire phone industry."
06.17.11
Apple may become the first $1 trillion company
05.03.11
Apple sues Samsung for 'copying' the iPhone and iPad
Whoa! In the world of big-time lawsuits, this must be just about the biggest. The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Apple has sued Samsung Electronics for copying "the look and feel" of its iPad tablet and iPhone smartphone. This relates to the Samsung Galaxy S 4G, which bears more than a passing resemblance to the iPhone 3G / 3GS models, and the slightly less obvious Epic 4G, Nexus S, and Galaxy Tab (presumably the older 7-inch model, since the newer ones aren't out yet) devices. The claim for intellectual property infringement is phrased as follows:
"Rather than innovate and develop its own technology and a unique Samsung style for its smart phone products and computer tablets, Samsung chose to copy Apple's technology, user interface and innovative style in these infringing products."
The lawsuit was filed in the Northern District of California on Friday and seeks injunctions against Samsung, damages (both actual and punitive), and a finding that the infringement was willful. Lest we forget, the rarest outcome in such legal tussles is for an actual judgment to actually be handed down, so the greatest likelihood is that this will just lead to another round of grudging handshakes and licensing going one way with money going the other way, but still, it's fun to see the big dogs barking at each other.
Another aspect to these proceedings that shouldn't be overlooked is that, on the software front, they boil down to iOS versus Android (again). When Apple calls Samsung uninventive in its user interface, it's talking more about Android's perceived imitation of the iPhone's interface than whatever TouchWiz tweaks Samsung has slapped on top. And hey, if you're going to sue Google indirectly, you can't leave a major player like Samsung outside the courtroom, it just wouldn't be fair.
04.18.11
(It was gonna happen, sooner or later)
87% of Android developers think fragmentation is a problem, survey finds
The debate surrounding Android fragmentation continues to draw attention, and the issue resurfaced on Monday following the results of a recent survey. According to Baird analyst William Powers, roughly 87% of Android developers believe that fragmentation is a problem for the Android platform. 57% feel Android�s fragmentation problem is either �huge� or �meaningful,� and about 30% agree that it is a problem to a lesser degree. Google said this past November that the overwhelming majority of Android devices � 77% � run Android 2.1 or Android 2.2, but developers apparently still feel that the existence of multiple Android versions in the market at the same time is less than ideal. What�s more, the company�s recent decision to provide limited early access to upcoming Android builds for partners whose plans for the software are approved by Google suggests that the company views fragmentation as more of a problem than it might convey publicly.
04.04.11
How the iPhone Led to the Sale of T-Mobile USA
BERLIN � Deutsche Telekom�s announcement over the weekend to sell its American wireless unit, T-Mobile USA, to AT&T for $39 billion ended a decade-long foray into the American market that was undermined, in part, by one big event: the advent of the iPhone.
Until Apple introduced its highly popular touchscreen device in 2007, which went on to become the world�s leading smartphone, Deutsche Telekom had been generating decent sales from its American operation, with growth in some years surpassing that achieved in Germany.
But after the iPhone went on sale, sold exclusively at first by AT&T in the United States, T-Mobile USA began to lose its most lucrative customers, those on fixed monthly plans, who defected to its larger American rivals � AT&T and Verizon Wireless, which began selling the iPhone in February.
The percentage of T-Mobile USA�s contract customers fell to 78.3 percent in 2010 from 85 percent in 2006, according to the company�s annual reports. During 2010 alone, T-Mobile USA said it lost 390,000 contract customers to rivals.
�The iPhone effect cannot be underestimated in this decision,� said Theo Kitz, an analyst at Merck Finck, a private bank in Munich. �Without being able to sell the iPhone, T-Mobile was in an unsustainable position and T-Mobile USA became a problem child.�
Apple posts highest revenue and earnings in company history, $20.34 billion in Q4 revenue
Apple, Inc. has just posted their Q4 2010 results, and what results they are. The company reported $20.34 billion in revenue and $4.31 in_quarterly_profits; that�s $4.46 per diluted share.
�We are blown away to report over $20 billion in revenue and over $4 billion in after-tax earnings�both all-time records for Apple,� said Apple�s CEO, Steve Jobs. �iPhone sales of 14.1_million were up 91 percent year-over-year, handily beating the 12.1_million phones RIM sold in their most recent quarter. We still have a few surprises left for the remainder of this calendar year.�
The Cupertino company also sold 3.89 million Macs (a 27% increase year-over-year, 4.19 million iPads, and 9.05 million iPods (an 11% decline year-over-year). Apple also noted that international sales accounted for roughly 57% of the company�s business. Yikes. The full press release is after the break.
Apple Reports Fourth Quarter Results
Record Mac, iPhone and iPad Sales
Highest Revenue and Earnings Ever
CUPERTINO, California�October 18, 2010�Apple� today announced financial results for its fiscal 2010 fourth quarter ended September 25, 2010. The Company posted record revenue of $20.34 billion and net quarterly profit of $4.31 billion, or $4.64 per diluted share. These results compare to revenue of $12.21 billion and net quarterly profit of $2.53 billion, or $2.77 per diluted share, in the year-ago quarter. Gross margin was 36.9 percent compared to 41.8 percent in the year-ago quarter. International sales accounted for 57 percent of the quarter�s revenue.
Apple sold 3.89 million Macs during the quarter, a 27 percent unit increase over the year-ago quarter. The Company sold 14.1 million iPhones in the quarter, representing 91 percent unit growth over the year-ago quarter. Apple sold 9.05 million iPods during the quarter, representing an 11 percent unit decline from the year-ago quarter. The Company also sold 4.19 million iPads during the quarter.
�We are blown away to report over $20 billion in revenue and over $4 billion in after-tax earnings�both all-time records for Apple,� said Steve Jobs, Apple�s CEO. �iPhone sales of 14.1 million were up 91 percent year-over-year, handily beating the 12.1 million phones RIM sold in their most recent quarter. We still have a few surprises left for the remainder of this calendar year.�
�We�re thrilled with the performance and strength of our business, generating almost $5.7 billion in cash flow from operations during the quarter,� said Peter Oppenheimer, Apple�s CFO. �Looking ahead to the first fiscal quarter of 2011, we expect revenue of about $23 billion and we expect diluted earnings per share of about $4.80.�
Apple will provide live streaming of its Q4 2010 financial results conference call beginning at 2:00 p.m. PDT on October 18, 2010 at www.apple.com/quicktime/qtv/earningsq410/. This webcast will also be available for replay for approximately two weeks thereafter.
Steve Jobs rips Android a new one
Android vs iPhone
"It was just reference to the fact that Android is NOT all it's made up to be. You're still at the mercy of the manufacturer just like Apple. Acer Liquid E still waiting for 2.2, Xperia never getting 2.2, Desire still waiting, Legend, Magic etc,etc. Not totally open is it? Manufacturer says no you don't get it. Unless you root which is the same as jailbreaking."
Jailbreaking #1 Rule
Jailbreaking is giving you the freedom of whatever you should of been able to do in the first place. Please dont talk about pirated apps, websites that are hosting these apps or any methods of piracy.
Disable iAd cookie collection - Apple's data tracking on all iOS4 devices
http://oo.apple.com
IP4 Antenna issues (Canada)
Antenna Issue on Rogers = none. (Can't speak for Bellus, watch the video bellow)
IP4 on Rogers - 2 bars drop, calls are 100% stable and don't believe the media. AT&T's coverage is horrible in the states.
Data is effected a little, not massive.
"If your in the boonies walking around with -105db reception, you will probably drop calls.
Anywhere in the city with >85-95db and your good"
IP4 on Bell w/ Grip of Death
Fido IP4 Data Connection Fix
Here's a fix for that horrific data lost Fido IP4's are having. Download the iPhone Configuration Utility 3.0 (Windows & Mac vers) from Apple and place these settings for the APN changes.
iPhone Configuration Utility 3.0 (Windows & Mac vers)
iPhone Configuration Utility (IPCU) lets you easily create, maintain, encrypt, and install configuration profiles, track and install provisioning profiles and authorized applications, and capture device information including console logs. Recommended for those managing devices running iOS 4.0 or later.
Configuration profiles are XML files that contain device security policies, VPN configuration information, Wi-Fi settings, APN settings, Exchange account settings, mail settings, and certificates that permit iPhone and iPod touch to work with your enterprise systems.
IPCU version 3.0 adds support for new Mobile Device Management (MDM) features introduced in iOS4 and enables wireless delivery of configuration profiles. It also includes support for Cisco AnyConnect and Juniper Networks SSL VPN clients, CardDAV, multiple Exchange accounts and SAN support using Simple Certificate Enrollment Protocol (SCEP).
1. Update to latest iOS and carrier settings. Plugging into iTunes and clicking Update will do.
2. From your phone, go to http://www.unlockit.co.nz
3. Create a new APN setting profile
4. For Fido, see above
5. Save
6. Click Install in the confirmation
7. Reboot the phone
Visual voicemail and MMS also work fine. If it fails, try getting a new SIM card, and call a CSR to get a credit for the SIM card ($11.30). This fix also saves your battery life.
Ridiculously Fast iPhone Typist Shames Soft Keyboard Haters
This iPhone typist/possible woodpecker earns today's Holy Shit YouTube Moment of the Day Award. I'm positive I couldn't beat him on my Droid�hell, he'd put up a good fight against me on my laptop.
The app he's using, iTextSpeed, tests WPM (words per minute) typing speed, and given his insane speed, this guy's got to be one of the fastest iPhone typists in the world. At 83 WPM, he's as fast on the iPhone as most secretaries are on full-sized keyboards (and even sounds sort of out of breath after the test�watch out for iPhone thumb, friend). Congratulations to today's winner: I present you with a full minute and a half of my time, as a reward. [148Apps]
03.15.10
Blackberry Users Ready to Bail on RIM for iPhone and Android
Research firm Crowd Science says that almost 40% of Blackberry owners they polled are willing to ditch their device for an iPhone when next they need new hardware, and 32% said they would jump ship to a Nexus One. That leaves a dismal 28% willing to rough it with their Blackberry.
�These results show that the restlessness of Blackberry users with their current brand hasn�t just been driven by the allure of iPhone,� said John Martin, CEO of Crowd Science. �Rather, Blackberry as a brand just isn�t garnering the loyalty seen with other mobile operating systems.�
There are two main reasons that Blackberry users are wanting to jump ship. For years Blackberry has always been known as a business tool and not a device someone would purchase for regular day to day use. RIM has made two attempts to embrace the growing full-screen form factor, the original Storm and Storm 2, but neither have managed to catch on.
Then there is the lack of apps available for Blackberry devices. 7 days prior to the survey, 67% of Blackberry users did not download a single free app and 91% did not purchase any apps. Now when compared to Apple hitting the one billion download mark last April or even the successful Android market, things don�t look that good for RIM in app terms.
Before this survey was completed I personally witnessed this trend take place while spending a lot of my time within our forums as well as the Android Central forums. I was astounded to see so many people abandoning their Blackberry for a Motorola Droid or iPhone 3GS.
When it comes to iPhone and Android users, 90% plan on being loyal with their current platform for their next phone upgrade.
How about you, did you come to the iPhone from a BlackBerry?
iPhone Hacking 101 - The Turth Behind Geohomo's History
The iPhone Dev-Team says Geohot is using stolen code to provoke them into an early release of PwnageTool.
In a lengthy posting on why its best not to rush the release of the jailbreak the iPhone Dev-Team writes that Geohot was kicked off the team for not abiding by their rules. Apparently, Geohots first hardware hack was a result of some of their tools. Now they believe one of their team members has leaked a copy of their exploit to Geohot and that George is using the exploit to provoke them into releasing PwnageTool.
Read More
Dev Team's Official Letter
Over the last year we�ve discovered some interesting things about the software used in the iPhone. These �hacks� , �exploits� and �techniques�, or whatever you want to call them, are valuable - not only from a financial perspective (so scummy people can sell unlocking software) but also from a strategic point of view. Think of it like a game of poker, showing your hand too early would certainly make you lose �the game�.
The majority of iPhone users are not technical - they want an easy, one-stop, simple application that will allow them to quickly and painlessly unlock their phone. If we were to release a crummy command-line based tool that does the immediate job that everyone is screaming for, we�d only end up in the following situation:
1) The technique is released to the world and people use this technique to quickly create GUI apps that they charge cash-money for, or re-release something hacky and horrible that bricks lots of devices, or for example disables the WiFi that then causes more stress that ultimately comes back to us
2) The technique is exposed to the vendor, allowing them to locate and repair the security hole. Sometimes these security holes span product versions, for example: between the first generation and second generation iPhone. In such a case releasing the knowledge in the middle of the product development cycle is pointless and risks the �usefulness� of the technique - especially if there are existing hacks/techniques that work just fine.
The iPhone DevTeam is comprised of a group of people who work together over IRC from various parts of the world. This distributed method of working happens 24 hours a day with people performing tasks in the time that best suits their time-zones. It is a completely self-managing, self-regulating and member-funded organization. Most of us have never met face-to-face and we rarely know real names - in fact, we would more than likely not recognize each other if we walk past one another on the street. Despite this we follow a strict �hacker code�: ground rules by which we all abide.
Perhaps the foremost of these rules is management of knowledge. We keep certain information private, restricted to members of the team only (to help with points 1 and 2 above), and members are entrusted to make sure this secrecy is consistently enforced. This makes the team. Only when there is a majority vote from the team do we make any announcement or release.
So now we come onto Geohot, the self appointed media frontman for last year�s iPhone hacks. Geohot actually worked with us a month or so before the media-circus that he led. Geohot is certainly a bright guy, but he couldn�t abide by rules that I described in the last paragraph and because of this he was asked to leave the team. Of course like any hacker Geohot continued on for his goal.
Using some of our techniques and tools (and some of his) and using his own brain power (and that of an unnamed Russian) he was able to release his hardware hack and demonstrate the first unlocked iPhone to the world, he has also demonstrated other things during the last year and some of those releases have helped us with our work.
We thought that Geohot would have matured somewhat in the last year, but this clearly isn�t the case, as sadly one of the team members has leaked a copy of our exploit to Geohot and he is now using this to provoke us into making an early release :-(
So finally, just in case some of you were wondering, we�re not sitting on this tool because we�re full of ourselves or stuck up our own asses. We�re not sitting on it cause we like to see you writhe. We are testing it to make sure it�s as glitch-free as we can make it. We want to avoid releasing something that turns expensive phones into pretty looking paperweights. Don�t you agree it�s worth the wait?
If others want to feel like they�re in control by posting all-knowing entries on their blogs, we can�t stop that, but the new PwnageTool will be released when it�s ready, and not a moment later.
Geohot stole the show and released his limera1n jailbreak tool for iOS devices one day before the chronic dev team was slated to launch its greenpois0n tool on 10/10/10 at 10:10:10 AM GMT. The limera1n tool uses a different bootrom exploit than its greenpois0n counterpart and is reportedly compatible with the iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPod touch 3G/4G, and the iPad. The Apple TV is also supported on paper but there are no apps for it and no real reason to jailbreak it at the point. It is an unpatchable and untethered jailbreak for those who follow the jailbreaking scene.
That is the good news, now for the bad news. Limera1n is only available for Windows, though, a Mac and Linux version is coming soon. It also does not support devices running iOS beta builds, only official builds from 4.0-4.1 and beyond. Though the iPhone 3GS is listed as a compatible device, a bug list notes that the �3GS new bootrom is broken, fix pending�. So iPhone 3GS owners would be wise to stay away from this tool until this fix is released.
MuscleNerd of the iPhone dev team also warns folks who use his ultrasn0w unlock tool to stay away from limera1n as you may lose your unlock. Engadget also reports that one of their iPhones lost the App store, maps, and calendar app after running the limerai1n tool. I ran it on two iOS devices without any problems so your mileage may vary.
This release by Geohot has ruffled some feathers in the iPhone development community. He upstaged the work of the chronic dev team and made a slight dig at them with an off-hand comment on the limera1n webpage, �released today to get chronicdev to do the right thing�.
After a few mini-explosions of anger and dismay made public on twitter, the chronic dev team confirmed that they will re-work their greenpois0n jailbreak tool to use Geohot�s exploit, not SHAttered. Per the iPhone dev team�s request, this move may delay the greenposi0n tool but will save the SHAtter exploit for future use if needed. The controversy does not end there, though. It gets even juicier.
Playing out like a daytime soap opera for nerds, the chronic dev team is accusing Geohot of deceiving comex to beat them to the punch. According to the circulating gossip, Geohot obtained help with untethering from comex. In return for this help, Geohot reportedly agreed to release his jailbreaking tool after greenpois0n had hit the scene. As we all know, that is not how it played out. Disclaimer: this reported deception is all hearsay so take it with a grain of salt.
In the end, Geohot played his hand first and subsequent jailbreak tools will need to use his exploit. If other dev teams chose to release their own tools that reveal new exploits, its opens up the possibility that Apple could fix both exploits in one release. Keeping the SHAtter exploit under wraps is good for the Apple community in the long run, not so good for the chronic dev team whose greenpois0n tool now needs a major re-write.
Despite all the controversy, the Apple community now has a jailbreak tool for the latest versions of iOS and beyond. Interested parties can download the limara1n tool here. If you dare to take the plunge, share your success or failures with us in the comments.
(Things you learn each day ... stolen codes, getting kicked off, stole the fame to feed your ego & rushing releases to fuck the world over)
Posted by Reza on Dec-10-2008 20:21:
Posting from docs office. So bored but my iPhone makes it less boring
I love my iPhone.
Shazam is an awesome app! Get it free
Post ur fav apps!
Posted by E2EK1EL on Dec-10-2008 20:39:
quote:
Originally posted by rT19
Posting from docs office. So bored but my iPhone makes it less boring
I love my iPhone.
Shazam is an awesome app! Get it free
Post ur fav apps!
Too many to list, filled all 9 home screens ...
Trying out VOIPover3G (Cydia) w/ Fring & TruPhone tonight.
Posted by VERTiG0 on Dec-10-2008 21:11:
Posting from a phone with tactile feedback, thread destroyed
Posted by funkapotamus on Dec-11-2008 00:03:
Re: TOTA - iPhone3G Thread
quote:
Originally posted by E2EK1EL
Please post whatever is related to the iPhone 3G here!
*So every other mobile related threads does not get hijacked by iPhone 3G*
iphone = cheese
Posted by monishb on Dec-11-2008 02:16:
its a iphone who cares!
Posted by The Highroller on Dec-11-2008 02:24:
I think I've seen 100 iPhone commercials in the past 3 days. Enough already!
Posted by VDub on Dec-11-2008 02:35:
Let's talk skins...
I hate the thick cases so I ordered a gelaskin...
I love it... And it's a toronto company...
But now I've found unique skinz...
There you can actually upload your own pic...
That'll be next when it's time to change...
I ordered the invisishield but don't think I'll use it...
Posted by E2EK1EL on Dec-11-2008 03:39:
iPhone cases drive me up the walls ... i have this really nice, tight and thin silicone case. Looks really slick ... but since i put it in my pockets, it gets loose within a 1 1/2 months.
It's $8.00 at PMALL, can't justify on buying a case that's 29.99-39.99, that's why too much.
But, those Incase Sliders are simply amazing though.
Posted by jalalinator on Dec-11-2008 15:29:
meh.. i use the iphone for fun, and the bold for everything else... Id reccommend the bold.
Posted by Ozmozis on Dec-11-2008 15:36:
I might give in and buy one...
It took all the hype away for me since I had the original last year before everyone else...
Posted by Vivid Boy on Dec-11-2008 15:39:
so i got the blacberry bold the other day...
Posted by Rodrico on Dec-11-2008 15:40:
quote:
Originally posted by Vivid Boy
so i got the blacberry bold the other day...
Just after I got my iPhone, coincidence? I think not.
Posted by love_child on Dec-11-2008 15:44:
Posted by E2EK1EL on Dec-11-2008 15:48:
Gonna get a 3rd unit .... bold, n97 or the Pluto?
Can't make up my mind
Posted by Rodrico on Dec-11-2008 15:50:
quote:
Originally posted by E2EK1EL
Gonna get a 3rd unit .... bold, n97 or the Pluto?
Can't make up my mind
phone whore.
Posted by NuERA on Dec-11-2008 15:53:
thinking a lot about getting an iphone lately, but wondering when the next generations will be released..anyone have any idea?
Posted by jalalinator on Dec-11-2008 15:57:
^^ id say 3rd quarter next year
Posted by love_child on Dec-11-2008 15:58:
quote:
Originally posted by E2EK1EL
Gonna get a 3rd unit .... bold, n97 or the Pluto?
Can't make up my mind
I read that the N97 isnt going to be out until mid 2009...way to plan ahead.
Be ready to dish out crazy ammount of cash for it Posted by E2EK1EL on Dec-11-2008 16:02:
quote:
Originally posted by love_child
I read that the N97 isnt going to be out until mid 2009...way to plan ahead.
Be ready to dish out crazy ammount of cash for it
Yeah Nokia seems to be really expensive. i'm glad they are taking their time with it though, but not too much time.
They have a few units coming out with full screens in 2009.
Posted by E2EK1EL on Dec-11-2008 16:04:
So I tried out VOIPover3G yesterday w/ Fring, works just like Wifi
Also works on 2G to save batt life.
EDIT:
Backgrounder + beejive or fring is nice ... real time msn all day
Posted by Rodrico on Dec-11-2008 16:06:
Wanted to check out the Xperia X1 by Sony Ericsson but unless its offers a big screen with easy to use web browsing, I dont see myself switching off the iphone anytime soon.
Posted by CAKE on Dec-11-2008 16:17:
quote:
Originally posted by E2EK1EL
So I tried out VOIPover3G yesterday w/ Fring, works just like Wifi
Also works on 2G to save batt life.
I hate fring logs you out if the phone is not being used is there a better msn app ?
Posted by E2EK1EL on Dec-11-2008 16:27:
quote:
Originally posted by Djsketchbag
I hate fring logs you out if the phone is not being used is there a better msn app ?
check above post : just edited for you
- I use Beejive for MSN and Fring for VOIP
Posted by VDub on Dec-11-2008 17:16:
quote:
Originally posted by Djsketchbag
I hate fring logs you out if the phone is not being used is there a better msn app ?
TOTA - APPLE iPHONE & iPAD & Mobile News Thread PT1 (CLOSED)
time to fix this. I turned it on to help Apple improve iOS 5 from June until today. Before that it was never on, since I was so into JB back then lol
