News Archive for 05/10/17

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Revolutionize Hollywood?

10/17, 5:25pm

Apple may not be able to revolutionize Hollywood

While it has made a strong first step into online video distribution with iTunes 6, downloadable television episodes, and the video iPod, Apple may not be able to revolutionize Hollywood. One New York Times columnist says that there are several obstacles in Apple's efforts to change the face of video distribution, including other more advanced mobile devices for entertainment, concerns over DRM protection of content, and the lack of a "video piracy problem, according the report: "Of course, probably the biggest factor working against the instant success of a video iPod is that the video world has yet to experience the copyright-infringement meltdown that the music industry did a year or two ago, when millions of people were swapping songs free rather than buying CD's in stores. There are no bogeymen like the original, illegal Napster or Kazaa to bring everyone to Mr. Jobs's table - at least, not yet. Rather, as more people get high-speed connections to their homes, Mr. Jobs is positioning his new device as a pre-emptive strike against pirates and file-sharers."

AirClick with Dock Connect

10/17, 5:00pm

Griffin debuts AirClick with Dock Connector

Griffin Technology today announced its new AirClick with Dock Connector, a unique wireless remote control for iPod. "Unlike conventional remotes, the AirClick Remote uses RF technology that allows users to control their iPod from up to 60 ft. away. Users will not have to be in the line of sight for it to work, and RF signals also pass through walls." Each AirClick package ships with a remote, a receiver that mounts to the bottom of the iPod, and a convenient remote cradle and straps for attaching the device. The small remote control features five buttons: play/pause, next track, previous track, volume up, and volume down. It also has a hold switch, mimicking that of the iPod. A handy clip on the back provides instant access while jogging, cycling or giving a presentation. Each AirClick receiver has the ability to be paired to any remote unit and a single remote can control both the AirClick iPod and the AirClick USB. It will be available for $40 in mid-November.

iTunes TV show revenue

10/17, 1:50pm

Unions make joint call for iTunes TV show revenue

Five unions representing actors, writers and directors today voiced a joint call for talks to make sure members get a portion of revenue generated by the sale of TV shows on Apple's iTunes software: "We have not yet heard from the responsible employers of our members, but we look forward to a dialogue that ensures that our members are properly compensated for this exploitation of their work," according to a report from The Enquirer. The unions have not yet contacted ABC or its parent, Walt Disney, to discuss how much of the $1.99 that Apple is charging for a single episode should go to writers, actors and directors. ABC said "the guilds are our business partners, and we always welcome a dialogue with them on any business-related issue that affects their members." Revenue share talks could lead to a standoff, if studios decide to treat the internet downloads the same way DVD sales are treated, which would result in lower payments.

3D-silhouette Eminem TV ad

10/17, 12:15pm

Apple begins airing new 3D-silhouette Eminem TV ad

Apple's new iTunes ad featuring rap superstar Eminem began airing this past weekend on major network television. The TV spot, which debuted at the special event last week, was shown during several sporting events on Sunday, including CBS football and the world series. The 30-second spot takes a new 3D approach to the "silhouette" ads popularized in Apple's recent iPod television campaigns, combining an iconic effect with music video-style filmography. Apple chief executive Steve Jobs told the crowd that Apple had been working on the concept for more than two years during its debut. The ad appeared in QuickTime Apple's website shortly after the "One More Thing" special event but soon disappeared without any explanation. The TV spot features Eminem performing his hit single "Lose Yourself," the same song that caused controversy in 2004, when Eminem's publisher Eight Mile Style filed a lawsuit against Apple claiming it used one of Eminem's songs in a television advertisement without permission.

W900 3G Walkman phone

10/17, 11:20am

Sony debuts W900 3G Walkman phone with Bluetooth

Sony today announced its latest Walkman phone, the W900 UMTS, which will compete with the ROKR iTunes phone from Motorola. The W900 UMTS will feature 3G connectivity, focus on music, and offer a two-megapixel 8x digital zoom camera with a screen the same size as the new iPod video. The new phone will support transfers via cable and Bluetooth, as well as over-the-air music download services. Other features include video recording at 30 frames per second, video play-back, an internal storage capacity of 470MB (120 to 240 songs), support for additional storage using Memory Stick PRO Duo, dedicated music buttons, and a supplied stereo portable HPM-80 with remote control to operate the Walkman player without removing it. The W900 UMTS ships with a USB cable and Disc2Phone PC software fro transfer and management of music files. The W900 UMTS is expected to be available in black or white by the end of the year (pricing was unavailable).

iPod vs. Sony PSP

10/17, 10:55am

iPod is biggest threat to Sony PlayStation Portable

Apple's iPod may be the single biggest threat to the PlayStation Portable's ascendance as the handheld media system of choice, according to a to capture online contact data and then access, manipulate and report GameIndustry columnist. Rob Fahey says that the software behind Apple's new video iPod--including iTunes 6--, not the hardware itself, poses the largest threat: "....Sony faces a major struggle in ensuring that its device remains the platform of choice for mobile video. Right now, it has the hardware advantage - but the hardware advantage can evaporate overnight. What the firm needs to do, and what the games industry must hope and pray that it succeeds at, is to create a software and service platform that rivals Apple's, and build a user experience for acquiring and watching video content that is painless and simple."

Shure headphones in black

10/17, 10:30am

Shure unveils E series headphones in black

Shure today announced that its E series sound isolating headphones will be available in black -- as well as white -- to complement Apple's iPod nano digital music player. The Shure E2c, E3c, and E4c (shown at right) each feature a personal fit kit that includes a variety of sleeves to ensure a personalized, comfortable fit, and maximum sound isolation. The sleek, black coloring with chrome highlights is specifically designed to complement the iPod nano. The E2c ($100) features Shure's Dynamic MicroDriver technology. The E3c ($180) is the lightest, most compact model in its class and features WideBand MicroDriver technology to deliver extended frequencies and precision highs. The E4c ($300) incorporates Shure's Tuned Port Technology and High Definition drivers, delivering detailed audio and extended bass response. All three models are expected to begin shipping in November.