Uber Pledges to Improve Data Privacy Practices

The ride-hailing start-up responds to criticism from privacy hawks.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/30/uber-pledges-to-improve-data-privacy-practices/?_r=1

Mind Your Manners, Companies Are Rating You

Companies from Uber to Airbnb are rating their customers on degrees of promptness and politeness, but who owns the data that details good and bad behavior?

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/31/technology/companies-are-rating-customers.html?_r=1

Verizon Wireless to Allow Complete Opt Out of Mobile 'Supercookies'

The wireless carrier is under pressure from privacy groups after it introduced tracking code that can’t be deleted by consumers.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/30/verizon-wireless-to-allow-complete-opt-out-of-mobile-supercookies/?_r=1

Daily Report: How Apple Surpassed Microsoft

With the latest earnings reports from Microsoft and Apple, the once-unthinkable became reality: Apple’s market capitalization hit $683 billion, more than double Microsoft’s $338 billion.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/30/daily-report-how-apple-surpassed-microsoft/?_r=1

Google Revenue Is Squeezed, and Profit Misses Estimate

The company’s results were squeezed by a number of temporary factors, including a strong dollar that ate into overseas sales.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/30/technology/google-earnings-revenue-squeezed-profit-misses-estimate.html?_r=1

Amazon Reports a Profit, Citing Prime as the Key

The company delivered better earnings than expected in the fourth quarter, breaking a recent pattern of disappointments.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/30/technology/amazon-earnings-profit-prime.html?_r=1

Uber Accused of Lax Safety Practices by Delhi Woman

The woman who says she was sexually assaulted by an Uber driver says in a lawsuit filed in California that the company does not adequately screen its drivers, risking the safety of Uber customers.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/uber-accused-of-lax-safety-practices-by-delhi-woman/?_r=1

With a Few Bits of Data, Researchers Identify 'Anonymous' People

Knowing just four random pieces of information was enough to reidentify 90 percent of the shoppers as unique individuals and to uncover their records, researchers calculated.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/with-a-few-bits-of-data-researchers-identify-anonymous-people/?_r=1

Reddit Issues First Transparency Report

The popular message board gives insight into how often government agencies request data on Reddit users.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/reddits-issues-first-transparency-report/?_r=1

F.C.C. Sharply Increases Definition of Broadband

The new broadband benchmark sets downloads at a speed of 25 megabits per second and uploads of 3 megabits per second. The standard is used to guide policy in some areas.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/f-c-c-sharply-increases-definition-of-broadband/?_r=1

Daily Report: Yahoo May Become Takeover Target After Spinning Off Alibaba Stake

By spinning off the stake into a separate company, Yahoo will be judged by its core Internet businesses.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/daily-report-yahoo-may-become-takeover-target-after-spinning-off-alibaba-stake/?_r=1

Microsoft Brings Outlook to iPhone, Other Mobile Devices

Outlook, Microsoft’s workhorse email application, has finally arrived on mobile devices, including iPhones and iPads.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/microsoft-brings-outlook-to-iphone-other-mobile-devices/?_r=1

Video Feature: Signs That Virtual Reality Is on the Verge of Taking Off

Major technology and media companies are investing heavily in virtual reality, a signal that the experience may soon be ready for mass consumption.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/technology/personaltech/video-feature-signs-that-virtual-reality-is-on-the-verge-of-taking-off.html?_r=1

Video: The Virtual Reality Content Race

Now that the Oculus Rift has some competition, the virtual reality content race has begun.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003477479/the-virtual-reality-content-race.html

The New Pleasures of Photo Printing

The Canon Pixma Pro-100 sells for around half the price of a top-of-the-line model and still delivers luscious color photos.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/technology/personaltech/the-new-pleasures-of-photo-printing.html?_r=1

Amazon's Got Mail

Amazon’s latest foray: back-end email systems.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/28/amazons-got-mail/?_r=1

Facebook Earnings Beat Expectations, Driven by Mobile Advertising

The company, which makes most of its money from advertising in the news feeds of its users, says about two-thirds of its revenue comes from ads on mobile devices.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/technology/facebook-quarterly-earnings.html?_r=1

Video Feature: English Grammar Aids for Both Native Speakers and Students

Everyone can struggle with English grammar’s complexities; these apps can improve your knowledge whatever your level of proficiency.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/technology/personaltech/video-feature-english-grammar-aids-for-both-native-speakers-and-students.html?_r=1

Video: App Smart | Improve Your English

Three free apps to help you improve your command of English-language grammar.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003476171/app-smart-improve-your-english.html

Avoiding Botnets With a Mac

Windows PCs are often the main targets of malicious software that loops infected computers into remote-controlled networks called botnets, but Macs are not immune.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/technology/personaltech/avoiding-botnets-with-a-mac.html?_r=1

Uber, a Rising Business Model

New technologies have the potential to divide a variety of traditional jobs into tasks that can be assigned to people just when they’re needed.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/technology/personaltech/uber-a-rising-business-model.html?_r=1

Regulators Crack Down on Marketers of 'Unlimited' Data Plans

TracFone Wireless, the largest provider of prepaid mobile service in the United States, agreed to pay $40 million to settle charges that it had deceived customers in its marketing of “unlimited” data plans.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/28/regulators-crack-down-on-marketers-of-unlimited-data-plans/?_r=1

Daily Report: IPhone Sales in China Bolster Apple Earnings

The introduction of a large-screen iPhone in China helped propel Apple’s profit to $18 billion and its revenue to nearly $75 billion.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/28/daily-report-iphone-sales-in-china-bolster-apple-earnings/?_r=1

In China, New Cybersecurity Rules Perturb Western Tech Companies

Stringent regulations, including requiring the sharing of secret code, are another form of economic protectionism, Western technology companies say.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/technology/in-china-new-cybersecurity-rules-perturb-western-tech-companies.html?_r=1

What Happens if Apple Drops Google From Its Browser?

Yahoo’s chief executive wants to get the company’s search bar into Apple’s Safari browser, as it did with the Firefox browser. What that would mean to Google, Safari’s current search bar, isn’t so clear.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/28/what-happens-if-apple-drops-google-from-its-browser/?_r=1

Chinese Government Takes Aim at E-Commerce Giant Alibaba

The Chinese government complained about unlicensed merchants, fake goods and other illegal practices on the company’s hugely popular shopping websites.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/28/chinese-government-takes-aim-at-e-commerce-giant-alibaba/?_r=1

Video: Yahoo Announces Alibaba Spin-Off

Marissa Mayer, Yahoo’s chief executive, unveiled a plan to spin off Yahoo’s 15 percent stake in the Chinese e-commerce giant into a separate company in order to avoid a large tax bill.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/100000003476481/yahoo-announces-alibaba-spin-off.html

Apple Reports Big Gains in Profit and Revenue

The success in China helped push Apple to a blockbuster quarter, increasing overall profit to $18 billion, and revenue to $74.6 billion in the latest quarter.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/28/technology/apple-quarterly-earnings.html?_r=1

Yahoo to Spin Off Its Stake in Alibaba

Shedding its 15 percent stake in the Chinese e-commerce site turns the spotlight to Yahoo’s plans to revamp its core Internet advertising business.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/28/technology/yahoo-earnings-alibaba-spinoff.html?_r=1

A Data-Science Lender Takes on Student Debt

Earnest, a start-up lender, is moving into the student debt market. Using data-science tools, Earnest says it can offer lower, tailored rates and flexible repayment schedules.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/27/a-data-science-lender-takes-on-student-debt/?_r=1

F.T.C. Calls for Strong Data and Privacy Protection With Connected Devices

The agency said the devices, which make up the so-called Internet of Things, also raise serious security and privacy risks that could undermine consumers’ confidence.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/27/f-t-c-calls-for-strong-data-and-privacy-protection-with-connected-devices/?_r=1

Lyft, Now in Talks for More Funding, Pushes Growth Strategy

Lyft must persuade its backers that the company has a fighting chance against Uber, which operates in hundreds of cities globally and has raised many times more money.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/27/lyft-now-in-talks-for-more-funding-pushes-growth-strategy/?_r=1

Twitter Adds Group Messaging and Video Recording

In an effort to catch up to rival services like Facebook, Twitter will now allow people to shoot, edit and post video directly from its mobile apps. Also, private messages on the service can now be sent to as many as 20 people.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/27/twitter-adds-group-messaging-and-video-recording/?_r=1

10 of the most creative online contact pages | Web design | Creative Bloq

Contact pages are just as important as the rest of your website.

from BWCWeb http://www.creativebloq.com/web-design/creative-contact-pages-11121406

Daily Report: Seeking E-Commerce Supremacy in China, One Delivery at a Time

Long overshadowed by its rival Alibaba, JD.com is basing its business on logistics and a promise to cater to shoppers from click to package delivery.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/27/daily-report-seeking-e-commerce-supremacy-in-china-one-delivery-at-a-time/?_r=1

An Outage, Big but Brief, Hits Facebook and Instagram

Facebook said the cause was an internal malfunction rather than a cyberattack.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/27/an-outage-big-but-brief-hits-facebook-and-instagram/?_r=1

Amazon Investigated in Japan Over Child Pornography

The police have raided Amazon’s Tokyo headquarters, a distribution center and the offices of an affiliate, according to Japanese news reports.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/27/amazon-investigated-in-japan-over-child-pornography/?_r=1

Microsoft Profit Dropped in 2nd Quarter

The company said the weak personal computer market hurt its Windows business.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/27/technology/microsoft-quarterly-earnings.html?_r=1

Pluralsight, a Training Service for Tech Professionals, Buys Code School

Pluralsight, an online training platform for technology professionals, acquires Code School, a skills site for beginning coders.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/26/pluralsight-a-training-service-for-tech-professionals-buys-code-school/?_r=1

At Universities, a Push for Data-Driven Career Services

LinkedIn data on college graduates is a goldmine for schools seeking to identify alumni willing to mentor students or recruit them for jobs.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/26/at-universities-a-push-for-data-driven-career-services/?_r=1

Daily Report: Why Messaging Apps Are So Hot

People are spending more time on messaging apps, which many say allow for multimedia exchanges and commerce in a more intimate setting than on older social media sites.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/26/daily-report-why-messaging-apps-are-so-hot/?_r=1

Amazon and Its Friends

Amazon has busted up the traditional publishing system and done more to widen access to books than anything since the invention of the mass-market paperback. It is the reader’s best buddy. Or is it?

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/26/amazon-and-its-friends/?_r=1

Why Apps for Messaging Are Trending

People are spending more time on messaging apps, which many say allow for multimedia exchanges and commerce in a more intimate setting than older social media sites.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/26/technology/why-apps-for-messaging-are-trending.html?_r=1

Verizon’s Mobile ‘Supercookies’ Seen as Threat to Privacy

Advertisers, and possibly other third parties, are finding ways to exploit a hidden tracking mechanism that Verizon Wireless users cannot delete.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/26/technology/verizons-mobile-supercookies-seen-as-threat-to-privacy.html?_r=1

Tech Giants Invest in New Dreams of Grandeur

A series of investments by some of the tech industry’s biggest companies may sound odd, but they point to larger ambitions in moving giant amounts of data.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/25/tech-giants-invest-in-new-dreams-of-grandeur/?_r=1

Your College May Be Banking on Your Facebook Likes

College fund-raising offices are turning to a handful of start-ups to help identify prospective alumni donors through their social media activity.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/25/technology/your-college-may-be-banking-on-your-facebook-likes.html?_r=1

Microsoft's Holographic Vision Triggers a Flashback

The introduction of the HoloLens by Microsoft brought back memories of the history of its Kinect device.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/23/microsofts-holographic-vision-triggers-a-flashback/?_r=1

Congressional Republicans Call on F.C.C. To Release Internal Net Neutrality Document

Congressional Republicans are urging the F.C.C. to publicly release an internal draft of its net neutrality proposal. They are concerned the commission is poised to pursue heavy-handed regulation.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/23/congressional-republicans-call-on-f-c-c-to-release-internal-net-neutrality-document/?_r=1

Sharing iTunes With the Whole Family

How to keep a passing interest from following you around on Google Now.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/23/technology/personaltech/sharing-itunes-with-the-whole-family.html?_r=1

G.E. Quarterly Profit Rises as Industrial Units Expand

As the company returns to its roots as a maker of industrial products like jet engines and medical equipment, it has pared back its finance arm.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/24/technology/general-electric-q4-earnings.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Box Prices Its Offering at $14 a Share

Box will be valued at $1.7 billion when it begins trading on Friday, but concerns have been raised within Silicon Valley about the highflying valuations that some technology darlings have fetched recently.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/23/daily-report-box-prices-its-offering-at-14-a-share/?_r=1

Sony Postpones Earnings Announcement, Blaming Hacking Attacks

The company said it would delay a quarterly earnings report as a result of the hacking attacks on its American film studio, Sony Pictures Entertainment.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/23/sony-postpones-earnings-announcement-blaming-hacking-attacks/?_r=1

Ford Opens Lab in Silicon Valley

Mark Fields, Ford’s chief executive, said the company wanted to be seen as part of Silicon Valley’s ecosystem.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/ford-opens-lab-in-silicon-valley/?_r=1

Tumblr Taps Its Community to Work With Advertisers

It’s a way for Tumblr to benefit from the huge online followings of some of its most popular users.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/tumblr-taps-its-community-to-work-with-advertisers/?_r=1

Button, a Mobile Start-Up, Looks to Link Apps With Commerce

The idea is similar to what Google did for search more than a decade ago.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/button-a-mobile-start-up-looks-to-link-apps-with-commerce/?_r=1

Thousands of Huawei Workers Respond to Internal Anti-Fraud Campaign

The Chinese telecommunications equipment maker, seemingly trying to avoid entanglement in a government crackdown on corruption, promised to be lenient with employees who admitted violations.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/thousands-of-huawei-workers-respond-to-internal-anti-fraud-campaign/?_r=1

Daily Report: Internet in Orbit, Linking Much of World Directly to Google

The company believes it can use its growing collection of devices in the sky to spread the Internet to underserved areas around the world — and sell more ads.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/daily-report-internet-in-orbit-linking-much-of-world-directly-to-google/?_r=1

The HoloLens: A Sensational Vision of the PC’s Future

The device, which looks a lot like ski goggles, superimposes holograms on reality, which could have practical uses in communication, design, games, science and more.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/technology/personaltech/the-microsoft-hololens-a-sensational-vision-of-the-pcs-future.html?_r=1

Republicans Push Plan in Net Neutrality Debate

Two hearings on Capitol Hill addressed a move by conservatives aimed at countering an imminent ruling by the telecommunications regulator.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/technology/republicans-push-plan-in-net-neutrality-debate.html?_r=1

Take-Along Chargers That Pack Power

The right external accessory can double the battery life of your mobile device and offer an option when an electrical outlet isn’t available.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/business/take-along-chargers-that-pack-power.html?_r=1

Twitter Now Helps You Catch Up on Missed Tweets

The social network is adding a feature called Recap that will show its users three top messages they missed since they last logged onto the service.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/21/twitter-now-helps-you-catch-up-on-missed-tweets/?_r=1

EBay Reports 10% Increase in Earnings, but Auctions Lag

Revenue growth in the company’s marketplaces division rose just 1.3 percent. The company also announced that it would cut 2,400 jobs.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/technology/ebay-reports-10-increase-in-earnings-but-auctions-lag.html?_r=1

Apple Acquires Semetric, a Data Analysis Company

Semetric, based in Britain, is one of a growing number of companies that record labels and others consult for data on how music is consumed online.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/business/apple-acquires-semetric-a-data-analysis-company.html?_r=1

Marissa Mayer’s Plan for Yahoo Takes Hold. The Question Now Is Time.

She has made sharp acquisitions and rebuilt crucial products, but her future may depend on reaction to her plans for the Alibaba investment.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/technology/personaltech/marissa-mayers-plan-for-yahoo-takes-hold-the-question-now-is-time.html?_r=1

For Musicians, Apps for Tuning, Keeping Time and Organizing Charts

Getting to the music faster is easy with apps for the mundane tasks, like getting in tune and planning your set list.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/technology/personaltech/for-musicians-apps-for-tuning-keeping-time-and-organizing-charts.html?_r=1

Video: App Smart | Unleash Your Inner Musician

Look no further than your smartphone to do everything from tuning your stringed instrument to storing sheet music.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003461705/app-smart-unleash-you-inner-musician.html

Microsoft to Give Away Windows 10 in Move to Woo Software Developers

The company is under pressure to attract makers of consumer applications, who have largely drifted away toward mobile technologies made by Apple and Google.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/technology/microsoft-to-give-away-windows-10-in-move-to-woo-software-developers.html?_r=1

Google Officially Stops Sales Of Google Glass - Search Engine Journal

Goodbye Google glass.

from BWCWeb http://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-officially-stops-sales-google-glass/123914/?utm_content=bufferfca76&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer

Video Feature: Tips and Tricks to Make the Most of Google Android

All of these tips work on the latest version of Android, known as Lollipop, but many of them work on the previous version, too.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/technology/personaltech/video-feature-android-lollipop-tips-and-tricks.html?_r=1

Video: Use the Android Phone Like a Pro

Molly Wood’s top five Android power user tips.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003461438/use-the-android-phone-like-a-pro.html

8 Tips for Better SEO in 2015

This is your year

from BWCWeb http://www.websitemagazine.com/content/blogs/posts/archive/2015/01/20/8-tips-for-better-seo-in-2015.aspx

Daily Report: Google Makes a Big Bet on SpaceX

Google has teamed up with Fidelity to invest in SpaceX, the rocketry company founded by Elon Musk, in part to further Google’s goal of extending the Internet’s reach through satellites.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/21/daily-report-google-makes-a-big-bet-on-spacex/?_r=1

Google Makes $1 Billion Investment in SpaceX

Google and Fidelity have invested in the rocketry company founded by Elon Musk, in part to further Google’s goal of extending the Internet’s reach through satellites.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/21/technology/google-makes-1-billion-investment-in-spacex.html?_r=1

How Xbox Could Help Microsoft and Windows 10

If Microsoft can deliver on its vision of universal apps that run across different devices, games could be one of the most intriguing tests of its plan.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/20/how-xbox-could-help-microsoft-and-windows-10/?_r=1

IBM Revenue Slides as Revamping Takes Hold

New businesses are showing encouraging growth, but they are not yet large or profitable enough to offset challenges in the company’s traditional strengths.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/21/technology/ibm-earnings.html?_r=1

Abandoning the Lollipop Ship

Also, how to set up a “hybrid” network of wired and wireless connections.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/22/technology/personaltech/abandoning-the-lollipop-ship.html?_r=1

Daily Report: A Seismic Political Shift in the Net Neutrality Debate

Republicans, who had sided with the cable giants in a fight with the president over net neutrality, are now seeking to prohibit the creation of paid “fast lanes” for Internet content providers.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/20/daily-report-a-seismic-political-shift-in-the-net-neutrality-debate/?_r=1

As I Lay Lying: The Web Fixes Faulkner

What to do with the most offensive word in English? The Internet has an answer: Make it disappear.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/20/as-i-lay-lying-the-web-fixes-faulkner/?_r=1

European Official Urges Google to Offer Greater Concessions in Antitrust Inquiry

Günther Oettinger, the European Union’s digital economy commissioner, said that while he respected what Google’s founders had achieved, the company must honor European rules over how it operates across the bloc.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/20/european-official-urges-google-to-offer-greater-concessions-in-antitrust-inquiry/?_r=1

Shifting Politics of Net Neutrality Debate Ahead of F.C.C. Vote

A simple fight over big government versus small has put Republicans in the awkward position of defending cable giants, one of the nation’s most maligned industries.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/20/technology/shifting-politics-of-net-neutrality-debate-ahead-of-fcc-vote.html?_r=1

Big Data Underwriting for Payday Loans

ZestFinance, a practitioner of big data underwriting, says it can reduce the risk of default on payday loans by 40 percent or more.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/19/big-data-underwriting-for-payday-loans/?_r=1

Daily Report: Microsoft Looks to Windows 10 for a Boost in Mobile

Microsoft’s new operating system is the biggest effort yet by Satya Nadella to save the company’s moribund smartphone business.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/19/daily-report-microsoft-looks-to-windows-10-for-a-boost-in-mobile/?_r=1

Insurance via Internet Is Squeezing Agents

Technology start-ups with websites that sell many types of insurance and promise savings with comparison shopping are putting pressure on insurance agents, who collect commissions.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/19/technology/insurance-via-internet-is-squeezing-agents.html?_r=1

Banking Start-Ups Adopt New Tools for Lending

New software is expected to sharpen assessments of creditworthiness, but even proponents acknowledge the potential for inadvertent discrimination.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/19/technology/banking-start-ups-adopt-new-tools-for-lending.html?_r=1

Riding High, Biotech Firms Remain Wary

Soaring stock prices and major advances in fighting diseases have some saying the industry has turned a corner and others watching for a bursting bubble.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/19/technology/riding-high-biotech-firms-remain-wary.html?_r=1

Microsoft Looks to Windows 10 for a Jolt in the Mobile Realm

Windows 10 is the biggest effort yet by Satya Nadella, Microsoft’s new chief, who has been able to lift the company’s stock to a nearly 15-year high.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/19/technology/microsoft-looks-to-windows-10-for-a-jolt-in-the-mobile-realm.html?_r=1

Uber Tries to Mend Fences With Europe

The ride-hailing service’s chief executive, Travis Kalanick, says he wants to work with politician’s to find ways for the company to operate legally across the European Union.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/19/technology/uber-tries-to-mend-fences-with-europe.html?_r=1

A Retreat for Google Glass and a Case Study in the Perils of Making Hardware

Consumers were never quite sure what to make of Google’s Internet-connected glasses.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/18/a-retreat-for-google-glass-and-a-case-study-in-the-perils-of-making-hardware/?_r=1

Google Said to Be in Talks to Acquire Softcard, a Mobile Payments Company

An unsuccessful e-commerce start-up may sell to one of the largest Internet companies in the world.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/16/google-said-to-be-in-talks-to-acquire-softcard-a-mobile-payments-company/?_r=1

Cleaning Up the Mac’s Printers List

Tidying lists after a printer upgrade, and how to excise recently watched movies from Netflix’s list.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/16/technology/personaltech/cleaning-up-the-macs-printers-list.html?_r=1

Uber to Introduce Driver Background Checks in India

The ride-hailing start-up brings new screening policies to India after months of scrutiny from lawmakers.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/16/uber-to-introduce-driver-background-checks-in-india/?_r=1

Facebook Offers Artificial Intelligence Tech to Open Source Group

The company, which operates an advanced lab for artificial intelligence research, is donating to an Open Source AI project tools it says can make parts of machine learning work 23 times faster.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/16/facebook-offers-artificial-intelligence-tech-to-open-source-group/?_r=1

Arrest in Britain in Hacking of Microsoft's Xbox and Sony's PlayStation Networks

An 18-year-old British man has been arrested in connection to a hacking attack last month that temporarily shut down the computer networks for Microsoft’s Xbox and Sony’s PlayStation 4 video game consoles.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/16/arrest-in-britain-in-hacking-of-microsofts-xbox-and-sonys-playstation-networks/?_r=1

Daily Report: Intel Posts a Profit, Despite Losses in Mobile Devices

While Intel’s profit rose significantly, concerns remain about whether it can move beyond its focus on putting chips in personal computers and servers.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/16/daily-report-intel-posts-a-profit-despite-losses-in-mobile-devices/?_r=1

Google Glass to Leave Research Lab as New Boss Takes Over Project

Google Glass will soon be a lot harder to buy.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/15/google-glass-to-leave-research-lab-as-new-boss-takes-over-project/?_r=1

Intel Posts Strong Profit and Issues a Rosy Forecast

The company’s profit rose nearly 40 percent in the fourth quarter, well above expectations.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/16/technology/intel-quarterly-earnings.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Starring in Your Own Snapchat Story

Imagine a short and very personal TV show: directed, edited and starring you. It lasts 24 hours and then — poof! — it’s gone.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/15/daily-report-starring-in-your-own-snapchat-story/?_r=1

Obama Announces Moves to Encourage Expansion of Public Broadband Networks

The president said allowing cities to provide high-speed Internet would lower the cost and help break what he called a near monopoly in some markets.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/15/technology/obama-announces-moves-to-encourage-expansion-of-public-broadband-networks.html?_r=1

Facebook Looks to the Workplace for Future Growth

The world’s largest social network of individuals is making a move into the corporate world, hoping to organize the workplace the way it has organized personal relationships.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/14/facebook-looks-to-the-workplace-for-future-growth/?_r=1

Tools to Improve That Christmas Present

From flash drives to charging stations, these products and services will help you get the most out of your electronics.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/15/technology/personaltech/tools-to-improve-that-christmas-present.html?_r=1

Study Highlights Silicon Valley's Powerful Economic Mix

A local research group, in a study supported by area businesses, said the Silicon Valley economy has many upsides, but that government should invest more in schools and impose regulations on businesses.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/14/study-highlights-silicon-valleys-powerful-economic-mix/?_r=1

Video: Obama Calls for Broadband Competition

President Obama said he wanted more competition between Internet providers so that more Americans could have access to affordable high-speed connections.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/100000003450229/obama-calls-for-broadband-competition.html

Investors Put $186 Million Into Lynda.com, an Online Tutorial Service

The first major financing deal of the year in education technology dwarfs the biggest deals in the sector last year.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/14/investors-put-186-million-into-lynda-com-an-online-tutorial-service/?_r=1

Tips to Get the Most Out of Apple iOS 8

The new operating system can help you monitor battery use better, help take better photos and make Siri easier to use.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/15/technology/personaltech/tips-to-get-the-most-out-of-apple-ios-8.html?_r=1

Video: Use the iPhone’s iOS 8 Like a Pro

You probably didn’t know about these five features hidden in the iPhone’s iOS 8 operating system. Use them, and you’ll be using your phone like a pro.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003448481/use-the-iphones-ios8-like-a-pro.html

Apple and Ericsson Sue Each Other Over Mobile Patents

The companies are asking courts for help after two years of negotiations and failing to reach an agreement.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/14/apple-and-ericsson-sue-each-other-over-mobile-patents/?_r=1

Freeing a PC From Malware

Free, reputable programs are available to search a computer for bots that can tax a system’s resources.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/15/technology/personaltech/freeing-a-pc-from-malware.html?_r=1

Phone Data Calculators Aimed at Avoiding Hefty Bills

A number of apps can help monitor and manage data consumption on phones, to keep you within your plan’s limits and avert unpleasant surprises on your bill.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/15/technology/personaltech/phone-data-calculators-aimed-at-avoiding-hefty-bills.html?_r=1

Video: App Smart | Phone Data Calculators

New apps that help you track the data usage on your smartphone can help you save money on your next cellphone bill.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003448939/app-smart-phone-data-calculators-.html

Two Ex-Googlers Reunite at Venture Capital Firm

Felicis Ventures, a small company (for Silicon Valley) has had some notable investments: Twitch, the video game streaming service that was sold to Amazon, and Rovio, the maker of the Angry Birds video game.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/14/two-ex-googlers-reunite-at-venture-capital-firm/?_r=1

Daily Report: Tech Giants Said to Offer Bigger Settlement in Antitrust Case on Hiring

Apple, Google, Intel and Adobe say a new deal has been struck to settle a lawsuit that asserts the companies had agreed not to directly solicit one another’s employees.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/14/daily-report-tech-giants-said-to-offer-bigger-settlement-in-antitrust-case-on-hiring/?_r=1

Bigger Settlement Said to Be Reached in Silicon Valley Antitrust Case

Apple, Google, Intel and Adobe are said to be offering $415 million to settle accusations that they had conspired against their own employees.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/15/technology/silicon-valley-antitrust-case-settlement-poaching-engineers.html?_r=1

Google Translate App Gets an Upgrade

The company’s translation service is becoming a lot smarter — and a lot easier to use.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/14/google-translate-app-gets-an-upgrade/?_r=1

Obama Will Urge F.C.C. to Aid Local Broadband Expansion

As part of a broad effort to improve Internet access, President Obama will ask the commission to overrule state laws that limit the expansion of local high-speed networks.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/14/technology/obama-will-urge-fcc-to-aid-local-broadband-expansion.html?_r=1

IBM Introduces z13, a Mainframe for the Smartphone Economy

IBM’s new mainframe is designed for challenges of the smartphone economy. The new machine’s success is critical to IBM.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/13/ibm-introduces-z13-a-mainframe-for-the-smartphone-economy/?_r=1

Why Software 'Containers' Won't Be Bad News for Programmers

The ability to compartmentalize software into sections that can be worked on one at a time will likely change how coders work. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/13/why-software-containers-wont-be-bad-news-for-programmers/?_r=1

Windows 7 exits mainstream support: What you need to know

As of today, mainstream support for Windows 7 is over, but it's really not a big deal.

from BWCWeb http://www.pcworld.com/article/2452702/dont-panic-yes-windows-7-is-leaving-mainstream-support-but-it-isnt-being-abandoned.html

How to Increase Sales After the Holidays

Tips to avoid the #ecommerce post-holiday blues

from BWCWeb http://www.websitemagazine.com/content/blogs/posts/archive/2015/01/12/how-to-increase-sales-after-the-holidays.aspx

Amber Alerts Come to Facebook's News Feed

Facebook will use its geographic targeting technology to spread the word about abducted children through the news feeds of its American users.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/13/amber-alerts-come-to-facebooks-news-feed/?_r=1

Daily Report: Software Start-Up Builds Future on Containers of Code

A software start-up is in the forefront of a move to package applications much as shipping containers hold physical goods.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/13/daily-report-software-start-up-builds-future-on-containers-of-code/?_r=1

Instacart, a Grocery Delivery Start-Up, Raises $220 Million

The company is part of the so-called on-demand economy, start-up companies that let customers order anything — food, cars, alcohol — and have it delivered directly to their homes in hours.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/12/instacart-a-grocery-delivery-start-up-raises-220-million/?_r=1

A Small Software Company Sees a Future in Containers of Code

A software start-up is in the forefront of a move to package applications much as shipping containers hold physical goods.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/13/business/a-small-software-company-sees-a-future-in-containers-of-code.html?_r=1

Parents Challenge President to Dig Deeper on Ed Tech

While President Obama endorsed a voluntary student privacy effort by ed tech companies, some parents seek more comprehensive legislation.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/12/parents-challenge-president-to-dig-deeper-on-ed-tech/?_r=1

PC Market Exited 2014 With a Whimper

Many people and businesses haven’t found compelling reasons to buy new personal computers in recent years, and PC companies didn’t discover any new gimmicks to change their minds over the holidays.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/12/pc-market-exited-2014-with-a-whimper/?_r=1

British Prime Minister Suggests Banning Some Online Messaging Apps

Prime Minister David Cameron of Britain said he would pursue banning encrypted messaging services like Snapchat and WhatsApp if the country’s intelligence services were not given greater access to people’s online communication.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/12/british-prime-minister-suggests-banning-some-online-messaging-apps/?_r=1

Daily Report: Education Technology Attracts Silicon Valley's Attention

Educational technology companies are latecomers to exploiting the potential of the Internet, but venture capitalists seem to believe their time has come.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/12/daily-report-education-technology-attracts-silicon-valleys-attention/?_r=1

Silicon Valley Turns Its Eye to Education

Educational technology companies are latecomers to exploiting the potential of the Internet, but venture capitalists seem to believe their time has come.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/12/technology/silicon-valley-turns-its-eye-to-education.html?_r=1

Language Translation Tech Starts to Deliver on Its Promise

It may sound like the stuff of science fiction, but translation tools are improving enough to imagine a day when a Spanish speaker and an English speaker can easily chat.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/11/language-translation-tech-starting-to-deliver-on-its-promise/?_r=1

Uber Cuts Fares in 48 Cities, Raising Some Concern Among Drivers

Uber said the fare cuts would help drivers “beat the winter slump” by generating business in the months after the busy holiday season.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/09/uber-cuts-fares-in-48-cities-raising-some-concern-among-drivers/?_r=1

CES: Everything Old Is New Again

The biggest trends at International CES were actually technological concepts that have been around for decades, if not centuries.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/09/ces-everything-old-is-new-again/?_r=1

Americans Use More Online Social Networks

More than half of American Internet users log onto at least two social networks regularly, according a new research survey. While Facebook remains the dominant network, other networks like Instagram and Pinterest are growing in popularity.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/09/americans-use-more-online-social-networks/?_r=1

Looking for the ‘Most Recent’ Facebook Posts

Facebook eventually reverts to the “Top Stories” view of its news feed even if “Most Recent” is chosen, but there are ways around this.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/09/technology/personaltech/looking-for-the-most-recent-facebook-posts.html?_r=1

Daily Report:

After several delays, Box is finally ready to make its stock market debut.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/09/daily-report-2/?_r=1

Apple's Cut From App Sales Reached $4.5 Billion in 2014

Google’s app store is the largest in the world, but still makes far less money than the Apple App Store.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/08/apples-cut-from-app-sales-reached-4-5-billion-in-2014/?_r=1

Former Georgia Tech Engineering Professor Indicted on Racketeering Charges

Dr. Joy Laskar, once a high-profile electrical engineering professor, has been indicted on racketeering charges, nearly five years after his career at the Georgia Institute of Technology collapsed over a wireless chip start-up he founded.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/08/former-georgia-tech-engineering-professor-indicted-on-racketeering-charges/?_r=1

New Clues on Google's Plans for Insurance

A Forrester analyst has speculated that Google is on the cusp of launching a U.S. insurance-shopping site.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/08/new-clues-on-googles-plans-for-insurance/?_r=1

Uber Tests a Cargo Delivery Service in Hong Kong

The ride-hailing start-up experiments with a new courier service.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/08/uber-tests-a-cargo-delivery-service-in-hong-kong/?_r=1

Daily Report: F.B.I. Offers More Evidence Linking North Korea to Attack on Sony

Instead of routing their attacks through decoy servers, the hackers sent them directly from web addresses in North Korea, the F.B.I. said. But some skeptics still wanted to see the agency’s evidence.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/08/daily-report-f-b-i-offers-more-evidence-linking-north-korea-to-attack-on-sony/?_r=1

CES: A Fitness Watch, Smart Light Bulbs and a Self-Watering Flower Pot

A few devices that stuck out at the International CES trade show this year.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/08/technology/personaltech/ces-a-fitness-watch-smart-light-bulbs-and-a-self-watering-flower-pot.html?_r=1

CES: Security Risks From the Smart Home

Security experts are warning that things like Internet-connected cameras and household appliances are a threat to security and privacy.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/08/technology/personaltech/ces-security-risks-from-the-smart-home.html?_r=1

Games Played by the Laws of Physics

While games like Angry Birds may seem to have little to do with physics, many make use of the laws of motion, materials science and gravity.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/08/technology/personaltech/games-played-by-the-laws-of-physics.html?_r=1

Video: App Smart | Learn Physics With Games

You might not realize it, but playing some popular games like Angry Birds can teach you about the laws of physics.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003433977/app-smart-learn-physics-with-games.html

Why Gadgets Must Adapt to a World Ruled by Software

With apps able to act as cameras, media players and so much more, the world of consumer electronics is in turmoil as smartphones supersede all other devices.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/08/technology/personaltech/why-gadgets-must-adapt-to-a-world-ruled-by-software.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Intel Pledges $300 Million to Increase Diversity in Tech Industry

The fund is intended to help attract more women and minorities to the technology field and make it more hospitable to them once they get there.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/07/daily-report-intel-pledges-300-million-to-increase-diversity-in-tech-industry/?_r=1

Intel Budgets $300 Million for Diversity

The fund is intended to help attract more women and minorities to the technology field and make the industry more hospitable to them once they get there.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/07/technology/intel-budgets-300-million-for-diversity.html?_r=1

CES: F.T.C. Chairwoman Notes Concerns Raised by Connected Devices

Edith Ramirez seemed to be directing her remarks at the start-ups that are making most of the products driving the so-called Internet of Things.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/06/ces-f-t-c-chairwoman-notes-concerns-raised-by-connected-devices/?_r=1

CES: Visions of Cars on Autopilot

A number of automakers at CES were touting their plans for self-driving cars, with some executives predicting that a completely autonomous vehicle would be manufactured within five years.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/06/ces-visions-of-cars-on-autopilot/?_r=1

Daily Report: Getting the Apps to Talk to Each Other

As people spend more time using apps, their Internet has taken a step backward, becoming more isolated — more like the web before search engines.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/06/daily-report-getting-the-apps-to-talk-to-each-other/?_r=1

Moving Videos Between Mac and Android Gadgets

Plus, how to track system updates on a Windows tablet.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/08/technology/personaltech/moving-videos-between-mac-and-android-gadgets.html?_r=1

TVs Get Their Moment at International CES

The big TV makers differed in their approaches to bringing higher resolution and better-looking televisions.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/05/tvs-get-their-moment-at-international-ces/?_r=1

External hard drives? Pfah! Samsung just launched external SSDs

External hard drives are for slowpokes. Samsung just launched a portable SSD.

from BWCWeb http://www.pcworld.com/article/2865192/samsung-jumps-into-external-ssd-market.html

At International CES, New Options for Networked Speakers

Home theater systems have declined in popularity as most consumers chose simpler setups like soundbars. But that doesn’t mean we don’t want our music to follow us.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/05/at-international-ces-new-options-for-networked-speakers/?_r=1

Tech Companies Look to Break Down Walls Between Apps

As people spend more time using apps, their Internet has taken a step backward, becoming more isolated — more like the web before search engines.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/06/technology/tech-companies-look-to-break-down-walls-between-apps.html?_r=1

From the Start, Sensors Rule at CES

The unofficial theme of the trade show seemed to be: Put a sensor in it.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/05/from-the-start-sensors-rule-at-ces/?_r=1

Daily Report: Connectivity at the Consumer Electronics Show

Household devices like door locks and light switches that link together through the web are likely to energize this year’s International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/05/daily-report-connectivity-at-the-consumer-electronics-show/?_r=1

PlayStation 4 Faces Resurgent Rivals in Xbox One and Wii U

Sales of Microsoft’s Xbox One and Nintendo’s Wii U are improving, eroding what was once a strong lead for Sony’s PlayStation 4.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/05/technology/playstation-4-faces-resurgent-rivals-in-xbox-one-and-wii-u.html?_r=1

International CES: The Internet of Things Hits Homes

Household devices that link together through the Internet are likely to energize this year’s International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/05/technology/international-ces-the-internet-of-things-hits-homes.html?_r=1

For the Indie Writers of Amazon, It's Publish or Perish

Amazon’s “all you can eat” reading service, Kindle Unlimited, is driving down prices even as it boosts sales. For self-published authors, that’s a cause for concern.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/04/for-indie-writers-its-publish-or-perish/?_r=1

Sharing Flickr Photos Privately

You can adjust your settings so that only certain people can see your images. Also, syncing files between Macs and PCs.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/02/technology/personaltech/sharing-flickr-photos-privately.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Web Freedom Is Seen as a Growing Global Issue

The new year promises further attempts at online censorship, as the web increasingly serves as a platform for civil rights efforts.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/02/daily-report-web-freedom-is-seen-as-a-growing-global-issue/?_r=1

A Day With Apple Pay

The success of Apple Pay will in part be determined lies in the hands of the people behind retailers’ counters. How are those people doing two months after the service was introduced?

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/02/a-day-with-apple-pay/?_r=1

Writers Are Mixed Over Amazon Unlimited

Six months after its introduction, Kindle Unlimited is proving controversial and disruptive, just like so many other Amazon innovations.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/01/01/writers-are-mixed-over-amazon-unlimited/?_r=1