Amazon Dash Aims to Be a Push-Button Substitute for the Supply Run

The new program from Amazon allows customers to reorder household items like laundry detergent and paper towels with the push of a single physical button.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/31/amazon-dash-aims-to-be-a-push-button-substitute-for-the-supply-run/?_r=1

Tech Leaders, New to Social Activism, Come Together Over Indiana Law

In an industry that avoids controversy, the heads of several prominent companies, including Apple and Salesforce.com, have chosen to pick a battle.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/01/technology/tech-leaders-new-to-social-activism-come-together-over-indiana-law.html?_r=1

In Canada, Unabashed Wooing of Commercial Drones

The Canadian transport minister’s enthusiasm for miniature, unmanned aircraft stands in stark contrast to the Federal Aviation Administration’s approach.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/31/in-canada-unabashed-wooing-of-commercial-drones/?_r=1

Verizon Wireless Customers Can Now Opt Out of 'Supercookies'

The move comes in response to criticism on Capitol Hill and elsewhere of the carrier’s user tracking program.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/31/verizon-wireless-customers-can-now-opt-out-of-supercookies/?_r=1

New Lawsuits Emerge in HP's Long-Running Autonomy Dispute

Hewlett-Packard announced it was suing Autonomy’s executives, and the executives are suing back. It is all related to an $11 billion acquisition that went bad.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/31/new-lawsuits-emerge-in-hps-long-running-autonomy-dispute/?_r=1

Analyzing Your Twitter Life

How to use a variety of tools to get more information about your online audience.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/02/technology/personaltech/analyzing-your-twitter-life.html?_r=1

The Healing Power of Your Own Medical Records

There is evidence that letting patients see their medical files helps them take better care of themselves, but the medical establishment still resists sharing the data.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/01/technology/the-healing-power-of-your-own-medical-data.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Jay Z Enters Streaming Music With Artist-Owned Service

In an industry where artists seldom have direct control over how their work is consumed, musicians will be the majority owners of the company, Tidal.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/31/daily-report-jay-z-enters-streaming-music-with-artist-owned-service/?_r=1

IBM Scores Weather Data Deal and Starts Internet of Things Unit

IBM adds another big data source to its data analysis business in a partnership with the Weather Company.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/31/ibm-scores-a-weather-data-deal-and-starts-an-internet-of-things-unit/?_r=1

China Appears to Attack GitHub by Diverting Web Traffic

The attack on GitHub, a code library that includes code for viewing Internet sites blocked in China, comes as China has increased its censorship.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/31/technology/china-appears-to-attack-github-by-diverting-web-traffic.html?_r=1

The Path Toward Tomorrow's Internet

The role of government in nurturing new technology and the rising importance of the Internet of Things were themes of a conference on the next-generation Internet.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/30/the-path-toward-tomorrows-internet/?_r=1

Daily Report: Hollywood Increases Its Digital Security Efforts

To better protect scripts, casting decisions, budgets and other sensitive files, filmmakers are turning to new tools to thwart hackers and block prying eyes.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/30/daily-report-hollywood-increases-its-digital-security-efforts/?_r=1

Secrecy on the Set: Hollywood Embraces Digital Security

To better protect scripts, casting decisions, budgets and other sensitive files, filmmakers are turning to new tools to thwart hackers and block prying eyes.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/30/technology/secrecy-on-the-set-hollywood-embraces-digital-security.html?_r=1

For Hardware Makers, Sharing Their Secrets Is Now Part of the Business Plan

Patenting everything is so 2005. Companies like Facebook and Tesla Motors have followed the lead of open-source software, and now expose hardware designs possibly worth millions.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/29/open-sourcing-cars-and-computers/?_r=1

After Kleiner Trial, Expect Less Shooting From the Hip in Silicon Valley

A recurring issue was who originated investment ideas at the venture capital firm and the lack of documentation to support claims.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/29/technology/after-kleiner-trial-expect-less-shooting-from-the-hip-in-silicon-valley.html?_r=1

A Wi-Fi Barbie Doll With the Soul of Siri

Companies like Mattel are readying electronic toys that will use Web connections to talk back to children, raising some concerns about privacy.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/29/technology/a-wi-fi-barbie-doll-with-the-soul-of-siri.html?_r=1

Ellen Pao Disrupts How Silicon Valley Does Business

While the verdict on Friday was a defeat for Ms. Pao, the trial has blown open a conversation about the status of women in an industry that has always been buttoned up about its shortcomings.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/28/technology/ellen-pao-disrupts-how-silicon-valley-does-business.html?_r=1

Ellen Pao Loses Silicon Valley Gender Bias Case Against Kleiner Perkins

The lawsuit against the venture capital firm by a dismissed partner had renewed questions about the lack of diversity in the technology industry.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/28/technology/ellen-pao-kleiner-perkins-case-decision.html?_r=1

Slack Gets Hacked as Start-Up Technologies Become Targets

Communications start-up Slack gets hacked, just days after Twitch discloses a similar incident.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/27/slack-gets-hacked-as-start-up-technologies-become-targets/?_r=1

What the Jury in the Ellen Pao-Kleiner Perkins Suit Must Decide

The case pits a venerable venture capital firm, which nurtured such famous Internet start-ups as Google and Amazon, against a former junior partner who claimed that she was discriminated against and was ultimately let go after complaining.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2015/03/27/technology/document-ellen-pao-kleiner-perkins-suit-verdict-form-and-jury-instructions.html?_r=1

Tech Executives Pressure Indiana After Passage of Controversial Law

An industry with a long history of supporting gay rights is starting to speak out against a new Indiana law that gives legal cover to people who refuse to do business with same-sex couples.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/27/tech-executives-pressure-indiana-after-passage-of-controversial-law/?_r=1

Cleaning Out Gmail

Messages moved to Trash must be manually deleted to regain space immediately. Also, how to convert audiobook CDs for the iPhone.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/27/technology/personaltech/cleaning-out-gmail.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Live-Streaming Apps Aspire to Be Next Big Thing in Social Media

Apps that help users broadcast themselves live from their phones are catching the eye of tech heavyweights and venture capitalists. Periscope is Twitter’s big entry into this realm. Other apps include Meerkat and Camio.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/27/daily-report-live-streaming-apps-aspire-to-be-next-big-thing-in-social-media/?_r=1

In Silicon Valley, the Rise of High-Speed Networking

Auto racing is becoming the new “it” hobby for the tech world’s elite ranks, as a small but growing group of men gather to drive fast and make connections.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/29/technology/in-silicon-valley-the-rise-of-high-speed-networking.html?_r=1

New Google C.F.O. Gets $70 Million Pay Package (and $7,500 to Move)

Google’s new financial chief will join the search giant in May after a long career at Morgan Stanley.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/new-google-c-f-o-gets-70-million-pay-package-and-7500-to-move/?_r=1

Facebook Sees Oculus Virtual Reality Headsets Shipping This Year

Michael Schroepfer, Facebook’s vice president of engineering, told developers that the company’s Oculus VR unit would get its PC-based virtual reality headset to consumers this year. That puts a lot of pressure on Oculus, which has also promised a smartphone-based version of its headset in the fall.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/facebook-sees-oculus-virtual-reality-headsets-shipping-this-year/?_r=1

With Chosen, 'American Idol' Meets YouTube Meets Mobile Devices

On the new app Chosen, would-be stars upload videos of themselves performing a song, which armchair judges then critique with their own response videos.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/with-chosen-american-idol-meets-youtube-meets-mobile-devices/?_r=1

A First Look at the Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge

Everything about the new phones seems designed to convey a simple message: Samsung has changed.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/a-first-look-at-the-samsung-galaxy-s6-and-s6-edge/?_r=1

Daily Report: Facebook’s High-Stakes Bet on Drones to Deliver Internet Service

In the high-stakes competition for domination of the Internet, Facebook is under pressure to show that it, too, can pursue projects that are more speculative than product.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/daily-report-facebooks-high-stakes-bet-on-drones-to-deliver-internet-service/?_r=1

As Twitter Introduces Periscope, Tech Titans Bet That the World Is Ready for the Streaming Selfie

Apps that help users broadcast themselves live from their phones are catching the eye of tech heavyweights and venture capitalists. Periscope is Twitter’s big entry into this realm.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/27/technology/tech-titans-bet-that-the-world-is-ready-for-the-streaming-selfie.html?_r=1

Lyft Adds Profiles to Make Ride Sharing More Personalized

Lyft is adding user profiles of passengers and drivers to its mobile app, so rides can be more tailored and conversational.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/lyft-adds-profiles-to-make-ride-sharing-more-personalized/?_r=1

Facebook's Yann LeCun Discusses Digital Companions and Artificial Intelligence (and Emotions)

The head of Facebook’s Artificial Intelligence Lab foresees a day when we all have artificial helpers that understand us, all of the information in the world, and what we need to know next.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/facebooks-yann-lecun-discusses-digital-companions-and-artificial-intelligence/?_r=1

Drones Beaming Web Access Are in the Stars for Facebook

The social network’s lofty ambitions are the centerpiece of its plans to connect with the five billion or so people it has yet to reach.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/technology/drones-beaming-web-access-are-in-the-stars-for-facebook.html?_r=1

F.T.C. Addresses Its Choice Not to Sue Google

The agency issued a rare statement defending its choice not to take legal action after investigating Google for anticompetitive behavior in 2011 and 2012.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/25/f-t-c-addresses-its-choice-not-to-sue-google/?_r=1

Apple and Beats Developing Streaming Music Service to Rival Spotify

The new system will not have a lower price than its competitors, and won’t offer a free version supported by ads.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/technology/apple-and-beats-developing-streaming-music-service-to-rival-spotify.html?_r=1

Debunking the Latest Predictions of Facebook’s Demise

A theory making the rounds in Silicon Valley warns that Facebook relies too heavily on app ads from start-ups inflated by venture capital. But the threat is overblown.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/technology/debunking-the-latest-predictions-of-facebooks-demise.html?_r=1

Messaging Apps Offer Do-It-All Services in Bid for Higher Profits

Messaging apps with a multitude of features, such as mobile payment portals and games, can walk a fine line between convenient and overwhelming.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/technology/personaltech/messaging-apps-offer-do-it-all-services-in-bid-for-higher-profits.html?_r=1

Video Feature: Classic Board Games, Reimagined for a Mobile App World

The app version of games sometimes offer fun new features and also manage onerous scoring and tally keeping.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/technology/personaltech/video-feature-classic-board-games-reimagined-for-a-mobile-app-world.html?_r=1

Video: Appsmart | Board Games on Your Phone

Old-fashioned board games like Monopoly and Life get a new spin when they migrate to the smartphone.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003592525/appsmart-board-games-on-your-phone.html

Facebook Opens Messenger for App Developers

The social media giant has ambitious plans for its messaging service, including linking business to its user base.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/technology/facebook-opens-messenger-for-app-developers.html?_r=1

Selfie Sticks and Other Selfie Gear Go Mainstream

The tool for smartphone photography is easily found online; some work with a camera’s timer, others with cables or Bluetooth.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/technology/personaltech/selfie-sticks-and-other-selfie-gear-go-mainstream.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Trying to Sway the Jury in Kleiner Perkins Discrimination Trial

In closing arguments on Tuesday, top litigators from both sides presented their cases in the gender discrimination trial against Kleiner Perkins.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/25/daily-report-trying-to-sway-the-jury-in-kleiner-perkins-discrimination-trial/?_r=1

Car Crash Videos Highlight Risk of Multitasking With Phones

A study from AAA that entailed putting video cameras in the cars of teenage drivers allowed researchers to watch the excruciating moments before nearly 1,700 crashes.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/25/car-crash-videos-highlight-risk-of-multitasking-with-phones/?_r=1

Video: Distracted Teenagers Behind the Wheel

A sampling of videos showing the six seconds leading up to a crash caused by distracted teenage drivers. Researchers analyzed almost 1,700 such videos to study the causes of such traffic accidents.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/100000003590252/distracted-teenagers-behind-the-wheel.html

At Kleiner Discrimination Trial, a Battle Between Legal Powerhouses

In closing arguments on Tuesday, top litigators from both sides presented their cases in the gender discrimination trial against Kleiner Perkins.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/25/technology/at-kleiner-discrimination-trial-a-battle-between-legal-powerhouses.html?_r=1

Yale Researchers to Study Learning Game Apps

A Yale research lab applies rigorous scientific methods to test the effectiveness of educational video games on children.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/24/yale-researchers-to-study-learning-game-apps/?_r=1

Slack Said to Be in Talks to Raise Money at More Than $2 Billion Valuation

The talks come just four months after Slack, which is run by the entrepreneur Stewart Butterfield, raised $120 million at a valuation of more than $1 billion.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/24/slack-said-to-be-in-talks-to-raise-money-at-more-than-2-billion-valuation/?_r=1

Google Hires Finance Chief From Morgan Stanley

Ruth Porat, who has been Morgan Stanley’s chief financial officer since 2010, will become one of the most powerful women in Silicon Valley.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/25/technology/ruth-porat-google-morgan-stanley.html?_r=1

Hackers Use an Android App For Sex Extortion

Criminals are luring targets into online sex chats, then persuading them to download apps that siphon off their contact information, passwords and address books.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/24/hackers-use-an-android-app-for-sex-extortion/?_r=1

Daily Report: Facebook Wants to Be Home to News Media

The social media giant is said to be in talks with several news publishers, offering to deliver their content quickly, in exchange for a certain loss of control over their readership.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/24/daily-report-facebook-wants-to-be-home-to-news-media/?_r=1

A Conversation With the Authors of 'Becoming Steve Jobs'

Brent Schlender and Rick Tetzeli, who wrote “Becoming Steve Jobs,” discuss the evolution of Steve Jobs and how they won Apple’s cooperation for the unauthorized biography of its former chief executive.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/24/a-conversation-with-the-authors-of-becoming-steve-jobs/?_r=1

First Lawsuits Filed Against the F.C.C.'s 'Net Neutrality' Rules

The first lawsuits over the agency’s new rules for Internet regulation were filed on Monday, sooner than expected and months before the rules are expected to take effect.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/23/first-lawsuits-filed-against-the-f-c-c-s-net-neutrality-rules/?_r=1

Google Fiber Plans Experiment With Targeted Ads for Television

While Google Fiber is growing fast, it is still miniscule compared to its traditional rivals. But it shows the potential for delivering specific kinds of ads to local markets.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/23/google-plans-experiment-with-targeted-ads-for-television/?_r=1

Microsoft Partners With Android Makers in Latest Mobile Push

Microsoft is serious about making its most lucrative business, Office, relevant for mobile users. What is less clear is how much money it will be able to make from them.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/23/microsoft-partners-with-android-makers-in-latest-mobile-push/?_r=1

Restoring the iCloud Drive Icon

With a few steps, the icon — and any other deleted icon on a Mac — can be brought back. Also, why Windows sometimes must restart when updating.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/technology/personaltech/restoring-the-icloud-drive-icon.html?_r=1

Stripe Makes a Bet on Marketplaces With New Product

Stripe has created a new product aimed at helping marketplace start-ups with their mobile payments.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/23/stripe-makes-a-bet-on-marketplaces-with-new-product/?_r=1

Square Opens Square Cash App to Businesses, for a Fee

Square is bringing peer-to-peer payments to businesses and trying to make money on the venture.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/23/square-opens-square-cash-app-to-businesses-for-a-fee/?_r=1

Daily Report: Private Tech Stocks Attracting Billions From Big Money Managers

Fidelity Investments, T. Rowe Price and BlackRock are some of the money managers that have struck deals to acquire shares in Silicon Valley start-ups like Uber, Airbnb and Pinterest.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/23/daily-report-private-tech-stocks-attracting-billions-from-big-money-managers/?_r=1

Bill Would Limit Use of Student Data

The Student Digital Privacy and Parental Rights Act would place constraints on how education technology companies use or disclose students’ personal information.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/23/technology/bill-would-limit-use-of-student-data.html?_r=1

Tinder Appoints Chief Executive to Replace Sean Rad

The mobile dating application Tinder appointed Christopher Payne to replace its former leader, who was embroiled in a sexual harassment lawsuit last year.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/20/tinder-appoints-chief-executive-to-replace-sean-rad/?_r=1

A Real-Time Peek at Traffic to U.S. Government Websites

This week, the federal government unveiled a new tool that makes public the user analytics for many government websites.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/20/government-website-analytics/?_r=1

Online ‘Swatting’ Becomes a Hazard for Popular Video Gamers and Police Responders

Pranksters are targeting Internet gamers, calling police departments to prompt a raid that they can watch in real time as it interrupts the game’s live webcast.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/21/technology/online-swatting-becomes-a-hazard-for-popular-video-gamers-and-police-responders.html?_r=1

Turning Off the Android Texting Nanny

Some people would rather do without the word suggestions the software makes as they type a message.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/20/technology/personaltech/turning-off-the-android-texting-nanny.html?_r=1

European Lawmaker Pushes Europe to Take Stronger Stance on Google

The antitrust case against Google in Europe has already gained more traction than in the United States. But like their American counterparts, competition officials at the European Commission in Brussels have been loath to bring formal charges against such a successful and powerful company.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/20/european-lawmaker-pushes-europe-to-take-stronger-stance-on-google/?_r=1

Daily Report: F.A.A. Gives Amazon Limited Permission on Drones

While Amazon can now move its tests from inside a warehouse, the retailer still has a long way to go to realize its vision of autonomous delivery drones.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/20/daily-report-f-a-a-gives-amazon-limited-permission-on-drones/?_r=1

Amazon Letter to the Federal Aviation Administration

This letter describes Amazon’s plans for a drone delivery system.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2015/03/19/technology/document-amazon-letter.html?_r=1

Take Google to Court, Staff Report Urged F.T.C.

An internal Federal Trade Commission report recommended that the agency take action against Google for anticompetitive practices. The F.T.C. voted not to bring charges.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/20/technology/take-google-to-court-staff-report-urged-ftc.html?_r=1

Amazon Wins Approval to Test Delivery Drones Outdoors

While Amazon can now move its tests from inside a warehouse, the retailer still has a long way to go to realize its vision of autonomous delivery drones.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/20/technology/amazon-wins-approval-to-test-delivery-drones-outdoors.html?_r=1

Yahoo Closing Research Center in China, Ending Effort There

The move comes as Marissa Mayer, Yahoo’s chief executive, tries to placate shareholders who are pressuring the company to cut costs.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/20/technology/yahoo-closing-research-center-in-china-ending-effort-there.html?_r=1

Google and Intel to Team Up with TAG Heuer on a Luxury Smartwatch

A new generation of luxury smartwatches, essentially tiny computers meant to be fashion statements, is beginning to take shape.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/19/google-and-intel-to-team-up-with-tag-heuer-on-a-luxury-smartwatch/?_r=1

Daily Report: Suddenly, Lots of Streaming Options for Cord Cutters

Sony introduced a web-based TV service, aimed at gamers, that is initially available to PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 owners in New York, Chicago and Philadelphia.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/19/daily-report-suddenly-lots-of-streaming-options-for-cord-cutters/?_r=1

Uber Signs Financing Accord With Chinese Car Dealership

Yongda, a Chinese luxury auto dealer, will provide Uber’s partners discounts on new car purchases, financing and services after the sale.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/20/technology/uber-signs-financing-accord-with-chinese-car-dealership.html?_r=1

Former Employee Sues Facebook for Sex and Race Discrimination

Chia Hong, a woman of Taiwanese descent, claimed that during her three years working for the social network, she faced discrimination, harassment and retaliation and was unfairly fired.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/18/former-employee-sues-facebook-for-sex-and-race-discrimination/?_r=1

Capturing the Night in Digital Photos, Spectacularly

A photographer shows how improvements in camera sensors and software and in postproduction software have made it possible to take excellent photos at night.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/19/technology/personaltech/capturing-the-night-in-digital-photos-spectacularly.html?_r=1

Microsoft Takes Another Step Away From Selling Software

Microsoft’s move to make Windows 10 upgrades free in China echoes a shift at the company and the software industry’s around the world. The days of charging customers for an operating system are slowly coming to an end, piece by piece.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/18/microsoft-backs-further-away-from-selling-software/?_r=1

Microsoft Takes Another Step Away From Selling Software

Microsoft’s decision to make Windows 10 upgrades free in China echoes a shift within the company and the software industry: The days of charging customers for an operating system are slowly coming to an end.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/18/microsoft-takes-another-step-away-from-selling-software/?_r=1

Video Feature: Apps for Tracking Fitness and Losing Weight

Several free iOS and Android apps offer various ways to track and encourage exercise.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/19/technology/personaltech/video-feature-apps-for-tracking-fitness-and-losing-weight.html?_r=1

Video Feature: Design Gains Importance as Devices Get More Personal

Experts say it’s not enough for a smartphone or other gadget to have all the software bells and whistles, it must also look and feel good.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/19/technology/personaltech/video-feature-design-gains-importance-as-devices-get-more-personal.html?_r=1

Video: Appsmart | Tech Your Way To Fitness

There are numerous calorie counters and exercise tracking apps available. Let your phone be your guide to better fitness and nutrition.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003579535/appsmart-tech-your-way-to-fitness.html

Design Gains Importance as Devices Get More Personal

Experts say it’s not enough for a smartphone or other gadget to have all the software bells and whistles, it must also look and feel good.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/19/technology/personaltech/design-gains-importance-as-devices-get-more-personal.html?_r=1

T-Mobile Aims to Make Phone Plans Easier for Businesses

T-Mobile is going after a new growth avenue — business customers — with simpler phone plans.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/18/t-mobile-aims-to-make-phone-plans-easier-for-businesses/?_r=1

Video: For Wearables, Design Leads Tech

Wearables are leading a revolution to combine design with ingenuity to make new products. During development of Nike’s Fuelband, for example, many details, from material to font, came from designers.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003577324/for-wearables-design-leads-tech.html

Uber Is Banned in Germany Again

The decision overturns a ruling from September that had lifted an injunction against the service, which had been sought by a taxi trade group.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/19/technology/germany-frankfurt-uber-ruling-taxi.html?_r=1

Daily Report: You Can Now Send Your Friends Money on Facebook

The social network’s new feature will allow Facebook friends to send payments to one another through the Messenger app. Wall Street expects such transactions to become a big business.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/18/daily-report-you-can-now-send-your-friends-money-on-facebook/?_r=1

Microsoft to Offer Free Upgrades to Windows Users in China

The move is an unprecedented attempt by Microsoft to get legitimate versions of its software onto the machines of hundreds of millions of current users.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/19/technology/personaltech/microsoft-to-offer-free-upgrades-to-windows-users-in-china.html?_r=1

Digital Media Darlings Unfazed by the Fall of the News Site Gigaom

When the news site ceased publishing, it seemed like a cautionary tale for a new gilded age. But, insiders say, Gigaom faced its own special problems.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/19/technology/personaltech/digital-media-darlings-unfazed-by-the-fall-of-the-news-site-gigaom.html?_r=1

Pearson Under Fire for Monitoring Students' Twitter Posts

Pearson, the education publishing giant, describes its practice of monitoring social media posts as a test-security measure, but some parents say the practice is unfair and invasive for students.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/17/pearson-under-fire-for-monitoring-students-twitter-posts/?_r=1

Orange Seeks Foreign Partner for Video Site Dailymotion

Orange’s chief executive discusses the non-French future of the video site Dailymotion.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/17/orange-seeks-foreign-partner-for-video-site-dailymotion/?_r=1

Facebook Announces a Payments Feature for Its Messenger App

The feature will at first be limited to people who are Facebook friends, but Wall Street expects that such transactions will become a big business.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/18/technology/facebook-announces-a-payments-feature-for-its-messenger-app.html?_r=1

Congress Scrutinizes F.C.C. Following Release of New Internet Rules

Facing a tough tone from Republican lawmakers about his handling of the rules, Tom Wheeler, chairman of the F.C.C., pushed back repeatedly.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/17/congress-scrutinizes-f-c-c-following-release-of-new-internet-rules/?_r=1

Nintendo Forms Partnership to Develop Mobile Games

Nintendo, the video game maker that has long resisted a move to devices like smartphones, said it and DeNA would team up to create mobile games.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/18/technology/nintendo-forms-partnership-to-develop-mobile-games.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Apple Pay and Banks Tussle Over Fraud

One obstacle has been the banks’ own reluctance to press Apple for fear of upsetting their relationships with the tech giant.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/17/daily-report-apple-pay-and-banks-tussle-over-fraud/?_r=1

IBM Introduces Twitter-fueled Data Services for Business

IBM and Twitter rolled out their data services for business. They are the first products of a venture that is strategically important to both companies.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/17/ibm-introduces-twitter-fueled-data-services-for-business/?_r=1

EBay Set to Open New Section on Its Site for Sotheby's Auctions

First announced last July, the initiative will bring scores of Sotheby’s less expensive items — which range from about $1,000 to $50,000 — to eBay’s customers, a crowd that both companies hope will be eager to purchase works of art online.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/17/ebay-set-to-open-new-section-of-site-for-sothebys-auctions/?_r=1

Sharing Files via Dropbox With People Who Don’t Have an Account

When sending files using Dropbox, a service that stores documents in the cloud, it’s not necessary for the recipient to also use the service.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/19/technology/personaltech/sharing-files-via-dropbox-with-people-who-dont-have-an-account.html?_r=1

Uber's Chief Financial Officer to Leave Company

Brent Callinicos, the chief financial officer of Uber, plans to leave the ride-sharing company, in what will be one of the highest-level departures yet for the six-year-old start-up.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/16/ubers-chief-financial-officer-to-leave-company/?_r=1

Layoffs at Food Start-Up Hampton Creek

While layoffs at start-ups are not uncommon, it’s unusual for them to occur so soon after their coffers have been replenished with cash.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/16/layoffs-at-food-start-up-hampton-creek/?_r=1

Daily Report: Etsy's Success Opens It to Problems of Credibility and Scale

The online marketplace and those who buy and sell on it say that imitation handmade goods, and rules restricting how vendors can grow to meet demand, are complicating the site’s drive for authenticity.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/16/daily-report-etsys-success-opens-it-to-problems-of-credibility-and-scale/?_r=1

Facebook Clarifies Rules on What It Bans and Why

The world’s largest social network is releasing data to help users better understand what is allowed on the service, and is also issuing a report on government requests to take down content.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/16/facebook-explains-what-it-bans-and-why/?_r=1

A Police Gadget Tracks Phones? Shhh! It’s Secret

A growing number of law enforcement agencies have acquired sophisticated surveillance technology to track cellphones but have done so with an unusual restriction: They must not talk about it.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/16/business/a-police-gadget-tracks-phones-shhh-its-secret.html?_r=1

Silicon Valley Investor Says the End Is Near

Bill Gurley, a partner at Benchmark, has been warning of an impending Silicon Valley bubble-burst for quite some time, and he did so again at South by Southwest.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/15/silicon-valley-investor-says-the-end-is-near/?_r=1

Managers Turn to Computer Games, Aiming for More Efficient Employees

BetterWorks is part of a growing office software niche that aims to whip workers into shape through compulsory competition and public scoring.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/16/technology/managers-turn-to-computer-games-aiming-for-more-efficient-employees.html?_r=1

Meerkat Basks in South by Southwest Glow, Despite a Twitter Snag

Ben Rubin, founder of the live-streaming video app Meerkat, was undeterred by a cold shoulder from Twitter at the annual tech, music and culture festival.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/14/meerkat-basks-in-south-by-southwest-glow-despite-a-twitter-snag/?_r=1

For Tech Titans, Sharing Has Its Limits

Lesser and major luminaries in the tech world are demanding that contractors and tradesmen working on their homes sign nondisclosure agreements.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/15/technology/for-tech-titans-sharing-has-its-limits.html?_r=1

Daily Report: New Rules for Net Neutrality May Set Stage for Legal Battles

Opponents of the rules, including many of the leading Internet providers, spent Thursday poring over the document. It was not known who would file the first legal challenges, or exactly what legal arguments would be made. Many experts, though, said the document included plenty of opportunity for different interpretations.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/13/daily-report-new-rules-for-net-neutrality-may-set-stage-for-legal-battles/?_r=1

Video: The New Net Neutrality Rules

The Federal Communications Commission is to take a more active role in regulating the Internet as a public utility, which is expected to provoke court cases from major broadband providers.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/100000003569336/the-new-net-neutrality-rules.html

What the Net Neutrality Rules Say

Excerpts from and analysis of the commission’s rules and explanations released on Thursday.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2015/03/12/technology/net-neutrality-rules-explained.html?_r=1

F.C.C.’s Net Neutrality Rules

Two weeks after voting to regulate broadband Internet service as a public utility, the Federal Communications Commission on Thursday released 313 pages of rules detailing what would be allowed.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2015/03/12/technology/document-fcc-net-neutrality-rules.html?_r=1

F.C.C. Releases Net Neutrality Rules

The agency said it would decide on what was acceptable on a case-by-case basis, taking on a more prominent role in the high-speed Internet arena.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/13/technology/fcc-releases-net-neutrality-rules.html?_r=1

How to Find Old or Expired Websites

An Internet Archive offers a large and growing collection of web pages as they used to appear.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/13/technology/personaltech/how-to-find-old-or-expired-websites.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Drawbacks to Privacy as Education Apps Spread

Apps and other software can put powerful teaching tools at teachers’ fingertips, but concerns abound over data security, effectiveness and marketing.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/12/daily-report-drawbacks-to-privacy-as-education-apps-spread/?_r=1

Zuckerberg Lawsuit Documents Show Animosity With Would-Be Neighbor

Documents filed Wednesday accuse the Facebook chief executive of reneging on a promise to introduce a would-be neighbor to powerful Silicon Valley friends.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/12/zuckerberg-lawsuit-documents-show-animosity-with-would-be-neighbor/?_r=1

Kleiner Perkins Portrays Ellen Pao as Combative and Resentful in Sex Bias Trial

Lawyers for the venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers made the most of their first opportunity to defend the firm in a sustained way.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/12/technology/kleiner-perkins-portrays-ellen-pao-as-combative-and-resentful-in-sex-bias-trial.html?_r=1

InMobi Plans to Stay Independent, Dismissing Rumors of Talks With Google

The chief executive of the Indian mobile advertising start-up denied reports that the company was discussing a possible acquisition by Google.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/11/inmobi-plans-to-stay-independent-dismissing-rumors-of-talks-with-google/?_r=1

Video Feature: Pointing the Way to Good Reads, Videos and Music

StumbleUpon, Soundwave and the popular Pinterest help users find articles, videos, images or music, and share it with others.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/12/technology/personaltech/video-feature-pointing-the-way-to-good-reads-videos-and-music.html?_r=1

Review: Google Chromebook Pixel

The top-of-the-line Google laptop, back in a new version, is meant more as a testing ground for new technology than a mass-market product.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/12/technology/personaltech/review-google-chromebook-pixel.html?_r=1

Video: AppSmart | Discovery on the Social Web

Discovery and shareability are key to finding new things online, and there are many apps that can help. Pinterest, which caters to the visually-oriented, might be the most recognizable of this genre.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003566402/appsmart-discovery-on-the-social-web.html

Bento Wants to Be Your App Matchmaker

Bento is one of a number of start-ups that are trying to re-imagine search for mobile phones by anticipating what you want to do with your device.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/11/bento-wants-to-be-your-app-matchmaker/?_r=1

F.T.C. Sues DirecTV, Saying It Misled Consumers About Costs

The federal agency said the satellite television giant had not made clear the terms of a two-year service contract, with escalating monthly costs and steep cancellation fees.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/11/f-t-c-sues-directv-saying-it-misled-consumers-about-costs/?_r=1

Google Offers Cheap Storage for Certain Kinds of Data

Google just matched Amazon for cheap online storage, with an important difference: While Amazon promises to fetch the cheap data in hours, Google offers to do it in three seconds.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/11/google-offers-cheap-storage-for-certain-kinds-of-data/?_r=1

Learning Apps Outstrip School Oversight, and Student Privacy Is Among the Risks

Apps and other software can put powerful teaching tools at teachers’ fingertips, but concerns abound over data security, efficacy and marketing.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/12/technology/learning-apps-outstrip-school-oversight-and-student-privacy-is-among-the-risks.html?_r=1

Device Syncing: Call From Computers and Text From Tablets

Technology from Apple, Google, BlackBerry and Motorola is increasingly allowing users to send texts and make phone calls from almost any device.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/12/technology/personaltech/device-syncing-call-from-computers-and-text-from-tablets.html?_r=1

Daily Report: These Politicians Have No Email Problem, Because They Never Send One

In the wake of news that Hillary Rodham Clinton used a private email address during her time as secretary of state, some members of Congress say they never send or read email.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/11/daily-report-these-politicians-have-no-email-problem-because-they-never-send-one/?_r=1

Google C.F.O. Is Retiring to Spend More Time With Family (No, Really)

While watching a sunrise from the highest point in Africa, Patrick Pichette decided it was time to “hit the road” with his wife and find his bliss, he wrote in a goodbye note.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/10/google-c-f-o-is-retiring-to-spend-more-time-with-family-no-really/?_r=1

NSS Labs' Testing Service Will Hold Security Vendors Accountable

A new service, from a company that does not sell security products, tests the effectiveness of security software in real time.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/10/nss-labs-testing-service-will-hold-security-vendors-accountable/?_r=1

Facebook’s Status Update for Computing

The latest development in Facebook’s push of open-source hardware: A new kind of networking switch, a powerful low-energy computer server, and a steadily-increasing number of partners.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/10/facebooks-status-update-for-computing/?_r=1

Daily Report: Using the Apple Watch

Initial impressions of the Apple Watch are that it is good-looking for a smart watch and not hard to use, but whether it is yet a necessary purchase remains unsettled.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/10/daily-report-using-the-apple-watch/?_r=1

Apple Watch Displays Your Digital World, at a Glance

Initial impressions of the Apple Watch are that it is good looking for a smartwatch and not hard to use, but whether it is yet a necessary purchase remains unsettled.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/10/technology/personaltech/apple-watch-displays-your-digital-world-at-a-glance.html?_r=1

Video: Apple Unveils the Apple Watch

Timothy D. Cook, Apple’s chief executive, introduced the Apple Watch, an edition of which is made of 18-karat gold and retails starting at $10,000.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/100000003561738/apple-unveils-the-apple-watch.html

Fighting Back Against Malware

A flurry of pop-up ads, an unfamiliar search toolbar and a changed home page are just some of the symptoms of malicious software.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/12/technology/personaltech/fighting-back-against-malware.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Square, the Payment Start-Up, Bolsters Its Services for Small Businesses

Square has gone beyond its credit card reader and introduced new products in the last year. On Monday, it will introduce two services that it says will further help small businesses.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/09/daily-report-square-the-payment-start-up-bolsters-its-services-for-small-businesses/?_r=1

Kleiner Perkins, Disrupted

In an era of self-promotion and runaway hype, where every supporting player wants to be a star, it is nearly impossible to retain earlier ideals of restraint.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/09/kleiner-perkins-disrupted/?_r=1

Apple Watch Event: What to Look For

Expectations on features and pricing, and points to consider, as Apple elaborates on its entry into the smartwatch market.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/10/technology/apple-watch-event.html?_r=1

The Payment Start-Up Square Expands Its Reach Into Small Businesses

Square has gone beyond its credit card reader and introduced new products in the last year. On Monday, it will introduce two services that it says will help small businesses.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/09/technology/the-payment-start-up-square-expands-its-reach-into-small-businesses.html?_r=1

Surge in Smartphones Sets Off New Wave of Corporate Self-Reinvention

Companies like Ford, Procter & Gamble, Under Armour and the Spanish bank BBVA are working to outmaneuver start-ups for dominance on mobile devices.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/09/business/surge-in-smartphones-sets-off-new-wave-of-corporate-self-reinvention.html?_r=1

Popular Yik Yak App Confers Anonymity and Delivers Abuse

Yik Yak, a social media app that serves as a local bulletin board, has proved popular especially on college campuses, but the cover of anonymity it offers allows for some unfettered nastiness.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/09/technology/popular-yik-yak-app-confers-anonymity-and-delivers-abuse.html?_r=1

Twitter Traffic Reflects What People Like on TV, Study Says

A Nielsen study showed that the volume of tweets about a television show corresponded strongly to viewers’ real-time reactions as measured by a brain monitor.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/08/twitter-chatter-reveals-what-we-like-to-watch/?_r=1

On the Case at Mount Sinai, It’s Dr. Data

Jeffrey Hammerbacher, who started Facebook’s data science team, now uses his skills to improve medical treatments, a switch inspired by his own health crisis.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/08/technology/on-the-case-at-mount-sinai-its-dr-data.html?_r=1

Troubleshooting Android in Safe Mode

Third-party apps and recent operating system updates are often the cause; starting the phone in Safe Mode can help narrow down the search for a culprit.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/06/technology/personaltech/troubleshooting-android-in-safe-mode.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Bias Suit Puts World of Venture Capital Under Spotlight

What is really under examination in this trial is the question of why there are so few women in leadership positions in Silicon Valley.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/06/daily-report-bias-suit-puts-world-of-venture-capital-under-spotlight/?_r=1

Reaction to Regulation: 1934 vs. Today

Many of the arguments against the F.C.C.’s net neutrality plan echo those made when the Communications Act of 1934, which created the F.C.C., was passed.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/05/reaction-to-regulation-1934-vs-today/?_r=1

In Ellen Pao’s Suit vs. Kleiner Perkins, World of Venture Capital Is Under Microscope

What is really under examination in this trial is the question of why there are so few women in leadership positions in Silicon Valley.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/06/technology/in-ellen-paos-suit-vs-kleiner-perkins-world-of-venture-capital-is-under-microscope.html?_r=1

Google Introduces Long-Anticipated Insurance Shopping Site

The Google Compare auto insurance shopping site could rattle the insurance industry and change how individual brokers do business.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/05/google-introduces-long-anticipated-insurance-shopping-site/?_r=1

Barcelona’s Mobile World

Many of the world’s top smartphone makers — with the notable exception of Apple — converged at the Fira Gran Via complex in Barcelona this week with the aim of enticing buyers around the globe.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2015/03/05/technology/05mwc-ss.html?_r=1&

Digital Learning Companies Falling Short of Student Privacy Pledge

A number of ted tech companies said they would improve the security and privacy of their services. But a new report concludes they are falling short of expectations.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/05/digital-learning-companies-falling-short-of-student-privacy-pledge/?_r=1

Daily Report: Virtual Reality Overcomes Motion Sickness on Road to Market

Oculus VR, Sony, HTC and other makers of virtual reality headsets have incorporated technology to combat nausea, allowing them to set timetables for mass-marketing their products.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/05/daily-report-virtual-reality-overcomes-motion-sickness-on-road-to-market/?_r=1

Solution to Nausea Puts Virtual Reality Closer to Market

Oculus VR, Sony, HTC and other makers of virtual reality headsets have incorporated technology to combat motion sickness, allowing them to set timetables for mass-marketing their products.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/05/technology/solution-to-nausea-puts-virtual-reality-closer-to-market.html?_r=1

Outdated Encryption Leaves Phones Vulnerable to Hackers

Apple and Google said they were releasing patches to fix the problem, which results in part from 1990s American technology export restrictions.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/05/business/outdated-encryption-leaves-phones-vulnerable-to-hackers.html?_r=1

A Review of Digital Tools for Artists, Photographers and Writers

Affordable technology for creativity ranges from digital sketchbooks to a keyboard that connects multiple devices at one time.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/05/technology/personaltech/a-review-of-digital-tools-for-artists-photographers-and-writers.html?_r=1

Aids for the Indecisive, When Options Abound

A number of apps can help in decision making, whether you’re wavering over vacation destinations, a baby’s name or what to order for dinner.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/05/technology/personaltech/aids-for-the-indecisive-when-options-abound.html?_r=1

Alibaba to Open Data Center in Silicon Valley

China’s largest Internet company, Alibaba, is adding to its modest presence in Silicon Valley, but not in the way many have expected.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/04/alibaba-to-open-data-center-in-silicon-valley/?_r=1

Video: AppSmart | Digital Decision Makers

Reach an impasse? Three digital decision makers help you (or a group) come to a final decision.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003548517/appsmart-digital-decision-makers.html

Flipkart of India, to Bolster Its Tech Credentials, Hires Former Google Executive

Punit Soni, who led product management at Motorola Mobility when it was owned by Google, will oversee current and future products for Flipkart, an e-commerce start-up that wants to gain a foothold in Silicon Valley.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/04/flipkart-of-india-to-bolster-its-tech-credentials-hires-former-google-executive/?_r=1

Daily Report: Nextdoor Banks on Trust to Build Microcommunities

The social network start-up Nextdoor and its investors see opportunities in the company’s more than 53,000 microcommunities.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/04/daily-report-nextdoor-banks-on-trust-to-build-microcommunities/?_r=1

In Chase of Apple, Smartphone Makers Shift Strategies

At the Mobile World Congress, companies like Samsung promoted their products as tools for businesses. Microsoft may be making inroads in that market.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/05/technology/personaltech/in-chase-of-apple-smartphone-makers-shift-strategies.html?_r=1

bits.blogs.nytimes.com

Andrus Ansip, the digital chief at the European Commission, reaffirmed the region’s tough stance on anticompetitive practices, data protection and tax avoidance in an interview at the Mobile World Congress.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/04/europes-digital-regulator-vows-to-intervene-on-technology-abuses/?_r=1

Foreign Tech Firms Don't Need to Worry Over Rules, China Says

Proposed antiterrorism laws will not affect the legitimate interests of technology companies, a top Chinese spokeswoman said.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/05/technology/china-reassures-forieign-tech-companies-over-rules.html?_r=1

Nextdoor, a Start-Up Social Network, Digs Deep Into Neighborhoods

The social network start-up Nextdoor and its investors see opportunities in the company’s more than 53,000 microcommunities.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/04/technology/nextdoor-a-start-up-social-network-digs-deep-into-neighborhoods.html?_r=1

Daily Report: China’s Rules for Foreign Tech Firms Draw Concern From Obama

The rules, among other things, require companies that sell computer equipment to Chinese banks to turn over secret source code, submit to invasive audits and build so-called back doors into hardware and software.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/03/daily-report-chinas-rules-for-foreign-tech-firms-draw-concern-from-obama/?_r=1

BlackBerry Announces Leap Phone, Moving Back Toward Touch Screens

The company also teased — in the briefest of fashions — that a curved phone with a slider keyboard might be “coming later this year.”

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/03/blackberry-announces-leap-phone-moving-back-toward-touch-screens/?_r=1

Zuckerberg Goes on Charm Offensive for Internet.org

Mark Zuckerberg outlined why he thinks Internet.org, a service to provide people in emerging markets with free access to some online applications, would help telecommunications carriers persuade customers to spend more on streaming content to their cellphones.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/02/zuckerberg-goes-on-charm-offensive-for-internet-org/?_r=1

The Tax Scam Cometh

The Internal Revenue Service is not emailing you to request personal information. Not now. Not ever.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/05/technology/personaltech/the-tax-scam-cometh.html?_r=1

Google Confirms Plans for Wireless Service

The company is experimenting with a network that would rely primarily on Wi-Fi technology and use cellular towers as a backup.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/02/google-confirms-plans-for-wireless-service/?_r=1

After Net Neutrality Vote, Wheeler Turns to Salesmanship

Tom Wheeler, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, is making the case in Barcelona, Spain, that the agency’s open Internet rules will not hinder how the web works.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/02/after-net-neutrality-vote-wheeler-turns-to-salesmanship/?_r=1

Sony Reveals Its Waterproof 10-Inch Tablet, and a Midrange Phone the U.S. Can't Have

The 10-inch Sony Xperia Z4 tablet is waterproof and dustproof; boasts extremely long battery life and has powerful specs. The Xperia M4 Aqua smartphone is also waterproof and has a two-day battery life, but it will not be sold in the United States.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/02/sony-reveals-its-waterproof-10-inch-tablet-and-a-midrange-phone-the-u-s-cant-have/?_r=1

Blackphone Announces New Privacy-Oriented Phone and Tablet

Blackphone 2, a smartphone scheduled to be released in July, would, among other features, give users the ability to cluster apps with different functions into groups separated from one another.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/02/blackphone-announces-new-privacy-oriented-phone-and-tablet/?_r=1

Daily Report: The Apple Watch Is Nearly Ready, but Is the Public?

The Apple Watch is scheduled to start selling in April, but will buyers want it? While consumers have shown little interest in smartwatches so far, few people wanted tablets or smartphones before the iPad and iPhone were released.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/02/daily-report-the-apple-watch-is-nearly-ready-but-is-the-public/?_r=1

Microsoft Presents Low-Cost Phones and Windows 10 for Mobile

At the Mobile World Congress, the company for the first time showed off the operating system for phones and continued its evolving strategy of delivering low-cost Lumia devices.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/02/microsoft-presents-low-cost-phones-and-windows-10-for-mobile/?_r=1

Qualcomm and Intel to Introduce New Biometric Security Technology

Qualcomm has a new fingerprint reading technology that it hopes can eventually replace passwords both for devices and apps.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/02/qualcomm-intel-introduce-new-biometric-security-technology/?_r=1

An Uneasy Relationship Between Telecom and Tech

Large mobile carriers and tech giants like Facebook and Google rely on one another, but they are competing to be consumers’ main source for Internet use on mobile devices.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/02/technology/an-uneasy-relationship-between-telecom-and-tech.html?_r=1

How Superfish’s Security-Compromising Adware Came to Inhabit Lenovo’s PCs

The Chinese computer maker says the aim was to enhance the consumer experience, but the deeply hidden software also undermined protections for online transactions and communications.

from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/02/technology/how-superfishs-security-compromising-adware-came-to-inhabit-lenovos-pcs.html?_r=1

Mobile World Congress: HTC Unveils a New Phone and Wearable Device

The company also discussed a new headset for activities in virtual reality, but the emphasis is on a device for fitness enthusiasts and another version of a well-reviewed smartphone.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/01/mobile-world-congress-htc-unveils-a-new-phone-and-wearable-device/?_r=1

Mobile World Congress: Samsung's Galaxy 6 S and Galaxy 6 Edge Offer the Best of the iPhone and More

Samsung has been accused of being a copycat, but after adding its own design twists to popular features borrowed from the competition, its new flagship phone feels like a real flagship.

from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/03/01/mobile-world-congress-samsungs-galaxy-6-s-and-galaxy-6-edge-offer-the-best-of-the-iphone-and-more/?_r=1