BWCWeb : May 2015

Sunday, May 31, 2015

Antitrust Lawsuit May Head to Top Court

Years after the mobile device company was a corporate victim of a price-fixing scheme, the Supreme Court might take up the case.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/01/technology/antitrust-lawsuit-may-head-to-top-court.html?_r=1

The World's Coming Broadband Divide

Ultrafast Internet access is spreading unevenly throughout the world. And not getting that kind of broadband access could mean some communities miss out on significant economic opportunity.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/31/the-coming-broadband-divide/?_r=1

Friday, May 29, 2015

Google Wants to Turn Your Clothes Into a Computer

A little-known research group inside the search giant is working on ways to allow textiles to respond to touch and send information and is teaming up with Levi Strauss to explore the technology.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/29/google-wants-to-turn-your-clothes-into-a-computer/?_r=1

Windshield Devices Bring Distracted Driving Debate to Eye Level

Head-up displays like Navdy’s claim to reduce risk by projecting information from a smartphone into a driver’s line of vision, but some experts worry the additional stimulus will be too distracting.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/31/technology/windshield-devices-bring-distracted-driving-debate-to-eye-level.html?_r=1

Downloading Mac App Updated Automatically

The Mac can install any updates it finds when it checks in daily with Apple’s servers.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/30/technology/personaltech/downloading-mac-app-updated-automatically.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Google Intensifies Push Into Virtual Reality

The search giant is introducing several initiatives to highlight its inexpensive virtual reality viewer, including a partnership with GoPro and plans to post VR videos on YouTube.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/29/daily-report-google-intensifies-push-into-virtual-reality/?_r=1

Thursday, May 28, 2015

A Primer on Android Pay and Google Wallet

Here is how Google’s new mobile payments products — Android Pay and Google Wallet — are set to work.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/28/a-primer-on-android-pay-and-google-wallet/?_r=1

Google Intensifies Focus on Its Cardboard Virtual Reality Device

The search giant is introducing several initiatives to highlight its inexpensive virtual reality viewer, including a partnership with GoPro and plans to post VR videos on YouTube.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/29/technology/google-intensifies-focus-on-its-cardboard-virtual-reality-device.html?_r=1

F.C.C. Chief Seeks Broadband Plan to Aid the Poor

The plan will suggest sweeping changes to a $1.7 billion subsidy program charged with ensuring all Americans have affordable access to advanced telecommunications services.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/28/business/fcc-chief-seeks-broadband-plan-to-aid-the-poor.html?_r=1

Daily Report: As Mobile Payments Rise, Apple and Google Prepare Their Moves

Google is set to unveil a payments initiative for merchants and a refashioned consumer app, while its rival reportedly plans a rewards program for Apple Pay.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/28/daily-report-as-mobile-payments-rise-apple-and-google-prepare-their-moves/?_r=1

Wednesday, May 27, 2015

Google and Apple Adjust Strategies on Mobile Payments

Google is set to unveil a payments initiative for merchants and a refashioned consumer app, while its rival reportedly plans a rewards program for Apple Pay.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/28/technology/google-and-apple-adjust-strategies-on-mobile-payments.html?_r=1

I.R.S. Breach Demonstrates the Need to Make Hacking Harder

Security experts say personal information is already available to those ready to pay for it, but there are ways to discourage online thievery.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/28/technology/irs-breach-demonstrates-the-need-to-make-hacking-harder.html?_r=1

Keeping Your Classic Tech Devices Running

From house calls to mail-in service, there is a repair option out there for your cherished but obsolete gadgets.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/28/technology/personaltech/keeping-your-classic-tech-devices-running.html?_r=1

Hiding Smartphone Photo Location Information

Guard your privacy when you post your photos online by turning off location services for your smartphone’s camera app.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/28/technology/personaltech/hiding-smartphone-photo-location-information.html?_r=1

Video Feature: Apps That Bring Science to Life

Learning about physics and chemistry is often not easy, but through interactivity and other methods, technology can help simplify some concepts.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/28/technology/personaltech/video-feature-apps-that-bring-science-to-life.html?_r=1

www.nytimes.com

Three apps that use videos and interactive features to help explain the principles of physics, chemistry and other scientific disciplines.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003704746/app-smart-science-lessons.html

DJI and Accel Partners Form Drone Investment Fund

Accel Partners, the venture capital firm, and DJI, the Chinese drone maker, have formed an investment fund to support more drone and advanced robotics start-ups. The $10 million investment pool, named SkyFund, will consist of equal contributions of $5 million from each company.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/27/dji-and-accel-form-drone-investment-fund/?_r=1

Daily Report: After Conquering the World, Android's Course Is Uncertain

Android is the most popular operating system in the world by far, but it is under siege by low-end upstarts and fares poorly versus Apple’s iOS in ad revenue.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/27/daily-report-after-conquering-the-world-androids-course-is-uncertain/?_r=1

A Murky Road Ahead for Android, Despite Market Dominance

Android is the most popular operating system in the world by far, but it is under siege by low-end upstarts and fares poorly versus Apple’s iOS in ad revenue.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/28/technology/personaltech/a-murky-road-ahead-for-android-despite-market-dominance.html?_r=1

Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Breach Exposes I.R.S. Tax Returns

Criminals gained access to past tax returns of more than 100,000 people and used personal information to claim $50 million in fraudulent refunds, the agency said.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/27/business/breach-exposes-irs-tax-returns.html?_r=1

Security Researchers Start Effort to Protect 'Smart' Cities

Cities around the world are spending billions to automate and computerize everything from traffic control to the power grid. But fears are growing that these networks are easy targets for attacks.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/26/security-researchers-start-effort-to-protect-smart-cities/?_r=1

Two Apple Designers Step Up as Jony Ive Becomes Chief Design Officer

Apple is boosting the profile of two designers, Richard Howarth and Alan Dye, under longtime design head Jony Ive, who gains the new title of chief design officer.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/26/two-apple-designers-step-up-as-jony-ive-becomes-chief-design-officer/?_r=1

Daily Report: As Facebook Sweeps Across Europe, Regulators Gird for Battle

The European Court of Justice is expected to issue a preliminary decision over whether the social network giant can continue transferring data between Europe and the United States.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/26/daily-report-as-facebook-sweeps-across-europe-regulators-gird-for-battle/?_r=1

Who's the Watchdog? In Europe, the Answer Is Complicated

Reforms aimed at answering this question are expected by the end of the year, with domestic privacy regulators eager to hold on to the power to police activities in their own countries.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/25/whos-the-watchdog-in-europe-the-answer-is-complicated/?_r=1

As Facebook Sweeps Across Europe, Regulators Gird for Battle

The European Court of Justice is expected to issue a preliminary decision over whether the social network giant can continue transferring data between Europe and the United States.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/26/technology/as-facebook-sweeps-across-europe-regulators-gird-for-battle.html?_r=1

Friday, May 22, 2015

Overvalued in Silicon Valley, but Not the Word That Must Not Be Uttered

The tech industry’s venture capitalists admit to a certain amount of “frothiness” in start-up investments, but they studiously avoid another word. Bubble.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/23/technology/overvalued-in-silicon-valley-but-not-the-word-that-must-not-be-uttered.html?_r=1

Forwarding Text Messages on the iPhone

You can send the message to someone not in the original conversation by taking a couple of steps.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/23/technology/personaltech/23askkextra.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Bringing Women Into Tech

A new prize aims to recognize colleges that succeed in attracting women into information technology, a field where they remain underrepresented.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/22/daily-report-bringing-women-into-tech/?_r=1

Thursday, May 21, 2015

Hewlett-Packard Reports Drop in Profit and Sales

The computer and printer company plans to split into two entities later this year in hopes of being more nimble, but investors have reservations.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/22/technology/hewlett-packard-reports-drop-in-profit-and-sales.html?_r=1

Members of Congress Ask for Review of Dropped Espionage Case

In a letter to Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch, 22 members of Congress are asking if race played a role in the investigation of a Chinese-American hydrologist accused of spying for China.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/21/members-of-congress-ask-for-review-of-dropped-espionage-case/?_r=1

Daily Report: Minecraft Reality Shows, on YouTube

A group of gamers act as solo tour guides for millions of Minecraft players, gradually creating their own genre of entertainment.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/21/daily-report-minecraft-reality-shows-on-youtube/?_r=1

Wednesday, May 20, 2015

CareFirst Discloses Data Breach; Up to 1.1 Million Customers Affected

The attack took place last June, and federal law enforcement authorities are said have been aware of the case before the disclosure.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/21/business/carefirst-discloses-data-breach-up-to-1-1-million-customers-affected.html?_r=1

Video Feature: As California Thirsts, These Apps Help Save Water

Some of these apps help track one’s own water use, while others make it easy to publicly shame water wasters.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/21/technology/personaltech/video-feature-as-california-thirsts-these-apps-help-save-water.html?_r=1

www.nytimes.com

Many people are looking for ways to keep track of their water consumption. New apps like Vizsafe, Drip Detective and Dropcountr can help you save water and save money.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003694838/app-smart-track-your-water-usage.html

Minecraft Stars on YouTube Share Secrets to Their Celebrity

A group of gamers act as solo tour guides for millions of Minecraft players, gradually creating their own genre of entertainment.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/21/technology/personaltech/minecraft-stars-on-youtube-share-secrets-to-their-celebrity.html?_r=1

Unlike You, Your Facebook Account Can Be Immortal

The social network lets you assign a sort of executor of your Facebook estate who can update your cover photo and post information.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/21/technology/personaltech/unlike-you-your-facebook-account-can-be-immortal.html?_r=1

Survey Finds Americans Don't Trust Government and Companies to Protect Privacy

Most Americans say it is important to control who has access to their personal information, but they have little faith that the government or companies will protect their private data, according to a new report by the Pew Research Center.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/20/survey-finds-americans-dont-trust-government-and-companies-to-protect-privacy/?_r=1

Daily Report: U.S. Accuses Six Chinese Citizens of Stealing Tech Data

The suspects studied in the United States and took jobs at the semiconductor companies Avago Technologies and Skyworks Solutions.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/20/daily-report-u-s-accuses-six-chinese-citizens-of-stealing-tech-data/?_r=1

A Tech Boom Aimed at the Few Instead of the World

The industry once thought big, but today’s wave of start-ups is characterized by a rise in services aimed at the wealthy and the young.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/21/technology/personaltech/a-tech-boom-aimed-at-the-few-instead-of-the-world.html?_r=1

A Bionic Approach to Prosthetics Controlled by Thought

The next generation of prostheses includes artificial arms with flexible fingers sensitive enough to transmit the sensation of texture.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/21/technology/a-bionic-approach-to-prosthetics-controlled-by-thought.html?_r=1

Video: The Bionic Man

Les Baugh lost his arms as a teenager. Engineers at Johns Hopkins are trying to give them back, but better. Mr. Baugh is testing a robotic prosthetic that he can control with his mind.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/100000003693281/the-bionic-man.html

Tuesday, May 19, 2015

I.R.S. Look at Spinoffs May Affect Yahoo Plan

Marissa Mayer’s plan to spin off Yahoo’s $34 billion stake in Alibaba tax-free could run into resistance from federal tax authorities.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/20/technology/irs-look-at-spinoffs-may-affect-yahoo-plan.html?_r=1

St. Louis Fed Confirms Hacking Attack

The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis said hackers were able to redirect users of its online research services to fake websites.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/20/technology/st-louis-fed-confirms-hacking-attack.html?_r=1

Tech Giants Urge Obama to Reject Policies That Weaken Encryption Technology

A group of prominent technology companies, including Google and Apple, have sent a letter to President Obama asking him to reject any proposals that would weaken their products’ security.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/20/technology/tech-giants-urge-obama-to-reject-policies-that-weaken-encryption-technology.html?_r=1

6 Chinese Men Indicted in Theft of Code From U.S. Tech Companies

The suspects studied in the United States and took jobs at the semiconductor companies Avago Technologies and Skyworks Solutions.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/20/technology/6-chinese-men-indicted-in-theft-of-code-from-us-tech-companies.html?_r=1

Daily Report: In Singapore, the Post Office Evolves for E-Commerce

Of makeovers at postal services, SingPost’s is among the most ambitious. Besides regular postal duties, it offers a basket of services for companies, including website development, online marketing, customer service and, of course, package delivery.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/19/daily-report-in-singapore-the-post-office-evolves-for-e-commerce/?_r=1

Bringing the Personal Internet of Things to the Poor

The chip maker ARM and Unicef are trying to jump start the development of low-cost wearable sensors for use in emerging nations.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/19/bringing-the-personal-internet-of-things-to-the-poor/?_r=1

Aiming for a Comeback, RealNetworks Introduces the Photo-Sharing App RealTimes

Rob Glaser, chief executive of RealNetworks, is trying to drive the company back into relevance with a photo-sharing app, called RealTimes, that is centered on families.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/19/aiming-for-a-comeback-realnetworks-introduces-photo-sharing-app-realtimes/?_r=1

Some People Do More Than Text While Driving

Texting while driving has company. Some people are also using social media services, taking selfies, and even making videos while they are behind the wheel.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/19/some-people-do-more-than-text-while-driving/?_r=1

Monday, May 18, 2015

Appeals Court Upholds Apple’s Patent Victory Over Samsung

The federal court also ruled that the iPhone’s aesthetic could not be protected and part of the $930 million in damages would have to be recalculated.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/19/technology/appeals-court-upholds-apples-patent-victory-over-samsung.html?_r=1

Daily Report: Kijiji, the Craigslist of Canada, Run by eBay

The eBay-owned website, whose name means “village” in Swahili, attracts three times as many users in Canada as Craigslist, which dominates in the United States.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/18/daily-report-kijiji-the-craigslist-of-canada-run-by-ebay/?_r=1

Sunday, May 17, 2015

Apple Acquires Coherent Navigation, a Mapping Start-Up

The purchase further bolsters Apple’s mapping technology and services.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/17/apple-acquires-coherent-navigation-a-mapping-start-up/?_r=1

Kijiji, a Flop in the U.S., Rules Online Classifieds in Canada

The eBay-owned website, whose name means “village” in Swahili, attracts three times as many users in Canada as Craigslist, which dominates in the United States.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/18/technology/kijiji-a-flop-in-the-us-rules-online-classifieds-in-canada.html?_r=1

Friday, May 15, 2015

Penn State's College of Engineering Hit by Cyberattack

Universities are increasingly a target for hackers because they handle vast amounts of personal and financial information for students and employees, as well as sensitive research.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/15/penn-states-college-of-engineering-hit-by-cyberattack/?_r=1

Penn State's College of Engineering Hit by Cyberattack

Google to Test Bubble-Shaped Self-Driving Cars in Silicon Valley

Tests of the cars, which look like golf carts with doors, are expected to place the search giant closer to its goal of hands-free, foot-free driving.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/16/technology/google-to-test-bubble-shaped-self-driving-cars-in-silicon-valley.html?_r=1

Google to Test Bubble-Shaped Self-Driving Cars in Silicon Valley

Carl Icahn Invests $100 Million in Lyft

The investment is an extension of a $530 million round that the ride-hailing start-up raised in March, valuing it at $2.5 billion.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/16/technology/carl-icahn-invests-100-million-in-lyft.html?_r=1

Carl Icahn Invests $100 Million in Lyft

Daily Report: Unearthing the Enigma of Bitcoin's Birth

Conversations with those most deeply involved in Bitcoin yielded a quiet but widely held consensus, and new hints drew an investigator further into the chase.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/15/daily-report-unearthing-the-enigma-of-bitcoins-birth/?_r=1

Daily Report: Unearthing the Enigma of Bitcoin's Birth

Samsung Heir Takes Charge of Foundations in Succession Step

Jay Y. Lee, the vice chairman of Samsung Electronics and son of Samsung Group's patriarch, will assume the leadership of two key foundations.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/16/technology/samsung-heir-takes-charge-of-foundations-in-succession-step.html?_r=1

Samsung Heir Takes Charge of Foundations in Succession Step

Thursday, May 14, 2015

Matching Colors Between Display and Document

Pictures from photofinishing services may not display correctly on a computer because the colors can be affected by the light in the room and the monitor settings.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/15/technology/personaltech/matching-colors-between-display-and-document.html?_r=1

Matching Colors Between Display and Document

Reddit Introduces Anti-Harassment Policy

Reddit users who view or experience harassment on the service will now be able to e-mail the company and request to have content and offenders removed from the site.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/14/reddit-introduces-anti-harassment-policy/?_r=1

Reddit Introduces Anti-Harassment Policy

Daily Report: Technology Behind Advertising Is at the Heart of Verizon's Deal for AOL

In a merger with Verizon, AOL would gain a wealth of consumer data that it could use to personalize and target marketing messages. Others are skeptical of the effort.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/14/daily-report-technology-behind-advertising-is-at-the-heart-of-verizons-deal-for-aol/?_r=1

Daily Report: Technology Behind Advertising Is at the Heart of Verizon's Deal for AOL

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Sharp Says Banks to Provide $1.7 Billion Bailout

The Japanese electronics maker has been losing money after its smartphone display business came under intense pressure from Asian rivals.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/15/technology/sharp-says-banks-to-provide-dollar1-7-billion-bailout.html?_r=1

Sharp Says Banks to Provide $1.7 Billion Bailout

Six Gadgets to Take on a Road Trip

Stuck in a car for days? Bring along navigation aids, headphones, broadband access, video and music storage — even access to a remote camera to check on your home.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2015/05/13/technology/personaltech/Six-Gadgets-to-Take-on-a-Road-Trip.html?_r=1

Six Gadgets to Take on a Road Trip

White House and Labor Advocates Praise Move by Facebook for Higher Wages

Facebook announced on Tuesday that it would require its contractors and vendors to provide better benefits and a minimum hourly wage of $15.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/13/white-house-and-labor-advocates-praise-move-by-facebook-for-higher-wages/?_r=1

White House and Labor Advocates Praise Move by Facebook for Higher Wages

Uber Lures Top Google Executive and Shifts David Plouffe's Duties

Uber said that Rachel Whetstone, Google’s longtime head of communications, would run its day-to-day communications operations. David Plouffe, who had that role, will move to a chief advisory position and take a director’s seat on Uber’s board.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/13/uber-lures-top-google-executive-and-shifts-david-plouffes-duties/?_r=1

Uber Lures Top Google Executive and Shifts David Plouffe's Duties

Cisco’s Profit and Sales Beat Wall Street Forecasts

Profit for Cisco Systems, the networking equipment giant, rose 12 percent, to $2.4 billion, in its fiscal third quarter.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/14/technology/cisco-quarterly-earnings.html?_r=1

Cisco’s Profit and Sales Beat Wall Street Forecasts

Video Feature: Apps for Cyclists Offer Everything but the Flat-Tire Kit

Route tracking, speed and distance monitoring, social-media updating and more.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/14/technology/personaltech/video-feature-apps-for-cyclists-offer-everything-but-the-flat-tire-kit.html

Video Feature: Apps for Cyclists Offer Everything but the Flat-Tire Kit

www.nytimes.com

While your eyes are on the road, let your phone keep track of your cycling data with the apps Strava and Road Bike.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003682127/app-smart-track-your-cycling-data.html

www.nytimes.com

Daily Report: Facebook to Start Testing Instant Articles

The social network will host articles directly on its site instead of linking to them, potentially undermining news sites and apps.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/13/daily-report-facebook-to-start-testing-instant-articles/?_r=1

Daily Report: Facebook to Start Testing Instant Articles

How Facebook's Instant Articles Work

A representative of one participating publisher said the social network’s new format for presenting news articles to iPhone users was “buttery smooth.”
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/13/how-facebooks-instant-articles-actually-work/?_r=1

How Facebook's Instant Articles Work

Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Facebook Media Venture to Include NBC, BuzzFeed and New York Times

The social network will host articles directly on its site instead of linking to them, potentially undermining news sites and apps.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/13/technology/facebook-media-venture-to-include-nbc-buzzfeed-and-new-york-times.html?_r=1

Facebook Media Venture to Include NBC, BuzzFeed and New York Times

Verizon Wireless and Sprint to Pay $158 Million to Settle Billing Investigations

Verizon agreed to pay $90 million and Sprint $68 million to settle F.C.C. investigations into millions of dollars of unauthorized charges that appeared on customers’ cellphone bills.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/12/verizon-wireless-and-sprint-to-pay-158-million-to-settle-billing-investigations/?_r=1

Verizon Wireless and Sprint to Pay $158 Million to Settle Billing Investigations

Deal Talks for Here Mapping Service Expose Reliance on Location Data

If a new owner decides to restrict access to Here’s vast trove of mapping data, some of the largest tech companies could find themselves relying on Google’s mapping services once more.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/12/deal-talks-for-here-mapping-service-expose-reliance-on-location-data/?_r=1

Deal Talks for Here Mapping Service Expose Reliance on Location Data

Verizon’s Data Trove Could Help AOL Score With Ads

The Verizon-AOL deal is just the latest corporate reaction to a staggering shift in the way people across the globe get their news and entertainment.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/13/technology/verizons-data-trove-could-help-aol-score-with-ads.html?_r=1

Verizon’s Data Trove Could Help AOL Score With Ads

Bill Gates, Andy Grove and Steve Jobs: The Strategies They Shared

A new book by two business school professors examines the common strategies of Bill Gates, Andy Grove and Steve Jobs, and the implications beyond the companies they led.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/12/bill-gates-andy-grove-and-steve-jobs-the-strategies-they-shared/?_r=1

Bill Gates, Andy Grove and Steve Jobs: The Strategies They Shared

Daily Report: Verizon to Buy AOL for $4.4 Billion in Cash

The move to buy AOL at $50 a share, a 17 percent premium over its closing price Monday, is an effort to expand Verizon’s digital and video offerings.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/12/daily-report-verizon-to-buy-aol-for-4-4-billion-in-cash/?_r=1

Daily Report: Verizon to Buy AOL for $4.4 Billion in Cash

Tango Offers Shopping on Its Messaging Service

Now you can buy a Yankees coffin within the comfort of your texting line. Tango, a popular messaging service, has a two-million-item catalog of goods from Walmart and Alibaba. If it works, will brands keep their own apps?
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/12/tango-offers-shopping-on-its-messaging-service/?_r=1

Tango Offers Shopping on Its Messaging Service

Monday, May 11, 2015

Finding a New Broadband Connection

When the cable company just won’t do, here are tips for finding another way to get online.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/14/technology/personaltech/finding-a-new-broadband-connection.html?_r=1

Finding a New Broadband Connection

Daily Report: Uber Funding Talks Highlight the Speedy Pace of Investments

Uber, Yik Yak and others have raised more money in less time, driven by money flowing in from hedge funds, strategic investors and more.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/11/daily-report-uber-funding-talks-highlight-the-speedy-pace-of-investments/?_r=1

Daily Report: Uber Funding Talks Highlight the Speedy Pace of Investments

Chinese Smartphone Makers Try to Make Inroads in India

As domestic sales slow and the country’s economy cools, China turns to the much smaller but fast-growing market in India.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/12/technology/chinese-smartphone-makers-try-to-make-inroads-in-india.html?_r=1

Chinese Smartphone Makers Try to Make Inroads in India

Sunday, May 10, 2015

Uber Valuation Highlights the Speedy Pace of Investments

Uber, Yik Yak and others have raised more money in less time, driven by money flowing in from hedge funds, strategic investors and more.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/11/technology/uber-valuation-highlights-the-speedy-pace-of-investments.html?_r=1

Uber Valuation Highlights the Speedy Pace of Investments

An Obama Plan to Stop Foreign Hackers Has Mixed Results

The Obama administration’s two-year-old strategy to aggressively fight foreign online espionage has done little to curb the theft of companies’ trade secrets.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/10/an-obama-plan-to-stop-foreign-hackers-has-had-mixed-results/?_r=1

An Obama Plan to Stop Foreign Hackers Has Mixed Results

Saturday, May 9, 2015

A Dashboard Management Consultant

A free analytics site allows drivers to use their daily income, number of fares, working hours, expenses and mileage to calculate their net pay and determine what driving patterns are most profitable for them.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/10/technology/a-dashboard-management-consultant.html?_r=1

A Dashboard Management Consultant

Friday, May 8, 2015

Uber Fund-Raising Points to $50 Billion Valuation

The new capital will not be used primarily for expansion purposes, unlike Uber’s previous financing rounds — instead, the funding is strategic, with an eye on partnerships.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/09/technology/uber-fund-raising-points-to-50-billion-valuation.html?_r=1

Uber Fund-Raising Points to $50 Billion Valuation

How to Use Siri, Google Now and Cortana Voice Commands

Get the most out of speech-recognition mobile assistants. Also, how to use speed-test websites to measure broadband speeds.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/08/technology/personaltech/how-to-use-siri-google-now-and-cortana-voice-commands.html?_r=1

How to Use Siri, Google Now and Cortana Voice Commands

Daily Report: Facebook Use Polarizing? Site Begs to Differ

Almost 29 percent of the news stories displayed by Facebook’s News Feed present views that conflict with the user’s own ideology, the study found.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/08/daily-report-facebook-use-polarizing-site-begs-to-differ/?_r=1

Daily Report: Facebook Use Polarizing? Site Begs to Differ

Thursday, May 7, 2015

Uber Joins the Bidding for Here, Nokia’s Digital Mapping Service

The battle to buy Here highlights the growing importance of digital mapping services as companies connect their products to the Internet.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/08/business/uber-joins-the-bidding-for-here-nokias-digital-mapping-service.html?_r=1

Uber Joins the Bidding for Here, Nokia’s Digital Mapping Service

Facebook Study Disputes Theory of Political Polarization Among Users

Almost 29 percent of the news stories displayed by Facebook’s News Feed present views that conflict with the user’s own ideology, the study found.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/08/technology/facebook-study-disputes-theory-of-political-polarization-among-users.html?_r=1

Facebook Study Disputes Theory of Political Polarization Among Users

Facebook Study Disputes Theory of Politcal Polarization Among Users

Daily Report: Alibaba Names New Chief Executive and Reports Revenue Rise

The Chinese e-commerce giant said its chief operating officer would replace its chief executive, Jonathan Lu, who will remain on the board.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/07/daily-report-alibaba-names-new-chief-executive-and-reports-revenue-rise/?_r=1

Daily Report: Alibaba Names New Chief Executive and Reports Revenue Rise

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Oculus to Ship Virtual Reality Headsets in Early 2016

The virtual reality company, which was bought by Facebook last year for $2 billion, says it will begin shipping a consumer version of its flagship headset in the first quarter of 2016. Oculus has been developing the product for three years.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/06/oculus-to-ship-virtual-reality-headsets-in-early-2016/?_r=1

Oculus to Ship Virtual Reality Headsets in Early 2016

Zynga Is Trimming Its Staff and Its Game Ambitions

The game company will cut its work force by 18 percent and stop making sports video games.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/07/technology/zynga-is-trimming-its-staff-and-its-game-ambitions.html?_r=1

Zynga Is Trimming Its Staff and Its Game Ambitions

Navy Robots Test the Limits of Autonomy

Naval engineers are working to develop technology like self-driving cars that can clear the way for a convoy full of troops. But in field tests, the autonomous future still seems far away.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/07/technology/robotica-navy-tests-limits-autonomy.html?_r=1

Navy Robots Test the Limits of Autonomy

Video Feature: Apps to Cope and Help in a Disaster

Apps from FEMA and the American Red Cross can aid in preparedness and in dealing with the aftermath of disaster.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/07/technology/personaltech/video-feature-apps-to-cope-and-help-in-a-disaster.html?_r=1

Video Feature: Apps to Cope and Help in a Disaster

Video: App Smart: Be Prepared for Disaster

In the event of an emergency, your phone can be a lifeline in more ways than one. New apps give instructions on first aid, disaster preparedness and can help you find missing loved ones.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/personaltech/100000003668522/app-smart-be-prepared-for-disaster.html

Video: App Smart: Be Prepared for Disaster

www.nytimes.com

Navy robotics engineers are working to develop autonomous tools that can integrate with other technologies. But in field tests, the autonomous future still seems far away.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/video/technology/100000003668539/navy-tests-autonomous-future.html

www.nytimes.com

Google Brings Battle-Hardened NoSQL Database To Its Cloud Platform

from BWCWeb http://google.com/newsstand/s/CBIw-rzWhSI

Google Brings Battle-Hardened NoSQL Database To Its Cloud Platform

from BWCWeb http://google.com/newsstand/s/CBIw-rzWhSI

Relying on Product Reviews? Knowing How a Company Treats Its Customers Is Just as Valuable

Consumers may think they’ve done their due diligence after after reading reviews of the product they’re planning to buy — but what about the company’s customer service record?
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/07/technology/personaltech/relying-on-product-reviews-knowing-how-a-company-treats-its-customers-is-just-as-valuable.html?_r=1

Relying on Product Reviews? Knowing How a Company Treats Its Customers Is Just as Valuable

Google Loses to LinkedIn in Silicon Valley Headquarters Pitch

Google’s plans for a space-age new headquarters received a major blow from the Mountain View City Council, which awarded most of the city’s future office space to another Internet company, LinkedIn.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/06/google-loses-to-linkedin-in-silicon-valley-headquarters-pitch/?_r=1

Google Loses to LinkedIn in Silicon Valley Headquarters Pitch

SAP Takes More to the Cloud

The German enterprise software giant announces new ways that its most popular features can be recombined in the cloud to create new applications. It also has a new Internet of Things business.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/06/sap-takes-more-to-the-cloud/?_r=1

SAP Takes More to the Cloud

Daily Report: Silicon Valley Remembers Dave Goldberg

The worlds of technology, entertainment and politics converged to remember the chief of SurveyMonkey, who was also the husband of Sheryl Sandberg of Facebook.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/06/daily-report-silicon-valley-remembers-dave-goldberg/?_r=1

Daily Report: Silicon Valley Remembers Dave Goldberg

Lending Start-Up Affirm Raises $275 Million

Affirm, an ambitious consumer lending start-up based in San Francisco, will use the money to accelerate its growth plans.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/06/lending-start-up-affirm-raises-275-million/?_r=1

Lending Start-Up Affirm Raises $275 Million

Chinese Drone Maker DJI Gets Lift From Accel Investment

DJI, the Chinese company that has emerged as one of the leaders in the burgeoning civilian market for drones, has raised $75 million from Accel, one of the largest investments ever by the Silicon Valley venture capital firm.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/06/chinese-drone-maker-dji-gets-lift-from-accel-investment/?_r=1

Chinese Drone Maker DJI Gets Lift From Accel Investment

Wickr Adds a New Chief Executive and a Nonprofit

Wickr, a secure messaging app, is turning is splitting into two entities — a nonprofit organization that will focus on promoting privacy, and a business arm that will focus on licensing its encryption protocol to businesses, like banks and hospitals, that rely on secure payments and communications.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/06/wickr-adds-a-new-chief-executive-and-a-non-profit/?_r=1

Wickr Adds a New Chief Executive and a Nonprofit

Zenefits Raises Money (Again), Landing $4 Billion Valuation

Zenefits, a fast-growing software-as-a-service start-up raises $500 million in funding at a $4 billion valuation.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/06/zenefits-raises-money-again-landing-4-billion-valuation/?_r=1

Zenefits Raises Money (Again), Landing $4 Billion Valuation

Two Retail Veterans Take Aim at Amazon’s E-Commerce Reign

The start-ups Enjoy and Jet. com are hoping to knock Amazon off its perch as the leader of online shopping.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/07/technology/personaltech/two-retail-veterans-take-aim-at-amazons-e-commerce-reign.html?_r=1

Two Retail Veterans Take Aim at Amazon’s E-Commerce Reign

Tuesday, May 5, 2015

IBM and Facebook in Marketing Partnership

IBM and Facebook are forming a marketing partnership. It combines their data skills to help retailers and consumer brands move toward personalized marketing.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/06/ibm-and-facebook-in-marketing-partnership/?_r=1

IBM and Facebook in Marketing Partnership

The Lessons Google Ventures Learned From Secret

Bill Maris of Google Ventures explains why the firm was only willing to invest in the start-up Secret up to a point.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/05/the-lessons-google-ventures-learned-from-secret/?_r=1

The Lessons Google Ventures Learned From Secret

Snapping the Windows Screen

How to take screenshots on a Windows tablet, Also, how to use iPhoto after the latest Mac update replaces it with a different app.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/07/technology/personaltech/snapping-the-windows-screen.html?_r=1

Snapping the Windows Screen

Silicon Valley Pays Tribute to Dave Goldberg at Memorial Service

The worlds of technology, entertainment and politics converged to remember the chief of SurveyMonkey, the husband of Sheryl Sandberg of Facebook.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/06/technology/silicon-valley-pays-tribute-to-dave-goldberg-at-memorial-service.html?_r=1

Silicon Valley Pays Tribute to Dave Goldberg at Memorial Service

Google Pushes Advertisers to Smaller Screens

Google is trying to get advertisers to spend more on mobile screens that account for a majority of searches in the United States.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/05/google-pushes-advertisers-to-smaller-screens/?_r=1

Google Pushes Advertisers to Smaller Screens

Daily Report: Change of the Old Guard at Cisco

John Chambers, chief of Cisco since 1995, will step down on July 26. The transition is another sign of a generational shift in Silicon Valley.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/05/daily-report-change-of-the-old-guard-at-cisco/?_r=1

Daily Report: Change of the Old Guard at Cisco

Monday, May 4, 2015

With Boxing Match, Video Piracy Battle Enters Latest Round: Mobile Apps

With the Mayweather-Pacquiao bout, live streaming from mobile apps was just one of the new piracy headaches facing media companies.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/05/technology/with-boxing-match-video-piracy-battle-enters-latest-round-mobile-apps.html?_r=1

With Boxing Match, Video Piracy Battle Enters Latest Round: Mobile Apps

Apple TV Remote Expected to Add Touch Pad in Redesign

When Apple introduces its new TV box this summer, the remote control will gain a touch pad and also be slightly thicker than the current version.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/05/technology/apple-tv-remote-expected-to-add-touch-pad-in-redesign.html?_r=1

Apple TV Remote Expected to Add Touch Pad in Redesign

Dave Goldberg, Silicon Valley Executive, Said to Have Died After Exercising

The chief of Survey Monkey, who was married to Sheryl Sandberg of Facebook, collapsed at a Mexican resort, a person close to the family said.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/05/technology/dave-goldberg-cause-of-death.html?_r=1

Dave Goldberg, Silicon Valley Executive, Said to Have Died After Exercising

AltSchool Raises $100 Million and Plans to Open More Schools

AltSchool operates four schools in the San Francisco area with tuition at around $20,000 annually.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/04/altschool-raises-100-million-and-plans-to-open-more-schools/?_r=1

AltSchool Raises $100 Million and Plans to Open More Schools

Daily Report: Dave Goldberg Was Lifelong Women’s Advocate

The late chief executive of SurveyMonkey and husband of the Facebook executive Sheryl Sandberg was raised around “woman power” and was an avid supporter of female achievement.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/04/daily-report-dave-goldberg-was-lifelong-womens-advocate/?_r=1

Daily Report: Dave Goldberg Was Lifelong Women’s Advocate

Cisco Names Charles Robbins to Succeed C.E.O. John Chambers

Mr. Chambers, one of the longest-serving chiefs of a public Silicon Valley company, will step down on July 26.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/05/technology/cisco-names-charles-robbins-to-succeed-ceo-john-chambers.html?_r=1

Cisco Names Charles Robbins to Succeed C.E.O. John Chambers

Sunday, May 3, 2015

Joseph Lechleider, a Father of the DSL Internet Technology, Dies at 82

Mr. Lechleider helped invent DSL technology, which enabled phone companies to offer high-speed web access over their infrastructure of copper wires.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/04/technology/joseph-lechleider-a-father-of-the-dsl-internet-technology-dies-at-82.html?_r=1

Joseph Lechleider, a Father of the DSL Internet Technology, Dies at 82

40 Busy Years Later, a Microsoft Founder Considers His Creation

Paul Allen, who founded Microsoft with Bill Gates 40 years ago, says the most daunting task the company faces is getting momentum in the mobile market.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/03/40-busy-years-later-a-microsoft-founder-considers-his-creation/?_r=1

40 Busy Years Later, a Microsoft Founder Considers His Creation

David Goldberg’s Lifetime of Advocating for Women

The chief executive of SurveyMonkey and husband of the Facebook executive Sheryl Sandberg was raised around “woman power” and urged women to speak up.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/04/technology/david-goldbergs-lifetime-of-advocating-for-women.html?_r=1

David Goldberg’s Lifetime of Advocating for Women

Start-Ups Try to Challenge Google, at Least on Mobile Search

Venture capitalists, intimidated by Google search for a decade, have begun investing hundreds of millions in new search efforts for mobile phones.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/04/technology/start-ups-try-to-challenge-google-at-least-on-mobile-search.html?_r=1

Start-Ups Try to Challenge Google, at Least on Mobile Search

Friday, May 1, 2015

The Rise of Emoji on Instagram Is Causing Language Repercussions

The use of emoji — the collection of happy faces and other images that can be used to communicate feelings and sentiments — has become so pervasive on Instagram that the use of Internet slang formed from letters has decreased.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/01/the-rise-of-emoji-on-instagram-is-causing-language-repercussions/?_r=1

The Rise of Emoji on Instagram Is Causing Language Repercussions

What an Android Update May Get You

An Android update may be particularly helpful to users of Nexus 7 tablets, and resources on the web can give users an idea of what to expect.
from BWCWeb http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/02/technology/personaltech/what-an-android-update-may-get-you.html?_r=1

What an Android Update May Get You

Daily Report: Social Media Companies Take a Beating as Results Fall Short

The performances illustrate the way investors are questioning whether social media companies can keep their growth rates vigorous enough to justify their valuations.
from BWCWeb http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/01/daily-report-social-media-companies-take-a-beating-as-results-fall-short/?_r=1