Clinton unveils U.S. policy on Internet freedom
10:01 a.m. EST As late as Wednesday morning, as CNET News reported at the time, it remained unclear whether Clinton would address the China-Google incident directly, or whether she will employ more circuitous diplomatic language.The final version of the speech does single out "Chinese authorities" directly, while including other indirect references--"we must work to advance the freedom of worship online"--to the communist nation's sometimes brutal treatment of its citizens. For example, some reports have cited torture, persecution, or imprisonment of Chinese Christians, especially those who worship outside of a state-registered church.10:05 a.m. EST Clinton compared the actions of some governments in censoring the Internet to the Berlin Wall, holding back the freedoms of their citizens. The U.S. believes the Internet requires some basic freedoms for its users, including the freedom of expression--the Internet as the equivalent of the modern-day town square.AudioHillary Clinton on Internet freedomInteresting excerpts from the secretary of state's speech,recorded by Larry Magid of the CNET Blog Network.PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element.Subscribe now:iTunes (audio) |RSS (audio) Still, that doesn't mean the U.S. looks kindly on all forms of digital expression, such as al-Qaeda's use of the Internet to organize and promote violence against the U.S., Clinton said. Wrestling with the need to allow free expression while seeking out those who wish to take down a government is a challenge for countries around the world, and some may very well choose to err on the side of repression.Like expression, freedom of religion is another basic right of Internet users. "Prayers will always travel on higher networks," Clinton joked. But governments that deny the expression of religious beliefs on the Internet are denying their citizens basic rights, she said.The economic benefits of Internet freedom are well understood in the U.S., with venture capitalists hovering around clusters of 20-something techies in hopes they've created the next big thing. But such benefits are very much new in places like Africa, where access to things like mobile phones and micro-loans is having a big impact on economic growth, Clinton said. "A connection to information networks is like an on-ramp to modernity," she said."Chinese authorities need to provide an explanation for the cyberattacks originating on Chinese soil that led Google to this decision (to say it might exit China)."--U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton10:06 a.m. EST In what some wags are already calling the Clinton Doctrine, the secretary of state has positioned her speech as a 21st-century upgrade to ideas that President Franklin Delano Roosevelt outlined in January 1941. FDR's address to Congress at the time--the audio is online--outlined what he described as freedom of speech and expression; freedom of worship; freedom from want; freedom from fear. (FDR's freedom from fear seems almost quaint nearly 70 years later amidst U.S. troops stationed in Afghanistan and Iraq: he called for a "worldwide reduction of armaments" so "that no nation will be in a position to commit an act of physical aggression against any neighbor--anywhere in the world.")Clinton's upgrade to Roosevelt's list is a fifth freedom: the freedom to connect. "The freedom to connect is like the freedom of assembly in cyberspace," she said. "It allows individuals to get online, come together, and hopefully cooperate in the name of progress."10:19 a.m. EST It's time for "21st century statecraft," Clinton said. This includes funds for programs that ensure access to the Internet and fight against government censorship, she said. The U.S. will establish a program in pursuit of this goal. She gave the example of a mobile phone application that could evaluate governments and root out corruption. The hardware and software are basically out there already, she said, but mobile application developers have no real financial motivation to create such an application. That's going to change, Clinton said, although she didn't provide specifics.Technology companies will have to help, Clinton said. Microsoft created a "digital doctor" application that is a good example of what she is trying to promote.Clinton has assembled a team to work on this notion of 21st century statecraft, she said. They are working on items such as mobile banking and social networks in Pakistan.10:25 a.m. EST Clinton finally addressed the recent cyberattacks, widely believed in security circles to be the work of the Chinese government. "We look to the Chinese authorities to conduct a thorough review of the activities that led Google to make its announcements," she said.The U.S. and China have different views on control of the Internet, she noted. The State Department will address those concerns in due course, she said.Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton outlines U.S. policy on Internet freedom on Thursday.Tom Krazit/CNET10:28 a.m. EST Thursday's speech ratcheted up the forcefulness of the language employed by the State Department regarding the cyberattacks on Google and other tech companies. Earlier this week, Assistant Secretary of State Kurt Campbell told reporters that the "Chinese are in the best position to explain this, and we are asking them for an explanation."On Thursday, Clinton's remarks were more direct, stressing that Washington now expects Beijing to answer some questions about the unlawful intrusions. "Chinese authorities need to provide an explanation for the cyberattacks originating on Chinese soil that led Google to this decision," she said.10:32 a.m. EST Clinton fired a broadside against U.S. media companies that do business in China. "Censorship should not be accepted by any company from anywhere. American companies need to make a principled stand," she said, alluding to Google's threat to pull out of China unless the company is allowed to offer an uncensored search engine.Microsoft, for one, reiterated its commitment to operating in China following Google's announcement.Clinton closed by reminding the audience of the girl in Haiti who was rescued via text message, saying that the U.S. should not allow anyone to be buried buried--under rubble or under censorship--in this day and age.10:40 a.m. EST An audience member asked Clinton how she is supposed to manage employees in China who are subject to oversight and even detention at times. Without directly answering the question, Clinton referred to the talks the U.S. government has had with the Chinese government over these issues. There is a "foundation of understanding" between the two countries, but disagreements on several issues, she said.10:47 a.m. EST That's it for the speech. Panel discussions will follow. Check back later for more coverage of the day's events.
Report- OS X Lion to be offered via Mac App Store
Report: OS X Lion to be offered via Mac App Store
Apple has been pushing out preview builds of its upcoming Mac OS X "Lion" update through the Mac App Store since late February, and that distribution method could remain when the software is released to the public later this year, according to a new report.Citing "people familiar with the matter," AppleInsider reports that Apple plans to offer Lion as an update through the Mac App Store, giving those upgrading a chance to skip buying a disc from Apple or another retailer to get the new software.Apple has already taken numerous steps at cutting optical discs out of the world, both through digital content offerings on iTunes, and the full-on removal of optical drives in notebooks like the MacBook Air series. More recently, the company has been scaling back boxed software in its retail stores--including its own applications--favoring Mac App Store placement and distribution instead. The company pushed a similar, though more drastic strategy in phasing out floppy drives in the 1990s.AppleInsider's source says the company still plans to offer discs for those on slower connections. The company is also likely to offer such an option for those on Leopard, who therefore aren't able to run and install the Snow Leopard exclusive Mac App Store to grab the update. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.By giving users Lion through the Mac App Store, Apple would have the potential to get customers comfortable with its software distribution system, which requires users to sign up for an iTunes account. While subtle, the move could lead to additional purchases later on down the road, of which Apple gets a 30 percent cut. Earlier this year, Apple CEO Steve Jobs said the company had more than 200 million accounts on file as part of its payment system, making it what Jobs claimed to be the largest collection online.Along with the convenience for users who don't want to track down a disc, moving to digital downloads also gives Apple an extraordinary amount of control over security of the distribution, potentially keeping users from sharing a single disc to install the OS upgrade on multiple computers. Unlike Microsoft, Apple does not use serial keys or activation servers as part of its major OS updates, whereas software published through the Mac App Store can be tied to a single user account. Apple has said it plans to deliver Lion to users this year, and is expected to offer details on price, a specific release date, and additional features about the software at the company's Worldwide Developers Conference next month. Lion made its first debut at Apple's "Back to the Mac" event back in October, where the company also unveiled the second generation MacBook Air and iLife '11.
Apple has been pushing out preview builds of its upcoming Mac OS X "Lion" update through the Mac App Store since late February, and that distribution method could remain when the software is released to the public later this year, according to a new report.Citing "people familiar with the matter," AppleInsider reports that Apple plans to offer Lion as an update through the Mac App Store, giving those upgrading a chance to skip buying a disc from Apple or another retailer to get the new software.Apple has already taken numerous steps at cutting optical discs out of the world, both through digital content offerings on iTunes, and the full-on removal of optical drives in notebooks like the MacBook Air series. More recently, the company has been scaling back boxed software in its retail stores--including its own applications--favoring Mac App Store placement and distribution instead. The company pushed a similar, though more drastic strategy in phasing out floppy drives in the 1990s.AppleInsider's source says the company still plans to offer discs for those on slower connections. The company is also likely to offer such an option for those on Leopard, who therefore aren't able to run and install the Snow Leopard exclusive Mac App Store to grab the update. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.By giving users Lion through the Mac App Store, Apple would have the potential to get customers comfortable with its software distribution system, which requires users to sign up for an iTunes account. While subtle, the move could lead to additional purchases later on down the road, of which Apple gets a 30 percent cut. Earlier this year, Apple CEO Steve Jobs said the company had more than 200 million accounts on file as part of its payment system, making it what Jobs claimed to be the largest collection online.Along with the convenience for users who don't want to track down a disc, moving to digital downloads also gives Apple an extraordinary amount of control over security of the distribution, potentially keeping users from sharing a single disc to install the OS upgrade on multiple computers. Unlike Microsoft, Apple does not use serial keys or activation servers as part of its major OS updates, whereas software published through the Mac App Store can be tied to a single user account. Apple has said it plans to deliver Lion to users this year, and is expected to offer details on price, a specific release date, and additional features about the software at the company's Worldwide Developers Conference next month. Lion made its first debut at Apple's "Back to the Mac" event back in October, where the company also unveiled the second generation MacBook Air and iLife '11.
The 404 718- Where it's snowing in space (podcast)
The 404 718: Where it's snowing in space (podcast)
Our apologies to the listeners who waited patiently for us to fix the live stream this morning--CNET Live has a brand new layout and we're still working things out, so thanks for your patience and understanding!Today's topics include a new generation of Four Loko alternatives, social-networking shoes, and Wilson's struggle to jam a big tip into a small ear canal.New manufacturers are springing to life to fill the void left by Four Loko and Sparks, and one of them infuses alcohol into an aerosol spray of whipped cream. It's called Whipped Lightning, and it's the newest way to get alcohol poisoning thanks to its 30-proof, 15 percent alcohol content.But if you really want to end up in a hospital, try whipping it onto a glass of 40-proof chocolate milk, the new newest Four Loko substitute coming soon to Minnesota, California, and Arizona.Remember the Boba Fett Adidas sneakers we first saw on our buddy Peter Ha's feet back in September? Those looked pretty cool, but check out these new concept designs for a new pair of Adidas Superstars designed to look like Facebook and Twitter.Luckily they're only concepts (for now), but with fools paying more than $1,000 for an official Facebook hoodie, it's not hard to imagine them arriving at Foot Locker in the near future. And while you're there, be sure to look in the clearance bin for The 404 Adidas Superstars as well. Thanks for the image Ddawg!Tune in after the break as we advise Wilson how to properly insert the tip of an in-ear headphone like the Monster Turbine into his tiny canals. Be afraid--it's just as terrifying as it sounds.Episode 718Listen nowYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video  Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
Our apologies to the listeners who waited patiently for us to fix the live stream this morning--CNET Live has a brand new layout and we're still working things out, so thanks for your patience and understanding!Today's topics include a new generation of Four Loko alternatives, social-networking shoes, and Wilson's struggle to jam a big tip into a small ear canal.New manufacturers are springing to life to fill the void left by Four Loko and Sparks, and one of them infuses alcohol into an aerosol spray of whipped cream. It's called Whipped Lightning, and it's the newest way to get alcohol poisoning thanks to its 30-proof, 15 percent alcohol content.But if you really want to end up in a hospital, try whipping it onto a glass of 40-proof chocolate milk, the new newest Four Loko substitute coming soon to Minnesota, California, and Arizona.Remember the Boba Fett Adidas sneakers we first saw on our buddy Peter Ha's feet back in September? Those looked pretty cool, but check out these new concept designs for a new pair of Adidas Superstars designed to look like Facebook and Twitter.Luckily they're only concepts (for now), but with fools paying more than $1,000 for an official Facebook hoodie, it's not hard to imagine them arriving at Foot Locker in the near future. And while you're there, be sure to look in the clearance bin for The 404 Adidas Superstars as well. Thanks for the image Ddawg!Tune in after the break as we advise Wilson how to properly insert the tip of an in-ear headphone like the Monster Turbine into his tiny canals. Be afraid--it's just as terrifying as it sounds.Episode 718Listen nowYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video  Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
Opera Mini browser for iPhone-
Opera Mini browser for iPhone?
"Opera Mini" and "iPhone" are two words that fit uncomfortably together given the current state of the mobile industry, yet as Opera Software announced last week, it has combined them just the same. Moreover, the maker of desktop and mobile browsers for multiple platforms has been demonstrating the iPhone-capable browser at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain. Opera has been secretive and stingy about it, too, forbidding journalists from taking photos and refusing to show the product outside of their convention floor booth. In addition to raising flags about the program's stability, Opera's secretive treatment also raises questions. For instance, why would Opera go to the trouble of concocting an iPhone-ready browser when Apple routinely smacks down application submissions that compete with its native Safari browser? And even more significantly, why would Opera adapt Opera Mini, a browser meant to run on Java phones, instead of Opera Mobile, the full-fledged Web browser designed for capable smartphones like high-end Nokias and the HTC Touch?The choice to run with Mini is an attempt to dive through a loophole in Apple's SDK, Opera told CNET. Opera Mini is backed by a proxy server, which means that the browser gets compressed versions of Web pages via Opera's servers. In more technical terms, there's no code being executed or scripts bring run in Opera Mini. Every Web page request is projected, in a sense, through Opera's filter, instead of being actively generated from and delivered to the browser the way it is on Safari, which does run its own Web code. Although Opera might have landed on a workaround, we're not wasting too many brain cells wondering if Opera's iPhone experiment will actually lead to an Apple-vetted app. Last we heard, Opera had not submitted the app for iTunes consideration. Where we stand, Opera Mini on iPhone is a show piece designed to shine a spotlight on Apple's fierce stance toward competition, and to push the envelope.Not that we'd mind some choice in the browser sphere. Opera impressed us in 2009 with a slick beta redo of both Opera Mini and Opera Mobile browsers, for Java phones (works on some Android and BlackBerry models) and Symbian and Windows smartphones, respectively. We wouldn't mind trying either of Opera's browsers--with their nearly identical interfaces--on iPhone.
"Opera Mini" and "iPhone" are two words that fit uncomfortably together given the current state of the mobile industry, yet as Opera Software announced last week, it has combined them just the same. Moreover, the maker of desktop and mobile browsers for multiple platforms has been demonstrating the iPhone-capable browser at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain. Opera has been secretive and stingy about it, too, forbidding journalists from taking photos and refusing to show the product outside of their convention floor booth. In addition to raising flags about the program's stability, Opera's secretive treatment also raises questions. For instance, why would Opera go to the trouble of concocting an iPhone-ready browser when Apple routinely smacks down application submissions that compete with its native Safari browser? And even more significantly, why would Opera adapt Opera Mini, a browser meant to run on Java phones, instead of Opera Mobile, the full-fledged Web browser designed for capable smartphones like high-end Nokias and the HTC Touch?The choice to run with Mini is an attempt to dive through a loophole in Apple's SDK, Opera told CNET. Opera Mini is backed by a proxy server, which means that the browser gets compressed versions of Web pages via Opera's servers. In more technical terms, there's no code being executed or scripts bring run in Opera Mini. Every Web page request is projected, in a sense, through Opera's filter, instead of being actively generated from and delivered to the browser the way it is on Safari, which does run its own Web code. Although Opera might have landed on a workaround, we're not wasting too many brain cells wondering if Opera's iPhone experiment will actually lead to an Apple-vetted app. Last we heard, Opera had not submitted the app for iTunes consideration. Where we stand, Opera Mini on iPhone is a show piece designed to shine a spotlight on Apple's fierce stance toward competition, and to push the envelope.Not that we'd mind some choice in the browser sphere. Opera impressed us in 2009 with a slick beta redo of both Opera Mini and Opera Mobile browsers, for Java phones (works on some Android and BlackBerry models) and Symbian and Windows smartphones, respectively. We wouldn't mind trying either of Opera's browsers--with their nearly identical interfaces--on iPhone.
First Look- New Apple iPod Nano
First Look: New Apple iPod Nano
There's lots of small touches included on the new Nano that are easy to miss. For instance, Apple's music shuffle function has evolved. With this latest generation of iPods, after launching the player's shuffle function, users can now access the shuffle mode settings (shuffle song/shuffle album/shuffle off) from within the Now Playing pane by pressing the center button four times. This might seem insignificant, but it effectively gives users the ability to steer the shuffle function--randomizing song selections until they find something they like, then effortlessly disengaging the shuffle function once they've found an artist or album they'd like to hear more from. Accomplishing the same effect using the current generation of iPods is a maddening process of backing out of menus and manually navigating to an artist's album.Another understated addition is the inclusion of three video games right out of the box. The ability to purchase and play iPod video games from the iTunes store was an honor only video iPod users were given--and few took advantage of. The inclusion of the three games increases the device's holiday gift-appeal and whets the appetite for iPod users who had written off Apple's game offerings as trivial. Really, the game inclusion is just the time-honored pusherman technique at its best: use a freebie to get 'em hooked. To be fair, the iPod's games have really stepped up this past year. I'm still waiting for the next installment of Lost.On the downside, one feature that I believe Apple has sneaked out of both the new iPod Nano and iPod Classic is the ability to use the headphone jack as a composite video output jack, allowing for photos and videos to be played to your television set without the aid of a third-party interface. Honestly, most iPod users I encounter don't even know this feature exists on their 5G iPods, so I can understand Apple's motivation for cutting out this cool, but undervalued feature.Adding it all up along with the Nano's battery life of 24 hours for audio playback and 5 hours for video, the little guy just seems irresistible. The early adopters and file hoarders will surely prefer the Classic and Touch iPods, but I have little doubt that the new iPod Nano will be the most ubiquitous must-have MP3 player for the holidays.
There's lots of small touches included on the new Nano that are easy to miss. For instance, Apple's music shuffle function has evolved. With this latest generation of iPods, after launching the player's shuffle function, users can now access the shuffle mode settings (shuffle song/shuffle album/shuffle off) from within the Now Playing pane by pressing the center button four times. This might seem insignificant, but it effectively gives users the ability to steer the shuffle function--randomizing song selections until they find something they like, then effortlessly disengaging the shuffle function once they've found an artist or album they'd like to hear more from. Accomplishing the same effect using the current generation of iPods is a maddening process of backing out of menus and manually navigating to an artist's album.Another understated addition is the inclusion of three video games right out of the box. The ability to purchase and play iPod video games from the iTunes store was an honor only video iPod users were given--and few took advantage of. The inclusion of the three games increases the device's holiday gift-appeal and whets the appetite for iPod users who had written off Apple's game offerings as trivial. Really, the game inclusion is just the time-honored pusherman technique at its best: use a freebie to get 'em hooked. To be fair, the iPod's games have really stepped up this past year. I'm still waiting for the next installment of Lost.On the downside, one feature that I believe Apple has sneaked out of both the new iPod Nano and iPod Classic is the ability to use the headphone jack as a composite video output jack, allowing for photos and videos to be played to your television set without the aid of a third-party interface. Honestly, most iPod users I encounter don't even know this feature exists on their 5G iPods, so I can understand Apple's motivation for cutting out this cool, but undervalued feature.Adding it all up along with the Nano's battery life of 24 hours for audio playback and 5 hours for video, the little guy just seems irresistible. The early adopters and file hoarders will surely prefer the Classic and Touch iPods, but I have little doubt that the new iPod Nano will be the most ubiquitous must-have MP3 player for the holidays.
First Look- Apple iPod Touch 2G
First Look: Apple iPod Touch 2G
As expected, the biggest news with Apple's second-generation iPod Touch is its drastically reduced price. The 8GB version of the iPod Touch is now $229 (down from $299), the 16GB is $299 (down from $399), and the 32GB is $399 (down from $499).The latest firmware for the iPod Touch (version 2.1) is available for both the first- and second-generation players, and adds support for on-device Genius playlist creation, Microsoft Exchange push e-mail, multi-language keyboard and dictionary support, MobileMe, multiple calendar management, contacts search, and a scientific calculator.On the hardware end of things, we're happy to see that the new iPod Touch's lower price does not mean cut-rate construction. In fact, the new iPod Touch 2G feels sturdier and sexier than its predecessor, with a rounded chromed-steel backing that seamlessly wraps around the back and sides of the device much like the iPhone 3G. By popular demand, the iPod Touch 2G now includes a volume rocker switch just like its iPhone cousin, for making quick volume adjustments without fussing with the touch screen. A built-in speaker is also included, concealed within the body of the Touch.Just like the iPod Nano 4G and iPod Classic 2G, the second-gen Touch now accepts microphone input through its headphone jack, by way of compatible iPod accessories such as the newly announced Apple In-Ear headphones. That may not seem like a big deal at first glance, but when you add in the iPod Touch's built-in speaker and App store compatibility, the Touch is starting to look like a ripe platform for VoIP communication over Wi-Fi. Time will tell.Apple has also bundled Nike+ hardware and software directly into the iPod Touch 2G, leaving you to only need the Nike in-shoe transmitter hardware to activate the feature.Apple rates the new iPod Touch at 36 hours for music (up from the first-gen's 22 hours) and 6 hours of video (unchanged), although mileage will vary based on screen brightness and Wi-Fi usage.Click here for full coverage of Apple's "Let's Rock" event.
As expected, the biggest news with Apple's second-generation iPod Touch is its drastically reduced price. The 8GB version of the iPod Touch is now $229 (down from $299), the 16GB is $299 (down from $399), and the 32GB is $399 (down from $499).The latest firmware for the iPod Touch (version 2.1) is available for both the first- and second-generation players, and adds support for on-device Genius playlist creation, Microsoft Exchange push e-mail, multi-language keyboard and dictionary support, MobileMe, multiple calendar management, contacts search, and a scientific calculator.On the hardware end of things, we're happy to see that the new iPod Touch's lower price does not mean cut-rate construction. In fact, the new iPod Touch 2G feels sturdier and sexier than its predecessor, with a rounded chromed-steel backing that seamlessly wraps around the back and sides of the device much like the iPhone 3G. By popular demand, the iPod Touch 2G now includes a volume rocker switch just like its iPhone cousin, for making quick volume adjustments without fussing with the touch screen. A built-in speaker is also included, concealed within the body of the Touch.Just like the iPod Nano 4G and iPod Classic 2G, the second-gen Touch now accepts microphone input through its headphone jack, by way of compatible iPod accessories such as the newly announced Apple In-Ear headphones. That may not seem like a big deal at first glance, but when you add in the iPod Touch's built-in speaker and App store compatibility, the Touch is starting to look like a ripe platform for VoIP communication over Wi-Fi. Time will tell.Apple has also bundled Nike+ hardware and software directly into the iPod Touch 2G, leaving you to only need the Nike in-shoe transmitter hardware to activate the feature.Apple rates the new iPod Touch at 36 hours for music (up from the first-gen's 22 hours) and 6 hours of video (unchanged), although mileage will vary based on screen brightness and Wi-Fi usage.Click here for full coverage of Apple's "Let's Rock" event.
Steve Jobs' Palo Alto home robbed by clueless thief
Steve Jobs' Palo Alto home robbed by clueless thief
The Palo Alto home of the late Steve Jobs was robbed on July 17 of more than $60,000 in computers and other items, according to the Santa Clara County District Attorney's office.Kariem McFarlin, a 35-year-old man from Alameda, Calif., was arrested and charged with the burglary and selling the stolen property, CBS News reported today. The defendant is being held with bail set at $500,000 pending a court hearing on August 20.Despite the large haul of personal computers, the alleged thief seemed unaware of the home's famous owner."Based on the evidence, it looks like just a random burglary where the guy broke in," Scott Tsui, Santa Clara County supervising deputy district attorney, told CNET News. Santa Clara County prosecutor Tom Flattery also confirmed to CBS that the robber likely did not know the significance of the home.Related storiesSteve Jobs at Apple: A retrospectiveSteve Jobs: A timelineSteve Jobs, the consummate challengerThe residence itself is temporarily unoccupied as it undergoes renovation and has been surrounded by a construction barrier since July. That scenario may have proven too tempting for the burglar to pass up."The house was under renovation," Tsui told CNET, "so you know how that can be. I didn't see the house myself, but I'm not sure if the conditions of the perimeter were as secure as they would have been with a regular house. I think that may have given the defendant an opportunity to break in."The D.A.'s office is so far treating this as a regular burglary."It's unfortunate," Tsui added. "The fact that Mr. Jobs was a famous person makes it a little bit different. But other than that, we're not seeing too much of a difference from other burglaries."
The Palo Alto home of the late Steve Jobs was robbed on July 17 of more than $60,000 in computers and other items, according to the Santa Clara County District Attorney's office.Kariem McFarlin, a 35-year-old man from Alameda, Calif., was arrested and charged with the burglary and selling the stolen property, CBS News reported today. The defendant is being held with bail set at $500,000 pending a court hearing on August 20.Despite the large haul of personal computers, the alleged thief seemed unaware of the home's famous owner."Based on the evidence, it looks like just a random burglary where the guy broke in," Scott Tsui, Santa Clara County supervising deputy district attorney, told CNET News. Santa Clara County prosecutor Tom Flattery also confirmed to CBS that the robber likely did not know the significance of the home.Related storiesSteve Jobs at Apple: A retrospectiveSteve Jobs: A timelineSteve Jobs, the consummate challengerThe residence itself is temporarily unoccupied as it undergoes renovation and has been surrounded by a construction barrier since July. That scenario may have proven too tempting for the burglar to pass up."The house was under renovation," Tsui told CNET, "so you know how that can be. I didn't see the house myself, but I'm not sure if the conditions of the perimeter were as secure as they would have been with a regular house. I think that may have given the defendant an opportunity to break in."The D.A.'s office is so far treating this as a regular burglary."It's unfortunate," Tsui added. "The fact that Mr. Jobs was a famous person makes it a little bit different. But other than that, we're not seeing too much of a difference from other burglaries."
Steve Jobs leaves apt rebuke of Hewlett-Packard
Steve Jobs leaves apt rebuke of Hewlett-Packard
Imagine Apple without the MacBook Air or the iPhone.While HP is not Apple, there would be little left to hang a hat on if HP jettisoned its PC business.I had a discussion with Bod O'Donnell, an analyst at IDC who follows HP closely, about this (related to HP possibly spinning off its PC business).Hardware is the face of HP, according to O'Donnell. I agree. All of those EliteBook, Envy, and ProBook laptops are hard, tangible, three-dimensional representations of what HP is: first and foremost, a hardware company.And don't tell me that the thousands of engineers and designers at HP can't come up with a groundbreaking laptop or tablet. (The Touchpad had a decent shot at success.And it would have improved over time.)I own a MacBook Air now, but I'm not wedded to Apple.And I like HP laptops (which I've owned in the past). Particularly, the EliteBook and ProBook lines.My point is, that's what HP represents to me and I'm sure millions of others--and this drives buying decisions. If HP offers an attractive laptop, such as the ProBook 5530M, that product improves my image of the company.Just as my opinion of Apple changed, for the better, when it first came out with the MacBook Air in January of 2008.And I've been buying Airs ever since. Of course, this is all above and beyond the well-known arguments that HP gains tremendous leverage and cost advantages with component suppliers by being the No.1 PC maker in the world. Another thing Steve Jobs could relate to.But getting back to Jobs' criticism.You don't build a great company by dismantling it and then trying to clone the strategies of other, less-successful companies.Certainly not if you're HP. Let's hope HP's board is smart enough to see Jobs' rebuke for what it is: good advice.
Imagine Apple without the MacBook Air or the iPhone.While HP is not Apple, there would be little left to hang a hat on if HP jettisoned its PC business.I had a discussion with Bod O'Donnell, an analyst at IDC who follows HP closely, about this (related to HP possibly spinning off its PC business).Hardware is the face of HP, according to O'Donnell. I agree. All of those EliteBook, Envy, and ProBook laptops are hard, tangible, three-dimensional representations of what HP is: first and foremost, a hardware company.And don't tell me that the thousands of engineers and designers at HP can't come up with a groundbreaking laptop or tablet. (The Touchpad had a decent shot at success.And it would have improved over time.)I own a MacBook Air now, but I'm not wedded to Apple.And I like HP laptops (which I've owned in the past). Particularly, the EliteBook and ProBook lines.My point is, that's what HP represents to me and I'm sure millions of others--and this drives buying decisions. If HP offers an attractive laptop, such as the ProBook 5530M, that product improves my image of the company.Just as my opinion of Apple changed, for the better, when it first came out with the MacBook Air in January of 2008.And I've been buying Airs ever since. Of course, this is all above and beyond the well-known arguments that HP gains tremendous leverage and cost advantages with component suppliers by being the No.1 PC maker in the world. Another thing Steve Jobs could relate to.But getting back to Jobs' criticism.You don't build a great company by dismantling it and then trying to clone the strategies of other, less-successful companies.Certainly not if you're HP. Let's hope HP's board is smart enough to see Jobs' rebuke for what it is: good advice.
Steve Jobs comic book 'biography' on the way
Steve Jobs comic book 'biography' on the way
For those who can't wait until 2012 for Steve Jobs' authorized biography, another will be here this August--with illustrations to boot.Publisher Bluewater Productions announced this morning that "Steve Jobs: The co-founder of Apple" will hit store shelves in two months. The comic book biography promises to give readers "unique insight" into Apple CEO's "legendary drive to the top and his continuing fight to stay there." "His innovations command front page news, speculation of his health affects the stock market. Not bad for a college dropout," Bluewater president Darren Davis said in a statement. "His story, and that of Apple, is epic. I'm surprised it took us this long to publish a proper, balanced biography of him."The illustrated Jobs bio, which will run 32 pages, joins a similar effort by Bluewater to profile Facebook co-founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg. That graphic novel promises to detail the road to Zuckerberg's success, and hits stores in September. The group has done the same for more mainstream celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Lady Gaga, and Lucille Ball. Bluewater's biography of Jobs comes well ahead of an authorized biography by Simon & Schuster biographer Walter Isaacson. Dubbed "iSteve: The Book of Jobs," that work arrives next March. Shortly after hitting Amazon and Apple's own iBookstore as a preorder, the title rocketed to the top-seller list.Bluewater says readers will be able to pick up the illustrated biography at local comic book stores, as well as through Amazon for $3.99.
For those who can't wait until 2012 for Steve Jobs' authorized biography, another will be here this August--with illustrations to boot.Publisher Bluewater Productions announced this morning that "Steve Jobs: The co-founder of Apple" will hit store shelves in two months. The comic book biography promises to give readers "unique insight" into Apple CEO's "legendary drive to the top and his continuing fight to stay there." "His innovations command front page news, speculation of his health affects the stock market. Not bad for a college dropout," Bluewater president Darren Davis said in a statement. "His story, and that of Apple, is epic. I'm surprised it took us this long to publish a proper, balanced biography of him."The illustrated Jobs bio, which will run 32 pages, joins a similar effort by Bluewater to profile Facebook co-founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg. That graphic novel promises to detail the road to Zuckerberg's success, and hits stores in September. The group has done the same for more mainstream celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Lady Gaga, and Lucille Ball. Bluewater's biography of Jobs comes well ahead of an authorized biography by Simon & Schuster biographer Walter Isaacson. Dubbed "iSteve: The Book of Jobs," that work arrives next March. Shortly after hitting Amazon and Apple's own iBookstore as a preorder, the title rocketed to the top-seller list.Bluewater says readers will be able to pick up the illustrated biography at local comic book stores, as well as through Amazon for $3.99.
Steve Jobs biopic to premiere at Sundance next month
Steve Jobs biopic to premiere at Sundance next month
The first film about Apple co-founder Steve Jobs since his death last year will be the "one more thing" at the famed Sundance Film Festival next month.The festival's organizers today announced that "jOBS" would be the closing night film on January 27, marking the film's first public showing.The film, which is not to be confused with a separate production penned by "The Social Network" and "The West Wing" writer Aaron Sorkin, stars Ashton Kutcher as Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. The film will cover the years 1971 through 2000. That bit of Jobs' history includes the founding of Apple, as well as his ouster, the forming of NeXT and Pixar, then the return to the company when Apple acquired NeXT.Principal photography on "jOBS" began in the Jobs family's original house in June. Photos from the production have since leaked out, showing Kutcher and others in costume.Along with Kutcher, the film also stars Matthew Modine as former Apple CEO John Sculley, Josh Gad as Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, and "The Help" star Ahna O'Reilly playing Chris-Ann Brennan, Jobs' girlfriend, and the mother of his daughter Lisa. Other additions include J.K. Simmons and Kevin Dunn who will play venture capitalist Arthur Rock and former Apple CEO Gil Amelio respectively.Still no word on a theatrical release. The Hollywood Reporter notes that including it as the last film at Sundance makes for a good sales pitch to would-be film buyers.(via The Hollywood Reporter)
The first film about Apple co-founder Steve Jobs since his death last year will be the "one more thing" at the famed Sundance Film Festival next month.The festival's organizers today announced that "jOBS" would be the closing night film on January 27, marking the film's first public showing.The film, which is not to be confused with a separate production penned by "The Social Network" and "The West Wing" writer Aaron Sorkin, stars Ashton Kutcher as Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. The film will cover the years 1971 through 2000. That bit of Jobs' history includes the founding of Apple, as well as his ouster, the forming of NeXT and Pixar, then the return to the company when Apple acquired NeXT.Principal photography on "jOBS" began in the Jobs family's original house in June. Photos from the production have since leaked out, showing Kutcher and others in costume.Along with Kutcher, the film also stars Matthew Modine as former Apple CEO John Sculley, Josh Gad as Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, and "The Help" star Ahna O'Reilly playing Chris-Ann Brennan, Jobs' girlfriend, and the mother of his daughter Lisa. Other additions include J.K. Simmons and Kevin Dunn who will play venture capitalist Arthur Rock and former Apple CEO Gil Amelio respectively.Still no word on a theatrical release. The Hollywood Reporter notes that including it as the last film at Sundance makes for a good sales pitch to would-be film buyers.(via The Hollywood Reporter)
Steve Jobs bio topping best-seller lists
Steve Jobs bio topping best-seller lists
The new biography of Steve Jobs written by Walter Isaacson is flying off the shelves, according to the latest stats from Nielsen.The book, titled "Steve Jobs," sold 379,000 copies in the United States just in its first week, said theBookseller.com, citing data from Nielsen's BookScan service.The bio outsold the week's next-best seller--John Grisham's "The Litigators"--by three to one. It also outsold thesecond best-selling nonfiction title--Bill O'Reilly's nonfiction "Killing Lincoln"--by almost eight to one.Released on October 24, Isaacson's biography was written with Jobs' cooperation but offers an unvarnished and often painfully truthful look at his life and career. To get the full story, Isaacson interviewed a variety of people associated with Jobs, both personally and professionally, many of whom openly painted both the good and the bad aspects of the late Apple leader.Related storiesThe authorized Steve Jobs bio arrives (Apple Talk Weekly)Steve Jobs bio a possible 2011 top seller for AmazonSteve Jobs book to share his memorable quotesThe book was one of the highest sellers on Amazon even before it hit the market, capturing a huge number of preorders. Though 2011 has fewer than two months left, the bio could become Amazon's top seller for the entire year.It's already the 18th best-selling book of the year overall, according to theBookseller.com, and scored the highest number of sales in one week for any book in the United States since last November. Beyond the shores of the U.S., the bio was one of the hottest-selling nonfiction titles in the U.K, selling 37,244 copies in its first week.Disclosure: "Steve Jobs" is published by Simon & Schuster, which like CNET is owned by CBS.
The new biography of Steve Jobs written by Walter Isaacson is flying off the shelves, according to the latest stats from Nielsen.The book, titled "Steve Jobs," sold 379,000 copies in the United States just in its first week, said theBookseller.com, citing data from Nielsen's BookScan service.The bio outsold the week's next-best seller--John Grisham's "The Litigators"--by three to one. It also outsold thesecond best-selling nonfiction title--Bill O'Reilly's nonfiction "Killing Lincoln"--by almost eight to one.Released on October 24, Isaacson's biography was written with Jobs' cooperation but offers an unvarnished and often painfully truthful look at his life and career. To get the full story, Isaacson interviewed a variety of people associated with Jobs, both personally and professionally, many of whom openly painted both the good and the bad aspects of the late Apple leader.Related storiesThe authorized Steve Jobs bio arrives (Apple Talk Weekly)Steve Jobs bio a possible 2011 top seller for AmazonSteve Jobs book to share his memorable quotesThe book was one of the highest sellers on Amazon even before it hit the market, capturing a huge number of preorders. Though 2011 has fewer than two months left, the bio could become Amazon's top seller for the entire year.It's already the 18th best-selling book of the year overall, according to theBookseller.com, and scored the highest number of sales in one week for any book in the United States since last November. Beyond the shores of the U.S., the bio was one of the hottest-selling nonfiction titles in the U.K, selling 37,244 copies in its first week.Disclosure: "Steve Jobs" is published by Simon & Schuster, which like CNET is owned by CBS.
What Movie Did You Feel the Need to See Even Though It Got Terrible Reviews
With The Legend of Hercules, 2014 seems to have its first major 0% movie on Rotten Tomatoes. A couple other titles opening this weekend also have the same score, but Hercules is the only wide release among them. It will be interesting to see how the movie does at the box office, because obviously a lot of people are still going to see it. Millions of moviegoers ignore what the critics say on a regular basis, if they even are aware of what they;re saying. Most of you readers are more savvy. Clearly, since you;re reading a great movie blog run and written by passionate and knowledgeable cinephiles with the best opinions on the Internet. Seriously, though, you appreciate criticism, but sometimes you just really want to see Kellan Lutz with his shirt off. Or maybe not that, but something else that appeals to your interests regardless of whether it;s supposed to be good or bad. There are certain filmmakers and favorite actors and actresses that we;ll always support or feel compelled to watch, even as their careers take a downturn (hopefully only temporarily). Who among the millions of true Coen brothers fans could ignore The Ladykillers just because it was, unlike most of their work, panned? Who among all of you didn;t keep going to see the next two Star Wars prequels, even if your local critic rated it little better than The Phantom Menace, which you also hated? I;ll admit, it;s hard to imagine there;s anything redeeming about a movie that gets completely trashed in reviews and is stamped with that dreadful 0%. But it;s hard to ignore a movie that has at least some positive marks. If someone likes it, maybe you will, too, right? I;m always up for checking something out to make up my own mind about it. After all, many critics originally came down hard upon films now considered classics, like Blade Runner, The Shining, Psycho and Vertigo. I tend to see most of the big bad movies anyway for my job, but I would have probably gone to see Battleship in spite of its reviews. One I did skip last year, though, was The Lone Ranger, which I;m now regretting. Even before it showed up in this poll;s results, I;d been hearing a lot of defense for its entertainment value ever since it hit DVD. But we always tend to give something a better shot on video, don;t we? It;s different when we;re not spending $30 on the thing that could be as terrible as the critics say. Which movie did you feel the need to see in spite of its negative review (and did you end up liking it)? Here are some responses received so far via Twitter: @thefilmcynic A Good Day to Die Hard — Gregory Sahadachny (@MisterGreggles) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic I felt the need see THE COUNSELOR b/c people were so mad about it. If critics are furious, movie;s often good. — Ryan Sartor (@ryansartor) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY - Glad I ignored early criticism as I had a great time with it. — Adrian Charlie (@Adrian_Charlie) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic Hmm, dammit, that I have to think about. Recently though, the correct answer is The Secret Life of Walter Mitty — J.C. De Leon (@jcdeleon1) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic The Canyons. Moments of... I loved LiLo — Jeanie Finlay (@JeanieFinlay) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic Battleship and Yes, liked it very much — Andrew E Plotkin (@andreweplotkin) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic hansel and gretel: witch hunters and yes it was everything i wanted and more a masterpiece of modern cinema — cutie pie dan (@DannyAston1) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic Machete Kills. — Adam Frazier (@AdamFrazier) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic Tomcats. We used to do desperate things for R Rated movies before the Internet. — john lichman (@jlichman) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic GI Joe 2, because the cartoon & toys were my childhood. And it was bad. Better than the 1st, but still awful. — Kyle Ailinger (@KAilinger) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic MONKEYBONE, based on EW;s enthusiasm amid a sea of negative reviews. I did not enjoy it. — John Gholson (@gholson) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic Trash Humpers. I kinda liked it. — Michael K. Potter (@stumpymccripple) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic Silent Hill sequel. Oh my god, I never have regretted anything more in my life. — Boro Y Boi (@ayobobun) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic out of the furnace — Tim Spear (@tspear1) January 11, 2014 @thefilmcynic John Carter for sure — John Andrews (@Jandies1) January 11, 2014 @thefilmcynic Youth Without Youth, Speed Racer, Battle: Los Angeles (that trailer!), The Sitter, The Happening, and The Cat in the Hat. — Jack Giroux (@JackGi) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic THE LONE RANGER (JOHN CARTER, SPEED RACER. And I;m happy I did, on all accounts). — Jesse A Carp (@jessecarp) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic The Lone Ranger. Surprisingly, yes — Craig Kennedy (@LivingInCinema) January 10, 2014 @thefilmcynic Going with a tie between THE LONE RANGER and THE COUNSELOR. Really liked both. — Edwin Arnaudin (@EdwinArnaudin) January 10, 2014 Join in the next discussion: and
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