Twitter rethinks its war against developers
For the past three years, Twitter has sent third-party developers not-so-subtle clues that they’re unwanted — its programming rules arbitrarily limit the success of unofficial apps, such as their audience sizes or features. That low ceiling might not last for much longer, though. Co-founder Ev Williams tells tech conference guests that the restrictive API was one of Twitter’s “strategic errors.” Twitter should be a platform that developers genuinely want to build on, he says, and the earlier decision “wasn’t a win/win” for developers, users or even Twitter itself.
It’s not clear what the reforms entail, although Williams hints that Twitter might not be waiting for a new permanent CEO to shift direction. Either way, it’s easy to see why the company would have a change of heart. While Twitter is still adding lots of users, it’s also losing money. Critics regularly accuse it of a lack of focus (Williams now wants it to be a “real-time news platform”) and doing little to innovate besides snapping up other companies. Stronger third-party support might save Twitter from depending so heavily on its own apps and websites — it could ride the success of someone else’s smash hit by selling ads and generating buzz.
Filed under: Internet
Source: Business Insider
Television Academy replaces DVDs with Chromecasts for Emmy voting
Emmy voters won’t have to worry about keeping up with the remote for their DVD players for much longer. The Television Academy is teaming up with Google to replace the truckload of physical media sent out each year by giving each eligible member a Chromecast. “The initiative represents the latest move by the Academy to evolve and enhance the viewing and voting procedures for the Emmy Awards with state-of-the-art technology and methodology,” the press release explains. Opting for streaming rather than mailing out DVDs for the final round of voting isn’t only more environmentally friendly, but it’ll also open up the voting process. Instead of only being able to make selections in four “blue ribbon panels,” members can cast their vote for any of the major programming categories alongside professional categories that align with their experience. As you might expect, the streaming will be handled through from the Television Academy’s members-only web and mobile apps.
Filed under: Home Entertainment, HD, Google
Via: Android Central
Source: Television Academy (Emmys)
Google’s Eddystone serves up location-based info via Bluetooth beacons
Using low-energy Bluetooth beacons to serve up location-based info to customers isn’t a new development. We’ve seen more than a few implementations of Apple’s iBeacon tech. Google has a new project that employs a similar setup, and it’s called Eddystone. How does it differ from Apple’s Bluetooth initiative? The effort is a “new and open format” that “anyone” can implement. In addition to working alongside a mobile app to beam info to your phone or tablet when you’re in a specified location, Eddystone can also broadcast a URL when an app isn’t an option. Rather than missing out, a company can choose to send a web link instead. And it works with both Android and iOS devices, too. There are also two location options, meaning developers can choose one of two APIs that will either find and ping a nearby beacon (like in a museum) or send info when you visit a specific location (e.g., latitude/longitude).
Google’s already using the beacons to bolster its own apps and services. The company leverages the platform for real-time transit info in Portland, Oregon, and it plans to employ the tech to prioritize Google Now cards based on your location as well. Of course, privacy is a concern when you’re letting a company access your whereabouts, and Eddystone uses Ephemeral Identifiers (EIDs) for security. The EIDs can only be decoded by “authorized clients,” so activities like tracking luggage can be done securely. Google isn’t offering too much info on how the whole system is locked down just yet, so we’ll keep an eye out for additional details as it gets more use.
For companies with existing Bluetooth beacons, Google says Eddystone can be installed with a firmware update. This means that they won’t have to invest more money to replace a current setup. What’s more, Google’s tech keeps tabs on a fleet of the beacons, pointing out when one isn’t working properly and other issues that may arise. This is particularly important in places like sports stadiums, where a team will likely blanket the facility with the Bluetooth devices for all spectators. Eddystone is available for interested parties now, and we’re curious to see how companies choose to leverage it.
Filed under: Internet, Mobile, Google
Via: The Verge
Source: Google
Chevron Debuts Apple Pay Gasoline Pump Pilot Program in Bay Area
Chevron has kicked off an Apple Pay pilot program in the Bay Area that allows customers to use Apple Pay to pay for their gasoline directly at the pump, according to the company’s Twitter account. Apple Pay can currently be used at a Chevron location in San Ramon, with a second location in Cupertino becoming available in the near future.
@kevinkeitai 18060 San Ramon Valley Blvd in San Ramon accepts NFC including Apple Pay at the dispenser now. Cupertino coming soon!
— Chevron (@Chevron) July 14, 2015
Chevron first announced plans to expand its use of Apple Pay to gas pumps in late 2014, but company did not have a clear timeline for the rollout of Apple Pay at the pump. Following the pilot program testing, it’s likely Chevron will expand Apple Pay to other locations across the United States.
Though support for Apple Pay at the pump is just now rolling out, Chevron was listed as an early Apple Pay partner. The payments service is supported at Chevron and Texaco gas stations, but can only be used at the in-store cash register, a considerably less convenient option than paying right at the pump.
Leaked image shows off what’s supposedly the new Moto X, Moto G and DROID devices
Many rumors have been floating around regarding Motorola’s next smartphone lineup, especially when it comes to design language. A few leaked images have already surfaced of the next generation Moto G and Moto X, with both phones featuring similar aesthetics. As we near the imminent launch of the next Moto devices, the folks over at HellomotoHK have leaked a new image that shows us what’s supposedly up next for the Lenovo-owned smartphone maker.
Moving from left to right, the source tells us that we’re looking at a mini version of the new DROID, the Moto G (3rd Gen.), the normal version of the new DROID, and finally the Moto X (3rd Gen.). It should be noted that we can’t vouch for the validity of this leak, though it seems apparent that Motorola has decided on a general theme for its upcoming line of smartphones.
Even though the source notes that the first and third images are of the new DROID Mini and DROID proper, both backplates look to be almost the same size. The hexagonal pattern on these two devices also looks like something that would only be found on a DROID phone. Like I said, we’re not entirely sure if these images are legitimate, so we’ll have to wait for an official announcement from the OEM to know anything for certain.
Just based off of the leaked images so far, what are your thoughts on the new Moto lineup? Yay or nay?
Amazon to offer deals on Fire TV Sticks, Chromebooks and more during its Prime Day sale
Amazon has been gearing up to offer Prime customers a ton of great savings during its big Prime Day Sale, which officially kicks off tomorrow. The company claims that this 24-hour sale will be bigger than Black Friday, and after checking out some of the deals that will be available tomorrow, we’d have to agree. The online retailer has just outed a list of deals that will go live tomorrow, covering a wide range of product categories.
The notable items on sale tomorrow include the Fire TV Stick, Fire HD 7 and HD 7 Kids Edition tablets, Kindle e-reader, Chromebooks, and even a pack of Amazon gift cards. Here’s a list of just some of the deals you can take advantage of tomorrow:
- Fire TV Stick, fastest selling Amazon device of all time, $15 off
- Kindle, $30 off
- Fire HD 7, $60 off
- Fire HD 7 Kids Edition, $60 off
- 32-inch LED TV, $75
- 40-inch 1080p LED TV, $115
- Brand-name 32-inch Smart HDTV, under $200
- 50-inch 4K TV bundle, under $1000
- Bose headphones at the lowest price ever on Amazon
- Chromebook laptop, only $199
- Over 50% off two Nikon COOLPIX cameras
- Connected Car and Scan Tool products starting at 60% off
- Road-trip-ready automotive products starting at 50% off
- Buy an Amazon.com Gift Card multipack, get $10 in Amazon.com promotional credit
- Get 25% bonus Amazon Coins when you buy 5,000 or 10,000 Amazon Coins
- Prime Now will also offer deals in the six cities where the service is offered
Remember, you must be an Amazon Prime member to get access to these deals. Haven’t signed up for your subscription yet? Fear not, because Amazon will let you sign up for a one-month free trial to the premium shopping service. If you’re interested, head to the link below to enroll.
Amazon Prime Day begins tonight at midnight PT, so don’t miss out!
Join the Celebration:
- Transparent Red Carpet Experience: Amazon customers in the US, UK and Germany will have a chance to win a trip to the Transparent Season 2 premiere this fall. One winner and a guest from each country will receive round-trip airfare, hotel stay and transportation as well as a chance to meet the cast and creators from the Golden Globe-winning Amazon Original Series. For a chance to win in the US visit:amazon.com/redcarpet.
- Listen to Win: Prime members in the US who listen to any song on Prime Music will automatically be entered to win up-to $25,000 in Amazon Gift Cards. Prime members can stream a song, an album or listen to any Prime Station or Playlist for a chance to win Amazon.com Gift Card prizes, ranging from $1,000 to the Grand Prize of $25,000 in Amazon.com Gift Cards. For a chance to win visit: amazon.com/listentowin-rules.
Deals Preview: The following are examples of some of the deals that will be available at various times throughout Prime Day.
- Fire TV Stick, fastest selling Amazon device of all time, $15 off
- Kindle, $30 off
- Fire HD 7, $60 off
- Fire HD 7 Kids Edition, $60 off
- 32-inch LED TV, $75
- 40-inch 1080p LED TV, $115
- Brand-name 32-inch Smart HDTV, under $200
- 50-inch 4K TV bundle, under $1000
- Bose headphones at the lowest price ever on Amazon
- Chromebook laptop, only $199
- Over 50% off two Nikon COOLPIX cameras
- Highly rated binoculars, under $120
- Two security camera-kits, $279.99
- K’NEX 2-in-1 Ferris Wheel Building Set (Amazon Exclusive), $35.99
- K’NEX Crossfire Chaos Roller Coaster Building Set (Amazon Exclusive), $23.99
- Playskool Heroes Transformers Rescue Bots Optimus Prime Figure (Amazon Exclusive), $9.99
- iRobot Roomba Pet Vacuum Cleaning Robot, under $300
- Husqvarna mower, under $300
- 40 lightning deals on DVDs up to 75% off
- Up to 50% off any of the Harry Potter books
- Save more than 70% on the Divergent Series Complete Box Set of books
- Save up to 70% on select kitchen products from top brands like Cuisinart, KitchenAid, Foodsaver and Thermos
- Save up to 50% on select tools for the DIY auto enthusiast
- Connected Car and Scan Tool products starting at 60% off
- Road-trip-ready automotive products starting at 50% off
- Save more than 50% on Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain
- 30% off select clothing, shoes, jewelry, watches & more
- 60% off Amazon Elements Baby Wipes with code ELEMENTS60
- Free luxury beauty sample box with $50 purchase of luxury beauty products, with promo code LUXSAMPLES
- Buy an Amazon.com Gift Card multipack, get $10 in Amazon.com promotional credit
- Get 25% bonus Amazon Coins when you buy 5,000 or 10,000 Amazon Coins
- Prime Now will also offer deals in the six cities where the service is offered
#PrimeLiving Photo Contest: Through July 15, members are invited to snap a photo of #PrimeLiving moments and upload them atamazon.com/primeliving for the chance to win $10,000 in Amazon Gift Cards. To learn more about the #PrimeLiving photo contest and get inspiration from artists around the world, watch here.
Prime Personalities: Amazon invites customers to take a quiz to discover what kind of Prime member they are, and enter for the chance to win a $2,000 Amazon.com Gift Card. No purchase necessary. See contest rules at amzn.to/QUIZ.
Deals on the go: Prime members can shop Prime Day deals on any device, including smartphones and tablets and find deals anytime, anywhere.
It’s a great time to try Prime: Anyone can sign up for Prime and participate in Prime Day, eligible customers can sign up for a 30-day free trial of Prime at amazon.com/primeday.
More to Prime
Amazon Prime is an annual membership program for $99 a year that offers customers unlimited Free Two-Day Shipping on more than 20 million items across all categories, unlimited streaming of tens of thousands of movies and TV episodes, more than one million songs, more than one thousand playlists and hundreds of stations with Prime Music, early access to select lightning deals all year long, free secure, unlimited photo storage in Amazon Cloud Drive with Prime Photos and access to more than 800,000 books to borrow with the Kindle Owners’ Lending Library. Members in more than 500 cities times also receive unlimited Free Same-Day Delivery on more than a million items. In addition Prime members in Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Brooklyn, Dallas, Manhattan and Miami and even London receive one and two hour delivery on a selection of tens of thousands of everyday essentials with the dedicated Prime Now mobile app. Not a member? Start a free trial of Amazon Prime atamazon.com/primeday.
About Amazon
Amazon.com opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995. The company is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire phone, Fire tablets, Fire TV, and Amazon Echo are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon.
Fluance announces the Fi50, a new portable Bluetooth speaker
Fluance today revealed its latest addition to its Fi series of portable Bluetooth speakers, the Fi50. If you need something for on the go, the Fi50 might be the solution, offering aptX enhanced audio that produced rich, concert-like sound.
The Fi50 is a two-way high performance speaker with a premium wooden design. It boasts of dual full-range 5″ woven woofers, coaxial tweeters, a 40 watt amp, all working together to produce unmatched clarity. It’s the perfect solution for any audiophile on the go.
On top there’s a touch control panel where you can control volume levels and equalizer settings. It features a 2.1A USB port for quick charging and your standard 3.5mm auxiliary port for those that would rather listen to music traditionally instead of over Bluetooth.
If you’re interested in the Fluance Fi50, it comes in Black Ash, Natural Walnut, or Lucky Bamboo for $199 straight from Fluance.
Come comment on this article: Fluance announces the Fi50, a new portable Bluetooth speaker
Television Academy providing Emmy voters with free Chromecasts
Are you among the group that decides who and what gets an Emmy? Didn’t think so. The people that do get to vote, however, are about to become very happy about the move to simplify the process. The Television Academy has signed a multi-year deal with Google to provide voters with a free Chromecast to view nominees.
Maury McIntyre, the Television Academy’s president and chief operating officer, boasted about the partnership with Google:
“This multi-year commitment with Google will provide a superior experience for viewing Emmy-nominated content. It also gives our members a great way to view programming across their devices year-around.”
Moving away from DVDs and packing materials is among the reasons for the Television Academy enlisting Google’s help. Not only will going digital assist reduce the Television Academy’s impact on the environment, but it will also reduce the risk of content being pirated. With Chromecast, Emmy voters can simply call upon content and Cast (or send) it to their televisions. Allowing Google to supply Emmy voters with Chromecasts will also reduce costs.
The Television Academy will announce the nominees for the 67th Primetime Emmy Awards on July 16. The ceremony will then take place on September 20 at the Nokia Theatre and broadcast on FOX.
Source: Television Academy
Come comment on this article: Television Academy providing Emmy voters with free Chromecasts
Comcast partners with EA to release XFINITY Games platform
Comcast has partnered up with the giant video game publisher EA to bring some gaming titles to Comcast’s X1 platform. This partnership has lead to a new service called XFINITY Games that’s launching in beta today that will allow you to play video games on your TV using your phone or tablet.
The service streams games over the internet to X1 set-top boxes and utilizes smart devices as a controller, so customers won’t need any extra equipment.
As of right now, it looks only mobile EA games are available, so don’t expect to stream Dragon Age to your TV without a dedicated gaming machine. But for the casual gamer with a decent internet connection, it’s a pretty cool concept.
source: Comcast
Come comment on this article: Comcast partners with EA to release XFINITY Games platform
Skype updated to 5.5 and brings new features and improvement
Skype has updated their Android app today and with it brings a few bug fixes and a few new features. Battery use has been improved upon allowing you to leave Skype running all the time and not waste tons of battery while still being to sign in. However for those who still like to sign out it is now easier than ever because Skype always remembers your login details to make it easier to sign in next time.
Another improvement is the ability to preview web links just like you can on Mac or iOS. This allows you to get a small preview of the link you have been sent without needing to click on it. For example a YouTube video will show the thumbnail image within the Skype chat box.
Source: Skype
Come comment on this article: Skype updated to 5.5 and brings new features and improvement
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