Alleged OS X 10.10 with Control Center, Visual Tweaks, and More Shown in Blurry Photos
Earlier today, a thread appeared on the Reddit Mac community claiming to share a set of four blurry photos of OS X 10.10. The poster, using a throwaway account, claimed to have taken the photos himself at Apple headquarters in Cupertino, but did not offer any further details on how he was able to gain access to a system running the next-generation operating system.
In researching the potential legitimacy of the images, we have been provided with some additional pieces of information that begin to paint a rather interesting picture pointing to an individual who may indeed have had such access. While we can’t say for sure that these images are genuine, the evidence we have seen privately is enough for us to consider it a distinct possibility.
Assuming the photos are legitimate, they reveal a number of changes in both the look and feel of the operating system, as has been rumored for OS X 10.10. Among the biggest additions is a Control Center very similar to that seen on iOS. In this case, the translucent pane slides out from the left side of the screen and offers quick access to a number of features, including “About This Mac” and System Preferences at the very top, followed by what appear to be buttons for an Airplane Mode and the existing Do Not Disturb feature currently accessible through Notification Center.
Below those are buttons with drop down menu functionality for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth along with a screen brightness slider, followed by audio controls that include the ability to display album art. The next section includes a volume slider, as well as AirDrop and AirPlay buttons. At the very bottom of the pane is a set of four buttons that appear to be for system sleep, log out, restart, and shutdown.
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Apple to Announce More Plans for iBeacon Technology at WWDC 2014
Apple will unveil more plans for its iBeacon technology at the start of this week’s WWDC 2014, reports The Wall Street Journal. In addition to new details about the technology, the company will promote iBeacon by placing transmitters throughout the Moscone Center while offering sessions for developers on how to better implement the technology into their apps and services.
An Estimote Beacon
It is not known what exactly Apple has in store for the technology, but it is possible that the company could announce a more prominent role for iBeacons in iOS 8, new partnerships with companies, and more. iBeacons could also see integration in Apple’s highly rumored mobile payment service.
First introduced during last year’s WWDC, iBeacons enable iOS devices to wirelessly communicate with physical beacons through Bluetooth, as the transmitters are able to deliver relevant information to apps and services when a user is physically nearby. Apple implemented a new iBeacon “Made for iPhone” specification in February, signaling a more significant role for the technology in its devices.
iBeacon technology has also been used by a number of companies in a variety of ways since the end of last year. Shopping app Shopkick and Macy’s partnered to integrate the technology into stores to assist consumers, while Major League Baseball and the National Basketball Association have used the technology to provide enhanced live experiences.
Apple has also implemented iBeacons into its own retail locations to deliver messages about picking up online orders and store events, although early experiences with the technology were mixed. The technology has also been featured in the UK, where a cafe and London’s Heathrow Airport have integration iBeacons to notify users of promotional deals.
In addition to new details about iBeacon at WWDC 2014, Apple is also expect to unveil iOS 8, OS X 10.10, a new home automation platform, and perhaps some new hardware.
Apple will be live streaming the event both on its website and on the Apple TV. MacRumors will also be providing a live blog, live tweets via the MacRumorsLive Twitter account, and a spoiler free page for those who want to watch the full keynote at a later time.
Covered Banners on Upper Floors of Moscone at WWDC 2014
Apple’s WWDC Keynote kicks off tomorrow, and while we’ve posted about iOS 8 banners and OS X 10.10 banners, there are also covered banners on the upper floors of Moscone that we neglected to point out.
Appleinsider points out the existence of the covered banners, but only were able to get poor quality shots from afar.
In the two levels above, Apple has additional banners, but they’re still covered up. While the floors aren’t accessible to outsiders (or even registered attendees yet), is has been possible to catch a sneak peak in previous years by trespassing on the top floor of the Fifth and Mission parking garage, which is technically closed.
TheVerge, however, was able to get a peek of one in their WWDC photo gallery.
Covered banners aren’t unusual at WWDC, and will show technologies and features that are introduced in the Monday keynote address. We already know Apple will be featuring iOS 8 and Mac OS X 10.10 at the show.
Apple is offering a live video stream of the Keynote on Monday. We’ll have live text and photo updates here on MacRumors, as well as live Twitter updates at MacRumorsLive.
Apple Expected to Introduce Health Tracking App and Smart Home Toolkit at WWDC
The New York Times reports that Apple will be delving into two new areas on Monday — connected health and the smart home.
At WWDC 2014, Apple is expected to introduce a new health tracking app that will track statistics for health and fitness. Author Brian Chen cites an anonymous source “briefed on the product”
The health app will initially pull data from third-party fitness and health-monitoring hardware, the person said, but it will most likely be able to connect with a smart watch that Apple is widely expected to release this year.
Apple has also been rumored to be announcing their efforts in the connected smart home. On this front, Chen reports that Apple may introduce “tool kits for developers” to make smart home integration easier for developers and consumers. This initiative was previously described as a “Made for iPhone”-like certification.
Both of these products have been rumored in the lead up to WWDC, but last minute rumors and reports frequently leak out in the hours and days before the keynote. Apple’s WWDC Keynote kicks off tomorrow at 10am Pacific. We’ll provide live coverage here at MacRumors.com.
Apple Giving $25 App Store Gift Certificates to WWDC Attendees
Apple’s 2014 WWDC kicks off tomorrow with a Keynote at 10am Pacific. Today, attendees are registering for the conference and receiving their usual WWDC badges and WWDC jackets, but Apple also included a $25 App Store gift card.
The gift card is in celebration of “25 years and coding”, as noted by @HarrisonW1998:
$25 App Store gift card for WWDC Attendees. $1/year of #wwdc pic.twitter.com/qGbHrBLvzI
— Harrison Weinerman (@HarrisonW1998) June 1, 2014
Apple is offering a live video stream of the Keynote on Monday. We’ll have live text and photo updates here on MacRumors, as well as live Twitter updates at MacRumorsLive.
Feedback Loop: WWDC predictions, Dropcam Pro impressions and more!
Ring in the weekend with the latest edition of Feedback Loop. Apple’s WWDC kicks off on Monday and we try to predict what will be announced, share impressions of the Dropcam Pro, discuss the viability of DIY data storage, talk about our favorite task management apps and wonder where all the good Windows 8 apps are hiding. Head past the break to find out what Engadget readers like you are saying.
WWDC 2014 Predictions
Apple kicks of their annual World Wide Developers Conference on Monday. We’re expecting to see previews of iOS 8 and OS X 10.10. However, it’s possible Apple might have something else up their sleeve. In the forums, we’re sharing our own predictions that range from a potential iWatch announcement to ARM powered laptops. What do you think they’ll show off on Monday?
Dropcam Pro impressions
If you want to watch your pets while you’re away at work, what sorts of devices would you use? Jonursenbach wanted to keep tabs on his pug during the day, so he picked up a Dropcam Pro and shared his first impressions. If you’re in the market for a new camera, take a look at his post and then let him know if you have any questions.
Managing your data at home
We generate a lot of bits and bytes each day. From photos and videos to documents and email, there’s a lot of data floating around that can be a pain to properly manage and keep track of. Frank asks whether it’s worth it to build your own digital storage system, purchase one from somebody like Synology, or just pay for a cloud locker. How are you managing all your digital data?
To-do: Remember to check my to-do list
Engadget’s guru of all things social media, John Colucci, recently started using Trello as his primary task management tool and shared his experience in the forums comparing comparing it to other apps that do the same thing. With everything going on in our lives, how do you keep on top of your responsibilities?
Heyo, where all the Windows 8 Apps at?
Windows 8 has been available for awhile now and you can easily find it on new PCs and Windows tablets. However, ThatsIsJustCraz is wondering why we haven’t seen more well designed Windows 8 applications around. Is this a real problem that Windows 8 has or is he just not looking in the right places? Share your thoughts in his discussion.
That’s all this week! Do you want to talk about your favorite gadget or have a burning question about technology? Register for an Engadget account today, visit the Engadget forums and start a new discussion!
Weekends with Engadget: Apple buys Beats, LG unveils the G3 and more!
This week we watched Apple buy Beats for $3 billion, explored the inspiration behind the newly-announced LG G3, learned about Samsung’s new partnership with Oculus VR, investigated the benefits of solar energy and much more. Read on for Engadget’s news highlights from the last seven days. Oh, and be sure to subscribe to our Flipboard magazine!
With Beats, Apple faces the music
Music streaming is on the rise, but it’s still a largely untested source of revenue. So, is Apple’s acquisition of Beats guaranteed to turn a profit, or have Cook and Co. purchased a very expensive business lesson?
LG’s G3 flagship is a bigger, simpler, higher-res smartphone
This week, LG announced the G3, and yes, it is equipped with a beautiful 5.5-inch Quad HD display and laser autofocusing feature. What’s more, we managed to go hands-on with the handset. So click on through for our impressions and photos.
Samsung is working with Oculus on a media-focused VR headset
Yep, Samsung’s building its own VR headset, and with a little help from Oculus VR. But rather than have its own screen, Sammy’s device will use your smartphone as the display instead, commandeering the handset’s processor for tracking functionality.
What’s on tap for Apple at WWDC 2014
WWDC 2014, Apple’s yearly developer conference is right around the corner and the speculation is heating up, especially regarding Apple’s supposed entry into home automation. Lucky for you, we’ve put together a handy collection of our own expectations for the June 2nd event. Enjoy!
Samsung Chromebook 2 review: A $400 laptop never looked so good
Chromebooks are gaining steam, and the Samsung Chromebook 2 is no exception. Sure, it’s got a bit of Sammy’s pseudo-leather on top, but don’t let that fool you. Between its fantastic trackpad, HD display and sturdy keyboard, the Chromebook 2 packs the best Chrome OS experience on the market.
Inside LG’s G3: How vacuums, focus groups and competitive pressure shaped a smartphone
The LG G3 doesn’t just have the nicest display on the market, it’s got an ultra-fast autofocusing laser sensor — all thanks to a coffee break with the company’s vacuum experts. Read on as our own Brad Molen investigates the inspiration behind the company’s most powerful smartphone yet.
Old console, new tricks: Getting the most out of your Wii
Be honest. It’s been a while since you last dusted off your Wii and engaged in a match of Mario Power Tennis, hasn’t it? Not to worry, we’ve got a few tricks to help you rekindle your relationship with the 10-year-old console.
What you need to know about solar energy
Most of us realize the basic benefits of harvesting solar power, but did you know it was the second leading source of new energy last year? Even still, many argue as to the efficiency of the technology. Continue reading to learn all you need to know about the business of the sun.
Extreme exposure: Inside GoPro’s burgeoning media empire
GoPro doesn’t want to simply build a camera to capture thrilling close-calls and daredevil stunts; it wants to be a media empire. Read on as our own James Trew investigates how the company aims to transform athletes into viral video creators.
The US Air Force’s oldest bomber is now a flying network
The B-52 bomber is one of the most reliable aircraft ever designed, but at over 50 years old, it seems an upgrade is in order. Now outfitted with a modernized communications system called CONECT, the B-52 plans to keep on truckin’ in this era of real-time data transmission.
Filed under: Misc
Engadget Daily: Apple’s dev conference, Samsung’s VR headset and more!
Today, we watched Samsung announce it’s building a VR headset with Oculus VR, dissected rumors surrounding WWDC 2014, took Samsung’s Chromebook 2 for a test run and investigated the technology behind holograms. Read on for Engadget’s news highlights from the last 24 hours.
Samsung is working with Oculus on a media-focused VR headset
Yep, Samsung’s building its own VR headset, and with a little help from Oculus VR. But rather than have its own screen, Sammy’s device will use your smartphone as the display instead, commandeering the handset’s processor for tracking functionality.
What’s on tap for Apple at WWDC 2014
WWDC 2014, Apple’s yearly developer conference is right around the corner and the speculation is heating up, especially regarding Apple’s supposed entry into home automation. Lucky for you, we’ve put together a handy collection of our own expectations for the June 2nd event. Enjoy!
Samsung Chromebook 2 review: A $400 laptop never looked so good
Chromebooks are gaining steam, and the Samsung Chromebook 2 is no exception. Sure, it’s got a bit of Sammy’s pseudo-leather on top, but don’t let that fool you. Between its fantastic trackpad, HD display and sturdy keyboard, the Chromebook 2 packs the best Chrome OS experience on the market.
What you need to know about hologram people
Michael Jackson’s recent posthumous performance didn’t cease to amaze, but you might be surprised to know that it wasn’t a true hologram, it was an age-old illusion. Read on as our own Timothy Seppala investigates modern holographic techniques and how to tell the difference.
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Filed under: Misc
Apple’s Longtime Public Relations VP Retires [Mac Blog]
As announced earlier this month, Katie Cotton, head of Apple’s public relations department and an 18-year veteran at Apple, has left the company, reports Re/code.
Cotton is known for having been fiercely protective of Apple executives, particularly Steve Jobs, serving as gatekeeper for all media access and shepherding executives through their formal and informal meetings with the press.
Given Apple’s penchant for secrecy, Cotton has long been tasked with keeping a tight rein on the company’s PR operations, managing Apple’s image and contributing to the company’s presentations.
In a touching farewell piece, Re/code‘s Kara Swisher recounts Cotton’s successful take-no-prisoners strategy:
But, despite what many of her detractors have written since the news of her departure came, I was never “scared” of her, any more than I fear any of the other hard-charging PR and communications execs I have encountered over the many years I have covered tech.
Was she aggressive? Sure. (So is Facebook’s Elliot Schrage.)
Did she sometimes ice our reporters out, ignore calls or reply with newsless answers? Sometimes. (Please meet Yahoo PR for much of my time covering it over the last 20 years, especially under the current administration, which does not return any of my calls.)
Did she try her hardest to showcase Apple and its products in a way that benefited it? Yep. (Paging Andreessen Horowitz’s Margit Wennmachers!)
Was she vocal when she did not like something we did? And how. (So are Microsoft’s Frank Shaw and Google’s Rachel Whetstone, both of whom can throw a decent uppercut at me when they are not happy with something we have written.)
So what? That kind of hard driving is part and parcel to the business, even if she was harder driving and, because of that, more successful than most. As she once told me when we talked about her outsize reputation in the tech press: “I am not here to make friends with reporters, I am here to put a light on and sell Apple products.”
Swisher goes on to note that many negative comments made about Cotton might not have been made about a man in such a powerful position, saying that reporters who “did not get any PR love” from the company should “grow up.”
Tune in to our liveblog of Apple’s WWDC keynote Monday!
Get ready to put on your Sunday best, kids — WWDC 2014 begins in just a few days. The developer conference will begin with its traditional keynote, headlined by CEO Tim Cook and the rest of the executive gang. We’ll be liveblogging the event so you can see what we see as it happens, and if you use Safari, you can watch along with us here. What can we expect to see at the event? SVP Eddy Cue mentioned this week that this year’s product lineup is the most exciting one in 25 years, so we’d love a sneak peek. We’ve already seen banners indicating that iOS 8 will be shown off (as if there was any doubt), and we’d place our bets on the next version of OS X. New hardware? Quite possibly. A platform for connecting your home? Smartwatch or television? We’ll believe it when we see it. Sure seems likely. Stats and videos about education and Apple’s retail stores? Absolutely. Regardless, it should make for an interesting afternoon. Bookmark the link below and come join us!
Filed under: Announcements, Cellphones, Laptops, Wireless, Mobile, Apple
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