Sunday
Dec152013

Netflix updates Android app to add individual profiles

Netflix finally updates its Android app to support individual streaming profiles under a single account. This lets you filter out suggestions and queues from other users of your device. The app also improved its search capabilities.

Source: Engadget

Sunday
Dec152013

Vorson Bookmark battery packs power in slim form factor

Extra batteries seem to be a requirement for today’s smartphones. Vorson hopes to make it easier and lighter for you to carry a spare with the Bookmark battery pack (US$59.99). A thin 4.7 millimeters thick housing packs in 2,500 mAh of battery. It has a standard USB port for charging and a touch-to-activate battery meter to let you know how much battery life you have left.

Sunday
Dec152013

Google acquires robotics company Boston Dynamics

Google has made its eighth robotics company purchase with Boston Dynamics. The company specializes in bi-pedal and quad-pedal robots such as PETMAN and Big Dog. The companies did not release details of the sale but Boston Dynamics CEO Marc Raibert told the New York Times that despite the deal, the company will continue with its DARPA contracts.

Saturday
Dec142013

Beyoncé's iTunes Exclusive stealth release sells 80,000 copies in three hours

It came out of nowhere when no one expected it, yet Beyoncé's new self-titled visual album on iTunes gained unprecedented buzz and despite being exclusive as an online download only on iTunes, is said to have sold 80,000 copies in three hours. It is unprecedented for an artist to suddenly release an album (and a bunch of videos) without the requisite promotion from record labels, recording studios and the usual build-up that has long been the norm in the industry. By going digital download first, Beyoncé is applying the Netflix approach of putting everything out there in one go and it is working. The buzz has been tremendous and while it is debatable that less popular artists could enjoy the same success, this move really changes the game for musicians.