Google brings Spotlight Stories to iOS

If you’re a fan of shorts and an Apple user, it might be time to check out Google’s take on the genre with Spotlight Stories app. The app lets you watch 360-degree animated shorts that first debuted on Motorola devices and on other Android-powered gadgets. Now, iOS users can enjoy the same experience on their iPhones. The clips show use 3D and 2D animations aside from the 360-degree spherical video. The videos also use sound sphere audio and sensor fusion technology, meaning if you move the device around and your body, you’ll get to see other parts of the video. Yes, it does this with the help of your device’s gyroscope and accelerometer.

You can’t use it to make content though. The four original stories available on the app include “Windy Day” (which was made by ex-Pixar moviemakers), Duet, Buggy Night, and Help. You need be running iOS 8 or higher to be able to download Spotlight Stories.

Source: TechCrunch | Via: SlashGear

Surrey gets help from Watson for the city’s app

Surrey, British Columbia enlists supercomputer Watson for the city’s app. Software developer Purple Forge made My Surrey, which Fast Company calls the “Siri for cities.” The app is capable of answering spoken questions asked in natural language. For example, you can ask it why your trash wasn’t picked up this morning or how many dogs you can keep on your property. It also has a FAQ section and access to other municipal services. The app works for iOS and Android devices. The local government hopes it’ll help lessen calls made to city services. 

According to Purple Forge other Canadian municipalities are also interested in employing Watson. Who knows you might get your own version of this voice assistant pretty soon?

Source: Fast Company | Via: Engadget

iHome Cases introduces carbiner-bound power banks

Prone to leaving power banks at home? iHome Cases is introducing its new PowerClip Power Banks to charge your Android, iOS devices, and even small laptops. These power banks are attached to carabiners so you can easily clip them onto your bag. It recharges via standard USB port. It’s available in 2,600mAh, 5,200mAh, and 7,800mAh capacities. There’s an LED power indicator on the portable battery so you can see how much charge it has left. It’s available in black, green, navy, and red. The 2,600mAh model retails for US$29.99, the 5,200mAh sells for $39.99, and the 7,800mAh costs $49.99. Now, just make sure you remember to charge them and bring them with you.

Starbucks teams up with The New York Times to give loyalty members free daily content

A good cup of coffee or tea and a the morning paper have always been a winning combination, even in the digital age. Starbucks Coffee announced an elevated digital news experience for the Starbucks mobile app, the result of an expanded relationship with The New York Times.

As part of the agreement, The New York Times top news of the day as well as a selection of other articles addressing key social, political and economic issues will be available for free via the Starbucks mobile app for the 10 million My Starbucks Rewards loyalty members. These customers will also have the opportunity to earn “Stars” through paid digital and print subscriptions to The New York Times.

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