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.

Learn more about Google products through Google Tips

Google takes their love for the card-like interface and offers you some bite-sized advice on how to use the company’s products. Google Tips offers advice from saving documents on Google Drive, typing less to get directions from Google Maps, and even asking Google to get your stuff. It’s a one stop shop for all things Google but without the convoluted tech terms that might confuse our less techie brethren.

Teach kids about physics basics with Stephen Hawking app

Credit: 9to5mac.com

A new iPad app from Random House wants to help you teach your kids from the age of 9 and up about physics in a fun interactive game. Stephen Hawking’s Snapshots of the Universe uses the works and writings of the famous physicist and mixes it with mini-games, text and videos to learn about how the subject matter affects our life here on Earth and in relation to other planets and stars.

Skype updates Android app for tablets to allow multitasking while on video/audio calls

Microsoft updates the Skype for Android tablets to allow users to continue video or audio calls while they use other apps on the tablet. There is no word yet about whether they plan to bring the feature to smartphones. The tech company also improved video instant messaging capabilities and remedied bugs on various Samsung phones at the Nexus 5 device.