Android L Keyboard taken down from Google Play

One of the more distinctive new features of the upcoming Android L OS is the "Material Design" makover for which the keyboard experience plays a major part. A developer took the keyboard component off a developer preview, repackaged it into a standalone app and sold in on Google Play so users of older devices could get a taste of the new keyboard's look, feel and functionality. Well, Google's taken notice and taken down the app. Since developer simply took someone else's work and is profiting from it, he likely broke Google’s Developer Distribution Agreement.

Source: Phandroid

Roku adoption moves past Apple TV in the US

Roku has finally surpassed Apple TV in terms of popularity in the US. "The Evolving Market For Streaming Media Devices," by market research firm Parks Associates revealed that "44 percent of households that own at least one streaming device use a Roku," while Apple's avowed hobby, the Apple TV, accounts for "26 per cent of both sales and usage." Both the latest Roku and Apple TV sell for about the same price although there are various Roku models featuring lower prices and limited features.

While not acatually in the same league, Google's Chromecast has been making waves. Being a much cheaper (and functionally limited device) may have added to its popularity. Google and Roku sold an estimated 3.8 million streaming media devices last year, with Apple selling just over 2 million Apple TVs. 

While Apple has pushed modest updates to Apple TV in the US (more limited in Canada) and includes various new services, Roku's business model is to offer as much free content as possible as well as integrate the ability to play casual games with their wireless controller. Many believe that Apple TV is up for a redesign and a feature upgrade, perhaps in tandem with the upcoming iOS 8 release in the fall which could change the game in streaming media device market.

Source: Appleinsider

Video: Apple promotes inclusion inspiring innovation in moving Pride video

Apple's released a video of their first ever Pride parade appearance as a company. As described, "On June 29, thousands of Apple employees and their families marched in the San Francisco Pride Parade. They came from around the world — from cities as far as Munich, Paris, and Hong Kong — to celebrate Apple's unwavering commitment to equality and diversity. Because we believe that inclusion inspires innovation." Participants wore a colour-free Apple logo on their shirts as well as distributed iTunes Cards to participants in the parade.

TSA wants you to charge your smartphone and tablet before flying

Seem's like the TSA (Transport Security Administration) has decided to give travellers one more thing to worry about as they struggle to put back their shoes, belts and store their notebooks. Passengers flying to the US will need to turn on ther smartphones as part of the long line of checkpoint rituals they already have to endure in the name of safety and security.

The latest rule states that, "Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft," this means screeners may now ask travellers to turn on those devices as part of the process. "The traveller may also undergo additional screening," the TSA added. Should a phone or tablet not turn on or be deemed to have low battery power, it might result in confiscation of the phone or tablet. It might be a good idea to invest in an external charger to keep everything juiced pre-flight.

Source: Politico