Nowadays, it’s a real challenge to find fact-based news and solid analysis about many things, including tech companies like Apple. There are so many voices. Does a lurid article title correlate well to solid research and historical insight? Probably not. Just exactly how does one go about identifying valuable, accurate analysis when it comes to Apple? Those who have learned the ropes know that a specific, experienced author is more important than an article title, and this week, one of those special authors, Daniel Eran Dilger, proves why that’s so. It’s on Page 2 of Particle Debris.
TMO Background Mode Interview with The Mac Observer Co-founder Dave Hamilton
Dave Hamilton is the co-founder, publisher and president of The Mac Observer. He’s also the co-founder of BackBeat Media. And he’s the co-host of the legendary Mac Geek Gab Podcast. Dave’s interest in computers goes back to his high school days and his family’s Apple IIc. As Dave describes it, his talent evolved from «getting into a pickle,» so he had to learn himself how to fix things. At the University of Connecticut, he studied computer engineering, but also discovered his talent and passion for music. «Everything good that’s happened in my life, I can trace back to music,» he said. And that includes The Mac Observer because that’s how he met Bryan Chaffin. Dave The Nerd tells the fascinating story of the creation of this publication with his customary boundless energy.
Textalyzer's Privacy Threat, Wi-Fi Security Tip - TMO Daily Observations 2017-05-01
Tragedies can lead to a push for new laws, but sometimes that legislation leads to unintended consequences. Bryan Chaffin and Dave Hamilton join Jeff Gamet share their thoughts on Textalyzer and giving police access to our smartphone activity for accident investigations. Dave also has a tip for easily improving Wi-Fi network security.
G-DROP Submersible Bluetooth Speaker: $46.99
We have a deal on the G-DROP Submersible Bluetooth speaker. It features an IPX7 waterproof rating and is fully submersible for up to 30 minutes under up to 3 feet of water. It also has a built-in microphone. It’s $46.99 through us.
Is Your Wi-Fi Security Worth Its Salt? – Mac Geek Gab 655
Splitting the check, making your EarPods or AirPods fit better, and pen-based note-taking are just the Cool Stuff Found segment. Then your two favorite geeks talk you through fixing Wi-Fi connection issues on both your iPhone and your Mac, and also help you choose the right speed plan from your ISP. That’s not all, though, and you’ll hear much more when you press play (just do it!).
Will Apple Compete with Alexa and the Qualcomm Royalty Battle - TMO Daily Observations 2017-04-28
Will Apple release an Alexa-like device as a Siri-powered hub? Bryan Chaffin and John Martellaro join Dave Hamilton to discuss how wrong the latter two are. They also chew over Apple’s escalating royalty battle with Qualcomm.
Apple's Using a Lexus for Self-Driving Car Tests
Bloomberg got pictures of a Lexus that reportedly belongs to Apple. An unnamed source gave the news outlet photos of the Lexus and claimed it emerged from an Apple facility known to be part of Project Titan. That’s Apple’s self-driving car project. The car is a Lexus RX450h SUV, and it has a sporty, «top-of-the-range 64-channel LIDAR, at least two radar and a series of cameras.» One must extend a measure of trust to the unnamed source, but it seems reasonable to imagine this is an Apple vehicle. If not, it’s going to be very like the kind of system Apple would be using to develop its self-driving technology. Apple veteran (legend) Bob Mansfield has refocused and pared down the Project Titan team. Its exclusive focus as of now is thought to be developing a self-driving system before moving on to an actual car. The long and the short of this story, however, is that people care what Apple is doing, even if it’s just testing technology using off-the-shelf components and a nice SUV. Bloomberg has more pics and a GIF of the car.
Pinpoint X-Spring Precision Stylus and Pen: $14.95
We have a deal on the Pinpoint X-Spring Precision Stylus and Pen. It features a ballpoint pen on one end and a stylus on the other, and a cap that fits on either. It’s $14.95 through us.
Laurene Powell Jobs Will Speak at Code Conference
Laurene Powell Jobs will be appearing on stage at Code Conference, the conference run by Re/code. The widow of Steve Jobs will be appearing on stage with Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA). The two will be talking about philanthropy, including Silicon Valley’s efforts in that realm. According to Re/code, Ms. Powell Jobs will, «talk about her approach to philanthropy and investing, why she’s interested in working with ‘social entrepreneurs’ – and what she thinks other people can do with their time and money to help tackle big systemic problems.» In other words, it’s some big picture stuff, which what some people do when they’re worth an estimated US$20 billion. Code takes place from May 30th to June 1st, 2017, in Rancho Palos Verdes, California.
Have United Miles, But Don't Want to Fly the (Un)Friendly Skies? Buy Apple Gear Instead
Do you have United frequent flyer miles, but don’t want to risk being dragged bloody and battered from a United flight? It turns out you can buy Apple gear with your United miles. United’s MileagePlus program has an entire Apple Store that allows you to trade your miles for iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple Watches, Apple TVs, and even accessories. For instance, a 32GB iPad Pro (9.7-inch) Wi-Fi model is currently 79,900 miles. An aluminum Apple Watch with a Sport Band is 53,200 miles. AirPods are 21,200 miles, while MacBook Pros start at 173,200 miles. The store shops like Apple’s own, allowing you to choose options and configure your device as you want it. Plus, you won’t get thrown off a flight, thrown to the floor, or dragged out by your feet, which counts as a big win in my book. [Update: @markelp noted that Mileage Plus members with «status» get better deals on this gear. He noted, for instance, that the same Apple Watch I mentioned is 49,900 miles.]
