Apple responds to complaint over diagnostic 'back doors' in iOS
Apple has detailed some of the diagnostic capabilities in iOS following claims from a forensic scientist that such capabilities open up security holes into the operating system.At a security conference last Friday, forensic scientist and author Jonathan Zdziarski said the NSA may have exploited certain features and services in iOS to gather data on potential targets by using back doors built into the operating system. In response, Apple acknowledged in a statement on Monday that specific services allow access to certain data for the purpose of diagnostics but asserted that it has never worked with any government agency to intentionally build back doors into iOS.Related storiesApple: We don't build back doors into our productsApple, IBM cozy up on iOS business appsChina calls Apple's iPhone a national security threatApple patent looks to smarten up the iPhone's security lockSince details of NSA spying programs have emerged via former NSA contractor Edward Snowden, Apple and other tech players have been accused of building back doors into their devices and services. Such security holes would give the government as well as third parties easy access into a company's products for the purpose of capturing user data. The existence of such intentional back doors would damage a company's reputation and sales, so the tech industry has been on the defensive to deny these allegations.In a blog posted on Tuesday, Zdziarski said Apple's seeming admission to these so-called diagnostic back doors opens up privacy weaknesses because they bypass the backup password security offered in iOS. Zdziarski also raised doubts about these back doors by saying, "I don't buy for a minute that these services are intended solely for diagnostics."How has Apple responded? In a technical support document that was modified on Wednesday, Apple attempted to explain how and why the diagnostic capabilities in question are used in iOS. iOS offers the following diagnostic capabilities to help enterprise IT departments, developers, and AppleCare troubleshoot issues.Each of these diagnostic capabilities requires the user to have unlocked their device and agreed to trust another computer. Any data transmitted between the iOS device and trusted computer is encrypted with keys not shared with Apple. For users who have enabled iTunes Wi-Fi Sync on a trusted computer, these services may also be accessed wirelessly by that computer.1. com.apple.mobile.pcapdpcapd supports diagnostic packet capture from an iOS device to a trusted computer. This is useful for troubleshooting and diagnosing issues with apps on the device as well as enterprise VPN connections. You can find more information at developer.apple.com/library/ios/qa/qa1176.2. com.apple.mobile.file_relayfile_relay supports limited copying of diagnostic data from a device. This service is separate from user-generated backups, does not have access to all data on the device, and respects iOS Data Protection. Apple engineering uses file_relay on internal devices to qualify customer configurations. AppleCare, with user consent, can also use this tool to gather relevant diagnostic data from users' devices.3. com.apple.mobile.house_arresthouse_arrest is used by iTunes to transfer documents to and from an iOS device for apps that support this functionality. This is also used by Xcode to assist in the transfer of test data to a device while an app is in development.Apple also pointed to a support document on the familiar "Trust this computer" alert that iOS users receive when they plug their device into a PC. Another support page explains what happens when you sync your data with iTunes.In another blog posted Wednesday, Zdziarski said he gave Apple credit for revealing details about these services and trying to explain why they exist. However, he also said he believes Apple is downplaying the risks of certain services."I wonder if the higher ups at Apple really are aware of how muchnon-diagnostic personal information it copies out, wirelessly, bypassingbackup encryption," Zdziarski said. "All the while that Apple is downplaying it, Isuspect they'll also quietly fix many of the issues I've raised infuture versions. At least I hope so. It would be wildly irresponsiblefor Apple not to address these issues, especially now that the publicknows about them."
Marvel Comics, iPad team-up reviewed
Marvel Comics, iPad team-up reviewed
If you're not familiar with the Marvel app for the iPhone, which is also built on the ComiXology platform, the page zoom resolves into high-resolution close-ups of individual panels. Reading the comic with only one panel visible at a time won't work for all comics out there since many page layouts are more complicated than an array of rectangles, but for pages that use standard formatting the letterboxing view allows the reader a surprising amount of control of tension in the story. How fast you read the comic, and how fast you discover what happens next, is entirely up to you.The panel-by-panel zoom and progression isn't new, but it never looked this good on the iPhone.One drawback from a reading perspective is that the app splits double-page spreads into single pages, where one image covers two sequential pages. That's not a deal-breaker, but it seems an odd defect given that comics from around the world often have double-page spreads. A more important problem has nothing to do with readability, and will likely go unnoticed by many readers. The comics are nonportable. You can not transfer them to your desktop, or even to your iPhone. When you buy them, unlike when you purchase MP3s, you are purchasing them for the iPad only. This may change in the future, but for now this means that your comics are only as good as your iPad is. This is an incredibly restrictive DRM, and unlike movies, music, and books, binds your comics to this particular device in a way never seen before. To me, at least, this is a deal-breaker. Why pay for something that you don't truly own?A minuscule strip at the bottom of the comic lets you navigate pages out of order.Seth Rosenblatt/CNETDespite these hang-ups, there's no doubt that the comics store is just as well-oiled as the comics reader. The Marvel Comics store takes heavy cues from the iTunes store, complete with Cover Flow. This looks fantastic on the iPad, especially with Marvel's brightly colored superhero comics covers a natural fit for the Cover Flow style. Tabs at the top help you narrow down your choices, and tapping a comic will pull up more detailed information on the book. You can download or read it if you've already downloaded it, check out the preview, or see the full series of issues for that title. There's also a "Buy in print" link that takes you to a comic book shop locator, but that's the current extent of outreach to comic book shops.Marvel says that readers will be able to preview three pages from each comic for free. According to a press release from Marvel, the comics currently need to be recolored and "redigitized" before being added to Marvel's catalog, so don't expect new comics on their regular Wednesday street date for the time being. Marvel has said that it expects to have about 500 comics available Saturday, when the iPad reaches the general public. The available comics run the gamut from modern incarnations of Iron Man and multihero stories like Civil War to the first appearance of Spider-Man from 1963.There's no doubt that the Marvel app is a great piece of eye candy. If you don't mind the restrictions it could be the catalyst that gets you reading comics again, or reading them on a computer for the first time. However, not being able to remove your comics from the iPad and read them elsewhere can be a bitter pill to swallow for those who don't like Apple's new paradigm.The Marvel Comics app for the iPad is free. The comics themselves are currently available only as individual issues, and most are $1.99. A small handful are available in full for free.
If you're not familiar with the Marvel app for the iPhone, which is also built on the ComiXology platform, the page zoom resolves into high-resolution close-ups of individual panels. Reading the comic with only one panel visible at a time won't work for all comics out there since many page layouts are more complicated than an array of rectangles, but for pages that use standard formatting the letterboxing view allows the reader a surprising amount of control of tension in the story. How fast you read the comic, and how fast you discover what happens next, is entirely up to you.The panel-by-panel zoom and progression isn't new, but it never looked this good on the iPhone.One drawback from a reading perspective is that the app splits double-page spreads into single pages, where one image covers two sequential pages. That's not a deal-breaker, but it seems an odd defect given that comics from around the world often have double-page spreads. A more important problem has nothing to do with readability, and will likely go unnoticed by many readers. The comics are nonportable. You can not transfer them to your desktop, or even to your iPhone. When you buy them, unlike when you purchase MP3s, you are purchasing them for the iPad only. This may change in the future, but for now this means that your comics are only as good as your iPad is. This is an incredibly restrictive DRM, and unlike movies, music, and books, binds your comics to this particular device in a way never seen before. To me, at least, this is a deal-breaker. Why pay for something that you don't truly own?A minuscule strip at the bottom of the comic lets you navigate pages out of order.Seth Rosenblatt/CNETDespite these hang-ups, there's no doubt that the comics store is just as well-oiled as the comics reader. The Marvel Comics store takes heavy cues from the iTunes store, complete with Cover Flow. This looks fantastic on the iPad, especially with Marvel's brightly colored superhero comics covers a natural fit for the Cover Flow style. Tabs at the top help you narrow down your choices, and tapping a comic will pull up more detailed information on the book. You can download or read it if you've already downloaded it, check out the preview, or see the full series of issues for that title. There's also a "Buy in print" link that takes you to a comic book shop locator, but that's the current extent of outreach to comic book shops.Marvel says that readers will be able to preview three pages from each comic for free. According to a press release from Marvel, the comics currently need to be recolored and "redigitized" before being added to Marvel's catalog, so don't expect new comics on their regular Wednesday street date for the time being. Marvel has said that it expects to have about 500 comics available Saturday, when the iPad reaches the general public. The available comics run the gamut from modern incarnations of Iron Man and multihero stories like Civil War to the first appearance of Spider-Man from 1963.There's no doubt that the Marvel app is a great piece of eye candy. If you don't mind the restrictions it could be the catalyst that gets you reading comics again, or reading them on a computer for the first time. However, not being able to remove your comics from the iPad and read them elsewhere can be a bitter pill to swallow for those who don't like Apple's new paradigm.The Marvel Comics app for the iPad is free. The comics themselves are currently available only as individual issues, and most are $1.99. A small handful are available in full for free.
Apple's iTunes store gets modest facelift
Apple's iTunes store gets modest facelift
At Apple's press event, CEO Steve Jobs showed off what is essentially a modest face lift for iTunes 9. Among its new features are improvements to its Genius software, Facebook integration, music-sharing capabilities and the company's take on the digital album cover.Perhaps the most significant iTunes 9 feature is Apple's latest baby step into music sharing. What Apple calls "Home Sharing" enables iTunes users to drag a song or group of songs across libraries of up to five authorised computers in a household. All the features are available immediately."Home Sharing" is new to iTunes 9(Screenshot by Ty Pendlebury/CNET.com.au)Apple's announcements lacked the jaw-dropping device or service that in the past has spurred big spikes in music sales. The company now appears to be focusing on making incremental gains by helping music buyers find and purchase music, videos and iPhone applications. Dare we say it, but most of Apple's music-related announcements centred on humdrum retail chores.These are not unimportant tasks, at least when one considers that to this point in the evolution of digital music, it is still often difficult for users to wade through the ocean of songs available at online stores to find music they like.Helping customers find what they want "is one of the oldest and most persistent problems in retail", said Mike McGuire, an analyst with research firm Gartner. "The barriers to entry are pretty low and people's allegiances can switch quickly. Digital music is maturing so now it's less about getting people to the site and more about getting old customers to continue using the product."One reason why Apple's event lacked the drama of past releases was that much of the news leaked weeks ago. CNET News reported last Wednesday that Apple would release ready-made ringtones. On Wednesday, Jobs told the audience that the ringtones would sell for US$1.29 and they would be displayed and sold at iTunes in the same way as regular songs.Apple also unveiled the next-generation album cover, which the company originally code-named Cocktail but is now called iTunes LP. Jobs told the audience that CDs helped kill such things as album art, liner notes and other extras that once accompanied albums. He acknowledged that digital music also played a part in doing away with traditional album covers.Jobs said that artists can now have a greater hand in the packaging of the albums they sell on iTunes using video, art and other digital content.As we reported yesterday, the Beatles catalogue is yet to be offered at iTunes. As in years past, a flurry of rumours accompanied the run-up to Apple's event that the Fab Four's music would be offered by iTunes. As reported by CNET and others, no agreement between Apple and Apple Corps, the company that represents the Beatles, has been reached.
At Apple's press event, CEO Steve Jobs showed off what is essentially a modest face lift for iTunes 9. Among its new features are improvements to its Genius software, Facebook integration, music-sharing capabilities and the company's take on the digital album cover.Perhaps the most significant iTunes 9 feature is Apple's latest baby step into music sharing. What Apple calls "Home Sharing" enables iTunes users to drag a song or group of songs across libraries of up to five authorised computers in a household. All the features are available immediately."Home Sharing" is new to iTunes 9(Screenshot by Ty Pendlebury/CNET.com.au)Apple's announcements lacked the jaw-dropping device or service that in the past has spurred big spikes in music sales. The company now appears to be focusing on making incremental gains by helping music buyers find and purchase music, videos and iPhone applications. Dare we say it, but most of Apple's music-related announcements centred on humdrum retail chores.These are not unimportant tasks, at least when one considers that to this point in the evolution of digital music, it is still often difficult for users to wade through the ocean of songs available at online stores to find music they like.Helping customers find what they want "is one of the oldest and most persistent problems in retail", said Mike McGuire, an analyst with research firm Gartner. "The barriers to entry are pretty low and people's allegiances can switch quickly. Digital music is maturing so now it's less about getting people to the site and more about getting old customers to continue using the product."One reason why Apple's event lacked the drama of past releases was that much of the news leaked weeks ago. CNET News reported last Wednesday that Apple would release ready-made ringtones. On Wednesday, Jobs told the audience that the ringtones would sell for US$1.29 and they would be displayed and sold at iTunes in the same way as regular songs.Apple also unveiled the next-generation album cover, which the company originally code-named Cocktail but is now called iTunes LP. Jobs told the audience that CDs helped kill such things as album art, liner notes and other extras that once accompanied albums. He acknowledged that digital music also played a part in doing away with traditional album covers.Jobs said that artists can now have a greater hand in the packaging of the albums they sell on iTunes using video, art and other digital content.As we reported yesterday, the Beatles catalogue is yet to be offered at iTunes. As in years past, a flurry of rumours accompanied the run-up to Apple's event that the Fab Four's music would be offered by iTunes. As reported by CNET and others, no agreement between Apple and Apple Corps, the company that represents the Beatles, has been reached.
Telenav Scout app getting 3D landmarks, traffic improvements
Telenav Scout app getting 3D landmarks, traffic improvements
Navigation software provider Telenav announced a few future updates for its Scout navigation app for Android and iPhone today that should make the app run more smoothly and help you to get where you're going faster.Scout will be updated to take advantage of vector-based graphics, which should bring along faster performance, a sharper appearance, and smoother interactions with the app. The improved map screen also gains 3D buildings and landmarks in major U.S. cities; the map zooms in as you approach an upcoming turn and adjusts the virtual camera angle to give visual landmarks to look for.Building data and route maps will be cached on the phone to prevent the app from abusing limited data plans.The updated Scout app will also make it possible to report accidents, incident, hazards, police presence, and traffic jams with a few taps -- a functionality that users of Waze and Trapster have enjoyed for some time. The Scout back end then takes that crowdsourced data to improve its traffic reporting for other users and, hopefully, the entire system then benefits from a more accurate view of the roads.In addition to this new user-generated data, the Scout app will update traffic flow data midroute and can notify the driver of upcoming traffic jams or congestion and provide alternate route information automatically at the bottom of the navigation screen, without you having to switch screens to search for alternate routes or needing to interact with the phone.Free and premium versions of the Scout app for Android and iPhone are available from Google Play and the iTunes App Store, but the 3D building and improved traffic updates are still baking and are expected to be pushed live by the end of the year.Check out a video demo of Scout's 3D building data in action below.
Navigation software provider Telenav announced a few future updates for its Scout navigation app for Android and iPhone today that should make the app run more smoothly and help you to get where you're going faster.Scout will be updated to take advantage of vector-based graphics, which should bring along faster performance, a sharper appearance, and smoother interactions with the app. The improved map screen also gains 3D buildings and landmarks in major U.S. cities; the map zooms in as you approach an upcoming turn and adjusts the virtual camera angle to give visual landmarks to look for.Building data and route maps will be cached on the phone to prevent the app from abusing limited data plans.The updated Scout app will also make it possible to report accidents, incident, hazards, police presence, and traffic jams with a few taps -- a functionality that users of Waze and Trapster have enjoyed for some time. The Scout back end then takes that crowdsourced data to improve its traffic reporting for other users and, hopefully, the entire system then benefits from a more accurate view of the roads.In addition to this new user-generated data, the Scout app will update traffic flow data midroute and can notify the driver of upcoming traffic jams or congestion and provide alternate route information automatically at the bottom of the navigation screen, without you having to switch screens to search for alternate routes or needing to interact with the phone.Free and premium versions of the Scout app for Android and iPhone are available from Google Play and the iTunes App Store, but the 3D building and improved traffic updates are still baking and are expected to be pushed live by the end of the year.Check out a video demo of Scout's 3D building data in action below.
iTunes 10 relaunching after quitting
iTunes 10 relaunching after quitting
If these options to not help the problem, then iTunes could be continually launched by a problem with some system settings, including Launch Services and the Firewall.Launch Services are what binds specific file types and communications protocols to various handling programs. If a commonly used protocol is being associated with iTunes, then the system may launch the program whenever it detects the protocol being used.Though you can clear the Launch Services in OS X manually, there are a number of maintenance utilities that can do this for you. One popular and free one is OnyX, but there are others that can do the job as well. With the services reset, restart the system and then try running and quitting iTunes again to see if the problem persists. Keep in mind that if you reset the launch services, file types will be reverted back to their default handling programs and you will have to set them up again. You might also take a look at the system firewall, which interacts with many applications' networking protocols and may be causing iTunes to launch if the firewall's configuration is corrupted. Try disabling the system firewall (set it to allow all incoming connections), and also try removing the firewall preferences file. The file is located in the /Macintosh HD/Library/Preferences/ folder and is called "com.apple.alf.plist." With the firewall off, remove this file and then start up the firewall again. You will have to enter the allowed applications in the firewall list again as well as re-enable stealth mode and firewall logging if desired.Questions? Comments? Have a fix? Post them below or e-mail us!Be sure to check us out on Twitter and the CNET Mac forums.
If these options to not help the problem, then iTunes could be continually launched by a problem with some system settings, including Launch Services and the Firewall.Launch Services are what binds specific file types and communications protocols to various handling programs. If a commonly used protocol is being associated with iTunes, then the system may launch the program whenever it detects the protocol being used.Though you can clear the Launch Services in OS X manually, there are a number of maintenance utilities that can do this for you. One popular and free one is OnyX, but there are others that can do the job as well. With the services reset, restart the system and then try running and quitting iTunes again to see if the problem persists. Keep in mind that if you reset the launch services, file types will be reverted back to their default handling programs and you will have to set them up again. You might also take a look at the system firewall, which interacts with many applications' networking protocols and may be causing iTunes to launch if the firewall's configuration is corrupted. Try disabling the system firewall (set it to allow all incoming connections), and also try removing the firewall preferences file. The file is located in the /Macintosh HD/Library/Preferences/ folder and is called "com.apple.alf.plist." With the firewall off, remove this file and then start up the firewall again. You will have to enter the allowed applications in the firewall list again as well as re-enable stealth mode and firewall logging if desired.Questions? Comments? Have a fix? Post them below or e-mail us!Be sure to check us out on Twitter and the CNET Mac forums.
Apple, HTC planning fall launches on Verizon's network, report says
Apple, HTC planning fall launches on Verizon's network, report says
Verizon Wireless could be home to a host of new, prominent smartphones in the coming months, according to a new report.Boy Genius Report is claiming today that it has the skinny on Verizon's summer and fall smartphone roadmap. And although details in the report are extremely slim, and it doesn't offer proof that BGR has viewed an actual document from Verizon, its assertions are rather interesting.For one, the blog claims that the roadmap includes mention of a new iPhone launch slated for a fall release. The claim is just the latest in a string of rumors surrounding the eventual launch of Apple's iPhone 5. Some reports have suggested that Apple will launch the device over the summer, while others say the company is planning to release the iPhone 5 in October. In either case, Apple has stayed tight-lipped on its plans.Related storiesSamsung launches Galaxy S III teaser, takes subtle shot at AppleiPhone 5 may launch in October due to Qualcomm supply issuesMotorola to upgrade its gray matter in 2012CNET's Apple iPhone 4S review (Verizon Wireless)In addition, Boy Genius Report says the roadmap seems to point to a new flagship device from HTC that will be hitting Verizon's stores in the fall. The device will reportedly come with a 5-inch HD display and a Scribe pen, ostensibly indicating that it'll compete against Samsung's Galaxy Note.The summer will be packed with "multiple" Motorola RAZR models hitting Verizon's stores, according to Boy Genius Report. And although the roadmap reportedly didn't mention when the highly anticipated Galaxy S III will be launching, the blog is assuming, based on the roadmap's information, that it'll launch on Verizon's network at some point this summer.Full details on the Galaxy S III should be revealed on May 3 when Samsung heads to London to unveil the device.Since Boy Genius Report provided no evidence that it actually saw Verizon's roadmap, the blog's contentions should be taken with a grain of salt. Verizon has declined CNET's request for comment on the Boy Genius Report story.
Verizon Wireless could be home to a host of new, prominent smartphones in the coming months, according to a new report.Boy Genius Report is claiming today that it has the skinny on Verizon's summer and fall smartphone roadmap. And although details in the report are extremely slim, and it doesn't offer proof that BGR has viewed an actual document from Verizon, its assertions are rather interesting.For one, the blog claims that the roadmap includes mention of a new iPhone launch slated for a fall release. The claim is just the latest in a string of rumors surrounding the eventual launch of Apple's iPhone 5. Some reports have suggested that Apple will launch the device over the summer, while others say the company is planning to release the iPhone 5 in October. In either case, Apple has stayed tight-lipped on its plans.Related storiesSamsung launches Galaxy S III teaser, takes subtle shot at AppleiPhone 5 may launch in October due to Qualcomm supply issuesMotorola to upgrade its gray matter in 2012CNET's Apple iPhone 4S review (Verizon Wireless)In addition, Boy Genius Report says the roadmap seems to point to a new flagship device from HTC that will be hitting Verizon's stores in the fall. The device will reportedly come with a 5-inch HD display and a Scribe pen, ostensibly indicating that it'll compete against Samsung's Galaxy Note.The summer will be packed with "multiple" Motorola RAZR models hitting Verizon's stores, according to Boy Genius Report. And although the roadmap reportedly didn't mention when the highly anticipated Galaxy S III will be launching, the blog is assuming, based on the roadmap's information, that it'll launch on Verizon's network at some point this summer.Full details on the Galaxy S III should be revealed on May 3 when Samsung heads to London to unveil the device.Since Boy Genius Report provided no evidence that it actually saw Verizon's roadmap, the blog's contentions should be taken with a grain of salt. Verizon has declined CNET's request for comment on the Boy Genius Report story.
Apple, Google remove Hezbollah TV app
Apple, Google remove Hezbollah TV app
Updated: 3:29 PTGoogle and Apple have both removed an application from their respective app stores that Hezbollah was advertising promoting streaming video from its Al-Manar Lebanon-based satellite network. A spokesman for the Anti-Defamation League said that his organization sent Apple a letter last Friday when it became aware of the app. It was removed by Apple on Sunday."We did not have any response from them so it may or may not been a result of our reaching out to them," said the ADL spokesman, Todd Gutnick.Android version of Al Manar TV streaming video appAl ManarApple declined comment. A spokesman for Google said Tuesday afternoon that the app has been removed from Google Play. Al Manar, the broadcasting arm of Hezbollah, advertised the app on its television network. The U.S. Department of State has included Al-Manar on its Terrorism Exclusion List in December 2004.A Shi'a militant group and political party inside Lebanon, Hezbollah is considered by the U.S., Israel and many western states to be a terrorist group. However, it has support inside Lebanon and much of the wider Arab world, where it enjoys status as a domestic political player and resistance group. At the same time, it has been accused of involvement in terror attacks against Israeli and Jewish targets around the world. Also, Al Manar television, which essentially functions as the group's PR organ, has run entertainment programs based on the "The Protocols of the Elders of Zion." as well as other content with anti-Semitic undertones.We've contacted Al Manar for comment and will update this post when we hear back.
Updated: 3:29 PTGoogle and Apple have both removed an application from their respective app stores that Hezbollah was advertising promoting streaming video from its Al-Manar Lebanon-based satellite network. A spokesman for the Anti-Defamation League said that his organization sent Apple a letter last Friday when it became aware of the app. It was removed by Apple on Sunday."We did not have any response from them so it may or may not been a result of our reaching out to them," said the ADL spokesman, Todd Gutnick.Android version of Al Manar TV streaming video appAl ManarApple declined comment. A spokesman for Google said Tuesday afternoon that the app has been removed from Google Play. Al Manar, the broadcasting arm of Hezbollah, advertised the app on its television network. The U.S. Department of State has included Al-Manar on its Terrorism Exclusion List in December 2004.A Shi'a militant group and political party inside Lebanon, Hezbollah is considered by the U.S., Israel and many western states to be a terrorist group. However, it has support inside Lebanon and much of the wider Arab world, where it enjoys status as a domestic political player and resistance group. At the same time, it has been accused of involvement in terror attacks against Israeli and Jewish targets around the world. Also, Al Manar television, which essentially functions as the group's PR organ, has run entertainment programs based on the "The Protocols of the Elders of Zion." as well as other content with anti-Semitic undertones.We've contacted Al Manar for comment and will update this post when we hear back.
Apple, Google execs out-earn Samsung counterparts
Apple, Google execs out-earn Samsung counterparts
Samsung might be a giant company with massive amounts of revenue, but that doesn't mean that its executives make massive amounts of money -- at least when compared to other executives in Silicon Valley.The company revealed at its annual shareholder meeting last week that its leadership executive team, comprised of its three co-CEOs and CFO, collectively made 33.9 billion Korean won, about $31 million, during the company's 2013 fiscal year. Samsung went on to say that compared to competitors in the marketplace, it's far behind other companies, including Apple, which hit nearly $300 million in executive compensation during the 2012 fiscal year, and Google, which paid out well over $120 million in 2012.Related storiesDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)Samsung's diva actKodak patent complaints target Apple, RIM3D TV FAQVerizon Wireless revamps unlimited calling, data plansTo make matters worse for Samsung executives, many individuals at those larger companies were paid more than Samsung's entire executive team. For example, a recent Securities and Exchange Commission filing shows that Apple's executive compensation was down somewhat in 2013, but in 2012 Apple CFO Peter Oppenheimer was awarded nearly $69 million, Senior Vice President Eddy Cue was awarded over $50 million, and Operations Vice President Daniel Riccio was awarded nearly $69 million compensation.Of course, for four people to earn $30 million, that's not necessarily a bad thing. But it speaks to the difference between Samsung's compensation strategy and that of American-based companies. As Quartz, which earlier reported on the news, points out, Samsung executive compensation has been kept lower by cultural influence and corporate oversight. In fact, Korea has one of the lowest executive compensation levels in Asia. As Quartz notes, however, the US has watched executive compensation soar: it was up 876 percent between 1978 and 2011.
Samsung might be a giant company with massive amounts of revenue, but that doesn't mean that its executives make massive amounts of money -- at least when compared to other executives in Silicon Valley.The company revealed at its annual shareholder meeting last week that its leadership executive team, comprised of its three co-CEOs and CFO, collectively made 33.9 billion Korean won, about $31 million, during the company's 2013 fiscal year. Samsung went on to say that compared to competitors in the marketplace, it's far behind other companies, including Apple, which hit nearly $300 million in executive compensation during the 2012 fiscal year, and Google, which paid out well over $120 million in 2012.Related storiesDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)Samsung's diva actKodak patent complaints target Apple, RIM3D TV FAQVerizon Wireless revamps unlimited calling, data plansTo make matters worse for Samsung executives, many individuals at those larger companies were paid more than Samsung's entire executive team. For example, a recent Securities and Exchange Commission filing shows that Apple's executive compensation was down somewhat in 2013, but in 2012 Apple CFO Peter Oppenheimer was awarded nearly $69 million, Senior Vice President Eddy Cue was awarded over $50 million, and Operations Vice President Daniel Riccio was awarded nearly $69 million compensation.Of course, for four people to earn $30 million, that's not necessarily a bad thing. But it speaks to the difference between Samsung's compensation strategy and that of American-based companies. As Quartz, which earlier reported on the news, points out, Samsung executive compensation has been kept lower by cultural influence and corporate oversight. In fact, Korea has one of the lowest executive compensation levels in Asia. As Quartz notes, however, the US has watched executive compensation soar: it was up 876 percent between 1978 and 2011.
Apple, Ferrari in talks to broaden in-car infotainment pact
Apple, Ferrari in talks to broaden in-car infotainment pact
Ferrari is in negotiations to expand its in-car entertainment partnership with Apple, the luxury-car maker's chairman revealed today as the company unveiled a car with Siri and two iPad Minis.The companies will be "more precise" about their partnership in the coming months, Luca Cordero Di Montezemolo said today at the Geneva International Motor Show, according to a Bloomberg account of his comments. CNET has contacted Apple for more comment and will update this report when we learn more.The partnership apparently began last November when Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president for Internet software and services, was invited to join Ferrari's board of directors. Cue is said to be a collector of sports cars, including a Ferrari.Di Montezemolo's comments come on the same day Ferrari unveiled the new FF, the first four-wheel-drive four-seater in the company's history. The car features "seamless integration" with an Apple infotainment system via the Siri-based Eyes Free voice-command system and two iPad Minis for the use of passengers in the backseat.The Eyes Free functionality, which was introduced at last year's WWDC, allows drivers to interact with Apple's iOS voice assistant without having to rely on visual cues, or interact with on-screen menus.The luxury-car maker's big moment came when it took the wraps off the much-anticipated LaFerrari, which happens to be a hybrid. The next-generation supercar delivers an astounding 949 horsepower via a 789-horsepower 6.3-liter V12 gasoline engine and a 160-horsepower electric motor. Together, they propel it to 62 miles per hour from a dead start in less than three seconds and a top speed of 217 miles per hour.Only 499 were made, each of which will sell for at least 1 million euros ($1.3 million).
Ferrari is in negotiations to expand its in-car entertainment partnership with Apple, the luxury-car maker's chairman revealed today as the company unveiled a car with Siri and two iPad Minis.The companies will be "more precise" about their partnership in the coming months, Luca Cordero Di Montezemolo said today at the Geneva International Motor Show, according to a Bloomberg account of his comments. CNET has contacted Apple for more comment and will update this report when we learn more.The partnership apparently began last November when Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president for Internet software and services, was invited to join Ferrari's board of directors. Cue is said to be a collector of sports cars, including a Ferrari.Di Montezemolo's comments come on the same day Ferrari unveiled the new FF, the first four-wheel-drive four-seater in the company's history. The car features "seamless integration" with an Apple infotainment system via the Siri-based Eyes Free voice-command system and two iPad Minis for the use of passengers in the backseat.The Eyes Free functionality, which was introduced at last year's WWDC, allows drivers to interact with Apple's iOS voice assistant without having to rely on visual cues, or interact with on-screen menus.The luxury-car maker's big moment came when it took the wraps off the much-anticipated LaFerrari, which happens to be a hybrid. The next-generation supercar delivers an astounding 949 horsepower via a 789-horsepower 6.3-liter V12 gasoline engine and a 160-horsepower electric motor. Together, they propel it to 62 miles per hour from a dead start in less than three seconds and a top speed of 217 miles per hour.Only 499 were made, each of which will sell for at least 1 million euros ($1.3 million).
Apple, Disney create 'Tron Legacy' iAd, first for iPad
Apple, Disney create 'Tron Legacy' iAd, first for iPad
Apple and Disney have put together a special preview iAd for the iPad that should show up on the U.S. App Store today.Featuring Disney's upcoming movie "Tron Legacy," the new iAd will not only be a way for users to learn more about the movie, but it is also the very first iAd on the iPad."Disney and Apple are excited to debut the 'Tron Legacy' iAd today as a special preview of iAd for iPad, which launches next year," said the two companies in a joint statement. "iAd brings Tron's pulsing energy and vivid graphic style to iPad's stunning display, creating a truly immersive ad experience."When you tap on the ad, you will be given the ability to watch full screen videos and trailers from the film, view a photo gallery and character bios, and listen to music previews from the Daft Punk soundtrack.The iAd will also give users the ability to download content to their iPad. You will be able to get gallery content, links to purchase the soundtrack, a mapping feature that locates the nearest theater, and e-mail integration that lets the user send an image from the movie to a friend, inviting them to see the movie.iAd integration is not widely available on the iPad, yet. However, iAds on the iPad are expected to be available to other companies in early 2011.Of course, it makes sense that Apple would choose to partner with Disney. In 2006, Disney bought Pixar from Steve Jobs for $7.4 billion in stock, making Apple's CEO the largest single shareholder of Disney and a member of its board of directors.
Apple and Disney have put together a special preview iAd for the iPad that should show up on the U.S. App Store today.Featuring Disney's upcoming movie "Tron Legacy," the new iAd will not only be a way for users to learn more about the movie, but it is also the very first iAd on the iPad."Disney and Apple are excited to debut the 'Tron Legacy' iAd today as a special preview of iAd for iPad, which launches next year," said the two companies in a joint statement. "iAd brings Tron's pulsing energy and vivid graphic style to iPad's stunning display, creating a truly immersive ad experience."When you tap on the ad, you will be given the ability to watch full screen videos and trailers from the film, view a photo gallery and character bios, and listen to music previews from the Daft Punk soundtrack.The iAd will also give users the ability to download content to their iPad. You will be able to get gallery content, links to purchase the soundtrack, a mapping feature that locates the nearest theater, and e-mail integration that lets the user send an image from the movie to a friend, inviting them to see the movie.iAd integration is not widely available on the iPad, yet. However, iAds on the iPad are expected to be available to other companies in early 2011.Of course, it makes sense that Apple would choose to partner with Disney. In 2006, Disney bought Pixar from Steve Jobs for $7.4 billion in stock, making Apple's CEO the largest single shareholder of Disney and a member of its board of directors.
'Anchorman' Is Still the Greatest Comedy of the 21st Century
There was a time when much of the world didn;t realize that Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy was a certified masterpiece and the funniest movie of the 21st century. When it was first released, Adam McKay and Will Ferrell;s tale of a pompous but lovable news anchor and his truly odd news team did decent box office and earned decent reviews, but it took time, home video and frequent critical reexaminations of the McKay/Ferrell legacy to truly reveal the truth that was hidden in plain site: there exist few films as funny as the first Anchorman and it;s highly doubtful that even the sequel (although we certainly hope to enjoy it) will top it. Yes, there;s a certain sense of hyperbole to calling Anchorman the best comedy of our young century and, yes, we agree that there are certainly better made and more emotionally satisfying comedies out there. But we;re not talking about good filmmaking here. We;re not even talking about well-structured writing or characters who resonate on a deep and emotional level. We;re talking about laughs and laughs alone, and no film can top Anchorman, which has jokes as broad as a sledgehammer that still somehow manage to cut like a knife. What some may note as the film;s chief problem is actually its biggest strength. Anchorman doesn;t give a s**t about story or character development and it never once tries to make you care about its generally loathsome cast of clowns. Its story is shaggy and rambling, an excuse for funny people to be funny. This could have been a problem in less skilled hands (and we;ve seen plenty of post-SNL stars make films like this), but there;s a breezy confidence to Ferrell and his costars; performances. They get away with starring in a formless and rambling film because each individual scene and wild tangent is funny and crazy enough to hold our attention and warrant inclusion. Too many comedies feel the need to insert unnecessary dramatic stakes and the result is usually a funny movie that loses its way in the final stretch as the laughs stop and the film desperately attempts to tie up emotional loose ends. Anchorman doesn;t just ignore dramatic consequences: it steamrolls through them with glee. Its idea of a grand climax isn;t the sexist Ron Burgundy turning over a new leaf, it;s him jumping into a bear exhibit at the zoo and only escaping with his life because his long-lost dog Baxter shows up and talks the vicious bears down. At every moment, Anchorman runs the risk of flying off the rails, but the performances are so committed and the direction so assured that it remains charming even when the jokes may not land quite as hard as they should. The total rejection of story in favor of very funny people doing very funny business is less like the ;00s and more like the ;30s. The News Team is less like a bunch of funny modern comedians and more like the vaudeville-trained acts of classic Hollywood. The Marx Brothers would shrug if you showed them something like The Hangover (or even something good like Shaun of the Dead), but they;d find plenty to appreciate in the sheer anarchy of Anchorman. After all, the Marx Brothers stopped making classics when the studio demanded that they start adding a coherent plot and a love story to their films. Adam McKay, who has yet to see a typical comedic trope that he hasn;t gladly eviscerated, knows not to weigh his films down standard garbage and cliches. He;s made terrific films since Anchorman, but his first film still feels like a kid let loose in a candy store. No one was watching him, so he went ahead and did whatever he wanted. But one of the most remarkable things about Anchorman is how it feels like every piece came together by chance. In 2004, Will Ferrell was that funny guy from Saturday Night Live, but he wasn;t a leading man. Steve Carell and Paul Rudd were even small names. And David Koechner was still David Koechner, but that;s never been a bad thing. The fact that three of the biggest names in modern comedy (and the great, wonderful and totally undervalued David Koechner) fell together into a lineup like this is astonishing. Today, it;s a BIG HUGE MASSIVE deal that these guys are starring in a comedy together. Without that star power hanging over its head, these guys just seem free to riff and experiment without any preconceived notions. Anchorman isn;t just funny, it;s the birth of a new generation of comedy superstars. You may not like Anchorman and that;s fine because Anchorman is not the kind of movie that cares if you like it. It;s not trying to appeal to everyone and it doesn;t care if you find its non sequiturs and absurd, improvised nonsense unfunny or distasteful. It feels like a movie made by people who set out to make themselves laugh, and that;s what has allowed it to endure. If you try to appeal to everyone, everyone may chuckle. But if you try to strike a chord with a specific kind of person, you unlock real comedy. Thankfully, the chord was struck with an entire generation.
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