Sony Ericsson Elevates Xperia Experience

SINGAPORE (GaeaTimes.com)- Sony Ericsson ruled the roost of the smartphone market with their flagship model Xperia X10. Reportedly, Sony Ericsson officials were a happy bunch at the regional media event where they spoke about the current status of Xperia X 10 in the market.
Hirokazu Ishizuka who happens to be the corporate vice president and the …. Original article  : Sony Ericsson Elevates Xperia Experience.

Government plans to double amount of spectrum available for wireless communications

Gov’t plans to double available wireless spectrum
WASHINGTON – The Obama administration said Sunday it intends to nearly double the available amount of wireless communications spectrum over the next 10 years in an effort to keep up with the ever-growing demand for high-speed video and data transmission to cell phones, laptops and other mobile …. Original article  : Government plans to double amount of spectrum available for wireless communications.

The World Cup Blunder in Bloemfontein requires action from FIFA

FIFA, don’t ignore the Blunder in Bloemfontein

BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa – Sepp Blatter must be squirming. If he isn’t, he should be.
Why is it that the FIFA boss uses modern technology when it suits him – to burnish his public persona by tweeting, for example – but not when it would do some good for global [..] Read the original article: here.

Public servants ’spend 8482 hours a year on Twitter’: Kiwi study

WELLINGTON – Public servants spend at least 8482 hours a year on Twitter, according to a study by Dominion Post.

This is equivalent of a year’s work for four full-time staff.

The annual figure was drawn from a one-month snapshot obtained under the Official Information Act.

The figure was conservative as four out of the 20 …. Source  : Public servants ’spend 8482 hours a year on Twitter’: Kiwi study.

Grooveshark Chooses Juniper Networks

FLORIDA (GaeaTimes.com)- Grooveshark which is among the most widely used music sharing and streaming services has signed a deal with Juniper Networks. As per the deal, the latter will provide it the means to set up its sophisticated cloud-based infrastructure. The advanced EX8208 Ethernet Switches made by Juniper Networks has been chosen by …. Source  : Grooveshark Chooses Juniper Networks.

Adobe PDF To Receive Updates

SAN JOSE (GaeaTimes.com)- Adobe PDF shall soon have it’s updates being released by the company in the upcoming week. Reportedly, the Adobe PDFupdates are a part of the critical security updates which the company has declared to release for all components of Adobe Reader. The company officials have declared that the updates shall enhance the …. Source  : Adobe PDF To Receive Updates.

Oz parents raise concerns over ‘Robot’ school report cards

SYDNEY – A new software that enables primary school teachers in Australia to produce student report cards without writing a single word has become a matter of concern for parents.

Report Robot, a software program described on its website as a ‘revolutionary reporting tool’, is being marketed to teachers in NSW, Victoria and Queensland.

It allows teachers …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Oz parents raise concerns over ‘Robot’ school report cards.

Laptop Price-Performance Balanced In Portege R700

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Toshiba, the famous Japan based electronics giant has introduced the new Portg R700 notebook in India. This model is aimed at the business users who have to travel a lot and need a power packed yet svelte laptop as their companion. There are a lot of business laptops in the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Laptop Price-Performance Balanced In Portege R700.

Brazil, Netherlands qualify for World Cup quarterfinals

Brazil, Netherlands qualify for WCup quarterfinals

JOHANNESBURG – Make way for the Oranje and the Samba Kings in the World Cup quarterfinals.
The Netherlands and Brazil advanced comfortably Monday, while anger simmered over refereeing blunders and FIFA’s refusal to adopt video technology to eliminate them.
Brazil brushed aside Chile 3-0 at Ellis Park as it pushes for a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Administrators of Palin defense fund urge supporters to help fight ex-gov’s political enemies

New Palin defense fund uses fighting words

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The administrators of a new legal defense fund set up for Sarah Palin have sent out e-mails to supporters and others that downplay the outcome of ethics complaints against the former Alaska governor and accuse her political enemies of waging a “vicious campaign” to ruin her.
The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Administrators of Palin defense fund urge supporters to help fight ex-gov’s political enemies.

Amazon.com’s Kindle e-book reader software for Android phones is now available

Amazon’s Kindle app for Android phones is ready
SEATTLE – Amazon.com Inc. said Monday that Kindle software for reading the electronic books it sells is now available for phones that use Google Inc.’s Android system.
Amazon’s Kindle e-book reader is the most popular device of its kind. The company also makes free Kindle software for … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Amazon.com’s Kindle e-book reader software for Android phones is now available.

Analysts tally up guts of Apple’s iPhone 4, estimate cost at $187.51, almost $20 more than 3GS

Analysts say Apple’s iPhone 4 parts cost $187.51
SEATTLE – Apple Inc.’s new iPhone 4 costs almost $20 more to make than its predecessor, the iPhone 3GS, but the device will still help the company continue to rack up high profits, the research group iSuppli said Monday.
The iPhone 4 went on sale June … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Analysts tally up guts of Apple’s iPhone 4, estimate cost at $187.51, almost $20 more than 3GS.

Barnes & Noble 4th-quarter loss widens as it invests in electronic book technology

Barnes & Noble 4Q loss widens on e-book push

NEW YORK – Barnes & Noble Inc.’s fiscal fourth-quarter loss widened as it invested in electronic book technology, the bookseller said Monday.
The New York company also forecast first-quarter and full-year earnings below expectations as it plots aggressive moves into the small but fast-growing e-book market.
The loss for …. Original source  : Barnes & Noble 4th-quarter loss widens as it invests in electronic book technology.

Great white spotted off Mass. for 1st time this year; officials say there’s no need to worry

Great white shark spotted off Massachusetts coast

BOSTON – State officials and shark experts moved quickly to reassure beachgoers Monday after a tuna boat snagged a great white shark, the first confirmed sighting in Massachusetts waters this summer of one of the sea’s most feared creatures.
The juvenile shark – 6 to 7 feet long and weighing … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Great white spotted off Mass. for 1st time this year; officials say there’s no need to worry.

Research in Motion to get boost from new products, software update, analyst says

Analyst: product launches to help BlackBerry maker

SEATTLE – Research in Motion Ltd., maker of the BlackBerry line of smart phones, will get boost from two new upcoming products and a makeover of its phone operating system, an analyst who upgraded the stock said Monday.
THE OPINION: Raymond James analyst Steven Li wrote in a research note … Original source on Gaea Times at : Research in Motion to get boost from new products, software update, analyst says.

Summary Box: White House seeks more wireless spectrum for high-speed Internet access

Summary Box: Gov’t seeks more wireless spectrum

THE WHITE HOUSE PLAN: The Obama administration is backing a Federal Communications Commission plan to nearly double the space available on the airwaves for wireless high-speed Internet traffic.
WHY MORE SPECTRUM IS NEEDED: The government is warning of a looming spectrum crisis as more Americans use wireless devices to access … Original source on Gaea Times at : Summary Box: White House seeks more wireless spectrum for high-speed Internet access.

In wake of blown calls, pressure mounts on FIFA to give referees some high-tech help

Bad-call blues: FIFA urged to allow video replay

JOHANNESBURG – Tennis does it. Baseball does it. Even American football and hockey do it. So why not soccer, too?
After two blown calls at vital moments of vital games in the World Cup, the guardians of international soccer are being pressed harder than ever to explain their resistance … Read this article on Gaea Times at : In wake of blown calls, pressure mounts on FIFA to give referees some high-tech help.

AT&T says upgrade of NYC wireless network is complete, should help prevent dropped calls

AT&T says NYC wireless network upgrade complete
NEW YORK – AT&T Inc. has completed a project to improve wireless service in New York City, where the proliferation of iPhones has caused dropped calls, slow downloads and other problems, the phone company said Monday.
The Dallas-based company said that it has given more room on the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : AT&T says upgrade of NYC wireless network is complete, should help prevent dropped calls.

Analyst raises estimates on Micron on higher prices, healthy demand; shares close up 6 percent

Micron shares rise on improved pricing, demand

PHILADELPHIA – Shares of Micron Technology Inc. rose 6 percent Monday as an analyst raised his revenue and earnings estimates on the company based on his belief that higher prices and healthy demand would lift results for this year and next.
Micron, which makes memory storage devices such as flash …. Original source  : Analyst raises estimates on Micron on higher prices, healthy demand; shares close up 6 percent.

Great white spotted off Mass. for 1st time in 2010, officials say there’s no need to worry

Great white shark spotted off Mass. coast
BOSTON – State officials and shark experts moved quickly to reassure beachgoers Monday after a tuna boat snagged a great white shark, the first confirmed sighting in Massachusetts waters this summer of one of the sea’s most feared creatures.

The juvenile shark – 6 to 7 feet long and weighing … Read more »»».

Startup mSpot lets you stream your own music over Web, Android phone

Startup mSpot lets you stream your music over Web
NEW YORK – A music service launched Monday lets you listen to your collection of tunes from any computer or Android phone over the Internet.
MSpot’s service stores your music on its computers and lets users access it remotely through a Web browser. It makes use … Original source on Gaea Times at : Startup mSpot lets you stream your own music over Web, Android phone.

Veteran producer Nevin to replace Greenblatt as head of programming at Showtime

Showtime network selects new programming chief

NEW YORK – Hollywood producer David Nevins is the new programming chief at Showtime, replacing Robert Greenblatt.
Nevins has been president of Imagine Entertainment since 2002. The production company was behind such shows as “Friday Night Lights” and “24.”
Showtime said Monday that Greenblatt is leaving the pay cable network when his … Read more : Veteran producer Nevin to replace Greenblatt as head of programming at Showtime.

Amazon adds audio, video playback to Kindle apps for Apple’s iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch

Amazon adds audio, video to Kindle apps
SEATTLE – Amazon.com, which makes the Kindle electronic book reader, said Monday it added a new video feature to the software that lets people read Kindle books on Apple gadgets.
Amazon makes free Kindle e-book reader applications, or “apps,” so people can buy and read its e-books on …. Read the original article  : Amazon adds audio, video playback to Kindle apps for Apple’s iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch.

Analyst’s read on Kindle competition prompts cut to Amazon’s stock rating

Analyst downgrades Amazon with eye on Kindle
SEATTLE – Amazon.com Inc.’s Kindle e-book reader has so far been the best-selling gadget of its kind, but an analyst wrote Monday that mounting competition from Apple Inc. and Google Inc. might weigh on the Web retailer’s Kindle-related growth.
THE OPINION: Susquehanna analyst Marianne Wolk cut her rating … Original article on : Analyst’s read on Kindle competition prompts cut to Amazon’s stock rating.

Amazon.com’s Kindle e-reader goes on sale in HMSHost-owned book stores in airports

Amazon’s Kindle reader arrives in airports

BETHESDA, Md. – HMSHost Corp., which operates shops and restaurants in airports, said Monday it will sell Amazon.com Inc.’s Kindle electronic book reader in book stores in six airports.
The company says it will start selling the Kindle at Simply Books stores in the following airports: Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta; John Wayne … Read more : Amazon.com’s Kindle e-reader goes on sale in HMSHost-owned book stores in airports.

Supreme Court rules that patent of hedging weather-related risk cannot be granted

Court rules against inventors in patent case

WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court on Monday refused to weigh in on whether software, online-shopping techniques and medical diagnostic tests can be patented, saying only that inventors’ request for protection of a method of hedging weather-related risk in energy prices cannot be granted.
The high court unanimously agreed with a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court rules that patent of hedging weather-related risk cannot be granted.

Tesla Motors to sell shares to public; company’s success depends on demand for electric cars

With IPO, Tesla bets on electric car’s future
NEW YORK – Tesla Motors Inc. begins selling stock to the public on Tuesday. The sale’s success depends on how much investors are willing to bet on a car company that has never made a profit, sells a single vehicle and expects to lose money until … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tesla Motors to sell shares to public; company’s success depends on demand for electric cars.

Apple sells more than 1.7 million iPhone 4s in first 3 days, beating previous models

Apple sells more than 1.7M iPhones in 3 days
NEW YORK – Apple Inc. said Monday that it sold more than 1.7 million units of its new iPhone model in the first three days, making it the most successful product launch in the company’s history from the standpoint of sales.
The iPhone 4 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Apple sells more than 1.7 million iPhone 4s in first 3 days, beating previous models.

Lonely Chinese soldiers caught up in security clampdown, Beijing bans online dating for troops

Loveless Chinese troops banned from online dating

BEIJING – What will the lonely hearts of the People’s Liberation Army do now?
Rigid restrictions on Internet usage imposed this month on the 2.3 million-strong Chinese armed services are sure to cramp the already lackluster social lives of the predominantly young, male force. Online dating was given the boot, …. Original source  : Lonely Chinese soldiers caught up in security clampdown, Beijing bans online dating for troops.

Spain shows its class to reach quarters, FIFA boss Blatter hints at technology U-turn

Blatter hints at tech U-turn
JOHANNESBURG – Spain showed touches of the class that won the 2008 European Championship and Paraguay went the limit, needing a shootout to dispose of Japan at the World Cup.

David Villa finished off a fluid move of intricate passing – classical Spanish soccer – to finally break down Portugal’s defense and … Original article on : Spain shows its class to reach quarters, FIFA boss Blatter hints at technology U-turn.

Tweeters in Japan fall silent in election campaign over what critics call outdated Net rules

Tweeters in Japan fall silent in election campaign
TOKYO – Japan is in love with Twitter with one notable exception: political campaigns.
The Twitter accounts of most candidates have gone silent in the run-up to parliamentary elections on July 11. The reason: strict laws regulating Internet use. Even voters are banned from tweeting or blogging …. Source  : Tweeters in Japan fall silent in election campaign over what critics call outdated Net rules.

China threatens to revoke Google license over decision to redirect traffic to Hong Kong

Google scrambles to save Internet license in China
BEIJING – China is threatening to revoke Google’s business license over the company’s decision to redirect Chinese traffic to computers in Hong Kong that are not governed by the communist government’s censorship practices.
The latest skirmish between Beijing and the Internet search leader threatens to cripple the …. Source article  : China threatens to revoke Google license over decision to redirect traffic to Hong Kong.

King Kong swings back to Universal Studios in California with ferocious 3-D attraction

King Kong swings back to Universal Studios in 3-D

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – Over two years ago, a fire ravaged the Universal Studios Hollywood backlot, turning several famous outdoor sets into ashes and apparently setting iconic giant gorilla King Kong free. At least, that’s how the fact-meets-fantasy story line goes in “King Kong 360 3-D,” an … Read this article on Gaea Times at : King Kong swings back to Universal Studios in California with ferocious 3-D attraction.

Insurance now available for iPhones, but is it good deal with monthly fee and $199 deductible?

IPhone insurance now available, but too expensive?
NEW YORK – Absent-minded iPhone users can now insure their devices against loss or accidents. But with a $12 monthly fee and a $199 deductible for the latest model, it might make more sense to just learn to be careful.
Asurion, an insurer of consumer-electronics products, has started …. Original source  : Insurance now available for iPhones, but is it good deal with monthly fee and $199 deductible?.

Summary Box: Shares of electric car maker Tesla gain more than 40 percent on 1st trading day

Summary Box: Tesla shares soar in 1st-day trading

THE STOCK: Shares of Tesla Motors Inc. soared in their first day of trading Tuesday, gaining $6.89, or 40.5 percent, to close at $23.89. That marked the second-biggest first-day gain among initial public offerings this year.
THE OFFERING: Tesla’s initial public offering raised $226.1 million after selling 13.3 million … Read more : Summary Box: Shares of electric car maker Tesla gain more than 40 percent on 1st trading day.

Shares of electric car maker Tesla soar in IPO debut after offering raises more than expected

Tesla Motors shares surge in 1st day of trading
NEW YORK – Shares of Tesla Motors Inc. gained more than 40 percent in their public trading debut on Tuesday after the electric car manufacturer raised more money than expected in its initial stock offering.
Investors snapped up Tesla’s shares even as the broader markets took … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Shares of electric car maker Tesla soar in IPO debut after offering raises more than expected.

Barnes & Noble, Micron Technology, Worthington Industries among big market movers Tuesday

Barnes & Noble, Micron Technology among big movers

NEW YORK – Stocks that moved substantially or traded heavily Tuesday on the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq Stock Market:
NYSE
Ford Motor Co., down 55 cents at $9.88
Forecasters expects U.S. sales of cars and light trucks to slow in June after months of gains.
AK Steel Holding Corp., down … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Barnes & Noble, Micron Technology, Worthington Industries among big market movers Tuesday.

Cisco working on iPad-like tablet computer for corporate use, with cameras for video calls

Cisco to launch iPad-like tablet for office use
NEW YORK – Thanks to Apple Inc.’s iPad, tablet computers are finally a hot consumer item, after many false starts. On Tuesday, Cisco Systems Inc. said it aims to take the tablet computer into the business world with its own device, to launch …. Original article  : Cisco working on iPad-like tablet computer for corporate use, with cameras for video calls.

Blatter’s U-turn on refereeing technology may not be what it seems

Is Blatter’s U-turn for real?
JOHANNESBURG – FIFA president Sepp Blatter’s apparent U-turn on the possible introduction of technology to help referees should be taken with a pinch of salt. Maybe he really is having a genuine change of heart, in which case, hooray. Or, perhaps more likely, his sudden reversal is just for show.

The reason … Original article on : Blatter’s U-turn on refereeing technology may not be what it seems.

After apologies to England, Mexico, FIFA chief says time to reconsider high-tech help for refs

Bad calls prompt FIFA to study high-tech ref help

JOHANNESBURG – Upon further review, soccer’s governing body now agrees that something must be done about the blatant missed calls that have infuriated fans and players alike at the World Cup.
Just what that something is, though, won’t even be addressed until after the tournament in South Africa … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : After apologies to England, Mexico, FIFA chief says time to reconsider high-tech help for refs.

King Kong swings back to Universal Studios with ferocious 3-D attraction

King Kong swings back to Universal Studios

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – Over two years ago, a fire ravaged the Universal Studios Hollywood backlot, turning several famous outdoor sets into ashes and apparently setting iconic giant gorilla King Kong free. At least, that’s how the fact-meets-fantasy story line goes in “King Kong 360 3-D,” an immersive addition …. Read the original article  : here.

Tweets in Japan fall silent in election campaign over what critics call outdated Net rules

Tweets in Japan fall silent in election campaign
TOKYO – Japanese are so in love with Twitter they’re setting a record for tweets per second with a flurry of mini-blog postings. But not a chirp is heard in one silent sector – the campaign for the upcoming nationwide elections.
Japanese laws strictly regulate the use …. Source article  : Tweets in Japan fall silent in election campaign over what critics call outdated Net rules.

Giant limo built from 40 other cars up for sale in Florida

FLORIDA – A car built over a decade using scrap parts from 40 different vehicles has been put on sale for 950,000 dollars on eBay.

The car is 22-foot-long, weighs 7,500-pounds and includes a stove, microwave, freezer, TV, two air conditioning units and even … Read more >>.

Online security glitch exposes sensitive customer information of health insurer WellPoint

Security glitch exposes WellPoint data again

INDIANAPOLIS – WellPoint Inc. has notified 470,000 individual insurance customers that medical records, credit card numbers and other sensitive information may have been exposed in the latest security breach of the health insurer’s records.
The Indianapolis company said the problem stemmed from an online program customers can use to track the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Online security glitch exposes sensitive customer information of health insurer WellPoint.

Electric car maker Tesla Motors’ shares rise in IPO debut after raising $226.1 million

Tesla Motors shares rise in IPO debut
NEW YORK – Shares of Tesla Motors are climbing in their trading debut after the auto maker’s expanded initial public offering raised more money than expected.

The electric car maker, based in Palo Alto, Calif., raised $226.1 million after selling 13.3 million shares for $17 apiece. It had earlier expected …. Source article  : Electric car maker Tesla Motors’ shares rise in IPO debut after raising $226.1 million.

10 Ways to Increase Hard Disk Life and Performance

Performance of hard disk has always been an underrrated aspects of the overall system performance. The hard disk were considered only as a place to store and people paid heed to how they affected the operation of the PC as a whole. Each time you read and write on the hard disk some performance … Read more »».

PS3 Update 3.40 Download: Top 5 Features Highlighted

Finally the Play Station 3 update 3.40 is out. Sony has unveiled PS3 3.40, a paid service for PS3 owners. The updated version of PS3 software comes with arrays of new features that include revamped Photo Gallery, Video Editor and Uploader, downloading free games, five star rating etc.
1. Five Star Rating
When you are done …. Read the original article  : here.

Software maker asks EU antitrust regulators to stop SAP from tactics

US firm files antitrust complaint against SAP
BRUSSELS – A U.S. software company has asked European Union regulators to stop Germany’s SAP from tactics that it says illegally exclude it from a lucrative market for programs that help companies price their products.
Austin, Texas-based Versata claims that SAP deliberately refused to share information on its … Read : Software maker asks EU antitrust regulators to stop SAP from tactics.

Maruti Swift New Version Coming

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Maruti Suzuki India is gearing up to meet the increasing competition in the Indian car market. Especially the entry and emergence of the global players like Ford, GM and Hyundai are piling the pressure on the carmaker which commands a major part of the Indian market. It is planning to … Read more >>.

Google says China partially blocks search service amid latest skirmish over censorship

Google says China partially blocks search service
BEIJING – A Google search feature was blocked in China on Thursday, the company said as it awaited Beijing’s decision on whether to renew its operating license amid tensions over censorship.
Mainland users were unable to use the search giant’s “suggest” feature, which offers possible results as they …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mo. Senate panel pares back incentive bill to focus on automakers, cuts out computer centers

Mo. Senate panel pares back incentive package

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Senate committee pared back an incentive package Wednesday to focus solely on Missouri’s automotive industry, shedding other proposed tax breaks at the request of Gov. Jay Nixon’s administration.
The committee’s action set the framework for a scheduled Senate debate Thursday on the engine of this … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mo. Senate panel pares back incentive bill to focus on automakers, cuts out computer centers.

No next of Kin: Microsoft to abandon 2-month-old line of youthful semi-smart phones

Microsoft halts global rollout of Kin phone
SEATTLE – For Microsoft, there will be no next of Kin.
The company said Wednesday it will halt the planned rollout of Kin One and Kin Two phones beyond the U.S., less than two months after Verizon Wireless started selling them.
Microsoft Corp. unveiled the two Kin … Original article on : No next of Kin: Microsoft to abandon 2-month-old line of youthful semi-smart phones.

Correction: Smart Spending-Appliance Rebates

Correction: Smart Spending-Appliance Rebates

SAN FRANCISCO – In a Dec. 30, 2009, story about federally funded rebates on energy-efficient appliances, The Associated Press, relying on information from Joe McGuire, president of the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, incorrectly reported that buyers of new refrigerators could save $250 a year on their electricity bills over what they …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Correction: Smart Spending-Appliance Rebates.

Product recalls: computers, scuba gear, tuna, bathrobes, ski equipment and drill presses

Recalls: computers, scuba gear, tuna, bathrobes
The following recalls have been announced:
About 233,000 notebook computers, manufactured in China and the United States by Sony Electronics Inc. of San Diego, Calif., because they can overheat and pose a risk of burns. The company has received 30 reports or overheated computers, but no reports of injuries. … Read : Product recalls: computers, scuba gear, tuna, bathrobes, ski equipment and drill presses.

Google News gets more personal with tailoring tools to fit each reader’s interests

Google adds a personal touch to its news section
SAN FRANCISCO – Google Inc. is giving its users the chance to tailor the news to fit their interests.
As part of a new look unveiled Wednesday, the English-language version of Google’s online news section is offering tools that will enable readers to specify what kinds …. Original source  : Google News gets more personal with tailoring tools to fit each reader’s interests.

Review: Motorola Droid X’s big screen is great for watching videos, awkward for making calls

Review: Droid X smart phone focuses on screen time
SAN FRANCISCO – As smart phones get bigger and brighter touch screens, the line between handsets and tablet computers has gotten blurry.
The Droid X ($200 with a Verizon Wireless contract and rebate), the latest addition to Motorola Inc.’s popular Droid smart phone line, purports to … Read more : Review: Motorola Droid X’s big screen is great for watching videos, awkward for making calls.

New laws loosen gun control, restrict smoking and drinking, and crack down on texting misuse

New laws target gun control, smoking and drinking

New state laws taking effect Thursday loosen restrictions on carrying guns and toughen restrictions on smoking, drinking and texting around the country.
In New Mexico and Virginia, gun owners with permits can carry their weapons into restaurants that serve alcohol. Workers in Indiana can store their guns in locked … Read more : New laws loosen gun control, restrict smoking and drinking, and crack down on texting misuse.

Applications, outside websites now need user permission to access private Facebook data

Facebook launches ‘permissions’ for apps, websites
NEW YORK – Facebook is rolling out a new feature that requires outside applications and websites to tell users exactly what parts of their profiles have to be shared for the apps to work.
Applications already had to ask users for permission to access anything in their profiles that … Read more >>>.

Boeing acquires combat systems developer Argon ST for $775 million as Pentagon needs shift

Boeing buys Argon for $775M as military shifts

Boeing is buying combat engineering firm Argon ST for about $775 million, reflecting a shift by defense contractors seeking to accommodate a Pentagon that now wants high-tech intelligence tools as much or more than big guns and heavy armor.
The Pentagon is cutting some big weapons meant for conventional …. Source article  : Boeing acquires combat systems developer Argon ST for $775 million as Pentagon needs shift.

‘Cheerio, cherry lips, cheerio,’ Dr. Demento ends syndicated radio show after nearly 40 years

Dr. Demento leaving radio for the Internet

LOS ANGELES – Listen closely, that’s the sound of demented music dying that you’re hearing on your radio.
After nearly 40 years of broadcasting catchy little tunes celebrating everything from dogs getting run over by lawnmowers to cockroaches devouring entire cities, Dr. Demento is discontinuing his syndicated radio show.
By summer’s … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Cheerio, cherry lips, cheerio,’ Dr. Demento ends syndicated radio show after nearly 40 years.

Top 10 Cheap International Calling Plans to India (from USA)

Are you one of those who needs to frequently call to cities in India from USA? Well, the charges for international calls vary from one service provider to another. Before you decide on a plan, you need to feel free to research the individual plans and phone rates and long distance services provided by … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Top 10 Cheap International Calling Plans to India (from USA).

Review: Even if you’re a Muggle, ‘Lego Harry Potter’ casts a spell

Review: ‘Lego Harry Potter’ casts a spell
There isn’t a pop-culture franchise better suited for video games than the Harry Potter epic. It has magic, combat and a vast imaginary world to explore. It has appealing heroes, dastardly villains and awesome monsters. It even has its own sport, Quidditch, which should be a blast … Read more »»».

Amazon begins offer to give a bigger cut of e-book sales to independent authors, publishers

Amazon begins new royalty program for Kindle books

SEATTLE – Amazon.com Inc. said Wednesday it is now offering do-it-yourself authors and publishers royalties of about 70 percent on their e-books.
The online retailer in January had announced plans to offer users of its e-book self-publishing program, the Kindle Digital Text Platform, book sale royalties of 70 percent …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sony offers global free software update to fix possible overheating of VAIO laptop

Sony to fix laptop over possible overheating flaw
TOKYO – Sony Corp. said Wednesday that it has started providing free software updates to more than half a million users worldwide to fix a glitch that could cause overheating in its popular VAIO laptops.
So far, no injuries have been reported, but the Tokyo-based electronics company …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Computer Services 1st-quarter earnings climb 7 percent on revenue growth, acquisition

Computer Services 1Q earnings climb 7 percent

PADUCAH, Ky. – Computer Services Inc. said Wednesday its most recently quarterly earnings jumped 7 percent, helped by growing revenue and a recent acquisition.
The company, which provides information technology services for financial institutions, said growth came from both its core business and its recent acquisition of Myriad Systems Inc., … Read : Computer Services 1st-quarter earnings climb 7 percent on revenue growth, acquisition.

Terrafugia Transition Set To Fly

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- The Terrafugia Transition has cleared one of its biggest hurdles by getting an approval from the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) for classification as a light sports aircraft. The news could mean a great progress for everyone who dreams of flying over the drudging traffic. The Terrafugia Transition is a new age …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Shaw Communications adds customers, posts 20 percent jump in 3rd-quarter net income

Shaw Communications’ 3Q profit climbs 20 percent

NEW YORK – Shaw Communications Inc.’s earnings jumped 20 percent in its fiscal third quarter as more customers signed up for its Internet and digital phone services.
The Canadian cable, satellite and Internet service provider said net income for the three months ended May 31 rose to $158.2 million, or … Read more »»».

NPCIL To Provide Nuclear Equipments

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- NPCIL has been joined by the French energy equipment supplier Alstom Power in a tripartite joint venture agreement to contribute a total of 45,000 MW of power for the Indian market. Reportedly, the agreement signed between NPCIL (Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited) and Alstom Power also has BHEL (Bharat Heavy Electricals … Original article on : NPCIL To Provide Nuclear Equipments.

Their ‘moon shot’: Blind organization to showcase vehicle that can be driven by the blind

Group to show car that can be driven by the blind

WASHINGTON – Could a blind person drive a car? Researchers are trying to make that far-flung notion a reality.
The National Federation of the Blind and Virginia Tech plan to demonstrate a prototype vehicle next year equipped with technology that helps a blind person drive a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Their ‘moon shot’: Blind organization to showcase vehicle that can be driven by the blind.

Farmers use Twitter, YouTube to counter criticism from environmental, animal rights groups

Farmers defend way of life with Facebook, Twitter
DENAIR, Calif. – When a video of dairy cows being punched and prodded with pitchforks was recently released by an animal rights group, it made the rounds on YouTube and generated the expected angry responses.
But it also raised a flurry of outrage from another corner of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Farmers use Twitter, YouTube to counter criticism from environmental, animal rights groups.

US video game retail sales slide 5 percent in May, dragged by lower console prices

NPD: US video game sales drop 5 percent in May
NEW YORK – Video game retail sales slipped once again in May, hurt by lower prices of gaming consoles.
Total sales of gaming systems, software and accessories dropped to $823.5 million in May, down 5 percent from a year earlier, according to figures released Thursday …. Read the original article  : US video game retail sales slide 5 percent in May, dragged by lower console prices.

Corporation Commission approves OG&E’s application to implement ’smart meter’ program

State commission approves OG&E ’smart meters’

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Corporation Commission authorized Oklahoma Gas and Electric Co. on Thursday to expand its smart grid program statewide and install technology allowing consumers to monitor their electricity usage and take advantage of lower costs during off-peak hours.
Commissioners approved an agreement between Oklahoma’s largest electric utility, members … Read : Corporation Commission approves OG&E’s application to implement ’smart meter’ program.

Disney acquires Tapulous, maker of popular iPhone game Tapulous

Disney acquires iPhone game maker Tapulous
LOS ANGELES – The Walt Disney Co. said Thursday it acquired Tapulous, the maker of the popular iPhone play-along music game Tap Tap Revenge, to bolster its ability to create mobile games and gain another toehold in Silicon Valley.
“It definitely is a strategic move and it highlights the … Original article on : Disney acquires Tapulous, maker of popular iPhone game Tapulous.

Flying high: Google hopes to steer more airline bookings with $700M purchase of ITA Software

Google to buy travel software company for $700M
SAN FRANCISCO – Google Inc. plans to buy travel technology company ITA Software Inc. in a $700 million deal that would enable the Internet search leader to steer more of the airline reservations booked on the Web.
The all-cash deal announced Thursday signals Google’s intention to challenge [..] Read the original article: here.

Google buys travel software company ITA Software for $700 million in cash

Google buys travel software company for $700M
SAN FRANCISCO – Google Inc. plans to buy travel technology company ITA Software Inc. in a $700 million deal that would enable the Internet search leader to steer more of the airline reservations booked on the Web.
The all-cash deal announced Thursday signals Google’s intention to challenge flight-comparison … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Google buys travel software company ITA Software for $700 million in cash.

GM’s Whitacre says Austin will be among cities for rollout of electric-powered Chevy Volt

GM’s Whitacre: Austin added to Volt rollout list
AUSTIN, Texas – Texas, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut will join the states where General Motors will roll out its electric car, the Chevrolet Volt, GM CEO Ed Whitacre announced Thursday.
The debut list originally included Washington, D.C., California and Michigan. GM expects to have the … Original article on : GM’s Whitacre says Austin will be among cities for rollout of electric-powered Chevy Volt.

Dell upgraded at UBS; analysts expects businesses to replace aging PCs

Dell upgraded at UBS on PC expectations
NEW YORK – Dell Inc. is poised to gain from a new cycle of computer upgrades at businesses, a UBS analyst said Thursday, upgrading the company’s stock.
THE OPINION: UBS analyst Maynard Um said more companies should start replacing aging PCs in the second half of the year [..] Read the original article: here.

Fitch upgrades software maker CA’s credit rating on revenue growth, ‘conservative’ policies

Fitch upgrades ratings on software maker CA

CHICAGO – Fitch Ratings said Thursday it upgraded credit ratings on business management software provider CA Inc., citing the company’s “conservative” financial policies and growing revenue.
CA’s financial results have been improving as businesses spend more on information technology coming out of the recession.
Fitch lifted its overall rating for CA …. Original article  : Fitch upgrades software maker CA’s credit rating on revenue growth, ‘conservative’ policies.

Gartner lowers 2010 global IT spending growth forecast due to weaker euro

Gartner lowers 2010 IT spending forecast
STAMFORD, Conn. – Global information technology spending will rise this year, but not as much as previously expected because of the strength of the dollar versus the euro, Gartner Inc. said Thursday.
The research firm now expects global IT spending to climb 3.9 percent over 2009, to $3.35 trillion. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Frontier closes $5.3 billion deal for Verizon phone lines in 14 states

Frontier closes $5.3B deal for Verizon phone lines

STAMFORD, Conn. – Frontier Communications Corp. closed its $5.3 billion acquisition of phone lines in 14 states belonging to Verizon Communications Inc., the company said Thursday.
Frontier, a Stamford-based phone company that focuses on small towns and rural areas, is taking over 4 million Verizon phone lines in a … Read more »»».

Yahoo launches mail and messenger apps for Android phones; improves mobile sites for iPhone

Yahoo launches mail and messenger apps for Android
SUNNYVALE, Calif. – Yahoo Inc. said Thursday that it now has mail and messenger applications available that run on Google Inc.’s Android mobile software.
Android runs on phones such as the Droid and Nexus One.
Yahoo also said it has improved its mail and news mobile websites for …. Original source  : Yahoo launches mail and messenger apps for Android phones; improves mobile sites for iPhone.

IBM acquiring software maker BigFix to bolster network security business

IBM acquiring security software maker BigFix
ARMONK, N.Y. – IBM Corp. said Thursday it is adding to its network security business with the acquisition of a privately held company called BigFix Inc.
IBM did not say how much it is paying for the company.
BigFix, based in Emeryville, Calif., provides software that monitors company computers to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : IBM acquiring software maker BigFix to bolster network security business.

AsiaInfo closes deal to buy rival Chinese telecom company Linkage Technologies

AsiaInfo closes deal to buy Linkage Technologies

NEW YORK – AsiaInfo Holdings Inc. said Thursday it has closed its acquisition of rival telecommunications company Linkage Technologies International Holdings Ltd.
AsiaInfo, based in Beijing, said it paid $60 million in cash and 26.8 million of its own shares for the privately held company. AsiaInfo’s stock closed at $21.86 …. Read the original article  : AsiaInfo closes deal to buy rival Chinese telecom company Linkage Technologies.

Executive of investment firm Iposeira Capital joins FMC Technologies’ board of directors

FMC Technologies names new director to board

HOUSTON – FMC Technologies Inc., which makes equipment used in the oil, food and aviation industries, said Thursday that a founding partner of the investment firm Iposeira Capital is joining its board.
Eleazar de Carvalho Filho is also a partner at the financial advisory firm Virtus BR Partners and serves … Original article on : Executive of investment firm Iposeira Capital joins FMC Technologies’ board of directors.

Internet access becomes legal right for all in highly wired Finland

Finland provides Internet access to all
HELSINKI – Finland has adopted a policy to provide Internet access as a legal right for all citizens in the sparsely populated country.

The minister of communications says that “a reasonably priced and high quality broadband connection will be everyone’s basic right” as of Thursday.
Suvi Linden says that 26 telecom operators, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Internet access becomes legal right for all in highly wired Finland.

Amazon.com offers new Kindle DX, lowers price to $379 from $489

Amazon.com offers new lower-priced Kindle DX
SEATTLE – Online retailer Amazon.com Inc. said Thursday it is introducing a new version of its higher-end Kindle at a lower price as competition among electronic-book readers intensifies.
The new version of its Kindle DX has a better screen that will display sharper images.
The large-screen reader, …. Original source  : Amazon.com offers new Kindle DX, lowers price to $379 from $489.

Summary Box: Google partially blocked in China, awaiting license decision

Summary Box: China partially blocks Google
THE NEWS: Google Inc. says one of its search features was blocked in China while Beijing decides whether to renew its operating license amid tensions over censorship. The company closed its China search engine in March and was rerouting users to an unfiltered Hong Kong site. Google says …. Source  : Summary Box: Google partially blocked in China, awaiting license decision.

Verizon iPhone: Finally Arriving?

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- The speculation of Verizon Wireless finally selling Apple iPhone never dies down and every now and then people keep hearing that it will be launched soon. However, till now rival AT&T has managed to continue its hold as the exclusive carrier of iPhone. Things have not changed even after the launch … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Verizon iPhone: Finally Arriving?.

Best Buy employee suspended after posting snarky videos poking fun at iPhone zealots

Worker in trouble for snarky iPhone-Evo video
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – When Brian Maupin made two snarky online videos poking fun at zealots of the iPhone and the Evo phone, he thought it was just a good way to vent some of the frustrations inherent in selling smart phones.
His employer, Best Buy, thought otherwise, … Read more >>>.

Wal-Mart Stores, Allergan, Abercrombie & Fitch among big market movers Friday

Wal-Mart Stores, Allergan among big movers
NEW YORK – Stocks that moved substantially or traded heavily Friday on the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq Stock Market:
NSYE
Frontier Communications Corp., down 34 cents at $7.35
The phone company closed a $5.3 billion acquisition of Verizon Communications Inc.’s phone lines, taking on $3.3 billion in debt.
Thor Industries …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Wal-Mart Stores, Allergan, Abercrombie & Fitch among big market movers Friday.

Recalls this week: Sony laptops that may melt, kids’ jewelry made with toxic metal, pet beds

Recalls this week: Sony laptops, kids’ jewelry
NEW YORK – A big recall of notebook computers leads the news this week, as a series of Sony Vaio laptops were deemed in danger of overheating and potentially causing burns.
More children’s jewelry containing the dangerous metal cadmium also made the list, along with power adapters for …. Source  : Recalls this week: Sony laptops that may melt, kids’ jewelry made with toxic metal, pet beds.

Mass. to receive $45M in stimulus funds for broadband access in western part of state

Mass. to receive $45M from feds for broadband

BOSTON – Douglas Trumbull and Michael Garfield-Wright love living and love running their businesses in the quiet hills of rural western Massachusetts, except for one thing: Internet access is limited to slow, unreliable satellite and dial-up connections.
“It’s really a drag,” said Trumbull, an award-winning photographic effects expert who … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mass. to receive $45M in stimulus funds for broadband access in western part of state.

Take-Two shares climb after game sales report shows solid showing

Take-Two shares climb after game sales report
NEW YORK – Shares of Take-Two Interactive Software Inc. inched higher after the NPD Group’s latest video game sales report showed a strong debut for “Red Dead Redemption.”
THE SPARK: Take-Two has long relied on its wildly popular “Grand Theft Auto” series for its profits. But “Red Dead … Read : Take-Two shares climb after game sales report shows solid showing.

Top 20 free application for Mac users to Smoothly Switch from Mac to Windows

For some time now Apple has been raving about Mac’s cost effectiveness for businesses.?? They have formed a powerful alternative to Windows in the legal community. There could be a number of reasons to switch to Mac from PC. The list of merit should start with security, as Mac systems are less vulnerable to … Read more »».

Google denies agreeing to China’s demand for self-censorship

NEW DELHI – Software search engine giant Google has rubbished reports that it has approached the Chinese government with a proposal for self-censorship, saying it would never consider it.

Obert Boorstin, the company’s director of public policy, said: “One thing we will not [..] Read the original article: here.

Obama: Economy going in right direction, but just not fast enough

Obama: Economy still headed right direction

ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md. – President Barack Obama on Friday cast the state of the economy in upbeat terms, declaring that it was headed in the right direction even as employers slashed payrolls last month for the first time in half a year as temporary census jobs ended.
The net … Read more >>>.

That driver must be blind! Someday he may be; group to show high-tech car the blind can drive

Driving while blind? Maybe, with new high-tech car

WASHINGTON – Could a blind person drive a car? Researchers are trying to make that far-fetched notion a reality.
The National Federation of the Blind and Virginia Tech plan to demonstrate a prototype vehicle next year equipped with technology that helps a blind person drive a car independently.
The technology, … Original source on Gaea Times at : That driver must be blind! Someday he may be; group to show high-tech car the blind can drive.

Apple ’stunned’ to find iPhones overstate signal strength; holding it wrong still a problem

Apple ’stunned’ to find iPhones show too many bars
NEW YORK – Apple Inc. said Friday that it was “stunned” to find that its iPhones have for years been using a “totally wrong” formula to determine how many bars of signal strength they are getting.
Apple said that’s the reason behind widespread complaints from users … Original source on Gaea Times at : Apple ’stunned’ to find iPhones overstate signal strength; holding it wrong still a problem.

Apple ’stunned’ to find iPhones overreport signal strength; holding it wrong still a problem

Apple ’stunned’ to find flaw in iPhones
NEW YORK – Apple Inc. said Friday that it was “stunned” to find that its iPhones use a “completely wrong” formula to show how many bars of signal strength they are getting.
Apple said that’s the reason behind widespread complaints from users that the latest model, iPhone 4, … Read more : Apple ’stunned’ to find iPhones overreport signal strength; holding it wrong still a problem.

SAP, still waiting for EU clearance of acquisition, extends Sybase tender offer

SAP extends Sybase bid, awaits EU clearance

NEW YORK – German business software maker SAP AG said Friday that it has extended its $5.8 billion tender offer for U.S. database software maker Sybase Inc. because the deal hasn’t yet been cleared by European regulators.
SAP said the offer of $65 per share, which was scheduled to expire …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : SAP, still waiting for EU clearance of acquisition, extends Sybase tender offer.

‘Red spy’ Anna Chapman “embarrassed” by racy Facebook pics

NEW YORK – Anna Chapman, the red-haired beauty accused of being a Russian spy, is embarrassed by steamy photos of her splashed across newspapers, and fears deportation, her lawyer has said.

The American dailies have dubbed Chapman, 28, a “bombshell” and a “femme fatale” with many featuring pictures of her from her Facebook page posing in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Red spy’ Anna Chapman “embarrassed” by racy Facebook pics.

Outdated technology in payroll system foils Schwarzenegger’s minimum wage order for workers

Old technology foils Schwarzenegger’s wage order

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – As the Terminator, Arnold Schwarzenegger was the technology of the future, feared by humans. As governor, he’s being foiled by the technology of the past.
For the second time in two years, Schwarzenegger has ordered most state workers’ pay cut to the federal minimum wage because lawmakers missed …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Outdated technology in payroll system foils Schwarzenegger’s minimum wage order for workers.

Experts say US largely ruling out North Korea in 2009 cyberattacks on US, South Korea websites

US largely ruling out NKorea in 2009 cyberattacks

WASHINGTON – U.S. officials have largely ruled out North Korea as the origin of a computer attack last July that took down U.S. and South Korean government websites, according to cybersecurity experts.
But authorities are not much closer than they were a year ago to knowing exactly who did … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Experts say US largely ruling out North Korea in 2009 cyberattacks on US, South Korea websites.

EU Modem Investigation Causes Chinese Wrath

BEIJING, CHINA (GaeaTimes.com)- The China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products (CCCME), one of the topmost industrial groups in China has requested the European Union to look into the matter of all the IT firms in the country following an investigation by the EU into the companies which … Read this article on Gaea Times at : EU Modem Investigation Causes Chinese Wrath.

Modem Price Increases This August

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Coming August will see an increase in the price of an internet modem, announced Walter Neary, the spokesman for the Comcast Internet Services. While the standard rise for all customers will be an increase of $2, the users of only the Comcast high-speed Internet service will have to shell out an additional … Original source on Gaea Times at : Modem Price Increases This August.