From nearly invisible solar panels to Microsoft working on it’s own version of the Chromecast dongle to reviews of a couple Bluetooth speaker options, we’ve covered a lot over the past week here at Techaeris. Here’s a quick recap of some of the stories we covered.
Tech
Turns out Apple’s proprietary Lightning Cable may soon include a reversible USB connector opposite the lightning connector as Apple has recently filed a patent pretty much confirming this addition. Video of the USB cable in action surfaced the next day.
Are you a fan of podcasts? A new podcast site launched this week. Get the scoop on Relay.FM!
Looks like Twitter is changing things around again and could soon be serving up the tweets that it thinks you’re interested in… I’m sure you’ll be seeing a lot more branded tweets in your timeline!
Everything Everywhere is the UK’s best mobile operator according to Rootmetrics. Are you an EE customer? Do you agree?
Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered that some Android apps have the ability to attack other apps – and thus steal data and sensitive information.
Apple has hidden one of Steve Jobs most famous speeches inside OSX. Who doesn’t like easter eggs in their programs and games?
Microsoft is really upping their game against Google – first taking on Chromebooks, now it’s rumored they are working on it’s own version of the Chromecast dongle.
With everyone anticipating the Moto 360 because of it’s circular design, looks like they could be upstaged by another offering by LG – the circular LG G Watch R.
Mobile
How many apps do you download and install on your mobile device? A recent study by Deloitte indicates 1/3 of smartphone users don’t download new apps on a monthly basis.
iPhone users rejoice! Google has released an iOS version of their Photosphere app.
Snapchat – the popular teen photo app – looks to be building a new feature into it’s app called Snapchat Discovery. This feature will offer… news? I’m sure teens are going to jump right on the new functionality when it launches!
It’s game over for the popular app Secret in Brazil. A major court in that country has ruled that the app doesn’t comply with local laws.
One of those carrying around a Nokia Asha, Series 30+ or Series 40 handset? Prepare for a browser change as Microsoft is dropping IE from these handsets and will be replacing it with Opera.
Reviews
SOLEMEMO sent us a Muvision N11 Bluetooth Wireless Speaker for testing. Check out what Christopher Wieninger has to say about this sub-$40 portable speaker.
With many states adopting strict hands-free policies regarding phone use while driving, hands-free options are becoming more popular. We take a look at and review the Air Dock – a phone dock with Qi Wireless Charging.
Another wireless Bluetooth speaker review this week – check out what Jason Bouwmeester thought about JLab Audio’s Crasher 2.0 speaker with portable device charging capabilities.
Alex Hernandez took a look at the Maglus stylus from Applydea. Find out what he thought about this affordable stylus.
Editorials
Apple, once king of the hill, with it’s iOS devices has been losing market share for some time now. Check out Alex Hernandez’s thoughts on what Apple needs to do to retain existing and gain new users with the upcoming iPhone 6.
Science
Yay science! Researchers at MSU have come up with a transparent luminescent solar concentrator (LSC) that can create nearly invisible solar panels when applied to a clear surface. ANY clear surface. Just imagine the possibilities!
Business
You may have heard about Google’s new $300 million dollar underwater fiber optic cabling system, but it turns out they’re having a few issues with… SHARKS! Check out what Google plans to do to shark-proof the cabling.
Google first introduced Google Apps for Education back in 2006, and is expanding it with a free GAFE integration tool called Classroom will supposedly “give teachers more time to teach and students more time to learn.”.
Google for Kids? Current Google, and Facebook, policy states that users must be 13 years of age or older to use their services. Looks like Google is investigating kid friendly access to Gmail, YouTube, and other services.
I’m sure many people around the globe are saying “it’s about time” as Steve Ballmer finally steps down from serving on the Microsoft Board of Directors.
Looks like Microsoft is dropping the gloves and has teamed up with HP to take on Google’s Chromebook with the HP Stream. Who’s corner do you have in this battle?
While free might be good for users, it doesn’t always work out for businesses. Soundcloud is going to start showing ads and will introduce a three-tiered service.
Google X, the ultra research wing of Google, acquired Gecko Design for an undisclosed price this week.
Apple and Samsung are frequently at odds in the courthouse, but they just can’t seem to live without each other. It seems some of Apple’s new suppliers can’t keep up with demand. Could Apple be looking to bring Samsung back into the fold?
Auto
The Tesla Model S gets a Saleen makeover! Check out the FOURSIXTEEN.
Entertainment
Google Cardboard – Google’s low cost solution to high tech – was introduced this past at Google I/O. Turns out iOS has a few tricks up its sleeve as well and can support Google Cardboard type solutions as well.
That about wraps up our Weekly Refresh – look for our recap every Sunday for a quick glance at what you may have missed over the past week. As always, the staff here at Techaeris thanks you – our readers – for checking us out throughout the week and thank you for your continued support. After all, we write because we love to share what interests us and keep you informed on tech happenings around the world!
Last Updated on November 27, 2018.
