Clear Channel, Warner Music cozy up in multiplatform deal
Clear Channel and Warner Music, one of the "Big Three" music labels, signed a partnership Thursday that will share the radio giant's revenue for unprecedented promotion of Warner artists on air and online, as well as efforts to make it easier for digital listeners to buy Warner's music when they hear it. The pact, Clear Channel's first wide-ranging strategic alliance with a major label, underscores how both labels' and traditional radio are testing new ways to ensure self-preservation in the digital age. The partnership means Warner Music will share in revenue from Clear Channel and get special treatment on its 850 radio stations, online radio feeds, and its iHeartRadio digital service. The companies said aligning their interests would drive digital growth, increase radio's audience, and attract attention to Warner's new and legacy artists. At first blush, the deal sets up Clear Channel to pay for things it didn't before while also promoting things it wasn't before, but Clear Channel CEO Bob Pittman told CNET in an interview that both work in the radio operator's favor as well as the label's. "The more we can regularize the relationship with the music company, the better we can" connect music fans to artists, he said. "When we're promoting an artist, it not only helps the artist and the marketing company, it's helping us."He said the deal has an economic structure that makes sense for Clear Channel. He wouldn't go into further detail about the terms. He also said one of Clear Channel's top goals with the partnership is growth of the digital marketplace for digital radio and custom radio.An industry source said that Warner Music benefits from the tie-up by getting more payments for its sound recordings and Clear Channel benefits by smoothing out unpredictability in its licensing costs. Related storiesClear Channel's revamp to iHeartMedia puts digital center stageTraditionally, terrestrial radio doesn't pay labels to play the sound recordings of their songs, although the Digital Millennium Copyright Act did set up a sound-recording royalty for services over the Internet.The recorded music industry has shriveled in the last decade as sales have shifted to digital forms, only recently reaching the point that recorded music's overall trade value worldwide has ceased a more than 10-year slide.Most of the credit for the stabilization is due to physical sales finally reaching their nadir, while growth in digital sales continues. Meanwhile, entrants into online radio have been encroaching on traditional radio's turf -- and driving up the costs and unpredictability of royalties in the meantime. Though AM/FM still commands the lion's share of the radio audience, traditional broadcasters have largely sat on the sidelines as upstart digital services have taken the lead in delivering innovative radio products with new technology. The coming launch next week of iTunes Radio, Apple's online radio service linked to its iTunes program with an installed base of more than 575 million customers worldwide, will bring the same player that upended the sale of recorded music into the realm of radio. Warner Music, however, has been one of the more progressive of the major labels to seize upon digital opportunities lately. It was the first label to strike a deal with Apple for iTunes Radio, and it reportedly was a vanguard in working with Google's YouTube in its development of a streaming music service. Labels have also taken a contentious route to protect royalties in the digital age. This week, labels including Capitol Records, Sony Music Entertainment, and Universal Music Group -- though not Warner Music -- sued satellite radio operator Sirius XM, accusing it of not paying royalties on music recorded before 1972. Thursday's Clear Channel pact will include special programs using the radio operator's digital footprint, including its digital simulcast, digital-only stations, and custom stations, as well as special audio and video content, programming, and promotions. It will also launch targeted online interfaces so consumers can easily buy Warner's music as it plays.CeeLo Green, a Warner artist, weighed in on the partnership. "The reach of radio, its power to promote, coupled with a recognition of the value of music makes this a great opportunity for artists and a promise to all people that finding their favorite music is fun and fundamental," he said in a statement.That's cogent praise for a singer who rose to fame thanks to a chorus of upbeat, explicit invective. Update, 7:55 a.m. PT: Adds additional details and context.Update, 12:07 p.m. PT: Adds interview with Clear Channel CEO.
Report- Google TV struggling to find partners
Report: Google TV struggling to find partners
The first gadgets to feature Google TV are due in the not too distant future from companies including Sony, Logitech, and Dish Network. Sony, for one, plans to offer both an Internet-ready TV and a set-top with a Blu-ray Disc drive that tap Google TV services.Citing unnamed sources who are familiar with the matter, the Journal reported that Google has met with representatives from major television networks ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC in a bid to bring their programming to Google TV. According to the publication's sources, those companies are "skeptical that Google can provide a business model that would compensate for potentially cannibalizing TV owners' existing broadcast businesses." (Editors' note: CNET is published by CBS Interactive, a division of CBS.)From the networks' perspective, providing content to Google could cause some viewers to opt for the Google TV option rather than watch shows live on the networks' channels where they can generate more revenue.It's worth noting that right now, the services Google TV will be competing against, such as Apple TV, allow users to watch episodes from popular shows from the major networks. On Apple TV, for example, consumers are required to either buy an individual episode or pay for a season pass from iTunes. The major difference for the networks, the Journal reports, is that Google TV rivals won't give users access to any site on the Internet--so the networks reason that their content won't get lost in the world of Web content and pirated clips the way it might on a Google TV device.It gets worse. According to the Journal, "some media companies are discussing whether they should take steps to block their Web video from playing on certain devices." The idea, according to the report, is to limit access to content from a Google TV-equipped device. The networks fear that if consumers can access their Web content, they would simply watch episodes online through the Google TV, rather than watch them when they air.For now, it seems, the search giant isn't going to easily get networks to change their minds on the Google TV. And as with so many other products--Netflix Instant Streaming immediately comes to mind--the company will need to attract users first before it can attract the best content. It hopes to do that starting this fall when Google TV will start making its debut on a few products, including the Logitech Revue set-top box.
The first gadgets to feature Google TV are due in the not too distant future from companies including Sony, Logitech, and Dish Network. Sony, for one, plans to offer both an Internet-ready TV and a set-top with a Blu-ray Disc drive that tap Google TV services.Citing unnamed sources who are familiar with the matter, the Journal reported that Google has met with representatives from major television networks ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC in a bid to bring their programming to Google TV. According to the publication's sources, those companies are "skeptical that Google can provide a business model that would compensate for potentially cannibalizing TV owners' existing broadcast businesses." (Editors' note: CNET is published by CBS Interactive, a division of CBS.)From the networks' perspective, providing content to Google could cause some viewers to opt for the Google TV option rather than watch shows live on the networks' channels where they can generate more revenue.It's worth noting that right now, the services Google TV will be competing against, such as Apple TV, allow users to watch episodes from popular shows from the major networks. On Apple TV, for example, consumers are required to either buy an individual episode or pay for a season pass from iTunes. The major difference for the networks, the Journal reports, is that Google TV rivals won't give users access to any site on the Internet--so the networks reason that their content won't get lost in the world of Web content and pirated clips the way it might on a Google TV device.It gets worse. According to the Journal, "some media companies are discussing whether they should take steps to block their Web video from playing on certain devices." The idea, according to the report, is to limit access to content from a Google TV-equipped device. The networks fear that if consumers can access their Web content, they would simply watch episodes online through the Google TV, rather than watch them when they air.For now, it seems, the search giant isn't going to easily get networks to change their minds on the Google TV. And as with so many other products--Netflix Instant Streaming immediately comes to mind--the company will need to attract users first before it can attract the best content. It hopes to do that starting this fall when Google TV will start making its debut on a few products, including the Logitech Revue set-top box.
Feet-on with Zombies, Run! 2 jogging game
Feet-on with Zombies, Run! 2 jogging game
Out of steam? Can't bring yourself to finish that last mile? Maybe a zombie horde breathing down your neck will give you the adrenaline boost you need.That's the idea behind Zombies, Run! 2 (Android | iOS), which bills itself as an "immersive running game and audio adventure" for your smartphone.It works like this: Before you start your run, you load the app, choose a mission, put in your earbuds, and then hit the road. Along the way, you're treated to audio segments that gradually reveal the story of Abel Township and the zombie apocalypse that has runners like you on the run.Interesting premise, no? Think RunKeeper, but with a "Walking Dead" plot woven in. Each mission has a basic goal (fetch supplies, rescue other humans, carry news to another base) directed by radio operators, with occasional shout-outs from other runners. It's all very virtual; there's nothing tied to your exact location or speed or anything like that. Basically, it's theater for your ears.And, I'm sorry to say, mediocre theater at that. Perhaps it's because the actual "Walking Dead" set the bar so high for zombie-fueled drama, but for me, Zombies, Run! comes across as pointless, silly, and not very scary.I base this on having run the introductory mission and listened to a couple others. Much of the radio-operator chatter is just blather, and when there's talk that does drive the plot, it's just dull. "C'mon, Runner Five, you've got to get to the hospital to retrieve the CDC files. Now go!" Try as I might, I never felt engaged by these (sorry) disembodied voices who can somehow see me and track my "location." The whole experience just felt hollow, even with the occasional zombie groans scattered in.To make matters worse, these radio communications pop up between songs in whatever playlist you've chosen, and it's unintentionally hilarious to go from a gravely serious warning ("They're right behind you! Run as fast as you can!") to a cheery pop hit like "Boogie Shoes." Any drama or suspense that might have been established gets instantly erased when you next find yourself jamming to "Livin' La Vida Loca." (Before you laugh at my song choices, I'd just picked up this cardio collection, and it's actually really good.)The app does offer some interesting post-run activities in the form of base-building, where you can trade supplies collected during your run for new buildings, building upgrades, and even base expansion. A bigger base means more missions, but ultimately you'll end up paying real money for them: $1.99 for a "season pass," which entitles you to all 40 Season Two missions as they're released (three per week). The game comes with over 20 missions from Season One and the first four from Season Two.One important thing to note if you bought the first edition of the game last year: Because the whole base-builder system has been revamped, your original base and collected supplies won't transfer over. Based on the iTunes user reviews of Zombies, Run! 2, players are pretty unhappy with this outcome.The app normally sells for $7.99, but for the next few days it's on sale for $3.99. I understand the pricing given the extensive collection of missions and the need to hire writers and voice actors to create them. Still, RunKeeper costs nothing, and if you want a story on your run, you can always listen to an audiobook, podcast, or whatever.Make no mistake: I think this is a really cool idea, and I genuinely dig zombie drama. But Zombies, Run! made me feel bored, not motivated. Perhaps if the developers move to a freemium model, you can judge it for yourself without spending any cash.
Out of steam? Can't bring yourself to finish that last mile? Maybe a zombie horde breathing down your neck will give you the adrenaline boost you need.That's the idea behind Zombies, Run! 2 (Android | iOS), which bills itself as an "immersive running game and audio adventure" for your smartphone.It works like this: Before you start your run, you load the app, choose a mission, put in your earbuds, and then hit the road. Along the way, you're treated to audio segments that gradually reveal the story of Abel Township and the zombie apocalypse that has runners like you on the run.Interesting premise, no? Think RunKeeper, but with a "Walking Dead" plot woven in. Each mission has a basic goal (fetch supplies, rescue other humans, carry news to another base) directed by radio operators, with occasional shout-outs from other runners. It's all very virtual; there's nothing tied to your exact location or speed or anything like that. Basically, it's theater for your ears.And, I'm sorry to say, mediocre theater at that. Perhaps it's because the actual "Walking Dead" set the bar so high for zombie-fueled drama, but for me, Zombies, Run! comes across as pointless, silly, and not very scary.I base this on having run the introductory mission and listened to a couple others. Much of the radio-operator chatter is just blather, and when there's talk that does drive the plot, it's just dull. "C'mon, Runner Five, you've got to get to the hospital to retrieve the CDC files. Now go!" Try as I might, I never felt engaged by these (sorry) disembodied voices who can somehow see me and track my "location." The whole experience just felt hollow, even with the occasional zombie groans scattered in.To make matters worse, these radio communications pop up between songs in whatever playlist you've chosen, and it's unintentionally hilarious to go from a gravely serious warning ("They're right behind you! Run as fast as you can!") to a cheery pop hit like "Boogie Shoes." Any drama or suspense that might have been established gets instantly erased when you next find yourself jamming to "Livin' La Vida Loca." (Before you laugh at my song choices, I'd just picked up this cardio collection, and it's actually really good.)The app does offer some interesting post-run activities in the form of base-building, where you can trade supplies collected during your run for new buildings, building upgrades, and even base expansion. A bigger base means more missions, but ultimately you'll end up paying real money for them: $1.99 for a "season pass," which entitles you to all 40 Season Two missions as they're released (three per week). The game comes with over 20 missions from Season One and the first four from Season Two.One important thing to note if you bought the first edition of the game last year: Because the whole base-builder system has been revamped, your original base and collected supplies won't transfer over. Based on the iTunes user reviews of Zombies, Run! 2, players are pretty unhappy with this outcome.The app normally sells for $7.99, but for the next few days it's on sale for $3.99. I understand the pricing given the extensive collection of missions and the need to hire writers and voice actors to create them. Still, RunKeeper costs nothing, and if you want a story on your run, you can always listen to an audiobook, podcast, or whatever.Make no mistake: I think this is a really cool idea, and I genuinely dig zombie drama. But Zombies, Run! made me feel bored, not motivated. Perhaps if the developers move to a freemium model, you can judge it for yourself without spending any cash.
The 404 710- Where you can buy me love (podcast)
The 404 710: Where you can buy me love (podcast)
Did you know that Apple will also refund your money if you're unhappy with the purchase of an app in the iTunes Store? We didn't know either, but Apple lets you do just that in a few simple steps: just log into your iTunes account, click on "purchase history," "report a problem" with the lackluster app, and Apple will refund your purchase price. You do need to fill out a form detailing the reason for the refund, and "this app blows" won't fly, so get creative!If you're as much of an Apple fanboy as Wilson is, then you should probably buy a ticket for London ASAP, because an original Apple-1 computer hand-built by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak will be auctioned off at Christie's in London on November 23. It's one of 200 original computers sold out of Steve's garage in 1976, and even includes an invoice from the salesman and a typed letter from Jobs to the original owner.Kenley BradstreetCNETThe bill for the sale reads $666.66, although the Apple-1 motherboard, 8KB of RAM, and a series of interfaces is expected to grab anywhere from $160,000 to $250,000 and beyond. Thanksgiving is a week and a half away, which means some bargain hunters are already packing their sleeping bags to camp out for Black Friday, the infamous day after Thanksgiving when retailers advertise heavily discounted prices on a variety of products. Wal-Mart has already posted its list of Black Friday items on sale, but you can also get free shipping through December 20, if waking up at 3 a.m. and standing next to Wilson for four hours doesn't sound like fun to you.Join us after the break for Kenley's rant on the Wiimedia Foundation's plea for public donations, and don't forget to leave us a call-back at 1-866-404-CNET. Jeff's back on the show tomorrow, so we can't guarantee yours will sift through his filter of hate, but your chances will definitely increase if you send a video voice mail instead! Use this one as an example, and send yours to the404(at)cnet(dot)com when you're finished!Episode 710PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video  Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
Did you know that Apple will also refund your money if you're unhappy with the purchase of an app in the iTunes Store? We didn't know either, but Apple lets you do just that in a few simple steps: just log into your iTunes account, click on "purchase history," "report a problem" with the lackluster app, and Apple will refund your purchase price. You do need to fill out a form detailing the reason for the refund, and "this app blows" won't fly, so get creative!If you're as much of an Apple fanboy as Wilson is, then you should probably buy a ticket for London ASAP, because an original Apple-1 computer hand-built by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak will be auctioned off at Christie's in London on November 23. It's one of 200 original computers sold out of Steve's garage in 1976, and even includes an invoice from the salesman and a typed letter from Jobs to the original owner.Kenley BradstreetCNETThe bill for the sale reads $666.66, although the Apple-1 motherboard, 8KB of RAM, and a series of interfaces is expected to grab anywhere from $160,000 to $250,000 and beyond. Thanksgiving is a week and a half away, which means some bargain hunters are already packing their sleeping bags to camp out for Black Friday, the infamous day after Thanksgiving when retailers advertise heavily discounted prices on a variety of products. Wal-Mart has already posted its list of Black Friday items on sale, but you can also get free shipping through December 20, if waking up at 3 a.m. and standing next to Wilson for four hours doesn't sound like fun to you.Join us after the break for Kenley's rant on the Wiimedia Foundation's plea for public donations, and don't forget to leave us a call-back at 1-866-404-CNET. Jeff's back on the show tomorrow, so we can't guarantee yours will sift through his filter of hate, but your chances will definitely increase if you send a video voice mail instead! Use this one as an example, and send yours to the404(at)cnet(dot)com when you're finished!Episode 710PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video  Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
Open Sources Episode 6- Open source in the enterprise
Open Sources Episode 6: Open source in the enterprise
Don't think that Matt Asay and I forgot about our Open Sources podcast series...quite the contrary! We're making an effort to get into a bi-weekly schedule and we're also trying to make the switch to CNet proper rather my rinky-dink server setup.We're joined on February 26, 2009 for Episode 6 by Neil Erickson, Senior IT Director at a Fortune 500 company. Neil brings some much needed reality to our discussion, reminding us that enterprises are trying to solve problems, not obsess about open versus closed. Neil also calls us the Gwar of open source, bringing back lost memories of my youth.Recording with Skype remains a pleasure/pain that aches for a better solution. But since Matt is in Utah and I am in my secret lair, we have no choice. And no, I can't explain why sometimes the podcast works in iTunes and sometimes it doesn't. That's just one of many reasons we're moving it to CNet.PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element.You can also grab the mp3 or Ogg. The topics of discussion:Open Core licensing--how do enterprises feel about mixed-source/hybrid models? Contributions are tough to pull off in many cases even if the enterprises want to give code back.Who is the likely vendor to get contributions--can Red Hat make something big happen?If not open source or SaaS, how do you do a software company?Does proprietary still work given the challenges of the economics?Should Matt get his faucet fixed by a plumber or just buy a washer? Will Microsoft customers ensure that they don't destroy open source?What about Yammer and private Twitter? Does it make any sense for the enterprise?Matt forgets about OSBC, the conference that he started.Apologies for the heavy breathing. It's Matt, he's notorious for it--Ashlee Vance would never let that behavior fly. And thanks to Neil for shining some true enterprise light on our discussion. We've got a bunch of guests in queue from our slack time. More soon...Previous episodes are still available at opensources.comFollow us on Twitter @daveofdoom and @mjasay.
Don't think that Matt Asay and I forgot about our Open Sources podcast series...quite the contrary! We're making an effort to get into a bi-weekly schedule and we're also trying to make the switch to CNet proper rather my rinky-dink server setup.We're joined on February 26, 2009 for Episode 6 by Neil Erickson, Senior IT Director at a Fortune 500 company. Neil brings some much needed reality to our discussion, reminding us that enterprises are trying to solve problems, not obsess about open versus closed. Neil also calls us the Gwar of open source, bringing back lost memories of my youth.Recording with Skype remains a pleasure/pain that aches for a better solution. But since Matt is in Utah and I am in my secret lair, we have no choice. And no, I can't explain why sometimes the podcast works in iTunes and sometimes it doesn't. That's just one of many reasons we're moving it to CNet.PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element.You can also grab the mp3 or Ogg. The topics of discussion:Open Core licensing--how do enterprises feel about mixed-source/hybrid models? Contributions are tough to pull off in many cases even if the enterprises want to give code back.Who is the likely vendor to get contributions--can Red Hat make something big happen?If not open source or SaaS, how do you do a software company?Does proprietary still work given the challenges of the economics?Should Matt get his faucet fixed by a plumber or just buy a washer? Will Microsoft customers ensure that they don't destroy open source?What about Yammer and private Twitter? Does it make any sense for the enterprise?Matt forgets about OSBC, the conference that he started.Apologies for the heavy breathing. It's Matt, he's notorious for it--Ashlee Vance would never let that behavior fly. And thanks to Neil for shining some true enterprise light on our discussion. We've got a bunch of guests in queue from our slack time. More soon...Previous episodes are still available at opensources.comFollow us on Twitter @daveofdoom and @mjasay.
Financial Times taps Jobs as Person of the Year
Financial Times taps Jobs as Person of the Year
Saying this year's unveiling of the iPad "capped the most remarkable comeback in modern business history," the FT noted Apple's Jobs-led bounce-back from its near demise in the '90s, as well as the visionary leader's perseverance through his recent struggles with cancer. In terms of Silicon Valley lore, the publication said, Jobs now shares the stage with no one."Long-time nemesis Bill Gates may be richer and, at his peak, arguably exerted greater sway, thanks to his monopoly over the world's PC software," the FT said in a profile of Jobs earlier this week. "But the Microsoft co-founder has left the stage to devote his life and fortune to good works. It is Mr. Jobs who now holds the spotlight."Despite a slip or two, Jobs has, indeed, enjoyed a fine year. Upon its release, the iPad leaped into consumers' hands--and the culture's consciousness--smashing, by some accounts, all previous records of consumer-electronics adoption and threatening to make the PC a thing of the past.And speaking of Mr. Gates, Apple passed Microsoft in overall market capitalization this summer, no doubt a sweet feeling, considering the Redmond giant's perceived rip-off, lo all those years ago, of the Mac OS in its Windows operating system (remember those bumper stickers that read "Windows '95 = Mac '84"?).The icing on the iCake for 2010 was the realization of a personal dream for Jobs, the featuring of The Beatles on iTunes. True, Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg nabbed the Person of the Year nod from Time, but that magazine is old news for Jobs, who has graced its cover no less than seven times.Still, the year was not without its sore spots, the most remarkable being the bizarre loss of an iPhone prototype and its subsequent appearance on a gadget blog, and Jobs and Company's uncharacteristically ham-fisted handling of public relations during the iPhone 4 antenna-gate kerfuffle. Jobs' eventual public handling of the iPhone prototype mess was much more like him: Officially introducing the by-then anything-but-secret device later in the year, he cracked up the audience by quipping, "Stop me if you've already seen this," a classic example of the charisma that's helped make Jobs a legend.
Saying this year's unveiling of the iPad "capped the most remarkable comeback in modern business history," the FT noted Apple's Jobs-led bounce-back from its near demise in the '90s, as well as the visionary leader's perseverance through his recent struggles with cancer. In terms of Silicon Valley lore, the publication said, Jobs now shares the stage with no one."Long-time nemesis Bill Gates may be richer and, at his peak, arguably exerted greater sway, thanks to his monopoly over the world's PC software," the FT said in a profile of Jobs earlier this week. "But the Microsoft co-founder has left the stage to devote his life and fortune to good works. It is Mr. Jobs who now holds the spotlight."Despite a slip or two, Jobs has, indeed, enjoyed a fine year. Upon its release, the iPad leaped into consumers' hands--and the culture's consciousness--smashing, by some accounts, all previous records of consumer-electronics adoption and threatening to make the PC a thing of the past.And speaking of Mr. Gates, Apple passed Microsoft in overall market capitalization this summer, no doubt a sweet feeling, considering the Redmond giant's perceived rip-off, lo all those years ago, of the Mac OS in its Windows operating system (remember those bumper stickers that read "Windows '95 = Mac '84"?).The icing on the iCake for 2010 was the realization of a personal dream for Jobs, the featuring of The Beatles on iTunes. True, Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg nabbed the Person of the Year nod from Time, but that magazine is old news for Jobs, who has graced its cover no less than seven times.Still, the year was not without its sore spots, the most remarkable being the bizarre loss of an iPhone prototype and its subsequent appearance on a gadget blog, and Jobs and Company's uncharacteristically ham-fisted handling of public relations during the iPhone 4 antenna-gate kerfuffle. Jobs' eventual public handling of the iPhone prototype mess was much more like him: Officially introducing the by-then anything-but-secret device later in the year, he cracked up the audience by quipping, "Stop me if you've already seen this," a classic example of the charisma that's helped make Jobs a legend.
Financial Times pulls apps from Apple's App Store
Financial Times pulls apps from Apple's App Store
The Financial Times has removed its iOS apps from Apple's App store in response to a policy that gives the latter a 30 percent cut of sales.To replace its dedicated iOS apps, London-based FT has rolled out its own mobile Web-based app designed for the iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad and accessible through Safari and other mobile iOS browsers. The mobile Web app has actually been online since May while FT prepped itself for a possible exit from the App Store. But now the mobile site is the only option for subscribers who want access to the Financial Times from their iOS devices.Encouraging subscribers to switch to the new Web-based app, FT is touting it as superior to its old iOS app with faster performance, a wider range of content, an option for offline reading, and of course, no download required. Nonsubscribers can see the headlines, photos, and brief descriptions of each story. Reading full stories requires a paid subscription.The FT rep said that over 550,000 people are using FT's mobile Web site, more than the number of those using the iPhone and iPad apps combined.Related stories:• Apple unveils subscription service in App Store• Will Apple find publishing execs 'technologically innocent'?• Financial Times Web app skirts subscriptions fracasAnnounced in February but only being enforced since the end of June, Apple's new policy dictates that it receive 30 percent of all subscription sales generated through the App Store. Publishers reluctant to give up that large a cut can instead sign up subscribers from their own sites, but they must offer the same subscription terms and pricing as they do through their iOS apps.Even further, the user information obtained through new subscriptions from an iOS app goes to Apple, another point of contention for publishers who want control over their own customer data.Like many other publishers, the Financial Times hasn't been too happy with Apple's new guidelines. Still, even after launching its new mobile site, the company had maintained its iTunes apps and was negotiating with Apple to find a way to keep the apps alive. But according to The Wall Street Journal, executives at FT said that the "focus going forward would be on Web apps, where they could keep all the revenue and control the customer relationship."Updated at 6:25 a.m. PT with information from an FT representative.
The Financial Times has removed its iOS apps from Apple's App store in response to a policy that gives the latter a 30 percent cut of sales.To replace its dedicated iOS apps, London-based FT has rolled out its own mobile Web-based app designed for the iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad and accessible through Safari and other mobile iOS browsers. The mobile Web app has actually been online since May while FT prepped itself for a possible exit from the App Store. But now the mobile site is the only option for subscribers who want access to the Financial Times from their iOS devices.Encouraging subscribers to switch to the new Web-based app, FT is touting it as superior to its old iOS app with faster performance, a wider range of content, an option for offline reading, and of course, no download required. Nonsubscribers can see the headlines, photos, and brief descriptions of each story. Reading full stories requires a paid subscription.The FT rep said that over 550,000 people are using FT's mobile Web site, more than the number of those using the iPhone and iPad apps combined.Related stories:• Apple unveils subscription service in App Store• Will Apple find publishing execs 'technologically innocent'?• Financial Times Web app skirts subscriptions fracasAnnounced in February but only being enforced since the end of June, Apple's new policy dictates that it receive 30 percent of all subscription sales generated through the App Store. Publishers reluctant to give up that large a cut can instead sign up subscribers from their own sites, but they must offer the same subscription terms and pricing as they do through their iOS apps.Even further, the user information obtained through new subscriptions from an iOS app goes to Apple, another point of contention for publishers who want control over their own customer data.Like many other publishers, the Financial Times hasn't been too happy with Apple's new guidelines. Still, even after launching its new mobile site, the company had maintained its iTunes apps and was negotiating with Apple to find a way to keep the apps alive. But according to The Wall Street Journal, executives at FT said that the "focus going forward would be on Web apps, where they could keep all the revenue and control the customer relationship."Updated at 6:25 a.m. PT with information from an FT representative.
So, who's going to buy the iPhone 4S-
So, who's going to buy the iPhone 4S?
A new Apple product typically motivates faithful customers to camp outside their local Apple store anxiously awaiting their turn to buy the gadget. CNET is covering today's iPhone 4S launch on both coasts to see just how many people form a long line this time around.Among those surveyed by Retrevo, only 18 percent said they plan to wait on a line to buy the iPhone 4S, while more than half (53 percent) feel no such urge as they don't think it will be hard to get the new iPhone.Though many people may have been upset that the new iPhone doesn't sport a larger screen, thinner case, or other long-rumored features, most of those polled seem perfectly content with the iPhone 4S.A full 71 percent of all smartphone owners and 53 percent of iPhone 4 owners said they were not disappointed with the specs of the new iPhone. Those who were less than happy cited the lack of 4G as their number one complaint. Others said they wished it had a new design and a larger screen."Although some expressed disappointment in the lack of 'iPhone 5' features it appears that interest is high and demand will be strong for iPhone 4S especially among current iPhone owners," Retrevo noted in its blog. "It also doesn't appear likely that you'll see many customers camping out in front of Apple stores around the country like we have for products in the past." However the editor qualified that last statement by saying he expects to see at least some anxious iPhone 4S buyers waiting in line at their local stores.
A new Apple product typically motivates faithful customers to camp outside their local Apple store anxiously awaiting their turn to buy the gadget. CNET is covering today's iPhone 4S launch on both coasts to see just how many people form a long line this time around.Among those surveyed by Retrevo, only 18 percent said they plan to wait on a line to buy the iPhone 4S, while more than half (53 percent) feel no such urge as they don't think it will be hard to get the new iPhone.Though many people may have been upset that the new iPhone doesn't sport a larger screen, thinner case, or other long-rumored features, most of those polled seem perfectly content with the iPhone 4S.A full 71 percent of all smartphone owners and 53 percent of iPhone 4 owners said they were not disappointed with the specs of the new iPhone. Those who were less than happy cited the lack of 4G as their number one complaint. Others said they wished it had a new design and a larger screen."Although some expressed disappointment in the lack of 'iPhone 5' features it appears that interest is high and demand will be strong for iPhone 4S especially among current iPhone owners," Retrevo noted in its blog. "It also doesn't appear likely that you'll see many customers camping out in front of Apple stores around the country like we have for products in the past." However the editor qualified that last statement by saying he expects to see at least some anxious iPhone 4S buyers waiting in line at their local stores.
Smartphones to equal 28 percent of handsets in '11
Smartphones to equal 28 percent of handsets in '11
Global sales of smartphones will top 420 million units this year, accounting for 28 percent of all handsets sold, according to market research and consultancy IMS Research. By 2016, the firms projects sales will exceed 1 billion, with one out of every two handsets sold a smartphone. The exploding interest in the area is sparked by the proliferation of applications that can expand the device's capabilities, as well as the availability of more affordable smartphones, helped largely by the free Android platform provided by Google. Despite the opportunity, IMS says not all companies are equipped to capitalize. "Clearly one of the key dynamics of the mobile handset competitive environment in recent years has been the inability of many traditional market leaders to recognize and adjust to the growing smartphone tier," said analyst Josh Builta.Builta said some of the companies, including Nokia and Microsoft, have fallen behind for reasons such as poorly designed and built devices, unsatisfying user interfaces, and products with few features that stand out. The lapses allowed other entrants such as Apple and HTC to step in. "These companies are well-positioned to benefit from the projected growth of the smartphone market in the future," Builta said. "Though the other [original equipment manufacturers] are stepping up their efforts in the space, companies such as Apple, HTC and Samsung have a considerable amount of momentum. Catching them will not be an easy task."
Global sales of smartphones will top 420 million units this year, accounting for 28 percent of all handsets sold, according to market research and consultancy IMS Research. By 2016, the firms projects sales will exceed 1 billion, with one out of every two handsets sold a smartphone. The exploding interest in the area is sparked by the proliferation of applications that can expand the device's capabilities, as well as the availability of more affordable smartphones, helped largely by the free Android platform provided by Google. Despite the opportunity, IMS says not all companies are equipped to capitalize. "Clearly one of the key dynamics of the mobile handset competitive environment in recent years has been the inability of many traditional market leaders to recognize and adjust to the growing smartphone tier," said analyst Josh Builta.Builta said some of the companies, including Nokia and Microsoft, have fallen behind for reasons such as poorly designed and built devices, unsatisfying user interfaces, and products with few features that stand out. The lapses allowed other entrants such as Apple and HTC to step in. "These companies are well-positioned to benefit from the projected growth of the smartphone market in the future," Builta said. "Though the other [original equipment manufacturers] are stepping up their efforts in the space, companies such as Apple, HTC and Samsung have a considerable amount of momentum. Catching them will not be an easy task."
Smartphone market share consolidates at top, study shows
Smartphone market share consolidates at top, study shows
The smartphone market leaders are more entrenched, and that's bad news for the underlings, based on a new study from ComScore.ComScore's latest MobiLens report had no shifts in status among the major phone manufacturers and mobile operating systems in the three months ended in May, but the top two in both fields gained share while the bottom three all lost ground. Apple ranked as the top phone maker with 39.2 percent of U.S. smartphone subscribers, up 0.3 percentage point from the prior quarter, followed by Samsung with 23 percent market share, up 1.7 points. But HTC , Motorola, and LG, which rounded out the top five, and all lost share. ComScoreAs they have for more than two years, the top operating systems all held their rankings. Google's Android and Apple's iOS remained No. 1 and 2, respectively, with both rising. Blackberry, Microsoft and Symbian systems all declined. ComScoreBlackberry's rate of decline wasn't as sharp as it had been in previous ComScore reports, but that's little relief on a day the company's shares plunged 27 percent after a bleak quarterly report. Overall, more and more Americans are choosing smartphones as their mobile option. In the latest three-month period, 141 million people in the U.S. owned smartphones, which is 59 percent mobile market penetration.During the period of the latest study, the Blackberry Z10 launched a month before Samsung rolled out its Galaxy S4, and the HTC One also debuted.
The smartphone market leaders are more entrenched, and that's bad news for the underlings, based on a new study from ComScore.ComScore's latest MobiLens report had no shifts in status among the major phone manufacturers and mobile operating systems in the three months ended in May, but the top two in both fields gained share while the bottom three all lost ground. Apple ranked as the top phone maker with 39.2 percent of U.S. smartphone subscribers, up 0.3 percentage point from the prior quarter, followed by Samsung with 23 percent market share, up 1.7 points. But HTC , Motorola, and LG, which rounded out the top five, and all lost share. ComScoreAs they have for more than two years, the top operating systems all held their rankings. Google's Android and Apple's iOS remained No. 1 and 2, respectively, with both rising. Blackberry, Microsoft and Symbian systems all declined. ComScoreBlackberry's rate of decline wasn't as sharp as it had been in previous ComScore reports, but that's little relief on a day the company's shares plunged 27 percent after a bleak quarterly report. Overall, more and more Americans are choosing smartphones as their mobile option. In the latest three-month period, 141 million people in the U.S. owned smartphones, which is 59 percent mobile market penetration.During the period of the latest study, the Blackberry Z10 launched a month before Samsung rolled out its Galaxy S4, and the HTC One also debuted.
Sizing up the iPhone 5- The screen
Sizing up the iPhone 5: The screen
All signs point to a taller screen for the iPhone 5.For many, that alone will redefine Apple's iconic phone. Probably more than any other single hardware feature, Retina screens are what consumers of the iPhone and iPad are focusing on these days -- not to mention Apple marketing folks.And Apple won't disappoint with the iPhone 5. 9to5Mac says the taller screen will boast a resolution of 640-by-1,136. (iPhone 4 and 4S are 640-by-960.)Those tweaks will yield a resolution "very close to a 16:9 screen ratio, so this means 16:9 videos can play full screen at their native aspect ratio," the Apple enthusiast site said. A build of iOS 6 for the new iPhone's display may have a home screen with a fifth row of icons and an interface that offers views of more content.Related storiesiPhone 5 rumor roundup(And see a mockup of the iPhone 5's screen from OverDrive Design.) That will be more than enough to send millions to Apple stores or online to buy the phone in the first month of sales. That would probably include me, too.I've always thought that relative to the phone's size, too much real estate on the front of the iPhone 4/4S is devoted to nondisplay, nonfunctional space compared with other top-tier phones. And I think Steve Jobs did too. He was very involved in the design of the iPhone 5, financial analyst Ashok Kumar told CNET last year.It "was the last project that Steve Jobs was intimately involved with from concept to final design. For that reason...this product will establish the high-water mark for iPhone volumes," Kumar said in October. Of course, most people will waltz into an Apple store and see the new design with the larger screen and immediately part with their cash, oblivious to Jobs' input. But I think Jobs would be OK with that.
All signs point to a taller screen for the iPhone 5.For many, that alone will redefine Apple's iconic phone. Probably more than any other single hardware feature, Retina screens are what consumers of the iPhone and iPad are focusing on these days -- not to mention Apple marketing folks.And Apple won't disappoint with the iPhone 5. 9to5Mac says the taller screen will boast a resolution of 640-by-1,136. (iPhone 4 and 4S are 640-by-960.)Those tweaks will yield a resolution "very close to a 16:9 screen ratio, so this means 16:9 videos can play full screen at their native aspect ratio," the Apple enthusiast site said. A build of iOS 6 for the new iPhone's display may have a home screen with a fifth row of icons and an interface that offers views of more content.Related storiesiPhone 5 rumor roundup(And see a mockup of the iPhone 5's screen from OverDrive Design.) That will be more than enough to send millions to Apple stores or online to buy the phone in the first month of sales. That would probably include me, too.I've always thought that relative to the phone's size, too much real estate on the front of the iPhone 4/4S is devoted to nondisplay, nonfunctional space compared with other top-tier phones. And I think Steve Jobs did too. He was very involved in the design of the iPhone 5, financial analyst Ashok Kumar told CNET last year.It "was the last project that Steve Jobs was intimately involved with from concept to final design. For that reason...this product will establish the high-water mark for iPhone volumes," Kumar said in October. Of course, most people will waltz into an Apple store and see the new design with the larger screen and immediately part with their cash, oblivious to Jobs' input. But I think Jobs would be OK with that.
Siri to get international location services in iOS 6
Siri to get international location services in iOS 6
Siri users in the U.S. have had access to location-based services since the application launched last year. Elsewhere around the world, however, that hasn't been the case. But iOS 6 will change that.Reddit posters using iOS 6 living abroad reported today that when they tried to use Siri for location-based service, like finding a restaurant nearby or locating a gas station, it worked. Killian Bell over at Cult of Mac confirmed those claims, saying that he tried it out with iOS 6 in the U.K. However, Bell reported that it wasn't as accurate as he would have liked.Related storiesSteve Jobs: Let the post-PC era begin (live blog)At SRI, developing an expertise in R&D, innovationReport: Apple using Nuance voice tech in data centerWatching TV backfires during 'SuriTV' parodyApple iPad live blog (Wednesday, March 7)The feature was mentioned briefly among a list of additions to Siri as part of iOS 6 on Apple's keynote earlier on Monday (skip to the 79:42 mark). The software changes goes out to users with the public release of iOS 6 in the fall, though developers have had access to it for the past four days. So far, only those living in the U.K. and Australia have reported being able to use the location-based services. As Apple said while unveiling iOS 6 at WWDC earlier this week, the updated software is now "optimized for 15 countries around the world," and can understand more languages.Updated at 3:30 p.m. PT with additional information about the feature.
Siri users in the U.S. have had access to location-based services since the application launched last year. Elsewhere around the world, however, that hasn't been the case. But iOS 6 will change that.Reddit posters using iOS 6 living abroad reported today that when they tried to use Siri for location-based service, like finding a restaurant nearby or locating a gas station, it worked. Killian Bell over at Cult of Mac confirmed those claims, saying that he tried it out with iOS 6 in the U.K. However, Bell reported that it wasn't as accurate as he would have liked.Related storiesSteve Jobs: Let the post-PC era begin (live blog)At SRI, developing an expertise in R&D, innovationReport: Apple using Nuance voice tech in data centerWatching TV backfires during 'SuriTV' parodyApple iPad live blog (Wednesday, March 7)The feature was mentioned briefly among a list of additions to Siri as part of iOS 6 on Apple's keynote earlier on Monday (skip to the 79:42 mark). The software changes goes out to users with the public release of iOS 6 in the fall, though developers have had access to it for the past four days. So far, only those living in the U.K. and Australia have reported being able to use the location-based services. As Apple said while unveiling iOS 6 at WWDC earlier this week, the updated software is now "optimized for 15 countries around the world," and can understand more languages.Updated at 3:30 p.m. PT with additional information about the feature.
Alleged iPad Mini cases reveal spot for rear camera
Alleged iPad Mini cases reveal spot for rear camera
Apple's purported iPad Mini could offer a rear camera if the latest scuttbut is on the money.Alleged Chinese cases for the much-rumored 7-inch tablet posted by Giz-China.com show a plastic clip on the rear cover, a sign that the iPad Mini could provide a rear-facing camera but one without an LED flash. On the front would be a FaceTime camera at the top center of the screen, just like on the 9.7-inch iPad.The cases also seemingly reveal a thinner bezel than the one on the larger iPad. The volume control would rest on the right side, while the headphone jack and rotation/mute toggle switch would move to the left. Another tidbit from Giz-China.com says the speaker would be positioned on the bottom of the tablet rather than on the back.A mockup of one of the cases also reveals a smaller dock connector. Recent reports suggest that Apple will shrink the size of the dock connector for its next-generation devices to a smaller version using as few as eight pins.Related storiesApple reportedly to unveil iPhone 5, iPad Mini on Sept. 12iPhone 5 and iPad Mini launching at the same time? Why?Rumor Has It: Is the iPad Mini already in production?Imagining the iPad Mini: Mockups multiplyAs always, these rumors should be taken with a grain of salt.At this point, we don't even know for sure whether Apple will unveil a 7-inch iPad. But we could have our answer this fall. Reports say the new iPad could take the stage either at a September 12 event or at its own separate event in October.(Via AppleInsider).
Apple's purported iPad Mini could offer a rear camera if the latest scuttbut is on the money.Alleged Chinese cases for the much-rumored 7-inch tablet posted by Giz-China.com show a plastic clip on the rear cover, a sign that the iPad Mini could provide a rear-facing camera but one without an LED flash. On the front would be a FaceTime camera at the top center of the screen, just like on the 9.7-inch iPad.The cases also seemingly reveal a thinner bezel than the one on the larger iPad. The volume control would rest on the right side, while the headphone jack and rotation/mute toggle switch would move to the left. Another tidbit from Giz-China.com says the speaker would be positioned on the bottom of the tablet rather than on the back.A mockup of one of the cases also reveals a smaller dock connector. Recent reports suggest that Apple will shrink the size of the dock connector for its next-generation devices to a smaller version using as few as eight pins.Related storiesApple reportedly to unveil iPhone 5, iPad Mini on Sept. 12iPhone 5 and iPad Mini launching at the same time? Why?Rumor Has It: Is the iPad Mini already in production?Imagining the iPad Mini: Mockups multiplyAs always, these rumors should be taken with a grain of salt.At this point, we don't even know for sure whether Apple will unveil a 7-inch iPad. But we could have our answer this fall. Reports say the new iPad could take the stage either at a September 12 event or at its own separate event in October.(Via AppleInsider).
Alleged iPad 4 photos hint at HD FaceTime front-facing camera
Alleged iPad 4 photos hint at HD FaceTime front-facing camera
While most of the hype surrounding Apple's much-anticipated news event tomorrow is focusing on the possible iPad Mini, rumors are also spreading about a new regular-size iPad.Leaked photos last week showed the alleged Lightning dock connector for an iPad 4, suggesting a new-generation iPad is being redesigned to accommodate a wide range of new components. Now, more photos have surfaced that show the iPad 4's possible new screen.The new photos show what seems to be a larger front-facing camera cutout, according to Boy Genius Report, which published the images. This larger cutout could mean that Apple might include a bigger sensor that would accommodate the same 1.2 megapixel FaceTime HD front-facing camera that both the iPhone 5 and iPod touch have. If Apple does indeed debut a refreshed 9.7-inch Retina iPad tomorrow, it is expected to get a Lightning connector like the iPhone 5 and will retain the same price points as its predecessor. The updated iPad could also address issues with the first-generation Retina product, which include making it lighter and improving the LED backlight apparatus, according to a previous CNET report.According to Boy Genius Report, it's not clear if these new display assembly images are for an iPad 4 that may be announced at Apple's event tomorrow or for a tablet that the company plans to release further down the road.CNET will be live-blogging Apple's special event tomorrow, when the company is expected to announce the iPad Mini and other new and upgraded products.
While most of the hype surrounding Apple's much-anticipated news event tomorrow is focusing on the possible iPad Mini, rumors are also spreading about a new regular-size iPad.Leaked photos last week showed the alleged Lightning dock connector for an iPad 4, suggesting a new-generation iPad is being redesigned to accommodate a wide range of new components. Now, more photos have surfaced that show the iPad 4's possible new screen.The new photos show what seems to be a larger front-facing camera cutout, according to Boy Genius Report, which published the images. This larger cutout could mean that Apple might include a bigger sensor that would accommodate the same 1.2 megapixel FaceTime HD front-facing camera that both the iPhone 5 and iPod touch have. If Apple does indeed debut a refreshed 9.7-inch Retina iPad tomorrow, it is expected to get a Lightning connector like the iPhone 5 and will retain the same price points as its predecessor. The updated iPad could also address issues with the first-generation Retina product, which include making it lighter and improving the LED backlight apparatus, according to a previous CNET report.According to Boy Genius Report, it's not clear if these new display assembly images are for an iPad 4 that may be announced at Apple's event tomorrow or for a tablet that the company plans to release further down the road.CNET will be live-blogging Apple's special event tomorrow, when the company is expected to announce the iPad Mini and other new and upgraded products.
The Last Sci-fi Blog: Good News and Bad News on the Movie-News Front
There;s been so much news on the science fiction-movie front this past week that I don;t blame you for being confused. I don;t blame you for not knowing what to think about everything that;s going on. But don;t worry, I;m here now and it;s my job, my duty, to tell you what to think about everything.Bad News: The Potential Ender;s Game Sequel Sounds Like a Total Cop-outThere are a number of reasons why the proposed Ender;s Game sequel idea completely and totally stinks. We;ll get the more important one out of the way first: any sequel moving into development would mean infamously homophobic author Orson Scott Card getting a paycheck and that;s something that the Last Sci-fi Blog simply cannot abide. There;s a reason I bought my copy of Ender;s Game at a used book store: my cash will never end up in that bigot;s pocket. But theres another, nerdier reason to be down on this idea -- it;s a safe and easy escape route.You see, the actual sequel to Ender;s Game is Speaker for the Dead (which you really should also buy from you local used book store) and it;s a crazy and often difficult novel. It;s hard science fiction that pushes the universe of Ender;s Game in wild directions. A film adaptation would be difficult, but it would have the potential to be something truly special and unique. Director Gavin Hood;s statements that Card is working on a new novel that would make for an easier sequel is pretty much the coward;s way out. Why do something new when you can just stick around what you already know? Boo to every angle of this.Good News: Marvel;s Guardians of the Galaxy Sounds CrazyThe Marvel movies have dabbled in sci-fi, but Guardians of the Galaxy looks to go full space opera, telling a story with only one main human character and a whole bunch of weird aliens, including a giant tree and a gun-toting raccoon. Director James Gunn keeps on saying the right things, making this sound like Marvel;s most insane project yet and the proper outlet for his absurd talents (go watch Slither and Super). Will audiences actually embrace a comic book movie that looks to be as out-there as this? Who cares? It sounds terrific.Good News: Star Wars: Episode VII is Casting... Maybe?New casting call sheets suggest that Star Wars: Episode VII is looking to cast some two of its lead characters through open auditions in England. Some have suggested that these two youthful roles are members of the Solo and/or Skywalker families, but others have some pretty good arguments as to why they can;t be. However, there;s no real point in arguing over the semantics of basic character descriptions on a casting form that may not be 100% accurate. I;m just calling this one good news because it;s evidence that the film hasn;t completely stalled.Bad News: Max Landis Gets a Little Petty with His Chronicle RevelationsSince Chronicle writer Max Landis was kicked off the sequel to his hit movie (and because he really doesn;t know when to stop talking ever), he;s gone and explained exactly what gave the kids superpowers in the first place. Since the mystery at the heart of the first film is one of its best traits, it feels downright weird that Landis would try to deflate it in the press. It;s especially weird when you consider that Chronicle 2 is still being made by other people. This feels like he;s using a public forum to scream that his idea is better than the idea that people are actually moving forward with. It just feels so petty.Bad News: The George Lopez Movie La Vida Robot Will Not Be About Mexican RobotsIt will be a true story about a Mexican robotics team. That;s fine and all, but is it wrong that I was hoping for this century;s Heartbeeps?Good (?) News: Christopher McQuarrie Will Direct a Live-Action Star BlazersThe good news here is that Christopher McQuarrie, the man behind the criminally under appreciated Jack Reacher, has landed another gig and that gig is a sci-fi flick. That weird news is that it;s an adaptation of a ;70s anime called Star Blazers. Huh? Welp. Any Star Blazers fans in the house?Good News: Joe Cornish May Direct Star Trek 3Attack the Block is one of the best genre movies of the past decade, so anytime director Joe Cornish gets mentioned next to a new project, it;s time to get excited. Of course, the big news this week was that he;s apparently being considered to replace J.J. Abrams on the Star Trek franchise and that;s wonderful news. Although Abrams; direction was never the biggest problem with the most recent Trek films, this series needs someone new at the helm to help maintain quality control. It;s hard to imagine a guy as talented and picky as Cornish directing a script as bad as Star Trek Into Darkness.Bad News: The New RoboCop TrailerSomeday, someone will write a book about how a major Hollywood studio took the very talented Jose Padhila, tied his hands behind his back and asked him to make the most generic version of RoboCop imaginable. Paul Verhoeven;s original is a satiric masterpiece and the remake looks like the kind of thing the original movie would have laughed at while mocking it relentlessly. It;s still possible to hope for the best, but yikes. This trailer offers almost nothing to get excited about.
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