As we close out one week and kick off another, let’s take a moment to look back at the attention-grabbing headlines from the past seven days. Some of the news you may recall, some may be new to you, but all the topics below are worthy of a second mention.
Apple and Google wooing Developers for Game Exclusives
A new report on Wall Street Journal claims that Apple and Google are trying to woe game developers to get exclusive rights to their games on their platforms. Apple and Google are in turn offering developers incentives such as giving them premium placement on their app stores’ home pages and features lists.
Apple launches new “Better” environmental campaign featuring Tim Cook [Video]
Apple today launched a new “Better” environmental campaign, highlighting the company’s efforts to reduce its impact on climate change, use greener materials and conserve natural resources. The campaign features a short film with a voice over from CEO Tim Cook describing these efforts.
‘Brightflash’ Rumored as Apple Shell Company Pursuing iWatch Trademark Protection in Major Countries
We told you yesterday that Apple is extending its own “Apple” trademark to include jewelry and watches, but it looks as if the Cupertino corporation may be moving to pursue the true iWatch trademark itself in major first-world countries using a “Brightflash USA LLC” shell company.
Apple releases iOS 7.1.1 with Touch ID improvements and bug fixes [Updated]
Apple has released iOS 7.1.1 (build number: 11D201) for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, which includes improvements, bug fixes and security updates.
You can now trade-in your iPad at an Apple Store
Apple today expanded its Reuse & Recycling trade-in program in US and Canada to include iPads. Starting today, Apple Stores will start accepting iPad trade-ins, letting customers receive discounts towards the purchase of a new product.
Apple airs new iPhone 5s TV ad ‘Powerful’
Apple has started airing a new iPhone 5s ad called “Gigantic” on ABC today. The ad showcases some of the things users can do with their iPhone such as creating music, playing games on a giant screen, tracking their health, taking photos and recording videos.
These are the 6 Apps featured in Apple’s new ‘Powerful’ iPhone 5s TV ad
Apple aired a new iPhone 5s TV ad last night called ‘Powerful.’ The ad tries to convey the message that “with the iPhone 5s, you’re more powerful than you think” by showcasing some of the things users can do with their iPhone such as creating music, playing games on a giant screen, tracking their health, taking photos and recording videos.
Apple has featured a number of third-party apps in the video. Wouldn’t it be nice if Apple told us which apps were featured in the app? Apple has done just that by launching a new microsite for the ad, which includes the features the apps shown in the video.
Analyst expects iWatch to replace iPod in the future; doesn’t expect an iPod refresh this year
According to a research note from Christopher Caso, an analyst with Susquehanna, the iPod lineup will not be refreshed this year, which means that there won’t be a new iPod Touch to accompany the iPhone 6 launch in September. The report also states that Apple could be looking to replace the iPod line with the upcoming iWatch sometime in the future, indicating that the iPods are on their death beds now.
GameStop Expanding to Open More “Simply Mac” Resale and Repair Stores
GameStop, the familiar American video games retailer, is making a significant push to broaden its business as used games becomes an ever more fragile market. According to The Star-Telegram, the company plans to extend its retail locations further into the realm of Apple devices and AT&T Mobility products, notably through more “Simply Mac” retail stores.
We’ve all been eagerly waiting for Apple to launch products in new product categories this year. But we are yet to see any new product launches so far. MacRumors reports that Apple’s CEO Tim Cook tried to address this concern during today’s earning call.
Rumor: iPhone 6 will feature Curved Display with All-Aluminum rear casing
Japanese Mac blog Mac Otakara claims that according to their sources iPhone 6 will feature rounded edges and a curved glass display. The report notes that iPhone 6′s glass could be a little curved around the edges so that it fits well with the device’s rounded edges.
iOS 7.1 code reveals next iPad will come with Touch ID fingerprint sensor
The next-generation iPad Air and iPad mini are expected to feature the Touch ID fingerprint sensor currently included in the iPhone 5s, and code references found in iOS 7.1 further corroborate these rumors.
iOS 8 concept video features Siri with Shazam, Healthbook, iWatch integration and more
iOS 8, the next major update to Apple’s mobile operating system, will likely be previewed at the Worldwide Developer Conference from June 2-6th. According to rumors, iOS 8 will come with new apps like Healthbook, Preview, TextEdit, and features like Shazam integration and more. A new concept video shows all these new apps and features in action on an iPhone 6 mock with a larger screen.
New iWatch concept with circular screen, metal strap and iHealth
Ever since Apple has been rumored to enter the hot wearable space with its smartwatch, popularly dubbed iWatch, we’ve seen quite a few iWatch concepts. Today’s iWatch concept shows the smartwatch with a circular screen and a metal strap running the “iHealth” app.
Apple engineer reveals how FaceTime was created
FaceTime is Apple’s video and voice calling service found on every iOS device and Mac. The service was introduced in 2010 with the iPhone 4, the first iPhone with a front-facing camera, and later expanded to iPod touch and iPad.
