iPad By Davis: “European regulators are looking into Apple’s carrier agreements over antitrust fears” plus 16 more

European regulators are looking into Apple’s carrier agreements over antitrust fears
Jony Ive reportedly working on iOS 7 at Apple. Or, you know, doing his job...
Apple advises developers to stop accessing UDIDs, start supporting Retina and 16x9 by May 1
How to enable two-step verification for your Apple ID
Spotify iPad App Updated: Adds Artist Bios & Images
Apple Podcasts app updated with custom stations, on-the-go playlists, new design, more
7 Little Words: Wonderful, Addictive iPad Word Game
Apple enables two-step verification for iCloud accounts
Apple executive talks about renewable energy and environmental goals
For the ninth time in a row, Apple leads J.D. Power smartphone satisfaction survey
WTF does Eric Schmidt want us to "ask Apple" about Google Now for iOS?
Simple Mind Games for iPhone review
How to add friends to Game Center on iPhone and iPad
iPad Basics: No You Cannot Upgrade Storage Memory or Add 4G Cellular Data After Purchase
Cool Things: American Airlines Pilot Shows Off iPad in the Cockpit
Deal of the Day: 46% off Incipio OVRMLD for iPhone 5
iMore is hiring! We're looking for a full-time assistant editor!

European regulators are looking into Apple’s carrier agreements over antitrust fears

Posted: 22 Mar 2013 01:16 AM PDT

European regulators are looking into Apple's deals with European carriers over antitrust fears. The European union were supposedly contacted by several cellphone carriers that sell the iPhone after they claimed that the deals throttled competition. The complaints are believed to have come from French carriers however other countries may be involved too. The news comes for The New York Times who have been speaking with people familiar with the matter.

In a statement, the European Commission, the union's administrative arm, which oversees antitrust enforcement in the 27-nation bloc, confirmed that it was examining Apple's carrier deals. But it said it had not begun a formal antitrust investigation. The commission is not obligated to act until it receives a formal complaint of anticompetitive behavior. That it is already examining the contracts suggests that it is taking the carriers' concerns seriously.

"We have been contacted by industry participants and we are monitoring the situation, but no antitrust case has been opened," said Antoine Colombani, a spokesman for Joaquín Almunia, competition commissioner of the European Union.

Apple spokeswoman Natalie Kerris told The New York Times ,"Our contracts fully comply with local laws wherever we do business, including the E.U." So it looks like Apple has nothing to worry about. There is no doubt that Apple has some strict terms when dealing with carriers and if they want to sell the iPhone they have to agree to them. This has never been an issue so far, as carriers are usually desperate to have the iPhone on their networks; as it is a hugely popular device . These antitrust complaints appear to be confined to the European Union as American carriers seem happy with their deal with Apple although it has been described as aggressive but not unreasonable.

Source: The New York Times

Jony Ive reportedly working on iOS 7 at Apple. Or, you know, doing his job...

Posted: 21 Mar 2013 10:20 PM PDT

Jony Ive reportedly working on iOS 7 at Apple. Or, you know, doing his job...

Late last year Tim Cook reorganized Apple's leadership, placing Jony Ive in charge of not only hardware design, but all design across the company. This, of course, included iOS 7 and future versions of all of Apple's software products as well. Today, the Wall Street Journal's Jessica E. Lessin reports that Ive is, in fact, doing just that.

Ive, who is well-known for his sleek, iconic hardware designs, now sits in on the human interface team's regular review sessions to vet new designs, these people said. While he and [director of human interface Greg Christie], known as a blunt talker, have very different styles, the people familiar with the process described the sessions as "pleasant and cordial."

We've been told similar, and some folks there seem downright ecstatic that Ive is bringing his sensibilities to iOS and Apple's apps. But again, that's his job now.

It's important to remember, however, that iOS 7 has been in development a lot longer than Ive has been in charge of software interface, and regardless of what changes he may or may not want to make, there'll likely be a hard cut-off for what can be implemented by this year's release, and what will be left on the road map for 2014 and later.

While some may be hoping Ive takes a sand-blaster to iOS interface, especially the more heavily textured apps like Find My Friends and Game Center, and others may hope he leaves every skin and skeuomorph right where it is, based on past his statements, Ive will probably skew towards design that's functional.

Today's Podcast app update, which removed the animated reel-to-reel eye-candy and stylized button treatment for something more functional, if less charming, is being looked at as a harbinger of what might be next for iOS as well. Or it could just have been a darling killed in service of an overall better, faster to use app.

Ive's hardware designs have always been minimal, but never non-existant. I don't think we'll be seeing an all aluminium iOS theme, or any change simply for change's sake. If nothing else, like Apple, Ive doesn't want to make different products, but better ones. That's what I expect with iOS 7, and iOS 8 after it.

But yeah, Ive's all in and engaged. Did anyone really doubt that?

Source: Wall Street Journal

Apple advises developers to stop accessing UDIDs, start supporting Retina and 16x9 by May 1

Posted: 21 Mar 2013 08:50 PM PDT

Apple advises developers that app submissions need to stop accessing UDIDs, star supporting Retina and 16x9 by May 1

Apple has posted two new entries to their developer news page, the first warning developers they need to stop tracking people via UDID, and the second warning them they have to start supporting the double density Retina display, and 16x9 iPhone 5 and iPod touch 5 dip-lays, by May 1.

Using Identifiers in Your Apps

Starting May 1, the App Store will no longer accept new apps or app updates that access UDIDs. Please update your apps and servers to associate users with the Vendor or Advertising identifiers introduced in iOS 6. You can find more details in the UIDevice Class Reference.

Make Your Apps Look Great on the Retina Display and iPhone 5

Starting May 1, new apps and app updates submitted to the App Store must be built for iOS devices with Retina display and iPhone apps must also support the 4-inch display on iPhone 5. Learn about preparing your apps by reviewing the iOS Human Interface Guidelines.

Since features like 16x9 support require iOS 6, that also means iOS devices that don't support iOS 6 likely won't be compatible with new and updated apps. That includes the original iPad and iPhone and iPhone 3G. While Apple has provided excellent support for older devices over the years, especially compared to some of their competition, that's certain to rankle customers still on those older devices.

But, the platform has to move forward.

Any developers want to weigh in on the matter?

Source: Apple developer news

How to enable two-step verification for your Apple ID

Posted: 21 Mar 2013 02:54 PM PDT

How to enable two-step verification for your iCloud account

Most people use their Apple ID account not only to house their iCloud contacts, photos, calendars, and other data, but to purchase content from iTunes and the App Store. That means that anyone who gets ahold of your account or manages to change your password could have access to your personal information and credit card information.

If you want to increase the security of your Apple ID, you can use two-step verification to add an extra layer of protection. By using two-step verification you'll need to reset your password with an already verified device or with a recovery key that's generated just for you.

Note: In order to enable two-step verification, you must have a current password that meets Apple's minimum standards of 8 characters complete with at least 1 number and 1 capital letter. If you have to change your current password in order to meet this standard, you'll have a short waiting period before you can enable two-step verification.

Here's how to set it up:

Open the Manage Your Apple ID page in another browser window - Link here
Now click on Manage your Apple ID.
Enter your login information in order to log in. If you've enabled login security questions, answer those in order to continue.
Once you're logged in, choose the Password and Security option in the left hand navigation bar.
The first option will now be for two-step verification. Click on the blue link labeled Get started...
You'll now see an explanation of what two-step verification is and what it does. Click on Continue after you've read everything on the screen. You'll have a few more prompts explaining what two-security does and does not do as well as some warnings about if you forget your password. Read them all and continue on through.
Once you get to the first step, you'll see a list of the devices that currently have access to your iCloud account. Tap on the Verify option next to the device that you'd like to verify.
Check your device for a four digit verification code.
Enter this number in your computer and you'll notice that device is now verified. Repeat this process for any and all devices in your account that you'd like to verify. You may also had a number for SMS recovery as well.
Now you will be given a recovery key that you'll need to save in a safe place in case you ever forgot your password and didn't have a verified device to reset it from. We'd suggest printing it out and saving it somewhere secure. You will need it for the next step so please remember to save it before continuing.
You'll now be asked to confirm the recovery key from the previous step to ensure that you've printed it or written it down.
Finally, agree to the terms and conditions of two-step verification by reading and checking the box confirming that you agree.
Lastly, click the Enable two-step verification button.
You'll now receive a confirmation screen that two-step verification has been enabled.
You can also confirm this by checking the Privacy and Security page and double checking that it shows two-step verification is enabled.

That's it. Two-step verification is now set up and your iCloud account will no longer ask for secret questions but require you to reset passwords from a trusted device in the future.

Spotify iPad App Updated: Adds Artist Bios & Images

Posted: 21 Mar 2013 02:28 PM PDT

The Spotify iPad app has been updated today, to Version 0.6.1. There's only one notable new feature in this update, but it's quite a nice one:

Look, there are images and artist biographies in the artist view

The new bio sections look good and it's definitely nice to see them added. Here's the remainder of this update's change list:

• Fixed: No more pesky crashes when you skip in radio.
• Fictitious: This app is reverse-engineered using alien technology.

Spotify is an excellent iPad app, and it's impressive to see the regular updates to the app – especially as this is not even listed as a 1.0 version yet.

Apple has joined the growing list of companies offering two-step verification to secure user accounts. By enabling two-step verification, whenever you attempt to log in on a new device with your Apple ID, you will be asked to enter a 4-digit verification code. This code will be sent to a device that you have registered as a trusted device, such as your iPhone, via a Find My iPhone notification or SMS.

Your Apple ID can be used for personal information services like iCloud and commercial transactions through iTunes. Two-step verification ensures that if your Apple ID and password are somehow compromised, an attacker would not be able to log in with it unless they also had access to your trusted device. This drastically reduces the risk of a compromised Apple ID being abused in a few ways, such as not being able to make unauthorized purchases and not allowing access to your personal email and contacts. The part about iCloud is especially critical in light of stories like Wired's Mat Honan, where a compromised iCloud account resulted in his devices being remotely wiped by an attacker. With two-factor verification, a malicious act like that would require an attacker to also have obtained access to one of Honan's trusted devices.

Users who choose to enable two-step verification will also want to create a Recovery Key and keep it in a safe place. This Recovery Key will ensure that even if you lose your trusted devices, you will still be able to regain access to your account. It's a little bit like trusting a neighbor with a spare house key in case you ever lose yours and can't get into your house.

People interested in turning on two-step verification can head over to Apple's support document for more information.

Source: Apple via 9to5Mac

Apple executive talks about renewable energy and environmental goals

Posted: 21 Mar 2013 12:24 PM PDT

Apple executive talks about renewable energy and environmental goals

It's no secret that Apple strives to be as environmentally friendly as they can, and that includes renewable energy. At this time, about 75% of Apple's corporate headquarters are sustained on renewable energy sources. The Maiden, NC data center and their facilities in Cork, Ireland are some of the largest privately held installations for renewable energy in the world. Jim Dalrymple, from Loop Insight had a chance to speak with Apple executive Scott Brodrick on Apple's latest environmental impact report, which they issue every year, and where Apple is going when it comes to renewable energy and environmental goals.

Apple isn't just looking at ways to save energy in its existing facilities, they are looking at starting off future facilities by taking advantage of renewable energy from the beginning.

"We are going to continue this strategy in other facilities in Oregon and Nevada," said Broderick. "Overall, 75% of the power to Apple's corporate facilities worldwide are met with renewable energy."

Apple's current energy strategy that they already have in place is the equivalent of taking 24,000 cars off the road, according to Brodrick. The entire article is an interesting read and a great insight into where Apple is going with renewable energy. Hit the link below to read it in its entirety.

Source: Loop Insight

For the ninth time in a row, Apple leads J.D. Power smartphone satisfaction survey

Posted: 21 Mar 2013 11:31 AM PDT

Apple once again leads J.D. Power smartphone satisfaction survey

Apple has the highest U.S. customer satisfaction amongst smartphone manufacturers, according to J.D. Power and Associates. The survey ranks companies on a 1,000-point scale, using criteria such as performance, physical design, features, and ease of operation. Apple scores 855, sixty points higher than the next company on the list, Nokia.

For the ninth consecutive study, Apple ranks highest among manufacturers of smartphones in customer satisfaction. Apple achieves a score of 855 and performs particularly well in physical design and ease of operation.

The survey measures satisfaction among 9,767 smartphone customers, all of whom have had their phones for less than one year. Apple leads significantly, though other manufacturers are seeing better numbers as well. Overall satisfaction among smartphone customers has risen to 796, a 22-point increase over this same time last year. Improvements in features and services offered to smartphone customers is seen as the reason for the increase.

Source: J.D. Power and Associates

WTF does Eric Schmidt want us to "ask Apple" about Google Now for iOS?

Posted: 21 Mar 2013 11:13 AM PDT

WTF does Eric Schmidt want us to ask Apple about Google Now for iOS?

Google executive chairman Eric Schmidt, when asked about the prospects of their predictive digital assistant, Google Now, coming to iOS, reportedly lobbed the ball back into Apple's court. Mahendra Palsule of TechMeme, who was on hand at the Big Tent Conference in India, tweeted the remark:

Alan: "When can I get Google Now on my iPhone?" Schmidt: "You'll have to ask Apple" #BigTentIndia

Schmidt is, of course, being his trademark insincere self. Is the comment meant to imply Google is waiting on Apple to build and release Google Now for iOS themselves? That Google has built and submitted Google Now for iOS to the App Store and is waiting on Apple to approve it? That Google wants to build Google Now for iOS but they need Apple to provide more system access than the current SDK allows?

WTF would we "ask Apple" about a Google product? Should we ask Google when iTunes is coming to Android? Should we ask Microsoft when BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) is coming to Windows Phone? And who else, other than Nintendo, should we ask about Super Mario coming to other platforms?

This isn't the first time Schmidt and Google have given completely disingenuous answers when it comes to Apple and iOS. From ludicrous misstatements about the nature of open and closed systems to ridiculous claims of surprise when Apple announced their new Maps app, we're well past the point where the only explanation left is that he and they think we're either profoundly gullible or profoundly stupid, or both.

Attempted Sith mind-tricks aside, I'd love to see Google Now on iOS. The performance of Google Search is fantastic, and Google Now goes well beyond that, and Siri, to provide an amazing level of push-data. However, given Apple's restrictions on system-level access for iOS, I don't think a really robust Google Now app would be possible. (That might be what Schmidt meant, and if so, should have been what he said.)

Allowing that kind of system-level access to user data might not be a good idea either. Google probably wouldn't abuse it, but there's been enough privacy concerns with the existing sandboxes in place that Apple is probably right to remain conservative. And since Google chose to switch from being a close partner to being an aggressive competitor with Apple, special dispensation is extremely unlikely.

That's likely irksome from Google's perspective, since it looks like their short-term future is hinged on the more integrated Google+ and Google Now products. Unlike Apple's hardware model, which can generate most of the industry's profit share despite not owning most of the market share, Google's services model needs the attention of the masses to make money. And iOS users use tons of services and generate tons of money. But Google chose their ad-driven business model, and their current relationship with Apple. They own that.

So, unless and until something changes, rather than asking Apple about Google Now, I'll just ask Eric Schmidt to treat consumers with a little more respect.

Update 1: CNET has both the full quote from Schmidt, which implied Apple might not be allowing Google Now into the App Store.

"Apple has a policy of approving or disapproving apps that are submitted into its store, and some of the apps we make they approve and some of them they don't."

Update 2: Apple has also confirmed that's not the case to Jim Dalrymple of The Loop.

Apple told me today Google Now has not been submitted at all.

Oh, Schmdit.

Update 3: Apple told The Verge that not only hasn't Google submitted a Google Now app, or a Google Search update that includes Now functionality, but...

[An Apple] representative tells The Verge that not a single app from Mountain View is currently in the review process — let alone trapped in limbo.

Update 4: Google has confirmed to John Paczkowski that they haven't submitted a Google Now app to Apple.

Google: "We have not submitted Google Now to Apple's App Store."

So, again, WTF would Schmidt tell us to "ask Apple"?

Source: Mahendra Palsule, CNET

Simple Mind Games for iPhone review

Posted: 21 Mar 2013 09:42 AM PDT

Simple Mind Games is a fun little collection of brain teasers that will test your memory and problem solving skills. It features 8 mini games: Spelling, Flash, Shapes, Maths, Order, Reaction, Recall, and Match.

For each game, you have 1 minutes to test your abilities. If you get multiple questions correct in a row, you earn more time. The number of questions you need to get right and the time earned varies depending on which game you are playing.

In the Spelling game, you are given 4 words, three of which are spelled wrong. You must tap all the misspelled words.

In the Flash game, a number will flash on the screen and you must enter it when it disappears.

In Shapes, you are given 4 shapes at a time. Each shape is colored and has the name of a shape below it. You must choose the shape that has the correct name associated with it.

The Maths game will show you incomplete equations and it's your job to choose the number that should take the place of the question mark. Don't forget order of operations!

In Order, you must tap the numbers in increasing order. You start out with just 4 numbers, but it will advance to 8 numbers.

In the Reaction game, you are given a 4x4 grid of light blue circles. When one of the circles turn green, you must tap it. Watch out, though -- sometimes they turn red. Don't tap red lights!

Recall is a memory game where 4 or 8 numbers will flash on the screen. Then you'll be given a number and must tap the box that held that number. It's pretty easy with just 4 numbers but rather challenging with 8 numbers.

In the Match game, you simply have to say weather the shape displayed is the same shape as the previous shape that was on the screen. Don't forget, just because the color changes doesn't mean that it's not the same shape!

Simple Mind Games is a free download and includes Spelling, Flash, and Shapes. The rest of the games can be bought as an in-app purchase for $1.99.

The good

Nice, clean design
Simple, yet challenging
Can play one game in 1-2 minutes

The bad

No graph or anything to see your past scores and if there's been improvement

The bottom line

Simple Mind Games is a great little collection of games that is sure to exercise your brain. Most of the mini-games can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. The most difficult game for me is Recall, what's yours?

Free - Download now

How to add friends to Game Center on iPhone and iPad

Posted: 21 Mar 2013 09:36 AM PDT

How to add friends to Game Center on iPhone and iPad

Game Center is a great way to play multiplayer games on your iPhone and iPad with existing friends as well as play with new ones. If you have a friend who you'd like to be able to play against and you have a lot of the same games in common, you can add them as a friend in Game Center which makes it easy to create a match up any time you'd like.

Follow along and we'll show you how.

Launch the Game Center app from the Home screen of your iPhone or iPad.
In the bottom navigation menu, tap on the Friends tab.
You can add people under the recommendations section or to add someone specific, tap the plus sign in the upper left hand corner.
Here you can type in their Game Center ID if you know it or their email address. You can also customize the message they will receive if you'd like.
Now tap the Send button in the upper right hand corner. The recipient will now receive a notification that you've requested to add them. If they don't already have Game Center, they'll be emailed an invitation to create a login.

That's all there is to it. Now you'll just have to wait for the person on the other side of the invite to accept it!

iPad Basics: No You Cannot Upgrade Storage Memory or Add 4G Cellular Data After Purchase

Posted: 21 Mar 2013 08:43 AM PDT

Here's a very quick, very basic iPad buying tip. This is common knowledge for most veteran iPad or tablet owners, but I see these questions asked so frequently in online forums that I thought it was worth a short post.

The questions I'm referring to, and the short answers, are as follows:

Can the iPad's storage memory after purchase? No. The storage space available out of the box is what you get, and cannot be upgraded. The iPad also has no SD or other additional storage ports. So choose wisely when deciding between 16, 32. an 64GB models. My general rule of thumb is to always go for the maximum storage as long as it's within my budget.

Can a WiFi iPad be upgraded to add 4G or any Cellular data plan? No. If you buy a WiFi only iPad it is always going to be a WiFi only model. You cannot upgrade any of the internal components of the iPad. If you own an iPhone or another...

Read the whole entry... »