Disqus - Latest Comments for Steve

Re: Why I Don't Like The iPod Touch

Steve — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 11:18:40 -0000

iPod Touch is fantastic for video (podcasts and TV content), and for web browsing. I have a number of web-enabled phones (inc. a Nokia e61) and the iPod browser is the best mob. browser bar none.

Buying an iPod Touch primarily for music is a bit of a waste, and I'm not surprised you don't love it.

Re: Congrats, Mike — nice April Fool prank

Steve — Sat, 31 Mar 2007 18:00:20 -0000

I spotted it too

Re: Interviews: phone, email — which is best?

Steve — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 18:52:27 -0000

A good journalist knows which tool is best for which job. Email interviews work well with some people, with a certain kind of story. The advantage is speed and accuracy of quote. On the other hand, I wouldn't 'cross examine' an interviewee via email.

Re: MSFT: Hey, we can do p2p video too

Steve — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 13:32:06 -0000

Hi Mathew,

I got to check out LiveStation today. Here's my review. As always, and as you say, it will come down to content.

Re: MSFT: Hey, we can do p2p video too

Steve — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 17:40:01 -0000

Thanks for the link :)

Re: Whose bandwidth is it anyway?

Steve — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 12:59:05 -0000

Thanks for the link Mathew. Hope you're good :)

- Steve

Re: mesh2008 dates — and meshU

Steve — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 10:21:32 -0000

Phew! When I saw the headline with the word "meshU" I thought you were about to launch yet another social network. :-)

Re: Blogs and the attribution dilemma

Steve — Mon, 12 May 2008 16:40:32 -0000

I think you're spot on Mathew, and tbh, I've always thought you set the right high standard here. A link costs nothing, and if you look at blog stats as often as I do, a very small percentage click through anyway, so it's like you're sending thousands of people away!

Re: Google: Find it, then help you watch it

Steve — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 10:22:39 -0000

As always, thanks for the link :-)

- Steve

Re: Revision3 raises $8M more for niche TV

Steve — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 08:29:24 -0000

Hi -- great post.

Here's my thoughts on the investment:
http://www.last100.com/2007/06/25/revision3-get...

Re: Sources: HTC’s Google Android phone is “weeks away” from launching

Steve — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 15:52:49 -0000

Interesting stuff, and very plausible re: the launch date. However, maybe Google should have made a Gphone of its own? Only time will tell, and we don't have to wait too much longer.

Re: ReadWriteWeb dumps AltSearchEngines

Steve — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:53:52 -0000

Love the headline :-)

More over at last100 (I was late as I was at a hospital appointment and therefore offline).

http://www.last100.com/2008/11/04/last100-has-l...

Re: ReadWriteWeb dumps AltSearchEngines

Steve — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:54:26 -0000

last100.com too :-)

http://www.last100.com/2008/11/04/last100-has-l...

Re: Joost Pursues Live TV

Steve — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 13:00:15 -0000

Silverlight UI?

Live TV?

Sounds like LiveStation to me :)

Keep up the great blog,

- Steve, last100.com

Re: DivX Looks Outside The Codec For The Future Of Web Video

Steve — Fri, 09 May 2008 09:53:53 -0000

What a fantastic article. Thanks :-)

Re: Done With GTA IV

Steve — Sat, 10 May 2008 11:16:26 -0000

You just burst my bubble. It was next on my list after I complete Assassin's Creed on the PS3.

Re: Done With GTA IV

Steve — Sat, 10 May 2008 12:12:40 -0000

@ Dave

Phew!

Re: YouTube and Apple: my predictions were right

Steve — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 18:13:15 -0000

You might be interested in this post on last100
http://www.last100.com/2007/06/06/joosts-new-ce...

Re: YouTube and Apple: my predictions were right

Steve — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 13:47:28 -0000

Thanks Luca (and for publishing the update!).

Re: Top 10 Blogs I read

Steve — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 08:42:23 -0000

Hi Luca,

I'm honored that you read last100 first in your technology feeds. Thanks for sharing that with your readers. We'll try to live up to it.

- Steve, last100.com editor

Re: LinkedIn Opening Platform

Steve — Sun, 24 Jun 2007 19:10:51 -0000

I posted on this over at my zdnet blog a week or so ago. I think LinkedIn needs to do something to add more value for non-paying users.

Re: In search of the valley - DRM free

Steve — Mon, 26 Feb 2007 15:10:58 -0000

Thanks for the support!

- Steve (Director)

Re: 2006/11/14/yourpitch-on-mashable/

Steve — Tue, 14 Nov 2006 16:42:16 -0000

That's an interesting concept. Looking forward to seeing how it works out.

Re: 2007/02/24/bittorrent-store/

Steve — Sun, 25 Feb 2007 07:13:38 -0000

Check out Streamburst, an interesting alternative to DRM. It's a paid-for download service that offers non-DRM downloads in MPEG4, with high quality (Mac/PC/Linux), portable (e.g. iPod, PSP), and mobile options.

I'm using to service to distribute my film, In Search of the Valley: thre friends' journey into the psyche of Silicon Valley.

Re: 2007/06/16/youtube-mobile-site/

Steve — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 13:58:42 -0000

I tried out the service today and found it to be seriously lacking. See my full review.

Re: 2007/07/05/livestation/

Steve — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 13:27:09 -0000

I got let into the Beta today, and have published a hands-on review. It's a nice app, but as ever, it will come down to content -- which at the moment is non-existent.

Re: 2007/10/14/blog-action-day/

Steve — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 09:53:39 -0000

Here's our Blog Action Day contribution:
5 Environmental Internet TV offerings
http://www.last100.com/2007/10/15/blog-action-d...

Re: 2007/10/31/free-and-legal-music/

Steve — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 12:39:23 -0000

A bit misleading. I'm pretty sure MP3 blogs aren't legal, in that the downloads aren't licensed in any way.

Re: I Abandoned Metal Gear Solid 4 (for now)

Steve — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 10:00:30 -0000

I even found version 1 on PS to have too many cut scenes. By the sound of it indulgent is an understatement on version 4. GTA on the other hand is perfect in this respect.

Re: E3 2008 Sony: Movie-TV Service Launch - Not Much More

Steve — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:48:44 -0000

Nice summary Dale.

Also worth noting: there will be no video store in Europe until sometime next year!

http://www.last100.com/2008/07/18/no-playstatio...

Re: Woz on stage at University of Washington Computer Science department

Steve — Sun, 22 Oct 2006 14:44:57 -0000

Woz fans might be interested in hearing about my debut documentary on Silicon Valley, called In Search of the Valley. It features Woz and many Apple and Silicon Valley legends.

- Steve

http://www.insearchofthevalley.com

Re: Reading feeds

Steve — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 12:37:45 -0000

Great resource, your link blog and OPML file. I was about to email you this cool guest post over at last100 http://www.last100.com/2007/07/11/microsoft-on-...

Enjoy!

Re: Poll: Can Skype replace your landline?

Steve — Mon, 21 May 2007 10:07:49 -0000

@andray

The poll widget comes from wordpress.org

:)

- Steve

Re: Mozilla Labs working on making mobile browsing a snip

Steve — Mon, 21 May 2007 10:26:20 -0000

I'm enjoying Nokia's browser on my e61 (based on Apple's Safari). But I think the 'Joey' idea could work well.

Re: Joost ‘opens’ to the public — full review

Steve — Mon, 21 May 2007 17:11:26 -0000

I'm catching up with the invites! Thanks for stopping by everyone :)

Re: When will Steve Jobs open up the AppleTV?

Steve — Wed, 23 May 2007 17:47:01 -0000

@l0rdr0ck

The AppleTV plug-in Loader does look promising. I'm waiting for a GUI installer for the whole lot, rather than having to SSH in etc. Then it matters less whether Apple officially let's in third party developers.

Re: BT and Sony to bring VoIP to PSP

Steve — Thu, 24 May 2007 13:48:04 -0000

I've updated the post with more details, and it seems that the service will only work with BT Internet connections -- which I don't think includes FON.

Re: Will ISPs spoil the online video party?

Steve — Mon, 28 May 2007 12:27:47 -0000

@Aaron, I meant to put the word illegal in speech marks as I do later in the article - as in "illegal". Of course the networks themselves aren't illegal, just some of the activity that takes place on them. I've updated the post.

Re: Introducing Babelgum (Joost isn’t the only game in town)

Steve — Tue, 29 May 2007 16:44:50 -0000

Joost on my Mac mini recognised the Apple Remote. So I expect any programmable remote could work with either service.

Re: Microsoft set to reveal answer to iPhone

Steve — Wed, 30 May 2007 09:57:39 -0000

@Peter

Very Good!

Re: iTunes hides account details in DRM-free downloads

Steve — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:33:09 -0000

@Decklane

I agree that it's wrong to charge more for DRM-free music, and also wrong not to tell customers that there is hidden data in the file.

@lIHd

I still wouldn't call it DRM because it's not managing your rights using technology. It doesn't stop you doing anything legal e.g. making a backup, or converting to use on different devices. It just makes copies tracable -- which of course you *should* be told about.

Re: iPhone release date; ad campaign begins

Steve — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 15:30:27 -0000

I'm also waiting for the UK release. The ads are some of the best from Apple in years. I don't know why they don't market the Mac OSX in the same way -- instead of just showing off the hardware looks.

Re: Wii Media Center?

Steve — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 09:51:42 -0000

@Andrew

Whilst it clearly isn't intended as a media center, it works very well at accessing Flash-based video online. And sales-wise it's trumped the others as a gaming device too.

Re: Joost’s new CEO points to a set-top-box future

Steve — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 14:22:52 -0000

I didn't know that BitTorrent was running on Symbian mobiles. It's been disappointing not to see a Skype client for my Nokia e61.

Re: Joost’s new CEO points to a set-top-box future

Steve — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 08:57:15 -0000

@Ryan

Nice setup, especially the use of mouse gestures.

Re: Joost’s new CEO points to a set-top-box future

Steve — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 06:21:15 -0000

@Motorcycle Guy

I never suggested that Joost would make the set-top-box themselves but that they would partner with other companies like Skype has. So think Netgear, Linkysys or even other players in the space such as Microsoft, Sony or Apple.

Re: Review: RealPlayer 11

Steve — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 11:07:00 -0000

@Sherif

I hear you! Having said that, the download feature and iTunes-like jukebox library works well. But if you have no need for these features, fair enough. :)

Re: iPhone’s support for 3rd party apps won’t please everyone

Steve — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 18:12:28 -0000

@Mitch

Flash support on iPhone has not been confirmed, and I'm doubtful it will happen. My reasoning is two-fold: First, Steve Jobs would have made a big deal about it today, surely? Second, YouTube is already converting its catalogue to Apple's favored h.264 codec ready for AppleTV. Which would also suit the iPhone.

Re: iPhone still missing support for Flash

Steve — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 18:31:17 -0000

Many blogs are reporting that Apple staff at WWDC have confirmed that the iPhone won't support Flash, at least not *yet*.

Re: iPhone’s support for 3rd party apps won’t please everyone

Steve — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 10:22:12 -0000

I agree Voice over IP would be a major block to Apple "selling" to iPhone to mobile operators.

Re: Steve Jobs: iPhone is magical (battery life increased)

Steve — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 13:44:40 -0000

@Heath

I couldn't have said it better myself (want to write for last100? ;) )

If the iPhone's connectivity is below par, then it will really impact on the device's usefullness. Which, as you say, is made more dependent because any 3rd party apps will be web-based.

With a 2 year plan required (if that remains the case), you could be locked in on a broken promise.

Re: Microsoft rebrands its IPTV plaftorm, adds PC to TV functionality

Steve — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 13:09:13 -0000

@Bill

You are completely correct that none of those companies invented their product category. If you look at innovation vs invention, in the tech industry it's often about who is able to innovate in terms of bringing said product to market. iPod for example, is a lovely product, and in some ways was better than other digital music players before it, but also was marketed very differently -- based on simple features and "1,000 songs in your pocket" -- coupled with the elegant iTunes jukebox/store.

Re: Opera responds to iPhone-envy

Steve — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 11:16:02 -0000

@Daniel

Thanks for clearing that up -- thought as much. It reminds me of the way Palm's (previously Handspring) Blazer browser worked, if I remember correctly.

Re: VeohTV has Joost in its sights

Steve — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 10:59:24 -0000

@Ido

I don't have any invites I'm afraid. Hoping to get some, so keep an eye out on last100.

Re: Could RealPlayer 11 encourage more DRM?

Steve — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 16:59:07 -0000

@Claude

Don't get me started on DRM!

Re: Five resources to create a Wii media center

Steve — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 13:11:13 -0000

@Kate

Thanks, corrected! That's what I get for not drinking enough coffee. (Now should I delete your comment and pretend it never happened?)

Re: Why Apple doesn’t need Universal Music

Steve — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 19:25:37 -0000

@Jeff

Everybody I know has an iPod, even my Dad :)

Re: Zattoo - live TV on your PC

Steve — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 19:28:12 -0000

Every Internet TV service I've tested which offers mainstream content, suffers from World rights issues. It's a pain to say the least. The strangest one is that UK users can't usually access BBC World (the commercial Int. offering of BBC content), even though we pay for the Beeb!

Re: Review: VeohTV

Steve — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 19:04:19 -0000

@Kate

Being a Mac user myself, I know how you feel. Joost has a mac version but it's Intel Mac-only. RealPlayer's support for Mac has always been poor, but I'll ping them to find out if a Mac version of 11 is planned.

Zattoo has a great Mac version, but only works in a few European countries!

Have you checked out Democracy Player (soon to be renamed and re-launched)? We'll be reviewing that soon.

- Steve

Re: Review: VeohTV

Steve — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 17:46:05 -0000

@Kate

I pinged my contact at Real, Matt Spragins (Dir of Product), about a Mac version of RealPlayer 11, and he said to expect a Beta "before the end of the year". Yay.

Re: Review: LiveStation (more live TV on your PC)

Steve — Sat, 07 Jul 2007 06:16:23 -0000

@Klian

There will be a Mac version eventually, from what I heard. The application is built on Microsoft's Silverlight technology which runs on multiple platforms.

Re: Does live TV over the net make sense?

Steve — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 11:13:24 -0000

Talking of BBC Worldwide, the strangest thing to me is the number of Internet TV apps I've tried which offer BBC Worldwide content (the overseas commercial arm of the BBC), but only to non-UK Internet users. Very odd -- something to do with not allowing ad-supported BBC content to be seen by license-fee paying Brits.

Re: Microsoft on your telly: a history of the company’s Internet TV strategy

Steve — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 17:17:48 -0000

Thanks for the link Mark. We'll look into that.

Re: Use iTunes to stream music over the Internet

Steve — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 18:26:33 -0000

There are definitely other ways of streaming your iTunes collection over the web. However, we found that Simplify Media made it particularly simple to do. So it's a nice alternative to other methods.

Re: Zune users to be paid for sharing songs?

Steve — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 14:16:54 -0000

Sounds like it ;)

Re: “MusicPal”, Freecom’s new portable Internet radio

Steve — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 17:03:40 -0000

I agree -- the RSS feeds are fun on the Squeezebox, and will be on MusicPal, but the screen is too small to really be useful beyond catching a sports score or breaking news headline. I also agree that the pricing is very reasonable for the MusicPal. If my house didn't already stream iTunes to every room but the bathroom, I'd buy one. Hang on a minute, there's an idea!

Re: Microsoft’s Internet TV strategy: today and in the future

Steve — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 17:12:08 -0000

@Ryan,

Thanks for letting us know of your setup. Looks cool.

Re: VeohTV could feel the wrath of content owners

Steve — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 18:50:46 -0000

@David

Regular search engines don't display all the content, but rather, link to it. So it actually sends traffic back to the originating site. So it's slightly different.

Re: Democracy Player is dead, long live Miro

Steve — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 18:09:02 -0000

@Mike

That's a great idea, and something we've been looking at. In the interim, I might write a round-up post, recapping and comparing all the Internet TV services we've covered since we launch two months ago.

Re: Survey: consumers want an Internet-connected TV

Steve — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 13:12:51 -0000

I think there are a number of factors. First, as the article mentions, not everybody has a local area network (WiFi or otherwise), yet. This is changing fast, as more people get broadband and want it to be spread around the house. The second factor is ease-of-use. Things are getting easier to network, but not easy enough. The third factor is, as always, content!

Re: Democracy Player is dead, long live Miro

Steve — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 11:34:36 -0000

@Greig

It's not a copyright issue -- in fact downloading potentially creates more IP issues. I also believe that streaming will be added in the future.

Re: Five UK Internet TV offerings compared

Steve — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 13:06:16 -0000

@Ben

There must be a platform agnostic DRM out there. I believe Jaman, which offers paid-for downloads, is Mac and PC compatible, for example. Apple not licensing its DRM is only relevant to any discussion around the iPod/iPhone. So, yes, it's poor play by Channel4, BBC and the rest, who've all bought into Microsoft's Windows Media solution.

Re: 8 Internet TV apps in 8 weeks

Steve — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 10:06:03 -0000

@Charles

As the iPlayer only comes out tomorrow, we haven't had a chance to get our hands on it yet (we tried to get in on the Beta). But, rest assured, we'll have a review a.s.a.p.

Re: Microsoft on your telly: a history of the company’s Internet TV strategy

Steve — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 18:31:18 -0000

Nice one oneup. :)

Re: Video of the week: “Ask A Ninja”

Steve — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 19:28:19 -0000

I have to confess, I'm yet to check them out. That's set to change this weekend.

Re: Old technology creates meaningful connections

Steve — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 20:06:07 -0000

@Mack: Well, perhaps Justin Timberlake isn't the best example (though I am only very slightly familiar with his music), but take, for example, Pink Floyd. There is a very specific way that Roger Waters intended for you to listen to his music. For me, I feel like on an iPod I am far more likely to jump in and listen to "Breathe" and then jump to Pearl Jam on the next track. When I have my "Dark Side of the Moon" CD loaded up, I don't have that luxury (sure I could skip tracks on the CD, but I feel less likely to do that).

Also, there is something nice about holding a physical CD. It has permanence, and nostalgia, and some sort of "realness" that I find MP3s lacking. (And don't get me wrong, I have a library of 10,000 songs on my computer that I listen to while I work ;) -- I'm not anti-MP3 (or AAC or WMA or Ogg or whatever floats your boat) by any means).

I think Alex makes a good point when he says, "it boils down to is how you approach your own technology. You can use it to enhance your own preferences, or you can let it or other people influence the way you do things."

Well said. :)

(Then again, I could just be nuts -- always a possibility. :D)

Re: Amazon invests in social music site

Steve — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 05:23:39 -0000

A wordpress plug-in called "related posts" I think.

Re: BBC iPlayer review - one week later

Steve — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 14:57:03 -0000

@jo

I agree that never watching the BBC again is overreacting but at the same time they've had years to sort out a cross platform strategy, and I'm very skeptical that they'll have a Mac or Linux version by the end of the year. I hope I'm wrong.

Re: Interview: Zattoo co-founders

Steve — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 06:30:18 -0000

Zattoo is great for live news and other speech-driven TV. I use it in the way many use radio. Background mostly, and then my attention is grabbed at certain moments.

Re: Apple and Google alliance just got stronger

Steve — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 12:26:02 -0000

@Kate I think the Safari 3 Beta solves the Google Docs problem along with a host of other web 2.0 type sites.

Re: What’s next for the AppleTV?

Steve — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 13:02:48 -0000

@Jeffa good point re: closed captions. Though not all content would add them, the option should exist.

Re: Apple and Google alliance just got stronger

Steve — Thu, 09 Aug 2007 03:46:08 -0000

@nb I did, you're right. Fixed! *coffee*

Re: What’s next for the AppleTV?

Steve — Thu, 09 Aug 2007 03:47:35 -0000

@Lancelot9201

I completely agree. This is even worse for short 3-4 minute video podcasts. Just *play all* please!

Re: A collection of AppleTV resources

Steve — Thu, 09 Aug 2007 11:11:08 -0000

No problem Luck! Keep up the blogging.

Re: 7digital, music downloads done right?

Steve — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 14:35:10 -0000

@Christopher

I agree, 7digital haven't pioneered these ideas, but they are great features to copy.

Re: Skype outage makes for a quiet working day

Steve — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 14:50:37 -0000

@John

So would I :)

Re: Just for laughs: 8 comedy video sites

Steve — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 11:49:10 -0000

@James

You're kidding me? Nice try though.

Re: The ultimate portable media player

Steve — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 18:53:05 -0000

@Coleman

That's a good call, if it weren't for the mob. networks getting in the way. On the other hand, a beefed up iPhone with proper third-party dev support would quickly match the spec for an ideal PMP that Ryan has outlined. With 3G a possibility too.

Re: Windows Media Center — a Microsoft success story?

Steve — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 17:18:34 -0000

@Charlie

Thanks for stopping by :)

Re: Windows Media Center — a Microsoft success story?

Steve — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 11:21:14 -0000

@David, fair point. But the wider picture is that WMC is out there on millions of machines. Like you say, how many are actually using the functionality, is a valid question.

Re: The Gphone is coming; how Google could rewrite the rules

Steve — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 10:26:23 -0000

@ Gopinath. I think that was the point, a speculative look at where the Gphone could take us. Also a kind of wish-list too. I enjoyed it :)

Re: 11 video download stores compared

Steve — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 19:08:57 -0000

@Michael,

I did try to look at Vongo, but could not get access to the site as I'm based in the UK. They actually use geo-blocking based on a user's IP address, so that you aren't even allowed to look. Pretty useless for getting an idea of what's on offer.

Re: 11 video download stores compared

Steve — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 14:24:34 -0000

@Bryan

Thanks for the info Bryan! I've updated the post with the correct XBox Live info.

Re: Apple evolves iPod line, introduces direct downloads

Steve — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 11:24:20 -0000

Should I buy an iPod Touch or wait for the UK release of the iPhone?

Re: Internet streaming: five U.S. television networks compared

Steve — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 18:53:30 -0000

@Andrew I'm tempted to leave it :-)

OK, fixed.

Re: Internet streaming: five U.S. television networks compared

Steve — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 17:25:44 -0000

@Leif, I thought pdfs were cutting edge ;)

The guide was just to give you an example of the five networks current offerings to compare. If we published it as a URL I don't think it would automatically update. Unless you know something I don't?

Re: Internet streaming: five U.S. television networks compared

Steve — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 07:36:53 -0000

@So...

Thanks for the clarification. I've updated the post.

- Steve

Re: Winamp goes where iTunes doesn’t dare

Steve — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 17:17:08 -0000

"winamp has supported the remote feature for a couple of builds now…." I wasn't aware of that, but I'm sure they've added new device support, including the next gen. game consoles.

Re: Winamp goes where iTunes doesn’t dare

Steve — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 17:29:29 -0000

@Dylan

In iTunes you can subscribe to an RSS feed with mp3 enclosures, yes. Designed for subscribing to podcasts.

But it doesn't have a built in web browser with pre-populated links to mp3 blogs does it?

This means you can surf an mp3 blog through Winamp, read about the music and see a playlist appear with any mp3s linked. You then get the option to download them. iTunes doesn't go nearly that far.

Hardly FUD.

Re: Microsoft announces Internet TV for Windows Media Center; new lineup of media extenders

Steve — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 17:43:20 -0000

@Bryan fair point. Although, one thing the new extenders have over the XBox 360 is that they claim to run a lot quieter. I don't have a 360, but reports of how noisy they run, does put me off buying one as a media center.

What's your experience?

Re: Joost on a set-top-box within 18 months

Steve — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 19:18:08 -0000

@G

Of course Volpi knew what he was saying, he's been saying the same thing for months, which is what I said in my previous post on Internet TV and STBs in general. The Joost crew having always played up the idea that Joost can in theory be made to run on hardware other than a PC e.g. a set-top-box or mobile device.

The only new information is the 18 month time line, which, frankly, is a pretty long time to get a strategy to fruition (since they won't build the hardware themselves), and is perfectly feasible. It may have been an off-the-cuff comment, but he was hardly pressed to make it.

If Joost hasn't partnered with a hardware device manufacturer within 18 months or there abouts, then it will likely have failed in the marketplace. 18 months or longer, Volpi was very clear that Joost needs to be on other platforms to go "mainstream".

Also, Volpi used to be 'the router guy' at CISCO, so he knows hardware, and CISCO already make media extenders.

Re: Why have media extenders failed to take off?

Steve — Sat, 06 Oct 2007 09:48:11 -0000

@G

Thanks for this info. I'll look into it some more.

Re: Joost on a set-top-box within 18 months

Steve — Sat, 06 Oct 2007 18:21:32 -0000

Thanks Matt

Re: Music industry: five alternative business models

Steve — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 16:55:14 -0000

@Daniel Hughes

eMusic isn't a subscription service in the strictest sense, since you don't have access to all of eMusic's catalog, just a certain number of tracks per month. It's more akin to a pre-paid model, like a pay-as-you-go mobile contract, whereby you pay for credit up front. Although, yes, you do get to keep the music you've downloaded, even if you stop being a "subscriber"

Rhapsody, on the other hand, gives you access to the whole lot, so long as you stay a subscriber.

Re: Music industry: five alternative business models

Steve — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 17:00:24 -0000

@Bryan

There are lots of services that didn't get a mention, instead I tried to get the main alt. models across. Imeem and other music-based social sites, are certainly pushing another aspect to the ad-revenue side, along with doing a great job of music discovery.

What's clear is that the three main costs of the music biz are falling dramatically: production, distribution, and marketing. The social networks are helping with the last two.

Re: Music industry: five alternative business models

Steve — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 12:08:47 -0000

@George

We Mac users live in a Windows world ;)

No, seriously, sorry about that. It's another Windows-only DRM affair. Do you see a pattern here?

Re: iPhone-envy: Nokia unveils S60 touch interface

Steve — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 13:09:02 -0000

@Abhishek

I agree, the stylus is out! However, S60 is just a software platform, and the new touch UI is designed to offer the option of a traditional stylus approach or iPhone-like finger input. Obviously, the two require a different approach, with the latter needing big chunky on-screen buttons etc.

Re: Netflix to steal Vudu’s set-top magic?

Steve — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 16:34:28 -0000

@G

Thanks for this. I'd forgotten about the TiVo link.

Re: In just 30 days, Amazon MP3 may be the No. 3 online music store

Steve — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 22:16:25 -0000

@mark

the post has been updated for clarity. Thanks.

Re: TiVo update adds progressive downloads, multi-room viewing, and TiVoToGo

Steve — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 17:38:26 -0000

@Berryman

I think you're right, and I've removed the ref. to multi-room sharing not working both ways.

Re: Six digital music pioneers

Steve — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 08:36:20 -0000

@ J. Kyle

Thanks. Corrected.

Re: The end is near? Yahoo! and AOL may shut down Internet radio service

Steve — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 07:27:47 -0000

@ Alex

Fixed. Thanks :)

Re: Verizon’s opening its network to any phone and software app is welcomed, but no surprise

Steve — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 16:55:01 -0000

@ Kevin.

Corrected, sorry about that.

Re: MTV Networks to put every South Park episode online

Steve — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 17:44:40 -0000

@ Aaron

That's not good news. What do you see when you try to view the site in Canada?

Re: Poll: How should Apple spend its $15 billion cash reserve?

Steve — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 14:34:34 -0000

@Bloggeer

LOL, very good!

Re: Where to watch NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL online

Steve — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 08:53:00 -0000

@Danny

Thanks for the clarity. I've edited the post with ref to NFL.

Re: Where to watch NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL online

Steve — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 09:04:20 -0000

@PaulM

The post is designed to give an overview of each sport's Internet offerings, including but not limited to their official homepages. We hope the table of each offering was of some use.

Re: Digital music: 2007 year in review

Steve — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 10:50:50 -0000

@Greg

Thanks for the feedback :)

I actually have my own digital studio (and have had for over 10 years) so I know a thing or two about the way music production has/is changing. But it's not something we have the scope to cover here.

Re: “Go!Messenger” - video, voice and IM chat coming to PSP

Steve — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:52:27 -0000

@ Blaze

That's anybody's guess!

Re: With death of DRM imminent, what’s next for iTunes?

Steve — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 11:59:45 -0000

@ Robert

I'm not sure Apple will ever start a record label, for several reasons.

1) It may conflict with their trademark since the Beatles-owned label Apple records still exists. They've already clashed in court with Apple, although some agreement was recently met - not sure if that gives way to Apple using the name more freely in a music-associated business or not.

2) It would antagonize the four majors to such a degree that the iTunes Store could become a graveyard aside from Apple's own content acquisitions.

3) Do artists really need a new label, even one as "cool" as Apple? A trend maybe to go-it-alone ala Radiohead. In which case, iTunes just needs to become more favorable to "indie" artists (with better terms).

Re: Analyst estimates more than 1 million iPhones are “unlocked”; here’s what it means

Steve — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 06:01:33 -0000

@Loren

Thanks and corrected.

Re: Since when did Sony become ‘pirate’-friendly?

Steve — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 11:22:05 -0000

@Dave

I agree that the ability to get content off of the PS3 is the real point with regards to PlayTV, and very welcome too (for iPod encoding not least). Point well made. Here in the UK cable and satellite dvrs make it impossible to move content, I think.

However, for me it's DivX support on the PS3 that is still blowing my mind. I have a PS3 and stream DivXs from my Mac flawlessly.

Re: Report: Apple is exploring “all you can eat” and subscription models for iTunes Store

Steve — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 13:19:20 -0000

@ Marshall

It's not clear if it's MP3s or AAC with DRM, but I suspect the latter if it's similar to other offerings. Because of these kind of subscription schemes, I've long-argued that DRM isn't really dead at all.

Re: Who needs Flash on iPhone more? Adobe or Apple?

Steve — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:59:12 -0000

@ John Dowdell

The quote from Narayen that, having looked at the SDK, Adobe can "now start to develop the Flash player ourselves" seemed to imply that the SDK is enough to go-it-alone. However, I gather Adobe PR has backtracked on that statement. So I should update the post.

Re: Whether people want it or not, AT&T will deliver live mobile TV in May

Steve — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 15:27:51 -0000

@ Dave Zatz

In the context of the SlingBox, live and recorded TV is a whole different ball game. Not least because it can be the best of all worlds - live, on-demand and at no added cost for going mobile (aside from the box itself).

The closest thing to a Sling experience that I have is the BBC's iPlayer on my iPod touch (over WiFi). I'm addicted.

Re: Why I bought an iPod Touch and not an iPhone

Steve — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 10:01:52 -0000

@Anirudh

The audio and video performance is great. Not sure what the fuss is about. They both use the same screen, and video and audio chip as far as I'm aware.

Re: Netflix: three more set-top box partners by end of year

Steve — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 18:48:21 -0000

@Dave

You could be right as Microsoft does have a track record of partnering, contrary to their recent Apple-esque XBox and Zune strategies. But then again, surely MS would want a rev share with Netflix, and the latter is probably losing money on their unlimited 'Watch Now' service.

Re: HTC launches first true iPhone competitor just as Apple is about to take its phone to next level

Steve — Wed, 07 May 2008 09:14:17 -0000

@ Surur

Great line: "If you use popularity in USA as a measure of success, you must think CDMA, Country music and GW Bush were very successful also."

Made me smile :-)

On a more serious note, I think Dan's view of the iPhone is that in terms of overall user experience -- not pure feature set -- the iPhone has taken a lead. And now that it's adding parity feature-wise, with 3G and enterprise support, coupled with the fruits that will come with an SDK, the iPhone is ring fencing that lead, or at least attempting to.

However, I think there is a broader problem with all iPhone analysis. On paper, other phones have more going for them, but the subjective real experience of using an iPhone is somehow different and, to lots of people, superior, and yet hard to describe why. It's not really about "touch" but the UI as a whole.

Having said that, Nokia, for example, makes some very nice devices, with a lot of power and rich features, that better the iPhone. But the UI is looking a little outdated, with too many menu hoops to jump through. That is something which Nokia, along with everybody else, is trying to address in light of iPhone. That's what Dan is referring to when he says they are on 1.0.

As an example, HTC's Diamond Touch goes out of its way to *hide* the Windows Mobile UI. Why is that?

Re: A hint at what’s to come? NBC streams “The Office”, “30 Rock” to iPhone

Steve — Fri, 09 May 2008 18:45:39 -0000

I would have presumed it was geo-blocked i.e. USA only. And I'm pretty sure it would be optimized for Wi-Fi.

Re: What if Apple re-enters the console gaming market through the iPhone?

Steve — Sat, 10 May 2008 07:47:47 -0000

I'm pretty convinced the patent, and Apple's gaming strategy, is really just about the iPhone/iPod Touch and future handhelds. As for the AppleTV, if Steve Jobs won't even open it up to third-party plugins, widgets and codecs etc., then I don't think gaming is even on the radar.

What is certain is that the iPhone SDK will lead to tons of games, and the device has a powerful graphics engine. Therefore expect the iPhone/iPod touch to evolve into: Mobile Web, Video and Audio, and Games.

Re: The history and future of DivX

Steve — Sat, 10 May 2008 10:10:45 -0000

It would be kind of ironic if Microsoft solves the cross platform DRM problem. But Silverlight looks like it may do.

Re: “31 Days of the Dragon”, a super duper HP notebook giveaway

Steve — Tue, 13 May 2008 18:37:22 -0000

@ M.Dinesh

Not long now :-)

Re: Finding streaming content for iPhone, iPod touch: There’s a lot available

Steve — Thu, 22 May 2008 12:17:48 -0000

@ kryptoz

Updated the post. Thanks :-)

Re: HP HDX Dragon winner!

Steve — Mon, 26 May 2008 10:53:06 -0000

@ Anand Narayanaswamy

It was a random draw from all the qualifying entries i.e. those who named their 5 fav digital lifestyle products and services as a comment on the competition post. Comments left elsewhere or duplicates weren't counted.

Re: DLNA certified: how your computer, cellphone, games console, media streamer and other devices can play nicely together

Steve — Tue, 27 May 2008 17:03:54 -0000

@ Davis

My thoughts exactly, although, as I said, the branding needs to be improved too, alongside better video standards support.

Re: DLNA certified: how your computer, cellphone, games console, media streamer and other devices can play nicely together

Steve — Wed, 28 May 2008 05:57:30 -0000

@ Olivier

I'll update the post.

Re: Location-based services like Whrrl on iPhone to usher in Internet of people, places, and things

Steve — Thu, 29 May 2008 08:47:15 -0000

@ Dave Zatz

No I haven't but... it looks very nice indeed.

This is yet more proof that the iPhone official SDK will deliver some exceptional third-party efforts, and far exceed other mobile platforms - for now at least.

Re: Google demos Android again; it’s full of promise, but we’re still waiting for the real deal

Steve — Thu, 29 May 2008 16:16:39 -0000

@ Jawad

That's a fair point, but in terms of UI and the Web browser (WebKit), the two platforms have a lot of common ground, so comparisons are inevitable.

Let's see how open the iPhone actually feels to end consumers, and what restrictions carriers / handset manufacturers put on so-called Gphones -- they will be free to alter the Android experience as they please, so it could lead to a lot of fragmentation, leading to mixed user experiences and expectations.

Also, my view differs slightly from Dan's: I think Android is looking pretty nice and, together with Apple, will really get others to raise their UI game (looking at you Nokia), and that's good for us all.

Re: Android, it’s the browser stupid

Steve — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 08:02:35 -0000

@ Daniel

Yes an 'Android Certified' program would make a lot of sense, administered by the Open Handset Alliance. But that would require a lot of industry politics regarding what should and shouldn't be included in the spec, leading to accusations that Google wants too much control.

Re: SanDisk kills off TakeTV and Fanfare

Steve — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 14:43:21 -0000

@ Alan

Interesting inside view. I didn't know about the planned deals with TV manufacturers. Shame it never happened.

Re: Joost in a browser is “weeks away”

Steve — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:09:23 -0000

@Ryan

I dont know the answer but will try to find out. I understand that it will still use p2p delivery which i know flash server will or does support, although joost already licenses its own p2p solution.

Re: Stream or download more than 200 tennis matches through Wimbledon Live

Steve — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 17:15:44 -0000

@ Nathan

Thanks for stopping by! Keep up the good work.

Re: Google enters the PC to TV arena

Steve — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 15:30:16 -0000

@ Offbeatmammal

I'm afraid it doesn't transcode files, as far as I'm aware. Although there are a number of other UPnP AV servers that do that. See the our DLNA certified guide that we link to in the post.

Re: Video: ZeeVee’s ZvBox (PC to TV)

Steve — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 17:49:09 -0000

Agreed. Maybe they need to sell their technology to a cable company.

Re: Coming soon: iTunes remote control app for iPhone and iPod touch

Steve — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 18:03:55 -0000

@ Dave Zatz

Interesting point. I can't wait for the app.

Re: Stream or download more than 200 tennis matches through Wimbledon Live

Steve — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 07:44:45 -0000

@jwd

I'm sure they will but if not, let us know and we'll pile the pressure on.

Re: Sony to open its PS3 and PSP video download service tonight (updated)

Steve — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 18:37:49 -0000

@ Dave Zatz

Agree - Vudu gets good reviews, especially for the UI. However, I've long thought that it's up against it, considering you need to buy a single use set-top box just to enter the store. Other consumer boxes add more value, not just a video store e.g. gaming, media extender, support more than one web service etc. or are much, much cheaper.

Re: No more downloads, Amazon moves its online video store to the cloud

Steve — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:56:06 -0000

@ Dave Zatz

Thanks for clarifying that - although I had presumed that UnBox would co-exist, especially with the TiVo deal. However, it's going to be confusing to customers. What they should do is charge once and offer both options, especially for to-own content. I can download it, stream it, and have it live in the cloud and be future proof for newly supported devices.

Re: I’ve jumped on the Netbook bandwagon (MSI Wind U100 / Advent 4211 review)

Steve — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 06:08:56 -0000

@ stewart

I played with an Acer Inspire One the other day, also a very nice machine. One thing: you may find the trackpad button placements a bit hard to get used to.

Re: 10 sites for free legal music

Steve — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 13:38:22 -0000

@ sabrina

Using Limewire to download commercial music without paying for it is illegal. So be careful.

Re: “Just like your local record store”, Universal launches Lost Tunes

Steve — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 17:00:00 -0000

@ dc crowley

I'm pretty sure there is no DRM since they play on iPods, and mp3s don't have DRM built-in. I think what they mean is the site allows for each track to be downloaded 3 times. Maybe. :-)

Re: LG’s Netflix streaming Blu-ray player announced. What, no Wi-Fi?

Steve — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 15:31:17 -0000

@ Dave

I suspect those buying BR players are early adopter types with cash to burn. If they think they are "future proofing" themselves, then why not have Netflix support for if/when the library improves.

But yes, the PS3 is the best value Blu-ray / networked player. Now if only the Netflix XBox 360 partnership wasn't exclusive.

Re: I’ve jumped on the Netbook bandwagon (MSI Wind U100 / Advent 4211 review)

Steve — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 11:04:25 -0000

@ Paul Schofield

It is possible to upgrade to 2GB but is pretty tricky as you need to basically take the machine apart and will probably void your warranty doing so.

Re: Livestation coming to Mac next month

Steve — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 16:27:25 -0000

@ Dave Zatz

Yes some channels are licensed in the US. In fact BBC World News is geo-blocked so that UK viewers can't access it but US viewers can!

Such is the public service regulations around BBC content.

Re: Why Google should have developed its own Gphone

Steve — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 08:41:46 -0000

@ Ontario Emperor

Windows Mobile may be a great example of where the Android strategy could fail. See my recent HTC Touch Diamond review.

There is also the risk that Android could become fragmented if carriers decide to omit certain APIs or limit possible features.

Re: Why Google should have developed its own Gphone

Steve — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 15:06:18 -0000

@ Will

Any member of the Open Handset Alliance, or anybody, can alter the source code in their own use. The Open Source license is very forgiving. See my earlier post:
http://www.last100.com/2008/06/01/android-its-t...

Re: How-to: Stream media from a Mac to PlayStation 3

Steve — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 14:45:11 -0000

@ OT

I'm afraid there is no way to stream movies or TV shows purchased from the iTunes Store to a PS3. That's because of the DRM (copy protection) system that Apple employs.

Re: Another crisis looming? Report: Apple threatens to shut down iTunes over royalty rates

Steve — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 17:23:10 -0000

@ Dave Mackey, bluejonhi

The publishers are the ones who own the rights to the composition as aposed to the recording. If you've written and recorded a song, and still own the publishing rights, you get paid as both the artist and composer.

Or, if you record a cover of somebody else's song, you have to pay the publisher a royalty. Hence acts who only perform other peoples material (the manufactured acts such as Britney etc.) don't make nearly as much money as you'd think.

Re: Review: Nokia E71 (my favorite smartphone yet?)

Steve — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 17:25:26 -0000

@ Chintan

Visit m.google.com/maps via your phone's browser.

Re: My new Macbook and me (first impressions)

Steve — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 10:30:00 -0000

@ Dave Zatz

I will probably try installing OSX on the rebadged Wind but have held back because you need to swap the WiFi card for one with OSX drivers available and you also lose the mic and headphone ports and built-in mic also. Hardly ideal. As for buying a Macbook, while I really like Netbooks, a 10.1 inch screen is just a tad too small for everyday blogging duties - certainly the way I manage my screen real estate.

@ Daniel

Jealous? So you should be :-) Haven't even noticed the fan kick in yet. As for the Optical drive, not tested yet!

Re: I’ve been playing with Nokia’s new touchscreen phone - the 5800 XpressMusic (aka the Tube)

Steve — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 16:16:45 -0000

@ IncidentFlux

I prefer the e71 yes. Although they are very different devices. If you're a QWERTY physical keyboard person then you'll love the e71.

Re: I’ve been playing with Nokia’s new touchscreen phone - the 5800 XpressMusic (aka the Tube)

Steve — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 17:24:44 -0000

To zoom in on a photo you tap the screen and up pops an on-screen plus and minus button and slider control. You can then either tap on the + and - sign or move the slider up and down to zoom in and out. To pan around an image just click and drag.

Re: Zune Pass now offering rent to own music subscription model

Steve — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 14:46:37 -0000

@jt

Unfortunately, the Zune has never been officially released outside of the US. That's why there is no support for Zune Marketplace in the UK, and may never be.

Re: Video demo: SkyFire’s S60 mobile web browser accessing Hulu and YouTube

Steve — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 17:25:12 -0000

@Pete

Thanks!

@Steven Hoober

That's interesting re: SmartFit. Perhaps it's more of an issue with the CSS of last100.com, although the standard Nokia S60 browser on the e71 does handle re-flowing of text fine.

Re: Why I bought an iPod Touch and not an iPhone

Steve — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 15:34:09 -0000

@ Donkey

The iPod touch needs a WiFi connection, so that rules it out for use while traveling. The only phone that can really access the full web without too much pain is the iPhone (aside from the G1 possibly). The iPhone's Facebook app is fantastic, as is the YouTube and Gmail access. Having said that, battery life on the iPhone might be a problem if your other half uses voice a lot too.

But to try to answer the question, the iPod touch can be safely ruled out.

Re: Verizon’s opening its network to any phone and software app is welcomed, but no surprise

Steve — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 15:57:28 -0000

@ Lucy

No it doesn't, I'm afraid :(

Re: Nokia N97 - I want one already

Steve — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 17:25:23 -0000

@ Ronald G

While I haven't tested the N97 yet, Nokia's track record suggests call quality and reception won't be an issue. I suspect, however it performs in web browsing and touch UI etc, as a cell phone it will be fine.

Re: Sony’s eBook reader - the numbers are in

Steve — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 11:44:19 -0000

@ Mari

My Dad's reasoning was that he likes to buy a lot of 'cheap' fiction (mostly crime novels I think), along with more serious books, and doesn't want/need to have hard copies of everything he buys junking up the house. But, yes, he is also an avid reader, so who knows.

Re: G1’s Android Market does a good job of copying the iPhone App Store [video demo]

Steve — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 12:39:21 -0000

@ Pete

Yes the market works in portrait mode, as do all apps as far I know.

Re: Amazon MP3 arrives in the UK

Steve — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 11:32:50 -0000

@ DC Crowley

'Mainland Europe'? Never heard of it ;)

Seriously, this is the problem with so many Internet-based content sites, the inability to set up shop world-wide due to pre-Internet licensing agreements.

Re: Analyst: Apple to release ‘closed’ Netbook with iPhone-esque App Store

Steve — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:14:47 -0000

@ Shan Gee

There's certainly pent up demand for an Apple Netbook that's for sure. On the issue of 'touch', I'm not convinced that it's need for a traditionally shaped clam shell notebook, I just don't see the appeal of leaning over and touching the screen. A tablet form-factor maybe, but tablet PCs haven't sold well.

Re: Weekly wrapup: HP Magic Giveaway (win $6,000 worth of gear)

Steve — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 11:33:08 -0000

@ Barbara

They haven't yet. Last day is today (22nd December 08).

Re: How do you use your Netbook?

Steve — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 14:46:56 -0000

@ Lady VoIP

I love the idea of hangbag computing. Nice.

Re: We have our HP Magic Giveaway winner

Steve — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 13:36:12 -0000

It was an international competition and then a random draw. That's all. No conspiracy here folks.

Re: How do you use your Netbook?

Steve — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 15:49:43 -0000

Typing really fast is a bit of an issue for me. Not because the keyboard is small but because the keys are spaced very differently to my Macbook. If I wasn't switching between the two so frequently, it wouldn't be a problem (the Macbook keyboard took me a while to get used to in the first place).

Re: Have we just witnessed the second coming of Palm?

Steve — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 08:43:21 -0000

@ Alejo

Yes, I meant the Storm. Corrected, thanks.

Re: DivX 7 adds support for Blu-ray rips

Steve — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:54:17 -0000

@Xander

A quick reality check. The original DivX became popular, in part, because it was (for better or worse) the format used most often for DVD rips found on filesharing sites. Outside of the codec connoisseurs, I never heard of anybody requesting DivX support on their consumer electronics devices other than to play back rips, most of which weren't of their own creation. Likewise, I and just about anybody outside of the format wars, have rarely, if ever, encountered an .MKV file that wasn't a Blu-ray or HD-DVD rip floating somewhere on the interwebs. If you read the article carefully, I never suggested that pirated content was the only use for an MKV (it is just a container like AVI) but that it was a very common one. People who claim otherwise are being a little disingenuous IMHO.

Re: DivX 7 adds support for Blu-ray rips

Steve — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 16:13:40 -0000

@Xander

Thanks for retracting the moron statement. I was worried there for a minute ;-)

I actually think we mostly agree and are talking across each other a bit here. Of course ripping the media you own is perfectly alright, all I was arguing is that certain formats have won over others because, for whatever reason (perhaps because they were superior?), they become popular for pirated content. Then DivX (the company) helped push non-PC support for said formats (DVD players, PMPs etc.).

I too hate DRM, that's why I sourced a non-DRM solution for my own movie - insearchofthevalley.com

Re: Review: Nokia E71 (my favorite smartphone yet?)

Steve — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 09:13:09 -0000

@ DJ

Yes you can run Opera Mini on the e71, although I prefer Nokia's own web browser.

Re: DivX 7 adds support for Blu-ray rips

Steve — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:21:26 -0000

@cng

As far as I know, the XBox 360 isn't officially DivX certified. Even if it was, it's down to Microsoft whether or not to add MKV support. Anybody's guess.

Re: What if Apple sued Palm, would Microsoft come to the rescue?

Steve — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 15:04:03 -0000

@xxdesmus

I don't think Apple would file a suit without thinking through how this will send ripples throughout the whole industry. I hope it doesn't happen too but not at the expense of stifling competitors taking the best bits and improving them. That's what I like most about innovation: building on top of existing ideas not having to bypass or ignore them because of patents. Besides, most companies copy really badly, so just let them. The problem Apple has is that Palm looks like it has done a really, really good job.

Re: DivX 7 adds support for Blu-ray rips

Steve — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 09:40:21 -0000

@ bosko

To clarify. XBox 360 can play back "MPEG-4 Part 2, Simple Profile, and Advanced Simple Profile" AKA DivX files but, as I said, isn't officially "DivX Certified" by DivX themselves, unlike the PlayStation 3. This, of course, makes little difference in reality.

Re: What if Apple sued Palm, would Microsoft come to the rescue?

Steve — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 09:47:00 -0000

@ mr bailey

Microsoft buying Palm would be terrible news for Palm's future and would be a complete change of strategy from Redmond. They already have the upcoming Windows Mobile 7 OS in the oven and recently bought Danger, makers of the T-Mobile Sidekick. Let's see what that produces first.

Instead, maybe Nokia should buy Palm - they have the cash too and would benefit from Palm's UI and web services approach...

Re: BBC iPlayer on more handsets: Nokia N85, Samsung Omnia, Sony Ericsson Xperia X1 and C905

Steve — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:08:14 -0000

@ frank williams

I doubt you'll see iPlayer working abroad anytime soon. You may have to wait until the BBC launches its commercial Internet TV service, in which I expect there will be a subscription fee, and that is facing regulator review I think. So it could be a long time coming... it's also more complicated because the BBC doesn't have a world-wide license for all of its content as far as I know.

Re: What Sony’s PlayTV is, and isn’t

Steve — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 14:50:42 -0000

@ Paul @ Derek

I doubt it. The PlayTV hardware is tied to the software, it's not a case of just plugging in a different tuner.

Re: I’ve been playing with Nokia’s new touchscreen phone - the 5800 XpressMusic (aka the Tube)

Steve — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 16:16:54 -0000

@Roboguard

The 5800's screen is meant to lock and go blank when you place it near your ear, to prevent accidental screen presses. Maybe that is the "issue"?

Re: HD video coming to a Netbook near you

Steve — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:45:02 -0000

@ Mari

That's interesting. My MSI Wind (rebadged as an Advent) can't handle the 720p HD content shot on my camcorder. I'm hoping the new chipset will address that.

Re: I’ve been playing with Nokia’s new touchscreen phone - the 5800 XpressMusic (aka the Tube)

Steve — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 13:45:22 -0000

@ Raihan Hasnain Rahman

Thanks for that. Glad it's working out now :-)

Re: Nokia and Skype partnership has carriers in a fit

Steve — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:00:56 -0000

@Finnsense

I'm also a long time Skype user. My mobile carrier "Three" already offers Skype on most of its handsets, and although it's not always as clear as a regular mobile or land line call, it is useful nonetheless, especially IM or to see when a contact is online and available to talk.

Re: Review: Nokia E71 (my favorite smartphone yet?)

Steve — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 13:42:07 -0000

@ Sweet

It's for video calls over 3G. Perhaps your network doesn't support this feature or it isn't included in your mobile plan.

Re: Review: Nokia E71 (my favorite smartphone yet?)

Steve — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:19:01 -0000

@ Brian Murphy

What do you mean by costly?

If you are referring to 'data' charges i.e. Internet, then you can tell Nokia Maps to 'go offline' via the tools menu I think. That way you're not using the 'assisted' part of A-GPS. But I'm not definite on this.

Or are you talking about the Sat Nav monthly subscription for turn by turn directions?

Re: Review: Nokia E71 (my favorite smartphone yet?)

Steve — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 14:56:00 -0000

@ Brian Murphy

Let us know how you get on.

Re: How I replaced Apple’s MobileMe at half the price

Steve — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 12:38:05 -0000

@ neville shaw

You can use Apple's Mail application with virtually any email account, including BT, if that's what you are asking. You just need to set it up via BT's instructions. However, beware that if you start relying on a BT broadband email address and then change broadband provider in the future, you may have to pay BT to still keep using that email address. That may not be an issue and will still be cheaper than MobileMe. However, if you are using other MobileMe features, such as iPhone syncing, backups (iDisk), photo gallery etc. then the £60 could still be worth it, especially if you're comfortable with the service.

Re: Nokia N97 - I want one already

Steve — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 09:51:54 -0000

@ Leanne

Do you mean a TV tuner?

Re: Review: Nokia E71 (my favorite smartphone yet?)

Steve — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:57:07 -0000

@ Gregoire

The E71 comes with Nokia Sports Tracker (or you can download it). Not entirely sure but I think it will do the job you're asking for :-)
http://sportstracker.nokia.com/nts/main/index.do

Re: Review: Nokia E71 (my favorite smartphone yet?)

Steve — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:14:34 -0000

@ Gregoire

Yes I still use it as my main phone, and still really like it. No problems at all!

I also have the new E75 on loan, really nice too. I'll post a review a soon.

Re: iTunes variable pricing has nothing to do with “supply and demand”, just record label greed and stupidity

Steve — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 12:55:31 -0000

@Davis Freeberg

Devils advocate is always welcome ;-) I understand your point, but it falls down slightly considering - using your analogy - there are free cinemas open 24 hours a day, showing all the most and least popular films (file sharing sites). That's the competition.

Re: iTunes variable pricing has nothing to do with “supply and demand”, just record label greed and stupidity

Steve — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:20:42 -0000

@KPS

"Apple only has free-market incentive to lower their price if people are unwilling to pay what they are charging, for instance, if they can get it elsewhere for less money/effort."

Most are unwilling to pay and can get it elsewhere - for free. That's the point. The answer isn't to raise prices for offering the same but to lower prices and add more value that's harder to get elsewhere.

Re: iTunes variable pricing has nothing to do with “supply and demand”, just record label greed and stupidity

Steve — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:04:16 -0000

@ Dale Dietrich

Not sure there is or ever will be real competition as the major labels set the wholesale terms. As a result it looks like Amazon and co. just followed suit:
http://www.last100.com/2009/04/08/more-variable...

Although ComputerWorld is reporting that Amazon is being favored over Apple as the labels continue to try to weaken Steve Jobs' grip on the music industry.

Re: Hands-on review: INQ1 a.k.a. the ‘Facebook phone’

Steve — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 08:20:31 -0000

Yes it does but... The INQ1 is offered on a pay-monthly tariff on "3" that includes "unlimited" Facebook access and other data. And for PAYG, you're encouraged to take out the unlimited data package as a top up (£5 per month in the UK, I think). So if done right, you won't ring up a huge bill at all - it's pretty good value.

Re: The Gadget Show Live: LG Arena - not just another iPhone wannabe [video]

Steve — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 14:27:18 -0000

The video is working fine.

Re: BlackBerry address book integrates Facebook, apes Palm Pre’s “Synergy” and INQ1

Steve — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 07:37:46 -0000

Not as far as I'm aware, although I'm told that BlackBerry's can integrate IM friends lists too (Microsoft Messenger etc.), but I don't have one to hand to confirm.

Re: Please Nominate dailyApps for 2008 Bloggies…

Steve — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:43:45 -0000

Thanks for the nod!

- Steve, editor last100

Re: Blogging Is the New Novel/Screenplay Writing

Steve — Wed, 16 Aug 2006 18:49:53 -0000

You got my attention - without trying :)

"ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s kind of a Zen thing Ã¢â‚¬â€ you have to let go of your expectations before they can be met."

I agree totally - well put.

Re: Publish2 In Private Beta

Steve — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 18:28:50 -0000

Hi Scott,

Drop me an invite and I'll keep it quiet.

- Steve O'Heae

Re: Interview with MyBlogLog CEO Scott Rafer

Steve — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 12:54:19 -0000

Great interview. At the risk of being spammy, I spoke to MyBlogLog co-founder, Eric Marcoullier, last month -- right before the Yahoo! buy out.

http://blogs.zdnet.com/social/?p=45

Re: Veoh Launching New Online TV Service; Takes Streams From Content Sites Directly Into Its Player

Steve — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 12:47:22 -0000

Over at last100, I’ve posted my thoughts on VeohTV, picking up on the company’s plans to get its software into a set-top-box, as reported by Read/WriteWeb:

…we’re hearing more and more about software-based online TV solutions harbouring plans to get their services into a dedicated set-top-box, rather than relying on the PC. Joost has hinted at this direction, and recently we’ve reported on BitTorrent’s Software Developer Kit for set-top-boxes and other Internet devices, along with DivX’s work on a media streaming box. And let’s not forget Apple who have put a stripped down version of their desktop OS into the AppleTV so that it can act as a media extender for streaming iTunes content onto a TV, as well as, more recently, connect directly to YouTube.

Re: Palm Aims For "Fat Middle Of The Market" With New OS Code-Named "Nova"

Steve — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 20:22:35 -0000

I'm rooting for Palm, here's why...
http://www.last100.com/2008/12/15/why-im-backin...