A better pencil sharpener? Inventor dreams of erasing life's annoyances[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 00:09:44 GMT ]Long lines at amusement parks. Traffic stalled at rush hour. Cycling uphill. To most of us, these are just minor problems we face in an otherwise comfortable existence. To Anwar Farooq, they are personal call-outs, challenges that he must answer with his own ingenuity.

Five great video games to get your New Year's Eve party started[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 16:50:26 GMT ]The New Year's Eve long weekend is upon us, and you know what that means — good friends and good times ahead. If you're looking to add that special something to the party, then may we suggest you fire up some video games?

13 technologies you won't see in 2013[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 16:50:26 GMT ]The Maya apocalypse was only one of many products that missed their release schedule in 2012 — and the same will hold true next year as well. Find out about 13 talked-up technologies that won't see the light of day in 2013.

Pre-caffeine tech: Happy New Year! [ Mon, 31 Dec 2012 14:43:53 GMT ]Here's everything that you need to know before taking that first sip of coffee today: Holy cats! Did Instagram got and lose 25 percent of its users?

How Neil Armstrong set up 'One Small Step' line[ Sun, 30 Dec 2012 21:17:30 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: Neil Armstrong's brother tells the BBC that he gave the late astronaut feedback on his history-making speech months before it was uttered on the moon.

Online services for Madden NFL 11, others get sacked[ Mon, 31 Dec 2012 14:44:39 GMT ]EA says the move is designed to free up engineering and IT staff time for more popular games. [Read more]

Power on: Intel's cable TV box could debut at CES[ Mon, 31 Dec 2012 15:01:55 GMT ]The chipmaker reportedly will use next week's electronics extravaganza in Las Vegas to reveal its cable set-top box and virtual TV service. [Read more]

Apple applies for patent on 'active stylus' technology[ Mon, 31 Dec 2012 15:33:00 GMT ]The technology allows for more accurate stylus functionality while reducing the costs associated with lesser-quality stylus functions. [Read more]

Microsoft offers free month for Xbox Live users hit by outage[ Mon, 31 Dec 2012 15:41:43 GMT ]The Xbox Live Cloud Saved Games feature is back online, and Microsoft's mea culpa includes a free month of service. [Read more]

Fund this: An iPhone game controller that's also a case[ Mon, 31 Dec 2012 16:25:32 GMT ]Kickstarter project WynCase is one of the most intriguing options yet, because it requires no batteries and no Bluetooth. What black magic is this? [Read more]

The 10 best video games of 2012[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 09:24:57 EST ]With new installments of popular franchises such as "Halo" and "Call of Duty," expectations ran high for video games in 2012.

Zuckerberg OK after photo flap [ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 12:24:06 EST ]The sister of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg says there are no hard feelings after a "leaked" family photo raised questions about online etiquette and privacy on the social network.

The top 12 tech stories of 2012[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 05:45:49 EST ]In the tech world, 2012 was the year of the reboot. Older, established tech companies such as Microsoft, Yahoo and Nintendo all tried to restart their brands with bold new products and fresh blood in the executive suites.

Oops! The year's top 10 tech 'fails'[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:56:52 EST ]Well, you can't win 'em all.

Danger meets discovery: 2012's top science stories[ Mon, 31 Dec 2012 11:46:25 EST ]From faraway planets to the deepest depths of the ocean, 2012 has been an exciting year for scientific achievements and milestones.

Cheers! Snapshots could lead to finer wines[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 23:25:15 GMT ]Digital snapshots produce cute holiday memories for all to share, but now a similar technology may help winemakers produce superb Syrahs or marvelous Merlots.

A better pencil sharpener? Inventor dreams of erasing life's annoyances[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 00:09:44 GMT ]Long lines at amusement parks. Traffic stalled at rush hour. Cycling uphill. To most of us, these are just minor problems we face in an otherwise comfortable existence. To Anwar Farooq, they are personal call-outs, challenges that he must answer with his own ingenuity.

The night sky's top sights for 2013[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 23:33:23 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: The coming year could bring brilliant cometary fireworks as well as eclipses, meteor showers and more. But there's also the potential for disappointment.

Five great video games to get your New Year's Eve party started[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 16:50:26 GMT ]The New Year's Eve long weekend is upon us, and you know what that means — good friends and good times ahead. If you're looking to add that special something to the party, then may we suggest you fire up some video games?

13 technologies you won't see in 2013[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 16:50:26 GMT ]The Maya apocalypse was only one of many products that missed their release schedule in 2012 — and the same will hold true next year as well. Find out about 13 talked-up technologies that won't see the light of day in 2013.

Details of proposed sanctions emerge in Apple-Samsung case[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 18:08:05 GMT ]Sanctions against Samsung in patent case before U.S. International Trade Commission would involve sales, import ban and posting of bond for 88 percent of value of smartphones at issue while potential bans were under review. [Read more]

Lawsuit alleges that stolen ideas underpin Pinterest[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 21:21:17 GMT ]A New Jersey man says that ideas he formulated for a site called RendezVoo wrongly wound up as integral parts of the wildly successful interest-sharing site. [Read more]

Type 'sell' into Google Finance and take a bite out of Apple[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 23:48:08 GMT ]It's not clear why, exactly, but as of this writing, if you type "sell" into Google Finance, you get Apple's rather sullen stock chart. Algorithmic slip-up? Or Christmastime Easter egg? [Read more]

Windows 8 wrestles with PC's legacy[ Sun, 30 Dec 2012 00:22:47 GMT ]opinion On a traditional PC, Windows 8 Metro is a solution looking for a problem. [Read more]

Danish modern: Raidho Acoustics C 3.1 speaker[ Sun, 30 Dec 2012 16:06:00 GMT ]Speakers that break the reality barrier are extremely rare, but that's exactly what the Raidho C 3.1 does. [Read more]

The 10 best video games of 2012[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 09:24:57 EST ]With new installments of popular franchises such as "Halo" and "Call of Duty," expectations ran high for video games in 2012.

Zuckerberg OK after photo flap [ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 12:24:06 EST ]The sister of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg says there are no hard feelings after a "leaked" family photo raised questions about online etiquette and privacy on the social network.

The top 12 tech stories of 2012[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 05:45:49 EST ]In the tech world, 2012 was the year of the reboot. Older, established tech companies such as Microsoft, Yahoo and Nintendo all tried to restart their brands with bold new products and fresh blood in the executive suites.

Oops! The year's top 10 tech 'fails'[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:56:52 EST ]Well, you can't win 'em all.

Oops! The top 10 tech 'fails' of 2012[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:55:51 EST ]Well, you can't win 'em all.

Unselfish brain cells found in monkeys[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 22:49:05 GMT ]Brain cells that fire only when monkeys act unselfishly may provide clues to the neural basis of altruism, according to a new study.

A better pencil sharpener? Inventor dreams of erasing life's annoyances[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 00:09:44 GMT ]Long lines at amusement parks. Traffic stalled at rush hour. Cycling uphill. To most of us, these are just minor problems we face in an otherwise comfortable existence. To Anwar Farooq, they are personal call-outs, challenges that he must answer with his own ingenuity.

The night sky's top sights for 2013[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 23:33:23 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: The coming year could bring brilliant cometary fireworks as well as eclipses, meteor showers and more. But there's also the potential for disappointment.

Five great video games to get your New Year's Eve party started[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 16:50:26 GMT ]The New Year's Eve long weekend is upon us, and you know what that means — good friends and good times ahead. If you're looking to add that special something to the party, then may we suggest you fire up some video games?

13 technologies you won't see in 2013[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 16:50:26 GMT ]The Maya apocalypse was only one of many products that missed their release schedule in 2012 — and the same will hold true next year as well. Find out about 13 talked-up technologies that won't see the light of day in 2013.

How to quickly set calendar times in OS X[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 00:26:44 GMT ]If needed, you can take advantage of the OS X Calendar's ability to identify time frames to enter events faster. [Read more]

Netflix doubles down on CEO Reed Hastings' pay package[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 01:04:29 GMT ]Movie streaming company gives its chief a hefty raise for 2013, a year after slashing his compensation in the wake of a botched plan to split the company. [Read more]

Suppliers hint at changes to MacBook Air -- Digitimes[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 01:32:27 GMT ]While it's a given that the MacBook Air is coming up for a redesign, it's a question of degree. The industrial design won't change much, according to a report from the Taiwanese site. [Read more]

New iOS app shows NY subway arrival times[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 01:51:07 GMT ]For the first time, New York City's Metropolitan Transportation Authority has release an iOS app that shows train arrival times on seven subway lines. [Read more]

The Audiophiliac's speaker of the year: The KEF LS50[ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 15:36:00 GMT ]The British have a knack for making exceptional-sounding small monitor speakers; the KEF LS50 is the latest example of the breed. [Read more]

The 10 best video games of 2012[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 09:24:57 EST ]With new installments of popular franchises such as "Halo" and "Call of Duty," expectations ran high for video games in 2012.

Zuckerberg OK after photo flap [ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 12:24:06 EST ]The sister of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg says there are no hard feelings after a "leaked" family photo raised questions about online etiquette and privacy on the social network.

The top 12 tech stories of 2012[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 05:45:49 EST ]In the tech world, 2012 was the year of the reboot. Older, established tech companies such as Microsoft, Yahoo and Nintendo all tried to restart their brands with bold new products and fresh blood in the executive suites.

Oops! The year's top 10 tech 'fails'[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:56:52 EST ]Well, you can't win 'em all.

Oops! The top 10 tech 'fails' of 2012[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:55:51 EST ]Well, you can't win 'em all.

China tightens Internet controls, legalizes post deletion[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 14:37:10 GMT ]China unveiled tighter Internet controls on Friday, legalizing the deletion of posts or pages which are deemed to contain "illegal" information and requiring service providers to hand over such information to the authorities for punishment.

Over 17 million tablets and phones opened on Christmas[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 01:42:41 GMT ]Christmas day this year saw record numbers of devices coming online — over 17 million of them, according to app analytics company Flurry. And that's not counting the ones that stayed offline.

Fossil dealer's guilty plea ends dino dispute[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 22:29:53 GMT ]A Florida fossil dealer pleaded guilty to smuggling charges Thursday and agreed to give up a celebrated $1 million dinosaur skeleton that was seized by the U.S. government earlier this year for eventual return to Mongolia.

The year's top ancient mysteries (and missteps)[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 21:29:56 GMT ]The past year saw plenty of controversy over ancient mysteries — and we're not just talking about Maya prophecies. So what happened to "Franken-saurus," the Gospel of Jesus' Wife and the plan to clone a woolly mammoth?

Grumpy Cat! NASA Mohawk Guy! Gangnam Style! McKayla still not impressed?[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 19:36:44 GMT ]Here’s a look at 10 memes that made our Internet year worth living.

Snapchat, Poke videos don't quite disappear as promised[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 14:39:59 GMT ]Videos sent through Snapchat or Facebook's Poke app should vanish after several seconds, yet they're still viewable if someone knows where to look. [Read more]

China tightens the screws on Internet users[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 15:30:04 GMT ]The country will now require all citizens to use their real names when signing up for an Internet account and force Internet providers to delete posts deemed "illegal." [Read more]

Google's new VP9 video technology reaches public view[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 15:43:20 GMT ]The older VP8 hasn't taken the world by storm, but VP9 could give Google a fresh start in its attempt to popularize royalty-free video-streaming technology. [Read more]

DirecTV to hike subscription rates in February 2013[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 15:52:12 GMT ]The satellite TV broadcaster has announced an average increase of 4.5 percent increase in rates for subscriptions, effective February 2013. [Read more]

Apple's Christmas gift - 87 percent leap in app downloads[ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:01:05 GMT ]App downloads on Christmas Day rose 87 percent over the average for the month, leading to a 70 percent increase in App Store revenue, says Distimo. [Read more]

Instagram hit with lawsuit[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 17:32:50 EST ]A class action lawsuit against Instagram has been filed in San Francisco federal court, following user outrage regarding the mobile photo sharing app's changed Terms of Service.

On Web, 'Time Has Come' for singer[ Wed, 26 Dec 2012 12:09:49 EST ]His song is one of the enduring anthems of the turbulent 1960s, a soulful call to action awash in a psychedelic wave of sound.

Tweets from Netflix's Xmas outage[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 13:30:33 EST ]Aah, Christmas Eve. A time for family and friends, eggnog and mistletoe, carols and cookies ... and catching up on "Downton Abbey"?

The 10 best video games of 2012[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 09:24:57 EST ]With new installments of popular franchises such as "Halo" and "Call of Duty," expectations ran high for video games in 2012.

The top 12 tech stories of 2012[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 16:42:18 EST ]In the tech world, 2012 was the year of the reboot. Older, established tech companies such as Microsoft, Yahoo and Nintendo all tried to restart their brands with bold new products and fresh blood in the executive suites.

Peru's mysterious Nazca Lines form a labyrinth[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 16:57:03 GMT ]Some of the Nazca Lines, mysterious geoglyphs that span a vast swath of the rugged Peruvian desert, may have once been a labyrinth with a spiritual purpose, a new study suggests.

Survey finds increase in e-reading, drop in paper[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 16:11:23 GMT ]The tastes of the reading public are turning digital. The percentage of Americans aged 16 and older who read an e-book grew from 16 percent in 2011 to 23 percent this year.

Smart TV owners seemingly tuning out most apps[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 15:10:18 GMT ]They may be called smart TVs, but that doesn’t stop the vast majority of us from using them as basic boob tubes. A new NPD Group report claims that most people use their Internet-enabled televisions to stream video services like Netflix or Hulu Plus, and … actually, not much else.

2,750-year-old temple found near Jerusalem[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 07:51:15 GMT ]Archaeologists say they have uncovered a 2,750-year-old temple near Jerusalem, along with pottery and clay figurines that suggest the site was the home base for a ritual cult.

Weird Science 2012: Sex, drugs and doomsday[ Wed, 26 Dec 2012 22:24:44 GMT ]Sex, drugs, rock 'n' roll and the Apocalypse: 2012 had it all. But only 10 stories about the past year's strangest scientific research can make it into our Weird Science hall of fame — so we're going to need your help.

Why are audiophiles afraid to admit they're audiophiles?[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 15:36:00 GMT ]You don't have to own an expensive hi-fi to be an audiophile. You just have to enjoy listening -- really listening -- to music. [Read more]

Internet on the TV? Meh, say consumers[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 15:54:49 GMT ]Facebook, Twitter, online shopping -- they're just a blip. The big draw by far on Internet-connected TVs is over-the-top video. [Read more]

Microsoft Windows Phone store adds 75,000 apps this year[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 15:59:59 GMT ]More than 75,000 new apps and 300,000 app updates wound up in the store this past year. [Read more]

Galaxy S4: Imagine it impossibly thin, with laser keyboard[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 16:26:50 GMT ]The expectations for the next Samsung flagship phone keep getting higher and higher. A new concept video shows some potentially iPhone-killing features. [Read more]

Apple rumored to be developing a smart watch[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 17:01:32 GMT ]New scuttlebut suggests that Apple is teaming up with Intel to fashion an iOS-based watch. [Read more]

Apparently This Matters: Meggings[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 13:52:19 EST ]GQ summed it up with one word: "No."

Steve Jobs' yacht impounded[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 11:01:29 EST ]The megayacht that Steve Jobs commissioned in the final years of his life has been impounded in Amsterdam after a payment dispute involving the designer, Philippe Starck.

Instagram hit with lawsuit[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 17:32:50 EST ]A class action lawsuit against Instagram has been filed in San Francisco federal court, following user outrage regarding the mobile photo sharing app's changed Terms of Service.

On Web, 'Time Has Come' for singer[ Wed, 26 Dec 2012 12:09:49 EST ]His song is one of the enduring anthems of the turbulent 1960s, a soulful call to action awash in a psychedelic wave of sound.

The 10 best video games of 2012[ Thu, 27 Dec 2012 09:24:57 EST ]With new installments of popular franchises such as "Halo" and "Call of Duty," expectations ran high for video games in 2012.

Iran says it fended off cyber attack on industrial sites[ Tue, 25 Dec 2012 20:14:34 GMT ]An Internet virus attacked computers at industrial sites in southern Iran, in an apparent extension of a covert cyber war that initially targeted the country's nuclear facilities, an Iranian official said.

LG’s latest projector system is powered by freaking lasers[ Wed, 26 Dec 2012 13:46:47 GMT ]Until now, all consumer front projector systems produced light using lamps or in rare cases LEDs. The new LG HECTO FP system, on the other hand, uses lasers for illumination instead.

Netflix suffers Christmas Eve outage, points to Amazon[ Tue, 25 Dec 2012 20:12:49 GMT ]An outage at one of Amazon's Web service centers hit users of Netflix Inc.'s streaming video service on Christmas Eve and was not fully resolved until Christmas day, a spokesman for the movie rental company said on Tuesday.

Sea whodunit: How scientists solve whale deaths[ Tue, 25 Dec 2012 20:45:38 GMT ]Sometimes the bodies show up floating in the ocean, other times they wash ashore. Then it's up to investigators to figure out what happened.

How to set up your new HDTV[ Tue, 25 Dec 2012 21:48:56 GMT ]It’s not possible for a TV to be set at the factory with the best settings possible for your home. Take 20 minutes or so on your end, and you can drastically improve the picture quality.

Amazon: The five biggest stories of 2012[ Wed, 26 Dec 2012 12:00:00 GMT ]The e-commerce giant spent the year stepping on its competitors' toes -- as usual. [Read more]

Apple wins critical SIM connector patent[ Wed, 26 Dec 2012 14:23:56 GMT ]The company wins a patent that allows SIM cards to be easily swapped into a device like a smartphone or tablet. It's a handy patent given the recent battle for SIM card standards. [Read more]

HTC's global One S gets Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean[ Wed, 26 Dec 2012 14:43:39 GMT ]Still no word on the U.S. version though. [Read more]

Steve Jobs' yacht freed in time for Christmas[ Wed, 26 Dec 2012 16:04:34 GMT ]After being impounded, the Venus is heading home. The notoriously controlling Jobs forgot one thing while working on the mega yacht: A contract with the designer. [Read more]

Microsoft forges ahead with retail store expansion plans[ Wed, 26 Dec 2012 16:45:37 GMT ]The company is continuing its transformation from a simple software company with the announcement of its first six stores planned for 2013. [Read more]

Apparently This Matters: Meggings[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 13:52:19 EST ]GQ summed it up with one word: "No."

Steve Jobs' yacht impounded[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 11:01:29 EST ]The megayacht that Steve Jobs commissioned in the final years of his life has been impounded in Amsterdam after a payment dispute involving the designer, Philippe Starck.

Instagram hit with lawsuit[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 17:32:50 EST ]A class action lawsuit against Instagram has been filed in San Francisco federal court, following user outrage regarding the mobile photo sharing app's changed Terms of Service.

On Web, 'Time Has Come' for singer[ Wed, 26 Dec 2012 10:19:26 EST ]His song is one of the enduring anthems of the turbulent 1960s, a soulful call to action awash in a psychedelic wave of sound.

How to sell or get rid of your old gadgets[ Wed, 26 Dec 2012 10:28:16 EST ]If you received shiny new gadgets for the holidays, you probably have some older device that is now unwanted or obsolete. If you can't regift your old computer, tablet or TV, make sure you get rid of it the smart way by selling, donating or recycling it.

Video: Play tablet dress-up with these iPad cases[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 17:58:12 GMT ]Santa brought you an iPad? Time to dress it up to make it more fun — or safe — to use. NBCNews.com's Rosa Golijan looks at four of the more interesting case options. (NBCNews.com)

Scientists unravel secret of Rudolph's red nose[ Tue, 25 Dec 2012 00:01:00 GMT ]Most people know Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer had a very shiny nose — but why? Medical researchers say they've now found the answer.

Last-second gifts that won't make you look desperate[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 18:00:24 GMT ]The deadlines for online orders may have passed, and the stores may be closing, but it's not too late to buy a Christmas present that's better than the usual digital gift card.

'Star of Wonder' leaves lots to wonder about[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 16:56:20 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: Astronomers and scriptural scholars have laid out a variety of scenarios to explain the "Star of Bethlehem" — with some unorthodox twists.

Google vs. Microsoft: Santa-trackers out of sync[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 23:07:55 GMT ]Two online systems for tracking Santa Claus' travels on Christmas Eve — supported by Microsoft and Google — show dramatically different itineraries for the Jolly Old Elf.

Chrome prepares to ax silent extensions[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 21:11:10 GMT ]A coming version of Google Chrome on Windows is going to prevent extensions that don't come from the official Chrome store from quietly installing without your say-so. [Read more]

Instagram hit with proposed class-action lawsuit[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 22:19:32 GMT ]Suit claims that not only is Instagram making a "grab for customer property rights" with tweaks to its terms of service, it's also attempting to cover its tail by prohibiting users from seeking legal relief. [Read more]

Christmas surprise for Droid Razr, Razr Maxx[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 22:47:31 GMT ]Jelly Bean starts finding its way into the Christmas stockings of Droid Razr and Droid Razr Maxx owners. [Read more]

Customer claims Sprint worker said his fingers 'too fat' for iPhone[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 23:19:06 GMT ]A customer claims he went to a Sprint store to replace his damaged phone and the Sprint salesperson told him his digits were too porky for an iPhone 4. [Read more]

LG's 2013 home theater line doubles down on sound bars, Bluetooth speakers[ Tue, 25 Dec 2012 08:01:00 GMT ]LG has announced its entire 2013 home theater line in advance of CES, including modest updates to its sound bars, Blu-ray players, HTIBs, and Bluetooth speakers. [Read more]

Apparently This Matters: Meggings[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 13:52:19 EST ]GQ summed it up with one word: "No."

Steve Jobs' yacht impounded[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 11:01:29 EST ]The megayacht that Steve Jobs commissioned in the final years of his life has been impounded in Amsterdam after a payment dispute involving the designer, Philippe Starck.

Instagram hit with lawsuit[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 17:32:50 EST ]A class action lawsuit against Instagram has been filed in San Francisco federal court, following user outrage regarding the mobile photo sharing app's changed Terms of Service.

On Web, 'Time Has Come' for singer[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 17:33:01 EST ]His song is one of the enduring anthems of the turbulent 1960s, a soulful call to action awash in a psychedelic wave of sound.

On Web, 'Time Has Come' for '60s singer[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 17:16:41 EST ]His song is one of the enduring anthems of the turbulent 1960s, a soulful call to action awash in a psychedelic wave of sound.

Top tech flops of 2012 tainted a good year for gadgets[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 18:21:35 GMT ]A lot of good things happened in tech this year, including the debuts of the iPhone 5 and the Samsung Galaxy S III. But where there’s good, there’s bad. There were plenty of major tech fails this year. These awards go to the eight biggest.

Sacks of potatoes stand in for humans in Boeing's in-air Wi-Fi tests[ Sun, 23 Dec 2012 18:26:06 GMT ]If the wireless Internet connection during your holiday flight seems more reliable than it used to, you could have the humble potato to thank.

SpaceX rocket goes for 12-story-high hop[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 04:16:20 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: SpaceX's prototype Grasshopper rocket takes one giant leap, rising to a 12-story height and settling back down safely with a dummy cowboy riding along.

Pagan roots? 5 surprising Christmas facts[ Sun, 23 Dec 2012 18:42:42 GMT ]When you gather around the Christmas tree or stuff goodies into a stocking, you're taking part in traditions that stretch back thousands of years — long before Christianity entered the mix.

'Star of Wonder' leaves lots to wonder about[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 16:56:20 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: Astronomers and scriptural scholars have laid out a variety of scenarios to explain the "Star of Bethlehem" — with some unorthodox twists.

Fresh iPad rumor: thinner, lighter version due in March[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 14:06:04 GMT ]The report also calls for an iPad Mini with a Retina Display. [Read more]

Acer drives tablet prices lower, plans $99 model[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 14:39:38 GMT ]The Iconia B1 tablet looks like it's headed to the emerging markets, and it's unclear whether it'll hit the U.S. [Read more]

Easy last-minute gifts you can print or e-mail[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 14:41:47 GMT ]The procrastination ends now. Here's your last chance to get something for that someone special. [Read more]

China to curtail trademark trolls[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 15:24:38 GMT ]China says it will make a greater effort to stamp out companies such as Proview, which sued Apple earlier this year for the use of the iPad name. [Read more]

Nokia tablet details: keyboard cover with battery, 10.1-inch display[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 15:58:54 GMT ]AT&T will reportedly be the first carrier to sell the tablet, which could make its debut at Mobile World Congress in February. [Read more]

Web observes Sandy Hook moment[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 18:14:49 EST ]Some major websites will go dark for one minute Friday at 9:30 a.m. ET as part of a national moment of silence for the victims of last week's shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.

Everybody wants Raspberry Pi[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 18:14:09 EST ]In a world where computers are increasingly powerful and are concealed within ever more glossy slabs of aluminium, the Raspberry Pi (RPi) offers surprising proof for the virtue of moderation.

Apparently This Matters: Meggings[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 13:52:19 EST ]GQ summed it up with one word: "No."

Steve Jobs' yacht impounded[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 11:01:29 EST ]The megayacht that Steve Jobs commissioned in the final years of his life has been impounded in Amsterdam after a payment dispute involving the designer, Philippe Starck.

Video: Track Santa with your smartphone[ Mon, 24 Dec 2012 08:56:49 EST ]This year, a tech giant is getting in on the action of tracking Santa's journey from the North Pole and across the globe.

Free e-books bring the cosmos to life[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 00:04:47 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: Free e-books from NASA, the Hubble Space Telescope's science team and the European Space Agency bring Earth and the heavens to life.

Outer-space views take on a festive look[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 21:14:20 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: If you still have to send out your season's greetings, take your pick from a spectrum of holiday e-cards from the European Space Agency.

Mayan apocalypse failure bad news for believers[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 16:26:44 GMT ]You might expect the world not ending to be a cause for celebration. But for believers in doomsdays like Friday's supposed Mayan apocalypse, the continued existence of the planet can be quite traumatic.

NRA: Video game industry 'sows violence against its own people'[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 19:47:27 GMT ]After a week of intense anti-gun sentiment following the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School, the National Rifle Association on Friday blamed video games and their virtual guns for creating a culture of violence that breeds killers.

Top tech flops of 2012 tainted a good year for gadgets[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 18:21:35 GMT ]A lot of good things happened in tech this year, including the debuts of the iPhone 5 and the Samsung Galaxy S III. But where there’s good, there’s bad. There were plenty of major tech fails this year. These awards go to the eight biggest.

Here comes Microsoft Surface Pro, 64 bits and all[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 20:37:49 GMT ]The Windows 8 Pro version of Microsoft's Surface tablet is just around the corner. Here's what to expect. [Read more]

U.S., Russia forge 'action plan' on piracy[ Sun, 23 Dec 2012 00:30:33 GMT ]The two countries agree on a plan to curtail theft of intellectual property, after President Obama grants Russia "permanent normal trade relations" and the two nations agree to have the WTO's tenets apply between them. [Read more]

First day tips and tweaks for new MacBook owners[ Sun, 23 Dec 2012 00:39:21 GMT ]Get a new holiday MacBook? Here's how to get the most of it right away. [Read more]

The social 'gifting' boom: Wrapp now sending 1M cards a week[ Sun, 23 Dec 2012 16:00:00 GMT ]2012 is the year in which social gifting started to take off, and not just for Facebook. One leading the pack is Wrapp, which is seeing usage skyrocket. [Read more]

A miniature speaker amplifier for your desktop[ Sun, 23 Dec 2012 16:06:00 GMT ]The Pro-Ject Stereo Box S is a tiny thing, but it's big enough to bring desktop speakers to life! [Read more]

Web observes Sandy Hook moment[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 18:14:49 EST ]Some major websites will go dark for one minute Friday at 9:30 a.m. ET as part of a national moment of silence for the victims of last week's shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.

Everybody wants Raspberry Pi[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 18:14:09 EST ]In a world where computers are increasingly powerful and are concealed within ever more glossy slabs of aluminium, the Raspberry Pi (RPi) offers surprising proof for the virtue of moderation.

Apparently This Matters: Meggings[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 13:52:19 EST ]GQ summed it up with one word: "No."

Steve Jobs' yacht impounded[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 18:14:24 EST ]The megayacht that Steve Jobs commissioned in the final years of his life has been impounded in Amsterdam after a payment dispute involving the designer, Philippe Starck.

Why everybody wants a slice of Raspberry Pi[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 14:29:01 EST ]In a world where computers are increasingly powerful and are concealed within ever more glossy slabs of aluminium, the Raspberry Pi (RPi) offers surprising proof for the virtue of moderation.

Cut here: Gecko tails rip off along 'dotted' line[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 16:46:27 GMT ]Like a pair of Velcro stripper pants, gecko tails come off easy. The lizards have pre-formed score lines in their tail that allow them to quickly rip off their tails when a predator has grabbed it, according to a new study.

Guilt-free iPad apps for kids give parents a holiday break[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 20:11:31 GMT ]I love playing with my kids, but you know that week when everybody's stuck in the house, when the weather's at its worst? Or when you're en route to Grandma's, but stuck on the tarmac with a 4-hour delay? That iPad comes in handy.

Free e-books bring the cosmos to life[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 00:04:47 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: Free e-books from NASA, the Hubble Space Telescope's science team and the European Space Agency bring Earth and the heavens to life.

Mayan apocalypse failure bad news for believers[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 16:26:44 GMT ]You might expect the world not ending to be a cause for celebration. But for believers in doomsdays like Friday's supposed Mayan apocalypse, the continued existence of the planet can be quite traumatic.

NRA: Video game industry 'sows violence against its own people'[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 19:47:27 GMT ]After a week of intense anti-gun sentiment following the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School, the National Rifle Association on Friday blamed video games and their virtual guns for creating a culture of violence that breeds killers.

Do you need a case for your smartphone?[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 08:01:00 GMT ]In this edition of Ask Maggie, CNET's Marguerite Reardon offers some advice on smartphone cases and also helps a reader decide between the iPad Mini and the fourth generation iPad. [Read more]

Browsers: Top 5 events from 2012[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 08:01:00 GMT ]Web developers and browser makers were on course toward building the universal software platform -- until smartphones got in the way. [Read more]

A made-in-the-U.S., audiophile-grade turntable for $150?[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 15:36:00 GMT ]That's what a group of talented twentysomethings are promising on their recently launched Kickstarter project, we'll see. [Read more]

On truths, dreams, confessions--and the iPhone[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 16:36:50 GMT ]A new restaurant in Miami encourages people to leave personal revelations for everyone to see. A quite startling one involves Apple's bond-inspiring gadget. [Read more]

A troubling promise in iPad Mini's new Xmas ad[ Sat, 22 Dec 2012 16:59:31 GMT ]In a touching ad for the iPad Mini, a girl plays a song to her grandfather over FaceTime. She promises to be home for Xmas. But is she just mocking granddad? [Read more]

Web observes Sandy Hook moment[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 18:14:49 EST ]Some major websites will go dark for one minute Friday at 9:30 a.m. ET as part of a national moment of silence for the victims of last week's shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.

Everybody wants Raspberry Pi[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 18:14:09 EST ]In a world where computers are increasingly powerful and are concealed within ever more glossy slabs of aluminium, the Raspberry Pi (RPi) offers surprising proof for the virtue of moderation.

Apparently This Matters: Meggings[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 13:52:19 EST ]GQ summed it up with one word: "No."

Steve Jobs' yacht impounded[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 18:14:24 EST ]The megayacht that Steve Jobs commissioned in the final years of his life has been impounded in Amsterdam after a payment dispute involving the designer, Philippe Starck.

Why everybody wants a slice of Raspberry Pi[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 14:29:01 EST ]In a world where computers are increasingly powerful and are concealed within ever more glossy slabs of aluminium, the Raspberry Pi (RPi) offers surprising proof for the virtue of moderation.

3 report to work at the space station[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 16:33:13 GMT ]The three newest residents of the International Space Station arrived at the high-flying laboratory Friday morning aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft.

Sorry, Bieber! 'Gangnam' is first video to get 1 billion YouTube views[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 16:35:13 GMT ]"Gangnam Style," that infectiously quirky rap video by South Korean sensation Psy, has shattered yet another record: It has become the first YouTube video to get one billion views.

Instagram co-founder: Sorry, let's go back to the old advertising policy[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 15:46:24 GMT ]After dealing with non-stop outrage ever since it proposed changes to its privacy policy and terms of service on Monday — and despite making some clarifications about the changes — Instagram is throwing in the towel. Back to the old policy ... at least in one regard.

Angst over video games rises in wake of shootings[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 22:50:35 GMT ]As police struggle to piece together the nightmare that unfolded in Newtown, Conn., last week, some lawmakers and pundits believe they've found a possible co-conspirator in the crime: video games. Nevertheless, it remains unclear which games the 20-year-old shooter played — and what role they played in his life.

Doomsday diary: Follow the Maya non-apocalypse[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 12:36:20 GMT ]Millions of people are watching to see what happens as the Maya calendar flips over to a new age. We're bringing you updates from the non-end of the world.

Steve Jobs' yacht impounded[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 15:58:49 GMT ]It seems that certain paperworky details -- you know, like payment for services rendered -- has rendered the yacht stationary in Holland. [Read more]

Dish faces challenges ramping up its LTE network[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 16:44:48 GMT ]The FCC has imposed some strict requirements on Dish's rollout of its recently-granted 4G LTE network. [Read more]

Google touts 10 tips on how to use its iPhone Maps app[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 16:08:15 GMT ]With its Maps program now back in the App Store, the search giant provides suggestions on how to use certain features. [Read more]

Facebook quietly tests new Timeline design[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 16:26:48 GMT ]The company's new design brings back a tabbed design and streamlined display of Timeline updates. [Read more]

Holiday 2012: What's on your gadget wish-list?[ Fri, 21 Dec 2012 16:58:15 GMT ]If you could get Santa to bring you anything at all, what would it be? Find out my picks, then share yours! [Read more]

Fake eagle video goes viral[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 10:59:13 EST ]Two very different images captivated Internet viewers on Wednesday.

How eagle-baby video was made[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 14:16:34 EST ]Fake stunt produced by students studying 3-D animation design goes viral on YouTube with over 10 million views.

From Bork to Instagram in 7 steps[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 14:16:12 EST ]Supreme Court nominee Robert Bork's video rentals affected this week's Instagram controversy. We connect the dots.

Is the pay phone making a comeback?[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 14:23:12 EST ]As a symbol of communication, refuge or romantic longing, the pay phone is an enduring cultural icon.

Instagram backtracks on terms of service [ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 22:20:55 EST ]After days of intense backlash from users over changes to its terms of service and privacy policy, photo-sharing service Instagram has backtracked. On Thursday, Instagram co-founder Kevin Systrom said the company was switching one section of its updated terms of service back to its original text.

Demon bat among 126 new Mekong species[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 16:38:17 GMT ]Beelzebub's bat, a walking catfish and a frog that sounds like a bird are among 126 species introduced to science in just a year in the incredibly diverse Greater Mekong region of Southeast Asia, according to a report released this week by the conservation group World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

Connecticut shooter's smashed hard drive poses challenge for investigators[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 22:05:26 GMT ]Investigators hoped to learn something from a computer found in the home shared by Adam Lanza — the gunman who killed 26 people at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. — and his late mother, but the computer and the hard drive were heavily damaged, say authorities.

Angry with Instagram? These 'invisible' data brokers sell your privacy every day[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 20:47:48 GMT ]The FTC this week joined a series of other agencies, groups, and elected officials now banging on the door of the nation's largest data collection firms, demanding to know just how much of U.S. consumers' lives are tracked by these firms.

That kid-snatching eagle video? Fake![ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 19:10:53 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: Canadian whiz kids pulled the wool, or the feathers, over the eyes of millions of Internet users with a fake video showing an golden eagle trying to snatch up a child.

Year in Space: Hello, Mars ... farewell, Neil[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 03:43:53 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: 2012 was the year we cheered the Curiosity rover's landing on Mars — and "winked at the moon" to mark moonwalker Neil Armstrong's passing.

Online holiday shoppers spend $35B so far this season[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 15:57:48 GMT ]This season's online spending marks a 13 percent increase over that of last year, says ComScore. But that's still below expectations. [Read more]

RockMelt for iPhone gracefully goes all thumbs[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 16:00:00 GMT ]A few months after their first iPad app, RockMelt releases an iPhone version designed for the smaller screen. [Read more]

Google promised to safeguard Arris in Moto-TiVo spat[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 16:17:00 GMT ]The search giant will only require Arris to pay a small sum if Motorola is found to have infringed a TiVo patent on DVR technology. [Read more]

Unmanned X-47B aircraft completes sea trial[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 16:24:34 GMT ]The pilotless prototype shows that it can fit into the crowd on an aircraft carrier flight deck and get the job done "in the most hostile electromagnetic environment on earth." [Read more]

Start-Ups: Silicon Valley Ep. 8 -- the grand delusion[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 16:48:45 GMT ]In what could be the last episode ever, one startup is sold. One member of the cast is delusional. And the rest drift into a gray, gray matter-of-factness. [Read more]

Instagram backtracks after user revolt[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 19:01:22 EST ]Users of Instagram, the popular photo-sharing app owned by Facebook, were up in arms Tuesday over language that appears to give the company ownership of their images.

Twitter launches archive tool[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 19:01:29 EST ]Having trouble remembering how you worded that awesomely clever late-night Twitter post from last New Year's Eve?

Thinking twice about violent games[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 19:01:37 EST ]For many families this holiday season, video games will come wrapped in colorful paper, ribbons and bows -- and lots of questions.

Fake eagle video goes viral[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 10:59:13 EST ]Two very different images captivated Internet viewers on Wednesday.

From Robert Bork to Instagram in 7 steps[ Thu, 20 Dec 2012 11:27:53 EST ]Supreme Court nominee Robert Bork's video rentals affected this week's Instagram controversy. We connect the dots.

Apple's iOS 6.0.2 software update fixes Wi-Fi bug[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 14:10:40 GMT ]Apple has released a minor software update for the iPhone 5 and iPad Mini to fix a Wi-Fi issue affecting some users.

Yearlong space missions pose risks[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 16:53:43 GMT ]NASA is getting ready to send astronauts on yearlong missions to the International Space Station, doubling the duration of a typical orbital stay. These long-term missions will be sending spaceflyers into largely uncharted territory, and some of the biggest unknowns are how the human mind and body will react to that much time in space.

International trio lifts off for space station[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 12:37:40 GMT ]An American astronaut, a Russian cosmonaut, and the man who will become Canada's first space station commander lift off for a trip to the International Space Station.

Season's readings ... with a scientific twist[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 04:17:45 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: Take your pick of science books for the coffee table, the library table or the kids' table — for holiday giving, or your own year-round enjoyment.

Potentially habitable planet detected[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 13:46:18 GMT ]A sun-like star in our solar system's backyard may host five planets, including one perhaps capable of supporting life as we know it, a new study reports.

Nintendo TVii comes to the Wii U, finally[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 15:05:07 GMT ]The service, which allows access via the GamePad to TV and other entertainment content, had been conspicuously absent from the Wii U's launch last month. It arrives tomorrow. [Read more]

FTC, EU to postpone Google antitrust decisions, report says[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 16:32:37 GMT ]The U.S. Federal Trade Commission will apparently delay its decision over Google's antitrust probe until 2013, and the search giant could settle with EU authorities as soon as January. [Read more]

It's official: Your Twitter archive is here and now, sort of[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 16:02:48 GMT ]Well, first you have to do some downloading. And the archive feature is coming first to just a "small percentage" of those who tweet in English. But still. [Read more]

Nokia in talks to produce 10-inch Windows RT slate -- report[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 16:17:59 GMT ]The company's tablet could come with Qualcomm's S4 processor and would be unveiled at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona early next year. [Read more]

Windows 8 $14.99 upgrade now requires Windows 7 product key[ Wed, 19 Dec 2012 16:29:58 GMT ]Microsoft now asks you to enter your Windows 7 key during the upgrade process in order to qualify for the offer. [Read more]

7 tips for safer online shopping[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 15:59:00 EST ]Doing your holiday shopping online is generally preferable to braving the season's frantic mall crowds, slow moving checkout lines and tiresome holiday background music. But don't get too relaxed. There are still some security precautions everyone should take before sharing payment information online.

Facebook to overhaul privacy controls[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:11:49 EST ]Facebook announced a major overhaul to its privacy controls Wednesday, adding a handful of features while simplifying and clarifying the ways users can already tweak their accounts.

When is social media use a crime? [ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 11:54:57 EST ]Newtown school shooting raises the question of whether someone can be prosecuted for posting false information online.

After Newtown, NRA goes silent [ Tue, 18 Dec 2012 05:46:36 EST ]Despite an escalating nationwide debate on gun control in the wake of Friday's mass shooting at a Connecticut elementary school, the National Rifle Association has remained conspicuously silent.

Instagram backtracks after user privacy revolt[ Tue, 18 Dec 2012 17:35:09 EST ]Users of Instagram, the popular photo-sharing app owned by Facebook, were up in arms Tuesday over language that appears to give the company ownership of their images.

Moon probes' crash site named for Sally Ride[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 21:36:10 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: NASA's twin Grail spacecraft crashed as planned, in a safe "corner of the moon" that will be named after space pioneer Sally Ride.

How Arctic cyclones help warm up Europe[ Tue, 18 Dec 2012 16:43:10 GMT ]Santa better have hurricane insurance. Every year, there are thousands of cyclones in the Arctic, some with hurricane-force winds. Before satellites spotted these storms, sailors would return from the North with tales of massive squalls appearing out of nowhere, creating waves up to 36-feet (11-meters) high.

Pre-caffeine tech: Google Maps, Star Trek mysteries! [ Tue, 18 Dec 2012 14:41:16 GMT ]Our pre-caffeine roundup is a collection of the hottest, strangest, and most amusing stories of the morning. The Newtown effect: As the nation grieves, parents everywhere find new patience.

Perfect tech gifts for the women on your list[ Tue, 18 Dec 2012 13:54:30 GMT ]You don’t need to be tech-savvy to give gadget-y gifts, and neither do the folks on your list! If you’re still looking for great gift ideas, consider some of these tech-centric items that anyone can figure out.

Cops to trolls: Sharing misinformation about school shooting is a crime[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 22:52:00 GMT ]Even before the full story surrounding Friday's horrific shooting in Newtown, Conn., reached the public, Internet lowlifes had inserted themselves into the narrative.

Best Buy offers $100 iTunes gift card for $85[ Tue, 18 Dec 2012 15:58:18 GMT ]The retailer says that the deal is only good for today, and will only be available online. [Read more]

Gangnam Style, Barack vs Mitt among YouTube top 2012 videos[ Tue, 18 Dec 2012 16:55:18 GMT ]The top trending videos of the year took us around the world with Gangnam style and a rap of Barack vs Mitt and up into space with Felix Baumgartner's supersonic freefall. [Read more]

Samsung displaces Nokia has overall cellphone king[ Tue, 18 Dec 2012 16:59:08 GMT ]Thanks to an erosion in Nokia's smartphone business, the company saw its 14-year reign end. [Read more]

Great QWERTY smartphones you can have right now (roundup)[ Tue, 18 Dec 2012 17:00:00 GMT ]You want a phone with a keyboard? You got it! Here's a roundup of some of the best and most interesting phones with QWERTYs you can feel beneath your fingertips. [Read more]

Nvidia's Tegra 4 leaks, could have 72 graphics cores[ Tue, 18 Dec 2012 17:01:15 GMT ]The CPU technology is being called the 4-Plus-1 "Quad Core Eagle," according to a leak on a China-based forum. [Read more]

Facebook to overhaul privacy controls[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:11:49 EST ]Facebook announced a major overhaul to its privacy controls Wednesday, adding a handful of features while simplifying and clarifying the ways users can already tweak their accounts.

7 tips for safer online shopping[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 15:59:00 EST ]Doing your holiday shopping online is generally preferable to braving the season's frantic mall crowds, slow moving checkout lines and tiresome holiday background music. But don't get too relaxed. There are still some security precautions everyone should take before sharing payment information online.

When is social media use a crime? [ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 11:54:57 EST ]Newtown school shooting raises the question of whether someone can be prosecuted for posting false information online.

After Newtown, NRA goes silent [ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 18:04:46 EST ]Despite an escalating nationwide debate on gun control in the wake of Friday's mass shooting at a Connecticut elementary school, the National Rifle Association has remained conspicuously silent.

After Newtown, the NRA goes silent online[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 18:05:53 EST ]Despite an escalating nationwide debate on gun control in the wake of Friday's mass shooting at a Connecticut elementary school, the National Rifle Association has remained conspicuously silent.

Mexico's Maya face Dec. 21 with ancestral calm[ Sun, 16 Dec 2012 17:50:09 GMT ]Amid a worldwide frenzy of advertisers and new-agers preparing for a Maya apocalypse, one group is approaching Dec. 21 with calm and equanimity — the people whose ancestors supposedly made the prediction in the first place.

Watch online as world doesn't come to end[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 17:07:52 GMT ]Anyone worried that the world will come to an end Friday can scan the heavens online this week for any signs of death from above.

Facebook may launch self-destructing message app[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 16:51:22 GMT ]Sometimes you really need a message to self-destruct after its intended recipient has seen it — just ask Ethan Hunt ... or anyone who's ever been embarrassed by a love note or racy photo. Facebook may be at work on an app that makes your "Mission Impossible" fantasies come true, according to a report.

'Fragmented Internet' could result from failed treaty talks[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 16:23:24 GMT ]The world's major Internet companies, backed by U.S. policymakers, got much of what they wanted last week when many nations refused to sign a global telecommunications treaty that opponents feared could lead to greater government control over online content and communications.

Microscopic beauty found in a slimeball[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 14:51:05 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: You might not think something wonderful can be found in a ball of slime — but a prize-winning video of the microscopic creatures in a slimeball proves it's possible.

U.S. Cellular serves up Android 4.1 this Friday[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 16:15:34 GMT ]In a few days, owners of Samsung's Galaxy S3 flagship phone can manually update the Android OS. [Read more]

Sprint to buy out Clearwire: Why it matters (FAQ)[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 16:46:33 GMT ]CNET gives you the skinny on what this deal means for you and the broader wireless industry. [Read more]

Amazon Kindle store hit by regulatory trouble in China[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 16:47:19 GMT ]The company's new Kindle store in China may not have the proper authorization to sell e-books in the country. [Read more]

Poll: Did you like the smoother, HFR Hobbit?[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 16:50:20 GMT ]Select theaters showed The Hobbit in 48 frames-per-second, a.k.a. HFR, double that of traditional films. If you saw it, what did you think? [Read more]

The 404 Holiday 2012: Year in games (podcast)[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 17:00:00 GMT ]In this 404 Yuletide episode, Jeff and Russ Frushtick from Polygon recap the year in video games: the winners, the losers, and everything in between. [Read more]

Twitter adds its own photo filters[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 09:33:33 EST ]A day after confirming it had lost the ability to display Instagram images, Twitter has rolled out its own library of retro filters for its Android and iPhone apps.

Great gadgets for holiday giving[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 17:53:57 EST ]Gadgets aren't just for the tech-savvy people in your life.

Facebook to overhaul privacy controls[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:11:49 EST ]Facebook announced a major overhaul to its privacy controls Wednesday, adding a handful of features while simplifying and clarifying the ways users can already tweak their accounts.

7 tips for safer online shopping[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 15:59:00 EST ]Doing your holiday shopping online is generally preferable to braving the season's frantic mall crowds, slow moving checkout lines and tiresome holiday background music. But don't get too relaxed. There are still some security precautions everyone should take before sharing payment information online.

Newtown tragedy draws new voices to social media[ Mon, 17 Dec 2012 07:17:38 EST ]Social media is boiling with talk about Friday's massacre at a school in Newtown, Connecticut. That's no surprise.

Talks on Internet treaty fail as US bloc won't sign[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:30:43 GMT ]An attempt by national governments to establish a worldwide policy for oversight of the Internet collapsed on Thursday after many Western countries said a compromise plan gave too much power to United Nations and other officials.

Chinese probe snaps close-ups of an asteroid[ Sat, 15 Dec 2012 07:46:26 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: China's Chang'e 2 deep-space probe has snapped pictures of the asteroid Toutatis during an amazingly close flyby, according to official media.

Space station to get new insomnia-fighting light bulbs[ Sun, 16 Dec 2012 16:51:01 GMT ]NASA plans a new weapon in the fight against space insomnia: high-tech light-emitting diodes to replace the fluorescent bulbs in the U.S. section of the International Space Station.

Social media quick to judge, slow to absolve shooter's brother[ Sat, 15 Dec 2012 04:52:42 GMT ]For several hours on Friday, the name Ryan Lanza was synonymous with the heinous killing spree, and a jury of Internet denizens had him condemned as a murderer. Almost immediately, websites — homing in on a publicly viewable Facebook profile — took screen grabs of the page to illustrate news stories, identifying him as the deceased killer.

A sobering moment from outer space[ Sat, 15 Dec 2012 19:46:29 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: An astronaut offers up a picture of Earth as seen from space in hopes of bringing different perspectives to the horrible shootings in Connecticut.

Google will alter search to end FTC antitrust inquiry, says report[ Sun, 16 Dec 2012 02:11:01 GMT ]The search giant will alter its use of "snippets" -- bits of text from other sites -- and make it easier for search advertisers to shuttle their campaigns to rival services, according to a report. [Read more]

How to prepare yourself for Friday's apocalypse[ Sun, 16 Dec 2012 15:30:52 GMT ]App platform TrackVia has some suggestions to protect your tech before Friday's end of the world. I have one or two too. [Read more]

Sam's Club in unintentionally hilarious Twitter exchange[ Sun, 16 Dec 2012 15:53:47 GMT ]Sometimes when you get a customer complaint on Twitter, it's best to read it before sending out a standard reply, as Sam's Club proves. [Read more]

Paradigm Millenia CT: Better than a sound bar?[ Sun, 16 Dec 2012 16:06:00 GMT ]It's a 2.1-channel, satellite/subwoofer system, and it's a significant performance upgrade from even the best sound bar. [Read more]

NASA takes on 'Gangnam Style' and wins[ Sun, 16 Dec 2012 16:28:56 GMT ]As the megahit Psy song "Gangnam Style" sails past its prime, students and interns at NASA's Johnson Space Center give it a proper send off, featuring lyrics peppered with references to space and science. [Read more]

Twitter adds its own photo filters[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 09:33:33 EST ]A day after confirming it had lost the ability to display Instagram images, Twitter has rolled out its own library of retro filters for its Android and iPhone apps.

Great gadgets for holiday giving[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 17:53:57 EST ]Gadgets aren't just for the tech-savvy people in your life.

Facebook to overhaul privacy controls[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:11:49 EST ]Facebook announced a major overhaul to its privacy controls Wednesday, adding a handful of features while simplifying and clarifying the ways users can already tweak their accounts.

7 tips for safer online shopping[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 15:59:00 EST ]Doing your holiday shopping online is generally preferable to braving the season's frantic mall crowds, slow moving checkout lines and tiresome holiday background music. But don't get too relaxed. There are still some security precautions everyone should take before sharing payment information online.

'Hope my mom is ok': Tweets from the shootings[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 13:53:16 EST ]Residents of Newtown, Connecticut, took to social media Friday to share their fear, shock and horror over the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

New Facebook for iOS app lets you upload photos to albums[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:51:48 GMT ]Facebook released an update for its iOS app on Thursday. The latest version of the social network's app is pleasantly snappier, loads your Timeline faster, and finally lets you upload photos to albums.

Talks on Internet treaty fail as US bloc won't sign[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:30:43 GMT ]An attempt by national governments to establish a worldwide policy for oversight of the Internet collapsed on Thursday after many Western countries said a compromise plan gave too much power to United Nations and other officials.

Last look at Earthrise, 40 years later[ Sat, 15 Dec 2012 01:06:27 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: Forty years ago, human beings took their last steps on the moon and had their last look at Earth framed by the lunar horizon.

Chinese probe snaps close-ups of an asteroid[ Sat, 15 Dec 2012 07:46:26 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: China's Chang'e 2 deep-space probe has snapped pictures of the asteroid Toutatis during an amazingly close flyby, according to official media.

Social media quick to judge, slow to absolve shooter's brother[ Sat, 15 Dec 2012 04:52:42 GMT ]For several hours on Friday, the name Ryan Lanza was synonymous with the heinous killing spree, and a jury of Internet denizens had him condemned as a murderer. Almost immediately, websites — homing in on a publicly viewable Facebook profile — took screen grabs of the page to illustrate news stories, identifying him as the deceased killer.

Quad-core, NFC, Bluetooth 4.0: 2012's winners and losers[ Sat, 15 Dec 2012 03:04:01 GMT ]Find out what hot new tech caught on or fizzled in this year's smartphones. [Read more]

Do I really need insurance for my smartphone?[ Sat, 15 Dec 2012 08:00:00 GMT ]In this edition of Ask Maggie, CNET's Marguerite Reardon answers the age old question of whether to get insurance for your smartphone or not. [Read more]

Google's Ray Kurzweil hire could yield some good returns[ Sat, 15 Dec 2012 13:08:22 GMT ]Ray Kurzweil will have implications far beyond the fun projects at Google. His machine learning knowhow could impact networks, data centers and algorithms too. [Read more]

Can a MP3 sound better than a high-resolution FLAC or Apple Lossless file?[ Sat, 15 Dec 2012 15:36:00 GMT ]Maybe; it depends on the MP3 and the high-resolution file. [Read more]

Cop charged with buying $15 iPhone - from undercover cop[ Sat, 15 Dec 2012 15:04:30 GMT ]A sergeant in NYPD's Internal Affairs is caught by a sting operation set up by his fellow officers. Who would have imagined you could get an iPhone for $15? [Read more]

Twitter adds its own photo filters[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 09:33:33 EST ]A day after confirming it had lost the ability to display Instagram images, Twitter has rolled out its own library of retro filters for its Android and iPhone apps.

Great gadgets for holiday giving[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 17:53:57 EST ]Gadgets aren't just for the tech-savvy people in your life.

7 tips for safer online shopping[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 15:59:00 EST ]Doing your holiday shopping online is generally preferable to braving the season's frantic mall crowds, slow moving checkout lines and tiresome holiday background music. But don't get too relaxed. There are still some security precautions everyone should take before sharing payment information online.

Facebook to overhaul privacy controls[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:11:49 EST ]Facebook announced a major overhaul to its privacy controls Wednesday, adding a handful of features while simplifying and clarifying the ways users can already tweak their accounts.

'Hope my mom is ok': Tweets from the shootings[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 13:53:16 EST ]Residents of Newtown, Connecticut, took to social media Friday to share their fear, shock and horror over the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

Why NASA jumped the gun on doomsday video[ Thu, 13 Dec 2012 19:29:11 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: NASA's latest video debunking doomsday hype comes from the future — to be precise, from Dec. 22. It's all part of the space agency's public relations plan.

Brain-removal tool left in mummy's skull[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:48:57 GMT ]A brain-removal tool used by ancient Egyptian embalmers has been discovered lodged in the skull of a female mummy that dates back around 2,400 years.

New Facebook for iOS app lets you upload photos to albums[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:51:48 GMT ]Facebook released an update for its iOS app on Thursday. The latest version of the social network's app is pleasantly snappier, loads your Timeline faster, and finally lets you upload photos to albums.

Talks on Internet treaty fail as US bloc won't sign[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:30:43 GMT ]An attempt by national governments to establish a worldwide policy for oversight of the Internet collapsed on Thursday after many Western countries said a compromise plan gave too much power to United Nations and other officials.

Who's watching whom? Camera-equipped TV can be hacked, says researcher[ Thu, 13 Dec 2012 23:00:55 GMT ]Security researchers have identified a vulnerability in Samsung’s Linux-based Smart TV software that could give a hacker near-complete access to the television, including built-in cameras and microphones. In effect, this would allow a hacker to hear and see you as you're watching the TV.

Get a no-contract mobile hot spot that 'pays' you for sharing Wi-Fi[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:13:40 GMT ]The Karma hotspot earns you extra data when you share your 4G connection with strangers. Cool, or just plain crazy? [Read more]

SnapBox adds editing tools to its photos-into-artwork service[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:42:06 GMT ]Tune up your shots before turning them into framed canvas prints. [Read more]

Microsoft updates Bing Desktop app to support Windows XP[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:44:16 GMT ]The latest version works with XP and lets you choose your background photo from a wider array of images. [Read more]

Sharp shows off $31,000, 60-inch Ultra HD TV[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:49:23 GMT ]The company's set, named ICC Purios, will be available in February, but will only come made-to-order. [Read more]

CES 2013 preview: The love and the hate of the greatest (tech) show on earth[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:55:00 GMT ]With just weeks to go before the massive Consumer Electronics Show, I'm going to predict exactly what we'll see -- with 100 percent accuracy. [Read more]

Twitter adds its own photo filters[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 09:33:33 EST ]A day after confirming it had lost the ability to display Instagram images, Twitter has rolled out its own library of retro filters for its Android and iPhone apps.

Great gadgets for holiday giving[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 17:53:57 EST ]Gadgets aren't just for the tech-savvy people in your life.

Facebook to overhaul privacy controls[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:11:49 EST ]Facebook announced a major overhaul to its privacy controls Wednesday, adding a handful of features while simplifying and clarifying the ways users can already tweak their accounts.

7 tips for safer online shopping[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 15:59:00 EST ]Doing your holiday shopping online is generally preferable to braving the season's frantic mall crowds, slow moving checkout lines and tiresome holiday background music. But don't get too relaxed. There are still some security precautions everyone should take before sharing payment information online.

Review: Google Maps puts Apple Maps to shame[ Fri, 14 Dec 2012 05:29:53 EST ]When the Google Maps app for the iPhone had finally been released late Wednesday night, there was a collective rejoicing from Apple fans worldwide -- many took to Twitter and Facebook to relish in the news and download it immediately. Not at all surprisingly, the app quickly soared to the top of the free apps list in the Apple App Store.

Geminid meteor shower peaks tonight[ Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:48:19 GMT ]Skywatchers around the world are in for a treat tonight, as the annual Geminid meteor shower is poised to put on a spectacular show.

Senate goes after secret cyberstalking apps[ Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:58:48 GMT ]For around $50, a jealous wife or husband can download software that can continuously track the whereabouts of a spouse better than any private detective. It's frighteningly easy and effective in an age when nearly everyone carries a cellphone that can record every moment of a person's physical movements.

Orbiter spots an alien Nile River on Titan[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 22:04:19 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: NASA's Cassini orbiter has spotted a river system on the Saturnian moon Titan that's reminiscent of the River Nile — except that this river is presumably filled with liquid ethane and methane instead of water.

US bank websites hit again by hackers, who seem unstoppable[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 20:12:46 GMT ]Major U.S. banking websites are under a fresh set of attacks this week and suffering intermittent outages, with a group of hackers calling themselves "al-Qassam Cyber Fighters" again taking responsibility for the disruptions. The group wreaked havoc with online banking websites in September and October, too.

Google Maps for iOS: The best map app ... since Google Maps[ Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:38:10 GMT ]As the brouhaha over Apple Maps failures reached fever pitch, rumors spiked about a new app in the works. Made by Google, it would run natively on the iPhone, bringing all of the previous features together with free navigation. It seemed like a dream. Today, it is real.

Amazon sets up Kindle store in China[ Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:04:52 GMT ]The retailer's new store offers Chinese-language e-books though Kindle tablets and e-readers aren't yet available in the country. [Read more]

Video app ShowYou works to make mobile couch surfing easier[ Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:08:19 GMT ]As YouTube works to get users to spend more time watching videos, one startup may have cracked the code. [Read more]

Apple offers free two- to three-day shipping on all products[ Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:17:18 GMT ]The holiday special applies to everything in Apple's store. [Read more]

Amazon Cloud Player arrives on Roku, Samsung Smart TVs[ Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:38:51 GMT ]Amazon's digital music storage and streaming app finally gives Roku a good response to Apple TV's iTunes Match. [Read more]

iPhone infringes on patents from MobileMedia, rules jury[ Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:43:39 GMT ]The jury found that Apple violated three patents from patent holding company MobileMedia. [Read more]

Twitter adds its own photo filters[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 09:33:33 EST ]A day after confirming it had lost the ability to display Instagram images, Twitter has rolled out its own library of retro filters for its Android and iPhone apps.

Great gadgets for holiday giving[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 17:53:57 EST ]Gadgets aren't just for the tech-savvy people in your life.

Facebook to overhaul privacy controls[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:11:49 EST ]Facebook announced a major overhaul to its privacy controls Wednesday, adding a handful of features while simplifying and clarifying the ways users can already tweak their accounts.

7 tips for safer online shopping[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 15:59:00 EST ]Doing your holiday shopping online is generally preferable to braving the season's frantic mall crowds, slow moving checkout lines and tiresome holiday background music. But don't get too relaxed. There are still some security precautions everyone should take before sharing payment information online.

Schmidt: Android 'winning clearly' over Apple[ Thu, 13 Dec 2012 08:48:31 EST ]Google chairman Eric Schmidt has declared Android the winner in its mobile war with Apple.

Russian robotic space program reborn[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 17:00:33 GMT ]Russian space officials are rekindling their plans for moon exploration, and some say a rebirth of that country's robotic space endeavors beyond low-Earth orbit is on the horizon.

Facebook in 2012: A year of 'Hunger Games' and 'Duck Dynasty', TBH[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 12:54:07 GMT ]To be honest ("TBH"), you may be so busy having a real life that you might have missed Facebook's most-discussed trends and stories of the year. Fear not, because here they are.

Pre-caffeine tech: No email, Apocalypse dogs![ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 14:25:55 GMT ]Our pre-caffeine roundup is a collection of the hottest, strangest, and most amusing stories of the morning. Here's everything that you need to know before taking that first sip of coffee today: Facebook users' seven-day voting period on the new privacy policy came to an end with far less than the 30 percent required to sway Facebook's opinion.

Middle East has the most politically vocal social networkers, says Pew[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 15:31:19 GMT ]According to a new report, social networking in the Middle East has become a vital tool for sharing views on politics, community issues and religion — much more so than anywhere else in the world.

Defiant North Korea launches long-range rocket[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 10:43:56 GMT ]North Korea launched a long-range rocket on Wednesday in defiance of its critics abroad — and claimed that the mission successfully put a satellite in orbit.

Google to shutter shopping search engine in China[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 16:21:19 GMT ]Search giant says the service did not produce the results it was seeking. The closure is coming three months after Google shut down its China-only music download service. [Read more]

Facebook privacy settings get reworked once again[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 16:50:40 GMT ]The social netwrok overhauls its settings, again, in an attempt to make things easier for people to understand, and phases out the option to block people from searching for your profile. [Read more]

iPad Mini to travel to Russia this Friday[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 16:56:55 GMT ]Apple's small tablet is wending its way toward Russian consumers for a December 14 launch, says one Russian retailer. [Read more]

Get a free office suite, help charity[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 17:00:00 GMT ]When you download SoftMaker FreeOffice for Windows or Linux, the developer will make a donation to betterplace.org. What's not to like? [Read more]

iPad Mini sales likely hurt by supply problems, Sterne Agee says[ Wed, 12 Dec 2012 17:01:00 GMT ]Analyst Shaw Wu says iPhone sales will likely be better than anticipated, but the iPad could actually be light because of supply shortages for the iPad Mini and because the iPad Mini is eating into sales of the larger model. [Read more]

Police warn again Apple Maps flaw[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 01:06:38 EST ]Inaccurate, inconvenient, ill-conceived ... now add "potentially life-threatening" to the list of words being used to describe flaws in Apple's much maligned maps app.

Why Instagram pulled Twitter photos[ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 14:20:01 EST ]Images from Instagram, the photo-sharing app that lets user spruce up their work with a slate of arty and retro filters, no longer show up on Twitter, a popular place to share them.

Vote closes on Facebook changes[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 05:34:54 EST ]Facebook's flirtation with democracy has come to an end. If it wants to, the social network can now change its policies without user approval.

Twitter adds its own photo filters[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 09:33:33 EST ]A day after confirming it had lost the ability to display Instagram images, Twitter has rolled out its own library of retro filters for its Android and iPhone apps.

Great gadgets for holiday giving[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 17:53:57 EST ]Gadgets aren't just for the tech-savvy people in your life.

Huge asteroid set to buzz Earth[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 16:27:56 GMT ]A giant asteroid will make a flyby of Earth over the next few days, and armchair astronomers can watch the action live on their computers.

Here's the real-life face of a 'Hobbit'[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 17:06:45 GMT ]Researchers have revealed what the face of a controversial ancient human nicknamed "the Hobbit" might have looked like.

See your Internet meltdowns acted out — by sock puppets[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 15:35:38 GMT ]A pair of otters peacefully floating on the water, holding hands, rafting — with more than 18 million views, it’s one of the most peaceful, popular videos on YouTube, and completely without drama. Until you read the comments, of course.

Hawking, CERN scientists win big physics prizes[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 15:42:03 GMT ]A Russian billionaire's foundation is awarding two special prizes of $3 million each to British cosmologist Stephen Hawking, and to seven scientists at the world's biggest particle collider.

Mom and dad will like these tech gifts[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 15:20:13 GMT ]You don't need to be young or a techie to love tech. These great gifts provide entertainment, motivate you to stay active and just make your life easier.

Larry Page: Steve Jobs and I were friendly 'at times'[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 16:13:29 GMT ]The Google CEO says that while Apple is a competitor, discussions between his company and Apple are ongoing. [Read more]

HTC's Windows Phone 8X receives first Microsoft update[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 16:17:51 GMT ]The 'Portico' update includes a number of new features, including Wi-Fi options and rejecting calls with SMS. [Read more]

Newly flush with wine, Facebook Gifts rolls out to all U.S. users[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 16:19:39 GMT ]The social network brings the first alcoholic beverage to its e-commerce offering. [Read more]

BlackBerry 10 goes 'gold' for developers[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 16:32:57 GMT ]RIM has released the final version of its BlackBerry 10 OS software for developers to start writing apps. [Read more]

Netflix ranks ISPs by streaming performance, Google Fiber wins[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 16:49:41 GMT ]Netflix uses its copious streaming-video data to rank ISP performance in November, with Google Fiber easily taking the top spot. [Read more]

Police warn again Apple Maps flaw[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 01:06:38 EST ]Inaccurate, inconvenient, ill-conceived ... now add "potentially life-threatening" to the list of words being used to describe flaws in Apple's much maligned maps app.

Why Instagram pulled Twitter photos[ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 14:20:01 EST ]Images from Instagram, the photo-sharing app that lets user spruce up their work with a slate of arty and retro filters, no longer show up on Twitter, a popular place to share them.

Vote closes on Facebook changes[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 05:34:54 EST ]Facebook's flirtation with democracy has come to an end. If it wants to, the social network can now change its policies without user approval.

Twitter adds its own photo filters[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 09:33:33 EST ]A day after confirming it had lost the ability to display Instagram images, Twitter has rolled out its own library of retro filters for its Android and iPhone apps.

Feds: Apps are compromising kids' privacy[ Tue, 11 Dec 2012 09:28:46 EST ]Parents are finding it more difficult to keep their children's private personal data from being collected by mobile phone apps, according to a new report.

Pre-caffeine tech: Internet dictators, ruined holidays![ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 13:07:46 GMT ]Our pre-caffeine roundup is a collection of the hottest, strangest, and most amusing stories of the morning.

Secret military space plane set to launch[ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 16:50:51 GMT ]The secretive U.S. Air Force X-37B robotic space plane has been cleared to lift off Tuesday. The X-37B vehicle and its cargo bay packed with a classified payload is set to make the third mission of the program.

Twitter and Instagram now bitter enemies in war for your photos[ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 16:45:16 GMT ]On Wednesday, Twitter users noticed something strange when they tried to view tweeted Instagram photos. Images were oddly cropped and not displaying properly.

South Korea's porn fight 'like shoveling in a blizzard'[ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 15:27:22 GMT ]Unlike most developed nations, pornography is illegal in South Korea, though it remains easy for its tech-savvy population to find.

What should you do to a computer before you sell it?[ Sat, 8 Dec 2012 16:16:58 GMT ]You know you should securely wipe your hard drive before you sell a computer, but is there anything else you should do before you put it up on eBay?

Ada Lovelace, early computer whiz, gets Doodle love[ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 15:16:12 GMT ]Seen by some as the world's first programmer, Lovelace created technical notes for the Analytical Engine conceived by Charles Babbage. [Read more]

Samsung video hints at big release at CES[ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 15:23:11 GMT ]The company tells consumers to "get ready" for a reveal. Could it be a successor to the Galaxy S3 smartphone? [Read more]

BlackBerry Messenger 7 lets you make phone calls via Wi-Fi[ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 16:06:56 GMT ]The latest update to RIM's BlackBerry Messenger adds voice support, so people can call their contacts over a Wi-Fi connection. [Read more]

Get a wireless HDMI transmitter for $149.96[ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 16:11:49 GMT ]The top-rated Nyrius Aries NAVS500 can beam signals from any HDMI source to your HDTV or projector. It normally sells for $200. [Read more]

Google saves $2B in taxes by sheltering $10B in revenue in Bermuda[ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 16:52:47 GMT ]The search and software giant's tax avoidance is being investigated by governments in France, the U.K., Italy, and Australia, Bloomberg reported. [Read more]

Social media's role in royal prank[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:25:08 EST ]One of the nurses duped by a prank phone call about Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, committed suicide on Friday, and many social media users were quick to point fingers at the two radio hosts who made the call and then promoted it on Facebook.

Apparently This Matters: Puppy room[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:24:40 EST ]If you do a Google image search right now for "cute furry animals," you'll immediately find yourself in a fantastic world of kittens and hamsters and ducks and raccoons. And, oddly enough, if you scroll down a bit, there's even a bizarre Photoshopped image of Tom Hanks. It's his head on a bird's body.

An iPhone case you can eat[ Thu, 06 Dec 2012 15:40:54 EST ]Yes, critics of the sometimes disposable nature of today's tech world, it's come to this. You can now eat your iPhone case.

Police warn again Apple Maps flaw[ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 11:10:01 EST ]Inaccurate, inconvenient, ill-conceived ... now add "potentially life-threatening" to the list of words being used to describe flaws in Apple's much maligned maps app.

Australian police: Apple Maps flaw could be deadly[ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 10:37:24 EST ]Inaccurate, inconvenient, ill-conceived ... now add "potentially life-threatening" to the list of words being used to describe flaws in Apple's much maligned maps app.

Tell us which geek gift gets the goods[ Sat, 8 Dec 2012 01:57:35 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: What kind of holiday gift is best-suited for a science geek? Here's your chance to decide which geeky gift suggestion takes the prize.

How often should you change your passwords?[ Sun, 9 Dec 2012 16:02:20 GMT ]Your company and some websites force you to regularly change your passwords, like every three months or so. How often do you need to change your passwords for all your other logins (if at all)?

Nifty tech gifts under $50[ Sat, 8 Dec 2012 15:30:07 GMT ]While tech gifts tend to be the big-ticket items during the holidays, there are plenty of great, inexpensive gadgets and accessories that will delight the recipients on your gift list.

Bizarre creature found in 200-million-year-old cocoon[ Sat, 8 Dec 2012 15:41:07 GMT ]About 200 million years ago, a leech released a slimy mucous cocoon that unwittingly encased and trapped a bizarre animal with a springy tail, preserving it until researchers discovered the teardrop-shaped creature in Antarctica recently.

What should you do to a computer before you sell it?[ Sat, 8 Dec 2012 16:16:58 GMT ]You know you should securely wipe your hard drive before you sell a computer, but is there anything else you should do before you put it up on eBay?

Did Twitter's founder reveal its would-be Instagram killer?[ Sun, 09 Dec 2012 07:21:32 GMT ]Reports published today suggest Twitter plans on releasing its own photo filters feature by year's end, and co-founder Jack Dorsey may already be posting photos using it. [Read more]

Square launches gift cards[ Sun, 09 Dec 2012 12:00:00 GMT ]New service lets anyone give gift cards to friends or family, and have the value stored in Square Wallet. The initiative could be aimed at attracting would-be Apple Passbook users. [Read more]

Aperion Audio's gorgeous Verus Grand bookshelf speaker[ Sun, 09 Dec 2012 16:06:00 GMT ]Aperion's best known for its spectacular home theater speakers, the Audiophiliac scrutinizes a pair of Verus Grand bookshelf speakers. [Read more]

Android fanboys rage at Microsoft's Droid Rage hype[ Sun, 09 Dec 2012 16:12:03 GMT ]In pushing its Windows Phone 8, Microsoft turns to Twitter to ask for examples of Droid Rage -- rage at Android malware. Androiders turn the account upside down. [Read more]

Thief steals iPhone from quadriplegic[ Sun, 09 Dec 2012 16:15:56 GMT ]A man who relies on an iPhone to communicate has it stolen from the tray of his wheelchair in the lobby of a Staten Island apartment building. [Read more]

How parents, kids talk on Facebook[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:24:18 EST ]As they move from their early teens to their late teens, kids no longer want to be pals with Mom and Dad. Teenage boys are much less likely than girls to initiate conversations with their parents. And moms baby their sons.

Social media's role in royal prank[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:25:08 EST ]One of the nurses duped by a prank phone call about Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, committed suicide on Friday, and many social media users were quick to point fingers at the two radio hosts who made the call and then promoted it on Facebook.

Apparently This Matters: Puppy room[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:24:40 EST ]If you do a Google image search right now for "cute furry animals," you'll immediately find yourself in a fantastic world of kittens and hamsters and ducks and raccoons. And, oddly enough, if you scroll down a bit, there's even a bizarre Photoshopped image of Tom Hanks. It's his head on a bird's body.

An iPhone case you can eat[ Thu, 06 Dec 2012 15:40:54 EST ]Yes, critics of the sometimes disposable nature of today's tech world, it's come to this. You can now eat your iPhone case.

'Proud of you': How parents, kids talk on Facebook[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 14:01:53 EST ]As they move from their early teens to their late teens, kids no longer want to be pals with Mom and Dad. Teenage boys are much less likely than girls to initiate conversations with their parents. And moms baby their sons.

Bizarre creature found in 200-million-year-old cocoon[ Sat, 8 Dec 2012 15:41:07 GMT ]About 200 million years ago, a leech released a slimy mucous cocoon that unwittingly encased and trapped a bizarre animal with a springy tail, preserving it until researchers discovered the teardrop-shaped creature in Antarctica recently.

What should you do to a computer before you sell it?[ Sat, 8 Dec 2012 16:16:58 GMT ]You know you should securely wipe your hard drive before you sell a computer, but is there anything else you should do before you put it up on eBay?

Internet governance talks in jeopardy[ Sat, 8 Dec 2012 15:20:55 GMT ]A landmark attempt to set global rules for overseeing the Internet threatened to fall apart on Friday as a rift pitting the United States and some Western countries against the rest of the world widened, participants in the talks said.

Slideshow: Apollo 17: The last moonshot[ Fri, 7 Dec 2012 13:42:28 GMT ]Click through historic photos from humanity's last trip to the moon, the Apollo 17 mission in 1972.

Apollo 17 still leaves a mark on our memory[ Fri, 7 Dec 2012 20:43:33 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: Forty years after the last moonshot, Apollo 17 still strikes a chord, even for Americans who weren't alive when the mission was launched.

HP to Apple: Hey, we already make PCs in the U.S.[ Sat, 08 Dec 2012 00:42:39 GMT ]Hewlett-Packard says it's way ahead of Apple in the race to bring more computer assembly back to the U.S. [Read more]

Hot new games for iOS[ Sat, 08 Dec 2012 01:37:20 GMT ]All of the games in this collection are new at the App Store, already well-known titles, and extremely entertaining. [Read more]

Apple and Google making joint bid for Kodak patents, report says[ Sat, 08 Dec 2012 05:54:52 GMT ]An Apple-Google joint effort to procure Kodak's patents could auger a somewhat less litigious atmosphere in the future. [Read more]

Android's Google Now services headed for Chrome, too[ Sat, 08 Dec 2012 12:14:05 GMT ]The all-purpose alert system isn't just for Android. Google Now is being built into Chrome as well, taking advantage of its notifications system. [Read more]

Gift ideas for the audiophile in your life[ Sat, 08 Dec 2012 16:06:00 GMT ]The Audiophiliac's budget-friendly gift ideas, and most are well under $100! [Read more]

How parents, kids talk on Facebook[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:24:18 EST ]As they move from their early teens to their late teens, kids no longer want to be pals with Mom and Dad. Teenage boys are much less likely than girls to initiate conversations with their parents. And moms baby their sons.

Social media's role in royal prank[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:25:08 EST ]One of the nurses duped by a prank phone call about Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, committed suicide on Friday, and many social media users were quick to point fingers at the two radio hosts who made the call and then promoted it on Facebook.

Apparently This Matters: Puppy room[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:24:40 EST ]If you do a Google image search right now for "cute furry animals," you'll immediately find yourself in a fantastic world of kittens and hamsters and ducks and raccoons. And, oddly enough, if you scroll down a bit, there's even a bizarre Photoshopped image of Tom Hanks. It's his head on a bird's body.

An iPhone case you can eat[ Thu, 06 Dec 2012 15:40:54 EST ]Yes, critics of the sometimes disposable nature of today's tech world, it's come to this. You can now eat your iPhone case.

'Proud of you': How parents, kids talk on Facebook[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 14:01:53 EST ]As they move from their early teens to their late teens, kids no longer want to be pals with Mom and Dad. Teenage boys are much less likely than girls to initiate conversations with their parents. And moms baby their sons.

Pre-caffeine tech: Apple updates, apocalypse alpacas![ Fri, 7 Dec 2012 15:38:23 GMT ]Our roundup is a collection of the hottest, strangest, and most amusing stories of the morning. From socialist hair to serial killers, and all the Justin Bieber-related topics in between, Wikipedia does a fine job feeding fun facts to us ADHD Internet surfers — but when it comes to serious learning, Wikipedia may be leaving us in the dust.

Pinterest dumps 'suspicious, fake or spammy accounts'[ Fri, 7 Dec 2012 16:49:05 GMT ]While Pinterest encouraged its users to report naughty, hateful, violent, and otherwise undesirable pins, the virtual corkboard also had a team focus on hunting down "suspicious, fake or spammy accounts." On Thursday, those accounts were removed, "for good."

40 years later, astronaut recalls Apollo 17[ Fri, 7 Dec 2012 16:47:44 GMT ]The last manned mission to the moon launched 40 years ago today, but astronaut Harrison Schmitt remembers it like it was yesterday.

Slideshow: Apollo 17: The last moonshot[ Fri, 7 Dec 2012 13:42:28 GMT ]Click through historic photos from humanity's last trip to the moon, the Apollo 17 mission in 1972.

Golden Spike plans billion-dollar moon trips[ Thu, 6 Dec 2012 18:54:12 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: Big-name backers take the wraps off the Golden Spike Company, a venture that aims to send paying passengers to the moon and back at the price of $1.4 billion or more for two.

Sony begins testing online Entertainment Network Store[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 15:38:02 GMT ]Sony's store has not been officially announced, but the company has confirmed that it's testing out a new marketplace. [Read more]

This parrot doesn't fly -- it drives a buggy[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 16:08:07 GMT ]Flying is for the birds. Watch this video of a parrot that drives around in its own vehicle by using its beak. [Read more]

Samsung's Galaxy S3 to get Premium Suite Upgrade[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 16:09:15 GMT ]The device will get a host of new features, including multiple window support and the ability to see the most frequently used apps in a single pane. [Read more]

New 27-inch iMacs to now ship in January[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 16:37:57 GMT ]The new date is a change from the prior three-to-four week estimate, making the wait time even longer. [Read more]

Negative Yelp post lands reviewer with $750K suit[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 16:41:59 GMT ]A woman is so unhappy with the work of her contractor that she posts a scathing review on Yelp. The contractor claims he lost business because of it and is suing her. [Read more]

How devices make us superhuman[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 13:07:48 EST ]What exactly is cyborg anthropology?

'Gangnam' to 'Kony': 2012's top videos[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 09:58:03 EST ]With a K-pop sensation, a campaign film about an African warlord and a homegrown marriage proposal featuring 60 synchronized dancers among them, 2012's viral sensations are as varied as they are compelling.

Microsoft opens a social network[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 13:07:36 EST ]After a long period of closed beta testing, Microsoft made the beta version of its social network, Socl, available to everyone on Tuesday.

New Orleans startups take flight[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 16:44:01 EST ]When Kenneth Purcell emerged from his New Orleans home after Hurricane Isaac churned through the city in August, he couldn't believe what he saw. Nearly all of his neighbors had poured out into the streets to help each other clean up.

Apple and Samsung's $1 billion battle continues[ Fri, 07 Dec 2012 08:20:27 EST ]The $1 billion patent dispute between Apple and Samsung picked back up in federal court in San Jose on Thursday, with both sides arguing over issues of damages amounts, bans on product sales and allegations of dishonesty on the part of the jury foreman.

Stars come out for telescope inauguration[ Thu, 6 Dec 2012 16:43:48 GMT ]A gorgeous photo of a star-forming region of space called the Carina Nebula marks the inauguration of a new telescope — the largest instrument in the world devoted to surveying the sky in visible light.

Why you should buy a new smartphone every two years[ Thu, 6 Dec 2012 14:54:05 GMT ]Will you get a new phone when your wireless contract ends? If not, you might want to reconsider.

Google exec:Google+ is fastest-growing 'network thingy' ever[ Thu, 6 Dec 2012 16:09:45 GMT ]While announcing the addition of Communities — a feature vaguely similar to Facebook's Groups — to Google+, Google senior vice president Vic Gundotra also revealed the latest statistics for the Internet giant's ... "network thingy."

Pre-caffeine tech: A very Daleks Xmas! [ Thu, 6 Dec 2012 15:17:44 GMT ]Our roundup is a collection of the hottest, strangest, and most amusing stories of the morning. In an exclusive interview with NBC's "Rock Center with Brian Williams," Apple CEO Tim Cook announced that one of the existing Mac lines will be manufactured exclusively in the United States next year.

EXCLUSIVE: Apple to manufacture Mac line in US[ Thu, 6 Dec 2012 12:05:58 GMT ]In an exclusive interview with NBC's "Rock Center with Brian Williams," Apple CEO Tim Cook announces one of the existing Mac lines will be manufactured exclusively in the United States next year.

Samsung Galaxy Admire 4G arrives at MetroPCS[ Thu, 06 Dec 2012 15:44:33 GMT ]The small, $170 handset is LTE-ready, but lags behind the times with Android 2.3 Gingerbread. [Read more]

Get $5 off your next $25 Amazon purchase[ Thu, 06 Dec 2012 16:05:59 GMT ]And what will this virtual Abe Lincoln cost you? A quick bit of Facebook love. [Read more]

Intel's Otellini: No outsider CEOs for us, thank you very much[ Thu, 06 Dec 2012 16:13:04 GMT ]Speaking yesterday at the Sanford C. Bernstein Conference, CEO Paul Otellini said looking outside the company for his successor would be a bad idea. [Read more]

Made in America? Foxconn mulls U.S. expansion[ Thu, 06 Dec 2012 16:45:20 GMT ]Foxconn, the manufacturer of Apple products, is looking at growing its operations in North America as customers ask for more products to be made in the U.S., a report from Bloomberg says. [Read more]

Apple, China Mobile face hurdles in effort to offer the iPhone[ Thu, 06 Dec 2012 16:57:20 GMT ]The two companies have been chatting about a deal to sell the iPhone to China Mobile subscribers since 2009, but apparently with little progress. [Read more]

How devices make us superhuman[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 13:07:48 EST ]What exactly is cyborg anthropology?

'Gangnam' to 'Kony': 2012's top videos[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 09:58:03 EST ]With a K-pop sensation, a campaign film about an African warlord and a homegrown marriage proposal featuring 60 synchronized dancers among them, 2012's viral sensations are as varied as they are compelling.

Microsoft opens a social network[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 13:07:36 EST ]After a long period of closed beta testing, Microsoft made the beta version of its social network, Socl, available to everyone on Tuesday.

New Orleans startups take flight[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 16:44:01 EST ]When Kenneth Purcell emerged from his New Orleans home after Hurricane Isaac churned through the city in August, he couldn't believe what he saw. Nearly all of his neighbors had poured out into the streets to help each other clean up.

Tim Cook: Apple will make computers in the U.S. next year[ Thu, 06 Dec 2012 11:57:08 EST ]Apple will begin manufacturing a computer in the United States next year, says CEO Tim Cook, marking a shift in perhaps the most-criticized element of the company's beloved gadget empire.

Curiosity's mission on Mars extended[ Wed, 5 Dec 2012 16:34:33 GMT ]When NASA's next Mars rover touches down in 2021, its six-wheeled sister, Curiosity, may still be chugging around the Red Planet.

Tech gifts for little ones ages 3 to 6[ Wed, 5 Dec 2012 13:47:19 GMT ]Even kids as young as 3 to 6 are starting to become tech savvy. So if you're looking for a gift they'll love, check our favorite tech toys for that age group this holiday season.

Pre-caffeine tech: Free speech, GIF fest![ Wed, 5 Dec 2012 14:49:17 GMT ]Here's everything that you need to know before taking that first sip of coffee today.

Kids get endless videos, apps with Kindle FreeTime Unlimited[ Wed, 5 Dec 2012 15:39:00 GMT ]One of the most child-friendly tablets on the market is getting even child-friendlier with Amazon’s announcement of Kindle FreeTime Unlimited, a new monthly subscription service that dishes out unlimited access to kid’s shows, movies, books, apps and games to Kindle Fire owners.

NASA plans Mars rover remake for 2020[ Tue, 4 Dec 2012 23:06:20 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: NASA plans to build another Mars rover based on the Curiosity rover's design for launch in 2020, with the potential to store samples that could eventually be brought back to Earth.

iPhone 5S already? Possible pics leak[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 16:04:49 GMT ]Pictures of the next-generation iPhone have already surfaced, but show few differences on the exterior of the device. [Read more]

U.S., EU form alliance to curb child sexual abuse on the Web[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 16:08:31 GMT ]Law enforcement agencies from nearly 50 countries will work together to identify instances of child victimization and bring people to justice. [Read more]

Facebook has 350 apps with 1M+ monthly active users each[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 16:29:58 GMT ]The social networking giant also says nearly 200,000 iPhone and Android apps are integrated with Facebook, including nine of the top 10 highest grossing iPhone apps. [Read more]

Tablet sales to stay sizzling, IDC says[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 16:54:19 GMT ]Demand for tablets is accelerating, the research firm says, as the market shifts toward smaller screen sizes and lower prices. [Read more]

Smartphones at CES 2013: Gotta have more quad-core[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 17:00:00 GMT ]Smartphones are always hot at CES, and this crop should bring faster processors with more Android oomph. [Read more]

Lottery 'winner' a Facebook hoax[ Mon, 03 Dec 2012 15:33:47 EST ]No, some guy named Daniels on Facebook didn't win the Powerball lottery. And, no, he's not really giving anyone $1 million of his winnings.

How devices can make us superhuman[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 09:59:44 EST ]What exactly is cyborg anthropology?

'Gangnam' to 'Kony': 2012's top videos[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 09:58:03 EST ]With a K-pop sensation, a campaign film about an African warlord and a homegrown marriage proposal featuring 60 synchronized dancers among them, 2012's viral sensations are as varied as they are compelling.

Microsoft opens its own social network[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 09:50:54 EST ]After a long period of closed beta testing, Microsoft made the beta version of its social network, Socl, available to everyone on Tuesday.

Why the Pope and Obama turn to Twitter[ Wed, 05 Dec 2012 07:59:35 EST ]Nilay Patel says Twitter is everything to everyone: a public broadcast platform, a private messaging tool, a way to share photos and more.

Students take Facebook to court over privacy policy[ Tue, 4 Dec 2012 16:28:47 GMT ]The move is one of a number of campaigns against the giants of the Internet, which are under pressure from investors to generate more revenue from their huge user bases but which also face criticism for storing and sharing personal information.

Space-flown spider dies in Smithsonian[ Tue, 4 Dec 2012 16:27:21 GMT ]The Smithsonian's exhibition of the first jumping spider to survive the trip to space has turned out to be short lived: The arachnid astronaut died just days after going on display.

Surprise! Facebook users vote against privacy policy changes[ Tue, 4 Dec 2012 16:57:56 GMT ]Facebook users have until 3 p.m. ET/noon PT on Dec. 10 to cast their votes on changes proposed to the social network's data use policy and statement of rights and responsibilities — among them, the very right of Facebook users to vote on policy. The voting has just barely begun, but so far it looks like there's a strong opposition to the changes.

Tech gifts for your significant other[ Tue, 4 Dec 2012 14:09:33 GMT ]Surprise your significant other with a thoughtful tech gift that combines style and functionality. Need ideas?

Revealed: Secrets of a smartphone bill under $50[ Tue, 4 Dec 2012 09:58:45 GMT ]Roger Dluzak used survival skills to fight his way through the jungles of Vietnam in the 1960s. He says he uses those same skills now to navigate the jungle of being a U.S. consumer.

Privacy group to appeal Ireland's Facebook audit[ Tue, 04 Dec 2012 15:46:49 GMT ]A Europe-based group campaigning for better privacy protection on Facebook says it will take the Irish government to court over what it considers a half-baked audit. [Read more]

HP printer can act as Wi-Fi hotspot[ Tue, 04 Dec 2012 15:56:06 GMT ]A new HP LaserJet Pro does double duty as a multifunction printer and a wireless hotspot. [Read more]

Wireless street sensors enable realtime parking search via Parker smartphone app[ Tue, 04 Dec 2012 16:00:00 GMT ]Have you ever wanted to be able to just look at your phone and know where all of the open parking spaces are in your area? [Read more]

Nexus 4 to be back in stock today in UK, Germany[ Tue, 04 Dec 2012 16:45:31 GMT ]Google reportedly sent notices to users that the smartphone would be available again in the Google Play store today at 5 p.m. GMT. [Read more]

iPad shipments could hit 26 million this quarter, says analyst[ Tue, 04 Dec 2012 16:45:38 GMT ]Holiday sales will surge with the addition of the new iPad Mini and 4th-gen iPad. [Read more]

iTunes11 finally available for download[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 05:47:38 EST ]At long last, iTunes 11 is finally available for download.

U.N. makes big Twitter typo [ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 19:03:18 EST ]Hours before the United Nations General Assembly voted to recognize the Palestinian Authority as a non-member observer state, the official U.N. Twitter account made a very unfortunate one-character typo.

OMG ... the text message turns 20[ Mon, 03 Dec 2012 12:29:20 EST ]It's been hailed for its succinctness and blamed for everything from sore thumbs to the decline of conversation. Love it or hate it, the text message is 20 years old.

Lottery 'winner' a Facebook hoax[ Mon, 03 Dec 2012 15:33:47 EST ]No, some guy named Daniels on Facebook didn't win the Powerball lottery. And, no, he's not really giving anyone $1 million of his winnings.

What does it mean to be a digital native?[ Tue, 04 Dec 2012 09:24:28 EST ]The war between natives and immigrants is ending. The natives have won.

Vatican unveils Pope's Twitter handle: @pontifex[ Mon, 3 Dec 2012 14:36:46 GMT ]The secret's out. Pope Benedict's new handle on Twitter will be @pontifex, beating out other contenders that had been considered to showcase the thoughts of one of the world's most visible leaders.

Give the gift of better apps for Apple's iOS[ Sun, 2 Dec 2012 19:19:07 GMT ]Have a family member who loves their iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch? If so, you won't find a better gift for them than a few apps to make that experience better.

iPhone 5 beats Kate Upton and the Olympics in Yahoo searches[ Mon, 3 Dec 2012 15:44:48 GMT ]Step aside, Kate Upton. Quiet down, Kim Kardashian. Relax, Lindsay Lohan. Sit still, Kate Middleton. None of you gals are as important to Yahoo Search users this year as … the iPhone 5.

Pre-caffeine tech: Internet banhammer, Batmobile![ Mon, 3 Dec 2012 14:58:16 GMT ]Here's everything that you need to know before taking that first sip of coffee today. The Vatican unveiled the Pope's Twitter handle: @pontifex.

Has North Korea learned its launch lessons?[ Mon, 3 Dec 2012 09:36:17 GMT ]North Korea has two things to prove to the world when it tries to put a satellite in orbit later this month. But the prospects for proof look dim. Analysis by NBC News' James Oberg.

iTunes gets ready for Russia debut, report says[ Mon, 03 Dec 2012 15:16:26 GMT ]Apple will reportedly hold an event in Moscow tomorrow to launch iTunes in the land of Shostakovich, Tchaikovsky, and Pussy Riot. [Read more]

FTC nominee to recuse self from Google cases, report says[ Mon, 03 Dec 2012 15:17:40 GMT ]Joshua Wright, a commission nominee who is considered a Google ally, will reportedly tell a Senate committee that he would not vote on Google cases for two years. [Read more]

Microsoft wins big one in Motorola patent-infringement suit[ Mon, 03 Dec 2012 16:25:41 GMT ]A District Court judge ruled that the software giant's Xbox and Windows cannot be banned from sale. [Read more]

Massive worm hits Tumblr, spams big blogs like USA Today[ Mon, 03 Dec 2012 16:49:57 GMT ]The hacker group GNAA has claimed responsibility for the attack and has said 8,600 unique Tumblr users have been impacted. [Read more]

iPhone 5 wins Apple No. 2 spot among all U.S. phone makers[ Mon, 03 Dec 2012 16:53:45 GMT ]Apple continues to play second fiddle to Samsung but just surpassed LG on the list of top U.S. mobile phone makers, says ComScore. [Read more]

Apple able to meet iPhone 5 demand[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 17:56:41 EST ]It looks like there will not be a shortage of iPhone 5s this holiday season, with plenty of the devices for all carriers in stock at stores around the U.S.

iTunes11 finally available for download[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 05:47:38 EST ]At long last, iTunes 11 is finally available for download.

U.N. makes big Twitter typo [ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 19:03:18 EST ]Hours before the United Nations General Assembly voted to recognize the Palestinian Authority as a non-member observer state, the official U.N. Twitter account made a very unfortunate one-character typo.

Syria caused Web blackout, firm says[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 15:59:02 EST ]Despite claims to the contrary, the Syrian government is almost certainly responsible for a blackout Thursday that shut down virtually all Internet service in the country, according to a leading Web security firm.

Why new anti-piracy system could be a nightmare[ Sun, 02 Dec 2012 13:11:13 EST ]No, "six strikes" isn't a phrase from some esoteric version of baseball played on Mars — it's a colloquialism for a new anti-piracy warning system designed to track copyright infringers and help internet service providers (ISPs) take progressively punitive measures to discourage or prevent said infringers from engaging in further copyright-violating activities.

Holiday calendar puts Earth in the spotlight[ Sat, 1 Dec 2012 05:00:15 GMT ]Cosmic Log Space Advent Calendar: A sprawling alluvial fan is one of the fantastic views featured in "Earth as Art," a NASA publication highlighting satellite imagery of our home planet.

How to use iTunes 11's new features (with the old look)[ Sat, 1 Dec 2012 17:39:13 GMT ]Apple released its newest version of iTunes, and it's a complete overhaul. Find out how to take advantage of iTunes 11's new features while sticking with the look you know and love.

The 15 most overpriced gadgets ever[ Sat, 1 Dec 2012 17:57:17 GMT ]There’s nothing wrong with charging a lot of money for your gadget. But sometimes tech companies think too much of their wares and too little of your intelligence. Check out a rogue's gallery of gadgetry.

Could a Syria-style Internet blackout happen in the US?[ Sat, 1 Dec 2012 00:53:42 GMT ]The ongoing Internet blackout in Syria this week prompts curiosity as to whether such an event could happen in one's own country. Here's one measure that gives a rough idea of how difficult it would be for your government to legally shut down the Internet.

Syria restores Internet service after blackout[ Sat, 1 Dec 2012 19:43:53 GMT ]Internet and telephone service were restored across much of Syria following a two-day, nationwide blackout that came during some of the worst fighting to hit Damascus since July.

Singer forced to pay promised $1M reward for found laptop[ Sat, 01 Dec 2012 20:15:57 GMT ]Singer Ryan Leslie makes a YouTube video offering $1 million for the safe return of his stolen laptop and an external hard drive. A German man finds them. Leslie refuses to pay. A court decides he has to. [Read more]

A new use for your power drill: Eating corn[ Sat, 01 Dec 2012 22:22:45 GMT ]A remarkably inventive and bizarre YouTube video suggests that power drills can help the hungry on the go. [Read more]

NFL players tweet prayers, perspective after murder-suicide[ Sat, 01 Dec 2012 23:46:37 GMT ]Teammates and other players express shock and offer condolences to the families of City Chiefs player Jovan Belcher and his girlfriend, Kasandra Perkins. [Read more]

McAfee nabbed? His blog says maybe, following CNN interview[ Sun, 02 Dec 2012 00:03:32 GMT ]Not long after a secretive CNN interview with fugitive software pioneer John McAfee, McAfee's own blog posts an item saying he may have been captured. True? Or another twist in an already odd tale? [Read more]

The Audiophiliac's favorite music Blu-rays, DVDs, and CDs[ Sun, 02 Dec 2012 16:06:00 GMT ]This latest batch of releases is loaded with gems. [Read more]

Apple able to meet iPhone 5 demand[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 17:56:41 EST ]It looks like there will not be a shortage of iPhone 5s this holiday season, with plenty of the devices for all carriers in stock at stores around the U.S.

iTunes11 finally available for download[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 05:47:38 EST ]At long last, iTunes 11 is finally available for download.

U.N. makes big Twitter typo [ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 19:03:18 EST ]Hours before the United Nations General Assembly voted to recognize the Palestinian Authority as a non-member observer state, the official U.N. Twitter account made a very unfortunate one-character typo.

Syria caused Web blackout, firm says[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 15:59:02 EST ]Despite claims to the contrary, the Syrian government is almost certainly responsible for a blackout Thursday that shut down virtually all Internet service in the country, according to a leading Web security firm.

Syria caused Internet blackout, security firm says[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 13:45:08 EST ]Despite claims to the contrary, the Syrian government is almost certainly responsible for a blackout Thursday that shut down virtually all Internet service in the country, according to a leading Web security firm.

Anonymous declares Internet war on Syria[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 15:52:49 GMT ]Global hacking network Anonymous said it will shut down Syrian government websites around the world in response to a countrywide Internet blackout believed to be aimed at silencing the opposition to President Bashar al-Assad.

Load up on geeky science gifts for 2012[ Sat, 1 Dec 2012 02:10:20 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: What do you give the science geek who knows everything? Help us flesh out our post-apocalyptic Science Geek Gift Guide for 2012.

Could a Syria-style Internet blackout happen in the US?[ Sat, 1 Dec 2012 00:53:42 GMT ]The ongoing Internet blackout in Syria this week prompts curiosity as to whether such an event could happen in one's own country. Here's one measure that gives a rough idea of how difficult it would be for your government to legally shut down the Internet.

Powerball prize-sharing joke hits 1M shares on Facebook[ Sat, 1 Dec 2012 02:13:02 GMT ]A joke Facebook post by a man claiming to have a winning Powerball lottery ticket has been shared 1 million times just in the 24 hours since it was posted.

Holiday calendar puts Earth in the spotlight[ Sat, 1 Dec 2012 05:00:15 GMT ]Cosmic Log Space Advent Calendar: A sprawling alluvial fan is one of the fantastic views featured in "Earth as Art," a NASA publication highlighting satellite imagery of our home planet.

Top streaming-radio apps for iOS and Android[ Sat, 01 Dec 2012 01:14:22 GMT ]This week's collection of apps gives you three ways to listen to streaming music on your smartphone. If you want to find new music, this collection is for you. [Read more]

Facebook photo a Powerball prank? A million users hedge bets[ Sat, 01 Dec 2012 01:51:12 GMT ]A Facebook user posts a photo of himself with a "winning" Powerball ticket and asks fellow Facebookers to share it for a chance at a million bucks. Does he get a response? We'll give you one guess. [Read more]

Android-based Ouya game console shipping soon[ Sat, 01 Dec 2012 02:20:03 GMT ]Christmas comes twice this year for those who signed up for a developers' console in Ouya's Kickstarter campaign. [Read more]

Watch the X-47B make its first catapult take-off[ Sat, 01 Dec 2012 14:00:00 GMT ]The pilotless aircraft needs to prove that it's up to the rigors of the kind of slingshot launch that it can expect soon from an aircraft carrier. [Read more]

Hsu Research's overachieving home theater speakers[ Sat, 01 Dec 2012 15:36:00 GMT ]Hsu's HB-1 MK2 sats and HC-1 MK2 center-channel speaker are big enough to rock the house, but they won't break the bank! [Read more]

Apple able to meet iPhone 5 demand[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 17:56:41 EST ]It looks like there will not be a shortage of iPhone 5s this holiday season, with plenty of the devices for all carriers in stock at stores around the U.S.

iTunes11 finally available for download[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 05:47:38 EST ]At long last, iTunes 11 is finally available for download.

U.N. makes big Twitter typo [ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 19:03:18 EST ]Hours before the United Nations General Assembly voted to recognize the Palestinian Authority as a non-member observer state, the official U.N. Twitter account made a very unfortunate one-character typo.

Syria caused Web blackout, firm says[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 15:59:02 EST ]Despite claims to the contrary, the Syrian government is almost certainly responsible for a blackout Thursday that shut down virtually all Internet service in the country, according to a leading Web security firm.

Syria caused Internet blackout, security firm says[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 13:45:08 EST ]Despite claims to the contrary, the Syrian government is almost certainly responsible for a blackout Thursday that shut down virtually all Internet service in the country, according to a leading Web security firm.

Unlocked iPhone 5 available, but it'll cost you $649 (or more)[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 16:37:27 GMT ]If you really want an iPhone 5 but don't want to sign a two-year agreement, there's some good news for you this Friday morning: You can now buy an unlocked iPhone 5 from Apple. There are some catches though.

NASA dialed in to smartphone satellites[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 17:06:12 GMT ]NASA engineers are chipping away at how best to lower the cost of their satellites — and one off-the-shelf answer is by using smartphone electronics. Dialing in on the idea has resulted in the PhoneSat Project, a technology demonstration mission using three tiny CubeSat satellites to be launched next year.

Apple to sell new iPads, iPhone 5 in China in December[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 16:48:14 GMT ]Apple Inc. on Friday said its latest iPad models will go on sale in China on Dec. 7, followed by the iPhone 5 a week later.

Anonymous declares Internet war on Syria[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 15:52:49 GMT ]Global hacking network Anonymous said it will shut down Syrian government websites around the world in response to a countrywide Internet blackout believed to be aimed at silencing the opposition to President Bashar al-Assad.

Water ice discovered on Mercury[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 20:01:40 GMT ]It's time to add Mercury to the list of worlds where you can go ice skating. Confirming decades of suspicion, a NASA spacecraft has spotted vast deposits of water ice on the planet closest to the sun.

Richard Branson on LinkedIn: First to 1M followers[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 15:15:57 GMT ]And that's twice as many followers as the first runner-up among LinkedIn Influencers, U.S. President Barack Obama. [Read more]

Staples to offer in-store 3D printing on demand[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 15:29:10 GMT ]The office supply chain is getting set to upgrade its 2-D print services to add another dimension. [Read more]

Zynga shares down 6 percent after Facebook deal amendment[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 16:27:20 GMT ]The company's shares are now trading down as low as $2.45 -- a far cry from its 52-week high of $15.91 back in March. [Read more]

Windows 8 slower out of gate than Windows 7, says report[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 16:28:35 GMT ]Web traffic for Windows 8 so far hasn't matched that of its predecessor three years ago, says StatCounter. But the data also serves up hopeful news for Microsoft's new OS. [Read more]

Lots of little 'lectrics at the LA Auto Show (roundup)[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 16:58:09 GMT ]CNET rounds up the biggest players in the small EV class at the 2012 LA Auto Show, most of which will be on public roads within months. [Read more]

Apple able to meet iPhone 5 demand[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 17:56:41 EST ]It looks like there will not be a shortage of iPhone 5s this holiday season, with plenty of the devices for all carriers in stock at stores around the U.S.

Internet service shut down in Syria[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 21:02:50 EST ]More than 90% of the Internet access in Syria was shut down on Thursday, according to the Internet monitoring group Renesys.

iTunes11 finally available for download[ Fri, 30 Nov 2012 05:47:38 EST ]At long last, iTunes 11 is finally available for download.

U.N. makes big Twitter typo [ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 19:03:18 EST ]Hours before the United Nations General Assembly voted to recognize the Palestinian Authority as a non-member observer state, the official U.N. Twitter account made a very unfortunate one-character typo.

Apple now able to meet demand for iPhone 5[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 17:43:21 EST ]It looks like there will not be a shortage of iPhone 5s this holiday season, with plenty of the devices for all carriers in stock at stores around the U.S.

Mayan apocalypse all bunk, NASA assures us[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 16:28:23 GMT ]NASA scientists took time on Wednesday to soothe 2012 doomsday fears, warning against the dark side of Mayan apocalypse rumors — frightened children and suicidal teens who truly fear the world may come to an end Dec. 21.

Lost in shuffle: 400-year-old playing cards[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 17:01:33 GMT ]Call it a card player's dream. A complete set of 52 silver playing cards gilded in gold and dating back 400 years has been discovered.

Pre-caffeine tech: Gold LEGO, Facebook law![ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 14:54:49 GMT ]Here's everything that you need to know before taking that first sip of coffee today. Consumer Reports' annual ratings of wireless providers, released Thursday, shows that the major cellphone companies still have a lot of work to do to boost customer satisfaction.

Nuclear agency: Hackers did not steal sensitive information[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 16:26:07 GMT ]The head of the U.N. nuclear agency said on Thursday a hacking incident involving one of its servers was "deeply regrettable" but suggested that no sensitive information related to Iran's atomic activities had been stolen.

Blackout: Syria vanishes from Internet[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 15:48:02 GMT ]An outage at 10:26 a.m. UTC, or 5:26 a.m. ET, shut down all Syrian access to the Web. Phone lines also appear to be down, and airlines are canceling flights. [Read more]

Verizon best, AT&T worst in Consumer Reports carrier survey[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 13:25:31 GMT ]Consumer Reports' annual ratings of wireless providers, released Thursday, shows that the major cellphone companies still have a lot of work to do to boost customer satisfaction. In fact, none of the big four national carriers had an overall satisfaction score above 72 percent, across the board lower than their overall scores from just two years ago.

Low Latency No. 45: Parking lot Thanksgiving[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 16:00:00 GMT ]This year we had Thanksgiving on the side of a big box retailer so that we could save $30 on an HDTV. [Read more]

Clay Jam: Zynga goes claymation, with help from new partner[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 16:00:00 GMT ]Fat Pebble, one of five developers partnered with the struggling social-gaming company to make mobile games, releases a quirky claymation game. [Read more]

Nintendo's Iwata 'very sorry' for Wii U's launch omissions[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 16:06:03 GMT ]The Nintendo president said that console buyers should be able to use all of the hardware's features right away. They couldn't with the Wii U. [Read more]

AT&T's rugged Samsung Rugby III lands Dec 14 with PTT[ Thu, 29 Nov 2012 16:08:44 GMT ]The rugged flip phone will feature a rubberized casing to help protect it from the elements, and enhanced push-to-talk capabilities. [Read more]

Bing's most-searched news of 2012[ Wed, 28 Nov 2012 16:27:48 EST ]Poor Microsoft. People who use your search engine seem especially interested in ... Apple.

Where are women 'game creators?'[ Wed, 28 Nov 2012 16:47:32 EST ]A question on Twitter helped spark creation of two hashtags about women in the gaming industry. #1ReasonWhy focuses on social issues, and #1ReasonMentors aims to connect like-minded women.

9 innovations we're glad not to see[ Wed, 28 Nov 2012 16:47:20 EST ]There have been tons of exciting innovations unleashed upon the masses this past year, but there's also a passel of new ideas that we're glad never caught on.

A ban on laws about the Internet?[ Wed, 28 Nov 2012 16:29:07 EST ]In an unusual step, a U.S. congressman is proposing a two-year ban on all new federal legislation regulating the Internet.

How fake Google story spread online[ Wed, 28 Nov 2012 16:47:10 EST ]A fake story about Google buying a Wi-Fi company was picked up by many news websites, illustrating some of the pitfalls of fast-paced online news.

U.N. atom agency says stolen information on hacker site[ Wed, 28 Nov 2012 15:19:31 GMT ]The U.N. nuclear watchdog said on Tuesday that information stolen from one of its former servers had been posted on a hacker website and it was taking "all possible steps" to ensure its computer systems and data were protected.

Bigfoot part human, DNA report claims[ Tue, 27 Nov 2012 17:18:13 GMT ]Genetic testing confirms the legendary Bigfoot is a human relative that arose some 15,000 years ago — at least according to a press release issued by a company called DNA Diagnostics detailing supposed work by a Texas veterinarian.

Tablets 2012: Even with competition, iPad hangs onto crown[ Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:32:18 GMT ]Non-iPads from Amazon, Google, Microsoft and others are flooding the market, bringing more diverse experiences, often at better prices than the iPad and its little sibling, the iPad Mini. Doesn’t matter.

Video: Winners and losers: The top tablets of the season[ Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:15:58 GMT ]NBCNews.com's Wilson Rothman shares the pros and cons of four of the larger-size tablets: the Nexus 10, the Kindle Fire HD 8.9, the Surface RT and the newly released fourth-gen iPad. (NBCNews.com)

Watch a not-so-super moon fade to gray[ Tue, 27 Nov 2012 23:38:54 GMT ]Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: It's no Supermoon, but if you look closely at the right time from the right place, you can see Earth's shadow darken the lunar disk.