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Blog Entries from December 2005
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MacWorld Is Coming
The annual MacWorld conference (external link) is coming next month and Apple rumor sites have already began predicting the new products that Apple will release. Some of the more prominent rumors are:
- An Intel-based iBook, which would feature a 13.3" widescreen.
- An Intel-based iMac counterpart. It would be identical to the current iMac, but would feature an Intel processor.
- An Intel-based PowerBook, which would feature a built in iSight camera, much like the one currently featured in the iMac.
- A digital camera.
- A DVR upgrade to the Mac Mini.
- A replacement for the iPod Mini, which would eliminate the iPod Shuffle.
- An iPod Nano with a 1GB flash drive, eliminating the iPod Shufle.
Conclusively, the easier-to-hope for products would be the Intel-based Macs and a new addition to the iPod family. Many analyst suspect that Apple is aiming to turn the Mac Mini into a home-media center, in which they predict that the Mac Mini may soon feature DVR capabilities and Front Row.
Many of these rumors have been reassured to be valid due to lawsuits filed by Apple against their publishing parties. In many of these lawsuits Apple indirectly hinted toward their validity.
All in all, until MacWorld comes we can only hope and predict what actions Apple will take.
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Google Goes Shopping
After the huge hype of every person and their mother looking toward buying a stake in AOL, a transaction has finally taken place. Google has purchased a 5% stake in AOL for $1 billion, securing its profit stream from Google ads featured in AOL. Google's profit from AOL makes up 10% of its overall profit. Previously there were rumors of AOL planning to switch over to Microsoft, but was stopped in its tracks with gracious gifts from Google.
According to Google, AOL will have a preferred placement in its search engine. At the time this is mainly in the video search, but analysts fear that it will spread and could potentially damage Google's perfected algorithm.
AOL will also have the ability to display its ads on Google and through the Google AdSense program. Google has also given AOL a $300 million advertising credit to purchase search-related ads through Google AdWords.
Analysts wonder if this deal will be a disaster or put Google a step closer to world domination. Only time will tell!
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Top Five Holiday Gifts 2005
Not sure what to put on your holiday wish-list? With hundreds of great products around, you really need to narrow your list. How about to five? Try our top five holiday tech-related gifts:
1. Apple iMac G5
The new iMac G5 (external link) boasts a built in iSight camera, Front Row, and a cheaper price. It turns your computer into a complete media center, with a small remote control and Front Row; allowing you to access your music, videos, photos, and DVDs from across the room.
2. Tiger Telematics Gizmondo
The Gizmondo (external link) is an all-in-one gaming device, with tons of features from built in GPS functionality to complete multimedia capabilities. It is the most feature packed hand-held gaming device, and has a number of interesting game titles.
3. Apple iPod (video)
The new iPod (external link) features an even thinner design and video playing capabilities. Like the previous iPod, it offers seamless integration with iTunes. It features a beautifully lit LCD screen for playing videos and viewing photos. It also offers a variety of other features, such as a world clock, a stopwatch, and screen lock. There are also tons of accessories for the popular iPod.
4. Sling Media Slingbox
If you have the ultimate home theater setup you are missing one thing - the Slingbox (external link). This great little device allows you to stream your television's output over the Internet to any computer. To watch your own TV somewhere else, such as a hotel, you simply use the small program provided.
5. Microsoft Xbox 360
The newest gaming console has hit the store shelves. Despite the possible shortage and rumored overheating issues, the Xbox 360 (external link) boast an incredible set of new features - a massive amount of processing and graphics power and HD output, for example. There are not any major titles for the Xbox 360 yet, but it is only inevitable that this system will eventually creep its way into your living room.
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