The 404 1,073: Where it could use some more bacon (podcast)
Piggybacking (waka waka) on Jeff's encounter with a candied bacon ice cream sandwich at the Sony E3 press conference last week, we can't help but indulge in Burger King's new bacon-topped sundae. And even if Jeff's dietitian won't let him have it, we can still stare longingly at the press shots and tell you about our own favorite encounters with the swine. Before we make ourselves too hungry, we'll move on and expose an especially nefarious tactic that record labels are using to catch bootleggers online.It turns out that they all employ an anti-piracy group called ProMedia to track online offenders, and the team includes a roster of 35 students who crawl social networks, forums, and blogs to nab filesharers.Once they're caught, the students are instructed to threaten offenders with lawsuits, essentially forcing out-of-court settlements to the tune of about 1,200 euros, or $1,500.Finally, we'll take a look at a photo forensics firm that keeps track of physically manipulated photos throughout history. And yes, we do mean "pre-Photoshop." Photos have been tampered with long before 1987 and as early as the 1900s. Whether politically motivated or just to insert teammates into championship photos, the methods were primitive and so much more obvious than today.Plenty of voice mails and listener questions to answer after the break, so check out today's episode and let us know what you think in the comments!Bathroom break video: Scared of technology.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.PlayEpisode 1,073PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes (audio) | Subscribe in iTunes (video) | Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video  Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff Bakalar
Jetpack Joyride adds new features to help you go the distance
Jetpack Joyride adds new features to help you go the distance
Jetpack Joyride (Free), from Halfbrick Studios, makers of hit iOS games Fruit Ninja and Monster Dash, has now added Gadgets -- tools you can purchase with earned coins that help you get further into the game.Now, when you go into the Stash (the store where you can buy new jetpacks, outfits, and more), there is a new Gadgets category. There are a total of 15 gadgets to choose from (once purchased with earned coins), but you only have 2 slots on any given run. Each of the new gadgets have specific properties that help you on your run. For example, you can use the Air Barrys gadget that make Barry Steakfries jump higher on first touch, making it easier to jump over low obstacles. A Gravity Belt makes you fall faster, helping you get out of the way of obstacles higher in the air. The Free Ride gadget lets you choose a vehicle before you even start your run. Many of the gadgets are useful and some are just plain silly, but the ability to mix and match will definitely add to replayability as you figure out the best combination to go the distance.There are 15 new gadgets to choose from, but you'll have to buy two from each category to unlock the next.Screenshot by Jason Parker/CNETHalfBrick Studios says that after only 6 months on the iTunes App Store, 17 million people have bought and/or downloaded Jetpack Joyride, and there's no end in sight to frequent free updates. The app went free some time ago and continues to be a hit for iOS gamers.Jetpack Joyride has been a mainstay on my homescreen since launch, so it's easy for me to recommend this game even without the big update, but if you want to see how fun a distance/survival game can be, this is the one to download.
Jetpack Joyride (Free), from Halfbrick Studios, makers of hit iOS games Fruit Ninja and Monster Dash, has now added Gadgets -- tools you can purchase with earned coins that help you get further into the game.Now, when you go into the Stash (the store where you can buy new jetpacks, outfits, and more), there is a new Gadgets category. There are a total of 15 gadgets to choose from (once purchased with earned coins), but you only have 2 slots on any given run. Each of the new gadgets have specific properties that help you on your run. For example, you can use the Air Barrys gadget that make Barry Steakfries jump higher on first touch, making it easier to jump over low obstacles. A Gravity Belt makes you fall faster, helping you get out of the way of obstacles higher in the air. The Free Ride gadget lets you choose a vehicle before you even start your run. Many of the gadgets are useful and some are just plain silly, but the ability to mix and match will definitely add to replayability as you figure out the best combination to go the distance.There are 15 new gadgets to choose from, but you'll have to buy two from each category to unlock the next.Screenshot by Jason Parker/CNETHalfBrick Studios says that after only 6 months on the iTunes App Store, 17 million people have bought and/or downloaded Jetpack Joyride, and there's no end in sight to frequent free updates. The app went free some time ago and continues to be a hit for iOS gamers.Jetpack Joyride has been a mainstay on my homescreen since launch, so it's easy for me to recommend this game even without the big update, but if you want to see how fun a distance/survival game can be, this is the one to download.
Apple's iPhone 6 to sport 4.7-, 5.5-inch screens, report says
Apple's iPhone 6 to sport 4.7-, 5.5-inch screens, report says
Yet another rumor has cropped up on the Web suggesting that Apple has big plans for its the expected iPhone 6.Apple will launch two iPhones later this year featuring larger screen sizes than those currently available, the South China Morning Post reported Wednesday, citing industry sources. One version will come in at 4.7 inches, while the other will feature a 5.5-inch display. Both products will launch in September, the report claims.In addition to talking screen size, the report claimed that the iPhone 6's display would be made entirely of sapphire -- the same material used by Apple to cover its camera lens and TouchID button.As yet, there has been no official word from Apple about what's in store for the smartphone design that will follow on from the current high-end model, the iPhone 5S. It's also worth noting that the South China Morning Post is not known as a breaking news outlet, which means its report should be handled with some skepticism.Rumors have been swirling for months that Apple has plans to boost its screen size and use sapphire in the next version of the iPhone. The current models top out at 4 inches, making them markedly smaller than competing Android devices, like the Galaxy S4 and HTC One.Exactly what screen size the devices will offer, however, has been the subject of some debate. Some reports have suggested that the screens will measure 4.5 inches and 5 inches and not anything larger. Others have said that the screens will come in at 4.8 inches and 6 inches, respectively.For its part, Apple has, of course, ignored any chance to set the record straight, which means we'll have to wait until later this year to find out exactly what the company has planned.This story has been updated throughout the morning.
Yet another rumor has cropped up on the Web suggesting that Apple has big plans for its the expected iPhone 6.Apple will launch two iPhones later this year featuring larger screen sizes than those currently available, the South China Morning Post reported Wednesday, citing industry sources. One version will come in at 4.7 inches, while the other will feature a 5.5-inch display. Both products will launch in September, the report claims.In addition to talking screen size, the report claimed that the iPhone 6's display would be made entirely of sapphire -- the same material used by Apple to cover its camera lens and TouchID button.As yet, there has been no official word from Apple about what's in store for the smartphone design that will follow on from the current high-end model, the iPhone 5S. It's also worth noting that the South China Morning Post is not known as a breaking news outlet, which means its report should be handled with some skepticism.Rumors have been swirling for months that Apple has plans to boost its screen size and use sapphire in the next version of the iPhone. The current models top out at 4 inches, making them markedly smaller than competing Android devices, like the Galaxy S4 and HTC One.Exactly what screen size the devices will offer, however, has been the subject of some debate. Some reports have suggested that the screens will measure 4.5 inches and 5 inches and not anything larger. Others have said that the screens will come in at 4.8 inches and 6 inches, respectively.For its part, Apple has, of course, ignored any chance to set the record straight, which means we'll have to wait until later this year to find out exactly what the company has planned.This story has been updated throughout the morning.
Apple's iPhone 6 could be NFC capable, report says
Apple's iPhone 6 could be NFC capable, report says
Amid the mad dash to reveal features of the iPhone 6, the latest report on the expected smartphone focuses on its connectivity capabilities.AppleInsider over the weekend said the anticipated iPhone 6 will include NFC, also known as near-field communications. The technology is most often discussed in connection with mobile payments -- with people swiping their phones at a register to make a payment -- but it can be used for other things. Rumors Apple would integrate NFC into its phones have been around for years, but this report could have particular significance as Apple is predicted to unveil its own mobile-payments service soon. Many companies have been dabbling with NFC, and several rival smartphones already support it.RELATED STORIESiPhone 6: Most-wanted features (pictures)Apple iPhone 6 sapphire display rumors flyiPhone 6 camera may jump to 13 megapixelsAdditionally, the weekend report said the iPhone 6 would include a newer version of Wi-Fi, known as 802.11ac. This flavor of Wi-Fi is designed to exceed data-transfer rates of 1 gigabit per second by sending multiple simultaneous streams of data from access points to devices. Apple equipped its latest MacBook Airs and AirPort routers with this version of Wi-Fi, and other companies have introduced routers and networking gear using it, as well. Still, the technology is only just starting to gain momentum.Rumors on the capabilities and components of the highly anticipated iPhone 6 have been heating up amid expectations Apple will unveil its next smartphone around September. The company is widely expected to come out with two models -- one a 4.7-inch version and, later, a 5.5-inch version -- as it tries to keep up with a trend toward bigger-display smartphones and also maintain a top position in the market.Other recent rumors have claimed the iPhone 6 would include a higher-resolution camera and a sapphire glass display.An Apple representative didn't respond to a request for comment. The company, for its part, hasn't confirmed the existence of the iPhone 6.
Amid the mad dash to reveal features of the iPhone 6, the latest report on the expected smartphone focuses on its connectivity capabilities.AppleInsider over the weekend said the anticipated iPhone 6 will include NFC, also known as near-field communications. The technology is most often discussed in connection with mobile payments -- with people swiping their phones at a register to make a payment -- but it can be used for other things. Rumors Apple would integrate NFC into its phones have been around for years, but this report could have particular significance as Apple is predicted to unveil its own mobile-payments service soon. Many companies have been dabbling with NFC, and several rival smartphones already support it.RELATED STORIESiPhone 6: Most-wanted features (pictures)Apple iPhone 6 sapphire display rumors flyiPhone 6 camera may jump to 13 megapixelsAdditionally, the weekend report said the iPhone 6 would include a newer version of Wi-Fi, known as 802.11ac. This flavor of Wi-Fi is designed to exceed data-transfer rates of 1 gigabit per second by sending multiple simultaneous streams of data from access points to devices. Apple equipped its latest MacBook Airs and AirPort routers with this version of Wi-Fi, and other companies have introduced routers and networking gear using it, as well. Still, the technology is only just starting to gain momentum.Rumors on the capabilities and components of the highly anticipated iPhone 6 have been heating up amid expectations Apple will unveil its next smartphone around September. The company is widely expected to come out with two models -- one a 4.7-inch version and, later, a 5.5-inch version -- as it tries to keep up with a trend toward bigger-display smartphones and also maintain a top position in the market.Other recent rumors have claimed the iPhone 6 would include a higher-resolution camera and a sapphire glass display.An Apple representative didn't respond to a request for comment. The company, for its part, hasn't confirmed the existence of the iPhone 6.
Apple's iPhone 5S, low-cost iPhone, iPhone 6 may be delayed
Apple's iPhone 5S, low-cost iPhone, iPhone 6 may be delayed
As Samsung, Google, and Microsoft forge ahead with smartphones, smartwatches, and other smart devices, Apple could be experiencing production delays across the board.According to Jefferies analyst Peter Misek, who recently visited Apple's Asian suppliers, the rumored iPhone 5S will most likely be delayed. It's previously been said that the device would hit stores by July. Misek also said that the possible low-cost iPhone launch could be pushed to this year's fourth quarter and an iPhone 6 probably wouldn't come out until 2014."iPhone 5S is having preproduction issues with mass production at least a month or more away. This combined with the publicly discussed delay of iOS 7 puts a July availability at risk," Misek said, according to StreetInsider. "We continue to believe there is almost no chance the iPhone 6 launches in CY13 [calendar year 2013] due to supply chain issues."Besides iOS 7 and iPhone 6, the iPhone 5S delay is expected to affect production of other Apple products too. Misek said the iPad Mini refresh will also be pushed back and that he didn't see any evidence of a possible iWatch in production. The iPad 5 refresh could happen, said Misek, but he believes the volumes will be low. Finally, he said that an iTV for 2013 is unlikely.Rumors have abounded about a bigger iPhone, cheaper iPhone, plastic iPhone, iOS 7, an iWatch, and more. But rumors only go so far when the competition is steadily launching new products. If Misek's calculations are correct, there's most likely some gnashing of teeth in Cupertino as Apple works to get a new product in the pipeline as soon as possible.On top of the delays, Misek is predicting weak second- and third-quarter share prices for Apple, along with lower iPhone and iPad second-quarter shipments than previously expected. Apple's second-quarter results are due April 23. (Via StreetInsider)This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
As Samsung, Google, and Microsoft forge ahead with smartphones, smartwatches, and other smart devices, Apple could be experiencing production delays across the board.According to Jefferies analyst Peter Misek, who recently visited Apple's Asian suppliers, the rumored iPhone 5S will most likely be delayed. It's previously been said that the device would hit stores by July. Misek also said that the possible low-cost iPhone launch could be pushed to this year's fourth quarter and an iPhone 6 probably wouldn't come out until 2014."iPhone 5S is having preproduction issues with mass production at least a month or more away. This combined with the publicly discussed delay of iOS 7 puts a July availability at risk," Misek said, according to StreetInsider. "We continue to believe there is almost no chance the iPhone 6 launches in CY13 [calendar year 2013] due to supply chain issues."Besides iOS 7 and iPhone 6, the iPhone 5S delay is expected to affect production of other Apple products too. Misek said the iPad Mini refresh will also be pushed back and that he didn't see any evidence of a possible iWatch in production. The iPad 5 refresh could happen, said Misek, but he believes the volumes will be low. Finally, he said that an iTV for 2013 is unlikely.Rumors have abounded about a bigger iPhone, cheaper iPhone, plastic iPhone, iOS 7, an iWatch, and more. But rumors only go so far when the competition is steadily launching new products. If Misek's calculations are correct, there's most likely some gnashing of teeth in Cupertino as Apple works to get a new product in the pipeline as soon as possible.On top of the delays, Misek is predicting weak second- and third-quarter share prices for Apple, along with lower iPhone and iPad second-quarter shipments than previously expected. Apple's second-quarter results are due April 23. (Via StreetInsider)This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Apple's iPhone 5S to be used in fashion show ahead of launch
Apple's iPhone 5S to be used in fashion show ahead of launch
Apple's iPhone 5S will be fashionably early.No, Apple's not releasing the phone before its September 20 launch. Instead, Apple on Thursday said it will be used for photos and videos at the Burberry runway show in London next Monday -- a full four days before the device goes on sale there. "Using the all-new iSight camera on iPhone 5S, Burberry is shooting high quality photos and video for runway and beauty looks, product details, and backstage moments," Apple said in a press release.The media will then be posted freely online, the two companies said. The partnership between a fashion brand and a large tech company is not unique. Earlier this year Google Glass -- the wearable computer -- was tapped by designer Diane Von Furstenberg to document behind-the-scenes action. Google co-founder Sergey Brin also made an appearance, sporting Glass and walking down the runway at the end of the show. Apple this week positioned the 5S, which starts at $199 with a multiyear carrier contract, as a close competitor to high-end cameras. The new camera hardware within the 5S takes photos that are the same resolution as last year's iPhone 5, but Apple says the sensor itself is 15 percent larger. The company also added a new burst and slow motion model, as well as new dual-LED flash it says provides better color accuracy on photos.The camera is one of three new features on the 5S. The phone also includes a new A7 processor which Apple says is twice as fast as the one found in the iPhone 5, as well as a new fingerprint sensor that's able to unlock the device and verify Apple ID credentials without a password.Apple's head designer Jony Ive (far right) attends Burberry's Spring Summer 2013 show in London in September 2012.Getty ImagesCorrection, Sept. 13 at 7:44 a.m. PT: This story initially misstated the price of the iPhone 5S.The iPhone 5S starts at $199.
Apple's iPhone 5S will be fashionably early.No, Apple's not releasing the phone before its September 20 launch. Instead, Apple on Thursday said it will be used for photos and videos at the Burberry runway show in London next Monday -- a full four days before the device goes on sale there. "Using the all-new iSight camera on iPhone 5S, Burberry is shooting high quality photos and video for runway and beauty looks, product details, and backstage moments," Apple said in a press release.The media will then be posted freely online, the two companies said. The partnership between a fashion brand and a large tech company is not unique. Earlier this year Google Glass -- the wearable computer -- was tapped by designer Diane Von Furstenberg to document behind-the-scenes action. Google co-founder Sergey Brin also made an appearance, sporting Glass and walking down the runway at the end of the show. Apple this week positioned the 5S, which starts at $199 with a multiyear carrier contract, as a close competitor to high-end cameras. The new camera hardware within the 5S takes photos that are the same resolution as last year's iPhone 5, but Apple says the sensor itself is 15 percent larger. The company also added a new burst and slow motion model, as well as new dual-LED flash it says provides better color accuracy on photos.The camera is one of three new features on the 5S. The phone also includes a new A7 processor which Apple says is twice as fast as the one found in the iPhone 5, as well as a new fingerprint sensor that's able to unlock the device and verify Apple ID credentials without a password.Apple's head designer Jony Ive (far right) attends Burberry's Spring Summer 2013 show in London in September 2012.Getty ImagesCorrection, Sept. 13 at 7:44 a.m. PT: This story initially misstated the price of the iPhone 5S.The iPhone 5S starts at $199.
Apple's iPhone 5C for $79 preorder at Target, Walmart
Apple's iPhone 5C for $79 preorder at Target, Walmart
Hours before Apple's new iPhone models go on sale in US retail stores, Target has quietly matched Walmart's lower preorder price for the iPhone 5C -- Apple's first low-cost smartphone, which has a plastic body and comes in five bright colors.Apple and partner retailers will be selling the 5C starting at $99 with a two-year contract, but both Target and Walmart are now offering the 16GB version of the smartphone for $79 on preorder -- a total discount of $20. Target said it will also add an extra 5 percent off for customers who use a Target REDcard. While Target will also be selling Apple's costlier iPhone 5S, it is currently not offering a deal on this device. Besides the discount on the 5C, the big box retailer is additionally offering a trade-in program for older versions of the iPhone for customers to get store credit. Customers can trade in their iPhone 5 for $200, iPhone 4S for $125, and iPhone 4 for $75.Apple announced the launch of its two new iPhone models earlier this month. Both the less-expensive 5C and the higher-end 5S are intended to replace last year's iPhone 5, which has been discontinued. The 5C is the only device up for preorder, with Apple planning to begin sales of the 5S model at 12:01 a.m. PT on Friday, Sept. 20, as well as through its carrier partners. Via 9to5Mac.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Hours before Apple's new iPhone models go on sale in US retail stores, Target has quietly matched Walmart's lower preorder price for the iPhone 5C -- Apple's first low-cost smartphone, which has a plastic body and comes in five bright colors.Apple and partner retailers will be selling the 5C starting at $99 with a two-year contract, but both Target and Walmart are now offering the 16GB version of the smartphone for $79 on preorder -- a total discount of $20. Target said it will also add an extra 5 percent off for customers who use a Target REDcard. While Target will also be selling Apple's costlier iPhone 5S, it is currently not offering a deal on this device. Besides the discount on the 5C, the big box retailer is additionally offering a trade-in program for older versions of the iPhone for customers to get store credit. Customers can trade in their iPhone 5 for $200, iPhone 4S for $125, and iPhone 4 for $75.Apple announced the launch of its two new iPhone models earlier this month. Both the less-expensive 5C and the higher-end 5S are intended to replace last year's iPhone 5, which has been discontinued. The 5C is the only device up for preorder, with Apple planning to begin sales of the 5S model at 12:01 a.m. PT on Friday, Sept. 20, as well as through its carrier partners. Via 9to5Mac.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
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