Gadget and Techno Updates
Posts tagged networking
Verizon revamps FiOS TV with DVR networking, customization
Apr 14th
Verizon on Thursday revealed an updated FiOS TV service, going as far as to call it next-generation. There are 25 changes in the Interactive Media Guide, most of which were done based on feedback from existing subscribers. These changes are said to bring more customization options, easier navigation, more search options and optimized 3D tech.
A DVR Chaptering function will let users go to a specific portion of a recorded program through on-screen thumbnails that are spread out in 10-minute increments. Those with multi-room DVRs can turn then into hubs, letting other DVRs or HD set-tops be used to access More >
Virgin Mobile to have $40 true unlimited data plan
Aug 23rd
Virgin Mobile
Virgin Mobile this weekend prematurely confirmed a major revamp of its Broadband2Go data plans that could see a return to real unlimited data. Rather than the four plans offered today, it would simplify to just a $40 unlimited monthly plan and a $10, 100MB 10-day plan. IntoMobile has added through a leaked memo that the changes will go live on August 24.
Both MiFi routers and modems should work with the cap-free access.
The switch would escalate the competition among carriers for mobile data. Clear and Virgin’s US parent Sprint offer unlimited Internet, but only for their still-rare WiMAX services. On More >
Boxee Box delayed to November
Jun 12th
Boxee tonight told customers that it was delaying the Boxee Box to November. It had planned to ship the phone by the end of the spring but discovered that it was “overly ambitious.” Company founder Avner Ronen stressed that the timeframe was a firm one set by D-Link and that it would lead to a greater amount of polish.
“Our vision is to make the Boxee experience on a set top box as good as (and where we can, better than) the one you already know on a PC,” Ronen said. “The goal is to play HD videos from the web More >
Telus adds lone, scaling iPad 3G data plan
May 29th
In an unusual weekend update, Telus on Saturday rolled out its 3G data option for the iPad. It contrasts sharply against other Canadian carriers with just one plan; the choice provides 500MB of data for $20 per month, but effectively becomes unlimited as Telus caps the overage fees to $30, for a maximum of $50. It comes without a contract requirement and costs 5 cents for each extra megabyte past the regular cap.
ipad 3G
The new plan is potentially the most expensive but also provides much more bandwidth, as it provides double the minimum bandwidth of the $15 Bell and Rogers More >
Some apps blocked, throttled on 3G iPad
May 1st
Certain iPad apps are dramatically scaling back or even blocking their video when on the 3G-ready iPad, new owners have been discovering today. The YouTube app significantly degrades the quality of video; ABC’s TV viewer doesn’t allow video at all unless it’s on Wi-Fi. Only a few apps, such as Netflix, appear to work normally.
While at first it was suspected that AT&T had demanded the limits itself, an AT&T representative tonight denied the carrier’s involvement. Subsequent investigations, however, have revealed that the policies are so far self-imposed. ABC is allegedly prevented from streaming over 3G due to rights issues, for More >