Geekly Update - 05 July 2012

The AskBobRankin Geekly Update

At the Google I/O conference Wednesday, Google showed off their wireless Glasses prototype that can be compared to a smartphone with the screen's interface controlled by a tiny touchpad. Equipped with a processor, battery, camera and miniature display, users can surf the net, capture images as seen by the wearer and utilize GPS mapping.

"This could bring disco back..." Google also introduced the $299.00 media streaming sphere Nexus Q that is controllable by an Android device. At a size of 4.6" in diameter, it connects with Google music and its LED light ring moves to the beat when in operation.

Samsung is predicting that it will reach the 10 million mark for Galaxy S III smartphones sold, by the end of July.

"If you can afford the Cadillac, you can afford the gas." Orbitz has discovered that many Mac users will spend 30% more on a hotel stay than those with PCs and are 40% more likely to book a 4 or 5-star hotel.

"Dumb and dumber..." A Docmail survey found that one out of three Brits hasn't hand written anything in the last six months and four out of ten depend on predictive text for spelling.

uWhisp is a handy new plug-in for Facebook and Twitter that lets you record and send a voice message, instead of replying with boring old text.

Late last week, Nintendo announced the impending arrival of 3DS XL to the U.S. on August 19 with a 90% larger screen, longer lasting battery and included 4GB SD card. Available in two color combinations, look for a price of $199 and release of a new Super Mario game on the same day.

Podcasts is a free standalone app from Apple designed for iOS devices with version 5.1 or later. Users can browse, select, stream or download podcasts and sync with iTunes on Mac or PC.

Almost everyone is aware by now that Facebook has begun to change primary email addresses for its users during the past year but as it spreads to all without permission, many of its users feel blindsided. Although you cannot delete it, you can opt to keep it private and mutter under your breath in rebellious anger.

"Apple's most competitive product? Lawsuits..." U.S. District Judge Lucy Koh ordered Samsung to stop sales of the Galaxy 10.1 tablet while considering if the company illegally copied the iPad's design.