I must say, without sounding like a braggart, I saw the anti-trust, price fixing possibilities years ago when Apple and 6 book publishers got together to raise prices and force Amazon to accept the so-called agency model…thereby ending the Amazon low prices on many of the best selling books. It was either accept or the book publishers would no longer sell to them.
It was so obviously illegal that a blind man could see it. I just wondered at the time if the Justice Department would have the courage to go after this group…and, by God, they did!
The violations of federal laws were so blatant that all 6 publishers settled out of court. Only Apple said they weren’t guilty and dared the US to take them to trial. They did and Apple lost. There will be a separate trial to determine cash damages. Apple will also appeal.
Apple’s arrogance was originally orchestrated by Steve Jobs. His e-mails and secret meetings of all the participants in restaurants and hotels were obvious violations of the law. Where the heck were their attorneys? Can’t do that in America.
I like Apple…obviously as I own 3 of their products, but I am absolutely delighted with this verdict. Anyone who sets out to destroy competition and fix prices deserves to be found guilty.
Meanwhile in Redmond, Steve Ballmer finally announced the long-awaited corporate reorganization of Microsoft. Frankly, it is a very boring story, but I include it here for those who might be interested (story #2). And before you ask, Ballmer is still CEO.
But the rest of this edition has got some good tips and stories as well as some excellent free products. So don’t just sit there…start reading! -JRC
Apple found guilty of conspiring to fix e-books prices
Apple orchestrated a conspiracy to cut out e-book competition and raise prices, the judge says in her ruling, handing the U.S. government a big win and handing Apple a guilty verdict it said could have chilling effect of media deals.
Microsoft Announces Sweeping Reorg
As expected, Microsoft on Thursday announced a sweeping reorganization of its business units, consolidating a fairly complex corporate structure into just three major business groups that mimic its new direction as a supplier of devices and services.
Google to Microsoft: Patch faster, you slowpokes
Google's researchers have become a major force in uncovering Microsoft's vulnerabilities -- not always to Microsoft's liking
Chrome 28 released, new rich notifications for web apps and extensions
Google has released the latest version of its Chrome browser, adding support for richer notifications for apps and extensions for Windows and the new Blink rendering engine.
The New Firefox Is Awesome—But That Won't Make It Relevant Again
After years of lackluster performance, the Firefox browser is back. Its latest incarnation—version 22, for those counting at home—is a speedy desktop browser featuring some fancy future-forward tech. PS: I disagree.
Got that New Phone Itch? Jump, Says T-Mobile
The self-proclaimed "uncarrier" announced a new program at a New York event Wednesday that lets people upgrade their phones as often as twice a year.
A Better Google Maps App for Apple and Android Devices
This new, improved Maps app works identically on both major flavors of phone and tablet. You know what? I don’t care how much you distrust Google and its motives. This is crazy good software, some of the best work Google has ever done.
Windows 7: The Top 10 Hidden Features
Even though Windows 7 has been out for quite a while, we're betting that there are some great features you don't know about. Here are 10 of our favorites.
Get Organized: How to Set Up a Family Computer
Make sure everyone in your family is getting what they need from the household computer by managing user accounts, enabling parental controls, and setting up remote access.
Free Utility Check Apps That Need Updating.
Patch My PC is a utility that scans your computer for dozens of well-known programs, both free and commercial, and alerts you if they need updating. It'll even apply the updates for you, if you wish.
Dashlane is a robust password manager with a gorgeous interface
With its simple interface and myriad of features, Dashlane is a powerful password manager anyone should consider. Also works on Android and iOS.
Best Free Online Books For Kindle
As of June 30, 2013, there are 70 sites listed that monitor Amazon for limited time free ebook offerings as well as 65 sites that offer Kindle compatible ebooks of their own. There are also several links and tips on finding the many free ebook offerings from Amazon.
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