Here’s today’s Technology News Update, a look at a few of the news reports, previews, reviews and tech gossip that are making waves today, including news from Apple, CNET, Google and Motorola:
According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, Apple may have to rely on competitor Samsung to supply the Retina Display in the new version of the iPad Mini, scheduled for release sometime in Q4. The report, along with other rumors, indicates that Apple intended to source the screens through LG and Sharp as part of their ongoing attempt to sever their reliance on Samsung, a competitor, as a supplier of parts for their flagship products. In fact, it had already been rumored that supply troubles were likely to compel Apple to release the new iPad Mini without a retina display. However, the recent release of Google’s Nexus 7 with a display arguably better than the retina display found on the regular iPad may have forced Apple’s hand.
CNET News is reporting that the USB 3.0 Promotion Group (yes, it turns out there is such a thing, and they’re actually kind of important) has finalized the specs on USB 3.1, which will allow USB transfers at speeds greater than 10 gigabits per second, more than double the 3.0 standard. However, it is not believed that any USB 3.1 enabled devices will be available before 2014.
Google has inked a deal with Hulu to include the streaming television company’s products on the new Google Chromecast. The last major service not available on the Chromecast, HBO GO, is reportedly in negotiations with Google and expects to be included with the service soon. Once the device is regularly available, industry experts believe that the Chromecast will fundamentally change the nature of streaming video content, and for only $35.
Today is the much-hyped release of Motorola’s Moto X smartphone, which operates on Google’s Android OS (makes sense considering Motorola is owned by Google). You can read about coverage of the release here, here, here, here, and here.