update

Exploring expert guidance through Glass

CNET Update hits the bullseye:

In this special edition of CNET Update, I put Google Glass to the test as a coaching tool. Since I need to learn archery to become a proper heroine (e.g. Katniss, Merida, Lara), I wanted to try an archery coaching session through a Google+ Hangout.

I reached out to CoachUp.com to find a coach that was willing to go on this tech adventure with me. CoachUp connected me with M.J. Rogers, an archery coach in South Dakota who has worked with Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

I traveled to Pro Line Archery Lanes … Read more

Apple issues Thunderbolt Firmware Update 1.2 for Mac systems

Apple has released a firmware update for the Thunderbolt controllers in its Mac systems, which should address problems with using Target Disk Mode to mount a Mac's internal drive on another system as an external drive. Target Disk Mode is commonly used for troubleshooting hard-drive function, or when migrating data to a new Mac.

The update is a 1.22MB download that can be obtained by running the Software Update service in OS X (in the Apple menu), or by downloading it from Apple's Support Downloads Web site and applying it manually.

Though small, the update contains firmware … Read more

LinkedIn pushes news with Channels

CNET Update is big on Mars:

In this edition of Update:

- LinkedIn is pushing personalized business news to users with Channels on LinkedIn Today. The professional social network has been busy lately with the acquisition of Pulse and adding the ability to put images and video in profiles.

- Windows 8 users could see the Start button again someday, according to a Windows executive.

- Ford's Sync system now works with the Amazon Cloud Player iOS app, so iPhone owners can stream music from their Amazon cloud storage.

- If you can't go to Mars, at least … Read more

Google going to revamp its Maps interface at I/O?

Word has it that Google Maps may be doing a substantial revamp to its interface. According to Google Operating System, a site that gives unofficial news and tips about Google, the Web giant is said to be rolling out an update that takes away sidebars and navigational buttons and concentrates more on one big interactive map.

The unofficial news site posted a pair of maps on Tuesday that it says show what the overhaul will look like. Apparently, what is now displayed in the Google Maps sidebar will be shown on the top of a full-screen map and there will … Read more

Debate continues over Internet sales tax bill

CNET Update drops it like it's hot:

In this edition of Update:

- Learn how the Internet sales tax bill could change online shopping and how it impacts businesses.

- Master the art of creating a strong password that's easy to remember.

- Get clues on what the next Xbox can do -- and why it might not require a constant Web connection.

- Discover your inner Dogg with the Snoopify photo-editing app, which taps into the latest app-payment trend.

CNET Update delivers the tech news you need in under three minutes. Watch Bridget Carey every afternoon for … Read more

Facebook's iOS Messenger app gets all sticky

Ever had the need to show what you're feeling on Facebook Messenger with an image of a cute pink critter holding a heart-shaped pillow? Well, you're in luck.

The social network updated its iOS Messenger app on Monday with a grab bag of stickers. For those people unfamiliar with stickers, they're basically emoticons that users can tack onto messages for added sentiment, gusto, or laughs. Facebook will be rolling out the stickers on its iOS Messenger app over the next few weeks; Facebook Messenger for Android already has the stickers.

Currently, Facebook's stickers are free, but … Read more

Adobe requires monthly payments for Photoshop

CNET Update subscribes:

In this edition of Update:

- Welcome to the software subscription era. Adobe is moving its creative software, including Photoshop, to a subscription-only model. Read up on the latest upgrades to see if you want to go the monthly-payment route.

- YouTube also is joining the subscription movement. YouTube has been talking about offering some premium channels for $2 a month, and reports say it could launch this week.

- Fitness gadgets are a growing trend, and the latest device to hit the market -- the Fitbit Flex wristband -- is better than most. Read our full review … Read more

Nook becomes a more tempting tablet

CNET Update gives the Nook a second look:

In this edition of Update:

- The Nook gets more attractive with full access to the Google Play store. (Put a Kindle app on a Nook? Madness!)

- Acer gets creative with its latest Windows 8 laptop, the Acer Aspire R7. (Touchpad above the keyboard? More madness!)

- The first solar-powered aircraft begins its long journey across the U.S.

- Learn to add an event to your Google calendar from inside an e-mail.

- Hotmail users must face the music and move on to Outlook.com.

- Staples puts 3D printing … Read more

Avast targets Facebook and VPN

Yesterday, Avast Software made news with its acquisition of privacy company Secure.Me, a small developer best known for its Facebook apps of the same name. Secure.Me protects users' Facebook accounts, monitoring all activity and photos, detecting malware links, and identifying content that is questionable or unsuitable for children.

Today, Avast makes news again with a minor update to its complete suite of Windows security applications--Avast Free Antivirus; Avast Pro Antivirus, Avast Internet Security, and the full monty, Avast Premier.

Avast version 8.0.1488.286 fixes some bugs in the interface, adds a progress bar to the … Read more