Saturday, 23 February 2013

Sony's Playstation 4

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/technology/gaming/gaming-news/with-playstation-4-sony-offers-gamers-hope-of-a-new-world/article8908652/

Sony's new gaming console, the Playstation 4, came out yesterday and from what was released it looks like it could be a hit. As is typical with an updated console the graphics on the screen and the performance under the hood will be pumped up past the specs of their competitors. But not only does the PS4 come with some fancy new hardware but with some innovative new software. They created a 3D modeling program that integrates their PS move handset into the PS4 allowing them to create 3D models and alter others designs. They have also jumped onto the sharing and connectivity bandwagon by adding a new share button onto their controller that allows the user to share their game's progress with friends on Facebook, Twitter, other PS4 users and more. This new technology allows game creators more freedom to make bigger, better games.

In my opinion the new PS4 sounds like it will be worth it but rumors say that it could cost up to $600. Most of their eager consumers can not or will not pay this kind of price for it. The technology may be new and innovative and the software may look fun and engaging but the price is not worth is for things that the consumer has not tested yet. Sony may have to lower the price or throw in a few more features ti make the launch a success.

Wednesday, 13 February 2013

Australia grills Apple and other technology titans over price.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-investor/australia-to-grill-apple-others-on-pricing/article8435133/

The Australian Government is summoning Apple, Microsoft, and Adobe due to their high priced product despite the strong Aussie dollar. The Apple executives are to meet in front of parliamentary comitee in Canberra on March 22. Things that led to the rise in concern are prices such as: A 16GB WiFi iPad costing $40 more in Australia relative to the US, and Microsoft's latest version of Microsoft office costing $20 more in Australia. The companies blamed each other when asked why they refused to appear before, saying that they won't show if the others don't. Apple has been notorious for using "a cloak of invisibility" while avoiding scrutiny of operations."Ask anyone hwo has sought answers from them about their Australian operations and you will hear a common theme. They will not talk". (Ed Rusic, MP).

I feel that with all the legal action that Apple has taken against other companies it is a bit ironic that they should come under fire and that they are so reluctant to appear in front of the officials. I also feel that since the Australian dollar is very strong right now, the overpricing of non-manufactured product, such as Microsoft's Office and Adobe's programs, is absurd. Products like that have no manufacturing costs and virtually zero shipping costs because it is done online mostly.