GeekWire Podcast: Microsoft’s pricey Duo; Amazon’s clumsy podcast news; REI drops HQ

Usa science newsNo Comments

Here’s what we’re talking about on the GeekWire Podcast this week. We finally got the price and date for Surface Duo, Microsoft’s new dual-screen Android device (don’t call it a phone!). It launches on Sept. 10 and at a price — $1,399 — that may put it out of the reach of many. Todd has ordered one but … who else will be buying? And what is Microsoft up to with this device? Amazon announced they’ll begin offering third party podcasts on their Amazon Music and Audible services, but the way they did it, and a non-disparagement clause they later retracted, raised some eyebrows. And Seattle-based outdoor retailer REI was… Read More

Continue Reading

Mozilla and Google reportedly renew Firefox search agreement

Usa science newsNo Comments

Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge Mozilla and Google have extended their arrangement to keep Google the default search engine within the Firefox browser until at least 2023, ZDNet reported. The companies have not formally announced the deal, which ZDNet estimates is worth between $400 and $450 million per year, but are expected to announce it later this fall. The current arrangement was due to expire at the end of 2020. The move comes as Mozilla just announced plans to lay off 250 employees, representing about a quarter of its workforce. Mozilla CEO Mitchell Baker wrote in a blog post that the coronavirus pandemic had “significantly impacted our revenue.”… Read More

Continue Reading

3 companies helping US airports manage crowds, promote social distancing, and find parking for unused rental cars as travel picks up

Usa science newsNo Comments

Safety is a growing concern as the number of people at airports steadily rises: In early August, more than 700,000 travelers passed through TSA, a significant increase from 87,000 people in April. Airports are implementing some low-tech safety measures, like protective plastic screens and new signage, to mitigate health risks and manage crowds. Additionally, airports are partnering with companies like StickerYou, QLess, and WhereiPark to create decals and signage, manage large security lines to protect their employees, and handle parking for unused rental fleets. Visit Business Insider’s homepage for more stories. How do you keep yourself safe while traveling these days? Travelers on social media report boarding planes with masks,… Read More

Continue Reading