Updates On Technology, Entertainment and Sports

Imperial researcher wins Institution of Engineering and Technology's top honour

2014-10-11T12:55:00.001+02:00

Professor Chris Toumazou, Regius Professor of Engineering, has been awarded the IET’s 2014 Faraday Medal for his pioneering work in inventing semiconductor DNA sequencing with the ability to revolutionise healthcare and save lives. Professor Toumazou ‘s technology uses small silicon microchips to identify genetic mutations that determine a person’s predisposition to certain hereditary diseases. The chips can provide medical diagnosis in just a few hours rather than weeks, analysing data on the spot using a portable, low power device. The technology represents a great stride forward in medicine as it shifts emphasis from treating illnesses to preventing and diagnosing them in a targeted manner. In June this year, Professor Toumazou’s technology was also recognised by the European Patent Office when he was awarded the prestigious 2014 European Inventor of the Year Award for Research. Commenting on the award, Professor Toumazou, from the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, said: “I am very thankful to the Institution for considering my work for this prestigious award. Being chosen as the 2014 winner is a true honour. Throughout my entire career I have worked to bring electronic inventions to healthcare markets where there is a critical and urgent need. For me, the ability to use semiconductor sequencing to provide a medical diagnosis in just a few hours that once took days is a crucial step in saving the lives of patients. This is particularly significant for the treatment of sepsis – a whole body inflammation - where every minute matters.” Professor Jeff Magee, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, said: “This has been a fantastic year for Chris who has already been recognised as Inventor of the Year in the research category by the European Patent Office. I want to extend my warmest congratulations to Chris on this next accolade, which he richly deserves. Chris’ technology could potentially save lives and it also could make the UK a market leader in personalised healthcare.” Professor Toumazou’s invention could make DNA testing more economical for clinics and hospitals that once had to spend upwards of half a million US dollars on conventional DNA-sequencing machines. The technology also has economic benefits for the British economy. The global market potential for DNA sequencing is huge. By 2016, it is expected to be worth US $6.6 billion and grow by 17.5% annually. The emergence of breakthrough technologies such as Professor Toumazou’s cost-efficient application for testing DNA could potentially help the UK to be a leader in this field. Professor Toumazou has established the DNA Electronics (DNAe) company to market its semiconductor DNA sequencing technology for healthcare applications. DNAe’s priority focus is on infectious disease diagnostics and the company’s first test will be a DNA diagnostic for use in the management of Sepsis. Sepsis is a common and potentially life-threatening condition triggered by an infection. The condition can produce widespread inflammation, swelling and blood clotting, which can lead to a significant decrease in blood pressure. As a result blood supply to vital organs such as the brain, heart and kidneys is reduced. m Sepsis, more than from lung cancer, and time is a critical factor in survival. Professor Toumazou’s invention will enable clinicians to intervene before Sepsis sets in to diagnose rapidly and accurately what infection a patient has and to help select the antibiotic that will work to treat the disease. Professor Toumazou has also been involved as Chief Scientific Advisor in the creation of the world’s first DNA test retail store in London called Geneu. Customers can have their skin genes analysed within 30 minutes and bespoke anti-ageing serums are created for them based on their results. Professor Toumazou received a degree in electrical engineering at Imperial. He began his career developing energy-efficient microchips for mobile phones. At the age of 33, he became Imperial’s youngest ever professor, where he focused on ways of combining electrical engineering and microchip technology with biomedicine - an achievement all the more remarkable for someone who left school at 16 with no qualifications. Toumazou’s decision to delve into the world of genetic disorders came about after his son Marcus was diagnosed with a rare hereditary form of kidney disease. He aimed for a technology that would facilitate early detection, helping medicine go from healing illnesses to preventing them. Professor Toumazou will be presented with this year’s Faraday medal at an awards ceremony on 19 November.

Chelsea Crowned Europa Champions.

2013-05-16T00:55:00.001+02:00

The current European league champions, Chelsea has added the Europa Cup to their accolades after they failed to go through the group stage. But it seems Like a blessing in disguise because after been knocked out of the champions league,they secured a spot in the Europa cup competition and fought through to the finals and as well, added the trophy to their existing trophies..

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Chelsea get Outplayed

2013-03-30T19:24:00.001+01:00

Chelsea's top four credentials is in doubt as they succumb to a 2-1 defeat to Southampton. With a gruelling week ahead Rafa Benitez rested a number of key men for the clash, Eden Hazard, David Luiz and Ashley Cole all made way, while Juan Mata (illness) and Gary Cahill (knee) were unavailable. Therefore the likes of Ryan Bertrand, Terry, Marko Marin and Victor Moses started. Saints, meanwhile, were without injured Adam Lallana but young left back and reported Blues target Luke Shaw recovered on time. Saints deservedly went ahead through Jay Rodriguez after a good start to the match, but were pulled back level when John Terry headed home. However a Rickie Lambert free-kick restored the hosts' lead before half- time and they held on for another top-half scalp after the break.Fernando Torres thought he had equalised just moments later when he had the ball in the net after breaking free of Jos Hooiveld, however he was penalised for handling in the build up and it was ruled out. with Saints able to hold on to a vital victory in their push for survival - also denting Chelsea's hopes of Champions League football next season.

Milan's Train Grind To A Halt

2013-03-13T06:44:00.000+01:00

After the first Leg encounter between Ac Milan and Barcelona at San Siro, which saw the home side cruise to a 2-nil win,their cruising train into the quarter final came to a halt at the Camp Nou.
The Italian side went to their counterparts home ground and were treated to a defeat. A 4-nil win to Barcelona was recorded as two early goals from Lionel Messi in the first half cancelled out the 2 goal deficit they has earlier suffered.

The Italian side looked on to grab a goal from Niang, but the striker could only watch his effort hit the post. Ten minutes into the second half, David Villa found the back of the net for the Blaugrana sides to give them a lead. And then a late counter attack sealed the win with goal from Jodi Alba. The Italians failed to make their 2 goal lead count and could only watch as their ticket to the quarter final slip away from them.
It was a night full of surprises...
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Barcelona vs Milan

2013-03-12T00:37:00.001+01:00

Today has been long awaited by so many fans and it is finally here. The return leg of thr UEFA Champions league Fixture between the Catalans and the Italians.
Ac Milan will face Barcelona in the return leg of the fixture after beating them back at their home soil 2-0. Ac Milan will look forward to make use of their 2-0 win advantage at the Camp Nou and likewise, Barcelona will also look forward to make use of their home advantage to avert the 2goal deficit and look forward to progress into the Quarter final of the competition.

Galliani, Ac Milan's Vice President has stated that his side will go to Spain and play their best irrespective of having an upper hand in the game. He also stated that Barcelona is the best team not withstanding that they have experienced a drop in form. The kick off is scheduled at 20:45 CET.
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Derby Della Madonna Ends With Points Even

2013-02-25T06:16:00.000+01:00

The Derby Della Madonna also known as the Milan Derby ended with both teams (Intermilan and Acmilan) sharing the points even.
Goal from Stephen El Sharaawy In the first half placed Milan in the driving seat and would have sealed the game if not for wasteful chances from Striker Mario Balotelli. But inter had to ensure they had a share in the game as Schelotto headed in the equalizer to end the game in a 1-1 draw.
This was the first time the Derby ended in a draw since 2004.
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The Best Club Crash To The Most Successful Club

2013-02-21T10:51:00.000+01:00

The UEFA champions league was thrilled as the best club, Barcelona crashed to the most successful club Ac Milan.
The encounter between the two clubs at the San Siro stadium ended in a 2-nil win as goals from K.P Boateng and Sulley Muntari at the second half enabled the Italian giants seal the game.
Although Barcelona played a great football but all their attempt hit the Italian defence. Acmilan displayed a great confidence in the match with ensured them the win at home.
Ac Milan will be travelling to the Spanish side on March 12 for the second leg and hope to build on their 2-0 win from yesterday's (20th Feb.2013) encounter.
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Fallen Iroko in Nigerian Movie Industry

2013-02-20T19:56:00.000+01:00

It has Been a sad news to the Nigerian movie industry as they have lost one of their backbone actor, Mr Justus Esiri. He has featured in major movies produced in Nigeria,taking roles like: King,chief,highpriest... He left this world to eternal glory on the 19th February,2013. Left to mourn him are family,friends,well-wishers,fans.

We love you Mr Esiri, but God loves you most. Goodnight.
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Fw: blog post

2013-02-16T08:56:00.000+01:00

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone provided by Airtel Nigeria.

From: Col Onyebuche <col.buche02@gmail.com>

Date: Sat, 16 Feb 2013 08:48:25 +0100

To: <buche@airtelng.blackberry.com>

Subject: blog post

It is with heavy heart that I bring you this news. The popular Nigerian female musician Goldie also known as Nigerian Queen gaga kicked the bucket on the 14th February,2013 on a Valentine's day. Goldie, 31,died on Thursday after she complained of a severe headache shortly after she arrived Nigeria from USA were she went to witness the Grammy Award. She was rushed to her official hospital were she was pronounced dead by the doctor shortly aftre arrival.left to mourn her are families,friends well-wishers fans..etc. We wish her a Good journey as she returns back to the creator. REST IN PEACE GOLDIE.! We all miss you.

Nigeria's Queen Gaga now late

2013-02-16T07:59:00.001+01:00

2012: AN OVERVIEW.

2012-12-31T18:51:00.002+01:00

Good evening,as we are getting ready in preparation for the coming year 2013 let's take a brief overview of the events (remembered & non-remembered). The year 2012 was encapsulated with a lot of events both ugly and cherishable ones. To start with the 2012 new year gift presented to Nigerians by the dear president Dr.Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Which was the removal of fuel subsidy which led to series of protest and nationwide strike. Also,death toll has risen all over the world starting from bokoharam bombings in Nigeria,plane crashes,earthquakes,the superstorm Sandy that rocked the U.S tsunamis,to mention but a few. Irrespective of these ugly events that curled up its head,there has also been "worth-remembering" events that has taken place so far. But it seems these ugly incidents have overshadowed the good ones. But nevertheless,let's not forget that irrespective of these sceneries:good and bad,God has been watching over us. So let's ernestly pray that as we are stepping out of 2012 and stepping into 2013,let's put God first and try to Perfect our imperfections.. God be with you all and a Happy 2013..! Happy New Year..!

Chelsea Bite Back

2012-11-01T14:22:00.001+01:00

Following the weekend clash between the European Champions Chelsea and the Premier League giants

Manchester United which saw Chelsea not only lose at home but also end their undefeated league run. But

irrespective of the 2-3 loss at their home ground Stamford Bridge they refused to get demoralized and

hoped to get their pound of flesh back as they clashed again on Wednesday's Carling cup fixture which saw

them edge over Manchester United in a 5-4 win after been trailing 2-1 within the first 45 minutes. It seems a

repetition of the weekend event was set to take place again when Manchester was leading them 3-2 but

smart changes from trainer Di Matteo made the turning point bringing in the likes of Edin Hazard and

promising youngster Oscar.

Chelsea has also lodged a formal complaint on Referee Clattenburg over the racial word used on their

Midfielder John Mikel Obi. The Management said they may drop the case of Juan Mata but will follow the

Mikel case to the end

Bendtner To Seeks To Make Juventus A Permanent Move

2012-10-16T12:07:00.000+02:00

Nicklas Bendtner is detemined he can prove to Juventus coaches Antonio Conte and Angelo Alessio that he is deserving of a place in his starting lineup after finding himself on the fringes since his move to Turin.

The Dane, who has only made one appearance off the bench during his loan from Arsenal that extends until the end of the season, told Tuttosport, "I do not regret choosing Juventus, it was an easy transition to make and everyone at the club has made me feel welcome. I am very happy in Turin, it is a wonderful and ambivalent city.

"It's my wish to remain here after my loan finishes, but I must first prove myself, and to do that I need to play."

Bendtner will be looking to score against Italy to reignite Denmark's World Cup qualifying campaign, and after he netted in his country's 1-1 draw with Bulgaria, Alessio, who had his ban for match-fixing reduced to the point that he has served his time, may be faced with a dilemma of whether to select the in-form striker to face Napoli after the international break.

Samsung, ASUS Tablet.At&T Announces windows 8 Availability

2012-10-09T14:41:00.000+02:00

AT&T announced the future availability of two Windows 8 tablets from ASUS (2357) and Samsung (005930). The nation’s second largest wireless carrier will offer the VivoTab RT and ATIV Smart PC to customers this holiday season. The VivoTab RT from ASUS is equipped with a quad-core Tegra 3 processor, Windows RT, 4G LTE connectivity, 32GB of internal storage and features a 10.1-inch Super IPS display with ASUS TruVivid technology for a better viewing experience. Samsung’s 11.6-inch HD ATIV Smart PC includes a dual-core Intel Clover Trail processor clocked at 1.5GHz, Windows 8, 64GB of internal storage and can be connected to a detachable keyboard dock. As an added bonus, the VivoTab RT comes preloaded with Office Home and Student 2013 RT Preview Edition, while the ATIV Smart PC includes a trial of Office 2013. Pricing information was not disclosed. AT&T’s press release follows below.

AT&T Debuts Windows 8 Tablets Available for Holiday Shopping Season
New Tablets from ASUS and Samsung Deliver Windows 8

AT&T* today announced a set of new tablets designed for Windows 8; giving customers the convenience of a tablet with productivity of a PC. For the 2012 holiday shopping season, AT&T will be the only U.S. carrier to offer these new tablets from ASUS and Samsung to their customers.
ASUS VivoTab™ RT

ASUS VivoTab™ RT, the first quad-core Windows RT 4G LTE tablet, is an ultra-thin and light tablet designed as the ideal mobile entertainment, productivity and gaming platform with stand-out battery life. The VivoTab™ RT features a 10.1” multi-touch Super IPS display with ASUS TruVivid technology that offers a remarkably vivid and brilliant viewing experience of photos, books, videos, games, applications and more. The VivoTab™ RT is equipped with 32 GB of storage and NVIDIA’s next-generation quad-core Tegra® 3 TE processor. This 4G LTE capable tablet offers enhanced productivity tools for work or home and comes with Microsoft Office Home and Student 2013 RT Preview Edition.

Samsung ATIV Smart PC

Samsung ATIV Smart PC offers customers the blend of PC capability with the convenient tablet form factor. With a detachable keyboard-docking system users easily switch between a clamshell notebook PC and a tablet PC. The powerful ATIV Smart PC allows users can work or stay entertained while on the go with the 11.6” HD PLS display, Intel Clover Trail 1.5 GHz dual core processor and 64GB internal storage memory. ATIV Smart PC comes installed with Windows 8, and preloaded with a trial version of Microsoft Office 2013 for productivity apps, including Microsoft Word, Excel & PowerPoint.
“AT&T is a leader in connected devices, and we are thrilled the Windows 8 tablets will be available on the nation’s largest 4G network,” said Chris Penrose, senior vice president, AT&T Emerging Devices. “With Windows 8, both tablets give customers an optimized touch interface, instant live tile updates and PC capabilities. For as low as $10 per month, customers can connect their Windows 8 4G LTE tablets with AT&T’s new Mobile Share plans.”
AT&T customers have access to the nation’s largest 4G network, covering 275 million people. AT&T has two 4G networks that work together for customers, LTE and HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul. That means AT&T customers are able to enjoy a widespread, ultra-fast and consistent 4G experience on their compatible device as they move in and out of LTE areas.** With other carriers, when you travel outside of their LTE coverage area, you may be on a much slower 3G network.
Customers purchasing Windows 8 tablets from AT&T have more options in choosing the plan that’s right for them and their mobile devices. With new AT&T Mobile Share plans, new and existing customers can share a single bucket of data across smartphones, tablets, and other compatible devices. AT&T Mobile Share allows customers to build a plan to fit their devices and usage. Customers can select one of the new shared data plans or choose one of AT&T’s existing individual or family plans.

Sexiest Woman Alive-By Esquire Magazine

2012-10-08T18:33:00.001+02:00

The 2012 Esquire Sexiest Woman Alive is Mila Kunis. The "Ted" star, who is dating Ashton Kutcher, is following in the footsteps of Minka Kelly and Rihanna, both who received the honors in the past.
Monday, EOnline posted a weekend wrap-up on its site reporting, among other things, the milestone in the "Black Swan" star's career.
The "Sexiest Woman Alive" for Esquire magazine dons only a pair of skintight leather jeans and a doe-eyed look on the November cover.
Mila Kunis, on the inside, keeps the barely-there theme going.
Kelly is suddenly on the Hollywood radar for 2012. The "Ted" actress has a mix of movie jobs lined up for 2013 and it doesn't hurt that she is romantically involved with Ashton Kutcher. That gossip topic is enough to keep her relevant for a while.
Mila Kunis, despite the Esquire magazine title, appears to be down-to-earth and has not allowed her celebrity to change who she really is on the inside.

Sexiest Woman Alive-By Esquire Magazine

2012-10-08T18:30:00.001+02:00

Ronaldo Vs Messi

2012-10-08T11:41:00.002+02:00

Sunday evening's showdown at Camp Nou in La Liga, which ended in a pulsating 2-2 draw, saw Messi and Ronaldo face off for the third time this season. Who came out on top in the personal duel?

Here's a reminder of how the two players are scored:

If there is little to separate the two players in a round they will be scored 10-10. A narrow win in a round, where there are no goals in the match involving the pair, will produce a 10-9. If Messi scores a goal in a round, and Ronaldo doesn’t, the Argentine will win that round 10-8. If Messi scores twice, and Ronaldo doesn’t, he will win 10-7.

The same system is used for assists and for winning a penalty. So if in a round, Ronaldo creates a goal and wins a penalty (without taking the penalty), while Messi does nothing of note, then Ronaldo wins that round 10-7.

A yellow card results in a one-point deduction. A dive in the penalty area or just outside that is penalised by the referee will lose a player a point too.

At least one of the two players will always be awarded a 10 for a round unless both get booked in the same round, which will result in a 9-9. Should one of the two players be sent off, then it will result in a Knockout victory for the other player providing he is not also red carded later in the match.

Exclusive: ‘Twilight: Breaking Dawn – Part 2′ soundtrack song list revealed

2012-10-05T17:33:00.002+02:00

Breaking Dawn - Part 2" is the last movie of "The Twilight Saga," which also means there is one final soundtrack album left as well. So for a series known for its music, obviously the last release is going to be big. And who is bigger than Green Day?
Summit Entertainment along with Chop Shop Records and Atlantic Records are releasing the track list for the soundtrack album for "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 2". [You can find it officially on Yahoo! Movies]. And Green Day, the five-time Grammy Award-winning punk trio, are contributing a song to the series for the first time.

[Find showtimes & tickets for 'The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 2']

So how did Green Day get involved in the hugely popular vampire romance? Mike Dirnt, bassist for the band, told Yahoo!, "When we were asked to be part of the 'Twilight: Breaking Dawn - Part 2' soundtrack, we readily agreed because the films are an insane cultural phenomenon, and we have always been impressed with the way the 'Twilight' soundtracks are so carefully curated."
While you wouldn't necessarily think of the guys in the band being "Twi-hards," lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong did tell Spinner.com in 2009 that if their Broadway show "American Idiot" were to be adapted into a movie, he'd want Edward Cullen himself, Robert Pattinson, to play the lead. Armstrong said, "He's a good actor. There's still more to come with that kid."
Who else is on the album? Here's the complete track list:

1. Where I Come From — Passion Pit
2. Bittersweet — Ellie Goulding
3. The Forgotten — Green Day
4. Fire In The Water — Feist
5. Everything And Nothing — The Boom Circuits
6. The Antidote — St. Vincent
7. Speak Up — POP ETC
8. Heart of Stone — Iko
9. Cover Your Tracks — A Boy and His Kite
10. Ghosts — James Vincent McMorrow
11. All I've Ever Needed — Paul McDonald & Nikki Reed
12. New For You — Reeve Carney
13. A Thousand Years (Part Two) - Christina Perri
14. Plus Que Ma Prope Vie — Carter Burwell

Among the tracks, it's worth noting that Ellie Goulding's track is produced for the first time by Skrillex -- her off-stage boyfriend. And for more real-life romance, Paul McDonald collaborates with his wife Nikki Reed, aka Rosalie Hale from the movies, for the song "All I've Ever Needed."The soundtrack also marks the return of Christina Perri, who follows up her love theme from "Breaking Dawn - Part 1" with the appropriately named "A Thousand Years (Part Two)." Perri, who is such a Twi-hard she has the word "Bitten" tattooed on her wrist in the same font used on the book covers, told Yahoo! Movies, "I am so honored and excited to be involved again in this final film and soundtrack." She also said she's "super happy" for the reprise of her song, but noted, "It's not the same [as the original]... you'll just have to wait and see how."
"The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 2" soundtrack album will be released on November 13, with the movie arriving in theaters three days later on the 16th.

Pop Up ad queen Caught by the U.S Government, Fined $163Million

2012-10-05T16:17:00.003+02:00

You've probably never heard the name Kristy Ross before, but we're willing to bet you're very familiar with her work. You may have even given her money. For the last five years (at least), Ross has been flooding the internet with pop-up ad after pop-up ad, all claiming that your computer — yes, yours specifically — is infected with viruses. That's illegal, and it turns out the law has finally caught up to her: The Federal Trade Commission has just fined Ross a staggering $163 million dollars for her crimes.

The infamous fake computer scan ads encourage you to download "free" anti-virus software under the names Winfixer, DriveCleaner, FreeRepair, WinAntivirus, WinAntispyware, or System Doctor. Once you're hooked by the fraudulent warning, the advertisements redirect you to a page trying to sell you anti-virus software for $40 to $60 a pop. According to the government, "more than a million" were victims of Ross's scam. And given the size of the judgement — almost surely proportional to the amount of money Ross raked in from the folks she defrauded — we're willing to bet that 1 million is a low estimate.

The terms of the judgement prohibit Ross, whom we're officially nominating as today's "worst person in the world," from selling computer security software in the future. Though it's admittedly questionable whether what she was selling technically qualified any in the first place. Which is sad, because you can get really good anti-virus protection for your computer for free.

Xavi: I would be delighted to score a hat-trick against Real Madrid

2012-10-05T14:52:00.001+02:00

Barcelona midfielder Xavi has stated that netting a hat-trick in Sunday's Primera Division match at home against arch-rivals Real Madrid would be a dream come true.

The 32-year-old has won numerous trophies both at club and international level, but still awaits his first hat-trick, and he sees the Clasico as the perfect opportunity for yet another milestone.

"Is there something I have left to do? Scoring a hat-trick... I would be delighted to score one against Madrid," Xavi smiled at a press conference.

"We're not really thinking about whether a win would worsen the problems in Madrid's squad. We are focussed on winning, which would be good for our morale."

The influential playmaker then went on to discuss the situation of injured players such as Gerard Pique, Carles Puyol and Eric Abidal, who is continuing his recovery from a liver transplant earlier this year.

"At this moment, there's a 50 per cent chance that Pique will play against Madrid.

"Puyol's injury is a real shame. You can't ask a player to hold back. He's an example on and off the pitch and always gives his all.

"Abidal? He is very motivated to get back."

Barcelona are currently in talk with Xavi's agent over a new deal, and the Spain international believes that an agreement is only a matter of time.

"I'm at the best club in the world, I'd like to retire here. My agent talks with the club about a renewal, there won't be any problem."

Sunday's Clasico at Camp Nou is scheduled to kick off at 19:50CET.

One Year Later,How Apple Has changed.

2012-10-05T14:43:00.000+02:00

A year after founder Steve Jobs' death, Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) is continuing on the trajectory that the late founder had in place for years, with its highly-coveted consumer products that are getting into more hands around the country, while the company makes subtle shifts and the occasional misstep.

Over the past year, Apple's stock is up almost 80 percent to over $671 after introducing the iPhone 5. Though the new phone sold over 5 million three days after its launch, some analysts were disappointed with the volume of orders.

Here Are Four Ways Apple Has Changed Since Steve Jobs' Death:

1) Apple has become more shareholder-friendly.

Bill Kreher, senior technology analyst with Edward Jones, based in St. Louis, said Apple's issuance of a dividend to shareholders is a change in philosophy from that of Steve Jobs.

"His philosophy was to hoard the cash," Kreher said.

Part of Jobs' reluctance to dip into cash might have been his "long memory" when he re-joined the company in 1997. Back then, the struggling company was burning through cash faster than it was earning it.

"When it comes to capital deployment, Tim Cook has proven to be more shareholder-friendly," he said of Apple's CEO.

The company announced in March that it would start issuing a quarterly dividend of $2.65 a share for the fourth quarter, which began July 1, from its pile of cash. And what a pile they have: about $117 billion.

The amount that the company is letting go as part of its dividend distribution and share repurchase program, about $45 billion in three years, is a small amount relative to what the company is holding however.

What the company will do next with the money -- make small acquisitions, for example -- is up for debate.

2) Apple stops focusing on "the next big thing."

"Along the lines of innovation and execution, I think that Apple has to focus more on expanding the distribution of its current products as opposed to creating the next big thing, which from our perspective suits Tim Cook very well," said Kreher.

He said Cook's focus on operations will continue to help expand the company's products around the globe. The company now has 350 stores worldwide, including its newest country, Sweden, which opened its doors last month.

"While we recognize the difficult task of replacing Steve Jobs we do have confidence in Tim Cook as he successfully navigated company when Jobs was away," Kreher said.

Kreher said Cook is known for his operational expertise and management of the supply chain, which is "critical" as the company moves forward, more so than coming up with the next great product.

"The company has to manage its growth effectively," he said.

3) Apple's financial results have become more mixed.

In the last years of Steve Jobs' reign over Apple, the company had a tendency to beat its previous quarterly earnings.

"That has changed over 2012," Kreher said. "The revenue streams are getting more uneven and highly reliant on product launches."

For example, its third-quarter earnings announced in July were softer than expected in part due to iPhone users waiting for the iPhone 5.

The company said profit rose to $8.8 billion from $7.3 billion a year ago on $35 billion in revenue. Analysts had expected third-quarter revenue of over $37 billion.

That was in contrast with their second-quarter earnings in April, when they had a "huge beat" that was "massive," according to analysts.

The company is still able to beat overall expectations, Kreher said, but it's getting more difficult for analysts to predict the demand of high-profile products as more consumers pause before launches.

"We believe the company will beat expectations but there will be more hiccups along the way," he said.

4) Macro issues.

Not an isolated concern for Apple, macroeconomic issues have raised concerns among manufacturers and service providers around the world.

"Europe has weakened and China has slowed," Kreher said.

Pressure on workers' wages and conditions have required Apple and other companies to closely monitor their expansion plans. Apple in particular has been scrutinized over its contractors in China who produce its products and their working conditions.

What Hasn't Changed at Apple Since Steve Jobs' Death

1) Apple stays aggressive with its control over products.

Ross Rubin, principal analyst with Reticle Research, said the company has not yet had a major strategy shift since its founder died last year.

The most "noteworthy" change in its operating system on its iPhone 5 was the elimination of the built-in Google maps app and its replacement of its own location-services app. After receiving some poor reviews of its precision in directions, Cook even apologized to users last week for the glitches and pointed users to third-party offerings.

"The dissatisfaction with the initial effort may be atypical but this is a very ambitious effort to build a mapping program," Rubin said. "That was a change that it had wanted to implement for some time."

"The notion of being very tightly integrated – owning as much of the proposition and control in the experience as much as possible – that is the classic hallmark of Steve Jobs," Rubin said.

When asked if Cook's apology was a change that wouldn't have taken place under Jobs' leadership, Rubin said, "Tim Cook has a different presentation style than Steve Jobs did but he seems to be very effective in introducing their products along with the rest of the team."

In 2010, users complained about problems with the newly issued iPhone 4, which the tech media dubbed "antenna gate."

Jobs also gave users bumpers that effectively alleviated that situation.

"Apple has always been open to improving the consumer experience," Kreher said.

He did acknowledge that it was "out of character" for Apple to provide a disappointing feature.

"The company prides itself on its premium offerings, whether products or solutions," Kreher said.

Though he said he hasn't noticed a trend just yet.

"But it's certainly worth monitoring going forward," he said.

The incident underscores the relationship with Google, as Apple wants to get away from Google's services "as fast as they can."

"They might have gotten ahead of themselves on this initiative," he said.

2) Apple "continues to make its own luck."

Through new products, such as the iPhone 5, new markets, including China and business users, "Simply put, Apple continues to be the primary beneficiary of the mobility wave currently sweeping through technology," Kreher said.

Kreher said Apple "continues to make its own luck" as the trend of the "pro-sumer," a professional using a "consumer" device, grows.

"It's B.Y.O.D." Kreher said. "Bring your own device to work. More and more companies are allowing you to bring the device you prefer as opposed to issuing you a Blackberry like every other rank and file employee."

Today's "pro-sumer" is always on the go, needs more choices, like connectivity to enterprise activities, but wants to enjoy a onsumer experience.

"We're walking away from our desktops and spending more and more times using tablets and smartphones," Kreher said. "We think that trend is very strong and will continue for the next several years."

Mikel, Utaka, Moses make Caf African player of the year list

2012-10-05T14:41:00.001+02:00

Nigerian players John Obi Mikel, John Utaka and Victor Moses have been announced in the long list of 34 players that will compete for the African footballer of the year title of the Confederation of African Football on Thursday evening.

Mikel has been nominated based on the strength of his winning the FA Cup and Champions League with Chelsea. Utaka won the French Ligue 1 with Montpellier while Moses was nominated based on his performance at Wigan where he helped the club to escape relegation.

The Nigerians will be contesting against the usual suspects - Cote d'Ivoire's Didier Drogba, reigning African king Yaya Toure, Gervinho, Arouna Kone, Cheick Tiote and Seydou Doumbia.

Reigning African champions Zambia have four players on the list: Christopher Katongo, Stopilla Sunzu, Emmanuel Mayuka and Rainford Kalaba.

Three Ghanaians Andre Ayew, Kwadwo Asamoah and Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu make the list while there are two Cameroonian representatives in Alexander Song and Nicolas Nkoulou.

Morocco is represented by Abdelaziz Barrada, Adel Taarabt and Younes Belhanda while Senegal have Demba Ba, Papiss Cisse, Moussa Konate and Moussa Sow on the long list.

Tunisians Aymen Abdennour and Youssef Msakni as well as Malians Bakaye Traore and Seydou Keita join the list.

Perhaps interesting to note on the list are the Central African Republic duo of Foxi Kethevoama and Hilaire Roméo who saw to the elimination of Egypt from the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The awards will hold at the Banquet Hall of the State House in Accra, Ghana on December 20.

FULL LIST OF NOMINEES
1 Abdelaziz Barrada Getafe Morocco

2 Adel Taarabt Queens Park Rangers Morocco
3 Alain Sibiri Traore FC Lorient Burkina Faso
4 Alexander Song Barcelona Cameroon
5 Andre Ayew Marseille Ghana
6 Arouna Kone Wigan Cote d’Ivoire
7 Aymen Abdennour Toulouse Tunisia
8 Bakaye Traoré A.C Milan Mali
9 Cheick Ismael Tioté Newcastle United Cote d’Ivoire
10 Christopher Katongo Henan Construction Zambia
11 Demba Ba Newcastle United Senegal
12 Didier Drogba Shanghai Shenhua Cote d’Ivoire
13 Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu Udinese Ghana
14 Emmanuel Mayuka Southampton Zambia
15 Foxi Kethevoama FC Astana Central Africa
16 Gervais Lombe Yao Kouassi Arsenal Cote d’Ivoire
17 Hilaire Roméo Verdi Momi Le Mans Central Africa
18 John Obi Mikel Chelsea Nigeria
19 John Utaka Montpellier Nigeria
20 Kwadwo Asamoah Juventus Ghana
21 Moussa Sow Fenerbahçe Senegal
22 Nicolas N’koulou Marseille Cameroon
23 Papiss Demba Cissé Newcastle United Senegal
24 Pape Moussa Konaté FC Krasnodar Senegal
25 Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Laval Gabon
26 Rainford Kalaba TP Mazembe Zambia
27 Seydou Doumbia CSKA Moscow Cote d’Ivoire
28 Seydou Keita Dalian Aerbin Mali
29 Sofiane Feghouli Almeria Algeria
30 Stoppila Sunzu TP Mazembe Zambia
31 Victor Moses Chelsea Nigeria
32 Yaya Toure Manchester City Cote d’Ivoire
33 Younes Belhanda Avignon Morocco
34 Youssef Msakni Esperance Tunisia

The iPad Mini Already in Mass Production in Asia [REPORT]

2012-10-05T13:59:00.003+02:00

[More from Mashable: The iPad Mini Will Have 3G [REPORT]]

Apple's Asian suppliers have started mass production of the smaller version of Apple's iPad tablet, the Wall Street Journal reports.
Two sources claim the iPad mini -- as it may or may not be called -- will have a 7.85-inch screen with a lower resolution than the current iPad model.
[More from Mashable: Fake Apple Discount Card Wants to Steal Your Personal Info]
The device's screen is made by South Korea’s LG Display company and Taiwan’s AU Optronics, claim WSJ's sources.
Why Apple would launch a smaller iPad, when Steve Jobs maintained a 7-inch tablet screen would be too small? Well, a heated competition from Android-tablet makers and a more affordable price point compared to the standard, 9.7-inch iPad, are two solid reasons.
As is usual with Apple rumors, none of this has been officially confirmed in any way, shape or form. Still, the rumor mill predicted even the date when this new device would be unveiled: Oct. 17.

This story originally published on Mashable here.

Xbox Music reportedly launching on October 26th for free

2012-10-05T13:55:00.003+02:00

Microsoft (MSFT) will reportedly launch its Xbox Music service on October 26th and will make it available free of charge, The Verge reports. The streaming service will be offered as either a free ad-supported model or a subscription-based plan similar to the company’s Zune Music Pass, which is available for $10 a month or $100 a year. Xbox Music won’t just be limited to Microsoft’s gaming console, however, as the service will also be available on Windows Phone and Windows 8.

Another key part of the service will be its integration with Microsoft’s SkyDrive that will allow users to store music and playlists in the cloud.Earlier price leaks revealed that Xbox Music will cost £8.99 for a monthly pass or £89.90 for an annual pass in the U.K. It has been reported that the software giant will also bring the service to Android and iOS devices, although no timeframe was given. Microsoft previously announced that Xbox Music will have a library of more than 30 million tracks.

Xbox Music reportedly launching on October 26th for free

2012-10-05T13:55:00.001+02:00