Science

Scientists Discover a Jewel at the Heart of Quantum Physics

As reported on Wired. BY NATALIE WOLCHOVER Image: Rick Leche/Flickr   Physicists reported this week the discovery of a jewel-like geometric object that dramatically simplifies calculations of particle interactions and challenges the notion that space and time are fundamental components of reality. Original storyreprinted with permission from Quanta Magazine, an editorially independent division ofSimonsFoundation.org whose mission is to enhance public understanding of science by covering research developments and trends in mathematics and the physical and life sciences.…

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Entertainment

YouTube rounds up the biggest videos of 2013

As reported on The Verge. By Josh Lowensohn 2013 is almost over, which means it’s time for self-reflection — and Jean-Claude Van Damme, of course. His “epic splits” video (pictured above, and part of an advertisement for Volvo) is just one of many YouTube’s compiled as the top trending videos on the service during the year. That’s different from the most-viewed list, and perhaps even more interesting because it tracks views, shares, and searches from users, which has led to…

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Microsoft

Microsoft considers free versions of Windows Phone and Windows RT to battle Android

As reported on The Verge. By Tom Warren Redmond wants to counter Mountain View Microsoft is considering making Windows Phone and Windows RT available free of charge to device makers. Sources familiar with Microsoft’s plans have revealed to The Verge that free future versions are under serious consideration by OS chief Terry Myerson. We understand the plans aren’t fully set in stone, but they’re part of broader changes Myerson is planning for the future of Windows. Microsoft is…

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Microsoft

Microsoft Brings Together 25 Partners For The Cloud OS Network To Drive More Windows Azure Use

As reported on TechCrunch. by Ingrid Lunden Microsoft has been adding firepower to its Windows Azure cloud platform to compete against the likes of Google, Amazon and Dropbox and Box to attract enterprise users to create, host and distribute data around the world. In the latest development, it is launching theCloud OS Network, a group of some 25 service providers and system integrators that offer services on Windows Azure. The list includes household names in the…

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Google

Google brings flight, hotel and restaurant reservations to Maps for iOS

As reported on Engadget. BY TIMOTHY J. SEPPALA  If you fancy yourself a jetsetter, fine-diner, or, er, traveling salesman and happen to use an iDevice, Google has some good news for you. The latest update to Maps on iOS brings some of Google Now’s functionality into the company’s navigation app. Search for your restaurant, departing airport or hotel, and the application will auto-populate with your plans — so long as the confirmations were sent to your linked Gmail account. Sure, it’s similar to…

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