Microsoft slams Google on ‘proper’ YouTube app

Agence France-Presse

SOURCE: http://technology.inquirer.net/21579/microsoft-slams-google-on-proper-youtube-app

NEW YORK – Microsoft stepped up its criticism of Google on antitrust grounds Wednesday, claiming the Internet giant refuses to allow Windows Phone users “proper access” to the YouTube video service.

“Despite government scrutiny, Google continues to block Microsoft from offering its customers proper access to YouTube. This is an important issue because consumers value YouTube access on their phone,” said Microsoft attorney Dave Heiner in a blog post.

“Google often says that the antitrust offenses with which it has been charged cause no harm to consumers. Google is wrong about that. In this instance, for example, Google’s refusal deprives consumers who use competing platforms of a comparable experience in accessing content that is generally available on the Web.”

The comments marked the latest flare-up between the two tech titans and came as US and EU antitrust watchdogs were seeking to conclude probes into Google’s conduct. Some reports said US investigators were preparing to settle for a voluntary agreement from Google without court enforcement.

How to Cut the Average Cell Phone Bill by More than 80%

SOURCE: http://www.howlifeworks.com/technology/cell_phone_savings

New no-contract carriers offer good basic service at a fraction of the cost

In good economic times, it's natural that we pay less attention to our monthly expenses.  When things get tight, however, we quickly realize the importance of managing our money well and eliminating unnecessary expenses.

A great place to start is by looking at services that you are paying for, but are not fully utilizing. One of the first services you should tackle is your cell phone service.

Most cell phone companies entice customers with fancy phones and plans that include a bevy of services, however they also tend to have hidden costs and require long, inflexible contracts. Today, the average monthly cell phone bill is $73, according to a recent J.D. Power report.  But, what if you could cut that down to just $10 a month?

With new cell phone companies and new, no-contact plans from existing companies - this type of savings is now possible.

For many people, what's most important about their cell phone is a reliable, easy to use service that's available when you need it.  Fortunately, for these people, there are new breed cell phone companies that specialize in simple no-obligation agreements with super-low pricing.  And the big companies are taking note, and starting to offer similar plans.

Another thing that many people don't know is that most of the major carriers now pro-rate termination fees - the longer you've been in the contract, the lower the fee.  So, even if you are currently in a contract, you may still be able to find significant savings by paying the termination fee and switching to a much lower cost, no-contract provider.