Monthly Archives: May 2024

Ticketmaster owner sued by DOJ and 30 attorneys general over alleged monopoly

Posted on by

The Justice Department and 30 state and district attorneys general are attempting to break up Ticketmaster owner Live Nation. They claim in an antitrust suit filed in the Southern District of New York that the company has created an unlawful monopoly over the live entertainment industry. The suit argues that Live Nation has harmed fans, promoters and artists as its dominance has led to imposing higher ticket prices while stifling innovation and competition.

Live Nation owns and/or operates many venues and festivals. It also sells tickets to concerts and festivals, and manages many of the artists who play at them.

“We allege that Live Nation relies on unlawful, anticompetitive conduct to exercise its monopolistic control over the live events industry in the United States at the cost of fans, artists, smaller promoters and venue operators,” Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement. “The result is that fans pay more in fees, artists have fewer opportunities to play concerts, smaller promoters get squeezed out and venues have fewer real choices for ticketing services. It is time to break up Live Nation-Ticketmaster.”

It was reported back in 2022 amid Ticketmaster's struggle to handle overwhelming demand for Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour that the DOJ had been investigating whether Live Nation held a monopoly in the live music market. The Swift ticket debacle prompted a Senate antitrust hearing.

The DOJ claims that Live Nation established a dominant position by pushing artists to use its services and threatening possible competitors in the live music promotion space. The company is also accused of locking venues into long, exclusive contracts that prevent them from using alternative (and perhaps less expensive) ticketing platforms. The Justice Department says Live Nation handles about 60 percent of concert promotions at major venues in the US, as well as approximately 80 percent of primary ticketing at major concert venues.

According to the lawsuit, Live Nation sought to lock out competitors and protect its so-called "flywheel" model. The DOJ describes this as a "self-reinforcing business model that captures fees and revenue from concert fans and sponsorship, uses that revenue to lock up artists to exclusive promotion deals, and then uses its powerful cache of live content to sign venues into long term exclusive ticketing deals, thereby starting the cycle all over again."

A merger of Live Nation and Ticketmaster got the green light from the DOJ in 2010, but the deal was subject to some conditions. After the Justice Department found in 2019 that Live Nation violated a condition that banned it from threatening venues that chose to use a Ticketmaster competitor, the agency extended the consent decree by five years to 2025.

In a statement, Live Nation rejected the assertion that it held a monopoly. "The defining feature of a monopolist is monopoly profits derived from monopoly pricing," it said. "Live Nation in no way fits the profile. Service charges on Ticketmaster are no higher than elsewhere, and frequently lower."

The company argued that breaking it up wouldn't lead to lower ticket prices or service fees. It claims that concert promoters and ticketing companies don't control ticket prices, which have been driven higher by increased production costs and the growing popularity of artists. Live Nation also states that Ticketmaster "retains only a modest portion" of service fees and that its market share has decreased in recent years.

Other parts of the government have put Live Nation and Ticketmaster in their sightlines. The House of Representatives recently passed a bill that would force Ticketmaster and other ticketing companies to show the total price of tickets to buyers up front. There's a separate bill in the Senate that seeks to make ticket pricing more transparent too. Along similar lines, the Federal Trade Commission, has proposed a rule to ban junk fees that companies including Ticketmaster add to the total price at checkout. For their part, Live Nation and Ticketmaster said last year that they'd start showing customers the total price of tickets at the jump.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ticketmaster-owner-sued-by-doj-and-30-attorneys-general-over-alleged-monopoly-160153725.html?src=rss

Pursuit Carbon teardrop with two kitchens has all the agility and convenience of mighty offroad camper

Posted on by

BRS Offroad has been going around on Australian adventures like no other in ‘pursuit’ for over a decade. But they are new to America, potentially walking their way through with ROA Off-Road. After the Sherpa and Pursuit in the past, BRS is back with another capable way for teardrop fans to go outdoors. More than that, go off the road and off the grid in the simple convenience of the fully-packed Pursuit Carbon.

Do not be misled by the name. Carbon in the Pursuit is as oblivious of material as light in the darkness. Carbon in this camping trailer is defined by the black exterior sheen and not the use of carbon fiber in construction. It is made from marine grade aluminum and fiberglass, resulting in a top-tier lightweight composite shell camper made for awesome off-roading; capable of going where your 4WD takes you.

Designer: BRS Offroad

Bigger campers have idealized overlanding expeditions with jaw-dropping convenience and mind-boggling spaciousness. But Pursuit Carbon with two kitchens, extending above-ground bathroom, and a bedroom with a gapping skylight, intends to do that in a form factor not bigger than 19.7 feet long and 9.2 feet high. Alongside these highlighting features, the camper is also provided with a living area that converts into an extra sleeping section for one adult.

Good to accommodate up to three people on an extended off-road expedition, the Pursuit Carbon is entered through a hatch entry door on one side; the other side has a hatch drop that accommodates a fully enclosed hot shower (with privacy curtain). Upon entering through the door spacious and well-lit interior is bound to turn heads. The space is largely occupied by the bed under a large skylight and between two low panoramic windows, but it still has room for a pair of benches (with 30L drawers each) that function as a dinette or sleeping berth at will, alongside a functional kitchen featuring a cooktop and grill combo, sink, and prep area in the middle. Right above is the entertainment system comprising a TV, two Bose speakers on either side, and a portable Garmin tablet with all the home controls onboard.

Making things exciting for those who love cooking under the sun; the hard-shell teardrop camper has a secondary pull-out outdoor kitchen. For toy haulers, a bike rack capable of handling up to three bikes on the rear. For the off-roaders, it has a galvanized steel chassis, all-terrain tires, and air suspension to keep things steady and rolling on rough terrains. For when you want to stick around in the wilderness a little longer, the Pursuit Carbon has been fashioned with 380-watt solar panels, an Enerdrive battery, and an inverter system.  BRS Offroad does most of its business in Australia, so this trailer camper is for now only available down under for an asking price of AUD 136,990 (with all amenities. Customizations accepted). Possible North American release is still under the wraps.

The post Pursuit Carbon teardrop with two kitchens has all the agility and convenience of mighty offroad camper first appeared on Yanko Design.

The 1TB 14-inch MacBook Pro M3 is cheaper than ever right now

Posted on by

You can pick up a specced-out version of last year’s MacBook Pro M3 for cheaper than ever right now, at $1,800. This is a discount of $200 for Apple’s flagship laptop with 1TB of SSD storage and 16GB of RAM. This deal is only available for the 14-inch Space Gray model. The silver model is also on sale, but with just an eight percent discount.

As for the computer itself, it’s the MacBook Pro M3. It’s one of the best laptops you can buy, particularly for people who do intensive creative work on a computer, like video editing and music-making. The 14-inch screen is gorgeous, the M3 chip is both fast and efficient and the keyboard and trackpad are excellent. It’s heavier and a bit bulkier than the just-released MacBook Air M3 models, but it also boasts more memory, a better selection of ports and a more efficient cooling system.

There are a couple of minor nitpicks here. Like all Apple MacBooks, you won’t be able to make adjustments to RAM or internal storage after the fact, so double-check before smashing that “buy” button. This model is also much more expensive than the Air, though today’s deal makes that a bit easier to swallow.

Speaking of the MacBook Air, there’s also a decent deal to be had for one of those via Amazon. The 2022 M2 model is available for $850, which is a 15 percent discount. This deal is for the 256GB model with 8GB of RAM. If you don’t work in the creative arts and use a laptop just to write, watch content or surf the web, this is a fantastic choice.

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-1tb-14-inch-macbook-pro-m3-is-cheaper-than-ever-right-now-150822985.html?src=rss

South Korea aims to bolster local chip production with $19 billion of support

Posted on by

South Korea is the latest country to support its local semiconductor industry in a significant fashion. It's trying to stay competitive with the likes of the US, China and Taiwan with the help of a 26 trillion won ($19 billion) support package. The country will extend tax breaks that were set to expire at the end of this year and provide financial support to chipmakers through the state-run Korea Development Bank, as The Wall Street Journal reports.

Amid large demand for chips to power AI systems and other computing needs, South Korea saw exports of semiconductors rise 56 percent in April compared with a year earlier. That's despite fierce competition from the likes of Intel and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TMSC). SK Hynix said it would bolster its AI chip manufacturing capacity in South Korea with an extra $14.6 billion investment, while Samsung replaced the leader of its semiconductor division to try and become more competitive.

South Korea's moves could help it keep pace with the US, which has been trying to ramp up domestic chip production to reduce its reliance on imports. Through the CHIPS Act, the US is subsidizing manufacturers such as Intel, GlobalFoundreies and TMSC. As it happens, one of the largest recipients of a CHIPS Act subsidy is Samsung, which is receiving up to $6.4 billion in federal funding for a new semiconductor plant in Texas.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/south-korea-aims-to-bolster-local-chip-production-with-19-billion-of-support-145043131.html?src=rss

Leica takes on Fujifilm with the compact D-Lux 8

Posted on by

With small and stylish compact cameras like Fujifilm's X100 VI all the rage for influencers, Leica has decided to jump back into the game. The German brand just unveiled the $1,595 D-Lux 8, a followup to the D-Lux 7 released way back in 2018. While substantially restyled compared to the last model, it carries the same 17-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor and 24-75mm (35mm equivalent) f/1.7-2.8 lens as before. 

The original was effectively a rebadge of Panasonic's LX100 II, but it's not clear if the D-Lux 8 is using exactly the same sensor or an updated version. Other features, like video, autofocus and more have yet to be revealed.

From the images released, we can see some substantial differences from the previous model. It has an all-black finish and leather-style wrap, much like Leica's full-frame Q3 compact. The interface has also been simplified, with only a "play," "menu" and d-pad type control on the rear, along with two unlabeled buttons. On top, there's a power switch in place of the "4K" button. All of this is inspired by the Q lineup, the company said.

Leica takes on Fujifilm with the compact D-Lux 8
Leica

The new camera supports RAW file capture, which is a first for the D-lux lineup. Leica also unveiled new accessories including carrying straps, leather protectors, a flash and a hand grip. It also showed off a new app, without saying exactly what it does.

It would be a bit disappointing if the D-Lux 8 is just a spruced up version of the D-Lux 7, launched to take advantage of compact camera craze created by Fujifilm's X100 series. The old model was a solid camera for its time, but offers contrast-detect instead of phase-detect autofocus, along with tame photo and video specs by today's standards. 

It certainly does look good, though, and that's been a key element in the compact camera renaissance —and the accessories may also tempt style-conscious shooters. For those attracted to the Leica's storied history and that iconic red dot, $1,595 is as low a price as you'll ever see for a new camera from the brand.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/leica-takes-on-fujifilm-with-the-compact-d-lux-8-143210473.html?src=rss

Croissant Pendant Light from Gantri adds a delicious warmth to your space

Posted on by

Normally, we don’t really associate food with lamp designs since they’re not really connected. But as we always say here, you can find design inspiration in the most unexpected places. We’ve seen several food-inspired accessories like fruit-shaped candles, food-decorated clocks, accessorised bottles, and a few fruit and vegetable inspired table lamps. But a bread-inspired pendant lamp may be a rarity but it is indeed interesting how you can get inspired by a piece of bread and apply the design principles to your product.

Designer: João Teixeira

We’ve seen some cone-shaped lighting designs but the Croissant Pendant Light designed for Gantri takes it one step further by using the shape of the, you guessed it, croissant. But it’s not because they just want you to think of this savory pastry but because of the shape and the layers, the lamp is able to “cast a cozy, comforting glow” in different directions. It is created specifically for dining tables or kitchen islands but you can also use its “purposeful illumination” for other spaces in your home that may need it.

The angled shapes, sculptural layers, and lighter edges are all inspired by the croissant shape, even though we don’t really notice that when we eat the actual bread. The asymmetrical shape has two unique rings encircling the main shade, giving the lamp both a functional directed beam as well as a soft ambience in the other angles. There is an interplay of light and shadow as well because of its silhouette and the slices and curves.

The Croissant Pendant Light is available in three colors: Carbon (black), Snow (white), and Smoke (brown). There’s also an option for black or white cords so you can match it with your interiors. Because also of its unusual shape, the pendant lamp can also serve as an “art piece” of sorts for your space even when you’re not using it as a lamp. It is also pretty easy to install because of the Gantri-engineered mounting mechanism that it uses.

The post Croissant Pendant Light from Gantri adds a delicious warmth to your space first appeared on Yanko Design.

Concept Mercedes AMG PureSpeed Unveiled

Posted on by
Mercedes AMG PureSpeed

The Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed concept car is a revolutionary development in the realm of high-performance vehicles. This two-seater performance car, unveiled during the prestigious Formula 1™ Monaco Grand Prix, pays homage to the rich racing heritage of Mercedes-Benz. The PureSpeed’s radical design, innovative materials, and innovative technology make it a true collector’s item. Its unique features, […]

The post Concept Mercedes AMG PureSpeed Unveiled appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

Microsoft’s Azure AI Speech lets Truecaller users create an AI assistant with their own voice

Posted on by

Truecaller, a caller ID app that can block and record calls, has teamed up with Microsoft to give its users a way to create an AI assistant that uses their own voice. The company originally introduced its AI assistant that can answer and screen calls for its users back in 2022. It already offers several voices to choose from, but the personal voice feature of Microsoft's Azure AI Speech gives users the capability to make a custom digital assistant that sounds like them. 

Users will have to record themselves reading a sentence giving Truecaller consent to use their voice. They'll also have to read a training script that the technology will then use to capture their speaking style to be able to create a convincing digital audio replica. When someone calls them, the assistant will then screen it and introduce itself as the "digital" version of the user. In the product demo presented by Truecaller Product Director and General Manager Raphael Mimoun, for instance, his assistant answered a call with: "Hi there! I'm digital Raphael Mimoun! May I ask who's calling?" After the caller responds, the assistant then asks if the call is urgent or if it can wait before pushing it through. 

"By integrating Microsoft Azure AI Speech’s personal voice capability into Truecaller, we've taken a significant step towards delivering a truly personalized and engaging communication experience," Mimoun said in a statement. That said, it could also feel unsettling, maybe even creepy, for callers to interact with a robotic version of their friend or colleague. 

Microsoft demonstrated Azure AI Speech's personal voice at Build this year, where it also revealed that digital creativity company Wondershare is integrating the new feature into its video editing tools. That will also allow Wondershare users to create an AI assistant using their voice, which they can then use to create audiobooks and podcasts. 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/microsofts-azure-ai-speech-lets-truecaller-users-create-an-ai-assistant-with-their-own-voice-133019270.html?src=rss

Tiny PhoneCLIP lets you have an adjustable and balanced phone stand

Posted on by

These days, having a phone stand is not just a want but actually a necessity. Aside from taking selfies or doing vlogs, it’s also needed for when you’re on online meetings, video calls, or even just watching videos in public. There are a lot of different kinds of phone stands available in the market but some are too bulky, some are not made from quality materials and some don’t adjust to the size of the device. It would be great if there are more truly portable stands available for both content creators and regular phone users.

Designer: Gokhan Cetinkaya

PhoneCLIP MAX is a truly portable phone stand made through the CNC machine method and made from aluminum. What makes it different from most of the stands in the market is that it allows adjustable angles so you can move it around as needed. It also has a balancing mechanism that keeps the center of gravity and your phone is able to be repositioned when you adjust it to different angles. If you need to attach it to a stand or tripod, it also comes with 1/4″ and 3/8″ universal thread.

We assume that no matter the size of your phone, this small stand will be able to carry the weight and adjust accordingly according to the angle you need. They also have other models available for your budget or feature needs. The PhoneCLIP is a plastic model while the PhoneCLIP PRO is a “durable CNC machined model”. However, these two other models don’t have the built-in stand feature and is just a phone holder. All three models have the 1/4″ universal thread so you can mount it on any compatible stand or tripod. The PhoneCLIP MAX is the only one that has the 3/8″ universal thread option.

The fact that this is tiny enough to put in your pocket or small bag is a distinct advantage over the bulkier stands available in the market. Of course if you’re a vlogger, you still need to carry around other stands or tripods that you need but for those of that just to watch videos or do a quick video call while outside, this tiny phone stand will do.

The post Tiny PhoneCLIP lets you have an adjustable and balanced phone stand first appeared on Yanko Design.

12 Awesome iPhone Productivity Tips

Posted on by
iPhone Productivity Tips

Are you looking to boost your productivity on your iPhone? With the right tips and tricks, you can transform your device into a powerful tool that helps you work more efficiently and effectively. The video below from Proper Honest Tech, walks us through 12 essential productivity tips that every iPhone user should know. Harness the […]

The post 12 Awesome iPhone Productivity Tips appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.