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How to Create More Exposure Using LinkedIn
Wondering how your business can get more out of LinkedIn? Want to make sure you’re maximizing your LinkedIn presence? LinkedIn has a number of features that will work together to promote your business and its products. In this article you’ll discover how to create an integrated LinkedIn marketing presence for your business. #1: Get on the […]
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12 Recruiting Stats That’ll Improve the Way You Hire [Infographic]
Looking for talented new folks to join your team? Nowadays, it’s tough going out there for organizations that are trying to hire. In many cases, companies find themselves spending a whole lot of time and money on recruiting, while not getting quite the results they were looking for.
If your team is on the lookout for new talent, there are a few things you’ll want to consider.
For example, what are the best ways for candidates to get insight into a company? What’s the average cost per hire? How many candidates share negative application experiences — and how many go so far as to actively discourage others from applying?
To answer these questions and more, the good people of Officevibe created the infographic below. Check it out to learn what your organization can do to successfully attract and recruit top talent.
Apple acquired LegbaCore consultancy firm to improve software & firmware security efforts
Back in November of 2015, Apple quietly acquired security consultancy firm LegbaCore it has recently been discovered. The acquisition was initially revealed back in December by security researcher Trammell Hudson during a presentation at the 32C3 conference. The acquisition was further corroborated by a series of tweets from founder Xeno Kovah (seen below) and the company’s website, which states that it is “not accepting any new customer engagements.”
Specific details of the acquisition are unclear at this point. Kovah and his partner Corey Kallenberg are working full-time at Apple, although their specific roles are unclear. Kovah only stated that he and Kallenbeg would be working on “low level security” at the company (via MacRumors).
LegbaCore and researcher Trammell Hudson discovered the first firmware worm to affect Macs in Thunderstrike 2, which was publicly revealed last August. Thunderstrike 2 was able to survive a full erase and reinstall of OS X because it attacked firmware tied to specific hardware components. LegbaCore alerted Apple to the problem prior to making it public and Apple was able to begin patching it.
It was during the communication about Thunderstrike 2 that Apple expressed interest in acquiring LegbaCore. “As we were having discussions with Apple in the wake of our presentation this summer,” Kovah tweeted, “it became clear that Apple had some *very* interesting and highly impactful work that we could participate in.”
This acquisition is more of an acquihire as LegbaCore doesn’t have any private technology aside from the skills of Kovah and Kallenberg. The talent, however, will certainly be useful at Apple to continue improving the company’s software and firmware security efforts.
Filed under: Mac Tagged: LegbaCore, Security, Thunderstrike
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Apple releases Xcode 7.2.1 with bug fixes and performance improvements
Apple this evening has pushed a small update to its developer software Xcode. The update bumps the app to version 7.2.1, following the initial release of version 7.2 late last year. Xcode 7.2.1 carries the build number 7C1002 and includes a handful of under-the-hood fixes and improvements.
Apple says that a variety of bugs have been fixed with this evening’s Xcode update. Hiccups relating to the command line and debugger have been fixed, while the certificate used to developer Wallet passes, Safari Push Notifications, and Safari Extensions has also been updated. As usual, the company says there are “additional bug fixes and stability improvements,” as well.
The full changelog is below:
Fixed in Xcode 7.2.1:
• Command line tool ‘xcodebuild test’ will no longer time out waiting for Simulator.app to launch
• Resolved a debugger crash that could occur in code depending on a binary Swift library or framework
• Updated the certificate used to develop Apple Wallet passes, Safari Push Notifications, and Safari Extensions
• Additional bug fixes and stability improvements
Xcode 7.2.1 is available now on the Mac App Store.
Filed under: Developers Tagged: developers, update, Xcode
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Microsoft purchases popular keyboard maker SwiftKey for $250 million
The Financial Times is reporting that Microsoft has purchased popular third-party keyboard maker SwiftKey for $250 million. While SwiftKey is most known for their predictive keyboard, the acquisition is more of an artificial intelligence play for Microsoft.
While this deal could be seen as just the latest in a line of Microsoft purchases of popular apps, it is not. A source told the FT that, “There’s a war for talent in artificial intelligence…” A majority of the company’s 150 employees around the world are expected to join Microsoft Research. In 2014, Google purchased another UK based startup working on AI for £400m.
Over 300 million people use the Android and iOS app, but SwiftKey has yet to find a reliable business model. Initially, SwiftKey was a paid app before switching to a freemium model where users pay to customize and get different themes. There are still premium versions of the app, but most people make do with the free version. While $250 million is a large sum, many investors have said that the price is lower than they would have expected a few years ago.
As a sign that that is a more of a means to get AI talent, Microsoft recently ported their Windows Phone keyboard to iOS. It’s highly unlikely that the company needs more keyboard apps. Furthermore, the built-in iOS and Android keyboards have long ago integrated similar prediction and swiping features.
Whether Microsoft will continue to support SwiftKey is unknown. We will find out more details of the deal when it is officially announced later this week.
Filed under: Tech Industry Tagged: Acquisitions, alternative keyboards, Microsoft, SwiftKey
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Microsoft purchases popular keyboard maker SwiftKey for $250 million
The Financial Times is reporting that Microsoft has purchased popular third-party keyboard maker SwiftKey for $250 million. While SwiftKey is most known for their predictive keyboard, the acquisition is more of an artificial intelligence play for Microsoft.
While this deal could be seen as just the latest in a line of Microsoft purchases of popular apps, it is not. A source told the FT that, “There’s a war for talent in artificial intelligence…” A majority of the company’s 150 employees around the world are expected to join Microsoft Research. In 2014, Google purchased another UK based startup working on AI for £400m.
Over 300 million people use the Android and iOS app, but SwiftKey has yet to find a reliable business model. Initially, SwiftKey was a paid app before switching to a freemium model where users pay to customize and get different themes. There are still premium versions of the app, but most people make do with the free version. While $250 million is a large sum, many investors have said that the price is lower than they would have expected a few years ago.
As a sign that that is a more of a means to get AI talent, Microsoft recently ported their Windows Phone keyboard to iOS. It’s highly unlikely that the company needs more keyboard apps. Furthermore, the built-in iOS and Android keyboards have long ago integrated similar prediction and swiping features.
Whether Microsoft will continue to support SwiftKey is unknown. We will find out more details of the deal when it is officially announced later this week.
Filed under: Tech Industry Tagged: Acquisitions, alternative keyboards, Microsoft, SwiftKey
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ZAGG to acquire Mophie, takeover battery, screen protection, & keyboard accessories market
Popular accessory maker Zagg today announced that it has acquired Mophie, another accessory maker best known for its iPhone battery cases and power accessories. The deal will see Zagg purchase Mophie for $100 million. Mophie CEO Daniel Huang and COO Shawn Dougherty will continue their current respective roles and will report to Zagg CEO Randy Hales.
In the press release, Hales said that the acqutision will allow the two companies to work together and deliver an even better customer and investor experience than they could as independent companies. Zagg CEO Daniel Hung echoed similar sentiments, saying that the partnership will see both brands grow around the world and continue to innovate in the mobile market.
“This strategic combination of two industry innovators with complementary product, brand and distribution platforms will enable us to deliver increased value for our customers and shareholders,” said Randy Hales, President and Chief Executive Officer of ZAGG. “We see numerous opportunities to drive revenue growth and increase profitability by leveraging the strengths of both organizations to strengthen product development, improve brand presence, and expand distribution.”
While the “definitive” deal reached today is for $100 million, Zagg notes that the price could increase based on the company’s adjusted earnings between April 1st, 2016 and March 31st, 2017. The full press release for the acquisition can be seen below:
ZAGG and mophie to Combine, Creating Diversified Leader in Mobile Accessories
- Combination forms market share leader in four top accessory categories; battery cases, external batteries, screen protection, and tablet keyboards
- Merger to create mobile accessories innovator with combined 2015 net sales of approximately $470 million
- New entity expected to enhance long-term enterprise value through revenue growth, strengthened product development, and expanded distribution
SALT LAKE CITY, Feb. 02, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZAGG Inc (NASDAQ:ZAGG) and mophie inc. (“mophie”) announced today the signing of a definitive merger agreement under which ZAGG will acquire mophie. The transaction will leverage the unique strengths of two industry leaders in the mobile accessories sector to create a business with greater product diversification and improved operational capabilities.
“This strategic combination of two industry innovators with complementary product, brand and distribution platforms will enable us to deliver increased value for our customers and shareholders,” said Randy Hales, President and Chief Executive Officer of ZAGG. “We see numerous opportunities to drive revenue growth and increase profitability by leveraging the strengths of both organizations to strengthen product development, improve brand presence, and expand distribution.”
Daniel Huang, mophie Chief Executive Officer, said, “ZAGG and mophie represent two companies with strong brands and shared values. The rationale for the merger is powerful and the combination enhances each company’s growth strategy while offering a truly compelling value proposition. Together, we intend to build on our market leadership to deliver great products, advance the brand strength, and increase our global presence in mobile accessories.”
Key Strategic and Financial Benefits
ZAGG and mophie anticipate that the merger will deliver the following benefits:
- Enhanced Capabilities for Profitable Growth: The combination will create an improved technology platform, strengthened engineering and manufacturing resources in China, along with a global distribution network with facilities in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
- Best in Class Product Development: Retail customers and mobile consumers will benefit from the alignment of strong product development teams that are focused on delivering Creative Product Solutions.
- Improved Brand Strength: The brand strength of the combined companies will be leveraged to increase consumer awareness through an expanded global platform and focus on always being the Preferred Brand.
- Expanded Global Distribution Channels: The combined entity intends to further increase its Targeted Global Distribution through a broader retail presence and new product introductions.
- Improved Financial Profile: The combination is expected to increase net sales and adjusted EBITDA with a focus on leveraging operational efficiencies and performance.
Transaction Structure
ZAGG has agreed to pay $100 million at closing, plus the amount by which 5X Adjusted EBITDA exceeds $100 million over a 12-month earn-out period. The 12-month earn-out period will run from April 1, 2016 to March 31, 2017. The purchase price at closing will be funded with cash and debt. The earn-out will be financed through a combination of cash, debt and up to $5 million in ZAGG common stock. The agreement also allows mophie to collect approximately $15 million from certain pre-merger tax and custom duties refunds and real estate sale proceeds, if received post-closing.
During the earn-out period the management teams will work collaboratively to identify operational efficiencies through the adoption of best practices from both companies.
Management, Governance and Integration
Upon closing of the transaction and throughout the earn-out period, both Daniel Huang (CEO) and Shawn Dougherty (COO) will continue in their current roles and report directly to Randy Hales. The composition of ZAGG’s board of directors will not change in connection with this transaction.
Approvals and Time to Close
The transaction is expected to close during the first quarter of 2016 subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. The board of directors of each company have unanimously approved the transaction.
Advisors
ZAGG received legal advice from Durham Jones & Pinegar, P.C., and financial advice from D.A. Davidson; mophie received legal advice from Buchalter Nemer LLP, and financial advice from Wunderlich Securities.
Conference Call and Webcast Details
ZAGG will host a conference call and webcast Tuesday, February 2nd at 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time (U.S.) to discuss the proposed merger. Randy Hales, President and CEO, will discuss the announcement and facilitate a brief question and answer session. The general public is invited to listen to the call via a live webcast through the Investor Relations section of the ZAGG website. For those unable to listen to the live broadcast, a replay will be available on the ZAGG website beginning approximately two hours after the event. The webcast and a podcast will be archived and available online on ZAGG’s website for at one year following the call.
About ZAGG Inc
ZAGG is an innovation leader in accessories for smart phones and tablets. For over 10 years, ZAGG has developed creative product solutions that enhance and protect mobile devices for consumers around the world. The Company has an award-winning product portfolio that includes screen protection, mobile keyboards, power management solutions, social tech, and personal audio sold under the ZAGG®, InvisibleShield®, and iFrogz® brands. ZAGG has operations in the United States, Ireland, and China. ZAGG products are available worldwide, and can be found at leading retailers including Best Buy, Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, Walmart, Vodafone, and EE. For more information about ZAGG, visit www.zagg.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
About mophie, inc.
mophie, the #1 selling battery case manufacturer in the world, and #1 portable power manufacturer in North America, is a California-based, award-winning designer and manufacturer that empowers the mobile world to stay powerful. Widely acclaimed for innovative mobile solutions, mophie is the proud developer of the original juice pack®. mophie products are recognized for style and engineered for performance, providing a seamless integration of hardware, software and design. mophie has operations in California, Michigan, Netherlands, Hong Kong, and China. mophie products are available in more than 130 countries, and can be found at Apple, Best Buy, Verizon, and T-Mobile stores, as well as Sprint and other leading retailers. Visit mophie.com and follow us on Facebook, twitter, and Instagram (@mophie).
Safe Harbor
In addition to the historical information contained in this press release, this release contains (and oral communications made by ZAGG may contain) statements that relate to future events and expectations and, as such, constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, outlook, assumptions, or future events or performance, often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “predicts,” “projects,” “targets,” or similar expressions, are not statements of historical facts and may be forward-looking. Readers are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. In addition to any assumptions and other factors and matters referred to specifically in connection with such forward-looking statements, factors that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements include the following: closing of the transaction may not occur or may be delayed; expected synergies and other benefits of the transaction may not be realized; integration of the acquisition post-closing may not occur as anticipated; management time will be diverted to address transaction-related issues; litigation related to the transaction or limitations or restrictions imposed by regulatory authorities may delay or negatively impact the transaction or the post-transaction combined company; unanticipated restructuring costs may be incurred or undisclosed liabilities assumed; attempts to retain key personnel and customers may not be successful; the business combination or the combined company’s products may not be supported by third parties; actions by competitors may negatively impact results; and there may be negative changes in general economic conditions in the regions or the industries in which the companies operate. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made. New factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible for management to predict all such factors, nor can it assess the impact of any such factor on the business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. In addition, ZAGG’s and mophie’s businesses and operations involve numerous risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond ZAGG’s and mophie’s control, which could materially affect their respective financial condition, results of operations and cash flows and those of the combined company. Readers should also review the risks and uncertainties listed in ZAGG’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other reports the company files with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including (but not limited to) Item 1A – “Risk Factors” in the Form 10-K and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and the risks described therein from time to time. ZAGG disclaims any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information, whether in response to new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.
About Non-GAAP Financial Information
Readers are cautioned that the Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, stock-based compensation expense, other income (expense), and recovery of reserves on note receivable) contained in this commentary is not a financial measure under US generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). In addition, this financial information should not be construed as an alternative to any other measure of performance determined in accordance with GAAP, or as indicators of operating performance, liquidity or cash flows generated by operating, investing and financing activities, as there may be significant factors or trends that they fail to address. We present Adjusted EBITDA because we believe that it is helpful to some investors as a measure of performance. We caution readers that non-GAAP financial information, by its nature, departs from traditional accounting conventions. Accordingly, its use can make it difficult to compare current results with results from other reporting periods and with the financial results of other companies.
Filed under: iOS Devices
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Poll: Will you buy the upcoming 4-inch iPhone 5se?
With Apple’s much rumored upcoming iPhone 5se on the horizon— an upgraded version of the iPhone 5S that retains the 4-inch display size for diehard fans of the model— we want to find out if you plan on upgrading when the new device launches. That’s the question we ask in today’s poll, in addition to what device you’re upgrading from (or downgrading, depending on how you look at it).
There are a few things to consider unlike usual Apple and iPhone product launches. It looks like the iPhone 5se, as we previously reported is the current plan for the device’s moniker, will break up Apple’s usual fall release schedule with a mid-year iPhone refresh. It will also be unusual in that Apple is releasing an upgraded model of an already aging iPhone, the iPhone 5S. The thought is that the model will cater specifically to diehard fans of the smaller 4-inch display that was last included in a flagship model with the iPhone 5S. It will also get the usual upgraded internals— new processors, cameras on par with the iPhone 6, NFC, upgraded Bluetooth, Wi-Fi chips, etc— and color options that resemble Apple’s current iPhone 6s lineup.
But apart from the 4-inch display, will the upgrades that the 5se packs in be enough for you to upgrade from your current 4-inch iPhone, or perhaps even make the switch from a larger iPhone model?
And will it matter that Apple isn’t planning to make the iPhone 5se part of its most advanced, top of the line iPhone lineup— Apple is planning a design that is said to closer resemble the old 5S than the newer, rounder design of the current iPhones apart from cover glass with more modern curved edges. And adding to that, it might not exactly be the most desirable or freshest design for an iPhone around, especially by the time the iPhone 7 inevitably drops sometime later this year in the fall. Also keep in mind, as we noted in our original report, that Apple plans to discontinue the current 5s with the 5se available around the same price points.
Apple is currently planning on using its March Apple Watch 2 and iPad Air 3 press event to also introduce the new iPhone 5se and likely announce shipping and availability details.
So are you planning on upgrading to the iPhone 5se? And will you be upgrading from the 4-inch iPhone you’re currently using? Switching from a larger iPhone now that Apple has a new 4-inch model? Or holding off to see what iPhone 7 has to offer?
Filed under: iOS Devices Tagged: 4-inch, event, iPhone 5se, March, pricing, release date, Shipping, specs
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Apple Watch expected to officially be available in Israel next week
Even before Apple shakes up the lineup with new bands and software next month, the Apple Watch is expected to continue its initial launch around the world. Israel, which doesn’t have an Apple Retail Store presence and instead relies on authorized resellers, is said to be selling the Apple Watch locally for the first time as soon as next week.
iDigital, an authorized reseller owned by iCon Group in Israel, is expected to carry the Apple Watch Sport as well as select stainless steel models from 1,999 NIS, or about $430 USD without tax, starting Thursday, February 11th.
Apple Watch sales in Israel up to this point have gone through unofficial channels with high markup prices or through out of country purchases.
While Apple CEO Tim Cook and company have held meetings in the country over the last year, in part to tour Apple facilities in the country, word that official Apple Watch sales wouldn’t reach Israel until 2016 first spread last year.
Last week during Apple’s quarterly earnings call, Cook shared that the Apple Watch was being sold at 12,000 locations across 48 countries. Apple Watch initially launched in nine countries last April, later reaching seven more countries while steadily adding new locations around the world.
The timing of Apple Watch reaching Israel officially follows recent expansions of which languages Apple’s dictation and voice assistant support. Last year, iOS 8 added Hebrew support for speech-t0-text dictation, iOS 9 improved right-to-left language support, and iOS 9.3 adds Hebrew Siri support which is a major input method on Apple Watch.
Thanks Eytan!
Filed under: Apple Watch Tagged: Apple watch, Israel
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Report: iPhone 7 will lose camera bump and antenna lines with cleaner design
While reports have been circulating that Apple is considering using a rear dual-camera system on the expected iPhone 7 Plus later this year, a new report today claims that there’s another change coming to the iPhone 7 camera as well.
Citing an anonymous source with an apparently reliable history, MacRumors is reporting that the upcoming iPhone 7 will lose the rear camera bump thanks to a thinner camera module being used.
The 12-megapixel and 8-megapixel sensors found on the iPhone 6s/Plus and iPhone 6/Plus models have featured protruding camera lenses unlike previous iPhone models. Like the latest iPod touch models, the design has favored overall device thinness over featuring a flush camera, which has the side effect of not sitting flat on a surface when used without a case as well as visually standing out.
The report goes on to claim that the upcoming iPhone redesign will largely resemble the latest design minus the presence of rear antenna lines found on the iPhone 6 series.
Both the iPhone 4 and iPhone 5 designs used elements of glass to avoid rear antenna lines while the iPod touch and cellular iPads feature a plastic strip to allow radio waves to travel. The current iPhone 6 design features an all-metal back that is more durable than the glass-backed iPhones of previous generations at the expense of an overall cleaner look.
Of course antenna lines aren’t the only thing that could go away. More controversially, the new iPhone 7 due out this fall is expected to be the first model to drop the 3.5mm headphone jack altogether.
Benefits include even potentially thinner and lighter hardware in the future as well as further water-resistance, although audio to headphones and speakers would need to go through the Lightning port or wirelessly via Bluetooth or AirPlay which could be less convenient for traditional headphone fans.
Apple is also developing a new set of truly wireless earbuds due out this year, as we’ve previously reported. Current wireless Beats earbuds rely on a wire to connect either side as well as microUSB charging. The earbuds currently in development would instead be separate pieces and charge through a carrying case.
Other iPhone 7 rumors include the possibility of a 256GB model, up from 128GB offered now, and the possibility of Li-Fi technology.
But before we totally enter iPhone 7 season, Apple is set to debut an updated 4-inch model using the iPhone 5se name next month on March 15th alongside the iPad Air 3 and new Apple Watch bands.
Filed under: iOS Devices Tagged: iPhone, iPhone 7
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Apple’s Irish data center faces delays as citizens raise concern over environmental impact on local wildlife
Last year it was announced that Apple was planning a major new data center for County Galway in Ireland, as well as one in Denmark, both set to begin operations in 2017. According to a new report from Business Insider, however, Apple’s plans for the Irish data center have hit a speed bump. The report claims that the company’s $928 million dollar center has been put on hold due to complaints from the community.
Apple had originally hoped to start building the data center on a 500-acre site by the end of 2015, but a new decision from the Irish government now won’t come until this summer. The government is reviewing a variety of appeals made by various parties after the go-ahead was already given last September.
Apple plans to build the data center in a small town called Athenry, in the middle of the Derrydonnell Forest. The company has promised to restore native trees to Derrydonnell Forest after the process is complete, as well as to build an education place for local schools and a walking trail. The center will be powered by renewable energy.
Supporters of Apple’s Irish data center say that it would create around 300 jobs for the community, but naysayers don’t think that is worth the other trade offs. Some of the appeals filed to the Irish government say that the data center would increase noise and light pollution, flooding, and traffic. Citizens are also arguing that it would harm populations of local badgers and bats.
The report adds that Apple is still optimistic it will be able to open its Irish data center by 2017, but these delays seem to suggest otherwise at this point. The company is expected to use the center for cloud services such as Siri, iMessage, Maps, iTunes, and the App Store.
The complaints were made with An Bord Pleanála, which is an independent party in Ireland that will make the decision. The committee, made up of “10-12 experts” is expected to issue another report in mid-February. It could be as late as summer when the final decision is made, however.
Earlier this year it was reported that Apple is looking to expand its data infrastructure in the United States, as well. The company is said to be building another data center in Reno, Nevada, adjacent to the existing one that is still under construction.
Filed under: AAPL Company Tagged: Apple, Data center, icloud, Ireland
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8 Things to Do Before Interviewing Someone for Your Team
Hiring the right talent for your organization has a direct impact on maintaining your competitive edge, so it is crucial that you don’t screw it up by short-changing the preparation required for the interview process. Sure, we all think it works out just fine to simply skim the resume 4 minutes before the candidate arrives and wing it, but I am willing to bet my hat that your lack of respect for the process has cost you some key talent.
Even worse, it has led you to hire talent who don’t work out or who walk into a whole host of surprises because they were only given partial information. I could talk all day about the interview process from start to finish, but I am going to focus this post on the eight most important things you should do to prepare for candidate interviews.
1) Don’t Be Naive
Hiring talent is scary. Hiring talent you know nothing about other than what you glean from an interview is even scarier. Let’s be honest, we (the collective job seeking population) have mastered the art of the interview. Go ahead, Google “job interview tips” and within .27 seconds you have over 51 million resources at your fingertips providing guidance on how to navigate an interview. You would have to live in under a rock not to be able to figure it out.
You need to prepare for your interview with this knowledge. You are not dealing with amateurs here so you better be prepared to be on your game. Just because someone arrives at the interview with a firm handshake, an impressive wardrobe and a nice smile, don’t fall in love. Be prepared to peel back the layers of that onion effectively.
2) Use Your Network
Finding talent via referral is not only smart, it is extremely cost effective. This approach catapults you past all of the unknowns about a person. You are now entering the engagement with behavioral based inputs from someone who has experienced this person in the real world.
Now I understand that your friend or co-worker’s point of view is a data set of one which is not how you should make your decisions, but at least you have a starting line that is inches if not miles ahead of an unknown candidate.
If you don’t have a network of talent or referral sources in your industry, build one. This should be a fundamental part of your job. Also understand that when I say “use” your network, be sure you don’t “overuse” or “abuse” your network with repeated email blasts with your random job description attached asking for referrals. Those folks get cut from my network immediately. Reciprocal respect in the referral game is how this works. You scratch my back, I scratch yours. I don’t poke you repeatedly until you want to punch me.
3) Do Your Homework
This applies regardless of whether your candidate was a referral or not. Take the time to know your candidate prior to scheduling that first interview. Once the interview is scheduled, take the time to do even more homework. I expect candidates to conduct research about Element Three and to talk about what they have learned during the interview, so they should expect the same from me.
There are so many modern ways to do this. You have their resume so that is a start to the thread of conversation around past experiences or mutual interests. There are many social media platforms where you can learn more about them, starting with LinkedIn. For a strategic brand and marketing agency like ours, if a candidate does not have a professional profile with a link to their portfolio on LinkedIn, this lack of prowess is a concern.
Depending on your industry this might not apply to you. Social and digital presence is key to what we do every day so it is simply expected that candidates have made their mark someplace relevant in the social sphere.
At Element Three I will review our contacts in HubSpot, our marketing automation software, to see if a candidate has expressed interest in us with a visit to our website to peruse our content, perhaps downloaded some of our resources or even gone so far as to subscribe to our emails.
Expressing an interest in learning more about our company is fundamental to being serious about working here. Sure, recruiters may look for you on Facebook or Instagram, but those are not places I use for candidate research. Twitter and YouTube, yes.
Let’s be honest, from time to time you will stumble across something socially egregious that may change your mind about conducting an interview with a candidate. Better to stumble upon that @ilieabouteverything handle early in the process. More and more companies are relying on a social presence of some kind to get to know their candidates before they ever meet them in person. The following statement in
an article from Careerbuilder in May 2015 speaks volumes about this topic.
“Researching candidates via social media and other online sources has transformed from an emerging trend to a staple of online recruitment,” said Rosemary Haefner, chief human resources officer at CareerBuilder. “In a competitive job market, recruiters are looking for all the information they can find that might help them make decisions. Rather than go off the grid, job seekers should make their professional persona visible online, and ensure any information that could dissuade prospective employers is made private or removed.”
4) Be Crystal Clear About the Goal of Your Interview
Have a solid job description – understand clearly what you are seeking in a qualified candidate. Make sure the candidate comprehends what you are looking for so your line of questioning can be appropriately geared toward the expectations of the role.
Make sure that you or the interviewer takes the time to review the job description and is fully prepared to provide clarity to the candidate about the position you seek to fill. Planning your questions in advance creates an automatic trigger to align them with the role you are filling.
I use the behavioral based interview process which specifically focuses on what the candidate has done in the past that demonstrates key skills, experiences and abilities that we are seeking at Element Three. It forces the candidate to share real experiences and more specifically the role they played in those experiences to achieve results. There are no hypothetical “what you do” questions and no answers to that effect, either.
You cannot “wing” this type of interview as a candidate or as an interviewer – you must be prepared and you must practice the technique in order to be effective. It also requires you to prepare your questions ahead of time.
If you have multiple interviews scheduled for the candidate there is extra prep that is important on your end. Planning who will focus on which questions is critical. Having your interviewers wing it, or all use the same questions, is a waste of time for you and frustrating for the candidate.
Plan ahead, have each interviewer focus on a specific aspect of the position or cultural fit and regroup at the end to wrap up. If you start your interview by asking the candidate to recap what you already have right in front of you on their resume, you have no idea what you are doing. Sorry to be blunt, but it is the truth. I am not the only one who feels strongly about proper prep for interviews; HubSpot agrees with me.
5) Provide a Positive Interview Experience for the Candidate
Confirming the details of the interview is always a nice touch and it also ensures that there is no confusion around when, where and how the interview will be conducted. Not only is it important to make the candidate feel welcome by ensuring they are comfortable with the process, it gives you peace of mind that there will be no issues or delays. Specific directions are always helpful as well as expectations around dress code.
This may seem obvious, but we are quite casual and to have a candidate go through the hassle of finding, cleaning and fitting into that suit in the back of the closet – only to show up and feel foolish because 90% of us are wearing jeans is a little mean and unnecessary. I always tell people to come as they are.
Helping your candidate find your location easily, including where to park, may seem like a puzzle they should figure out on their own, but I see it as a common courtesy to take that stress off them. Let me save you some time: if you feel like you need to give them a “skills test” on how to find your location as part of the interview, you are already interviewing the wrong candidate.
Explain your interview process and technique. For example, review the agenda for the interview, i.e. 5 minutes for introductions, 40 minutes for the interview, 15 minutes for questions the candidate may have and then 5 minutes for wrap up. I also make sure I explain the type of interviews that I conduct to make it more comfortable for the candidate because they will better understand why I ask the questions the way that I do.
Choose the right environment to conduct a comfortable interview. Allow privacy in a professional meeting room, away from interruptions and offer the applicant water or coffee. Do not bring your computer or cell phone and place it in front of you so you are easily distracted. That’s the rudest thing you can do in any meeting of any kind but particularly in an interview.
6) Prepare to Shut Your Mouth
Mentally prepare yourself to shut up and listen carefully. Short of suggesting duct tape, I cannot emphasize the importance of this enough. It is human nature to want to engage, talk about yourself and share all kinds of irrelevant information with your candidate. Refrain. Succinctly ask your question and then shut up and listen.
Use short follow up questions to prompt the candidate to elaborate on the answer and then shut up again and listen. If your interview is well prepared, this should be the natural progression of the conversation. It is when you are “winging it” that the train goes off the tracks and you find yourself spending most of the interview yammering on and on. Then you wonder why you leave the interview with no clear take on the candidate’s true qualifications.
HubSpot has a terrific blog post that outlines five great questions to assess cultural fit. Even if you use only one of these great questions, make sure it is #3, “How do you feel about our company values?” If your values are not spelled out on your website then you really cannot hold them responsible for not knowing what your core values are, so to be fair, take the time to prepare them for that question.
Either way, it is an important part of the interview and a great way to learn about your candidate. Of course, if you don’t actually believe in your company values, don’t bother – that is a post for another time. This question is not an opportunity for you to wax philosophical about how YOU feel about your values, it is an open forum to let your candidate talk. So, ask questions. Shut up. And, listen closely.
7) Recognize the Elephant(s) in the Room
I understand that candidates are typically coached NOT to talk money at the first interview. But that does not make the topic any less important to them. Here’s the way I see it.
Point 1: Time is money and if you are chasing a candidate that is out of your price range and you avoid the topic and fail to “fail fast,” you are wasting your time and their time and hence, money for both of you. What’s the point of that when it can be easily avoided?
Point 2: If you have an open position to fill then you have a budget or at least an IDEA of what you plan to spend to fill this role. I get that there are ranges based on experience but I would certainly hope that you have narrowed the level of experience you need within a reasonable margin. Why not talk about your budget for the role at the first interview (or even before for that matter)? Here is how easy it is. “What are your compensation expectations for this role if you are hired?” Elephant recognized, discussion begins.
8) You Owe it to the Candidate to Follow Up Quickly
If you are unable to move your hiring process at a pace that does not leave your candidates hanging for weeks, then you should not have started the process in the first place. Even if you don’t have an answer for your candidate within a few days, have the decency to tell them that. Leaving candidates hanging is a terrible business practice and if you even care the tiniest bit about your employment brand, you will take this advice seriously.
I have worked in both very small and very large companies so I understand the difference. It can be a challenge to have that personal touch when you are managing huge volumes of applicants coming through the pipeline. But that is no excuse.
Technology these days with applicant tracking systems allows you to respond to multiple candidates at once in an informative way. Those of you recruiting at smaller companies, I don’t even want to hear your excuses because there are none. Respect your candidates, tell them what is happening.
So that’s it. Eight easy prep steps that will exponentially improve the quality and efficiency of your interview process not only for you, but for your candidates. I dare you to try it and fail.
9to5Toys Lunch Break: Logitech keyboards/mice up to 60% off, Motorola Cable Modem $45, Sony soundbar $200, more
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TODAY’S CAN’T MISS DEALS:
Logitech gear for Mac/PC, iPad & iPhone up to 60% off: wireless mice from $14, solar keyboards from $36, speaker $9, more
Motorola SURFboard DOCSIS 3.0 High-Speed Cable Modem $45 shipped (Reg. $70)
Up your Super Bowl game – Sony 2.1 Channel 330W Bluetooth/NFC Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer: $200 shipped (Reg. $360)
Here are the best HDTV and Soundbar deals for Super Bowl 50
Here are some delicious snacks and fun kitchen gear to get you prepped for Super Bowl 50
App Store Free App of the Week: Piloteer goes free for the very first time ($2 value)
Award-winning iOS platformer Thomas Was Alone is now available for just $1 (Reg. $5)
Highly-rated puzzler Osmos now 80% off on iPhone & iPad: $1 ea. (Reg. up to $5)
Best USB/Jump Start batteries for your car from Bestek, Aukey, more
MORE NEW GEAR FROM TODAY:
USB Power: Inateck 36W 4-port Desktop Charger $11 (Reg. $15), 8-Outlet Surge Protector + 5 USB-Ports $26, more
- LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens is coming this summer
- Games/Apps: Star Wars Battlefront $30, Broforce for Mac $10, more
- Daily Deals: Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express HD Dock w/ Cable $225, more
- Mpow’s best selling 3-in-1 iPhone 6/s & Android lens kit $10 Prime shipped (Orig. $17)
- NordicTrack Desk Treadmill $1,000 in-store pickup (Reg. $1,300)
- The highly-rated Thomas Was Alone game for Android drops to $0.20 (Reg. $5+)
13” Retina MacBook Pro w/ Force Touch (newest) 2.7GHz/8GB/256GB $1,250 shipped (Reg. $1,499) wp.me/p1xTlR-N3t https://t.co/3cn5ZrzbH0
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9to5Toys (@9to5toys) February 02, 2016
Samsung 850 EVO 2TB 2.5-inch Internal Solid-State Drive: $570 shipped (Reg. $618+) wp.me/p1xTlR-MWW https://t.co/MT8Q3zqRlX
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9to5Toys (@9to5toys) February 02, 2016
MORE DEALS STILL ALIVE:
ALLPOWERS 10,000mAh Solar Panel Charger for $11 Prime shipped (Reg. $17)
Rugged 10,000mAh Solar dual USB Battery w/ 2 USB lamps: $13 Prime shipped
Anker’s reinforced PowerLine MFi Lightning cables are extra tough & on sale: 6-ft $10 Prime shipped (Reg. $12), more
Apple TV 32GB w/ Siri Remote and HDMI Cable $126 shipped (Reg. $149+), 64GB $176 shipped – also now available in refurbished condition via Apple
Apple TV 64GB 4th gen. w/ Siri Remote (Open-Box): $140 shipped (Orig. $199), more wp.me/p1xTlR-MMF https://t.co/eSBaXynxb8
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9to5Toys (@9to5toys) February 01, 2016
- Apple 15-inch Retina MacBook Pro 2.2GHz/16GB/256GB: $1,700 (Reg. $1,999)
- Logitech Harmony Ultimate Touchscreen Remote: $190 (Reg. $225+)
- Chromecast (2nd gen) w/ free $10 Gift Card $35, Fire TV Stick w/ Voice Remote $40
- Gift card deals: Applebee’s $50 for $40, Regal Movies $25 for $20, more
- Philips Hue Go: $80 (Reg. $100), Hue Tap Switch: $50 (Reg. $60)
- UE Roll Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker: $70 shipped (Reg. $100)
- SanDisk 32GB USB-C Flash Drive: $34 Prime shipped (Reg. $50)
- Media: Amazon $5 Digital HD/Blu-ray Sale: How to Train Your Dragon, more
- Kindle First Books for February: The Last Girl, North of Here, more
- Amazon’s best-selling iPhone Virtual Reality kit $20 Prime shipped (Reg. $40)
- Samsung 850 EVO Solid-State Drives: 1TB $289, 2TB $570
- Anker’s reinforced MFi Lightning cables: 6-ft $10 Prime shipped (Reg. $12), more
- DJI Phantom 3 Standard Drone w/ 2.7K Camera (refurb): $429 shipped (Orig. $1,000)
- Switch to reusable glass water bottles w/ this Aquasana 6-pack for $19 (Reg. $40)
- Upgrade your home’s lighting w/ this 4-Pack of Philips LED Bulbs for $10 (Reg. $20)
- “The Souls of Black Folk” by W. E. B. Du Bois: free Kindle eBook plus audiobook for $1
- Bluetooth 20W Speakers: Sony SRSX5 $80 shipped, TaoTronics $40 shipped
- Free Xbox Live Gold Games for February: Hand of Fate, Styx Master of the Shadows, more
- Free PS Plus Games for February: HellDivers Democracy Strikes Back, more
- Prime Members: VIZIO Sound Bar w/ Wireless Sub $198 shipped (Reg. $218)
- Moe’s Southwest Grill: Buy One, Get One Free burrito promotion
- Aukey adapters: Bluetooth 4.1 Audio Receiver $11, Car FM Radio Transmitter $11
Game pre-orders for Amazon Prime members –Zelda, Far Cry Primal, FFXV: $48 ea (Reg. $60)
NEW PRODUCTS & MORE:
ThinkGeek’s life-size BB-8 lamp brings the latest Star Wars flick to your living room
Build your own 1:5000-scale New York City with this incredible Kickstarter project
- The CrossOver from NextDesk turns nearly any setup into a motorized standing desk
- Fluance mixes mid-century design with Bluetooth technology in its new Hi-Fi system
- Aereo’s founder is returning with a new ISP that beams gigabit speeds into your home
- This German eBike blends a minimalist design with serious battery power
- You have to see NERF’s new Crossbow and Zombie Brainsaw that are coming out this fall
Filed under: Tips and Tricks
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Photo of the Day: Apple Adjustable Keyboard from 1993 wired into an iPad
Apple has long been trying to push the iPad into the business market, but this use case is probably something the company never expected to see. On Twitter, AfterPad.com owner Kevin shared the above image of Apple’s Adjustable Keyboard, first introduced back in 1993 for $219, connected to an iPad and working nearly flawlessly. Just for good measure, he also attached the numeric keypad Apple offered with the keyboard itself.
As you can see in the image above, a variety of adapters and cables go into powering this set up. The Apple Adjustable Keyboard itself is connected via an ADB cable to the Griffin iMate ADB to USB adapter. From there, the USB end of the adapter is connected to Apple’s official Lightning to USB cable. The keyboard and keypad are connected via a standard ADB to ADB cable.
It’s certainly a wild setup, but the fact that it works perfectly save for a few volume keys is pretty amazing. These technologies were released some 22 years apart. Not to mention, it’s probably far more of a productive setup than the Apple Smart Keyboard. Maybe this is how Apple should push the iPad into enterprise…
Filed under: iOS Devices Tagged: Apple Adjustable Keyboard, iPad
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TwelveSouth debuts BookBook cases for the slimmer iPad Air 2 + mini 4, teases iPad Pro edition w/ Pencil pocket
TwelveSouth, maker of stylish accessories for Apple products, is out today with new versions of its signature BookBook case fit for the slimmer iPad mini 4 and iPad Air 2. In addition, TwelveSouth’s also showing off the upcoming iPad Pro version of the BookBook case. If you’re unfamiliar, TwelveSouth’s BookBook line wraps your Apple device in a vintage leather book-like case which offers equal parts protection and disguise.
TwelveSouth already has versions of the BookBook case designed for iPhones, MacBooks, and older iPads, and today’s new versions are custom fit for the even thinner iPad mini 4 and iPad Air 2. (If you’ve got the iPad Air 3 in mind, the dimensions according to purported leaked blueprints are virtually the same.)
Both new BookBook sizes not only protect and conceal the iPad exterior, but also double as both typing and video viewing stands to make writing and watching movies and having video calls more comfortable.
There’s no adhesive involved either so you can slip the iPad in or out at will if you want to take a quick photo, and all the iPad ports, buttons, and FaceTime camera are accessible when inside BookBook.
Both new BookBook versions are sold in Vintage Brown colors with the iPad mini 4 version going for $69.99 and the iPad Air 2 edition priced at $79.99. These are available from today.
And as pictured at the top, TwelveSouth is also preparing a brand new BookBook case custom made just for the iPad Pro.
The larger case will accommodate the 12.9-inch tablet while also offering a convenient pocket to optionally stow away an Apple Pencil which otherwise has no obvious place for storage and transportation. Building on the Apple Pencil pocket, the upcoming BookBook for iPad Pro will also offer a viewing angle intended for sketching.
Pricing isn’t available yet, but TwelveSouth is taking sign-ups for iPad Pro customers interested in catching the spring launch. As an iPad Pro owner, I’m curious to see how the BookBook might enhance the Pencil and sketching experience so stay tuned for our review in the future.
Filed under: iOS Devices Tagged: Apple Pencil, BookBook, iPad Air 2, ipad cases, ipad mini 4, iPad Pro, TwelveSouth
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Opinion: Could the rumored twin-lens of the iPhone 7 Plus signify the start of a real divergence between the models?
When Apple first made the move into larger-screen phones with the launch of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, there was only tiny difference between them in terms of features: the larger-screened model included optical image stabilization while the smaller one didn’t. This was likely driven simply by the practicality of fitting the technology into the larger device rather than any real intention to differentiate the two devices feature-wise.
But the rumors suggest that the iPhone 7 Plus may offer a dual-camera system, offering optical zoom, while the smaller iPhone 7 won’t. A fresh report today suggests that a number of camera lens makers have sent dual-lens samples to Apple for testing with the iPhone 7 Plus.
Assuming the optical image stabilization also remains exclusive to the Plus, the combination of the two features means that – for the first time – some of those who might have opted for the smaller model now have reason to consider the larger one instead. Could this suggested second step by Apple indicate that it intends to increasingly differentiate the two flagship iPhone models as time goes on … ?
Let’s start by looking at the significance of the only present difference between the iPhone 6/6s and the iPhone 6/6s Plus.
Image stabilization is designed for use when shooting in low-light. When there’s not much light available, the iPhone has to leave the sensor switched on for longer, meaning that tiny hand movements as you take the photo can result in motion-blur – which makes the photo appear out of focus. Image stabilization aims to detect this movement and compensate for it.
Digital image stabilization – as used by the smaller iPhone – attempts to do the job in software. The iPhone 6 blends together a series of short exposures into a single image, each one sharper than a single long exposure. It’s a pretty effective technique, but there’s a limit to what can be achieved.
Optical image stabilization (OIS), as used in the iPhone 6/6s Plus, is far more effective. Here, the iPhone uses a gyroscope to move the camera array to compensate for hand movement. If your hand moves the camera up and right by a tenth of a millimeter during the exposure, the gyroscope moves the camera array down and left by the same amount. The two motions cancel out and you get a sharp image.
The OIS system used by Apple means that it works for video as well as still photos.
There’s no doubt that OIS is a nice feature to have, and for a tiny minority of those particularly keen on iPhonography, it may have influenced their choice of model. But for most people, it’s far too small a differentiator to have them buy the larger iPhone 6 Plus when they find the smaller iPhone 6 a more convenient size.
But a twin-lens camera is a bigger deal. I detailed some of the potential benefits of this in a look at Apple’s patent for this technology, so I won’t repeat all that here, but will concentrate on one of them and just mention the rest.
The key one is optical zoom. Although you can digitally zoom in on any iPhone, all you are actually doing is cropping out part of the image captured by the sensor. Imagine a grid of nine squares. If you zoom in to the centre square, you are simply throwing away 8/9ths of the image captured. Your zoomed-in image therefore has a lower resolution than a non-zoomed one.
With the optical zoom used on conventional cameras, you adjust the lens to fill the sensor with a tighter field of view. As you zoom in, the lens element moves further away from the sensor. A smaller portion of the scene hits the sensor, and you continue to get full resolution as you zoom in.
The lens on a cameraphone is far too thin to allow optical zoom. One solution would be to have two completely separate camera modules, one offering a standard field of view and the other say a 3x zoom. What Apple has patented is something rather cleverer than this (see the patent for details) but gives the same end result. Technically, it’s not a zoom lens – it’s one with two different fixed focal lengths – but the net result is you can choose between a standard and telephoto view while still getting full-resolution images.
Other potential benefits include the ability to shoot video and stills simultaneously, getting maximum resolution for both; shooting normal speed and slo-mo footage simultaneously; shooting a standard photo and zoomed-in video.
Our poll suggested that this is a big enough deal to influence purchase decisions. Almost half of you simply responded ‘take my money,’ while almost a quarter more considered it very exciting. If Apple does indeed implement the technology with the kind of features described in the patent (a big ‘if,’ of course), then it will be clearly differentiating the iPhone 7 Plus from the iPhone 7 by features as well as size.
And this may turn out to be only the start. Bugs aside, Apple rarely does anything by accident. If it establishes clear blue water between the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus via features like these, it’s likely to continue that differentiation in future models.
Which leaves me with mixed feelings. On the one hand, choice is good. Being able to choose the feature-set we want, and pay accordingly, is a positive thing. But for those of us who prefer the form-factor of the smaller iPhone, I’m less happy about the idea of being forced to choose between the phone size I want in my pocket and the features I’d like to use when removed from it.
If certain features are only available on the larger phone because physics, that’s fair enough. Apple is simply taking advantage of the greater space in the larger phone to fit in more technology. The dual-camera system – like OIS – may well fall into that category.
But if Apple instead chooses to differentiate the two models for marketing purposes, I think that will be a shame. Where physically possible, I’d like to have the choice of all the latest Apple tech in my preferred size of device.
What are your views? Would you be happy to see increasing differentiation between smaller and larger iPhone models? Or should Apple match the feature set except when this simply isn’t physically possible? Take our poll and share your views in the comments.
Bottom image: Zuma Press
Filed under: iOS Devices, Opinion Tagged: iPhone, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 plus, photography
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6 Stats that Prove the Importance of Product Videos for Ecommerce
Producing quality videos for your ecommerce site is hard, we know. Equipment is expensive, and specialists who know how to use that equipment cost even more. For that very reason, many ecommerce businesses will settle for photos and graphics just to get the job done.
These six statistics show that video might just be an investment worth making. Sure, you’ll have to dig a little deeper into those pockets at first, but the results will return more than you dreamed.
Video Appears in 14% of Internet Search Results
When consumers search for products like yours, 14% of the results could very well be product videos. If they’re not your videos, then you’ve lost a significant portion of the audience, haven’t you?
Google also says video campaigns will soon be grouped just like any other ad through AdWords. That means videos will soon be even more likely to show up in Google searches.
73% More Visitors Who Watch Product Videos Will Buy
Did you know that your products are more likely to sell if you create videos for them? There are quite a few reasons for this, which we’ll cover in the next points. The most important thing to note, however, is simply that videos for your products do prompt more purchases. That’s really the biggest and most important statistic you need.
Almost 46% Will Showroom If Video Isn’t Available
Showrooming has been considered the bane of brick-and-mortar stores’ existence, but it can go the other direction, too. If you have buyers on your site who really want to see the products in action, they might drive to the nearest store. If they do that, you’re likely to lose that purchase.
Instead of letting your buyers leave your site for any reason, give them videos so they can see your products in action.
71% of Consumers Think Video Explains the Product Better
When consumers feel like they understand the products you sell, they’re more likely to take a chance on spending their money. Video clears up a lot of that confusion. Isn’t that what your marketing is all about, anyway? Answering questions with quality content?
57% Are Less Surprised By Products with Video
Those buyers who see the videos and understand what they’re buying are less likely to be surprised by the products when they arrive. As you might imagine, those consumers who are less surprised by their purchases also end up happier. And happy customers are less likely to return a product for a refund.
58% of Shoppers Think Companies with Product Videos Can Be Trusted
All of this adds up to trust. By providing product videos, you give buyers quality information that doesn’t hide behind good angles and lighting. They understand the products they’re ordering and are happier with their purchases. With every great transaction, you build more and more trust.
And a consumer who trusts your business is worth the investment you’ll make in product video production, isn’t it?
Soundcloud launches free ‘track stations’ on iOS following iTunes Radio shutdown
Shortly after Apple’s decision to let free ad-supported iTunes Radio stations go away, Soundcloud today has introduced a new similar feature called Stations for free on its own music streaming platform. Users can launch a new track station based off of the current song they’re listening to and easily discover an endless stream of new music.
Soundcloud users no longer have to hunt for the next great song or worry about just playing what’s on their current Stream (Soundcloud’s equivalent of a timeline). This makes the music listening and discovery process much more smooth in general.
In initial testing, it appears that stations use a mix of your likes and previous listens to play other music you might like. A similar feature has existed on the web platform for a few months now, although not specifically titled as such. This is a solid competitive advantage that they should have introduced on all platforms months ago really, but as a frequent Soundcloud user I’m delighted to know there is a more consistent method to discover new favorites going forward.
Here’s how the new feature looks:
Bringing Stations to the Soundcloud mobile platform allows users to spend more time listening to new music instead of jumping between different streaming services like Apple Music and Spotify. I personally use Soundcloud to find and stream all the electronic music I listen to since Pandora and Apple-related services (iTunes, iTunes Radio, iTunes Stations, and Beats 1) never seem to be as up-to-date with the latest in the genre, especially remixes.
Soundcloud is available for free from the App Store and is compatible with iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches.
Filed under: Apps Tagged: Apple watch, Beats 1, iOS, itunes radio, iTunes Stations, SoundCloud
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