Apple

More evidence has surfaced that Apple is working on navigation software for the next-generation iPhone. The company recently acquired online mapping company Poly9. This is not the first tech company specializing in mapping to be picked up by Apple.

Placebase, a mapping services company was also bought by Apple in 2009. Speculation is rampant that Apple may integrate both companies' technology in a new mapping and/or navigation app for the iPhone 5. Google maps are currently featured in iOS products, but the relationship between Google and Apple has been rocky lately. Google has also launched its own competing free GPS navigation app for Android platforms.

Could it be revenge for Apple's suggestion that iPhones carry embedded SIM cards? European wireless carriers are concerned about the heavy bandwidth-usage devices operating on their networks, and have suggested that companies like Apple pay for network upgrades. It's no secret that iPhone owners download a lot of data.

What's new is that wireless carriers including France Telecom, Telecom Italia, and Vodafone are suggesting that Apple, Facebook, Google and Yahoo among others pay a usage-based fee on their networks. Wireless companies are worried that as mobile usage grows and per-customer revenue decreases, the cost of providing adequate network upgrades may overwhelm their business model.

Finally the white iPhone 4 is back on Apple's promotional materials, signaling that the device has not been canceled or abandoned indefinitely. Photographs of Apple Store posters clearly indicate that the iPhone 4 will be available in black or white starting in spring 2011.

A more specific release date for the white iPhone 4 has not been revealed by Apple, however spring 2011 places the white iPhone 4 launch sometime after March 20. Apple has removed pre-ordering information for the white model from its online store.

Several Apple patents have surfaced that hint towards possible iPhone hardware updates. One patent reveals an integrated AM/FM radio tuner that would make conventional broadcast radio listening possible. Not only this, but the app design includes a radio map showing nearby radio stations and the associated musical genres.

Satellite radio is also mentioned in the patent application, as well as a radio tuner card for desktop Mac computers. The app design includes presets and a similar interface to current broadband streaming radio players.

Apple is offering several one-day special deals in its online store this Cyber Monday, the big online shopping day marking the first Monday after Black Friday. The Apple Store has a special section titled Merry Monday listing all the deals.

Free signature gift wrapping on specific items (while supplies last) is also offered for one day only. Of course, the Apple Store always offers free shipping with purchases over $50. If you're looking for a deal on that new Mac, you'll have to look elsewhere, as the list of Merry Monday deals focuses on iPad, iPhone, iPod and Mac accessories only.