Security was top of mind on Wednesday, as Lookout Mobile Security reported that there are now hacked websites targeting Android devices with a new Android Trojan called NotCompatible, an attack vector previously only used to infect PCs with malware.
Lookout called the development "the first time hacked websites are being used to specifically target mobile devices." Malware threats to Android phones in the past have largely come via apps.
In other news, just 5 percent of Android devices are running the latest version of the mobile operating system, Ice Cream Sandwich, according to stats released this week by Google.
Meanwhile, the streaming music service Spotify finally launched an iPad app. The Spotify for iPad app, which is now available in the App Store, lets users of Apple's coveted tablet browse and play tracks from Spotify's catalog of 17 million songs. iPad owners can enjoy the app for free during a 30-day trial, but will need to shell out $9.99 a month for a Spotify premium subscription to continue using it after the trial period.
And, if you're in the market for a new Amazon Kindle, then don't head to Target. The popular retailer confirmed yesterday that it will stop selling Amazon's Kindle devices in the coming weeks. Kindle devices have already been pulled from the Target website. Searches for "Amazon Kindle" just bring up Kindle covers.
Also topping tech headlines on Wednesday:
- Nokia Sues HTC, RIM, ViewSonic for Patent Infringement: The handset maker sued the companies in the U.S. and Germany for infringing on 45 of its patents.
- Introducing Fastest Mobile Networks 2012: PCMag is starting its annual survey of cellular data networks. This year we're driving across the U.S. testing five carriers in 30 cities.
- Microsoft Ditching 'Windows Live' Brand: Redmond will ditch the branding in favor of an over-arching "Microsoft account."
- Pebble Smartwatch Lands First App Partner: RunKeeper: When the watch becomes available this fall, it will be integrated with RunKeeper, allowing cyclists, hikers, walkers, and skiers to track their fitness right from their wrist.
- Dell Unveils Ivy Bridge Desktops, Laptops: If you need a new system that can handle complex tasks or immersive entertainment activities, Dell should have you covered, at least for the foreseeable future.
- $99 Xbox, Kinect Bundle on Tap Next Week?: The package will reportedly come with a 4GB Xbox and cost $15 a month.
- Motorola Awarded Injunction Against Xbox, Windows 7: A German judge granted Motorola an injunction against the Xbox 360 and Windows 7 in its patent battle with Microsoft.
- ESPN Fires Columnist and Alleged Social Media Grifter Sarah Philips: ESPN.com moved fast this week to sever ties with the Playbook columnist after questions about her identity and possible participation in a series of questionable social media-related business deals were raised in a lengthy expose by Deadspin.
- YouTube Makes 'Wrong Call,' Reinstates Sexy Kate Upton Video: The video featured the curvy Upton demonstrating the "Cat Daddy," a dance that apparently involves the dancer writhing provocatively in some sort of cat-like pose.
- Harvard, MIT to Offer Free Online Classes: The schools have each committed $30 million to launch the project, known as "edX."
- Facebook Adds 'Action Links' for Timeline Apps: Action links allow the user to take a direct action within the app itself.
For more from Angela, follow her on Twitter @amoscaritolo.
