TechBytes: The Net Neutrality Ruling

April 7, 2010— -- The government has been dealt a setback in its efforts to require companies to provide equal access to all Internet content, a policy known as net neutrality. A federal appeals court ruled that regulators have limited power over Web traffic under current law. The decision will allow Internet service providers to block or slow specific sites and charge others to deliver their content faster. The ruling is not expected to have an immediate impact.

Some iPad owners are reporting a problem with their new device. Many users have gone online to complain that they are having trouble getting connected to the Internet. There are pages of comments on Apple's technical support Web site complaining that Wi-Fi connections are either weak or keep cutting out. Apple has posted a troubleshooting tips on its site.

Many people are calling the iPad a larger version of the iPhone, or even an iPhone on steroids. But in many ways the tablet computer is much more than that. The Wall Street Journal's Katie Boehret says the device is spawning a new type of app.

"This really is a new way of designing software because we're just using our finger, but we're able to do a lot more because of the larger surface," Boehret says.

"The software itself is more advanced in a lot of ways, instead of just being blown up or just being larger. People are redesigning the way they present themselves and their apps to just be easier to engage with."

You can read Boehret's review of some of the new apps for the iPad on the Wall Street Journal's Web site.

There is a new way to charge your gadgets on the go. The Wrist Charger straps to your wrist and plugs in to most electronic devices. You can use it to power cell phones, MP3 players, gaming consoles and more. The charger sells for $35 on thinkgeek.com.