Cameron Backs Obama's NASA Budget, Kindle Going Color?

• President Obama's NASA budget received some early criticism from within the scientific community because it eliminated funds from the Constellation moon landing program. The budget has attracted one influential backer, though, as 'Avatar' director James Cameron has publicly supported the plan because it allows for more privatization of rocket and shuttle development. [From: The Huffington Post]
• During a Congressional hearing related to the proposed Comcast acquisition of NBC Universal, NBC CEO Jeff Zucker demonstrated a complete misunderstanding of the Boxee media service. Hulu has blocked Boxee users from accessing its extensive content, even though when Boxee users "watch shows from Hulu, they are watching the ads and generate real revenues to NBC." D'oh. [From: Boxee]
• Hopefully Steve Jobs's recent staggering boost of confidence isn't just a tragic case hubris. Gathering for a clandestine meeting with New York Times executives about the future of the iPad, Jobs reportedly arrived at a ritzy restaurant wearing a top hat. He then apparently proceeded to order two items that weren't even on the menu from his menial plebian servers. [From: New York Magazine]
• One of iTunes' major drawbacks has been the inability to quickly preview iPhone apps from the Web. Apple is reportedly addressing that issue, though, with the creation of a "Web storefront" that will allow for quick Web-based app previews. [From: The Washington Post]
• The Office of Science and Technology Policy is releasing a free text service for expectant mothers. By texting to "511411," pregnant women can receive informational updates three times a week about flu prevention, immunization, local clinics, and other health issues. [From: The National Journal]
• With the introduction of the iPad and the shift toward e-readers with touch interfaces, Amazon's Kindle is beginning to lag behind the rest of the pack. But, Prime View International, the company that developed the Kindle display, says that it will be releasing upgraded displays this year that will provide color and touchscreen capabilities. [From: Engadget]

Tags: avatar, itunes, james cameron, JamesCameron, jeff zucker, JeffZucker, kindle, morningxtra, nasa, steve jobs, SteveJobs, top