Economy

Pandora faces competition from Apple’s iTunes Radio amidst financial losses

After just a few days on the job, Brian McAndrews, the new Chief Executive Officer of Internet radio giant Pandora, is already faced with a serious challenge. As of Wednesday, the company is competing with Apple’s new iTunes Radio service, which many analysts believe could end Pandora’s long-standing domination of the Internet radio market. McAndrews’ arrival comes at a challenging time for the 740 person company. iTunes Radio has 27 million tracks in its catalog compared to Pandora’s one million. …

Energy innovators shine at Solar Hackathon ’13

Amid the clacking of keys and the slurping of Red Bull energy drinks, about 30 computer hackers recently gathered in Oakland. Their goal: to make solar energy easier, cheaper and more fun to use. The hackers –- mostly web developers, engineers and solar energy entrepreneurs –- descended last weekend on the sprawling 12,000-square-foot headquarters of SfunCube LLC in Jack London Square.  The solar energy incubator and accelerator nurtures enterprising young solar ventures and shelters startups in the industry. Its mission…