Google to test ultra-high-speed wireless Net technology

In an application to the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Monday, Google requested permission to conduct tests in California across wireless spectra. Of particular interest, is a rarely used millimeter-wave frequency that's capable of transmitting vast amounts of information through the air.

The application, signed by Google Access and Energy division chief Craig Barratt, documents a 180-day test the company says will provide "valuable insight into Google's technology innovations and potential business plans and strategy." Though much of the application is redacted in order to protect confidential data, the tech giant states that the purpose of the test is to "expeditiously test radios in a way that is likely to contribute to the development, extension, expansion or utilization of the radio art."

Apple releases new iPads

Apple (AAPL, Tech30) unveiled new editions of the iPad and iPad Mini at an event in California on Thursday, Oct. 16, where it also announced that its new Apple Pay system will launch on Monday, Oct. 20.

The new tablets -- the iPad Air 2 and iPad Mini -- both come with TouchID fingerprint sensors, which previously were only available on the iPhone. You can use the TouchID to make purchases online with Apple Pay, though it won't work at cash registers in stores the way the new iPhones do

The Air 2 is just 6.1 millimeters thick, 18% smaller than the previous iPad Air. It's also got a souped-up processor, improved Retina display and a camera that takes panoramic photos up to 43 megapixels.

Both of the new iPads will be available for preorder on Friday and will ship by the end of next week. They're available in gold in addition to the traditional silver and dark gray.

The Air 2 starts at $499 for the 16-gigabyte, WiFi-only version, while the same version of the Mini 3 goes for $399.

The 64-gig Air 2 is $599, while the 128-gig version is $699; for an additional $130, you can get a version in each of those sizes equipped with cellular data connectivity. Apple is also cutting prices for the older iPads.