Brands to Watch: Discovery + more

Discovery Communications HQ in Silver Spring, MD, was stormed today by a lunatic gunman, James Lee, who felt the Discovery Channel needed to better address environmental issues and overpopulation. The building's 1,900 employees were evacuated, along with a childcare center on the premises, before a stand-off with police led to Lee being shot and killed. Three hostages were reportedly safely removed.

Apple's upgraded iPods (featuring unified packaging) and improved/cheaper Apple TV announcements today have "raised the stakes," according to the Financial Times, in the battle for multiplatform TV and video viewing.

Sony's Qriocity, a subscription-based music and video service launching in the UK this year, aims to take on Apple's iTunes.

India asks RIM, Google and Skype to set up local servers as country's BlackBerry ban looms, despite truce.

HP's board authorized $10 billion for share buybacks.

IBM powers mobile apps for US Open tennis fans.

Kodak is seeking iPhone and BlackBerry royalties to fund its turnaround.

Amazon, Wal-Mart and eBay top consumers 100 favorite e-tailers.

Allergan agreed to pay $600 million to settle allegations that it had marketed Botox for medical uses, like pain and headache, not approved by the FDA.

US auto sales saw a dismal August, as GM and Ford reported nervous buyers staying away in droves.