11:01 PM
Mahir
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Toshiba Satellite L675D-S7022 Review
Desktop replacement notebooks may pull together the computing experience with more of a nod to portability than the average PC tower, but there’s also a price sacrifice to be made if you want the same crunching abilities. Into this hotly contested field steps Toshiba with the Satellite L675D-S7022, a 17.3-inch notebook that sneaks in at under the $800 mark. Is this the budget desktop replacement to beat? Check out the full SlashGear review after the cut.
With an MRSP of $799.99 you know you’re not going to get the most powerful of components, and sure enough the Satellite L675D-S7022 has a pretty modest spec sheet. Toshiba has picked a 1.8GHz triple-core AMD Phenom II X3 P820 processor, paired with a 5,400rpm 500GB hard-drive and 4GB of RAM. Between 256MB and 1,405MB of that RAM can be co-opted by the integrated ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4250 graphics; already you can guess that this isn’t the machine for gamers.
Meanwhile there’s a Blu-ray reader/DVD burner, WiFi b/g/n, 10/100 ethernet and an integrated webcam, together with two USB 2.0 ports, a combo USB/eSATA port and an HDMI output. No Bluetooth, mind, nor gigabit ethernet or a PC Card/ExpressCard slot. The 6-cell, 48Wh Li-ion battery is rated for up to 3.73hrs runtime. As is usual with notebooks this size, the Satellite L675D-S7022 has a separate numeric keypad to the right of the keyboard, though the spacebar is slightly smaller than we’d expect.
Free iPhone 4 cases not due until September 1st
You don’t look a gift horse in the mouth, the old saying goes, but if you were hoping Apple’s offer of a free case would fix your iPhone 4 antenna problems sooner rather than later, you might have to think again. SlashGear reader Freddy has sent in his order confirmation – he picked an Incase Snap – and it shows that the free case isn’t expected to be delivered until September 1st 2010.
Now, Apple did warn that deliveries could take anything from three to five weeks, but this is still on the long side of things. While we can only imagine that supplies of cases will be dwindling fast, considering how many iPhone 4 buyers there are out there, for the delay to be this long only a few hours after the case program started doesn’t bode well. Our advice would be to get your order in sooner rather than later; let us know what your estimated ship date is in the comments.
iOS4 Bluetooth problems reported: patchy connections & shoddy audio?
How’s your Bluetooth? We didn’t notice any issues with the Bluetooth performance when we reviewed the iPhone 4, but it looks like others haven’t been so lucky. Multiple complaints (see here, here, here and here) have sprung up in the Apple support forums since the release of iOS4, either for upgraded iPhone 3GS handsets or iPhone 4 units with the latest OS preloaded, with owners describing sporadic connections, an inability to play music wirelessly and poor audio quality during calls.
The issues have arisen with a broad range of third-party devices, including factory-fit ICE systems, aftermarket stereos and headsets from brands including Jawbone and Motorola. AppleCare is apparently refusing to acknowledge the problem and, since there’s no official method to downgrade an iPhone 3GS to iOS3.x once it has been updated to iOS4, owners are left with no fix in sight. As we say, we’ve not seen the issue ourselves; if you’re having problems with your iOS4 device’s Bluetooth, let us know in the comments.
FrontFace turns Windows UI tablet-centric for happier fingers
Microsoft has done its best (arguably) to make Windows more finger-friendly in its various iterations, but the OS still falls short of dedicated tablet-centric platforms when it comes to keyboard and mouse free use. That leaves a niche for developers to step in with their own wares, and Mirabyte has done just that. Their app, FrontFace, slaps a custom UI on top of – or co-existing with – the regular Windows 7 desktop, including a browser, app launcher and social networking integration.
Out of the box there’ll be JavaScript, Flash and Silverlight support, and FrontFace can take webapps and integrate them with its own UI rather than leaving them running in separate windows. There’s also a notification center, which pulls together new emails, tweets, podcasts and RSS feeds, and a download store in the works that will offer a greater selection of apps. Mirabyte have borrowed the Windows Phone 7 “toasts” notification system, too, with pop-up alerts discretely sliding down at the top of the display.
Considering Windows’ usability on touchscreen devices is one of the most common criticisms of the OS, we’re mildly hopeful about what Mirabyte are putting together. They’ll face competition from dedicated platforms likeMeeGo, but the benefit of using Windows is the wealth of software already available for the platform. On the flip side, the deciding factor may be just how deep the interface goes: if you end up dropping out into bare Windows after going a few levels down, it may not be enough. FrontFace isn’t available to download yet, but the first public beta is expected to launch in a few weeks time.
iPhone 4 Case Program launches: Bumper, Belkin, Griffin, Incase & Speck cases up for grabs
The white iPhone 4 may not be available until later in 2010, but what Apple can give you now is a free case for your black handset. As promised last week, the Cupertino company has kicked off its iPhone 4 Case Program: a new app for the smartphone allows owners to pick either an Apple Bumper or a third-party case at no charge.
The app follows word earlier today that Apple had begun refunding those who bought a Bumper through the official Apple Store online, with money automatically being returned to the payment method initially used (and including shipping and taxes). However that does mean that those iPhone 4 owners won’t be able to choose a second case under Apple’s scheme, only get a refund for the Bumper they’ve already bought.
Right now there are only black cases available, and aside from the official Bumper you can take your pick from the Belkin Shield Micra, Griffin Motif, Griffin Reveal, Incase Snap Case, Speck Fitted and Speck PixelSkin HD. Expected delivery time is three to five weeks, and the app checks your handset’s IMEI number so that you can’t get more than one.
In order to qualify, you need to have bought your iPhone 4 before September 30th (obviously that’s not a problem right now); however, if you bought it prior to July 23rd 2010 you need to apply for your free case no later than August 22nd. Everyone else has 30 days from the point of purchase to apply.
White iPhone 4 now not due until “later this year”
Having promised last week that the white iPhone 4 would launch at the end of this month, Apple are having to take the embarrassing step of admitting it now won’t be shipping the handset until “later this year”. In a brief statement issued today, Apple said that the white iPhone 4 is “more challenging to manufacturer than we originally expected,” though failed to explain exactly what the problems are.
“White models of Apple’s new iPhone 4 have continued to be more challenging to manufacture than we originally expected, and as a result they will not be available until later this year. The availability of the more popular iPhone 4 black models is not affected.” Apple
The news comes shortly after Apple reported huge sales for the most recent financial quarter, and AT&T announced they had activated ten times as many iPhones in the three month period as they did following the iPhone 3GS launch in 2009. That’s despite ongoing criticism regarding the iPhone 4′s antenna, which has seen Apple promise free cases to each buyer.
Microsoft license ARM chip tech
Chipset designer ARM has announced that Microsoft is licensing its architecture, signifying a greater interest on the part of the software giant into the processors that power its Windows Phone 7smartphone platform. While no details as to the financial terms of the deal have been made public, according to Microsoft general manager KD Hallman, ”with closer access to the ARM technology we will be able to enhance our research and development activities for ARM-based products.”
That not only encompasses Windows Phone 7 but some devices running Windows 7 Embedded as well; the latter OS is being positioned as ideally suited to tablets and smartbook-style products, though recently Microsoft has seen brands like ASUS abscond to platforms like Android. Microsoft and ARM have apparently been working closely since 1997, but this new agreement could allow Microsoft to produce their own ARM-based CPU similar to how Apple has struck out on its own with the Apple A4 that powers the iPad and iPhone 4.
Standivarius Aero laptop stand is thin and very lightweight
Standivarius has a new laptop stand that is crazy thin and light making it very portable. The stand is called the Aero, weighs only 135g, and is 2.5mm thick when folded. The thin stand promises to be set up and ready to sue in two seconds.
The Aero can be attached to the bottom of your notebook so you always have the stand when you need it. It appears that some sort of hook and loop closure material is used to secure the Aero to the bottom of the notebook.
Aero has three elevation adjustments for a comfortable height when working. The very thin profile when folded should mean that you can still fit your notebook easily into a bag or sleeve without needing to remove the Aero stand. The Aero sells for $54.
Dell settles with SEC for $100M over alleged omissions prior to fiscal 2008
Dell had previously announced that it had set up a reserve in the amount of $100 million that would possibly be used to settle a court case field by the SEC against the computer marker. The SEC alleged in its suit that Dell had used disclosure and accounting practices that violated federal securities laws and SEC rules from 2001 to 2006.
As of today, Dell has used that $100 million reserve set aside previously to settle the SEC investigation. Part of the settlement included the stipulation that Dell was not admitting to any wrongdoing.
Michael Dell has also agreed to pay a $4 million civil monetary penalty. The settlement comes with a permanent injunction against future violations but doesn’t place any restrictions on Dell’s service with the company.
MagicJack femtocell to be sold with a mobile partner
We have talked about the MagicJack VoiP dongle on more than a few occasions around here. The company has merged with VoIP company VocalTec Communications and the newly merged companies are set to offer an interesting new product soon.
MagicJack will launch its femtocell product this year that will work with any mobile phone. We have heard aboutthis femtocell before. What we didn’t know was that rather than selling the femtocell product alone, the device would be marketed with a wireless carrier.
Exactly which wireless carrier will be used is unknown, but odds are it won’t be AT&T or Verizon but one of the smaller carriers and my money is on a pre-paid carrier. MagicJack apps for the iPad, Android, and Blackberry devices are still in the works and a new softphone service will land in the next month or so from MagicJack to compete with Skype and the offering will be global.
LG can’t keep up with Apple’s screen demand
Apple is selling iPads and iPhones in huge numbers but shortages have plagued the device. If Apple were able to offer enough devices to meet the demand of consumers, its sales would be considerably higher. One of the major screen suppliers for Apple has stated that it simply can’t meet the demand.
LG has stated that at this time it is unable to meet the increasing demand for mobile device screens that Apple is placing on it. However, LG does state that it will be able to meet the demand for mobile device screens from Apple and other firms by Q2 of 2011.
LG is making a new investment in an additional production line that will total $512 million. The new production line will be able to make 20,000 glass sheets per month for screens in the portable size range of the iPad and iPhone.
Razer gives up slightly less vague launch date for Tron peripherals
About this time last month, I mentioned that Razer had a very cool Tron Legacy gaming keyboard that it was showing off. At the time the thing surfaced we really didn’t know when the keyboard and other Tron gaming peripherals would be coming to market for geeks to buy.
Razer has offered up a slightly less vague timetable for the launch of the gaming accessories with Tron styling. That Tron gaming keyboard will land in Q4 2010 for $149.99 and will have a detachable modular keypad, lighting effects triggered by in game actions, and macro capability.
The Tron gaming mouse will also land in Q4 for $99.99 with 5600dpi resolution and more. A bundle with the Tron gaming mouse and a mouse mat that changed colors wherever the mouse is slid across its surface. The bundle with the mat and mouse will sell for $129.99 and land in Q4 as well.
Onkyo HT-S9300THX home theater system is 3D ready and THX certified
Onkyo‘s latest attempt to get us all listening to surround sound has emerged, in the shape of the world’s first 3D-ready and THX certified integrated home theater system. The Onkyo HT-S9300THX bundles an HT-R9800 A/V receiver with seven speakers and a 12-inch subwoofer; it has four 3D-ready HDMI 1.4a inputs, 1080p HD upscaling, and Audyssey 2EQ room acoustics correction technology.
In order to get their THX certification, Onkyo used a special dual-woofer array for the front loudspeakers and THX Surround EX. There’s also lossless Dolby and DTS high definition audio processing, Dolby ProLogic IIz height channel processing and various other audio-tweaking systems of Onkyo’s own design.
The Onkyo HT-S9300THX Home Theater in a Box system will be available at the end of this month, priced at $1,099. An iPod/iPhone dock is an optional accessory, as is an HD radio tuner module, and the whole thing is set up via Onkyo’s new OSD.
OWC shows off Multi-Mount holds two SSDs in a single optical bay
OWC (Other World Computing) has announced a new and interesting adapter system that allows you to expand the storage space inside your computer even if you run out of internal 3.5-inch bays. The new device is called the Multi-Mount.
The Multi-Mount is a hardware solution that adds internal storage capability. You can use the mount to install a pair of 2.5-inch SSDs inside an optical drive bay or use it to store a 3.5-inch HDD inside an optical drive bay.
The Multi-Mount is made from aircraft grade aluminum and has an open-air design to allow cooling air to reach the drives. Each drive mounted to the Multi-Mount has rubber isolation feet to reduce noise and vibration. The Multi-Mount will work with Mac or Windows machines and there are several mount styles to suit different storage needs. Prices range from $17.99 to $39.99 depending on the mount style chosen.
Windows Phone 7 devices from Dell, ASUS, LG, HTC & Samsung confirmed; HTC Salsa, Swing & Tango all spotted in ROMs
Now that KIN is kaput, all eyes are on Windows Phone 7 and the partners Microsoft has lined up for their heavily updated smartphone OS. The company has confirmed which manufacturers will be initially releasing devices in Q4 2010, telling Pocket-lint that Dell, ASUS, LG, HTC and Samsung would all be pushing out at least one device apiece; more interesting, however, is news from arch ROM-fondler conflipper as to various HTC devices he’s pulled from leaked firmware, three of which are believed to run Windows Phone 7.
Those three are the HTC Salsa, HTC Swing and the HTC Tango – all codenames, of course, and likely to launch under different titles if indeed they do reach the market – with both GSM and CDMA versions of the Swing and Salsa indicated.
Microsoft has said that they plan to make Windows Phone 7 as broadly available as possible across US and UK carriers, rather than ink exclusivity deals that could limit sales; it’s likely we’ll see barely-modified versions of the same handsets showing up with different connectivity.
Of course, it’s possible that HTC could end development on any of the devices – which also include the HTC Motion, Maestro, Blitz, Sage and Vienna – before they reach the market or even prototype stage. Still, given the company’s barnstorming past 18 months and longstanding commitment to Windows Mobile, we wouldn’t be surprised to see them attempt to corner the market in WP7 with a number of different devices. For more on Windows Phone 7, check out our technical preview.
Apple iMac refresh rumors resurface: USB 3.0, CPU updates and possible touchscreen?
The iMac refresh rumors continue to bubble, with the latest being stock shortage warnings apparently made to Apple’s direct and indirect sales channels. Apple Insider has heard that stock of the entry-level 21.5-inch, 3.06GHz iMac will not be replaced, suggesting the SKU has been axed, while others claim to have been told to keep their inventory low. The whispers suggest a reasonably imminent refresh to the all-in-one OS X desktop.
As for what that refresh could entail, last we heard Apple were planning to use USB 3.0 and a faster FireWire connection – either FireWire 1600 or FireWire 3200 – on both the iMac and the upcoming Mac Pro update. At that point, the expected timeline was the back-to-school shopping season in the fall. Of course Apple would likely use the opportunity to update the CPUs, too, with dual-core Intel Core i5 as well as quad-core Core i5 and Core i7 chips tipped and even the possibility of a new entry-level machine with an Intel Core i3 chip.
Perhaps more unlikely are ongoing rumors of a touchscreen version of the iMac that could even include some sort of iOS-based mode for finger-use. That, it was speculated, could be more easily used by developers hoping to code touchscreen-based apps for the iPhone and iPad.
KIN cost Microsoft over $240m and ate up Xbox profits
Decent financial performance aside, there was one thorn in Microsoft’s paw during the company’s results calland that was the KIN write-off. With the handsets themselves ousted from Verizon stores and sales frozen, all that was left was to figure out how much of the company’s cash had been wasted overall. Without development costs, Microsoft admitted, they’d spent $240m on the project.
That was enough to take the shine off the Entertainment and Devices group, which had been glowing with their strong Xbox sales but still managed to post a $172m loss thanks to KIN’s demise. Neither Microsoft nor Verizon has confirmed any official sales figures – we’ve heard as little as 503 or as many as 9,705 depending on unofficial sources – but we’ve a feeling those inevitable “failed tech” lists will end up having a KIN or two next to Clippy.
Apple Bumper refunds start
Whether a free Bumper is enough to salve your iPhone 4 concerns is one question; a more pertinent one, perhaps, is when this free Apple Bumper will arrive. According to forum members over at MacRumors, Apple is beginning to send out refund emails to those who bought their Bumper through the online Apple Store. The refunds include any shipping fees and taxes that may have been applied, and will be made straight to the credit card originally used.
Meanwhile the company has promised a similar refund scheme for those who picked up a Bumper in-store, though the nature of that refund process is yet to be announced. However those who picked a third-party case won’t be seeing any money back, though Apple has said it will be including some third-party models among the free options offered to new buyers between now and September 30th.
Xbox 360 Limited Edition Halo: Reach Bundle unveiled
f the new Xbox 360 redesign tickles your fancy but the gloss black casing leaves you afraid of fingerprints, you probably need Microsoft’s new Xbox 360 Limited Edition Halo: Reach Bundle. Arriving on September 14th – alongside, unsurprisingly, the game itself – the bundle includes a special silver paint-job, two matching wireless controllers and a wired headset.
There’s also a Standard Edition copy of Halo: Reach itself, together with a token for the Limited Edition Elite armor set and an episode of “Halo Legends”. Microsoft has even preloaded Halo sound effects onto the 360 itself.
Otherwise it’s the same, slimmed-down Xbox 360 as is on sale now, so you get a 250GB hard-drive and integrated WiFi b/g/n. It’ll hit shelves worldwide on September 14th, priced at $399 in limited quantities.
Indian government’s $35 tablet unveiled
Now this is curious; having only been mentioning the Indian government’s “$10 laptop” the other day, the Human Resources Minister of the Union of India, Shri Kapil Sibal, has officially unveiled their device. Contrary to our previous expectations, it’s an all-in-one tablet that they reckon will retail for around $35 and that’s supposedly YouTube capable, has a color display and can browse the internet.
Confusingly, two different designs of device (shown above and to the right, sourced from here and here) have been spotted at the launch event, both with a tablet slate form-factor. The Indian government is yet to confirm solid specs – WiFi and 2GB of storage, together with a touchscreen, USB port and 2W power draw are the only things mentioned – but there are apparently almost 8,500 colleges signed up to take part in the initial rollout, and a site set up full of digital education content.
The new device is expected to go on sale to students next year, and the Indian government hopes to use market competition to drive down pricing until they can sell it for just $10 apiece. This site mentions the possibility of a subsidy, though it’s unclear if that’s on top of the $35 price or if they’ve just squeezed the heck out of their manufacturing partners; even $35 seems frankly unbelievable.
HP: Palm Name Could Remain as Sub-Brand
Mark Hurd, HP’s CEO, made a comment to the Frankfurter Allgemeine about the future of the Palm name, and truth be told, we’re not at all surprised about his response. If you look at the past, and how HP handled acquisitions like Compaq, then hearing that the Palm name might not disappear altogether is both non-surprising, and a welcomed comment.
Hurd went on to name things like Pavilion, iPAQ and Envy as names that had done well as sub-brands to the company, and there’s no reason to think that Palm on this level within HP would do any worse. It may be a good move for them, especially considering Palm and webOS are synonymous at this point, but at the same time, the past with sub-brands like iPAQ are definitely hard to ignore. There’s still plenty of time before anyone figures out what’s going to happen to Palm, but if this is one of the plans high on the food chain, we’ll give it a thumbs-up.
HP Slate Headed for Enterprise Customers, Not Mass Market
Well, there you have it. We’ve been riding the HP Slate roller-coaster for quite some time now, with our fingernails firmly clamped in our teeth. Waiting on the edge our seat since the acquisition of Palm to see if the Slate, running its infamous Windows 7, would ever see the light of day. And sure enough, today we finally have an answer. It’s definitely coming, but there’s one big change: enterprise.
HP’s Personal Systems Group Vice President, Todd Bradley, was speaking amongst his colleagues today atFortune Brainstorm, and he managed to inform everyone listened, and anyone else who couldn’t but still cares, that the HP Slate as we know it is no longer a consumer product, but instead intended solely for the enterprise market.
When’s it coming? Well, that’s in the Fall, as they say. So, any time now, basically, but before the holiday shopping season (not that that matters anymore, mind you). And while we’ve got ourself an answer about this, now we’re left wondering what this means. Windows staying with the enterprise for HP, and then they’ll focus on webOS for the mainstream consumer? Who knows, but it seems promising.
Why Physical Keyboards are Still Relevant
With the DROID X sold out, Apple’s iPhone 4 continuing to capture headlines, and the touchscreen market booming, it’s quickly becoming clear that the virtual keyboard is here to stay. And whether consumers like it or not, they will need to live with it.
But what will become of the physical keyboard? Will it join the pantheon of past technology solutions that lacked the longevity so many other technologies have? Some might think so. After all, devices with physical keyboards are slowly leaving store shelves in favor of devices like Apple’s iPhone or the Motorola Droid X that ditch keys for a virtual keyboard.
But I don’t.
Try as we might to get rid of physical keyboards and talk up their supposed obsolescence, there is still a lot of value in traditional typing methods. For one, physical keyboards are far more accurate than their virtual counterparts. And for those of us that have spent years using physical keyboards, typing on a virtual keyboard actually slows us down.
But it goes beyond that. Virtual keyboards are sometimes more trouble than they’re worth. Yes, they’re really neat to show off to friends, but when they auto-correct the wrong word, it makes typing far less efficient than it should be.
There’s another major issue standing in the way of virtual keyboards: they don’t work in most business areas.
Let’s not forget that the majority of sectors in the industry are not capable of accommodating virtual keyboards. As I write this, I’m using a Windows-based desktop that’s connected to a Bluetooth keyboard sitting on the desk in front a monitor. It might be “old school” to some younger tech users, but it’s the way in which millions of people around the globe are interacting with the digital world. Are they going to be expected to change all that when they know that doing so will make them less efficient? I just don’t see the average, novice tech user buying a 24-inch display, placing it on their laps, and typing out messages as with a virtual keyboard. It makes little sense.
The enterprise is another space where the prospect of virtual keyboards falls short. In the corporate world, productivity reigns supreme. Considering virtual keyboards typically make users far less productive than physical keyboards, companies will likely be hard-pressed to switch to a different input system just because Steve Jobs thinks it’s the better way. In the enterprise, profits mean everything. And virtual keyboards can hurt those profits.
So, before we put the last nail in the physical keyboard’s coffin, maybe it’s time to take a step back and realize that it’s with us for the long haul. With there eventually be a better way? Possibly. But for the next decade, I’d say physical keyboards will stick with us. They’re still too efficient, useful, and perhaps most importantly, accurate, to be replaced by a virtual counterpart.
Autonomous Glider Can Land on a Wire
When it comes to unmanned aircraft, there’s pretty much plenty to choose from. And that’s not even counting the many that the armed forces have at their disposal. But, there’s just something about this little autonomous glider that we couldn’t ignore. Not only does it look like a kid’s toy, but it also has the ability to do something quite extraordinary, and suggests that the future of our UAVs is a robust one.
Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology are the folks behind this little guy. He doesn’t seem to have a name, and we’re not crafty enough to come up with one, but if you’ve got any ideas, let us know. So what’s so extraordinary about this little bird-like glider? Well, pretty much exactly that: it’s like a bird. The researchers were able to make it so this little unmanned aircraft can land right on a wire. Of course, it’s not completely on its own, as someone is guiding it through the robotic controls.
The whole projected began back in 2005, and the idea was to create something that could, to the best of their ability, emulate the flight of a bird as closely as possible. Because let’s face it, even the most strenuous and advanced techniques pilots have, are simple enough to a bird. They are trying to make it so we can make use of the “post-stall” and “near-stall” flight patterns. As you can see form the image, they want to make it possible for our larger aircraft to be in flight, and then as quickly as possible change their pattern to land on something in a very short distance. The research is going well, but no word on when the science can ac
Microsoft Announces Fourth Quarter Earnings
A couple of days ago, Apple announced their fiscal quarterly earnings, and the results pretty much blew everyone away. Apple broke records, their own, and amassed quite a bit of money. Not only that, but their iPhone 4 and iPad gadgets pretty much flew off the shelves. So, with all of that in mind, people were beginning to wonder if Apple would finally surpass Microsoft not only in market cap (as they did a few months back), but also in revenue. Well, Microsoft’s just unveiled the results, and history hasn’t been written here today.
In fact, Microsoft has revealed that they actually had their best fourth quarter, ever. They gained $16.04 billion in revenue in the quarter (versus Apple’s $15.7 billion). So, what’s Microsoft saying showed them the money? They are thanking enterprise and Windows 7 collaborations, as well as Office 2010. As for net income, Microsoft managed to wrangle in a strong $4.52 billion.
Something a bit different this time around, though, is that Microsoft can announce their yearly income, considering they’re counting this as their fourth quarter. They have a reported revenue of $62.48 billion, which marks a 7 percent increase year-over-year. In fact, Microsoft saw an increase in just about every department: their operating income increased 18 percent, while net income and earnings per share climbed 29 and 30 percent, respectively. The information is still developing, so if we hear anything more, we’ll be sure to update as needed.
Safari’s AutoFill Could be Potentially More Dangerous Than Helpful
It’s never a good thing when a good idea goes bad. Especially one that’s been part of something else for quite awhile. In this case, it would be Safari’s AutoFill feature. And, what makes it worse, is the very real possibility that “those in the know” have actually known about this problem for about a year now. What’s the deal? Head past the break to find out.
First, AutoFill. What’s it do? Well, as the name might suggest, it’s a feature in your Safari Web browser that allows you to get through forms more quickly. As you go through one form to another, it will remember your inputs for fields like Name, Email, Address, and even in some cases your credit card number. It may make your life easier for those 15 seconds, but in the long-run it looks like it may cause more harm than anything else. Jeremiah Grossman does a great job of explaining the situation, so here’s what he has to say:
“These fields are AutoFill’ed using data from the users personal record in the local operating system address book. Again it is important to emphasize this feature works even though a user never entered this data on any website. Also this behavior should not be confused with normal auto-complete data a Web browser may remember after its typed into a form.”
He goes on to add, “All a malicious website would have to do to surreptitiously extract Address Book card data from Safari is dynamically create form text fields with the aforementioned names, probably invisibly, and then simulate A-Z keystroke events using JavaScript. When data is populated, that is AutoFill’ed, it can be accessed and sent to the attacker.
What it boils down to, folks, is that simply un-checking a few of the options within your Browser’s settings won’t cut it. You need to deselect all of the options that are recognized within the AutoFill category. It should also be known that this feature is automatically activated, so if you haven’t even noticed it, now’s the time to take a look and see what your settings are. Grossman notified Apple about a month ago of the situation, but he still hasn’t heard anything. Hopefully that changes, and we get some kind of fix.
This Two-Person Submarine Costs $2 Million
When it comes to playing on the water, having a yacht is still one of the best ways (and most obvious) to tell everyone in sight that you’ve got money. Usually, a lot of money. But, it looks like this little submarine is trying hard to take the top-spot for rich person purchase. And it manages to cram two people inside of it, too.
But hey, for $2 million, what are you expecting? Oh, wait, you want features? Thanks to the designers of this little sub, you get features. That includes a climate controlled acrylic sphere, four external halogen lamps, and a VHF radio (just in case you get tired of talking with the person in the sub with you). There’s also GPS, a 120- and 24-volt battery bank, two 3-hp main thrusters, and the ability to drop you 1,000 feet under the water for up to 6 hours.
And again, it fits two people. That’s $1 million a person, if you’ve got that special someone in mind to take down with you, then maybe it’s the best purchase you’ll ever make. At this rate, maybe you should get that yacht andthe personal sub. You’ll be the life of the party. Or, if you’re budget conscious, just get the yacht that turns into a submarine.
Western Digital My Passport Essential External 500GB Hard Drives Getting Limited Edition Designs
Were you waiting to get your new WD My Passport Essential external hard drive? Did you think that the standard black, silver, and white models were just way too boring to put on your desk? If that sounds about right, then you’re in luck, because Western Digital is getting ready to launch a brand new series of the devices, with that coveted “limited edition” title tacked on for good measure.
As far as options go, you’ll only get one when it comes to the storage department. Only the 500GB model seems ot be getting the aesthetic treatment. And how is any of this possible? Thanks to the students at the California State University, who are part of the Long Beach Industrial Design program. They’ve created some new designs, and Western Digital was nice enough to put them on their products. Choices wise, you’re looking at either the Boom Box, Cityscape, Fuchsia Leaf, Wave, and Black Hole. All of which you can see pictured above.
Features come in all sorts of ways. The My Passport Essential will work with your PC, thanks to WD’s SmartWare software. There’s 256-bit hardware-based encryption and user-selected password protection. Each of the models will cost you a cool $119.99, and it comes with a two-year warranty.
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Check out: Salman Khan and Anil Kapoor's 'French Connection'
The perplexing questions about women, that men always seem to find fascinating is, exactly why, do women have to go to the powder room in a group? If not that then, why do women check out other women, also, why can't one woman compliment another? Well, that's been done to death, woman too have a few queries in tow. Number one; why are men so obsessed about their moustache. It's strange, but true, how men can have meaningful conversations about the style, length, cut and shape of their moustache. Check out Salman and Anil showing off theirs on twitter. Sallu in fact went one step ahead asking his followers, "Bhala meri goatie iski (Anil Kapoor) goti se safed kyon hai?"
While women may have asked their beaus this question ten million times, it still reigns supreme - 'Do you think I am fat?' Of course the new age versions are "do you think my arms look fat? Do you think this dress has become tight to me? Do you think my bum looks big?" Men on the other hand were and will never find fault with the way they look, if they have it, they'll show it off and even if they don't have it, they will still show it off. Check out Sallu and Anil showing it off. Perfect bumchums aren't they?
Starcom wins Radio One
Tarun Deep Kumar, executive director, India-North, Starcom Worldwide, said, "Radio One’s promise of 'maximum music, maximum choice' is changing the way people listen to music on Indian radio. As their strategic partner in reaching out to listeners, it gives us a sense of pride to be associated with a young and vibrant brand. We hope to leverage all the proprietary applications and competencies at our disposal to provide them with superior understanding of their listeners and strategic, business building solutions.”
Shyju Varkey, national head of marketing at Radio One, said, “We have found in Starcom Worldwide a partner who understands our need. We are confident that they will be able to help us meet our objectives with their rich expertise in integrated marketing communications. We look forward to the association to create brand’s presence, perception and penetration amongst the community of radio listeners.”
The account will be handled out of the Delhi office of Starcom Worldwide.
New Anchor toothpaste TVC walks the fun route
Sanjay Shah, managing director, Anchor Health & Beauty Care Pvt Ltd, said, "In a market that was slicing the propositions into infinite permutations and combinations, we decided to get back to the basics - strong teeth."
Abhijit Avasthi, national creative director, Ogilvy & Mather, India, explained that the agency's intent was to up the imagery of of the brand by doing away with formulaic advertising. "Neither the client nor we believe that there is a prescribed way of doing communication for oral care products," he said. "Our attempt was to do a nice fun commercial which is entertaining and rooted in a product benefit, set in a relevant context like eating. We believe the proposition of 'Daant fit toh life fit' will ring true with everybody and it’s a platform that is vastly extendable."
WATCH the TVC
Lowe Lintas empanelled for Himachal Pradesh Tourism
Charles Cadell, chief executive officer, Lowe Lintas, said, “We are very happy to partner with Himachal Pradesh Tourism to promote the state and its myriad tourism offerings. The brief is vast and challenging and we look forward to partnering with them to help boost visitor arrivals and create awareness about the destination.”
Starz Seeking to Raise $1 Billion for Original Programming
Good news for both producers and consumers of original programming. According to THR, Starz is talking to potential partners around the world to raise $1 billion of off-balance sheet financing for original programming, in a project dubbed “Operation Turbo.”
Univision is #1 Broadcast Network in U.S. in Overall Primetime Among Adults 18-34 for Week Ending July 25, 2010
via press release:
Univision is #1 Broadcast Network in the Country in
Overall Prime Among ALL Adults 18-34
Univision Highlights – NPM Broadcast Prime Week of 07/19/10
• Univision finished the week as the #1 broadcast network in overall prime among Adults 18-34 (1,073,000). Over the past six weeks (06/14 to 07/25/10) Univision has been the #1 network in broadcast prime among Adults 18-34 (1,083,000); beating its closest competitor FOX by 13,000 young adults
Updated: ABC Entertainment Group President Steve McPherson Resigning
Less than a half hour after posting a blurb with the headlines “Changes Imminent at ABC?” on Deadline.com, the headline was changed to “Steve McPherson Resigning!” with a note that details would follow.
That’s a case where the headline is about enough detail. With ABC looking to perhaps finish in the basement in the primetime ratings this fall, trailing even NBC, his exit would hardly be a surprise.
McPherson “leaving to pursue other interests” or “spend more time with my family,” or whatever they wind up saying, follows a time-honored television practice: ouster an executive, spend the next 18 months blaming everything bad that’s happened on the old regime and hoping for a turnaround by the 19th month.
Nickelodeon Celebrates 10th Anniversary of ‘Dora the Explorer‘ With New Primetime TV Movie on Sunday, August 15
Nickelodeon Celebrates 10th Anniversary of Groundbreaking Preschool Series Dora the Explorer With New Primetime TV Movie, ‘Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure,’ Premiering Sunday, Aug. 15
Nick also to Air Specially Commissioned 10th Anniversary Dora Documentary, Executive-Produced By Academy Award®-Nominated Brett Morgen and Featuring Anderson Cooper, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Salma Hayek Pinault, Shakira, Soledad O’Brien and Sherri Shepherd
NEW YORK, July 27 — She did it! She did it! Nickelodeon celebrates the landmark 10th anniversary of the world’s most beloved Latina heroine, Dora the Explorer, with a brand-new, hour-long primetime TV movie, “Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure,” premiering Sunday, Aug. 15, at 8:00 p.m. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon. The TV movie, which follows Dora and Boots on a whirlwind journey through Magic Storybook Land and guest stars Rosie Perez as La Bruja (the witch), John Leguizamo as the Flying Monkeys and Hector Elizondo as the Wishing Wizzle.
Following the TV movie, at 9:00 p.m. (ET/PT), Nickelodeon will premiere the first-ever Dora 10th Anniversary documentary, a special 12-minute tribute executive-produced by Academy Award®- nominated Brett Morgen (The Kid Stays in the Picture) and directed by Debra Eisenstadt. The documentary explores the series’ cultural and educational impact and features appearances by Dora and her friends, commentary from creators Chris Gifford, Valerie Walsh Valdes and Eric Weiner, industry experts, real-life kids and celebrities including Anderson Cooper, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Rosie Perez, Salma Hayek Pinault, Shakira, Soledad O’Brien, Sherri Shepherd and more.
“For the past 10 years, Dora the Explorer has been a pioneer – a symbol of empowerment, diversity and education,” said Brown Johnson, President, Animation, Nickelodeon. “She has captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world and will continue to inspire and entertain preschoolers for many years to come.”
Since launching on Nickelodeon Aug. 14, 2000, Dora the Explorer has emerged as a pop culture phenomenon and is currently the number-one rated preschool show on commercial television year-to-date. (Source: NMR, Live+7 Blended with Live+SD from 12/28/09-7/20/10). Dora the Explorer, which can be seen in 151 markets and is translated into 30 languages, has been honored with awards including the Peabody, NAACP, Alma, Imagen, Latino Spirit, Gracie Allen, Parents’ Choice Award, the Television Critics Association Award and has received 16 Daytime Emmy nominations.
In “Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure,” a twisting wind has blown Dora and Boots into Wizzle World, a land located in the Magic Storybook. Dora and Boots can’t jump out of the Magic Storybook without first taking Dora’s crystal to the Wishing Wizzle (Hector Elizondo) so he can wish them back home in time for Dora’s birthday party with all her family and friends. They set off an adventure to Wishing Mountain, but they better watch out for La Bruja (Rosie Perez) and her Flying Monkeys (John Leguizamo) who don’t like wishes and try to stop Dora and Boots. In order to overcome the obstacles, Dora and Boots reflect back on past adventures to guide them along the way.
The premiere of “Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure” will simulcast on Nick Mobile on Sunday, Aug. 15. Additionally in August, a selection of fan-favorite Dora the Explorer episodes will be available on Nick on Demand and celebratory-themed episodes of Dora will be released across Nickelodeon’s Download-to-Own partners. Fans can also visit www.nickjr.com for a sneak peek of “Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure” on Monday, Aug. 2. Created by Nickelodeon Home Entertainment and distributed by Paramount Home Entertainment, the “Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure” DVD will be available on Aug. 3, 2010.
Nickelodeon also is marking the 10th anniversary of Dora the Explorer, with a multi-year, multi-platform pro-social campaign titled “Beyond the Backpack.” Named for Dora’s iconic backpack, “Beyond the Backpack,” champions overall school readiness for preschoolers as they prepare for the important adventure of starting school.
In partnership with National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and other experts and leaders in school readiness, “Beyond the Backpack” provides parents with tools and resources that can help kids prepare for a well-rounded, positive experience as they enter kindergarten. The components of “Beyond the Backpack,” include dedicated PSAs; a web site (www.dora.beyondthebackpack.com) with customized resources and learning activities including a curriculum-focused checklist for parents to determine if their child is ready for kindergarten, links to partner organizations, financial resources and grants; fundraising activities; and community events.
Also, in support of “Beyond the Backpack,” Salma Hayek Pinault along with other celebrities will be featured in PSAs alongside Dora speaking about the campaign. Hayek Pinault, Shakira, and Slash along with other celebrities are designing one-of-a-kind, Dora-inspired backpacks to be auctioned globally this summer. One hundred percent of the U.S. proceeds will benefit the Children’s Defense Fund and international proceeds will go toward childhood education.
Dora the Explorer, created by Chris Gifford, Valerie Walsh Valdes and Eric Weiner, is a play-along, animated adventure series starring Dora (Caitlin Sanchez). Dora is a seven-year-old Latina heroine whose adventures take place in an imaginative, tropical world filled with jungles, beaches and rainforests. She explores her world just as preschoolers do everyday, and the show is designed to actively engage its audience in an interactive quest using a variety of learning techniques.
About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon, now in its 31st year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon’s U.S. television network is seen in more than 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 16 consecutive years. For more information or artwork, visitwww.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B).
Monday Cable: Rizzoli & Isles, The Closer, Secret Life, Real Housewives, Intervention, WWE RAW & More
Rizzoli & Isles dropped over 650,000 viewers from last week to 6.55 million and its 18-49 rating dropped to a 1.3. Last week it had more viewers than The Closer, but this week The Closer had more with 6.75 million. But Rizzoli & Isles still had a slightly better 18-49 rating (1.3 vs. 1.2).
Those details and much more of the Monday cable results via Travis Yanan:
With CNN Getting Beaten Around the Clock, Will it Tinker With Its Daytime Schedule, Too?
CNN has been struggling in primetime and has begun tinkering with its primetime schedule. So far, the only primetime show CNN hasn’t announced any changes for is Anderson Cooper 360, and it was down more total viewers than any other CNN show in primetime in July.
Cable News Ratings for Monday, July 26, 2010
Live + Same Day Cable News Daily Ratings for July 26, 2010
P2+ Total Day
FNC – 1,150,000 viewers
CNN – 371,000 viewers
MSNBC – 373,000 viewers
CNBC – 220,000 viewers
HLN – 278,000 viewers
P2+ Total Day
FNC – 1,150,000 viewers
CNN – 371,000 viewers
MSNBC – 373,000 viewers
CNBC – 220,000 viewers
HLN – 278,000 viewers
P2+ Prime Time
FNC – 2,221,000 viewers
CNN – 458,000 viewers
MSNBC –778,000 viewers
CNBC – 299,000 viewers
HLN – 525,000 viewers
FNC – 2,221,000 viewers
CNN – 458,000 viewers
MSNBC –778,000 viewers
CNBC – 299,000 viewers
HLN – 525,000 viewers
HISTORY Posts Best July in Network History; Ratings Driven by American Pickers, Ice Road Truckers, Pawn Stars, Top Shot
HISTORY™ POSTS BEST JULY IN NETWORK HISTORY
Ratings Driven by Hit Series … AMERICAN PICKERS,
ICE ROAD TRUCKERS, PAWN STARS and TOP SHOT
Tuesday, July 27, 2010 – HISTORY™ experienced its best July of all time with regularly scheduled hit series leading the charge on Sunday nights – with ICE ROAD TRUCKERS (9pm) and TOP SHOT (10pm) – and Monday nights – with AMERICAN PICKERS (9pm) and PAWN STARS (10/10:30pm).
