At 40, the Internet still reshaping history
Technology tour de forceThe Internet itself is a mind-boggling complex overlay of technologies that spans every level from steering photos down a glass fiber to showing where your friends are on a dynamically generated map. But the first half of its 40 years were spent largely in obscurity.Its early years involved just a relative handful of computers sending data to one another over increasingly large distances. The 1970s brought a key innovation, the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) that governs how data is broken down into packets, routed across numerous networking devices, and reassembled into their original form at the other end of the pipe.In the 1980s, e-mail started blossoming in earnest as a killer application for the Internet, and the World Wide Web arrived in the 1990s. These innovations vaulted the Internet from academia into the mainstream. Exploding popularity led to companies that sold Internet access, equipment, and services--and the first dot-com bubble.The bursting of that bubble was cataclysmic in the industry, but it was a mere blip in the Internet's history. According to Netcraft, there were 226 million Web sites in August, nearly 10 times the number around when the bubble burst. Google filled the void left by the collapsed start-ups with a powerfully profitable business making sense of the Internet's information chaos.What's perhaps notable about the Internet is how organic it is. In the short term, there are plenty of disruptions as one company or another suffers problems or technology can't match new demands. But in the long run, the system continues to function as researchers, computing companies, standards groups, and start-ups constantly upgrade the infrastructure and offer new reasons to use it.The next phase of growth is through cloud computing, in which people use software that's housed on the Net rather than on their own machines. Giant farms of servers house the applications people use, making them available to personal computers and mobile phones today and in-car computers and other devices tomorrow.Today's cloud computing applications are primitive compared to PC-based equivalents, but the browser is evolving to meet the new demands with accelerated graphics, much of the native power of a PC's processor, and maturing programming tools. That increased power fuels the arrival of more sophisticated applications.The dark sideThe Net is by no means perfect or universally beneficial.The ease with which it's enabled communications has led to a series of new conduits--e-mails, instant messages, blog posts distributed over RSS, tweets, and Facebook updates. That's handy for keeping in touch, but it also means people must grapple with a constantly shifting collection of oversaturated communication conduits.Sifting the signal from the noise can be nearly impossible--and that's before dealing with the spam.The Net also has brought with it plenty of new crime, facilitating identity theft and financial scams. Stalking has never been easier, and distributed denial-of-service attacks by armies of compromised computers can cripple a business' operations.I acutely feel the financial pains of journalism that arrived when the Internet brought an oversupply of news. Arguably, the ever-shrinking number of reporters is offset by the arrival of new voices and the ease of tracking what's going on, but I share the concerns about the waning power of the press to uncover corruption or other problems.The Net also has fueled the globalization that led to job losses and resentment as expensive labor in wealthier countries was replaced by cheaper workers elsewhere.The most worrisome issues I see stem from problems people themselves have adapting to social interaction on the Net.It seems our brains are hard-wired for a social circle about the size of a tribe, but now parts of our lives are on display to the whole world. Just closing your curtains now won't get you privacy, and good luck teaching Facebook's information sharing mechanisms to somebody not steeped in the subtleties of the social graph.The Internet can abet governmental censorship and propaganda efforts, too. My gut instinct tells me that the Net's power to disseminate information--especially when augmented by technology such as Google Translate--ultimately will prevail, but it's not a sure thing.So the Internet poses plenty of problems. But it's only gaining in importance, power, and reach, so my advice is to embrace it and try to shape it for the better for the next 40 years.
On Call- Go ahead and jailbreak, it's legal now
On Call: Go ahead and jailbreak, it's legal now
On Monday, the U.S Copyright Office ruled that jailbreaking an iPhone or other mobile device will no longer violate federal copyright law. Some iPhone owners no doubt cheered the news, and I join them in supporting the decision."Jailbreak" entered the wireless lexicon soon after the iPhone first went on sale in 2007. Though some CNET readers have asked me if jailbreaking is the same as unlocking a handset, it's actually a different process. When you jailbreak an iPhone, you remove the Apple-imposed restrictions that prevent you from loading applications not sold through the iTunes App Store. Unlocking, on the other hand, only removes the restrictions that tie your iPhone to AT&T. So on the same phone, you can perform just one action or, if you prefer, both.I welcome the decision because I've always advocated for giving customers as many choices as possible. Yes, I understand that jailbreaking carriers some risks--you void your warranty and you could wind up with a bricked phone if you're not careful--but those risks, rather than breaking the law, should be the only consequences that consumers should face. Not surprisingly, Apple is against the move. A company rep told CultofMac yesterday that its "goal has always been to insure that our customers have a great experience with their iPhone" and that it knows "that jailbreaking can severely degrade the experience." The company also warned of malware in unapproved apps, though that doesn't explain its resistance to Google Voice.To its credit, the Apple isn't entirely off-base, so I'll save you any "Big Brother" references. After all, the company has always been about offering a consistent and tightly-controlled user experience on its products, so it's no surprise that the iPhone and iTunes App store should be any different. What's more, many consumers buy the iPhone because of that experience. Yet, that doesn't mean that Apple's way of doing things is always the best way. In the Android Market, for example, Google exerts very few controls over the app approval process. Though some might argue that no real gatekeeper degrades the overall quality of apps, customers have more control over how they use their device. Perhaps jailbreaking offers users something in between the two extremes.Before you run out and jailbreak, however, there are a couple points to remember. First off, if you free your phone, you'll still violate Apple's Apple iPhone Software License Agreement (PDF). Though Apple could legally go after you for that reason alone, as my colleagues Erica Ogg and Declan McCullagh wrote in their excellent FAQ, that it is unlikely to happen. Also, you'll need to jailbreak your phone again each time Apple issues a iOS update.I've never tried jailbreaking myself, and because of the complexities involved I wouldn't recommend it to everyone. But it you feel up to the task, you'll get more freedom with your phone. And now that freedom isn't illegal.
On Monday, the U.S Copyright Office ruled that jailbreaking an iPhone or other mobile device will no longer violate federal copyright law. Some iPhone owners no doubt cheered the news, and I join them in supporting the decision."Jailbreak" entered the wireless lexicon soon after the iPhone first went on sale in 2007. Though some CNET readers have asked me if jailbreaking is the same as unlocking a handset, it's actually a different process. When you jailbreak an iPhone, you remove the Apple-imposed restrictions that prevent you from loading applications not sold through the iTunes App Store. Unlocking, on the other hand, only removes the restrictions that tie your iPhone to AT&T. So on the same phone, you can perform just one action or, if you prefer, both.I welcome the decision because I've always advocated for giving customers as many choices as possible. Yes, I understand that jailbreaking carriers some risks--you void your warranty and you could wind up with a bricked phone if you're not careful--but those risks, rather than breaking the law, should be the only consequences that consumers should face. Not surprisingly, Apple is against the move. A company rep told CultofMac yesterday that its "goal has always been to insure that our customers have a great experience with their iPhone" and that it knows "that jailbreaking can severely degrade the experience." The company also warned of malware in unapproved apps, though that doesn't explain its resistance to Google Voice.To its credit, the Apple isn't entirely off-base, so I'll save you any "Big Brother" references. After all, the company has always been about offering a consistent and tightly-controlled user experience on its products, so it's no surprise that the iPhone and iTunes App store should be any different. What's more, many consumers buy the iPhone because of that experience. Yet, that doesn't mean that Apple's way of doing things is always the best way. In the Android Market, for example, Google exerts very few controls over the app approval process. Though some might argue that no real gatekeeper degrades the overall quality of apps, customers have more control over how they use their device. Perhaps jailbreaking offers users something in between the two extremes.Before you run out and jailbreak, however, there are a couple points to remember. First off, if you free your phone, you'll still violate Apple's Apple iPhone Software License Agreement (PDF). Though Apple could legally go after you for that reason alone, as my colleagues Erica Ogg and Declan McCullagh wrote in their excellent FAQ, that it is unlikely to happen. Also, you'll need to jailbreak your phone again each time Apple issues a iOS update.I've never tried jailbreaking myself, and because of the complexities involved I wouldn't recommend it to everyone. But it you feel up to the task, you'll get more freedom with your phone. And now that freedom isn't illegal.
Cloudy, with a chance of video
Cloudy, with a chance of video
With Apple's iCloud coming next week, hot on the heels of Amazon and Google's cloud services for music, it seems like the years-old dream of cloud media streaming is coming to greater fruition than ever before. That's promising news to me, a person who cut the cord on his cable TV over a year and a half ago. I live off the Internet and my various devices--my laptop, game consoles, iPhone, and iPad--to get my media, be it TV shows, movies, music or books.So far, it looks like 2011 will be more the year of Cloud Music than that of Cloud Video. And that's a shame, because I'm getting fed up with my half-baked digital-video life.I've spent the last week with a product called Pogoplug Video, which attempts to do what no one's currently offering yet: the ability to stream multiformat video files easily across multiple platforms, be they gaming console, computer, or phone/tablet, even across the Internet or 3G.I held high hopes for the Pogoplug Video. The $199 device is much like the Pogoplug Pro we reviewed last year, equipped with a more powerful processor. And, it does what it promises, to a point: video files stored on hard drives or USB sticks plugged into the Pogoplug do indeed technically play back on iPhones, iPads, laptops, or even via DLNA on an Xbox 360 or PS3.Pogoplug VideoCloud EnginesBut I say "technically" because the interface on the Pogoplug app is a little odd and muddled, and not every video file is compatible. The Xbox 360 and PS3 have their own oddities: each one streams certain files but not others. An MP4 didn't play on my Xbox, but it streamed perfectly on the PS3. iPhone 4 home movies didn't play well on either. Needless to say, neither did DRMed videos.I don't mean to harass the Pogoplug Video (a full review of the Pogoplug Video will come after my return from E3). My home Synology NAS server exhibits similar oddities. Video comes in too many versions, too many file formats, and bit rates. It's a standards-maker's nightmare, and a casual consumer's landscape to avoid.My point is this: when it comes to video, I sometimes feel like I'd just be better off playing DVDs and hooking up my cable/DVR again.My Xbox 360's greeting to my video file.Scott Stein/CNETMy dream is for a cloud service or home device that would help collate and play my videos. I hold onto some small hope for Apple's iCloud, but I'm not expecting the solution I'm looking for to emerge now. Of course, I could always use YouTube or Vimeo. Yes, for my own content--but that does nothing to help me organize my TV viewing and movies. For that, I resort to streaming services, like everyone else.But even the available landscape of TV and movie-streaming sites has never been more daunting or confusing.First you have Netflix, Hulu Plus, and every other streaming-media service with their fluctuating and incomplete libraries, offering a beautiful product that never has exactly what you're looking for.Then there are services like iTunes, which offer chunky media files that are DRMed and single-download, unless you opt for ever-so-brief 24- to 48-hour rental windows through services like Vudu, iTunes, or Amazon. Apps like Fanhattan aim to consolidate search, but the database wasn't complete the last time I checked.Yes, we're going deeper into cloud computing than ever before, but that's mainly for documents, photos, and music. Video is the final frontier, and the one that seems hardest to conquer. Unfortunately, I've yet to find any hardware that will help, either. And I'm not sure how much I want to keep searching.What's your solution for video?
With Apple's iCloud coming next week, hot on the heels of Amazon and Google's cloud services for music, it seems like the years-old dream of cloud media streaming is coming to greater fruition than ever before. That's promising news to me, a person who cut the cord on his cable TV over a year and a half ago. I live off the Internet and my various devices--my laptop, game consoles, iPhone, and iPad--to get my media, be it TV shows, movies, music or books.So far, it looks like 2011 will be more the year of Cloud Music than that of Cloud Video. And that's a shame, because I'm getting fed up with my half-baked digital-video life.I've spent the last week with a product called Pogoplug Video, which attempts to do what no one's currently offering yet: the ability to stream multiformat video files easily across multiple platforms, be they gaming console, computer, or phone/tablet, even across the Internet or 3G.I held high hopes for the Pogoplug Video. The $199 device is much like the Pogoplug Pro we reviewed last year, equipped with a more powerful processor. And, it does what it promises, to a point: video files stored on hard drives or USB sticks plugged into the Pogoplug do indeed technically play back on iPhones, iPads, laptops, or even via DLNA on an Xbox 360 or PS3.Pogoplug VideoCloud EnginesBut I say "technically" because the interface on the Pogoplug app is a little odd and muddled, and not every video file is compatible. The Xbox 360 and PS3 have their own oddities: each one streams certain files but not others. An MP4 didn't play on my Xbox, but it streamed perfectly on the PS3. iPhone 4 home movies didn't play well on either. Needless to say, neither did DRMed videos.I don't mean to harass the Pogoplug Video (a full review of the Pogoplug Video will come after my return from E3). My home Synology NAS server exhibits similar oddities. Video comes in too many versions, too many file formats, and bit rates. It's a standards-maker's nightmare, and a casual consumer's landscape to avoid.My point is this: when it comes to video, I sometimes feel like I'd just be better off playing DVDs and hooking up my cable/DVR again.My Xbox 360's greeting to my video file.Scott Stein/CNETMy dream is for a cloud service or home device that would help collate and play my videos. I hold onto some small hope for Apple's iCloud, but I'm not expecting the solution I'm looking for to emerge now. Of course, I could always use YouTube or Vimeo. Yes, for my own content--but that does nothing to help me organize my TV viewing and movies. For that, I resort to streaming services, like everyone else.But even the available landscape of TV and movie-streaming sites has never been more daunting or confusing.First you have Netflix, Hulu Plus, and every other streaming-media service with their fluctuating and incomplete libraries, offering a beautiful product that never has exactly what you're looking for.Then there are services like iTunes, which offer chunky media files that are DRMed and single-download, unless you opt for ever-so-brief 24- to 48-hour rental windows through services like Vudu, iTunes, or Amazon. Apps like Fanhattan aim to consolidate search, but the database wasn't complete the last time I checked.Yes, we're going deeper into cloud computing than ever before, but that's mainly for documents, photos, and music. Video is the final frontier, and the one that seems hardest to conquer. Unfortunately, I've yet to find any hardware that will help, either. And I'm not sure how much I want to keep searching.What's your solution for video?
The 404 443- Where what's done is done, the future is now
The 404 443: Where what's done is done, the future is now
Wilson and I both saw that new movie "Paranormal Activity" over the weekend, and although it's being touted as the new Exorcist, we both think it's more like an uncreative, boring version of The Blair Witch Project. Lots of build-up and suspense for a pretty vanilla ending, but I'm not sure what we expected out of a $10K movie. Maybe we've all just been completely spoiled by blockbusters like Roland Emmerch's upcoming disaster movie, 2012. Jeff's not a huge fan, per usual, but watch this insane clip and TRY NOT TO PANIC.We've seen and played with our fair share of ridiculous iPhone apps before, but the new Puff! app is the latest Japanese game that might raise some flags...amongst other things. Dancing the line between SFW and not, the program allows you to literally blow up the skirts of women, a la Marilyn Monroe. The app uses the iPhone's microphone to sense the virtual gust of wind that "gives the onscreen character a brief moment of embarrassment."Speaking of inappropriate things, Marge Simpson just scored the cover of Playboy Magazine. In what seems like the worst business plan ever, the November version of the popular men's magazine will feature a 3-page pictorial with "implied nudity..." we're not even sure what that means, but we can't imagine hordes of teenagers flocking to the nearest liquor store to pick up this issue. Besides, we would rather see Lois Griffin on the cover...no offense, Margie.EPISODE 43PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio |Subscribe in RSS Video Video coming soon, check back later today!Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
Wilson and I both saw that new movie "Paranormal Activity" over the weekend, and although it's being touted as the new Exorcist, we both think it's more like an uncreative, boring version of The Blair Witch Project. Lots of build-up and suspense for a pretty vanilla ending, but I'm not sure what we expected out of a $10K movie. Maybe we've all just been completely spoiled by blockbusters like Roland Emmerch's upcoming disaster movie, 2012. Jeff's not a huge fan, per usual, but watch this insane clip and TRY NOT TO PANIC.We've seen and played with our fair share of ridiculous iPhone apps before, but the new Puff! app is the latest Japanese game that might raise some flags...amongst other things. Dancing the line between SFW and not, the program allows you to literally blow up the skirts of women, a la Marilyn Monroe. The app uses the iPhone's microphone to sense the virtual gust of wind that "gives the onscreen character a brief moment of embarrassment."Speaking of inappropriate things, Marge Simpson just scored the cover of Playboy Magazine. In what seems like the worst business plan ever, the November version of the popular men's magazine will feature a 3-page pictorial with "implied nudity..." we're not even sure what that means, but we can't imagine hordes of teenagers flocking to the nearest liquor store to pick up this issue. Besides, we would rather see Lois Griffin on the cover...no offense, Margie.EPISODE 43PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio |Subscribe in RSS Video Video coming soon, check back later today!Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
Movies and TV shows coming to PS3-
Movies and TV shows coming to PS3?
The PlayStation 3's newest v2.30 firmware just came out yesterday, but Sony isn't show any signs of slowing down its updates for the PS3. In a blog yesterday, Senior Vice President Peter Dille wrote this enticing tidbit:Many of you have been hearing rumblings about a video service that will allow you to download full-length TV shows and movies via PLAYSTATION Network for North America. While I don't have any new announcements here for the PlayStation Nation, it's already been confirmed that we'll be offering a video service for PS3 in a way that separates the service from others you've seen or used. Ultimately the goal of the PLAYSTATION Network service will be to break through the overwhelming clutter of digital media to give you the TV, movies, and gaming content you want. More on this very soon...That sounds pretty promising for PS3 fans, but until we get more information, all we can do is speculate. Just a few months ago, there were plenty of rumors about Netflix coming to the PS3. That would certainly be a great score for the PS3, as many people already have Netflix subscriptions and consumers seem more open to subscription plans for movies than they do for music. Another solid option would be support for Hulu, which offers a bunch of TV shows from Fox and NBC--plus some Universal movies--broken up only by short 15-second ads. This might seem even better to some PS3 owners, mainly because it's 100 percent free. The most likely option is that Sony rolls out its own video service, and that has the biggest potential to be a bust. Sony always seems to be a little quirky with digital media downloads (see: Sony Connect and ATRAC3), and we're betting that a proprietary "Sony Video Store" would be much more expensive than Hulu or Netflix--probably more in line with iTunes pricing.What do you think? Would you use Netflix on your PS3? Would Hulu be a worthwhile add-on? Or will Sony finally get digital media downloads right on the PS3?
The PlayStation 3's newest v2.30 firmware just came out yesterday, but Sony isn't show any signs of slowing down its updates for the PS3. In a blog yesterday, Senior Vice President Peter Dille wrote this enticing tidbit:Many of you have been hearing rumblings about a video service that will allow you to download full-length TV shows and movies via PLAYSTATION Network for North America. While I don't have any new announcements here for the PlayStation Nation, it's already been confirmed that we'll be offering a video service for PS3 in a way that separates the service from others you've seen or used. Ultimately the goal of the PLAYSTATION Network service will be to break through the overwhelming clutter of digital media to give you the TV, movies, and gaming content you want. More on this very soon...That sounds pretty promising for PS3 fans, but until we get more information, all we can do is speculate. Just a few months ago, there were plenty of rumors about Netflix coming to the PS3. That would certainly be a great score for the PS3, as many people already have Netflix subscriptions and consumers seem more open to subscription plans for movies than they do for music. Another solid option would be support for Hulu, which offers a bunch of TV shows from Fox and NBC--plus some Universal movies--broken up only by short 15-second ads. This might seem even better to some PS3 owners, mainly because it's 100 percent free. The most likely option is that Sony rolls out its own video service, and that has the biggest potential to be a bust. Sony always seems to be a little quirky with digital media downloads (see: Sony Connect and ATRAC3), and we're betting that a proprietary "Sony Video Store" would be much more expensive than Hulu or Netflix--probably more in line with iTunes pricing.What do you think? Would you use Netflix on your PS3? Would Hulu be a worthwhile add-on? Or will Sony finally get digital media downloads right on the PS3?
Get a refurbished Nook Color for $179.99 shipped
Get a refurbished Nook Color for $179.99 shipped
This deal is so likely to sell out, I'm giving you four bonus deals below. Just in case.Today only, and while supplies last, 1 Sale A Day has the refurbished Barnes & Noble Nook Color e-reader for $179.99 shipped. (Thanks to my buddy Sheldon for sharing this deal!)This is my new favorite gadget. It's an awesome Android-powered e-reader that can also run a nice selection of apps (including, but not limited to, Angry Birds).In fact, with the nifty Nook2Android card, you can turn the the Nook Color into a full-blown Android tablet--and run apps like Kindle and Kobo, thereby working around the dreaded e-book "lock-in."Like the refurbs sold by Barnes & Noble directly, this one comes with a full one-year warranty--meaning it's effectively good as new.Interestingly, Barnes & Noble is still selling refurbished Nook Colors for $199--exactly the price I paid when I ordered one yesterday! Gahhhhh! See, even The Cheapskate gets burned every now and again. If only I'd waited 24 hours.You: Don't wait even 1 hour. I guarantee you these will sell out quickly. At $179, the Nook Color is way too good to pass up.Bonus deal: Adorama has the sexy, stylish Lexmark Genesis S815 multifunction printer for $154.99 shipped. (List price: $299.99.) This is less an MFP and more a work of art. Anyone own one of these?Bonus deal No. 2: Flying Delta anytime soon? You can get free inflight Wi-Fi from Gogo when you use promo code DIETCOKEGOGO.Bonus deal No. 3: As a big Fountains of Wayne fan, I have to note that the band's just-released new album, "Sky Full of Holes," is available from Amazon MP3 for just $3.99--complete with exclusive bonus track! iTunes charges $9.99.Bonus deal No. 4: Amazon has a Kingston Datatraveler 8GB flash drive for just $7.99. (Update: Sorry, it's now up to $11.99.) Amazon Prime members get free shipping; everyone else will have to pay $5.58--unless you pad your cart to over $25, in which case shipping is free.
This deal is so likely to sell out, I'm giving you four bonus deals below. Just in case.Today only, and while supplies last, 1 Sale A Day has the refurbished Barnes & Noble Nook Color e-reader for $179.99 shipped. (Thanks to my buddy Sheldon for sharing this deal!)This is my new favorite gadget. It's an awesome Android-powered e-reader that can also run a nice selection of apps (including, but not limited to, Angry Birds).In fact, with the nifty Nook2Android card, you can turn the the Nook Color into a full-blown Android tablet--and run apps like Kindle and Kobo, thereby working around the dreaded e-book "lock-in."Like the refurbs sold by Barnes & Noble directly, this one comes with a full one-year warranty--meaning it's effectively good as new.Interestingly, Barnes & Noble is still selling refurbished Nook Colors for $199--exactly the price I paid when I ordered one yesterday! Gahhhhh! See, even The Cheapskate gets burned every now and again. If only I'd waited 24 hours.You: Don't wait even 1 hour. I guarantee you these will sell out quickly. At $179, the Nook Color is way too good to pass up.Bonus deal: Adorama has the sexy, stylish Lexmark Genesis S815 multifunction printer for $154.99 shipped. (List price: $299.99.) This is less an MFP and more a work of art. Anyone own one of these?Bonus deal No. 2: Flying Delta anytime soon? You can get free inflight Wi-Fi from Gogo when you use promo code DIETCOKEGOGO.Bonus deal No. 3: As a big Fountains of Wayne fan, I have to note that the band's just-released new album, "Sky Full of Holes," is available from Amazon MP3 for just $3.99--complete with exclusive bonus track! iTunes charges $9.99.Bonus deal No. 4: Amazon has a Kingston Datatraveler 8GB flash drive for just $7.99. (Update: Sorry, it's now up to $11.99.) Amazon Prime members get free shipping; everyone else will have to pay $5.58--unless you pad your cart to over $25, in which case shipping is free.
Get a quad-core desktop PC for $348
Get a quad-core desktop PC for $348
A couple weeks ago I posted a Gateway quad-core desktop PC for $279.99--a pretty killer deal by all rights, which is probably why it sold out almost instantly. Hopefully today's will last a little longer.Update: Uh, no, guess it didn't. These quad-cores are obviously very popular items. It's beyond my control, I'm afraid, but I apologize once again for the quick sellout.UpdateNo. 2: Back in stock! For the moment, at least...An outfit called BuyDakota (by way of Buy.com) has a much-better equipped Gateway SX2802-01 quad-core desktop PC for $347.99 shipped.By "much better" I mean a faster processor, more RAM, more storage, and Windows 7 Home Premium instead of Windows Vista.However, like the previous Gateway, this one's a refurb--and the product page doesn't mention anything about the warranty. (Assume 90 days, but check with the vendor before you order.)The SX2802-01 packs a ton of power into its cute, small case. In addition to a 2.5GHz Intel Core 2 Quad Q8300 processor, you get 4GB of RAM, a 750GB hard drive, 5.1-channel audio support, an HDMI port, and a whopping nine USB ports.The one and only letdown here is the integrated Intel X4500 graphics. The SX2802-01 does have an available PCI Express x16 expansion slot, meaning you could install a faster video card if desired--but it's a half-height slot, so your options are somewhat limited. Also, the 220-watt power supply won't be able to handle many of today's ultrahigh-end cards.(That said, here's a GeForce 9400GT card for $44.99 shipped (after rebate) that would provide a major graphics boost. Food for thought.)CNET hasn't reviewed this system, but PC Magazine gave the Gateway SX2802-01 high marks--and that was based on its $499.99 list price. If you don't mind going the refurb route, this is your chance to score some serious computing power for cheap, cheap, cheap.Backup deal: Over at my Business Hacks blog (you've bookmarked it, right?), I've got three sweet deals for business users: free software, cheap domain registrations, and an unbeatable price on Entrepreneur Magazine subscriptions.Backup dealNo. 2: Today only, Giveaway of the Day has Extra DVD to iPhone Ripper absolutely free. Why pay iTunes for iPhone/iPod-compatible downloads of movies you already own? Haven't tried this utility myself, but, hey, you can't argue with the price.
A couple weeks ago I posted a Gateway quad-core desktop PC for $279.99--a pretty killer deal by all rights, which is probably why it sold out almost instantly. Hopefully today's will last a little longer.Update: Uh, no, guess it didn't. These quad-cores are obviously very popular items. It's beyond my control, I'm afraid, but I apologize once again for the quick sellout.UpdateNo. 2: Back in stock! For the moment, at least...An outfit called BuyDakota (by way of Buy.com) has a much-better equipped Gateway SX2802-01 quad-core desktop PC for $347.99 shipped.By "much better" I mean a faster processor, more RAM, more storage, and Windows 7 Home Premium instead of Windows Vista.However, like the previous Gateway, this one's a refurb--and the product page doesn't mention anything about the warranty. (Assume 90 days, but check with the vendor before you order.)The SX2802-01 packs a ton of power into its cute, small case. In addition to a 2.5GHz Intel Core 2 Quad Q8300 processor, you get 4GB of RAM, a 750GB hard drive, 5.1-channel audio support, an HDMI port, and a whopping nine USB ports.The one and only letdown here is the integrated Intel X4500 graphics. The SX2802-01 does have an available PCI Express x16 expansion slot, meaning you could install a faster video card if desired--but it's a half-height slot, so your options are somewhat limited. Also, the 220-watt power supply won't be able to handle many of today's ultrahigh-end cards.(That said, here's a GeForce 9400GT card for $44.99 shipped (after rebate) that would provide a major graphics boost. Food for thought.)CNET hasn't reviewed this system, but PC Magazine gave the Gateway SX2802-01 high marks--and that was based on its $499.99 list price. If you don't mind going the refurb route, this is your chance to score some serious computing power for cheap, cheap, cheap.Backup deal: Over at my Business Hacks blog (you've bookmarked it, right?), I've got three sweet deals for business users: free software, cheap domain registrations, and an unbeatable price on Entrepreneur Magazine subscriptions.Backup dealNo. 2: Today only, Giveaway of the Day has Extra DVD to iPhone Ripper absolutely free. Why pay iTunes for iPhone/iPod-compatible downloads of movies you already own? Haven't tried this utility myself, but, hey, you can't argue with the price.
Indie film legend accuses Apple, Google of Web piracy
Indie film legend accuses Apple, Google of Web piracy
Yahoo?And calling out Apple is a head-scratcher too. All the major film studios and networks distribute downloads through iTunes. The same with the music-recording companies. Apple sells music and movies legally and always has.Content creators are sure to point out that Google has a much more spotty record on protecting content. Weinstein mentioned YouTube, a site where people divide complete movies into 10-minute long clips. While that still occurs, Google has a filtering technology that has helped keep some of that content off the Web's top video-sharing service.More importantly, Google has implemented numerous antipiracy measures recently and cut big distribution deals with film studios and record labels for Google Play.Had Weinstein lashed out against MegaUpload or Rapidshare, he would have at least been in step with the rest of the entertainment industry. Many in the film and music sectors accuse those cloud storage services of encouraging copyright infringement, though the sites say they operate legally.One reason why Weinstein may have rattled his saber is that at another recent function, he lamented the decline in film revenue, which he blamed on piracy and consolidation in the sector, The Register reported. As a result, he said he and brother Bob are planning to do more TV production.While he's at it, Weinstein should do some homework or else risk getting lumped in with Jon Bon Jovi and other stars who have made uninformed statements about copyright and the Internet. The impression they leave is that they're only aware that their royalty checks are getting smaller but haven't taken the time to find out what's really happening in their business.
Yahoo?And calling out Apple is a head-scratcher too. All the major film studios and networks distribute downloads through iTunes. The same with the music-recording companies. Apple sells music and movies legally and always has.Content creators are sure to point out that Google has a much more spotty record on protecting content. Weinstein mentioned YouTube, a site where people divide complete movies into 10-minute long clips. While that still occurs, Google has a filtering technology that has helped keep some of that content off the Web's top video-sharing service.More importantly, Google has implemented numerous antipiracy measures recently and cut big distribution deals with film studios and record labels for Google Play.Had Weinstein lashed out against MegaUpload or Rapidshare, he would have at least been in step with the rest of the entertainment industry. Many in the film and music sectors accuse those cloud storage services of encouraging copyright infringement, though the sites say they operate legally.One reason why Weinstein may have rattled his saber is that at another recent function, he lamented the decline in film revenue, which he blamed on piracy and consolidation in the sector, The Register reported. As a result, he said he and brother Bob are planning to do more TV production.While he's at it, Weinstein should do some homework or else risk getting lumped in with Jon Bon Jovi and other stars who have made uninformed statements about copyright and the Internet. The impression they leave is that they're only aware that their royalty checks are getting smaller but haven't taken the time to find out what's really happening in their business.
Indications show Apple's Retina MacBook Pro still overpriced
Indications show Apple's Retina MacBook Pro still overpriced
Even with recent price cuts, the Retina MacBook Pro is still plagued by inventory problems, according to an Asia-based report. Component suppliers in Asia have not seen a major increase in orders, forcing Apple to sit on unsold inventory, according to a report in Digitimes. That won't come as a surprise to U.S. retailers who have already indicated that the 13.3-inch Pro isn't selling as expected.Last week, the base 13.3-inch Retina MacBook Pro model plunged temporarily to $1,299 at MacConnection, a whopping $400 off its original price.The model debuted at $1,699 in October.But Apple cut the price to $1,499 in February after widespread discounting from retailers such as Best Buy and MacMall. Best Buy and MacMall are now selling the least-expensive 128GB model for $1,449, about $50 off Apple's price.Related storiesHow low can the 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro go? $1,299The original pricing on the Retina MBP was a miscalculation by Apple.And the additional $200 discount at MacConnection last week may indicate that $1,499 -- Apple's price -- may still be too high. Apple is facing newfound competition from Google's Chromebook Pixel, which bests the MBP in a few key hardware areas: it has higher pixel density (239 pixels per inch versus the MBP's 227), has a touch screen, and can be configured with internal 4G.And the base Pixel model is priced at $1,299. This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Even with recent price cuts, the Retina MacBook Pro is still plagued by inventory problems, according to an Asia-based report. Component suppliers in Asia have not seen a major increase in orders, forcing Apple to sit on unsold inventory, according to a report in Digitimes. That won't come as a surprise to U.S. retailers who have already indicated that the 13.3-inch Pro isn't selling as expected.Last week, the base 13.3-inch Retina MacBook Pro model plunged temporarily to $1,299 at MacConnection, a whopping $400 off its original price.The model debuted at $1,699 in October.But Apple cut the price to $1,499 in February after widespread discounting from retailers such as Best Buy and MacMall. Best Buy and MacMall are now selling the least-expensive 128GB model for $1,449, about $50 off Apple's price.Related storiesHow low can the 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro go? $1,299The original pricing on the Retina MBP was a miscalculation by Apple.And the additional $200 discount at MacConnection last week may indicate that $1,499 -- Apple's price -- may still be too high. Apple is facing newfound competition from Google's Chromebook Pixel, which bests the MBP in a few key hardware areas: it has higher pixel density (239 pixels per inch versus the MBP's 227), has a touch screen, and can be configured with internal 4G.And the base Pixel model is priced at $1,299. This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
In-app purchase hacker sets sights on Mac App Store
In-app purchase hacker sets sights on Mac App Store
The exploit that allowed users to purchase digital goods inside iOS apps without actually paying has jumped platforms and now works on Apple's Mac platform. The Next Web notes that programmer Alexei Borodin, who created the iOS in-app purchase exploit, now has a similar solution for apps purchased in Apple's Mac App Store. Like the exploit for iOS, this too requires that users install special security certificates on their machines, though it also requires the installation of an extra helper program. The hacked in-app purchase dialog (click to enlarge).In-AppStore.comEarlier today Apple said it had a fix coming in the next version of iOS, due out in the next few months, that patches the exploit. In the meantime it offered a solution that requires developers to instate a cross-check for in-app purchases with receipts from its own servers.The Next Web reports that before this method -- which Apple says will prevent iOS users from getting in-app freebies -- became available, more than 8.4 million free purchases were made. That's up big from the 30,000 that were reported immediately after the exploit became available last week.CNET has contacted Apple about this newer exploit aimed at the Mac App Store and will update this post when we know more. As mentioned in previous coverage, both Apple and its developers face a loss of profits if the exploit remains in use from would-be spenders. Developers get 70 percent of the revenue from purchases made inside their apps, while Apple gets the other 30 percent.
The exploit that allowed users to purchase digital goods inside iOS apps without actually paying has jumped platforms and now works on Apple's Mac platform. The Next Web notes that programmer Alexei Borodin, who created the iOS in-app purchase exploit, now has a similar solution for apps purchased in Apple's Mac App Store. Like the exploit for iOS, this too requires that users install special security certificates on their machines, though it also requires the installation of an extra helper program. The hacked in-app purchase dialog (click to enlarge).In-AppStore.comEarlier today Apple said it had a fix coming in the next version of iOS, due out in the next few months, that patches the exploit. In the meantime it offered a solution that requires developers to instate a cross-check for in-app purchases with receipts from its own servers.The Next Web reports that before this method -- which Apple says will prevent iOS users from getting in-app freebies -- became available, more than 8.4 million free purchases were made. That's up big from the 30,000 that were reported immediately after the exploit became available last week.CNET has contacted Apple about this newer exploit aimed at the Mac App Store and will update this post when we know more. As mentioned in previous coverage, both Apple and its developers face a loss of profits if the exploit remains in use from would-be spenders. Developers get 70 percent of the revenue from purchases made inside their apps, while Apple gets the other 30 percent.
Imports of HTC smartphones slowly resume
Imports of HTC smartphones slowly resume
After a patent dispute with Apple held up imports of some of its smartphones, HTC says its phones are beginning to trickle through U.S. Customs.It's unknown whether the One X or Evo 4G LTE -- the first two phones put in limbo by Customs officials last week over unresolved patent infringement issues with Apple -- are among those being released. Each model must be inspected by Customs and will be released once the agency completes its inspection and approves its release, HTC said today in a statement. "Some models have gone through inspection and been released to our carriers customers," HTC said. "We don't have the status of each specific device model at this time, but we are working closely with Customs."Related storiesJudge tells Apple and HTC to start talking settlementHTC phone imports held up over Apple disputeHands-on with the HTC Evo V 4GHTC was dealt a setback in December when the International Trade Commission, a federal agency with the power to enforce bans on products shipping to the U.S., ruled that HTC infringed on Apple's patent for data detection. The process allows a mobile device to recognize items like e-mail addresses, phone numbers, and addresses in text and automatically move them to a calendar, dialer, or mapping application.The quasi-judicial body said in its ruling that it would impose an import ban on some of HTC's products if the feature wasn't removed by April 19, 2012. Immediately after that ruling, HTC announced it would soon remove the feature from "all of our phones."Related video:This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
After a patent dispute with Apple held up imports of some of its smartphones, HTC says its phones are beginning to trickle through U.S. Customs.It's unknown whether the One X or Evo 4G LTE -- the first two phones put in limbo by Customs officials last week over unresolved patent infringement issues with Apple -- are among those being released. Each model must be inspected by Customs and will be released once the agency completes its inspection and approves its release, HTC said today in a statement. "Some models have gone through inspection and been released to our carriers customers," HTC said. "We don't have the status of each specific device model at this time, but we are working closely with Customs."Related storiesJudge tells Apple and HTC to start talking settlementHTC phone imports held up over Apple disputeHands-on with the HTC Evo V 4GHTC was dealt a setback in December when the International Trade Commission, a federal agency with the power to enforce bans on products shipping to the U.S., ruled that HTC infringed on Apple's patent for data detection. The process allows a mobile device to recognize items like e-mail addresses, phone numbers, and addresses in text and automatically move them to a calendar, dialer, or mapping application.The quasi-judicial body said in its ruling that it would impose an import ban on some of HTC's products if the feature wasn't removed by April 19, 2012. Immediately after that ruling, HTC announced it would soon remove the feature from "all of our phones."Related video:This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
iMessage bug swats iPhone owners who switch to Android
iMessage bug swats iPhone owners who switch to Android
Some new Android handset owners are complaining that they can't receive text messages from friends who own iPhones.According to a growing thread in Apple's support forums, former iPhone owners that had been communicating with friends via iMessage are unable to receive any messages from those same folks when they try texting from an Android device."I bought an Android phone tonight, replacing my iPhone," Apple support forums user "Literroy" posted last month. "I also ported my number to the new phone. However, now, anytime someone with an iPhone tries to SMS me, their phone automatically sends it as an iMessage, which I can't receive, since I no longer use my iPhone." Related storiesA tour of iOS 5 on the iPhone (iMessage)How to get started with iMessageApple's iMessage is stuck in the depressing pastOver the last few weeks, dozens of posters on that thread and others have complained of the same issue, and so far, Apple hasn't offered a simple fix. However, one user, "Alphonsusjude," claims to have a workaround, which involves accessing a user's Apple profile and unregistering the iPhone they were previously using.Apple delivered iMessage in iOS 5 last year. The service allows the operating system's users, which include iPad and iPod Touch owners, to send free text messages to each other. However, at least for some users that no longer want to use that platform, breaking away from it seems to be far more difficult than expected.Apple did not immediately respond to CNET's request for comment on the reported bug.(Via TechCrunch)
Some new Android handset owners are complaining that they can't receive text messages from friends who own iPhones.According to a growing thread in Apple's support forums, former iPhone owners that had been communicating with friends via iMessage are unable to receive any messages from those same folks when they try texting from an Android device."I bought an Android phone tonight, replacing my iPhone," Apple support forums user "Literroy" posted last month. "I also ported my number to the new phone. However, now, anytime someone with an iPhone tries to SMS me, their phone automatically sends it as an iMessage, which I can't receive, since I no longer use my iPhone." Related storiesA tour of iOS 5 on the iPhone (iMessage)How to get started with iMessageApple's iMessage is stuck in the depressing pastOver the last few weeks, dozens of posters on that thread and others have complained of the same issue, and so far, Apple hasn't offered a simple fix. However, one user, "Alphonsusjude," claims to have a workaround, which involves accessing a user's Apple profile and unregistering the iPhone they were previously using.Apple delivered iMessage in iOS 5 last year. The service allows the operating system's users, which include iPad and iPod Touch owners, to send free text messages to each other. However, at least for some users that no longer want to use that platform, breaking away from it seems to be far more difficult than expected.Apple did not immediately respond to CNET's request for comment on the reported bug.(Via TechCrunch)
Apple applies for patent to keep screens fingerprint-less
If messy fingerprints have you wiping your iPhone, iPod, or iPad screen on your shirtsleeve or pant leg several times a day, well, Apple has an app(lication) for that--a patent application, to be precise.The trick is not to ask customers to wash their hands before touching the screen. Rather, it involves coating the screens of electronic devices with an oil-resistant material called oleophobic, according to a patent application that recently surfaced on Patently Apple.The liquid coating is applied using a method called Physical Vapor Desposition ("PVD"). The technique is used to deposit thin films of vaporized material onto the surface. In this case, the coating is applied in liquid form inside of a bottle that is pressurized with inert gas, so that it can be sprayed onto the surface.Rumors has it, the fingerprint-less surface might be a feature on the new iPhone 5. But the surface coating isn't entirely novel. The latest patent application describes an improved process and a more efficient one. Apple has already put the oil-resistant material onto surfaces of the iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, or an iPad. Unfortunately, CNET previously reported that the coating begins to wear off after a while. Screenshot by Boonsri Dickinson/CNET Perhaps the iPhone 5 will have this patent technology all over it.
Apple applies for 5 patents tied to Liquidmetal, 3D printing
Apple has applied for five new patents, all related to Liquidmetal technology.The US Patent and Trademark Office on Thursday published five patent applications Apple has filed on the process by which it would use Liquidmetal to build next-generation products. The patents are heavily technical, discussing the process for incorporating the technology into devices, but indicate that the company is at least thinking about incorporating Liquidmetal into several products, including smartphones, tablets, and digital displays.Patently Apple reported on the applications earlier Thursday.Interestingly, Apple's patent applications also tie in 3D printing and how the technology could be used to build certain devices with Liquidmetal.Liquidmetal has been rumored to be coming to Apple devices for years. The technology is a special "metallic glass" that aims at becoming commonplace in next-generation products. That refrain has been heard for years, though, which means that speculation of Liquidmetal coming to Apple products should be taken with the proverbial grain of salt.
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