Planetaki Planet Web 2.0

Skip the Single-Serving Container Coffee and Brew Your Own to Save Serious Cash [Saving Money]

2012-02-09T13:17:39Z

No one ever said that single-serving coffee machines and the coffee cups and brewing pods you need to operate them were cheaper than buying and brewing your own coffee at home, but they're certainly more convenient. Each of us has to decide how much we're willing to pay for convenience, but the price of that convenience can be as high as $51/lb, according to a new study that compared the costs of buying by the pound and brewing your own versus single-serving makers. More »

Google Plans to Snatch 2.25 Per Cent of Every iPhone Sale [Google]

2012-02-09T13:17:32Z

There have been plenty of legal wranglings between Motorola and Apple, and with Google buying Motorola that doesn't show signs of stopping. Now, Google plans to grab 2.25 per cent of every iPhone sale because of the patents it owns through the purchase of Moto. More »

The Snowball Sunset Desktop [Featured Desktop]

2012-02-09T13:17:39Z

Flickr user Tim Garbarino reminds us that for those of us in the northern hemisphere, winter isn't quite over yet with this gorgeous, serene setting sun behind a lonely snowball. The setup is functional too—Tim has his favorite feeds on the right, upcoming appointments at the top, and a spring-loaded dock on the left. More »

Stephen Fry on a Generation of Technophobic Judges [Video]

2012-02-09T13:17:32Z

German court upholds ruling against Apple, clears Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1N for sale

2012-02-09T13:17:23Z

Apple's legal team has been dealt another blow in Germany, where a court today shot down the company's requests for a preliminary injunction against the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1N. In a statement issued this morning, the Dusseldorf Regional Court said it found "clear differences" between the 10.1N and Apple's iPad, affirming a preliminary ruling handed down in December, and a similar decision announced in Munich this month. It's certainly not the news that Cupertino wanted to wake up to, but we're also a long way from this drama being over.

German court upholds ruling against Apple, clears Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1N for sale originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Reuters | Email this | Comments

Tweetbot Updates with a New UI for the iPhone and a New iPad Version [Video]

2012-02-09T13:17:40Z

iOS: Tweetbot, our pick for the best Twitter client for the iPhone just rolled out a new update that adds in-line image viewing, single-tap-to-launch links, an overhauled UI, and easy access to people who have retweeted you. Tweetbot has also finally landed on the iPad, with an interface that makes use of the tablet's larger display, multiple-account support, push notifications, and support for third party apps like Instagram, Readability, and Instapaper. More »

Behind the Scenes of OK Go's Crazy New Desert Stunt Drive Video [Video]

2012-02-09T13:17:32Z

Earlier this week, we gave you an exclusive first look at OK Go's new video for "Needing/Getting". When a music video's that complex, you can bet a behind-the-scenes glimpse is going to be interesting — so here's one to get you started. More »

WeNowBuddy

2012-02-09T17:07:04Z

Do you know that there are many hot and cool people like Robert Pattison, Kim Kardashian and Justin Bieber? Are you still with losers or boring people? Meet and make new friends with your smart phone at anytime any place!!! We offer 1:1, 2:2, 3:3, 4:4 making friends. The most exciting way to make new friends, WeNowBuddy finally came out~!! ★Social Games More interesting than texting or chatting~! ★Possible to play with 2~4 players Play games with friends! Take your Image and stick game anywhere! Make new friends with your buddies~!! ★1 player in secret 1:1 secretive telepathy game for two people!! ★ NO HASSLE SIGNING UP No registration, no extra phone number, no membership, just download WeNowBuddy, choice your gender, and youre done! Simple as that~ ★ SIMPLE EASY : WeNowBuddy is ultra-easy to use

Mark Zuckerberg Buys Control of Facebook Shareholders, $100 a Time [Facebook]

2012-02-09T13:17:33Z

Now Facebook's IPO is filed, soon anybody will be able to buy a piece of a Facebook. But going public won't stop Zuckerberg having control — especially given that he buys out the voting rights of current shareholders, $100 at a time. More »

BMW i8 production prototype goes dancing in a winter wonderland (video)

2012-02-09T13:17:23Z

It's been almost a year since we last wrote about the BMW i8 being winter-tested and here it is again -- this time in production prototype form -- doing donuts (!) in the snow. This plug-in gasoline electric hybrid vehicle started life as the Vision EfficientDynamics, promising sub five-second 0 - 60mph times while still achieving an impressive 87mpg (2.7 liters per 100km). We last saw the i8 concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show but the sporty coupé with the funky gullwing-like doors isn't expected in BMW showrooms until sometime in 2014. So until then sit back, relax and check out the video above.

BMW i8 production prototype goes dancing in a winter wonderland (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 07:07:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | BimmerPost (YouTube) | Email this | Comments

The ultimate Academy Awards movie trivia quizzes

2012-02-09T17:07:04Z

Movie Awards Trivia is a movie application for your iPad and iPhone that celebrates all things film and suchlike. Given that we are in the middle of movie award season at the moment with many award ceremonies happening leading up to the Academy Awards, here is a movie trivia app that'll keep you amused for hours and potentially make you the king of the movie buffs in your house or amongst your friends This movie app is a treat for movie lovers, movie buffs,'Oscars' fans as well as the casual fan of movies so there is something for everyone here. The app tests your movie trivia and Academy Award knowledge in a uniquely fun and image filled way and comes with a whopping 1000 multiple choice questions along with 100 spectacular slide-shows and 4000 images of nominees and winners for Acting Best Picture Awards. Multiple choice questions are good for everyone and, even if you know just a little it enables you to guess and get several answers right, score points and build up your knowledge. If you are stuck on a question you can test your friends' movie trivia knowledge by sharing the question on Facebook. Filters allow you to chose questions grouped by decades, actors or actresses. A feature of over 100 unique slide-shows allows images to be viewed by decade or specific year, providing hours of enjoyment and reminiscing. Lookout for the dazzling and classic vintage movie picture collection too There are squillions of awards shows on between January and March each year so it's movies,movies, movies at this time of the year. Movie Awards Trivia is a fun multiple choice movie knowledge app with multiple images to help you get your questions answered correctly so you really don't have to be a major movie buff to play it. It certainly looks the goods with a classic movie image-filled interface and it's brilliantly easy to play with. You can even test your friends' knowledge by sharing questions through your Facebook account. So when you are planning your Academy Awards party and want to add something extra this year you might want to add Movie Awards Trivia to the entertainment.

Famous Explosions Recreated Using Cauliflower [Art]

2012-02-09T13:17:33Z

It takes a very certain mind to re-imagine images using quirky media. Artist Brock Davis has that kind of mind: his latest project involves recreating famous explosions using... cauliflower? More »

The thesaurus of entrepreneurial information

2012-02-09T17:07:04Z

WebToTheRescue is a free set of online business solution tools that encourage the entrepreneurial spirit in users of all ages. It was developed in response to the financial crash of 2008 and provides many valuable resources for the budding entrepreneur who is looking to start up a new business. The developers realized that, after the economic downturn, there were an awful lot of talented but disenfranchised people out there that didn't have a job anymore. WebToTheRescue has developed from those simple beginnings into a major source of entrepreneurial information on the Internet. WebToTheRescue is a free, comprehensive and easy to use online resource to help people launch and grow a business or non-profit venture. It helps entrepreneurs of any age and background realize their entrepreneurial potential. WebToTheRescue is designed to help those with an instinct for self-reliance. The site is meticulously researched and organized enabling users to learn on their own, to research how to launch and grow a venture and to end their unemployment or underemployment. It is packed with valuable links to resources which are largely free and otherwise low cost. For those already in business, the resources featured can help the you reach the next stage of growth. The difference between this and similar business solutions applications is that it provides valuable information that will be of benefit to everyone from the first time amateur right through to the seasoned professional wanting to freshen up their knowledge. It organizes many of the most valuable resources for entrepreneurs into one easy to use site that makes it easy for you to find what you need when you need it. The many resource topics listed were selected from thousands that were considered and new resources are added regularly so the content is always up to date. The intention of the site is to help people of all ages no matter what their professional and educational levels to create successful new ventures so that they can become financially self-sufficient. WebToTheRescue is almost philanthropic in nature which is a very commendable and valuable thing in these tricky economic times. The difference between success and failure can quite easily come down to the amount of information at your disposal and this business tool for the entrepreneur has that in spades. Here we have a completely free, helpful, educational and time saving resource where you dont even need to create a user profile or even provide your email address. WebToTheRescue really does seem to be the "go to" resource when you are looking to start something new or get your business out of the financial rut.

DoubleTwist update brings podcast support to auditory Android users

2012-02-09T13:17:23Z

A fresh version of the DoubleTwist media player hit the Android Market this week, offering a whole new world of podcast possibilities -- for a price. With the in-app upgrade, users can search for and subscribe to a variety of podcasts from the comfort of their own handsets. It's pretty simple. The app will automatically download the latest episodes, too, though there's an option to restrict all downloads to WiFi, in case you're worried about eating into your data plan. You can also choose to either stream or download each file, and manage all your feeds straight from your device. It's available now as an update to the DoubleTwist Pro package, though it'll cost you $4.99 to make the jump. If that seems worth it, you can upgrade at the coverage link below.

DoubleTwist update brings podcast support to auditory Android users originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink GigaOM | DoubleTwist Blog | Email this | Comments

Google Chrome Update Brings Faster Browsing

2012-02-09T13:17:48Z

The new stable release of Google’s web browser Chrome brings several improvements, most importantly faster browsing and more protection from malicious downloads.

From now on, when you start typing in Chrome’s address box (or omnibox, as Google calls it), as soon as Chrome autocompletes the URL you’re likely to visit, it will prerender the page, making your overall browsing experience faster.

As far as security goes, Chrome now does checks on executable files you’ve downloaded from the net. It matches the executables against a whitelist – a list of programs known to be safe – and if it can’t find the file there, it does some additional checks. For example, if the site you’re visiting hosts a high number of malicious downloads, Chrome will let you know.

The update comes just one day after Google announced Chrome for Android mobile devices.

Google also promises some updates to Chrome OS for the “near future,” including a new image editor and an improved Verizon 3G activation portal.

You can download the latest version of Google Chrome here.

More About: chrome, Google, google chrome

PSA: Google Wallet vulnerable to 'brute-force' PIN attacks (update: affects rooted devices)

2012-02-09T13:17:23Z

Security hounds over at zvelo have discovered a vulnerability in Google Wallet that means your precious PIN can be "easily revealed." Digging through the app's code and using Google's open resources to reveal its contents, they uncovered a piratical treasure trove of data: unique user IDs, Google account information, and the PIN stored as a SHA256 hex-encoded string. Since this string is known to carry four digits, it only takes a "trivial" brute-force attack involving a maximum of 10,000 calculations to decode it. To prove their point, the researchers made a Wallet Cracker app -- demoed after the break -- that does the job quicker than you can say "unexpected overdraft."

Google has been receptive to these findings, but its attempts at a fix have so far been hampered by the need to coordinate with the banks, since changing the way the PIN is stored could also change which agency is responsible for its security. In the meantime, zvelo advises that there are some measures users can take themselves, aside from putting a protective hand over their pockets: refrain from rooting your phone, enable your lock screen, disable USB debugging, enable Full Disk Encryption and keep your handset up-to-date.

Update: Google has responded by emphasizing that it's only users of rooted devices who are at risk. In a statement to TNW it said: "We strongly encourage people to not install Google Wallet on rooted devices and to always set up a screen lock as an additional layer of security for their phone."

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in.]

Continue reading PSA: Google Wallet vulnerable to 'brute-force' PIN attacks (update: affects rooted devices)

PSA: Google Wallet vulnerable to 'brute-force' PIN attacks (update: affects rooted devices) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:07:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | zvelo | Email this | Comments

Foxconn Hacked, Making Its Passwords Publicly Available [Foxconn]

2012-02-09T13:17:33Z

Foxconn has more to worry about. As well as struggling to deal with allegations of exploitative working conditions in its factories, it's now had the bad fortune of being hacked, having login and password information spread across the web. More »

Do Apple Users Care Enough to Protest Chinese Working Conditions Today? [Apple]

2012-02-09T13:17:33Z

Since it came to light how bad working conditions are in Chinese factories that make iPhones and iPads, many have muttered about boycotting Apple. If that's you, you should join a globally coordinated protest against it, which is happening today. But do you care enough? More »

Lenovo releases Q3 earnings report, shipments rise, profits soar

2012-02-09T13:17:23Z

Lenovo turned in another stellar earnings report yesterday, following up on a huge Q2 with an encouraging Q3. For the fiscal quarter ended December 31st, the PC maker saw its net profits reach $153 million, marking a 54 percent increase over last year's $99.7 million. Revenue also rose 44 percent last quarter to a record $8.4 billion, thanks in large part to a surge in PC sales. In mature markets, Lenovo saw revenues increase by a whopping 81 percent to $3.6 billion, while emerging market sales reached $1.3 billion, marking a 13 percent rise over the previous year and accounting for about 15 percent of the company's global revenue. The manufacturer saw particularly strong growth in China, where it now enjoys a market share of 35.3 percent, its highest ever. Lenovo attributed much of this to strong smartphone and tablet sales in China, while confirming plans to release a Smart TV within the country, as well (according to CEO Yang Yuanqing, it should hit the market in April). Laptops, however, remain the company's bread and butter, comprising 53 percent of its total revenue last quarter, with sales reaching $4.5 billion -- 30 percent higher than last year. For more numbers, check out the full press release, after the break.

Continue reading Lenovo releases Q3 earnings report, shipments rise, profits soar

Lenovo releases Q3 earnings report, shipments rise, profits soar originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 04:18:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Businessweek | | Email this | Comments

Google Chrome update brings speedier browsing, enhanced security, joy

2012-02-09T13:17:23Z

The week isn't quite over yet, but it's already shaping up to be a busy one for Google Chrome. After finally bringing its browser to Android on Tuesday, Google yesterday announced an update for the original desktop version, promising faster browsing and enhanced security. More specifically, this new Stable release features a revamped omnibox that will now pre-render pages as a user types in a URL or search query, allowing for faster load times. Google has also tweaked its Safe Browsing feature, which will now automatically scan downloaded files for malware, with an especially sharp focus on any ".exe." or ".msi" files. To determine the safety of a given file, the browser will compare it against a list of publishers and files known to be safe. If it doesn't show up there, Chrome will then consult Google for more information. If the file proves suspicious, it'll warn the user and recommend deleting it. Google added that it's working on an update for its Chrome OS, as well, promising a new image editor and Verizon 3G activation portal, though there's no word yet on when that might roll out. For more details, see the source link below.

Google Chrome update brings speedier browsing, enhanced security, joy originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:22:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink TechCrunch | Google Chrome Blog | Email this | Comments

Sony's 3D Library lets Aussies borrow products free of charge

2012-02-09T13:17:23Z

Sony's push for three dimensional entertainment has inspired it to launch a series of product-loaning machines in the land of Oz. These "3D Library" kiosks, as the manufacturer is simply dubbing 'em, will let Aussies checkout a variety of Sony's 3D-capable products at no cost and for up to three days. Folks itching to create some 3D content for free can choose from the Handycam HDR-TD10, NEX C3 and Bloggie cameras. And, as if hardware wasn't enough, you'll be surprised to hear the company's also throwing in its own flicks and PlayStation games as part of its loaner campaign. The program is underway now, so all you Australians willing to take Sony up on its offer can hit up the PR below to find the nearest freeloading location.

Continue reading Sony's 3D Library lets Aussies borrow products free of charge

Sony's 3D Library lets Aussies borrow products free of charge originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Electronista | Sony (Australia) | Email this | Comments

Fuzzy Cubes

2012-02-09T08:50:59Z

Fuzzy Cubes is the awesome new puzzle-based adrenaline rush! It combines the best elements of block style puzzle games with a humorous and immersive story line. Wrap this in an innovative, 3d arcade, disco jumpsuit and you have Fuzzy Cubes! Gainesville, Florida - Independent software developer, Workhorse Bytes, is releasing their first app, FUZZY CUBES!

The game can be aptly described as Tetris meets Rubix cube (with fuzzy creatures and grenades). Set in an exciting and comical world, Fuzzy Cubes explodes with a new and innovative approach to the puzzle genre. Its core gameplay centers around the basic tasks of shape and color matching. Beginning with a single side of the cube, players strive to achieve a perfect clear (clearing all cubes on a face).

This Bikini-Shaped Bacteria Produces Some of the World's Strongest Glue [Science]

2012-02-09T13:17:33Z

Remember the old Crazy Glue commercial where the guy suspended himself from his hard hat with just a dab of the adhesive? If he had been using the sugary compounds this bacteria naturally produces, he could have suspended a dump truck with the same amount. More »

Sony Cyber-shot TX300V inductive charging camera and dock hands-on (video)

2012-02-09T13:17:24Z

You may have thought that Sony's Cyber-shot TX200V was the company's most powerful point-and-shoot to date, but that's not exactly true. The company has a Japan-only version of the TX200V called the TX300V, and it's quite a compelling upgrade. The camera's most apealing addition comes in the form of a wireless charging and transfer dock -- it refuels your pocket snapper through inductive charging while also wirelessly transferring images to your computer using TransferJet. It can also draw power from your computer's USB port (no AC adapter required). Oh, and it ships in the camera box.

Sadly, there aren't any plans to sell this iteration outside of Japan, and Sony's mum on pricing and availability. The camera transferred images and charged without issue during our demo (the Charge indicator lit up, at least -- we didn't stick around to watch it charge the camera). We went hands-on with the TX300V and its charging dock at CP+ in Yokohama, and you can check the camera kit out in all its glossy black glory just past the break.

Gallery: Sony Cyber-shot TX300V hands-on

Continue reading Sony Cyber-shot TX300V inductive charging camera and dock hands-on (video)

Sony Cyber-shot TX300V inductive charging camera and dock hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 01:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Disney Might Line Up for 28-Day Netflix Delays [Streaming]

2012-02-09T13:17:33Z

After Warner Brothers, Universal, and Fox, have knocked their Netflix release dates back to at least four weeks, Disney has announced that it too is considering imposing a streaming content delay. Fan-freaking-tastic. More »