Gregarius » BetaNews.Com » octobre 7, 2014

BetaNews.Com (20 non lus)

Microsoft signs pledge to protect student privacy

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 8:19pm CEST par Mark Wilson
There are few companies who fail to find themselves under the privacy microscope at some point, but Microsoft is one that is the center of attention more than many. Whilst taking steps to allay fear about a keylogger in Windows 10, the company has signed the Student Privacy Pledge, joining big names from the world of education such as Follett, Learnmetrics, and Knovation. The pledge means that Microsoft will use personal information about students to help better tailor learning packages, but it won't be used for advertising, or sold to third parties.

Anthony Salcito, Microsoft's Vice President for Worldwide Education, announced the move at the Future of Privacy Forum (FPF) and the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) launched the pledge to help protect students.

Salcito explains:

Student data should be used to improve education and help kids learn, not for other commercial purposes, like targeting kids with advertising. We’re proud to be among the companies announcing today a clear and public commitment to protect the privacy and security of information about school children.

The use of technology in the classroom is something that has been broadly welcomed, as has input and financial support from the likes of Microsoft. But privacy concerns always go hand in hand with any use of technology, particularly when children are involved. Even something as simple as using email to communicate information to or about students is something that is fraught with privacy concerns.

The pledge means that those who sign up to it will:
- Not sell student information
- Not behaviorally target advertising
- Use data for authorized education purposes only
- Not change privacy policies without notice and choice
- Enforce strict limits on data retention
- Support parental access to, and correction of errors in, their children’s information
- Provide comprehensive security standards
- Be transparent about collection and use of data
It already has the backing of not only big-name companies, but also politicians and schools around the US. Mark Schneiderman, senior director of education policy at SIIA, said: "We introduce this Pledge as a clear industry commitment to safeguard the privacy and security of all student personal information. Current law provides extensive restrictions on the use of student information, and this industry pledge will build on and detail that protection to promote even greater confidence in the appropriate use of student data".

Photo credit: racorn / Shutterstock
Auslogics Registry Cleaner 4 rolls out new search filter, promises improved scan algorithms

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 7:02pm CEST par Nick Peers

Australian developer Auslogics had rolled out a number of minor -- but interesting -- updates to its system tools collection. Chief among these is a major new version of its Registry cleaning tool with the release of Auslogics Registry Cleaner 4.0, which gains a new search feature for custom removal of Registry entries.

Users can now click the Search button, type a keyword and wait for the program to search the Registry for keys matching the keywords, These can then be reviewed and selectively deleted.

Like the main scan function, backups are taken by default, while users can also search the web for more information on specific keys by selecting them and clicking the Google it button.

Version 4.0 also promises an improved Registry scanner thanks to better algorithms for searching the main scan categories.

The update also tweaks the user interface, improves Windows 8.1 compatibility, fixes all known bugs and makes enhancements to the Registry scan and repair results page, which is displayed in the user’s browser.

Other Auslogics apps get minor updates too: Auslogics Duplicate File Finder 4.0.2.0 gains a few improvements to its internal libraries and program stability. This builds on the recent 4.0 release that added a duplicate preview feature and a more advanced search tool for precise searches.

The same minor improvements can be found in Auslogics BoostSpeed 7.3.2.0, which again follows a recent major update (7.3) that added in the functionality found in the latest version of Auslogics Duplicate File Finder.

Auslogics Registry Cleaner 4.0 and companion Auslogics Registry Defrag 7.5.4.0 are both available as freeware downloads for PCs running Windows XP SP3 or later, as is Auslogics Duplicate File Finder 4.0.2.0. Finally, Auslogics BoostSpeed 7.3.2.0 is available as a free trial download, and can be purchased for just $19.95, a saving of 60 percent on the MSRP.
Do you do a dirty job? Take Samsung's Galaxy Tab Active into the trenches

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 6:58pm CEST par Brian Fagioli
While many people into technology spend their days languishing on the couch or vegetating in an office chair, others live active lifestyles. In fact, many people would identify themselves as being "extreme" by doing activities such as skydiving, rock climbing and parkour. However, people also work extreme jobs, like working in the sewers, construction or law enforcement.

If you are somebody doing an extreme or hardcore job, the average tablet won't cut it for you. Extreme people need extreme technology and today, Samsung announces the availability of its hardcore Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 8 inch tablet. It is a slate designed for people that work dirty jobs and need it to take a beating. However, it may meet the needs of people that have extreme hobbies too.

"The Galaxy Tab Active is a ruggedized tablet that is built enterprise-ready, productivity-ready and solutions-ready to meet the everyday demands and security needs of business users. It is especially effective for use in rough workplaces that involve proximate outdoor use thanks to a bundled protective case, water/dust resistance, an 8 inch daylight-readable LCD screen and long battery life with a user-replaceable battery", says Samsung.

The manufacturer explains that it "engaged in a series of advisory group workshops with Fortune 500 companies in order to learn what business leaders wanted from a mobile device. Companies spanning across 12 different industries were represented including retail, logistics and transportation businesses. Samsung combined the results from the workshops with its own market insight for the creation of the Galaxy Tab Active".

Samsung touts the following features:
- Anti-shock protection, including increased durability for drops of up to 1.2m/4ft when bundled with protective case and elastic material cover for the 8-inch display.
- IP67 certified to tolerate temporary submersion underwater and prevent entry of dust or debris.
- Citrix Ready and SAP-certified for SAP's Work Manager and CRM Service Manager applications. Additional ISV certification announcements are planned in the near future.
- A removable battery, ensuring business continuity with up to 10 hours of extra continuous operation and easy replacement.
- A convenient POGO charging connector, providing a durable charging solution for multiple devices and preventing micro-USB connector damage.
- An integrated C-Pen technology system for handwriting and note-taking that offers an alternative input device for professionals who may have to wear protective gloves.
- NFC-enabled to allow for easy data exchange with other devices.
- Defense-grade, comprehensive mobile security through Samsung Knox keeping applications and data safe.
If you do a dirty job, this is clearly a great choice for a tablet. At $699 it is very expensive; however, you get what you pay for. A less expensive non-rugged tablet could get ruined quickly; lost data and broken hardware is not a way to save money.

What type of dirty job do you do? Tell me in the comments.
Untwist your panties -- Windows 10's 'keylogger' is nothing to worry about

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 6:18pm CEST par Mark Wilson
As we all know, Windows 10 Technical Preview is out there and ready for anyone with the time and inclination to try out. Much has been made of the return of the Start menu as well as the new features such as virtual desktops, but over the last couple of days the rumor grapevine has been working overtime.

The big news is that Windows 10 includes a keylogger so that Microsoft can spy on your every action, tracking your every keystroke as you enter usernames, passwords, and bank details. Well, that's not strictly true... despite what some sites would have you believe. So, what then? Windows 10 doesn't include a keylogger? It's not quite that simple.

Check out the Privacy Statements for Windows Technical Preview and you'll see that Microsoft is very upfront about what is going on. Just read the two opening sentences: "Thank you for choosing to participate in the pre-release program for our next version of Windows! The purpose of the program is to enable you to provide usage data and feedback to Microsoft while trying out Microsoft’s pre-release software and services".

So right from the start it is made clear that by using the Technical Preview you'll be providing Microsoft with usage data. But just what does this mean? Handily enough, the privacy statements page breaks it down for us:
- install the Program, we may collect information about your device and applications and use it for purposes such as determining or improving compatibility,
- use voice input features like speech-to-text, we may collect voice information and use it for purposes such as improving speech processing,
- open a file, we may collect information about the file, the application used to open the file, and how long it takes any use it for purposes such as improving performance, or
- enter text, we may collect typed characters and use them for purposes such as improving autocomplete and spellcheck features.
Hold on a minute! What's that last one? "We may collect typed characters"? This is the clause that has upset a lot of people who interpret this as an admission that there is a keylogger built in to Windows 10. We're getting into semantics here, but Windows 10 does not include a keylogger -- at least not in the traditional sense of the word. Microsoft is very open about the fact that data will be collected. It’s very much the point of the preview, after all. Despite my 'meh' reaction to Windows 10 Technical Preview, it's important to remember a few things.

To start with, this is not even a beta release. The preview exists so that Microsoft can not only showcase what's coming up, but also so real-world usage scenarios can be tested. To do this, Microsoft needs data -- lots of data. You might think it unreasonable that Microsoft should collect data entered via the keyboard, but in taking part in the preview program, this is what you have signed up for. Even before downloading the Technical Preview, Microsoft suggests that you "see our privacy statement to learn how we will collect data about your installation and use of the preview to help us improve our products and services".

It's made clear that this is a preview that's suitable if "you're a PC expert or an IT pro" -- it is not something for everyone. Microsoft also points out that you should only be using the TP (oh yes) if you "aren't installing it on your everyday computer". If you fall into these camps, you really should be aware of what a keylogger is, and how you should approach and use pre-release software like this.

How many keyloggers include a description of how collected data will be used? "Microsoft uses data we collect from the Program to operate, improve and personalize the Program and other Microsoft products and services. Some data is stored on your device and some data is transmitted to Microsoft. Microsoft shares some data with our partners to improve how their products and services work with Microsoft’s products and services. We use your contact information to communicate with you, for example, to inform you about the Program, updates, and related products and services. We use information about your preferences to configure Program features. For example, we use information we learn about your interests to help make the ads we show you more relevant, and we use your voice data to improve speech recognition".

The suggestion implicit in referring to a keylogger in Windows 10 is that Microsoft is being underhand. It absolutely is not. Data collection is made explicitly clear right from the beginning. If you've approached the Technical Preview correctly you would be well aware of the logging -- the recent headlines will not have been news. Complaints come from people who do not read small print -- although here it is not "small print", what is going on is made abundantly clear from the very start.

We contacted Microsoft for further clarification about how data is collected and a spokesperson said:

With Windows 10, we’re kicking off the largest ever open collaborative development effort that will change the way we build and deliver Windows. Users who join the Windows Insider Program and opt-in to the Windows 10 Technical Preview are choosing to provide data and feedback that will help shape the best Windows experience for our customers. As always, we remain committed to helping protect our customers’ personal information and ensuring safeguards are in place for the collection and storing of that data. As we get closer to a final product, we will continue to share information through our terms of service and privacy statement about how customer data is collected and used, as well as what choices and controls are available.

Remember, this is Microsoft. It's one of the biggest companies in the world, with millions of pairs of eyes watching its every move -- many of them connected to people ready to pounce the moment a foot is placed out of line. There is nothing untoward going on here. Data collection is to be expected, it is necessary. Microsoft is under far too much scrutiny for even consider misusing collected data in any way, despite what some people have suggested.

I'm all for laying into Microsoft -- but only when it's justified. Cut the company some slack. Move on... there's nothing to see here.

Photo credit: Sergey Nivens / Shutterstock
How US organizations are losing the cyber war

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 5:32pm CEST par Ian Barker

Cyber crime, hacking and data breaches have seldom been out of the news in 2014, but just how well are organizations coping with it?

Not very well, according to a new infographic released by security solutions company CSO that's based on the results of a survey of over 500 private and public sector executives and security experts.

Among the findings are that 77 percent of organizations have reported a security breach in the past year, with an average of 135 incidents per organization. Yet only 38 percent have a system to prioritize security spending based on risk and business impact.

Of those that detected an incident, 69 percent said they weren’t able to estimate the cost. Those that did, put the average annual loss to cyber incidents at $415,000. However, 19 percent of US companies put losses at between $50,000 and $1 million.

Among the major concerns are that most organizations don't take a strategic approach to security, supply chain risks that aren’t adequately assessed or understood, and inadequate mobile device security.

The report finds that effectively fighting cyber crime requires collaboration in order to share experience and knowledge of threats. It also needs strategic spending, particularly on security training for employees.

You can view more detail in the complete infographic below.

Image Credit: Oleksiy Mark / Shutterstock
Kaspersky and INTERPOL issue global alert: ATMs spitting out millions without cards

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 5:22pm CEST par Alan Buckingham

ATMs (automated teller machines) are everywhere and we all use them regularly. That has always made them a target for bad guys -- a card reader can steal all sorts of information. But in the wake of things like the Target and Home Depot breaches things have risen to a new level. So high, in fact, that security company Kaspersky and law enforcement organization INTERPOL have issued a warning.

It seems that ATMs are pouring out money to criminals who are not even using any sort of credit or debit card. While this isn't a problem for any particular individual, it is a major one for the banks, which makes it everyone's worry.

This is apparently a global problem, which explains the involvement by INTERPOL. It all stems from a recent investigation conducted by Kaspersky.

"Kaspersky Lab’s experts performed a forensic investigation into cyber-criminal attacks targeting multiple ATMs around the world. During the course of this investigation, the company’s researchers discovered a piece of malware infecting ATMs that allowed attackers to empty the cash machines via direct manipulation, stealing millions of dollars", the security company states.

The malware results from the bad guys being able to physically access the machines and insert a CD that contains the malware, which is dubbed Tyupkin. The ATM is then rebooted and under the control of the attacker.

"To make the scam harder to spot, Tyupkin malware only accepts commands at specific times on Sunday and Monday nights. During those hours the attackers are able to steal money from the infected machine", Kaspersky points out.

With the machine under control, the criminal can enter a unique digital code which can be used the make the withdrawal, and the code changes with each session. The code comes via a mobile phone from the person in control of the malware and is capable of generating the PIN. In other words, this is being done by gangs, not individual attackers.

The scam has been caught on video, as many ATMs have cameras. Kaspersky has turned this over to law enforcement and also alerted banks of the steps needed to prevent this type of attack.

Image Credit: Tomislav Pinter / Shutterstock
If Samsung stumbles, will Android fall down?

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 5:09pm CEST par Joe Wilcox

The world's largest smartphone manufacturer is troubled. Overnight, Samsung warned that its third-quarter operating profit could fall as much as 61.8 percent because of weakness in its largest division, mobile, from which phones account for about 60 percent of company profits. Smartphone shipments are up slightly, but the money they generate is down substantially.

For Google, the news is a mixed blessing. In April 2012, I warned that "Google has lost control of Android" -- Samsung's dominance with customized versions of the mobile operating system being major reason. Big G effectively responded by separating core apps and services from Android, spreading them out across versions, and better unifying the user experience. Still, Samsung's TouchWiz UI is the main way tens of millions of people experience Android every day. The South Korean company's problems could eventually be good for Google, but will they benefit Android or pull it down?

I rarely quote from press releases, but Samsung's statement is too chilling to ignore:

3Q earnings is expected to decrease substantially quarter-on-quarter as a result of declines in the mobile business due to intensified smartphone competition...Smartphone shipments increased marginally amid intense competition. However, the operating margin declined due to marketing expenses related to aggressive promotions and lowered ASP (average selling price) driven by reduced proportional shipments of high-end models coupled with price decreases for older smartphone models.

Third quarter global phone sales or shipment data isn't yet available from major analysts, but Samsung's retreat is obvious from past stats. For example, during Q2, Samsung smartphone shipments fell 7 points to 24.9 percent year over year, according to IDC. Apple ranked second with 11.7 percent share. Samsung shipments topped 74 million smartphones -- or more than twice Apple (35.1 million).

The Chinese Connection

Meanwhile, the "Other" category, which includes some Chinese name and white-box manufacturers, rose by about the same number -- 40.7 percent to 46.7 percent -- while Huawei and Lenovo both gained share. I single out smartphones, which is fastest-growing and now largest handset segment. In home market China, Xiaomi smartphone share surged ahead of Samsung -- 14 percent to 12 percent, according to Canalys.

"As the death of the feature phone approaches more rapidly than before, it is the Chinese vendors that are ready to usher emerging market consumers into smartphones", Melissa Chau, IDC senior research manager, said in July. "The offer of smartphones at a much better value than the top global players but with a stronger build quality and larger scale than local competitors gives these vendors a precarious competitive advantage".

Despite Q2 signs of Samsung's misfortunes, Android smartphone share rose to 84.7 percent from 79.6 percent year over year, according to IDC, again based on shipments. So what's bad for the South Korean manufacturer isn't necessarily bad for Android, right? That's the question public company earnings announcements will answer during the next couple of weeks.

Apple's New Crop

More broadly, the question everyone should ask: How resurgent is Apple, and what does the answer mean for the broader smartphone market? During the first weekend of sales, new iPhone models topped 10 million -- in three days 55 percent of Samsung Galaxy S5 in three months (18 million, second quarter, IDC). Apple's margins are higher, and the company refuses to lower prices even to compete in emerging markets. Apple is, so far, impervious to price wars that damage Samsung profits.

Based on early, unqualified analyst estimates, Apple sold in the last two weeks of Q3 more iPhone 6 and 6 Plus models than Samsung did the Galaxy S5 in all second quarter. Rumors resounded for months ahead of Apple's September 9 product launch (store sales started 10 days later). Samsung's warning could mean more than emerging market competition, but sales slowdown of its flagship because of iPhone 6 and 6 Plus rumors and also anticipation of Galaxy Note 4.

Did rumors stall smartphone sales for other vendors? Samsung is unique for delivering pre-guidance weeks ahead of official earnings. But as the largest smartphone manufacturer, Samsung is the canary in the coal mine. The profit decline signals something.

Loser's Dilemma

I strongly suspect Apple will sharply surprise critics and pundits when announcing earnings on October 20 and as analysts tabulate third-quarter device data. Resurgent Apple is bad for Android.

Mindshare is as important as market share for platforms around which third parties build other stuff. Profits trickle down, or they appear to -- and either matters to developers and add-on manufacturers. Then there are all the obvious disadvantages associated with real or even perceived weakness. Samsung signals weakened position, and who really wants to associate with a loser?

If Samsung can't sustain smartphone profits, it can't invest as much in marketing and future product development, which is bad for Android -- at least in the short term. Measured by market share, the second- and third-ranked Android manufacturers are, combined, about even with Apple. So Samsung's decline, by any measure, can't be good for Android.

I rarely violate Betteridge's Law of Headlines, by asking yes or no question. But I see no answer today, just speculation, until the numbers are in and we see where sales went and who profited most.

Photo Credit: nasirkhan/Shutterstock
New dedicated tool makes for easier Spark monitoring

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 4:17pm CEST par Ian Barker

The Apache Spark framework is a popular add on to Hadoop for handling big data, particularly for building machine learning algorithms.

Until now though it's been hard to effectively monitor Spark performance. That's about to change as Brooklyn-based performance management company Sematext is launching its SPM for Spark.

The tool monitors key metrics for all Spark components -- master, workers, driver, and executor. It also includes alerting, anomaly detection, custom dashboards, log correlation and event graphing. SPM for Spark can be installed on premises or used from the cloud.

"Spark usage has been going through the roof," says Otis Gospodnetic, Sematext’s founder and CEO. "And engineers and DevOps folks handling Spark have not had a good monitoring tool at their disposal. By releasing the first Spark monitoring product to market with SPM, we have just filled a big hole in the Spark ecosystem".

SPM works seamlessly with centralized logging, log management and analytics solution Logsene, to provide a single pane of glass for performance monitoring, centralized log management, alerts, anomalies, custom events, and custom key performance indicators.

John Tripier, Alliance and Ecosystems lead at Databricks says, "One of the critical factors in the success of Spark has been the large developer community contributing to it, and the growing number of applications using Spark. We're very excited to have Sematext join this community and contribute their expertise with a comprehensive monitoring solution like SPM".

You can find out more about SPM for Spark's features with a downloadable datasheet or sign up for a free trial on the Sematext website.

Image Credit: alphaspirit / Shutterstock
New partnership makes it easier for merchants to accept bitcoin payments

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 3:06pm CEST par Ian Barker

Whilst virtual currency bitcoin has soared in popularity in recent times it still isn't an option when it comes to buying goods and services from many mainstream merchants.

That could be about to change thanks to a new partnership between SaaS mobile marketing and customer service provider Acromobile and ecommerce platform Bitnet.

Acromobile Payments will integrate the Bitnet platform to make bitcoin acceptance available to any merchant in a fully integrated order-to-bitcoin-to-cash solution with easy integration into existing CRM and ERP systems.

"Bitcoin is tailor-made for the Internet," says Alain Gendre, VP of Alliances at Bitnet. "No fraud, no risk, no borders, and lower fees than the most common current payment methods. And bitcoin acceptance is only going to grow; we’re seeing merchants who are early adopters of bitcoin reporting that they’ve increased sales and added a new base of customers. We're excited to partner with Acromobile in providing merchants with the ability to accept bitcoin payments".

Black Friday in 2013 saw total bitcoin transaction volume exceed $487 million, making it the fifth largest payment network on the day behind only Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and China UnionPay, and ahead of Discover and PayPal. It's clear therefore that accepting bitcoin payments has benefits for retailers.

"With companies like Dell and eBay already accepting Bitcoin, the demand from B2B and B2C merchants is really accelerating," says Jason Masciarelli, founder of Acromobile. "With Bitnet we are able to deliver an integrated CRM and commerce platform to unlock the bitcoin opportunity for merchants with no risk and have them get paid in their local currency".

Acromobile Payments includes CRM features for easy management of customer profiles, orders, invoices, and transactions to monitor payment status and history. The request payment feature enables merchants to quickly send payment requests to customers. It's mobile-optimized too, allowing customers to pay with bitcoin from any iOS or Android device.

The bitcoin-enabled software is currently available to merchants by invitation and is scheduled to be generally available by the end of next year. To find out more and request an invitation visit the Acromobile website.

Photo Credit: igor.stevanovic/Shutterstock
Right to Be Forgotten hits social networks hardest [Infographic]

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 3:00pm CEST par Mark Wilson

The "right to be forgotten" is something that was expected to take Europe by storm. A court ruling gave people the right to get in touch with search engines like Google and Bing to ask that results relating to them be removed -- assuming they are "inadequate, irrelevant or no longer relevant". One of the services that popped up after the ruling was Forget.me, making it simple to submit removal requests.

Three months down the line, we have access to the first set of figures relating to requests, and they show that social networks are the most affected type of website.

Looking at more than 10,000 removal requests, more than a fifth of the URLs that people have complained about have been on social networks. 21.3 percent of complaints relate to Facebook, Google, YouTube, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but just 8.4 percent of these complaints resulted in a URL being delisted. There were a very small number of complaints about Wikipedia -- just 20 in fact -- and none of them were upheld.

The infographic from Reputation VIP below also shows how press websites and blogs got off very lightly.
Opera Mini comes to Samsung’s Tizen-based Gear S smartwatch

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 2:17pm CEST par Brian Fagioli

While I do sometimes wear a watch, it is not for telling time. No, I strictly wear a timepiece as jewelry -- a gold Michael Kors watch on my left wrist to complement the gold bracelet on my right. It's funny, even when wearing a watch, I reach into my pocket to check my phone for the time.

A smartwatch may be the thing to change this for me, as it allows you to have a computing experience without pulling out a smartphone; however, many of them are fairly limited. Today, Opera brings its Mini browser to Samsung’s Tizen-based Gear S smartwatch, enabling a full web-browsing experience on your wrist.

"Opera Mini includes many touch-friendly features that become extra handy on a smartwatch. For example, the website shortcuts on Opera Mini’s Speed Dial appear as large buttons, enabling Gear S users to reach their favorite sites in a single tap. You can easily navigate the web on your Samsung Gear S. To zoom, double-tap with a finger, or, to get a more precise view, just pinch to zoom. A gentle swipe with your finger will take you forward and back", says Opera.

The company further explains, "the Smart Page feature displays links based on the sites you visit most frequently; a number of suggested links are also displayed by category. You can even add your social-media networks to the Smart Page, for more convenient access to your newsfeeds. You can easily save webpages for offline reading, too, which is perfect for maps that you might need for a hike or run in an area with sketchy internet coverage".

Would you want to do all of your web surfing on a tiny watch screen? Of course not. However, it is very much appreciated, as there will definitely be times when its existence will lend to convenience.

Sometimes you are in a situation where pulling out a phone is not appropriate. With Opera mini on your wrist, you can easily access your favorite websites for football scores or tech news without being easily noticed. Hell, a Samsung Gear S may be in my future!
Root already available for Samsung Galaxy Note 4

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 1:46pm CEST par Mihaita Bamburic

Galaxy Note 4 is not yet available in most markets across the globe, as Samsung has opted for a staggered launch. However, despite the limited market availability, a well-known Android modding enthusiast has already achieved root access for the phablet.

Chainfire, the developer behind dedicated modding tools like SuperSU, has announced on his Google+ page that a number of Galaxy Note 4 models, based on Samsung's own Exynos chip as well as Qualcomm's Snapdragon 805 processor, are now supported by CF-Auto-Root. The software has been designed to automatically enable root access on Android devices.

The first Galaxy Note 4 models to be supported by CF-Auto-Root, namely SM-N910C, SM-N910U and SM-N9106W, are meant for Asian markets. The first is the Thailand version (based on Exynos), the second is the Hong Kong version (features the same chip), while the third version is meant for China (it is powered by a Snapdragon 805).

It's great news if you are a user of one of the aforementioned models, as you are able to root your new phablet, by following these instructions. But, what does this mean for prospective Galaxy Note 4 users in other markets?

Well, they will have to wait for Chainfire to get his hands on the files that he needs -- namely, the stock Galaxy Note 4 recoveries for currently-unsupported models -- to add new models to the rooting tool.

If you are on the fence about this kind of modding, take a look at my articles which detail the benefits and downsides to rooting Android; they apply to Galaxy Note 4 as well.
Atongm Bluetooth Virtual Laser Keyboard: Lets you type on any flat surface [Review]

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 1:29pm CEST par Wayne Williams

Tablets are fantastic for casual tasks such as checking email, browsing the web, watching movies and playing games, but they’re not so good for doing work on because the virtual keyboard takes up so much of the screen space, and it’s difficult to touch type on.

If you want to boost your productivity, you need to consider buying a keyboard for your device. There are plenty of good ones to choose from, but that adds yet another thing to carry around with you. The Atongm Bluetooth Virtual Laser Keyboard is a tiny solution (36x18x74 mm, approx. 40g) which gives you back your screen space and turns any surface -- such as a table in a coffee shop -- into a keyboard.

Place the device on a flat surface, flick the switch on the back to On and it projects the red outline of the keyboard in front of it -- at a distance of around 10cm away. The keyboard is the same width as an iPad, at 24.1cm wide. When you’re not typing anything the brightness of the outline reduces to save battery life.

Next connect it to your tablet, phone or computer. It’s compatible with Windows (XP and up), Mac OS X, iPhone and iPad, Android 3.1 and up, and Windows Phone 7/8, and connects to devices via either USB (cable supplied) or Bluetooth. When pairing it via Bluetooth, you need to press and hold FN+B on the projected keyboard to make it discoverable.

So what’s it like typing on a table? Well it certainly does take some getting used to, but actually it’s not bad. Even though the laser keyboard claims to detect up to 400 characters per minute, you probably won’t type as many words using it as you would on a regular keyboard, but it accurately identifies all the key presses you make. The mistakes that appeared in documents were mine, not the keyboard’s.

So you can be certain your taps are being registered, the device beeps at you as you type. This is helpful to begin with, but after a while gets on your nerves (or it did in my case anyway). Fortunately you can turn the audio feedback off or on again by pressing FN+P. Pressing FN+left or right adjusts the volume.

There is of course an obvious problem with a laser keyboard like this. If you’re in a dark(ish) room, you can see the keyboard perfectly without problems (it offers contrast up to 1800 lux), but if you’re outside in bright sunlight the projection from the red laser diode is pretty much invisible. Pressing FN+up or down will adjust the brightness to suit your environment.

There is the danger something like this could be viewed as a gimmick, rather than a proper keyboard, but once you get used to it, it’s actually a very good compromise.

The Atongm Bluetooth Virtual Laser Keyboard costs $67.11 (with free shipping) from GearBest.
Microsoft reveals new, cheaper Office 365 subscriptions for SMBs

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 12:20pm CEST par Mark Wilson

Microsoft is introducing new, cheaper Office 365 subscriptions to businesses in a bid to encourage small businesses into using its office suite. The cost of an Office 365 Personal subscription remains at $6.99 but small to medium-sized businesses -- those with fewer than 300 employees -- are now able to snap up a subscription for just $5 per user per month (which doesn’t match the $1 offer from GoDaddy).

Before you get too excited about this, there is something of a catch. Firstly, there is a commitment to subscribe for a year, and the cheapest package, Office 365 Business Essentials, does not allow for Office's apps -- Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and so on -- to be installed. Opt for the cheap subscription and you're stuck with Office Online.

The subscription still includes 1TB of storage, and 50GB inboxes, but smartphone and tablet versions of the suite are also eschewed at this price. If the idea of signing up for an entire year seems like too much, a monthly, rolling subscription costs $6 per user per month. For businesses willing to pay a little more -- but, again, commit to a year-long subscription -- there is Office 365 Business. For $8.25 you get what most users would expect -- a fully installable version of Office 365 that each user can install on up to five PCs or Macs.

This subscription also provides access to the tablet and smartphone versions of Office, but it does drop a couple of features. Gone are the 50GB inboxes, online meetings, and social networking feature. There is a free trial available, and to drop the annual commitment, the price jumps to $10 per month. Rounding off the new selection of subscriptions is Office 365 Business Premium which costs $12.50 per user per month with an annual commitment, or $15 for businesses who prefer to take things on a month-to-month basis. This most expensive package combines all of the elements of the Business Essentials and Business.

The switch in focus on online-only tools at the cheaper end of the market is an interesting move, perhaps aimed directly at taking on Google Docs. All three new packages recognize the fact that employees work on multiple devices, and Microsoft has taken steps to provide a cross-device Office at an accessible price. Check out the details at the Office 365 for Business page.
Cloud-based management allows parental control of multiple devices

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 11:03am CEST par Ian Barker

As we saw last week, parental control products are a bit of a mixed bag and are only part of a protection strategy that includes effective education.

If you have several different devices in the family you may also end up using multiple products to protect them. That is unless you use the latest version of Remo Software's MORE which offers cloud-based management across multiple platforms.

MORE lets users manage and control Windows, Mac, Android and iOS systems and promises to add several internet of things devices in the near future. It gives parents more control over children's device use and also provides home users the ability to manage health technologies and other IoT devices used by their family members.

Version 1.25 of MORE allows the software to be installed on every family member's device and a customized level of control to be set for each via an easy-to-use web console. It's possible to block apps like Facebook and Twitter, allow full access to apps or set time limits. With a single click, administrators can perform device maintenance tasks such as cleanups and can also update device settings at any time, either from the web console or via an app on a mobile device.

It can remotely track devices via GPS, take pictures using the built-in camera, sound a panic alarm or remotely wipe data from lost or stolen devices.

"The 1.25 version of Remo MORE provides families and small to midsized businesses with everything they need to control device usage, ensure security and perform cleanup and maintenance tasks," says Omer Faiyaz, Remo Software’s founder and CEO. "Now parents have the tools necessary to protect kids online and set limits on app usage, and this is just the beginning -- by early 2015, Remo MORE will even allow users to manage IoT devices like health technologies, lighting, switches, appliances and more".

You can get more information on the Remo Software website and try out the software on two devices for free.

Photo Credit: wavebreakmedia/Shutterstock
Why I have grown to hate steamgames.com

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 10:57am CEST par Robert X. Cringely

A son of mine, I’m not saying which one, borrowed from my desk a credit card and -- quick like a bunny -- bought over $200 worth of in-game weapons, tools, etc. for the Steam game platform from steamgames.com, which is owned by Valve Corp. Needless to say, the kid is busted, but the more important point for this column is how easily he, for a time, got away with his crime.

I would have thought that vendors like steamgames.com would not want children to be buying game stuff without the consent of their parents, yet they made it so easy -- too easy.

When I use a credit card to buy something online it seems like they always ask for a billing address or at least a billing zip code, but not at store.steampowered.com. My kid didn’t know the billing address for the credit card because it isn’t our home address and isn’t (or wasn’t, I should say) even in California. It was a business credit card and the business was based in another state.

I asked about this when I checked with the bank to see who had been using my card and they told me all those security functions like asking for the billing zip code and the security number on the back aren’t required by the bank or the credit card issuer at all, but by the merchant, to minimize fraud.

In light of this, it only makes sense that steamgames.com wants kids like mine to buy stuff using whatever means they have available. Maybe their parents won’t notice.

Under US law, since my son is under 18, I can probably call and get the charges reversed. I’ll try that tomorrow. But in a culture where bad guys seem to lurk everywhere trying to steal our identities and worse, it’s pretty disgusting to see a company (Valve Corp.) that doesn’t appear to give a damn.

What do you think?
The Internet of Things will kill someone before 2015

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 8:37am CEST par Barclay Ballard

The world's first death caused by the Internet of Things (IoT) is expected to occur before the end of the year, according to a report by The European Police Office (Europol).

The greatest risk is likely to come from hackers targeting crucial health and safety equipment as more and more devices become susceptible to remote hacking.

As an increasing number of devices become connected, hackers may begin selecting targets based on monetary gain or inflicting personal harm. According to Russia Today, Internet connected medical devices are predicted to be the source of the first IoT murder, with heart implants, insulin pumps and numerous other devices susceptible.

Outside of medical devices, web connected homes and cars could also prove a threat to the user's personal safety if hacked. Europol has claimed that such an attack is becoming inevitable, with reports of IoT vulnerabilities already surfacing.

The Independent claims that as many as 300 monitors used to analyze high-risk pregnancies in the US have been slowed down due to malware. Former US vice-president Dick Cheney also disabled the wireless connectivity of his implanted defibrillator as a result of health concerns.

While a relatively small part of the technology industry, the Internet of Things market is expected to experience massive growth over the next few years. There are currently 10 billion Internet-enabled devices in existence, with smart home appliances such as the Nest thermostat currently among the most popular.

As the number of connected devices grows, the potential for crime also increases. Last week, Europol held a conference investigating the key policies that European police agencies could implement to combat this new form of cybercrime.

Photo Credit: Ipatov/Shutterstock

Published under license from ITProPortal.com, a Net Communities Ltd Publication. All rights reserved.
Logitech protection [+] power case -- protect your Galaxy S5 or iPhone 5s while boosting the battery

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 3:42am CEST par Brian Fagioli

Whenever I am going out for a day trip, like walking through Manhattan, the inevitable usually happens -- my smartphone battery dies. This seems to be quite the common problem, as Starbucks and similar places are overrun with people desperate for electricity. Yes, I can carry a USB energy bank for charging, but it is bulky and not ideal. Quite frankly, you may get weird looks with a giant bulge in your front pocket -- it is more of a backpack accessory.

What is really cool, however, is protective cases that doubles as a battery extender. Sure, they can add bulk, but that is to be expected. Today, Logitech announces the Logitech protection [+] power case, designed for the Apple iPhone 5, iPhone 5s and Samsung Galaxy S5.

"Protection [+] power extends the lineup of cases we introduced earlier this year and plays double duty for people looking for more battery power while they're on the go. We designed the case to fit today’s incredibly active, yet connected, lifestyle. For the iPhone, it includes a built-in 1800 mAh battery that doubles the charge of your iPhone. And, it increases the battery life of the Samsung Galaxy S5 by 80 percent, with a battery capacity of 2300 mAh", says Logitech.

The manufacturer further explains, "The case also exceeds the U.S. Military drop-test standard (MIL-STD 810 G) for 'rugged' devices, protecting your phone from drops up to 1.2 meters high. The case's impact channels and a layer of thermoplastic rubber help to absorb shocks, and a raised bezel to protect your screen’s sensitive surface".

I know what you are thinking; why release a new accessory for the iPhone 5 and 5s now that the 6 and 6 Plus are for sale. Well, don't forget that not everybody has to have the latest and greatest; the iPhone 5s is a wildly popular phone and there will be millions in use for years to come. Hell, Apple is still selling it and many consumers prefer the smaller screen. Logitech is smart to focus on this group of consumers.

The Galaxy S5 is still a flagship consumer smartphone that is rather rugged in its own right. Coupled with this case, it should be extremely hard to destroy. In my testing, the S5 has rather good battery life too, so I expect the Logitech protection [+] power to make it the ultimate all-day smartphone when away from an outlet.

Logitech says, "the case also integrates a hidden metal plate that makes your phone readily compatible with all Logitech smartphone car mounts, including the +trip air vent mount and +drive windshield/dashboard mount, for easier navigation". It is very cool that this new case works with existing accessories.

Do you own an Apple iPhone 5, iPhone 5s or Samsung Galaxy S5? Would you buy this $99 case? Tell me in the comments.
OpenClonk 5.0 adds Worlds League, new scenarios, music, more

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 2:38am CEST par Mike Williams

OpenClock.org has announced the release of OpenClonk 5, a major new version of its open source Worms/ Settlers/ Minecraft/ Terraria- like action game.

The new release adds two missions targeted at new players, two more "which can provide a challenge for the more experienced Clonkers”, and “an action-packed, cooperative scenario where you defend against waves of attackers".

OpenClonk 5 has started the process of connecting its missions with a common storyline: "the hero is sent all over the world of OpenClonk in a great endeavour to kill the evil king". This only applies to five missions right now, but more are on the way.

Reinforcing this campaign-type approach, scenarios now have “achievements” which you can win by finishing them at a higher difficulty level, or uncovering secrets.

A new Worlds League system allows you to "compete online for ranks and play against the best of the best", while "if you prefer cooperative play, the settlement and adventure league are also soon to be opened".

New objects add a twist to some scenarios. Go underwater and you’ll now find coral and fish ("both peaceful and evil", apparently), while the Worlds folder scenarios now allow you to expand your settlements by building basements.

All of this is now accompanied by music, including three original pieces. These sound good to us, but if they're not to your taste then you can toggle music on and off by pressing F3.

OpenClonk 5 is available now for Windows, Mac and Linux.
Go from fartsy to artsy and trade the gas for class with eBay Live Auctions

Publié: octobre 7, 2014, 2:12am CEST par Brian Fagioli

The allure of art greatly escapes me. Don't get me wrong, I see beauty in paintings and sculptures, but I'd be just as happy with a cheap reprint as the original. Hell, I can see the Mona Lisa on my iPad while laying on my couch, why bother going to an art gallery or art auction? It seems like a waste of money. When I watch Pawn Stars, I yell at the TV when Rick buys art for thousands -- "Dude, save your money!"

Well apparently, having an understanding and appreciation of art is a sign of class, which I am told I am lacking. In fancy social situations, I picture myself like Rodney Dangerfield in Caddyshack -- "whoa, did somebody step on a duck?" Yes, I am more "fartsy" than artsy and I have no business being at an art auction. Today however, eBay brings the art auction to your computer by launching Live Auctions. Yes, you can bid on classy art while sitting on the toilet -- finally.

"eBay's live auctions provide virtual entrance to auction house salerooms from anywhere in the world, and eBay’s 149 million active buyers now have the same access to auction merchandise as those bidding in person on the auction room floor. Inventory is sold directly by hundreds of world class traditional auction houses, including premier partners such as Doyle New York, Freeman's, Garth's Auctions and Swann Auction Galleries. All items are backed by the eBay Money Back Guarantee", says eBay.

The online auction site further explains, "eBay has also partnered with the iconic international art business and auctioneer, Sotheby's, to be the anchor tenant of the new live auctions experience. In the coming months, eBay will begin to offer a number of live auctions that are taking place at Sotheby's headquarters in New York. The Sotheby's auctions will present 18 collecting categories. The two companies are exploring themed and time-based sales, as well as live auctions from Sotheby's other global salesrooms".

The question is, does eBay's Live Auctions expose more people to art, or cheapen the experience for true art collectors? While art is the centerpiece of an art auction, it is not the entirety. You see, many people go for the experience of it, without an intention to bid. If eBay's endeavor is a success, it could cause a decline in "proper" art auctions. In other words, is it really classy to bid for fine art on eBay?

Are you a fan of art? Tell me about it in the comments.

Photo credit: Shots Studio / Shutterstock