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This website is a free website designed and created by Akilimali george I aiming at providing informations and resources free of commercial charges to the majority of Society who are living under a below normal standard income and therefore can not afford to commercially acquire some essential resources through payments.NOTE: This is Non-Commercial website.
By:Akilimali George I
This website is a free website designed and created by Akilimali george I aiming at providing informations and resources free of commercial charges to the majority of Society who are living under a below normal standard income and therefore can not afford to commercially acquire some essential resources through payments.NOTE: This is Non-Commercial website.
By:Akilimali George I
A highly astute, responsible, goal oriented, enthusiastic, people-oriented professional, with ability
to work independently or within a team, have a highly Computer Information Technology and
Management knowledge and creative enough to successfully solve problems and maintain peak
efficiency. .
A computer scientist at a UK university has been banned from publishing an academic paper that reveals the codes used to start luxury cars.
Flavio Garcia from the University of Birmingham received an injunction from the UK high court after he managed to identify the unique algorithm that cars use to verify the identity of the ignition key, The Guardian reported.
German car manufacturer Volkswagen appealed for the injunction when it realised that Garcia and two other cryptography experts from a Dutch university had figured out how to crack the security system on several luxury car brands under its ownership, including Porsche, Lamborghini or Audi.
Volkswagen wants the research to remain unpublished because it fears that it could "allow someone, especially a sophisticated criminal gang with the right tools, to break the security and steal a car".
The cars are protected by an algorithm that works out the codes that are sent between the key and the car known as the Megamos Crypto system.
The scientists were planning to publish their paper – Dismantling Megamos Crypto: Wirelessly Lockpicking a Vehicle Immobiliser – at the Usenix Security Symposium in Washington DC next month before the court imposed an interim injunction.
Volkswagen asked Garcia and his team to publish an amended version of the paper without the secret codes but the scientists declined, claiming that the public has a right to see holes in the security system it relies on and insisting that this wasn’t an attempt to give criminals a hand in stealing cars.
Garcia and his colleagues from the Stichting Katholieke Universiteit, Baris Ege and Roel Verdult, said they were "responsible, legitimate academics doing responsible, legitimate academic work".
Mr Justice Birss said he recognised the right for academics to publish their work but it would mean, "that car crime will be facilitated".
AlienVault hatabase. Described as a sort of ‘neighbourhood watch’ for participating organisations, the Open Threat Exchange Reputation Monitor Alert Service (to give it its full name) is a publically-accessible equivalent of the Open launched in 2012 to share the same data among its own customers.
Threat Exchange (OTX) AlienVault
As an aside, the Open Threat Exchange had now been renamed OTX Reputation Monitor and will be broadened to tie together all of the firm’s internal intelligence-gathering initiatives, the firm said.
In essence this allows firms that are not customers of AlienVault to get SIEM-like alert data that might turn up on the security firm’s Open Source Security Information Management (OSSIM) reputation database, fed to it by paid customers or other sources.
If it works efficiently, it could be an ingenious way to extend some of the benefits of crowdsourcing, although that depends on how likely it is that AlienVault’s data-gathering will record issues on a given set of IP addresses. Signing up for the service takes minutes and requires no software.
“Cyber criminals often use compromised systems to launch attacks against different targets,” said AlienVault CTO, Roger Thornton.
“With a service that harnesses crowd-sourced threat intelligence, we can detect these attacks before damage is done. Our OTX Reputation Monitor Alert leverages the broadest scope of data, sourced from the largest community of SIEM deployments, and is free to all IT and security professionals.”
AlienVault said it would also monitor DNS registration and SSL certificates for submitted domains and IPs.
“Today, we re-launch OTX as an even broader initiative to provide free resources, projects, services and threat intelligence to IT security professionals with the goal to unify efforts to combat the ever-increasing malicious threats that plague organisations,” said AlienVault CEO, Barmak Meftah on the re-launch and expansion of the underlying OTX programme.
Trend Micro has found two malicious browser extensions that hijack Twitter, Facebook and Google+ accounts.
The attackers plant links on social media sites that, if clicked, implore users to install a video player update. It is a common method hackers use to bait people into downloading malicious software.
The bogus video player update lures people in a macabre manner: it says it leads to a video of a young woman committing suicide, according to Trend's description.
The video player update carries a cryptographic signature that is used to verify that an application came from a certain developer and has not been modified, wrote Don Ladores, a threat response engineer, with Trend.
"It is not yet clear if this signature was fraudulently issued, or a valid organization had their signing key compromised and used for this type of purpose," he wrote.
Hackers often try to steal legitimate digital certificates from other developers in an attempt to make their malware look less suspicious.
If the video update is executed, the malware then installs a bogus Firefox or Chrome extension depending on which browser the victim uses.
The malicious plugins try to appear legitimate, bearing the names Chrome Service Pack 5.0.0 and the Mozilla Service Pack 5.0. Ladores wrote that Google now blocks the extension that uses its name. Another variation of the extension claims it is the F-Secure Security Pack 6.1.0, a fake product from the Finnish security vendor.
The plugins connect to another website and download a configuration file, which allow them to steal the login credentials from a victim's social networking accounts such as Facebook, Google+, and Twitter. The attackers can then perform a variety of actions, such as like pages, share posts, update statuses and post comments, Ladores wrote
We're bringing a little something this week for the Home Movie Directors and Amateur Video Jockeys. With the ever-increasing diversity of devices out there, it's often hard to share various types of videos unless you want to go online. But if you're a a bit worried about Uncle Sam watching your home movies, Wondershare has got you covered with its Video Converter Ultimate. A DVD burner, converter, editor, and downloader, VCU is a hit with our editors (4.5 Star review) and might be the best answer to all your video sharing woes
Wondershare Video Converter Ultimate is an easy-to-use, quick, and elegant way of making sure your video files are compatible with the ever-expanding number of digital platforms. Wondershare VCU can output to any device you may have, from iPhone and iPad, to Samsung Galaxy and Note. Making files compatible with Sony PSP, HTC smartphone, and fancy Windows Phone 8 is not a problem with Wondershare. Video Converter Ultimate lets you target your audience based on their systems of choice. The software also includes a Web Video downloader, compatible with most popular video streaming sites. DVD burning is an option if you still like the idea of a physical backup. Those with 3D-compatible monitors/TVs will appreciate the 3D converter, capable of bringing the best home videos to the Third Dimension (our favorite one). Finally, VCU also has a built-in Editor that will let you add effects and cut your favorite videos, easily and intuitively.
Supported Input Formats HD Video (AVCHD, MTS, M2TS, TS, M2T, 720P, 1080P), Windows Media Video(WMV, ASF), AVI, MP4, QuickTime (MOV, M4V, QT), VRO, MPG, MPEG-1, 2, 4, H.263, H.264, TOD, MOD, DVD, ISO, IFO, BUP, SVCD, DV, DV-AVI, DVR-MS, DAT, DivX, Xvid, Real Video (RM, RMVB), 3GP, 3G2, MKV, MXF, FLV, F4V, AMV, DVR-MS, AMR, TRP. Output Formats: HD Video, MP4 (inc. Apple iPad, iTunes and Android Cellphone, Tablets), AVI, WMV, ASF, QuickTime (MOV, QT), SWF, FLV, F4V, DVD, VOB, H.263, H.264, MKV, 3GP, 3G2, MPG, MPEG-1, 2, 4, TS, TRP, WebM, DivX, Xvid, DV & Audio(mp3, wma, ape, m4r) Supported Apple iPad 4, iPad mini, iPhone 5, Nexus7, 10, WP8. This all-in-one solution, regularly $69.95, is now available for the low price of $39.95 for one week only -- exclusively through Download.com. Try out Wondershare Video Converter Ultimate risk free (30-day trial) before you buy. But decide quickly, because this offer will expire at 11:59p.m. PST on Tuesday July 30, 2013.
On February 9, the Surface gets another lease on life. This version, known as the Surface Pro, tackles head-on many of the complaints about the original Surface RT -- especially that model's compromised Windows RT operating system. The Surface Pro offers a full Windows 8 experience that works with older Windows software titles, packs a real Intel Core i5 processor, and boldly stuffs the entire PC experience into a sleek and appealing tablet body that's just a tad thicker and heavier than the RT version.
There's a lot to like here -- if not to love. While the Surface Pro isn't the first Windows 8 tablet, it may well be the best one to date, at least in terms of design. The magic here is in the details: the ingenious detachable keyboard cover and the included pressure-sensitive stylus both go a long way toward setting the Surface Pro apart from the other laptops, tablets, and hybrids we've seen so far.
Can the Surface Pro work as a real, everyday PC -- a task that rival iPads, Android tablets, and even those Windows RT models couldn't quite handle? For me, an initial skeptic, it can. You can color me impressed.
If you were skipping the Surface RT because you wanted "true" laptop power and performance, the Pro version is definitely the way to go.
But while it's undeniably more powerful, the Surface Pro makes trade-offs -- most notably, middling battery life, a heavier chassis, and a price tag that starts at $899. That hit on your wallet becomes closer to $1,200 if you go with the 128GB version (a necessity) and add the so-cool-you'll-want-it keyboard cover. And you can say goodbye to the free version of Microsoft Office that came with the Surface RT; Surface Pro buyers will need to spring for that, too.
I'm waiting for Microsoft to throw me a bone. The Surface Pro's best feature isn't even in the box; toss in the $129 Type Cover. Or give me Microsoft Office. Otherwise, I think I'm holding out for the inevitable Surface Pro 2 -- the one that will undoubtedly offer better battery life and a host of other upgrades. This version makes strides, but it's not the perfect laptop-killer yet.
Design: Boxy-sexy-cool
Microsoft has done something right with the Surface Pro's overall design: everything works exactly as advertised, and with an extremely elegant, bordering on beautiful, sense of design. The industrial magnesium chassis of the Surface Pro feels solid but isn't too heavy to hold in one hand. One notable difference between it and the slightly thinner RT version of the Surface is a hairline wraparound vent on the rear that works with internal fans to keep the more powerful CPU running smoothly.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
At 2 pounds, the Surface Pro weighs less than a regular ultrabook, and at 10.81 inches by 6.81 inches by 0.53 inch, it's more compact. But it's bigger than your average tablet, and weighs more, too. It feels like a larger iPad decked out in a fat suit. In fact, it still feels more like a super slimmed-down laptop than a regular tablet, especially with the Type or Touch Cover attached.
The Surface Pro on top of the HP Envy x2 tablet/laptop.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
The closest equivalent we've reviewed was the Acer Iconia W700, a nearly identical tablet in terms of specs. The Iconia is longer and wider and has an 11.6-inch screen; the Surface Pro's is 10.6 inches.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
Made of the same "VaporMG" magnesium as the Surface RT, it feels even better than it looks, which -- despite being cleanly honed -- is a little boxy.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
The Surface Pro tips the scales at 2 pounds even; add half a pound for one of the keyboard covers, and another 0.6 pound for the AC adapter and cord. That's heavier than the Surface RT and iPad (both around 1.5 pounds), but lighter than most laptops, even with the keyboard case in tow.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
If there's any ergonomic complaint I can level at the Surface, it's the angle of the tablet in kickstand mode when sitting at a desk and using the small kickstand flap that folds out to form the back of the system. The angle is not adjustable, and while it works fine with the Type Cover attached, I would prefer it angled up a bit more. I found myself hunching over to get to a perfect angle. Display
The 10.6-inch display is small, especially for a full Windows laptop, but it's crisp and bright and has a full 1,920x1,080-pixel resolution. I found myself able to work on it easily, but I could also see that you'd want to plug in a monitor for all-day use. The good news is that the Surface Pro supports up to 2,560x1,440-pixel resolution on an external display. Even if you didn't use another monitor, the Surface's IPS display is one of the best I've ever seen on a small Windows computer. Capacitive multitouch feels buttery-smooth. That's the magic that made the iPhone and iPad so fun to use. The Surface Pro, in painting programs and a few other apps I tried, felt comfortable to navigate. It's not quite as brilliant as the iPad's Retina Display, but it feels like it's getting spiritually close.
You can connect the Surface to a larger monitor easily; many will. A built-in Mini DisplayPort carries audio and video, and with adapters (sold separately) you can switch over to VGA or HDMI if needed. Working in multimonitor mode operated exactly the same as you'd expect on a Windows PC. It took some fiddling to get window sizing just right, but I found that working on my desk with the innocuous Surface on the side of my monitor as a PC-slash-second-screen was a bit of a treat.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
Type Cover, Touch Cover: Killer accessories, neither included
Nearly this entire review has been written on the Surface Pro, using a combination of Type and Touch covers. The $130 Type Cover has an actual keyboard with depressible keys, whereas the $120 Touch Cover is a membrane keyboard. They both weigh about half a pound, and double as screen covers for the Surface.
The Type Cover keyboard feels wonderful, easy to bang away on, and largely responsive. The Touch Cover...well, not quite as much. It's usable, however. The key spacing on the Touch Cover is identical, and as long as you can get used to the lack of actual key motion and give in to tapping away lightly on what amounts to raised polyurethane squares, then it can work -- even with touch typing.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
The Type Cover has a real but tiny honest-to-goodness multitouch touch pad with lower click zones; the Touch Cover's touch pad has "clickable" areas delineated below the touch-pad space with cut-out grooved lines. The Touch Cover is fun (it's available in multiple colors), but the real keyboard on the Type Cover only costs $10 more.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
I can't say enough good things about the Type Cover keyboard -- if I were reviewing it separately, it would get an Editors' Choice hands-down. It attaches magnetically and seamlessly to the Surface Pro's bottom. It forms a pretty attractive cover along the lines of Apple's own (keyboardless) Smart Cover, but with the addition of that Surface-powered keyboard-touch-pad combo that doesn't noticeably drain battery life at all.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
And, yes, it forms a strong enough bond to dangle the Surface Pro upside down, but I wouldn't try this at home over a concrete floor.
Working with the included touch pad gets the job done, but you can just as easily use the Surface's touch screen -- or add a Bluetooth or USB mouse or touch pad. I used the Microsoft Wedge Touch Mouse that Microsoft included with this review unit. It's expensive but small enough, and it pairs nicely with the Surface.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
Surface Pen
The Surface Pro supports pressure-sensitive styli, and the Surface Pro comes with its own Surface Pen that magnetically attaches to the power connector to hold it in place when you're on the go. Writing and sketching felt natural, and the pen worked far more responsively than a capacitive iPad stylus (the technology's different).
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
Using a few basic drawing apps from the Windows Store, it all worked easily enough for my 4-year-old son and myself to enjoy.
(Credit: Scott Stein/CNET)
The "fun factor" is definitely present in the Surface Pro, but there isn't the incredible level of tablet-friendly app support that iOS and Android enjoy. You can run legacy Windows applications on the Surface to your heart's content, but those won't be nearly as touch-friendly. Speakers, cameras
Audio, conveyed through built-in stereo speakers, sounds adequate but not spectacular. It's better than you'd expect out of a machine this small.
The biggest hardware trend marking the launch of Windows 8 is the proliferation of touch-screen laptop/tablet hybrids. Some have screens that pull apart to become separate tablets, while others have screens that flip, twist, or rotate to give you a tabletlike shape to hold. We call those latter models convertible laptops, and one of the best examples to date is the new Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 13.
The name Yoga is suggestive of the system's big selling point, that the display flips fully over to become a tablet. In fact, it has four basic usable positions -- clamshell laptop, tablet, stand, and tent.
The reason the Yoga stands out from the suddenly crowded touch-screen laptop scene is that it does something other convertible or hybrid laptops do not. When set up as a traditional laptop, the 13.3-inch Yoga doesn't compromise the all-important clamshell experience. The excellent double-hinge design means that it looks and works the same as any other ultrabook laptop, unlike the complex and often clunky mechanisms in systems such as the HP Envy x2, Sony Vaio Duo 11, or Dell XPS 12.
The Yoga works best as a full-time laptop and part-time tablet, because when it's folded back into a slate, you still have the keyboard pointing out from the back of the system. Although the keyboard and touch pad are deactivated in this mode, it's still not ideal. Plus, despite the hype, Windows 8 is still not a 100-percent tablet-friendly OS, and there are some frustrations that span all the Windows 8 tablet-style devices we've tested.
The Yoga certainly seems to be everyone's choice for a great Windows 8 ambassador -- both Microsoft and Intel have touted it as a best-in-class example, and Best Buy is currently featuring it in a television ad. At $1,099, you're paying a bit of a premium, but not outrageously so, for an Intel Core i5/8GB RAM/128GB solid-state drive (SSD) configuration (note that our early review unit had only 4GB of RAM installed), but a less expensive Core i3 version starts at $999. If I had to pick a single first-wave Windows 8 convertible touch-screen laptop, the Yoga would be at the top of my list.
Design, features, and display Despite its reputation as a maker of buttoned-down business laptops, Lenovo can always be counted on to produce intriguing designs. Most of those end up, like the Yoga, as part of the company's consumer-targeted IdeaPad line of products.
We've seen similar attempts at laptops that can double as tablets over the years, usually with a rotating center hinge that swivels around to let the device change forms (or more recently with a screen that slides down over the keyboard). Before Windows 8, most of these experiments weren't particularly successful, thanks to a combination of poor design, underpowered components, and an operating system that wasn't touch-friendly.
The other problem with those traditional convertibles has been that the single rotating center hinge was a potential weak point in the design. Lenovo says the Yoga's full-length hinge has been rigorously tested and is stronger than the older rotating convertible design, and in practice that definitely seems to be the case.
When opened into its clamshell position, the Yoga would be tough to pick out of a lineup of recent ultrabooks. The minimalist interior is dominated by a large buttonless clickpad, along with a island-style Lenovo keyboard, which means the flat-topped keys have a small curve along their bottom edges for easier typing.
As good as Lenovo's reputation is for excellent keyboards, I had a surprising amount of trouble with the Yoga's keyboard. I narrowed most of my issues down to the half-size right Shift key, which meant I often hit the up arrow when aiming for Shift. The end result was a lot of frustration and retyping, but after a few days one would naturally adjust to this specific layout. The touch pad is the same as you'd find in other clickpad Lenovos, including the recent high-end X1 Carbon. It offers plenty of space for multifinger gestures, but isn't as effective for manipulating the touch-centric Windows 8 UI as a finger would be.
When you flip the Yoga's screen back, the physical keyboard doesn't disappear from view, as it does on most other convertible laptop/tablet combos, but it does get automatically disabled. A slightly raised layer of leather over the wrist rest and keyboard tray lets you rest the tablet on a table, keyboard-side down, without worrying too much about damaging the keys. Some buttons have been moved to the sides so they can be accessed no matter how the system is folded, and the outer shell has a soft-touch coating for easy gripping. While the Yoga isn't particularly comfortable to hold in tablet form, as your fingers are pressing up against the exposed keyboard and the touch pad, you do get easy access to a volume rocker along one edge and a rotation lock button along the other.
Beyond the slate mode, I especially liked the stand or sharing mode, where the screen is folded back 270 degrees or more, turning the system into something like a small touch-screen kiosk. It's great for sharing video or presentations in a group setting, or for just getting closer to the screen while keeping the keyboard out of the way.
Its fourth position is standing upright like a tent, but I can't think of too many reasons you'd want that.
In any of these positions, the Yoga is well-served by its 13.3-inch display, which has a native resolution of 1,600x900 pixels. That's arguably the perfect resolution for a 13-inch laptop, giving you plenty of screen real estate without making onscreen text appear too small, as can happen with 1,920x1,080-pixel resolutions on smaller systems. Off-axis viewing angles are great, and unlike with some Windows 8 convertibles stuck with 1,366x768-pixel screen resolutions, you don't feel like you're paying a premium price for a substandard feature.
Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 13
Average for category [13-inch]
Video
HDMI
HDMI or DisplayPort
Audio
Stereo speakers, combo headphone/microphone jack
Stereo speakers, headphone/microphone jacks
Data
1 USB 3.0, 1 USB 2.0, SD card reader
2 USB 3.0, 1 USB 2.0, SD card reader
Networking
Ethernet, 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Ethernet, 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Optical drive
None
DVD burner
Connectivity, performance, and battery life Even for an ultrabook, this is not among the most connected laptops you'll find. There's a pair of USB ports, one 3.0, one 2.0, and it has an HDMI port, a combo audio jack, and an SD card slot. The lack of built-in Ethernet is understandable, but this is the first laptop in a long while I've seen with only one USB 3.0 port.
Apple's new sixth-generation AirPort Extreme Base Station is essentially the new AirPort Time Capsule minus the internal storage. In fact without the storage, the two devices -- for the first time since the debut of Apple's AirPort base stations -- are identical.
The new true dual-band Wi-Fi router is now more compact, and prettier than the previous generation. It also supports the much anticipated -- and much faster -- 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard. The device's functions, features, and port offerings, however, remain the same as its predecessor's.
On one hand, the new AirPort Extreme proved in my testing to be one of the fastest and most reliable Wi-Fi routers to date. On the other, I wish it had more features to offer, such as common networking customizations, and -- when coupled with an external hard drive -- support for Time Machine backup and media streaming.
That said, for those who care about the look, the new AirPort Extreme is beautiful enough to justify the $199 price tag that makes it slightly more expensive than its peers. If you have 802.11ac-enabled devices, such as the new MacBook Air, you'll also love this new device's Wi-Fi speed. Otherwise, there's no need to upgrade if you already have the previous model. Don't forget to check out the alternatives on this list for more networking options and features.
The new AirPort Extreme Base Station has the same footprint as the AirPort Express (bottom), but is much taller. Note the AirPlay audio port on the AirPort Express that the AirPort Extreme doesn't have
(Credit: Dong Ngo/CNET)
Totally new design, same ports, familiar setup process
Like the new Time Capsule, the new AirPort Extreme has a completely new design. Instead of the traditional squarish tile shape that's been used for years, it now looks like a rectangular tube standing 6.6 inches tall and 3.85 inches wide. This means it has the same footprint as the second-generation AirPort Express, which came out last year, but it's much taller. Overall the new router has an elegant appearance, more like a jewelry box than a networking device.
On the front, there's a tiny status light that glows green when all is working well and either flashes or changes to amber to indicate that the device needs attention.
On the back, there are the usual three Gigabit LAN ports (to connect wired clients, such as a Mac Pro), and one Gigabit WAN port (to connect to an Internet source, such as a broadband modem). There's also a USB 2.0 port to host an external hard drive or a printer. This port configuration is exactly the same as found in previous generations of the AirPort Extreme and is disappointing since most routers on the market now have four LAN ports and many already offer USB 3.0. The number of LAN ports determines how many wired clients the router can support out of the box, before you need to resort to a switch. And obviously, USB 3.0 offers better performance when you connect an external hard drive to the router.
Like the new Time Capsule, the new AirPort Extreme doesn't support AirPlay, either. For that, you need to get the AirPort Express, which is, for now, still the only router that supports this music playback feature of Apple's.
The AirPort Extreme requires the AirPort Utility software, screenshot here from a Windows version, for initial setup and ongoing management.
(Credit: Dong Ngo/CNET)
If you have owned an AirPort device before, setting up the new AirPort Extreme is a familiar process, but first-time users shouldn't have a problem, either. You need to have the AirPort Utility software, available for Macs, Windows, and iOS, to get the job done. In most cases, the software is already on a Mac, but if not you can easily download it for free. AirPort Utility makes the setup very simple and self-explanatory.
On the downside, AirPort Utility doesn't offer the same depth of customization and features. That said, the new AirPort Extreme has no more features than its predecessor, and just a handful of them. A powerful Wi-Fi router that's weak on customization and storage support
The new AirPort Extreme is a true dual-band router, offering Wi-Fi coverage on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands at the same time. This means it supports all existing Wi-Fi clients, regardless of their Wi-Fi standard, with the top possible speed. The router supports the current top tier (three-stream) of both the new 802.11ac and 802.11n (Wireless-N) standards. When used with a 802.11ac-enabled client, such as the new MacBook Air, it can accommodate up to 1.3Gbps data speed. Wireless-N clients can be connected at 450Mbps on either band.
Note that these are the ceiling speeds of the respective standards. In real-world use, actual sustained Wi-Fi speeds fluctuate a great deal and are generally much lower than the cap speeds. Nonetheless, support for higher tiers always means faster speeds. (Read more about Wi-Fi standards here.)
It can be quite a task to find out and type in the MAC address in case you want to add a device to a special list.
(Credit: Screenshot by Dong Ngo/CNET)
The AirPort Extreme offers a set of features common in routers, such as guest networking (only on the 2.4GHz band), IPv6, port forwarding, DynDNS, Access Control, and print-serving and file-sharing capabilities. It lacks many features you might expect given its cost, such as QoS customization for traffic prioritizing, Parent Control, VPN server, and so forth.
And even for what it can do, the AirPort Extreme is a lot less flexible than others. For example, while you can block access to the Internet using a connected client's MAC address, you can't set up Web filtering in case you want to block based on keyword, Web services, or a specific Web site. It's also quite hard to add a device to the block list, or assign a fixed IP address to it, because in most cases you need to determine its MAC address and type it in manually.
Not everyone wants to buy an Apple laptop, but serious Windows 8 competitors to the MacBook Air have been few and far between.
When Windows 8 systems started rolling out last year, it seemed like PC manufacturers spent all their efforts trying to make some sort of hybrid or convertible laptop. For their regular clamshell notebooks, the most they did was install Windows 8 and put in a touch screen.
But, based on the Sony Vaio Pro 13 Touch ultrabook (and its smaller linemate, the Vaio Pro 11), it looks like the wait for some interesting ultrabooks might be over thanks to the launch of Intel's fourth-gen Core i-series processors.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
The carbon-fiber-constructed Pro 13 weighs only 2.34 pounds; it's 2.9 pounds with its power supply, which is as much as the 13-inch MacBook Air weighs on its own. The body measures 12.7 inches wide by 8.5 inches deep, which is fractionally smaller than the Air, and matches its 0.68-inch thickness.
If you don't dive deeper than base specs, the 13-inch Air and Pro 13 Touch match each other fairly closely. It's once you look at the Sony's fine details, you'll uncover differences, and in a game of specsmanship, the Sony wins. Still, in the end, they're both excellent laptops and it comes down to what you like and what you want to have.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
Design and features The Vaio Pro 13 Touch is just barely bigger than its 11.6-inch linemate. Both are remarkably slim, small, and lightweight and, basically, what you probably pictured something called an "ultrabook" should look like. The carbon fiber construction might not feel as solid as an aluminum chassis, but it still seems like it can stand up to the rigors of a daily commute.
The Vaio Pro 13 Touch next to the 13-inch MacBook Air.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
Open up the lid and the back of the laptop lifts up, giving a more comfortable typing angle. The backlit keys are generously sized and spaced, so even sloppy typists like myself should have no problems typing reasonably fast. The deck is shallow, though, so there isn't a lot of key travel -- there's just nowhere for the keys to go. There is a tiny amount of flex when typing (it was more noticeable on the Pro 11), but unless you're really pressing on the keys you probably won't notice.
The clickpad is nice: responsive without being jumpy, and with good multitouch support. It's fairly large, too, so two- and three-finger gestures are easy. Besides, you can always use the screen to get around.
Sony Vaio Pro 13
MacBook Air 13-inch (June 2013)
Base price
$1,249
$1,099
Display size/resolution
13.3-inch, 1,920x1,080 touch screen
13.3-inch, 1,440x900 screen
PC CPU
1.6GHz Intel Core i5-4200U
1.3GHz Intel Core i5-4250U
PC memory
4,096MB DDR3 SDRAM 1,600MHz
4,096MB DDR3 SDRAM 1,600MHz
Graphics
1,659MB Intel HD Graphics 4400
1,024MB Intel HD Graphics 5000
Storage
128GB PCIe SSD
128GB PCIe SSD
Optical drive
None
None
Networking
802.11b/g/n wireless, Bluetooth 4.0, NFC
802.11a/c wireless, Bluetooth 4.0
Operating system
Windows 8 (64-bit)
OSX Mountain Lion 10.8.4
The glossy 10-point touch LCD uses Sony's Triluminos Display for Mobile technology, which is similar to what you'll find in Sony's high-end LCD TVs. Sony also says the computer has X-Reality for Mobile technology that improves video quality. Regardless of technologies, the screen is really nice for viewing movies and photos.
Its native resolution is 1,920x1,080 pixels and it does use IPS technology, giving it wide viewing angles on the sides, top, and bottom. Text is nice and sharp, and the 13.3-inch size is definitely more comfortable to work on than the Pro 11's 11.6-inch LCD. Touch does come in handy on a screen this size, though, allowing you to easily drag windows and files around on the desktop.
(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)
Lastly, Sony includes some mode options for color: Vivid for viewing photos and movies, Natural for, um, natural colors, and Text to make it easier to view things like e-books.
Above the screen is a 1-megapixel Webcam that uses one of Sony's Exmor R backside-illuminated CMOS sensors, which should be better for low-light video. It isn't, so we still recommend having as much light as possible for the best results. Or even just good results. The camera can be used for gesture controls such as turning the volume up or down or going back to a previous Web page in a browser. For the most part, it's more trouble than its worth, but we did like being able to increase the volume on our music from a couple of feet away.
If you like to listen to movies or music without headphones, the Pro 13 doesn't give you anything to get too excited about. The tiny speakers can get reasonably loud without distortion; however, that's the best thing we can say about them. You're probably going to want to use headphones or external speakers for an enjoyable experience.
Sony Vaio Pro 13
Average for category [13-inch]
Video
HDMI; Intel WiDi-ready
VGA plus HDMI or DisplayPort
Audio
Stereo speakers, headphone/microphone jack
Stereo speakers, headphone/microphone jacks
Data
2 USB 3.0, SD card reader
2 USB 2.0, 1 USB 3.0, SD card reader
Networking
Bluetooth, 802.11n Wi-Fi, NFC
Ethernet, 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Optical drive
None
None
As thin as it is, there's not much room for ports, but you do get two USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI, an SD card slot, and a mic/headphone jack -- all on the right side. Wireless options comprise Bluetooth 4.0, 802.11n Wi-Fi, NFC, and an updated version of Intel Wireless Display (WiDi). Also, Sony put a USB port in the side of the Pro 13's power supply, giving you a place to charge a mobile device without tying up one of the laptop's USB 3.0 ports.
Sprint announced today that it will be offering a 4G LTE, Android Jelly Bean handset called the Vital, starting June 14 for $99.99.
Packing a 13-megapixel camera, a dual-core processor, and an expansive 5-inch HD screen, the Vital joins the ranks of the Warp Sequent and Sprint Flash as high-end phones from Chinese manufacturer ZTE.
With its release, the Vital is unquestionably the best handset that ZTE has put out in the U.S. market. Compared to the other two, it shows marked improvements in both processing speeds and camera quality.
That'd be fine if ZTE were only competing with itself. But unfortunately, as much as I like the phone and what it means for ZTE, it isn't the best Sprint has to offer. Especially when one considers the excellent flagships that Samsung and HTC are selling at -- or close to -- the same price. Design Thin but sturdy, the Sprint Vital features a higher build-quality than the average ZTE device that comes down the pipeline. Though the familiar black rectangular design isn't compelling, the handset is a step up for the manufacturer and feels a bit more distinguished and deliberate.
The phone measures 5.59 inches tall, 2.8 inches wide, and 0.39-inch thick. Weighing in at 5.44 ounces, the Vital isn't very heavy for a device its size. For example, the midlevel 4-inch Engage LT, also from ZTE, weighs 5.09 ounces and is something that I'd consider too hefty. This handset's weight, however, feels appropriate, and while it's physically too big to fit nicely in my jeans pockets, it still feels comfortable in the palm and can be easily maneuverable with one hand.
The subtle blue battery cover on the Vital is a nice touch.
(Credit: Josh Miller/CNET)
Its left edge houses a Micro-USB port and two buttons for volume up and down. Up top are a 3.5mm headphone jack and a sleep/power button. On the right is a shortcut key to launch the camera. The button itself feels a little flimsy, like if I really wanted to, I could scratch it right off. In addition, it's difficult to tell whether or not I'm pressing it hard enough because I can feel two levels of "clicks" when I depress it.
The battery door has a subtle blue tint to it when held in the light, and has a smooth, matte, rubber-like finish that I find pleasing to the eye. There is a quarter-size bulged in the phone's rear for the camera and flash. Though I'm not too fond of this bump, since it prevents the Vital from lying flat on its back, it's not that much of an eyesore. Below it are two small slits for the audio speaker. Using an indent on the bottom left corner, you can pry the plate off to access the device's battery, microSD card slot (which is expandable up to 64GB), and SIM card.
The 5-inch HD display has the same 1,280x720-pixel resolution as the Sprint Flash, and is one of the better screens I've seen on a ZTE device. It's adequately sensitive and responsive to the touch. Texting messages with swipe is a breeze (especially with all that screen real estate). In addition, the handset has a wide viewing angle and can easily be viewed in sunlight. The screen is also bright, and graphics look vivid and radiant. Text and menu icons are crisp, and watching HQ videos on YouTube appeared sharp.
Below the screen are three hot keys (back, home, and menu) that light up white when in use.
Software and features The phone operates on Android 4.1.2 and runs a rather pure version of Jelly Bean that I prefer over most manufacturer UIs. One interesting feature is that sometimes when you hold down the home button, your recent apps pop up, and in the bottom left corner, you can kill all current tasks. (I say "sometimes" because honestly, on occasion when you do this, absolutely nothing happens -- and yes, this gets annoying.) Usually in 4.1. devices, holding down the home button activates Google's integrated search and voice service, Now. But with the Vital, you can launch Now by tapping the small magnifying glass in the right corner after long-pressing the home key.
Along with Now, you'll get all your other Google apps like Chrome, Gmail, Plus, Maps with Navigation and Local, Messenger, access to multiple Play portals (Books, Magazines, Movies and TV, Music, and Store), Talk, and YouTube.
The carrier loaded in three of its own apps as well: one is a streaming television and movie app, then there's Sprint Zone, where you can check your account balance and carrier promos, and lastly, Sprint ID.
The Vital's 13-megapixel camera comes with a number of photo-editing options.
(Credit: Josh Miller/CNET)
Sprint ID allows you to customize your phone with preselected apps, widgets, and other items depending on which ID profile you choose. For example, if you select the E! package, you'll get E! apps and widgets pertaining to the celebrity news channel. You can also choose a Business Pro package, which includes tools intended to assist with business travel plans, financial investments, and backing up data.
Note that deleting a Mobile ID package won't uninstall the apps that you downloaded -- you'll have to remove those apps manually. So far, there are 40 packs available. You can remove the Mobile ID app from the home screen's dashboard if you so choose.
Basic task managing apps include an alarm; a native browser and e-mail clients; a calculator; a calendar; Lookout Security, which backs up and secures your data and has a "find my phone" feature; an app that lets you beam media files from your phone to other devices like TVs and desktop computers; Mi-POP, which overlays floating hot keys for back, home, menu, and recent apps, onto your screen; music and video players; a news and weather app; a battery and location-pinning app called Qualcomm Enhanced; the Real Racing 3 game; a sound recorder; a timer; a voice dialer; voice search; and a world clock.
There are also a handful of other apps, like CBS Sports and the GPS navigator Scout, which aren't fully installed. Rather, they open their Google Play download pages when you tap them. Though I like apps as much as the next person, having all this bloatware already on your handset is pretty annoying. True, you can always uninstall these apps and icons, but it's a minor frustration that I'd rather not deal with.
Additional features include 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal memory.
The fact that the LG Optimus F7 is available on more than one carrier is no surprise. It's an excellent midlevel phone that's packed with quality specs, such as a vivid 4.7-inch touch screen, an 8-megapixel camera, and a dual-core CPU.
Boost Mobile announced today that the F7 will be coming to the carrier on June 27 for $299.99 off contract, and U.S. Cellular customers can already get the device for $99.99 with a two-year agreement.
All in all, despite some of its drawbacks (like its sluggish 3G speeds), I'd still recommend it for current U.S. Cellular customers looking to renew their contracts while on a $100 phone budget. If you're switching to the carrier, however, then I'd go for the Samsung Galaxy S4 instead. Why? As unfair as it is to existing U.S. Cellular clients, the carrier knocks $100 off the GS4 for new customers, making it the same price as the F7, and the more savory buy. Design
With its common black rectangular construction and wide oval home button, the F7 looks like your typical midlevel Optimus device. It's a sturdy, well-constructed handset that measures 5.16-inches tall, 2.71-inches wide, and 0.38 inches thick. At 4.7 ounces, I noticed it was a bit on the heavy side, but not enough that it's overwhelming or uncomfortable in the hand.
One design note that I like is the back plate. Though I'm not a fan of glossy plastic (it traps fingerprints like a magnet and this is no exception), it makes the phone look a bit more premium, and the brushed faux-metal look is a nice touch.
The handset dons a stylish, brushed-metallic look on the battery door.
(Credit: Josh Miller/CNET)
On the left are a volume rocker and a shortcut key to launch LG's memo-taking app, QuickMemo. Up top is a 3.5mm headphone jack, on the right is a sleep/power button, and at the very bottom is a Micro-USB port for charging.
On the back center you'll see the camera lens and the flash. Below those are two narrow slits for the speaker. Though it has no dedicated insert, you can slide your finger in the Micro-USB opening to take the battery door off. There, you can access the battery, microSD and SIM card slots.
The Optimus F7 has an excellent, 4.7-inch True HD IPS display. The screen's 1,280x720-pixel resolution isn't as sharp as those high-tier 1080p screens from flagship devices, but it's still crisp, bright, and responsive to the touch. HD videos on YouTube look great; the screen has a wide viewing angle.
Above the display is a front-facing camera; below are two hot keys (for back and menu) that light up white when in use. Between those keys is the aforementioned home button, which has its own LED light that glows red during charging. Software features
The device runs on Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean. As such, it comes with Google goodies like Chrome, Gmail, Search, Plus, Local, Play Books, Magazines, Movies and TV, Music, and store, Messenger, Maps with Navigation, Talk, Voice Search, and YouTube.
Other preloaded content includes a few Amazon apps (Shop, Kindle, Amazon MP3, Amazon Appstore, IMDb, Zappos, and the audiobook app Audible); a portal to download more HD games; two video editing apps; the carrier's native navigator app; a golfing game; Facebook; and Twitter. The handset also holds a translation app; a dictionary; an app to identify the city and state to which a phone number belongs to; a weather app; mobile office suite Polaris Viewer 4; SmartShare, a content distribution app; ToneRoom Deluxe; DailyPerks, which keeps track of local deals and offers; an emergency alert app called Safety Care; U.S. Cellular's TV streaming app; Wi-Fi Now; and Slacker Radio.
You'll get plenty of Google apps and LG's Optimus 3.0 UI with the F7.
(Credit: Josh Miller/CNET)
Basic features present are texting, a native e-mail client, a Web browser, a video player, Bluetooth 4.0 support, a calendar, a clock with alarm settings, a notebook, a ti-do list, a calculator, voice command, and a voice recorder.
The phone's Optimus 3.0 user interface, which isn't as stylishly simplistic as the vanilla Android, includes icons that you can customize under four themes (Optimus, Biz, Cozywall, and Marshmallow). You'll get a note-taking feature, QuickMemo, which lets you jot down notes and doodles either directly onto whatever your screen is displaying at the moment, or on a virtual memo pad. There's also QSlide, LG's multitasking window that let's you view and resize apps, like the browser and video player, while using other apps or viewing the home screen. Lastly, there's VuTalk. VuTalk lets you create annotations on documents and photos on your device while sharing it with another VuTalk-enabled device through either a network or Wi-Fi connection. The handsets display each other's annotations in real time and are differentiated by separate ink colors. Camera and video
The 8-megapixel camera comes with loads of options, such as seven photo sizes (from 1,536x864 to 3,264x2,448 pixels); a 15x digital zoom; a flash; geotagging; a timer; four color effects; five white balances; five ISO options (from 100 to 400); six scene modes; two focuses; a brightness meter; a voice-activated shutter; and a Time Catch option that enables the camera to take shots even before you press the shutter; and four shooting modes, including HDR and panorama.
The front-facing 1.3-megapixel camera includes three photo sizes (from 640x480 to 1,280x960 pixels); two scene modes; and the same white-balance and color effects. You'll also get geotagging, a timer, the option to save a picture's mirror image, a brightness meter, voice shutter, and beauty shot.
Video-recording options with the rear camera include six video sizes (from 176x144 to full HD 1,920x1,080 pixels); a brightness meter; the same white-balance and color effects; audio muting; and geotagging. The front-facing camera has all of the same video options except it only has five video sizes (topping out at 720p). Both cameras can record with fun "live effects." One is "silly faces," which will alter your face in a variety of ways like squeezing it together, shrinking your mouth, or making your eyes huge. The gimmicks are fun at first, but after a while the distortions just started to look creepy. The other is a background module, where you can change your background to outer space, a sunset, a disco, or your own custom image.
Source: CNET
Quite a few smartphones these days can claim to be waterproof, but you have to hand it to Samsung's Galaxy S4 Active for turning that characteristic into a camera feature. Specs-wise, that waterproof camera is the only element that justifies the creation of this brand-new S4 phone.
The 8-megapixel shooter's underwater aqua mode absolutely works -- so long as the seal holds -- but it's a mistake to think of the S4 Active, which is also dustproof, as a rugged or durable phone. Internals are still vulnerable behind a flimsy back panel, and "tougher" design elements are largely cosmetic. You don't buy the Active to go SCUBA diving or mountaineering; you buy it because you like a flashy design and top-tier Android features. The surge of worry-free confidence you get on beach days, hikes, and at the pool is all extra.
Beyond its design and hydrophilic camera, the Galaxy S4 Active rarely strays from the Galaxy S4 flagship phone in any meaningful way. Most other specs hold steady, which is why AT&T is charging the same asking price that it does for the 13-megapixel Galaxy S4: $199.99 retail with a two-year contract.
Those looking for a true rough 'n' tumble smartphone will find that the Active's name oversells its outdoorsy abilities. But if it's a fun, slightly sturdier S4 experience you want, you'll find it here. Also: Check out how the Active's specs compare to the entire five-phone Galaxy S4 lineup.
Just how 'Active' is it?
As it turns out, the S4 Active isn't really a rugged phone.
Unlike your typical durable handset, there's very little extra reinforcement for protecting edges, and while slightly less glossy and slick, there's no real grip on the Active's backing. Yes, harder, more rubbery accent pieces frame the top and bottom edge on the phone's back, but they stop short of encasing the phone's front corners and edges. Decorative "screws" lend an edgy look but appear to serve no function.
So long as it's sealed up tight, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active is fit for a dunking.
(Credit: Josh Miller/CNET)
The elements-fighting magic takes shape in a flap that plugs into the Micro-USB slot (the reinforced headset jack apparently needs no protection), and a rubbery gasket beneath the flimsy back cover seals in gaps to keep essential components from accumulating particles and droplets.
However, you'd better make darn sure that charging flap is secure, that the back cover is firmly in place, and that you've pressed down firmly on the AT&T logo on the back to complete the seal. Otherwise, you'll wind up with a waterlogged phone that even a bag of rice might not be able to fix. And yes, I know this firsthand after drowning my first review unit.
Of course, few people peel off the back cover as much as I do, so most aqua mode users are only going to really have to worry about the charger port's seal.
This slim rubber gasket seals the deal, keeping components clean and dry.
(Credit: Josh Miller/CNET)
Even after you successfully dunk the phone, keep in mind that the S4 Active's IP67 ratings clear it for dives up to a meter under the surface -- that's a little over 3 feet -- and for up to 30 minutes. Any longer than that and it still may work, but you're starting to play with fire.
All that said, using the Active's aqua mode was a ton of fun, and I'd absolutely take it into the drink for a quick, casual snorkel and keep it handy at a pool party. I assess the S4 Active's underwater performance into the camera section below, so keep reading! Design and build
I'll go ahead and say it: I love the Galaxy S4 Active's physical navigation buttons and flashy colors -- teal, orange, and OK, a more buttoned-up gray. In fact, I'd take it over the Galaxy S4 flagship design any day. I just wish Samsung had gone ahead and added a physical camera shutter button along the spine to match all those navigation keys.
The Active comes in teal, flame orange, and a more sober gray shade.
(Credit: Josh Miller/CNET)
Side by side, the Active is a hair taller than the original S4: 5.5 inches tall by 2.8 wide by 0.36-inch thick. It's slim enough to carry in my pocket, but a smidge too tall to comfortably transport for long stretches. At 5.4 ounces versus 4.6, it's a little heavier than the S4, too.
You'll see more differences when you flip the phones over to see their backsides. In addition to its aforementioned rubber bumpers, the camera and flash modules are more squared than the S4's more rounded mounts. The power and volume buttons are also thicker and easier to press, and the headset jack is quietly waterproofed.
Samsung's Galaxy S4 Active, left, side by side with the original S4.
(Credit: Josh Miller/CNET)
You'll find one more difference when you look at the 5-inch touch screen, and that's use of an LCD panel on the S4 Active rather than Samsung's usual AMOLED display. LCD colors tend to be less juicy and more natural, but the screen technology can also achieve greater brightness, a theoretical benefit for outdoorsy types. In practice, both screens will get you squinting and shading the screen in bright daylight.
Physical buttons on the Active's navigation array are responsive and easy to press.
(Credit: Josh Miller/CNET)
OS and apps
As with the Galaxy S4, the Active runs Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean as its operating system, topped by Samsung's proprietary TouchWiz interface.
There are a few little omissions, like the dual-shot mode on the GS4's camera, for instance, and a setting to turn the LED flash into a flashlight you can turn on when the screen is off. A persistent flashlight is definitely useful for for outdoor activities like camping, but it's also handy for a whole lot of indoor scenarios, too.
For a rundown of the GS4 family's OS features, read more in the full Galaxy S4 review. Aqua mode
Aqua mode is the Active's real killer feature, but it comes with caveats. I learned about these after spending hours with the device in two different pools.
Select Aqua mode from the camera app.
(Credit: Josh Miller/CNET)
To get started, you select Aqua mode from the list of camera modes before taking a dunk, and choose whether you're converting the volume button to a still shutter button or to video. Why? Because touch screens don't work well when submerged; I tried it just to see what would happen.
You forget this, though, which is natural, and sometimes you'll even be able to monkey with the on-screen controls while the screen is above water. This reckless behavior usually resulted in me inadvertently zooming in on people or starting up video when I really wanted to take a still. Oh well, that's what deleting is for.
Aqua mode uses the volume rocker to either take stills or video when wet.
(Credit: Screenshot by Jessica Dolcourt/CNET)
Underwater image quality was hit or miss. There's no focus in Aqua mode, so you've got to adapt and adjust yourself around the fixed focus. That'll make you miss some shots for sure, but take enough and you're bound to get something you can work with.
Making matters more frustrating, the screen -- and therefore your subject -- is barely visible underwater, so there's a little guesswork concerning where to aim the Active and how long to keep clicking. Since the lens is all the way at the top of the phone (the far left or right as you hold it in landscape mode), that's a little more mental math to do until you get used to things.
The HTC Butterfly S packs better specifications compared with the HTC One, but it doesn't have the great industrial build. If you're the type who prefers the fastest hardware, then the Butterfly S is the one for you. Otherwise, stick to the better-looking flagship One.
Announced in Taipei and targeted at the Asian market, the updated 5-inch smartphone features a faster 1.9GHz quad-core processor, the Ultrapixel camera found on the HTC One, and a much larger 3,200mAh battery. While it looks somewhat similar to its predecessor, the original HTC Butterfly, HTC has breathed new life into this handset with front-facing speakers and a fresh helping of Android Jelly Bean and the Sense UI. Design
The HTC Butterfly S doesn't deviate much from the original Butterfly handset. The design of the Butterfly S remains pretty much unchanged, except for the additional front-facing BoomSound speakers like on the HTC One. This is a good design effort by HTC, as it makes sense for the audio to be directed straight toward the user rather than from the rear or the sides where it can sound muffled.
Guess which is which.
(Credit: Aloysius Low/CNET Asia)
It's really hard to tell from the rear.
(Credit: Aloysius Low/CNET Asia)
If you like bigger screens, the HTC Butterfly S, like the Samsung Galaxy S4, sports a 5-inch full-HD panel. Like the original Butterfly, the screen delivers a good color reproduction as well as wide viewing angles.
Another thing I liked about the Butterfly S is that it comes with the standard three buttons. It did take me a while to get back to hitting the Home button located in the center (I was using the HTC One before this), but I feel that having three buttons is better than the HTC One's two, as it's less confusing to have a dedicated app switcher button.
Like the first Butterfly, the Butterfly S sticks to the same three-button layout.
(Credit: Aloysius Low/CNET Asia)
The micro-SIM and microSD card slots are located at the top of the unit beneath a cover. I was originally worried that the microSD card would be hard to access, but the slot is spring-loaded, so there was no issue with removing the card. The power button is located next to the port, and like on the One, the button also doubles as an IR blaster to remotely control your TV.
The handset is curved gently to fit into your palms, but unlike the flagship One, the Butterfly S is made with glossy plastic. Not surprisingly, the handset feels oily with unsightly smudges after prolonged usage. Features
The Butterfly S is the first HTC handset to launch with Android 4.2.2. Jelly Bean, though it still runs the new Sense 5 UI over it. There are some slight compromises that HTC has made to the operating system for its skin, including a limited customizable lock screen. Sense 5, by default, has a very featured range of lock screens to suit different user preferences, making the 4.2.2. lock screen features redundant.
The Butterfly S runs Android 4.2.2 with the HTC Sense UI on top.
(Credit: Aloysius Low/CNET Asia)
You do get access to Quick Settings, Daydream, as well as the long-awaited battery percentage in the status bar. BlinkFeed has also been improved with the ability to pull feeds from WeChat and Instagram. WeChat feeds seem exclusive to the Butterfly S -- it's not available in the HTC One.
If you want to find out more about the HTC's Sense UI features, be sure to head over to our review of the HTC One for more detail.
The Butterfly S packs 16GB of onboard storage, which may not be enough if you have tons of multimedia files. Fortunately, it has a microSD card slot for added storage.
Opera Software, just like Google or Mozilla, decided to make available three different Opera release channels to provide developers and enthusiasts with options to test new features before they reach the stable build, and get some data and bug reports from the community in return. We are currently still waiting for Opera Dev to be released, while both stable and next builds of the browser are already available. Opera Dev will be what Chrome Dev is for the Chrome browser, and Aurora for Firefox. It won't be like Firefox Nightly though which may get updates several times a day depending on how active Mozilla is. For now, Opera Next is the cutting edge version of the Opera browser, and it is this browser that got upgraded to version 16 today. This would not really be important but it is the first release with a 16 in front, which makes it somewhat special. The release is not officially announced yet and it is not clear if it ever will be. If you are running Opera Next, you may receive it via auto-update. If you do not want to wait that long, you can head over to the Opera ftp server and download it from there. Note: There is no "check for updates" feature built-into Opera (yet). What this means is that you will get the update when it is your turn to get it. The only way to speed things up is to download the latest version manually and install it. The reason behind this apparently is to avoid the servers being hammered by user requests. A change log has not been posted (yet) and you will be hard pressed finding any changes to previous versions of the browser. There is one that I was able to find out about, but it is not the long awaited bookmarking feature or other features of Opera 12.x that are still missing in Opera 16. You can enter opera:flags into the address bar to display experimental features that you may enable or disable here. This is similar to Chrome's experimental flag (chrome:flags). It allows you to enable several interesting features, including:
Synchronization (it is not clear how enabling this differs from the sync feature that is build into Opera)
Enable Download Resumption which adds a context menu to Opera to continue or restart interrupted downloads.
Enable extensions to run on opera:// urls.
Disable hyperlink auditing (pinging).
Smooth scrolling (Windows only).
Enable Opus and VP8 playback in video elements.
There are 56 experiments in total listed on the page, of which some may not be available for the platform you are using. For Opera Next on Windows 7, 53 of the 56 were available while three were not. Changes take effect after a restart of the browser. Opera Next is a beta version that is still in development. It is very likely that we will see the missing bookmarking capabilities land in Opera 16 before it reaches stable status. (via Deskmodder) Update: The official announcement has been posted on the desktop team blog. The release includes a number of changes according to it:
The esse of the life of every man, which he has from his father, is called the soul, and the existence of life thence derived is called the body. -- Emanuel Swedenborg, The Earths in Our Solar System, 1758
According to Berkeley, the esse of things is percipi. They exist as they are perceived. -- Thomas Love Peacock, Nightmare Abbey, 1818
Esse comes from the Latin word of the same spelling meaning "to be." It has been in English since the 1600s.
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