Monday, March 30, 2009

Apple iPod Video 30GB Woot Deal

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Woot is currently offering an Apple iPod Video 30GB model for $99.99. It is a refurbished Fifth Generation device, but not a bad deal nonetheless. However, you can probably grab one for a bit cheaper elsewhere. But if you trust Woot.com more than other online retailers out there that have it for less, definitely take advantage of this deal before they sell out!

Skype for iPhone and BlackBerry Release!

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Skype for both iPhone and BlackBerry have finally become official. Tomorrow (Tuesday) will mark the release of the iPhone version, but BlackBerry users will have to wait until May. While there isn't much information yet on the BlackBerry version, quite a few details have been reported on the iPhone app...

Here is a summary of what to expect:
  • Typical iPhone app user interface
  • Free Skype to Skype calls
  • WiFi connection needed for VoIP (won't work over the cellular network)
  • Basic chatting
  • Mute call
  • Hold
  • Speakerphone
  • Sort contacts
  • Set avatar image by a taking photo right in the app, or using your stored photos
  • Accept Conference calls (but can't make them... yet...)
The Skype app will work with the iPod Touch as well, but will require the use of headphones that include a microphone for voice calls. While it is not going to be part of tomorrow's release, hopefully video calling will be a feature added in the near future.

Will currently available services like Fring and Nimbuzz continue to exist after Skype enters the game for two of the most popular smartphones? Well, they better bring some new ideas to
the table if they plan to... Take a look at Google Voice as an example - they really seem to know how to set themselves apart from the competition.

Cnet already has a nice review on Skype for iPhone, as well as some awesome screen shots, so be sure to check it out!

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Google Voice Differentiates Itself with Number Portability

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Ever since I found out that GrandCentral, acquired by Google in mid-2007, would soon become something bigger and better, I have been increasingly anxious to see where the project would go. Google's announcement on May 11 of this year only made that anticipation grow when it stated GrandCentral would be replaced by Google Voice. The fact that YouMail has begun charging for many of its relatively more useful features such as voicemail transcription, an alternative service is undoubtedly in demand.

For those who aren't yet familiar with the Google Voice service, let me start by saying that it is only being rolled out to GrandCentral users for the time being. But, it is sure to become available to new users sooner than later. I would venture a guess to say that you'll increase your chances of quickly receiving an invitation if you request an invitation from Google ASAP. Basically, you can sign up and receive a brand new number that you can set to forward calls to any (or all) of your existing numbers.

Here's a rundown of the features that have surfaced:
Now, it looks like Google will most likely allow for number porting - not just from Google Voice, but to the service as well. A common reason to use such services is to not give away your main number to people. However, those who already have a number they are willing to hand out will be able to take advantage of all the other great features Google Voice offers by porting their number into it.

Yep, that's right. It seems like Google Voice is becoming a kind of service provider in itself - with no contracts, no early termination fees, or anything of the sort ... just a whole lot of great features. Keep in mind that while number porting from Google Voice is already supported, porting to it is technically not featured yet officially (no matter how likely). So, if you would like to see this happen, be sure to send the feature request to Google.

Definitely check back for updates on this one!

Disney Content Coming to Hulu?

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It is now a real possibility that Disney television content will be offered by Hulu. Talks about the Hulu and Disney deal are reportedly in progress. Currently, Disney's ABC programming is the likely contender, but other possibilities like ESPN and the Disney Channel could very well be part of the deal.

NBC Universal and News Corp each have a 45% stake in Hulu, with the other 10% owned by Providence Equity Partners. In exchange for its program offerings, The Walt Disney Company could receive a large equity stake in Hulu similar to those of NBC and News Corp.

Will Hulu's range of content be able to stand up against such free internet TV alternatives as ZillionTV and their ZBar? I guess we'll find out soon enough... Stay tuned!

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Citizen Eco-Drive Calibre BL9000-08A Great Deal

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ChronoShark is offering a pretty nice deal on the Citizen Eco-Drive Calibre BL9000-08A watch. Citizen's EcoDrive feature allows the watch to virtually never need a new battery. It charges itself using light, and can last up to 9 months in complete darkness after being fully charged.

Here are the full specs:
Case MaterialSolid Silvertone Stainless Steel Case and Caseback
Case Dimensions42mm (1.65") in Diameter, 13.5mm (0.53") Thick
MovementPrecise Citizen Eco-Drive Calibre 9000 Japanese Movement (Charges in Sunlight or Indoors - No Batteries to Change - 270 Day Power Reserve when Fully Charged)
CrystalAnti-Reflective Scratch Resistant Hardened Mineral Crystal
Bezel
Polished Silvertone Stainless Steel Bezel
CrownStainless Steel Push/Pull Crown located at the 3:00 Hour Position, Selector Buttons
DialWhite Multitone Dial with Black Hands and Hour Markers, Date Hand, Multifunction Subdials and Indicators located at the 3:00-4:00-7:00 Hour Positions
Luminous
Luminous Black Hands and Hour Markers
Calendar
Perpetual Calendar Subdial
Multifunctions
Minute Repeater, 2-Mode Alarm, Dual Time Zone Capability
Bracelet/StrapGenuine Black Crocodile Patterned Leather Strap
Clasp Type Push-Button Stainless Steel Safety Deployment Clasp
Water Resistance30 Meters (100 Feet - 3 ATM)
Warranty
5 Year Original Citizen USA Manufacturer's Warranty

At a price of just $119, plus $5 for shipping, you can save over $160. Grab your Citizen Eco-Drive Calibre here before they sell out, and be sure to check out the video on how Eco-Drive works.

If you don't get to the site before they're all gone though, not to worry... ChronoShark has great new watch deals everyday.

Ukrainian Cybercriminals made $10,000 per Day

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Security vendor Finjan conducted a 16-day infiltration of a Ukrainian cybercrime operation, resulting in the shut down of the criminals' servers after being reported to internet service providers. Credit card numbers were obtained from people attempting to purchase illegitimate antivirus and antispyware software, and the criminal operation generated $172,000 in the 16 days alone.

To pull off this clever maneuver, the operation first exploited search engines by injecting a text HTML page into hundreds of websites, mostly those dedicated to news and shopping. The text page contained many commonly misspelled search terms like "Obbama" and "gogle". Popular searches provided by Google Trends were also included. This allowed their sites containing the illegitimate software to be indexed quickly by search engines. When visitors stumbled upon the site, a flashing message indicated to them that they should install antivirus software because their computers were infected with viruses.

Yuval Ben-Itzak, the CTO of Finjan, said 1.8 million web users were successfully redirected to the rogue software website. The ones that were fooled into purchasing the fake software charged $20 to their credit cards to do so.

It is amazing how many people fall for such schemes in the present age. However, there certainly are endless ways to run into trouble and security threats on the information superhighway. My advice is to never click on any internet prompts telling you that your computer is infected with a virus. These prompts are certainly not scanning your computer for vulnerabilities. If they are advertising their software, it might be okay, but they generally wouldn't be as aggressive as the rogue software. In addition, I always think it is best to stick with the more generally well-known intrusion prevention software, and always purchase legitimate copies of them. Symantec (Norton), McAfee, Webroot, BitDefender, Kaspersky, and Spybot are some of the more trusted ones out there. Spybot antispyware is also free, and is a great one to have.

More info about the Ukrainian cybercriminals

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Nice Twitter Application for BlackBerry

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Orangatame Software is a relatively new BlackBerry application software development group. Their only creation so far is TwitterBerry, and they are off to a great start. TwitterBerry incorporates many of the functions of Twitter, but uses your BlackBerry's data connection instead of SMS text or Instant Messaging. Although I have unlimited texts, I still prefer the great TwitterBerry interface. It integrates really well with the BlackBerry OS.

The app will save your username and password so that you never have to take the time to login again.

Some of the features include:
  • Send status updates
  • See a list of your updates
  • View a timeline of your friends' tweets
  • View Public Timeline
  • Send Direct Messages, view your Direct Message inbox, view sent messages
  • 'r' Reply and 'd' Direct Message support
  • Displays user icons
  • Picture support through www.TwitPic.com
  • Favorite and Delete tweets from any timeline
  • Configurable Automatic Update (Manual, 1, 5, 10, 30, 60, or 120 minutes)
  • URLs in tweets can be selected and opened in your BlackBerry Browser
  • Auto-Detect Connection Mode, or Manual (BES, BIBS, TCP)
  • FREE!
I use the program myself and have to say I love it (Follow me on Twitter here - you'll get the site updates as well!). It is incredibly user-friendly and reliable. My personal experience has been on a BlackBerry Pearl 8100 and BlackBerry Bold 9000. It doesn't seem to drain the battery any extra either, which is a huge plus.

So, after you have found the perfect Blackberry for you, be sure to download Orangatame's free TwitterBerry app here OTA directly from your BlackBerry Browswer. It is currently in version 0.8.

Nearly any BlackBerry model is supported, but you need to have BlackBerry OS 4.1.0+ (BlackBerry OS 4.2+ for TwitPic support). And if you're not using Twitter yet, start!

Monday, March 9, 2009

Apple Touch Screen Netbook Soon?

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According to the reputable DigiTimes, the Chinese-written Commercial Times reported Taiwanese company Wintek will be making touch panel displays for Apple's new netbook. Although they did not specifically say what, Wintek did admit they are working with Apple to develop new products. In addition, Quanta Computer will actually be the ones to use the displays to make the Apple netbook.

Rumors of an Apple netbook have been circulating on the internet for quite some time now, but it is always nice to have some new information from the companies who will play a role in making the device. Wintek also said that shipments will probably begin in the second half of this year (summer?!), so we'll see soon where this goes. The idea is interesting and could certainly be a mobile media wonderland, but I just can't see myself typing on a giant iPhone touch screen as if it were a laptop. I might end up using only my thumbs...

More info from DigiTimes here
Yes, the image is fake... It's from here

Scans_Daily Shut Down by LiveJournal

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Scans_Daily was a community journal hosted by the popular LiveJournal. The purpose of this online journal/social network was to share excerpts from all kinds of current, past, and vintage comic books. However, many members of the community ended up scanning in a great deal of copyrighted material and posting it through the LiveJournal channel. Of course, this was a clear violation of the website's Terms of Service, and Scans_Daily was suspended. Classic case of copyright infringement in modern times...

More info here

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Blockbuster Total Access Policy Change

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Blockbuster's Total Access plans, while being very similar to its top competitor Netflix, did have one key advantage. Just like Netflix, you could sign up for a plan to receive one, two, or three movies at a time by mail. Upon receipt of your returned movie(s), you are sent the next movie(s) from a queue you have set online. However, Blockbuster's Total Access has the advantage of having physical Blockbuster locations. They allowed customers to return movies directly to a Blockbuster store instead of mailing them back. In return, the customer could enjoy a free rental from the store. And, these free rentals were in addition to the mailed movie plan limit.

So, what's changing in the Total Access Policy? Basically two things:
  1. In-store rentals will count toward your Total Acess plan
  2. The in-store rentals will not have return due dates, just like the by-mail movies, and will not be subject to the store rental terms
These terms began affecting select Blockbuster locations last month, and will continue to roll out to the remaining stores over the next few months. Now that Total Access has basically it's awesome differentiating factor, it will be interesting to see how much longer they last. Don't forget, Neflix also offers online streaming of thousands of movies.

More info here, including a snippet from the revised Terms and Conditions

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Pimp Your Profile: Better MySpace Customization

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So, there has been a lot of MySpace talk lately regarding customizing profiles. From how to hide your last login, to hiding friends and comments, it is clear that people want to add additional features and functionality to their pages, and really want to make them their own with all kinds of cosmetic touches.

Unfortunately, MySpace is blocking many of the manually-inserted codes. However, as I posted earlier after a few of you pointed out this problem, MySpace's Profile 2.0 adds a number of the features that people were implementing with these codes anyway.

A great way to customize your space is to use Pimp My Profile. Pimp My Profile is a great site that works well with MySpace 2.0 to give you all kinds of options.

Here are some of the features you'll find on Pimp-My-Profile.com:
  • MySpace and MySpace 2.0 Layouts
  • Blogger Templates
  • Friendster Layouts
  • Shadow Text Word Maker
  • Banner Generator
  • Poll Creator
  • Survey Creator
  • hi5 Layouts
  • TheForumSite.com Layouts
  • HTML Editor
  • Pimp Your Phone
  • ... and many more ...
What do you think? Better than inputting codes manually? Anything missing you would like to see?

Process at Home Job As Amazing as it Sounds?

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There has long been a desire by many to work from the comfort of their own homes. When that kind of opportunity is coupled with the prospect of making money quickly and easily on the internet, it seems so good that people often buy right into it before doing the research first. The appeal of such "jobs" is now greater than ever. "Process at Home", by Angel Stevens, is one that has been getting a considerable amount of attention lately.

The description given makes it seem like all one has to do to earn up to $15 per rebate is very simple: process rebates! What does it cost to buy into this deal?: $197. And what do you get when you pay your dues? A list of companies who want you to process rebates for them from wherever you want? Nope; you get instructions to sell products from various companies and offer a rebate to your customers. The rebate then comes out of your commission. Still sound like a great opportunity? It might just be, but it's nothing out of the ordinary, and it's definitely deceptively advertised.

So, what's that rule we often ignore? Yep, that's right: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is...

If you still want to take a look at the Process at Home website, it's at processathome.com. But let me warm you, there isn't much there at all. In fact, they now claim to no longer be accepting any new members... I wonder why?...

More info here, and here from someone who actually bought into it, tried it, and returned it for a refund.

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Samsung WEP210 Bluetooth Headset $19.99

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Bluetooth headsets can get pretty pricey, but the recently released Samsung WEP210 stands out among the rest. Usually you have to sacrifice a significant number of features if you're going to buy a Bluetooth headset that costs any less than $40 or so. The Samsung WEP210 gives you a great balance between cost and function. Actually, it really doesn't seem to be lacking much at all for around $19.99. It is hands-down the best value I have come across lately.

Here are the highlights:
  • Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity
  • 5.5 hours talk time / 70 hours standby time
  • Weighs only 9 grams
  • Fits in either ear
  • Multi-function button for many operations such as voice dialing, redialing, and rejecting calls
  • Omni-directional microphone picks up the speaker's voice clearly
  • Travel charger and User Manual Included
  • Works with both Samsung and other Bluetooth-enabled phones
You can get one directly from Amazon for 19.99 plus shipping, and will be eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping if you spend over $25.

If the WEP210 will be your only Amazon purchase, your best deal will be from WorldWide Distributors, an Amazon merchant (click this link and scroll down to view the Featured Merchants). They even have a very respectable 98% positive feedback rating, out of 21115 total lifetime ratings, and are currently selling it for $10.31 plus $9.33 for shipping, totaling $19.64 ... not bad huh?

What do you think? Anyone going to order one of these or have one already?

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

More MySpace Stuff: Hide Friends and Comments

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If hiding your last login wasn't enough privacy for you, here is a way to also hide your friends and comments on MySpace. Just copy the code below and paste it into the "About Me" section of your MySpace page:

<style type="text/css">
.friendSpace {display:none;}
.friendsComments {display:none;}
</style>
Again, this code is the only code you need to accomplish this task. Be on the lookout for other sites which may give you code that includes advertisements. This code does not include any advertisements!

How to Hide Last Login on MySpace

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If you don't want anyone to know when you were last logged into you MySpace account, there is actually something you can do about it.

Simply add the following code to the "Headline" section of your MySpace page (just copy the text below and paste it into the "Headline" section):

<font style="display:none;">

Note: The above code is the only code you need. Other sites may tell you to add additional code or information into your "About Me" section. Keep in mind it is not necessary and often includes advertisements for the site you obtained it from. The short line of code I provided above does not do this.

ZillionTV : Free Internet-Powered TV

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ZillionTV is a startup company with the apparent goal of bringing free internet-powered television and movies to all. They will be releasing a "Z-bar" device that connects to the internet and your television ... think of it as a type of cable box, with a remote and all. You'll be able to get it on the internet via WiFi, or you can hard wire it with a standard ethernet network cable. ZillionTV will continue the trend of ad-supported content streaming for free, but will also offer fee-based content without the ads. They currently have deals with major companies like NBC Universal, Warner Bros., Sony Pictures, ABC/Disney, and fox, which should provide for some great content. Deals made with internet service providers will allow for a useful channel to sell the devices. Unlike Apple TV, Vudu, and Roku, no subscription will actually be required.

The unit will cost under $50, and allow access to up to 15,000 TV shows and movies.

ZillionTV's official website humbly asks everyone to "stay tuned" for now, but the Z-bar is expected to be available for purchase toward the end of this year.

More info here, and here

Free Amazon Kindle App for iPhone Now Available

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Both versions of the iPhone 3G (8GB for $199, 16GB for $299) cost less than the $359 Amazon Kindle 2. With the release of the free Amazon App for iPhone, you can essentially get the same functionality for less money. Mobile 1-Click can be used to make quick and easy purchases on Amazon, and they all go through the same secure servers just as they would on the full version of the site. In addition to Amazon.com's huge selection, you can access more than 9000 other merhants. There are currently over 240,000 e-books available! The app works with the iPod Touch as well. Check it out by installing right from the AppStore. Personally, as small and thin as the Kindle 2 is, I think I'd rather carry around the iPhone.

More info here, and here

One-day Only JetBlue Ticket Sale!

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In today's globalized world, being on-the-go often means traveling long distances by air. Whether it is for business, pleasure, or some sort of mixture of the two, you just cannot pass up the latest offer from jetBlue Airlines. JetBlue is offering fares as low as $29!!! And, the special deals only go as high as $99! The deal is only good for Tuesday and Wednesday travel between 3/10/09 and 4/1/09, but must be booked today, 3/4/09.

For a list of the destinations and fares, click on over to JetBlue's site and book ASAP!

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

New Generation Scoot Coupe 2009 Available

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Although the gas prices are certainly not as ridiculous as they were over the summer, the sour economy is making up for that. If you want some serious MPG, but don't mind cruising around in, well... a three-wheeled scooter convertible, then the Scoot Coupe is just right for you. It's made by Panther Motors, which specializes in these three-legged vehicles. The company started in 2004, and this is their latest iteration of the Scoot Coupe. It is a neat looking little thing, but I don't think I would feel safe driving one on the highway. Either way, it looks a little too much like a Power Wheels car to me...



There are currently two models available for purchase:
  • P50 - MSRP $6299
  • P150 - MSPR $6599
With either 9.28 Horse Power @7000 RPM (P150) or 1.9 Horse Power @3000 RPM (P50), you won't be able to hold your own against a Bugatti Veyron. But, it does get about 60 - 70 MPG.

You can find a comparison chart on the ScootCoupe website, as well as a photo gallery and form to place an order. Unless you're going to pick it up in person, ground shipping is an additional $450.

Canon PowerShot SD770IS Digital Camera Amazon Sale

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Anyone want to save $85 bucks on a 10MP digital camera? Who doesn't? The economy is calling for everyone to go 'hobomodo' whenever possible. Amazon is offering the Canon PowerShot SD770IS for $144.95, down from the original $229.99. For that price you're probably expecting junk, but it is actually a pretty well-featured camera. Here are the specs:
  • 3x optical zoom and Optical Image Stabilizer
  • 2.5-inch PureColor LCD II screen for bright, accurate color
  • Motion Detection Technology automatically detects subject movement and optimizes exposure control
  • Improved Face Detection Technology sets the focus, exposure, flash and white balance automatically
  • DIGIC III Image Processor for superior image quality and improved functionality
  • iSAPS Technology - Works together with the DIGIC III Image processor, using an internal database of pictures to improve focus speed and accuracy, as well as exposure and white balance
  • Multi-option Red-eye correction
  • Print/Share Button for easy direct printing and downloading
If black isn't your thing and you want the shinier silver one, it will cost you a bit more: $209.72

Deals like these usually sell out pretty quickly, so go here for more product information and to get one before they're gone!

Monday, March 2, 2009

Giveaway: BlackBerry's and Unlock Codes

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The Boy Genius is running yet another awesome giveaway. You could win one of the following:
  • BlackBerry Bold
  • BlackBerry Storm
  • BlackBerry Curve 8900
  • One of 500 unlock codes
To enter, all you have to do is leave a comment on the site saying why you think you should win one of the prizes. The "most interesting and deserving people" will win. That means those who post often have the best chances of winning, but who knows, you might just win even if you're just a frequent visitor so you might as well give it a shot! After all, the Dow Jones Industrial Average did close at its lowest in 12 years today and the frugal coupon moms are taking over ... Free stuff = good...

For more info and to enter the contest, head over to the Boy Genius Report.