Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Plane Passenger Spots Mystery Drone Over Brooklyn (Updated: The FBI Has No Idea What It Is)
New iPad Battery Life
The new iPad has the same battery life as the iPad 2. This may strike some as peculiar because the iPad 3 has a new more highly-powered battery. However, although the battery does carry more juice, this is offset by the new features of the iPad 3 which require more power, for example the high-definition Retina display and the 4G connectivity. That said, the new iPad battery life is still perfectly reasonable and is suitable both for casual at-home use and for intensive use on the move.
New improved battery = a thicker iPad?
While the actual battery life on the iPad 2 and new iPad is around the same, the ipad 3′s battery is a much better one. The iPad 2 battery was approximately 6930mAh, whereas the new iPad’s battery is 10,000mAh – an increase of around 44%.
As the battery produces more power, it is also larger than its predecessor. This meant some slightly cosmetic changes to the new iPad. At 9.4mm thickness, it’s 0.6mm thicker than the iPad 2 – nothing to write home about, in other words! The iconic sleek design and tapered shape of the iPad is still there.
Battery Life
In benchmark tests the new iPad 3 battery life lasts for around 10 hours. However, if you’re using 4G connection, you can expect to see that go down to around 8 hours. This is average for most iPads and realistically mean that you can get a full day’s work out of the new iPad 3 without having to recharge it.
Drain on Battery
Although the battery is larger and more higher powered than the iPad 2 battery, the new iPad 3 lasts the same amount of time as the iPad 2. The new features available in the iPad 3 can really drain the battery quickly – and when you think about the innovations in the camera, sounds quality and Retina display, it’s easy to see why. If Apple hadn’t included this new battery then we’d have been seeing battery life reduced probably to around 4-5 hours.
Tips to Increase Battery Life on the New iPad
There are a number of ways to improve the battery life of the new iPad 3. The first port of call is to turn off the notifications and location services for most (if not all) of the apps that you use. This will immediately save the iPad having to dedicate battery power to these unnecessary functions.
You can also reduce the screen brightness to 50-70% – this will decrease the amount of power that goes into the screen display. As long as you’re working indoors this setting should be fine, although you will need to increase brightness in strong sunlight.
Set the iPad to auto-lock after a short time period, say 30 seconds. This will automatically turn off the display when you’re not using your device.
Bottom Line – Is It Worth It?
The battery life in the new iPad 3 may be the same as the iPad 2, but the battery itself is much stronger and more powerful, and is absolutely necessary to handle the more power-draining new features that make the new iPad 3 such a desirable piece of kit.
Firefox 4 rockets to 5% global usage share, IE9 wallows at 1.5%
Interestingly, we can see IE9 dipping between March 20 and 21, just before the 'Important' Windows Update rolled out. It's hard to say whether IE9 is only growing because of the installed-by-default Windows Update, but that small dip definitely sticks out -- did excitement peter out? Did people download IE9, try it out, and summarily uninstall it? Perhaps, given their close proximity, the stats show an attention shift from Microsoft to Mozilla?
Numbers-wise, if the bottom left corner of the graph shows 2.3 million downloads for IE9, we can guesstimate that that it has now been downloaded 5 million times. Firefox is clocking in at 37 million downloads after five days of public availability.
We wonder whether Microsoft knew its release schedule would coincide so closely with Firefox 4. Internet Explorer 9 -- a great browser by almost every metric -- was never going to do well against anything emanating from the maws of Mozilla. The main thing, though, is that Microsoft has now shown that it's serious when it comes to the Open Web. If Internet Explorer 10 is good, and 11 and 12, then we might finally see it compete with the zealous Mozillan horde.
Firefox 4 rockets to 5% global usage share, IE9 wallows at 1.5% originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 05:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
LG Spirit 4G review
Anyone living in one of America’s largest urban areas in 2013 has undoubtedly seen the claim: “Everybody’s moving to Metro.” And the claim isn’t that far off; in the past year, contract-free, budget-friendly carriers have boomed both in terms of subscribers and coverage. The industry’s growth can be attributed to a lot of things, including incredible rate hikes from the nation’s three largest carriers, though the most important factor has been the rapid evolution in smartphone technology.
Case in point: the LG Spirit 4G, a knockout device in terms of both style and functionality. Where the Spirit really shines, though, is its price tag—at $199 with no contract and MetroPCS’ unlimited plans starting at just $40, the Spirit is perhaps the most capable of all economy Android devices on the market today.
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Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/androidcentral/~3/VX3drNgxRtY/story01.htm
INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES (IBM) INTERDIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS
How Much Would Wikipedia Weigh?
Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/B1k0GSTnTRA/how-much-would-wikipedia-weigh
Monday, March 4, 2013
Microsoft files antitrust complaint against Google in Europe, showdown imminent
Microsoft, citing Google's tyrannical 95% share of the European search market, has lodged a formal complaint with the European Commission. It's not like Microsoft is breaking any ground here -- the European Commission has been investigating Google's alleged violation of European competition law since November 2010 -- but there's no doubt that the addition of Microsoft's gravitas will affect the proceedings.Microsoft's complaint reads like a sincere and plaintive cry for help against the Google Overlord. Microsoft lists no less than six damning reasons why Google's behavior is anti-competitive -- from Windows Phone 7's incompatibility with YouTube, to its nefarious handling of Google Books -- and finishes with a wide-eyed plea to the European Commission to please find Google guilty.
For those of you that have been following Microsoft's own antitrust troubles over the last decade, don't worry: MS is quick to point out the irony in the situation. "There of course will be some who will point out the irony in today's filing. Having spent more than a decade wearing the shoe on the other foot with the European Commission, the filing of a formal antitrust complaint is not something we take lightly. This is the first time Microsoft Corporation has ever taken this step. More so than most, we recognize the importance of ensuring that competition laws remain balanced and that technology innovation moves forward."
It sounds like Microsoft, having well and truly gone through the wringer, wants Google to be held similarly accountable. That's fair enough, right?
Microsoft files antitrust complaint against Google in Europe, showdown imminent originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 05:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Shot Shot Pirate is a fun, simple physics game
As you may have gathered from the name, you're cast in the role of a pirate. Your goal is to shoot at a diamond and make it fall off a tower of bricks. The height of the tower changes as you progress through the levels. It's not enough to just make the diamond fall off the tower of bricks - it has to fall below a certain line (drawn on the screen) for the level to be completed.
There are also different kinds of bricks, with some heavier than others, and different kinds of ammo. You only get a certain amount of ammo for each level, and when it's gone, you lose. But don't worry! If you don't make it on the first try, it's very easy to restart the level and just give it another shot (or three).
All in all it's a cute game. I've seen similar games with better graphics and music, but the game delivers on its main promise - a few minutes of pure time wasting!
Shot Shot Pirate is a fun, simple physics game originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Source: http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/24/shot-shot-pirate-is-a-fun-simple-physics-game/
Brydge iPad Keyboard review
Pairing a Bluetooth keyboard with an iPad is not a new idea. Over the years, we’ve featured countless keyboards and all but one that I can recall, share a common problem… The iPad and keyboard combo can not easily be used on your lap – like a laptop. If you’re one of those people who like to argue that an iPad is not meant to be used as a laptop in the first place, you can kindly hit the Back button and go read another one of our awesome reviews. But for those of you who like to push the boundaries of what your Apple iOS tablet can do, you’ll want to read what I have to say about the Brydge keyboard for the iPad.
Note: Images can be clicked to view a larger size.
What’s in the package?
Brydge Bluetooth keyboard
USB charging cable
Quick start guide
iPad 2 shims
iPad 3/4 shims
There are 3 different models of the Brydge. I was sent the polycarbonate composite version with built in Bluetooth speakers. There is also an aluminum version without speakers and an aluminum version with speakers.
The keyboard has a matte finish, with a look and feel that reminds me of my Lenovo work laptop.
There are two rubber bumpers in the front corners that prevent the iPad’s display from pressing against the keys when iPad is in the “closed” position.
There are also rubber feet on the bottom of the keyboard to keep the combo from sliding around on a desk or other smooth surface.
What makes the Brydge one of the best iPad keyboards I’ve tried so far, is the unique holder/hinge design. There are two heavy metal clips on the back edge of the keyboard, that are covered with silicone pads.
The hinges are designed to hold all current iPad models except for the original iPad and the mini.
Depending on which iPad you will be using with this keyboard, you may be required to switch out the silicone covers.
With the right hinge cover in place, the iPad easily and securely fits into the slots. Once inserted, you have a pseudo laptop that may remind you of an Macbook Air. By itself, the Brydge weighs 1 lb 3 oz. An iPad3 / Brydge combo, weighs in at 2 lbs 10.8 oz. My 13″ Macbook Air weights 2 lbs 14.8 oz.
The hinges feel very strong and require some effort to open.
When the iPad is connected to the Brydge, you still have access to all the ports, switches and buttons as long as you remember to orient the iPad with the volume buttons along the top edge.
When folded shut, the iPad will not flop open accidentally.
The keyboard has a built in magnet, so opening and closing it will activate the power toggle on the iPad.
To use the Brydge, you must first charge its batteries using the included micro USB cable. Then you need to pair it with the iPad via Bluetooth. The built in speakers in the Brydge are also Bluetooth, so they will need to be paired if you want to take advantage of that feature.
People that use a hunt and peck style of typing usually don’t care that much about layout, key size, pitch, etc. But as a touch typist, I tend to be really picky about all that stuff. I’ll start by saying that other than Apple’s own wireless keyboard, the Brydge has the nicest feel of any iPad keyboard I’ve reviewed so far. The keys are slightly smaller than the keys on my 13″ Macbook Air, but they they have excellent tactile feedback. I can touch type just as comfortably and quick as I do on my MBA. All the normal keys are there including a full row of number keys and a row of special function keys that control brightness, volume, music playback, etc.
There’s only one thing that keeps me from loving this keyboard and it’s something I’ve seen on other iPad keyboards… it’s the location /size of the right shift key. If you look at the image above, you’ll see that the left and right shift keys are not the same size.
The right shift key is half the size of the left key. Next to the right shift key is the page up key, which I often press when I mean to press the shift button. This causes the cursor to jump up one line. If I’m not paying attention, I’ll start inserting text in the wrong place. It’s really frustrating. To alleviate this problem, I have to slow down my typing and really pay attention to what I’m doing when I need to use the right shift. I don’t like to slow down… 
The layout of the MBA is a lot better. The arrow keys are smaller so that the right shift can be full sized.
The Brydge quickly wakes up after being idle. Even if you flip the power switch on the side of the keyboard, it will quickly pair and be ready for use. To use the speakers you have to toggle them on and off by holding down the Control and B keys till you hear a tone. It’s easy enough to do, but in all honesty, I don’t think the speakers built into the Brydge are any better than the iPad’s own speakers. Yes, the speakers on the Brydge are right in front of you and the iPad’s are facing away and to the rear, but after testing both, I think the iPad’s speakers sound better and fuller. The Brydge speaker’s are weaker and require you to increase the volume level.
Even though the shift key size issue will be annoying for touch typists, the Brydge is the best designed iPad keyboard and is the easiest and most comfortable keyboard accessory that you can use for typing on your lap. If you can get past the shift key and the price – it is very expensive when compared to other keyboards on the market, it’s a winner.
Product Information
| Price: | $130.00 |
| Manufacturer: | The Brydge |
| Requirements: |
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Filed in categories: iPhone, iPad, iPod, Reviews
Tagged: Bluetooth Gear, iPad, Keyboard
Brydge iPad Keyboard review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on March 3, 2013 at 12:00 pm.
Source: http://the-gadgeteer.com/2013/03/03/brydge-ipad-keyboard-review/
Mobiroo intros Android subscription service for those who fear app commitment
If you've been gunning for a Spotify-like offering for Android apps, Mobiroo may be just what you're looking for. The Canadian company's offering up an on-demand service for Google's mobile operating system, letting you test the waters on hundreds of paid titles for $2.49 a month -- which is apparently half off what the service is set to go for in the future. And for a limited time, you can also snag a free seven-day trial of the punnily named All You Can App service, giving users access to apps that can run upwards of $20 and beyond, according to the site. There's a press release after the break, or just click on through to the source link below, if you'd like to give it a shot.
Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Software, Mobile, Google
Korg Headtune – Stringed instrument tuner for newbies
The Korg Headtune tuner takes all the mystery out of tuning guitar, ukulele and basses, so new players can concentrate on learning to play music instead of figuring out how to keep their instrument in tune. Shaped like the headstock of a guitar, bass or ukulele, the tuner clips on and has an easy to understand panel of LEDs. When you pluck a string, the built in microphone detects which string you’ve played and will light it up on the mini headstock. Then as you tighten or loosen the string, it will let you know when it’s correctly tuned.
This tuner is being marketed towards beginners because it only helps you tune standard tunings, not special tunings like drop D on the guitar. However, the ukulele version will allow for ”Low-G tuning” in addition to regular GCEA standard tuning.
The Headtune is powered by 1 CR2032 coin cell lithium battery and is priced at $19.99.
Filed in categories: Music Gear, News
Tagged: Guitar, Tuner, ukulele
Korg Headtune – Stringed instrument tuner for newbies originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on March 1, 2013 at 8:00 am.
Source: http://the-gadgeteer.com/2013/03/01/korg-headtune-guitar-tuner-for-newbies/
Sunday, March 3, 2013
China Returns US Cyberattack Volley
What, China was just going to say nothing? On the heels of a report that China's military has for years been engaging in cyberespionage against the U.S., China's Ministry of Defense claimed that a pair of its military websites were attacked more than 100,000 times per month in 2012 -- and that more than 60 percent of the attacks originated in the U.S. The cyber tit-for-tat includes last week's report by Internet security firm Mandiant indicting the People's Liberation Army as a serial hacker of the U.S. 
How to file your tax return straight from your iPhone or iPad
Your iPhone and iPad are useful for all kinds of tasks and filing your tax returns is no exception. If you're a U.S. resident, you've got until April to get your tax returns filed so a lot of users are thinking about how and when they should file. If you've got a simple return that just involves some W-2's and a few other random income items, there are a few apps out there that can help you get them filed from start to finish.
Before continuing, please be advised that these app recommendations are based on simple to standard returns. If you have more complicated returns such as self employment income and other investments, we recommend speaking to an accountant or financial advisor before filing your taxes online and choosing an online option. In many cases, a certified professional is better off handling complex returns.
TurboTax SnapTax for iPhone
TurboTax's SnapTax app for iPhone allows you to quickly tax photos of your W-2's and then import your other information to file your federal and state return. If you've only got a few W-2's to sort out and a few other random income items, SnapTax should make the process pretty quick and painless. If you've got mortgage interest and other deductions you need to take, SnapTax may no longer be your best option.
You can start filing your taxes for free and if you decide to complete the process using SnapTax, you'll be charged $24.99 to file both federal and state straight from the SnapTax app. If you decide you don't want to file with SnapTax, the app is free and you aren't committed to paying anything unless you actually file your taxes.
- Free - Download Now
H&R Block 1040EZ 2012
H&R Block has a few offerings for iPhone and the 1040EZ 2012 app for iPhone is aimed at users who don't have very much to file. If you've only got regular income wages from a job, or even a few, the 1040EZ should work for you. If you own your own home and need to be able to deduct mortgage interest or other investments and credits, this version of H&R Block's software probably isn't for you.
While H&R Block offers simple tax preparation for free, you may be required to make an in-app purchase in order to actually file depending on your return type and what you need to claim. There is no charge to calculate your taxes within the app and you aren't committed to paying anything until you decide whether or not you'd like to file your return with H&R Block.
- Free - Download Now
H&R Block at Home 2012 for iPad
H&R Block also offers their At Home suite for iPad which allows you to easily file basic taxes for free. If you've got anything beyond a basic return, you can still use the At Home software from your iPad to file your taxes but you may be required to pay a fee via an in-app purchase in order to complete your return.
Examples of more advanced an non-free tax returns are anything requiring a schedule C for self employment income or any other type of investment or income that requires additional schedules. This includes capital gains and losses, farm income, and a few other items. Before deciding whether H&R Block at Home 2012 for iPad is right for you, we recommend you know exactly what you need to file and read through H&R Block's descriptions on what kinds of income are considered what. As always, you'll be charged if you'd like to file your state along with your federal return through At Home 2012.
- Free - Download Now
TaxACT Free Federal Edition for iPad
TaxACT also offers an iPad app that allows you to file your federal taxes for free. TaxACT also covers simple and more advanced returns but depending on what you need to file, there may be additional charges in the form of an in-app purchase depending on what you're filing. State will also cost you an additional amount if you'd like to file both returns together.
The TaxACT app will also allow you to track the status of your e-file at any time. There's also an iPhone app counterpart but it seems as if it simply allows you to check the status of your returns. If you'd like to file with TaxACT, you'll need to make sure you do it from your iPad.
- Free - Download Now
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