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Saturday, July 16, 2011

Chimo NgeBlog : Make your own 3D models with Google Sketchup


Computer-based design work doesn't have to be limited to two dimensions for paper or screen presentations. Google Sketchup is a 3D model designer that can be used for all kinds of design work with close links to Google Earth.

Installation is easy. There is an option to install the Google Toolbar for Internet Explorer.

The welcome screen when Sketchup starts for the first time has lots of useful information including links to video tutorials, tips and tricks, the Sketchup blog and, rather impressively, printing a quick reference card.

There are several templates to choose from and measurements can be in either imperial or metric.

Version 8 includes new tools for working with Google Earth. The Add location tool opens a Google Maps window to import more detailed 3D terrain data and colour images.

The Building Maker can use images from aerial photography to make buildings based on photo that can be imported into Sketchup. It is also possible to import buildings from other people. Photo-based textures for buildings can be imported from Google Streetview.

READ MORE - Chimo NgeBlog : Make your own 3D models with Google Sketchup

Chimo NgeBlog : Does iOS Need Antivirus Protection?


By now, security-conscious IT pros know about the new and improved version of the iOS jailbreaking software, jailbreakme, now with iPad 2 support. It ingeniously exploits a flaw in the iOS PDF display code to, via a buffer overrun attack, load jailbreak code into the root file system of the device. Once rebooted, the hacked code injects itself into the device's startup sequence using the video frame buffer as its temporary scratch memory.

What makes this exploit so nefarious is not only its device-independence (it works on everything from the original iPhone and iPad Touch to the latest iPad 2), but that it uses innocuous-looking PDF files, delivered via the browser using Safari's built-in PDF viewer, as its distribution method. While jailbreakers generally know what they're getting into, the same technique could be used more deviously by those with less wholesome intentions to deliver "modified" PDF files via obfuscated URL shortening and a Twitter or Facebook feed. While the specific PDF vulnerability has not been publicly identified, and the current exploit isn't known to have a malicious payload, the technique could easily be used for more nefarious purposes than jailbreaking. As a posting on F-Secure's blog points out:

So, although the intent and results of this hack appear to be relatively benign (and reversible), it's still interesting and disturbing because of its technique -- an app running in user space that can inject code into the device's root file system -- and distribution method -- untethered, wireless browsing to a site with the malicious payload versus Apple's standard method for kernel modifications using iTunes and DFU (device firmware update) mode. Of course, Apple promises a patch for this iOS vulnerability, and based on the last time this PDF vulnerability was exploited (August), the fix will likely be quick in coming, perhaps even by the time you read this.

However, this incident raises a larger issue: What should Apple's (or any mobile device vendor's) strategy be toward security? While iOS incorporates many security techniques not seen in the more open PC environment, including a tightly controlled, curated application ecosystem, this incident clearly demonstrates that it's still not immune to serious security holes. Since we're on the third iteration of this particular exploit, I'm wondering if Apple should do more than play whack-a-mole, issuing iOS patches in response to the latest hack.

Sure, the reactive approach is the norm; witness Microsoft's monthly Patch Tuesday releases to fix the endless stream of discovered Windows holes. But Apple's tight control of the iOS application ecosystem also means it's impossible for third parties to produce antivirus/anti-malware software. There are too many restrictions on what legitimate applications can do within iOS, such as scanning another app's memory or local storage, to allow traditional A/V techniques to work.

Of course, this is a blessing and a curse. Such tight control over an application's access to the rest of the system is a cornerstone of the iOS security model. However, it also means the security onus is entirely on Apple. Android's more open approach enables third-party security apps, such as AVG, Lookout, and Symantec, to augment native runtime protections built in to the OS with code-scanning and data-protecting features that arguably can catch (or mitigate) zero-day -- read: unpatched -- exploits. Still, I'm not sure which model will work best on mobile devices: Apple's tightly controlled, IBM-mainframe approach or Android's freewheeling, all-comers, Microsoft PC-like paradigm.

READ MORE - Chimo NgeBlog : Does iOS Need Antivirus Protection?

Chimo NgeBlog : More malware targeting Android


Researchers are reporting the discovery of malware targeting Android devices, specifically a new variant of the DroidDream Trojan found in apps that Google removed from the Android Market, as well as malware on alternative app markets in China designed to run up premium SMS bills, and a data-stealing Trojan that targets one-time bank SMS pass codes.

Mobile-security firm Lookout warned of new variants of DroidDream Light that were found in the Android Market and subsequently removed by Google. "Fortunately the malware was available in the Android Market for [only] a short period of time, so the number of downloads was limited to 1,000 to 5,000," Lookout wrote in a blog post Friday.

The four applications, all published by a developer named "Mobnet" are: Quick FallDown; Scientific Calculator; Bubble Buster; and Best Compass and Leveler, which is not to be confused with a legitimate app with the same name but listed as "com.gb.compassleveler" on the package, compared with "com.gb.CompassLeveler," which is used by the malware package, Lookout said.

Similar to the samples of DroidDream found in March and in late May, the samples do not rely on an Android user to manually launch the infected app to start it, according to Lookout. The malware has the capability to change the next connection time and the command-and-control server the Trojan distributor uses to communicate with the malware on the infected device; initiate an app download and create several install-related prompts that direct the victim to download other apps; visit a potentially malicious Web address; and download software that would in turn download an updated version of the malware.

Android users can protect themselves from malicious apps by downloading apps only from trusted sources and developers known by name and rating; checking permission that apps request and using common sense to ensure that permissions match the app features; and being alert for unusual behavior on the phone, such as unknown applicatons being installed, SMS messages being sent to unknown recipients, or phone calls automatically being placed.

Meanwhile, researchers at North Caroline State University warned on Sunday of new Android malware named "HippoSMS" that was found on alternative app markets in China. The malware is designed to incur phone charges by sending SMS messages to a hard-coded premium-rated number, they said in a blog post. The malware also blocks or removes short messages that mobile service providers send to customers to warn them of additional charges.

And security firm Fortinet said in a blog post that a version of the Zitmo (which stands for "ZeuS in the Mobile") banking Trojan has been discovered that targets Android devices. The malware poses as a banking activation application, listens to all incoming SMS messages, and forwards them to a remote Web server. One-time pass codes that banks send to customer phones via SMS messages for two-factor authentication purposes could be grabbed by this malware, Fortinet said.

READ MORE - Chimo NgeBlog : More malware targeting Android

Friday, July 15, 2011

Chimo NgeBlog : Nokia Oro Hardware review


The Nokia Oro may be initially based on the Nokia C7 but it has a look and feel all its own. It also comes pre-loaded with Symbian Anna and a host of new features. What does it have to offer, find out with our Nokia Oro review?

The Nokia Oro takes the basics of the Nokia C7 but the addition of 18-carat gold plating, a leather coating on the backplate and the addition of sapphires means it’s slightly thicker and a tad heavier than the original. Weighing in at 132g, it’s still a highly slim and light smartphone for a 3.5-inch device.

Check out our Nokia Oro Unboxing review

Now, we’re not saying the look of the Nokia Oro is to every bodies taste, it’s very much a love-or-loath approach but there is no denying the quality on show here.

Don’t let that gold and leather finish fool you into thinking this is a delicate device, either, as the Nokia Oro feels reassuring firm in the hand. The gold trim around the edge of the device is mirrored by the function buttons on the right-hand side, as well as the housing for the camera on the back.

The capacitive touchscreen of the Nokia Oro is responsive and a pleasure to use. Nokia as added a specific Homescreen theme to this device, which is in keeping with the gold trim. Sadly, when you install new apps they have the standard coloured icons, which can look a little jarring. This is a minor niggle as we’ve found the Symbian Anna update keeps things moving fast and fluid.

There is a single Menu button, which is a good size, sitting in the middle of the device below the screen. This is flanked on either side by Call function buttons. You can press the Menu button and tap the Unlock icon on the screen to gain access to your apps, or you can use the Screenlock button on the side to do the same thing.

The 3.5-inch touchscreen uses using AMOLED technology and colours look vibrant and bright. As with the Nokia C7 you’ll find a 360 x 640-pixel resolution screen that comes with multi-touch allowing you to pinch to zoom when browsing the web or viewing your photographs, for example.

The Nokia Oro comes with the new Web browser and we’ve found it to be quick and a great improvement over the older version. Symbian Anna adds a great deal of flexibility to the Nokia Oro

If you thought the Nokia Oro was all about looks then you're in for a surprise. With NFC (Near Field Communication) built-in you'll find a level of future-proofing other manufacturers haven't even cottoned on to yet. Then there is 3G and Wi-Fi for staying in touch, as well as Bluetooth – the free handsfree Bluetooth headset that also comes as part of the package is another nice touch.

The 8-Megapixel camera packs in dual-LED Flash and while the camera is the same as on the Nokia C7, the Symbian Anna update means you'll find video recording at 720p is now at a 30fps rate, so images look even smoother.

The Nokia Oro may well split opinions on looks but there is no denying this is a nice smartphone to use. The screen is big and bright, the feature-set is great and the addition of Symbian Anna proves there is plenty of life to be had from Symbian devices yet.

Nokia Oro Hardware review photo gallery:

Nokia Oro Hardware reviewNokia Oro Hardware reviewNokia Oro Hardware reviewNokia Oro Hardware reviewNokia Oro Hardware reviewNokia Oro Hardware reviewNokia Oro Hardware reviewNokia Oro Hardware review
READ MORE - Chimo NgeBlog : Nokia Oro Hardware review

Chimo NgeBlog : 5 Cool Add Ons for Firefox 5


I was just getting used to the excellent version 4 of Mozilla's Firefox browser when those wild and crazy coders rolled out version 5 after just three months.

Version 4 was a huge leap forward from 3.6 and when it came out, I recommended it for its many new features, particularly the way it allows users to group tabs. Version 5 doesn't break a lot of new ground from the user's point of view, but it's solid and has some good stuff under the hood to make it more stable and developer friendly.

Like other versions of Firefox, many of the best goodies are contained in add ons, little programs that run within your browser. One problem with releasing versions so quickly is that it will take a while for developers of the add ons to make whatever changes are necessary for their apps to be compatible with the new browser.

Not all add ons that worked with 4 will work with 5, though many will and even more will work again in the future. For now, I've tested a number of my favorite add ons (plus some new ones) and picked five that will work on Firefox 5 as well as Firefox 4. All of these add ons are free.

If you install an add on and decide you don't want to keep it, uninstalling it is easy. Simply go to "tools" then "add ons" and then look for an icon labeled "extensions." When you click it, you'll see a list of your add ons and you can disable or remove them from there.

Google Shortcuts

Even though I tend to use Firefox rather than Chrome these days, that doesn't mean I don't use Google services. In fact, I use quite a few. I really like this handy little add on. You can use it to display any of the dozens of Google services as buttons or as a space-saving dropdown menu next to your address bar. There are so many services to choose from in the settings menu box that you'll probably learn about some you'd never heard of.

Adblock Plus

I'm not the worst dressed guy in town, but Gucci? I don't think so. So I wasn't sorry to see the Gucci ad at the top of the New York Times page disappear after I installed Adblock Plus.

This little add on doesn't do anything until you customize it. It can see everything a Web page attempts to load but it doesn't know whether this attempt should be blocked. That's when you need filters -- filters will tell Adblock Plus what should be blocked. Usually, you won't create filters yourself. Instead you will add a filter subscription that is maintained by somebody else. If there's a page with ads you'd like to see, you can set Adblock Plus not to function on that page.

In addition to blocking ads, Adblock Plus actually speeds up your browsing since you won't have to wait for ads that load separately from the page.

LastPass

LastPass is a handy password manager and form filler. Your passwords are kept in a "vault" online, which means they'll work across multiple browsers and computers. It makes it much easier to add security to your online life since you don't have to write your passwords down, or use the same one over and over again.

However, LastPass did suffer a data breach earlier this year. I was impressed with how well the company handled it, notifying users immediately and urging everyone to change their passwords. To my knowledge, no actual user data was lost. I have not stopped using it, but I keep an eye on all of my online accounts for unauthorized activity, which is something you should do whether you use as a password manager or not. My other favorite password manager, Roboform, doesn't yet work well with Firefox 5, though it is supported by Firefox 4.


Cooliris

This is an eye-candy app; not super useful but quite cool. Use it to get an innovative 3D view of photos or videos on the Web. It's the first 3D browser tool I've seen that doesn't have an impossibly complicated interface. It creates a wall of visual content you can sail by, stopping to play a video or zoom in on a photo. It's handy if you do a search on Google or Bing images and get lots of hits.

Cooliris works well on YouTube and a bunch of photo-sharing sites including Flickr, Picassa Web, and others, and integrates with Facebook and MySpace (if anyone still cares about MySpace). It won't work well on an older machine, but if your PC can handle Windows Vista or Windows 7, you'll be fine. There are also versions for the iPhone and iPad, but I haven't tried them yet.

Maybe I shouldn't include an add on that will help you waste time, but hey, who am I to judge? Asteroids Bookmarklet temporarily turns any Web site into an asteroids screen. Your cursor turns big, and just like you could in the original, vintage game, you move the enlarged cursor around with arrow keys and fire a laser cannon with the spacebar, and KaBoom -- you blow up annoying parts of the page.

You don't even have to install it; simply drag the icon to your bookmarks bar, click on it, and you're ready to play -- it's just a bit of JavaScript. When you need the page back, just refresh and it's back to work.

READ MORE - Chimo NgeBlog : 5 Cool Add Ons for Firefox 5

Chimo NgeBlog : Review: 2Do

Historically, I've always loved both the PalmOS To-Do application and the integration that went on in the Psion Series 3 Agenda application for the to-do lists in that suite. I've strong views on how a To-Do app should function, built around the twin ideas of "speed" and "complexity".

There's the idea that if you have to wait too long to get your ideas into any system or to find them again when you need to reference them, then the system has failed. But at the same time there needs to be complexity, such as categories, priorities and dates due, to make a system that actually works. As often commented in reviews, the built in Symbian application doesn't really cut the mustard. It never did on the first device, the Nokia 7650, and it's still lacking. At least for me.

2Do 2Do

So can 2Do deliver a task manager to satisfy me? The short answer is not yet... but if it wants to, a later version could.

The interface packs in a lot of information, but for me the important section is the ribbon down the left, where I can sort multiple to-do lists on a tab basis. Much like a web browser, it's easy to shift between them with a tap of the finger, and then scroll through everything on the list.

In addition to these category tabs, there are three extra tabs, to show "all" tasks, to show tasks due "today" and tasks that are "done". These are at the very top, and should prove useful as your to-do list builds up on the device, to help zero in on what's needed. That's if, of course, you're putting in everything you need to do into 2Do - any time-management app (and 2Do is arguably in that definition) needs a certain amount of dedication so you know that everything you need is in the application.

2Do 2Do

That's why a fast input system is needed, and 2Do (especially on the keyboard-equipped E7 used for reviewing here) is up for that. Just hit the '+' symbol, tap in the text and you can go from there. Of course, you can add in more details, and thankfully the touch screen buttons (to select which project tab, for example) means it doesn't take much beyond the text input to get some colour around the content.

I also like that there are different types of entry - the straightforward 'to-do' item is the most popular one, but you also have 'checklist' (a simple checkbox list that shows up as one line, but expands out to be as long as is needed) and 'project' (which is essentially a to-do list embedded inside your to-do list, although you can't add another project inside a project, all you get is one level of nesting).

2do

In the bundle of details you can add, you have the option to match up a to-do item with an existing contact, but this seems to slow the app to a crawl and doesn't talk directly to the built in address book on the phone (the E7 here).

That's probably one of the biggest flaws in 2Do, the lack of integration to Symbian. 2Do essentially creates its own space, living in the application on the phone and not talking to Contacts, Calendar or even the Symbian alarm server. Given that this app has been running on other platforms for some time, this would probably need a ground-up redesign to the code, as opposed to the polished port that is on offer here.

Something else that is not offered (yet?) by 2Do is a Sync option. On the iOS version, for example, this allows syncing to MobileMe, Outlook, Toodledo or iCal. Sync is very important on a mobile device because the data needs to come out, not only to cover for a lost or stolen smartphone but also to give confidence that if things don't go well then you can move on and take the hard-entered data to another platform. Without these, 2Do (and it's free cousin, 2Do Lite) are less attractive to me.

2Do 2Do

It's disappointing, because I want to love 2Do. The interface has everything I would want in a to-do application, with just enough to fiddle with in the settings to keep me happy but not make it scary for someone else. There's a certain style to the graphics and spot colours, and it makes you want to use it. If a To-do list could be "sexy" then this is the quiet minx in the corner.

Yet it's missing a few things upstairs that would make it look like a PIM Veronica Lake. The lack of sync is a huge mis-step, and I'm surprised they launched without it. More awkward is the occasional crash and slowing down of the code - all things that can be tweaked over time if there is interest and a strong user base. I could live with either the missing sync or the stability issues and wait it out, but not both. So I'll watch out for updates to 2Do, and come to terms that yet again I still don't have anything as downright useful as Psion Agenda in a modern device.

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READ MORE - Chimo NgeBlog : Review: 2Do

Chimo NgeBlog : iPhone, iPad Jailbreak Service False-Flagged as Malware


Attention all iPad and iPhone users: Don't go to Jailbreakme.com for the time being.

Jailbreakme, the easy-as-pie unlocking service for iPhones and iPads, appears to have been hacked by malware writers.

Security researcher Mikko Hypponen of Finland's F-Secure tweeted Monday afternoon (July 11) that he'd found something funny inside the directory (http://www.jailbreakme.com/saffron/_/ ) of the Jailbreakme.com website.

Every original PDF that was used to exploit the iOS operating system in order to jailbreak the devices had been duplicated by a similar file that just added "2" to the original's name.

SecurityNewsDaily tried to analyze the duplicates, as well as the original files – and our Norton antivirus software immediately flagged several files as containing a Trojan called "Trojan.Gen.2".

The duplicate files appear to have been uploaded at 16:32 today – about 12:32 EDT, assuming the server logs use Universal Time.

Oddly enough, it was the original files, last modified on July 6, that contained the Trojan, not the duplicates.

Attempts to contact Comex, the pseudonymous creator of Jailbreakme, via Twitter and email were unsuccessful.

Jailbreakme allows iOS users to "jailbreak" their devices by simply directing their Safari browers to jailbreakme.com. The devices will then be able to install iOS apps not authorized by Apple.

For this latest version of Jailbreakme, Comex exploited a known vulnerability in the way iOS 4.3.3. handles PDFs through Safari.

Mindful of the vulnerability, Comex also created a patch for it, which could only be installed after the iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch had been jailbroken.

While Comex's intentions are good, he created a path for malware writers to follow, as we predicted last week.

And now it appears his own website's been hacked. It won't be long before the poisoned PDFs appear elsewhere on the Internet, waiting for iOS devices to infect.

READ MORE - Chimo NgeBlog : iPhone, iPad Jailbreak Service False-Flagged as Malware

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Chimo NgeBlog : Motorola launches XT316 Android smartphone


Motorola has announced the launch of a new Android handset called the Motorola XT316 – also known as the Motorola Fire and Motorola Spice (depending on the region where it’s sold). The phone will feature a candy bar form factor and a full QWERTY keyboard, reminiscent of the BlackBerry. It features a 2.8″ display and will run on Android 2.3 Gingerbread (with MotoBLUR of course).

The Motorola XT316 also features Moto Switch, which will allow users to switch to work or play mode – depending on where they are, so they don’t have to worry about unwanted eyes spying on private work-related files. Other specs include a 3-megapixel camera, a microSD card slot that supports up to 32GB, FM Radio with RDS support, WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, an E-compass and more. No word on pricing of the phone, but it is now available in China and will reach the rest of Asia and Europe later this summer.

READ MORE - Chimo NgeBlog : Motorola launches XT316 Android smartphone

Chimo NgeBlog : Nokia Nuggets: Nokia E6 review, Nokia Oro Unboxing, reasons to buy the Nokia X7, Nokia N9 hands-on


It's Nokia Nuggets time – our chance to set you up for the week with all the news that's been dominating Nokia's world over the past week. Keep reading for all the highlights.

Things are never dull on NokNok, but we've been kept particularly busy over the past few weeks getting to grips with the Nokia E6, and we started to share our impressions of this superb new Symbian Anna handset in the first of a series of revealing reviews over the past week.

Let's check out what we've been talking about – plus all the other highlights from another busy week of Nokia news – in a bit more detail...

Nokia E6 review

We've had our eye on the Nokia E6, the latest star in Nokia's business phone line-up, for a while now, and now we're putting it through its paces. As usual, we're taking a detailed look at every facet of the phone's makeup – so far, we've taken you through the unboxing and delivered a full blow-by-blow on the new Symbian Anna homescreen layouts, before dishing up a full hardware review, and you can be sure there's plenty more still to come.

Nokia Oro unboxing

The Nokia E6 isn't the only new Nokia smartphone to cross our paths in recent weeks. We've also been graced with the presence of the Nokia Oro – the 18-carat gold-plated cousin of the Nokia C7. Safe to say this one is all about the visual appeal, as we discovered in our unboxing review.

Gaze on Nokia's world in 3D

Nokia Beta Labs continues to deliver exciting and ground-breaking new features for the Nokia faithful to play with, and the latest is Nokia 3D World Gaze, a clever new service that lets you discover more about the world around you simply by pointing your phone in any direction you choose.

Nokia N8 design features

The Nokia N8 remains as easy to look at as the day it was released, and that's largely thanks to its understatedly classy looks. But what are the little details that give the Nokia N8 its enduring visual appeal? We've been exploring just that question by checking out the Top 10 Nokia N8 unsung design features.

The case for the Nokia X7

The cutting edge Nokia X7 is with us, delivering a heady mix of great design, engaging features and of course an early ticket on board the Symbian Anna express. But those aren't the only reasons for putting an X next to this good-looking new smartphone's name – we've rounded up a couple more in our Top 5 reasons to own the Nokia X7.

And finally...

We're not ashamed to say we love the Nokia N9. And so it's with particularly jealous eyes that we've been reading the blow-by-blow from our friends over at Nokia Conversations after spending two weeks with the drop-dead-gorgeous new N Series star. And yes, it's every bit as good as we were hoping.

READ MORE - Chimo NgeBlog : Nokia Nuggets: Nokia E6 review, Nokia Oro Unboxing, reasons to buy the Nokia X7, Nokia N9 hands-on

Chimo NgeBlog : 13 tips for keeping your passwords secure


If there's one lesson to be learned from the rash of hack attacks recently, it's the value of a strong password.

Hacker group LulzSec - after hacking into the websites of the CIA, PBS and Sony - posted on the Internet the email addresses and passwords of 62,000 compromised accounts.

A quick scan of the list showed that most passwords were easy to remember - and easy to crack. Sample: "wildwoman," "coffeecup," "peterp," and "kindle."

Of course, the ideal password would be long, unintelligible and nearly impossible to predict. Like this: !co4D4)f%d. But good passwords are hard to remember, which is why so many people end up with easy ones or reuse the same password for multiple accounts.

Nowadays, passwords are the keys to your digital life, and they safeguard everything from your email accounts to your bank accounts against cyber criminals. Some ways to protect yourself online:

Use mnemonics. Pick a personal sentence, as I did for my college account: "I am an NYU student!" and take the first letter of every word to create a password "1iaanyus!" (NYU requires its students to add a number for extra security. And no, that password doesn't work anymore.)

Know that longer is usually better, but not always. A six-character password such as 7cG&!s is more secure than a longer password that uses a word or a phrase, such as iloveyou.

Change passwords to your bank accounts every few months.

Write down the passwords on a list without user names. Keep it with your passport, car title, Social Security card or other papers you are not likely to lose.

If you can't remember passwords and tend to lose scraps of paper, use password-managing software such as LastPass or KeePass that encrypts and stores all your passwords. Some will automatically plug in your password at the appropriate sites. They're usually free or charge a nominal monthly fee for extra features.

If you want the ultimate protection, consider using a "random password generator" that you can find by doing an Internet search. It'll spit out passwords depending on how complicated you want them to be.

And a few things to avoid:

Never use simple words or phrases, even if you spell them backward and add a number. Hackers have software that can predict commonly used words.

Never have the same password for every account, especially for bank accounts and sites such as Amazon that can store your credit card information.

Never email passwords to yourself. If hackers gain access to your email, they then have everything.

Avoid using personal details. Do not include your name, birthday or home address, which can be easily guessed by someone who knows you.

Don't share your passwords with friends or family.

Don't log into sensitive accounts when using public Wi-Fi.

Remember that no password is completely immune from being cracked, said Robert Rachwald, the director of security strategy at Redwood Shores, Calif., digital security firm Imperva.

The best way to keep your personal information safe is to avoid providing it if at all possible.


READ MORE - Chimo NgeBlog : 13 tips for keeping your passwords secure

Chimo NgeBlog : Review: ShutterPro Premium

Implemented in Qt and using up a fair amount of RAM, ShutterPro Premium gets off to a bad start by taking a whopping 12 seconds from tapping its icon to being ready to take a basic shot. Add another five seconds or so if you want to scroll to and apply an effect. With a little setup as well, you can easily take up to thirty seconds to get your first proper photo - let's hope the subject isn't a person or animal, else it will long since have moved on.

But I'm being a little unfair - ShutterPro Premium's aim is to provide interesting effects and tools for those who want to take their camera phone photography in a new direction - and who have the patience and time available for a not inconsiderable degree of trial and error.

ShutterPro

The interface is clear enough and quite well thought out - a shortcuts bar down the right containing every major function, remeniscent of the S60 camera interface from the N95 era, with mock LEDs where needed to indicate which function is on or off. Some are mutually exclusive, some can be turned on in combination.

Each function can be configured through a 'tools' icon at bottom left, I'll list those available below. Although a big red shutter button is presented on-screen, the hardware shutter button on the phone is also recognised, so you've effectively got a choice of which to use.

Top marks then so far for ease of use and an intuitive interface. Working through the camera functions, we have:

  • Exposure (variable up or down 2 stops in 0.3 stop intervals)
  • Flash (as you'd expect: auto, on, off, anti-red eye)
  • Program (like 'scenes' in the regular Camera interface)
  • White balance (again, as per Camera's options)
  • Iso (again, as per Camera)
  • Face recognition (again, as per Camera)
  • Histogram (turns on overall or RGB real time histograms of the image currently in the viewfinder - not that useful to amateurs, but fun to see in action, and shows what the graphics chip inside these new phones can do)
  • Tilt shift (crudely simulates the famous 'make a scene look like a miniature' photographic effect by blurring the top and bottom of the image, with variable results, as we'll see later)

    ShutterPro
  • LOMO (simulates a well known photographic effect originating with cheap Russian cameras. It's a nice effect, but not that usable in real life)
  • Anaglyph (helps you produce red and green images that can be combined into a 3D image for someone wearing the special/famous glasses)
  • HDR (High Dynamic Range, several photos are taken and - in theory - digitally combined into one image that has high contrast in both areas of bright and dark detail. In practice, it didn't work very well, for me)
  • Antishake (as it sounds, presumably using the accelerometer to take a snap when the phone is at its stillest)
  • Delay (as per the built-in Camera application)
  • Cannon (in theory, a 'burst' mode, for capturing quick fire sequences of photos. In practice, at only one per second at best, there's not that much benefit - burst mode needs to be down below half a second per shot if it's to be of any real use)
  • Monochrome (as it sounds)

ShutterPro

In each case there's a complementary settings panel to tweak the parameters, as needed.

A long list above, but taking away the functions which are all implemented in Camera, we're essentially left with a much smaller bunch of special effects - so let's try them out. In each case below, click on the photo to download the original or enlarge more in your browser (as appropriate):

Tilt shift

From Wikipedia:

"Tilt-shift photography" refers to the use of camera movements on small- and medium-format cameras, and sometimes specifically refers to the use of tilt for selective focus, often for simulating a miniature scene. Sometimes the term is used when the shallow depth of field is simulated with digital postprocessing; the name may derive from the tilt-shift lens normally required when the effect is produced optically.

What's not covered by the definition is that for the effect to be appropriate or useful, you have to pick exactly the right subject with exactly the right combination of surroundings, foreground and background. For example, here's a random street scene, snapped with ShutterPro's 'Tilt Shift' - the house in the middle looks a little bit artificial, but the vertical surroundings ruin any effect:

Tilt shift sample, click to download or enlarge

What's needed is a subject in the centre of frame that needs downsizing, with no tell tale clues either side of it, plus detail in the bottom third of the frame (i.e. foreground) and also in the top third (background). Trains are an ideal subject, especially because they're often found as toys or models, making a miniature scene believable. Here's my second attempt, shooting off a bridge:

Tilt shift sample, click to download or enlarge

Much better. I said the effect was 'crude' above because the artificial blurring doesn't fade smoothly into the crisp portion but cuts in abruptly. It's not that noticeable in a photo like the one above, but snap something at random and the effect is exposed:

Tilt shift sample, click to download or enlarge

By the way, I was lying about the train shot being my second tilt shift attempt. It was actually about my tenth - there's a huge degree of trial and error involved - but then that's part of the fun of messing with photo effects, i.e. you're not trying to capture a moment, you're perfecting your 'art'!

LOMO

Somewhat easier to achieve, LOMO is a particular fish-eye style effect with "unusual saturation and colour". Think of it as "artistically cheap and nasty"! No setup needed, you just point and shoot. Here's an example:

LOMO sample, click to download or enlarge

It's the sort of modern, arty effect, you might see on the cover page for a magazine feature, but I'm struggling to think of other uses for LOMO in your life. Perhaps as part of a poster, or in the banner of a web page or blog?

Anaglyph

The idea here is to create the typical red/blue(ish) images which combine to produce a 3D image when viewed with traditional 3D glasses. You shoot the first image and then this is put up as a semi-transparent overlay with an offset applied - the idea is to help you line up how far you have to move in order to shoot the second shot. Again there's trial and error, but with a little patience it does work - here's proof:

3D sample, click to download or enlarge

Of course, if you haven't got any glasses to hand, then I'm just impressing you with a messed up red/blue blurry mess.....! As with the movie industry, 3D is something of a gimmick - but is still something that's fun to play with.

HDR

We've seen an attempt at High Dynamic Range photos before on Symbian, you'll remember. The idea is to take three photos at different exposures and then combine their best bits to eliminate areas which are over or under-exposed. In practice this is tricky to do, not least because 99% of user photos will be taken without a tripod and so there will some movement of the phone camera between frames (taken with about a second between them). Plus your subjects may well move as well. In the case of trees and flowers, they'll sway slightly in the breeze.

The result, typically, is as bad as this, one of my first attempts at HDR with ShutterPro, showing artefacts from both phone and foliage movement:

HDR sample, click to download or enlarge

Lots of artefacts, then. What's needed is to keep the phone absolutely still and to find a subject or situation which isn't going to change. Heading out with my phone tripod, I snapped this:

HDR sample, click to download or enlarge

Note that the HDR part has worked, in that the dark railway verges and the bright overcast sky are both well catered for. And, to give you an idea of the time between HDR samples, you can see how far the train has moved from frame to frame....!

However, it's worth noting that part of the charm of a realistic photo is that there are big variances in contrast, just as you'd see them in real life. HDR in ShutterPro's implementation, at least, produces workable images that are a little too 'flat' in terms of light and dark. I know this was partly the aim of HDR - to cater for extremes - and in the app's defense, it's probably optimised for sunshine, something I couldn't arrange this week in the UK!

Interface polish

Not mentioned so far but important in the interface is the chance to pick from different parameters after shooting each photo. In the case of the Tilt Shift effect, for example, you can tweak the horizontal line for the effect's centre and can adjust how large the blurred top and bottom sections are. For HDR photos, you get three different photo combinations to choose from. In each case, pick and tweak as needed and then tap on the tick icon to accept. Your final image is then packaged up and you're offered the chance to save it or delete it in disgust(!)

There's an extra option, actually, in a Facebook button which sits on every 'Save' page. I tried uploading several images using this system (I was prompted to log in - successfully - to Facebook on the first attempt) but nothing actually appeared in my Facebook Photos album system, leaving me somewhat perplexed. Maybe a bug, at the very least something for the developers to look into.

Time, memory and resolution matters

I've mentioned above the initial delay when going into ShutterPro Premium. It's really not for casual, instant use! In addition, the application seems to use crazy amounts of RAM - over half the times I tried to launch it, I got a Qt error warning me that RAM was low and that ShutterPro might be unstable - even with nothing else major running on my N8. I realise that 12 megapixel images are being manipulated and that this will require tens of MB of RAM, but I still struggle with the idea that the N8 will physically run out of RAM. Surely there's extra optimisation possible within ShutterPro?

As things stand, you have to shut everything else down before starting ShutterPro, adding further to the time needed to get it going.

I mentioned resolution above - most ShutterPro operations work at the full native resolution of your phone - 12 megapixels in the N8's case, 8 megapixels in most other cases. However, processing time constraints limit the Anaglyph and HDR effects to 5 megapixels. Still plenty, of course, but worth noting.

Also worth noting is that all of the effects above were with default settings - the only things I fiddled with were the tilt shift baselines, to match my subject. Most of the advanced settings in ShutterPro are beyond me - which means they'll probably be beyond most other users too. If you understand them all then go ahead, knock yourself out and have fun!

_________________

There are two questions to answer here. One, is ShutterPro Premium worth £3 of your money in the Ovi Store? Absolutely - as the owner of an expensive smartphone, this is only a few pounds more and will give you a lot of fun trying the effects out and, who knows, you may stumble across a shot/effect that works out stunning and gives you a lot of satisfaction? There's also a 'Lite' version in the store, for free, letting you try out the interface and standard functions, though only the premium version has the effects reviewed above.

So yes, BLStream has put a lot of time and effort into the application so far and it deserves some recompense by way of sales. On all Symbian^3/Anna devices, not just the N8, since I can't see why (a few settings aside) ShutterPro wouldn't work with EDoF cameras too.

The second question is whether ShutterPro Premium is good enough to stick around on my personal Nokia N8? Reluctantly, no. The launch time, processing time and RAM restrictions all mean that it would get in the way too much, when compared to the far faster, more efficient and more nimble built-in Camera application. If I could think of a real world use for its effects, other than just 'fun' then maybe I'd change my mind - but ultimately, despite its mirroring of all the 'serious' camera parameters from Nokia's version, ShutterPro Premium boils down to its effects and there's just not a lot of call for tilt shift, LOMO or 3D in my world. HDR would be great if it was foolproof, but I'm sorry, I don't carry my tripod everywhere with me.

A mixed bag then. Hopefully, after numerous examples and 2100 words, you've already decided whether ShutterPro Premium is for you.

Buy Link | Download / Information Link

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Chimo NgeBlog : Facebook Releases 'Facebook for Every Phone' App

Facebook may be building a secret HTML 5-based site for the iPad and other advanced devices, but the company hasn't forgotten that the majority of Americans still own a feature phone. Facebook announced late Tuesday a new downloadable app called Facebook for Every Phone that brings a smartphone-like experience to lesser handsets. The new app works with more than 2,500 Java-enabled feature phones, and includes the usual Facebook trappings such as the News Feed, message inbox and photo viewing.

Facebook for Every Phone also includes the ability to upload photos to the social network and discover new Facebook friends from your phone's contacts. The company says the new app has been designed to use less data than other Java apps or mobile sites.

Facebook Releases 'Facebook for Every Phone' App

To entice people to use Facebook for Every Phone, the company has partnered with several cell carriers worldwide to offer free data usage for the new app for the next 90 days. The bad news is, Facebook hasn't partnered with any U.S. carriers for this offer. The free data plan appears to be largely a play for international users in places such as India, Russia, Indonesia and the Philippines.

Feature phones reign in U.S.

Although smartphones are becoming increasingly popular in the United States, feature phones are still more widely used. About 38 percent of U.S. mobile handsets are smartphones such as the iPhone, Android and Blackberry devices, according to a recent Nielsen survey. That means 62 percent of Americans are still opting for less expensive flip and candy bar phones to stay connected while on the go.

That may soon change, however, as Nielsen says 55 percent of new cellphone purchases between March and May of this year were of the smartphone variety.

If you're part of the declining feature phone majority you can grab the new app at d.facebook.com/install or from app stores such as GetJar, Appia and Mobile Weaver.

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Chimo NgeBlog : New Nokia Handset Sporting Symbian Belle Gets Leaked

Credit to the guys over at KnowYourMobile. They claim that they have received leaked photos of a No

kia smart phone named Zeta, which apparently is one the new Nokia phones that will run the Symbian Belle OS (successor to the Symbian Anna) on a 1 GHz processor.

According to KnowYourMobile, the device will sport a 3.2 inch AMOLED screen with an HD resolution of 640×360 pixels, possess two cameras (a primary 5 MP camera on the rear and a VGA one on the front), offer standard connectivity options like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 3G, expandable memory upto 32 GB via a MicroSD card and will allegedly carry off dimensions that will allow it to be called the thinnest smart phone in the world.

Nokia has lost considerable ground in the smart phone war in the recent past, and will be hoping that apart from its collaboration with Microsoft and Windows Phone 7, handsets like Zeta will help it regain some substantial ground in the affordable smart phone segment. Their main bet will be on the Symbian Belle OS, which may be expected to do well after the generally positive response to Symbian Anna.

There is no information regarding the pricing of the device, which is a shame, as the success of the Zeta and other similar devices that
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Chimo NgeBlog : Movie Review: Killer Performances Carry 'Horrible Bosses'


Horrible Bosses takes a thin premise and milks it for all its worth, riding a witty script and super-strong cast to comedic glory.

Sure, just about every character in the movie is cartoonish, and the script is full of glaring logical lapses, but the performances and jokes are all uniformly solid. Other than Bridesmaids, it's the funniest movie of the year (so far).

The plot is yet another itineration of Hitchcock's Strangers on a Train and its 1980s comedy remake Throw Momma From the Train—both mentioned by name, just as the latter namechecked the former—filtered through Great Recession career anxieties.

Jason Bateman, Jason Sudeikis and Charlie Day are three workaday guys suffering under the torment of titular awful bosses: Kevin Spacey as Bateman's tyrannical company president; Jennifer Aniston as the dentist to Day's assistant, who subjects him to constant sexual harassment; and Colin Farrell (with a bald cap and prosthetics), supervising Sudeikis while living a Charlie Sheen-like coke-and-hookers lifestyle.

The three men, despite numerous other, better options available to them, decide to kill their workplace tormentors. The movie's great (if unoriginal) joke is that these bumbling fools lack the daring, smarts and street savvy to pull it off. A premise like this could easily run out of steam quickly, but it doesn't, mostly because the jokes are so strong, and the actors deliver them so well.

Bateman and Sudeikis play versions of their usual personas, but the breakout here is Day, best known from It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (on which one of his costars is Throw Momma From the Train director/star Danny DeVito). He does a lot of his chaotic Sunny schtick here, from high-pitched squealing to getting out of tight spots by pretending to be a lawyer, but I get the sense that he's going to be headlining Hollywood comedies in a year or two.

Spacey gives an entertaining performance, sort of an even more deranged version of his character from the mid-'90s movie Swimming With Sharks, while Aniston is the funniest she's been since the early seasons of Friends. Farrell is hilarious, too, in a pretty brief role, and there's even an entertaining part for Julie Bowen (from Modern Family).

Jamie Foxx is also on-hand in a two-scene role as a guy facilitating the murder. I won't spoil it, but he has probably the funniest character name since McLovin. And there are two different cameos that The Wire enthusiasts are going to love.

Horrible Bosses was directed by Seth Gordon, whose last two films were wildly divergent: The amazing 2007 documentary The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters, which was about two guys fighting each other to break the world record in Donkey Kong (seriously, check it out on Netflix), followed by the abominable 2008 Vince Vaughn/Reese Witherspoon comedy Four Christmases.

He's also done episodes of The Office, Parks and Recreation and Modern Family; this film is much closer to that style, and level of humor, than his previous comedy.

Sure, the plot has many holes in it—the characters plan to kill someone by poisoning his cocaine, while calling the cops on him for said cocaine would solve their problem more easily. Yes, it's sort of hard to root for a murder plot, but Horrible Bosses succeeds in delivering consistent laughs, which is more than I can say for most comedies these days.

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Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Chimo NgeBlog : Samsung unveils latest SyncMaster 3D LED monitor


Samsung Electronics Philippines Corp. (SEPCO), a leader in consumer electronics and information technology, has introduced Samsung SyncMaster SA series 3D LED monitors, which bring consumers to a new era of 3D entertainment.

“3D elements have been integrated into different products, especially in movies and video games. The craze is sweeping all over the world. In order to elevate consumers’ visual experience, we are now launching the first Samsung SyncMaster SA series 3D LED monitor. Users can get very well prepared for upcoming 3D movies, 3D video games and other 3D contents. Samsung will bring users to the next level of unique 3D experience,” said Eric Sulit, SEPCO director for IT business.

Samsung has strengthened its No. 1 position in the global monitor market with more than 6.21 million units sold in the first quarter of 2011 and has topped the global monitor market for 19 consecutive quarters since the third quarter of 2006.

Real-life 3D pictures

In order to strengthen its market leadership, Samsung unveiled the Samsung SyncMaster SA950 3D LED monitor. By adopting 3D HyperReal Engine, the reaction is particularly fast, enabling the monitor to produce vivid 3D images without dizziness. The new product is equipped with Ultra Clear Panel, which enhances color contrast for sharper images.

Utilizing Samsung built-in emitter and 3D Active Glasses (which support images of resolution 1920 x 1080), images will appear more vibrant and noticeably brighter than using traditional passive (polarized) glasses.

Its wide range of inputs, from AV content to 3D connectivity such as DisplayPort, HDMI and DVI, will facilitate the monitor to be more compatible in enhan-cing users’ experience.

At the push of a button, the Samsung 3D Converter transforms users’ favorite 3D photos, movies or games from 2D to 3D images. And with the 3D visual adjustment feature, users can even customize the 3D experience to match their particular needs, giving them a new level of visual comfort. Like other Samsung’s monitors, it is equipped with Samsung’s unique color engine to produce vivid images.

Elegance of nature

Samsung’s patented Touch of Color (ToC) design is inspired by the elegance of nature. The glass-like finish is reminiscent of a fading sunset, while the crystal-clear acrylic stand adds style and sophistication.

Samsung SA950 series monitor is lead-, mercury-, freon- and VOC-free and no volatile organic compounds have been emitted during its manufacture. On top of that, its exterior is 100 percent recyclable. It enhances the work environment while protecting the environment.

For the Samsung SA950 series, the asymmetric frame and integrated curve design create unexpectedly stunning aesthetic value and unique beauty. The strong contrast between black at the front and sliver at the back offers an indelible impression. And the “Real Mental” material rolling down to the stand delivers premium and modern sentiment.

Smart features are reflected in the refined design, with stand tail for cable arrangement, and cables are hidden behind the monitor to keep the desk neat and clean.

Samsung Eco Motion Sensor

The Samsung SyncMaster SA series is equipped with Eco Motion Sensor. This function helps conserve energy — the motion sensor can detect body heat of the user in front of the monitor. The monitor can then be automatically switched on and off accordingly.

The Eco Light Sensor is another energy-saving feature that can detect the amount of surrounding light to automatically adjust the brightness of the screen.

For instance, when the monitor is placed on the window side, it will increase the brightness of the screen so as to minimize glares. And when the surrounding light is back to normal, the brightness of the screen will automatically turn back to normal so users’ eyes are viewing the content at a comfortable level. This function results in reducing eyestrain and power consumption.

Zero-bright spot for Samsung monitors

Apart from design and image quality, bright spot is another important factor for consumers when choosing monitors, which may affect their experience. Samsung devoted great effort in providing distinguished quality and excellent user experience to consumers. Thus, a “zero-bright spot” guarantee serves as a promise to customers along with the three-year free standard warranty.

Diversified ‘Magic’ functions

The SA950 series is consistent with other Samsung SyncMaster monitors with exclusive features of “Magic,” including:

• Magic Angle: Users can enjoy a pre-set angle of display with the best contrast and glowing screen even when they are not facing the monitor. It fits users’ different usages of monitors, particularly those who need to use multiple monitors simultaneously.

• Magic Color: With the advanced intelligent color optimization technology, it conducts an auto-analysis of incoming RGB light signal, thus optimizing the output color to be more vivid and distinctive.

• Magic Bright: A variety of special scene modes can be applied: text, Internet, games, sports, and movies. Optimal screen brightness and contrast are pre-set to provide the best experience to users at different occasions while the customization option allows users to customize the most desirable view.

The Samsung SA950 3D monitor is now available at only P31,990.

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Chimo NgeBlog : viaExtract - Forensic tool for Android devices released


Android Forensics is now easier, faster and more powerful than ever. viaForensics has released viaExtract – Android Logical, a powerful analysis and reporting tool for Android smart phones and devices.Expanding on our popular AFLogical extraction tool widely used by law enforcement, viaExtract – Android Logical offers a more thorough forensic analysis of Android devices than any other product on the market. Featuring excellent reporting, this software will be a must-have for busy forensic investigators who see increasing numbers of Android devices.

Key Features
  • An easy-to-use interface for data acquisition, analysis and reporting
  • Searching and sorting acquired data, plus printing to PDF
  • Pre-configured VM runs on Linux, Windows or Mac
  • Logical recovery of call logs, contacts, browser history, SMS/MMS and more
  • Forensically sound, proven technology
  • Purchase includes 1 year of updates and support, with many planned enhancements coming soon
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Chimo NgeBlog : How to enable cookies in Internet Explorer 9

When surfing the net, websites will leave little bits of information, known as cookies, stored on your PC. These cookies allow your browser to remember your login details or site preferences. It's very easy to enable and disable them. We've already shown you how to do it in Firefox 5, but it's slightly different to implement in Internet Explorer 9. Here's how.

Step one
From the Tools menu located at the top right-hand corner of the browser window, select Internet options.

Step two
Click on the Privacy tab and then press Advanced.

Step three
Check the box under Override automatic cookie handling and then make sure Accept is selected for both First-party cookies and Third-party cookies. Press OK to apply the changes.

Step four
If you want to disable cookies, simply select the block option rather than Accept.

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Chimo NgeBlog : New Firefox Aurora is Ready for Download and Testing


The latest Firefox Aurora release is now available for users to experience the future of Firefox. This release is focused on delivering performance enhancements and optimizing memory utilization. It also includes new Web and server technology and tools that will allow developers to build performance tests directly into the browser to help Firefox become even faster!

New in Firefox Aurora:

  • Performance Enhancements: Faster startup time on Mac, Windows, and Linux
  • Optimized Memory Use:
    • Improved memory management: For many users, memory use is reduced by 30 percent or more, responsiveness is enhanced
    • The JavaScript garbage collector runs frequently to free up more memory when Firefox is idle
  • Firefox Sync: Bookmarks and passwords now sync instantly
  • Enhanced Font Rendering: Fonts are rendered clear and sharp

New platform features and developer tools:

If you already have Firefox Aurora installed, you will receive an automated update notification in the next few days. To check if you are running the latest Firefox Aurora, go to the “About Aurora” menu to apply the update manually.

You can help us make Firefox better. Get the latest Firefox Aurora, test the new features and give us your feedback.

More details on Web platform and developer features:

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Chimo NgeBlog : WATCH OUT: This Fake Facebook "Video Call" App Will Scam You


Since Facebook introduced its video call feature, it didn't take long for scammers to take advantage, the good people at Naked Security found out.

The way it works isn't that it actually uses the video call feature, but pretends to be an app that will let you access it. It says something like "click me to start video calling" and once you connect to it with your Facebook credentials it starts spamming you and your friends with links to affiliate scam sites.

There are worse things that could happen, but watch out for this one. The Facebook video calling feature is new, so a few people are bound to fall for it.



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Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Chimo NgeBlog : 5 very best tablets for the money

Chimo NgeBlog :


Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1

This was the first Android 3.0 Honeycomb tablet and although it had a buggy start (no Flash, 4G LTE coming later on, lack of Honeycomb optimized apps), it still stands as a good buy if you don't mind forking out for the higher than normal price tag. Some of the key specs of the Motorola Xoom Android tablet include a 10.1-inch widescreen HD display with 1280:800 resolution, 5-megapixel rear-facing camera for HD video capture and 2-megapixel front-facing camera for video chat, a 1GHz dual-core processor, 1GB RAM, full suite of Google Apps and services, access to Android Market, Adobe Flash Player support and a stock Android 3.1 Honeycomb platform.

ASUS Eee Pad Transformer

The ASUS Eee Pad Transformer correct one of the biggest mistakes of the Motorola Xoom and that is the price tag. The tablet will set you back $399 (16GB) and $499 (32GB). Now of course, this tablet won't technically be able to "transform" without the keyboard dock. That unfortunately is not included in the package and you will need to plunk down an additional $150. This technically makes $450 the lowest price point you are walking out of with the full ASUS Eee Pad Transformer experience. While it ain't cheap, you're still looking at $50 less than the base iPad 2 model for this WiFi-only Honeycomb tablet.

Apple iPad 2

Apple's iPad 2 continues to be a favorite among tablet buyers. Sharing the same screen size as its predecessor, Apple has upgraded it by including dual-core processors, camera, a thinner and lighter body, and multiple other improvements. It is available from $499 for the base 16GB WiFi only models and is also the only tablet on this list that isn't Android based and also available in color options (black or white).

Acer Iconia Tab A500

The Acer Iconia Tab A500 is another well price Android 3.0 Honeycomb tablet set to hit US shores very shortly. The Android 3.0 Honeycomb tablet with a 10.1-inch display (same as Motorola Xoom) will reportedly cost $449 and deliberately undercut the base iPad 2 model which starts at $499 (16GB WiFi). For that price, you get a Honeycomb tablet packing a dual-core Tegra 2 processor, 1GB RAM, 5-megapixel rear camera, 2-megapixel front camera, microSDHC slot and HDMI output. There is also some custom widgets, DLNA media sharing using clear.fi and a couple of other handy apps. Expect some great games as well like Let's Golf and Need For Speed: Shift

Nook Color

Now we know that the Barnes & Noble Nook Color is technically classified as an e-reader however the developers community have managed to turn it into a full fledged tablets that comes in as the cheapest on our list. Sure, it lacks a little processing power and you have you work cut out for you in the start, but once setup it shows that there's more to it than just being an e-reader.

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