Dr. Augustine Fou's Online Scrapbook

Monday, October 20, 2014

China allegedly using iCloud to secretly collect user data

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/20/china-icloud-data-attack/

Notorious for the constant surveilling and censorship of its people, the Chinese government appears to be at it again -- this time with Apple iOS users. According to a report from GreatFire.org, a website that focuses on privacy matters, China has secretly started collecting iCloud data through what's known as a "man-in-the-middle" intrusion; basically, the attacker eavesdrops by independently connecting to the user and making it seem as if it's a private connection, when, in fact, it isn't. Chinese Security expert Zhou Shuguang suggests that the network service providers are likely being told by the authorities to use fake trust certificates, making it rather easy for them to conduct these attacks.

The purported SSL attack on iCloud by China officials comes as Apple's iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus have just been released in that country, where there's estimated to be upwards of 100 million people using an iPhone. At the same time, this issue is hot on the heels of Apple announcing it would begin storing personal data in servers in China, as it looked to improve cloud features like iMessage and others. Back then, Apple said all info would be encrypted, adding that data center providers were not going to "have access to the content." Still, it's unclear at the moment if that's related in any way.

We've reached out to Apple for comment on the matter and will update this story if we hear back.

Photos by Will Lipman.

Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Software, Mobile, Apple

Via: Quartz

Source: GreatFire.org, Zhou Shuguang (Chinese)

New White House efforts help secure your payments

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/19/white-house-payment-order/

Chip-and-PIN credit card

American banks and stores may already be planning to tighten your payment security, but the White House wants to give those efforts a boost. President Obama has signed an Executive Order that will require the federal government to both issue more secure chip-and-PIN (aka EMV) payment cards and upgrade terminals to match. This isn't just for protecting day-to-day staff expenses -- it also means that pensions, Social Security and veteran payments (all of which tend to go through official debit cards) should be safer. There should also be fewer risks when you're buying from federal locations like national parks and the passport office.

Additional moves should improve protections against identity theft, whether or not you're on the government's dime. The order will have federal investigators share more of their evidence with companies when looking into data breaches. It will also refine IdentityTheft.gov to make it easier for you to report (and ideally, recover from) fraud, while partnerships with both Citi and MasterCard will respectively give account holders free monthly credit score updates and identity theft support. There's only so much these new measures will do, especially when chip-and-PIN security won't arrive in earnest until 2015, but it's hard to object to better security.

Filed under: Misc, Internet

Via: New York Times

Source: White House

Fitbit's new wearable looks like a watch, crams in GPS and a heart rate monitor

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/19/fitbit-surge-leak/

It's been a while since we've seen a new Fitbit product, but according to a leak obtained at The Verge, that's because the company's been working on something a little special. The Fitbit Surge is a "fitness superwatch" that houses two must-haves for serious running types: GPS tracking and a heart-rate monitor. Crucially this would mean the wearable can monitor your activity without having to haul around your smartphone. (The likes of the Galaxy Note 4 or iPhone 6 Plus aren't all that well-suited to a jog in the park). The leaked marketing materials also suggest it will priced at $249 and will still be able to monitor all the less intense calorie burning done on stairs and your commute to work. Borrowing from the smartwatch category, the Surge is also promising smart notifications for calls and texts, as well as music controls. According to The Verge, the watch is rumored to launch in three colors (black, slate and tangerine) in the next few weeks, likely alongside the pair of more lightweight Charge fitness trackers - also leaked in marketing materials. C'mon guys, tighten up that security. We've reached out to Fitbit for more.

Filed under: Wearables

Source: The Verge

Google gives you the tools to build apps for Android 5.0 Lollipop

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/19/android-lollipop-developer-tools/

Android 5.0 Lollipop on the Nexus 6, Nexus 9 and Android Wear

The official Android 5.0 Lollipop upgrade for your phone may be weeks away, but Google has delivered all the ingredients for you to make Lollipop-ready apps. The search firm has released both the finished Lollipop developer kit and a fresh batch of stripped-down Android test releases for Nexus 5 and 7 devices. There's also a new round of Material Design guidelines and assets to make sure apps look at home in Google's flatter aesthetic. This won't help much if you just want to try all the whiz-bang features, but you'll definitely want to hit the source links if you're a software creator.

Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Software, Mobile, Google

Via: Matias Duarte (Google+)

Source: Android Developers Blog

Dyson tackles the humidifier, kills water-based bacteria with UV light

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/20/dyson-hygienic-mist-humidifier/

In a launch presentation in Tokyo, Japan (apparently the company's favorite place for new product launches), Dyson tackled the surprisingly sketchy hygiene issues that come with more typical humidifiers. To prove how gosh-darn better Dyson's Hygienic Mist humidifier is, the company's microbiology team (which of course it has) incubated water with bacteria to see how a typical humidifier transmits that to a room. A selection of agar jelly plates grossly demonstrated how that bacteria spreads around a room. However, in an early comparison, with the same concentration of bacteria in the water, Dyson's test humidifier, with UV light cleansing the water, knocked out 99.9 percent of the bacteria -- the current model manages this in three minutes. The device launches in Japan in early November, priced at 60,000 yen (roughly a hefty $560) and we've got the rest of the engineering details after the break.

Naturally, the new product tries to dovetail in the company's know-how from other families: Dyson's folded in its air multiplier technology too (making the design pretty similar to its fan), expanding the range compared to rival humidifiers. Perhaps unsurprisingly, it also doubles-up as a fan in the summer. The air itself is also measured by an intelligent thermostat, keeping the air "comfortable", according to Dyson's Tom Bennett, and consistently adjusting its output accordingly. There's a three-liter tank, which can apparently ensure 18 hours of air-based moisture. It's beneath this reservoir (where the water mills around) that the UV light does its trick, squashing bacteria inside before it's taken up and sprayed as a mist across the room. It's also qualified for the "quiet mark" in the UK, benefited from Dyson's acoustic know-how. It barely makes a hiss. There's no word on roll-out outside of Japan just yet, but it looks like Dyson is working to ensure all that R&D pays off.

Filed under: Household

Sunday, October 19, 2014

Article: Convergence In The Internet Of Things Is Priming The Tech World For A Major Cultural Shift

Editor's note: Artyom Astafurov is the chief innovation officer at DataArt and co-founder of DeviceHive. To anyone who is tuned into the tech world, it should not come as earth shattering news that machine-to-machine (M2M) technology and the Internet of Things have hit a major convergence point i...

http://techcrunch.com/2014/10/18/convergence-in-the-internet-of-things-is-priming-the-tech-world-for-a-major-cultural-shift/?ncid=rss

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Article: Disney rendered its new animated film on a 55,000-core supercomputer

Disney's upcoming animated film Big Hero 6, about a boy and his soft robot (and a gang of super-powered friends), is perhaps the largest big-budget mash-up you'll ever see. Every aspect of the film's production represents a virtual collision of worlds. The story, something co-director Don Hall ca...

http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/18/disney-big-hero-6/?ncid=rss_truncated

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Friday, October 17, 2014

New MasterCard combines a fingerprint sensor with NFC

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/17/mastercard-zwipe-fingerprint-sensor-nfc/

For awhile now, there's been a number of companies trying to simplify payments for everyone. Google did so with Wallet and, most recently, Apple announced it would be doing something similar with the soon-to-be-launched Apple Pay, among others. Not surprisingly, MasterCard's, synonymous with paying for stuff, is working on a product of its own. In partnership with Zwipe, a company that focuses on biometric tech, MasterCard has built a charge plate with a built-in fingerprint sensor and NFC, albeit for trial purposes. The Zwipe MasterCard, as it is currently known, is said to be extremely secure -- all data is stored directly on the card, rather than an outside database, for example.

It'll be simple to use too; you put tour thumb on the sensor, point it toward the terminal, the card makes sure it's really you and voila, kind of like how Apple Pay works using Touch ID. Zwipe says it is already working on a standardized card, which is designed to support all payment terminal expected to be released next year. Theoretically, it could be adopted by more credit card brands, like Visa, American Express and Discover, but we shall see.

Filed under: Misc, Peripherals

Via: Digital Spy

Source: Zwipe

Article: Microsoft opens up to Truecaller to help Windows Phone users pick out spam callers

Swedish startup Truecaller has announced a partnership with Microsoft that will see its Live Caller ID feature arrive for Windows Phone users. Founded in 2009, Truecaller is a cross-platform call and contact management service, claiming more than 85 million users globally. It's like an internatio...

http://thenextweb.com/apps/2014/10/16/microsoft-opens-apis-truecaller-help-windows-phone-users-pick-spam-callers/

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Google's new Chromecast is coming, but you won't notice a difference

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/16/google-chromecast-fcc-h2g2-2a/

Last night an apparently refreshed model of Google's Chromecast streaming dongle popped up in FCC filings (as pointed out by Zatz Not Funny), just like the original did in March last year, but don't get too excited. Unfortunately, the documents don't show any real difference that we could find, and missing features like support for 5GHz WiFi will still be missing whenever the H2G2-2A hits the streets. Need more confirmation? Six members of the Chromecast team took part in a coincidentally-timed AMA on Reddit this afternoon, and according to Google Jacky Hayward "we don't have any new user-facing features planned for this device." Whatever changes there are in the new model "it will have the same features as the original and most users won't notice a difference."

Of course, that doesn't stop us from thinking of features we would like to see in a new device, and the AMA did result in a few new nuggets of information. Beyond the recent "Backdrop" feature to give users more choice in terms of the info that pops up on their screensaver, there's a new Chrome OS files app coming (seen in developer builds, and as of today, in the beta channel) that will let users cast photos and video directly from Google Drive. They're also "looking into" gapless playback for Google Music, are working on smoother transitions for the device, and plan to "continue to innovate" when it comes to HDMI-CEC.

Filed under: Home Entertainment, HD, Google

Via: Zatz Not Funny

Source: FCC, Chromecast Team AMA (Reddit)

Thursday, October 16, 2014

Archos is launching a GearVR competitor that costs just $40

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/16/archos-vr-headset/

We may not know how much GearVR will cost, but we're reasonably sure that Archos is already trying to undercut Samsung and Oculus head-mounted effort. The French company is busting out the wittily-named Archos VR Headset, a Rift-like device that's compatible with any smartphone that measures between 5 and 6-inches. The kicker here, of course, is that the device will retail for £25 in the UK, roughly converting to $40, which would put it well beneath the - frankly insane - $200 figure an unnamed Samsung official told VentureBeat during New York Fashion Week. If you're interested in trying one out, it'll be available at some point in November, and we hope that the GearVR isn't too far behind.

Filed under: Wearables, Samsung

CHART OF THE DAY: Half Of All iPad Owners Have A Tablet That's At Least Two Years Old (AAPL)

Source: http://www.businessinsider.com/chart-of-the-day-half-of-all-ipad-owners-have-a-tablet-thats-at-least-two-years-old-2014-10

Apple introduced its iPad Air 2 and iPad Mini 3 on Thursday. The iPad Air 2 is thinner and faster than its predecessor, while the iPad Mini 3 didn't see any internal improvements. Both tablets, however, now come with Touch ID, which allows them to make online payments through Apple Pay (there's no NFC for any retail use, however).

The new iPads face an uphill battle, though. Based on Localytics data from September charted for us by BI Intelligence, 48% of all iPad owners around the world still own iPad models that are at least two years old — that includes the first iPad, iPad 2, and third-generation iPad. This comes as no surprise; iPad owners tend to upgrade their tablet hardware more like laptop hardware (every 3-4 years) as opposed to phone hardware (every 1-2 years). With very few new features to show off this year, except for Touch ID, Apple might have a difficult time persuading current iPad owners to upgrade to one of its new tablets.

Tech_COTD 1016

SEE ALSO: CHART OF THE DAY: The Fastest Internet Speeds Aren't In The US

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Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Blocks' modular smartwatch will talk to your iPhone

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/15/blocks-modular-smartwatch-using-tizen/

Phonebloks' modular smartwatch

Blocks first unveiled its modular smartwatch with a plan to use Android Wear, much as Project Ara smartphone will use a special version of Android. However, there has been a change of plans -- and it's good news if you're not of the Google persuasion. The team now says that it's using a version of the open source Tizen platform that should support Android, iOS and Windows Phone, so you probably won't have to give up a favorite device just to try this out. The Blocks team also has access to Intel's newest processors thanks to a prize from a recent design challenge, and modules will have removable covers that let you change both the style and functionality of your wristwear. This is still an incredibly ambitious project that may not pan out as planned, but it's evident that the pieces are quickly falling into place.

Filed under: Wearables, Samsung, Intel

Source: Phonebloks

Lenovo is building a new smartphone brand to compete with Xiaomi

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/15/lenovo-is-building-a-new-smartphone-brand-to-compete-with-xiaomi/

Samsung and Apple may be the two biggest names in smartphones in the western world, but in China it's all about Lenovo and Xiaomi. The two companies are among the most recognizable brands in the region, but Lenovo wants more: it's about to create a new smartphone company for the Chinese market. While the new brand name hasn't been announced, Lenovo says that it will officially open for business in April of 2015, and will focus on branded applications, consumer engagement and, like Xiaomi, selling devices online. The company's core brand isn't out of the running, though -- Lenovo phones will still be available through local carriers and retailers.

Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, Lenovo

Source: Wall Street Journal

Google's Nexus 9 available early next month with Android 5.0, starts at $399

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/15/google-nexus-9/

Today's the day Google fans have been waiting for: The announcement of this fall's Nexus lineup. It's essentially an annual tradition at this point, since the last few Nexus devices have arrived at the same time of year. Along with a 6-inch smartphone and a media streamer called the Nexus Player, Google's introduced an 8.9-inch 2048x1536 tablet built by HTC aptly called the Nexus 9. This slate, which is available for pre-order this Friday and in stores on November 9th, starts at $399 for the base 16GB WiFi model; $479 for the 32GB WiFi; and $599 for a 32GB LTE variant that comes packed with pentaband HSPA+, quad band GSM/EDGE and CDMA. As often is the case with brand new Nexus phones and tablets, the 9 is among the first to get the latest version of Android - in this case, it's Android 5.0 Lollipop.

The Nexus 9 will be the first in the lineup to come with 64-bit support, thanks to the dual-core 2.3GHz NVIDIA K1 chipset inside. You'll also get 2GB of RAM, an 8MP rear-facing camera with autofocus, BSI and f/2.4 aperture, a 1.6MP selfie camera and a 6,700mAh battery. HTC was also able to slide in its signature BoomSound stereo speakers, which has been impressive on its flagship devices. The 7.9mm-thick slate will be available in black and white and weighs in at 425g (436g for LTE).

As for the external appearance, it actually looks a bit like an enlarged version of the Nexus 5 but with brushed metal sides. The display also takes advantage of a 4:3 aspect ratio, rather than 16:9. When it comes to productivity, Google and HTC have designed a keyboard folio case that attaches to the Nexus 9 magnetically.

Filed under: Tablets, Wireless, Mobile, HTC, Google

Source: Google

Google's Nexus Player offers streaming and gaming for $99

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/15/google-nexus-player/

Remember the Nexus Q? Yeah, we'd rather forget it, too. Google regained its streaming cred with the Chromecast, and now it's looking to offer up another set-top box. The compact Nexus Player will handle streaming, games and run Android apps. An included remote wrangles navigation with voice controls for finding the content you're after on the ASUS-made gadget. For those gaming sessions, a $39 controller can be tacked on as an additional purchase.

The Nexus Player will offer much of the same functionality as Mountain View's diminutive dongle, adding the ability to leverage those mobile apps as well. It's also the first device to run Android TV, an effort detailed back at I/O and promised to arrive alongside Android L, er... Lollipop. And yes, you'll be able to "cast" stuffs from other devices to your TV. In terms of content options, you can expect Netflix, Hulu, Food Network, Travel Channel and more for now -- but there's no mention of either WatchESPN or HBO Go. If all of that sounds somewhat familiar, Amazon's Fire TV touts a similar set of entertainment abilities for the same price. Of course, one taps into Prime Instant Video while the other leverages the Google Play repository. Speaking of cost, the $99 unit will be available on November 3rd, however if you're anxious to lock one down, you can pre-order the Nexus Player on October 17th.

Filed under: Gaming, Home Entertainment, Google

Source: Google

Apple leaks iPad Air 2, iPad Mini 3 ahead of official announce

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/10/15/apple-leaks-ipad-air-2-and-ipad-mini-3/

Well, this is a bit unlike Apple -- the company appears to have accidentally spilled the beans about the iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3, which are expected to be announced tomorrow. Representations of both devices showed up in a screenshot of the iPad User Guide for iOS 8.1, which we're also expecting new details about tomorrow. We can't tell much from the image, but it does confirm that Cupertino's tablets will be getting Touch ID.

Developing...

Filed under: Tablets, Mobile, Apple

This Is Google's New Smartphone — The Nexus 6 (GOOG)

Source: http://www.businessinsider.com/google-nexus-6-specs-photos-price-2014-10

Nexus6Official

Google has officially unveiled its new smartphone, the Nexus 6. Just as rumors had indicated, it comes with a giant 6-inch screen and is made by Motorola.

The Nexus 6 will be available for preorder in late October and will go on sale in November. The phone will sell for $649 without a two-year contract.

The Nexus 6 is going to look gigantic compared to your average smartphone. With it's 5.9-inch screen, it's even larger than the 5.5-inch iPhone 6 Plus and 5.7-inch Galaxy Note 4. It's one inch shy of being the same size as Google's Nexus 7 tablet.

Like we expected, the phone will come with a 5.9-inch screen with a resolution of 1440 x 2560. It'll feature a 13-megapixel main camera and a 2-megapixel front camera. Here's a quick rundown of all the specs:

Developing...

SEE ALSO: 11 Things Android Phones Can Do That The iPhone Still Can't

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This $150 Hack Can Crack a Safe

Source: http://gizmodo.com/this-150-hack-can-crack-a-safe-1646552086

This $150 Hack Can Crack a Safe

It might not look much, with its plain 3D printed arms and cables hanging free, but this little guy can punch well above its weight. Made up of components worth an estimated $150, this auto-dialler can do the same job as a machine worth tens of thousands: it can crack a safe.

You Can Customize This E-Ink Watch Down to the Strap

Source: http://gizmodo.com/you-can-customize-this-e-ink-watch-down-to-the-strap-1646561540

You Can Customize This E-Ink Watch Down to the Strap

If there's one group that will surely embrace smartwatches, it's those who like to change their background image and the look and feel of their devices every day. But the FES Watch doesn't just let you change the watch face whenever you tire of the current design, using E-Ink technology it actually lets you change the look and style of the entire timepiece.

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