Nagarjuna ‘Dhamarukham’ Regular Shooting from February 12th
Nagachaitanya ‘I Love You’ Planning to Release in March
Ramcharan Training from Australian Coach in Football @Merupu
‘Paramaveera Chakra’ Audio Released Grandly
Apart from the cast and crew of Parama Veera Chakra, NTR Jr, Kalyan Ram, Tarakaratna, Directors K.Raghavendra Rao, K.Viswanath, Rajamouli, Srinu Vytla, Vinyak and comedians Brahmanandam, Ali, AVS attended the event.
Director Raghavendra Rao unveiled the first audio CD and presented to Jr.NTR on the event.
Mani Sharma has scored the music for the film and the entire unit along with the guests opined that the movie would become a grand success.
As usual Jr NTR steals the show with his terrific oratory skills. Jr NTR recalling Balayya’s dialogue in Simha mesmerized Nandamuri fans
‘Mirapakay’ Vs ‘Parama Veera Chakra’ on January12th
Top Flops of 2010 Tollywood Movies
Here is the list of Top flops of 2010:
Khaleja – Disaster (More than fifty percent of the investment was lost)
Puli - Disaster (More than forty percent of the invest was lost)
Orange - Disaster (More than half of the investment was lost)
Varudu - Disaster (More than sixty percent of the investment was lost)
Kedi - Disaster (More than eighty percent of the investment was lost)
There are few medium budget films that were total washout at the box office. Bava, Maro Charitra and Manasara are among the list of biggest duds of this year. Producers of Happy Happyga film lost eighty percent of their investment. Subhapradam was another biggest loser. Sadly, critically acclaimed films like Prasthanam and Vedam too turned out to be loss ventures.
Yahoo Web Messenger
Yahoo Messenger is a free instant messaging system provided by Yahoo Corporation.
Yahoo Messenger is similar to AIM (AOL Instant Messenger), ICQ, MSN Messenger, and Google Talk.
Yahoo Web Messenger can be very useful if you want to chat with your Yahoo friends without installing Yahoo Messenger.
How to Launch Yahoo Web Messenger
Point your web browser at Yahoo Web Messenger
Select either “Let my friends see me online” (recommended) or “Keep me invisible.”
Click the <Sign In> button.
How Does Skype Work ?????
Skype is an instant messaging service that also allows users to have audio and video conversations with both other Skype users as well as the general public. Initial Skype services are completely free while minutes and other services can be purchased at a low rate. Skype is designed to be the ultimate communication medium for users all around the world and proves itself time and time again in over forty different countries. While there are many programs available that rival Skype, the software is, without a doubt, one of the best solutions in low cost communication.
Instant Messenger
The Skype Instant Messenger is known worldwide for its versatile nature and ease of use. The Skype Instant Messenger organizes Skype contacts into both premade and customized categories, includes over two dozen emoticons, can be upgraded through the use of plug-ins, and includes several notification types that alert users when they have a message. The Skype Instant Messenger is completely free and features automatic saved messages so that users can see a log of every conversation that they have ever had using Skype.
Skype Calling
Skype Calling is a multi-functional feature of Skype that allows users to call either another computer or a mobile phone. Skype Calling to other Skype users is completely free and is simply an audio feature of the Skype Instant Messenger. Skype Calling to mobile phones, however, requires the user to purchase minutes at an affordable rate of 2 cents per minute or $1.09 per month. Users of Skype Calling are able to purchase and setup their own online phone number to be used with their Skype calls to allow them to both send and receive phone calls, including voicemails.
Skype Video
Skype Video is an extension of the Skype Instant Messenger and allows users to have video conversations with their friends, family, and coworkers. Skype Video requires that one or both users have a webcam but does not charge any type of fee for this service. In fact, users can find a webcam from the Accessories menu on the Skype website. With a Skype videophone, users can even have Skype Video conversations without a computer. Skype Video features high quality as well as fast and reliable connections and now that Skype has been re-engineered specifically for Windows, Skype Video is even faster and sturdier than ever before.
Screen Sharing
Skype features a service called Screen Sharing that allows users to share their monitor screen with whoever they are communicating with. Screen Sharing can be useful in situations where a user needs to share something with another user but does not have the ability to describe it or share it in any other way. For example, one user may need to show another user how to access a specific function in a software. Instead of trying to describe how to do this, the user can simply share his/her screen with the other user. Screen Sharing is similar to Window's Remote Assistance feature but does not allow users to control each other's computers.
File Sharing
Another feature that Skype has is File Sharing. File Sharing allows users to transfer files from one computer to another without emailing them. File Sharing does not have any file size limits which means that users can send virtually any file through Skype. Users should be aware, however, that larger files take longer to transfer.
How to Split a Direct TV Satellite Signal ?????
There are multiple ways to split a DirecTV Satellite signal. The one problem that people will face is not being able to see a separate channel on each television that the signal is split to. If this is not an issue for the setup with the split signal then the following options are available for those who wish to continue:
Method One – Using Optional Receiver Outputs
If the televisions are not too far apart, the simplest option is to use the available outputs on the receiver to split the connection. Most modern day DirecTV receivers will have the following common outputs available with them:
HDMI -For use with HD Televisions using the HDMI cable interface.
Coaxial Cable (Output to TV) -The coaxial cables can come in a screw on or push on format.
AV Cable – The 3 wire configuration (Red, White, Yellow).
Component Cable Output – The 5 wire configuration (Red "Video", Blue, Green, Red "Audio", White).
SVideo – For use with SVideo capable devices.
A DirecTV receiver will be able to process video through each and every output available on the hardware. The most common setup for optional receiver output is by using the HDMI connection for the most immediate television (since HDMI cables come in short lengths), a component cable connection or AV cable connection for the next closest television and the coaxial cable for the furthest televisions. Any combination can be used as long as the lengths of the cables are adequate enough for splitting the signal this way.
Of course the quality of the signal will be different for each output due to the nature of the technology that is being used and the quality of the signal being routed from the receiver. A large number of households can accommodate the splitting of the signal this way. To shorten distances that cables must travel, the need to drill holes in walls and floors in inconspicuous locations may be necessary, as long length cables will considerably lower the quality of the signal that is received on the television.
Note: many options will use the Red and White audio outputs on the receiver and using more than one would require an additional splitter for the sound output. The HDMI and coaxial output carries their own sound while the others will more than likely compete with the Red and White outputs unless the receiver comes with multiples that are meant for additional stereo speakers to be connected.
Method Two – Using a Coaxial Splitter
A coaxial splitter is the other option that most DirecTV owners can use to split the signal without having to purchase another receiver and adding an additional line to the system. The coaxial splitter can be used in two ways:
Splitter close to the Receiver- A short coaxial cable is connected to the receiver. This is then connected to the closest television (within a few feet) by the first split line. The second split line must run the length to reach the next television which can be several yard away.
Note: The television that is closest will more than likely be the one to control the channels on the receiver that transmits to both televisions.
Receiver at a mid point – The receiver will be placed at a location where both televisions are more or less an equal distance from each other. The cable that will be splitting the line will head out of the receiver and travel to the location where a split can be most effective at a mid distance. The two split lines are then passed through the length that is necessary to reach both televisions.
Note: Changing the channels for the receiver may require having someone come within distance to the receiver in order to change it manually or via remote.
Remember that televisions will display the same channel when using a coaxial cable. The television that is furthest away may also have a weaker signal that is denoted by the fuzzy/snowy artifacts that appear from the signal.
Getting Separate Channels
It is not impossible to get separate channels on another television but the process is somewhat different. First off, the DirecTV customer will need to have another receiver for each television they will want to extend the service to. Second, they will need a Multi-Switch that is designed to be used with their satellite equipment. Third, they will need to have enough coaxial cable length to run from the Multi-Switch to each receiver and television.
Getting receivers is possible online or through electronics retailers. It is recommended that you get the exact model that you are using for your normal access.
Note: Additional access cards will be required and are available from DirecTV. Use of unauthorized "hacked" or modified cards or receivers that are designed to decrypt satellite signals are illegal to sell or use.
A Multi-Switch can come in many designs and using a DirecTV approved option is the best towards getting the best compatibility with a single satellite dish. Multi-Switches can have two or more satellite inputs and have four or more outputs to the receivers. Depending on the brand and amount of connections needed to split the DirecTV signal throughout the household, Multi-Switch costs can be higher.
Note: A single satellite dish may only be able to support two receivers depending on the type of dish it is. If the service is designed for a DVR receiver, additional equipment and lines may be required.
How to Use the Windows XP Recovery Console ?????
Can be used to repair problems which prevent a Windows XP system from booting.
Boot Windows XP from CD or Floppy
First, boot the computer from the Microsoft Windows XP CD.
If you don't have a Microsoft Windows XP CD, or if the computer you are working on does not have a CD drive, you can boot from a set of Windows XP Bootable disks. If you need a set of boot disks, read How to obtain Windows XP Setup boot disks.
Start the XP Recovery Console
When the system boots, you will be presented with a screen that gives you three choices:
This portion of the Setup program prepares Microsoft Windows XP to run on your computer: To setup Windows XP now, press ENTER. To repair a Windows XP installation using Recovery Console, press R. To quit Setup without installing Windows XP, press F3
Press the R key to start the Recovery Console.
Choose which Windows Installation to Repair
The next prompt will ask you which Windows installation you want to recover:
The Recovery Console provides system repair and recovery functionality. Type EXIT to quit the Recovery Console and restart the computer. 1: C:WINDOWS Which Windows Installation would you like to log on to (To cancel, press ENTER)?
Enter the Windows XP Administrator Password
When prompted, enter the Microsoft Windows XP Local Administrator password. If you do not know this password, read How can I recover a lost Windows XP Administrator Password?.
Recovery Console Commands
Once you are in the Recovery Console, you have a number of commands available to utilize to repair the system.Command Purpose
Attrib Changes the attributes of a file or directory
Batch Executes the commands specified in the text file
Bootcfg Boot file (boot.ini) configuration and recovery
CD / ChDir Displays the name of the current directory or changes the current directory
Chkdsk Checks a disk and displays a status report
Cls Clears the screen
Copy Copies a single file to another location
Del / Delete Deletes one or more files
Dir Displays a list of files and subdirectories in a directory
Disable Disables a system service or a device driver
Diskpart Manages partitions on your hard drives
Enable Starts or enables a system service or a device driver
Exit Exits the Recovery Console and restarts your computer
Expand Extracts a file from a compressed file
Fixboot Writes a new partition boot sector onto the specified partition
Fixmbr Repairs the master boot record of the specified disk
Format Formats a disk
Help Displays a list of the commands you can use in the Recovery Console
Listsvc Lists the services and drivers available on the computer
Logon Logs on to a Windows installation
Map Displays the drive letter mappings
MD / Mkdir Creates a directory
More Displays a text file
Net Use Connects a network share to a drive letter
Ren / Rename Renames a single file
RD / Rmdir Deletes a directory
Set Displays and sets environment variables
Systemroot Sets the current directory to the systemroot directory
Type Displays a text file.
BOOTMGR is Missing ??????
The BOOTMGR (Windows Boot Manager) is part of Microsoft Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008 and Windows 7. It is used to finalize the steps in booting the computer and loading the Operating System by looking for the active partition in which Boot Configuration Data is stored.
This is done by BOOTMGR by running the process of "winload.exe". This process is essentially the operating system boot loader which will load the operating system kernel and device drivers that are in the boot-class.
A big problem that occurs with Vista, Server 2008 and Windows 7 is the fact that small changes could easily corrupt the BOOTMGR configuration. When this occurs an error from the Boot Manager will appear during the startup sequence for the machine. The message will show as "BOOTMGR is missing, Ctrl+Alt+Delete to restart" along with a blinking cursor.
The problem with the simple instructions to restart the computer with Ctrl+Alt+Delete is that it will not fix the problem, it will just cause the computer to boot up once again and go through the boot sequence until it meets the BOOTMGR requirements that cause the same error and the same advice to press Ctrl+Alt+Delete on the keyboard again.
Fixing the BOOTMGR is missing Error
To fix this problem, it is important to fix the BOOTMGR by taking to the process of repair with the OS installation media. This is done by the following process:
The user must ensure that the Windows OS installation media for the OS that is currently installed on the system is in the drive. Once in the drive, it is necessary to boot the media instead of attempting to boot the hard disk. Usually, the installation media will be on a CD/DVD drive and will need to boot from the CD/DVD drive.
If the installation media is not read right after the restarting of the computer and load into the Windows PE (Pre-installation Environment) and takes the user to the same BOOTMGR is missing error, then they will need to make their computer be able to boot the appropriate media to load the WinRE.
Option One
The first option is to try restarting the computer again, but this time, the user will need to access the boot options. This will be done by pressing the Spacebar on the keyboard at the beginning of the boot process to load into the boot options. This will be a list of the available media options which can be loaded including any hard drives, optical drives or other forms of media which are accessible on the computer. Locating the proper drive which is assigned to the location where the installation media is stored and selecting it as the boot item to load is required.
Once the option is chosen from the list, the boot up sequence will load the installation media and go into the Windows Recovery Environment. From here, the user can continue towards fixing the BOOTMGR error.
Option Two
Loading into the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) will be required to be able to change the boot sequence to allow for the storage media which houses the Windows Installation files for the OS currently on the machine as first in line. Getting into the BIOS is done by restarting the computer and pressing the Function 2 key (F2) on the keyboard during the boot process. This will load into the BIOS and provide a variety of options for the computer and hardware on the system.
Note: A password may be required to access the BIOS. If the computer is owned by someone else, access to the BIOS may not be possible without the password which has been set by the administrator for the BIOS settings. Once the password is put in access to the BIOS settings will be available unrestricted.
By using the arrow keys, a user can select the option on the BIOS options screen. Commonly on the list, a user will have to select "Advanced BIOS Features" which will allow them access to different functions. On the next list of options, the user will have to navigate to the "Boot Device Options" or "First Boot Device" and select the option. From this menu, the user will have to use the directional keys along with the PgUp and PgDn keys to move the bootable media into the proper order. Once this has been selected for the installation media of Windows, the user will need to save their changes by pressing the Function 10 (F10) key and confirming the changes.
This will cause the computer to reboot once again with the changes in place. The boot sequence will have been changed to allow the installation media to be booted from first and will allow for the installation process to be in place so the user can continue.
Navigating the Installation Media
The following process is necessary to navigate to the appropriate portion of the disk to fix the BOOTMGR is missing error:
First boot from the Windows OS install disk that is currently installed on the computer. The Windows installation media will load into the Windows PE after some time and the appropriate files have been loaded into memory.
From within the Windows PE, you will need to choose the language settings. Choose the language that will be easiest for the user to manage the repair of the BOOTMGR with.
The screen that loads will show various options. Near the bottom of the screen, there will be an option/link that reads as "Repair Your Computer". You must select this option to get to the repair/installation options.
The Windows OS options that are installed on the computer will be listed. The next thing that the user must do is find the OS that corresponds to the installation media (usually one option if no other OS options have been installed). Selecting the OS from the list and selecting the "Next" button will start the WinRE (Windows Recovery Environment).
Once WinRE has been loaded, there will be several options available. The option that must be selected from the list to fix the BOOTMGR error is "Startup Repair". Selecting this option will repair the Boot Manager files and restore any other critical files that are necessary for booting the Windows OS. Once the process is completed through this option, then the BOOTMGR is missing error should be repaired and the boot process should go through to loading the Windows OS.
If Installation Media was Not Available
In modern day computing, Microsoft has halted providing installation disks with new computers. This is common for those who have purchased a PC or notebook computer recently that has a Windows OS installed already from the factory. Without installation media, booting into an alternative to repair the BOOTMGR problem may not be available via installation media. There is an alternative which may be available with the system that is simply hidden in the alternative Windows Options.
To access to Windows Advanced Options Menu, the computer user must restart the computer. During the boot up sequence and before the BOOTMGR is missing error occurs, the user must press the Function 8 (F8) key. This will load the advanced options which will have several options available for starting up the Windows OS that is currently installed on the computer.
Once in the Windows Advanced Options Menu, the user will need to select the option on a hidden partition on the hard disk. The option in the list will be "Windows Recovery Environment" or "WinRE" and once selected will provide options to recover and resolve errors with the Windows OS installed. Choosing the "Startup Repair" will repair the Boot Manager files and restore any other critical files that are necessary for booting the Windows OS. Once the process is completed through this option, then the BOOTMGR is missing error should be repaired and the boot process should go through to loading the Windows OS.
Note: This option is not always available as some installations will not have a WinRE partition installed. The only way to get the BOOTMGR problem fixed would then be to get a hold of the Windows OS installation media for the OS that is on the computer then use the options with the Windows Pre-installation Environment to get the problem fixed.
An alternative would be to use another Windows OS Installation media to attempt to do the same. This may or may not work depending on the OS installation media, as some are only designed for installation and will lack the options for repairing problems.
Note: If using an OS installation media from Windows 2000 or Windows XP, then using the Recovery Console will be necessary. Booting into the installation media then selecting the Recovery Console will load a command prompt. In the command prompt, the following must be entered to fix the BOOTMGR error:
Two Worlds II-RELOADED
Torrent Download Link
Two Worlds II - RELOADED
PC Game | Publisher: Topware Interactive | Developper: Reality Pump | 4.45 GB
Language: English/French/German/Italian/Spanish
Genre: Action / RPG
Two Worlds II expands the RPG adventure by introducing new game content, extending gameplay and providing you with
the answers to many questions and mysteries which arose in the main story. Besides several well-known regions of
Antaloor, there are also completely new territories to explore. The combat system has been further enhanced too,
with an active blocking system, a completely new means of transport, a much-enhanced reaction system from NPCs, and
other tweaks.
Return to the vast world of Antaloor in Two Worlds II. Building upon the original game, Two Worlds II offers the
willing adventurer a unique and thrilling RPG experience unrivalled in current RPG landscape. Two Worlds II features
a completely new game engine pushing hardware to its limits, as well as a revised combat system, new enemies,
improved animations and an enhanced AI. This combined with the extremely detailed, interactive environment will be
sure to make Two Worlds II a must-have title for RPG fans.
Game Features:
* Extensive Character Development system – a huge skill tree giving the player total control over their class and
how they want to play
* C.R.A.F.T Tool – upgrade items from basic components; with a little time, a player can turn an ordinary weapon
into one of legend
* D.E.M.O.N.S Magic System – enables users to create their own spells resulting in thousands of unique spells
* Unique combat options – combining different melee attacks and an active blocking system with thousands of weapon,
armor and class types, alongside mounted combat, duel wielding and dirty tricks
* Huge Multiplayer Element – 8 player raids, PvP tournaments and Co-Op action deliver unlimited replay-ability
* Village Mode – Build and take care of your own village, craft epic weapons, complete village only quests and
invite your friends to see your handiwork
Minimum System Requirements
Operating System : Microsoft Windows XP / Windows Vista / Windows 7
Processor : Intel Pentium 4 at 2.0 GHz / AMD Athlon 2400+
Video Card : 128 MB VRAM – NVIDIA GeForce FX 5600 / ATI Radeon 9500
Memory : 512 RAM
Hard Disk : 6 GB of free Hard Drive space
Sound Card: DirectX Compatible
Direct X : 9.0c
Controls : Keyboard & Mouse
Installation : 2x DVD-ROM Drive
Network : Broadband Internet connection for online features
Install Notes:
2. Burn or mount the image
3. Install the game.
4. Block the main executable in your firewall software, start the game, and use our keygen located in the /Crack dir
on the DVD to activate using phone
5. Play the game
Nokia E7 on its way to Amazon
Though the E7 was unveiled way back in September, it has stayed away from retail shelves with unshakable determination. Nokia’s elusive E7 can be pre-ordered through Amazon, although they don’t seem to have a clue on the exact shipping date of handset as yet.
Powered by the Symbian 3 OS, the device has a 640 x 360p 4” AMOLED capacitive touchscreen, a VGA camera and an 8MP dual LED flash camera. The last mentioned features a full screen 16:9 viewfinder, geo tagging, face recognition software, up to 2x zoom for images and up to 3x zoom for video recording.
The E7 offers onboard memory of around 16GB and runs in a BL-4D 1200mAh Li-ion battery that’s good for approximately nine hours of talk time on a GSM network or around 5 hours of talk time on a WCDMA connection. Users can avail of no less than three customizable homescreens and full web page browsing with this device.
The 3G-enabled phone boasts of a slide-out physical QWERTY keyboard apart from Blueotooth 3.0, Wireless-N Wi-Fi and Flash Lite 4 support. The handset’s audio/video function is capable of playing out MP3, WMA, eAAC+, eAAC, AAC, H.264, 3GPP and MP4 formatted content.
Business users may like the integrated tools like Mail for Exchange, Microsoft Communicator Mobile and support for intranet and extranet portals based on Microsoft’s Share Point server. Other attributes span over FM radio, HDMI connectivity, Dolby Digital Plus surround sound, support for IM, a dedicated graphics processor and much more.
Amazon is currently accepting pre-orders for the E7 at $679 and pledges to inform customers about the estimated delivery date when word on the same gets in. It’s being extended unlocked and in an anodized silver hued aluminum casing with the full manufacturer’s warranty.
CES 2011 to Feature new Samsung AMOLED Display
Samsung in an official statement noted that the company will be demonstrating the next-generation AMOLED displays at the Consumer Electronics Show 2011. This year's CES was all about 3D Displays, while CES 2011 will have Samsung showcasing its next generation flexible AMOLED displays. These displays will feature on Samsung products like mobile phones, tablets and televisions.
Samsung Mobile Display will show a prototype of an advanced flexible AMOLED display that is only 0.2mm thick! This display will be 4.5-inch long and would support WVGA 800x480 pixel resolution. This AMOLED display is so flexible that it can be rolled down to one centimeter radius. These flexible AMOLED displays are made from plastic substrates that are not prone to breakage during manufacturing process.
These advanced flexible AMOLED displays are designed for smartphone and tablet PCs. An update about this display hints that the Galaxy S successor, which was rumored last month, may sport it. The Galaxy S successor was said to come with super AMOLED 2 and it seems like Samsung is going to show a similar AMOLED display technology.
Apart from that Samsung Mobile Display will also show a 14-inch and 19-inch quad-Full High Definition Transparent AMOLED displays for TV and monitors. Samsung boasts that it will be the world's largest transparent AMOLED display prototype that maintains up to 30 percent transparency whether it's on or off. These transparent AMOLED display prototypes support quad full high definition (3840x2160) video resolution with 16:9 aspect ratio.
The Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode display offers vivid color reproduction with high contrast, wider angle, low power consumption and faster response time. On mobile devices they look gorgeous; remember the Galaxy S and Wave S5800. The new flexible AMOLED and transparent AMOLED display prototypes would become actual products that might be available by the second half of next year.
IIT Bombay's Techfest from Jan 7-9
PUNE: Over 3,000 students from the city will participate in Indian Institute of Technology Bombay's Techfest, the annual international science and technology festival, to be held between January 7 and 9. The 14th edition of the Techfest will be held at the IIT Bombay campus and will see 150 events spread over the three days.
Eminent personalities, including Michael Jones, Google's chief technology advocate, Jaarp Hartsen, inventor of bluetooth, will be part of the events.
In the exhibition section, Leonardo Da Vinci's mechanical flying birds will be on display.
The National Institute for Research in Computer Science and Control will demonstrate a brain-computer interface that involves the measurement of brain activity.
An Indian Sudoku and puzzle championship, workshops and robot competitions will also be conducted.
Cyber-sabotage and espionage top 2011 security fears
Cyber security continues to be a grey area and one could say that the threat perception has always been on upward swing.
The year 2010 saw the deadly Stuxnet worm among others shaking up the security system.
The year 2011 is not expected to be any different as cyber criminals will look to target major platforms such as Adroid, Apple software and those which have not yet been exposed to a security risk.
In addition to this 2011 will also see politically motivated attacks as groups are expected to repeat the WiKiLeaks paradigm.
McAfee has outlined the top threats for the year 2011 and the list comprises Google's Android, Apple's iPhone, foursquare, Google TV and the Mac OS X platform, which are all expected to become major targets for cybercriminals.
Geolocation services
Locative services such as foursquare, Gowalla and Facebook Places can easily search, track and plot the whereabouts of friends and strangers.
With just a few clicks, cybercriminals can see in real time who is tweeting, where they are located, what they are saying, what their interests are, and what operating systems and applications they are using.
This wealth of personal information on individuals enables cybercriminals to craft a targeted attack.
McAfee Labs predicts that cybercriminals will increasingly use these tactics across the most popular social networking sites in 2011.
Social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook have created the movement towards an "instant" form of communication, a shift that will completely alter the threat landscape in 2011.
Of the social media sites that will be most riddled with cybercriminal activity, McAfee Labs expects those with URL-shortening services will be at the forefront.
The use of abbreviated URLs on sites like Twitter makes it easy for cybercriminals to mask and direct users to malicious websites.
With more than 3,000 shortened URLs per minute being generated, McAfee Labs expects to see a growing number used for spam, scamming and other malicious purposes.
New virus threatens phones using Android
WASHINGTON — A virus infecting mobile phones using Google's Android operating system has emerged in China that can allow a hacker to gain access to personal data, US security experts said.
A report this week from Lookout Mobile Security said the new Trojan affecting Android devices has been dubbed "Geinimi" and "can compromise a significant amount of personal data on a user?s phone and send it to remote servers."
The firm called the virus "the most sophisticated Android malware we've seen to date."
"Once the malware is installed on a user's phone, it has the potential to receive commands from a remote server that allow the owner of that server to control the phone," Lookout said.
"Geinimi's author(s) have raised the sophistication bar significantly over and above previously observed Android malware by employing techniques to obfuscate its activities."
The motive for the virus was not clear, accoring the Lookout, which added that this could be used for anything from "a malicious ad-network to an attempt to create an Android botnet."
But the company said the only users likely to be affected are those downloading Android apps from China.
The infected apps included repackaged versions sold in China of Monkey Jump 2, Sex Positions, President vs. Aliens, City Defense and Baseball Superstars 2010.
"It is important to remember that even though there are instances of the games repackaged with the Trojan, the original versions available in the official Google Android Market have not been affected," the security firm said
Sony Patents a Ton of New Tech
Sony has been patenting a lot of new tech all surrounding a single device. The patents intertwine a new touch screen interface, which is quite interesting. Although the patents were published today, they were filed back in October 2009.
The patent applications suggest that the device may take various forms such as a slider, clamshell or a slate. The other patents also describe a touchpad, separate from the main screen, which allows the user to manipulate the text via the touchpad at the back.
An interesting patent was the one that indicated some kind of “prediction engine” that would change the layout of the screen based on the users past behaviour and choices. While all this sounds like a tablet computer rather than a new PSP, Sony is known to include some great technology into their products, so stay on the look out
Could this be the next PSP2
The patent applications suggest that the device may take various forms such as a slider, clamshell or a slate. The other patents also describe a touchpad, separate from the main screen, which allows the user to manipulate the text via the touchpad at the back.
An interesting patent was the one that indicated some kind of “prediction engine” that would change the layout of the screen based on the users past behaviour and choices. While all this sounds like a tablet computer rather than a new PSP, Sony is known to include some great technology into their products, so stay on the look out
Can sky-high broadband take off?
A satellite dedicated to plugging some of the holes in the UK and Europe's broadband coverage finally takes to the skies this week.
The spacecraft, called Hylas 1 (Highly Adaptable Satellite), was scheduled to launch at the end of last year but will now go into orbit on 26 November.The UK government may see the launch as an answer to its prayers as it races to provide all homes with a minimum 2Mbps broadband connection by 2015.
But others have questioned the relevance of satellite in the increasingly competitive and speedy broadband market.
David Williams, chief executive of Avanti, told the BBC that services would begin rolling out in the New Year, with 60 service providers in place across Europe.
He said the service would provide an answer to rural communities which had been quoted thousands of pounds from firms such as BT to roll out broadband services.
"That unpleasantness ends after Christmas," he said.
Slow lane For him satellite offers a real solution to the problem of getting decent broadband to remote areas.
The satellite was built in the UK Avanti is hoping to create a fleet of satellites to serve rural areas, with Hylas 2 slated for launch in 2012.
"With the first two satellites about a million people will be able to get broadband service at competitive prices with a decent service quality," he said.
He said that satellite, which has traditionally been a lot more expensive than other broadband technologies, will become far more competitive.
"Most consumers in Britain needn't pay more than 20 to 25 pounds to get a good quality broadband service," he said.
End Quote Tim Johnson Analyst, Point TopicSome rural areas are leap-frogging straight to next-generation services such as fibre to the home”
But not everyone is convinced that it is the best solution.
Ian Fogg, an analyst with research firm Forrester described it as a technology "of last resort".Satellites are uncompetitive on speed, latency, data limits and price compared with wired broadband alternatives like DSL, cable and fibre," he said.
"With good wired broadband availability now being complemented by fast and affordable mobile broadband, satellite broadband is becoming less relevant for consumers every day, even in rural areas."
Satellite has one major disadvantage over other broadband technologies, added Tim Johnson, an analyst with broadband research firm Point Topic.
"There is the issue of latency, the time it takes for the signal to get up to the satellite and back. It means that voice services aren't very good and video can also be difficult," he said.
Like Mr Fogg, he views satellite as a solution "where all else fails".
How the satellite will look The bigger Hylas 2 is due for launch in 2012 and has mainly the African and Middle East markets in its sights but may also offer more broadband coverage in the UK.
Hylas 1 will not be a unique solution for long. Next month the French are due to launch their own broadband-dedicated spacecraft which has capacity for more users.
Capacity is one of the biggest issues for Hylas 1.
"Satellite only makes a tiny dent in that," said Mr Johnson.
And, in a year which has seen BT and Virgin Media turn up the speed dial to 100Mbps, satellite broadband's maximum of 10Mbps seems rather modest.
"Some rural areas are leap-frogging straight to next-generation services such as fibre to the home," said Mr Johnson.
A spokesman for Avanti defended the speeds of satellite.
"Why does anyone actually need 100Mbps? he said.
Fibre vote
There is no question that there is a gap in the market for rural broadband suppliers but the landscape has changed since Hylas was first conceived.
Firms such as BT and Virgin Media are beginning to realise they need to extend their footprint into rural areas.
The satellite can automatically allocate bandwidth to different regions It has been in talks with Avanti to fill in some of the more remote gaps, although neither was able to confirm that a deal has been struck.
Virgin Media is also considering new ways to extend its cable network, including using overhead cables.
A study by Point Topic highlights the need to close the digital divide between town and country.
It found that while 84% of urban areas will benefit from next-generation broadband access by the end of 2015, less than half (48%) of rural areas will.
In the cable market the differences are even more marked, with nearly 60% of urban areas within reach of cable compared to around 5.7% of rural areas.
Satellite broadband may not offer the speeds of next-generation access but it is likely to be welcomed in areas that are struggling with ultra-slow broadband.
The launch of Hylas 1 will also be good news for satellite broadband customers in Scotland.
Avanti already has 200,000 customers in the country, in a deal which sees it leasing space from an existing satellite.
Soon, video monitoring at central zone police stations
HYDERABAD: In a hi-tech move that could bring in more accountability and transparency in policing, the central zone police are testing a video facility at all police stations and assistant commissioner of police (ACP) offices, enabling zonal DCP or the commissioner to visually monitor activities at these places.
The project was tested last week at the Central Zone DCP office, which was connected to Abids, Chikkadpally, Saifabad ACP offices through the dedicated broadband network, fitted with monitors, wireless video cameras, microphones and speakers at each office.
Utilising the same network currently used by the city police, deputy commissioner of police (DCP), Central Zone, Akun Sabharwal was able to audiovisually interact with ACPs. "The wireless cameras can be moved to any part of the office, enabling one to see the lockup, content of files, talk to petitioners, complainants and concerned police officers," Akun Sabharwal said said.
The cost involved in implementing the facility is very less as police need to purchase only video cameras and microphones. After the testing was successful, a detailed proposal has been sent to the commissioner's office to install the system at nine police stations in the Central Zone apart from three ACP offices.
With the installation of video monitoring system, transparency would increase at police stations, which might lead to better services, the DCP added.
The project was tested last week at the Central Zone DCP office, which was connected to Abids, Chikkadpally, Saifabad ACP offices through the dedicated broadband network, fitted with monitors, wireless video cameras, microphones and speakers at each office.
Utilising the same network currently used by the city police, deputy commissioner of police (DCP), Central Zone, Akun Sabharwal was able to audiovisually interact with ACPs. "The wireless cameras can be moved to any part of the office, enabling one to see the lockup, content of files, talk to petitioners, complainants and concerned police officers," Akun Sabharwal said said.
The cost involved in implementing the facility is very less as police need to purchase only video cameras and microphones. After the testing was successful, a detailed proposal has been sent to the commissioner's office to install the system at nine police stations in the Central Zone apart from three ACP offices.
With the installation of video monitoring system, transparency would increase at police stations, which might lead to better services, the DCP added.
Nano, Shuffle are small but pack strong punch
By Brendan Lynch
Apple gets a lot of flak for what some call an “Apple tax” because their products can be expensive. But earlier this year, the company released a pair of updated iPods, the Nano and the Shuffle, that offer a lot of fun without completely draining your wallet.
The Nano, though tiny, is a relatively full-featured device compared to the Shuffle. The square MP3 player has a full-color touchscreen taking its entire front side. It has three physical buttons on top to turn it on and off and to control the volume. Everything else is handled through the touchscreen interface, which gives you options for getting at your songs by artist, song, album and playlist, as well as icons for its other applications.
Since there’s no “home” button like on an iPhone or iPod Touch, navigating back to the icons from a song screen is entirely swipe-based. Swiping through the screens gets you different controls for moving back and forward through tracks, or for advancing within a track. Two swipes to the left gets you back to the home screen. The controls are so simple, it can be easy to forget how to get where you want to go, making you feel stuck, but that’s easily fixed with some random gestures.
The Nano comes in an 8GB model for $150 or 16GB for $180.
Even with the limited size, the Nano packs in a radio tuner, photo album, pedometer and voice recorder. The photo album isn’t much use at the small size, but the radio tuner (which works by using the headphones as an antenna) is a great bonus feature. Reception worked best with the headphones it came with, but also worked with non-Apple headphones.
The Shuffle is tiny - since it doesn’t have a screen, you’re taking your chances on what song it plays next. The controls take up the entire front of the device - buttons for play/pause, next/previous track, and to increase/decrease volume arranged on a circle.
The on-switch has two settings letting you play your songs in alphabetical order or at random. To make up for the lack of a screen, the Shuffle has a small button on top. When you press it, a robotic voice reads you the song playing and its singer. It’s an amusing novelty, and though the voice is stiff, it pronounced every band and song name I tried correctly.
The Shuffle also lacks the standard jack that iPods and iPhones use to connect to power outlets and computers. Instead, the headphone jack doubles as the power and computer jack, with no perceivable effect on the sound, the speed of transferring songs or charging.
The Shuffle comes with 2 GB of memory for $50, a reasonable price for an impressive MP3 player. The only downside I can see is it might be easy to lose since it’s so small.
Both players come with clips on the back to attach to clothing - they’re so small they can be awkward to hold. Both produce full-sounding audio to match much bigger devices and nothing sounded tinny.
WikiLeaks Expose Charges China of Hacking Google
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Accused of breaking into US and Allies' servers
This news comes as a courtesy of WikiLeaks vault, full of more than a quarter million US Department of State cables, which are confidential documents sourced from US embassies spread all over the world.
The report in the New York Times states, "The Google hacking was part of a coordinated campaign of computer sabotage carried out by government operatives, private security experts and Internet outlaws recruited by the Chinese government. They have broken into American government computers and those of Western allies, the Dalai Lama and American businesses since 2002."
Apparently, there is more to the attack than meets the eye. Google stated in its blog that the attacks on its servers intended to compromise the Gmail accounts of Chinese human rights activists, who are dubbed dissidents and subsequently persecuted, but the attack wasn't claimed to be successful.
However, China's intrusions into US and European government computers clearly aren't simply internal issues, but a more unabashed online brand of espionage it has been slowly building up over the years. As opposed to old school espionage, the online version of the same is pretty hard to trace down and corroborate, which is why China emerged relatively unscathed despite its aggression.
While the recent expose still cannot be held as concrete evidence, it still shows how US government turns a blind eye to Chinese mischief. The increased media coverage and the resulting outrage just might help mount pressure on China.
Nokia X7-00 Images, Details leaked
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Carries 4-inch display (360x640), 8MP camera with Dual-LED flash and four loud speakers
Nokia has always been offering handsets with almost similar form factor with notable changes in designs. For instance, N8 and E7 are similar yet different than each other on many grounds. A mysterious Nokia handset - X7-00 was spotted testing EA's Need for Speed Mobile at a Czech forum board - Modryzub.net (registration required). Yet another angular design-bearing handset X7-00 draws design looks from Nokia N8 and E7 collectively. However, the four speakers at four corners of the front panel makes it stand out and seem to be entertainment-centric handset.
Following the images of X7-00 handset, the video of the same running the Need for Speed game also cropped up. Slash Gear noted that the polished metal body bearing X7-00 carried 4-inch display with 360x640 pixel resolution. The camera on its hind had 8-megapixel image sensor with dual-LED Flash. Expect some eye dazzling quality there.
The Nokia X7-00 is said to have 245MB RAM and 450MB On-board memory. There'll be a 3.5mm audio port on the top edge, micro-USB port, fixed battery and the four speakers are claimed to be pretty loud. Check out the video of X7-00 running Need for Speed grabbed by MobileBulgaria.
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Unlock Released for iOS 4.2.1 on iPhone 3G/3GS
Only iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS can be unlocked through this slightly risky method
The iPhone Dev Team has released a new version of PwnageTool 4.1.3 that enables unlocking iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS with baseband higher than 05.13.04 version. The new unlock is termed as Ultra-recycle since it makes use of iPad's modem firmware to be flashed on the iPhone 3G/3GS to regain the unlock and enjoy iOS 4.2.1 update.
These iOS geeks found a workaround to update the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS with baseband 06.15 from iPad 3.2.2 IPSW update. However, note that once you update your iPhone 3G/3GS with 06.15, you can' t downgrade it.
These iOS geeks found a workaround to update the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS with baseband 06.15 from iPad 3.2.2 IPSW update. However, note that once you update your iPhone 3G/3GS with 06.15, you can' t downgrade it.
The iPhone Dev Team has dubbed the new version as PwnageTool 4.1.3 Unlock Edition since it specifically deals with unlocking iOS 4.2.1 for iPhone 3G/3GS only when updated with 06.15 baseband. Before you jump the gun, read the warnings or pitfalls of unlocking with 06.15 baseband below:
- No downgrade possible from 06.15 and baseband version will be visible to Apple. Warranty (if you care about it) would be void.
- Any future critical fix for 05.xx baseband won't be available to you. You lose your unlock if you update baseband with a new one.
- If you have 06.15 baseband on your iPhone running iOS 4.2.1, you won't be able to restore to stock firmware (it will fail). Unlock can be regained only by restoring to custom IPSWs.
Do note that iPhone 3GS owners with older bootrom need to wait till the unofficial bundle is released. The new ultrasn0w unlock for 06.15 baseband can be obtained using two tools; PwnageTool 4.1.3 Unlock Edition (Mac Only) and redsn0w 0.9.6 beta 5 (Windows and Mac OS X).
PwnageTool 4.1.3 Unlock Edition (Go for Simple mode unless you're an expert):
- Download the iPad 3.2.2 IPSW from the link given in blogpost
- Run PwnageTool and follow the obvious instructions on screen to create a custom IPSW using the baseband 06.15 from iPad 3.2.2 IPSW and the iOS 4.2.1 update for your iPhone 3G/3GS.
- Once the bundle is made then update your device using iTunes 10.1 and press ALT key, then hit restore button to locate the IPSW.
Redsn0w 0.9.6 beta 5:
- Download the redsn0w tool and iOS 4.2.1 for your device
- Run redsn0w and let it recognize the new iOS 4.2.1 till it goes in DFU mode
- Once your iPhone 3G/3GS is in DFU mode, check the Install iPad Baseband option that will fetch and get you the 06.15 baseband after downloading iPad 3.2.2 IPSW from Apple Servers.
Once you're done flashing the 06.15 baseband on your iPhone 3G/3GS, then run Cydia App and to go install ultrasn0w 1.2 package for unlocking your device.
If you haven't followed any of the above mentioned terms and process, kindly wait till a hassle free tool is made available for unlocking your iPhone 3G/3GS. Instead of being hasty to get locked on to a recycled baseband, you can rather wait for proper unlock.
Micromax Andro A60 previewed in India
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- Running Android 2.1 Andro offers 3.2 megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, GPS and 2.8-inch full touchscreen
Yesterday, we reported about Micromax to unveil its first Android phone - Andro. Now concrete details about Micromax Andro smartphone running Google Android 2.1 Eclair update come from Micromax Delhi Bloggers Meet. Micromax Andro A60 is a full touch-screen smartphone that will feature 2.8-inch touch screen. Sporting a 600MHz CPU this Android smartphone will be available in India starting next month for a price of less than Rs. 8000. We'll try to get the exact figure but it s certainly will be less that that figure.
Coming from India s third largest mobile phone vendor, Micromax Andro takes a leap into Android phones under Rs. 10,000 bracket. Andro has 2.8-inch touchscreen supporting 320x240 pixel resolution which might not please the mobile fanatics but average joe might be happy with it. With dual-band GSM support this smartphone will be 3G ready and promises up to 7.2Mbps speeds via HSUPA and up to 5.76 speeds via HSDPA. Micromax has added even Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity but there was no mention of Bluetooth.
Micromax s Android debut Andro comes with GPS which is quite interesting for an Android handset priced for less than 8K.With measly 150MB internal memory one can add up to 32GB memory card. The phone offers 3.2 megapixel camera with Auto-focus. You can also record video but don t expect amazing quality. Andro A60 will also sport Accelerometer and gravity sensor for users to enjoy the light weight Android-platform based games
Most worrisome part of Andro A60 is the 1280 mAh Lithium-Ion battery that promises just 4 hours of talk time. Now I am not sure if this is going to be a Dual-SIM phone. But it may get some attraction from users to check out the new operating system - Android. Only after getting our hands on to Andro A60 we can say whether it would be a worth competitor to Samsung Galaxy 5 GT-i5503. Slowly, Android is tapping the entry-level mobile phone segment. At the bloggers meet, Micromax also talked about launching 3.5-inch touchscreen bearing Android handset and also a 7-inch tablet. The price of both these devices would be comparatively affordable.
Apple 11″ and 13″ MacBook Air laptops land on Indian shores
Measuring 0.11” at its thinnest point, the MacBook Air sure seems to have gathered the attention of multiple tech enthusiasts. At a press event held in Mumbai yesterday, Apple captivated its fans by unveiling two new MacBook Air models in India. The company representatives also demonstrated new features which are embedded in iLife 11.
The notebook variants have been packaged with thrilling attributes in trendy aluminum unibody enclosure. Sporting the Apple white, these 11” and 13.3” devices weigh 2.3 pounds and 2.9 pounds, respectively. The solid state flash storage which is cited to be more quicker and reliable than others, has been incorporated into the systems. This excellence has reportedly been borrowed by the structure of the iPad.
On the communication front, the laptops come with integrated FaceTime camera, mic and stereo speakers along with a full keyboard and glass multi-touch trackpad. The models are powered by Intel Core 2 Duo processors, while a host of connectivity options like additional USB ports are also planked in. For gamers and multimedia aficionados, Apple has bunched in Nvidia GeForce 320M graphics as well. Moreover, enhanced battery life and standby time are coughed up by both the notebooks.
Interestingly, the iLife 11 software was exemplified at the event since it has been upgraded. Owners are now rendered with more choices to share and create their music, photos and movies. In order to view images, a fresh full screen mode is proffered by the iPhoto 11. The iMovie 11 has been upped by the People Finder feature for simplifying tasks of receiving appropriate clips for home videos. Lastly, the GarageBand 11 has been made snazzier with Flex Time and Groove Matching.
The 11” MacBook Air is anticipated to be available in 64GB and 128GB configurations with a 1.4GHz processor for Rs 60,900 and Rs 72,900, respectively. On the other side, the 13” variant can be purchased in 128GB and 256B densities with a 1.86GHz processor for Rs 79,900 and Rs 98,900, correspondingly. All the notebook versions come with 2GB of memory, whereas users can also select the configure-to-order options and accessories which include faster processors, 4GB of memory, MacBook Air SuperDrive and a USB Ethernet Adapter. The above prices are inclusive of Value Added Tax.
Break Ke Baad (2010)
Danish Aslam's 'Break Ke Baad' is a simple rom-com which works primarily because of some smart and funny lines. Since it's a Kunal Kohli Production, like Yash Raj and Dharma Productions, he tries to get the basics right with slick production qualities. He creates a colourful canvas starting with a flashy North Indian wedding, complete with 'sangeet' and 'mehendi' and follows it up with a quick move to Australia for higher studies. Read Rummana's reivew
Kunal's review for Break Ke Baad
Tired of pretentiously 'different' love stories that end up being the same? Then "Break Ke Baad" is just for you. It doesn't promise to be different and it isn't. It is like every other love story ever told in Bollywood. Boy meets girl, falls in love, differences lead them away from each other (called a 'break' in this case), eventually realise their mistake and how they're meant for each other, run back into each other's arms. Closing credits roll. Now this is a format that will probably not change for another century. But what's refreshing here, is the portrayal of a shiny, young bubblegum generation grappling with relationship issues. And although the style is casual, the issues are just as real and relatable.
SRK's Romance Nets Sania's Vote; Urges Actor To Coach Hubby Shoaib
The trio met up at a prominent sports awards function, anchored by SRK.
States Sania in a tabloid chat, "Shah Rukh's strength is the way he talks and besides, he romances on screen in a very charming way. So, I asked him to share some tips and teach my husband some romantic lines. Of course, it was all done in good humour and SRK was pulling our leg all through the act."
A close insider states,"During the show, in an impromptu question and answer session, SRK asked Shoaib and Sania about their marriage, romance and kids. He also tried his best to get Shoaib and Sania's love story out of his mouth, but all that he got out of him was that it was an ideal example of 'love at first sight', where he proposed to Sania and she agreed instantly."
Adds the source, "Sania added that basically Shoaib speaks very little and believes that true love does not need any expression. Shah Rukh called Shoaib on stage and asked him to repeat some romantic dialogues as Sania had suggested. The three of them also danced to a dance number from 'Veer Zaara'."
Kohli century sets up Indian victory
Kohli century sets up Indian victory
GUWAHATI (Reuters) - Virat Kohli's brisk century set up a 40-run win for India over New Zealand in the first one-day international of a five-match series on Sunday.Kohli struck a 104-ball 105, his second successive and fourth overall ODI century, to guide India to 276 before an abrupt collapse in 49 overs.
Part-timer Yuvraj Singh (three for 43), his lanky spin colleague Ravichandran Ashwin (three for 50) and paceman Shanthakumaran Sreesanth (three for 30) then shared nine wickets as New Zealand folded for 236 in 45.2 overs.
Ross Taylor (66) tried his best and down the order, Nathan McCullum (35) and Kyle Mills (32) threw their bats at everything but that was not enough for the tourists, beaten 1-0 in the recent test series, to avert defeat.
It was the 22-year-old Kohli who set the tone for India, walking in after openers Murali Vijay and Gautam Gambhir had put on 44 and guiding the team to the 250-mark before he fell in the 44th over.
For New Zealand, Andy McKay (four for 62) and Kyle Mills (three for 42) scythed through the lower half of the Indian batting order with the last five wickets making just 26.
Jaipur hosts the second match on Wednesday.
