Showing posts with label technews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label technews. Show all posts

Android 4.4 'KitKat' -The More Compatible, Intelligent and Simple Android Ever

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 12/07/2013 12:33:00 am

Android 4.4 'KitKat' All You Need to Know-The More Compatible, Intelligent and Simple Android Ever 

Earlier we have discussed several times on android- which is one of the world's most popular and widely used operating system based on Linux kernel, mainly designed for smartphones and tablet computers. Since last four years we have got various flavor of android among them 2.2 (Froyo), 2.3.3–2.3.7 (Gingerbread), 3.2 (Honeycomb), 4.0.3–4.0.4 (Ice Cream Sandwich) & 4.1.x-4.3.x (Jelly Bean) successfully drawn public attention and gained popularity. After the success of Jelly Bean, now Google has introduced Android 4.4 nicknamed 'KitKat.' Official website of android explained the reason of this nomenclature -'as everyone finds chocolate so tempting, we decided to name the next version of Android after one of our favorite chocolate treats, the KitKat®!' Immediately after this release android 4.4 is vogue as with this version of android Google improved performance and memory usage, makes this version more compatible than ever; you can easily try KitKat on your older smartphones. Now lets illuminate android 4.4 briefly-

Introduction:-
Readers, I will introduce a simple way the new features of the version of android, "The KitKat" Accompanies the more intelligent and simple search for Android, says the official Google blog, and more importantly, Should Have compatibility with older devices. This means more people que can have access to the innovations than other Android updates.

Performance and improved use of memory:-
Many of the major changes are the KitKat under the hood. The overall performance should improve, especially in relation to RAM. The Android developers site says "KitKat streamlines all the key components to reduce memory consumption", so even older smartphones running Android 4.4 will be faster and more responsive - even with 512MB of RAM. The multitasking should work better and you can switch applications without lock your smartphone.

Simpler and more powerful: (Google Now)
The Google Now gained much prominence in KitKat, with quick, more cards, and more features without using their hands. Not too can wake up your smartphone to start a search and take a picture saying only "OK Google Now"? It's like Google Glass, but on your smartphone.
The Google Now will also gain space on your homescreen, if you want (and you can slide left to right to find it), and Google will add more cards to make your smartphone smarter automatically suferindo things based on your interests , location, and more.

Support SMS, location sharing, and animated GIFs in Hangouts:-
Google announced this week that Hangouts will turn the main messaging app - is text messaging, video calls and instant. If you hate having your conversations scattered in several different apps, with KitKat you need only Hangouts, which replaces the old Mail app.
The use of location sharing can be very convenient when you're meeting a friend and wants to tell exactly where it is.
Finally, if you like to put emojis in messages, are present in many new keyboard Google.

Improvements in NFC, Cloud Printing and File Management:-
The KitKat also includes improvements that developers can now use apps to improve their apps. Regarding the NFC, it may automatically take you to the right app when you touch your device into a payment terminal. Printer manufacturers can develop served to send print files from Android to your printer. And the new framework for access to storage provides a consistent way to access files stored in other facilities in other apps (eg, open or save files in Dropbox or Box when you're in the browser).
In short, I will whole heartily agree with Google while saying -KitKat 4.4 is Smart, simple, and truly yours To know more about Android 4.4 'KitKat' click here

While concluding this article, I on behalf of Team VOGH, want to thank our new guest editor Mr. Rafael Souza, for sharing his view and extensive thought on android 4.4. Rafael we love you. 



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Microsoft Launching Surface With Windows 8 Pro in January Starting at $899 For 64GB & $999 For 128GB

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 12/02/2012 07:02:00 pm

Microsoft Launching Surface With Windows 8 Pro in January Starting at $899 For 64GB & $999 For 128GB

Near about five months ago Microsoft announced that they will introduce a tablet computer of its own design that runs a new version of its Windows operating system, and that tablet was named 'Surface'. After this announcement we got the long awaited Surface tablet based on Windows RT. Now the software giant announced that the next version of its tablet computer which will run on full version of Windows 8 Pro is ready for sale. in a blog post Microsoft confirmed that the device will start at $899 for the 64GB model, with the 128GB version setting you back $999. Both of those are what's Microsoft's dubbing the "standalone" model, which means you'll get a Surface pen/stylus, but have to shell out extra for a Touch or Type Cover (each over $100). Both will be available in January, although there's no specific date or word on pre-orders yet. The current Surface uses the slimmed down Windows RT operating system. As a result, it runs only specially designed applications from Microsoft and others sold through the company's online store. The Pro version of Surface will also run regular Windows applications written for desktops and laptops. "It's a full PC AND a tablet," Surface general manager Panos Panay wrote in a blog post Thursday.
Both Surface RT & Pro looks similar to the including the same "VaporMg" casing and built-in kickstand, and it also boasts a 10.6-inch display with a 16:9 aspect ratio. A key difference with that latter bit, though, is that the screen packs a full 1920 x 1080 resolution as opposed to the 1366 x 768 found on the RT model. You'll also get a third-gen Core i5 processor with Intel HD Graphics 4000 (no more specifics on that just yet), 4GB of RAM, a Mini DisplayPort that can output a 2560 x 1440 resolution, a full-size USB 3.0 port and, of course, Windows 8 Pro with support for all your traditional desktop applications. All that expectedly makes the tablet itself a bit heftier than its RT-based counterpart -- it's just over half-an-inch thick and weighs in at two pounds on the nose.
The spec list confirmed that the Surface Pro will have a 42 W-h battery, but Microsoft has now also expanded on that in a tweet, saying that the device is expected to "have approximately half the battery life of Surface with Windows RT." Based on our testing of the RT version, that should translate to just over four-and-a-half hours.



-Source (Microsoft, Engadget)












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Facebook Launched 'Photo Sync' Automatic Photo Uploading Feature for Android & iOS

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 12/02/2012 07:01:00 pm

Facebook Launched 'Photo Sync' Automatic Photo Uploading Feature for Android & iOS

The social networking giant Facebook announced that it started rolling out Photo Synchronization, in order to add more mobility and ease of use. According to Facebook Newsroom -the new Photo Sync will make photo sharing easier. With this feature, photos from your phone sync automatically to a private album on the web. When you want to share these photos, just pick and post your favorites. If you turn this feature on, up to 2GB of photos from your phone can be synced automatically to a private album on Facebook, from which you can then pick your favorites to share with your friends. It’s important to note that Facebook isn’t launching new Android and iOS apps today. The feature is already included, but the company is turning it on for more and more users, starting with a big push today. To turn the feature on in the Facebook app (if you have an iPhone, iOS 6 is required), tap Photos and then tap Sync at the bottom of your photos section. Once the uploads start coming in, you can check them out and share them via the app, on the mobile Web, or on your computer (go to your Timeline, click Photos, and click “Synced From Phone” at the top of your photos section). To save on the limited amount of space, you can stop photos from being synced by deleting them. In the app, that’s the “Remove synced photo” option once you pick a photo in the Synced section, and on your computer that’s the Delete option when you’re in the “Synced From Phone” folder. The good news is that deleting a photo from your synced photos won’t delete it from your phone’s gallery.
That’s right, you can turn photo syncing on or off, but you can also choose to sync over Wi-Fi only. Normally, when you’re on a cellular network like 3G or 4G, Facebook will sync photos at a smaller size (around 100K each), so they’re unlikely to use much of your data plan. Over a Wi-Fi connection, Facebook will sync larger versions of your photos. The best part: photos will not sync when your battery is low.

Get the latest Facebook app for Android or iPhone to try it out. Learn more at Facebook.com/mobile or visit the Help Center.


-Source (TNW & FB)






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Vulnerability Found in Samsung Printers Allowing Remote Hack

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 11/29/2012 06:02:00 pm

Vulnerability Found in Samsung Printers Allowing Remote Hack 

Bad news for those who are using Samsung and Dell-branded printers, as in an advisory U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US CERT) issued an warning that a hard coded administrative account could allow remote attackers to take control of their device. According to the vulnerability note (VU#281284)- Samsung printers contain a hardcoded account that could allow a remote attacker to take control of an affected device. Samsung printers (as well as some Dell printers manufactured by Samsung) contain a hardcoded SNMP full read-write community string that remains active even when SNMP is disabled in the printer management utility. Manipulating the above vulnerability a remote, unauthenticated attacker could access an affected device with administrative privileges. Secondary impacts include: the ability to make changes to the device configuration, access to sensitive information (e.g., device and network information, credentials, and information passed to the printer), and the ability to leverage further attacks through arbitrary code execution. 
Solution:-
Samsung and Dell have stated that models released after October 31, 2012 are not affected by this vulnerability. Samsung and Dell have also indicated that they will be releasing a patch tool later this year to address vulnerable devices.
Block Port 1118/udp
The reporter has stated that blocking the custom SNMP trap port of 1118/udp will help mitigate the risks.

Restrict Access:
As a general good security practice, only allow connections from trusted hosts and networks. Restricting access would prevent an attacker from accessing an SNMP interface using the affected credentials from a blocked network location.

While talking about vulnerabilities in Printer, then we would like to remind you that late in last year Columbia University Researchers have discovered a vulnerability in some Hewlett-Packard (HP) LaserJet printer lines that could allow attackers to install a modified firmware to steal information, run attacks from within a network or cause physical damage to the printer. Later HP issued firmware to fix those security hole.





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End of Windows Live Messenger: Microsoft Replacing Live Messenger With Skype

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 11/12/2012 06:41:00 am

End of Windows Live Messenger: Microsoft Replacing Live Messenger With Skype

In 2011 the Redmond based software giant Microsoft acquired Skype Communications for US$8.5 billion, later we have seen several ups and downs, along with compliment and criticism of this acquirement. But we have to remember that, it is Microsoft Corporation, who always have done the very best to make its product successful. In case of Skype the same ting happened. Microsoft announced Tuesday that it is retiring Windows Live Messenger & chat tool and replace it with Skype's messaging tool. Microsoft said Windows Live Messenger (WLM) would be turned off by March 2013 worldwide, with the exception of China. This move will allow consumers to use Skype's features such as chat on all platforms including iPad and Android tablets; send instant messages; make video calls; share their screen; join a group chat; and call contacts on their mobile or land lines. This announcement from Microsoft is made in an effort to make Skype the company's main instant messaging software. It reflects the firm's determination to focus its efforts on Skype. 
For the information of VOGH readers, WLM launched in 1999 when it was known as MSN Messenger. According to survey MSN had more than 330 million active users world wide. According to internet analysis firm Comscore, Windows Live Messenger (WLM) still had more than double the number of Skype's instant messenger facility at the start of this year in the US, and was second only in popularity to Yahoo Messenger. But the report suggested WLM's US audience had fallen to 8.3 million unique users, representing a 48% drop year-on-year. By contrast, the number of people using Skype to instant message each other grew over the period. Microsoft highlighted the fact that WLM was still more popular than Yahoo's product in most other territories, but nevertheless decided to call time on the service. To ease the changeover, Microsoft is offering a tool to migrate WLM messenger contacts over. In order to transition over to Skype, just download the latest version, then select the option to sign in with your Microsoft account on the sign in screen. You will then be asked if you’re already using Skype or are a new user. If you use Skype and Messenger already, you can merge your Skype and Messenger account into your Microsoft account. Skype says it will assist users over the coming months to smoothly transition over from Windows Live Messenger. The move is nothing too surprising — it seemed obvious that Microsoft wanted to take advantage of its acquisition of the popular IM and video chat client. So far, it looks like Microsoft is on the right track to do that.


For detailed information about this story Click Here


-Source (Skype, BBC)





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AT&T Locker: Offering Free Cloud Storage For iOS & Android Users

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 11/04/2012 04:52:00 am

AT&T Locker: Offering Free Cloud Storage For iOS & Android Users

AT&T a leader in telecommunication services, announced a brand new service which calls "AT&T Locker" that will allow iPhone and Android smartphone customers of AT&T to store 5GB worth of videos and photos for free in AT&T's cloud. The most interesting thing is that, the service is available through a free app in the Apple App Store or the Google Play store. And it allows users to store roughly 5,000 average sized photos in the cloud. The app requires subscribers use either an iPhone 3GS or newer device. And Android users must be on version 2.1 or higher of the Android OS. Users can choose to upload new photos and video via Wi-Fi, AT&T's cellular network or both. Customers can manage those photos and share them through the app on the smartphone or on the AT&T Locker web page. AT&T plans to incorporate additional features in future versions of AT&T Locker. And the company didn't say whether higher storage options will be available.
This service is exactly similar to Apple's iCloud service also allows up to 5GB of free storage. And it also offers Photo Stream, which allows its iPhone users to automatically store photos in Apple's cloud and share them across multiple iOS devices as well as share them with other people. The service stores up to 1,000 pictures automatically and this storage doesn't count against the iCloud storage limits. Google also offers storage in its Google Drive service. This service also offers up to 5GB of free storage. You can store anything here from pictures to documents to music. Of course there are also other options for storing photos and other digital content including Dropbox and Microsoft's SkyDrive which is also a very handy option. 



Brief Description:-

AT&T Locker™ allows you to Store, sync and share your photos, videos and documents in one convenient place. AT&T Locker is an app that lets you store, sync and share your data in one safe, convenient place. Your content is easy to access on your computer and phone from virtually anywhere. Photos and videos can be backed up automatically from your phone. It's also easy to share to email, Facebook and Twitter. First 5 GB of storage is free. Additional storage is available for the low monthly price of just $3.99 for 30GB or $9.99 for 100GB.

• Photos and videos can be automatically uploaded to your AT&T Locker from your phone
• Easily access your photos, videos and documents from your phone and computer
• Easy to share to email, Facebook and Twitter
• First 5 GB of storage is free. Additional storage is available.
• Your content is secure and backed up in the cloud
• Store your favorite memories in a safe and convenient place
• Store music from your computer to your AT&T Locker



-Source (AT&T, Cnet)






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Microsoft Surface RT Available For Pre-order & Priced $599 With Touch Cover

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 10/21/2012 08:01:00 pm

Microsoft Surface RT Available For Pre-order & Priced $599 With Touch Cover

Near about four months ago Microsoft announced that they will introduce a tablet computer of its own design that runs a new version of its Windows operating system, and that tablet was named 'Surface'. After this announcement Microsoft’s Surface tablet has generated a massive buzz over the last few weeks, culminating in the lowest priced option. After the long wait finally the software giant Microsoft has now unveiled the pricing for both of its ARM-based Surface RT tablets at its Microsoft online stores. The 10.6-inch Surface, powered by Windows RT, will go on sale on October 26th and will be priced starting at $499 for the 32GB version without Touch Cover and a 32GB version with the Touch Cover for $599. Microsoft is also offering 64GB model for $699 with a Touch Cover included. The 9.3mm thin tablet weighs just 1.5lbs and includes a built-in kickstand and vapor-deposited (PVD) magnesium case. Microsoft listed its Surface pricing at its online Microsoft Store this morning, indicating that pre-orders will be available shortly. The company has also listed the prices for its Touch Cover, at $119.99 each, and Type Cover for $129.99. The Touch Cover appears to be available in white, red, black, blue, and purple colors – while the Type Cover is listed as a single item in black. 


For Pre-Order & get Surface Within 3 weeks Click Here. If you are from outside of U.S. and you want to book Surface then Click Here. 





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BlackBerry PlayBook The Most Secure Tablet For BYOD Solution

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 10/07/2012 07:39:00 pm

BlackBerry PlayBook The Most Secure Tablet For BYOD Solution

Now a days users of tablet is increasing everyday. Millions of people across the globe are using tablet for both personal and professional purposes. While the number of users and purposes of using tablet are rising, besides the matter of privacy and security arises. There are many companies who are manufacturing tablet, but before choosing, we should know which one is secured than others. According to a recent report by Context Information Security -the PlayBook of BlackBerry is the only device among three top tablets that gives users a good, safe division between their work and personal computing, a recent technology audit concluded.  The report faulted the PlayBook, as well as the Apple iPad and the Samsung Galaxy Tab, for default settings that don't automatically encrypt backups, and for not offering complementary and compatible tools for IT teams to manage a large number of devices at the business level. According to Jonathan Roach, Principal Consultant at Context and author of the report "While the iPad and BlackBerry PlayBook performed better, both still have security deficiencies -- including desktop software that fails to encrypt backups by default." He also said "Context found the PlayBook to be the most work-ready personal tablet of the three, due to its Bridge application's excellent support of barriers between work and personal profiles," 
According to report by contrast, Apple's wildly popular iPad sold more than 17 million units last quarter. Context found the iPad to be the second-most-secure device, citing its "robust data protection and damage limitation facilities," but said on its news page that the device was still vulnerable to jailbreak attacks and "ineffective disk encryption unless a strong passcode policy is applied." 
The report also found the Galaxy Tab's security features to be the least work-play ready, with weak disk-encryption support. The Galaxy Tab's lack of tools tailored to enterprise use makes it "very difficult to manage more than a small number of Galaxy Tabs in an enterprise environment," a point Apple also falls short on. The report criticized the Galaxy Tab's encryption as well. Even with encryption enabled, the report found that Samsung's device still "allows badly-written apps to store sensitive information on the unencrypted SD card." The report also praised all three tablets for their support of Exchange ActiveSync, a feature that allows crucial security settings to be managed from a central server running Microsoft software. But the study noted important differences among the devices that may make some tablets more appropriate for dual use in both the home and the office.
"Despite that security advantage, RIM only managed to ship 130,000 tablets last quarter. By contrast, Apple's wildly popular iPad sold more than 17 million units last quarter. Context found the iPad to be the second-most-secure device, citing its 'robust data protection and damage limitation facilities,' but said on its news page that the device was still vulnerable to jailbreak attacks and 'ineffective disk encryption unless a strong passcode policy is applied" -Jonathan added


To Download the full Report Click Here


-Source (Context Information Security & NBC News)


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Samsung Galaxy S3, S2 & HTC Android Phones are Vulnerable to 'remote wipe' Hack

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 9/29/2012 02:33:00 am

Samsung Galaxy S3, S2 & HTC Android Phones are Vulnerable to 'remote wipe' Hack

Yet again a large number of Android users have been warned of a security hole. Security experts have uncovered that millions of Android handsets including the Samsung Galaxy S3, Galaxy S2, HTC One X and HTC Desire can be wiped just by visiting a malicious website that embeds particular code in weblinks. A user with a vulnerable handset who visits a page and clicks a link containing the malicious code would see their phone wiped, losing personal data such as photos and texts as well as repleaceable data such as contact details and apps. The flaw is caused by a security hole in some versions of Android's dialler software, which allows the "tel:" URL prefix to be used on a webpage to perform functions on the phone's dialling software. Normally that is useful for functions such as initiating a call on the handset directly from a site. But the tel: prefix can also be used to pass a string of non-numeric data to the dialler.
Special strings of characters can perform other functions; for example typing #06# on the dialler will display a phone's IMEI number. The flaw exploits a string that activates a factory reset of some phones because they do not force a user interaction before carrying out the function encoded in the string. The code would have to be embedded as a link to cause the user to activate it - but it would be easy to represent it as an innocent link to Google or any site. Pressing the link would initiate the wipe.
Users of vulnerable handsets may be able to install a third-party dialler and make that the default as protection against the "remote wipe" attack. Experts also pointed out that not all Android handsets have the capability for a remote wipe built in - although the number of models discovered with the vulnerability has grown since it became known on Tuesday.
Dylan Reeve, a New Zealand-based TV editor who first brought the flaw to wide notice, says that Samsung Galaxy phones which use Android 4.1 will be safe from the hack. But that still leaves millions of Galaxy S2 and some S3 models which will not have had the correct revision of the firmware rolled out to them and which could be hit.  
Though the vulnerability was fixed in Android's core code earlier this year, that code has not been propagated to every handset in use. The fact that the flaw existed in handsets from Samsung and HTC - the two biggest vendors of Android handsets - also suggests that a huge number of existing handsets could include the outdated code.

Samsung said in a statement that it has already provided a patch for the Galaxy S3, but it is not clear how long that will take for operator approval and rollout. In general software updates to any phone have to first be tested and approved by the carrier supporting the phone. Samsung said it is testing a patch for the Galaxy S2, but had no information on when it will be available or how it will be distributed. But HTC has issued a statement saying that "our devices do not support a USSD code to factory reset option." This means that they should not be vulnerable to the exploit described below.


-Source (Guardian)



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Prison CCTV System are Under Attack By Worm Named 'Conficker'

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 9/29/2012 02:32:00 am

Prison CCTV System are Under Attack By Worm Named 'Conficker'

Yet again worm named 'conficker' has been spotted in the wild and this time it's showing some dangerous tricks. Security researcher from Symantec has unveiled that is infamous malware have managed to hack all the computers that control closed circuit television (CCTV) system of an unknown prison. Representatives from the correctional institutions were adamant that all the required security measures be all set and be in place so that the malware might be blocked, thus claiming that the threats were identified by protective software that were most likely false positives. Symantec experts found that a different Windows server 2003 system was required to control the prison CCTV system after examining the whole incident, and that system had remained unpatched as updates are formed interoperability problems with the cameras. An infection is introduced unintentionally through a USB drive while a contractor doing maintenance on the system. The recorded footage is modified by the threat insisting the prison's representative to catalogue it as "tampered evidence". While commenting on the matter, Director of Managed Security Services for the Asia Pacific and Japan region at anti-virus firm (Symantec), Peter Sparkes denoted that a CCTV was found to cause infection and identified as a threat, through a maintenance device. It is a software update by the involvement of a third party was that was into maintaining the CCTV.


-Source (SPAMfighter News)







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Apple Releases iOS 6 With 200+ New Features & Mountain Lion 10.8.2 With Facebook Integration & Game Center

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 9/23/2012 12:05:00 am

Apple Releases iOS 6 With 200+ New Features & Mountain Lion 10.8.2 With Facebook Integration & Game Center

As expected, here comes double bang from Apple. Apple has also released  iOS 6 along with OS X Mountain Lion 10.8.2 and made available for public. In case of users of recent iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch models can obtain the update either by connecting their devices to iTunes and clicking the "Check for Update" button or checking for over-the-air updates on their devices. iOS 6 adds over 200 new features, including Apple's own Maps app, Facebook integration, Siri improvements, Apple's new Passbook digital wallet app, and more. iOS 6 is compatible with the third-generation iPad, iPad 2, iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, and fourth-generation iPod touch. It will also ship on the iPhone 5, which launches on Friday, and on the fifth-generation iPod touch launching next month. The operating system arrives as the golden master build 10A403 for existing devices, and Apple has also posted a special 10A405 build for the iPhone 5 and a 10A406 build for the upcoming fifth-generation iPod touch.

With iOS Apple quietly pushed out 10.8.2, the second minor update to Mountain Lion since it was released in July. The update is currently available via the Software Update functionality in the Mac App Store. The update includes a number of enhancements, most notably Facebook integration and Game Center. It also includes support for several features integrating with iOS 6, such as Passbook passes and  iMessage/FaceTime access via phone number. 

This update is recommended for all OS X Mountain Lion users, and includes new features and fixes:
Facebook 
• Single sign on for Facebook
• Adds Facebook as an option when sharing links and photos
• See Facebook friends' contact information and profile pictures in Contacts
• Facebook notifications now appear in Notification Center



Game Center
• Share scores to Facebook, Twitter, Mail, or Messages
• Facebook friends are included in Game Center friend recommendations
• Added Facebook "Like" button for games
• Challenge friends to beat your score or achievement



Other new features
• Adds Power Nap support for MacBook Air (Late 2010)
• iMessages sent to your phone number now appear in Messages on your Mac
• You can now add passes to Passbook (on your iPhone or iPod touch) from Safari and Mail on your Mac
• FaceTime can now receive calls sent to your phone number
• New shared Reminders lists
• New sort options allow you to sort notes by title, the date you edited them, and when you created them
• Dictation now supports additional languages: Mandarin, Cantonese, Spanish, Korean, Canadian English, Canadian French, and Italian
• Dictionary app now includes a French definition dictionary
Sina Weibo profile photos can now be added to Contacts

* Requires iOS 6


General fixes
The OS X Mountain Lion v10.8.2 update also includes general operating system fixes that improve the stability, compatibility and security of your Mac, including the following fixes:


• Adds an option to discard the changes in the original document when choosing Save As 
• Unsent drafts are now opened automatically when launching Mail
• Receive Twitter notifications for mentions and replies from anyone
• URLs are shortened when sending tweets from Notification Center
• Notifications are disabled when AirPlay Mirroring is being used
• Adds SSL support for Google searches from the Smart Search Field in Safari
• Adds a new preference to have Safari launch with previously open webpages
• Resolves an issue that may cause the "Enable Autodiscover" checkbox to always remain checked
• Enables access to the Mac App Store when Parental Controls are enabled Support for @icloud.com email addresses
• Resolves a video issue with some VGA projectors when connected to certain Mac notebooks
• Addresses an issue that may prevent Active Directory accounts from being locked out
• Resolves an issue that may cause the policy banner to re-appear prior to logging in
• Improvements to SMB
• Addresses an issue with NIS users when auto-login is enabled
• Addresses an issue in which the Keychain may not be accessible
• Ability to pre-authenticate a FileVault protected system
• Addresses an issue that may cause Xsan to not automatically start after migrating from Mac OS X Snow Leopard 


Direct downloads of OS X 10.8.2 is also available through Apple's site form the following links-



-Source (Apple & MacRumors)                             




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Microsoft Issues 'fix it' To Close Internet Explorer 0-day Vulnerability

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 9/20/2012 05:40:00 pm

Microsoft Issues 'fix it' To Close Internet Explorer 0-day Vulnerability 

Last few days the whole cyber world have gone through with so many drama of Internet Explorer's security bug, as researchers have unveiled four active exploits of a zero-day vulnerability in the browser. As expected the software giant Microsoft has released an emergency fix to get rid of these major security issues. Microsoft released a “fix it” tool for a critical security flaw in most versions of Internet Explorer 6, 7, 8 and 9  that hackers have been exploiting to break into Windows systems. The company said it expects to issue an official patch (MS12-063) for the vulnerability on Friday, Sept. 21. "While we have only seen a few attempts to exploit this issue, impacting an extremely limited number of people, we are taking this proactive step to help ensure Internet Explorer customers are protected and able to safely browse online," said Yunsun Wee, director of Microsoft Trustworthy Computing in a statement. The zero-day in IE 6-9 is a use-after-free memory corruption vulnerability, similar to a buffer overflow, that would enable an attacker to remotely execute code on a compromised machine. The original exploit payload dropped the PoisonIvy remote access Trojan (RAT) via a corrupted Flash movie file. The latest payload discovered dropped the PlugX RAT via the same corrupted Flash movie, Blasco said. He also said the new exploits are the work of the Chinese hacker group Nitro, the same group behind a pair of Java zero-day exploits disclosed in August.

Blasco also said the new exploits appear to be targeting defense contractors in the United States and India.
Microsoft recommended several workarounds Tuesday morning before announcing its intention to send out a FixIt.
  • Setting Internet and local Internet security zone settings to high, which would block ActiveX Controls and Active Scripting in both zones
  • Configure IE to prompt the user before running Active Scripting, or disable Active Scripting in both zones
  • Use of Microsoft's Enhanced Mitigation Experience Toolkit provides mitigations as well, and would not impact website usability, as both of the first two options might.
Microsoft also said that IE running on Windows Server 2003, 2008 and 2008R2 runs in a restricted mode that mitigates the vulnerability. Outlook, Outlook Express and Windows Mail also open HTML messages in a restricted zone, mitigating the vulnerabilty but should a user click a link in a message, they could still be vulnerable to exploit.





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Google Added Do Not Track (DNT) Facility in Chrome (User Privacy Implemented)

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 9/15/2012 03:48:00 pm

Google Added Do Not Track (DNT) Facility in Chrome Web-Browser (User Privacy Implemented)

Few months ago Microsoft made Do Not Track (DNT) facility available by default in Internet Explorer 10. So here comes the turn for Chrome. In February internet giant Google has agreed with the White House's Consumer Privacy Bill and here comes the result. Google has implemented the Do Not Track (DNT) header in its Chrome web browser, while promising to respect DNT headers set by visitors to its web site. 

First it was Mozilla who proposed the Do Not Track mechanism, later it has been garnered support from all major browser makers and a majority of the technology industry. 
Users who want to take advantage of the new DNT capabilities in Chrome will have to install the latest "bleeding edge" developer build in the form of the Chrome Canary branch. However, this version is not recommended for use in production environments. Users who are running a stable version of the browser will have to wait some months for the feature to arrive in the mainstream version.
"Do Not Track" is a tool that allows browser users to restrict advertisers from collecting information about their online Web activities. It has the backing of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. Browsers with "Do Not Track" turned on don't block cookies but send a message to advertisers that the user does not want to be tracked. Companies voluntarily decide whether to comply with "Do Not Track," much as they currently decide whether to comply with the "Do Not Call" registry. Microsoft's announcement that it would turn on "Do Not Track" by default in IE10 angered advertisers. "The Digital Advertising Alliance, a coalition that counts Microsoft as a member, said that the decision ran counter to the industry's agreement with the White House announced earlier this year to honor 'do not track' as long as it is not a default setting," many international standards bodies.


-Source (The-H)





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Wikipad -Android Based Gaming Tablet Coming on October For $499

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 9/10/2012 05:53:00 pm

Wikipad -Android Based Gaming Tablet Coming on October For $499

The long awaited gaming tablet with detachable controls based on Android  is set for release on October 31st. The mobile gaming tablet is named 'Wikipad' will be available for $499. Online retailing store, GameStop which has tied-up with Wikipad, has already started taking pre-orders for the Tegra-3 based tablet. Furthermore, those who pre-order a Wikipad will receive value added extras, including one issue of the GameStop-owned Game Informer digital magazine, and "full-length titles." Though these games were not announced, but GameStop plans to reveal them soon. The Wikipad will support games downloadable through PlayStation Mobile, Nvidia's Tegra Zone, Google Play and other forthcoming platforms.
Wikipad sports a 10.1-inch IPS display and will have a 1280×800 resolution. It is powered by an Nvidia Tegra 3 processor clocking at 1.4GHz. It will come with 1GB RAM and 8GB on-board storage expandable to 64GB. To put your game face on, just attach the gaming controller which features multiple buttons and analog joysticks.
Wikipad has also partnered with Gaikai for streaming video games. Gaikai, previously known as the Sony Cloud service, was bought by the company for $380 million. Gamers will be able to stream Gaikai's library of titles to their Wikipad, including big titles like Battlefield 3, Mass Effect 3 and Saints Row: The Third. 

About Wikipad:- Wikipad Inc. is a leading developer and designer of video game console tablets and devices. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Wikipad Inc. is uniquely positioned as pioneers and innovators in the mobile entertainment world. Wikipad is leading the way with its accessible and comfortable consumer devices focused on video game content while enabling traditional functions such as productivity, web, education, media and music content.

For Pre-Order Booking Click Here



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Sony Playstaion Vita is Vulnerable to Hacking !!

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 9/09/2012 01:00:00 am

Sony Playstaion Vita is Vulnerable to Hacking !!

Sony has always been the worst luck when it has come to hacking and preventing themselves from victimizing their system. Today a Gaming community named 'NeoGAF' said Sony's Playstaion Vita has allegedly been hacked. According to a coder and developer Yifan Lu there is a weakness that could lead to the hacking of the Vita.  Yifanlu started a new project called Usermode Vita Loader (UVLoader), it will be a homebrew loader for the PSV, basically. The project is allegedly based on a PS Vita exploit found by Yifan Lu, but no details have been revealed. At this stage only a few lines of code have been written. Being in such an early stage, there is no release date and it doesn't work, but Yifan Lu is actively seeking developers to assist in the project. Lu said he would be updating details on his personal blog. 
Almost anyone who is involved or knows of the gaming & security industry knows that the relation between Sony and hackers are not healthy at all. Since last year the battle between hacktivist Anonymous, Lulzsec and Sony is running. Hackers have penetrated Sony's PSN network and stolen millions of user personal information. Later Sony was forced to shutdown its entire network & apologized for the whole massacre. Not only PSN, also Sony Online Entertainment, Sony Pictures, Several Sony's official website from different countries fallen victim to the hackers. Even last month hackers from Anonymous claimed to have breached PSN once again which affected more than 10 million users. Later Sony denies the hack. 






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Microsoft Releases Windows Server 2012 [Download Now]

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 9/06/2012 04:32:00 pm

Microsoft Releases Windows Server 2012 With Complete Virtualization, Cloud Services, Improved Scalability & Performance [Download Now]

In March this year software giant Microsoft has announced the availability of Windows Server 8, later in April it has been renamed to Windows Server 2012. Windows Server powers many of the worlds' largest datacenters, enables small businesses around the world, and delivers value to organizations of all sizes in between. Windows Server 2012 redefines the server category, delivering hundreds of new features and enhancements spanning virtualization, networking, storage, user experience, cloud computing, automation, and more. Simply put, Windows Server 2012 helps you transform your IT operations to reduce costs and deliver a whole new level of business value. With Windows Server 2012, Microsoft delivers a server platform built on our experience of building and operating many of the world's largest cloud-based services and datacenter. Whether you are setting-up a single server for your small business or architecting a major new datacenter environment, Windows Server 2012 will help you cloud-optimize your IT so you can fully meet your organization's unique needs. 

Features at a Glance:- 

Beyond Virtualization:- Offers a dynamic, multitenant infrastructure to help you scale and secure workloads and build a private cloud. Windows Server 2012 can help you provide:

  • Complete Virtualization Platform- A fully-isolated, multitenant environment with tools that can help guarantee service level agreements, enable usage-based chargeback, and support self-service delivery.
  • Improved Scalability and Performance- A high-density, scalable environment that you can modify to perform at an optimum level based on your needs.
  • Connecting to Cloud Services- A common identity and management framework to enable highly secure and reliable cross-premises connectivity.

The Power of Many Servers, the Simplicity of One:- Delivers a highly available and easy to manage cloud-optimized platform. Windows Server 2012 can help you provide:

  • Flexible Storage- Diverse storage choices that can help you achieve high performance, availability, and storage resource efficiency through virtualization and storage conservation.
  • Continuous Availability- New and improved features that provide cost-effective, highly available services with protection against a wide range of failure scenarios.
  • Management Efficiency- Automation of a broad set of management tasks and simplified deployment of workloads as you move toward full, lights-out automation.

Every App, Any Cloud:- Offers a cloud-optimized server platform that gives you the flexibility to build and deploy applications and websites on-premises, in the cloud, or across both. Windows Server 2012 can help you deliver:

  • Flexibility to Build On-Premises and in the Cloud- A consistent set of tools and frameworks that enables developers to build symmetrical or hybrid applications across the datacenter and the cloud.
  • A Scalable and Elastic Infrastructure- New features to help you increase website density and efficiency, plus frameworks, services, and tools to increase the scalability and elasticity of modern applications.
  • An Open Web and App Development Environment- An open platform that enables mission-critical applications and provides enhanced support for open standards, open-source applications, and various development languages.


Modern Workstyle, Enabled:- Provides users with flexible access to data and applications while simplifying management and maintaining security, control, and compliance. Windows Server 2012 can help you offer:

  • Access to Applications and Data from Virtually Anywhere, Any Device- Seamless, on-demand access to virtualized work environments from virtually anywhere.
  • A Full Windows Experience Anywhere- A personalized and rich user experience from virtually any device that adapts to different network conditions quickly and responsively.
  • Enhanced Data Security and Compliance- Granular access to data and corporate resources based on strong identity, data classification, and centralized policy administration and auditing.

To Download Windows Server 2012 (Both iso & VHD) Click Here


-Source (Microsoft) 







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VMware Announces The Availability of VMware Workstation™ 9 (Download Free Trial)

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 9/04/2012 03:34:00 pm

VMware Announces The Availability of VMware Workstation™ 9 (Download Free Trial)

The global leader in virtualization and cloud infrastructure, VMware globally announced the general availability of its Workstation Version 9, the latest version of its award-winning personal virtualization software. VMware Workstation 9 delivers best-in-class Windows 8 support and innovative new features that transform the way technical professionals work with virtual machines whether they reside on the PC or on enterprise private clouds.  “For over a decade we have consistently delivered innovative new technologies with each Workstation release and Workstation 9 continues this tradition,” said Vittorio Viarengo, vice president, End-User Computing, VMware. “Workstation 9 brings the power of VMware virtualization to any IT professional desk and enables them to leverage the latest evolution of operating systems, processors and other technologies to be more productive and effective.”

Key  features in VMware Workstation 9 include:-
  • Windows 8 Support– Easy install simplifies the task of creating virtual machines for Windows 8 that can run simultaneously with a variety of legacy operating systems. Unity mode intelligently works with Windows 8 applications, and multi-touch support ensures a true Windows 8 experience. 
  • More Powerful Virtual Machines – Faster startup performance, USB 3.0 support for Windows 8 virtual machines, Intel™ Ivy Bridge compatibility, more powerful virtualization extensions, virtual performance counters, support for OpenGL 2.1 on Linux and improved 3D graphics performance make running highly demanding applications simple and efficient.
  • Increased Mobility – A new Web interface allows access to virtual machines running in Workstation or on VMware vSphere® from tablets, smart phones, laptops or desktop PCs.  This high performance, Web-based interface delivers a native desktop experience and does not require flash or browser-based plug-ins.
  • Restricted Virtual Machines – IT administrators and instructors can create virtual machines and configure them to prevent employees or students from dragging and dropping files between virtual and physical desktops, attaching devices, or tampering with the virtual machine settings.  Once restrictions are configured, the virtual machines can be encrypted and distributed to run on Mac, Windows, or Linux PCs with VMware Fusion® 5 Professional, Workstation 9, or VMware Player™ 5.
  • Better 3D Graphics- With faster 3D graphics and support for DirectX 9.0c Shader Model 3 and OpenGL 2.1 3D graphics in a Windows and now Linux virtual machine, VMware Workstation easily handles demanding 3D applications like AutoCAD, Solidworks, and many current games.

To know detailed information about VMware Workstation 9 click Here. To Download a free trial Click Here.


-Source (VMware)








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Registration Open For Microsoft’s Imagine Cup 2013, Prize Money Boosted

Posted by Avik Sarkar On 9/01/2012 04:51:00 pm

Registration Open For Microsoft’s Imagine Cup 2013, Prize Money Boosted 

After the success of  'Blue Hat' Security Contest, now it is the time for Microsoft’s Imagine Cup. Redmond based software giant Microsoft has been organizing its Imagine Cup student technology competition for the last 10 years and today, the company opened registration for the 2013 edition of this event. Students ages 16 and older can now register for their national events and the winners of these local events will be flown to St. Petersburg, Russia, where the worldwide finals will take place from July 8 to 11. For this edition of Imagine Cup, Microsoft has doubled the prize money to $300,000. Since the first Imagine Cup in 2003, says Microsoft, over 1.65 million students across the globe have participated in Imagine Cup and a number of the teams that made it to the finals (and many that have not) went on to create startups.


Here is Microsoft’s description of the new core competitions:
  • World Citizenship: Honors the software application developed on Microsoft platforms with the greatest potential to make a positive impact on humanity. For example, a project might address education-, social- or healthcare-related problems.
  • Games: Honors the most engaging and entertaining games targeting teens and youth, built on Microsoft platforms (Windows 8, Windows Phone, Kinect for Windows Software Development Kit, and Xbox Indie Games).
  • Innovation: Honors apps that give consumers inspiration and innovation at their fingertips, whether it be a new spin on social networks, online shopping or search, built with Microsoft tools and technology.


The winners of each of these competitions will get $50,000. In addition to the core competitions, students can also compete in a number of online challenges focused on specific technologies and platforms, including Windows 8, Windows Azure and Windows Phone. For detailed information click Here.



-Source (Microsoft, Imagine Cup & TC)




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