As far as specs go, there isn’t anything breathtaking to be had: 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, 4.3″+ AMOLED display, 1 GB of RAM, 8mp/VGA rear/front cameras, LTE, and Android 4.0 ICS

Either way, we're getting antsy for some new Android 4.0 hardware from the big 4 Android manufacturers. The waiting has carried on far too long, wouldn’t you say?

Fast forward a few months and then AT&T’s anti-consumer habits grew stronger; they started throttling customers on unlimited plans who were in the “top 5%” of data users on their network. Ok. Fair enough. How much is that? AT&T wouldn’t tell us. Eventually, AT&T relented that the throttling figure was a sliding number based on location and current network load at any given point in time — a very vague response that frankly gives them the ability to do whatever they want, when they want. Based off of numerous personal accounts on Twitter, Facebook, individual websites, forums, etc., the original throttling threshold was in the 4-5 GB range.

And now in early 2012 AT&T is once again taking another chance to screw us over by lowering the threshold for data throttling threshold further…

Take for example, this tweet by 148apps.com founder @Jeff148apps. According to Jeff, his wife received the dreaded throttling text message alerting her to “excessive” data usage. The damage: 1.1 GB. What’s even more ridiculous — As if calling 1.1 GB of data usage excessive wasn’t enough… — is that Jeff, who is on the same plan, is currently sitting at ~1.6 GB on the same unlimited data plan but has yet to receive any such message. So why the discrepancy? Easy. AT&T’s method of throttling makes sense on paper, but in the end it fails (and fails hard) because it isn’t logical on a broad scale, nor is it fair.

One month if you convinced your entire county to have an all-you-can-eat data freak fest, one might be able to push the throttling threshold up to 4, 5, or more gigabytes because, based on AT&T’s own explanations, data throttling is partially tied to how much the “average” is in a given area. But wait a minute. Throttling is also tied to available bandwidth. If you’ve got a few thousand people nom nomming through insane amounts of data, chances are AT&T’s going to blow up your information super highway and re-route you to an unpaved, single-lane bike path in terms of data speed. But what if the next month nobody touches their smartphone except you and the “average” becomes 50 MB. Now something as small as moderately intense (graphically speaking) iOS/Android game will blow you past the average for your locale and cause throtlled speeds to take affect. It’s a terrible system.

Of course, AT&T is contradicting themselves with each and every public announcement regarding throttling combined with altered data plans. AT&T’s statement: Our network is soooo crushed by data that we can’t possibly offer more data to users…we’re running out of spectrum…the world is ending for us. AT&T’s action: Hey everyone! We now have a higher tier data plan (2 GB –> 3 GB). While you do have to pay an extra $5/month for 3 GB of data vs. $25/month for the old 2 GB tier, it doesn’t add up on paper. If the number of people who were routinely exceeding 2 GB of data per month (and would therefore benefit from a 3 GB plan) were as low as AT&T claimed, they’re shooting themselves in the foot by only geting $5/month for that extra gig instead of the old overage fee of $10 for each additional gigabyte over 2 GB. They’re enticing people to use more data while simultaneously bitching about how terribly overcrowded their network is.

All that said, there’s absolutely no reason to be throttled under 5 GB on an unlimited data plan, even considering the unanimous move by carriers to put customers on tiered plans as well as never-ending tales of spectrum shortages. We’d wager that a decent number of AT&T customers left for Verizon when they first received the iPhone 4 (whom had unlimited data at the time, too), and more recently Sprint whom, you guessed it, had/still has unlimited data. To say the continuously dwindling number of unlimited data users on AT&T are putting more and more strain on their network is a blatant lie that no amount of number fudging can hide.

In the end, you the consumer can do nothing. AT&T is a mega-corporation with so much money wrapped up in D.C. lobbyists they’ll get anything (except a monopolistic merger) that they want. In this case, the data throttling policies being increasingly tweaked by AT&T which go against public statements are not based on lots of “research” as they claim, but something more random, more mysterious and as far from logic as one could comprehend.

The new bug: A thief/hacker can delete the user data for Google Wallet on the device, set up a new account complete with new pin, and then select an option to use a previously used/saved pre-paid card.

Bug #2 was found by TheSmartphoneChamp team and have backed it up with video proof. We’d try it ourselves but we don’t have a Google Wallet capable device. That said, the same way to protect yourself in this instance (similar to the first security scare from earlier this week) is to put either a password or lockscreen pattern on your phone. It might be inconvenient for you now, but we’re fairly certain having to deal with stolen money/personal information will be a much bigger pain in your ass should your phone get snatched.

Be sure to keep checking back as we’ll keep you updated on the latest HTC (and other manufacturers’) Android 4.0 update schedules as they’re announced/leaked.

Another gem: customization (by Motorola) is also cited as a reason for update slowdowns. Our response is the same as it was to the “too much hardware” comment — get rid of it. The empty UI skins that manufacturers slap on top of Android add zero value. Let us stress that skins and manufacturer apps are two different things. The former is a waste of everyone’s time while the latter are generally pretty lackluster too, though do offer up some added functionality here and there.

Further casting doubt on the legitimacy of Wyatt’s response is the fact that individual Android developers whom have far less time, money, or living bodies to devout to updating hardware manage to get it down far faster. Why a company as large as Moto (or HTC, Samsung and LG) can’t have this stuff handled in a more timely manner is a conundrum that might have even stumped Einstein himself.

Motorola is calling out the very things they do as problems getting in the way of speedier Android updates yet they continually shoot themselves in the foot. How do these people get hired?

Still interested? Hop inside.

Cheers is the brain child of Farhad Mohit (Shopzilla and BizRate.com) as well as acquired talent from Google and Stumbleupon.

The gist of Cheers is to not so much share artsy pictures like Instagram, but to “share life” and allow you and your followers to rate and comment on those special moments. The overall layout borrows from various other social apps including the aforementioned Instagram, Oink, and Stamped, but differentiates witha vastly different color palette. Also, similar to its competitors, Cheers ties into Facebook, Twitter, and others by allowing quick and easy friending/inviting and sharing of content.

Rating of users and content is measured by “Cheerfluence”, though according to the devs, isn’t meant to be taken too seriously.

On the surface I must admit I really like Cheers. It’s a beautiful app (more-so than the other apps mentioned here, save for maybe Instagram) that makes me want to use it even if their amount of users is still low.

And there-in lies the problem. Even the best looking mobile apps can have a stagnant, pittance of a following. A perfect example of this is Path. Path has shown what a good UI can do; a lot of hype and prolonged “honeymooning” was made possible by Path’s gorgeous UI and unique layout. Facebook, meanwhile, is a perfect example of the opposite — a (now) decent UI and utterly terrible experience can still trounce good design/layout and a more personal/inviting experience at the end of the day. And that’s sad. I’ve deleted the stock Facebook app from most of my iOS devices because it’s buggy and can’t even make the simplest of tasks, notifications, work without me wanting to punch Zuckerberg in the head.

While Cheers isn’t quite as unique as Path in the aspect of UI, it is a well designed, niche social networking app that given enough media hype, could elicit a small but loyal following. And who knows, Cheers could even become the next Instagram. This particular sector of the market is so full of competition it’s almost impossible to amass Facebook/Twitter-like numbers at this point. But we’re hoping Cheers is different in the public’s mind.

How Cheers Could Beat Facebook

If we think about “what’s next” for Cheers now that their mobile app is out, we know how they could challenge even the mighty Facebook — build a full blown website that can be used on phone, tablet, computer, smart toothbrush, etc. Instead of “Liking” something, in a year or two the new hot thing could be “Cheering” things. While the mobile-only route is notable given the continual increase of time spent on mobile devices, truly becoming a “life sharing” service requires more than just a phone app. We’d certainly love to see Cheers (or anyone, actually) shake up Facebook’s monopoly.

I’ll give Cheers a couple of weeks (and hope you will too). If you decide to join, be sure to give me a follow (thegadgeteur) so we can really put Cheers to the test, and don’t forget to comment on your experience with Cheers. Time for eye candy.

More: Chee.rs

Gallery

Further adding credibility to AllThingD’s claim is a recent discovery of “March 9th” being detailed in newly released carrier profiles for iOS 5.1 straight from Apple — files which could mean absolutely nothing at all, or, could mean Apple will launch both the new iPad and software.

Generally speaking, when (multiple) pieces of a next-gen Apple device begin hitting the web in troves, it’s usually a good sign that we’re nearing the official announcement/release.

That said, the iPad 3 is still shrouded in mystery. Until Apple makes it official (or people starting leaving those in bars) we’re not going to know for sure.

Catch the SwaggSec announcement after the break.

## Hacking Today for an Entertaining Tomorrow.

Users of Cyberspace,

So Foxconn thinks they got ‘em some swagger because they work with the Big Boys from Intel, Microsoft, IBM, and Apple? Fool, You don’t know what swagger is. They say you got your employees all worked up, committing suicide ‘n stuff. They say you hire chinese workers ’cause you think the taiwanese are elite. We got somethin’ served up good…real good. Your not gonna’ know what hit you by the time you finish this release. Your company gonna’ crumble, and you deserve it.
Upon switching the radio from Nicki Minaj’s self-enforcing, lack of content, stereotypical song, “Stupid Hoe”; We switched on BBC Radio, the leading source of unbiased material. A short segment on the manufacturer giant Foxconn, came up reporting on the inhuman conditions the workers experience. A few days later an almost viral rumor about an Iphone 5 with a 4-inch screen being manufactured, as claimed by an employee from the infamous Foxconn. Now as a first impression Swagg Security would rather not deceive the public of our intentions. Although we are considerably disappointed of the conditions of Foxconn, we are not hacking a corporation for such a reason and although we are slightly interested in the existence of an Iphone 5, we are not hacking for this reason. We hack for the cyberspace who share a few common viewpoints and philosophies. We enjoy exposing governments and corporations, but the more prominent reason, is the hilarity that ensues when compromising and destroying an infrastructure. How unethical right? Perhaps for the layman who has conformed to a society raised by the government that actively seeks to maintain power and quell threats to their ventures. But to us and many others, the destruction of an infrastructure, the act of destruction that does not affect an individual, brings a sense of newfound content, a unique feeling, along with a new chance to start your own venture.
This is Swagg Security, we aim to to reshape your perspectives, our perspectives, by the inducing of entertainment. A unique approach to spreading a unique philosophy which brings the sought after tranquility. In a way we are “hacktivist”, but in our own views we are Greyhats. We believe there is no reality in hacktivism, even with good intentions. We know those who claim to be “hacktivists” that inside of you, a suppressed part of you, enjoys playing a part in the anarchist event of hacking of an infrastructure. One which at the same time presents a challenge, upon completing reveals an almost unknown feeling of a menacing satisfaction. We encourage not to continue quelling such a natural emotion but to embrace it. Only when embracing what society has taught you to hinder, is when you realize your own identity.
We encourage media, security experts, and other interested individuals to explore our leaks. Foxconn did have an appropriate firewall, but fortunately to our intent, we were able to bypass it almost flawlessly. Of course with funding ourselves we did have our limitations. But with several hacking techniques employed, and a couple of days in time, we were able to dump most of everything of significance. We now appropriately give consent to other individuals reading this release, to scavenge through the leaks acquiring usernames and passwords; while attempting to find if they use the passwords anywhere else. Remember damage is bliss. Without further undue, the leaks.

The Hackers with Swagger,
Swagg Security
Note: The passwords inside these files could allow individuals to make fraudulent orders under big companies like Microsoft, Apple, IBM, Intel, and Dell. Be careful ; )

Torrent to Foxconn Leak and Dump(Please Seed):
-:- http://thepiratebay.se/torrent/7016541/Foxconn_Leaked___-_Swagg_Security_- -:-

http://twitter.com/SwaggSec

If you haven’t heard, Path, a popular, niche social networking app for iOS has recently come under fire for yanking each and every contact in users’ address books and uploading it to Path servers — all without notifying the user. Today, Path CEO issued a public apology saying that (1) it wouldn’t happen again, (2) that a new version is making it’s way to the App Store storefront with an opt-in option for sharing contact info, and finally (3) Path is deleting all ill-gotten contact info from their servers. You could argue that Path made a terrible mistake in taking the contact information of their loyal users as they did, and that they don’t deserve the customers they have. But we’ll counter with that they’re going above and beyond (and much faster we might add) than your typical, larger social networking site/service would. The new 2.0.6 version of Path with the opt-in contact sharing should be live in the App Store as we type. (Via: Cnet)

On a similar upbeat tone, Nest and their new lawsuit against Honeywell is going to be a good one to watch from the sidelines. The company announced today plans to “vigorously defend” themselves, their intellectual property, and their own innovations against a company (Honeywell) that is simply using a “patent-attack strategy to stifle thoughtful competition” — fighting words for sure. (Via: The Verge)

Ok. So Tweetbot isn’t a universal app. In our opinion, it’s easily worth the $6 spread across two devices. We, as well as countless iPad users who use and abuse Twitter have been waiting for months to get Tweetbots beautiful pixels all over their 9.7″ of Cupertino-designed glass. And now that Tweetbot for iPad is available, what do we think? It’s great! It is robust and full of features, yet at the same time simple in design. Honestly, if you’ve used Tweetbot for iPhone, the iPad version is pretty much identical, just bigger. Everything from the iPhone app: Push Notifications, gestures, gorgeous UI, support for multiple services (Read It Later, Instapaper, Cloud App & more) as well as the ability to customize which shortcut links are present on the sidebar.

At $2.99 it’s not worth a second thought as to if you should purchase it or not, because quite frankly, it’s awesome. Tweetbot has instantly become our favorite Twitter app for iPad, unseating our previous favorite (stock Twitter app). Download it now (App Store link).

Gallery full of eye candy after the break…

Gallery

If you let your mind wander a bit more, one could deduce that March 9th is also the date in which Apple will announce and/or release the iPad 3 seeing as how it is supposed to get its grand reveal in the February/March timeframe. But of course, Apple release rumors are always to to be consumer with a heaping pile of salt.

But as awesome as Tweetbot is, we (as well as many other potential Tweetbot customers) are still left waiting for an official iPad version as well as the elusive #006 app. Another day, perhaps. But for now, enjoy Tweetbot 2.0 and let us know what you think.

Available now in the App Store for $2.99 to newcomers or as a free upgrade to current users.

New Features & Tweaks

• Updated timeline view along with support for inline thumbnails within timeline

• Links within timeline are now easily discernable by a different color and single-tappable

• “Retweeted by” bar now integrated and tappable

• Cell colors have been tweaked for better contrast

• New DM view

• “New Tweets” bar has been redesigned — (Can be dimissed by tap and configured in Settings > Display)

• Timed auto-refresh. Set the timeline, mentions, and DMs to refresh every 5 minutes

• Readability support added as mobilizer service

• “Much improved” tweet replies view

• Links in user profiles are now tappable

• “Huge” font size option in Settings

• Improved scrolling performance

More: Tabots.com/Tweetbot

Gallery

The X-Protect (and similarly designed, equally robust Extreme Grid) are now available for pre-order over at G-Form’s website – $39.95.

• Extreme Grid
• X-Protect

Video of what an 82 MPH slap shot against an iPhone 4/4S might look like after the break…

Video

]]> http://gadgetsteria.com/2012/02/08/g-forms-new-x-protect-iphone-case-takes-an-82-mph-slap-shot-to-the-gut-survives/feed/ 0 http://gadgetsteria.com/2012/02/08/get-your-sweetheart-these-mario-piranha-plant-earrings/ http://gadgetsteria.com/2012/02/08/get-your-sweetheart-these-mario-piranha-plant-earrings/#comments Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:13:19 +0000 Mike Norris http://gadgetsteria.com/?p=76213
Finding the perfect gift for your female significant other can be pretty difficult. Geeks have it a bit easier as, well, there’s so much stuff out there that falls into said category. Take for example these Mario Piranha Biting Plant earrings made by Etsy user lizglizz.

Now, we’re going to have to apologize for leading you on. The awesome earrings above are already sold. Yeah. We’re jerks. But if it’s the Mario theme you’re stuck on, check out these other cool earrings by lizglizz styled after the infamous Mario Bullet that’s taken so many of our lives over the years – (Mario Bullet Earrings). It appears to be the best $18 you can spend on your significant other this coming week if you ask us.

Gallery

Source Etsy

Via Geekologie

]]> http://gadgetsteria.com/2012/02/08/get-your-sweetheart-these-mario-piranha-plant-earrings/feed/ 0 http://gadgetsteria.com/2012/02/08/lg-vu-teaser-slips-out-shows-another-non-ics-handset/ http://gadgetsteria.com/2012/02/08/lg-vu-teaser-slips-out-shows-another-non-ics-handset/#comments Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:54:14 +0000 Mike Norris http://gadgetsteria.com/?p=76209
A teaser image showing what appears to be LG’s upcoming MWC handset of choice, the “Optimus Vu”, has trickled out. Physically speaking it’s about as simple and plain as a smartphone gets. On top of that, the dual-core 1.5 GHz Qualcomm processor, 8 GB of storage, 1 GB of RAM, 8mp shooter, NFC, and Android 2.3 aren’t exactly grabbing our attention like “quad-core” or “Android 4.0″ would. Though, the 5″ display is somewhat unique all things considered. That said, should Android manufacturers even bother with “high-end” Android devices if they’re not going to ship with Android 4.0 moving forward? We don’t think so. LG?

For those looking for a bit more, Engadget has a photo of a phone that is supposedly the Optimus Vu in the flesh. Thoughts?

Source Engadget

]]> http://gadgetsteria.com/2012/02/08/lg-vu-teaser-slips-out-shows-another-non-ics-handset/feed/ 0