Startup Meme

The Pirate Bay Documentary Maker Fetches $34,000 To Bring Us TPB Story

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 09:28:47 +0000

Often people waste loads of video footage that they have compiled over years by just not being creative enough. They might have videos on the worst storms or the most memorable moments, or better still those about big companies and their tales. Not Simon Klose though. The documentary filmmaker claims to have more than 200 hours of unedited footage, which he plans to turn into a full length feature by the name of, The Pirate Bay: Away from Keyboard.

Where does he get the material from? Klose had been archiving years of legal proceedings of the most famous and controversial torrent site. He headed over to Kickstarter, a startup which people can use to generate funds for their projects from the community. The intention was to raise $25,000 in a month to hire the services of an editing studio to turn his plans to reality. However Klose got luckier than he must have anticipated, raising a healthy $34,000 from numerous backers.

Klose has been noble with planning though, stating that he will have this video available for free on the Internet on The Pirate Bay’s Own site. It will be interesting to see how this film shapes up and how it fares with the public. If you happen to be The Pirate Bay fan and want to pitch in your cash to make this happen, pledge your funds before it closes on September 27.

You might also be interested in viewing some past reports on the TPB:

Should The Pirate Bay thank MPAA for its cult following?

The Pirate Bay blocked in Italy, co-founder calls Italy a "Fascist State"

Italian Access Block Increases The Pirate Bay Traffic

Tags: kickstarter, movie, the pirate bay, video

Apple Announces The Super Nano: iPod Nano With Touch

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 18:56:29 +0000

I run, I work out, I cycle and doing all that with an iPod or with my mobile device playing music is a bit difficult. I am always cautious about dropping the device and suffering a major loss. There are cheaper, smaller MP3 players but I am game for a quality product. Appears Apple has just got the right product for us all with the new iPod Nano, exactly as had been predicted earlier today.

The new iPod Nano is nano to its very design, squarer, with dimensions shrunk by 46% and the weight reduced by half. It will boast a touch screen, which is a super great addition, primarily because the size is so small. The sad news is that Apple has removed the camera, which the last version had, but then it was larger and heavier.

The device is gesture based and runs on the iOS 4, giving it a super slick interface that is equally easy to use. The device will be available in storage capacity of the 4Gb and 8GB priced at $149 and $179 respectively. The battery life promises to last for 24 hours and we are just wondering if it would run videos? Definitely has FM radio and support for the Nike+ Sports. In my opinion it’s worth your cash if all you own is an iPhone and a small ready to clip music device is what you need, oh not to forget with an Apple branding.

Tags: apple, iPod Nano, music

Embrace The New Apple iPod Touch With Retina Display, Dual Camera, Facetime

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 18:18:58 +0000

So it wasn’t rumor after all. I have sort of grown considering a couple of these rumors to be true right before a major Apple event. Today at the Music Event, Steve Jobs took the stage and confirmed that the next generation of the iPod Touch will be your iPhone 4 without a contract.

How? Well you have got your Retina Display, dual camera with the primary camera being a 5 MP one and has the same 960 by 640, 3.5 inch display. The device runs on the A4 processor and is available with a maximum storage capacity of 64GB. From all that has been talked about and explained for the new iPod touch the confirmation will only come when the devices are out on sale in the stores and we have more detailed news on hardware. For now, it looks impressive by all means.

Following are the numerous storage capacities and the price for the new iPod Touch:

8GB:$229
32GB:$299
64GB:$399

Overall the device looks impressive and Steve Jobs has already claimed that the devices from Apple are already a gamers choice and that they are outselling games sold by Nintendo and the Sony combined. Be ready to embrace to these new iPod Touch with the iOS 4.1 along with the new Game Center and numerous other updates. I bet the Apple Store is going to be loaded with offers and an even larger number of pre-order requests.

Tags: apple, iPod Touch 4, music event

Apple To Live Stream Music Event At Apple.com Only For Mac Users. Sorry Not For PCs

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 10:31:18 +0000

The Apple Music Event is just short of a few hours and knowing that we have been talking about it a lot for the last couple of weeks. But we can’t help but talk more. Primarily because news and rumors will keep popping out until Steve Jobs takes the stage and starts off disclosing things or products at the event. You can watch the Live Stream at Apple.

The Live event starts streaming at 10:00 AM PT but it will only be available for Mac users. Meaning this would require Mac running the Snow Leopard or a device running the iOS 3.0 or higher. I am not surprised given that only Apple lovers will be interested in watching the stream more than their PC counterparts. However in my opinion it’s quite a poor tactic, of course I understand we must consider ourselves lucky that Apple has changed its tradition and actually throwing up a Live Coverage, but why deprive others? Anyways that’s Apple’s own decision and I know it wont hurt them to not stream this to PC users.

There is a lot anticipated and we are already hoping to see a new line of iPods loaded with dual camera, support for Facetime, something which has seen a lot of hype. Other than that we are also looking forward to the new Apple TV, renamed as the iTV and will have support for Netflix along with announcement for 99 cent show rentals on the iTunes from FOX and ABC.

Are you Mac user? Let us know in the comments and we will give you a chance to blog on Startup Meme about the event as it happens. Feel free to email me at mohkim.khan[at]startupmeme[dot]com or follow me on Twitter at @smohkim.

via Mashable

Tags: apple, ipod, itunes, music event, news

Apple Music Event: What To Expect Today?

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 08:19:37 +0000

The Apple Music Event is just a few hours away and we are, as always we are both sure and unsure of a few things coming our way today. The entire Web has been streaming with news, rumors about the iPod Touch 4s, etc in association to what is coming. Starting from the most pointless of Lady Gaga to start in new Apple Commercials, all the way to a useful extension of preview length for tracks on iTunes. There can a lot more or many might just be left disappointed, though the probability is low.

I thought of jotting down a few expectations that I have in connection to today’s event. Thought I would share what might be coming our way, beginning with:

The iPod Touch With 3G Support / 4Th Generation iPod Touch

Rumors for this have been rampant, from the leak of LCD screens of the 4 Generation of the iPod Touch to those regarding the support for 3G networks. This would mean we will be able to use our iPod Touch much like the iPad 3G. Users will be able to able make use of the contract free data connection using their iPod Touch. Expect a front facing camera for FaceTime [Maybe you can use My3G to use it over 3G networks instead of WiFi just like your iPhone]. The iPod Touch 4 might also feature aback resembling the MacBook Pro.

Though many doubt that it might leave a dent on Apple’s prime product, the iPhone. A rumor and it will remain so, it’s a different device and I bet Apple won’t do anything stupid to kill their own product in any way.

The Square iPod Nano

This will be the pointless of announcements if it has to happen. Seriously, the device looks small [err Nano?], neat but I don’t see a point in someone spending cash on this music device. via

News On iPhone 4 With Revised Hardware

Though this had been hinted for quite along, expect something in connection to the iPhone 4. Especially for the fact the issues with the Antennagate and how Steve Jobs tried to justify it by blaming every other smartphone and getting a slack for it [most recent by Samsung for Omnia 2]. The new iPhone 4 will be available by the end of September or mid October and will most definitely fix the Antennagate issue.

We have already talked about the iTunes bit on extending preview length earlier. Lets wait and see what’s coming our way with today’s event. Apple will be Live Webcasting the Music Event, you can check out the schedule to learn when you can view this in your region here.

For more news on Apple and tips, tricks and how tos join Startup Meme on Facebook or follow us on Twitter [@smohkim, @startupmeme] or connect with us on Digg [smohkim]

Tags: apple, iphone 4, ipod, iPod Nano, iPod Touch 4, itunes, music event, Rumors

How To: Manually Power Your Droid Incredible With Froyo

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 22:11:06 +0000

Not many are patient enough to wait for things to come to them, they would gladly rush into things. I am one example, I have the HTC Desire running Android 2.1 and I am impatient for a better method on how to install Froyo on Desire. However there is some good news for Droid Incredible users as Verizon is pushing the manual update for the Froyo.

Need I be informing you that this needs to be done at your own risk and I will not be responsible for anything wrong that happens. The procedures are simple and can be implemented by anyone who has tried manual installs of mobile operating systems earlier.

Steps For Powering Your Droid Incredible With Froyo

Get the Android v2.2 for the Droid Incredible [link]
Change the name of the File to update.zip
Copy it to the root of your SD card.
Switch off your Droid Incredible
Switch it back on but holding down the Volume key
This would open a boot menu on your device and you can move down to the recovery option and select it by pressing the Power button.
This would display a triangle with an Exclamation Mark. Simultaneously press the Power and the Volume Up button to open a menu.
In the options available select the “sdcard:update.zip” which you copied in the first step on your card.
Once the installation bit is complete, restart your Droid Incredible running on Android 2.2

I am still looking for a neat hack to run Android Froyo on the HTC Desire, if anyone of you readers have a tip on this do share with us by emailing me at mohkim.khan [at]startupmeme[dot]com.

For more tips, tricks and How Tos join Startup Meme on Facebook or follow us on Twitter [@smohkim, @startupmeme].

via AndroidCentral, Geekword

Tags: Android, froyo, how to, mobile, tips, update

After Digging A Grave With New Design, Kevin Rose Steps Down As CEO Of Digg

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 19:29:57 +0000

Something worthy to talk about for a change at Digg. First things first, I hate the new Digg, it’s crappy, in no man’s land and I have no idea what Kevin Rose was thinking when he updated it. Anyways Digg has got itself a new CEO, a position that had been held by Kevin Rose after Jay Adelson relinquished the position back in April. The position will now be taken by former Amazon Exec, Matt Williams.

Digg had been on the lookout for almost a month and I bet the title of CEO had added more pressure on the Young Kevin Rose, who in my personal opinion is not really up to the task. Rose will head back to his previous position as Chief Architect at Digg, a position he rightly deserves and is more suitable for him.

Matt Williams will bring with him ten years of experience in different positions at Amazon from GM Webstore, Director Tech Alliance. The most recent being GM of Consumer Payments. I look forward to some intelligent decisions in both strategy and design coming up at Digg, given Rose can now concentrate more on the technical aspects of design on the recommendation platform.

By the way how do you find the new look of Digg?

Tags: Amazon, ceo, Digg, kevin rose

Extended Preview Duration On iTunes Music A Definite Announcement At Apple Music Event

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:34:13 +0000

Good news for all those Apple fans out there, especially for ones who have been complaining about the short duration of previews of music at the iTunes. Apple has extended that from a mere 30 seconds to a minute to give your ears enough music to make a judgment.

If all turns out true, this would be announced at the Apple Music Event tomorrow, which might also showcase the announcement of the 4th Generation of the iPod Touch. While the news of any announcement associated to the iPod Touch remains a fifty fifty chance, Apple definitely has nothing in connection to the Cloud Based iTunes system. This would gladly remain a rumor for now at least.

I personally think that the idea to extend the preview duration of tracks at the iTunes Music is a clever move. One that would music lovers ample time to make the right decision before purchasing a track. Further details on other announcements to be made at the Event will be awaited till the event goes live and we have more authentic stuff to talk about rather keeping our readers speculating.

What do you expect from Apple tomorrow? Share those expectations with us in the comments.

You can also become a Fan of Startup Meme on Facebook or follow us on Twitter: @smohkim, @startupmeme for more news and tips on Apple.

via iPhoneHacks, CNET

Tags: apple, ipod touch, itunes, music event

Google Wave – Lurking Like A Zombie Before Eternal Sleep

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:33:44 +0000

I reported earlier this month of Google shutting down Google Wave after all the hype it created with its launch and then dying down. Appears as if the idea of going from invite only to public contributed more to its death than a rapid growth. However the services isn’t dead as yet as Google has extended its availability till the end of 2010.

The purpose? Google wants to have users import all the data they have shared on Wave by giving them tools to do so. These will be made available in the next month or two, definitely before December to give you enough time to export your Waved stuff. It saddens me to see this great tool die down, it was definitely ahead of its time and a great initiative and I think poor marketing was primarily responsible for it dying so abruptly. I personally think if Google would have had made a little extra effort to promote this, Wave would have lived up to the expectations that Google had: an evolution of communicating and collaborating online.

On the contrary, Google wouldn’t just wipe this off the Web. The sort of features it had I consider those being implemented elsewhere on the countless many services it has. Most probably on the Google.Me, the social network that Google has in plans. It will be interesting to see Wave being added as a feature on Gmail as well.

Did you use Google Wave? How did you find it? Let us know your answers in the comments.

For more news on Google and others join Startup Meme on Facebook or follow us on Twitter [@smohkim, @startupmeme].

Tags: google, social network, wave

Google Releases Priority Inbox, Makes Your G-mail Smarter

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 07:48:13 +0000

Google to me means big, improving your Web experience and of course including some concerns of putting too much trust on one service. But it has definitely evolved our experience with services like the Search, and more importantly, Gmail. The free email service continues to make emailing better. Today Google is taking a step further by helping you keep an eye on emails that are or should be your top priority.

The new feature called the Priority Inbox will transform how you categorize your emails, sort them and more importantly have only the most important emails available to read out of the clutter. How? The Priority Inbox is primarily an algorithm that learns how you read emails based on keywords, the people you more frequently email or get from. All these are then placed in a separated in this Inbox, so they appear above all other emails.

Learning user behaviour is a pet peeve for Google but this one is of great use. You can manually set the priority for certain senders lets say your boss from the settings. All these emails are placed in a new tab just above your Inbox and shows only those emails that need your attention. Right within the Priority Inbox are a couple of more layers titled the Starred; emails which you need to keep on top for future references and Everything Else, which has all other emails.

I am impressed by the recent updates coming the Gmail way and it adds up to more reasons why it is the only email service I use. The current feature is not yet rolled out but it will be soon for everyone.

Following is the list of some recent updates to Gmail:

Google Enables Phone Calls On Gmail: Talk About A Dent On Carriers!

Gmail Search Goes Universal To Include Docs And Mails

Gmail Goes For Facelift: Contacts And Tasks More Visible

Drag And Drop Attachments In Gmail.. On Chrome Only For Now

Google Officially Enables Multiple Account Signin For Gmail

Wrong Email? Fret Not As Gmail Gives You 30 Seconds To Undo A Message

To submit your startup email me at mohkim.khan(at)startupmeme(dot)com, join Startup Meme on Facebook or follow us on Twitter [@smohkim, @startupmeme]

via GigaOm

Tags: email, features, Gmail, google, priority inbox

Another Impressive Google Experiment: Arcade Fire Brings Music To HTML 5

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 21:37:33 +0000

What would future music videos be like? We have got applications that continue to get better, browsers that continue to get more powerful and online video channels to make your record get viral instantly. Lets keep business out for an instant and head over to the power of HTML 5. Fret not, I am not going to talk about the coding, etc, just a video created specifically for the browser.

Today Google announced the release of The Wilderness Downtown a project create by Chris Milk in collaboration with the band Arcade Fire and Google and feature’s Arcade Fire’s title We used To Wait. So what’s worth taking about with this? The entire video runs within a browser and gives viewers a personal experience. How? Simply open the The Wilderness Downtown link on your Google Chrome browser and upon being prompted enter the address of your childhood home. The experiment, as it is called would utilize the latest in Web technologies like the HTML 5 and Google Maps, integrated drawing tools and run the video in multiple browser screens.

If Google has the data on your location, it will leave you nostalgic and missing the old times. Anyways, the point is, the experiment shows the power of the HTML 5 and how the newer tools cater to a larger audience and even more purposes. Impressive by all means.

Via Google Blog

Tags: Chrome, experiment, google, html5

Microsoft Bing Comes To Android….. Wait! It’s Not For Non-Verizon Customers!

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 21:03:07 +0000

Curse be the day when I recommend anyone to use Microsoft’s Bing. On the Android devices specifically. I have no reason why but I simply consider the very thought of Bing to be sinister. Anyhow coming to the news, Microsoft has released the Bing app coming to the Android platform and to begin with, it is only available for the Verizon customers. Talk about exclusivity!

A lot is missing as users won’t be able to get hold of the complete Binging experience. Nonetheless you will be able search images, news, get directions on maps, etc. Something which Google Maps already does with its app but it misses out navigation via voice. Other than that it provides a more simpler experience when it comes to searching for business around you. It’s isn’t as effective and precise compared to traditional services like Yelp, etc, but i guess that won’t be missed much. It does have Voice Search which Google had already introduced, but I am sure it wont be as swift compared to what Google has to offer.

The only things which gives Bing any plus point is the aesthetic feel. The app changes images on a daily basis and I hate this mention by all means, because it does nothing to help me with search. But that’s just my personal reason.

What astonishes me however is why in the world would Microsoft opt for exclusivity and bring it for Verizon users only? Makes absolutely no sense to me. Does it to you? Leave us your answers in the comments and your experience with the Bing App.

Tags: Android, app, Bing, microsoft, search

Cooklet: A Promising Startup For Culinary Experts

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 19:52:37 +0000

I know many food lovers who aspire to be cooks, the only thing stopping them is finding the right recipes at the right places. I guess the same goes for culinary experts, who have loads of recipes but have no clue how and where to share these. There are quite a few sites to do so but lets stick to the startup, Cooklet.

Cooklet is a platform for culinary experts to socialize and more importantly organize their recipes at one place in neat cookbooks. The reason? Well I bet someone’s mom has loads of recipes in the kitchen closet and it is impossible for anyone, even her times to find the one for the best dish. So what you can do is place them all in a neat space on Cooklet so they are easier to find and others are able to benefit.

The site is in Beta but has promising features to look forward to. Especially the Academic section which will have basic tips for aspiring cooks, techniques to master the skill, etc. They also have a desktop and mobile application to give you a better culinary experience right on your mobile device or the desktop computer.

The social network is very new and its success would rely on the number of members it has and the amount of cooking tips and recipes that are shared on the platform. It will be interesting to see how it grows.

To submit your startup email me at mohkim.khan(at)startupmeme(dot)com, join Startup Meme on Facebook or follow us on Twitter [@smohkim, @startupmeme]

Tags: cooking, cooklet, social network, startups

Google Continues Experimentation With Chrome OS, Indications That It Will Power iPad Competitors

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 21:15:42 +0000

Google continues to make Chrome powerful and more importantly giving users a better way to test run the many experimental features it has to offer. It’s obvious that Google sees the role of the browser being a minute part of the Chrome OS it has in plans. The browser has evolved quite a lot beginning from one with no support for extensions.

Today more reports of Google bolstering it surfaced stating that it has already enabled speech recognition in the upcoming builds of Chrome. The inclusion of about:labs lets you get your hands on experimental stuff that isn’t meant for those who fear testing things out. One feature for Windows users is that they view tabs on the left while those using the Mac can get the feel of the Tab Expose [you can get hold of more experiments at Chrome Labs].

While I haven’t been able to test run this lab feature, I am pretty sure that all these indicate that the Chrome OS is actually coming to power iPad competitors. All these features aren’t new either and have been a part of its code for quite some time. It will be interesting to se all these implemented and ready to be tested on an actual tablet. The image below would give you quite an idea what these latest builds are about.

Tags: Chrome, chromium, google, tablet

Sorry Steve, Unlike iPhone 4, Samsung Omnia 2 Doesn’t Have Antennagate Issue

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 00:54:16 +0000

I bet everyone has seen politicians playing the blame-game in every state instead of correcting their wrongs. And I bet this is common in other sectors too. Well only recently the great Steve jobs demonstrated that by going cheap and finding the antenna issues on other smartphones, rather trying to accept and promising to correct the issue on the iPhone 4.

I am talking about the Antennagate and how Jobs ridiculed, me at least by bringing devices like the Blackberry, HTC, Motorola and the Samsung Omnia as well. Why Jobs? There must be something really wrong with your device’s design that even Papermaster was ousted. Well, that’s past, but mobile phone manufacturers didn’t really like that and retaliated with proofs that the issue was a major one with the iPhone and not others, Nokia and RIM have done so already with Samsung being the latest to deny any issues with Antenna on the Omnia.

What the hell Steve Jobs? Why would a man like you try and put such an act? It’s absolutely amateur and unprofessional and I bet he is already paying for it. But Jobs has his stubbornness, which has helped him stay at the top and attain the Mr. Perfect reputation, but it’s really a huge slap on the face this time around.

I am just astonished why Samsung said all this so politely? Perhaps it fears losing business from Apple, given Samsung provides almost 70% of all hardware [memory chips, etc]. What could the other reasons be? Let us know your answers in the comments.

Tags: antennagate, apple, iphone 4, mobile, omnia 2, samsung

Another Feather In Apple’s Cap: App Store Heads Past 250,000 Apps

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 23:28:37 +0000

It doesn’t surprise me to tell that the App Store has surpassed 250,000 apps in a little over 25 months since its launch. Those apps come from over 50,300 publishers/developers and are available for your iPod Touch, iPhone and the iPad. So I guess this one is going to be an essential part of the next week music event from Apple which might also include the announcement of the fourth generation of the iPod Touch.

Coming back to the topic. Those apps include both free and paid ones ranging across a wide variety of categories. The lions’ share of this goes to Books that have 17% share, followed by games [14%] and entertainment [11%]. That’s quite high given that the over 70 % of the apps are paid compared to over 60% apps on Google’s Android Market being free.

But do Apple lovers really care about paying for quality apps? I doubt, given they continue to be downloaded crazily.

It will be interesting to see the fight between the Android Market and the App Store in the next few months. Given that Android is catching quite a flare recently. But despite my love for the Android, I would still give in to Apple since it has only a limited number of devices to offer these apps for.

via 148Apps.biz, Fortune Tech

Tags: apple, Apps, iPad, iphone, ipod touch

Create Your Own Twitter Magazine With MyTweetMag [Startup] Update

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 22:38:21 +0000

Who doesn’t want a magazine by their name? Was difficult, next to impossible for everyone to do so a decade back, but it has changed dramatically in the last few years. With services like Facebook, Google Buzz and Twitter in specific have made loads of content available for everyone to share. MyTweetMag takes that sharing a step further and lets you become an editor yourself. How?

MyTweetMag lets you take control over the information overload, by letting you categorize all those tweets in a manner that best fits your need. Lets say you love anything about Web Startups, but your timeline is flooded with so many tweets that most of your startup tweets get lost. With MyTweetmag, you can resolve that issue by:

Creating an account
Specify tags, add co-editors
Specify a particular hashtag [#] for example #startups. This would ensure that all tweets containing the #startups hashtag appear in the magazine.
Start populating your magazine with tweets. Just make sure you specify the hashtag in order to have your tweet appear in your magazine.

Those were pretty basic steps. You can also embed the magazine on your WordPress blog and share the same with your readers.

Now many would argue why should one use the service when you can follow a timeline for a particular hashtag on the web or any of your Twitter desktop clients like Seesmic, TweetDeck, etc? Well in my opinion that is quite hectic and messy, primarily because you have got yourself replies, your own timeline, the direct messages, etc, which makes opening another column ugly and distracting. This puts your timeline in a neat place which you can proudly call your own magazine. Secondly, you can get your loyal followers to read specific news in a magazine, so they know where to find your expert opinion on a particular topic.

That’s how I see MyTweetMag, it will be interesting to read your opinions on it in the comments. I won’t mind following your magazine if it is about startups, technology and apps for the iPhone, Android.

You can follow on Twitter [@smohkim], join Startup Meme on Facebook or subscribe to our RSS Feed for news and tips on startups and applications.

Tags: microblogging, mytweetmag, social media, startups, Twitter

Google Continues With Its Social Strategy For Google Me: Shops Angstro

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 10:50:19 +0000

Google continues to bolster its social networking initiative, Google.Me. The latest step is the acquisition of Angstro, a startup launched back in 2008 with a purpose to provide aggregated business news to professionals. The startup leveraged the existing social networks like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter to help people discover and share news about their colleagues. The acquisition makes sense, and falls perfectly into Google’s recent line of action.

The acquisition would have Angstro founder, Rohit Khare joining Google’s social initiative. Though we aren’t aware on what his role at Google is going to be, I am quite sure that he will have a key one given his expertise and his vision for a more open form of social networking. Only time will tell how big and successful is Google Social Strategy going to be, I just hope it’s not an Orkut replica.

I am quite skeptical about the coming of new social networks, primarily because I don’t see a unique selling point in any after Facebook has almost absolutely dominated the social networking scene. Google on the other hand has been trying hard, albeit being very hasty with social releases which have ended up being not so impressive. I personally think Google should bolster its already existing services. I mean it already controls the Search, the video sharing with YouTube, the emails with Gmail that continues to evolve and have better features, like Making Phone Call from Gmail, which is very impressive. But with GoogleMe, the search giant has been cautious and taking its time, with making the right acquisitions, taking the right steps and more importantly not being hasty.

Is GoogleMe really something to look forward to? Leave us your answers in the comments.

You can also read A Decade Of Google Acquisitions – Infographic

via LAT

Tags: acquisition, angstro, google, googleme, social network

Transform Your iPhone Into A Professional Camera With These 2 Lenses

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 11:47:32 +0000

We all love taking photos and the advent of powerful smartphones, with equally powerful and high quality cameras has made each one of us a photographer. But there is a lot left desired. I mean it isn’t a dedicated high quality camera and that is because the camera phone lens doesn’t give you all that functionality; the fish eye, wide angle or the macro function for an extreme closeup. Worry not, there is something to lift this up as Photojojo shares with us detachable Camera phone Lens.

The lenses would give your iPhone camera the feel you would want to have with the images; sharp and clear. You have got two small lenses that can be easily attached to your camera phone. The lenses available are the Fish Eye and the combo, Wide Angle and Macro. I bet anyone who has used professional cameras know what are the functions of the two lenses, but the Fish Eye provides you with angular 180 degree angle, while the Wide angle/macro would give you the extreme closeup or capturing a large crowd.

The lenses are available at varying prices:

Two Lens bundle – $40
Wide Angle/Macro – $20
Fisheye Lens – $25

Great as they might be, they do have a few drawbacks, but those are strictly related to the lenses attaching to your mobile phone. But they do fit on almost all models of the iPhone, including the iPhone. Though I wonder if they fit on the HTC Desire as well.

via AllTop

Tags: camera, Gadget, iphone, lenses, photo

Photo Album Maker Giveaway Worth $50 On Facebook: Download Wondershare Flash Gallery Factory For Free [Limited Time Offer Starting August 27]

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 22:38:48 +0000

Who doesn’t want to get their hands on Free items? I guess everyone, especially if it’s a software that is being away for no cost. I am talking about the Wondershare’s Flash Gallery Factory Standard being given away for free, with the offer starting from August 27 and ending on August 30. The best part? Well after this period the software would cost you a lot, $49.95. This offer is specifically held on the Wondershare Facebook page where they will be giving it away for free.

So what exactly is this about? The tool is a simple photo album maker with an easy to use interface that gives you the ability to transform your still images into really pleasant transitions. This is done by providing users with numerous effects, clip arts, etc. You can make use of the editing tools, change colors and even render music to your album to add life to it. So if you happen to be a photo lover or someone who thinks its time to give his friends or family a treat by creating your very own Flash photo album without being very tech savvy, download the Flash Gallery Factory right away.

Oh wait, download that on August 27 onwards so you may get a free version for yourself and not pay a dime. Do let us know how you find the tool in the comments.

Tags: facebook, giveaway, photo editing, software

Google Real Time Search Gets Its Own Homepage And New Features

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 21:05:59 +0000

When you have a great product, you need to make it stand out and Google has done exactly that with its Real Time Search. Lets go back in time when Google launched this last year and honestly it made the search results page ugly. Thanks to all those Twitter updates stuffed between results, which proved to be more bothersome than helpful. Today the search giant has given a new page to the Real Time Search.

That’s a relief for me and many others. Other than that it offers plenty of features to further refine search. Some of those include:

You can refine searches with respect to your location, this would let you find updates near you.
Additions of view full conversations. You can now view discussions and follow them as they happen in real time, the tweets are organized from oldest to newest.
Inclusion of Google Alerts. You can now stay informed on any topic that you choose and create alerts for any updates that happen. this would send you an email the instant there is something that appears on your topic.

Those are just few and from the looks of it, the page and the results look great and useful. What are your opinions on this? Share them with us in the comments section.

Tags: google, realtime, search

Wrong Email? Fret Not As Gmail Gives You 30 Seconds To Undo A Message

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 19:07:29 +0000

It has happened several times with me when I typed an email and sent it only to realize I shouldn’t have done so. Google did provide us a precious 5 seconds to cancel sending an email via Gmail, 5 seconds, err…

However the good news is that the time duration has been extended to around half a minute. That gives you a good 30 seconds to undo sending an email. Just don’t confuse that you can undo messages that have been sent already. What Gmail does is keep an email on hold for the given duration before forwarding it to the recipient.

I know many of you will jump up stating that the feature is old. But they have gradually improved that from a mere 5 seconds to 30 seconds at present. However if you are confident that your messages are free of faults, you can always change the duration of the period from the settings page. You can also uncheck the option to disable the Undo Send option.

Tags: email, features, Gmail, google

A Decade Of Google Acquisitions – Infographic

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 06:28:27 +0000

A picture speaks a thousand words. Someone rightly said so because reading a history of acquisitions is a huge pain. Especially when the period is almost a decade and you are talking about Google. I would personally never bother to read the entire history, which is why the illustration is always welcome.

Just to clear out, the infograph also includes investments made by Google in other firms. So if you see Zynga and AOL at the top also watch for the asterisk ‘*’ which states that these firms have received investments from the search giant.

via Jesse, TC

Tags: Acquisitions, finance, google

Facebook To Make Chat Better, Kills Support For IE6 [Hurray!]

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 20:28:39 +0000

I haven’t used the Facebook Chat feature for God knows how long. Primarily because I found it absolutely garbage and secondly it was distracting. However the social network today has announced revamping the Chat feature on the social network; making it faster and more stable. Hope that it lives up to the promises.

But what makes the new more important is the fact that the social network has today officially killed support for Microsoft’s old war horse, the Internet Explorer 6. I am not sure if anything more sinister ever existed on or for the Web, but it is slowly being killed. With Facebook, this goes off on September 15, giving every user who might possibly be using the browser a chance to upgrade to a newer version. By the way I wonder how many folks still use the version?

Both the reports have made me feel more a bit content and I guess I can finally remove myself from the permanent offline status on Facebook Chat and see how it has improved. Just quoting from the Blog:

We know you want Chat to be hassle-free and uninterrupted. In the coming weeks, we will be making important improvements in the way connections are established and messages are sent, so that Chat will be much more stable for you and your friends.

Sounds promising, hope no one is left disappointed.

Tags: facebook, facebook chat, IE6, social network

Google Enables Phone Calls On Gmail: Talk About A Dent On Carriers!

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 19:57:44 +0000

This is super awesome, beginning today Google will enabling Voice calls right from their Gmail. Alright all skeptics, we could do voice chat but that needed both folks to be at their devices, but that changes. Err, let’s not be so nice, it’s a huge hit on the phone services as users will now be able to call any phone directly from their Gmail.

The good news, however is for those who will be making calls to the US and Canada, given they will be allowed to make free calls for the entire remaining year. Calls to other countries will however be charged, but expect them to be at very cheap rates. If Google is right, these calls will be as low as $0.02 per minute.

Making a phone call is no big deal, simply click on the Call Phone button just above the Chat Box and dial the number to make a call. You can even make calls by entering the contact’s name. I am just waiting for this to come out for users outside the US. However if you happen to be using the Google Apps the feature might not be visible for you yet.

Tags: Gmail, google, phone, voice calls

Is This The 4th Generation iPod Touch? [LCD Revealed]

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 19:14:22 +0000

We have just come across a video which is shouting out loud of having the LCDs of the fourth generation of the iPod Touch. The rumors have been rampant, as is the case always with Apple, when rumors start floating in close to any event. We can only wait and hear announcements in this connection at the upcoming Event of Apple on September 1.

As I have said, there is nothing that Apple can add to the iPod Touch is the retina display and the cameras. The retina display is quite a high probability and I am not sure why Apple won’t induct these in the next generation. Lets see what the real bit is about this video and if it’s true.

via Gizmodo

Confirmed: Apple Media Event To Take Place On September 1

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 18:56:04 +0000

Looks like Apple is speeding up its media event a week earlier and it has been confirmed that it will be held on Wednesday, September 1. If i be right and Apple follows its tradition, we might be up for a treat in connection to some announcement. Maybe something about the iPod or the revamped Apple TV that has been a center of a lot of talk across the blogosphere.

If rumors be right we might be seeing the next generation of the iPod Touch with a camera . I mean is there anything else that Apple can do with the iPods? I personally believe they must stop making these devices altogether. But that’s just me. Other than that we might also be hearing about the refresh iPad, update to iTunes or maybe some talks on Apple acquiring new patents for numerous things [cracking down on Jailbreak iPhones being one].

All this appears to be seen as the event goes live on September 1. We will try to keep abreast with all the happenings, till then, let us know if you have a prediction or two to share with us in the comments section. Wonder if one you can be the Nostradamus.

via

Tags: apple, event, iPad, ipod touch

Could This iPhone User Snatch The Fastest Texter Title From Samsung?

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 17:56:00 +0000

There are very few things I hate in this world and somehow, Samsung is in the list. The very design of the device is gruesome, lousy and somehow these devices don’t give you that feel of a smartphone. This is exactly why reading about Brian Sweet unofficially breaking the fastest text messaging record on the iPhone4.

The record, was previously held by Samsung for writing the following phrase:

The razor-toothed piranhas of the genera Serrasalmus and Pygocentrus are the most ferocious freshwater fish in the world. In reality they seldom attack a human…

That was set using the Samsung Omnia II on the Swype texting technology and is still held by Samsung’s own employee. Brian has taken 21.8 seconds, but I bet that the actual time was quite lesser given he was himself operating the stopwatch, which resulted in loss of precious time. I would opine that Samsung and Apple both hold a competition with their latest devices and the best texter to see who takes the record. I mean, we need to be fair, right?

Watch the video for more:

Tags: iphone, Reports, samsung omnia, text

Facebook Blocks Ads About Pot Legalization Campaign, You Still Can’t Block Zuckerberg Though

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 06:43:56 +0000

I hate it when decisions and actions are partial and biased. When you would allow one thing and pay no attention to another, when you block one thing and let the other run rampant. Today the social network showed the world that it operates at its own will by removing the entire campaign and impressions of Just Say Now.

The group has over 6,000 members on the fan page, generated over 38 million impressions in a short between August 7 to August 16. The reason? The campaign was about pot legalization in California and had the image of a pot leaf. The image of the leaf is associated directly to smoking and drugs and after a week of being there on Facebook was removed owing to it violating the social network’s policies.

Wow, why it did take a week to realize that? I know the social network has policies against tobacco products, but if the Pot leaf was thought to be against their TOS, they shouldn’t have let it appear at the first place. Anyways, many a students are condemning this step from Facebook stating that they thought the place was for freely discussing issues, etc. Well make a change, that’s the very early definition of Facebook when it wasn’t dominant and needed to win users. Not anymore, I mean so biased is the social network that it would block anything, anytime if it feels like, but you can’t block Mark Zuckerberg for sure.

Tags: Ban, facebook, Law, pot

Firefox Adds Panorama Feature In Firefox 4, Looks Cool

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 19:46:12 +0000

How do you keep users glued to your service or tool? Give them features that they find impossible to resist and are highly in demand. Firefox has kept a tab on such user needs, evolving continually, the release of the Firefox 4 has something similar to offer; Tab Candy.

That would also be called the Firefox Panorama, and has been in tests for quite some but previous tries had been wobbly. The current version is more stable and lets you place all those messy tabs in a more organized manner. The idea is to give you a neater summary of what pages you are browsing, letting you zoom in with the Panorama button or simply view a more compactly organized tabs. I recall something similar on some other OS.. Expose on the Macs?

This better be nice, given that Raskin has clearly mentioned that the feature has taken over 7 months to complete and stem from the much older concepts on Firefox, dating back to 2008. Which included the Firefox Mobile. He also takes time to actually explain the principles of design:

Minimize required interactivity. In other words, don’t make me click. This goes hand-in-hand with recognition versus recall. Instead of using stacks or other occlusive group visualizations we invented a new way of grouping, where tabs in a group shrink to accommodate more tabs. This way, tabs stay in the order and rough location you remember whilst always remaining visible.

Bah, lets just leave that there and watch the video instead [though you ae welcome to read the whole entry here].

You can download Firefox 4 beta.

Tags: Browsers, features, Firefox

Facebook Fan Page Tabs To See Makeover This Week: Narrower Tabs, Better Navigation

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 17:14:30 +0000

With plans to update the look of the fan pages on Facebook being ancient now, the social network has finally decided to implement the plans for real. Starting today, we will be able to see a simplified version of our pages making it easier to Browse. How? Apparently Facebook will be refining the Page Tabs by narrowing them down to 520 pixels compared to the previous 760 pixels.

This will be applied by default to all tabs but for those that have been custom made, users will have to manually format them to adjust them appropriately. I am still not sure why Facebook has taken all the time in the world to introduce these changes? I mean they are pretty quick to roll out anything that in any way is against user privacy preferences. Perhaps one reason could be to slowly integrate this in order to have all campaign managers and brands to get done with their existing campaigns that required larger tabs.

Quite considerate of Facebook, hope we see something done to block Mark Zuckerberg!

Tags: facebook, fan pages

Is Touch The Future Of Apple iMac?

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:46:13 +0000

There have been talks of Apple filing for new patents and the rumor of the smaller and cheaper iPad, the new iPhone and the Verizon Apple deal. The other included filing for patents to take action against the Jailbroken iPhones. Today PatentlyApple has released schematics of what can possibly be the upcoming iMac Touch.

From the diagrams it appears that the new iMac will be usable as both the desktops machine when in the upright mode or the OS X mode as more commonly referred. When slanted, it switches functionality and acts a touch pad and operates in the iOS mode. The other addition is the more flexil0 adjustable stand that helps in easily slanting the iMac.

I will leave you with the images for now and return with a bit detailed followup later.

Thanks Patently Apple

Tags: apple, imac, touch screen

Mark Zuckerberg: You Can’t Block Me On Facebook!! WTF?@#@!

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:24:30 +0000

Hell with anyone who talks about having freedom on the Internet to do what you like, block or unblock content or users. We are well aware how Facebook has reportedly played with User privacy and guess what, it has another dirty trick. The CEO, Mark Zuckerberg is one person on the planet who you can’t block on Facebook. Forget it if he is ever interested in adding anyone, put aside bothering with notifications or spammy messages.

But I want to block him, just for the heck of it!

I can’t and I bet not even the President of the United States of America can. Why so? Any clues? Any special reason? I am trying to guess that to the best of my abilities but fail. Bah! Forget it, I will just ignore his friend request… whenever he sends one [ahem].

Thanks TC

Tags: facebook, mark zuckerberg

Google Mobile Gets An Update: Adds Push Notifications To Gmail And Calendar On iPhone

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 19:56:46 +0000

Google has just tweaked its Google Mobile App for the iOS with the addition of Push notifications for both the Google Calendar and the Gmail. With this, users will be able to set configurations on their iPhone to turn notifications on.

Upon receiving updates or notifications for the email and a popup alerts for your Calendar, users will be prompted on the Google Apps. The push notifications, especially for the Gmail aren’t new and have been available for almost a year now. But that required a lot of work; setting your Google account with one on Exchange ActiveSync. Even that was kept limited as users could only integrate one Google account per ActiveSync, but with the coming of the iOS, this has changed considerably and push notifications might just make a life bit easier for Gmail lovers.

Other than that, the mobile search has been tweaked a bit as well. The update will provide you results while you enter the search terms. Isn’t that much like the Live Search Result update Google is testing out for the Web Search?

via Google Mobile

Tags: Apps, Gmail, google, google calendar, iphone

Microsoft Goes The Android, Apple Way. Windows Phone 7 SDK Coming In September

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 19:11:30 +0000

The web is abuzz with the coming of the promised Windows Phone 7, though I guess I will never be a fan of the mobile operating system from Microsoft, even if they offered me numerous Xbox 360 titles on the Windows Phone 7. Why? Well the major reason being I doubt the availability of apps, but that might just change a bit, since the firm is planning to released the SDK for the Windows Phone 7. This would be coming to us by 16 September.

So will we be seeing the coming of a lot of apps before holidays? If that happens, the Windows Phone 7 might just have something worth the money for those who expect something from Microsoft’s OS.

Anyways, the SDK will be coming after quite some time, but if you happen to be a developer, you can register for the Marketplace and start off using the toolkit in beta. Well this might just help you get the feel of what developing would be like for the mobile operating system. Microsoft will however be taking in apps in the marketplace, October onwards.

Being a hard core hater of the Windows Mobile platform, I am starting to expect this one to be big and more importantly worth the money. Anyone else looking forward to the evolution of Windows Mobile, err Phone?

via Cnet

Tags: microsoft, mobile, mobiles, windows phone 7

Jailbroken iPhones Get a Fix For Login Issues With Facebook App v3.2.2

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:20:53 +0000

Facebook only recently introduced Facebook Places, partnering with all major players in the location based social networking arena like Gowalla, Foursquare, etc. They also released the new Facebook App [version 3.1.1] for the iPhone loaded with Places, but I guess it has been buggy. Yesterday Robert Scoble talked about the new feature from Facebook; Tag anywhere. Which actually had him tagged on places where he had never been, added with login issues.

Today, however the social network released version 3.2.2 for the application with fixes for the login issues. The new version is available on the App Store with the Update button on your iPhone. Other than, owing to the huge number of complains and requests from users, Facebook has also specifically mentioned that the app is only available for the users in the US. Though if you are outside the US you will still see the tab, but hitting it would only display a message stating it’s not available in your region [Non-US].

What are the other bugs you have noticed? I would appreciate you sharing these and helping me mock at the app more [err kidding].

Tags: app, facebook, facebook places, iphone, location

Apple Set To Police Jailbroken iPhones, iPad With New Patents

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 17:40:15 +0000

So you thought Apple would actually digest if Jailbreaking went legal on its devices like the iPhone and the iPad? At least I thought that, especially with the easy how to jailbreak with JailbreakMe and numerous other ways. We are already aware that Apple pulls off all warranty on devices that are hacked, today it took its fight against jailbreaking by filing a patent that covers numerous methods to identify and disable any malicious use. Is Apple trying to be renegade and take actions against what the US government as legalized?

The idea is primarily to protect the users’ personal and sensitive data like credit card numbers, passwords, etc on the device. Upon finding that the device is stolen, the data is sent to servers at Apple and removed from the storage. Other than that, the patent would also keep a check on the removal of a device’s SIM, unauthorized usage, hacking, etc. Upon discovering such acts, would prompt Apple to request carriers to suspend services on the devices and shut down the device itself.

Protecting theft of sensitive user data is just a reason to cover up its attempts to actually kill your jailbroken devices. Happy Appling I must say, for I have no clue as to how Apple would identify if the device has been willingly jailbroken or stolen. Anyone with a clarification?

via The Register

Tags: apple, iphone, jailbreak, jailbreakme

Cease And Desist Threat By Motorola For Leaked Android 2.2 Update On Droid X

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 12:37:57 +0000

Remember we talked yesterday about running the Android 2.2 [Froyo] lock screen on your Droid X with Android 2.1?Including other reports of leaked ROM? Well it appears that Motorola has got sniff of that and is taking action.

The cell phone manufacturer has asked sites like MyDroidWorld, and others to take down leaked files immediately. So fret not or curse the communities for having broken links to installation files given they have been pulled down. You can still probably Google for existing mirrors which might just be having the Froyo version. Though it’s highly improbable you will find one.

Following is the copy of the email sent by Richard Rushing, Senior Director Information Security:

Pursuant to 17 USC 512(c)(3)(A), this communication serves as a statement that:
(1). I the duly authorized representative of the exclusive rights holder Motorola for Droid X Keyboard Software, know as “repackaged-signed.apk”

The follow URL contains the software which we have confirmed as Motorola Copyrighted Software
http://www.xxxxxxxxx.com/downloads/update.zip

(2). These exclusive rights are being violated by material available upon your site at the following URL(s):
http://www.xxxxxxxx.com/downloads/update.zip

(3) I have a good faith belief that the use of this material in such a fashion is not authorized by the copyright holder, the copyright holder’s agent, or the law;

(4) Under penalty of perjury in a United States court of law, I state that the information contained in this notification is accurate, and that I am authorized to act on the behalf of the exclusive rights holder for the material in question;

Richard Rushing
Senior Director Information Security
Motorola

via MyAndroidWorld, Engadget

Tags: Android, Droid X, froyo, mobile, motorola

Top 10 Twitter Extensions For Google Chrome

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 09:16:54 +0000

I have been suing using Firefox for well, over two years with the Google Chrome being my secondary one. The only problem that kept me away initially was the lack of extension support but that changed thanks to all the development lately.

I will be using this post to highlight the top Twitter extensions for the Google Chrome browser, getting used to them myself before I can actually make a shift to making Chrome my preference. I have kept the list short, just a disclaimer before our respectful readers complain of having left many others.

Chromed Bird

By far this extension has most users and offers a lot of features to enhance your Twitter experience within the browser. The extension lets you:

Create custom search queries that will update automatically
Preview image links by hovering them
See all your tweets in an unified timeline
Follow your timelines (including @mentions, lists, DMs and favorites) and navigate through your tweets
Compose, reply, RT, share, favorite and delete tweets

[Download]

Twitter Extender

The extension adds additional features to Twitter increasing your overall productivity with the micromessaging service. Some of the key features include:

Reply to all – lets you reply to all participants in a tweet by clicking the Reply to all button.
Highlight mentions in the timeline
Changing the Tweet alignment [helps if you write in Arabic, Urdu].

[Download]

Twitter Share This Page

Of course we now have all sorts of Twitter buttons to share/tweet the page we think is of interest. The extension adds a small Twitter share button right inside your address bar. Clicking the button would open the status page of Twitter with a prefilled status.

[Download]

Tweetings For Twitter

I personally know people who have grudges against using the Desktop clients for Twitter. Irrespective how many powerful features TweetDeck offers or how fast Seesmic is, it’s not their piece of cake. For those Webby users, Tweetings for Twitter is quite nice alternative.

It lets you do all things Twitter on your Chrome browser while you browse the web. Some features include:

Shortening links
Quote tweets [RT, via, any manner you prefer]
Lists
Store Partially composed Tweets

[Download]

Twitter Reactions

My personal favorite. The extension lets you see the reactions a page has got on Twitter. These include mentions, RTs, etc. I won’t do much explanation and let you watch the video to do explanation for the extension created by Shapeshed.

[Download]

Twitex Beta

Need a desktop like experience of Twitter on Chrome? Give this one a try. The extension places your Twitter profile in tabs making browsing easier added with the more traditional Twitter features like old style RT, search and favorites.

[Download]

Twitter Pulse

Who likes wasting time trying to find the most read/shared post on a new website you visit randomly thanks to Digg, StumbleUpon, etc? Twitter Pulse lets you find the most Tweeted/Retweeted, in short the trending post on a particular page you visit.

It displays the top 10 list for the time period you specify [Right Now, 24Hours, 7 Days, Month, All].

[Download]

Hide Twitter Suggestions Plus

I guess like myself many of you detest the Twitter Who To Follow feature and Google how to remove ‘who to follow’. Well this extension won’t remove the option, but will let you place the feature to the bottom of the sidebar and lets you collapse the same.

Still new, so expect bugs, crashes, etc. You can also install the simpler Hide Twitter Suggestions to completely hide the box.

[Download]

Twitter Poke Application

What’s life without having an integration of a few Facebook feature. Even if it’s the loathsome Poke one. The app adds a poke button next to the reply. Here’s a creative bit, if you poke in response to a poke, the poke changes to Retaliate.

Just one drawback, it doesn’t let you send DM. But hey, what good is a poke if it’s not public?

[Download]

Twitter And Google Mashup

As the name suggest, the extension puts mashes search results from Twitter on Google Search. This is doe by replacing the paid adverts section on the search page. What makes this a better option is that it places your search results in two columns instead of stuffing Twitter results between those from the web. Quite an easy way to stay updated on what’s happening on the Web and Twitter alike.

[Download]

You might also be interested in reading the following tips for Bloggers too:

5 Essential WordPress Plugins For Bloggers

To Blog Or Not To Blog. A Few Ideas To Write A Blog Post If You Are Stuck

6 Essential Facebook WordPress Plugins A Blogger Can’t Miss

4 Tips To Be A Successful Blogger [Yes Having A Power Backup Is Essential!]

For tips/tricks and talk on latest Startups, you can follow us on Twitter [@smohkim] or join us on Facebook [Startup Meme]. You can also email us at [mohkim(.)khan(at)startupmeme(.)com] if you have some interesting tips or hacks for iPhone, Android, etc.

Tags: Chrome, extensions, google, tips, Twitter

The Android 2.2 Lock Screen Now For Droid X Running Android 2.1

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 20:45:19 +0000

Reports of the leaked version of Android 2.2 aka Froyo have been running rampant across the Web. The version has a few bugs and wouldn’t be recommended to replace the much stable version 2.1 of the Google mobile Operating System.

Whatever be the issues with it, I personally love the Lock screen, it looks much better than the traditional Android Lock and Silent option we see. Not really like the Apple iPhone but quite close to it. Oops, there I go again with the comparison. Lets get back to the lock screen for now.

Folks at the Android Central Forum have come out with an easy to install .apk file to give you the taste of the Android 2.2 lock screen on your Droid running the Android 2.1. You can visit the link here for more information and the link to install the same [download].

via AndroidCentral

Tags: Android, Droid, froyo, google

Confirmed: Google Tests Live Updating Search Results

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 20:05:00 +0000

So it’s confirmed, Google is testing new features on its search, the tests are about live updating search results as you type in query items. The video above has been confirmed to be of the tests conducted by multiple sources, including Google.

The test has been rolled out to only a very few folks at random and chances are that this will be coming soon for the users globally. Google testing its new features isn’t a new story, given that the search giant is conducting test every now and then to improve user experience, many of these just go unnoticed. I am just a little worried about the user interaction primarily for the fact that many things can slow the updates, actually making the experience duller. Well that isn’t Google’s fault if you are with a slow machine or have bandwidth issues. Perhaps Google would offer the option to switch this off.

What do you think about these tests? Would you prefer having real time updates to search results?

via Rob Ousbey

Tags: google, search, tests

Create Your Virtual Business Cards With Qubrit!

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 09:44:34 +0000

Visiting cards are absolutely essential but cutting down trees to make paper for cards isn’t very friendly to the environment. Why not have something friendlier for the same purpose? Why not Qubrit?

The startup lets you create business cards, a virtual card holder and one that is friendlier to the environment. You can create your own professional looking card with all essential details like telephone numbers, emails, links to your profiles on numerous social networks like Facebook, Twitter, to web pages, including your blog and to the instant messaging services you use like Skype and Gtalk. Signing up isn’t a problem, quite easy and purposeful.

If you ask me to define it the least possible words I would state that it’s mix of Facebook and LinkedIn. You can add cards, exchange these with your connections on Qubrit, label each card as per categories for example if a connection is from someone you know at work, a friend or just a connection on Qubrit. It helps you categorize your cards appropriately so you know what contact to find and where. Easy isn’t it?

You can also share these cards with others across the web and give them a better way to find how to connect with you. Second, you don’t lose and perhaps the most important reason being making updates is easy, you don’t need to reprint your cards if your mobile number pr designation changes. Simply logon on to your Qubrit profile, make changes and update, isn’t that really friendly with the environment and your pocket too?

The startup was launched in April and has already crossed 100,000 users. Thought I would just share the numbers.

Let us know what you think about the service and if you happen to know other similar services in the comments. We always need to have more variety, don’t we?

For tips/tricks and talk on latest Startups, you can follow us on Twitter [@smohkim] or join us on Facebook [Startup Meme]. You can also email us at [mohkim(.)khan(at)startupmeme(.)com] if you have some interesting tips or hacks for iPhone, Android, etc.

Tags: business cards, environment, qubrit, startups

Confirmed: Google Pockets Visual Search Engine Like.com

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 00:20:24 +0000

So it’s official, Google has pocketed the visual Search Engine, Like.com. The deal’s financial aspects remain undisclosed but it appears that it was closed in the $100 Million price bracket.

The confirmation comes right on the homepage of Like as a message from its founder and CEO, Munjal Shah though it does barely hint at what is to be done with the startup by Google. We had reported the about the history of the Google and Like in our post last week and that the Search giant had its eyes on acquiring it back in 2005 when it was working under the name of Riya. However Google rolled back and Riya was shut down. We are waiting for further details on the deal once we get a sniff at them. For now you can read Munjal Shah’s note on the homepage [the screenshot below].

Tags: acquisition, google, like.com, visual search

How To Make Your iPhone Look Like BlackBerry [aka Ugly]

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 21:27:19 +0000

I admire smart thinking and innovation but at times it just makes something look queer. Altamash Jiwani went in a similar direction and though I admire his imagination, if it is ever to become a reality, the iPhone will perhaps be the ugliest device ever.

Keeping out my personal opinion, Jiwani is of the opinion that we can probably work around by having keyboard that wraps around the iPhone. This keyboard will be placed on rails so that users can slide it in and out as per their need. This would actually extend the size of the iPhone and would plug right in the dock connector of the device, ensuring that when fully extended, it stands as tall as the Eiffel tower. Alright that was a bit too much.

I guess this particular design might be welcomed by the BlackBerry fanboys who are so used to these keyboards that the absence of one is the only reason why they can’t switch to the iPhone. Apple is never going to try this as it isn’t desperate to commit such imperfection perfectly and thirdly, what’s the use of having an iPhone with a keyboard?

Cutting it all short, I salute Jiwani for giving this a thought. At least BlackBerry Torch will have something to boast about if Apple gets serious regarding the physical keyboard.

via iPhone Savior, TUAW

Tags: apple, blackberry, iphone, physical keyboard

Infographic: The Business Behind Facebook

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 20:49:21 +0000

There is nothing better than having a picture doing all the explanation. The image below gives a pretty good summary of the Facebook story and is quite similar to the one we shared earlier this week.

I must admit, I had no clue on the number of servers Facebook has, but 60,000 is quite a lot. Of course it’s dwarfed by the 450,000 servers that Google has. But lets not get into comparison and see the picture:

via Online PHP Diagrams

Tags: facebook, social media

Advice: Why Your Facebook Profile Must Be Private

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 09:17:42 +0000

Everyone knows that your employer to be is bound to check your Facebook profile. If you happen to be a hotshot with things that would tilt the employer’s decision against you, just make sure your Facebook Profile is set to Private.

Thanks Wiseguy Pictures

Tags: advice, facebook, privacy, video

Essential Tips For Bloggers: 5 Things A Blogger Must Avoid

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 20:54:17 +0000

Experience is the best teacher, I firmly believe that but we have heard an old saying that says a wise person is one who learns from mistakes made by others. I have had trouble in my blogging career, troubles of all sorts. From befriending friends on Twitter, to making a decent Facebook page that engages the right people with the right stuff, all the way to actually writing a post. I just thought I would share what I have learned in this post hoping it helps others and more importantly if others can share tips with us at Startup Meme.

Following are the 5 things that I think every blogger must avoid. It won’t make you a great blogger minting loads of cash, but it will definitely help you earn a respectable reputation.

Writing What Isn’t Your Passion

Coding isn’t my piece of cake, but I read a friend’s blog that generates a million visits each month compared to mine that only gets a 100,000. I write on anything other than codes and suddenly the lust for Search Engine referrals makes me go for writing tips on codes… SNAP again! Your readers think you are dodgy, have no mind of your own and in worst case, you are a cheat!

Don’t write for the Search Engines, people read your blog not the machines and people can guess what you are good at easily. Build connections, make your readers feel your posts come from you alone, no matter how stupid they might actually sound [seriously].

Avoid Distraction

If you are writing about technology, especially Web startups, applications, social media, there is already a whole lot of distraction. Every news appears to be the most important, every now and then a breaking news pops up and you want to punch in the keys on your keyboard and hit publish.

First thing first, know that you can only write one post at a time, avoid opening a new tab for every news. That distracts you the most and the worst part is you might spend hours staring at the news and actually not publish any. Even right now I have 7 tabs open, with each having the top new and I haven’t written a word. This is exactly what prompted me to write this post.

Close Your Twitter Client [Seesmic, TweetDeck, Etc]

That’s root of all distraction and trust me it is exactly what is keeping you from being great [ahem sort of]. I have TweetDeck running and every time there is a notification my eyes navigate to the top right corner of my monitor and snap! Breaks continuity, I mean isn’t it rude to read a Tweet and not reply? Solution? Exit, quit, close anything to do with Twitter at least until you have written a post.

Wrong Friends At Wrong Time For Wrong Purpose

I should call them followers for Twitter, Friends on Facebook or other social networks and members in forums. Often the lust for having thousands of followers leads to adding every one out there. You might be writing about cooking tips and befriend me, who is least bothered about reading anything about this and chances are I will never re-tweet or share your link. It’s a waste of connection, more distraction and dents your reputation.

Follow the right people, even a few dozen would make a huge impact compared to a 1,000 who don’t share similar interest. Random folks just won’t be interested!

Not Building Relations – Connections Are Virtual, Not The People

I own Startup Meme, I write about technology, startups, Apple, HTC, Android, Google, Facebook, etc, etc. I am a guru and I don’t need to comment or link to other blogs!

If you think that, your ideology needs a bit of fixing. The more you comment on other blogs, the more you expose yourself and your work to others, probability of getting new readers are way higher compared to Tweeting links. You gain credibility, especially when you comment or link to smaller blogs. Just make a note that you will go through one post on a random blog [of your interest] and share your opinion there.

Bloggers and people love this, they link back and talk about you, even if it’s once [and once is quite enough at times!]. I hate to admit it, but I did the same mistake when I started writing for this blog back in 2008, gladly learned that on time.

You might also be interested in reading the following tips for Bloggers too:

5 Essential WordPress Plugins For Bloggers

To Blog Or Not To Blog. A Few Ideas To Write A Blog Post If You Are Stuck

6 Essential Facebook WordPress Plugins A Blogger Can’t Miss

4 Tips To Be A Successful Blogger [Yes Having A Power Backup Is Essential!]

[image with thanks]

Tags: bloggers, facebook, mistakes, social media, tips, Twitter

Update: Facebook App For iPhone Gets v3.2.1, Facebook Places Comes To Those in US

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 19:07:47 +0000

Facebook users with the iPhone have got themselves an update for the Facebook App. The new version 3.2.1 of the app is more about bug fixes and nothing really notable. So if you happen to use Facebook on your iPhone click the update button and let us know if you spot something.

I am not a huge fan of the iPhone and would appreciate if one of you can share the changes in the latest release. You can download the Facebook 3.2.1 here. We are also aware of Facebook Places going live yesterday for all Apple devices which include the iPhone, iPod Touch and the iPad. Sadly this is only available for those in the US, those of us outside the US will have to wait, hopefully not for long.

Some of the Key features in the new version are:

New features

Use Places to see where your friends are and share where you are.
Set the privacy of individual status updates.
See all recipients of inbox messages.
(For iOS 4) Upload photos and videos in the background.

Bug fixes

Delay when commenting on a post or posting a status update.
Notes display bugs.
Reliability bugs in News Feed.

Tags: app, facebook, iPad, iphone, ipod

Israeli Firm Brings The Timeless Rummikub To Facebook

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 12:24:00 +0000

Rummikub is quite popular, at least amongst those in my family and most probably with others around the globe too. Given it sells over 3 million units globally. And I guess with the advent of social games across social networking sites like Facebook have got these timeless classics coming over to the Web. Today, an Israel based firm P-Karma have rolled out Rummikub Application for the Facebook.

The app is a multiplayer game and carries forward the tradition of the game and requires users to complete a set of three tiles carrying same numbers. You can also play the game on the Website with Facebook Connect. Users can play the game in private and public rooms with quite a few tweaks to improve user experience. These include video chat, fn activity like throwing vegetables at opponents who are sluggish, etc. The game also includes a credit system; Joker Credits and these credits can be used to purchase gifts, themes as well as buying your way into the tournaments.

Each of these items vary in cost, with $5 for 50 credits and $10 for 150 credits, etc. The game is my personal favorite, and though I wont be addicted to it enough to piss my friends off with notifications, I can already sense that the game can become the next big name. Perhaps close to Farmville as well.

Have you ever played Rummikub in real and will you opt for the Facebook app? Let us know in the comments.

Tags: Apps, facebook, rummikub, social games, social network

Lunascape Experience Comes To The iPad With The Free iLunascape Browser

Sardar Mohkim Khan — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:01:14 +0000

Lunascape, the triple engine browser is extending itself beyond desktop to the revolutionary Apple tablet, the iPad. They have just released iLunascape, the iPad app is more of a browser and can be downloaded for free from the App Store.

The browser has been created specifically for the iPad to provide users with a richer browsing experience compared to what Safari provides, at least in my opinion. The best bit it, iLunascape brings its tabbed browsing to the tablet and enables users to browse in six different tabs simultaneously. Switching tabs isn’t an issue either as it can be down by a simple tap. What makes the iLunascape work great is that it has been specifically designed for the iPad user interface. Some of the key features include:

Capturing Screenshot: Lets you take a screenshot of your page by tapping the Page option in the Menu bar.

Bookmarking: You can click on the Star icon before the address bar in the browser to add the URL to the bookmark. iLunascape lets you arrange these bookmarks and also edit names for these by tapping edit on the bookmark.

Opt out for Auto-Rotation: This in particular is useful given that it gets a bit irritating to have your browser rotating at every tilt. You can lock auto-rotation from the settings menu.

Those are just a few, iLunascape provides you all the basic browsing features with taps and touches making browsing on the iPad easy. I mean the Screenshot tool is absolutely essential when you are into a habit of saving pages of numerous sites you visit, given that Safari doesn’t have add-on support on the iPad.

If you happen to have an iPad and can test this out, do let us know about your experience in the comments.

You can download iLunascape here.

Tags: app, apple, browser, ilunascape, iPad, lunascape

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