Saturday 31 December 2016

5 More iOS 10 Jailbreak Tweaks To Check Out : CCRecord, ForceInPicture, Creamless, More


You could be forgiven for thinking that the jailbreak scene was beginning to wind down to some extent, and with each passing iOS release not only adding protection against jailbreaking but also removing the need to do it by adding new features that previously required a jailbreak, it would possibly make plenty of sense.


As it turns out though, jailbreaking is very much alive and well, and with a new iOS 10 jailbreak arriving, everyone is taking notice again. Importantly, new tweaks are also popping up, as are updates to existing tweaks.


Cydia-iOS-10


The same discovery problem is still very much there though, and as you know, we like to share our latest jailbreak tweak findings as regularly as possible. We did just that a few days ago when we shared a handful of jailbreak tweaks that are ready for iOS 10, and here we are with some more. If you’re jailbroken on an iPad or iPhone running iOS 10, then these tweaks are for you.


Let’s get started.


Disclose (Free, BigBoss)


Are you a heavy user of the Look Up dictionary view within iOS but are looking for a quicker and easier way to dismiss it? Disclose brings exactly that, with a swipe now the way to get rid of that definition.


ForceInPicture (Free, BigBoss)


forceinpicture1


The Picture-in-Picture capabilities of iOS are excellent, but they need the app’s developer to buy into the idea. Also, that feature is limited to iPad only. This is where jailbreak tweaks like ForceInPicture come into play. Now you can watch video in a window no matter what app it’s coming from, and both on iPad and iPhone as well.


CCRecord (Free, BigBoss)


Being able to record your screen is something jailbreakers have loved lauding over non-jailbreakers for what seems like forever, and with CCRecord, there’s now a super easy way to start and stop recording. With CCRecord, users can tap a new button inside Control Center – one tap to record, another to stop the recording. After that second tap, a video file will be saved. Things don’t get much easier than that.


StatusFolder (Free, BigBoss)


statusfolder1


You might not even have noticed, but when you open a folder in iOS, the Status Bar is removed from the screen. We’re not really sure why, but it’s a design decision that Apple clearly made for whatever reason, and if you disagree with it, then StatusFolder makes it so the Status Bar is shown, even when you’re viewing the contents of a folder. It won’t change your life, but it’s one little tweak that makes things more consistent, and we like consistency.


Creamless (Free, BigBoss)


creamless1


Don’t like how activated toggles in iOS 10 Control Center are brightly colored? Creamless brings back the old look, with only the icon inside each activated toggle being filled with plain white.


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5 More iOS 10 Jailbreak Tweaks To Check Out : CCRecord, ForceInPicture, Creamless, More

Tech Deals: 50% Off Bose SoundTrue Headphones, Wacom Bamboo iPad Stylus, Roku Stick, More


There’s not really much we can say about these deals except that it’s New Year’s time, so what better way to celebrate the start of year 2017 than grabbing some technology bargains on some of your favorite tech items?


Today we are looking at the cult-followed Fallout 4 for PC, coming in as a digital download copy for under $20. Perfect for those who have not ventured into this world till now, and digital download means you don’t have to wait for the physical copy to arrive as the code can be redeemed for download on your PC immediately.


tech-deals-of-the-day-new-year-edition


There is then the Bose SoundTrue headphones down from $179.95 to a mere $89.99 only. If you’re looking for a Chromecast alternative for your TV, the latest Roku Streaming Stick is worth checking out as well. Last but not the least, is the Wacom Bamboo Fineline 2 stylus for tablets, including iPads.


As always, the deals listed here are hot, time sensitive, and also subject to stock levels. So keep that credit card close by so that when you have identified the product of your choice, you can act quickly before the offers expire. So what are you waiting for? Enjoy the savings, and from all of us here at RP, wish you all a very Happy New Year!


Wacom Bamboo Fineline 2 Fine Point Thin Tip Stylus for iPad ($39.99, usually $59.95)


Wacom-Bamboo-Fineline-2-Stylus


Now that Apple Pencil is actually a product, it’s not that often that you hear people talking about the available products on the market that act as a stylus for Apple’s iPad. With that said, given the fact that Apple Pencil only works with the iPad Pro, this premium Bamboo Fineline 2 from Wacom could be of serious interest at this price. Precise drawing and writing with the thin tip make this a pleasure to use on the stunning Retina display of Apple’s iPad hardware.


Buy: Wacom Bamboo Fineline 2 Fine Point Thin Tip Stylus for iPad from Amazon: $39.99 | Original price: $60


Fallout 4 for PC – Digital Download Code ($19.79, usually $59.99)


fallout-4-pc


If you’re a PC gamer, and want to challenge yourself in what is literally a huge expansive environment where you can wander aimlessly around as well as interact with endless characters and tasks, then Fallout 4 is probably worth consideration. The visuals and gameplay within Fallout 4 is clearly stunning, but one of the most unique aspects of the title, and one that keeps people coming back for more, is the ability to develop your own playing style and tailor your character towards your own personalty.


Buy: Fallout 4 for PC – Digital Download Code from Amazon: $19.79 | Original price: $60


Bose SoundTrue Around-Ear Headphones II ($89.99, usually $179.95)


BOSE-headphones


At the top-end price of $179.95 we’d argue that you could probably get more bang for your buck by looking at other premium headphones on the market. However, when you knock 50% off that price, and find yourself in a position where you can get a set of Bose SoundTrue headphones for just $89.99, which includes the new redesigned exterior, you really need to be throwing your hand into that pocket and grabbing them before they are all gone.


Buy: Bose SoundTrue Around-Ear Headphones II from Amazon: $89.99 | Original price: $180


Roku Streaming Stick 2016 Model ($39.99, usually $49.99)


roku-streaming-stick


2016 has been the year for streaming boxes and sticks to come into their own as a product that the living room truly needs. Apple, Amazon and Roku have all had a very prosperous year with sales of their own hardware. And with this deal, it’s likely that consumers will be sending Roku into 2017 with a bang as they can now pick up the company’s latest 2016 model streaming stick for under $40. That’s with a quad-core processor and fast dual-band wireless with 8x more processing power than the previous model.


Buy: Roku Streaming Stick 2016 Model from Amazon: $39.99 | Original price: $50


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Tech Deals: 50% Off Bose SoundTrue Headphones, Wacom Bamboo iPad Stylus, Roku Stick, More

Rumor: Samsung To Launch AirPods-Like Wireless Earbuds With Galaxy S8


It shouldn’t really come as a surprise, but it looks as though Samsung is planning on taking inspiration from Apple’s extremely well-received AirPods in an effort to launch a similar product alongside next year’s Galaxy S8 smartphone.


The report suggests that Samsung is unlikely to remove the 3.5mm headphone jack from the Galaxy S8 as has been rumored previously, and will still make it entirely possible to use wired headphones, but will also take the opportunity to release a proposition similar in functionality to Apple’s W1 chip-powered AirPods as it looks to embrace the popularity of the wireless era.


galaxy-s8-wireless-earphones


As things stand, it’s almost impossible to ascertain whether or not Samsung would look to directly copy what Apple has produced with the AirPods, both in terms of visual product design and how the AirPods actually function thanks to the integrated Apple W1 chip. This powerful, and purposely created, chipset allows for a seamless connection to all iOS devices with a single-tap, as well as displaying additional information about the headphones on the device itself, such as the battery state and whether or not they are charging in the accompanying case. The chip also helps in increased range and battery life.


Samsung already has its own wireless earphones in the form of the Gear IconX since June 2016. They cost around the $199.99 mark, but they don’t go as far as offering the same streamlined design or enhanced functionality that Apple has introduced with the AirPods.


It doesn’t come as a great surprise that Samsung, and other corporations for that matter, are looking at designing and releasing something similar to Apple’s AirPods, but the real test will be whether or not Samsung looks to release a product that’s uniquely designed in its own vision, or whether it simply copies Apple’s lead.


gear-iconX


Whatever the chosen route, these rumored truly-wireless and enhanced earphones should be an exciting proposition for those who regularly choose to purchase Samsung’s Galaxy S smartphones. The company’s recent acquisition of Harman International Industries puts it in a perfect position to release a wireless audio product that offers enhanced sound quality utilizing the expertise of that business and its technologies.


Another question that also remains unanswered is whether this new product will be offered in the box with every Galaxy S8, or sold as a separate accessory like Apple’s AirPods.


(Source: SamMobile)


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Rumor: Samsung To Launch AirPods-Like Wireless Earbuds With Galaxy S8

Samsung Galaxy S7 Owners Report Camera Glass Shattering On Its Own


Reports have begun to surface of what users claim are Samsung Galaxy S7 smartphones with cracked rear cameras, apparently with no reason for the failure. Multiple users have reported the issue and it would appear that users with cracked cameras have been reporting them on Samsung forums for months.


All of the users report that their rear camera glass broke without any impact that could explain the damage. In fact, many of those who reported a broken camera had their devices in cases when the issue occurred.


Samsung-S7-shattered-camera


It is far from unheard of for high-end smartphones to experience problems, even problems that seem widespread. With flagship devices from the likes of Samsung and Apple selling in such huge numbers, it is always likely that there will be at least some percentage of devices that are bad.


Manufacturing defects can happen, especially on the scale at which these companies are working. It’s when the same issues crop up repeatedly, over an extended period of time, that questions need to be asked about quality control. That’s exactly where we are right now with Samsung’s Galaxy S7.


With Samsung still reeling from the Galaxy Note 7 debacle that saw the smartphone canned following a series of battery-related fires, the company doesn’t seem to be handling this current problem very well at all. Users are being forced to pay for repairs to their broken cameras, which can cost $70 apiece, and some users have even reported the issue happening repeatedly.


Samsung believes the issue to be user error rather than a defect, but that isn’t stopping Seattle law firm Keller Rohrbach from looking into the incidents. A lawsuit may be on the cards, which is exactly what Samsung could do without right now.


Note-7-fire


With the Galaxy S8 already set to be released into a world where Samsung is trying to recover from the Galaxy Note 7 recall, it could really do without an ongoing lawsuit surrounding its other flagship phone.


(Top image source: Samsung Community Forums)


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Samsung Galaxy S7 Owners Report Camera Glass Shattering On Its Own

Friday 30 December 2016

Apple Still Working On Bringing Digital Crown To iPhone And iPad


Looks like Apple is still actively working on bringing Apple Watch’s Digital Crown to iPhone and iPad devices. Here are the details.


Sometimes we get the feeling that there is nothing the folks at Apple enjoy more than filing a good patent application, and the company is known to patent anything and everything even if it never actually finds its way into a shipping product. Apple isn’t alone in this, of course, but Apple’s patent applications do seem to garner by far the most interest. The latest of those applications to be brought to the attention of Patently Apple is for an Apple Watch-like Digital Crown that could be used on devices such as iPhones and iPads. The crown, which is one of the most interesting design and interface features of the Apple Watch, would allow for new interactions on whatever device it may appear.


Apple-Watch


Today’s new patent applications, numbered  20160378187 and 20160378189, revolve around “an exemplary rotary input that can rotate in a rotational direction as well as be displaced in a direction orthogonal to the rotational direction” for iPhones and iPads, and builds on existing patent application which first surfaced back in July this year.


In the new applications, Apple outlines why it feels that a crown of sorts can be beneficial to owners of devices that would not traditionally feature a mechanical interface of that kind, unlike a watch. The aim is to provide haptic feedback to interactions, something that Apple will see as both an accessibility feature and just good interface design.


Some electronic devices may include mechanical inputs, such as buttons and/or switches. These mechanical inputs can control power (i.e., on/off) and volume for the electronic devices, among other functions. However, sometimes these mechanical inputs can fail to give a user tactile feedback, such as the “click-click-click” feeling of winding a mechanical alarm clock with a knob.



Apple-digital-crown-patent


The applications themselves are very wordy, and very complicated but the upshot is this – Apple is working on bringing a Digital Crown-like interface to iPhones and iPads. Whether you think that’s a good idea or not may depend on our exposure to the Apple Watch, but we do wonder whether this is something that will ever see the light of day.


Apple-Digital-Crown-Patent-2


As with all of Apple’s patent applications, there’s no guarantee we will see a product come out of this work. If we do, we don’t know when it might be, either.


For now, we’ll just have to wait and see.


(Source: Patently Apple)


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Apple Still Working On Bringing Digital Crown To iPhone And iPad

iOS 10.3 Beta Release Date Set For January 10th, Will Feature ‘Theatre Mode’ [Rumor]


According to a new rumor, iOS 10.3 beta release date is set for January 10th with a new feature called ‘Theatre mode’. Here are the details.


Apple is becoming more and more prolific with beta releases of both iOS and macOS, and rumors are starting to swirl as to what iOS 10.3 will bring with it when its first beta ships. The generally reliable Sonny Dickson has had his say on the subject via Twitter today, claiming that the first beta release of iOS 10.3 will land with developers as soon as January 10th.


iOS-10.3-beta


The very specific date has us thinking that Dickson does know something rather than simply putting the pieces together, but Apple is far from beyond changing its plans at the last minute, so we may never really know for sure until we see the OTA update pop up on developers’ devices. Until then, we can only take Dickson at his word and plan for a January 10th beta release, though we won’t be too surprised if the day comes and goes with no software released.


The release date isn’t the only tidbit that Dickson offered today, though. Again, speaking via Twitter, he also claimed that the new software will come with a new “Theatre mode” built in, with the new feature accessible via a button within the iOS Control Center. That button, Dickson says, will be shaped like popcorn in order to represent the feature itself.


As the name suggests, the new Theatre mode will apparently offer things such as dimmed screen lighting, reduced notifications and perhaps even a version of Night Shift, which would alter the color of the screen to better suit movie watching, whatever that might look like.


Sonny


The features of the Theatre mode are largely assumptions on our part, but it does make plenty of sense. Smartphone use in the theatre can be distracting for everyone, and anything which can reduce that distraction is just fine in our books.


According to another theory floating around, Theatre mode could also be Apple’s name for Dark mode in iOS.


We’ll have to wait and see what January 10th brings before we start getting too excited, though.


(Source: Sonny Dickson [Twitter])


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iOS 10.3 Beta Release Date Set For January 10th, Will Feature ‘Theatre Mode’ [Rumor]

Cydia 1.1.28 Beta For iOS 10 Jailbreak Released, Here’s What You Need To Know


The man once given the title of “The Godfather of Jailbreaking”, and the very same individual who is responsible for the upkeep and improvement of Cydia, Jay Freeman, has announced the availability of Cydia 1.1.28 beta to bring better compatibility with devices running the iOS 10 – 10.1.1 jailbreak Yalu + Mach_Portal released by Italian developer Luca Todesco.


Anyone with any working knowledge of the jailbreak community, and who therefore has been keeping abreast of the latest Yalu jailbreak for iOS 10.1.x from Luca Todesco, will already understand that the jailbreak is very much the definition of unstable. It’s a beta for a reason and is therefore not recommended at this stage for everyday jailbreakers.


cydia-1.1.28-beta


A large part of that instability is largely due to the fact that some of the most important components, like Cydia and Cydia Substrate, haven’t actually received any updates to offer the level of compatibility that the community would come to expect from the first public iOS 10 jailbreak release.


Now though, at least one of those two components, Cydia, has received a new version 1.1.28 update, and it is currently offered as a beta release. With this new release, Jay Freeman is attempting to bring that full required compatibility to devices running iOS 10.1.x. More importantly, it also brings in 64-bit support.


There is, of course, a variety of other fixes and improvements within the 1.1.28 beta releases (up to three seeds as of this writing) of Cydia, as well as a fairly comprehensive list of known issues that Freeman and his team still have to tackle.


cydia-1.1.28-beta-issues


If you are feeling adventurous, and want to try out the latest version of Cydia as a beta install for iOS 10.1.x on your jailbroken device, then you can do so by following the instructions below. Be warned that this beta release is meant for iOS 10 users only.


Step 1: First up, add the following source in your list of Cydia sources: http://apt.saurik.com/beta/cydia-arm64/.


Step 2: Once this source is added, wait for Cydia to refresh and show you the available new upgrades. Once done, it will show you three new upgrades available which are related to this new version of Cydia, namely Cydia Installer, Debian Packager, and Tape Archive.


Step 3: Now simply install these three new upgrades available in Cydia.


iPhone-7-Cydia-jailbreak


And that should be all that you need to do to get up and running with the 64-bit version of Cydia, version 1.1.28, on a jailbroken iOS 10.1.x device. Remember, this version of Cydia, like the jailbreak itself, is very much in a beta form, meaning issues should be expected.


If you are a non-developer who is already jailbroken on iOS 10.x, our advise would be to stay on Cydia 1.1.27 until Cydia 1.1.28 is out of beta and ready for public consumption.


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Cydia 1.1.28 Beta For iOS 10 Jailbreak Released, Here’s What You Need To Know

Get MacBook Battery Time Remaining Back In Menu Bar, Here’s How


Here’s how you can add customizable battery life estimate indicators to your MacBook running macOS 10.12.2 or higher.


Apple’s decision to remove the battery life estimate from macOS Sierra as part of a recent update to 10.12.2 on all MacBooks, has caused all kinds of consternation amongst users of the company’s portable computers.


juice-for-mac


With no sign of it coming back, those same users have had to turn to some tricks, and alternatives created by third-party developers. One of those alternatives is Juice, a little app that’s available to download for free from Github.


Juice’s premise is simple. Rather than directly replacing the feature which Apple removed, Juice seeks to show how well a battery can be expected to last by offering different cues, such as emoji, or ASCII art. In fact, Juice can be customized to display strings of text as well depending on the current battery level. Want your battery status to say “Charge me now you idiot” when you’re down to the last 10% of juice? No problem, Juice can do that.


According to the developer:


As it turns out the IOKit framework provides a wealth of information and triggers about what’s going on with your computer. With this framework you can get power source information and generate callback when values of these sources change!


Going a step further, I wanted to define a format that would allow for people to create their own scales! Which you can now do, but it’s strings only for the time being.



juice for mac 01


It’s not all good news though. In order to configure Juice just the way you want it, you will need to edit the app’s plist entry to reflect just what it is you want to be displayed at the different battery percentage levels, so you’re going to need to be comfortable doing that before going any further. It isn’t difficult to do, but it’s much more hands-on than a lot of people will be used to, especially when all we’re trying to do here is get some fancy battery level indicators.


That said, many people may be satisfied with what Juice has to offer right out-of-the-box, and has enough options to at least make up for the feature that Apple so rudely decided to pull from macOS. You can download the app right now from GitHub here.


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Get MacBook Battery Time Remaining Back In Menu Bar, Here’s How

How To Track The Time You Spend In Individual Mac Apps


Have you ever wondered where your time goes when you’re sitting in front of your Mac, either at home in a leisure environment, or in the office on the company’s dime? The idea of self-managing your own time and tracking how much of it you’ve actually spent using individual apps sounds like a relatively easy enough task, but in reality, given the number of apps and packages we use, it can be a logistical nightmare.


That’s where the very simple, but very functional and useful Usage for Mac app comes into its own, by helping Mac owners track exactly how much time they are spending – or wasting as the case may be – using different apps.


mac-apps-usage-time


Usage is definitely one of those Mac apps that gives its functionality away with its chosen naming convention. In fact, much to the delight of those Mac owners who appreciate and demand simplicity, Usage is the very definition of Keep it Simple, Stupid, by existing purely to show how much time is spent in each opened app on an installed Mac on a day-by-day basis.


This information is shown in a very simple interface in a drop-down box from the macOS Menu Bar, with the user able to scroll through the information by day. For those that appreciate a small amount of additional functionality, the developer has also added the ability to create groups of apps. It’s also possible to wipe the slate clean and delete all recordings that Usage has actually taken.


Finally, Usage doesn’t do anything evil or malicious with the data. It doesn’t take all of those readings and upload them to a remote server anywhere. It doesn’t offer any integration with other apps or web services to share that data with other vendors. It simply records the data, stores it locally on the user’s Mac, and displays it in a very simple interface.


usage screen


It’s very easy to think outside of the current Usage functionality and think about extending the service to include some kind of time management integration for allowing users to track and chart exactly how much time is being invested in apps. This could be perfect for developers using Xcode, or designers working in Photoshop or Sketch. However, that’s not what Usage is about. It’s simple; it’s lightweight; and it’s entirely free to download.


Usage is compatible with any Mac running macOS 10.9 or later, and can be downloaded by heading over to the following link: cheatsheetapp.com/usage/.


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How To Track The Time You Spend In Individual Mac Apps

User Discovers Green Screen Of Death In Leaked Windows 10 Insider Build


Over the Christmas weekend, a new build of Windows 10 was leaked, giving Windows enthusiasts an opportunity to give an unreleased, unfinished version of Windows a try before Microsoft intended for it to be seen by the outside world. Since then, it has been something of an open season on new discoveries surrounding the new build, and the internet has been ablaze with screenshots and tweets showing off what Microsoft is working on. But one change had been missed by everyone, according to Microsoft employee Matthijs Hoekstra.


In a tweet, Hoekstra mentioned that there was a “big change” that was still to be discovered and that he was curious as to when it would be discovered by all those who were looking. In an attempt to set them on the right track, he simply offered one clue – “Green!”


BSOD-green-screen-of-death-Windows-10


As it turns out, it didn’t take that long before the clue gave the game away, with Twitter user Chris123NT discovering what the big secret was, tweeting a photo of it in reply to Hoekstra. Unfortunately, it’s more mildly interesting than it is mind blowing, but sometimes, it’s just nice to play along, right?


So what’s new? Well, the big change that Hoekstra was talking about is the removal of the now-infamous Blue Screen Of Death, with the role now being taken on by a Green Screen Of Death. See what we mean? If you were waiting for a grand reveal, then we’re sorry to disappoint.


Fans of the blue variety of error screen will be pleased to learn that this new green variety is only going to be available to Windows Insiders, so those of us who are on the normal track of Windows releases will have to make do with the vanilla blue screen of death whilst the cool kids get their green version. We’ll just have to try and soldier on.


Hoekstra


You can view the new Insider Preview STOP Error screen below. The only thing that seems to have been changed is the color. It’s unclear why it was changed as even Hoekstra did not have an explanation.


Windows-10-Insider-Preview-green-screen-of-death


(Bottom image sounce: Chris123NT [Twitter] | Via: MSPoweruser)


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User Discovers Green Screen Of Death In Leaked Windows 10 Insider Build

Thursday 29 December 2016

Cream 2 Brings Custom Colors To iOS 10 Control Center Toggles


Cream 2 jailbreak tweak for iOS 10 is out and available to download now via Cydia. Here are the details on it.


The arrival of the Yalu + Mach_Portal jailbreak for iOS 10, albeit in beta form currently, has led to a number of jailbreak tweak developers working to get iOS 10-compatible updates of their software ready for release. One such tweak that allows for the customization of buttons within Control Center is called Cream, and its developer has today made available an updated version, which supports iOS 10 and carries the perhaps obvious name of, wait for it, Cream 2.


Cream-2-main


The update, which can be downloaded form Cydia now once the repo.cpdigitaldarkroom.com repository has been added, lets users customize what color each button uses when the Control Center shade is invoked.


What makes it particularly great for those who enjoy a spot of iOS customization though, is the fact that they are not simply limited to a handful of predefined color options. Instead, a color picker is provided, allowing users to choose from a much larger array of color options when making their device look just the way they like it.


Whilst all this customization may seem pointless to some, the original Cream actually made it easier to tell when a button had been pressed. Before iOS 10, Control Center toggles used translucent gray to signify the off position, while a simple white was used to show that a toggle had been switched on. By replacing that white with custom colors, Cream made it easier to look at Control Center and immediately know what is active, and what is not. In addition to revamping the Control Center, iOS 10 adds color to active toggles as well. You just can’t select any color you want, or the same color for all active toggles to get a simpler/minimalistic look. That is where Cream 2 comes in.


Before you rush out and jailbreak though, it’s worth remembering just how early the iOS 10 jailbreak currently is in its development. If you are not sure what you’re doing, or do not have a spare device laying around with which to test things like this, then you perhaps shouldn’t be trying things out just yet.


It may spoil everyone’s fun, but it’s better than a bricked iPhone.


Cream-2


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Cream 2 Brings Custom Colors To iOS 10 Control Center Toggles

Fix iPhone Text Messages Crash Bug On iOS 10, Here’s How


Here’s a guide on how to fix iPhone text Messages app crash / freeze issue on iOS 10 devices affected by the malicious text message crash bug.


We are definitely hoping that you haven’t been a victim of this latest text messaging bug, however, if you had the unfortunate experience of actually knowing someone who has pranked you by sending the malicious contact file to your device, and your Messages app has become unresponsive as a result of opening said file, we’re here to tell you that all is not lost, and it can actually be fixed.


fix-messages-crash-bug


Fortunately, the fix doesn’t actually require having a ton of intricate technical knowledge. It’s more a case of knowing where to go to and what to do, which is where we come in. So here’s what you need to do.


Step 1: On the iPhone in question, you’re going to need to go ahead and navigate to a special page in Safari. You can do this by heading over to the following URL: vincedes3.com/save.html.


Step 2: Opening the page in Safari will simply initiate an automated process where as requested, the script will instantly re-open up the native Messages app and take you to a new message screen. This screen will actually have a piece of pre-populated text in the messaging text field saying “I have just saved your iPhone bro ;)”.


messages-crash-fix


And that is most definitely all she wrote. The Messages app and functionality on iPhone should be returned to normal. Everything should be functioning as expected and you should have full access to all features the device.


We strongly urge you not to pay the problem forward by pranking others with the malicious text as many would be clueless on how to go about fixing the problem and will be left with “bricked” Messages app.


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Tech Deals: Powerbeats3 Wireless With Apple W1 Chip, Guitar Hero Live, Final Fantasy XV, More


We are fast approaching the end of the year. Another calendar year packed full of highs, lows, positives and negatives about to come to an end. Normally it would be a time to reminisce and take the opportunity to look at what went right or wrong during the year, however, there’s plenty of time for that. Now is the time to take a good hard look at the end-of-year tech deals that will keep your technology arsenal packed to the rafters and save as much money as possible in your bank account.


Today we have the Powerbeats 3 Wireless in-ear headphones packing the W1 chip from Apple same as the AirPods, only more rugged, and that too discounted by $50!


tech-deals-of-the-day-end-of-year


Next up we have is one for Final Fantasy fans; the Final Fantasy XV title for both the Xbox One and PlayStation 4. We also have Guitar Hero Live for iOS and the Apple TV complete with Guitar Controller for around $20 down from its original price of $100. There is a Qi-compatible wireless charger from Anker as well, and if that doesn’t impress you, dive into multiple deals on Transcend memory and storage products.


As always, time is short, the deals are hot, and stock is limited. So if you have the product of your choice narrowed in your sights, get that credit card and act fast before the deals expire. It’s the end of the year after all, you cannot take anything for granted. Enjoy the savings!


Powerbeats3 Wireless With Apple W1 Chip ($149.99, usually $199.95)


powerbeats3-wireless-main


This incredible contraption needs no introduction; it’s Beats, it’s Wireless, and best of all it comes packing with the same Apple W1 chip found in the sought-after AirPods and the Beats Solo3 On-Ear Headphones. Oh and of course, it also comes discounted by $50 which is a rarity on Apple products.


Buy: Powerbeats3 Wireless In-Ear Headphones from Amazon: $149.95 | Original price: $200


Multiple Savings on Select Transcend Memory and Storage Products (Up to $50 off)


transcend


Memory and storage products are hardly the sexiest pieces of technology that you can buy with your hard earned money, but alas, they are sometimes a necessity in our lives which are increasingly being filled with important and vital data. It doesn’t matter if it’s a flash drive that you need, or a cutting-edge SD memory card for a camera or Android device. This deal has fantastic savings across all storage types by the trusted Transcend.


Buy: Select Transcend Memory and Storage Products from Amazon: Up to $50 off


Guitar Hero Live for iOS & Apple TV With Controller ($22.69, usually $99.99)


Guitar-Hero-Live---iOS


If you used to think Guitar Hero was cutting-edge when it was first launched, but has faded into insignificance in the time that has followed, then it’s probably time to rethink. With this package you literally become the rock star with an actual Guitar Controller that’s been designed to bring the best possible gameplay for all skill levels. Oh, and you can get the experience on your iPhone, iPad, and your flat screen TV thanks to tvOS and the Apple TV.


Buy: Guitar Hero Live for iOS and tvOS from Amazon: $22.69 | Original price: $100


Anker PowerPort Qi-Compatible Fast Wireless Charger ($16 with promo code, usually $69.99)


Anker-Fast-Wireless-Charger-PowerPort-Qi-10


If you are already one of the 10 million+ who own an Anker product, then chances are that it’s something like a Bluetooth keyboard for iPad or a portable power bank with an integrated battery. It’s also highly likely that you consider it a vital accessory and wouldn’t hesitate to purchase something else manufactured by Anker if the opportunity arose. Well, this Qi-compatible fast wireless charging pad is that opportunity, and it comes with a premium device mixed with premium functionality.


Grab it for just $16 using the following promo code at checkout: BOXING07.


Buy: Anker PowerPort Qi-Compatible Fast Wireless Charger from Amazon: $16 | Original price: $70


Final Fantasy XV for Xbox One & PlayStation 4 ($39, usually $59.99)


FF-XV


If you love the idea of the Final Fantasy series, but have been waiting for the franchise to mature a bit into a more action orientated experience rather than the traditional turn-based system, then Final Fantasy XV for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One is probably where you want to pick up on the action. There’s a simply stunning and expansive open environment that encourages roaming. And you can also traverse the environment in car, airship, or on Chocobo.


Buy: Final Fantasy XV for Xbox One & PlayStation 4 from Amazon: $39 | Original price: $60


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Tech Deals: Powerbeats3 Wireless With Apple W1 Chip, Guitar Hero Live, Final Fantasy XV, More

Super Mario Run For Android Pre-Register Sign-Up Page Now Live


Finally. Super Mario Run for Android pre-register sign-up page is now live on Google Play. Here’s what you need to know.


Its iOS exclusivity was always likely to be for a limited period of time, and now we have our biggest indication yet that Super Mario Run will be coming to Android sooner rather than later after a Google Play Store entry for the game popped up, complete with the option for pre-registration to download the game as soon as it’s made available.


super-mario-run-android


Super Mario Run was released on iPhone and iPad a couple of weeks ago and while it was roundly accepted to be an enjoyable game, is not without its problems.


The requirement for an Internet connection at all times has caused the game and Nintendo to come in for some hardy criticism and that criticism even saw Nintendo’s stock value being impacted during the release window. Issues aside though, the arrival of Super Mario Run on Android devices is one that will surely excite gamers and we can’t wait for it to arrive.


When it does arrive, whenever that may be, it appears that the game will unfortunately keep the same requirement of constant Internet connectivity which Nintendo has confirmed is a stab at preventing piracy.


The same business model will also be used, with the game initially free to download but with a $10 in-app purchase required should anyone want to go beyond the initial offering of just a handful of levels. $10 isn’t a lot to pay for a game, let alone one featuring the little Italian plumber, but we still expect Nintendo to take some flak for that.


super-mario-run-google-play


Gamers who fancy themselves a Mario pro can pre-register for the game now on the Google Play Store, although Nintendo hasn’t yet confirmed when the title will be released for download. Its arrival on the store after all tells us that we shouldn’t have to wait too long, but it would have been more comforting if Nintendo would have attached a date to the listing.


We want our Mario!


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Super Mario Run For Android Pre-Register Sign-Up Page Now Live

Beware: There’s Another Text Message Floating Around That Can Crash Any iPhone


There is yet another text message circulating around that can crash any iPhone and its native Messages app on iOS 10 or below.


If you are an iPhone owner, then you may be aware of a little bit of history that has preceded this issue. Last year, the public became aware of a text messaging bug that could not only instantly crash the iPhone that it was received on, but also cause it to continuously reboot. As if that issue was not problematic enough, earlier this year there was a malicious Safari link passed on that could cause iOS devices to crash. Even more problems arose just last month when it was also discovered that there was a malicious video link that could also crash or freeze any iPhone or iPad on any version of iOS.


ios-messages-bug


With these bug fixed in new releases of iOS, we thought the pain was over, but it appears not, thanks to a large contacts file now that has the ability to sort of permanently disable the Messages app on any of Apple’s smartphones.


It seems that any iPhone running iOS up to version 10.2.1 betas receiving this particular attachment via the native Messages app will instantly freeze the app and render it unresponsive when the attachment containing the malicious code is tapped to open.


While the user is able to enter into multitasking switcher to kill the Messages app, but is then presented with a single white screen of death when attempting to re-launch the app again. It will then sit like that for a number of seconds before crashing back to the Home screen. A hard reboot of the device doesn’t resolve the problem either, and neither does turning the device off and then back on again provide any relief.


This appears to be a case of the Messages app being unable to decipher and make sense of an extremely large contacts file being sent to it, therefore rendering itself entirely unusable.


Take note and beware. If you receive a file of this nature, do not tap on it to try and open the file. Similarly, we wouldn’t advise anyone to prank their friends using this method either.


You can check out the demo of the bug, as well as the links to the file that causes the crash, in the video embedded below.



(Source: vincedes3 [YouTube])


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Beware: There’s Another Text Message Floating Around That Can Crash Any iPhone

Wednesday 28 December 2016

Download Prometheus To Downgrade / Upgrade iOS With SHSH2 Blobs, Here’s How


You can now download Prometheus tool to downgrade or upgrade unsigned iOS firmware version with saved SHSH2 blobs.


Tihmstar, who happens to be the developer behind the tool, has also released detailed videos showing the step by step instructions on how to go about using his tool to downgrade or upgrade a compatible iPhone, iPad or iPod touch device running on an unsigned iOS firmware version.


shsh-blobs


Before you go ahead and check out those videos though, go through the following points to see what exactly you will need in order to make use of Prometheus.


  • You can use Prometheus only if you have SHSH2 blobs saved for the unsigned firmware you are downgrading or upgrading to.

  • If you don’t have SHSH2 blobs saved for the unsigned firmware you want to downgrade or upgrade to, you can no longer do so as Apple has closed the signing window.

  • If you want to save SHSH2 blobs for a firmware Apple is still signing, you can follow our instructions on how to do so here.

  • You can upgrade/downgrade 9.x to 9.x with SHSH2 blobs saved for both versions.

  • You can also upgrade/downgrade 10.x to 10.x as long as SHSH2 blobs are saved for both versions.

  • Upgrade from iOS 9.x to 10.x is also possible as long as SHSH2 blobs are saved for both versions.

  • Downgrade from iOS 10.x to 9.x is not possible.

  • There are two methods, one which requires jailbreak for the firmware you are upgrading or downgrading from, and the second method which doesn’t require jailbreak for the firmware you are upgrading or downgrading from. Details, limitations and instructions for both, jailbreak and non-jailbreak methods, can be seen in the videos embedded below.

  • Depending on the method you choose, you will be making use of futurerestore, nonceenabler and img4tool utilities, together they basically makeup Prometheus as Prometheus itself doesn’t have any graphical interface of its own.

  • Prometheus works on 64-bit devices only. On iPhone 7/7 Plus it “may be iffy” at best.

  • Prometheus is available on Mac only at this time. Windows and Linux versions will be available later.

Now for instructions, as mentioned earlier, depending on whether you are already jailbroken or not, you will be making use of different Prometheus utilities and methods.


If you are currently jailbroken, and are upgrading or downgrading to a firmware with SHSH2 blobs saved, follow the instructions in the video embedded here:



If, however, you aren’t jailbroken, and are upgrading or downgrading to a firmware with SHSH2 blobs, then you need to follow the instruction in the video embedded below:



Prometheus in its current state has a lot of limitations and maybe confusing for a lot of users. But at least there’s some progress now on unsigned firmware downgrading front. Hopefully future revisions of Prometheus will reduce some of the limitations it has right now and will make it more user-friendly for everyday jailbreakers.


Prometheus and set of its utilities required for this can be downloaded from here.


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Download Prometheus To Downgrade / Upgrade iOS With SHSH2 Blobs, Here’s How

Windows 10 To Get ‘Game Mode’ Feature In Creators Update For Better Performance Within Games


Microsoft is readying a new “Game Mode” feature for Windows 10, which will allow the operating system to better allocate system resources in order to provide the best possible gaming experience.


The feature was first spotted within a leaked version of Windows 10, build 14997, and has also been confirmed to be part of the upcoming Creators Update according to a post shared by WalkingCat (@h0x0d) over on Twitter.


Windows-10-Game-Mode


The unannounced Game Mode is one that Microsoft clearly hopes will provide a better experience for PC gamers by limiting the resources other applications can use when a game is running, allowing that game to utilize the additional resources in a quest for improved graphics, better performance and an all around more console-like gaming session.


The link to console gaming shouldn’t be ignored here. The Xbox has traditionally used a similar model whereby a game being played is the signal for the console’s operating system to limit the resources used elsewhere in order to better serve the game being played. Similar technology within Windows 10 could potentially allow PC gaming to be moved on to the next level.


It’s unknown at this juncture whether the Game Mode functionality would be compatible with games provided by third parties such as Steam or Origin, or whether titles downloaded via the Microsoft Store would be the only games able to take advantage of it. We can only assume that universal compatibility would be the order of the day here, which is a good thing, considering the many botched PC ports of otherwise fantastic games causing frustration among users of the platform nowadays.


Windows-10


Microsoft continues to blur the lines between Windows and Xbox, and the introduction of a new Game Mode could see Microsoft’s two gaming platforms become even more similar at their cores.


The Windows 10 Creators Update is due around Spring time 2017, so gamers can look forward to their PCs being a little more Xbox-like around that time.


(Source: WalkingCat [Twitter])


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Windows 10 To Get ‘Game Mode’ Feature In Creators Update For Better Performance Within Games

Apple CEO Tim Cook Calls AirPods “A Runaway Success”


Apple CEO Tim Cook has hailed the company’s newly-released AirPods as a “runaway success” during a recent tour of the New York Stock Exchange.


Cook was asked for comment during a visit with his nephew, and although he declined to comment on business, he did take the time to mention how successful the AirPods have been as far as sales are concerned since release mid-way through December.


apple-airpods


Apple’s AirPods began to ship to customers during the week of December 19 and while both Apple Stores and third-party resellers have been receiving regular shipments, customers have found it difficult to get their hands on AirPods due to their popularity.


Apple has long been accused of creating artificial product shortages of iPhones in particular, though there are no suggestions at this point that anything like that is afoot here. Tim Cook did say during his Stock Exchange visit that the company is “making them just as fast as [they] can.”


Those who have been able to get their hands on AirPods have offered largely positive reviews, although as tends to be the case with these things, issues are not unheard of. Problems with the batteries built into the charging case have been reported, although we are some way from any issues being widespread. For those who are experiencing said issue, Apple has an updated service policy that can be availed to replace any faulty parts under warranty.


Apple’s AirPods are the company’s first attempt at making truly wireless earphones, but with a twist. Featuring company’s W1 chip aimed at making the pairing of earphones and devices easier than ever, Apple’s new earphones are an important step for the company following the removal of the standard earphone jack from its new iPhones, the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus. With little possibility of future iPhones reversing that decision, wireless is here to stay.


You can watch Cook’s short CNBC interview below.


(Source: CNBC)


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Apple CEO Tim Cook Calls AirPods “A Runaway Success”

Amazon Announces First Digital Day Sales Event, Here Are The Details


Amazon is trying to create a bit of a post-holiday shopping rush all of its own by announcing what it is calling ‘Digital Day’, a 24 hour sale during which the company will be discounting products which are available digitally, as in codes that you can immediately redeem.


If you were on the lookout for a new toaster then you’re out of luck, but that new album you’ve been wanting? There’s a chance it might be available for less come December 30th.


Digital Day main


Amazon is known for doing deals for a set period of time, and it’s not just Black Friday and Cyber Monday which have reaped the benefits of an Amazon-backed sale. The company has made a bit of a thing of its Prime Day sale during which Amazon Prime customers can take advantage of deep discounts on all manner of products across the whole Amazon range.


It’s quite a sight to behold, and arguably eclipses the Black Friday event it was no doubt based on. This December 30th’s Digital Day is a whole different ball game though, and with only digital products on offer, it is clearly aimed at those who received new smartphones and tablets this holiday season.


On offer will be a range of products and services, ranging from the ever popular Plex Pass subscription at a 50% discount to a number of top music albums which will be available for just $5. Speaking of music, Amazon will also be using the event to push its subscription service, Amazon Music Unlimited which will benefit from a $10 discount. Other apps, movies and services will be available as part of the sale, and there is sure to be something for everyone be they young or old, boy or girl.


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Be sure to check out the company’s website and mobile apps come December 30th to make sure you don’t miss out. Also make sure you check us here at RP on 30th as we will have a curated list of the best Digital Day deals right here. Stay tuned.


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Amazon Announces First Digital Day Sales Event, Here Are The Details

Tech Deals: Official Apple Lightning Dock, iPhone 7 Smart Battery Case, Dishonored 2, More


We find ourselves in the aftermath of Christmas where a number of retailers are putting on insanely impressive sales events in order to get rid of stock and entice customers through the physical or digital doors. As always, we tend to shy away from spot deals, and instead look to bring you day-after-day of insane deals to keep you ticking over from a technology perspective, Check out today’s deals to see if there is anything that grabs your attention.


First up we are looking at is the extremely convenient Logitech Harmony Elite universal remote control + Echo Dot bundled in one letting you not only control all of your IR compliant hardware, such as stereo systems, window shutters and more with remote control, but also through Alexa voice assistant.


tech-deals-of-the-day-149


Following up, we have two official Apple accessories for iPhone users. There is the iPhone 7 Smart Battery Case coming in at $84.99 down from the usual $99.00 price tag, and if you’re looking for a dock, you can now get Apple’s official Lightning Dock for a mere $42.49. Last but not the least is a discounted, immediate digital download of Dishonored 2 for the Xbox One.


As always, keep your credit card close by as the deals listed are available for a limited period of time only, or till stocks last, whichever happens first. So if there’s a product in here that you have your heart set on, make sure you act quickly before the offers expire.


Logitech Harmony Elite + Hub + Echo Dot Bundle ($301.56, usually $400)


Harmony Echo dot


If you’ve been looking for a little bit of power when it comes to your audio visual setup, and want to consolidate all of your individual remotes into one gorgeous little piece of technology, then Logitech has you covered with its Harmony range. This advanced Harmony Elite offers the ability to work with more than 250,000 different entertainment devices, as well as saving up to 50 favorite channels for one touch access. You can even set up Activities to make sure that you get instant access to certain functionality with a single touch.


Bundled Echo Dot in the package means you can control all of those devices using Alexa voice assistant as well!


Buy: Logitech Harmony Elite + Hub + Echo Dot Bundle from Amazon: $301.56 | Original price: $400


Official Apple iPhone Lightning Dock ($42.49, usually $53.49)


iphone-lightning-dock


This official Apple iPhone Lightning Dock is the perfect accompaniment to any modern iPhone that comes equipped with a Lightning port. Simply plug the dock into your computer or a wall outlet, slip the iPhone in, and you can benefit from instant charging and synchronization with minimal fuss. It’s available in Black, Silver, Gold, and Rose Gold to match your own personal iPhone preference.


Buy: Official Apple iPhone Lightning Dock from Amazon: $42.49 | Original price: $54


Apple iPhone 7 Smart Battery Case ($84.99, usually $99.00)


iphone-7-smart-battery-case-black-white


If you’re splashing out on Apple’s official Lightning Dock then you may as well dig a little bit deeper and get the Cupertino-based company’s own Smart Battery Case for iPhone 7. The case is Apple’s official solution to ensure that the iPhone 7 never runs out of battery at an inopportune time. It even offers nice little extended functionality like notifications on the Lock screen and Today View to ensure the owner is kept up to speed with the exact status of the case.


Buy: Apple iPhone 7 Smart Battery Case from Amazon: $84.99 | Original price: $99


Dishonored 2 for Xbox One Digital Download Code ($44.99, usually $59.99)


xbox-one-dishonored-2-code


Why wait to have the fantastic Dishonored 2 delivered to your door by an unenthusiastic delivery man when you can purchase the digital download version and get the code immediately for your Xbox One? That’s exactly what is on offer here with this tech deal. If you’ve always wanted to use your Xbox One or Xbox One S to be a supernatural assassin, then now is your time to shine.


Buy: Dishonored 2 for Xbox One Digital Download Code from Amazon: $44.99 | Original price: $60


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Tech Deals: Official Apple Lightning Dock, iPhone 7 Smart Battery Case, Dishonored 2, More