02/03, 10:30pm
Residential gateways may lead to ubiquitous Wi-Fi
Two applications from Google to the FCC, one asking to test a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled "entertainment device" from December and other seeking to set up a residential gateway using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth from earlier this month may indicate that Google is planning to deploy or at least support future 802.11ac networks and devices, which would dramatically increase transmission speeds for HD video and other data throughout a local network.
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01/20, 6:50pm
Optimizes Wi-Fi and Mobile Broadband operations
Microsoft has provided details on how it has optimized its upcoming Windows 8 OS for mobile and wireless networking. Integrated into the new architecture are tools to automatically toggle between mobile broadband and Wi-Fi networks based on data transmission costs, seamlessly switch between networks without interruption, and view diverse networks, including Wi-Fi, mobile broadband like 3G and 4G, and Bluetooth, from a unified interface. The new Windows can even stay connected to a network even when the PC is in a low power state such as sleep-mode or when the screen is turned off.
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01/02, 7:05pm
Malaysia requires public Wi-Fi in restaurants
Residents of Belarus are reportedly facing a new law that bars attempts to access foreign websites. The new regulations also threaten to impose fines for Internet cafes, public Wi-Fi providers and individuals that share connections if they do not identify users who violate the law and submit the data to authorities. Separate reports suggest the government of Malaysia's capital Kuala Lumpur has taken a contrasting approach, requiring restaurants all restaurants to offer Wi-Fi to customers.
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12/28, 12:00am
Flaw makes for easier brute-force attacks
The US Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT) has reportedly issued a warning regarding a vulnerability in Wi-Fi routers that use Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) PINs. The security flaw, which was said to be discovered by security researcher Stefan Viehbock, enables hackers to easily gain access to routers by using brute-force attacks and software tools to guess the PIN codes.
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12/19, 3:10pm
Receives broadcasts from satellite or Wi-Fi
Sirius XM's new Lynx satellite radio, first revealed in October, has reached the FCC for approval. The radio will be one of the first devices to support Sirius's expanded broadcast capabilities. The portable audio device runs a modified version of Android and is one of the few devices outside of phones and tablets to get the treatment.
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12/05, 9:50pm
System streams DVD content over Wi-Fi
Samsung has finally demonstrated its SE-208BW Smart Media Hub, which was originally announced in September. The device offers the same basic functionality as many other media hubs, however it adds a CD/DVD burner. Users can stream audio CDs or DVD content over Wi-Fi networks to play on smartphones, tablets or PCs.
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11/16, 9:50pm
Routers bring compact design
TP-Link has expanded its 802.11n router lineup with a new pocket router and a portable router for 3G modems. The pocket router enables users create a Wi-Fi network after connecting it to a network or modem via Ethernet. Users can also configure the device to work as a range extender or a wireless bridge to expand the connectivity of existing Wi-Fi networks.
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11/04, 4:25pm
United and Continental choose Panasonic for Wi-Fi
United and Continental Airlines have announced that they will have Wi-Fi access on all their main flights by 2015. The companies have chosen Panasonic Avionics to install the Wi-Fi systems on over 300 of their aircraft. The companies chose the Panasonic system because it offers Ku-band satellite technology that delivers faster air to ground speeds and wireless streaming of video content.
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10/04, 8:00pm
Carrier to release 12 new devices
Starting in mid-October, T-Mobile will be holding a month plus long launch of 12 new phones, tablets and Wi-Fi hotspots, a leak uncovered Tuesday. The roll-out will start October 10, and continue until November 19. The busiest day will be November 2, when the carrier will put forward six new smartphones.
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10/04, 12:55pm
Update may include Wi-Fi calling but not UMA
When T-Mobile launched the RIM BlackBerry Bold 9900 in August, It irked its customers because the new smartphone was being shipped without any Internet calling support. The carrier acknowledged the deficiency and promised to fix the situation with a future software update. A new maintenance release, with at least a partial solution, is expected in November.
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10/04, 1:20am
Syncs directly with iPad, Mac, PC
A company called Joypad has released a self-title free app for the iPhone that turns it into a Wi-Fi, ad-hoc or Bluetooth synced controller for some popular retro-style games, including Super Mega Worm, Vertex Blaster and others. The app offers multi-button presses, five controller layouts (with support for additional ones), accelerometer and multi-player support as well as options for retro gaming. Joypad supports select iOS as well as Mac or Windows games.
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09/19, 1:50pm
Looking to stream media to passenger's iPads also
Qantas Airlines will begin offering iPads on a trial basis to its passengers for in-flight entertainment. The airline will be offering the devices to all 254 passengers on the plane. It will conduct the experiment on a single Boeing 767-300 aircraft flying between Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
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09/16, 12:30am
Works with 3G or Wi-Fi, requires Line2 account
Popular VOIP and telephony app Line2 has released a Line2 HD version for the iPad that lets users make or receive calls as well as text-message using Wi-Fi or 3G. The app requires an existing Line2 account (due to App Store restrictions, users must get the account from the website rather than within the app) and allows users to port over existing phone numbers, supports Visual Voicemail and generally turns the iPad into a full-fledged mobile phone.
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09/14, 7:45pm
Bluetooth accessory sold outside of subscription
Ooma has introduced a wireless accessory for its Telo home phone system. The Air adapter attaches directly to the back of the Telo box, enabling connection to a home network via Wi-Fi rather than requiring users to route an Ethernet cable. The wireless option is claimed to support the same level of quality as a direct connection.
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09/07, 9:15pm
More than 250 RJs to be outfitted early in 2012
Delta has announced that it is expanding its in-flight Wi-Fi service to include a number of additional regional aircraft. The program is set to include Bombardier CRJ700 jets operated by Delta Connection carrier Atlantic Southeast Airlines. The company claims to be the first carrier to offer Wi-Fi services across its entire mainline and two-class regional fleet, which include a total of more than 800 aircraft.
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08/31, 9:50pm
Adapts to built-in Ethernet port on some models
A number of HDTV and Blu-Ray devices now sport Ethernet ports for connecting to a home network, but do not have built-in wireless capability. The new Netgear WNCE3001 Universal Dual-Band Wireless Internet Adapter is an add-on -- for smart TVs and Blu-Ray players which have an Ethernet port -- that allows them to join wireless home networks, using the "cleaner" 5GHz Wi-Fi band for faster delivery and the avoidance of video "jitter," though it can use the 2.4GHz frequency as well.
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08/30, 8:35am
LG vac bot streams video in real time over wifi
LG has announced its latest robot vacuum cleaner, the VR6180VMNC Roboking Triple Eye. The Roboking Triple Eye is an upgraded version of the LG Hom-Bot, which debuted at the CES show in January. In addition to the sensors used to guide the vacuum automatically as it cleans, the Roboking Triple Eye also has three video cameras capable of streaming in real-time by Wi-Fi to a home network. The vacuum can be controlled remotely by PC or smartphone. It also responds to voice commands.
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08/03, 10:30pm
Airline continues to expand in-flight connectivity
American Airlines has reasserted its commitment to expand its in-flight Wi-Fi program. After first announcing expansion plans in May, the company now promises to outfit its entire Boeing 767 fleet with Gogo Wi-Fi and a new 'Entertainment On Demand' system for streaming movies and TV shows.
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08/03, 9:50pm
Free offering limited to 0.5Mbps
Virgin Media has confirmed plans to build a free Wi-Fi network across London. The company is said to be aiming to compete with British Telecom's Openzone network, which is only available for users willing to pay up to £6 for 90 minutes of connection time if they do not have a BT broadband subscription.
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07/29, 2:30pm
Company criticized for lack of security
Microsoft has reportedly published location information for Wi-Fi devices, such as personal cellphones and notebooks. The content is available from the company's Live.com location database, which is said to provide data that can be used to pinpoint certain device locations, connected to Media Access Control (MAC) addresses, down to a specific street address.
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07/20, 7:45pm
Offers quad-band 3G, auto failover
Nova Media in Berlin and Belgium company Option have made available a combo router with support for both broadband and quad-band 3G which supports up to 14.4 Mbit per second download and 5.76 Mbit per second uploads, compatible with most 3G networks worldwide. The GlobeSurfer III+ also offers DSL failover, automatically switching to cellular data and switching back when the broadband connection returns.
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06/22, 6:15pm
Lineup includes routers, booster, adapter
D-Link has expanded its range of home networking products with a new lineup, labeled the Amplifi series. The products include the HD Media Router 1000, the Whole Home Router 1000, the Wi-Fi Booster, and several PowerLine 500 products designed for communication via existing electrical wiring. The media router is claimed to automatically manage broadband connections, giving the highest priority to entertainment content such as streaming video or online video games.
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06/21, 6:25pm
iOS devices represent nearly half of Wi-Fi traffic
Mobile devices have reportedly surpassed computers in terms of Wi-Fi usage in the US for the first time since 2010, according to data collected by wireless networking company Meraki. In the first half of last year, Windows and Mac machines represented 64 percent of the devices that accessed Wi-Fi networks monitored by Meraki. Transitioning to the same period in 2011, however, computers were responsible for just 36 percent of Wi-Fi connectivity.
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06/09, 8:05pm
Deal last five years, covers five boroughs
Residents of New York City will now be able to enjoy free public Wi-Fi at 26 locations in 20 public parks throughout the New York City area, from Staten Island to the Bronx. Mayor Michael Bloomberg and AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson have announced a five-year deal that is free for both AT&T customers and non-customers, which the telecommunications giant is providing at no cost to the city.
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05/16, 11:00pm
Details corroborate earlier leak
Kineto Wireless, a company that provides Wi-Fi calling technology, has reportedly confirmed that T-Mobile plans to offer free Wi-Fi calling to many of its subscribers. The information corroborates a recent leak suggesting that T-Mobile will no longer deduct Wi-Fi calling from the voice minutes included in the company's wireless plans.
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04/28, 1:05am
Features amplifier, high-gain antennas for boost
The UA600EX High Power Wireless-N 600mW Professional Series USB Adapter by Amped Wireless is aimed at indoor and outdoor use where a directional antenna coupled with a wireless amplifier can significantly enhance range and strength of signal (up to four times normal, claims the company), including buildings, RVs, boats and other normally-challenging environments. It allows PCs, Macs and mobile devices to connect to 2.4GHz 802.11b, g, or n Wi-Fi networks, and features a weatherproof enclosure and indoor and outdoor mounting kits.
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03/23, 9:55am
Free app finds Wi-Fi hotspots, automates login
Wi-Fi hotspot provider Boingo has released an updated version of its free Wi-Finder app. The software, which points users to over 325,000 public Wi-Fi hotspots around the world, now has a streamlined login function and selects the best network if more than one is currently available. The program tracks free hotspots as well as those in Boingo's network, which require a subscription with the company to use.
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03/10, 5:55am
Interference affects speed, ethernet quicker
A new study has shown that download speeds over Wi-Fi are on average 30 percent slower than fixed Ethernet connections. The reason for this lies in physical barriers around a house as interference from other devices, including microwaves. According to Reuters, broadband research firm Epitiro has reported that when surfing the net, the speed drop is not as noticeable. However, when data is being transferred over Wi-Fi it could result in latency and data loss.
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02/16, 6:55pm
Feature works via DLNA
DoubleTwist has updated its self-titled Android app with new capabilities for streaming content to game consoles. Users can now stream photos, videos and music from their Android handset to an Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3 over a local Wi-Fi network.
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12/17, 12:45pm
System claimed to reach speeds of up to 12Mbps
Australia's official research organization, the CSIRO, has begun testing a new Wi-Fi system, named Ngara, that routes signals through television antennas. The technology is claimed to reach data transfer rates up to 12 Megabits per second, even while a large number of users are simultaneously uploading data.
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11/30, 8:40pm
Entire fleet should have Wi-Fi before end of 2011
Delta Air Lines -- which began installing Wi-Fi on its domestic main-route aircraft in 2008, and have offered service on some regional flights as well -- will add Wi-Fi service to all Delta Connection carriers throughout 2011, making it the first US carrier to provide Wi-Fi on all flights with two classes of service, including Delta Shuttle flights such as the Boston-NYC and Chicago-Washington DC routes.
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11/05, 7:35pm
Keeps track of data usage, creates wi-fi networks
Nova Media today announced a major update of its 3G connection manager for Mac, Launch2Net Premium, to v2.1, adding new support to 3G modems from Huawei and ZTE as well as updating its connection settings for other providers such as Novatel, Sierra Wireless, Sony Ericsson and Option. The program smoothes the connection process for Mac users who want to use a 3G modem to provide internet access, helps find local prepaid providers, keeps track of usage and includes an ability to create an ad-hoc wi-fi network so that non-3G devices can share the connection.
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06/15, 10:35am
Ad-supported service would be free to riders
A private telecommunications company has proposed adding Wi-Fi service to two New York City area train lines. Mobilitie, which operates the free Wi-Fi service NYFI, submitted the proposal to build a wireless network for the Metro North and Long Island Rail Road lines. The service would be free to riders. The network and service would be built and supported by revenue from ads.
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05/12, 10:00pm
Nuvi 295W bridges gap with nuvifone
Garmin has quietly introduced the nüvi 295W, a new navigation device featuring Wi-Fi connectivity. The overall form factor gives the 295W an appearance similar to a smartphone, while the feature set is similar to a nüvifone without the voice communication capabilities. The device even automatically reorients the 3.5-inch touchscreen for portrait or landscape use.
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04/09, 12:00pm
Content migrated via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
Mark/Space has introduced an update to The Missing Sync for Android. Version 1.3 adds the ability to sync a PC or Mac with an Android handset without using a cable. Users can choose either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth options to sync content such as contacts, music, photos, or other files. The update also offers notes syncing, as the company's Fliq Notes app is now available for the Android platform.
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03/31, 8:55pm
App supports easy tethering
Palm's webOS 1.4.1 update, currently being distributed to devices in Europe, reportedly supports Mobile Hotspot functionality for subscribers on O2's network. The latest offering provides the same basic features as the app for Pre Plus and Pixi smartphones on Verizon's network, allowing the devices to be used as a modem tethered via Wi-Fi.
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12/03, 5:05pm
Extends 802.11n wireless signals
Rokland Technologies has introduced BearExtender n3, a wireless adapter designed for Apple computers. The device pairs a 700 mW Wi-Fi radio with an external antenna claimed to increase wireless range by up to four times the typical distance experienced with a 32mW AirPort card. It features plug-and-play compatibility, connecting via USB, and supports 802.11b, 802.11g and 802.11n networks.
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11/03, 12:00am
Device similar to 3i launched in China
Dell's Android-based Mini 3iX has surfaced in Brazil with support for Wi-Fi and 3G UMTS/HSDPA on 850MHz, 1900MHz and 2100MHz bands, according to photos posted on the Brazilian site CelularCafe. The integration of 850MHz 3G components adds evidence to rumors suggesting Dell is planning to bring its Mini 3i smartphone design to the US market.
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10/20, 2:40pm
Devices integrate new antenna design
Alongside the announcements of new Macs and the Magic Mouse, Apple on Tuesday quietly introduced updated AirPort Extreme and Time Capsule devices. Like its predecessor, the new AirPort Extreme base station utilizes the same dual-band communication on the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. A redesigned antenna, however, is claimed to improve data speeds by up to 50 percent, while extending the effective range by 25 percent.
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09/08, 3:30pm
Wi-Fi USB transceiver claims 10x signal strength
QuickerTek has introduced its latest computer accessory, a USB transceiver designed for Macs. The device integrates a 1 Watt amplifier paired with a dipole antenna featuring 5dBi gain. Power is provided by a USB port, while the antenna connects to anything near the computer such as a notebook display. Users can also upgrade the detachable antenna later if needed.
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07/15, 2:10pm
China iPhone details
As Apple continues to negotiation with China Unicom, an anonymous source has told NetEase that Foxconn is already mass producing a special version of the iPhone 3G for use on Chinese networks. The device is allegedly code-named "90" by the supplier, while the standard 3G model is known as "82" and the new 3GS handset is named "88."
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02/22, 11:25pm
Home Wi-Fi users affected?
Two Texas-based US representatives have introduced bills that would require ISPs to store user information for two years. The bills may even require home wi-fi router users to track the same information, according to Macworld. The bills were introduced Thursday, one in the US Senate, by Rep. Senator John Cornyn, and in the House by Representative Lamar Smith. Each bill is called the Internet Safety Act, aimed at preventing child pornography via the Internet. The bills call for stronger penalties for accessing child pornography on the Internet and would require Internet and e-mail service providers to retain all records and related information about anyone using a network address temporarily assigned by the service.
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02/02, 1:10pm
San Fran's BART gets Wi-Fi
San Francisco's Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) service should soon see the addition of permanent mobile Wi-Fi access, according to the technology's provider. WiFi Rail says it has a signed a 20-year deal to provide hotspots throughout BART's terminal network, and particularly on all commuter trains, where the only alternative has so far been cellular access. Routers and switches are being provided by Cisco, while servers are slated to run Mac OS X.
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01/09, 8:20pm
iRiver CES introductions
iRiver at CES unveiled its latest multimedia devices including the Wave-Home multimedia device and several portable media players. The Wave-Home interface is displayed on a 7-inch touchscreen that resembles a digital photo frame, but the device also integrates a phone and webcam. A wireless handset fits into the back of the housing for calls made while moving around, or the webcam can be used for video conferencing. Games, weather, news, radio and other widgets are supported.
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12/23, 10:00am
Spots app for iPhone, iPod
Savoy Software is preparing for the release of Spots for the iPhone and iPod touch. The app allows users to find over 230,000 worldwide hotspots, and does not require an active Internet connection. Spots locates the closest available hotspots, and allows free navigation of a map to find a desired location. Users can also search specifically by name, street or city.
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10/29, 1:45pm
Starbucks iPhone Wi-Fi
AT&T has finally resumed its free Wi-Fi service for iPhone owners visiting Starbucks Coffee shops, according to an announcement. American iPhone owners are said to be receiving text messages, informing them of the expansion of hotspot service to include Starbucks; other locations include places such as airports, hotels and restaurants. Gaining access requires picking the "attwifi" network, entering a phone number, and waiting for a text message with a 24-hour link.
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10/24, 3:55pm
Posimotion G-Fi VS in Nov.
Posimotion has introduced what it claims is the "world's first" mobile Wi-Fi network hub designed for gamers. About the size of a wallet, the G-Fi VS supports ad-hoc 802.11b/g connectivity between devices within a 100-foot range. The device allows gamers, including iPhone and iPod Touch users, to set up impromptu networks for multiplayer games or to share files and digital media.
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08/11, 7:00pm
VoIP enabled for iPhone
Global IP Solutions (GIPS) announced today it will enable Voice over IP for Apple's iPhone. GIPS VoiceEngine Mobile will allow developers to integrate a quality real-time voice experience into future iPhone programming. This technology can now be used for games, social networking tools, or other applications. VoiceEngine converts the user's voice into packets that can be transmitted via Wi-Fi.
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08/05, 4:05pm
Delta offers Gogo Wi-Fi
Delta Air Lines announced on Tuesday it will offer broadband Wi-Fi access on all domestic flights in 2009, equipping over 330 airplanes with the ability to access the Aircell-created Gogo network. The service will allow data transfer speeds of more than 12Mbps, and will be offered in both first and economy classes. It will give Delta the distinction of being the first and only US airline to offer in-flight Wi-Fi on all domestic flights.
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07/29, 6:30pm
iPhone DMX light control
SyntheFX has released a handy iPhone app for A/V and theater professionals. Luminair 1.0 allows remote control of intelligent DMX512-A lighting systems via the iPhone. DMX is a widely-used standard for digital control of stage lighting, special effects and fog machines. Luminair uses Artistic Licence's Art-Net protocol through a Wi-Fi connection to interface with DMX devices. The app includes an on-screen "mixer," channel layout interface and data analyzer.
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