Jun 01

Trial Of Al Jazeera Journalists In Egypt Becomes Even More Surreal

Posted in: Today's Chili

The trial of three Al Jazeera journalists in Egypt continued on Sunday, angering the defendants, their supporters and other journalists around the world.

Peter Greste, Mohamed Fahmy and Baher Mohamed were denied bail in their 11th court appearance since their arrest in December on charges of broadcasting false news and conspiring with the Muslim Brotherhood. The defendants and Al Jazeera reject the charges.

The journalists last appeared in court in May, when the prosecution presented evidence against them. That evidence included a picture that was allegedly Photoshopped, an audio clip of a Gotye song and video clips.

The prosecution’s charges were based on the written statements from members of a technical committee from Egyptian state television. When the technical committee members testified in court Sunday, however, they were unable to name which Al Jazeera videos they watched and which videos allegedly supported the Muslim Brotherhood.

BBC correspondent Orla Guerin was among the media in the courtroom covering the trial.

The experts’ testimony, The Guardian’s Patrick Kingsley reported, contradicted the prosecution’s charges. Guerin tweeted:

Fahmy also shouted out from his cage in the courtroom.

Guerin added:

The trial has been adjourned until Thursday. Greste, Fahmy and Mohamed have been in jail in Cairo for 155 days.

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Jun 01

NSA Collecting Faces From Millions Of Web Images For Facial Recognition

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NSA Collecting Faces From Millions Of Web Images For Facial Recognition

Much has been said and written about the NSA’s electronic spying operations. Since the first leaks last year Edward Snowden, the man behind it all, has continued to leak highly classified documents shedding light on the top secret programs. The latest from Snowden reveals that millions of faces are being collected from web images by the agency which it intends to use for facial recognition. Some of the programs previously seen dealt only with metadata, this is a completely different ballgame.

According to The New York Times, which obtained the documents from Snowden, NSA is exploiting images included in text messages, emails, videoconferences, social media and other communications. Documents reveal that “millions of images per day” are intercepted which include about 55,000 “facial recognition quality images.”

The exact scope of this program is not known so its not easy to say how many people around the world have had their images captured and entered into a huge database, moreover, its not know how many Americans have been caught up in this as well. However since images are considered as a form of communication content by the agency it would have to get a court approval to collect images of Americans through its programs, like it would approval to read emails or listen in on their phone calls.

A spokeswoman for the NSA said that the agency does not have access to photographs in state databases or passport photos of Americans, but declined to comment if it has access to State Department’s database of foreign visa applicants’ photos.

NSA Collecting Faces From Millions Of Web Images For Facial Recognition

, original content from Ubergizmo, Filed in General, , ,

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Jun 01

10 Companies With The Least Valuable Workers

Posted in: Today's Chili

Revenue per employee is one measure of a company’s productivity. Some companies generate significant revenue per employee that runs into the millions of dollars. Others generate only a fraction of that. While it can suggest a company is struggling, many companies with lower revenue per employee thrive with employees that appear to be less productive.

In many instances, these companies are in the restaurant and hospitality industries. For example, McDonald’s paid the average crew members and cashiers only slightly more than the $7.25 per hour minimum wage, according to employee-submitted data from Glassdoor.com, an online career community.

A number of these businesses depend largely on labor from overseas. Such businesses include Amphenol, which produces electronic and fiber optic cables, and Cognizant, which offers IT outsourcing services. Often, such companies use foreign labor to provide low costs for their own businesses, as well as pass along cost savings to their clients.

Just because a company has relatively low revenue per employee does not mean it will stop hiring. As long as adding more employees continues to be profitable — returning more money to the company than it costs to find, train and pay a worker — businesses have an incentive to keep adding workers. A number of companies where the per-employee revenue is relatively low, such as O’Reilly Automotive and Starbucks, added a considerable number of jobs last year.

Based on figures from S&P Capital IQ, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed the companies with the lowest revenue per employee. In order to be consistent, we used net revenue figures as reported under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Employee totals used in this analysis are based on S&P Capital IQ measure of full-time equivalent employees. In some instances, S&P Capital IQ employee totals may include franchisee workers, a large part-time or hourly labor force, or a largely foreign-based workforce. We also reviewed financial information published in company presentations, filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and metrics calculated by Morningstar. Darden Restaurants was excluded from this analysis, due to the recent divestiture of its Red Lobster chain.

These are the 10 companies with the least valuable workers.

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Jun 01

Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 Pictures Leaked

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Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 Pictures Leaked

The Korean juggernaut is soon expected to unveil a new tablet lineup. Called the Samsung Galaxy Tab S all rumors up till now claim that two models will be offered with different display sizes. Apparently size will only be the differentiating factor with all other specifications remaining the same. We have previously seen images of the Galaxy Tab S 10.5 leak online and now we get to feast our eyes on similar images of the 8.4-inch model.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 looks a lot like its 10.5-inch sibling as far as design is concerned. Obviously that was to be expected. As previously mentioned the display size is truly what sets both models apart.

Its believed to have the same AMOLED 1,600×2,560 pixel resolution display as the 10.5-inch model with an eye-popping 350 ppi pixel density. Under the hood of both tablets an octacore Samsung Exynos 5420 processor is expected to be coupled with 3GB of RAM and support for microSD card. Android 4.4 KitKat will come pre-installed. LTE and Wi-Fi models will be offered.

Some of the software features that debuted on the Galaxy S5, like the Ultra Power Saving Mode, are on the cards as well. Samsung will also put in a fingerprint sensor underneath the home button. The tablets are expected to be unveiled at an event on June 12th. [Image via @evleaks]

Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 Pictures Leaked

, original content from Ubergizmo, Filed in Tablets, , galaxy tab s, ,

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Jun 01

You Can Grab the Same Software Pixar Used to Make Wall-E For Free Soon

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You Can Grab the Same Software Pixar Used to Make Wall-E For Free Soon

If you’re an aspiring animator, this might be the best news you’ll hear this month: Pixar is giving away—that’s right, giving away—a version of RenderMan, its in-house animation software. Gratis. No catch. You’ll be able to download the program some time in August.

Read more…



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Jun 01

Are Sandra Bullock And Chris Evans Dating?

Posted in: Uncategorized

Sandra Bullock might have a new man in her life.

E! News reports Bullock and “Captain America” hunk Chris Evans might not be full-on dating “per se,” but the two are allegedly in the “early stages of getting to know each other.”

“They are not in a relationship, but they are definitely hanging out and are in the early getting-to-know-each-other phase,” a source told E!. “They haven’t put a title on it, but they really like each other.”

Romance rumors sparked after the actress, 49, and Evans, 32, were spotted out together. Back in March, they dined at Craig’s in West Hollywood along with a large group. Earlier this month, they they were photographed after a dinner at Cecconi’s with Chelsea Handler.

Of course, eating a meal together does not a romance make. These two could easily just be friends who happen to enjoy going out to restaurants.

However, Evans has admitted Bullock was his celebrity crush as a child.

“I used to be in love with Sandra Bullock when I was growing up,” he told Playboy in 2012. “Sandy B. was my girl. I remember seeing ‘Speed’ when I was in seventh grade and just thinking, That’s her. I can’t say I know her, but from what I’ve heard, she’s fantastic.”

Evans was previously dating Minka Kelly. The two split for the second time last October.

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Jun 01

Samsung Virtual Reality Headset Being Developed With Oculus

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Samsung Virtual Reality Headset Being Developed With Oculus

You might have heard about Oculus. Its a company that’s working on virtual reality technology and was recently acquired by Facebook for $2 billion. You will have certainly heard about Samsung. Its the world’s largest phone manufacturer and is reportedly working on a virtual reality headset for its mobile devices. A new report claims that both Samsung and Oculus are working together on this project, with the latter handling software and the former taking care of the hardware.

According to Engadget both companies have agreed to a swap. Samsung gets early access to Oculus’ mobile software development kit whereas Oculus gets early access to Samsung’s next generation OLED displays which it needs for the gaming-focused PC based VR headset.

The previous report suggested that Samsung is rushing development of its VR headset because it wants to beat others to the market, which includes Sony’s Project Morpheus.

Apparently the company’s headset won’t have a display of its own, it will simply plug in to a high-end Samsung phone and become its screen. Motion tracking will be offloaded from the mobile device’s processor as the headset is at least expected to have an accelerometer and other built-in sensors. It may be used as a standalone media device or with a paired game controller. The headset will reportedly depend entirely open motion and voice for navigation.

When contacted by the scribe both Samsung and Oculus denied to comment. There’s no official confirmation about their partnership as yet and it is not known when Samsung aims to bring this product to the market and at what price point.

Samsung Virtual Reality Headset Being Developed With Oculus

, original content from Ubergizmo, Filed in Gadgets, oculus, , ,

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Jun 01

Oppo N1 Mini Announced

Posted in: Today's Chili

Oppo N1 Mini Announced

We were constantly hearing rumors about this smartphone and it has finally been unveiled by the Chinese manufacturer. Oppo too has jumped on the “mini” bandwagon by launching a toned down variant of its flagship N1 smartphone. Called the Oppo N1 Mini, this smartphone really does try to push the “mini” boundaries with a 5-inch display and the exact same camera found on its high-end sibling.

While the Oppo N1 has a massive 5.9-inch display this one has a much more modest 5-inch LCD. The company has toned down the battery somewhat, bringing it from 3,610mAh to 2,140mAh. Its unclear exactly what power package this device is using so there’s no estimate as yet for the battery life. Do keep in mind though that it does have 4G LTE, which can be hard on the battery.

One feature that it directly borrows from the Oppo N1 is the swiveling 13-megapixel camera. Since it swivels there’s no need for putting dual cameras on this smartphone. The 13-megapixel shooter can be adjusted to the user’s requirements. If you’re someone who likes to take a lot of selfies then this smartphone is probably the best of the pack.

Its going to start shipping in China come June 11th. It ships with Oppo’s own ColorOS which is based on Android. The company hasn’t given any indication if and when an international release is going to take place.

Oppo N1 Mini Announced

, original content from Ubergizmo, Filed in Cellphones, , ,

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Jun 01

Your Complete Guide To Summer TV Premiere Dates (And Also 'Sharknado')

Posted in: Today's Chili

Summer is a time for frolicking outside, catching lightning bugs in jars and then bringing them inside with you to watch TV. Here are all of the shows you’ll see premiering in the next few months, and also some made-for-tv movie gems i.e. another “Sharknado.”

    Sunday, June 1

  • “Halt and Catch Fire,” series premiere, 10 p.m., AMC

    • Monday, June 2

  • “Longmire,” Season 3 premiere, 10 p.m., A&E

    • Wednesday, June 4

  • “Through the Wormhole With Morgan Freeman,” Season 5 premiere, 10 p.m., Science Channel

    • Friday, June 6

  • “Orange Is the New Black,” Season 2 premiere, 12:01 a.m., Netflix

    • Saturday, June 7

  • “Power,” series premiere, 9 p.m., Starz

    • Sunday, June 8

  • The Tony Awards, 8 p.m., CBS

    • Monday, June 9

  • “Major Crimes,” Season 3 premiere, 9 p.m., TNT

  • “Brazil With Michael Palin,” 9 p.m., PBS

  • “Murder in the First,” series premiere, 10 p.m., TNT

    • Wednesday, June 11

  • Duck Dynasty, Season 6 premiere, 10 p.m., A&E

  • “Big Freedia: Queen of Bounce,” Season 2 premiere, 11 p.m., Fuse

    • Thursday, June 12

  • “Tom Green Live,” Season 3 premiere, 9 p.m., AXS TV

    • Sunday, June 15

  • “Masterpiece Mystery!: The Escape Artist,” premiere, 9 p.m., PBS

    • Tuesday, June 17

  • “Rizzoli & Isles,” Season 5 premiere, 9 p.m., TNT

  • “Perception,” Season 3 premiere, 10 p.m., TNT

    • Thursday, June 19

  • “Defiance,” Season 2 premiere, 8 p.m., Syfy

  • “Dominion,” series premiere, 9 p.m., Syfy

  • “Rectify,” Season 2 premiere, 9 p.m., SundanceTV

  • “Rookie Blue,” Season 5 premiere, 9 p.m., ABC

    • Friday, June 20

  • “Cold Justice,” Season 2 mid-season premiere, 8 p.m., TNT

    • Saturday, June 21

  • “Almost Royal,” series premiere, 10 p.m., BBC America

    • Sunday, June 22

  • “The Last Ship,” series premiere, 9 p.m., TNT

  • “True Blood,” Season 7 premiere, 9 p.m., HBO

  • “Falling Skies,” Season 4 premiere, 10 p.m., TNT

  • “The Musketeers,” series premiere, 10 p.m., BBC America

    • Monday, June 23

  • “Teen Wolf,” Season 4 premiere, 10 p.m., MTV

  • “The Boondocks,” Season 4 finale, 10:30 p.m., Adult Swim

    • Tuesday, June 24

  • “Tyrant,” series premiere, 10 p.m., FX

    • Wednesday, June 25

  • “Big Brother,” Season 16 premiere, 8 p.m., CBS

  • “Wilfred,” Season 4 premiere, 10 p.m., FXX

    • Sunday, June 29

  • “Last Tango in Halifax,” Season 2 premiere, 8 p.m., PBS

  • “Reckless,” series premiere, 9 p.m., CBS

  • “The Leftovers,” series premiere, 10 p.m., HBO

  • “Vicious,” series premiere, 10:30 p.m., PBS

    • Monday, June 30

  • “Under the Dome,” Season 2 premiere, 9 p.m., CBS

    • Sunday, July 2

  • “Witches of East End,” Season 2 premiere, 9 p.m., Lifetime

  • “Man Finds Food,” series premiere, 9 p.m., Travel Channel

    • Tuesday, July 8

  • “Finding Carter,” series premiere, 10 p.m., MTV

    • Wednesday, July 9

  • “Extant,” series premiere, 9 p.m., CBS

  • “The Bridge,” Season 2 premiere, 10 p.m., FX

    • Friday, July 11

  • “Hemlock Grove,” Season 2 premiere, 12:01 a.m., Netflix

    • Sunday, July 13

  • “Ray Donovan,” Season 2 premiere, 9 p.m., Showtime

  • “Masters of Sex,” Season 2 premiere, 10 p.m., Showtime

  • “The Strain,” series premiere, 10 p.m., FX

    • Thursday, July 17

  • “Married,” series premiere, 10 p.m., FX

  • “You’re the Worst,” series premiere, 10:30 p.m., FX

    • Sunday, July 20

  • “The Lottery,” series premiere, 10 p.m., Lifetime

    • Monday, July 21

  • “Hotel Hell,” Season 2 premiere, 9 p.m., Fox

    • Saturday, July 26

  • “Sharknado Week,” 9 p.m., Syfy

    • Sunday, July 27

  • “Manhattan,” series premiere, 10 p.m., WGN America

    • Wednesday, July 30

  • “Sharknado 2: The Second One,” 9 p.m., Syfy

    • Saturday, August 2

  • “Hell on Wheels,” Season 4 premiere, 9 p.m., AMC

    • Thursday, August 7

  • “7 Deadly Sins,” series premiere, 11 p.m., Showtime

    • Friday, August 8

  • “The Knick,” series premiere, 10 p.m., Cinemax

    • Saturday, August 9

  • “Outlander,” series premiere, 9 p.m., Starz

    • Wednesday, August 13

  • “Legends,” series premiere, 9 p.m., TNT

    • Monday, August 18

  • “Dallas,” Season 3 midseason premiere, 9 p.m., TNT

    • Wednesday, August 20

  • “Legends,” series premiere, 9 p.m., TNT

  • “Franklin & Bash,” Season 4 premiere, 10 p.m., TNT

[h/t Vulture]

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Jun 01

HTC One Wear Smartwatch Rumored

Posted in: Today's Chili

HTC One Wear Smartwatch Rumored

It really wouldn’t surprise anyone if more major companies jumped into the wearable device market. A lot of attention is being given to this market with the likes of Apple and Microsoft expected to jump in as well. The latest rumor suggests that HTC is thinking along the same lines as well. Apparently its going to release a smartwatch later this year which is going to be called One Wear.

This comes from a Taiwan-based website which claims to have received an actual demo of a HTC smartwatch from sources. Apparently the One Wear moniker is tentative so there’s the possibility that HTC might change it prior to launch.

The source claims that HTC’s smartwatch will have a round design that’s very similar to the Moto 360. Earlier this year Motorola showed off the Moto 360, one of the first smartwatches with a round design. It hasn’t hit the market as yet but has managed to create hype for itself due to its unique design. Even the Apple iWatch is believed to have similar design language.

A launch is reportedly slated for late August or early September, it’s possible that HTC may pair it with the launch of its next generation phablet. The rumor doesn’t mention anything about specifications or pricing so we’ll have to wait for that information. No official word from HTC as yet on this device so its always possible that the rumor might not turn out to be true.

HTC One Wear Smartwatch Rumored

, original content from Ubergizmo, Filed in Gadgets, , , ,

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