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The SMC Update improves the MacBook’s internal monitoring system and addresses issues with unexpected shutdowns. This update is recommended for all MacBook systems, including those that received warranty repair. More …
You must have Mac OS X 10.4.8 installed to see this item in Software Update. However, it can be installed under Mac OS X 10.4.7 or later.
If you have 10.3 or 10.4, run Software Update for any Security Updates. If you have 10.4.8 you are already protected against this vulnerability.
According to a security memo from Intego,
This can affect Macs running Mac OS X 10.3 and 10.4 that have not been updated with all available security updates or system updates. Bluetooth must be active, but Bluetooth file transfer does not need to be turned on. The attacking computer must be within Bluetooth range, which, by default is 10 m or 30 ft, but can be extended with repeaters and/or antennas.
This exploit is installed from a Linux system, and exploits an rfcomm security hole in Bluetooth software. Unlike previous versions of Inqtana malware, no user interaction is required. It installs a user account (named “bluetooth”), with no password, which grants root access to malicious users logging into this account. This account is available immediately, and the Mac OS X 10.4 computers do not need to be restarted (Macs running OS X 10.3 do need to be restarted).
So be sure to apply all Mac OS X security updates issued by Apple.
Apple Computer is prepping a lavish new version of the Mac Pro that will boast nearly twice the brawn of existing models and form the centerpiece of the company’s high-performance professional desktop line, AppleInsider has learned.
The iPod shuffle Reset Utility restores First Generation iPod shuffle. The restore process completely erases all music and data on iPod shuffle and reinstalls software version 1.1.4. iPod shuffle Reset Utility is only for First Generation 512MB and 1GB iPod shuffle. Any other iPod, including Second Generation iPod shuffle is not supported.
Use the iPod shuffle Reset Utility to fix the following issues:
* With the iPod shuffle switched on, pressing the Play button will cause amber and green LEDs to flash for a few seconds, and the unit will not play any music, nor can you sync music to it from iTunes.
* On a Windows PC, iPod shuffle will appear in My Computer as a “Removable Disk,” however the iPod shuffle volume will not mount correctly. The unit is listed in Device Manager under “Disk Drives” as “Apple iPod USB Device.”
* On a Mac, the unit will only be recognized in Apple System Profiler under Hardware -> USB and will not appear or mount in the Finder.
* When attempting to restore, the unit may not be recognized at all. However, if it is recognized, the restore may fail with an error dialog “Firmware update failure. Disk write error” or another error. It may take 3 restore attempts before the error appears. Note: iPod shuffle may take several minutes to be recognized.
Newsvine reports that a little comparison shopping at the Apple and Dell stores will turn up a pleasant surprise: like the Mac Pros, Apple’s revved Core 2 Duo MacBook Pros are cheaper than comparably equipped Dell Precision laptops.
The 15″ MBP weighs in at $1,999 versus the 15″ Latitude’s $2,874. At that price, the Dell doesn’t even have a DVD burner, although one can be added at extra cost (sometimes, Dell offers a free upgrade, to be fair). More …
Apple has kept in tune with Intel’s latest CPU for mobile computers. Less vulnerability has to also be a draw. Top Tech News looks at “good timing” and “broader appeal”. More …
As expected, Apple has announced the “new” Core 2 Duo-equipped MacBook Pro.
“With an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, greater storage capacity and FireWire 800 connectivity, the new MacBook Pro delivers unprecedented performance and mobility in an incredibly thin and light design,” said Philip Schiller, senior vice president, worldwide product marketing. “We are thrilled that our notebook sales are growing twice as fast as the overall notebook market, and we hope these new MacBook Pro models continue that success.”
Get a 2.16GHz MacBook Pro for $1,999 (US) with:
• 1GB 667MHz DDR2, expandable to 3GB
• 120GB SATA (5400 rpm) HDD w/ Sudden Motion Sensor
• Slot-load 6x SuperDrive w/ double-layer support
• ATI Mobility Radeon X1600 w/ 128MB
• DVI-out port, built-in Dual Link support (30-inch Cinema HD Display)
• Built-in iSight video camera
• Gigabit Ethernet, AirPort Extreme, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR;
• ExpressCard/34 expansion card slot;
• (2) USB 2.0, (1) FireWire 800, (1) FireWire 400
• Audio line in, headphone out port, each w/ optical digital support
• Scrolling TrackPad and illuminated keyboard
• Apple Remote
• 85Watt MagSafe Power Adapter
Or, get a 2.33GHz 15-inch MacBook Pro for $2,499 with:
• 2GB 667MHz DDR2, expandable to 3GB
• 120GB SATA (5400 rpm) HDD, with Sudden Motion Sensor
• Slot-load 6x SuperDrive w/ double-layer support
• ATI Mobility Radeon X1600 w/ 256MB
• DVI-out port, built-in Dual Link support (30-inch Cinema HD Display)
• Built-in iSight video camera
• Gigabit Ethernet, AirPort Extreme, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR;
• ExpressCard/34 expansion card slot;
• (2) USB 2.0, (1) FireWire 800, (1) FireWire 400
• Audio line in, headphone out port, each w/ optical digital support
• Scrolling TrackPad and illuminated keyboard
• Apple Remote
• 85Watt MagSafe Power Adapter
A 2.33GHz model with a 17-inch wide-format screen will ship next week for $2,799.
AppleInsider is reporting that estimated ship times for several MacBook pro models have slipped from 24 hours to three days. This news comes amid swelling rumors that the mothership will refresh their pro portable line ahead of the holiday shopping season. More …
New features of Firefox 2.0 are said to include built-in anti-phishing controls, built-in RSS and XML feed-viewing capabilities and inline spell checking. Firefox 2 final is available via Mozilla’s FTP site.
C|Net has an article about the uncertain future of the popular anti-virus software companies, due to M$$$$’s intent to include security software in Vista. A sort of coming to the party late, but bringing the 500 gorilla. More …
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