You can get a day pass of 75MB for $15, a week pass of 250MB for $30, and a month pass of 500MB for $50. The prices aren't absurd if you only use the thing occasionally, but those data caps are something awful. For example, just loading a website will get you to burn a couple megabytes, and a heavy email session with attachments will kill half the day's quota. Better to save this for emergencies at the rates AT&T is offering. [AT&T

• Dongle
• Cookie
• WAP
• Phone jack
• (Nokia) Navi Key
• Time shifting
• Digital TV
• Ethernet
• (Nokia/Others) PC Suite
• Desktop

It's an odd list. Even though the UK loves its Nokias, the inclusion of two proprietary Nokia terms seems innately disproportionate. "Time shifting" was an awkward term to begin with that's specific but antiquated now that "DVR" has taken over. And as for "phone jack" and "desktop," yes, it's disconcerting that laymen don't understand this "jargon," but I can't remember the last time that I used either of these technologies.

So that pretty much leaves "cookie," "dongle," "ethernet," "digital TV" and "WAP" as the terms people need to learn. Please call your grandmothers and inform them as to the proper definitions immediately. [BBC and image]

First off is the speed test. 952kbps down and 318kbps up isn't too bad when you consider that T-Mobile's network is fairly new, and I was connecting from inside my house. The device itself is an L-shaped swivel that can hit up EDGE, 3G (HSDPA/UMTS), or Wi-Fi, if you're on a T-Mobile Hotspot. There's a slot for 8GB of microSD/SDHC memory, and comes with a male to female USB extension cable in order to avoid USB crowding.

The only downside now is that it's Windows-only, with OS X support "available in the coming months." It's always good when someone releases a 3G dongle, especially T-Mobile, who can definitely use more.

Hanging out at sites like Giz may have instilled in you an insatiable, pocket-emptying gadget habit. But now we're entering a new era—the old guys on the TV are saying that soon we may not even have pockets, let alone money for them. Don't panic though: You've probably got a wealth of gadgetry sitting underutilized in your living rooms, closets and basements, just waiting to be given powerful new (not exactly authorized) features. For free.

I've collected the best firmware replacements, software mods and homebrew hacks from the DMCA-flouting, EULA-hating frontiers of gadgetland that'll breathe new life into your stable of hardware and maybe—just maybe—let you feel that lusty new-gadget rush again.

Turn Your Xbox, Old PC or Apple TV into a Genuine Media Center

Xbox Media Center is about as refined as an unauthorized hack can get, playing back virtually any audio and video format, running a bevy of console emulators and still playing your Xbox games. To be honest, this should almost be viewed as a natural update for every Xbox, which at its core is a slow but functional PC with an easy TV connection. (Any actual PCs you have lying around can run a PC-ported version of XBMC.)

Boxee is a very slick fork of the XBMC project for Mac, and it's available for Apple TV. As shipped, the Apple TV works fine within the closed iTunes ecosystem, but Boxee's support for virtually every video codec and free online video like YouTube, CNN, BBC, and Revision3 will suit your new, more destitute lifestyle a bit better.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. Installation is pretty straightforward in most cases, with simple Boxee and XBMC setup programs available for Windows, Mac and Linux. Before you load XBMC, though, you have to mod your Xbox with one of these methods, many of which require a specific game. After that it's all install wizards and lollipops.

Installing anything on the locked-down Apple TV used to take some serious finagling, but there are now tools that will create an automated Boxee installer on a flash drive. Just plug the drive in, restart and you're good to go.

XBMC Online Manual

Boxee

Make Over Your iPod, Archos, iRiver or Sandisk with Rockbox

It's hard to look at the current generation of media players and not admire their diverse capabilities and extensible software platforms. That's not to say that your 5th-gen iPod doesn't play back music perfectly well, or that your iRiver H10 still isn't a kickass media player, but they do feel a bit dated. Rockbox replaces your MP3 player's operating system with something more substantial, effectively making it a completely new device. You get endless codec support, advanced audio options, dozens of games, useful apps like a calculator and a text editor, plus you can choose from tons of different interface skins for a unique look and feel. Rockbox's tweaking possibilities mean you will earn admiring "what is that?" questions from friends, and it won't cost you a thing. If your player isn't supported yet just hold on—everything from the Zen Vision:M to the Toshiba Gigabeat S has a fairly active dev team.

Difficulty: Easy. Rockbox has an automated tool called the Rockbox Utility available for Windows, Mac and Linux. It does the work for you. Even better, it often automatically configures your player to dual boot with its original OS.

Rockbox Official Site

Convert Your PC or Notebook Into A Much More Expensive Mac

It's undeniable that Macs are too expensive. For many, they are considered a luxury item whose added cost doesn't justify the benefit. Luckily Apple's switch to an Intel platform opened up a world of unauthorized OS X installations which can turn your existing PC into a powerhouse Mac Pro workstation, or morph your MSI Wind or Asus EeePC into the Mac netbook that should be in their goddamn product line anyway. Check the hardware compatibility list to see if your PC is eligible for the upgrade.

Difficulty: Moderate to Hard. If you're not morally opposed to downloading iATKOS and Kalyway, which are pre-patched Leopard install DVDs (this is bit torrent territory), then the process is much like installing any other OS. If you insist on building your own patched install from a DVD you own, then, well, good luck. Always check hardware lists first, though, because driver support is everything.

OSX86 Project Page

Flash Your Crappy Router Into a Top-Line Piece of Hardware

The DD-WRT project exists for a simple reason: Most routers are physically very similar, but are priced differently because of functionality derived from software. The DD-WRT firmware unlocks the potential of the most basic routers out there—too many to name but damn if yours isn't on the list. As it turns out, your budget model is kind of impressive: Program-specific traffic throttling, professional level wireless security and radical signal boosting are just a few of the dozens of new features that can be enabled.

Difficulty: Easy. If you can't manage this one, then you don't deserve a router—installation just takes a few clicks on the device's default configuration pages. A word of caution, though: Make sure your router configuration page is totally compatible with your browser before the operation, as some choke on Firefox and can botch firmware upgrades. Stick to IE if you have the choice.

DD-WRT Project Page

Download Updated Maps For Your Old GPS

I'm referring of course to capital 'D' downloading here, mainly because at the moment GPS map updates are a racket. You could spend hundreds of dollars on map data that is freely available on Google Maps, Microsoft Live and MapQuest, among others, or you can just, you know, not. Map packs for Garmin, TomTom and Magellan units are floating around torrent sites and usually don't require much more than a simple CD image mount and run routine to set up. (Guilty conscience sold separately.)

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. If you're just running a copy of a CD, then you'll be able to use the installation wizards. Some more involved methods for Windows CE-based devices require some SSH file transfers, but these are relatively rare.

Jailbreak Your iPhone for Wi-Fi Internet Tethering

Two internet plans are enough, but to sign on to a mobile internet contract when you've already got unlimited iPhone data feels kind of stupid. Jailbreaking your iPhone is now about as easy as performing a firmware upgrade, and there are actually multiple tethering apps. PDANet and iPhoneModem both work a treat, but keep in mind that excessive usage could draw AT&T's attention and ire: Tethering is not allowed on the data plan, even though it works fine. Both apps are available in Cydia, where you can also find a limited assortment of other apps that don't have a place in the app store.

Difficulty: Moderate. Jailbreaking can be managed through the Dev Team's fantastic Quickpwn tool, but it does take a few minutes and can go wrong if instructions aren't followed closely. After jailbreak, Cydia and Installer fill the role of the gray-market app store, functioning as simple package managers that are arguably as polished as their more legitimate younger brother.

PDANet and iPhoneModem take different approaches to tethering, but neither requires more networking expertise than it would take to, say, set up a router.

iPhone Jailbreak

PDANet

iPhoneModem

Turn Your Wii Into a Free Emulation Machine

It's more than a little infuriating to have to repurchase your childhood library of console games from the Virtual Console, especially when free PC emulators and accompanying ROMs abound on the old intertubes. All you need is a copy of Legend of Zelda: The Twilight Princess, an SD card and an SD reader and you're ready to install A Boy and His Blob: Trouble on Blobolonia, which is pretty much all anyone has ever really needed since this whole "Video Gaming Television Machine" thing got under way in the first place. Throw in extended media playback and some helpful widgets for an extra value-add.

Difficulty: Moderate. This is one of the only hacks here that needs additional hardware to work, even if it's basic. The good news is that once you find a copy of Zelda and load up your SD card, the process pretty much takes care of itself. Further app installs are taken care of through a intuitive dedicated channel.

WiiBrew WIki

A great resource for similar projects is our industrious sister site Lifehacker, where you can find a veritable treasure trove of tutorials and tricks. Have you postponed any gadget purchases until you're sure your bank is solvent? Have any other budget hardware resurrection techniques that we missed? Let us know in the comments.

The Price: $159 with $20 promo code (DS220)

The Verdict: Not too bad. The speakers themselves are adequate, though not as good as their previous wireless iPod dock effort. The 220 functions decently well as an iPod dock, but what you really want this for is its wireless speaker functions.

Imagine plugging in the USB dongle to your laptop—which doesn't have very good speakers—and beaming all audio to the wireless unit across the room. It's a fairly elegant solution to get around the fact that your laptop has less than optimal speakers and aren't easy to substitute by plugging into better ones when you're lounging on the couch.

The only note we have is that the 2.4GHz frequency the dongle uses to communicate is prone to interference, and if you use it on your laptop, you're going to get some intermittent audio. Everything was fine when we worked off an Ethernet connection, but when we fired up our wireless on the laptop, you could definitely tell some interference was going on when music keeps dropping out. Also (on at least the Mac version) you can't control volume via your computer; you have to use the wireless remote.

In the end, $159 isn't too steep a price to pay for wireless speakers that you can easily sync up to your laptop. If they'd fix the wireless interference and add volume control on your computer, we'd be able to recommend this fully. [Mint]

They also have card-reader slots, for MemoryStick Micro and microSD cards. Most interestingly, the 400g version has integrated GPS and an NMEA 2.0 interface, so you can slip it into your PC or Mac, and pinpoint your location live in Google Maps. Available late this year, but you'll have to wait for pricing info. Full press release below.

SONY ERICSSON PRESS RELEASE June 17, 2008

Sony Ericsson launches two new dual function USB modems to keep you ahead of the game

Sony Ericsson unveils the MD400 and MD400g - the first HSPA USB modems of their kind from Sony Ericsson not only providing high speed broadband but also a combined M2 Memory Stick Micro(TM) and a microSD(TM) slot brought together in a stylish and attractive design. Apart from an in-built antenna, an innovative additional swivel antenna optimizes the performance when in use. When closed, it covers and protects the retractable USB connector. The MD400g also has an in-built GPS receiver which automatically shows the user's current location.

Singapore, 17th June 2008 - For people on the move keeping in touch via the internet with colleagues, clients, friends and family is a necessity. Now Sony Ericsson gives users the speed they need in a stylish way with its two new modems complete with HSPA technology. Users can receive 7.2Mb/s in download and up to 2.0Mb/s in upload speeds. This means that sending attachments via email such as images or video content can be sent up to five times faster than before.

"The MD400 and MD400g are high performance and stylish devices that enable you to have all your essentials at hand even when you are out of reach from broadband at home or in the office. The USBs are simple, quick to install and the multiple technologies guarantee internet access every time," said Johan Tysklind, marketing director mobile computing at Sony Ericsson. "The combined M2 Memory Stick Micro(TM) and the microSD(TM) slot really makes these products stand out from the crowd and the MD400g even includes a GPS receiver."

Sony Ericsson MD400/MD400g - the world on the move
HSPA technology - up to 7.2Mb/s download and 2.0Mb/s upload
First USB modem with combined M2 Memory Stick Micro(TM) and microSD(TM) slot
In-built antenna complemented with an additional swivel 'Diversity' antenna maximizes reception performance and boosts data transmission
Innovative mechanical design allows the swivel antenna to also protect the retractable USB connector when the modem is not in use
USB modem - can be used in any PC, laptop or desktop
In-built GPS receiver and GPS utility (MD400g) which can link directly in to Google Maps(TM) and mark current location
PlayNow shortcut link - just a click away from entertainment
Auto-install
Auto configuration
So whether you are a professional that needs internet access anytime of the day, a student away from the library or even someone taking advantage of nice weather in the park the MD400/MD400g range can give you the broadband access you need from any mobile location.

- ENDS -

At a glance:

MD400 Mobile Broadband USB Modem, MD400g Mobile Broadband GPS USB Modem

Compact size, 70 x 28 x 15 mm (open)

Weight 28g
Dual antenna solution featuring Receiver Diversity optimisation which ensures highest possible data rates. the USB connector retracts when the swivel antenna is folded. Completely closed it covers the port

Combo M2 Memory Stick Micro(TM) and microSD(TM) slot
GPS (MD400g): Integrated GPS receiver (NMEA 2.0 interface)
HSPA: Up to 7.2 Mb/s, downlink. Up to 2.0 Mb/s, uplink
HSPA/UMTS: Triple band 850/1900/2100 MHz
EDGE/GPRS: Quad band 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
Operating Systems: MS Windows® 2000, XP, Vista, MAC-OS X supported
Features/Enablers: Sony Ericsson Wireless Manager
Auto-installation and auto-configuration: Multi color LED illumination indicating communication status (and GPS status - MD 400g)
25 supported languages
Sony Ericsson update services
Combo M2 Memory Stick Micro(TM) and microSD(TM) slot
In-built GPS receiver inc. GPS utility (MD400g)
PlayNow(TM) icon - a click away from entertainment
Colours: Exquisite Ebony, Lustrous White

Availability: Globally available Q4 2008

Legal
1) Facts and features may vary depending on local variant.
2) Talk, standby and video call times are affected by network preferences, type of SIM card, connected accessories and various activities e.g. games. Kit contents and color options may differ from market to market. The full range of accessories may not be available in every market.

© Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB, 2008.

[Sony Ericsson]

It's also a Class 1 Bluetooth device, so you've got a theoretical range of 100 meters. Couple that with the Callpod Dragon and you've got a 100 meter headset setup that connects itself. Give it to your parents so you won't have to teach them over the phone how to connect a Bluetooth headset.

Check out Callpod's first ad spot for their Chargepod below. It's actually pretty neat and shows non-techies why it's useful for them.

To take advantage of its multiple tuner capability, though, you'll have to add another tuner to your PC to complement the one inside this USB dongle. Also keep in mind that its tuner snags HDTV signals over-the-air, so if you don't have good TV broadcast reception in your area, the ReplayTV Personal HD is not going to do you much good.

Price for the software and hardware will be $99.95, and the company didn't say exactly when it would become available, but said it would be sold at online retailers and direct from ReplayTV.

Press release from ReplayTV:

REPLAYTV INTRODUCES "PERSONAL HD" SOLUTION FOR THE PC WITH HDTV, MULTI-TUNER AND IPOD SUPPORT

- "Personal HD" To Be Demonstrated at Pepcom Holiday Spectacular on September 19th in NYC. -

New York, September 19, 2007 — ReplayTV®, the pioneer of personalized digital video recording, today announced its new "Personal HD" all-in-one solution for the PC with HDTV, multi-tuner, and iPod® support.

Bringing hardware & software together to give consumers a living room quality DVR experience on their PCs, "Personal HD" goes the extra mile and easily makes shows "Good-to-Go." With ReplayTV Personal HD, shows can be taken on the road to watch on Apple iPhoneTM, video iPod, iPod nano, iPod touch, iPod classic and other portable devices. Additionally, shows can easily be streamed over Apple TVTM.

ReplayTV's popular DVR technology lets you pause live TV, rewind, skip ahead, find and record all your favorite shows on your PC with living room quality ease and reliability. Sit back with the included remote control, or lean forward with your mouse or keyboard.

"Customers are going to be thrilled with the new ReplayTV Personal HD," said David Riley, Director of Marketing at ReplayTV. "You can now take your shows with you on the new iPod nano, iPod touch, or iPhone as well as the older video iPods! ReplayTV's intuitive menus, ease of navigation, powerful searches, and our channel guide that works the way you want have always been popular. And now we are offering a tuner, antenna, and remote for an all-in-one solution. ReplayTV Personal HD is a terrific hardware/software solution at a great price."

The complete package includes a USB 2.0 ATSC/NTSC hybrid tuner, HD antenna, remote control, USB cable, software CD, Quickstart guide and one year of ReplayTV Electronic Program Guide service (annual EPG fee thereafter: $19.95 per year). ReplayTV Personal HD is slated for shipment this fall.

Complete Hardware/Software HD DVR Solution for the PC!
The all-inclusive ReplayTV Personal HD package includes a powerful, easy-to-install USB 2.0 ATSC/NTSC hybrid tuner that requires no additional power and provides off-air HDTV reception*.

The included remote control provides easy access to the intuitive ReplayTV on-screen interface and all of the system's powerful search features, and stores nicely in a PC-MCIA slot.

Most importantly, the system's reliable, easy-to-use software, including useful ReplayTV features such as "overlap manager" and show-based recording, ensures that a user's favorite shows will be available for enjoying anytime!

Among the many advanced features included in ReplayTV Personal HD are:

• Integrated iPod Support: With the new iPod support, users can watch high-def television via their Apple TV or take programs with them for viewing anytime anywhere via many popular models of the iPod including the iPhone.

• Multiple-Tuner Support: Multiple shows can be recorded at the same time if additional tuners are installed (not included). In addition to the included ReplayTV tuner, ReplayTV Personal HD also supports leading tuners from Hauppauge, ATI, and Pinnacle.

• Smart Channel Guide: ReplayTV Personal HD makes the Channel Guide work for you. You can place your favorite channels at the top of the guide so you can easily and quickly see what's playing on them. You can always tell what's being recorded because the time bar features a record indicator so you can plan what else you want to watch or record - with absolutely no guesswork.

• Powerful Search Features: ReplayTV Personal HD makes finding compelling content a breeze. Find your shows within seconds, such as primetime shows, season premieres, and finales. Easily capture shows that feature favorite actors, directors, and genres. ReplayTV Personal HD organizes shows by airing, making it easy and quick to pick your favorite series to record.

• Recorded Shows: ReplayTV's innovative Recorded Shows screen presents the latest shows you've recorded — What's New — right along with all your episodes grouped by show. This organizing principle makes navigating through hundreds of shows fast and accurate. And when it's movie night, ReplayTV organizes all recorded movies under one tab.

Availability and Pricing
ReplayTV Personal HD will be distributed at major online retailers and direct from ReplayTV. It can be purchased for the suggested retail price of $99.95., which includes a ReplayTV high-definition USB tuner with dual tuner support.

ReplayTV Personal HD is compatible with terrestrial antenna, most analog cable and select digital cable and satellite set-top boxes.

Product Page [Newegg]

It's a thumb-sized USB device that you plug in and instantly open up your computer to as many as seven Bluetooth-enable cellphones, keyboards, headsets, and anything else. The Bluetooth will set you free. – Charlie White

Mustek's dongle that gets rid of cable clutter [Sci Fi Tech]