While CrunchGear was able to get Rebel EFI working, it is important to point out that we tried several times get the software up and running with no success on the same exact computer. Then we got this email from a frustrated reader:

2 weeks ago, I purchased Psystar's RebelEFI software. While I own several Macs, I also have a fairly new PC with a Core 2 Duo and Intel motherboard that I thought would be a perfect specimen.

Before I purchased the software, I downloaded the trial version of RebelEFI. Sure enough, I was able to boot and install OS X 10.6. I installed the RebelEFI utility in OS X and because it was a trial, the hardware compatibility feature was disabled. (Why this feature would be disabled in a trial version?) I called Psystar with several questions and asked what would happen if some of my hardware was not compatible? The sales person told me that they would be able to access the software's hardware compatibility list and be able to supply me with drivers for the incompatible hardware.

I purchased the software and ran the hardware compatibility test. It showed me lack of compatibility for my video, audio and USB 2.0, however there was no way to send them the results of this test. When I questioned this, I sent Psystar a tech support ticket through the software's Customer Support feature. I was told in a reply that I would have to fill out a DCR form. I asked what a DCR form is and where I could find it. (They assumed I would automatically know this information).

After not hearing anything for a week, I tried calling Customer Support and was greeted with a message that support is only handled via email. I again asked the same question via email and 3 days later I received a PDF file in response. It basically says I have to send Psystar my computer for them to make it completely compatible. WHAT???? At no point during the purchase was I told I may have to send them my computer. I am now in the process of trying to get my money back.

Mac OS X on any computer? FAIL

Send your computer to a shady hackintosh company that refuses to accept any responsibility for devices shipped to their lab? Yeah...I don't think so. But here's the proof (click and select "Full Size" to enlarge):

As the days have worn on, Psystar's response to this customer's issue has deteriorated to the point that they are no longer responding to his attempts to email for a refund. In fact, they stopped taking customer-support calls entirely, and have switched to a far less personal (and helpful) email-based help program.

In other words, a $50 solution to run OS X on a PC sounded too good to be true, and it looks like it is. So, I'm inclined to go with a flat out DO NOT BUY on this one. However, let me put the question to you—have you purchased this software? Did you experience a similar problem? [Thanks Brian!]

Before the visor, people might have simply guessed that you were surfing porn on your mobile while at work.

"Well, his face is flush," they'd think to themselves, "and he's sweating a bit too much for such a cool day in the office, but maybe he's just walked up a flight or stairs or something."

But then, after you attach this loud, outrageous $9 black thing to your Blackberry, you will have confirmed what you're really up to, and then some.

Either that, or you're the world's most paranoid business executive or pencil pusher. Whatever. It's bad news all around. [New PC Gadgets via Gear Diary]

The Daily Background found an ad on Amazon's Mechanical Turk service, which pays small fees for menial internet tasks like rewriting and converting media files, asking for users to write false positive reviews for a few Belkin products that have otherwise poor reviews, like this wireless USB hub. The request was filed by one Mike Bayard, and a quick Google search and perusal of his LinkedIn profile reveals him to be a Belkin representative in charge of sales to e-retailers. Apparently he's posted similar ads for fake reviews on Newegg and Buy.com in addition to Amazon.

This kind of fakery is probably far more common than we realize, but it's awful for the consumer. That wireless USB hub, for example, advertises Mac compatibility, but one of the real reviews suggests that this isn't true at all. Such user feedback is important to making an informed choice as a consumer, and Bayard's underhanded tactics screw up the entire system. For shame. [The Daily Background]

Dear Valued Customer,
If you have purchased from us before and feel we did a good job, please use the link below and rate us 10/10 and we will give you $5.00 in credit to use for anything on our website.

Apparently the offer went so far as to provide an invoice number, should the customer not have one. But when called out on this clearly shady practice, TheCellShop.net quickly hedged their intentions:

We worded the email that was sent out improperly. We wanted to offer $5.00 coupon to anybody who submitted a review ...We are now offering $5.00 for anybody who leaves a review whether it be good or bad.

Then again, $5 isn't nearly enough to make me (or I'm betting most of you) rate a crappy retailer well, even anonymously. Maybe $50 and we'll talk. [networkworld and the consumerist]

We wanted to write and let you know that we sincerely appreciate the patience you have shown in receiving your Keyport. While innovative design and quality craftsmanship are certainly tenets to which Keyport is steadfastly committed, it is our customers who serve as Keyport's foundation, and your satisfaction is our top priority. Therefore, we would like to refund your money in its entirety and hold on to your keys. Once we have completed the final design modifications, we will send you your new Keyport Slide. After you receive it, you may pay us what you think is appropriate. We intend on earning your trust and delivering what we have promised. Again, thank you for your patience over this long haul. We look forward to your feedback once you have received your Slide. In the meantime, please let us know if you have any further questions or concerns.

On the same note, they've had my keys since December but haven't actually shipped anything to me yet. They're very lax in return emails as well. It's sad to say this since the Keyport is such a good idea, but you should probably stay away from these guys until they get their manufacturing, shipping, and customer support issues down. [Thanks Josh!]

The Guardian also finds it weird that Apple hasn't responded at all. Does Apple know that they're a fake company? Is Apple planning something behind the scenes? Either way, this whole situation smells worse than Benny Goldman in the tub.

Do we have any Giz readers around there? Shoot me an email if you are. Thanks guys! Got your emails. [Guardian]