Dropped calls, slow download speeds rank among top gripes of mobile users Aug 3rd 2012, 07:04 Everyone has an opinion, and if they all stink, then Pew must have one hell of a tolerance for foul odors. The research group recently surveyed a number of mobile phone owners to determine their primary complaints, and while it's not much of a surprise, slow network performance stole the show. In all, 77 percent aired at least some dissatisfaction with download speeds, and nearly half of all respondents cited frequent frustration. The story is similar for dropped calls, as 72 percent of those surveyed claim to experience the annoyance at least occasionally. While less widespread, the distribution of those who receive unwanted marketing attempts via either telephone calls or text messages is roughly equal -- it seems reasonable to assume that many respondents are harassed by both means. For more surveys*, just text #eng-123 to 9999. *Outrageous fees will apply. Continue reading Dropped calls, slow download speeds rank among top gripes of mobile users Filed under: Cellphones, Wireless Dropped calls, slow download speeds rank among top gripes of mobile users originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Aug 2012 03:04:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink TechCrunch | Pew Research Center | Email this | Comments | ASRock Vision 3D 252B reviewed: a quiet, top-shelf HTPC worthy of the premium price Aug 3rd 2012, 06:05 Sure, we know there's great temptation to go the DIY route when considering your next HTPC, but if you're looking for a small form factor solution, there are legitimate advantages inherent to prebuilt systems. HotHardware just put the ASRock Vision 3D 252B through a rigorous review, and while it isn't the newest rig on the block, it's said to be worthy of your consideration just the same. At the system's heart, you'll find a Core i5 2520M -- which is from the Sandy Bridge era -- but the diminutive computer is said to provide flawless playback of all media types. Other high points include the system's quiet operation and low power consumption, and in summation, "The component choices, connectivity options, and form factor all hit the sweet spot." While the roughly $900 price may deter some, HotHardware recommends the Vision 3D 252B as a worthwhile HTPC that provides better connectivity options and a smaller size than the DIY alternative. Filed under: Desktops ASRock Vision 3D 252B reviewed: a quiet, top-shelf HTPC worthy of the premium price originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Aug 2012 02:05:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | HotHardware | Email this | Comments | |