Tech News - USC Annenberg COM 202

Under the Sea

2008-12-04T06:55:00.000-08:00

Swiss energy giant, BKW-FMB, has recently announced its plans to create the world's first solar powered submarine. Asking investors to contribute almost $9 million to start work on Projekt Goldfisch, the company hopes to begin construction on the floating "power islands" of photovoltaic panels that will channel electricity for the subs as soon as possible.

According to BKW, the solar subs will draw power from "a solar array of five generators, each with 430-square feet of panels. A GPS tracking system would tell the sub where to surface when it needs to recharge." Fully charged, the company claims the sub could dive to depths approaching 1,000 feet and reach a top speed of about 5 knots (roughly 6 mpg).

So what does one do with a solar submarine? Well, the company hopes to put its first Goldfisch models in Dubai as an attraction featured at the already popular Burji Al Arab Hotel. Already featuring solar boats and a submarine restaurant, BKW says their sub will allow guests to come '"into contact with the attractive idea of emission free mobility."'

Underwater solar tourism may well become a booming new industry but, for now, I think I'll stay above water and away from anything that could potentially turn belly-up should it the sky turn a particular shade of gray.

http://blog.wired.com/cars/2008/12/we-all-live-in.html#more

-Samantha Perez

The phone that feels the flu before you do

2008-12-04T00:03:00.000-08:00

Everyone worries about getting sick, but a new application, the Zicam Cold & Flu Companion, takes hypochondria to a new level.

All you have to do is enter your zip code and you will receive information on what percentage of people have the flu, a respiratory illness, or even the EVK plague. "Matrixx Initiatives Inc., the Arizona company that makes products under the Zicam brand, gets the information on disease levels from Surveillance Data Inc. — which gets its data from polling health care providers and pharmacies." They can also ask the application what nearby zip codes also have high risk levels so that they can avoid those areas.

I think that this application is interesting, but more useless than useful. Older, or more fragile people can benefit from this application, but I think others will use it as an excuse not to make a business trip or visit family, and hypochondriacs will just freak themselves out!

This application is available for the T-Mobile G1 and is free! It should be available for the iPhone by the end of the month.

By: Alexandra Guzmán
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28038134/

Ear Docs' Warning Rings Loud and Clear: Turn Down the iPod!

2008-11-20T08:33:00.000-08:00

MP3 players and iPods line the pockets of millions of people across the world. People listen to their music while walking, waiting, and for enjoyment. Although people do not listen to music loud, the time they spend with the player has increased over the years. A new study from the European Union cautions people who listen to personal music players for too long, at too high a volume settings, may do serious damage to hearing. “The music coming form those small, white ear buds is part of a larger problem,” experts claim. Hearing loss is permanent, cumulative, and—because it’s painless—hard to detect, according to the researchers. Signs that you are listening to music at too high a volume include stuffy ears and ringing. However, there are steps that the users of MP3 players can take to limit potential hearing problems. If you are listening to the music on your headphones, make sure you can hear someone else talking to you at a normal volume level. Researchers at Northwestern University advocate the "60/60 rule," which means MP3 players should be used at no more than 60 percent of the maximum volume and for no longer than about 60 minutes per day. Although those headphones may not seem to be too loud for you, remember that you cannot feel your sensory cells dying in the tiny hairs in the inner ear, but they are.
By Stephen T. Watson
The Buffalo News
http://www.technewsworld.com/story/Ear-Docs-Warning-Rings-Loud-and-Clear-Turn-Down-the-iPod-65042.html
Michael Saleeb

Livescribe's Pulse Smartpen for the Mac

2008-11-18T20:15:00.000-08:00

Just in time for the holidays, Livescribe is about to release their Smartpen for the Mac on November 24. The pen is about the size and weight of a large MontBlanc pen, with a microphone, a speaker, a small OLED display, and an internal computer chip that captures handwritten notes and drawings. Earlier in the year Livescribe came out with the Pulse Smartpen for the PC. The pen has the ability to record sound and synchronize the audio with written notes. Basically what the Smartpen does is record and link the audio to what you are writing, and making it possible to listen to what you recorded while you write. You are even able to search for keywords in your notes. This seems ideal for college students who like to take notes because if you forgot what your note was supposed to mean, you can click on the text and the audio will jump back to the exact moment in recording when you wrote that word. This would be useful to anyone who uses pen and paper frequently. However, to use the text and audio features, you have to use the pen with Livescribe’s dot paper that has points of reference for the audio. The paper has pre-printed controls on them that allow users to fast-forward and rewind the audio. For Mac users, the paper must be purchased from Livescribe but PC users will be able to print their own paper with Livescribe software for Windows 1.4, which will be available later this month. The pen has a variety of applications, including a built-in language translator that can translate English words into a many languages like Spanish and Mandarin.
The Smartpen has a 1GB model that sells for $149 and a 2GB model for $199.

http://www.macworld.com/article/136877/2008/11/pulsesmartpen.html?lsrc=top_3

- Annie Huang, Thursday 8am

The iphone that Listens

2008-11-18T00:39:00.000-08:00

It is no longer necessary to type an inquiry, you can just verbally ask your phone. Now, with the new speech recognition service that has been recently released by Google for the iPhone, you can actually talk to the search engine. Just as you enter questions into a search box on the traditional Google application, is how this new program best understands verbal questions. For example all that needs to be said is, “best Chinese restaurant in Los Angeles.”

Voice recognition technologies such as this new application and Bluetooth devices for vehicles demonstrate how this industry has progressed. One of the first successful demonstrations of a voice command technology were the voice controlled battleships created by researchers at SRI International, originally the Stanford Research Institute, in 1983. The industry’s leaders have always stated that one day we will be able to talk to machines, and that they will understand us. And over the past twenty-five years Google, Microsoft, and Yahoo have all claimed that voice recognition is necessary for the mobile computing era. Other companies such as I.B.M, Nuance and Vlingo are also in the race, and the stakes are high. Whoever develops and refines the first major technology in voice will easily take control over handheld devices.

Source

Dina Rosenberg, Thursday 8am

Telemetria Telephony Introduces First In-Car Computer

2008-11-17T18:46:00.000-08:00

Telemetria Telephony Technology Inc, founded by Alen Nejeh, has developed the first in-car PC with broadband connectivity. The company is aiming for a 2009 release date. The system includes features such as Smart Navigation, Real Time Traffic Monitoring--which predicts the best driving routes based on real time traffic patterns, and Web Services--including online maps, search engines, and much more through the built in LAN/WAN connectivity. The computer itself is an easily removable seven inch screen that conveniently plugs into the dashboard of the car. Partnered with Intel, Telemetria hopes to establish a new and successful piece of technology, which hopes to serve as the "platform for vehicular applications." Other features of the device include control over all in-car systems such as the DVD player, alarm system, or radio/CD player from both the front and back seats. Video steaming on YouTube and other sites is manageable on the system's bandwidth of 3G, but developers are hoping to establish a bandwidth of at least 4G to allow for high quality streaming. The in-car PC works with any car, but can only be used with models newer than 1996. The cost to purchase this device is currently unknown, but developers estimate a price of under $1000.

Source

Desiree Dozier
Thursday 9 am

Disneyland Jumps on The Mobile Application Bandwagon

2008-11-12T22:39:00.000-08:00

It seems like new mobile applications are created all the time; some useful like VCAST Song ID (which I use all the time), and some not so useful like the one for the iPhone that did nothing for a lot of money. Well, this time Disney and Verizon have come up with a tool that will help you navigate both the California and Florida parks. This application - although still in development - will aid in finding shows, restaurants, rides and their wait times. It will also help you locate the Disney characters in the park and you could even receive messages (and possibly phone calls, but I can't tell if that part is a joke or not) from them. I just thought it was interesting how Disney is adapting to the times by developing this interactive application that will be available outside of the parks thus being yet another advertising tool for Disney - even though they say they won't take advantage of it's advertising aspect.

Orig. article

Devin Wilson
Thurs 9am

Google Get's It's Medical Degree

2008-11-12T13:42:00.000-08:00

The New York Times article, “Google Uses Searches to Track Flu’s Spread” illustrates the active leap that the Internet has made in the medical field. This came about because the common person tends to use the Internet to answer all of his/her questions. Many Americans, when starting to feel a sickness coming on, try to self-diagnosis themselves by using the Internet. Therefore, this act has “given rise to a new early warning system for fast-spreading flu outbreaks called Google Flu Trends” (Helft, pg.1). For example, in early February, the C.D.C. reported that the flu had recently spiked in the Mid-Atlantic States, but Google Flu Trends realized this two weeks before that report came out. Such a development through the use of the Internet could help the speed of the response of those in the medical field and ultimately reduce the spread of the disease. Some even say that such a trend-spotting can not only help with the awareness of the flu but other disease trends as well. The suspect side of this tool is that it is not validated scientifically, but in the end it only helps the cause of reducing the spread of a disease. In my opinion, this type of trend spotting is fascinating and proves that the Internet’s capabilities are infinite. Hopefully, it turns out to be a successful endeavor, and the medical departments will be able to prevent a disease from spreading.

Gabrielle Yacoob
Thursday 8 am

NComputing: The Energy-Efficient $70 PC

2008-11-05T10:27:00.000-08:00

NComputing is a California-based company that has developed a PC that may possibly be the PC unit of the future. A traditional PC consists of numerous hardware parts and also consumes quite a load of energy. NComputing has built a PC unit that does not have a CPU, memory or moving parts built in. Rather, the unit connects to a central shared computer that uses NComputing's virtualization software to share its processing power to the satellite units. The PC will still run like a normal PC, the only difference is that the hardware will not be physically present in the unit. Moreover, this new feature will enable up to 30 users to connect to a single central computer that costs $500. Given that the PC does not consists of any moving parts, the device will also be far more energy efficient than current PC's. In most cases, the new devices will run on as little as 1-4 watts of power. The NComputing devices sell for $70, which is a significant difference in price compared to today's prices for a PC. This new style of computing could change the manner in which businesses or schools use computers. Not only will this new feature save you money it is also more environmentally friendly, a new direction that many businesses are now headed in.
http://cleantechnica.com/2008/11/03/ncomputing-the-energy-efficient-70-pc/

Javier Ramirez Thur 8am

Virtual Voters Follow Election In Cyberspace

2008-11-05T08:37:00.000-08:00

In the virtual world of the game Second Life users came together to watch the election updates through the game. They were able discuss their thoughts on the election and learn more about the candidates. Various users also created campaign headquarters, held rallies and handed out virtual buttons to those who visited them.
Spore, another virtual game, took a less serious approach to the elections by creating their own downloadable spaceships modeled after the presidential candidates.
Aside from the gaming world people were getting involved in the election through social networking sites like Twitter. Twitter was keeping track of the number of Twitter users that voted and also using google maps to help them estimate wait times for voting places.

Link= http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/11/04/election.online.ap/index.html

Done by: Bryn Sakow

Microsoft is Back... But They're Copying Mac!

2008-10-29T17:11:00.000-07:00

This past week at the Professional Developer's Conference in Los Angeles, Microsoft decided to demonstrate their new operating system, Windows 7 in hopes of shifting the company away from the problems of Vista. The new system attempts to "combine the PC, phone and web, [and even has] touch-screen elements for applications" (http://www.internetnews.com/dev-news/article.php/3781271/Windows+7+Gets+Its+ComingOut+Party.htm).

The new OS has many new elements not seen in Vista; a new service called Device Stage puts devices such as laptops, printers, PCs, attached storage and even Windows Mobile Phones on one network for readily available access to specific devices. The sidebar previously seen is now gone and users can place their widgets anywhere on desktop; and even with programs such as Word, when an application is open, thumbnails are shown with all of the open documents within the program, making it simple and easy to access a file with a single click.

As innovative as the new operating system sounds, I feel that the widget placement and the Device Stage service seem to stem from Mac ideas. Users already have the "user-friendly" ease of desktop freedom, and the iPod, iPhone, iMac, MacBook, etc. are all used with iTunes. The only creative element of Windows 7 that seems very appealing is the touch-screen ability, but with that said, multiple Mac products already have that capability. It will be very interesting to see how the product does when it is released openly to the public. Until then, however, although Microsoft is back, they are copying Mac...

Amanda Ply
Thursday 8am

MTV Finally Remembers What the 'M' Stands For

2008-10-29T04:38:00.000-07:00

For the past decade, MTV has gradually begun to shift away from television about music to television about trashy people making fools of themselves for our entertainment. Reality shows such as The Real World, Date My Mom, Next, Viva la Bam, and The Hills have come to represent a television station that was once renowned for its music videos. While MTV is definitely amusing to watch in its current state, the network has fortunately found a way to get back to its old self. According to a post on Digg.com (http://digg.com/tech_news/MTV_smacks_YouTube_posts_almost_every_music_video_ever), MTV launched a new website, MTVMusic.com, yesterday. On this site, users can access MTV’s vast archive of music videos, as well as exclusive concert footage. The website is free to use, and provides an easy-to-navigate search engine through which users can find their favorite videos and live MTV performances simply by typing in the name of a song or artist. As the Digg post points out, the launch of this website will surely create competition for YouTube. While YouTube is known for its extensive selection of videos about pretty much anything imaginable, MTV is a trusted source for music videos. A site dedicated solely to music videos, with every video available in one place, will be very appealing to potential users. Hopefully, this new site will help MTV to re-gain its status in the music world—because after all, MTV stands for Music Television, not Mindless Television.

Maya Pollak
Thursday 9am

TrueCall

2008-10-22T21:36:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wished you could have your own private secretary to take care of your calls? Well now introducing TrueCall, your first secretary that does not require a regular salary. TrueCall, however is automated, but that should not cause buyers to shy away from this new technology. It has the power to forwarded trusted numbers to your phone or answer trusted numbers with an automated message. Furthermore, when a number dials in that TrueCall does not recognize, it asks them who they are and then rings you and asks whether or not you want to take the call.
TrueCall is around the size of a paperback book. You can plug it into your phone line at home and it checks every call you receive better letting your phone ring. The company recommends that if you are getting “nuisance” calls that you should invest in TrueCall. You are probably wondering the price of this gadget. For $99.99 you can order online your own TrueCall. Furthermore, the company offers both 70 and 140 hour message and call recorder if the buyer felt it necessary. Also the site offers an extender for telephones that are far away from plugs.
A good investment? If you are prone to receiving endless amounts of these “nuisance” calls, or just would like your own automated secretary for a one time price, then I think TrueCall is just for you!

Anna Larsson
Thursday 8am

T-Mobile G1: Efficiency and Ease Has Arrived

2008-10-22T19:31:00.000-07:00

T-Mobile USA, Inc announced today that the highly anticipated T-Mobile G1 has arrived in stores in 95 U.S. cities. The G1 comes with Google and is the first Android™-powered mobile phone. It comes with full touch screen functionality, QWERTY keyboard, and an expansive mobile Web experience, which includes dozens of Android Market applications and popular Google products. The T-Mobile G1 has a keyboard that slides out with ease and a one touch simulator for Google Search as well as other services such as G-mail, Google Talk, Google Calendar, and Youtube, all efficient to use and find on the main screen. Google Maps has become simplified when searching for certain addresses by typing in the particular information and the phone can show the individual a "street view" of the location for precise help while driving. T-Mobile G1 is the first phone to offer access to the Android Market, an operating system that includes games to social networking and on-the-go shopping that can be personalized to enhance the mobile lifestyle. More than 1.5 million phones were pre-ordered at a price of $179. One complaint has been that the Android system has not been fully exempt of connection problems. However, as of now, consumers are ready to purchase.

The T-Mobile G1 proves that technology is still advancing and that consumers are still driven to purchase whatever new innovation is offered. The G1 is a more efficient phone with applications that have not been included before and it is trying to rival the Iphone in terms of function and design. While phones were once used for simply staying in touch with friends and family, is now a device that can provide entertainment, organization, and guidance. I have never felt compelled to have a computer as a phone, but realizing the plethora of applications I could access, I realized that the G1 is just another step towards technology domination and the end to computer assistance. I am certain that the first batch of phones will contain problems with the Android system and if it will be able to access all the applications successfully. Time will tell.

Darren Pearlman
Thursday 9AM
http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/home/permalink/?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId

The Internet and Cell Phones Keepin’ the Fam Together

2008-10-21T23:27:00.000-07:00

An article found on InformationWeek.com analyzes how the Internet and cell phones have helped to bring families together and promote online understanding. A “Networked Families” study found that 33% of Internet users believe that the Internet has increased their “social connections” and 23% find that it has increased their “intrafamily communication.”
Individuals are able to stay connected throughout the day due to the Internet and cell phones, which has led to an increase in communication among family members and friends. This directly conflicts with all the speculation that technology is making us spend less time with our family. From personal experience, I know that I communicate with my mom thanks to cell phones… anything from getting a wine stain off a dress to how to cook fish… she is just a quick phone call away. The Internet and cell phones have both become increasingly important to the majority of society, so I'm sure that these statistics will continue to grow as companies discover technological advances for more savvy gadgets to communicate with.

http://www.informationweek.com/news/mobility/messaging/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=211201949#mon

Devin McCloskey
Thursday 8am

PlantBot and Robotic Plants: Solution to Deforestation?

2008-10-21T19:25:00.001-07:00

For those who have problems taking care of their plants in their homes, the Play Coalition, a group of techies who like to design things just for fun, have invented the PlantBot. PlantBot is a four-legged gadget that holds your plant and is designed to seek out the sun. It moves toward the sunlight and plops itself down wherever it feels had an adequate amount of sun. As our planet continues to be taken for granted and deforestation continues to occur, how will we get our oxygen? PlantBot could be your solution, but the Chonnam National University in Korea has created their own solution. They have created a robotic plant that emits oxygen and moisture. It is four-feet tall and includes a pot and a stem. It bends toward you as you approach it and begins to bloom. When voices are raised, it shakes in response and it also responds to music and light as it opens and closes its petals, dancing to the music. Though these contraptions are fun, they are kind of creepy and I can't help but to think of the dystopian views of technology.

Sophia Oyama
Thursday 9 AM
Articles found on Engadget

Forget the Front Desk: Hotels Go High Tech

2008-10-20T21:47:00.000-07:00

At the Malibu Beach Inn in Malibu, California, a product called "Hotel Evolution" is being debuted after being tested in various hotels in the L.A. area. Runtriz is a software firm based in Hollywood, CA, and is the company in charge of this project. When guests arrive at the hotel, they are asked if they have either an iPod touch or an iPhone, and if they do the staff loads the Runtriz Hotel web application to the device, which allows the functions that usually require a call from the in-room phone or a personal trip to the concierge to be done with a single touch. If guests do not have either of these devices, they are given an iPod Touch with the application pre-programmed. From the screen anyone can order room service, set a wake up call, have your luggage or car delivered, have laundry done, or even have a "Do Not Disturb" sign put up on your room - all this without having to move a foot! Information on attractions and such is also available on this web page. The web application allows them to modify and easily install the app to the phones, and it also will allow the easy manipulation of the page to fit to other mobile devices in the future. This technology may even become useful in areas outside hotels as well, such as at ball stadiums. It is literally a concierge on-the-go, with services available readily and 24/7. A location-based service on these applications would allow this to be a possibility, and this is not a far-fetched idea.

Full Article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/10/11/AR2008101101571.html

October 20, 2008
Kathryn McCormack
Thursday 8 am

Spore Gets Cute and Creepy

2008-10-14T13:22:00.000-07:00

Spore, a computer game much like the Sims series, is a multi-genre single player game. It allows for players to create characters from the beginning as a unicellular organism and watch it evolve. The game itself is revolutionary in that all players are connected through the internet, creating worlds for their spore creatures in which players worldwide can connect. It is an ever expanding, never ending game created by its players: it is a personal and customizable experience. Electronic Arts, the game’s distributor, announced this week that an expansion pack, called the Spore Creepy & Cute Parts Pack, will be released later this year (as early as next month). This expansion pack will allow, for the first time, the ability for “players’ space faring creatures to beam down from their spaceships to explore new planets and earn rewards for completing challenging missions. A new Adventure Creator will allow players to build and share online their own custom missions, providing almost endless gameplay possibilities.” Introducing over 100 new character and world creating features, this game is like nothing else on the market: the consumer is not only building the game, but creating it for others to play.

http://kotaku.com/5063221/spore-gets-cute-and-creepy-space-adventures

Morgan O'Malley

9am Thursday

Invention: Billboards that know you at a touch

2008-10-14T12:54:00.000-07:00

The Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute in Daejon, South Korea, is currently working on an idea that sounds like it was taken right out of a Science Fiction story. It is a new way of advertising. Their idea involves billboards that people would be able to touch and then information that was geared towards that particular person would appear. It sounds like the sort of advertising that was part of the world in Minority Report, where people walking through the mall would have their eyes scanned and advertisements directed at them would play. The Research Institute is working off of theories that include "skin-clinging radio waves, or tiny vibrations through the skeleton that let people swap data with a handshake." I don't know how valid their research is or how well these other theories work but the idea that advertising could be so personal because of a new bit of technology is somewhat daunting. People got parinoid when facebook.com was giving advertisers information about their clients. Imagine if the advertisers did not have to go through any outside source but could tell with just one touch what sorts of products a person would buy. What an invasion of privacy that would be.

Amanda Kirkham
Thurs. 8AM Lab

Full article:
http://technology.newscientist.com/article/dn14921-invention-billboards-that-know-you-at-a-touch.html

Assignment #2 - Social Media in the 2008 Election

2008-10-10T10:03:00.001-07:00

US election battle goes online

Obama Text Messaging On Today Show

My.Barackobama.com Tutorial

The purpose of this assignment is to get you to think about the impact new communication technologies have on the political process. While traditional technologies such as newspapers and television still account for a majority of the political information disseminated in the United States, social media is a playing a larger role in the political process. You may wish to read Wired’s article, “How the Internet Invented Howard Dean” as a starting point for this paper.

You paper should be a minimum of 2 to 3 pages and structured in three sections. Remember to include a works cited section. First, describe how a new communication technology is being used in this election in a way that is fundamentally different from the election eight years ago. Does this technology create a community of users, does it coordinate political actions, or does it provide a mechanism for distributing information? Provide a detailed description.

Second, describe the potential impact of the technology. What characteristic’s of this technology makes it an effective political tool? Do you believe this technology will have an impact in the coming election? Will this technology be significant in the future elections?

Third, experiment with these technologies and write about your experience. How easy were they to use? What did you like about it vs. what did you dislike? Did you have any problems using it?

Finally, remember I don’t care who you vote for I just want you to vote. That’s the beauty of our nation.

SUGGESTIONS FOR PART III
Text Message Alerts

Little Green Footballs

Wonkette
There are numerous politically oriented facebook groups.

POTENTIAL TOPICS OF INTEREST:
Social Networking Sites
Youtube and Online Video Sharing of Speeches and Debates
Mobile Phones
Political Blogging

The Polar FT40 Fitness Training Computer

2008-10-07T23:21:00.000-07:00

For all of the fitness maniacs and gym rats out there, a new product called the Polar FT40 training computer has entered the market of fitness gadgets. The Polar FT40 comes in a wrist watch or a chest strap. While the past fitness gadgets have assisted workout sessions such as allowing people to monitor their heart-rate, timed their run, keep track of distance ran, and their pace, the Polar FT40 adds a new feature to these already helpful tools for workout sessions. The Polar FT40 training computer allows an individual to see whether he/she is training in a fat-burning zone or simply a fitness zone. This information is extremely important to an individual who wants to maintain a certain workout in order to achieve their goal. The product has fraction type of display. Desonta Holder gives the example an example of how the product works:

“For example, if your fitness zone is a heart rate of 115 or higher, you'll always see the number 115 beneath a bigger number indicating your actual heart rate. You'll know to keep your heart rate below 115 if you want to be in the fat-burning zone and above 115 for the fitness zone.”

Those looking to lose some weight or maintain their weight will want to stay in the fat-burning zone. In the fitness zone, the individual will be giving himself or herself a high intensity workout while increasing their blood circulation to their muscles. Depending on the individual’s goals, this product can help them stay in certain zones to achieve their goals from maintaining their weight to extremely transforming their body.

Some other features includes a fitness test where the Polar FT40 helps you to determine you fitness level, from very low to elite. For this, the individual will wear the gadget and lie down for a few minutes as the FT40 measures his/her aerobic capacity. A chart is given in the user manual that helps you interpret the results. Also, after every training session, your calories burned, percentage of fat calories burned, average heart rate, max heart rate and time spent in either the fitness zone and/or fat-burning zone is displayed. The 50 most recent workout sessions are stored in your FT40 and can be transferred to polarpersonaltrainer.com where a journal with detailed graphs can be kept to monitor progress made.

Probably some of the greatest features of this product and the most overlooked is its simplicity and comfort. It is relatively easy to punch a couple of buttons to enter your weight, height, age, and sex. The chest strap and wrist watch is extremely comfortable and stays in place despite intense workouts. The product is also water proof, which allows you to swim with it.

Despite the Polar FT40 looking very much like a giga pet, it has many tools that helps you monitor your progress and hopefully can also help to motivate people to work for a more healthy and fit lifestyle.

-Sam Hua

Original Article

BlackBerry's New Phone Ready to Storm Market

2008-10-07T19:56:00.000-07:00

With a sharp rise in popularity and sales of Apple's iPhone 3G and T-Mobile's T-1, it was only a matter of time before their elite competitor BlackBerry unveiled its next generation phone. On Saturday, photographs of the next BlackBerry device, the Storm, were leaked onto a website called the Boy Genius Report. The handheld is being designed by Research in Motion (RIM), who has declined comment regarding the leak, but is expected to make a formal announcement Wednesday. Its sleek appearance and touchscreen design certainly bear a close resemblance to the iPhone 3G, not to mention its similar capabilities which include GPS Navigation, Facebook, an application center, games, and a media player. The devices are almost identical in size and screen resolution. However, the Storm has some capabilities not found on iPhone such as horizontal viewing for emails and web pages and a 3.2 megapixel camera, a much higher quality feature than than Apple's 2.0 megapixel unit.

As touchscreen smartphones sales continue to skyrocket, I expect the Storm to swiftly crash the market whenever it is released. Amidst iPhone 3G bugs possibly surfacing in the next few months, BlackBerry will be wise to release this highly anticipated product that seems poised to challenge for the top spot among phones of its kind. The competitors better keep an eye out for the Storm.

Alex Karasik

This article by Anita Hamilton was found in the Time magazine's online Business & Tech section, dated Oct. 7, 2008.

Obama takes campaign to the iPhone

2008-10-05T15:43:00.000-07:00

The campaign of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obana has recently tapped into recent Internet age technologies as a means to get the word out and rally supporters around his bid for the presidency. They have released free software for Apple's iPhone that allows for supporters to be kept up to date on the latest developments in the campaign.

According to the campaign: "Obama '08: The Official iPhone Application," which is available at Apple's online App Store on Friday, gives users "the tools you need to make an impact and stay in the know."

This App is also available on the iPod touch, and contains information about Obama's positions on issues, news from the race, and photos and video clips from the campaign trail. A notable feature is the ability for the iPhone to use GPS to scan areas for near by Obama campaign offices and volunteer centers. It also features a green button marked "Donate" for campaign contributions.

It has been shown that the Obama campaign has generally been more focused on using the power of the Internet and modern technology to get out the word, raise funds, and get people registered than the McCain campaign.

-Patrick Strapazon

CLICK HERE for original article.

Logging On for a Second (or Third) Opinion

2008-09-30T23:38:00.000-07:00

The internet allows patients to be more informed about their diagnoses that ever before. According to the Pew Internet and American Life Project, at least seventy-five percent of all internet users today are looking for health information online. There are so many websites dedicated to healthcare that five categories been established. They consist of general interest, medical research sites, patient sites, disease-specific sites, and web tools. Each of these categories fulfill different purposes, but nonetheless offer a patient information and support that did not exist a generation ago. Along with useful information, patients can find communities online of people with the same illnesses, which offers information on another level. This shows how technology affects culture; doctors may not be regarded anymore as the one who “knows it all.” People no longer solely depend on the physician’s word. We now live in a culture where patients are able to educate themselves about their illnesses from other sources, perhaps even gaining more insight on their illness that the physician who diagnosed them.

Lisa Khakshouri

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/30/health/30online.html?_r=1&ref=technology&oref=slogin

Pandora Issues "Call to Arms"

2008-09-30T19:13:00.000-07:00

The Internet radio site, Pandora, has been in a legal argument with artists and record companies over royalties for more than a year. However, recently they have made substantial progress in reaching an agreement and are now faced with a more senior legal decision that could potentially ban their site and others like it. Pandora’s founder Tim Westergren announced last week on the company blog that large broadcast radio companies, like Clear Channel, have launched a covert lobbying campaign to sabotage the on-going legal proceedings. Westergren is convinced that this strategy is a “blatant attempt by large radio companies to suffocate the webcasting industry” in order to continue their monopoly of the airwaves. Interestingly enough, Pandora has made a plea using various guerrilla tactics such as blogging and podcasts, in order to garner public approval and over turn this unneeded pressure. Unfortunately, many believe that there is not enough support from Congress and that the lobbying efforts of big traditional broadcast companies may prove to be too much for webcasters. Since its creation, the technology used in programs like Pandora and iTunes "Genius" has been a tremendous success, allowing users to expand their tastes in music.

Gareth Hornberger

http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/pandoras_issues_a_call_to_arms.php

2008-09-26T10:33:00.000-07:00

Here is a clip where Stephen Colbert discusses many of the issues we've talked about in the first part of this class:

The HTC Dream (Phone) Come True?

2008-09-24T21:39:00.000-07:00

According to CNET, the much anticipated HTC Android smartphone by Google is rumored to be released for sale by T-Mobile as early as this September. However, many speculate the supposed release date is simply a promotion scheme. Nevertheless, although the Android is no iPhone, it does hold up a good competition and has been referred to as the “HTC Dream” phone on various blogs. The Android is made by HTC, a smartphone manufacturer. This is the first smartphone to use Google’s Android operating system. The Android also uses 3G services, Wi-Fi, GPS, a music player as well as support for third party applications. Like the iPhone, the Android has a touch screen interface however, while it does not have the multi-touch feature the Android does have a trackball for alternative navigating. The Android can also run several applications at once and users can easily switch between them—in fact, when applications that are running require your attention the screen will alert you. Another cool feature the Andorid has is the internal compass and acceleromerter that are great for the Google Maps Street View. These features allow users to obtain directions according to their exact orientation. Finally, it is rumored that by syncing ones gmail account with the open system of the Android, the phone can actually use its GPS feature to remind you to perform tasks in relation to your navigational positioning. While some of the Android’s features sound alluring, many believe that there are still some quirks to work out in order to make it a true contender for the iPhone. In the end, with Google behind the Android—the sky’s the limit!

Alex Gariano
Thurs. 9am

http://www.cnet.com/google-android/?tag=TOCcarouselArea.0
http://news.cnet.com/google-shows-touchy-feely-android-phone/
http://phandroid.com/
http://news.cnet.com/googles-android-phone-to-go-on-sale-in-september/

SanDisk Launches New Music Card Format

2008-09-22T20:28:00.000-07:00

SanDisk announced today that it will be releasing a microSD card capable of holding 1GB of music, liner notes, album art, and videos. The slotMusic card will be compatible with phones, mp3 players, and computers. Users can purchase the card with music by artists with EMI Music, Sony BMG, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music, or they can add content to the card themselves. The technology will not include any digital rights management software. Translation: you can copy your music as many times as you want. The slotMusic card should give CDs a run for their money. Let's hope they live up to the hype.

Rebecca Fischer

http://news.yahoo.com/s/zd/20080922/tc_zd/232276;_ylt=Ao0CdyasceP.7JLE4uvQRqgjtBAF

Webkare virtual dating

2008-09-21T22:00:00.000-07:00

http://www.techcrunch.com/2008/09/20/webkare-a-girls-only-combination-of-social-network-and-dating-game-from-japan/

Recently released Webkare is a primarily Japanese-based social network that revolves around virtual dating. The site is quickly gaining steam and over 10,000 people joined the network in the first 5 days! The site is exclusively for women. Women join the network and then may pick a virtual boyfriend from 4 anime characters who are the “stars” of the site. The site is truly a mix between a social network (with features such as profiles, message systems, and discussion boards) and a game (which requires the cooperation of Webkare members to ultimately win the heart of the virtual guy. As of now, this is a free service powered by advertising affiliates.

Due to the success of the current model of Webkare, it would not be surprising to see a male-oriented version of the site in the future. I would also expect there to be a greater selection of boyfriends than 4. The range of interaction between the user and the virtual star will also likely increase.

Online dating sites are one thing, but virtual dating is a whole different realm of the social use of technology. This new network is definitely bizarre. The infiltration of technology into daily culture has become the norm in technologically advanced countries such as Japan and the United States, but I am surprised that so many people are committing their time and love life to a virtual character that does not exist in reality! Do they have real boyfriends too or do they think they are actually exclusively dating these virtual men? The site allows people to act as characters, which clearly a lot of people find appealing. Webkare proves that people have a strong interest in the virtual world and there will surely be a lot more to come in online networking and virtual worlds.

Lauren Finkelstein

Does the iPhone have competition?

2008-09-20T20:32:00.000-07:00

Some say the iPhone may have a new competition. This fall, Google will launch its first mobile smart phone. The phone is complete with touchscreen technology and new Android software for the same price of $199.00 to compete with the iPhone now going for the equivalent price. The Google phone is manufactured by a Taiwanese company called HTC and will be released by T-Mobile as the carrier. The most anticipation held about this phone seems to be its Android software. Android is an operating system software stack that allows users to create software applications through Javascript language directly on the mobile phone. This software is exclusive to Google and will be released with only with the production of the phone.

Many seem to believe that Google's new phone will cause significant competition for Apple's iPhone. However, I don't believe there will be an overwhelming switch. Out of curiousity for the product and interest in the Android software, there will be a group of people who are interested in the workings and advancements of the phone. However, the iPhone is not just a high-tech phone but rather part of the, if you will, "Apple Culture". Having an iPhone attaches a set of values to its holder that I don't think have been deemed as equally important to those attached with Google. As we discussed in lecture, often times its about the medium and not the actual content itself. People are willing to put up with waiting in lines for hours and continuing complications with the iPhone just to be tagged as part of that community. I think that the release of the phone, its new Android software, and HTC's solid reputation it will bring healthy competition to the market but will not be as dominating and vastly popular as the iPhone.

http://techland.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/2008/09/17/googles-199-phone-to-compete-with-the-iphone/

~Rebecca del Castillo

Internet Advertisement

2008-09-17T19:00:00.000-07:00

The internet is the newest and the most effective medium advertisers. For advertisers, it’s the ultimate accountability: Your ad only appears in front of those people who are interested in your type of goods and services, and you only pay for the ad if the user is interested enough in your product to click on it. To make it all work, Google has turned the sale of keywords into an auction wherein advertisers bid on terms. The more you're willing to pay when a user finally clicks, the more likely you are to appear higher up in a search. It’s a highly effective system.

Microsoft, on the other hand, has struggled to gain a following for its search services and has had a tough time building an Internet brand, with a confusing collection of offerings under the MSN service. In addition, Microsoft is still faced with the prospect of another technology giant creating services that compete with core products such as Microsoft Office, then giving them away for free. Microsoft sees that most software is trending toward a cloud-computing model, where data and processing power are shifted off the personal computer and onto the Internet. Given enough time, Microsoft may not have much of a product to sell. So, for Microsoft, buying Yahoo is a hedge against the future.

It’s worth pausing for a moment to consider what that future may look like. Regardless of whether Google or Microsoft emerges as the dominant technology superpower, we are likely to see highly targeted advertising creep into all aspects of our technology. Late last year, Google announced the formation of a new mobile operating system, Android, which could be advertiser-supported. Android, which is still in development, may lower the overall cost of cellular phones and service, but it will almost definitely bring targeted, location-aware advertising that follows you everywhere you go. Consumers would get the benefit of getting expanded usable sources from the advertisements; however the elite ruling class would control consumers’ perspectives of the emerging products.

For more information visit http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/industry/4251345.html

Google Maps Introduces Walking Directions and Street View for Mobile Users

2008-09-17T16:53:00.000-07:00

http://mashable.com/2008/09/17/google-mobile-street-view/

Jacqueline Andrejich

Mobile users with internet on their phone will now be able to use Google Maps for walking directions and street views of their route. This advancement allows people to get directions for walking on their phone. Blackberry and iPhone users will also be able to download the application Google Maps for Mobile. This creation will be extremely valuable for those who walk through town everyday or just need to find where they are going after getting out of their car.

"Is Apple America's Jukebox?"

2008-09-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

"Is Apple America's Jukebox?"

Blog 101, By: Adam Albrecht

Source: New York Times, Published: September 15, 2008
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/16/technology/16myspace.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss

By a show of hands, how many use MySpace Music as a source to free listening? I won’t lie; I’m in that huge pool of music junkies seeking free downloads and easy access to full songs. The Web offers virtually every notable song ever created, found typically on Apple’s iTunes. But, has iTunes become America’s jukebox monopoly? Some would disagree. Just a few years ago MySpace created MySpace Music, a tangible competitor to iTunes. Free downloads from MySpace Music offers MySpace users a hopeful outlet to both free music and an outlasted CD market. It is no question we’ve entered this digital revolution with new ways in route to pain free access.

This past week MySpace Music joined forces with the major social networks owned by News Corporation, and the major music companies (Warner Music Group, Sony BMG, and Universal) to redistribute its capital by making money by selling advertisements on the site and selling digital downloads through a partnership with Amazon.com (NYTimes). “MySpace Music, which will replace an existing area of MySpace at music.myspace.com, represents an effort to give music lovers the kind of comprehensive online jukebox they could once only dream of. But it is also an effort to solve some of the more pressing problems of the music business” (NYTimes).

So, what’s the big deal, right? Music companies have a clear goal with this venture. They hope this new MySpace Music service will increase the world of online social networking, lending access to online advertisements, and thus weaken “Apple’s dominant grip on the digital music business”.

That’s the scoop. CD’s are gone and digital downloads are in. We’ll have to wait and see if MySpace Music challenges Apple as the new jukebox innovator in music distribution.

Aluminum MacBook Sooner Than Expected?

2008-09-16T18:24:00.000-07:00

Rumor has it, that the new aluminum MacBooks are already on their way from China to Apple’s storage facility here in the United States. This news is concurrent with speculation that Apple is going to unveil a notebook refresh some time in October.

According to Citigroup analyst Richard Gardner, “a very thin aluminum casing, a LED-backlit display and an aggressive entry-level price point” are all characteristics of the new MacBooks. As most other Apple items are turning to aluminum, this new MacBooks makes sense. Rumor also has it, that the “aggressive entry-level price point” is one aspect of the mysterious “product transition” Apple announced, perhaps making their products more available to a wider audience.

Posted by: Elias Altamirano

The Newest Version of the IPOD nano

2008-09-16T15:09:00.000-07:00

The newest version of the IPOD Nano offers an array of features that make the experience of listening to music that much more dynamic for the user. Aesthetically, the design has been altered, with a much larger and brighter screen, making it much easier to browse through the library. It is now offered in nine colors: a much more unique spectrum than the original pastel colors that were offered in the former versions. The IPOD Nano now offers a new search feature as well: the cover flow. The user can browse through music by the album covers rather than the ordinary listing of the track titles, making the experience more visual, which is the essential goal of the Apple Company. The new IPOD Nano now offers the “Genius” feature, reflecting how the advancement of technology directly caters to our society’s need for luxury. The “Genius” feature creates automatic playlists based on a selected song, which saves individuals the hassle from having to browse through the seemingly endless library in order to construct a single playlist. Also, users can now physically shake the IPOD as a way of shuffling songs, making the technology exciting and that much more interactive. While slight alterations have been made to the newest version of the IPOD Nano, it truly encompasses how the techno-realm continues to cater to the convenience and luxury of contemporary society, which by and large serves as the catalyst for the continual incline of Apple product sales.

--Kati Aspell

http://www.apple.com/ipodnano/features.html

iPhone 2.1

2008-09-14T22:54:00.000-07:00

The iPhone 2.1 promises to out perform its precursor with less dropped calls and a better battery life but it also comes with some awesome new features. Many feel the most significant addition is the iPod application; it goes so far as including the new iTunes 8 with its “ Real Genius” feature. The list of added features goes on, it is safe to say the owner will not be left short handed. However, while all of these new additions are great, I wonder how necessary they are. Personally, I care more about the durability and longevity of the phone, more then its music or movie capacity. However, I realize that with technology evolving so quickly it only makes sense that Mac makes a phone that gives us almost everything we need at the tip of our fingers. Who knows I think the progress of the iPhone gives potential cause for disruptions among other technologies. Who needs a computer when your iPhone can do it for you? The iPhone is lightweight, easily transportable and with its new enhanced security and fun features I think the future of this ever evolving phone may surprise many.

Posted By: Erika Carbajal 9/14/08

Sywpe Updates Keyboard Technology

2008-09-09T22:56:00.000-07:00

Sywpe

Sywpe is a new type of touch technology that makes it easier to quickly input data. This has applications for everything from cell phones to personal computers. Its premise is that one need only drag their fingers across a touch input surface to type text. This differs from existing touch screens where a user must tap the screen and thus momentarily disconnect their imputing digit from the surface. The new Swype technology will allow faster, more intuitive input and thus more efficient communication. We may see a new generation of super texters :)

-Sally Nussenfeld
Thursday 9AM section

http://venturebeat.com/2008/09/09/tc50-get-ready-for-a-revolution-in-mobile-phones-%E2%80%93-swype-turns-a-stylus-into-a-keyboard/

Microsoft Unveils New Mouse Technology

2008-09-09T20:13:00.000-07:00

Microsoft announced a new mouse tracking technology today, called BlueTrack, that will be available in stores starting next month. Software gurus say that the new mice are more precise than the existing laser and optical. One of the main perks of the new technology is that the mice can work on many different types of surfaces, anything from granite countertop to carpet even. The BlueTrack technology uses a blue light beam sensor that is four times the size of the standard beam. A new Microsoft tracking sensor was designed which contributes to the ability of the mice to be used on different surfaces. The mice will be available in one standard size and also a smaller size, which will be priced at $99 and $79, respectively. Besides the BlueTrack technology, Microsoft also announced a new Arc Mouse, which uses a unique slanted shape and is also able to fold into a smaller, more portable mouse.

Renée Radia

http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/09/microsofts-bluetrack-mice-are-here-laser-bids-a-tearful-good/

iTunes 8

2008-09-09T12:58:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, September 9th, Steve Jobs unveiled iTunes 8. iTunes 8 is a new and improved version of iTunes, featuring the enhancement known as Genius. Genius is capable of searching your music library and creating a playlist that "that go great together, with just one click," according to Jobs. Genius is also capable of compiling information about personal playlists, transmitting data to the iTunes store to create a better iTunes experience, while protecting user privacy. In addition to the release of iTunes 8, Jobs also unveiled updates to the iTunes store. NBC has returned to iTunes to bring episodes of NBC shows such as Heros, The Office, Monk, and 30 Rock in high definition. These HD episodes will be available for $2.99 each, whereas SD (standard definition) episodes will continue to be offered at $1.99 each. Other NBC programming (from Oxygen and others) is expected in the near future. Other updates to iTunes 8 include, increased universal accessibility through Apple's VoiceOver program and increased ease in music browsing now offering the option to browse by video and album covers.

For more information about these updates check out MacWorld's article, "Apple releases iTunes 8, welcomes NBC back to store" at http://www.macworld.com/article/135451/2008/09/itunes8.html?lsrc=top_2

To download iTunes 8, visit http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/

Mallory Sussman

To Chrome or not to Chrome? That is the question.

2008-09-07T14:57:00.000-07:00

Google has recently released a new browser to compete with Internet Explorer and Safari. Chrome was meant to be much faster in loading and using javascript programs. They did this because Google believes that, in the future, programs on the internet will primarily be run through javascript, which is currently the most popular coding language for the internet applications. However, there are apparent problems with the browser that has and will keep Internet Explorer or Safari users from making the switch just yet. If a person knows that they are going to be primarily using sites or programs built with actionscript, this is definitely the browser for them. However, in order for Chrome to measure up with its competitors like Internet Explorer and Safari, it needs to fix the many bugs that currently plague the newly-released beta version. The look does not appeal to everyone, and in reality simply feels like a mix of the Google search engine and the Safari web browser. Users have trouble finding buttons or adjusting to the new setup. Additionally, many of the options found in Firefox and Internet Explorer are lacking greatly. Chrome has very little in terms of bookmarking options, the download manager is not nearly as impressive as that of Firefox, security options are complicated at best, and the privacy policy creates more difficulty than is neccessary.

Chrome has good capabilities surrounding Javascript but the other weaknesses make it almost useless as an internet browser. However, if Google continues to develop the browser capabilities it could be a contender in the current list of web browsers.

Chelscey Kirkendoll

http://www.tgdaily.com/content/view/39202/140/

Student 'Twitters' his way out of Egyptian jail

2008-04-27T21:10:00.000-07:00

On April 10, James Karl Buck, a graduate student from the University of California-Berkeley, was in Mahalla, Egypt, covering an anti-government protest when he and his translator, Mohammed Maree, were arrested. On his way to the police station, Buck took out his cell phone and sent a message to his friends and contacts using the micro-blogging site Twitter. The message only had one word-- "Arrested." Within seconds, colleagues in the United States were alerted that he was being held. This simple message allowed Buck's college to hire a lawyer on his behalf and Buck was eventually released. Maree was, however, transferred to another police station. Buck wrote another message after his release-- "Free" to let others know that he had been released.

Twitter is a social-networking blog site that allows users to send status updates, or "tweets," from cell phones, instant messaging services and Facebook in less than 140 characters. Biz Stone, co-founder of of Twitter, said that, "James' case is particularly compelling to us because of the simplicity of his message -- one word, 'arrested' -- and the speed with which the whole scene played out. It highlights the simplicity and value of a real-time communication network that follows you wherever you go."

Buck is now using his story and the Twitter page as a way to rally people looking for answers about Maree's status

http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/04/25/twitter.buck/index.html

Jennifer Wang

Google Launches Mobile Banner Ads

2008-04-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

With the rising popularity of Blackberries and the ability to search the web on one's cell phone, advertisers are beginning to experiment with mobile advertising. Last week, Google announced that they will begin to deliver mobile banner ads, joining only a handful of companies who already display banner ads on mobile web pages - Yahoo and Microsoft to name a few. Although mobile internet usage is still relatively low, the rising trend of accessing the internet on the go and the technological development of cell phones with WiFi capabilities signal that mobile internet usage has nowhere to go but up. Google and other Internet companies are increasingly interested in targeting mobile users because they believe the mobile market represents a new opportunity for earning advertising revenue. No company as of yet has emerged as a clear leader in mobile advertising.

Lauren Song
http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/145031/google_launches_mobile_banner_ads.html

2008-04-21T09:57:00.000-07:00

There are robots that compete in Germany to find their way through a maze. The maze simulates a natural disaster/terrorist attack. While the competition is just for fun, sources say that they plan on eventually perfecting these robots in order to replace humans on urban search and rescue missions to eliminate searcher casualties.
I chose this article because it hits close to home, (my dad is an active member of the USAR program) he has been to oklahoma city, katrina, and most notably 9/11. He hasn't heard anything about these robots because they are still in practice stages but thinks its a great idea even though he loves his job as a fireman and a rescue worker.

-Mark Sanchez

http://technology.newscientist.com/article/dn13744-rescue-robots-compete-to-save-dolls-in-distress.html

Smile, you're on a bar Webcam

2008-04-20T21:32:00.000-07:00

Bar Webcams are a new craze sweeping the country. Webcams are not a new phenomenon and are being used for everything from scouting waves for surfers to talking to friends and families overseas. In the bars, they are being promoted as a way for patrons to observe the crowd at the bar before heading out. The cameras allow people searching for a mellow scene or a busy night to find a bar accordingly. These cameras are also very popular with tourists, as it is a way for people around the country to see them while they are on vacation. Many have complained about the infringement of privacy. However, because they are in a public space, it is not violating any laws. Since the concept has started, many companies have started to take advantage of the craze. These companies install the webcams and host the sites with the videos. They receive fees from the bars, as well as advertising revenue from the webpages.

http://news.zdnet.com/2100-9588_22-6230898.html

Jamie Hughes

Holographic Storage LINK

2008-04-20T16:24:00.001-07:00

http://blogs.zdnet.com/storage/?p=313

Holographic Storage

2008-04-20T16:17:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of the semester we watched clips from A Space Odyssey. You probably remember that in the film, the astronaut disconnects the HAL 9000’s memory. Recent technology has made it possible that by May this year, users will be able to buy real holographic storage. This type of technology ensures high density with no media flaws. According to the article holographic storage has a couple properties that make it stand out,” 1. A small fragment of a hologram can reconstruct the entire data image. The fragment won’t let you move as far around the image, but for 2D images, like a photograph, it means a scratch isn’t fatal. 2. Data density is theoretically unlimited. By varying the angle between the reference and illumination beams - or the angle of the media - hundreds of holograms can be stored in the same physical area.” This news is great because scientists have been working on how to create holographic storage such as this for years. However, the product is expected to cost about $18,000. The article compares this new product to IBM’s RAMAC disc in the 1950’s. It just goes to show how much seemingly unrealistic technological advances can become a reality.
Cassandra Wilson T.A.-Sanders

"The other Microsoft-Apple Battle"

2008-04-19T19:07:00.000-07:00

http://www.cnet.com/8301-13506_1-9920062-17.html

Although many are familiar with the Apple TV many are unaware of how much capability the competing Microsoft Xbox 360 has. Many people underestimate what the Xbox 360 is capable of doing and simply place it in the category of gaming technologies when in fact the Xbox 360 offers alternative modes of entertainment like television and music. In response to the question as to why Microsoft has not succeeded in fully promoting the Xbox Live Marketplace, the poster of the article, Don Reisinger, stated that this could be a reaction to the public's distaste for game console devices that offer too much and/or are too complex. In addition, one could infer that Microsoft is simply incapable of successfully promoting their products and that is why people are unaware of the capabilities of Microsoft devices like the Xbox 360. Since Microsoft is always in competition with Apple, it would be wise of Microsoft to begin promoting the Xbox 360 as something that challenges the capabilities of the Apple TV.

-Lindley Wren

Facebook users translating site for free

2008-04-19T14:23:00.000-07:00

Three years ago when Facebook was created, the intention of the website was to make the communication process between students and their teachers more efficient. As time has passed, it has slowly progressed into a networking cite for everyone. Since Facebook is an international cite, the company has chosen to create versions of Facebook that are consistent with the different cultures with the help of their consumers. Although they have some supporters, there are others that are worried that the translations will not be accurate. The article explained that “the concept of collaborative translation is familiar in open-source programming communities.” For example: one of the situations in which translations have been a problem has been regarding the “poke” setting. In English it is a term referring to “giving someone a playful nudge.” But when translated into others languages, the intention is not the same. Overall there is much conversation going on regarding Facebook’s choice of allowing its users to contribute to the new changes that are being made.

Candice Setareh
http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/04/18/facebook.translating.ap/index.html

Into the Wild With WiFi

2008-04-14T15:22:00.000-07:00

Are we at a point where we can’t go anywhere without a connection to the Internet? In an article in Tech News World by Gary Stoller, it is reported that many state parks are offering WiFi to visitors. Internet is provided in campgrounds, lodges, and visitor centers. Providers of the service say that visitors can now plan their activities better because they can check information, such as weather, more readily. It also allows adults or students to stay longer in the parks or keep a child entertained. Some outdoor enthusiasts do not like the idea because they go to the park to escape technology, but the number of state parks with WiFi is growing rapidly anyway. In the end, WiFi is there for park visitors who want to use it while being unobtrusive to people who don’t.

http://www.technewsworld.com/story/Into-the-Wild-With-WiFi-62550.html

Jennifer Stambaugh

Brain Scanners Can See Your Decisions Before You Make Them

2008-04-14T11:32:00.001-07:00

In a world where everyone has become accustomed to the idea of free will, new studies are showing that maybe we may not have so much of it after all. According to Wired.com writer Brandon Klein, researchers used brain scanners in a new study to predict people’s decisions a whole seven seconds before the test subjects were conscious of making these decisions.

In the study, test subjects were asked to press a button either with their left or right hand, and scientists studied changes in neural patterns using an MRI machine. Results showed increased brain activity in the “high-level planning” and “sensory integration” areas of the brain before the test subjects hit the button, and the predictions were accurate every time.

Coming back to the question of free will, there are possibilities that the brain has the ability to make last-minute decisions that throw off this cycle of decision-making that we have no control over, but scientists say this is unlikely. Additionally, scientists admit that when it comes to big, real-life decisions—for example: should I go to this university?—the brain scanners aren’t as helpful in letting us know how these decisions are made.

http://www.wired.com/science/discoveries/news/2008/04/mind_decision

-Peter Rutti

Viruses Up, Effectiveness Down

2008-04-07T09:12:00.000-07:00

A recent report on PC World expects the world to see it's one millionth virus by the end of 2008. The article explained that the number of viruses being created per year has increased significantly and that 25 percent of the world's viruses have been created in the last six months. However, this is not that big of a cause for concern.

Viruses are being created more regularly because their effectiveness is significantly down. Computer spyware, as well as spam and phishing filters on email, have been able to thwart most attacks. Five years ago, one in forty emails with a virus attachment made it to an inbox, today that number is down to one in a thousand. However, virus creators have designed a new method of malware.

The most effective viruses today are known as drive-by downloads. Drive-by downloads are downloaded to a computer simply by that computer accessing an infected website. The user has no control over this malware because it downloads automatically and invisibly. Drive-by downloads are a problem today, but based on the never ending evolution of spyware to combat the evolution of malware, there should be a shield for it soon.

-Jonathan Stallsmith

GreenPrint: eco-friendly and penny-saving printing

2008-04-06T19:25:00.000-07:00

Printing from the web can be a pain, especially when paper and ink is wasted on unwanted documents. Hayden Hamilton has invented a special software called GreenPrint which "analyzes what a computer sends to a printer" (Hamilton, 2008). This is great because the program allows the user to select or delete certain parts of the web document to print, which saves paper, ink and money.

However, the software is not exactly time efficient. The time spent deciding which parts of the page to print can make the printing process more lengthy. But this is a good thing because the software also saves web documents as PDF files so you don't even have to print anything. I'm not sure I would actually buy this software, but it would be nice to have! Save the trees and your money? Why not?

http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/science/03/07/printing.green/index.html

Marisa Maxwell

FriendFeed, the Centralized Me, and the Data Portal

2008-03-31T12:14:00.000-07:00

Remember the great Facebook Revolution of 2006? When all of us logged on to our favorite social networking site to find the "news feed," a.k.a. the ultimate stalking device? Ex-employees of Google have developed the FriendFeed, which is similar to the familiar "news feed," but instead of gathering information from a sole source, FriendFeed uses about 30 services, including YouTube, Flickr, and blog posts. For a company that was launched publicly only a month ago, FriendFeed's number of users has grown 25% per week this month. Now your friends have a new way to follow your every move.

Here's the link:
http://www.techcrunch.com/2008/03/30/friendfeed-the-centralized-me-and-data-portability/

- Jamie Laureola

Cell Phones and Video Games try to make you Healthy

2008-03-31T11:34:00.000-07:00

Apple is trying to incorporate a fitness system into their iphone and ipod Touch devices. This would be a program that would monitor your workouts and monitor your body’s physical activity built with in your ipod or iphone. This program would be tailored to each individual through an online survey. After each individual does the survey the digital fitness system alters its programs to fit each individual person’s needs. These workouts would provide visual aid, additional help, and obviously the option to play music as you are working out. This program is very similar and an extension of Nike’s sport kit, a device in your shoes that observes your distance and speed. Video games have made their own attempt to make people healthy through video games known as fitness games. Wii Fit is an example of how Nintendo has attempted to make a game that involves physical fitness. Video games have long been known has a stationary activity, thus with the Wii Fit adds an entirely new element to the video gaming world. Both of these workout tools can help aid your workout experience with new and innovative styles of physical fitness.

To read more about this you can go to this link:

-Haley Rader

Windows XP-powered Eee PC laptop

2008-03-30T20:50:00.000-07:00

If you thought the XO laptop was a cool gadget, wait until you read about this new device that completely blows it out of the water. Can you imagine a laptop that is small enough that it can fit into your back pocket? Well if you cant then this new laptop with its 7 inch wide dimension will blow your mind. This new laptop hitting stores in the middle of April is 7 inches wide and will cost only $399 to purchase. Not a bad deal for something like this. It seems that every couple of months companies are fighting to put the "newer, better" device out on the market. The XO was extremely popular, and I am sure that this laptop will be the new thing to have for the summer months. The full specs of the system are actually pretty impressive to go along with a laptop of this size!

http://blog.laptopmag.com/asus-eee-pc-4g-windows-xp-version-to-be-available-at-best-buy-for-399-in-april

-Ryan Oley

Music Downloads on your Net Access Tab?

2008-03-30T14:59:00.000-07:00

In response to the current crisis in the music industry, Warner Music Group executive, Jim Griffin, is proposing a strategy that would significantly decrease piracy. Internet service providers would tax on a flat fee per month (ex. $5) that would give consumers unlimited access to download, copy and share music. Griffin reports that this could provide as much as $20 billion per year to reimburse artists, record labels, and copyright holders. This unlimited-access plan is a common theme in the industry as they desire to end piracy. Earlier this week, TorrentSpy, the world's biggest BitTorrent site, was shut down after a two year court battle. Will this business model end piracy?

http://www.news.com/8301-10784_3-9905404-7.html?part=rss&subj=news&tag=2547-1_3-0-5

-Kyle Lopez

The Olympics and the "Great Firewall of China"

2008-03-23T23:30:00.000-07:00

As the international community descends on China for the 2008 Summer Olympics, they will be bringing a globe's worth of information with them. China's famous heavy handed approach to internet control will be shut off for a certain block of IP addresses in the olympic village and local venues where foreign media personnel are expected to be working. China uses a series of filters to determine what content is blocked, noting specific web addresses or even crawling the content of a page for "dangerous" keywords and ideas. The firewall can be employed in both directions, with searches being checked and results censored to prevent the release of unauthorized or unfavorable content. This brief opening of the firewall is just the latest step China is taking to answer, or at least silence, concerns of the international community about human rights in the communist country.

-Avi Kushlan

http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200803/chinese-firewall?reddit

India Fears Blackberries are Threat to National Security

2008-03-23T20:33:00.000-07:00

Currently, India's Ministry of Home Affairs has refused to grant any further liscenses for Blackberrys because they fear the encryption of the popular device's e-mail application. Vodafone, Bharti Airtel, BPL Mobile, Reliance Communications are the four domestic mobile operators that have been granted permission to test how the users e-mail is routed over the next month. Messages sent through the Blackberry systems are licensed to mobile operators by Research in Motion (RIM), a Canadian company. The Indian government is worried about their ability to lawfully access Blackberry's encrypted system since messages are sent between a handful of secure servers all based outside India. Britain trusts the Blackberry application and RIM claims the system is impregnable, but France has banned its MPs and advisers from using them. RIM claims that this was caused by false rumors speculating that messages can be intercepted and read by the National Security Agency in the U.S. or other 'spy' organizations. Should Blackberry users like myself beware?

- Michelle O'Meara

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,337595,00.html?sPage=fnc/scitech/personaltechnology

Celestial Jukebox Arrives, But Is It Any Good?

2008-03-23T10:46:00.000-07:00

The entire method of acquiring and purchasing music may be changing because of the possibility for unlimited over-the-air music downloads that cellphone carriers are beginning to provide. In Britain, the Omniphone MusicStation is allowing music lovers to have access to all of their favorite music, through their cell phone. This unlimited music option provided by MusicStation Max is likely to enter the U.S. sometime in 2008 via Omnifone. If the MusicStation does enter the United States in the next year, the application will likely cost about $7.50 per month. However, Apple is attempting to compete. Apple is contemplating a prepaid unlimited-music option for the iPod and iPhone, but it appears that record labels are more likely to sign with other companies like Omniphone. This is because of the domination that Apple has had over record labels with iTunes. Look for big changes in access to music in the near future.

-Brian Nichols

A Potential Use for the iPhone

2008-03-22T11:20:00.000-07:00

This June, Apple will be releasing the next version of the iPhone which could be helpful for individuals in the medical field. The iPhone version 2.0 has a powerful Samsung ARM processor, 8 GB or 16 GB of flash memory, and a visual interface which can be used to show high resolution CT scans and X-rays. This means that doctors would no longer have to look through stacks upon stacks of X-rays and CT scans. Rather, they could use their iPhones to view multiple X-rays or CT scans at one time. A possible concern about iPhones being used for medical purposes is that of patient privacy: "Is it secure enough? Can hospitals guarantee patient privacy when data is being stored or accessed on iPhones?" It is not certain as of now.

http://www.wired.com/gadgets/mac/news/2008/03/iphone_doctors

-Rebecca Landaverde

Movies Coming to Facebook

2008-03-10T01:43:00.000-07:00

Facebook is launching a new application called VooZoo that will let users send each other clips from their favorite Paramount Picture movies.

The movie library will contain a broad selection ranging from Paramount's earliest black and white films to their most current releases. The application will also be used for movie promotions, most currently, for films such as "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crsytal Skull". Paramount also hopes to boost sales by providing a DVD purchasing button at the end of each clip.

Other studios are also in the works, but it will take some time seeing that it took Paramount about a year to prepare the clips.

Although the clips are only a few seconds to a couple of minutes long, Paramount is optimistic that they will have hundreds of users within two months. It seems that Paramount Pictures continues to try to find new ways to profit from the digital market. All big movies studios suffered disruption when movies online and home systems began to replace the theater experience, just as Professor Lee explained how old school content distribution and content creation changes as a result of a change in the dominant technology.

While this application has opened up the opportunity for other leading movie studios for successful promotion campaigns, whether this application will become popular, or actually boost movie sales will have to wait to be seen.

http://mashable.com/2008/03/09/paramount-facebook/

Apple Encourages iPhone Programmers

2008-03-07T16:15:00.000-08:00

For $99, anyone ranging from large corporations to independent third parties can develop programs for Apple's iPhone. On Thursday, Apple CEO Steve Jobs announced a low-cost software development kit (SDK) that will allow outside programmers to create applications for the iPhone. Until now, iPhones have officially been able to run only the limited assortment of applications that Apple includes. With SDK, programmers can create everything from games to business programs. Sega and AOL are already on board.

The programs that are created will then be available to iPhone users exclusively through a new service on all iPhones called the App Store, which allows iPhone users to browse the available programs directly from their devices. Because Apple will only offer programs that it approves, App Store will provide both innovative and safe options for users.

In an attempt to lure more corporate users, the iPhone will also support Microsoft's Exchange software, allowing it to interact closely with corporate networks and e-mail systems in much the way that BlackBerry devices do. While the beta version is available now, we have until June to speculate on the App Store and its content.

Posted by: Whitney Kollar

Winking: The New iPod Remote!

2008-03-03T21:39:00.000-08:00

Japanese researcher Kazuhiro Taniguchi is developing a system that will let people run their iPods at the blink of an eye:

"Closing both eyes for one second starts an iPod, while blinking again stops the machine. A wink with the right eye makes the machine skip to the next tune while with a wink of the left eye it goes back."

The system, dubbed "Kome Kami Switch" or "Temple Switch," can distinguish quick, natural winks from deliberate winks, which is really cool. But what if users close their eyes to rest or as a result of something flying into their eyes?

If the developer(s) can somehow figure out a way to bypass these problems, the system can greatly improve enjoyment of music. I, for one, am tired of constantly having to pick up my iPod and change songs when I'm doing work or working out. In addition, the system can be adapted as a universal remote, which may be able to run cell phones, wheelchairs, television sets, air conditioners and other electronics. Although I don't see this happening in the immediate future, the remote control may be phased out eventually.

If it's successful, the system may make an impact on communication and society. No longer will winks be secret signals or come-ons; instead, they will be remote controls. So that hot guy across the bar winking, smiling and bobbing his head in your direction? He just switched to a great song on his iPod!

http://www.news.com.au/technology/story/0,25642,23312108-5014239,00.html

Tina Chu

Assignment #2

2008-03-03T14:17:00.000-08:00

Robot Care for the Elderly

2008-03-03T09:20:00.000-08:00

Two employee groups in Norway have decided to team up and work together to see how robots and other technology could be used in the caring for the elderly. Norway faces a shortage of health care staff in the next 5 to 10 years and robots are being seen as a possible solution. According to a group representing the Norwegian Municipalities, the robots could do housework like washing clothes and dishes, and cleaning the floor. The groups were also looking into having the equipment look after people's health by giving daily test, handling medical surveillance, and taking care of personal hygiene.

The two groups have said it is too early to tell when robots will begin caring for Norway's elderly. However, the robots are not only seen as a possible solution to the shortage of staff, but they would also allow more people with the ability to live longer and more comfortable in their own homes.

Article
posted by: Jose Diaz

The Sportscar Hybrid!!

2008-03-03T05:33:00.000-08:00

With everyone looking for alternatives for fuel for their cars with the "limited" supply of oil in the world, the hybrid's have been put at the forefront as the leader's with the ability to offer electric powered/gas powered cars. However, several people have disregarded the Hybrids because of their unstylish models. Only recently, have car manufactureres made the first SUV HYbrid, but up until then, all other cars have been unattractive models for the comsumers. So what were car designers to do? Design a sportscar that would attract these consumer's in need of speed, horsepower, and run on a Hybrid enginee - The Quaranta. Operating with an all-wheel drive, V6 engine and with the ability to go from zero - 60mph in 4.05 seconds the Quaranta is measured in the ranks of cars such as the Porshe. However, it has receieced lots of criticism from professionals suggesting that the car is hideous! They suggest that its design is ugly and unattractive. However, upon reading several of the postings, many people think its the new-age car design of the future and they desire one. Considering we're reaching the peak of our supply of natural oils, this concept could very well be what we're looking for to lead us into the future of Hybrid cars. Eventually we will all have to resort to it, The Quaranta provides those that desire speed in their lives an bright outlook knowing they wont be crammed in some small Prius that'll go zero-60 in 2 days. The Sportscar Hybrid will be more attractive to society as we gradually leave the age of gas-powered automobiles to the hybrid powered ones.

-Angel S. Haro

Forget VIKI or HAL, the new super computer has arrived!

2008-03-03T00:06:00.000-08:00

Well it may not be the best, but it can definitely beat out anyone's laptop...:

The largest and most advanced supercomputer in the U.K. has been unveiled in Edinburgh.

Hector--or the High-End Computing Terascale Resource--can handle 63 trillion calculations per second, which is the equivalent processing power of 12,000 desktop systems and four times faster than its predecessor. The amount of calculations the system can handle is equivalent to every person on earth simultaneously carrying out 10,000 calculations per second. The supercomputer is based at the University of Edinburgh's Advanced Computer Facility near the Scottish capital and will cost $221.3 million (113 million pounds) over six years. The facility will be operated by the Edinburgh Parallel Computing Center (EPCC). The EPCC claims Hector will take high performance supercomputing up "another gear" and will play a key role in allowing scientists to be at the forefront of research. Work due to be carried out using Hector includes forecasting the impact of climate change, projecting the spread of disease epidemics, and developing new medicines. Hector uses a Cray XT4 system with software and application support provided by Numerical Algorithms Group. At present, the supercomputer has a peak capability of 63 teraflops, but this is due to increase to 250 teraflops in October 2009, with a further upgrade due two years later. The procurement was managed by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council on behalf of U.K. Research Councils with some of the money coming from the Department of Innovation, Universities, and Skills. EPCC also runs a green supercomputer called Maxwell--unveiled early in 2007--which is 10 times more energy efficient than traditional equivalents. Despite its vast power, it falls short of the world's fastest computer, Blue Gene/L, which can reach speeds of 478 teraflops.

http://www.news.com/U.K.s-fastest-supercomputer-unveiled/2100-1010_3-6226157.html?tag=item

Asia always seems to be ahead of the game

2008-03-02T22:57:00.000-08:00

Most technology has found its beginings within the asian continent, and still today countries like China and Japan greatly surpass the United States with their technological advances. New gadgets, toys, and tools are always being introduced but today it is not so much what the technology is, but what one is able to do with it.

Japan recently released a "mobile wallet service" in which a smart chip is placed into a persons cell phone allowing them to download "applications like electronic money, your commuter pass, an airline mileage card or a credit card just by downloading some software." As of now, Japans largest phone carrier offers a program allowing the user to have a charge limit of 10,000 yen ($94), and charges appear on the phone bill. One may apply for a higher limit, but the fact that this type of technology even exists is amazing! This appears to be less harmful and less scary than RFID's, however the user can reap the same benefits from the technology. They are able to have all of their information at the palm of their hand and wallets may soon be a thing of the past. All you need to do is bring the phone within an inch of the receiver in order for it to be read, and it is already accepted in more than 71,000 convenience stores, bookshops and coffee chains. "More than 37 million cards and cell phones that support Edy are on the market, and the network handles close to a million transactions per day on average."

This techonolgy represents the utopian view because consumers will not have to worry about losing credit cards, purses or wallets. All of their information is easily accessible and the tool seems to completely benefit the user.

-Only in Japan: The Best Technologies You Can't Buy
http://tech.msn.com/news/articlepcw.aspx?cp-documentid=6353976

By Kimberly Koretoff

what defines personal information?

2008-02-24T23:10:00.000-08:00

Google has recently claimed that tracking I.P. addresses (Internet Protocol) is not tracking personal information. They claim that recording what websites are visited by a computer is not personal information. Yet, there are two sides to this argument. Google is known for being one of, if not the best search engine on the internet...because they track I.P.'s that are visited most frequently, and which one's are most relevant to the search. THey also claim that knowing what I.P.'s are visited by a computer, does not automatically reveal the person that visited the website. THe other side to this argument claims that this is in fact revealing too personal of information. And in combination with other aspects that are recorded by the internet provider as well as google, it is in fact possible to track the exact person who visited the website. So the question is what defines personal information? And how exactly is all of our information that is being tracked by these providers being used? This raises the question of surveillance, and how much crosses the lines of invading personal privacy. THe article also talks about how this can be compared to a home telephone line. A lot of people use it, so technically knowing someone's home line doesn't necessarily tell you what individual you are talking to. But doesn't most of society consider their home telephone line personal information? And furthermore, our society is taking the direction towards cellphones and personal laptops, both which mainly have one owner/one user. So knowing all the websites one laptop visits can also tell you most likely the exact individual who visited those websites. I think that part is crucial and potentially leads to too much information being stored and used by Google, and may cross the line of personal privacy.

http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/02/24/ip-address-partially-personal-information/

Vanessa Hill

Mobile Social Networks?

2008-02-24T12:05:00.000-08:00

Companies, especially Apple, are experimenting with a mobile social network. Although iPhones currently have a Facebook application, it's merely the website version designed for the phone. A mobile social network could not only tell you where your friends are but what they're doing. The goal, however, is not to see what your friends are up to but rather to be able to walk into a room and see everyone's information to facilitate meeting new people. Whether it's for business or dating, you would be able to see a picture of the people around you including a bio, either professional or personal. iPhones are the closest to achieving this goal because it will soon have both of the necessary components, GPS and software on the phone instead of accessing the website, in order to achieve this goal.

Although some think that a mobile social network will "enhance" social situations, will it actually make us more sociable? There is already concern over the loss of social interactivity due to current technology including instant messaging and texting. Will an application on your phone that tells you who in the room might be best suited for a conversation really help our social ability?

http://www.techcrunch.com/2008/02/23/will-there-be-an-iphone-only-social-network/

Lauren Gaw

Stuck in traffic? Surf the internet!

2008-02-23T22:46:00.000-08:00

The state of California may have banned talking on cell phones while driving, but what about surfing the World Wide Web? Soon, the ability to go online in your car will be at your fingertips. BMW's newest innovation, ConnectedDrive, includes a computer screen with "unrestricted" Internet access inlaid in the dash. Currently, it's only available to European automobile owners, but the goal is to have ConnectedDrive as an option for every 2008 BMW.

I think that this is awesome, especially for those of us who don't have email- and Internet-friendly cell phones. I can think of a number of different times when I've wanted to check an email immediately, look up movie times, check on store hours, or a number of other things that require Internet access. True, for those of you who can do all this on your phone, it might not be that exciting... BUT it will be great for all those BMW-driving mommies out there! The Internet can be accessed and controlled by anyone in the car, so if children in the backseat want to log on to a website to keep themselves busy during a long drive, it's totally a possibility now. BMW is taking mobile communications to a whole new step in the innovation process with this one.

http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/23/bmws-connecteddrive-brings-the-whole-internet-to-your-car-on/

Haley Hackendale

new headsets that can read brain activity

2008-02-21T11:36:00.000-08:00

Two companies, Emitov and Neurosky, have made preliminary designs of headsets that are capable of reading a person’s brain activity and translating it into actions. Once the futuristic headsets get used to the user, they are able to respond to commands from the user’s brain. The companies show the headsets’ capabilities through video games in which the user can make the character run around and do tasks simply by thinking the commands. The companies are hoping to have the headsets on the market by Christmas time for around $300. The possibilities for these headsets are exciting. They might soon be able to go beyond video games and actually serve to eliminate the need to a mouse- a person could just think an action and their computer will do it for them!

There are cool pictures of the headsets and more great information at:
http://venturebeat.com/2008/02/21/thinking-peoples-games-emotiv-and-neurosky-headsets-offer-mind-control/#more-88832

Whitney Heil

The U.S. Navy Looks to shoot down satellite

2008-02-20T16:16:00.001-08:00

The United States Navy is looking to deploy a missile into space over 150 miles above them to shoot down a U.S. spy satellite. The Naval Ship USS Lake Erie was delayed by the touch down of the Space Shuttle Atlantis as well as from rough seas. The Navy will have a 10-second window for the next ten days to intercept the satellite with a missile. There is cocern that the satellite, if it enters the earth's atmosphere, may release toxic waste. I like that the Government is taking an active role in protecting the world from the possible damage our country's satellite may potentially cause.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/space/02/20/satellite.shootdown/index.html

Steven Hagemann

Reaction to "Big Brother is Listening"

2008-02-18T22:15:00.000-08:00

I do not agree with the bill that is being passed. As Americans do care about national security, they also care about their privacy. As a high percentage of Americans do not have much to hide (regarding a conversation about a possible planned terrorist attack, assassination, etc., anything that would be a threat to our national security) during a telephone conversation or a text message. The entire United States population acting as resources of possible suspects of terrorism is ridiculous. As for President Bush stating, "The lives of countless Americans depend on our ability to monitor these communications," is not only impractical, but not realistic. Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, there has been an increased amount of security at airports, national agencies, etc. These measures fit the desired increase for security, however prying into Americans conversations will not only waste time, but millions of dollars that could be spent withdrawing some of troops from the Middle East or spending the money on terrorist precautions outside the U.S.

Jacqueline Gilbert

Big Brother is Listening

2008-02-13T08:26:00.001-08:00

We talked about surveillance in the discussion section this week and the primary question that I was trying to get you to answer was, "How much surveillance are you willing to tolerate for your security?" There is an article in the Washington Post this morning concerning an extension of a telecommunications surveillance program which releases telecommunications firms of any legal responsibility while they comply with federal authorities. One notable change to the new bill being submitted is:

The most important change approved by the Senate yesterday would make permanent a law approved last August that expanded the government's authority to intercept -- without a court order -- the phone calls and e-mails of people in the United States communicating with others overseas.

Is this an appropriate level of surveillance?

- Scott

backing up work without having to do anything???

2008-02-11T10:35:00.000-08:00

That's right. Mac introduced it's Time Machine backup device that works in hand with the new Leopard operating system. Not only does it back up your work automatically, but Apple also just introduced the Time Capsule that is made to work with the Time Machine. It is a wireless connection that is available in either a 500 gigabyte or a 1 terabyte capacity (1,000 gigabytes). Now we wont forget to back up our work because with the Time Machine and the wireless Time Capsule it is all done for you.

That's not all. It is also an Airport Extreme base station which utilizes a USB port to set up any printer for sharing, Mac or PC, so the whole house or office can print, no matter what system you are on.

-Samantha Auerbach

YouBama.Com

2008-02-06T18:11:00.000-08:00

http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2008/01/30/move_over_youtube_here_comes_y_1.html

This is an article that explains the site YouBama.com. The site basically compiles movies from Obama supporters who explain why you should vote for Obama. The link I used is an article that explains this new idea. You guys should definitely check out YouBama.com.

I thought this was really interesting because it shows how Obama supporters are using technology as a means to communicate why one should vote for Obama. I' m particularly unbiased since I'm not from the country, and so, I'm not really passionate about certain candidates. So, as someone who has no clear position when it comes to American politics, I have to say that YouBama is a powerful vehicle that will certainly convince voters because the information doesn't come from Obama himself (who obviously wants to promote himself) but from voters who are extremely passionate about what he has to provide the country. I thought YouBama is cool because it shows how our society is completely technology-geared and how this type of technology is available globally. It's also interesting, and in my opinion, smart that the YouBama creators decided to combine the YouTube idea with their project since YouTube has shown to be a phenomenon in passing on information. Even though the site has nothing to do with Obama himself, it, in a way reflects a bit of Obama's "web-savvyness" that his supporters know well of.

- Gabriela Gholmia
February 6th, 2008

How Much Ink is used in used in Green Announcements

2008-02-05T20:58:00.000-08:00

Within the last several years, the push to go Green has become prevalent in today’s technological society. Electronic companies have been developing new ways to reuse or recycle printers and printer cartridges in hopes to cut down on the amount of waste accumulated each year. For instance, “Xerox announced that since 1991 is has recycled a total of 2 billion pounds of spent toner cartridges, outmoded printers and enough waste to fill more than 160,000 garbage trucks .” The Environmental Protection Agency also joined the race encouraging “electronic manufactures and retailers to join its Plug into eCycling program, by collecting and recycling ink cartridges and machines to save enough electricity to power more than 7,000 homes.” While these projects are valiant, there is much more to be accomplished in order to protect our environment from the mass amount of waste. In particular, printer companies create designs that make it impossible for consumers to refill their ink cartridges. Another factor that makes recycling even more difficult is that H.P. found most average consumers keep their printers for seven years and computers for even twelve. By then, even charities don’t want them and few parts are usable. While I would argue that most average consumers do not keep their printers and computers for longer than four or five years finding a way to making today’s technology green friendly is imperative. Professor Lee’s lecture also focused on the mass amount of technological waste found in China.

Professor Lee discussed that while “recyclability is key, manufacturers do not focus on recycle-ability as parts are soldered together rather than clipped.” Today companies like Mac or Dell are constantly coming up with new designs and models of the latest gadgets. Consumers are constantly temped to toss last year’s model to get the newer and improved version. It is crucial that computer companies come up with a better way to reuse and recycle these products.

posted by: Alexandra Catalano

http://http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/02/05/but-how-much-ink-is-used-in-green-announcements/

How to Post to the Blog

2008-02-04T14:56:00.000-08:00

1) Go to www.blogger.com

2) Sign in using the classes login and password.

3) Click the “+ New Post”.

4) Title your blog post and write your post in the text box.

5) Highlight the text that you wish to be a hyperlink.

6) Click the link button (It looks like a globe with a piece of chain)

7) Enter the web address. Click ok.

8) Go to the bottom of the page and hit “Publish Post”

Assignment #1 - The $100 Laptop Project

2008-02-04T11:16:00.000-08:00

Explore and examine information about the “$100 Laptop” project at www.laptop.org , http://olpc.com , and at elsewhere. Also, search for and read the recent news about the project. You should expect some of the information to be contradictory, out-dated, or incomplete. It is your job to make sense of the information in the face of these imperfections.

For your assignment, do two things:
1. Describe the technical, organizational, and cultural aspects of this specific piece of technology. (Refer to the lecture outline and the reading “Technology: Practice and Culture” for the conceptual framework to guide your writing).
2. Identify how technical, organizational, or cultural factors present challenges or opportunities for the laptop project.

Write a 3-page (or more, double spaced, 1-inch margins, 12 point font) paper detailing these aspects. In your writing, you must cite sources in APA or MLA style. Include a list of work cites or references. Your sources cannot be Wikipedia. You can use Wikipedia as a starting point, and refer to the sources cited there.

The paper is due at the beginning of your laboratory sessions in the week of September 22, 2008.

Blogging Schedule

2008-02-01T10:57:00.000-08:00

9/18
Albrecht, Adam, Perry
Altamirano, Elias, Andres
Aspell, Kati, Michelle
Carbajal, Erika, Ashley

9/18
Andrejich, Jacqueline, Michelle
Damrongchaitham, Rafah
Del Castillo, Rebecca, R.

9/25
Gariano, Alexandra, Andre
Finkelstein, Lauren, Taffet
Fischer, Rebecca, Mary

10/2
Hornberger, Gareth, Hawley
Khakshouri, Lisa
Hua, Transam

10/9
Nordwind, Jake, Spencer
Nussenfeld, Sally
Karasik, Alex, Wainwright
Kirkendoll, Chelscey, Elizabeth

10/16
O'Malley, Morgan, Rose Elizabeth
Ortiz, Joshua, Michael
Kirkham, Amanda, Lynn
Larsson, Anna, Elizabeth

10/23
Oyama, Sophia, Nami
Pearlman, Darren, Frank
McCloskey, Devin, Allene
McCormack, Kathryn, Anne

10/30
Pollak, Maya, Debeer
Ply, Amanda, Elizabeth
Radia, Renee, Catherine

11/6
Sakow, Brynsley, Kerr
Saleeb, Michael, Samy
Ramirez, Javier

11/13
Sussman, Mallory
Wilson, Devin, Elise
Yacoob, Gabrielle, Alexandra

11/20
Dozier, Desiree, Starr
Huang, Annie, A.
Rosenberg, Dina, Elise

12/4
Guzman, Alexandra, Lara
Yousefzadeh, Leila, JustineL
Perez, Samantha, Ann

“Why 3D is About to Break Through”

2008-01-30T11:14:00.000-08:00

The 3D movie revelation is phenomenal because it will allow viewers to watch movies in a different and more exciting way. People and objects seem to “pop out” of the screen and “leap” into the laps of the audience members. It almost gives the impression that the audience is a part of the film. As movie theater-goers and consumers in a materialistic society, this technological development will affect us positively. Three-dimensional films will allow the general population to watch movies in a way that some people may find more entertaining and interactive than 2D films.

One drawback is that the cost of production of a 3D film is more expensive (20-30% higher cost than a 2D movie), which might lead to increased ticket prices. On the other hand, as 3D technology is becoming more and more advanced, the overall cost of production has decreased significantly with the creation of stereoscopic projection. This technology involves projecting two separate images, with viewers watching through spectacles with one image going into one spectacle and the other into the other.

The recent creation of video ipods and iphones may pose as threats to the success of 3D films. Since members of society can watch films and television shows on their own time on handheld devices, there may not be an interest in waiting in long lines and spending money on tickets for a 3D movie. However, large and well-known production companies, such as Disney and DreamWorks, may produce all of their films from 2009 in 3D. Moreover, the number of 3D movie theaters has increased dramatically from 2005 to 2008. This increase in the interest in creating films in 3D demonstrates that technology is still evolving at a steady pace.

Posted By: Stefani Roberts

Link to article on BBC Technology News: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7213534.stm

Some Suggestions for Tech News Sites

2008-01-23T18:35:00.000-08:00

While these blogs are good starting points, please feel free to read news from other sources.

Tech Crunch

Tech Crunch is well written, insightful technology blog that treats its writing as news.

Engadget

This blog’s postings are pervaded with wry humor and smidge of satire as it covers tech news and internet culture. Need an example? Ever seen a Hello Kitty Assault Rifle?

Venture Beat

The focus here is on business. If you want to know who’s a mover and shaker or what the impact of some of the latest deals in the communication technology industry will be, this is a good place to start.

Mashable

Tech News with an emphasis on social networking (Facebook, Myspace, LinkedIn, etc.). This is the place that will note every little feature change on facebook and have the scoop on new upcoming features.

Wired

Yes it’s a magazine. It also has substantial, well written content, blogs, and a host of other information waiting to be gleaned by eager COM 202 students.

Digg.com – Technology News

The social news site where users contribute stories and others vote on which articles are the most interesting/relevant.

Diggnation (Video)

For a real diamond in the rough, check out the funny and subversive video news show Diggnation whose hosts cover internet culture and technology news while drinking substantial amounts of beer and making cracks. Think Beavis and Butthead with technology except smarter. Use your best judgment when selecting a story as sometimes this show is light on Tech News and heavy on Youtube.
(Note: Diggnation can be R-rated depending on how much they drink).

NPR - Technology Podcast

Audio podcasts that cover tech news. High quality technology journalism that you can listen to on the net or on your MP3 player.

Torrentfreak.com

ARRGH! Visit the underbelly of the web. Torrentfreak writes about online piracy … from the pirates’ point of view.

MacWorld

All things Apple… ‘nuff said.

Guidelines for Blog Posts

2008-01-23T14:14:00.000-08:00

Remember this is a class on communication technologies. That means your posts should be about communication technologies not general technological developments.

Please make your posts by Tuesday evening so that your classmates will have an opportunity to review your posts.
Please don't post on the same topic as your classmate. You are responsible for reading the blog posts each week to ensure this doesn't happen.
Please make your blog posts brief. You don't need to write a full essay but you should write at least a paragraph.
Please choose a topic that interests you. If it doesn't interest you, it probably won't be interesting to the rest of the class.
Please link to the original article so that your classmates can read it if they are interested.
Remember to sign your post so your receive credit.

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Here are some suggestions to consider when you write your blog posts. Note that not all of these questions will be applicable to all pieces of news.

1. Why is this news cool or why does it suck? For example, it's neat that people figured out how to hack the iphone (illicitly alter their iphones software) because it allows for third party applications that expand it's functionality. It sucks that Apple chose to issue software updates that purposefully disabled phones that were altered.

2. How will this technological development effect us as users? For example, Nokia's recent purchase of NAVTEQ (the people that make maps for Mapquest) may mean that GPS units and mapping software may become standard on it's very popular phones.

3. What technologies might be replaced by this development? or What can you do with the technology? Fro example, recently TIVO announced that they are now supporting podcasts on their set top boxes for television. This allows you to watch video podcasts on TV rather than your computer and may help popularize the format.

4. Can it be useful to us? What does it cost? For example, Newsgator recently announced that they will provide their RSS readers for free (RSS readers are a program that download news and blog postings). Obviously in this class this will be useful.

5. Can you tie it to the lecture? For example, the recent release of the MacBook Air is an example of miniaturization and was discussed in lecture.

Policy Statement

2008-01-23T13:59:00.000-08:00

OFFICE HOURS: 10 - 11:30 Mondays
OFFICE: G26 Annenberg

Welcome to COM 202. This statement provides policy guidelines that will help create a positive learning environment where we can explore communication technologies. Please read them carefully.

Attendance – Attendance in this course is mandatory. There will be a sign-in roster each day to verify your attendance. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have signed the roster. There are no excused absences. The only acceptable excuses for missing class are family emergencies and illness (these excuses must be verified by a doctor’s note). I allow one unexcused absence across the entire course.

Tardiness – Tardiness is defined as arriving after the class has finished signing the sign-in roster. Being tardy or leaving early from class three times will count as one absence. Again, it is your responsibility to ensure that you have signed the sign-in roster. If you arrive tardy on a day that a classmate is giving a presentation please wait outside the door until the presentation has finished and enter the room before the next speaker begins.

Grading -- Assignments will be graded on a 1 to 10 scale with 10 being a perfect score. Quizzes will be graded as a zero, check, and check plus. A zero means the student was not present for the quiz. A check signifies the student completed the quiz, but with the wrong answer(s). A check plus means the student completed the quiz correctly.

Assignments – Late work will be docked one point per day and will not be accepted 48 hours after the due date. Assignments are due at the start of class on the date indicated on the assignment sheet. Assignments turned in after the class has signed the attendance sheet will be considered late. No exceptions. Late assignments may be returned later than assignments that are turned in on time.

Respect – Both the instructors and the students are entitled to respect. I will treat you with respect and I expect you to extend that courtesy to your classmates. Disrespect will impact your participation grade. The following behaviors will not be tolerated:

Reading the newspaper (includes sudoku and crosswords)
Sleeping
Doing homework for other classes.
Leaving class early. We will leave as soon as class hours are over so please do not prepare to leave prior to the end of class. If you need to leave class early please notify me prior to class. The decision on whether you can leave class early is mine.
Discouraging or disrespectful comments to your classmates.

Violating these rules will impact your participation grade.

Grades – I am willing to discuss your grades with you but not in the classroom. If you would like to discuss a grade please come to my office hours or make an appointment to meet with me outside of class time. I will never discuss other student’s grades. Additionally, please wait 24 hours after I return an assignment to discuss a grade with me. My desk is in the PhD office in the basement and my office hours are from 10:00 to 11:30 on Mondays. I will only change a grade if I believe that I have made a mistake in grading. If you wish to discuss a grade please come prepared with specific reasons based upon what we have learned in class as to why the grade is inappropriate

Participation –Participation points in this course are earned in three ways. First, assignments must be saved in the proper computer file format (MS Word) and labeled according to the directions provided by the instructor. Second, it is required that each student reads at least 15 minutes worth of technology news a week and is prepared to discuss what he or she reads at the beginning of section. This can be found on wired.com, google news, etc. Lastly, be prepared to discuss both the lecture and reading material in section.

Supplies – Nothing is required for this class! However, our learning environment will be enhanced if you bring your laptops, cell phones, blackberries etc. You are encouraged to look things up, to test out features and software, and to share interesting information about communication technologies.

I hope that you find this discussion section to be an enjoyable experience. Please remember that it is designed to connect what we have learned in class to your everyday work and play. As a result, the more you participate in class the more you will benefit and grow. Please feel free to come to me with any suggestions for ways you feel the section could be more enjoyable.