Archive for the 'High-tech News' Category

Google’s Gbuy attack on PayPal? And Microsoft’s Expo?

Posted in Blogging Statistics, Breaking News in Web, High-tech News, Web 2.0 Explorations on February 27th, 2006 by Christopher Anthony Salazar

Some speculation has been going around that Google is going to start their own payment service like PayPal. Currently Google offers a unique service called Google Base, that allows online users to post information about items of interest.

And the beauty of it, you can use RSS feeds to submit information. This will enable your blog and information to be searchable in Google Base and perhaps in the Google search.

But, this is not it, Google’s Base Blog, clearly states that users can buy items on Google base using their Google Account. These are some good signs of perhaps a new payment service creeping up on PayPal.

Now don’t get me wrong, I love PayPal, but there’s nothing better than a bit of competition to spark a little innovation. PayPal, currently owned by eBay, is probably the most trusted payment service for online auctions, with very little competition. However, this can cause PayPal to take the static route and stay put with their services and products. But, if Google comes along things could get interesting. It’s just a thought.

THIS JUST IN:
Microsoft to offer to their own payment service? There has been talk that Microsoft has their own online classified service called “Expo,” in which current employees have been buying and selling items of interest. Perhaps Scobleizer can shed some light on this.

This makes the internet even more exciting. What will they do next?

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Hello Peerflix, good-bye Netflix

Posted in High-tech News, Web 2.0 Explorations on February 13th, 2006 by Christopher Anthony Salazar



Just when I was on the verge of signing up for Netflix, like everyone else, I came across an interesting yet stunning new company called Peerflix. How are they different? First, they advertise no hidden charges, no sign up fee, no monthly fee, and no hassle.

Here's how to get the dvd's you want:

  • Step 1: Sign up for free. List the DVDs you have in your collection and submit it to their database.
  • Step 2: Create your own "want" list of DVDs.
  • Step 3: You will receive notification when someone else wants one of the DVDs in your collection, then you send them the DVD in a "trade" envelope. Plus you get trade points, earn enough and you can guy a DVD for free.
  • Step 4: Pick the DVD you want and trade

Has anyone tried this service? How does it work? Keep me updated with your experiences. I will sign up for this too and let you know how it turns out.

In with Google Gmail, out with Outlook

Posted in Blogging Statistics, Breaking News in Web, High-tech News, Web 2.0 Explorations on February 10th, 2006 by Christopher Anthony Salazar

Ah HA! Google has done it again, and this time they are challenging the biggest of them all…Microsoft, more specifically Microsoft Outlook. Using Google Gmail accounts, all 10,000 San Jose City College students will be able to host their own private domain-name. Stephanie Hannon, publisher on Google’s Official Blog, suggests that this new service will create a stronger community for all SJCC students.

Indeed it will, so why not try it for Santa Clara University students. I recently discovered SCU’s blog, which captures the lives of several freshmen as they embark on their journey through college. SCU prides themselves on taking leadership and creating leaders, and this is an excellent opportunity for students to collaborate with today’s leader in technology, Google.

Nicholas Carr also includes that this new service is available to businesses and organizations as well. I would not be surprised if this service captures the attention of several small and medium sized businesses. Perhaps the large, enterprise corporations will not be willing to take such a risk, but certainly the millions of small/medium sized business will…in fact that's a good market to dive into. *hint, hint*

Want to set up your own private domain? Do it here.

Additional links on this enticing new service:

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Library 2.0 = Web 2.0 + Library

Posted in Blogging Statistics, Community Evangelism, High-tech News, Web 2.0 Explorations on January 23rd, 2006 by Christopher Anthony Salazar

Library 2.0…

“The Library Without Walls”

The internet has brought several innovations that were unheard of 25+ years ago, and they keep coming. From Web 1.0, to Web 2.0, and now to Library 2.0, the internet is vastly changing our everyday lives. With the popularity of Google and other search engines, its no wonder Libraries are beginning to feel a bit wounded. What are libraries good for anyways when you have the powerful Google? Ah ha, perhaps the model that will save Libraries is *drum roll* “Library 2.0.”

Library 2.0 uses the resources of Web 2.0 technology to make information to users available wherever and whenever and for free.

How does this work?

One major component of Library 2.0 is RSS Syndication which enables the user to have the information readily available in real time in any application. Information delivered at the door step of the user.

Here are some important components of Library 2.0:

1. The Library is everywhere
Library 2.0 is available everywhere (anywhere there is internet) and will continue to reach more and more people as RSS becomes mobilized. In many cases this has already happened, many are texting Google to find information sent to their mobile devices. Google is succeeding, it sounds logical for Libraries to follow.

2. The Library has no barriers
Library 2.0 information is available at the point of need and available for re-use. No need to worry about missing books, special equipment to read past-time newspapers…if linked with Google and Amazon, the information is readily available at your convenience. In fact with the help of Google, we can create a world-wide catalogue of info encompassing local, regional, state, national, and world news. How about that?

3. The Library invites participation
Yes, this is one of the main components of Library 2.0 that will drive its success. The ability to create a community of library users. Using the likes of Web 2.0 tools (blogs, wikis, and RSS), users can rate resources on a scale from 1 to 10 and submit suggestions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Users needs are changing, Libraries need to capitalize and utilize Web 2.0 technology
  • Library 2.0 offers information anywhere and everywhere
  • Web 2.0 technology allows for an online community of library users enabling reviews, comments, suggestions
  • RSS syndication can deliver information from Library 2.0 to any mobile device (info at your fingertips)

NEWS FLASH: How To Record Your VoIP Conversations

Posted in Blogging Statistics, High-tech News, Web 2.0 Explorations on January 12th, 2006 by Christopher Anthony Salazar

Just when I thought things could not get any better with Skype, I come across yet another genius idea. I've been having some great conversations on Skype, yet I am left trying to take notes and remember everything. Often I find myself struggling to write notes, listen, memorize, and talk all at the same time. But, fear no more…"HOTRECORDER" is here!

HotRecorder is an awesome tool that allows users of Skype, Google Talk, Yahoo Messanger, AIM, or any other VoIP.

Here are the capabilities:

  • Records individual conversations and conferences
  • Includes "Emotisounds" (like laughs, cries, claps, etc)
  • Send recorded conversations to ANY other HotRecorder user
  • HotRecorder VoiceMail
    • Automatically answers calls and record messages
  • It's FREE

Yet another software to experiment with. Wow, who thought we would have these capabilities?

Has anyone tried this program? How are your experiences using it? How about Skype?

Search for me on Skype: Christopher.Salazar

“The Whole Word Can Talk For FREE”

Posted in Breaking News in Web, High-tech News, Web 2.0 Explorations on January 9th, 2006 by Christopher Anthony Salazar

"The Whole Word Can Talk For FREE"…this is the tagline for a new program called "SKYPE"

There is an interesting service out on the net that offers registered users the opportunity to talk to other users for FREE anywhere around the world. It's just like talking on the phone, but instead you are using the internet.

In a bold statement, a reviewer noted:

"Skype is going to change the world. People are going to be including their Skype on their business card. "
url = http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,4149,1402336,00.asp

I think everyone should try this out. Just download the program and set up your username at www.skype.com. Once you are set up…search for me: my SKYPE name = Christopher.Salazar or you can search for my full name = Christopher Anthony Salazar

When you are set, call me and let me know what you think.

Quick Thought: I cannot wait for this to be implemented in cars. *dreaming*

Web Technology: Refrigerators + TVs + Internet = ONE

Posted in Blogging Statistics, High-tech News, Web 2.0 Explorations on September 29th, 2005 by Christopher Anthony Salazar

Some predict the web will soon be integrated in just about everything. The web is such an undervalued tool that many companies overlook. The WEb is the SLEEPER to success in any industry. But why not? The web is fast, efficient, cheap, and scalable. Companies should be begging to use the tools of the web. I am not kidding. In fact, I recently read about how the internet is “ubiquitous” and “amorphous.” For more info, click here.

In fact, a concept called “community marketing” is now seen as a credible tool to help companies gain the competitive edge. For more on community marketing, visit this site: Web Strategy by Jeremiah . The benefits of community marketing are clearly listed…be sure to visit the site!

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In addition, to community marketing, the WEB is slowly started to creap into our everyday appliances. Soon, the common electric socket will serve as your home’s connection to broadband with a new chip developed by Matsushita — which means the end of all the ethernet cables and wireless (home) networks. This technology is not new, and in fact this unique broadband service is currently in use by several US companies. Matsushita’s (MC) system delivers fast-speed broadband information at up to 170 megabits per second, which is faster than ethernet.

Here is how to use it:

  1. Attach a special device made by Matsushita to a 110/120 volt regular home socket
  2. Plug your TV and other gadgets into the socket for instant connection to broadband

VERY SIMPLE! However, my question is how much will the adapters be? But, wouldn’t it be nice to have your refrigerator or TV hook up to the internet. Hmm, just the thought of watching sports and checking my mail at the same time is HEAVEN!

But, there are some other features that this “socket” can provide, that I foresee is the future! Close your eyes, and image this:

You are in the office and remember “Oh, I need to get a few things from the grocery store. But, what did I need to get?” Well, with your network-connected refrigerator you can connect through a mobile phone or latpop and check what you have in your refrigerator and what you need. Doesn’t this sound like a dream-come true?

Or if this doesnt sound good, you can turn of and on all gadgets in your home with a simple switch that is connected to the network. For example, you are outside and say to yourself “Did I turn on the washer?” Instead of going inside your home, checking the washer, and risk getting distracted from cleaning the yard, you can turn it on with a simple flip of the switch. Hm…now can you imagine what the feature would be like?

I dont know about you, but have you ever watched an episode of the “Jetsons” and wondered, “When will we ever have technology like them?” Yes, I know its a long stretch, but we are getting closer. But, the only way we can get there is with the WEB as our tool!