California based tech start-up Haltian is attempting to make Internet of Things (IoT) device innovation easier for both independent developers and do-it yourself types. Currently, the largest hurdle to IoT device invention is hardware design. Coding, while a specialized skill, doesn’t require an expensive toolkit. Furthermore, code is extremely simple to mass produce. Hardware, on the other [read IoT Devices: Haltian Empowers Consumers]
Free Gigabit Public Wi-Fi: LinkNYC
LinkNYC is a planned public Wi-Fi network that intends on providing free internet access at gigabit speeds to millions of New Yorkers. Those speeds are 50 times faster than what the average American pays for broadband The project will take the antiquated payphone infrastructure in New York and replace it with free gigabit public Wi-Fi. [read Free Gigabit Public Wi-Fi: LinkNYC]
President Officially Supports Net Neutrality
In a statement released today by the White House, President Obama clearly states: We cannot allow Internet service providers (ISPs) to restrict the best access or to pick winners and losers in the online marketplace for services and ideas. That is why today, I am asking the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to answer the call [read President Officially Supports Net Neutrality]
Lost Fitbit? This Is How To Find It
I know we typically write about saving money by using cable TV alternatives, but today I wanted to share a story about this cool app that saved us a lot of stress. My wife rarely gets emotionally attached to electronic gadgets. However, she has developed a very special relationship with her Fitbit Flex. You will [read Lost Fitbit? This Is How To Find It]
Internet TV Supported by FCC Proposal
Two weeks ago I mentioned an internet TV content provider named Aereo, requested an FCC rule interpretation change allowing their service to operate as a multichannel video programming distributor (MVPD). As an MVPD, Aereo would possess the same power that Satellite and Cable TV providers enjoy when negotiating to carry Broadcast TV stations. Yesterday, on [read Internet TV Supported by FCC Proposal]
Random Numbers: Are They Random?
Recently I engaged in a forum geek fight over the randomness of random number generators in computer programs. The discussion began over doubt that the percentages of certain outcomes within a video game were following probability. Fortunately, the game’s code is open source and written in C++ (a language I happen to speak.) Ultimately, I [read Random Numbers: Are They Random?]
Apple Pay and Bitcoin Will Change Money
Apple Pay, a way to make in-store payments with your iPhone, was launched today to much fanfare. Bitcoin, a software based internet payment infrastructure introduced in 2008, has struggled to obtain mainstream adoption. Together, Apple Pay and Bitcoin might just be the combination that starts a revolution in the way commerce is conducted. Bitcoin Overview [read Apple Pay and Bitcoin Will Change Money]
Cable TV Providers Use Congress Against Consumers
Why Do We Need 300 Channels? People aren’t canceling their cable subscription and streaming TV and movies out of spite for their cable provider (well some might be). Consumers who rid themselves of cable have a whole host of reasons for cutting the cord. Perhaps it’s to save money or they enjoy tinkering with a [read Cable TV Providers Use Congress Against Consumers]
One USB Cable to Rule Them All
The USB 3.1 Type-C Earlier this week, the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) announced standardization of the “DisplayPort Alternate Mode on USB Type-C Connector.” This will allow USB Type-C connectors to transport DisplayPort signals. DiplayPort is primarily for video sources. DisplayPort Alternate Mode will allow a USB cable to carry audio and video along with [read One USB Cable to Rule Them All]
The Internet of Things – What is it?
Due to my line of work I have the privilege of going to the Gartner Enterprise Architects Summit every year. It’s a conference where a big chunk of time is dedicated to emerging technologies that could impact our lives or businesses. The topic that repeatedly came up was how the Internet of Things is going [read The Internet of Things – What is it?]