Very recently, major price drops and device updates were announced for Amazon’s Kindle and Barnes & Noble’s Nook, further increasing competition between these e-reader devices and the iPad. Because of these new revelations, the absence of connectivity fees (whereas the iPad still costs to connect), and the fact that they are made specifically for book-enjoying purposes, these e-reader specific devices are beginning to look more attractive to avid readers. On the flip side though, the iPad does allow its users to do a wide range of things that e-reader devices do not. While it certainly depends on how one intends to use the device and how much they actually take advantage of reading capabilities, the changes in this market beg the question of how consumer trends might change: will it make sense to invest in these other devices, even if you have an iPad or iPhone? Will people begin making a switch from Apple products to e-readers? Will apps continue to suffice — or not?

Have you ever seen a dish pass by and think, “I want that!”, or wanted to know where you could find that delicious looking sandwich? Foodspotting draws on the human tendency to initially desire something based on its appearance, and enables you to essentially pick your food based on its picture. The app presents you with photographs of dishes at nearby restaurants creating a different way to choose what and where to eat, similar to windowshopping before buying clothes. Read the rest of this entry »

It follows general etiquette that eavesdropping is rude so we shouldn’t engage in it. However, it is only natural for humans to be curious about what others think and what sorts of topics are grabbing peoples’ attention. Overheard is an app that basically denounces a polite respect for personal space and encourages people to feed these curiosities. It allows users to see what conversations are occurring on various social networks (i.e. others’ Twitter feeds and Facebook posts), so as to gain a “visual geo representation of noise and chatter,” either for their immediate location or on a larger scope, such as the entire world. Overheard lets people see the thoughts of those they do and do not know and contribute to or passively enjoy others’ thoughts as they wish. Read the rest of this entry »

While I mentioned Apple’s big plans for devices yesterday, there is some equally big news for software. Steve Jobs announced the improvements that will be made for iTunes 10, most notably of which will be the addition of Ping, a social network based on music. Ping will just be a part of iTunes that users can choose to use or not use, and will enable people not only to see what activities their friends are engaging in on iTunes, but also see how their favorite celebs use iTunes. Anyone who is represented on iTunes, be it by movies, music, or podcasts, will be available to follow, and will enable users to become part of their “inner circle.” There will be a constant flow of live updates, comment capabilities, and tools that enable people to share every part of the entertainment experience, including finding concert tickets and seeing who else will be in attendance. In short, Ping will provide an incredible aid for music discovery, entertainment news, and most importantly a new element to the social networking sphere. Read the rest of this entry »

As I alluded to in an earlier post, Apple just held a music-themed press conference about the new gadgets they plan to release. Here are some of the most notable points: Read the rest of this entry »

While games can certainly have the effect of creating reclusive individuals, OpenFeint has enabled a more social experience in many iphone and ipod games. This social gaming service has connected users to game-wide leaderboards, discussion boards, and competition platforms, and just announced today some additional features to come. OpenFeint will be adding PlayTime to its repertoire, enabling multiplayer features and voice-chat functions. Read the rest of this entry »

The hottest tech topics have been circulating around Apple’s latest addition: the Apple HD TV. Essentially, it is a $99 box that you connect to your TV, and it will effectively replace the need for cable television. By operating via internet, it will allow you to access cheap movies and TV shows on demand (rumored to start at $0.99 a pop), and even connect you to radio stations and music selections, the internet, podcasts, and your photo library (the idea is, if it’s on iTunes, it’s on your TV). The best part is, all of this will be sans commercials, and will ensure your entertainment is what you want it to be. Read the rest of this entry »