Category

amazon

Does The Cloud Have A Dark Side?

For some time we’ve been hearing about the virtues of cloud-based computing. Certain functions seem to lend themselves to the cloud. Online word processing, spreadsheets, etc. can seem to make sense in some situations, such as collaborating with others. In everyday use scenarios, does the cloud really make sense in more traditional private computer-use situations? I contend that it does

Ebooks and Education

I love ebooks.  They could become an invaluable part of everyones life, especially for the student.   Can you imagine being a student where you could search your text books, copy and paste for your study notes or a term paper?  The program integrates with the word processor for automatic documentation and crediting.  The reader searches the books in your library

Music Downloads for Linux

Last night, I downloaded some music from Amazon for the first time and I was both irritated and pleasantly surprised by the experience.  I'd gone to Amazon because I'm not an iPod owner and wanted to get some DRM-free music for playing via a DLNA media server and also my Palm Pre. (I know this is a tech site but just

MP3 Music Downloads – You’re Doing it Wrong

The other day I heard a song on the radio that I wanted to buy. Yes, I know not too many people listen to the radio, but my new used car has a crappy stereo in it that won't take an auxiliary jack for my iPod, and I don't have an FM transmitter yet. The new stereo is in the

Free E-Books Sell Books

If the electronics industry has anything to do with it 2010 will be the year that the e-book finally gets off the ground.  They've been kicking around for years - I remember reading stuff from Peanut Press on my Palm III back in the '90s.  Anyway, this isn't going to be about e-books and their rise, but rather about a study

Where Did You Shop This Christmas?

In GNC #539, Todd related the problems that brick'n'mortar stores were having competing against the online retailers and I agree entirely with Todd's sentiments. While I'm happy to use Amazon et al for specialised purchases or gifts to faraway relatives, I now regularly buy from local stores to try and keep them in business. And do you know what?  Although

Amazon Kindle Audio Update

In November, I presented a talk to a group of disability services personnel about the inaccessibility of the Amazon Kindle DX. Basically, the device is very cool, but has limited features that would allow those with print disabilities to access and use the device effectively. One of the key elements missing is audible menus, and a large range of font