I've been diving into the world of orientation technologies, eager to explore how they can shape mobile design. My recent experiments with a game concept revealed the beauty of movement as an interface; a student's leap to move a character sparked an 'ah hah!' moment. While GPS struggles with pedestrian motion, the simplicity of step-based interactions shows promise. With tools like a reliable pedometer from a past workshop, I'm excited to see how these technologies can enhance our everyday journeys and interactions.

In a world where technology often feels impersonal, the introduction of Navtones brings a refreshing twist to GPS navigation. Imagine your favorite celebrities like Mr. T and Dennis Hopper guiding you through traffic, their unique voices turning mundane journeys into exciting adventures. This innovative idea not only adds character to our devices but also suggests a future where navigation could be intertwined with storytelling and creativity. As we embrace these personalized experiences, our travels become more than just a route; they become a narrative we share with the world.

I had a completely kooky idea the other day while meeting with Mike Liebhold and Francois Bar to discuss a research project. One of the big challenges for creating innovating services, apps, devices — what have you — within the current mobile ecosystem is that the carriers don’t adopt the same kind of spirit of…

Smartmobs says:

This blog post reflects on the dual nature of Google as both a helpful tool and a potential monopolistic force in our lives. Through a poetic lens, the author explores the implications of a world where Google not only aggregates information but also consumes our identities. The image of Google as a spime-wrangling instrument invites us to consider the balance between innovation and surveillance in this age of findability. As we navigate this digital landscape, we must ask ourselves: are we shaping technology, or is technology shaping us?

FlightAware has emerged as a magical tool for those who seek to wrangle the intricacies of aviation. With a simple click, it reveals not only the flights soaring through our skies but also the stories and identities intertwined with these journeys. As I draft my thoughts influenced by BruceS’s musings on homesteading and prospecting, I find joy in navigating this new territory of spimes. Each aircraft, like Jerry Bruckheimer's Gulfstream IV, symbolizes a unique narrative waiting to be unraveled.

Reflecting on my encounter with Eduardo, I was reminded of the magic behind NetMagnet, an experiment in proximity-based social networks. Back in 2003, I crafted an application using Apple’s Bonjour, allowing users to share digital treasures based solely on their physical closeness. It was a playful dance of discovery, where the spirit of spontaneous connection thrived, and the absence of expectation created a unique social landscape. With a nudge from this nostalgic project, I feel inspired to explore new horizons in proximity and mobile technology.

Flight Aware brings a unique perspective to the aviation world by tracking individual aircraft in real-time. This fascinating technology allows us to witness the complex routes planes take, from the bustling skies of Los Angeles to distant Tokyo. As air travel continues to grow, the importance of maintaining safety and efficiency becomes ever more critical. With the potential for increased accidents, the aviation industry must find a balance between innovation and reliability, ensuring that each journey remains as safe as it is thrilling.

Nicolas dug this one up.