Aaron Koblin's Flight Patterns is a stunning exploration of air traffic data, transforming raw numbers from the FAA into captivating visualizations. Through the use of Processing, Koblin beautifully illustrates the intricate dance of airplanes traversing our skies, creating an experience that is both informative and aesthetically pleasing. The project serves as a reminder of how data can be transformed into art, offering viewers a chance to relax and appreciate the unseen rhythms of our modern travel.

Lately, I've been pondering the essence of location-based services and their relationship with our mobile devices. While the concept of knowing 'what's near me' often drives this technology, there's a deeper narrative waiting to be explored. As I gear up to teach a course on interactive media, my goal is to inspire students to prototype engaging experiences that weave together locative media and mobile tech. Through the lens of compelling examples and intriguing projects, I hope to illuminate the potential of location-based services beyond mere convenience, inviting creativity and connection in our ever-evolving digital landscape.

The New York Times brought to the fore a topic that’s been on the mind of myself and far-flung colleagues — innovation. The article, titled Are U.S. Innovators Losing Their Competitive Edge? As the title suggests, the topic is framed as a US national crisis distilled down to two trends:

The New York Times has a short quip on anime now produced for delivery and viewing on the Video iPod.

Bluebox is a unique bluetooth software and hardware application designed and developed by Maria N. Stukoff and Jon Wetherall for the creative use of mobile phones via bluetooth. as part of this development we are invited to trail the first phase of blubox technology – called fotobox an interactive installation with…

The Monster at Our Door: The Global Threat of Avian Flu by Mike Davis

The 'Embrace' concept proposes an interactive bracelet designed to foster intimacy between wearers. With features like an LCD screen, a camera, and a scent-emitting palette, it allows individuals to share images and experiences in real-time. This innovative wearable technology encourages a kinesthetic social experience, transforming how we interact in our daily lives. As we yearn for deeper connections, 'Embrace' aims to bring a sense of proximity and presence, reminiscent of the vibrant social fabric found in bustling cities like New York.

The Periscope, an innovative project by Danielle Wilde, serves as an interactive information and navigation device for children exploring woodlands. Equipped with RFID tags, it provides access to rich media content, letting users dive into the intricate lives of woodlice and witness the changing seasons of the forest. By navigating through its panorama and engaging with linked multimedia content, children can uncover the hidden narratives of nature, turning every field trip into a captivating learning experience. This project highlights the magic of technology in education, making the natural world accessible and engaging for young explorers.

The recent protest against Wal-Mart in New Hampshire highlights the growing concerns surrounding RFID technology and its implications for privacy and civil liberties. As protesters rallied, they voiced their determination to resist what they see as an invasion of their rights, echoing sentiments from the book "Spychips." This event is part of a larger movement, with consumer advocacy groups like CASPIAN leading the charge to protect individuals from being monitored through their purchases. As the debate heats up, the conversation around RFID technology becomes increasingly pertinent, drawing attention to the delicate balance between efficiency and personal privacy.