Will Changing Human’s Emotions Soon be as Simple as a “Flick of a Switch”?

Remember all of those times when you were upset and just wanted to be happy? Well it appears that in the future people might be able to turn off depression and bad moods.  Karl Deisseroth has been working on developing a way to switch off brain cells on and off through color recognition to regulate information flow to the brain.

With this method, that Deisseroth has classified as optogenetics, he hopes to help treat his most serious patiences. He has currently been testing the concept on mice and discovered that it is capable of defeating drug addictions.

It will be interesting to see how optogenetics progresses over the years because this is a truly remarkable concept that would have a major impact on the health care industry.




Reference:http://discovermagazine.com/2012/sep/25-controlling-brains-with-flick-of-light-switch

Amazon Targets Tree-Huggers

If something is successful it only make sense to keep doing it.  Amazon completely changed the way people shop and made it possible to purchase things from the convenience of people’s homes.

Recently more people have become aware of the environment and have made a conscious effort to purchase “eco-friendly” products.  Slowly a new target market has emerged, and Amazon is working to capitalize on it through the creation of their new website, Vine.com. In order for products to be sold on this website they must meet a specific criteria: they must be designed to remove toxins, energy-efficient, natural, organic, powered by renewable energy, reusable, made of sustainable materials or water efficient.

The main goal of this website isn’t to try and save the world, but instead about providing products to people who are conscious and want to life in a healthy and chemical free environment.

Vine.com is a great example of a successful technology branching out (no pun intended) and not only being successful and have a positive impact on our environment along the way!

Reference: http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/09/26/amazon-starts-a-shopping-site-for-the-environmental-crowd/?ref=technology

Technology Takes Over

I know we are supposed to be writing about new technologies and how it will impact the future, but when I stumbled across this article I couldn’t help but write about it.  Old technologies with new programs are equally capable of having an impact on society. It is obvious that the iPhone has taken technology to a whole different level, but it’s amazing to think of how it has impacted local businesses as well.  

The New York Times article titled “Last Call for College Bars” was not only entertaining but actually pretty accurate.  I have honestly never thought about how the new college trend impacted local bars and businesses.  I know that when I was an undergrad my friends would hang out together at a friends house and probably head to the bars around 11/11:30 at night, it’s the common thing to do.  People typically text each other to find out where and when they are leaving, and no one really “bumps” into people anymore, everything is pretty predetermined.  

Bars used to be a place to meet up with people but because of technology their role has changed.  Bars typically open around 7pm at the latest so between the hours of 7 and 11, they really aren’t doing that great of a business if students are more inclined to stay home with friends.  

Stephani Robson, a senior lecturer in the School of Hotel Administration at Cornell was quoted in the article saying “Students don’t need bars to create a community the way they used to” which is the sad truth.  As technology continues to develop people have become more and more dependent on it, which has resulted in limited one-on-one interactions. 

I am sensing a rather hostile trend in my posts towards technology, which I don’t mean to do because I am guilty of connecting with people mainly through my iPhone or the Internet.  It just amazes me how technology had impacted society and people’s interactions and frightens me to think that sooner or later people will become completely glued to all these different devices.  

Reference:  http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/27/fashion/for-college-students-social-media-tops-the-bar-scene.html?pagewanted=1&_moc.semityn.www&ref=technology&adxnnlx=1348759192-%20mcyDiUMBfxVHv35zavwog

Working Wallpaper

With the amount of electromagnetic waves floating around, researchers at France’s Institut Polytechnique de Grenoble have worked with the Centre Technique du Papier to develop Wi-Fi-blocking wallpaper.  The product is called metapaper and its purpose is to selectively filter, reduce or reflect electromagnetic waves.

Metapaper prevents people from stealing Wi-Fi from buildings while also creating and securing a strong  signal for users.  The paper is believed to secure up to 99% of waves coming from outside (the paper would have to be put on the ceiling and floor to fully protect a room).

Another attractive feature of this product is metapaper’s ability to reduce a person’s exposure to electromagnetic waves.  Scientists have found studies that say overuse of wireless technology could cause harmful health effects.  Wireless Technology is used just about everywhere nowadays, so any opportunity to reduce exposure seems like an effective product.

Reference: http://whatsnext.blogs.cnn.com/2012/07/18/signal-blocking-wallpaper-stops-wi-fi-stealing-and-comes-in-a-snowflake-pattern/

I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for “Ice Screen"

Technology continues to shift to attract and cater to the younger generation.  In China, TCL has been working to develop a new television treat.  The 26-inch Android base “Ice-Screen” works like a tablet and is capable of changing TV changing viewing habits of the youth market.

Children and teenagers very rarely sit down in front of a television set and simply relax.  They are also plugged into their cellphones, iPods, and tablets; the multitasking never ends.  Because of this, this TCL device provides people the opportunity to watch TV but also access the internet and download music.  It is an interesting concept that probably would attract a younger demographic.

Because this product is Android-based, it requires some form of connection to a cloud service, which makes it difficult to launch the product for the world, so the key to making it an international product is to find a content provider.

Right now China is the largest TV market with 47 million sets sold annually and is only expect to grow.  The “Ice-Screen” would also attract to the people in China and this is a great business opportunity for TCL.  I can also think of a  lot of people who I know in the U.S. that would be interested in purchasing this product because of its versatility. I’m sure that over the next couple of years these “Ice Screens” will be a common product for people to own.



Reference: http://tech.fortune.cnn.com/2012/09/17/tcl-ice-screen/?iid=SF_T_River

Looking Into the Future

At the rate Google is going now, who knows how many forms of technology people will be wearing in the next ten years.  Google hopes to start the trend with their newest project known as the “Google Goggles”.  These augmented-reality glasses are designed to be worn over the eyes of people and run on an Android mobile platform. 

People passing by will not be able to see the goggles in action, the glass is designed so only the individual wearing has access to the information.  

As I mentioned in a previous post, I am interested to see how technology advancements such as the “Google Goggles” will impact society’s interactions with on another.  It seems like it might be challenging to engage in casual, sporadic conversations if people are constantly tuned into various mediums of technology.  

It also seems like “Google Goggles” might be the beginning of a very dangerous trend.  If this product is a hit, I can only imagine that other companies will hop on the band wagon or even try to think of another technology accessory for people to wear.

Reference: http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/04/04/google-begins-testing-its-augmented-reality-glasses/

Talking to Technology

While it is amazing to think that technology has evolved to the point where it can answer questions from people, how long will it take for humans to become totally dependent on machinery?

The iPhone 4s has made it possible for people to talk to “Siri” and about simple things such as direction, suggestions, and reminders, but as technology continues to improve what else will technology be able to do for us?

Today in class we watched a video promo for the “Google Glasses” which are expected to come out within the next year or so.  To me a product like that seems a bit over the top.  The New York Times article that I read refers to talking technology as a “disruptive idea” and I couldn’t agree more.  Yes it’s efficient to ask a device for directions and have them regurgitated back to you, but is it really necessary? The more technology advances, the more people rely on such devices, and the less they think for themselves.

I also think it is funny to watch people talking to devices, but it seems like that might become the norm with the way things have been advancing.  I also wonder how it will impact peoples interactions with one another. I guess only time will tell!

Reference: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/01/technology/nuance-communications-wants-a-world-of-voice-recognition.html?pagewanted=all

Are Smaller Cars the Answer to Traffic Problems?

Just about everyone owns a vehicle these days. It is not uncommon for families to own multiple cars because people’s schedules have become much more hectic. But how has this affected our society? Sometimes it is simply unbearable to travel places!

I personally hate dealing with traffic, being parked on the highway is one of my biggest pet peeves.  Since it doesn’t seem like life is going to slow down anytime soon for people, alternatives need to happen.  MIT has been working on a a CityCar project (the Hiroko) that can hopefully eliminate some traffic and clutter in cities. The Hiroko is a 2.5 meter car that has the ability to be folded up to 1.5 meters.

These cars are able to shrink so much that it is predicted that three cars are capable of fitting into one parking spot!  Imagine how much simpler it would be to find parking in a city if people stand downsizing and are able to fit multiple cars in a single parking spot!

I think that the Hiroko design is very practical and a great solution for traffic.  To be honest, I’m not sure how safe I would feel in it, especially driving next to a big SUV, but over time I believe more people should try to downsize their vehicles.  Over the past couple years I have seen more smart cars on the road, so I’m sure it will only be a matter of time before people are driving and folding up their Hirokos.

Reference: http://www.zigwheels.com/news-features/news/mits-citycar-project-hiroko-unveiled/11840/1

Apple’s Next Big Thing

Apple is constantly making improvements and changes to their technologies.  It seems like no sooner have people become familiar with one product, it is time for Apple to release a new one.  Don’t get me wrong, I am a big Apple supporter and have always been beyond satisfied with their products, but sometimes it is hard for me to keep track of all of their products.

Over the past six years or so Apple has come out with five different iPhones and it is predicted that this year they will be releasing their sixth iPhone. It is amazing to think about how different the product has changed over that short window of time.  It also makes me wonder what the iPhone will be capable of doing in the next six years.

This articles mentions some predicted changes for the new apple product, and I think it will be interesting to see people’s reactions once the product is released.  When the iPhone 5 (it’s anticipated name) is released, I will most likely invest in it, even though I am not a fan of the small dock connector prediction.  If that is in fact true, which I believe it to be, I will have to invest in a new iHome and phone charger.  It was a smart strategy for Apple because they know people are willing to buy the phone.  Making the dock connector smaller provides Apple another opportunity for consumers to purchase Apple accessories.



Reference: http://www.cnn.com/2012/09/11/tech/mobile/apple-iphone-5-event/index.html

Data is a Game Changer

Analyzing data and statistics is an imperative part of athletics because looking at numbers is an objective way to evaluate performance.  Professional franchises are constantly looking for ways to improve the program and data shows organizations their strengths and weaknesses.

IBM understands the importance of data within the sports industry and has worked with tennis, football, rugby, golf and basketball organizations to help provide more opportunities for data analysis.
I think it is amazing how technology has evolved and it is possible to look at data and use that information to prevent things such as injuries.

The sports industry generates millions of dollars so it makes sense that companies like IBM are teaming up and figuring out ways to better the industry.  Analytics play such a major role in sports games, yet they are often overlooked by the average fan.

The Miami Dolphins is one team that understands the importance of analyzing data and have decided to look at fans' experiences at their stadium.  I feel like this is only the beginning of different types of analytics arising within the sports industry.


Reference: http://www-03.ibm.com/innovation/us/sports/?csr=agus_ibmsports-20120827&cm=k&cr=google&ct=USBRB301&S_TACT=USBRB301&ck=sports_technology&cmp=USBRB&mkwid=sjcFJkCkR_28155097057_432oop16376

Is 3D Television the Future for Sports?

I have personally never been that interested in 3D movies or television, probably because I don’t like the idea of having to wear the glasses.  But regardless of my opinion, the fact of the matter is that 3D programs is the future of the television and entertainment industry.  People can see 3D movies in theaters or even buy 3D televisions.

3D programs make audiences feel that much closer to the films or programs and make it more realistic entertainment.  One would think that providing people the opportunity to watch professional sports in 3D would be a great idea, because it is a way to enhance the game for the viewers, but right now the NFL is not that convinced.

Because the industry is still in the early stages of developing 3D programs, one NFL spokesman stated that he wanted to wait and see how quickly it takes for the technology to develop. Football is a fast-pass, action packed sport.  Plays can happen very quickly and stuff happens on the field, which I personally think might be difficult to watch in 3D.

Another issue that this article touches upon is the fact that when people are watching any program or sports game on their own television, chances are they are also on some other technology (iPad, iPhone, laptop) simultaneously.  In order for 3D programs to make an impression on people, they sort of need to devote a lot of attention to it, which is sometimes difficult to do at home.

Within the next couple of years I have no doubt that 3D television will exist within the majority of people’s homes, because this technology continues to evolve and better itself in a short amount of time. I found the NFL’s skepticism interesting however and it will be interesting to see within the next couple of years if NFL football will be broadcasted in 3D.

Article: http://deadspin.com/5884143/will-the-future-of-3d-sports-tv-ever-come-into-focus

Could Soccer be Getting Smarter?

When searching online for articles about advancing technologies within the sports industry, I noticed that a variety of different sports organizations are focused on one thing: how to enhance the fan experience.  Home movie systems and technologies such as smart phones, tablets and the Internet have made sporting events much more accessible and affordable to people and has also become major competition for sports organizations.

Through these technologies, fans are able to look up game scores immediately, watch games without the hassle of getting to an arena, and also replay or record games.  For the average sports fan, there is really no need for attending an actual game because they can watch sports in the comfort of their own home without having to deal with the hassle and expenses of attending professional sports events.  

Avid sports fan however might not feel satisfied only watching games at their houses, so sports organizations realize that avid fans will, for the most part, remain dedicated attendees, but what sports organizations want is to turn more average sports fans into avid sports fans.  Teams believe that enhancing the fan experience is one way to make this possible since you cannot get the same experience at home. 

Major League Soccer has teamed up with Adidas and in 2013 plans to create the first “Smart League” and “Smart Game”. The league will integrate the Adidas Micoach Elite System, which is a data tracking technology to provide the trainers and athlete with real-time performance analysis.  The data chip will attach to the back of the player in between their shoulder blades. Series of electrodes and sensors woven into the fabric of the base layer to wirelessly transfer more than 200 data per second of each player to the central server or computer (Adidas article) and can be monitored by coaches in real-time via an iPad.  By incorporating this into the game, MLS hopes that this technology will prevent risk of injury and also help players reach their optimum performance level.  The league also hopes that incorporating such technologies will improve the overall performance of play and make fans part of the game as well.

I am interested to see how this “Smart League” will have an impact on the sports industry.  If this data device is a success it has the ability to completely change the sports industry.  With a sport like soccer it sort of makes sense to incorporate such a technology because it benefits the health of athletes.  But I wonder in the future what type of technologies might also arise and if they could alter the actual game.

Article Reference: http://www.tuvie.com/adidas-micoach-elite-system-to-make-mls-the-worlds-first-smart-league-in-2013/