Introducing Google Glass - A Closer Look

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

People nowadays want so desperately to own the must-have accessory and the next major technology trend. The advancement of technology and the research studies over the last years has been unprecedented. The human race is progressing at an amazing rate and it`s undeniable and in evidence, that the way we interact with each other, has dramatically changed because of technology. 

Technological advances are inventions like Glasses with Virtual Reality, Androids, Nanotechnology, Brain Digitizing, Toroidal Machines, Computer Controlled Economy, Colonization of other planets and other futuristic ideas. There is a limit on technology only if there is a lack of imagination! And Google knows this well. But to create a new kind of wearable technology, that’s a real bet and messy at points. 

Tech Specs - What's Inside

Google is always pushing it's creativity limits, and Project Glass is no exception. The new and revolutionary augmented reality glasses were designed to help you live in the moment -- even when you’re falling from the sky. It's a headset with a camera, a projected display, and a data connection, that presents information in the form of "cards". These cards are arranged on a "Timeline," which you can navigate through by swiping left and right on the headset's touchpad (Hair is a problem here. Sometimes they fall over the pad and interfere with operation). You can listen to music, take photos and videos, read and send text messages, engage in Google Hangouts, search Google, see headlines from The New York Times and much more. It’s actually your Smartphone with Google on your face. 

It runs on Android, but can connect to both Android and iOS devices. It comes powered by a dual-core Texas Instruments (TI) OMAP 4430 processor, 1GB of RAM and can connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to your laptop, your phone or a home Wi-Fi network, or even work alone as an offline camera or as a disconnected video recorder. The 5-megapixel camera can capture 720p videos, by default. It has 16GB of internal storage and a battery that can last a day. Luckily, the titanium frame is strong and flexible. You can bend and adjust it for an individual fit. 

The elite of the tech world have decided already that Google’s groundbreaking eyewear ecosystem is the future. The product has captured the imagination of technologists and consumers and drawn a fair amount of media attention. There is a dynamic on the horizon and perhaps they're right. There is a new way of seeing our relationship with our mobile computers and people are excited about this glorified eye-mounted camera/computer. 

What's Not To Like?

There are, however, a number of people who are afraid or do not understand the importance of this product. Personally i want to see the world, i don't really want to see the world "differently". And i’m concerned that devices like this will hide the world more than expose it. It could also cause a public uproar over privacy concerns. Let’s say why do we need our Facebook notifications popping up in our eyes? If we are focusing on Facebook notifications and tweets popping up - what are we missing that's right in front of us in the real world? 

Yes, Google Glass appears to be a nice-looking device, it’s all the talk in the wearable tech space, but for the rest of us it’s just a neat idea that brings only excitement. Is the potential worth the risk? Does it really deliver value in practice? Who would wear these in public? What about hacking warnings and security risks? What about downsides like Wi-Fi next to the brain or the open to a whole new level of spyware? It seems we are beginning to take everything for granted like the example below: 

- "Ok Glass, what’s the weather?" 

- "Look out the window” 

What they are not taking in consideration is also that unless they are very cool sun glasses no one likes to wear glasses. They look very uncomfortable and people think you are like a cyborg from a fictional movie. 

Conclusion:

We’re looking forward to it, but so far, the limitation of Google Glass shows that this is an immature product and a yet to be understood platform. It’s an interesting techno-social experiment but an experiment with limitations. It’s just another cool device in our lives to explore. 

What do you think about Google Glass future? Has anyone had experience with it? Let us know.

*by andreascy*

Four Benefits Of Private Cloud Computing

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

In the IT industry, cloud computing is all the rage. Private cloud computing is one deployment model of cloud computing wherein the resources of the cloud is used only by one organization or one client. Private cloud computing still provides services in a virtual manner just like the other cloud computing models but with increased control and privacy that comes with the cloud being used by just one client. What you get from cloud computing are essentially the similar benefits of using a local access network but with the advantage of virtualization. Here are more insights to private cloud computing.

Security

The thing about public clouds is that they come with their own privacy and security mechanisms which ensure that information stored in these clouds are protected. The thing about private clouds is that you are given more options with regards to safeguarding information. You can make use of techniques that will restrict connections so that information can be kept out of the prying eyes of malicious individuals. 

Control

Since a private cloud is accessible only to one organization or client, this enables users to configure their private cloud according to how the organization sees fit. Modifications of the cloud cannot be done if it is public in nature since the changes can affect the rest of the users. If you need your cloud to work in a certain manner, a private deployment model is the best way to go. 

Cost

When it comes to running a business, cost efficiency is always a huge part of keeping your organization from being in the red. Unlike using a public cloud, a private cloud will make sure that you have all the resources that every division of your organization can utilize. Smaller organizations with lesser divisions may not be able to appreciate the cost-effectiveness of using a private cloud but when you need to make use of more storage and computing resources which a private cloud can easily deliver. 

Reliability

When an operating environment is virtualized, just like the case of private clouds, this usually leads to increased reliability, and failures are handled more efficiently compared to when you are using computing resources that rely on physical servers. This is because the workload is channelled to another part of the virtual server which is not affected in case of a downtime. And with third-party hosting, users can still take advantage of the physical security advantages which data centers confer on their infrastructure. 

Businesses and major companies have already seen the benefits of private clouds. In fact, this is an answer to their growing needs. Private cloud computing allows many organization to be efficient. It also requires less energy, thus promoting earth-friendly goals. Using regular servers based on-site may actually cost more and a cheaper and efficient alternative such as private cloud deployment model is a wise choice.

With so many cloud deployment models available, it is only a must to understand the cloud resources. Since they are easily scalable, an organization may alter this base on its needs.

Phil Smith is an avid blogger on websites, servers, and data storage. He shares his best insights about macquarie telecom (ASX:MAQ).

*by andreascy*

HTC One Vs Samsung Galaxy S4: Which One Should You Buy?

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

They’re the two new kids on the smartphone block. But when it comes to picking the difference between the latest offerings from smartphone experts HTC and Samsung, it can be tricky to decide which cool new device is the right one for you. 

The answer really depends on who you are and what you want from your phone. To help you make the decision between these phones that are fresh off the conveyor belt, here is a run down of each of their best features.

For a reputable brand with reliable support: The Samsung Galaxy S4

When we expect so many things from our phones, it is inevitable that not all of these things will work perfectly for the amount of time that we use our device. Smartphones are designed with a short life-span in mind, but sometimes this can be too short.

So, if you’re after a strong support service and a brand you can trust, it is probably best to stick with the Samsung, as it is a larger company with a better reputation for solid customer service. 

For a pretty phone: The HTC One

It sounds really vain to choose a phone on the basis of its looks, but if you (or your teenage daughter) prioritise aesthetics above all other features, than the HTC One is the smartphone for you. Its contoured aluminium edges and pleasing home screen design make for a welcome change from the functionalist, plastic style of the Samsung. The HTC One also comes with a strong metal case, which looks a lot nicer than the flimsy plastic one that comes standard with the Samsung.

For extra storage space: The Samsung Galaxy S4

If you’re the sort of person who needs an SD card full of all of your movies, photos, songs and games sitting in your smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy S4 should be your pick. The Samsung has expandable storage, which means that you can keep more of your stuff on your phone, without needing to offload onto a home device (like a laptop or a hard drive.) The HTC One does not allow for expandable storage, so you’re stuck with the 32 or 64GB memory with no opportunity to use additional memory cards.

For a cost-effective solution: Possibly either, but your best bet will probably be the HTC One

If you want the cheapest contract you can get for a high quality smartphone, the HTC One should be the phone that you are enquiring after. Most major phone dealers are offering their cheapest plan for the HTC One at a lower rate than their cheapest plan for the Samsung S4, but it will depend on your provider. 

For great battery life: Either

Both the Samsung and the HTC report similar battery life - unfortunately, neither is that astounding when it comes to the juice in the phone. So, ultimately, it just comes down to which features are the most important to how you use your phone, rather than how long you use it for between charges.

Frances Ward is a tech nerd from Sydney. When she’s not trying to figure out who is the best provider for her managed cloud, she’s comparing smartphones on the internet.

*by andreascy*

How Prepaid Mobile Increases Convenience, Efficiency & Accessibility

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Whether we want to admit it or not, technology plays an irreplaceable part in our lives. Some of us have grown up with it to the point that using it has become second nature, while others have had to fight through the learning process to fit into this new mode of communication that shapes both our business and personal interaction. Surely, the fact that modern society depends so heavily on technology is nothing new to us. But, perhaps without realizing it, we have also become accustomed to three basic qualities that technology offers us to make our daily lives easier. These qualities are convenience, efficiency, and accessibility, and one of the most important pieces of technology that should offer these qualities is the mobile phone. Everyone has one, people use them constantly, and they are what links us to our friends, family, and business associates.

Therefore, you will certainly want to pick the right mobile plan for yourself that offers all three of these things. And with a Prepaid Mobile plan, you are likely to find everything that you are looking for!

Mobile Phones: The Embodiment of Convenient Communication

Let’s start with the first point: convenience. For a mobile phone to not be convenient would be a blatant contradiction to why it was invented, so it goes without saying that pretty much any mobile plan should offer the user convenience. But the degree of convenience is an important matter to look into, and with a Prepaid Mobile plan, you will find that convenience for customers has been made a top priority! Some providers specialize in plans where you can do everything online if you’d like, without even leaving the comfort of your home. They allow you to purchase prepaid SIM cards online, and activate them online as well. How is that for convenience? And if you would prefer to buy it in person, you can often do that at any participating store with little hassle! With convenient and easy to use plans like these, you really can’t go wrong. Plus, these providers often offer zero contracts to sign, so that means you are free to come and go as you please. That would be a hard opportunity to pass up.

The Ever-Efficient Prepaid Mobiles

As for efficiency, many Prepaid Mobile Plans have much to offer in that area as well. They offer the customer non-complicated PINS and codes, and exceptional line quality as well! This helps the customer communicate with others efficiently because it prevents those annoying issues that can tend to crop up when you don’t have the best plan for you. These are issues like bad reception, lines getting cut off, or even forgetting your PIN and other access codes, disabling you from accessing voicemail and other programs through your phone. With a Prepaid Mobile Plan, you can say goodbye to all of those issues, and hello to an efficient and easy plan that will keep you connected with no glitches or frustration!

Accessibility at the Forefront

Now for the last and possibly most important feature that a mobile phone should support: accessibility. Many Prepaid Mobile Plans allow for cheap access to international calling. For instance, some may give customers 30 days of unlimited national calls, exceptional amounts of data storage, and extremely cheap international calling deals. These prepaid plans give accessibility a new name, as their international rates can start as low as 0c per minute and include an extensive expiry date period! With a Prepaid Mobile Plan, you can access anyone, from any country in the in the world at unbeatable rates! Plus, you will likely be able to enjoy access to a dedicated mobile network of connections!

There is no denying that we live in a much more fast paced society than the generations before us did. Everything is go, go, go, and there is no longer any excuse to fall behind. Mobile Phones have given us the gift of never having to be cut off from communicating with others. But it is only really effective when you choose a Prepaid Mobile Plan that offers the 3 pillars modern society is based on - convenience, efficiency, and accessibility. It’s important not to let yourself feel lost and frustrated. Check out a Prepaid Mobile plan - you will likely find one that works for you! There is also additional information on how prepaid cell phones work, online.

This guest post was written by Kenneth Shellum, a know-it-all when it comes to making low cost calls and texts and using prepaid mobiles.

*by andreascy*

Meet The World's Smallest Flying Robot : The RoboBee

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Hello The *Official AndreasCY* lovers! As you already know i'm working a lot these days and this is something that takes a lot of my personal time. It keeps me away from my Blog but i'm still active on social media so feel free to have a look on the latest trending tech news, tweets and other exclusives that we collect for you. 

Sometimes though we miss out some really cool stuff that probably worth a review so if you have some great content to share with us or a product that you are working on, you can fill out this form and get in touch with the people here. Do not hesitate to contact us for a super fast 24 hours support. 

Ok let's see today's topic. A team of Science folks came up with something interesting that really toke our attention. Researchers at the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) put a decade's work into developing the penny-sized robot, before it took off for the first time. 

They have created a robot the size of a fly that makes uses of smart composite materials and piezoelectric technology performing the agile manoeuvres of an insect. RoboBee, which is built from carbon fiber, weighs a fraction of a gram and has super-fast electric "muscles" to power its wings that can even sit on a fingertip.

A recent paper lays out the progress of the robot’s fabrication and flight, but two major hurdles remain in the RoboBee’s flightpath. One hurdle is how to power the bee and the other is how to give it a digital brain small enough to keep the bee in flight.

In the video below (Video courtesy of Kevin Ma and Pakpong Chirarattananon) demonstrating RoboBee’s maneuvering capabilities, you can see that the current prototypes are still connected to computers and power sources. Scientists hope to cut the cord as the project develops, until they can create entirely autonomous colonies of these.

It’s simultaneously frightening and exciting. Guess what military will do with it!
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Learn more on NBC News and let us know what you think. Kindly share this topic with your friends and other social circles and subscribe on our RSS feed and Newsletter for straight updates to your email or feed reader.

*by andreascy*

Taking The Help Of A Web Based Billing System

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description : 

Imagine all your business processes done as far as your billing and accounting department is concerned; at a fraction of the cost. If you could outsource your accounting and billing operations to a reliable and reputable firm and enjoy seamless and smooth services then it would be an extremely wise business decision and here is exactly where opting for a web base billing system comes in. Most firms that deal with such web-based billing systems offer plenty of features and benefits.

What are the benefits of a web based billing system?

There is quite a wide range of benefits the business organization can enjoy when it scouts for an online or a web based billing system. Some of them are:

• flexibility of the service which can scale up as the customer base grows

• immediacy and up-to-date information which means that a customer can get billing information even somewhere in the middle of his billing cycle, if he so chooses

• control of the billing process is possible from almost any location. All an individual needs is to have access to a laptop and Internet access

• capability of delivering a high degree of data visualization and data customization as well 

The features of a web based billing system

One of the easiest things that you can do when you are searching for a reliable and comprehensive billing system for your business organization, is to go through the websites of different firms that deal with this particular product. This will also give you a pretty good idea of the kind of features that they offer and the costs of the same. 

Getting the highest possible value for your money is a good idea indeed when it comes to the choice of an online billing system. Most companies do have flexible packages or editions of such billing systems and depending on the kind of features that you want, you could either opt for a normal or standard version or go in for a full featured, premium version.

Enhanced user interface

With the help of a web-based billing system, you as a business organization owner can program the system in such a way that the user facing interface allows your customers to login and enjoy granular visibility and details as far as their bills are concerned. Such user interface also means that a customer can also use your web based billing system to make his payments online and in time.

Cross platform capabilities

A web-based billing system should also be capable of being accessed and operated and even controlled through different types of platforms such as Windows, Linux and so on. This would mean that you can enjoy all the features of such billing system regardless of the platform that your organization’s computers and network uses.

Security

A web based billing system will be successful only if it promises completely failsafe security. This means that unauthorized personnel and even hackers should not be able to get into your network and access personal information of your customers and, even worse, credit card details that they may use while making the payments. 

Jim T. has been in the IT industry since 1995, and is involved in web marketing and system development since 2007. He is a person who can deliver a quality web based billing system and provide system development consultation that will really work for your business.

*by andreascy*