September 2, 2009
Smartphones rising to take the lead over PNDs by 2014
ZD Net
Matthew Miller writes that according to research from iSuppli Corp., soon, almost all smartphones will have built-in GPS functionality.
“ISuppli believes that in 2011, nearly 100 per cent of all smart phones shipped will integrate GPS functionality. They also agree that the applications available on mobile platforms are what is driving this adoption by the end user. In addition to the availability, the price of these applications is much less (for the most part) than even a low cost PND (personal navigation device).”
Sony adopts Chrome as default browser for VAIO line
Engadget
Vladislav Savov writes that Sony’s VAIO PC desktops and laptops will come with Google Chrome pre-installed.
“An ‘experimental’ arrangement – and, most importantly, will default to Google for both their homepage and search queries. Google is said to be pursuing similar distribution pacts with other manufacturers, which would place Internet Explorer’s stranglehold on the uninitiated user under threat.”
Five Augmented-Reality iPhone Apps We’d Actually Buy
Valleywag
<p Ryan Tate writes about upcoming iPhone applications and what sorts of ideas should be followed up on.
“Sometime next month, new iPhone software is supposed to ease the way for “augmented reality” apps, which digitally superimpose data on the world, as seen through the phone’s camera. Very cool idea and, so far, very boring execution. Think, people. We’ve … thought of some vastly superior ideas off the tops of our heads … NetworkerGoggles: You’re at a schmoozefest. Who are the most interesting people in the room? The most indiscreet; the most likely to be drunk; the richest; the ones with the most/least friends in common with you? Ask your iPhone and little business cards start floating over their heads!”