Chicago Festival of maps continues

If the Chicago festival of maps is half as cool as the interactive website then this event has to be awesome! The Christian Science Monitor has an excellent report from Chicago and provides some great insight into the event and all the great stuff that those of us unable to get there are missing. Of note, the map data provided for the interactive website (Flash) is from Chicago-based Rand McNalley. See http://www.festivalofmaps.com
Lets just hope that maybe this event will head out on the road and be available for others to enjoy one day! Festival of maps is also maintaining a blog where you can find event updates like the recent addition of Civial War maps...

Nokia Not Only Comes With Music it Comes With Free Internet Radio

We've heard loads recently about Open Source and making waves most recently is the addition of Internet Radio to the growing list of Nokia's Open Source applications. Recall Nokia Research Center has made available the Internet Radio Client as a free application to the community. I've taken the service for a test drive and share my experience (and a video) in this short review... enjoy!








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The BCS College Football Google Map Mashup

Another fine mashup with a sports theme... this one enables you to see when and where the BCS games will take place and also see who's playing in them. A fine job (Let's hope that Ohio State gets the crap kicked out of them once again - ohowihateohiostate!)- see http://www.mibazaar.com/collegebowl/

For more than 50 years, NORAD is Tracking Santa

My annual update on NORAD Santa... those of you who know me recall that I feature this every year... after all, I grew up with this cool resource and am now still having fun watching the service evolve! Once again, beginning at 2:00 am MTN on Christmas Eve, you can track Santa Live as he makes his historic journey around the world! This time you can track him using Google Earth and get glimpses of Saint Nick captured with the NORAD Santa Cams. NORAD has been tracking Santa since 1955 (I recall using this fine service when I was a kid, albeit without the help of Google Earth at that time!). Funded by generous corporate sponsors, these companies enable a fun tracking service by providing computer servers web site design, video imaging, Santa's tracking map, and even the toll free telephone number. The NORAD Tracks Santa Program is managed by the NORAD and United States Northern Command Public Affairs Office at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado. See more here or jump to noradsanta.org

Nokia's North American Penetration

I saw something recently where a question was asked whether Nokia can/will make in-roads into North America. Are you kidding me? They have 40% Global marketshare, set the trends (for most part) and now own Navteq as well... of course Nokia will make more penetration in North America! The future of mobile lies in presence, mobile ads, on demand music, videos, games etc... who else could dominate that space at this time? North Americans for the most part are content with text messaging, 1 megapixel digital cameras (shoot, my daughter even has a 3MP phone camera!) and push email. Try a phone with 4 or 8GB expandable memory, an amazing video and digital camera experience, hundreds of thousands of available apps, Internet radio and much more ... the biggest obstacle is the sales channel. The Carrier shops sell crappy devices, sales crews are totally clueless, and the selection of devices simply isn't there. Go online and buy an unlocked device, that's what consumers need to be doing... beware the contract

Irish lecturer holds 2 full time positions

An interesting story out of the UK... maybe this answers why some of your profs at University never seemed to be around... and you thought they were doing research! A lecturer has resigned from two colleges after it was discovered he had been working "full-time" for both colleges for the past eight years. Fergal O'Malley was a lecturer in electronic engineering in both the National University of Ireland, Galway and 90km away in the Athlone Institute of Technology. Between the two jobs he was earning about €170,000 a year as well as building up separate pension entitlements. See more

A holiday tip - the Sony PSP, extended warranties, and rugged options

A quick holiday tip for anyone out there thinking of putting a Sony PSP under the tree for a loved one this year. My son picked one up a couple of months ago (saved his own money for one) anyway, after about 3 weeks of use he dropped it in his room and the screen shattered... apparently they are very prone to broken screens when not handled delicately - ya right, like a 12 year old boy handles anything with care! Anyway, I'm a huge fan of saying a big NO to the extended warranty.. what a rip off that is! However, in this case, with this product it may be worth the extra $30... consider this as an option. If not, then definitely get a wrist strap, or even better, see if you can locate a rugged case to hold the device.. perhaps otterbox (right here in Ft Collins) has one. Some food for thought. PS... if anyone has a tip on a simple way to repair teh screen please feel free to share details!

ESRI's ArcPad 7.1 trial download now back online

I just heard from ESRI's ArcPad marketing team, apparently a server issue may have prevented some people from accessing the free trial download.. the problem has now been rectified. From ESRI... we experienced a server issue on esri.com when we uploaded the 7.1 download files yesterday. This was resolved within an hour or so and all files should be ready to download now. Please try again and my apologies for the inconvenience. See more in the announcement or jump directly to www.esri.com/arcpad.

Ordnance Survey Goes Open Source with OS OpenSpace

The Ordnance Survey has opened source code to web 2.0 applications. According to the OS,
Web developers are this week previewing a free online platform to help them experiment with their data. Under an application programming interface (API) developers will register for a feed of data to experiment with non-commercially. It includes a range of mapping scales covering the whole of Great Britain down to street level. Developers can access up to 30 000 “tiles” or extracts of data a day and up to 1 000 place name look-ups. OS OpenSpace allows users to add markers, lines and polygons on top of Ordnance Survey maps, search for place names with a gazetteer and display other location data from elsewhere on the web.

The platform is a JavaScript API that uses “slippy map” technology, so users can grab and move images in different directions. As well as the API itself, OS OpenSpace will include a community website so developers can discuss, review and collaborate on projects.

See openspace.ordnancesurvey.co.uk. For information on the Developer Programme see www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/partnerships/developers.

Western Canada Map Proposal To redefine Provincial boundary - enter Saskatoba

After the beating Saskatchewan laid down on Manitoba in the Grey Cup a new propasal is under consideration to redraw the National Map of Canada, most affecting Manitoba and Saskatchewan... see below for the proposed boundary changes!

ArcPad 7.1 now available

Finally, it's here! In version 7.1, the ArcPad object model has been updated to support data relationship rules and includes improved data management tools. (Note: ArcPad Application Builder 7.1 is sold separately)

ArcPad 7.1 includes the following enhancements:
· out-of-the-box solutions to view and edit relational databases in the field
· QuickProject—A simple data template to capture various geographic features and help both new and experienced users become immediately productive
· StreetMap extension—Includes the most recent North American street map data from Tele Atlas, providing geocoding, routing functionalities, and a preconfigured basemap for users at no additional cost
· Enhanced query capabilities—Includes a query builder and query forms that support predefined, customized queries
· ArcPad Data Manager extension for ArcGIS Desktop—Interactive tools in ArcMap and ArcPad that allow simple automation of field workflows and easier management of mobile GIS project deployments

To try a fully functional evaluation copy of ArcPad 7.1, visit www.esri.com/arcpad. The ArcPad Application Builder 7.1 update will be shipped automatically to customers who are current on maintenance without additional cost. Users who have purchased ArcPad 7.0.1 since October 22, 2007, will be eligible for a free upgrade to ArcPad 7.1.

Explore the UK with Explore (Beta) from the Ordnance Survey

Explore is a new beta application from Ordnance Survey, allowing you to create and share your routes with the world, and join in with ones that already exist. Search for a location and then view the routes that people are sharing for that area. This will include details and points of interest - even photos, so you will be well prepared for a satisfying walk - almost a 1 000 routes posted so far. Check it out at www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/explore. Locate your routes for running, walking, sailing, horse riding, flying, rock climbing and more.

Navteq Traffic to go - the case for LBS and advertising

A presentation from Nokia World, Amsterdam, describing how effective location-aware advertising can be. Presented by Chris Rothey, VP Navteq. Interesting that to date the mobile, location-aware ads are being very succesful, are valuable to users, people are looking at it etc. The key to mobile ads is that it places the advert in a different context, adding tremendous value. Imagine that an ad for a short video clip download or coupon etc.. may have much more meaning when delivered to you if your standing in line at a move or waiting for a train etc... Imagine approaching an Interstate exit and a relevant ad serving a coupon for gas or a free drink is served... contextual ads will be huge!

Google Earth Adds More Images From Above with photos from Yann Arthus-Bertrand

New today from Google, the addition of some amazing images captured above the Earth by Yann Arthus-Bertrand - many captured in a hot air balloon. The layer, which is called "Earth from Above," will be regularly updated with new photographs plus facts and figures by GoodPlanet.org, using data from various agencies around the world. It will be accessible from the Global Awareness folder in Google Earth, home to a number of layers highlighting environmental and humanitarian issues. To access the Global Awareness folder, users should go to the Layers folder in the left hand toolbar in Google Earth. The layer is alaso available as a Google Widget as well so you can see a fresh image every day on your Google homepage - see See http://www.goodplanet.org/ and http://www.google.com/earthfromabove

Mobile Rules! Reminder

A reminder... From Nokia... it's Mobile Rules! Designed for those innovative minds. The goal of the competition is to further drive the aspects of miniaturization, green technologies, and performance in Mobile technologies. Three finalists will be selected from each of the four streams. The 12 finalists will be invited to participate in an innovation exhibition at Nokia headquarters in Finland in April 2007 where they will demonstrate their innovations and discuss them with Nokia decision makers.

The competition can be entered at http://www.mobilerules.org/technology/ . The deadline for entries is 25th January 2008.

Some Interesting Numbers and Stats gathered at Nokia World 2007

Interesting Numbers from Nokia World 2007

one quarter (1/4) - Recent research findings by Nokia have shown that within 5 years time more than one quarter of all consumed media will be created within the mobile user community where it is then distributed, shared, edited within the user community – think collaborative, social media.

1 - #1... One place to connect, manage, and share... OVI!

2.0 - Access your services and relationships.. Leading web2.0 serice providers are taking part in ovi.. youtube, flickr, facebook…

4 - Enter the 4th screen

5 - Nokia currently has 5 devices shipping with integrated GPS

10 - Nokia has plans in 2008 to add 10 new GPS-enabled devices

25 - Nokia predicts 25% of entertainment by 2012 will be created and consumed within peer communities

31 - WLAN users - 31%

39 - Nokia enjoys a 39% market share

54 - Nokia's new green packaging uses 54% less materials

57 - some 57% of those reserached by CitiBank are interested in mobile payment - 50% of users would consider switching carriers in order to have access to this service.

60 - s60 is THE power-user and platform

66 - there are now 66 S60 devices that have shipped

81 - 81% of users polled use their phone for web browsing

85 - some 85% of the materials in new "green" phones like the 3110 evolve can be reclaimed.

1000 - new mobile users per minute!

1000 - Internet radio is to be integrated into a seamless experience – with more than 1000 radio stations available to users

3000 - More than 3000 registered attendees in Amsterdam taking in Nokia World 2007... this up from 40 attendees of the first event.

3310.. part of the essentials segment.. has all the functionality people need but also made responsible with recycled material… more green devices will come as well.

9,000 - research took place between July and September 2007. 9,000 consumers, who are active users of technology and own a mobile device [not restricted to Nokia] aged 16-35 were questioned. Of the 9,000 consumers we surveyed:
- 23% buy movies in digital format
- 35% buy music on MP3 files
- 25% buy music on mobile devices
- 39% watch TV on the internet
- 23% watch TV on mobile devices
- 46% regularly use IM, 37% on a mobile device
- 29% regularly blog
- 28% regularly access social networking sites
- 22% connect using technologies such as Skype
- 17% take part in Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games
- 17% upload to the internet from a mobile device

10,000 - Viewright streaming mobile video application, runner up in Open C challenge involved 10,000 lines of code written in 3 months time by Steve Delaney, Carlsbad, CA

37,000 - if 100 million mobile device users switched to energy efficient models, the energy savings could power some 37,000 homes!

Millions - Nokia Comes With Music. This is not a streaming service but all the songs are there for users. Too good to be true!! Millions of songs available to all users any time any place!

5,000,000 - more than 5 million apps are downloaded per month via Nokia content download

100,000,000 - Anticipating what’s next from the users… recall 2001 in Barcelona... since then more than 100 million devices shipped.

200,000,000 - a key milestone was recently reached as the number of feature-rich “power” device users (aka. The S60 segment) surpassed the 200 million mark.

More out of Nokia World here

Tip #1 on how not to send Holiday Greetings

We all get loads of email and managing it is no small task... so, I would suggest that if your thinking about blasting electronic email cards to all your contacts maybe think twice or at least personalize the message a little. I just received this one from a company who, well, I have absolutely no idea who they are!



Nice of these guys to wish me Happy Holidays... but who the hell are they???

Vegas the dog tracked with Nokia Sports Tracker and N95

A video captured at Nokia World 2007 (by yours truly) showing an innovative app and user of Nokia Beta Labs popular Sports tracker application. Vegas the do wears a Nokia N95 GPS enabled device on his collar and him and his owner track his following using sports tracker.. clever and funny! Well done Vegas... I actually track my walks with Zoe my lab and we map our treks in Google Earth out of Sports Tracker... maybe Zoe can be the Sports Tracker user of the month in the near future!

New Patent to Enhance Local Search from GeoVector

Details on Another patent focused on local search... GeoVector today has announced a New Patent to Enhance Local Search. The location-based technology allows access to images or video by pointing a mobile phone or other device at an object or place. The new technology, available for license, also significantly extends battery life of mobile devices. US Patent 7301536 better enables mobile phones or other devices to display stored digital images which are linked to real-world objects or places. see also geovector.com

Going Green in 2008 - Nokia Evolving To Greener Company

Nokia is a Global leader in their market, no questioning that. So, perhaps their move to make "greener" more environmentally sound decisions in their business processes will spread to others... indeed they are a good role model for action. I have to say that one aspect of the Nokia World event that took me a bit by surprise was the company’s vision for a greener future and their commitment to deliver eco-friendly products and sustainable solutions… very impressive in my mind! Charting a new course – expect a Nokia that will take more risks to help shape the future of mobile communications.

Enter the Green device – Nokia 3110 Evolve

True testament to Nokia’s commitment to a sustainable World comes with the launch of a new, eco-friendly device – the Nokia 3110 Evolve. The device is made from 50% renewable material, and delivered in a smaller package made from recycled materials – indeed the dawn of a new era for the company. We were told that if 100 million mobile device users switched to energy efficient models, the energy savings could power some 37,000 homes! Some features of the 3110:
- sustainable and stylish
- natural tones and contrasting material finishes
- covers made from unpainted bio-sourced materials
- smaller packaging
- energy efficient charger, using 94% less energy than the standard charger.

Power efficient chargers will ship with new devices.


Made from recylcable materials and shipping in eco-friendly packages!

Subprime Litigation Risk - What's the State of Your State?

Some interesting findings on the subprime fallout... Guy Carpenter & Company, LLC, the leading global risk and reinsurance specialist, today published What's the State of Your State? E&O Risk Uneven across the Country, a state-by-state overview of the threat of errors & omissions (E&O) litigation on U.S. real estate professionals. The report finds that while no single factor can predict where litigation will be heaviest, a range of indicators, taken together, can help predict where lawsuits are most likely. According to the Guy Carpenter Index, there is little to no correlation between the highest risk states for subprime-related E&O litigation and those states such as Arizona and Nevada with the greatest number of subprime mortgage delinquencies and/or foreclosures. Rather, the riskiest states are those that have average rankings in most categories and an extremely high result in a single category. A full copy of the report can be downloaded at www.guycarp.com