iPad and Notebooks

I have experienced using this gadget because of my techie-lover boss. It is really amazing. I could possibly enjoy iPad if I could own one. Putting it on my wish list and hopefully it would not stay that long in wishes. *wink* I am a netbook owner and enjoying it but why in this earth that when I heard about Apple creations, I could not afford to just ignore it as if just seeing its logo on every car that I see in streets, every bags and everything where, I am dreaming about having one. But in the case that it is not that affordable for me, I just can't blame myself to wish and wish for it someday. Just wondering, what will Apple could have in 10 years after now? Anyways, why is it that this iPad is hurting the sales of notebooks/netbooks nowadays. Want to know why? Apple released the iPad in April 2010 and sold 3 million of the devices in 80 days. Amazing, isn't it? Here are the answers that I've read from eweek newsletter sent to me through email.

The Mobility Factor

Notebooks were initially so successful because of a user’s ability to carry them around wherever they went. But some laptops can be heavy. The iPad doesn’t suffer from that. It’s slimmer even than any notebook, it’s lightweight and it delivers the kind of mobility that, so far, notebooks haven’t been able to match.

Price

Notebooks prices are cheap nowadays, but with the entry-level fee of $499, most would agree that the iPad is an attractive buy. For that price, the consumer is getting the same exact device as the top iPad model, less 3G and extra storage. A $500 laptop will likely include inferior components, little storage, and even less RAM. It’s underwhelming, to say the least. Consumers don’t want inferior products and with that kind of choice, they will opt for the iPad.

Apple’s Allure

Over the past 10 years, Apple has become synonymous with outstanding products that provide a much different and superior experience over other devices on the market. With that in mind, it’s likely that the Apple logo alone is enough to pull consumers to the iPad, rather than a competing notebook.

It’s Better than a MacBook

Although some are focusing on the iPad beating Windows-based PCs, the reality is, Apple’s tablet is also cutting into MacBook sales. And the reasons for that are simple: the MacBook is a middle-of-the-road product that doesn’t offer the mobility of the iPad nor the power of the MacBook Pro. When consumers realize that, they opt for either of those products, rather than the MacBook.

App Store

Then you must not discount the value of Apple’s App Store. With more than 250,000 applications available, it’s a place where consumers can extend the functionality of Apple’s tablet. Plus, worthwhile applications can be downloaded for little or no fee. That’s a far cry from the sometimes-wildly-expensive desktop applications available for notebooks. Granted, those programs are more robust, but if it’s simple, easy functionality users are after, Apple’s App Store delivers a better experience.

It’s the iPhone Without the Fee

Although Apple offers a 3G version of its iPad, which requires customers to pay $15 or $30 per month based on data usage, most consumers view the iPad as a way to save money when compared to the iPhone. After all, it provides the same functionality as the iPhone, offers access to the same apps, and over the course of 24 months, costs much less, since the iPhone requires data and calling plans. Consumers looking to save money and still have iPhone-like functionality are looking toward the iPad. And they’re forgetting about notebooks.

The Coolness Factor

It might sound simplistic, but the iPad is widely viewed to be a "cool" device. And that alone makes the iPad worthwhile. Apple has proven over the past few years that tech devices can be an extension of who a person really is. And consumers have shown that they want to be proud to show off their tech toys in public. They can be proud with the iPad and its "wow" factor. The same isn’t true with notebooks.

Multimedia

Some would argue that laptops and notebooks provide a more robust multimedia experience, since their browsers support Flash. But for most consumers, the iPad is the chosen multimedia device in the mobile-computing environment. The iPad boasts a sizable 10-inch display, it allows for Netflix streaming, and it provides easy access to iTunes video and audio content. Granted, any laptop can perform all those tasks, as well, but the iPad oozes entertainment. Laptops and notebooks tend to indicate work. And that’s not something that draws in consumers.

Most Folks Already Have Some Type of Laptop

It’s not a stretch to say that some consumers who have a finite budget evaluate their current laptops, decide that they can live with it for another year and opt for an iPad over a new laptop. After all, they can use the old laptop for productivity-based tasks and the iPad for everything else. Plus, Apple’s tablet is readily affordable.

Laptops Are Boring

As soon as someone compares the iPad to a laptop, they will quickly realize one undeniable fact: Laptops are boring. Laptops look like the past. They have physical keyboards, they fold up and they’re somewhat bulky. Apple’s iPad boasts a touch screen, a virtual keyboard and all the latest functionality consumers are looking for. It’s fun and it’s fresh. That’s one of the main reasons why consumers are opting for it over boring, old Laptops.

But on top of this, I could positively say that every creations of different technology gadget companies have their own differences and advantage with others. We could apply here the saying that "No one is perfect." The important thing is we could appreciate what we have and possibly enjoying every bit of it.

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My Precious Goes to UAE

We've been together for 2 years. Being there for me, capturing every single moments of my life, every happy and sad moments. Witnessed my hardships and happiness, were together through thick and thin. I thought we will not going to be apart, however, time can really change everything in our life. Its been 5 days since my precious cellphone leaves for UAE. I don't have any reasons to disagree with this, because I am the one who volunteered to send it there, for my brother. I can't find anything that can help him fight his homesick, so somehow, having my cellphone can ease what he feels, with the games and other features of it. How I hope that I am the one in his place, overseas, but luck can't find me and I can't find it too. I can't blame life for being unfair, because I know in the end of the road, I have my own destination. As for my precious cellphone, hope you captured many beautiful places in there and send it to me over facebook for me to be happy here, knowing your in good hands and you take good care of my brother. See you in the next two years or hopefully much earlier than that. Hope luck can find me in much earlier time.

Very usable phone for me. Photo quality is fair enough. Modem for my laptop so I could surf the net anywhere I want plus its 3G network, WLAN/WIFI feature, mp3 and movie, plus a headset that could not hurt my eardrums even in full volume.

Whew, such a drama huh!!! I am not insane guys, just being dramatic lately. Maybe this is the result of something or someone precious to you, being far. Anyways, as a replacemet, I bought another cellphone, with camera also, although not that good but I can live with it. I just needed a phone that can provide my daily needs, calling and sending SMS.

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Card Payment and WIFI on Board

I am a weekly passenger of buses from Manila to Batangas and vice versa. In my first year on job, I am lucky to have my first credit card. At first I think it is better than having a cash on hand, somehow, nobody can steal it and use it immediately since this kind of payment were only accepted on malls. But nowadays, it is not safe. By the time credit cards are starting to bloom here in the Philippines, I thought of credit card payment on buses. I don't even think of making it possible. My habbit while I am sitting and waiting for the bus to leave is to observe the surroundings. One time I spotted the banner on the other side of the road and shocked to what I've seen. Credit card payments are soon to be accepted plus WIFI on board. Whew, I think when I ride the buses having this WIFI facility, I don't want to go home. haha. I am paying 50 pesos a day just to have an internet at home.

Proof that our country is not behind the technologies. People are also adjusting with this modern facilities and we cannot deny the fact that internet and credit cards are important. :D

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Netbook is Better than an Ipad?

Ooopps, react later please...:D

Apple's Ipad released in April 2010, a very popular tablet computer really has a great impact around the world. I saw a lot of news about these gadget and depends on what I've heard I think it is a very good choice if I will buy one. Small in size but full of features.

Quoted from wikipedia: "Similar to older and smaller iPod Touch and iPhone, the iPad runs a modified version of the iOS and is controlled by a multi-touch LCD sensitive to fingertips, instead of a stylus as with earlier tablet computers. It runs iPad-specific applications as well as those written for the iPhone and iPod Touch, including e-book readers. The iPad uses Wi-Fi or a 3G data connection to browse the Internet, load and stream media and install software. A USB cable is required to sync the iPad with iTunes on a personal computer."

It really makes sense for all of us. But yesterday I got interested in these article, saying netbooks are better than iPads. It says if simply put, when compared to a netbook, the iPad can't quite stack up and here's why:

1. The Keyboard

If productivity is what you want, the iPad is not the best choice for one major reason: its keyboard. The virtual keyboard works well in landscape mode, but getting used to it takes time. Worst of all, even the most proficient virtual keyboard typists will have trouble getting all the words they want into a document since Apple's software auto-corrects any words that it believes are mistakenly input. A physical keyboard is simply more useful and practical for prolonged use. That plays into the netbook's favor.

2. Windows

Windows is a better operating system than iPhone OS. It's that simple. Although Apple's software is robust for what it does, it's still a mobile operating system. And that mobile operating system is trying to make a splash in a market where a far more capable operating system, which is running on the vast majority of netbooks, is waiting in the wings for corporate users. Realizing that, netbooks have an upper-hand when compared to the iPad. Apple's tablet might be an attractive purchase to consumers, but in the corporate world, it's being held back by its software.

3. Flash, Anyone?

Although Apple has said time and again that it doesn't want to support Flash because of the potential security issues it brings to the market, Flash is a proven standard on the Web that the vast majority of games and videos use. It's also worth noting that a slew of Web sites use Flash to extend the functionality of pages. Owners of Windows netbooks won't need to worry about that, since Microsoft's operating system supports Flash.

4. Software Is Everything

Apple's App Store is certainly a leader in the smartphone space. With well over 200,000 applications, there are undoubtedly many apps that users will find valuable. But the App Store still pales in comparison to the compatibility of netbooks running Windows. Those that need specific software packages will be able to run them on a Windows-based machine without much trouble. The same can't be said for the iPad. And although more developers are turning to the App Store to deliver products, few iPhone enterprise applications can compare to those available to Windows netbook owners.

5. The iPad Is First-Gen

The iPad is undoubtedly a great device that has set a new standard in the marketplace. But it's worth mentioning that the device is still a first-generation product with first-generation issues. For example, when the iPad originally launched, it suffered from Wi-Fi problems. Some owners are still experiencing those problems more than two months after the tablet's release. Netbooks, on the other hand, have been around longer. And although anything can happen to hardware, they might be more reliable for those that require a mobile PC to be with them at all times.

6. Productivity Means Something

More productive time at work means more time for play. Plus, in the corporate world, productivity is what drives revenue. Realizing that, companies should be looking for the device that can deliver the best opportunity to increase user productivity. That won't necessarily happen with the iPad. As mentioned, the device's keyboard can't compare to a standard physical keyboard. It's also worth noting that iPhone OS is a hobbled alternative to Windows. If productivity is what a user covets, the netbook is still the best option by a wide margin. It's hard for Apple or any tablet fan to dispute that.

7. The Best iPad Hasn't Hit Store Shelves Yet

Apple is awfully good at delivering products that people immediately want. But the company is also good at offering a finite number of features to ensure consumers will want more in the next version of the device. The iPad is no different. Apple's tablet currently features some, but not all, of the bells and whistles that customers are really looking for, like a camera, Webcam capabilities, and more. The best iPad is coming next year. Meanwhile, the best netbooks are already available. Why settle for second place?

8. . No Multitasking

Multitasking still isn't available in Apple's iPad. Apple says that it will be making its way to the tablet later this year, but until that happens, the iPad is a less-capable alternative to netbooks. After all, if a user wants to be able to surf the Web and continue typing up a document at the same time, they won't be able to do it. That's a major issue and a key reason why a netbook might trump the iPad today. When multitasking comes to the iPad, it will be time to reevaluate both products. But until then, Apple's tablet just doesn't compare.

9. Price Plays A Part

Price is always a key consideration when buyers need to consider which mobile computer they want to buy. Perhaps that's why netbooks are still popular. The iPad currently retails for $499 up to $829. Compare that to netbooks, which can be purchased for as little as $199, and it quickly becomes clear that the lightweight notebooks are far more attractive, from a price perspective, than the iPad. Granted, Apple's product delivers touch functionality, but it's being offered at a premium that just doesn't justify its value.

10. The More Options, The Better

Those that are looking for a new, lightweight computer to bring along on travel excursions or business trips will find more to choose from with netbooks. The iPad only comes from Apple, and the only option the customer has is to choose between six different versions of the device. Netbooks come in all shapes and sizes from a variety of vendors. So, if a customer is happy with Dell's computer, they can buy a netbook from that company. If they prefer Asus, they can get one. Apple doesn't allow for such choices. from: channelinsider image from: treehugger

Well, all I can say is I am not yet an Apple user anyway, but I am very interested on their technologies and inventions and hoping that in the years to come, I could be one of the Apple users. Nowadays, I am enjoying my netbook and it is quite usable and portable. I don't really need that expensive gadget if I can do my basic chores in a cheaper one.

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Most Dangerous Web App Security Risks

Injection Flaws

Injection flaws allow attackers to relay malicious code through Web apps to another system, such as backend databases or the operating system. To remedy this, organizations can use commercial WAFs (Web application firewalls), which can include negative security signatures to identify attack payloads, according to Ryan Barnett, director of application research at Breach Security. By analyzing the outbound pages, WAFs can also identify when an injection flaw is successful by identifying information leakages.

Cross-Site Scripting

Though listed separately, Cross-Site Scripting attacks are a type of injection problem that exists when malicious scripts are injected into legitimate Websites. To deal with the issue, organizations should focus on developing proper input validation policies.

Broken Authentication and Session Management

Strong authentication mechanisms can be undermined by poor credential management tied to functions such as password changes and recovery. Organizations should strive to create a single set of strong authentication and session management controls.

Insecure Direct Object Reference

A direct object reference is when a developer exposes a reference to an internal implementation object, such as a file or directory, as a URL or form parameter. An attacker can manipulate direct object references to access other objects without authorization.

Cross-Site Request Forgery

CSRF (Cross-site request forgery) occurs when a Web app fails to properly verify whether a well-formed, valid, consistent request was intentionally provided by the user who submitted the request. To prevent CSRF, include an unpredictable token in a hidden field as part of each transaction, OWASP recommends. There should be a unique token for every user session at minimum but can also be unique per request.

Security Misconfiguration

An unsecure configuration for the application, framework, Web server, application server and/or platform can spell disaster. These settings should be well-defined and relatively easy to deploy to another environment. Ideally, this process should be automated to minimize the effort required to set up a new, secure environment.

Insecure Cryptographic Storage

Web applications that do not use appropriate encryption for sensitive information such as social security numbers and credit card information leave users open to compromise in the event of an attack. Organizations should take stock of the threat landscape and make sure sensitive data is protected. Also off-site backups should be encrypted, with the keys managed and stored separately.

Failure to Restrict URL Access

According to OWASP, many Web applications check URL access rights before rendering protected links and buttons. However, applications should perform similar checks when these pages are accessed, or attackers will be able to forge URLs to access these hidden pages anyway. Controlling URL access also includes setting proper access rate thresholds (anti-automation) to identify/prevent denial of service, brute force and scraping attacks, said Ryan Barnett, director of application research at Breach Security.

Insufficient Transport Layer Protection

Applications frequently fail to encrypt network traffic when it is necessary to protect sensitive communications. When they do, they sometimes support weak algorithms, use expired or invalid certificates, or do not use them correctly. To prevent this, consider requiring SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) for certain pages and making non-SSL requests to those pages redirect to a SSL page.

Unvalidated Redirects and Forwards

This is new to OWASP's list. Web applications frequently redirect and forward users to other pages and Websites. If untrusted data is used to determine the destination pages, attackers could redirect victims to malicious sites. Again, the answer to this lies with proper validation.

from: eweek

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Slickest Features in Visual Studio 2010

IntelliTraceThe IntelliTrace feature enables a developer to step back through a recorded history of his application’s execution to see what happened just before the application crashed, and refer to actionable bug reports that include the application's execution history.

Test Impact Analysis Window
This feature enables developers to fight regression errors with test impact analysis, which keeps developers informed about tests that need to rerun with every check-in, and improves application quality with real-time information about tests results.

Multi-Monitor Support
This feature enables developers to edit multiple files across multiple monitors, stretches their development workspace across multiple monitors and minimizes context switching between files.

C++ Improvements
This feature includes MSBUILD support for faster compilation. Also, multitargeting enables the use of multiple C++ compilers from VS2010. The new version of the tool set also includes improved IntelliSense in C++ projects.

JavaScript IntelliSense
This feature enables developers to get IntelliSense function code auto-completion support on dynamically generated JScript objects, to enjoy IntelliSense support for third-party JavaScript frameworks and also to enjoy faster IntelliSense support in client-side Web development situations.

Improved AJAX Support
This feature enables developers to easily add interactivity to their ASP.NET applications, to use the jQuery framework in their ASP.NET AJAX applications and to use client-side databound controls to improve Web application performance.

Start Page Extensibility
This feature enables developers to easily personalize their work environments and turn their start page into a custom application hosted in Visual Studio. Simply put, it enables developers to work the way they want to.

One-Click Deployment
This feature enables developers to move their database, registry and Web.config settings into production with one click, and to quickly push Website updates into production with one click. In addition, with Visual Studio 2010, xcopy deployment is much improved.

Business Connectivity Services
This feature enables developers to use Microsoft's Language Integrated Query (LINQ) with SharePoint to easily join multiple data sources. Developers also can pull in external data into SharePoint, and create Web parts and custom lists.

Silverlight Designer
With this feature developers can build one application to run on the Web and offline. Developers also can build broad-reaching Internet applications that can run offline, and get the best of both online and offline applications with new Silverlight design tools.

from: eweek

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Windows 7 Security Features

Microsoft Security Essentials
Microsoft Security Essentials is Microsoft's response to the malware that has plagued the company's operating systems in the past. It won't catch all the bad stuff, but as security experts have found, it does a fine job of catching several security threats that impact the Windows ecosystem.
BitLocker
Encryption is a key component in any operating system security plan. With the help of the newly improved BitLocker, Windows 7 users can have more control over the encryption of their hard drives. Microsoft's BitLocker even automatically encrypts new data while it's running. It's a hands-off tool that should improve security in Windows 7.
BitLocker To Go
BitLocker To Go is new to Windows 7. Rather than encrypt just the desktop, BitLocker To Go allows users to encrypt portable hardware, like external hard drives and USB keys. It's probably one of the best new security features in Windows 7. More users than ever are going mobile. Data is at risk whenever that happens. BitLocker To Go helps limit the spread of sensitive data to malicious hands.
Action Center
In Windows Vista, Microsoft used a specially named Security Center menu to give users access to security features. In Windows 7, the company moved all those security features to the Action Center where they join Backup and Restore, as well as other features. It's an important move. The Action Center is now the place to go not only to secure the operating system, but also to ensure that data is kept safe in case of a crash. It's a nice reminder to users.

User Account Control
User Account Control couldn't have been any more annoying in Windows Vista. It caused most users to ignore its warnings, and thus, put them at risk. Microsoft drastically improved User Account Control in Windows 7, making it easier for users to customize how intrusive it is. That level of personalization should cut down on click fatigue and keep users more aware of what's happening on their systems.
DirectAccess
DirectAccess is a welcome addition to Windows 7 for any user who connects to a corporate VPN. Rather than input all the credentials manually, DirectAccess now streamlines the process of securely connecting to a corporate network. It also maintains that secure connection throughout the process, ensuring that no data leaks out during the transmission.
Biometrics
Although biometric technology has been a part of the Windows ecosystem for years, Windows 7 allows third-party developers to use Microsoft's own biometric drivers and software, rather than having to create their own. It's no small development. Thanks to that simple addition, Windows 7 users will rely less on third-party software. And the less third-party software, the better.
AppLocker
AppLocker is an especially useful tool for IT admins. The software gives administrators the opportunity to decide exactly what applications users can run on the network. The tool also limits the scripts and installation programs users can have running on their computers. It's a great way for the IT department to maintain some control over the security of employee computers.
Windows Filtering Platform
Windows Filtering Platform was originally included in Windows Vista. It's a series of system services and an API that allows developers to access portions of Windows. In Windows 7, developers can incorporate Windows Firewall components into their own applications. That should help limit users fiddling with Windows Firewall to gain access to a program's features.
Windows Firewall
Windows Firewall has been updated in Windows 7. The app now allows users to create settings based on where they are. In other words, if a user is in a public place, he or she might want more aggressive Firewall protections than when working at home. Windows 7 gives users the freedom to decide how they want to safeguard themselves.
from: eweek.com

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Why Windows 7 Upgrade is Unlike Any Other

Windows 7 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows, a series of operating systems produced by Microsoft for use on personal computers, including home and business desktops, laptops, netbooks, tablet PCs and media center PC's. It was released to manufacturing last July 22, 2009, and general retail availability last October 22, 2009. Interested in Windows 7 capabilities, I am intrigued by these statements and I just want to share. Anyone using Windows 7 right now, what can you guys say?

1. The Whole (Microsoft Windows) Enchilada. This is the first time the server side applications and the client side applications are all being updated at the same time.
2. Storm Clouds?. This is the first time a really new computing model—cloud computing—is demanding that Microsoft can show it can play well with others.
3. Google in the Rear View Mirror. This the first time that a big new competitor—Google—is creating a new operating system to be available within twelve months of the new Windows.
4. Where's Bill?. This will be the first Windows client operating system introduced following Bill Gates retirement.
5. A Clean, Well Lighted Place. This is the first Windows client that will tout simplicity instead of complexity based on a NASA level programming effort.
6. Secure by Design This is the first client where security will take prominence over touting backward compatibility.
7. All Together Now. This is the first time that an economic recovery, an aging IT infrastructure and a vendor community anxious to spur sales and a range of new processor chips will all play to the Microsoft upgrade theme song.
8. Zero Price Competition. This is the first time that there are really good, mature free operating system competitors to Microsoft.
9. A Healthy Apple. This is the first time that a healthy Apple is setting the consumer agenda in lots of areas where Microsoft would like to play.
10. Vista? Never Heard of It. This will be the first time that Microsoft's major competitor is not the previous Microsoft operating system but an operating system—XP—introduced in October 2001.
    by: Eric Lundquist
    from: eweek.com image: boygenius
    

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20 Twitter Applications You Need to Know About

With more than 50 million users visiting Twitter in July, the microblogging service has become quite the destination for short updates about what we're doing in the moment. In addition to being a hot destination, Twitter has fostered a whole new ecosystem of real-time communication. Countless applications are popping up to take advantage of the Twitter API to help make their Web services viral. Many of these services enhance the Twitter experience.
TweetMeme
TweetMeme is a service that aggregates all the popular links on Twitter to determine which links are popular. TweetMeme also makes the retweet button, which is for content publishers who want to invite their audience to tweet their content on Twitter. The button shows a live count of the number of times your Web page or blog post has been tweeted.
TweetMeNews
Hailing from nobosh labs, TweetMeNews tweets users' personalized news based on their interests. Nobosh Labs' reason for creating TweetMeNews captures the Twitter zeitgeist in a nutshell: "Nobosh has been developing a news personalization engine for over a year. As time went on Twitter exploded! Since that explosion the world has seen a convergence of information on Twitter, reducing the need to visit other sites."
TweetDeck
A super popular application, TweetDeck is a real-time Web browser that connects users to their contacts across Twitter, Facebook and other social sites. TweetDeck also boasts a version of its social application for the iPhone that geeks are giddy over.
TweetVite
TweetVite is pretty much what you'd think it would be from the name: Use it to create invitations for events you're hosting or to find local Tweetups.
TwitVid
Again, as you'd guess from the name, TwitVid lets users upload and tweet videos on Twitter.
Vidly
Another app for sharing video on Twitter, Vidly recently changed its name from Twitvid.io.
Twitoaster
Another of many, many tweet stream aggregators, Twitoaster threads and archives Twitter conversations, adding context and statistics, such as how many replies a Twitter user has received by the hour and on a weekly basis.
Tweet From Above/Tweet From Below
Tweet From Above and Tweet From Below let users send heavenly and hellish tweets anonymously.
TwitPic
You get one guess as to what TwitPic lets you do. You would not be wrong if you said it lets you share photos in tweets.
TwitBin
Twitbin is a Firefox extension that allows you to keep up with all of your Twitter conversations right from your browser sidebar.
Twitterholic
Twitterholic scans the Twitter public timeline for new twits to tweet and calculates individual statistics for each Twitter user.
Twhirl
Owned by Seesmic, Twhirl is a desktop client based on the Adobe AIR platform that lets users ... well, this slide tells it all.
Twtpoll
Another Twitter tool whose name spoils any nomenclature mystery, Twtpoll is a feedback tool that lets users create and distribute polls/surveys on Twitter, Facebook, FriendFeed or any other social media site.
Retweetist
Retweetist tracks retweets, or messages tweeted on Twitter that repeat information previously tweeted by another user.
Tweepler
Tweepler lets users separate the wheat from the chaff, helping users decide if they want to follow new followers or not.
TweetScan
TweetScan sends users e-mail when their keywords are mentioned on Twitter.
Tweetburner
For those who can't get enough of following the data flow on the links they share on Twitter, here's Tweetburner.
Twittervision
This is so cool: See who is posting what from where in real time with Twittervision, as a sort of mashup of Twitter and Google Maps.
Twibs
Twibs helps users find businesses on Twitter. Great promotional tool.
Twitdom
Finding Twitter apps can be a royal pain, particularly because so many are built by some programming shops, or even just lone wolf programmers. Twitdom is a Twitter apps database that provides a "consolidated view of all the applications developed for the Twitter ecosystem."

from: eWeek

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10 Most Coveted Technologies

Solution providers will join two to three vendor partner programs this year mostly to gain access to new technologies and products according to Channel Insider/Mototrola Partnership Study. Here are the 10 technologies most desired by solution providers.

10. Point of Sale
Point of sale solutions and inventory management systems are in hign demand among retailers who are retooling to increase operational efficiencies and save money. POS provides an interesting opportunity for solution providers with hooks in the retail market.

9. Wireless Devices
Mobility remains the name of the game in the evolving workplace. Devices that enable workers to seamlessly roam and remain connected are highly desired by enterprises.

8. VOip/Voice Networking
Telephony costs continue to hang on businesses of all sizes, particularly those with remote and mobile wokforces. The need for better and more integrated voice networking services continues to grow, making an attractive opportunity for solution providers.

7. Virtualization
Many technology conversations nowadays begin and end with "virtualization". The technology that optimizes and extends the usefulness of data center technology is hot and shows no signs of slowing down.

6. Enterprise Mobility
Handheld scanners, mobile printers, hardened computing devices are in big demand by government agencies particularly emergency first responders and companies such as shipping and transportation. The opportunities are rich, but dampened by the need for vertical expertise.

5. Blade Servers
Blade servers are the new backbone of the data center, giving users the ability to scale and maintain infrastructure. Big server vendors are quickly developing new, virtualization-friendly blades. The replacement opportunity for conventional services means solid sales potential.

4. Digital Signage
Digital signage may not seem like the sexiest technology, but it's a big opportunity. Businesses from retail stores to airports to restaurants are replacing print signs with digital displays. Digital signage is under-distributed giving it a lot of room for growth.

3. Managed Services
Managed services is one of the fastest growing and most lucrative segments of the channel. Increasing competition especially by large vendors such as Dell and high expense of starting a MSP does make entry challenging.

2. Smart Phones
Smart phones such as Apple's iPhone, Blackberry Curve and the forthcoming Palm Pre are putting more mobile applications in the hands of users. Businesses are looking for greater support and that's opening vast opportunities for solution providers.

1. Software as a Service
Analysis say the SaaS and hosted application market will top $66 billion by 2012. Solution providers are finding rich opportunities, but the business model isn't always easy to adopt and implement.

from:channelinsider

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Rules in Text Message Etiquette

I got my own cellphone when I was in my first year in college and as a teenager I confess that because of text messaging, I got my first love and my first boyfriend. It is funny reminiscing those days but having the idea of finding your love life through text, well its not that bad... :) Text messaging is one of our way of communication nowadays but on the other hand, like those other things, we must consider things while using it...well, to cut it short, to show manners and respect to someone we want to talk to (if it is the right word for it), and here are some of those...

Rule # 1. Don't text at any hour of the night
You wouldn't necessarily call someone at midnight, so don't text either. Cellphones still ring when a text message is received so be respectful of what that person's lifestyle is.
Rule # 2. Watch your tone
Like email,your inflection in text can be read wrong. Whether you're trying to flirt or find out if the receiver is really that into you, opt for this one general tip: Don't say anything over text that you wouldn't say in person. Texting is meant to be fun and flirty, so save your little missives for cute quips and witticisms. Avoid overly racy comments unless you've been nudged on the other side first.
Rule # 3. Don't drink and text
This one pretty much speaks for itself. Alcohol and messaging is a cocktail headed for disaster. True, a lot of us do it, but if you're sending messages that are going to embarrass you later, leave you cell at home.You'll thank yourself in the morning. As for the more serious or commitment-bound affairs, pick up the phone and dial. A real voice is sure to get that person in the mood even more.
Rule # 4. Don't overdo it
Don't bombard someone with a million texts. Like instant messaging, know when to end an exchange. We're all busy people and it can make you look obsessive even though that may not have been your intention.
Rule # 5. Don't break up with someone through texting or use it to deal with any other serious issues, for that matter.
Texting does not replace human interaction no matter how much you wish it could. Having a fight with your significant other? Don't deal blows via text; call and fix your issues face-to-face. By the time you finish typing the message, anyway,you could already be enjoying the thrills of a kiss-and-make-up session.

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