If you’re in the webdev world you of course know “Google I/O” is going on today and tomorrow, Google’s annual developer conference where they introduce new technologies that are likely to change the web. I really wanted to be there but even if I was I wouldn’t be able to get to all the sessions that I would want to attend on HTML5, maps, Android, etc, etc. I hear the atmosphere, while heavy on the geek (not that there’s anything wrong with that), is almost festive. A lot like the upcoming WWDC that takes place in the same venue, minus the insufferable concentration of Apple fanboys.
One quick note, while Google is a great company and makes great products they did drop the ball on my invitation: I never even got it. I would have been more than happy to give a few talks about the what, why, and how of the innovative technologies I use as a, if not yet the, leading web developer/ninja/entrepreneur of this generation. I’ve already contacted them about keynoting next year’s event.
Tomorrow: my initial, insightful review of the significance of the announcements and where they fit in to the future of the web.
You never hear stories like this in the liberal mainstream press, which often focuses on stories of success. I had the idea that every tech business which started out in a garage worked out similarly to HP. This is called survivorship bias and I’ll have none of it. But seriously though, a little advice: if you’re still in the garage after a couple decades consider trying something else.
I really like to bike. And I like Google Maps. Now I can combine those likes as Google rolls out bike route layers and directions for Maps. Lots of Madison data. Below is a route spit out, which exactly matches what I would take, including the alternate routes suggested.
Also over on the LatLong blog are some interesting details of how it was implemented. Not satisfied with a simple shortest path from A to B for directions they actually incorporate a physical model of the exertion required for a rider based on the topography of the route. See car drivers, when biking you exert yourself which makes good exercise and feels good.
Clean retro design. Some knobs and a couple switches is the kind of simplicity that often works the best. Notice the lack of any digital displays, fitting for a Class A amp. Made by Burriss.
A cool tech demo from TED (I didn’t get to attend this year). Fluid immersive interaction with a model of the real world, swooping down from a satellites view to being at street level and then inside a market. Simply great. It shows the increasingly recognized (by me and others) importance of geo-based data integration and the possibilities if offers. This is just the tip of the iceberg.
An amazing subterranean Fortress of Solitude found in 2000 deep below a Mexican desert has been photographed. The massive unearthed cavern feature bus-size translucent crystals jutting at odd angles. Simply stunning and apparently quite a deadly hot and humid environment.
This is a technology blog, sort of. So I would be remiss to leave Apple’s latest creation unmentioned. It’s a larger version of the iPod touch, called the iPad. Nothing more to add at this time.
If you are looking for a great way to discourage kids exploring science and technology on their own a great way to do it is this. Works like a charm. The recommended therapy is a nice touch.
Clever infographic displaying the gravitational wells in the solar system. Amusing asides upon closer inspection. An interactive version would be cool that allows launching projectiles and rockets on different trajectories.
Dry riverbeds in Jordan, as seen from far above. One of a large set emphasizing the artistic from two orbiting satellites collecting geo-data. So much colorful fractal-y goodness.
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