Photosynth, Digg, Internet Archive

Photosynth is this really cool software that knits pictures into 3D space. And it has an insane zoom feature. I want!

If you don't already, check out digg.com for all kinds of news and video. It's decent.

I just discovered the Internet Archive website. And it's been around over 10 years. It's huge! The vintage cartoon section is fun, stop by and say hello to Betty Boop.

Telecom Giants Want It All

Map of the internet. Courtesy opte.org.

H.R. 1788, a bill introduced to the Congress by Rep. Michael Ferguson (R-NJ), requires the FCC to "rechannelize the public safety spectrum (located in the upper 700 megahertz band) to accommodate commercially available broadband applications." That means Ferguson wants to commercialize what has been public domain. The effects would effectively ruin the concept of a free flowing, democratic internet. The internet we enjoy today would be crippled by a series of "tollbooths" where you pay up to get surfing abilities we currently take for granted. It would destroy net neutrality, putting an evil squeeze on smaller community sites, small internet business, and the dream that anyone with an internet connection can create the next e-bay or whatever. If you don't want the internet monopolized by gigantic corporations, speak now or it may be a lot harder to do so down the line.

The following links will help you learn more about the issue and get involved.
actforchange.workingassets.com
savetheinternet.com

Ditching DRM

Exciting to hear EMI and Apple are leading the way to DRM free music. Now you don't need an i-pod to enjoy i-tunes, and there's plenty great mp3 players that aren't i-pods. Word is they're going to improve sound quality while they're at it, which is/has been an issue with i-tunes. Surely fans are going to appreciate no restrictions on use and improved sound. Critics worry that it will create more piracy, and I agree. However, I think dropping DRM will attract more customers and offset sharing. We'll all know in a year or so. And as a bonus, the smug, exclusive hipster image from Apple's ad-campaign has been busted. Now you can buy your junk at the dollar store. Sweet.

EXP

Got any Yma Sumac?

Welcome. It's kinda random.

I can't think of anywhere better to start than Yma Sumac, known as "The five-octave queen of exotica". (see spaceagepop.com)

Mainly I love the picture. Almost looks like she's wearing headphones.