Enslaved to Google

I just made an interesting and rather disturbing discovery. I use a *TON* of Google's products. Now when I write that perhaps you're thinking my e mail and blog, and you would be right, but then there's all the additional apps. The calendar, docs (if I figure out how they work), Google Voice, Wave, and all the rest. Perhaps it's something they put in their programming- an addictive substance?

Regardless I am quite hooked, and I must admit that Google's recent stance in China only helps matters. Now if they could only get their phone to be useful in business... The National Federation of the Blind

Braille For Everyone

My visit to the Apple store- A slice of Paradise

Last night as we were waiting for what would turn out to be an excellent meal at Red Lobster (I got the Lobster Lover's Feast), I had the chance to pop into an Apple store. The overall experience was something I will not soon forget. The customer service was fantastic, and the 25 minutes I spent useing VoiceOver were both edifying and enjoyable. A slice of paradise seems indeed the best way to describe the feeling I had knowing that I could walk up to any computer in that store and use it without loading anything or paying an additional charge in order to make it accessible. I used an iMac, and the incorperation of the monitor into the tower simply reiterated to me the innovation that is standard for Apple products. Leaving the store without a Mac was quite difficult (the fact the store was closing combined with my wife's strong no were helpful however) and I left without one. When it comes time to updrade however I think a Mac has a better then 75% chance of becoming my primary computer. The iPhone is a great gateway drug in this regard, and I think Apple must put some addictive drug on all its products. *smile*

In regards to this discussion I found this video most interesting. On all Apple products the label indicates that although the product was assembled in China it was made in the US. This is an important point, as what really matters with most products is not where they are put together but where the idea and means of putting them together comes from.

I follow with the iced coffee...