System Modules Should be Differentiated From Apps

The difference between system modules and apps is inherent in their respective definitions. In a strict sense, system modules and apps are both application software. There is however a subtle difference. System modules are a core, native and integral part of a system while apps in the loose sense are third party apps. Another less subtle way of distinguishing between the two is thus: system modules cannot be uninstalled by the user while apps can be uninstalled. I say less subtle because some OEMs and carriers install bloatware that cannot ordinarily be removed.

What’s the Purpose of a Wallpaper?

Wallpapers certainly add colour, life and pizzazz to any screen. Some wallpapers comprise of repeating patterns. Others are photographs of famous places; buildings; cars or people. So naturally, I find it very miffing anytime I come across any person who has used a photograph of say, his child or famous landscape and then proceeds to have parts of or the whole photograph covered up with icons.

On Using a Phone as a Remote Control

The recently unveiled Samsung Galaxy S4 and LG Optimus G Pro have infra-red transmitters that allow them to act as remote controls for several home electronics like TVs, stereos and air conditioners. While I appreciate the ability to use a phone as a ‘universal’ remote, I think the feature is of limited utility.

Can Finch Still Control the Machine?

I should start by saying this: if you do not watch Person of Interest, the TV series starring Jim Caviezel and Michael Emerson, then this article is not for you. It will make little or no sense to you. If however, you are one of the fortunate people watching this show, then by all means keep reading.

The Machine. The omniscient and omnipresent Machine. I have used a capital M for the Machine for two reasons. First, I consider it a major character in the show much like Finch, Reese et al. The second reason it deserves such respect is because of its abilities. Not so much its computational abilities but its conscious abilities. When the Machine becomes common place, then it will be called the machine. Remember back in the day when the internet was called the Internet.

The Adverse Economics of 3D Printing

Most articles on 3D printing have focused on the creative opportunities afforded by the revolutionary technology. Others have pointed out its darker prospects such as being able to print firearms in one’s home. One thing’s for certain; 3D printing is here to stay and the technology will get better and better over time though there are some who are convinced it is nothing but a passing fancy that is doomed to failure or obscurity like 3D TV and 3D movies.

The purpose of this article is to briefly discuss the disruptive economic effects of the technology. History lends credence to the fact that every revolutionary technology usually renders other established industries obsolete. The digital music player and mp3s continues to reduce sales of the music CD market. The advent of ebooks had pretty much done the same thing to physical books. Email has caused a reduction in the use of postal services. The photo film manufacturing and development industries were done in by the advent of the digital photography. Remember Kodak, Agfa and Jessops. So which industries are threatened by 3D printing?

Letter to the Writers & Producers of Touch

Season 1 of Touch was top notch and devoid of sappy writing. The second season started on a high but I have begun to notice changes right from the fifth episode. The writers are beginning to resort to cheap tricks to prolong move the plot forward. Last week’s episode was going rather well right until the point at which Amelia was on the pier waiting for her mother only for Mrs. Norborg to arrive just in time to abduct her again. This was all too convenient for the Norborgs. It’s the kind of cheap writing that was prevalent in Passions; remember when Chad was trying to find his mother.

If I Were In Charge of the Oscars

Now that the dust from the recently held 85^th Oscar Awards has settled, I would like to point out what I believe to be flaws in the selection and eligibility process.