Websites/Apps That Make Our Technology Experience Interesting

Jonathan Zittrain's TED presentation reiterates that the negativity and pessimism behind technology's effects on culture and society hinders the positive effects of what technology has done for us. It is evident that technology has come a long way in enhancing our performance, making daily functions more simple, and even adding some entertainment to our routines. While completing the in class activity, I have identified a few websites and Apple applications that have that positive effect that Zittrain explains. For example;


1. Kik Messenger: a social networking/cross-platform messenging application made for the iPhone and Droid markets. It takes the concept of BBM'ing (Blackberry) and putting that same interface and system for iPhone and Droid users. Once downloaded, contacts (your friends that have Kik) are automatically inputted as it reads your phonebook, and even your Facebook friends. Kik takes texting to a whole new level, making it quick, easy and very similar to instant messaging. You can see when your friend is typing, and can be used over 3g wireless networks.


2. Epocrates: This now Droid and Apple application is useful when it comes to finding out what pill/drug you are dealing with. This app has come very handy when it comes to mixing up your pills in the cabinet or finding pills that are unidentified. Epocrates has a complete database of all possible pills/drugs and makes it easy for a user to identify them by choosing definitive descriptions such as what shape and what color. After determining the drug/pill, Epocrates has a detailed description of the drug, including side effects, dosage and content.


3. Gilt Groupe: If you're someone who likes designer brands, this e-commerce site makes shopping more exciting and affordable for you. Each day, Gilt offers its members a selection of designer and luxury merchandise items. Sales for each brand start noon ET and last only 36 hours, and these prices can be discounted to up to 70%. However, to be a member of this "Groupe" you must be personally invited with a link to get access to Gilt sales.


4. Sound Cloud/Hypetrak: Hypetrak is a music blog that covers a variety of genres. The blog updates us on pop culture, new music, and videos of recent performances of pop stars. Sound Cloud, which is part of Hypetrak, is a blog where all music can be listened to through a user friendly and intriguing designed interface. Sound Cloud's diversity in music introduces new artists and new types of music to viewers, though, not downloadable.


5. Download Helper: Download Helper is an add-on feature for users of the Firefox browser. Downloadable on the Firefox website, this tool allows you to "rip" music off any website (pretty much any website), when there is no download link available. For example, if I went on Sound Cloud, played a song, I would "rip" the song by clicking the DownloadHelper icon at the top of my browser, and saving it as an mp3 file.