Google is one of the most innovative companies today, next to Apple. I've just started using the Google Map API for fun and profit. It's just amazing what they've done with the browser. Ironically, all the functionality has been around for awhile.

Google My Map

Weight: 25.06lbs.
Height : 32.0"

Weight: 23.02lbs.
Height : 31.0"

It's amazing how Apple, now Apple, Inc., turns things upside down. Cell phones have been around for decades, yet not much has changed, same layout, same keypad/keyboard and same bad OS. That is until now, Apple has decided to become a player and do it the right way. They 've reinvented the 'wheel' with the iPod, revolutionizing the MP3 player, for which no other company has been able to overtake. Now they've got the iPhone. Hands down the best cell phone ever created. They really have outdone themselves with this product. It's not just a combination iPod and cell phone, they've change the way you interact with it. No more keypad or tiny keyboards, implemented sensors, true OS and of course ease of use.

Currently, it uses the Cingular service, but it's GSM, so look for other GSM service providers to offer the phone later. Except for Verizon and Sprint, which both use CDMA. Although, it's the better technology, their phones have always been a year or two behind current technologies. Think Bluetooth and data services. Verizon is too heavily invested in their own failing Vcast technology to consider iTunes. Maybe they'll change their tune after seeing the success Apple is going to have and the scores of customers jumping ship. I hope they will, because Verizon has done very little for their customers in terms of satisfaction, by disabling phone features like Bluetooth. I'd be surprised if their customers didn't jump ship for Cingular. I'm very seriously considering doing so myself.

Notable Mention goes to Apple TV, which I plan on purchasing as well.

Direct Links:
http://www.apple.com/iphone/
http://www.apple.com/appletv/

Robert X. Cringely brought this to my attention. If you have a blog, this is for you; FeedBurner. I signed up just to see what all the fuss was about. Sounds like a great business. I don't think it'll be the next YouTube, but I think it'll do very well.

From their site:

"FeedBurner is the world's largest feed management provider. Our Web-based services help bloggers, podcasters and commercial publishers promote, deliver and profit from their content on the Web.

FeedBurner also offers the largest advertising network for feeds that brings together an unprecedented caliber of content aggregated from the world's leading media companies, A-list bloggers and blog networks and individual publishers."

Now, I'm not a big fan of YouTube, I think the users, as well as Google, got screwed in the sale of YouTube. I'm sure the users didn't see any of those Billions. Having said that, it's still a great way to share video with Family and Friends. Brooke Loves her some Colbert:

It's not an attack on Christmas, just wishing everyone well this Holiday season. Find something for that special someone:

Shopzilla Publisher Program:

Apple Mac Pro 2.66 GHz Xeon
Apple iPod Video 30 GB
Apple iPod 80 GB

Weight: 19.04lbs.
Height : 30.0"
Head Circumference: 18.5"

This machine is seriously impressive. It's knock-your-socks-off fast and extremely quiet. I can't tell that it's even on, except for the light and the rare clicking of the hard drive. The interior is just as impressive. The case opens with just a flip of the latch and the hard drives slide in and out like 8-track cartridges. Everything seems to have it's own heat-sinks, even the RAM modules.

Two 3ghz Dual-Core processors
2x512mb of RAM, 2x512mb coming next week.
500gb SATA 7200rpm drive, I'll be looking to add 3x750gb in the future.
512mb RadeonX1900 video card, I need a second monitor.

It's not without it's quirks, but I'm sure they'll get resolved soon. Some apps are still not universal binaries, again, I'm sure they'll be resolved soon.

I'll say it again, the speed is crazy fast. It even makes my Net connection seem faster.

Weight: 20.0lbs.
Height : 29.0"

I just ordered a MacPro, which will be arriving mid-September. I can't wait any longer! I need it now! But, I can't seem to get used to the Not So Mighty Mouse, so I'm going to buy a reliable Kensington mouse. It's not bluetooth, but it's wireless. I've always used Kensington mice/trackballs and they're the best in form factor, comfortability and reliability. The software also works really well. I've never had any issues with their mice, but I've also never had a wireless mouse. So, stay tuned.

Update: Thursday, August 31, 2006, I've been using this mouse for about a week now and it works as advertised. The new MouseWorks software has some new features, including the ability to switch the scroll wheel orientation. Kensington makes great products, 5 stars.

To alleviate carpal tunnel, try one of these: 3M Gel Wrist Support, Black.

So, I've given up on the HS850 that I reviewed earlier. It didn't have the USB charger that I thought it had, the reception was horrible and it always felt like it was going to fall off. The Platronics Voyager 510 looks promising. There was a review on Amazon submitted by someone who had the same experience I had with the poor quality of the HS850. This headset looks more comfortable and it can pair with two devices at once. Which means I should be able to use it to listen to music from my computer and then switch to the phone when a call comes in.

Update: August 17, 2006, 10:50 PM, I've been using this for about three weeks now and I'm really impressed. I've been mostly using it my computer to listen to music. It's not the best quality but it works. I've returned my Logitech iPod Bluetooth headphones for a full refund.

I'm in Portland for three days attending OSCON. We have a booth in the exhibit hall this year for recruiting purposes, not at all how I want to spend my free time. On the plus side, I now have new shirts to replace the shredded ones my wife keeps trying to throw out. One of the best talks so far has been by Audrey Tang who gave a lightning talk on ppencode, it's fast paced, flashy and at the same entertaining.

On a side note, I ran into an old friend from college that was working the EFF booth, small world. I've been a member for a couple years now, you should be too.

Update: Friday, July 28, 2006 OSCON is now over and it was a blast. A lot of good was accomplished. I probably won't get into it. Although, I will need to put together a presentation for the Business when I get back. Maybe I'll post it here.

We took Brooke on her first trip this past weekend. We had our reservations, but Brooke surprised us and was on her best behavior. She couldn't have been more behaved. She didn't cry on the plane, she didn't cry in the car and she pretty much let everyone hold her. She also had a great time with Leland and the rest family. Thanks Kevin and Minnie for a great weekend.