The Future of Audience Response Systems

Alfred Lord Telecom (ALT) is a poet, actor and speechwriter. He is known for appearances on the festival circuit and at clubs and events throughout the UK. His work appears regularly on Radio 4. Ian Davis Kramer (IDK) asked for his views on audience response systems and event technology.

ALT: I think it’s very exciting. Audiences today, in particular those under 35, have grown up in an interactive world where user choice can change the nature of the experience. Our expectations have been rewired to expect a level of interactivity and to be disappointed when it’s not present.

IDK: Rewired?

ALT: How would you like it if I took away your TV remote? Built in to everything you watch is the notion that you can change it. In another five years augmented reality will be up-and-running. Then you’ll be able to choose what things look like. Fed up with grey skies? Have a blue one.

IDK: How would an audience response system change what you do?

ALT: I’ve always been interested in interactive fiction and non-linear narratives. It would be interesting to structure a piece around choices made by the audience. You’d have to plan the thing very carefully and accept that some of what you do won’t be seen or heard but with that on board I think you could do something exciting that hasn’t been done before.

IDK: Apart from art?

ALT: One of the things I’m working on at the moment is what we’re calling a cloud documentary. One of the components is a series of live shows which will be touring in 2012. Our aim is to explain everything from geology to philosophy in ten minute chunks. Each chunk will be linked to other chunks by questions. So when we’re describing the Greek experiment to determine the circumference of the earth by measuring shadows cast at midday we can then follow that with a chunk about the Ankythera device or Ptolomy’s epicycles. If I were doing that talk it would be great to navigate with the audience, rather than leading them on a predetermined path.

IDK: Final thoughts?

ALT: Event technology and audience response systems are a very interesting way forward.

Tips to maximize iPhone in-app advertising revenue streams

As a mobile developer, you are aware of the earning potential that comes by including advertising inside of your iPhone apps. While paid apps offer a one-time payout during the initial purchase, in-app advertising supports an ongoing revenue stream that has the potential to last well into the future. But what are some of the … Continue reading

Logitech Keyboard & Speakers for Apple iPad 2 and Android

Just in time for the newly released Apple iPad 2, Logitech has launched their new line of accessories for the tablet but don’t worry android users Logitech haven’t forgot about you, they also a range specially designed for the android tablets. Logitech’s new line have been heavily researched among the growing tablet users to what … Continue reading

Cool Heat Sensitive Urinal!

How cool is this urinal! I mean come on how often do you see a urinal that reacts to the heat of your pee…i can certainly say never! The hotter the pee the darker the color, from yellow orange to red, just think of the urinal art you could make while visiting the loo.

New Apple iPod Nano

The new iPod Nanos from apple are the latest addition to Apple’s ever growing family, unlike its predecessor this 6th generation iPod has had a complete face lift from its début look in 2005. I must say this new iPod Nano looks pretty sweet, it kinda makes me thinks it’s what an electronic stamp would look like … Continue reading

Sony Alpha NEX-5 Compact

Pros: Amazing Panorama Mode, Compact Size, Low Light Photography, High Definition SLR Quality. Cons: Still to be exposed. Sony is still legendary just when it comes to making genuine cameras and all the technical stuff. They have never let us down upon their quality and it’s always the best form of technology available from their … Continue reading

Logitech Z-5500 5.1 Digital Surround Sound Speaker System

Pros: Equipped With Digital Sound Equalization, Killing Design, And Pure Quality Sound. Cons: Not in Particular. Logitech has been given an award after the release of their one of the best products that is, Z-5500 THX and they’re certified speakers. Having 5.1 Digital Surround Sound, you can’t ask for more and if you’re a music … Continue reading

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 16.05 MP Live MOS Interchangeable Lens

Pros: High Definition Video and Image Mode, 16.05 MP, Touch Screen, MOS Lens, Compact Size. Cons: Battery Life Some What Shorter. Panasonic always reflect back their motto which is “ideas for life” even this time, they have given us an idea to look back at nature and capture some of the thrilling moments of this … Continue reading

Logitech Squeezebox Radio

Pros: Great Built-in Sound, Cordless Internet, Crystal Clear Live Radio Streaming, LCD Screen. Cons: Price a little steeper. Logitech unpacks another little sized but monstrous product enriched in everything that can make you fall for it so easily. Well, Logitech’s Squeeze box Radio is some what like a little boom box for music lovers. Apart … Continue reading

ASUS Republic of Gamers G73JH-A1 17-Inch Gaming Laptop

Pros: Fastest Laptop Ever, Corei7 Processor, 8GB DDR3 RAM, HD LED Screen. Cons: Relatively Short Battery Life Due To Heavy Processing Unit. Asus has produced some really good gadgets at a stretch and one of them is ASUS’s Republic of Gamers G73JH-A1 is an excellent machine to have some kick-ass gaming on. The speed is … Continue reading