EVOLUTION OF THE ANDROID  OS  -  A Technology Report Guest Post

By Charlie O’Hay

Released in September 2008, the Android OS has gone through an abundance of incarnations—ever increasing its functionality and flexibility—though not all of the transitional versions were made commercially available.  Here, we’ll trace the Android OS timeline and define the features and advantages of each version available to consumers.

Version 1.0

Released in September 2008, this version was designed for the HTC Dream / T-Mobile G1, but ended up not being used on any commercially available device.

Version 1.1

This version tweaked 1.0 and was commercially released exclusively for the HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) in October, 2008. Adjustments resolved some of the bugs experienced with version 1.0. Features included web browser, Gmail synchronization (with app), Google Search, Google Maps, Google Calendar, Google Contacts, Google Talk, instant messaging, text messaging, and media player.

 

Version 1.5

Released in April 2009 and codenamed “Cupcake” by Google, this version was the first major release to be made available in a range of devices. Features included camcorder support to record and watch videos, easy upload of images and videos to websites like Picasa and Youtube, Bluetooth enhancements, animation on screen transitions, and an on-screen keyboard with predictive text.

Version 1.6

Nicknamed “Donut,” this September 2009 release included new camera, camcorder, and photo gallery interfaces, improved voice search technology, Google navigation, text-to-speech engine, multi-touch gesture support, and Virtual Private Network support.

Versions 2.0 and 2.1

Version 2.0 (October 2009) was quickly followed in January 2010 by Version 2.1, consequently 2.0 appears in few devices. Version 2.1 (nicknamed “Éclair”) has proven quite successful, owing largely to its improved user interface, enhanced speed, improved virtual keyboard, Contact and Account improvements, and an array of camera enhancements—including flash, digital zoom, white balance, scene modes, and macro zoom.

Version 2.2

Nicknamed “FroYo” and released in November 2010, version 2.2 allowed tethering to as many as eight WiFi “hot spots” or connection via USB. Other enhancements included camera improvements, multi-lingual keyboard support, quicker app access and faster browsing, Bluetooth improvements, and Microsoft Exchange.

Version 2.3

“Gingerbread,” as it was called, was released in December 2010 and offered an improved user interface, a faster and more intuitive virtual keyboard, copy/paste capability, improved power usage status and power management, internet phone calling, Near-Field Communication support and tagging, new download manager, front and rear cameras, and support for barometer, gravity, gyroscope, linear acceleration, and rotation.

Version 3.0

Released in February 2011, “Honeycomb” was the first Android OS to target the large-screen tablet devices. Features geared to tablet users included a new system bar, action bar, a customizable home screen, and a list of recently used/downloaded apps. The keyboard was again streamlined and the copy, cut, and paste functionality improved. Other features included Bluetooth tethering, support for physical keyboards, multi-core processor support, 2D and 3D graphics support, and applications for larger screens including browser, camera, gallery, contact and email.

Version 3.1

This June 2011 update retained the nickname “Honeycomb” included improvements for tablet users—including navigation and animation improvements essential for entertainment purposes and playing Android games. USB support for a more varied array of accessories (including keyboard, mouse, and digital camera), support for joysticks and gamepads, improved WiFi networking stability, expanded recent apps list and updated set of standard apps (browser, gallery calendar, contacts, and email).

Version 3.2

Still called “Honeycomb,” this July 2011 version continued to provide enhancements for tablet users—including compatibility zoom for fixed-sized applications, direct application access to SD card file system, and extended ability to handle different screen sizes.

Version 4.0

Released in October 2011, “Ice Cream Sandwich” merged the phone-based design of the second generation with the tab-centered design of the tablet-friendly third generation.  The user interface and apps selection were again redesigned, and users could now save often used items in home folders and a favorites tray. Other improvements included resizable widgets, lock screen, network data control, and faster call response. Users also benefitted from camera/camcorder improvements (including image stabilization, the ability to take still shots during video, and photo editing). The browser could now deliver full-sized web page appearance, and this version featured improved email, NFC-based sharing, and WiFi-direct suppotrt.

Version 4.1

Released in July 2012, “Jellybean,” as it was called, included even more user interface enhancements (including improved touch response and transitions; expandable, actionable notifications; and adaptive keyboard). Other popular features included the ability to instantly review photos, external Braille input and output via USB, enhanced voice search capability, photo sharing, USB audio, and Google Wallet.

Version 4.2

The most recent Android OS version to date maintains the “Jellybean” name and allows multiple users for tablets, a PhotoSphere feature that allows 360º images, keyboard gesture typing, Daydream feature to display info while a user’s device is isle or docked, and the ability to beam photos or videos to another device.

This is a guest post by Charlie O’Hay, a tech expert & Big Fish Android games enthusiast.

 

The Brain Activity Map Project is a major effort to map *every neuron” in the human brain, and may represent a significant advance towards conscious machine intelligence sometimes called “Strong General Artificial Intelligence” or “Strong AI”.   The Brain Activity Map is expected to get Obama administration funding to the tune of approximately 3 billion over the next decade.

The project has some similarities to Europe’s new “Human Brain Project” effort, a well funded extension of Henry Markram’s “Blue Brain Project” which seeks to create a working model of the human brain in the next decade.

At these funding levels technological optimists can hope for even more dramatic progress towards the technological singularity, the point at which machine intelligence far surpasses that of humans.   Futurist and engineer Ray Kurzweil has written extensively about the coming technological singularity, and his recent appointment as Google’s director of engineering suggests that the private sector will also be funding machine consciousness projects at unprecedented levels.

Countdown to the SINGULARITY?

Technology report has been focused on this topic for some time, and it’s now fair to say that funding levels are starting to match the enormous potential of machine intelligence to revolutionize virtually every aspect of human existence.   Although some pessimists fear the worst, we think it’s very likely that superintelligences will either ignore us or help humankind solve the many problems we face.   The likelihood of a hostile superintelligence or “unfriendly AI” seems low.

A Guest Post from Home Depot‘s Jay Harris:

Most people can agree with the idea that conserving energy is the right thing to do for our natural resources and the environment. Nobody, however, disputes that saving money on your monthly power bill is better than unnecessarily throwing your cash away. Despite that realization, few people are willing to sacrifice their own personal comfort for a few dollars’ savings. Fortunately, they no longer have to.

When nobody is home, there’s no reason to heat or cool a house to the same temperature that we’d want when we’re there. At the same time, nobody wants to return home after a long day to a house that’s sweltering hot or freezing cold. Even those homeowners with digital, programmable thermostats often fail to properly set them — it’s just another confusing device to learn how to use.

Fortunately, technology has finally caught up with the everyman. Wi-Fi enabled thermostats are quickly becoming the norm, enabling homeowners to adjust the temperature of their house from anywhere in the world where they can access the internet on their phone or mobile device.

Although you could wait until your existing thermostat fails, making the switch to a Wi-Fi model now can pay for itself in a matter of months. Here are three reasons to make the switch sooner than later:

1. It’s cheaper than one month’s power bill

Although adjusting your home’s temperature from across town, in between text messages, may still sound far-fetched to some, it’s already commonplace for early adopters of the new technology. Best of all, Wi-Fi enabled thermostats can now be purchased for as low as $100 from traditional manufacturers like Honeywell and Lennox. Niche manufacturers like Nest even include models that monitor outdoor temperatures and adjust themselves, in turn.

Considering that 43 percent of the average home power bill is consumed by heating and cooling, there’s likely a good chunk of your bill that’s being used unnecessarily. By controlling your home’s temperature every minute, from anywhere, you can whittle down your monthly usage and pay for the new thermostat, possibly within a couple of bill cycles.

2. There’s no reason to pay for what you’re not using

Would you leave your lawnmower running for an hour while you went inside for lunch? Even though we’re away from a home for a large portion of the day, we often continue to heat or cool the house just so that the temperature is comfortable when we walk in the door. With remote access, we can have the best of both worlds. Fifteen minutes before arriving home, adjust your thermostat to the temperature you prefer, and your HVAC system will crank into motion. Unlike traditional programmable thermostats, there’s no need to attempt to predict our daily schedule — we can adjust on the fly.

3. You can budget ahead of time

Nobody likes surprises that cost them money. With most things we purchase, we know exactly what we’re paying, but with utility bills, we tend to cross our fingers and hope for the best. Developments like Wi-Fi thermostats make that guessing game a thing of the past. We now have the capability to monitor and control our energy consumption down to the minute.

Products and smartphone apps like Wattvision and eMonitor are at the helm of a new era of better home energy management. When we can track exactly what areas or appliances in our home are costing us the most money, we respond by replacing antiquated equipment with newer models designed to consume less. That puts pressure on the manufacturing industry to respond, in turn.

Whereas wasting electricity in our homes was once the norm — it could hardly be helped — the technology to control and monitor our home energy use is quickly becoming mainstream. Wi-Fi thermostats are a cost-efficient way to dramatically lower your monthly utility bill, effective immediately!

Jay Harris is a Home Depot “on the floor” sales associate and a regular contributor to Home Depot’s blog. His interests include providing tips on tv stands and mounts, as well as LED light bulbs.

Inventor and futurist Ray Kurzweil is generally regarded as one of the world’s top engineers working on Artificial Intelligence, and he’s certainly the world’s top *evangelist* for AI, arguing that general AI, or thinking machines, will inevitably arise, and fairly soon, as another step down the evolutionary path of the human species.    His book  ”The Singularity is Near”, is the key popular work addressing what many believe will become the biggest technological theme in history – the creation of an intelligent computer that is capable of human-like thought processes.

Bill Gates has called Ray Kurzweil the leading thinker in the area of artificial intelligence.

Google very recently hired Kurzweil as Director of Engineering, promising a marriage of his ideas with the company that is probably best suited to fund and deploy general AI applications.

Here, in an interview at Singularity Hub, Kurzweil discusses Google’s role in the advancement of AI:

Ray Kurzweil On Future of AI at Google:

http://singularityhub.com/2013/01/10/exclusive-interview-with-ray-kurzweil-on-future-ai-project-at-google/

Mobile Applications to help in Bad Weather

A Guest Post by Alex Robinson

When a blizzard rolls through town, all you want to do is stay inside, stay warm and stay entertained. Cold weather, especially the type that has been drilling the East Coast recently, can cause a problem when it comes to staying warm thanks to freezing temperatures. Fortunately, cold weather doesn’t have to rob you of your entertainment.

One look at an app store on your smartphone or tablet and you know that you have hundreds and hundreds of app options available. But which ones will help you weather the storm?

• Music apps – specifically, Spotify Premium. When the power goes out, the Internet goes with it. When you don’t have an Internet connection, which apps are even useful? Spotify Premium users know the answer to that question.  Even when you’re offline, with the Spotify app, you can listen to music. That includes all your established playlists and Spotify radio.
• Flashlight apps – specifically, Best Flash Light! by RV AppStudios. Flashlight apps are a dime a dozen, but this app has something that makes it invaluable in a no-power situation: a timer. If a snowstorm takes out your power before you get a chance to light some candles, a flashlight on your phone is an invaluable asset. Use the timer on this specific app to turn off the light after a few minutes so you don’t drain your phone’s battery.
• Weather apps – specifically, Weathermob. With a blizzard on the way, you want to know where it is – and what it looks like. This weather app combines the storm tracking you need to feel prepared, with pictures of the storm that other users of the app have uploaded. You can check forecasts, reports, news and attach photos and videos right in the app. You’ll be able to see what other storm-watchers have uploaded, including their captions. This app also offers Facebook and Twitter integration to keep you as social as possible.
• Games – specifically, Angry Birds. No, Angry Birds isn’t anything new, but once you’ve downloaded this app, you can use it offline. This addictive app is perfect for hours where you can’t watch TV and those playing cards have gotten old. An app like this will keep you occupied and entertained while you ride out the storm, especially if you choose one of the themed-games, like the Star Wars version of Angry Birds.

Other tips to getting through inclement weather conditions?   Save as much battery as possible. One of the easiest ways to do that is to turn down your phone’s screen brightness, and close any apps running in the background.

Now, an accessory that is incredibly handy for iPhone users during a storm power outage is a self-charging case, specifically, the Mophie Juice Pack Helium.

Instead of worrying that your phone is going to die, and being left without the electricity you need to charge it, take comfort in these wireless cases. They are thin cases, protect your phone and charge your phone with just the flip of a switch.

With these apps, and some convenient accessories, you’ll be able to weather any winter storm 2013 has to bring.

This is a guest post by Alex Robinson, a tech expert and blogger for InternetServiceProvider.net .

Smartphone Controlled Security Systems: Home Security in the Palm of Your Hand

[A Guest Post by Jay Harris - Home Depot]

Our homes are everything, aren’t they? Aside from the money, time and energy we invest in them, they’re where our children lay their heads at night. There are few things in this world that are more important.

When we leave our homes, we give up our control over protecting it and making it safe. Until recently, even the best security systems placed the care of your home in a faceless monitoring system that would contact you and the authorities if there was a break-in. Such monitoring systems are wonderful for the peace of mind they provide when you’re away, but have you ever wanted just a bit more?

Break-ins aren’t the only worry we have when we’re away. We’d also like to be able to keep an eye on the new babysitter or see which neighborhood kids snuck into the pool. We’d like to be able to turn off lights we forgot, or turn down the thermostat to save money.

We’d like to be in two places at once which is, of course, impossible. Still, you may be amazed at how close we can come.

You’ve heard of smartphones but how about smart homes? Add the term to your lexicon, because the line between security systems and home automation (controlling multiple home elements from one remote or smartphone) is blurring.

If Security is the Main Focus consider Defender Surveillance Systems. As the name implies, the folks at Defender are bullish about home security, offering excellent product that is also easy to use and understand, and relatively inexpensive, especially compared to higher end systems.

Available at your local hardware store, systems like the Defender 8 Ch. 500GB HDD Surveillance System offer DVD quality surveillance, even at night. Recording is set to your preference (such as constant or motion activated), and you receive alerts when a camera is activated or a video feed is lost. You can also view footage from the cameras anywhere in the world on your smartphone. Defender offers lifetime customer support, and best of all, their cheapest system is only a couple hundred dollars.

Another great option is found in Lorex surveillance systems. What’s handy with Lorex is how many options there are for expanding your equipment. If you need more coverage, you can buy extra cameras. If you need to upgrade altogether, there are many hard drive options with up to a terabyte of storage so you never have to worry about running out of recording room.

The quality of the equipment is also exciting. Many Lorex cameras have wash-out prevention features for making sure that any facial images captured by the camera are clean and thus identifiable. Lorex also makes cameras that work equally well indoors and out, even in extreme temperatures.

While not all Lorex systems can be smartphone controlled, many of them are. Just make sure to look for this information in the product’s description.

Alternatively, you may not be ready to fly solo just yet. Fortunately, you don’t have to: there are blended options which combine the flexibility and control of your own smartphone security system with the added support of an external monitoring company.

Home surveillance companies like Lifeshield offer unparalleled monitoring and customer support, as well as the widest range of services. Like the options listed above, you can view live feeds, record video and take snapshots from installed cameras, allowing you to check on the kids after school and even look in on pets while on vacation. There are also ample motion and contact sensors.

However, where remote security companies like Lifeshield set themselves apart – in performance and price – is monitoring. Your home is monitored for intrusion of course, but you also have options for fire, carbon monoxide, life safety and environmental (flood, freezing, etc.) protection.

For those with young children, or for the elderly, you may opt for medical monitoring. In case of accidents like slips and falls, Lifeshield’s medical monitoring kit gives users access to a “panic” button via a remote, key fob, or smartphone app.

The largest downside to systems like those on this tier is that you’re potentially overwhelmed with options. There are different packages that all come with different prices and contracts and these can be pretty confusing. However, in terms of scope, options like Lifeshield are worth a look, but just make sure to do your research so that you know exactly what you’re signing up for.

Smart Security

The security of your home is paramount to the safety of your family and your peace of mind. Luckily, there are home monitoring solutions that literally fit in the palm of your hand which that allow you to keep an eye on your house.

Just don’t forget that these systems can do a lot more than keep your home secure. They can also make your life easier and more efficient, and it’s really not that much more expensive.

Jay Harris is a Home Depot sales associate in the Chicago suburbs and is a contributor to Home Depot’s blog. Jay’s interests in the home improvement arena include home security systems and home automation.

Technology Report will miss blogging International CES this year due to some pressing family matters, but we’ll plan to be there for 2014 International CES.  Click HERE for full conference information and registration.

 

In the meantime here’s the excellent CES Party List from Karen Thomas PR: http://www.thomas-pr.com/01/ces2013.html

There’s also a CES Party List (as well  as a nice party!)  from the folks at Social Radius here:    CESPartyList.com

Sorry to miss the big show and hope to see YOU there next year!

—————–

(below is courtesy KarenNet Party List – click HERE for updates or corrections)

SAT, JAN 5:

10 AM � 12 AM: AT&T Hackathon � Palms https://www.2013devsummit.com/Registration/Hackathon.aspx

SUN, JAN 6:

10:00 AM � 9:00 PM:  AT&T Hackathon – Palms https://www.2013devsummit.com/Registration/Hackathon.aspx

4:00 PM � 7:00 PM:  CES Unveiled � Mandalay Bay, Level 3, South Seas Ballroom C (Invite only)

7:00 PM:  AT&T Developer Summit Party � Palms (Invite only)

 

MON, JAN 7:

4:30 PM: ESPN3D Viewing Party Notre Dame/Alabama � LV Hilton Theater (Invite only)

6:30 PM:  PMDA Awards � XS Nightclub � Encore at Wynn (Tickets only http://staging.cesweb.org/Awards/PMDA-Awards-Ceremony-and-After-Party.aspx)

7:00 PM � 10:00 PM:  Digital Experience – MGM (Invite only)

8:30 PM � 12:00 AM:  AT&T Developer�s Summit Party � Rain, Palms with The Killers (Invite only) https://www.2013devsummit.com/Registration/ (Invite only)

 

TUES, JAN 8:

5:00 PM: IFA Media Reception � Wynn, Lafite Ballroom (Invite only)

6:00 PM � 8:00 PM:  IAWTV Awards � Venetian Showroom, Venetian, Level 2 www.iawtvawards.org

6:00 PM � 8:00 PM: NPD � Treasure Island (Invite only)

6:00 PM � 10:00 PM:  Showstoppers � Wynn � Lafite Ballroom � Thomas PR Client � Soundmatters will be exhibiting (Invite only)

6:00 PM: IAWTV Awards � Palazzo, Palazzo Theater (Tickets at: http://iawtvawards.org/)

6:00 PM � 9:00 PM: Charity PC Race � Wynn, Latour Ballroom 2 (Invite only)
6:30 PM � 9:00 PM: Chartis Service Stakes � Planet Hollywood (Invite only)
7:00 PM � 9:00 PM:  Women in CE Awards � Paris, Champagne Ballroom (Tickets http://www.womenince.org/events/details/tickets_now_on_sale_for_3rd_annual_women_in_ce_legacy_awards_at_ces_2012)

7:30 PM – 10:30 PM: Mashable Party � Hard Rock Hotel, Vanity nightclub (Tickets $35 http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5040422038?ref=ebtn#)

8:00 PM � 12:00 AM: Light After-Dark Party- Palms, Two-Story Sky Villa (Invite only)

 

WED, JAN 9:

7:30 AM � 10:30 AM:  IDC Breakfast � Encore, Ballroom 5 (Invite only) http://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=IDC_P26243

8:00 AM � 8:00 PM: CEA MoDev Hackathon – Venetian

4:00 PM � 7:00 PM:  CES Social Hour – V Bar, Venetian

4:45 PM � IDG Top Brands from China � Wynn � Lafleur 2 (Invite only)
5:00 PM:  What Hifi? Awards � Venetian, Casanova Ballroom 501, Level 1

5:00 PM � 8:00 PM: Jack Myers CES Party � Piero�s, 355 Convention Ctr Dr (Invite only)

5:00 PM � 8:30 PM: Kingston � Caesar�s, Emperor�s Ballroom (Invite only)

5:30 PM � 9:00 PM: LaunchFEST Angel � Planet Hollywood Shops, DBs Pong & Pool (RSVP: http://launchfestces2013.eventbrite.com/#)
5:30 PM � 9:30: Uievolution � Aria, Deuce Lounge

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM: 2nd Annual Diversity @CES Event – Palms (Invite only)

6:00 PM: GENIVI Showcase Reception – Trump Hotel, 60th floor (Invite only)

6:30 PM � 8:30 PM: Dell Mixer � McCormick & Schmick�s, 335 Hughes Ctr Dr (Invite only)

7:00 PM � 10:00 PM:  Bluetooth Event � Lavo, Palazzo (Invite only)

7:30 PM:  Monster Cable Party � Paris, Paris Ballroom with Alicia Keys (Invite only)

10:30 PM – 11:30 PM: Entertainment Matters – Palazzo, Lavo (Invite only)

10:30 PM: Lumativ � Encore, Surrender Nightclub

11:00 PM � 2:00 AM: Monster After-Party – Chateau Night Club, Paris Hotel (Invite only)

 

THUR, JAN 10:

6:00 PM � 8:00 PM:  Tweethouse �It won�t stay in Vegas� Party � http://itwontstayinvegas.com/

6:30 PM:  Technology & Engineering Emmy Awards – Bellagio, Bellagio Ballroom (Tickets: tickets@emmyonline.tv) 7:00 PM � 10:00 PM: VEFXi Suite Party – Hardrock Hotel, Pool Villa Suite (Gorilla)
7:00 PM: FashionWare � Venetian Ballroom, MommyTech (Featuring Thomas PR Client Kidz Gear) � Invite Only

9:30 PM � 11:30 PM: Tweethouse Bash � Bellagio, Hyde (Invite only)
FRI, JAN 11:

10:00 PM:  Official CES Closing Party � Tao, Venetian (bring badge for admission)

10:00 PM � 12 AM: Digital LA � Cosmopolitan, Marquee http://dlaces13.eventbrite.com/#

This Press Release just in from International CES  (formerly  ”CES Las Vegas”, or “Consumer Electronics Show”.    It’s the biggest Consumer Electronics show in the world and we cover it live almost every year here at Technology Report.

———–

2013 International CES Shines Spotlight on Start-Ups

Startup America Brings Programming for Entrepreneurs to ExpandedEureka Park at the 2013 CES

---

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® today announced a new program with the Startup America Partnership, a national network of communities dedicated to advancing the success of American start-ups, for the 2013 International CES®.  The partnership will bring specific programming for entrepreneurs and start-ups at the 2013 International CES, world’s largest innovation event. Owned and produced by CEA, the 2013 CES is scheduled for January 8-11, 2013 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“Innovation defines the International CES and we are thrilled to partner with Startup America to bring programming that highlights the young start-ups and entrepreneurs who will shape the future of technology,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CEA. “We look forward to the exciting sessions on the Startup America Stage at the 2013 CES shining a light on the companies and innovations of tomorrow.”

The Startup America Stage will bring programming throughout the 2013 CES and will be featured within EurekaPark, an area of more than 140 start-ups, emerging companies and entrepreneurs. Returning for its second year,Eureka Park has increased by 40 percent over the 2012 CES and will feature the next generation of technology.

“Eureka Park will be home to some of the most cutting-edge startups from across the country this year at the 2013 CES,” said Scott Case, CEO of the Startup America Partnership. “We’re incredibly excited to bring together startups, investors, large companies and media to highlight the amazing innovations taking place at this world-class event.”

The 2013 CES will feature 3,000 global technology companies unveiling the latest consumer technology products and services across 15 major product categories including the latest in audio, automotive electronics, connected home technologies, digital imaging/photography, electronic gaming, entertainment/content and more. For more information on the 2013 International CES, visit CESweb.org.

Note to Editors: The official name of the global technology event is “International CES.” Subsequent references to the show can be shortened to “CES.” Please do not use “Consumer Electronics Show” to refer to the International CES.

About CEA:
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $206 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also owns and produces the International CES – The Global Stage for Innovation. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA’s industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org and ww.DeclareInnovation.com. Follow CES at www.CESweb.org and through social media: .

UPCOMING EVENTS

2013 International CES January 8-11, 2013, Las Vegas, NV

If you would like to be removed from this mailing list, please visit CE.org/EmailManagement. 

Having trouble viewing this click here.

Contacts:

Tara Dunion
703-907-7419
tdunion@CE.org

Allison Fried
703-907-7603
afried@CE.org

Over at another site we’re involved with, Retire USA, you’ll find a lot about the effect of technologies on your retirement and your retirement planning.    Gary Kaye is an award-winning journalist who writes for our TECHNOLOGY AND YOU  column where he talks about how technology continues to shape and reshape the retirement landscape.   Gary has been covering technology since 1981 when he reported for NBC radio.   Gary was the technology producer for “ABC World News Tonight” and has been a featured reporter at CNN, American Morning, New Economy Watch, and Digital Jam.

Technology Report will be live again this year from 2013 International CES where the “Silvers Summit” will feature technology and innovation in the retirement and health sectors.

We’ve also got more great bloggers featuring retirement themes:

LEARN AND SHARE RETIREMENT INSIGHTS
WITH AMERICA’S TOP RETIREMENT BLOGGERS!AGING SUCCESSFULLY - Dr. John M. Kalb – John is a chiropractic physician, men’s movement elder, educator, scientist, and health coach. In his own blogs and in his book, Winning at Aging, Dr. Kalb passionately maps out a complete game plan for health and happiness in the second half of life.

CARE OPTIONS - Mei Wong and Brittany Weiler – Mei, a Certified Geriatric Wellness Instructor with Memory Enhancement, is CEO of Care Option Resources (COR), which helps veterans and widows with acquiring their benefits. Like Mei, Brittany also a certified Geriatric Wellness Instructor with Memory Enhancement and has experience in the senior industry and in insurance & retirement planning.

FITNESS - Andy Baxter – Andy has been a senior personal trainer, post rehab conditioning specialist and medical exercise specialist for 24 years.  Andy operates Baxter Fitness Solutions for Fifty and Beyond and Beyond 50 Fitness, LLC which produces fitness DVDs.  Andy’s proprietary Ageless Fitness Systems is currently being used in British Columbia, Oregon, California and Kentucky.

FOREIGN TRAVEL - Tom Smith – A world traveler himself, Tom is a member and affiliate of The Travel Society – A Virtuoso Member.  Specializing in foreign independent travel, Tom has been a travel agent for 36 years.

IRA ADVICE - Ed Slott – Named “The Best Source for IRA Advice” by The Wall Street Journal, Ed is a nationally recognized IRA-distribution expert  and the creator of several public television specials viewed by millions of Americans. He hosts two popular websites and has written several best-selling books.

MEDICAL - Robin Miller, M.D., M.H.S. – Board certified in Internal Medicine, Medical Director of Triune Integrative Medicine, newspaper columnist and NBC medical reporter (Medford, Oregon), author, Dr. Miller is one of the most respected and best-known physicians in the Pacific Northwest.

MEDICARE - Julia Ruscitti – A native Oregonian, Julia has been involved in insurance sales and consulting for the past nine years.  She is very knowledgeable in all aspects of Medicare supplements including Med Advantage plans, Medigap, and stand alone RX plans.

PETS AND SENIORS- Christine Mallar – Christine is co-owner of Portland, Oregon’s Green Dog Pet Supply, the first pet supply store in the nation to specialize in environmentally friendly pet supplies. She has over 20 years of animal training experience, both with exotic animals and as a dog trainer teaching group classes.

REAL ESTATE- Ellee Celler – Ellee, a broker with RE/MAX Ideal Brokers, Inc., has practiced real estate on the east coast and in Oregon for over 30 years. After operating her own brokerage in Jacksonville, Oregon for a decade, Ellee joined ReMax for its extensive support services, networking and training.

RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE- Debbie Drinkard Grovum – Debbie is a Board Certified Coach trained in life, career and retirement coaching and owner of Ageinista, which provides services and resources that promote a vibrant and productive second half of life. She has been trained by and is affiliated with the Purpose Project, a joint project of the University of Minnesota, Center for Spirituality and Healing and Richard Leider of the Inventure Group.

RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES– Madeline Hill & Friends – A national expert on senior living, Madeline was one the pioneers in the concept of “aging-in-place.” Incorporating concepts she developed during a distinguished career in social and senior services, Madeline played a key role in creating Mountain Meadows, an award-winning 55+ community in Ashland, Oregon.

SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS - Cherie Henry – A member of the “golden girls” team at Golden Placement Services, Cherie is a senior housing and transition specialist. She has extensive experience as a licensed administrator in assisted living communities.

TECHNOLOGY AND YOU - Gary Kaye – An award-winning journalist who has been covering hi-tech since 1981, Gary started reporting at NBC radio. He later became the technology producer for “ABC News Business World”, and “ABC World News Tonight with Peter Jennings”. At CNN and CNN/fn he covered technology for programs including: CNN/Fortune, CNN Newsstand, American Morning, New Economy Watch, and Digital Jam.

THINKING RETIREMENT- Andy Landis – Andy is a Certified Life Options Retirement Coach and an internationally-known author, speaker, and consultant specializing in retirement planning, with technical expertise in Social Security and Medicare. Andy has designed and led dynamic retirement seminars for over 20 years, guiding tens of thousands toward successful retirement.

TRAVEL AND PHOTOGRAPHY - Bill Ferry – Bill has been able to showcase a series of passions into a popular website and periodic travel blog. In the last decade he & his wife have crisscrossed the US & Canada by bike, car, train, RV and by foot.

VOLUNTEERING - Sally Melton – For nearly a decade Sally taught English, and regularly utilized volunteers in her classroom. Soon after moving to Southern Oregon, she led the formation of a local nonprofit volunteer group. For the past twenty years she has worked for Asante Health System, coordinating their Senior Services program.

January 2013 brings us the world’s top consumer technology show, International CES.   Technology Report will again be reporting live from this year’s show.  Stay tuned for our pre-CES coverage including profiles of the keynotes, companies, special sessions, CES Performances and Celebrities, and those amazing CES parties.   As the economy revives we’ll expect to see the new consumer technologies out in top form at this year’s show.

The Official 2013 International CES Website is here:  http://www.cesweb.org/