My project is about creating blog extensions. Briefly, a blog extension is a way of moving standard blog functions (posts, comments, updates) beyond the computer, into "real world" devices such as cell phones, iPods, and ambient devices.
Cell phone integrations could allow users to post to a blog via sms messaging. Perhaps users could receive text messages each time a comments is added to their posts. Or even using gps tracking on a cell phone to map your current location and display your whereabouts on the blog.
iPod integration could include automatic podcasting of all audio and video uploads within the posting interface. Files could be converted to iPod format on the server, and the proper podcast feed details updated on the fly for every file upload.
Ambient devices, such as the Nabaztag, will be integrated into the blog in a variety of ways. Post moods will be reflected in the ambient device automatically, comments can be read out loud by the device, and visual notifications can tell you if your blog has been updated. It will also act as a communication device, as people will be able to send message directly to the device from the blog.
Who is it for?
The initial site I will be creating is my own personal website. The target audience will be my friends and family, as well as others interested in my art, videos, or essays. Once the site is finished, the code will be portable in that it can be deployed in other environments for other people, so the extended audience is potentially anyone interested in blogging or ambient devices.
More Details?
Administrators (me) will have full access to post to the main blog, edit posts, delete posts, and manage users. All other users (with free automated account signup) can post to the Free4All blog, comment on all posts, and interact with the ambient device. They will also be able to upload files, such as images, videos, and more.
The site is accessed via web browser, but since it is integrated into external devices, some limited information is also available via cell phone or ambient device.
Timeline?
- The initial site redesign is in progress right now. Most of the design is complete.
- February 1-15th will be the integration of new features, such as private posts, user groups, email notification, and more.
- February 15th to 28th will be the integration of the ambient device into the site.
- March will be full deployment and testing of the site, as well as additional features and bug fixes.
A7
3 comments:
Sounds fantastic. I look forward to meeting the ambient device. Some questions --
-- are off-the-shelf ambient devices required ?
-- does Flash's new mobile device programming fit in this picture?
-- can you outline a number of different scenarios or create a project-based prototype (for example, how specific videos, audios and comments might configure around a topic of interest)
-- can you provide an inventory or overview of issues programming for mobile and ambient devices (I've heard some people are having difficulties with this)
Off-the-shelf ambient devices are required, though I understand there are developer kits available for around $1000. Even more specific, this project is aimed specifically at Nabaztag devices, as not all ambient devices are custom programmable. Nabaztag is the only one I'm aware of with an API publicly available.
Flash's mobile programming is irrelevant to this project, as the only concern with mobile devices is for informing a user of updates via text messaging. After thinking about this project more, I now know that the focus of the project must be the use of technological advancements to SEPARATE a user from the computer.
I'm not sure I understand the third question regarding different scenarios.
The only issues arising on my end are the difficulties in learning the Nabaztag API to integrate it into my site. Violet (Nabaztag's creator) does not provide much documentation on how to use their API. I don't foresee this to be a problem.
A7
How's it going with the Nabaztag API and developments to your site? I look forward to seeing your progress so far. We've discussed the idea in class at some length both with your presentation and seminar, so I won't reiterate too much here. I'm interested in your focus on technological advancements to Seperate a user from the computer. I met a scientist/resercher from Lappland who likewise was focusing on weaning people away from their constant-contact Blackberry mode, and thus reducing stress and helping people to keep the larger priorities in focus. If you'd like we can discuss this further and perhaps contact him directly.
Good luck with your thesis shoot in Ottawa!
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