In my opinion, DuPont is in the process of creating the 21st Century Barcode.
Physical world connection happens when a mobile device is able to scan a barcode (physical world hyperlink), resolve the barcode, and connect to the Internet.
To understand why it has taken longer than expected for Physical World Connection (PWC) to get adopted you need to know the obstacles it faces.
There's a standard 1d code (barcode) you find on consumer goods can be read by any retailer. A can of soup, DVD, book, allergy medicine, power tool etc all have a universal code that can be recognized by all scanners in supermarkets, Circuit City, CVS, Home Depot etc. For now, camera phones can't scan these 1D codes without a special lens attachment.
Most camera phones can scan 2d codes but where do you find them (Europe and States)? There are a dozen 2D code creating sites, but what is needed for mass adoption is a mass producer of 2d codes for/on consumer goods.
Probably the biggest catalyst for Physical World Connection adoption occurred last week when DuPont licensed Scanbuy's interactive 2D barcode technology for packaging applications.
Because Dupont is probably the largest consumer good packaging company in the world, they can create the 2d code "standard" on consumer good packaging for mobile devices going forward. Once could say this is a "tip of the old Hatlo Hat" to Scanbuy when they explained to DuPont how they could be in charge of the domain registry for physical world connection for consumer goods.
Every consumer good can now have a physical world hyperlink (2D code) that can be scanned with numerous camera phones.
Being at the top of the "food chain", you can create the standard just on size alone.
When Scanbuy teamed up with Dupont in a licensing deal,they didn't just get one major brandthey got an international company that creates the packaging for thousands of major brands. Scanbuy has the ability to indirectly represent and connect thousands of major brands in several countries.
For an example. The 2d codes placed on a softdrink bottle DuPont produces aren't just for Coke, they can go on every soft drink bottle that is used by every soft drink brand.
Landing the largest consumer packaging good company will force the others (phone manuf, wireless carriers) to adapt/implement their business plans around this standard. See how powerful this licensing deal is now?
With Dupont stepping up to the plate, they will eliminate a lot of the indecision phone manuf, wireless carriers, BRANDS and mobile marketing companies are having.
Nokia already adopted this code scanning application. I expect to see a major carrier adopt this application shortly.
In my opinion, this one development makes the Mobile Codes Consortium unnecessary. Their (MCC) mission for the mobile industry is to "create a consortium for a new mobile marketing ecosystem based around camera phones and 2D barcodes. A market-driven, open-standards approach will allow 2D barcodes to act as a catalyst in mobile internet adoption, mirroring the growth of web adoption over the last ten years".
DuPont is already doing this by adding this new "barcode" on their packaging.
Wouldn't it make sense for newspapers, magazines and other forms of media to adopt the same 2d code? Wouldn't it be easier for Coke to use the same 2d code on all forms of advertising?
I still think there will be a market for applications with proprietary 2d codes. I can think of some great ideas for this, but they shouldn't impede mass adoption of PWC.
I explained my thinking about the Mobile Codes Consortium in a post called Mobile Codes Consortium A Consortium or a Conundrum?
Conundrum resolved. Implementation supercedes discussion.
I agree that a 2d code standard should be set that will allow quicker adoption, but I think it would make more sense to invite a handset manufacturer, a wireless provider and a major brand into this consortium. After all, aren't those the players the PWC companies are trying to land? At least invite a PWC that has landed a handset company or wireless carrier.
Or maybe there's a reason they aren't.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Trillcode Uses 2D Codes To Connect Physical World
Add Trillcode to the Physical World Connection list
Trillcode is a 2D barcode made to be used with mobile phones. Its strength is the scalable design which will allow not only increasing capacity, but inside modifications as well
Trillcode is one of the few physical world connection applications which has the decoder integrated in the phone application and does not rely on server decoding.
Trillcode is ominidirectional, scalable, you can input 5-86 characters (numbers, letters, signs) and the size accomodate with your data. Their next version which allow hundreds of characters is almost ready.
They are the first to allow placing a logo image inside the code as far as they know.
1. POINT your phone to a trillcode located on a wall, newspaper or monitor
2. SHOOT and the Trillcode application will give you the clear content of the code
3. TAKE ACTION and participate in campaign with a single key press.
See how easy it is to create your own physical world hyperlink (2D code) and attach specific functions for it.
Applications include (website, SMS, phone number, email, download content, contacts)
To download the Trillcode application.
Trillcode is a 2D barcode made to be used with mobile phones. Its strength is the scalable design which will allow not only increasing capacity, but inside modifications as well
Trillcode is one of the few physical world connection applications which has the decoder integrated in the phone application and does not rely on server decoding.
Trillcode is ominidirectional, scalable, you can input 5-86 characters (numbers, letters, signs) and the size accomodate with your data. Their next version which allow hundreds of characters is almost ready.
They are the first to allow placing a logo image inside the code as far as they know.
1. POINT your phone to a trillcode located on a wall, newspaper or monitor
2. SHOOT and the Trillcode application will give you the clear content of the code
3. TAKE ACTION and participate in campaign with a single key press.
See how easy it is to create your own physical world hyperlink (2D code) and attach specific functions for it.
Applications include (website, SMS, phone number, email, download content, contacts)
To download the Trillcode application.
Mobot Offers Latest Mobile Marketing Application
Mobot and their physical world connection application, gets recognized for their mobile marketing technique. 
From Marketing Vox Latest marketing techniques coming to mobile phone
And Mobot Inc. used its mobile visual search - in which users search and browse the web using pictures taken with a cellphone camera - to power a Starbucks visual scavenger hunt and Acura sweepstakes this summer.
A year ago Mobot was acquired by a mobile marketing company for approximately $10m. Visionary Innovations was instrumental in what was called, "The Marketing Wedding of the Year".
In December 2006, the acquiring company sold Mobot back to its founders.
From Marketing Vox Latest marketing techniques coming to mobile phone And Mobot Inc. used its mobile visual search - in which users search and browse the web using pictures taken with a cellphone camera - to power a Starbucks visual scavenger hunt and Acura sweepstakes this summer.
A year ago Mobot was acquired by a mobile marketing company for approximately $10m. Visionary Innovations was instrumental in what was called, "The Marketing Wedding of the Year".
In December 2006, the acquiring company sold Mobot back to its founders.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
ScanBuy And DuPont Offer Brand Interaction With Barcodes And Camera Phone
Company's 2D Barcode Solutions To Be Used with Select Global Brands
This is a huge win for Scanbuy and for the Physical World Connection space. DuPont placing 2D codes on their packaging builds an immediate database for consumers to scan.
This should change the perception that Scanbuy was just a price comparison tool using a camera phone and barcode.
Scanbuy, Inc., (www.scanbuy.com) a global provider of wireless commerce solutions today announced an exclusive agreement with DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers (P&IP) (www.DuPont.com) to license Scanbuy’s interactive 2D (two dimensional) barcode technology for packaging applications.
As a part of the agreement, DuPont P&IP will be the exclusive marketer of Scanbuy’s interactive camera-phone technology to the packaging industry.
DuPont's Product and Services list . There's endless physical world hyperlink applications there.
DuPont P&IP selected Scanbuy as its exclusive technology provider to commercialize and market Scanbuy’s interactive technology to select global brands under the DuPont banner. When imbedded in product packaging, 2D barcode technology enables a myriad of consumer interactive applications directly from mobile handsets.
Some potential uses in packaging are checking nutritional content of food & beverages or determining if a cosmetic is suited for you, and more sophisticated uses like playing games & winning prizes.
“Smart packaging represents a key future packaging trend and opens up new opportunities that run the gamut from better inventory tracking to brand enhancement,” said Dr. John Hillenbrand, Vice President, Innovation and Technology for DuPont P&IP business unit.
“We chose to partner with Scanbuy because their barcode-capture technology and services platforms are clearly more advanced and robust than others in the market.”
“DuPont has long been an industry leader in packaging innovations and has deep expertise in commercialization of new products and technology,” said Jonathan Bulkeley, Chief Executive Officer of Scanbuy, Inc.
“We selected DuPont as our exclusive packaging partner to benefit not only from their depth of experience but also their extensive reach into the consumer products packaging industry. “
This is a huge win for Scanbuy and for the Physical World Connection space. DuPont placing 2D codes on their packaging builds an immediate database for consumers to scan.
This should change the perception that Scanbuy was just a price comparison tool using a camera phone and barcode.
Scanbuy, Inc., (www.scanbuy.com) a global provider of wireless commerce solutions today announced an exclusive agreement with DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers (P&IP) (www.DuPont.com) to license Scanbuy’s interactive 2D (two dimensional) barcode technology for packaging applications.
As a part of the agreement, DuPont P&IP will be the exclusive marketer of Scanbuy’s interactive camera-phone technology to the packaging industry.
DuPont's Product and Services list . There's endless physical world hyperlink applications there.
DuPont P&IP selected Scanbuy as its exclusive technology provider to commercialize and market Scanbuy’s interactive technology to select global brands under the DuPont banner. When imbedded in product packaging, 2D barcode technology enables a myriad of consumer interactive applications directly from mobile handsets.
Some potential uses in packaging are checking nutritional content of food & beverages or determining if a cosmetic is suited for you, and more sophisticated uses like playing games & winning prizes.
“Smart packaging represents a key future packaging trend and opens up new opportunities that run the gamut from better inventory tracking to brand enhancement,” said Dr. John Hillenbrand, Vice President, Innovation and Technology for DuPont P&IP business unit.
“We chose to partner with Scanbuy because their barcode-capture technology and services platforms are clearly more advanced and robust than others in the market.”
“DuPont has long been an industry leader in packaging innovations and has deep expertise in commercialization of new products and technology,” said Jonathan Bulkeley, Chief Executive Officer of Scanbuy, Inc.
“We selected DuPont as our exclusive packaging partner to benefit not only from their depth of experience but also their extensive reach into the consumer products packaging industry. “
Monday, February 19, 2007
Physical World Connection Licensing
Law.com has a great story about a intellectual property portfolio company that went from being labeled a patent troll, to getting respect from Fortune 1000 companies.
The article explains how they are able to generate licensing revenues by only purchasing patents that aready being used. Patent holders are getting leverage by partnering with intellectual property (IP) licensing firms.
Among TechSearch's affiliates was physical world connection player Veritec, Inc , a Minnesota-based manufacturer of two-dimensional bar code system now used in coding and tracking electronic gadgets and license plates. Before partnering with TechSearch, says Veritec CEO Van Thuy Tran, Veritec was having problems getting a market footing because of copycat products.
Veritec turned over exclusive licensing rights to TechSearch, and the Niro firm began filing patent suits on its behalf in November 2003. The licensing effort started generating royalties, but Veritec filed for bankruptcy in March 2005. The company was still mired in bankruptcy proceedings when Acacia acquired the rights to its bar code patents. Since then, Veritec has sued three companies and collected more than $700,000 in licensing fees. In 2006 licensing revenue of more than $250,000 represented more than 70 percent of Veritec's total revenue for the year. The company has now emerged from bankruptcy and is debt-free, Tran says.
"We could not have done it without Acacia," Tran says. "We were a small, struggling company, and people were stealing a technology that rightfully belongs to us.
Todd Dagres of Spark Capital offers his take saying the convergence of two kinds of ''IPs" -- Internet protocol and intellectual property -- would create huge financial opportunities.
I think you find more companies use the New American Business Model , or partner with companies that can.
The article explains how they are able to generate licensing revenues by only purchasing patents that aready being used. Patent holders are getting leverage by partnering with intellectual property (IP) licensing firms.
Among TechSearch's affiliates was physical world connection player Veritec, Inc , a Minnesota-based manufacturer of two-dimensional bar code system now used in coding and tracking electronic gadgets and license plates. Before partnering with TechSearch, says Veritec CEO Van Thuy Tran, Veritec was having problems getting a market footing because of copycat products.
Veritec turned over exclusive licensing rights to TechSearch, and the Niro firm began filing patent suits on its behalf in November 2003. The licensing effort started generating royalties, but Veritec filed for bankruptcy in March 2005. The company was still mired in bankruptcy proceedings when Acacia acquired the rights to its bar code patents. Since then, Veritec has sued three companies and collected more than $700,000 in licensing fees. In 2006 licensing revenue of more than $250,000 represented more than 70 percent of Veritec's total revenue for the year. The company has now emerged from bankruptcy and is debt-free, Tran says.
"We could not have done it without Acacia," Tran says. "We were a small, struggling company, and people were stealing a technology that rightfully belongs to us.
Todd Dagres of Spark Capital offers his take saying the convergence of two kinds of ''IPs" -- Internet protocol and intellectual property -- would create huge financial opportunities.
I think you find more companies use the New American Business Model , or partner with companies that can.
QR Code Examples
M.I.T. Advertising Lab has some examples of QR codes and how they are being used as physical world hyperlinks.
Ivan Aldrete at Love4Life explains that QR codes will create a second massive digital revolution .
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Physical World Connection RFID Powder?
The Physical World Hyperlink in the form of an RFID tag, gets even smaller.
From Pink Tentacle Hitachi develops RFID powder
Hitachi’s new RFID chips (pictured on right, next to a human hair) are 64 times smaller than their mu-chips (left)
RFID keeps getting smaller. On February 13, Hitachi unveiled a tiny, new “powder” type RFID chip measuring 0.05 x 0.05 mm — the smallest yet — which they aim to begin marketing in 2 to 3 years.
By relying on semiconductor miniaturization technology and using electron beams to write data on the chip substrates, Hitachi was able to create RFID chips 64 times smaller than their currently available 0.4 x 0.4 mm mu-chips. Like mu-chips, which have been used as an anti-counterfeit measure in admission tickets, the new chips have a 128-bit ROM for storing a unique 38-digit ID number.
The new chips are also 9 times smaller than the prototype chips Hitachi unveiled last year, which measure 0.15 x 0.15 mm.
At 5 microns thick, the RFID chips can more easily be embedded in sheets of paper, meaning they can be used in paper currency, gift certificates and identification. But since existing tags are already small enough to embed in paper, it leads one to wonder what new applications the developers have in mind
From Pink Tentacle Hitachi develops RFID powder
Hitachi’s new RFID chips (pictured on right, next to a human hair) are 64 times smaller than their mu-chips (left)
RFID keeps getting smaller. On February 13, Hitachi unveiled a tiny, new “powder” type RFID chip measuring 0.05 x 0.05 mm — the smallest yet — which they aim to begin marketing in 2 to 3 years.
By relying on semiconductor miniaturization technology and using electron beams to write data on the chip substrates, Hitachi was able to create RFID chips 64 times smaller than their currently available 0.4 x 0.4 mm mu-chips. Like mu-chips, which have been used as an anti-counterfeit measure in admission tickets, the new chips have a 128-bit ROM for storing a unique 38-digit ID number.
The new chips are also 9 times smaller than the prototype chips Hitachi unveiled last year, which measure 0.15 x 0.15 mm.
At 5 microns thick, the RFID chips can more easily be embedded in sheets of paper, meaning they can be used in paper currency, gift certificates and identification. But since existing tags are already small enough to embed in paper, it leads one to wonder what new applications the developers have in mind
Can A Speech Recognition Browser Be Far Behind?
Applications that use voice or words as physical world hyperlinks are starting to appear.
TellMe has speech recognition 411 for mobile, and with this announcement today, I think we should be expecting a speech recognition browser shortly.
Nuance Communications, Inc. and TeleCommunication Systems today announced the development of a speech-enabled mobile navigation system for mobile phones. TCS selected Nuance speech solutions to simplify the destination entry process for its white label TCS Navigator product, resulting in the creation of the first navigation system for mobile phones to offer voice destination entry.
The industry's leading speech recognition technology leverages large street address grammars to eliminate the time-consuming task of keying in street or city names by allowing users to simply speak a destination. The Nuance Mobile Speech Platform even filters "um" and "ah" type utterances, for fast, highly accurate recognition and response.
Michael Thompson, vice president and general manager, telco, search and communications for Nuance said "Speech-based navigation is just one of the many ways speech can be used to fundamentally change the way people use their mobile devices. The same technology can be used for other mobile tasks such as directory search, music search and message creation."
TellMe has speech recognition 411 for mobile, and with this announcement today, I think we should be expecting a speech recognition browser shortly.
Nuance Communications, Inc. and TeleCommunication Systems today announced the development of a speech-enabled mobile navigation system for mobile phones. TCS selected Nuance speech solutions to simplify the destination entry process for its white label TCS Navigator product, resulting in the creation of the first navigation system for mobile phones to offer voice destination entry.
The industry's leading speech recognition technology leverages large street address grammars to eliminate the time-consuming task of keying in street or city names by allowing users to simply speak a destination. The Nuance Mobile Speech Platform even filters "um" and "ah" type utterances, for fast, highly accurate recognition and response.
Michael Thompson, vice president and general manager, telco, search and communications for Nuance said "Speech-based navigation is just one of the many ways speech can be used to fundamentally change the way people use their mobile devices. The same technology can be used for other mobile tasks such as directory search, music search and message creation."
Nextcode And Smart Communications Launches Decode.. Barcode Scanning Application
A couple weeks ago Smart Communications announced they were licensing Nextcodes' Physical World Connection platform. 
Nextcode Corporation , a worldwide leader in optical bar code scanning technology, announced today that Smart Communications, Inc. (SMART), the leading Philippine wireless services provider with 22.9 million subscribers, is the first major carrier to license Nextcode's ConnexTo(TM) for Carriers platform.
This week, Smart Communications officially launched the 2d code scanning application.
Chette.com provides a great summary , and pics of the applications, Smart Communications is offering with the ConnexTo platform.
A key point with this licensing agreement is that Smart Communications is known for embracing cutting edge technology and they chose a "non standard" code. Non standard meaning one that looks different and is adaptable from the other 2d codes you are used to seeing. Not only does the Nextcode's code contain more data per space, but the codes are flexible, meaning you can size them and shape them.
Nextcodes's Head of Product Development has a nice summary of this licensing agreement and the potential for Nextcode.
Nextcode Corporation , a worldwide leader in optical bar code scanning technology, announced today that Smart Communications, Inc. (SMART), the leading Philippine wireless services provider with 22.9 million subscribers, is the first major carrier to license Nextcode's ConnexTo(TM) for Carriers platform.
This week, Smart Communications officially launched the 2d code scanning application.
Chette.com provides a great summary , and pics of the applications, Smart Communications is offering with the ConnexTo platform.
A key point with this licensing agreement is that Smart Communications is known for embracing cutting edge technology and they chose a "non standard" code. Non standard meaning one that looks different and is adaptable from the other 2d codes you are used to seeing. Not only does the Nextcode's code contain more data per space, but the codes are flexible, meaning you can size them and shape them.
Nextcodes's Head of Product Development has a nice summary of this licensing agreement and the potential for Nextcode.
Monday, February 12, 2007
MoBeam Beams Barcodes From Mobile Phones To Scanners
Nexit Ventures' Ecrio is a company to add to the physical world connection list.
From DMNNewsWire Ecrio "beams" barcodes from mobile phones to scanners
Ecrio , a leader in real-time communications and commerce software for mobile phones, today launched MoBeam(TM), a patented new service that bridges the gap between mobile handsets and the global barcode point-of-sale infrastructure.
MoBeam features patented technology that permits the easy transfer of barcodes from mobile devices, including phones, to industry-standard scanners.
This new service will be available globally; Visa International, a leader in payment services, has agreed to integrate MoBeam barcode technology into Visa's recently announced mobile platform.
For years, technologists have known how to send barcode information to mobile phones (via email, WAP, SMS and more), but have been unable to transfer that barcode information (for tickets, coupons, gift cards, etc.) from the handset to barcode scanning devices.
"MoBeam is the missing link between today's mobile consumer and a worldwide commerce infrastructure based on barcodes," said Nagesh Challa, Ecrio Chairman and CEO. "For instance, a traveler using mobile search functions can be sent a digital coupon, easily redeemed at point-of-sale via the traveler's handset."
From DMNNewsWire Ecrio "beams" barcodes from mobile phones to scanners
Ecrio , a leader in real-time communications and commerce software for mobile phones, today launched MoBeam(TM), a patented new service that bridges the gap between mobile handsets and the global barcode point-of-sale infrastructure.
MoBeam features patented technology that permits the easy transfer of barcodes from mobile devices, including phones, to industry-standard scanners.
This new service will be available globally; Visa International, a leader in payment services, has agreed to integrate MoBeam barcode technology into Visa's recently announced mobile platform.
For years, technologists have known how to send barcode information to mobile phones (via email, WAP, SMS and more), but have been unable to transfer that barcode information (for tickets, coupons, gift cards, etc.) from the handset to barcode scanning devices.
"MoBeam is the missing link between today's mobile consumer and a worldwide commerce infrastructure based on barcodes," said Nagesh Challa, Ecrio Chairman and CEO. "For instance, a traveler using mobile search functions can be sent a digital coupon, easily redeemed at point-of-sale via the traveler's handset."
Chinese 2D Barcode Company Gets Funding And Adoption From China Mobile
Another 2d barcode company, or physical world connection company, gets their platform adopted by a major player.
From Pacific Epoch Gobi Invests In 2D Barcode Company
Inspiry Limited, China's leading 2D barcode technology and application provider Inspiry Limited announced on February 12 that it has completed a Series A round of funding from Gobi Partners . The amount raised was not disclosed.
Inspiry also announced that it had been selected by China Mobile as the sole 2D barcode technology provider for China Mobile's customized handsets. Inspiry is the developer of China's national barcode standard the Hanxing Code. Instead of talking about creating a standard, they landed the largest wireless provider and their code became it.
Inspiry's barcode technology has been installed in handsets from manufacturers including Nokia, Lenovo, and Dopod. Inspiry plans to use the funds to expand its technology.
Here's a key point I picked up on the site.
"In addition, China Mobile will launch a two-dimensional code on the Internet".
A major wireless provider is allowing users to create their own 2d codes, physical world hyperlinks. Would physical world adoption occur quicker in the States if Sprint or Verizon offered this?
At the recent International Exhibition of Automatic Identification Technology, Inspiry showcased their physical world application.
The exhibition was rich in content and covers the automatic identification technology and products, barcode technology and products, radio frequency identification (RFID ) technology and products, voice and image recognition technologies and products, and other optoelectronic OCR recognition technology products and integrated application of automatic identification solutions, automatic identification and application of integrated information solutions.
An entire conference devoted to physical world connection.
Here's a suggestion for the Mobile Consortium MC2 "organization".
If your true motive is to get physical world connection adopted, why don't you include the companies that are actually getting their PWC platforms adopted by carriers and handsets to your organization?
This announcement makes 3 different PWC companies that have had their platform adopted in the last month alone.
For the companies that aren't getting their platform adopted, I wonder if they can't "paint" the right picture.
From Pacific Epoch Gobi Invests In 2D Barcode Company
Inspiry Limited, China's leading 2D barcode technology and application provider Inspiry Limited announced on February 12 that it has completed a Series A round of funding from Gobi Partners . The amount raised was not disclosed.
Inspiry also announced that it had been selected by China Mobile as the sole 2D barcode technology provider for China Mobile's customized handsets. Inspiry is the developer of China's national barcode standard the Hanxing Code. Instead of talking about creating a standard, they landed the largest wireless provider and their code became it.
Inspiry's barcode technology has been installed in handsets from manufacturers including Nokia, Lenovo, and Dopod. Inspiry plans to use the funds to expand its technology.
Here's a key point I picked up on the site.
"In addition, China Mobile will launch a two-dimensional code on the Internet".
A major wireless provider is allowing users to create their own 2d codes, physical world hyperlinks. Would physical world adoption occur quicker in the States if Sprint or Verizon offered this?
At the recent International Exhibition of Automatic Identification Technology, Inspiry showcased their physical world application.
The exhibition was rich in content and covers the automatic identification technology and products, barcode technology and products, radio frequency identification (RFID ) technology and products, voice and image recognition technologies and products, and other optoelectronic OCR recognition technology products and integrated application of automatic identification solutions, automatic identification and application of integrated information solutions.
An entire conference devoted to physical world connection.
Here's a suggestion for the Mobile Consortium MC2 "organization".
If your true motive is to get physical world connection adopted, why don't you include the companies that are actually getting their PWC platforms adopted by carriers and handsets to your organization?
This announcement makes 3 different PWC companies that have had their platform adopted in the last month alone.
For the companies that aren't getting their platform adopted, I wonder if they can't "paint" the right picture.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Physical World Connection....The Next Wave
Connecting the physical world to the Internet isn't limited to scanning a barcode with a camera phone.
The Next Generation of the Net occurs when any device and or physical object can be connected to the Internet.
From MyFox Wireless sensors extend the Internet's reach
A building constructed atop a decommissioned nuclear reactor at the University of California, Los Angeles could pass for high-tech office space. A closer inspection of the glass-and-steel facade reveals dozens of miniature, low-resolution cameras and sensors. They're wirelessly linked to computers throughout the 6,000-square-foot space, keeping tabs on traffic flow in public areas and monitoring temperature, humidity and acoustics.
Those sensors and cameras are physical world hyperlinks.
Such networks could monitor the environment for pollutants, gauge whether structures are at risk of collapse or remotely follow medical patients in real time.
"I see this as the next wave of extending the Internet into the physical world," said computer scientist Deborah Estrin, who heads the Center for Embedded Networked Sensing, a UCLA-based consortium of six schools
The Next Generation of the Net occurs when any device and or physical object can be connected to the Internet.
From MyFox Wireless sensors extend the Internet's reach
A building constructed atop a decommissioned nuclear reactor at the University of California, Los Angeles could pass for high-tech office space. A closer inspection of the glass-and-steel facade reveals dozens of miniature, low-resolution cameras and sensors. They're wirelessly linked to computers throughout the 6,000-square-foot space, keeping tabs on traffic flow in public areas and monitoring temperature, humidity and acoustics.
Those sensors and cameras are physical world hyperlinks.
Such networks could monitor the environment for pollutants, gauge whether structures are at risk of collapse or remotely follow medical patients in real time.
"I see this as the next wave of extending the Internet into the physical world," said computer scientist Deborah Estrin, who heads the Center for Embedded Networked Sensing, a UCLA-based consortium of six schools
Friday, February 09, 2007
Pondering Primate In The Running For Mobile Post Of The Year
I am honored to be selected as one of this year's finalists for Carnival Of The Mobilist's Mobile Post of the Year.
Carnival of the Mobilists- Khosla Ventures Post of the Year
The top 10 finalists (in no particular order)
1. Casual Mobile Snacks for Everyone
2. Mobile Gaming Blog
3. WAP 2006 Review
4. Murder of the iPod
5. Mobile Youth interviews
6.Qualcomm's legal shenanigans
7.We Interrupt This Broadcast
8. Current and future mobile applications
9.Problems with Coltan, the magic dust
10. A mobile phone better than the $100 laptop?
To vote for your favorite post, click here
I would like to thank Khosla Ventures for sponsoring this event. Kudos go out to Russell and Carlo for bringing together some of the best mobile bloggers and creating a one stop shop for provocative mobile thinking.
Carnival of the Mobilists- Khosla Ventures Post of the Year
The top 10 finalists (in no particular order)
1. Casual Mobile Snacks for Everyone
2. Mobile Gaming Blog
3. WAP 2006 Review
4. Murder of the iPod
5. Mobile Youth interviews
6.Qualcomm's legal shenanigans
7.We Interrupt This Broadcast
8. Current and future mobile applications
9.Problems with Coltan, the magic dust
10. A mobile phone better than the $100 laptop?
To vote for your favorite post, click here
I would like to thank Khosla Ventures for sponsoring this event. Kudos go out to Russell and Carlo for bringing together some of the best mobile bloggers and creating a one stop shop for provocative mobile thinking.
Google To Incorporate Barcodes For Mobile Search?
We are getting close to seeing a major portal introduce a 2d code creating site.
I expect Google to buy a 2d code application company and introduce a site (beta) that allows advertisers and consumers to create 2d codes.
The big battle from mobile search is coming, and Microsoft already unveiled their barcode reading application.
RSS feeds and "widgets" are really just modified hyperlinks for the digital world. They allow an easier way to access a website/information on the Web. 2d codes offer that same easy ability to access website/information on the Net, but for physical world objects.
A 2d code, or physical world hyperlink, will allow anyone with a camera phone to scan any physical object (magazine, poster, brochure, bus stop, business card etc) with one of these codes, and access the Internet for more information.
From IT Pro Google readies itself for mobile search face off
As reported by IT PRO, Vodafone, France Telecom, Telefonica, Deutsche Telekom, Hutchinson Whampoa, Telecom Italia and Cingular - are secretly planning joining forces on mobile search. And as mobile searches can be targeted to specific locations, the potential revenue from these searches could be huge.
D-J Collins, head of corporate communication at Google UK said that the company was also building partnerships with a broad range of companies and this would see a lot of innovation in mobile search as a result.
He said the market for mobiles was more advanced in countries such as the UK or Japan and people used their phones in innovative ways. This meant that the company had to employ engineers who had knowledge of mobile networks and a deep understanding of what the local market wanted.
"Because the mobile experience in Japan is so advanced you have to be ingrained in the local culture," said Collins. "People in Japan use mobiles to barcode products, if you are an engineer in Norway you might not know that."
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Now that mobile phone manufacturers are starting to embed barcode reading applications on the phone, mobile search and mobile marketing players must find a way to utilize this "tool".
Mobile phone manufacturers will not add a device/application unless there is a growing demand for it, AND there is an "infrastucture" built to accomodate it.
The "infrastructure" is/are a website(s) that allow ANYONE to create a 2d code and use them on any physical object to link a mobile phone to the Internet.
Look at how quickly and easily content grows with Google's Blogger, or the other blog sites. By allowing anyone on the Net (corporation or consumer) to create 2d codes, Google will be establishing even more ways to access this rapidly growing content, BUT from a mobile device.
One of the largest databases on the Net will soon merge with the physical world and be linked via the mobile phone using physical world hyperlinks.
What company has perfected the combination of finding information on the Net and providing relevant advertising?
Isn't the next logical step offering the same ability for the mobile?
I expect Google to buy a 2d code application company and introduce a site (beta) that allows advertisers and consumers to create 2d codes.
The big battle from mobile search is coming, and Microsoft already unveiled their barcode reading application.
RSS feeds and "widgets" are really just modified hyperlinks for the digital world. They allow an easier way to access a website/information on the Web. 2d codes offer that same easy ability to access website/information on the Net, but for physical world objects.
A 2d code, or physical world hyperlink, will allow anyone with a camera phone to scan any physical object (magazine, poster, brochure, bus stop, business card etc) with one of these codes, and access the Internet for more information.
From IT Pro Google readies itself for mobile search face off
As reported by IT PRO, Vodafone, France Telecom, Telefonica, Deutsche Telekom, Hutchinson Whampoa, Telecom Italia and Cingular - are secretly planning joining forces on mobile search. And as mobile searches can be targeted to specific locations, the potential revenue from these searches could be huge.
D-J Collins, head of corporate communication at Google UK said that the company was also building partnerships with a broad range of companies and this would see a lot of innovation in mobile search as a result.
He said the market for mobiles was more advanced in countries such as the UK or Japan and people used their phones in innovative ways. This meant that the company had to employ engineers who had knowledge of mobile networks and a deep understanding of what the local market wanted.
"Because the mobile experience in Japan is so advanced you have to be ingrained in the local culture," said Collins. "People in Japan use mobiles to barcode products, if you are an engineer in Norway you might not know that."
=======================================================
Now that mobile phone manufacturers are starting to embed barcode reading applications on the phone, mobile search and mobile marketing players must find a way to utilize this "tool".
Mobile phone manufacturers will not add a device/application unless there is a growing demand for it, AND there is an "infrastucture" built to accomodate it.
The "infrastructure" is/are a website(s) that allow ANYONE to create a 2d code and use them on any physical object to link a mobile phone to the Internet.
Look at how quickly and easily content grows with Google's Blogger, or the other blog sites. By allowing anyone on the Net (corporation or consumer) to create 2d codes, Google will be establishing even more ways to access this rapidly growing content, BUT from a mobile device.
One of the largest databases on the Net will soon merge with the physical world and be linked via the mobile phone using physical world hyperlinks.
What company has perfected the combination of finding information on the Net and providing relevant advertising?
Isn't the next logical step offering the same ability for the mobile?
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Scanbuy Receives Two More Mobile Barcode Patents
Microsoft's Don Dodge was spot on when he said Scanbuy was a "Company To Watch in 2007"
This physical world connection company has spent the last couple years marketing a disruptive technology, camera phones and barcodes. In the mean time they continue to build on their intellectual property portfolio.
New York, NY, February 8, 2007- Scanbuy, Inc., (www.www.scanbuy.com) a global provider of wireless commerce solutions today announced it has been granted two U.S. patents around a mobile device and a barcode.
The first patent addresses a method for decoding and analyzing barcodes using a mobile device to transmit and access information via WAP, SMS, or MMS. The second is focused on a system that provides an algorithm designed to enhance images of barcodes to facilitate the decoding process.
US Patent No. 7,156,311, describing a system for decoding barcodes using a mobile device like a cell phone equipped with a digital camera, uses software located on the mobile device to enhance the barcode image and subsequently decode the barcode information. The software uses the camera to read the barcode, transmit the decoded information to a server in multiple ways such as WAP, SMS, or MMS, and then connects the device via a wireless network to the corresponding media content and/or information.
U.S. patent No. 7,168,621 named “section based algorithm for image enhancement”, provides a process for enhancing images of barcodes that can compensate for many shortcomings of camera-equipped mobile devices, allowing many more images captured by camera-phones to be decoded, and as a result enhances users’ decoding experience.
“The patents we’ve been granted demonstrate the depth and strength of Scanbuys, ever growing, IP portfolio, and, more importantly, help to position Scanbuy as the partner of choice for handset manufacturers, carriers, content providers and advertisers” said Jonathan Bulkeley, Chief Executive Officer of Scanbuy, Inc.
Yesterday Nokia agreed to embed Scanbuy's barcode scanning application on their phones.
In my opinion, these guys are taking a close look at Scanbuy. I will elaborate why in an upcoming post.
The physical world connection puzzle pieces are coming together.
This physical world connection company has spent the last couple years marketing a disruptive technology, camera phones and barcodes. In the mean time they continue to build on their intellectual property portfolio.
New York, NY, February 8, 2007- Scanbuy, Inc., (www.www.scanbuy.com) a global provider of wireless commerce solutions today announced it has been granted two U.S. patents around a mobile device and a barcode.
The first patent addresses a method for decoding and analyzing barcodes using a mobile device to transmit and access information via WAP, SMS, or MMS. The second is focused on a system that provides an algorithm designed to enhance images of barcodes to facilitate the decoding process.
US Patent No. 7,156,311, describing a system for decoding barcodes using a mobile device like a cell phone equipped with a digital camera, uses software located on the mobile device to enhance the barcode image and subsequently decode the barcode information. The software uses the camera to read the barcode, transmit the decoded information to a server in multiple ways such as WAP, SMS, or MMS, and then connects the device via a wireless network to the corresponding media content and/or information.
U.S. patent No. 7,168,621 named “section based algorithm for image enhancement”, provides a process for enhancing images of barcodes that can compensate for many shortcomings of camera-equipped mobile devices, allowing many more images captured by camera-phones to be decoded, and as a result enhances users’ decoding experience.
“The patents we’ve been granted demonstrate the depth and strength of Scanbuys, ever growing, IP portfolio, and, more importantly, help to position Scanbuy as the partner of choice for handset manufacturers, carriers, content providers and advertisers” said Jonathan Bulkeley, Chief Executive Officer of Scanbuy, Inc.
Yesterday Nokia agreed to embed Scanbuy's barcode scanning application on their phones.
In my opinion, these guys are taking a close look at Scanbuy. I will elaborate why in an upcoming post.
The physical world connection puzzle pieces are coming together.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Scanbuy Signs Global Partnership Agreement With Nokia
Scanbuy and Nokia in the same press release. A tip of the hat goes out to Scanbuy for getting Nokia to preload their barcode scanning application on their phones.
Physical World Connection adoption just got a lot closer.
New York, NY, February 7, 2007- Scanbuy, Inc., (www.scanbuy.com) a global provider of wireless commerce solutions, today announced a global partnership agreement with Nokia (www.nokia.com)the world’s largest mobile phone manufacturer, to preload Scanbuy’s mobile marketing
software on Nokia handsets. The Greater China region (China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau) will be the first of a planned multi-market rollout for Nokia and Scanbuy, Inc.
The Scanbuy technology will allow users of the Nokia S60 and S40 handsets to recognize and decode barcodes on products, media and advertising and to link directly to content and services from their handsets.
“We are thrilled to team up with Nokia to bring our technology to the largest mobile market and eventually the rest of the world,” said Jonathan Bulkeley, Chief Executive Officer of Scanbuy, Inc. “Within the next 24 months we expect 2D barcodes to become ubiquitous within Greater China as marketers and media deploy codes on all products and advertising.”
About Scanbuy
Scanbuy (www.scanbuy.com) is a global provider of mobile solutions allowing consumers to access mobile commerce and mobile marketing services in a simple and intuitive way. Scanbuy’s barcode-capture technology and services platforms are designed for handset manufacturers, wireless carriers, content providers and retailers to enable swift navigation from the handset to the physical world. Scanbuy is widely acknowledged as the leading solution provider in this emerging market which displays strong growth potential for the consumer wireless market throughout the world. Founded in New York in March 2000, Scanbuy is led by a pioneer in media and e-commerce and has a strong intellectual property portfolio with over 25 patents filed in the US and internationally since 2001. Scanbuy made Fortune’s 2005 list of “25 Breakout Companies” and the “Top 100 Companies in North America” in Red Herring in 2006. The company's investors include Longworth Venture Partners, Masthead Venture Partners and Hudson Ventures.
Last year Nokia invited me to give a presentation on what the "Mobile Internet" will look like. My presentation titled "Nokia, Connecting MORE Than People", included physical world hyperlinks and mobile phones.
With Scanbuy's help, Nokia now connects more than people.
Physical World Connection adoption just got a lot closer.
New York, NY, February 7, 2007- Scanbuy, Inc., (www.scanbuy.com) a global provider of wireless commerce solutions, today announced a global partnership agreement with Nokia (www.nokia.com)the world’s largest mobile phone manufacturer, to preload Scanbuy’s mobile marketing
software on Nokia handsets. The Greater China region (China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau) will be the first of a planned multi-market rollout for Nokia and Scanbuy, Inc.The Scanbuy technology will allow users of the Nokia S60 and S40 handsets to recognize and decode barcodes on products, media and advertising and to link directly to content and services from their handsets.
“We are thrilled to team up with Nokia to bring our technology to the largest mobile market and eventually the rest of the world,” said Jonathan Bulkeley, Chief Executive Officer of Scanbuy, Inc. “Within the next 24 months we expect 2D barcodes to become ubiquitous within Greater China as marketers and media deploy codes on all products and advertising.”
About Scanbuy
Scanbuy (www.scanbuy.com) is a global provider of mobile solutions allowing consumers to access mobile commerce and mobile marketing services in a simple and intuitive way. Scanbuy’s barcode-capture technology and services platforms are designed for handset manufacturers, wireless carriers, content providers and retailers to enable swift navigation from the handset to the physical world. Scanbuy is widely acknowledged as the leading solution provider in this emerging market which displays strong growth potential for the consumer wireless market throughout the world. Founded in New York in March 2000, Scanbuy is led by a pioneer in media and e-commerce and has a strong intellectual property portfolio with over 25 patents filed in the US and internationally since 2001. Scanbuy made Fortune’s 2005 list of “25 Breakout Companies” and the “Top 100 Companies in North America” in Red Herring in 2006. The company's investors include Longworth Venture Partners, Masthead Venture Partners and Hudson Ventures.
Last year Nokia invited me to give a presentation on what the "Mobile Internet" will look like. My presentation titled "Nokia, Connecting MORE Than People", included physical world hyperlinks and mobile phones.
With Scanbuy's help, Nokia now connects more than people.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
2D Code....Would You Like Static Or Dynamic?
Philippe Bornstein over at Live in a Click discovers the European Central Bank using a QR code to provide foreign exchange rates.
It also shows us how a Physical World Hyperlink (PWH) can provide static and dynamic information.
It also shows us how a Physical World Hyperlink (PWH) can provide static and dynamic information.
This application provides a great illustration of how a 2d code, physical world hyperlink (PWH), can offer dynamic and static functions.
In this case, the URL is embedded in the code, it is linked to a specific site. When a cameraphone scans the 2d code, it sees http://www.ecb.int/euro.html and the browser goes to that site. The 2d code is static but it's function is dynamic. Foreign exchange rates are dynamic, constantly changing.
Physical world hyperlinks are just that. An identifier that will direct a mobile user to specific content on/through the Net. Just like a hyperlink on a website, a PWH can also be changed frequently to link to different sites.
Down the road, the 2D code will offer more of a dynamic function. A computer/server will resolve the 2d code and direct the user to various sites that can be changed without physically changing the 2d code that's already in print. What site you are directed to can be determined by your location, age, sex, time of day etc.
If the European Central Bank was able to change the targeted site for various users (difft countries, languages etc) that would make the 2d code dynamic.
An easy way to understand it:
The 2d code has one URL embedded in it (static) but the content on the site changes (dynamic).
The 2d code can be resolved to any site(dynamic) and the site content can be static or dynamic.
Generate Your Own Physical World Hyperlink
Here's another site that offers the ability to create your own physical world hyperlinks. The key point to note is that there isn't any barrier to entry in this space. Just like a website, hyperlinks can be created pretty easily.
Because their is no barrier to entry, a 2d code standard will occur when Google, Microsoft or Yahoo (major players) develop their own physical world hyperlink application.
There are 2 ways in which a standard occurs. Either you are the biggest and can force adoption, or you are so innovative that others follow.
Innovative companies don't need to have a standard in order to compete. The market chooses a standard. It is my belief that some companies are trying to force a 2d code standard because their own adoption efforts have been unsuccessful and by being in charge of creating this standard, it will allow them to compete.
From AJA Magazine OpenQRCode Generator
OpenQRCode is a new one page service to generate free QR Code, a new 2D Barcode standard from Japan which started to become widely adopted in industry.
Because their is no barrier to entry, a 2d code standard will occur when Google, Microsoft or Yahoo (major players) develop their own physical world hyperlink application.
There are 2 ways in which a standard occurs. Either you are the biggest and can force adoption, or you are so innovative that others follow.
Innovative companies don't need to have a standard in order to compete. The market chooses a standard. It is my belief that some companies are trying to force a 2d code standard because their own adoption efforts have been unsuccessful and by being in charge of creating this standard, it will allow them to compete.
From AJA Magazine OpenQRCode Generator
OpenQRCode is a new one page service to generate free QR Code, a new 2D Barcode standard from Japan which started to become widely adopted in industry.
Friday, February 02, 2007
What Is Web 2.0? It Is A Dynamic Internet
I thought I would bring out the pondering pen this week.
This week Microsoft released their new operating system Vista. Some say Microsoft continues to lose to Google because Microsoft still focuses on the power of the device, versus the power of the Net. They haven't catered their biz, or placed enough emphasis, on the real "device" that needs operating systemS, the Internet.
In the mean time, they have missed out on numerous billion dollar revenue streams.
I thought it would be a good time to discuss Web 2.0 and what I think it consists of.
Most of the applications and definitions I have seen for Web 2.0 seem to be software applications on the Net, that make information that already exists on the Net, easier to find or use. While this is great that the Net is being mastered, I wouldn't label it next generation.
In my opinion Web 2.0 is, or occurs:
1. when a physical object or location is able to retrieve or deliver information from the Net
2. when the Net allows you to retrieve information from ANY physical object or location that is remote from you.
Web 2.0 is about retrieving and delivering realtime information through the Net from another dimension. If you look at the hottest sites, the ones getting bought out by the major players, they are all providing static information.
It will arrive when Internet connections to any electronic device are as prevalent as electricity.
I have discussed at great length the various ways physical objects can be connected to the net, but what are the possibilities when a physical object or any internet enabled device is/can be continuously connected to the Net?
In my opinion Web 2.0 versus Web 1.0, switches from retrieving info from the net, to info being delivered thru the Net.
Content retrieval to dynamic content creation.
The emphasis of content shifts from what occurred to what is occurring.
What happened to what is happening.
The shift goes from static info/content to dynamic info/content.
A massive amount of data will be created when physical objects are/can be connected to the Net. That is Web 2.0
The pony express provided the first non verbal communication application. Delivering static information. The telephone provided the first device for communicating dynamic information.
Then look what happened when the telephone became mobile.
Everyone has asked themselves at one point, "how did we ever manage without cellphones"?
The intial function again was for communication (dynamic)
Then the mobile phone offered Internet access. (static info retrieval)
Then when the mobile phone included a camera. We can now send photos. (static)
Pictures and video from a digital camera or mobile phone are uploaded to the Net's ever increasing database...a one way process of providing static info.
The power comes when your camera phone (and other electronic devices/equipment) are able to deliver realtime data...dynamic.
What happens when your camera phone can stream video? You can now deliver dynamic information from a mobile device. See the dimension that is added?
Here are a couple examples of what I think Web 2.0 is.
1. I pull up a Google Map or Google Earth and click on a streetcam icon for a live feed of 5th Avenue. Street cam widgets on a website allow realtime viewing on a map.
2. I can turn down my air conditioner from a remote location (with PC or mobile) AND an AC repairman can diagnose a problem with AC through the Net.
I will be adding this post to the sidebar of PP because I want you to include what you think Web 2.0 is.
What is your idea of Web 2.0?
This week Microsoft released their new operating system Vista. Some say Microsoft continues to lose to Google because Microsoft still focuses on the power of the device, versus the power of the Net. They haven't catered their biz, or placed enough emphasis, on the real "device" that needs operating systemS, the Internet.
In the mean time, they have missed out on numerous billion dollar revenue streams.
I thought it would be a good time to discuss Web 2.0 and what I think it consists of.
Most of the applications and definitions I have seen for Web 2.0 seem to be software applications on the Net, that make information that already exists on the Net, easier to find or use. While this is great that the Net is being mastered, I wouldn't label it next generation.
In my opinion Web 2.0 is, or occurs:
1. when a physical object or location is able to retrieve or deliver information from the Net
2. when the Net allows you to retrieve information from ANY physical object or location that is remote from you.
Web 2.0 is about retrieving and delivering realtime information through the Net from another dimension. If you look at the hottest sites, the ones getting bought out by the major players, they are all providing static information.
It will arrive when Internet connections to any electronic device are as prevalent as electricity.
I have discussed at great length the various ways physical objects can be connected to the net, but what are the possibilities when a physical object or any internet enabled device is/can be continuously connected to the Net?
In my opinion Web 2.0 versus Web 1.0, switches from retrieving info from the net, to info being delivered thru the Net.
Content retrieval to dynamic content creation.
The emphasis of content shifts from what occurred to what is occurring.
What happened to what is happening.
The shift goes from static info/content to dynamic info/content.
A massive amount of data will be created when physical objects are/can be connected to the Net. That is Web 2.0
The pony express provided the first non verbal communication application. Delivering static information. The telephone provided the first device for communicating dynamic information.
Then look what happened when the telephone became mobile.
Everyone has asked themselves at one point, "how did we ever manage without cellphones"?
The intial function again was for communication (dynamic)
Then the mobile phone offered Internet access. (static info retrieval)
Then when the mobile phone included a camera. We can now send photos. (static)
Pictures and video from a digital camera or mobile phone are uploaded to the Net's ever increasing database...a one way process of providing static info.
The power comes when your camera phone (and other electronic devices/equipment) are able to deliver realtime data...dynamic.
What happens when your camera phone can stream video? You can now deliver dynamic information from a mobile device. See the dimension that is added?
Here are a couple examples of what I think Web 2.0 is.
1. I pull up a Google Map or Google Earth and click on a streetcam icon for a live feed of 5th Avenue. Street cam widgets on a website allow realtime viewing on a map.
2. I can turn down my air conditioner from a remote location (with PC or mobile) AND an AC repairman can diagnose a problem with AC through the Net.
I will be adding this post to the sidebar of PP because I want you to include what you think Web 2.0 is.
What is your idea of Web 2.0?
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Tagit And UpCode Named As Global Peer Award Finalists
MobileMonday is honored to welcome representatives from these winners to Barcelona to compete in the Global Peer Awards competition 2007.
Physical World Connection players Tagit , and UpCode and their 2d code scanning applications were named as Global Peer Award Finalists.
Tagit has “tagged” on the under-utilized power of camera phones by developing an integrated image-recognition and customer-interaction platform.
UpCode™ is revolutionary and interactive. It is an optical code reader that uses mobile phones/devices to add any electronic information or system to printed products. With the application it is possible to integrate all businesses, and all forms of eCommerce, with print media. UpCode is the link between all media
The Global Peer Awards finalists are best-in-breed companies who have demonstrated exceptionally innovative mobile technologies, services and concepts. Most finalists have reached this point by prevailing in a local selection process organized at the local MoMo chapter level.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Veritec Increases 2D Code Intellectual Property Portfolio
I wonder if this patent covers reading a torn, marked, or other defaced 2D codes.
From Yahoo Biz Major 2 Dimension Code patent granted to Veritec
Veritec is the pioneer and patent holder of two dimensional (2D) matrix coding technology and have been actively licensing their IP to Fortune 1000 companies.
The U.S. Patent Office granted Veritec, Inc., of Golden Valley, MN, U.S. patent number 7,159,780 for an advanced two-dimensional symbology reading system. Chief Design Engineer, Michael Christian is the inventor.
The patented technology overcomes reading and decoding issues prevalent in earlier reader designs, particularly when only a portion of the two-dimensional code is readable.
The newly-granted patent clearly establishes and protects Veritec's proprietary two-dimensional symbology reading and decoding systems and substantially enhances the company's product advantages in several markets.
From Yahoo Biz Major 2 Dimension Code patent granted to Veritec
Veritec is the pioneer and patent holder of two dimensional (2D) matrix coding technology and have been actively licensing their IP to Fortune 1000 companies.
The U.S. Patent Office granted Veritec, Inc., of Golden Valley, MN, U.S. patent number 7,159,780 for an advanced two-dimensional symbology reading system. Chief Design Engineer, Michael Christian is the inventor.
The patented technology overcomes reading and decoding issues prevalent in earlier reader designs, particularly when only a portion of the two-dimensional code is readable.
The newly-granted patent clearly establishes and protects Veritec's proprietary two-dimensional symbology reading and decoding systems and substantially enhances the company's product advantages in several markets.
Abaxia's MobileTag Links With Nokia And Provider
Another physical world connection player, MobileTag makes inroads with a telecom provider.
From M2 MobileTag featured in Nokia N70 Black in France
Abaxia , a leading specialist in embedded mobile software
solutions, has today announced that its smart barcode reader application MobileTag , will feature in the Nokia N70 Black in France. The MobileTag application, which has been customised for a major Telecom group, will offer N70 Black users fast and direct access to huge libraries of content that is continually and automatically updated, including online services such as Wap or Web portals, simply by taking a picture of a Tag.
MobileTag is an embedded application that enables camera-phones to read and decipher data matrix prints, known as 'Tags', which appear as a small square symbol that can be inserted into any text on a paper document, on television, or any kind of advertisement.
Cedric Mangaud, CEO of Abaxia says "By linking with Nokia and major operators, we are offering users the ability to use their cameraphone to access a wide variety of mobile content in a fast and efficient way that has not been possible before"
From M2 MobileTag featured in Nokia N70 Black in France
Abaxia , a leading specialist in embedded mobile software
solutions, has today announced that its smart barcode reader application MobileTag , will feature in the Nokia N70 Black in France. The MobileTag application, which has been customised for a major Telecom group, will offer N70 Black users fast and direct access to huge libraries of content that is continually and automatically updated, including online services such as Wap or Web portals, simply by taking a picture of a Tag.MobileTag is an embedded application that enables camera-phones to read and decipher data matrix prints, known as 'Tags', which appear as a small square symbol that can be inserted into any text on a paper document, on television, or any kind of advertisement.
Cedric Mangaud, CEO of Abaxia says "By linking with Nokia and major operators, we are offering users the ability to use their cameraphone to access a wide variety of mobile content in a fast and efficient way that has not been possible before"
All The World Is Connected
It is being called the "Internet of Things", "everyware", "pervasive computing", I refer to it as "Physical World Connection".
Wired News has a great story about Physical World Connection (PWC) titled All The World's a Tag
The basic idea is that a slew of emerging technologies -- RFID tags, wireless networking, portable devices hooked up to satellites, wearable computing -- will make objects in the real world act like the internet currently does. They'll be labeled, tagged, searchable and traceable, laden with tiny radio stations transmitting information to us, and storing information about us.
Information and environment will meld.
The author Nick Currie, gives some examples of PWC that include QR Codes, a physical world hyperlink.
QR Codes are simple printed labels, one step beyond bar codes
Wired News has a great story about Physical World Connection (PWC) titled All The World's a Tag
The basic idea is that a slew of emerging technologies -- RFID tags, wireless networking, portable devices hooked up to satellites, wearable computing -- will make objects in the real world act like the internet currently does. They'll be labeled, tagged, searchable and traceable, laden with tiny radio stations transmitting information to us, and storing information about us.
Information and environment will meld.
The author Nick Currie, gives some examples of PWC that include QR Codes, a physical world hyperlink.
QR Codes are simple printed labels, one step beyond bar codes
Tripletail Ventures Is A New Physical World Connection Player
I am happy to announce that Tripletail Ventures is being added to the rapidly growing Physical World Connection company list .
These are companies that utilize any type of Physical World Hyperlink to connect the physical world with the Internet.
Tripletail Ventures, Inc. is a Research and Development firm that has some important technologies for the PWC and Mobile Coupon space. Their goal is to collaborate with companies to bring two patented technologies to the marketplace:
1.Tagged Barcodes. By embedding tags (such as XML) into 2D barcodes, data can be efficiently entered and processed by disparate systems through a quick scan.
2.Video Barcodes. Enabling barcodes to be scanned from a cellphone screen, computer, ATM, or TV opens many opportunities for receiving and using coupons or tickets in a purely electronic format.
See their demo videos of real-world applications using Tripletail's application.
Tripletail divisions include:
cpn2me.com enabling mobile barcode coupons.
These are companies that utilize any type of Physical World Hyperlink to connect the physical world with the Internet.
Tripletail Ventures, Inc. is a Research and Development firm that has some important technologies for the PWC and Mobile Coupon space. Their goal is to collaborate with companies to bring two patented technologies to the marketplace:
1.Tagged Barcodes. By embedding tags (such as XML) into 2D barcodes, data can be efficiently entered and processed by disparate systems through a quick scan.
2.Video Barcodes. Enabling barcodes to be scanned from a cellphone screen, computer, ATM, or TV opens many opportunities for receiving and using coupons or tickets in a purely electronic format.
See their demo videos of real-world applications using Tripletail's application.
Patents around their "Data Without Boundaries" technology include
6,764,009
7,070,103
7,118,040
7,150,400 plus other pending patents.
Tripletail divisions include:
cpn2me.com enabling mobile barcode coupons.
Imagine receiving personally customized coupons on your cell phone and redeeming them with a scan of your phone at the check out counter. Imagine never having to keep track of paper coupons, vouchers, and membership cards again. This is all possible with Video Barcode™ technology
Video Barcode enabling barcodes on video screens.
Video Barcode™ (VBC) technology moves traditional physical barcodes into the digital realm of LCD displays, TVs, cell phones, and PDAs. Applications for VBCs are numerous and include: Mobile Tickets, Mobile Coupons, Mobile Membership, Mobile Vouchers, Point of Sale VBC Catalog, Online VBC Catalog, and Split Barcode Security and Verification. Many of the functions of a physical barcode could be performed by a VBC, but without printing costs, cumbersome updates, or misplaced paper.
tkt2me.com enabling mobile barcode tickets.
Imagine entering a movie theater, concert, or sporting event merely by showing your cell phone. Thanks to Video Barcode™ technology, tickets can be bought online, electronically sent to your cell phone, and redeemed with a simple scan at the point of entry.
Tripletail Ventures is looking for collaborators and licensees to incorporate our patented Video Barcode™ technology into the quickly expanding market for Mobile Tickets and Mobile Coupons. If you are interested in using an application for Video Barcodes™, please contact malto:info@tripletailventures.com
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Human Physical World Hyperlink Company VeriChip To Go Public
What I find exciting about this company, is they are demonstrating valuable uses for RFID technology, besides the common "track and trace" solution.
There RFID tag is being called the "barcode on steroids", not just because of the environments it can be used, but for the numerous dynamic applications it will offer.
From RFID Update Human RFID Tag Provider VeriChip Announces IPO
Applied Digital Solutions announced yesterday that it will take VeriChip public. Applied Digital manufactures security and identification products based on a number of technologies, including RFID. A subsidiary of Applied Digital, VeriChip manufactures the controversial human-implantable RFID tag of the same name.
Despite the perceptions of privacy advocates, those within the RFID industry itself typically do not see VeriChip as "one of them" but rather as a fringe company with an unusal offering that happens to be based on RFID technology. Furthermore, VeriChip targets non-traditional areas in which most RFID companies do not compete, like patient identification, infant protection, and wander prevention
There RFID tag is being called the "barcode on steroids", not just because of the environments it can be used, but for the numerous dynamic applications it will offer.
From RFID Update Human RFID Tag Provider VeriChip Announces IPO
Applied Digital Solutions announced yesterday that it will take VeriChip public. Applied Digital manufactures security and identification products based on a number of technologies, including RFID. A subsidiary of Applied Digital, VeriChip manufactures the controversial human-implantable RFID tag of the same name.
Despite the perceptions of privacy advocates, those within the RFID industry itself typically do not see VeriChip as "one of them" but rather as a fringe company with an unusal offering that happens to be based on RFID technology. Furthermore, VeriChip targets non-traditional areas in which most RFID companies do not compete, like patient identification, infant protection, and wander prevention
Physical World Connection Billboards
The latest step will be seen Monday in four cities when Mini USA begins delivering custom messages to Mini Cooper owners on digital signs the company calls "talking" billboards.
The boards, which usually carry typical advertising, are programmed to identify approaching Mini drivers through a coded signal from a radio chip embedded in their key fob. The messages are personal, based on questionnaires that owners filled out.(permission is granted) Filling out the questionnaire is giving Mini USA permission to advertise.
Physical world connection: A RFID tag (or any physical world hyperlink PWH) is scanned, verifies the user/product in a database, and delivers a message/info to a display (billboard, cell phone)
In this case the user/driver is being scanned and info is being delivered to him. The big opportunity is when physical objects with a PWH are scanned and info is provided. By scanning a 2d code, barcode, the user is effectively giving a brand permission to deliver relevant info/advertising to the scanner.
The technology is now widely used in chips implanted in pets and livestock, in cards that control access to buildings, and in devices for automated payments of highway tolls. Major retailers and manufacturers are investing in systems to tag and follow products as they move through the supply chain.
Imagine what interesting applications will be delivered when you register (only with permission) your RFID enabled cell phone. Who will be in control of this data? Who will be in charge of getting permission, phone manuf or providers?
If done properly, this could be a very powerful tool for mobile marketing.
The boards, which usually carry typical advertising, are programmed to identify approaching Mini drivers through a coded signal from a radio chip embedded in their key fob. The messages are personal, based on questionnaires that owners filled out.(permission is granted) Filling out the questionnaire is giving Mini USA permission to advertise.
Physical world connection: A RFID tag (or any physical world hyperlink PWH) is scanned, verifies the user/product in a database, and delivers a message/info to a display (billboard, cell phone)
In this case the user/driver is being scanned and info is being delivered to him. The big opportunity is when physical objects with a PWH are scanned and info is provided. By scanning a 2d code, barcode, the user is effectively giving a brand permission to deliver relevant info/advertising to the scanner.
The technology is now widely used in chips implanted in pets and livestock, in cards that control access to buildings, and in devices for automated payments of highway tolls. Major retailers and manufacturers are investing in systems to tag and follow products as they move through the supply chain.
Imagine what interesting applications will be delivered when you register (only with permission) your RFID enabled cell phone. Who will be in control of this data? Who will be in charge of getting permission, phone manuf or providers?
If done properly, this could be a very powerful tool for mobile marketing.
Friday, January 26, 2007
RuBee An Alternative Protocol To RFID
There's a new type of physical world hyperlink to add the list, the RuBee radio tag .
RuBee, also known as IEEE 1902.1. The emerging standard is expected to give retailers and manufacturers an alternative to RFID for many applications.
Proponents say RuBee networks would operate at long-wavelengths and accommodate low-cost radio tags at ranges between 10 to 50 feet. The standard will allow for networks encompassing thousands of radio tags operating below 450 kHz and target real-time inventory under harsh environments (key feature), even near metal and water and in the presence of electromagnetic noise.
While RuBee's similar transmission range and cost would make it seem like a replacement for current RFID applications, its relatively slow speed makes it unsuitable for tracking the numerous, moving products in a typical warehouse. RuBee-enabled devices will also have the advantage of transmitting data directly to the Internet.
RuBee, also known as IEEE 1902.1. The emerging standard is expected to give retailers and manufacturers an alternative to RFID for many applications.
Proponents say RuBee networks would operate at long-wavelengths and accommodate low-cost radio tags at ranges between 10 to 50 feet. The standard will allow for networks encompassing thousands of radio tags operating below 450 kHz and target real-time inventory under harsh environments (key feature), even near metal and water and in the presence of electromagnetic noise.
While RuBee's similar transmission range and cost would make it seem like a replacement for current RFID applications, its relatively slow speed makes it unsuitable for tracking the numerous, moving products in a typical warehouse. RuBee-enabled devices will also have the advantage of transmitting data directly to the Internet.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Mobile Codes Consortium..A Consortium Or a Conundrum?
A group of Physical World Connection (PWC) companies are getting together to create a "standard" 2d code physical world hyperlink. A standard 2d code would allow quicker adoption of this industry.
By having a "standard" mobile code, it would make it easier for mobile phone manufacturers, wireless carriers and mobile marketing companies to implement this technology.
I agree 100% with this idea, but I question the motives, the companies, and the timing of this effort.
From the document:
To enable the simple experience for marketers and consumers, the industry needs standards.
This document is a mission statement for the mobile industry, to create a consortium for a new mobile marketing ecosystem based around camera phones and 2D barcodes. A market-driven, open-standards approach will allow 2D barcodes to act as a catalyst in mobile internet adoption, mirroring the growth of web adoption over the last ten years.
Let me make a few suggestions.
1. Analyze all the mobile codes available from all of the physical world connection (PWC) companies.
You can find a list of the PWC players here . Determine what code is best suited for the MOBILE today and going forward. While the QR code may be considered the most common 2d code, it was initially designed for industrial use and will have limitations going forward for other upcoming Web 2.0 applications.
Look forward to see what codes are being designed for camera phones. There are better options than the QR code or Data Matrix code.
2. Analyze any patent issues that are present, or could develop. One of the companies within this consortium has a pattern of suing (and is still in the middle of a suit) other PWC players and has done a fantastic job of slowing PWC adoption in the U.S. . Now they want quicker adoption?
Is there a questionable motive here?
If this company is eager to see PWC get adopted, do their lawsuits impede this progress?
A PWC company not part of this consortium, has been licensing one of these proposed codes. If they are not included, could this present a problem with this "standard".
I would ask all participants to leave their intellectual property (IP) at the front door when they enter. I suspect this would change how "willing" some of these participants really are for a standard.
3. Outside of this consortium, things are happening rapdidly. Because of this, one could question the timing for this consortium and a "standard". Once again, I agree there should be a standard, but why are these companies proposing it now?
In the last couple months there have been 2 major PWC events (1. 2 ) from 2 different companies with proprietary mobile codes. They were no obstacles landing a major brand or getting a wireless carrier adopt their platform.
Has a major Asian carrier just shown us there is a better mobile code option than the QR code by adopting Nextcode's proprietary mobile code platform .
OP3 , Nextcode , BeeTagg and SemaCode haven't had any problems getting their proprietary mobile codes adopted, why not ask them how they did it. Or at least include them in this consortium for their input.
You can read the MC2's entire statement and the companies associated with it here (pdf)
The html version
If you're on the Physical World Connection list, or if you're a stealth PWC player, I suggest you email these guys and voice your opinion.
Comments and suggestions encouraged.
By having a "standard" mobile code, it would make it easier for mobile phone manufacturers, wireless carriers and mobile marketing companies to implement this technology.
I agree 100% with this idea, but I question the motives, the companies, and the timing of this effort.
From the document:
To enable the simple experience for marketers and consumers, the industry needs standards.
This document is a mission statement for the mobile industry, to create a consortium for a new mobile marketing ecosystem based around camera phones and 2D barcodes. A market-driven, open-standards approach will allow 2D barcodes to act as a catalyst in mobile internet adoption, mirroring the growth of web adoption over the last ten years.
Let me make a few suggestions.
1. Analyze all the mobile codes available from all of the physical world connection (PWC) companies.
You can find a list of the PWC players here . Determine what code is best suited for the MOBILE today and going forward. While the QR code may be considered the most common 2d code, it was initially designed for industrial use and will have limitations going forward for other upcoming Web 2.0 applications.
Look forward to see what codes are being designed for camera phones. There are better options than the QR code or Data Matrix code.
2. Analyze any patent issues that are present, or could develop. One of the companies within this consortium has a pattern of suing (and is still in the middle of a suit) other PWC players and has done a fantastic job of slowing PWC adoption in the U.S. . Now they want quicker adoption?
Is there a questionable motive here?
If this company is eager to see PWC get adopted, do their lawsuits impede this progress?
A PWC company not part of this consortium, has been licensing one of these proposed codes. If they are not included, could this present a problem with this "standard".
I would ask all participants to leave their intellectual property (IP) at the front door when they enter. I suspect this would change how "willing" some of these participants really are for a standard.
3. Outside of this consortium, things are happening rapdidly. Because of this, one could question the timing for this consortium and a "standard". Once again, I agree there should be a standard, but why are these companies proposing it now?
In the last couple months there have been 2 major PWC events (1. 2 ) from 2 different companies with proprietary mobile codes. They were no obstacles landing a major brand or getting a wireless carrier adopt their platform.
Has a major Asian carrier just shown us there is a better mobile code option than the QR code by adopting Nextcode's proprietary mobile code platform .
OP3 , Nextcode , BeeTagg and SemaCode haven't had any problems getting their proprietary mobile codes adopted, why not ask them how they did it. Or at least include them in this consortium for their input.
You can read the MC2's entire statement and the companies associated with it here (pdf)
The html version
If you're on the Physical World Connection list, or if you're a stealth PWC player, I suggest you email these guys and voice your opinion.
Comments and suggestions encouraged.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
TellMe Disrupts The Mobile Search Space With Speech Recognition 411 For Mobile
The first thing I thought is TellMe could disrupt the mobile search and info space pretty quickly with this application.
I see a couple opportunities for TellMe with this mobile application.
First off TellMe gets into the advertising business and creates a division selling "Voice Words"
TellMe could start a domain registry for specific words Sell specific words, that companies can use in various mobile applications (advertising, commerce) that when said over the TellMe network, would direct the mobile user to a specific site or content.
TellMe develops a direct to connect mobile application.
Advertisers incorporate "TellMe" words into all forms of advertising similar to SMS shortcodes and keywords today.
Would TellMe's voice platform be a great acquisition for Google (voicewords for advertising) or Verisign (offer voicewords with domain registration)?
TechCrunch has the scoop on TellMe launching a Killer Mobile Product
If you have a cell phone that supports the new TellMe mobile application, you will never use 411 again to find a business. It launches today at 5 AM PST.
TellMe mobile is a free Java application that you install on your phone. You can then find normal 411 information via a voice activated menu. Just hold the talk button and say the city and state you are searching in. Then say the business name. Phone and address information comes up on the screen. You can then call the business, see a map and/or get driving directions, and send the information to a friend via SMS. The best part is that the service is completely free.
For now the service is only available to Sprint and Cingular customers.
Would you download this application for this service?
Chances are you have probably used TellMe without knowing it when you used a voice recognition service to get a stock quote, track a package or find flight info.
How much longer before we see a speech recognition browser? Or a combination of GPS and search functions with voice?
Thoughts comments?
I see a couple opportunities for TellMe with this mobile application.
First off TellMe gets into the advertising business and creates a division selling "Voice Words"
TellMe could start a domain registry for specific words Sell specific words, that companies can use in various mobile applications (advertising, commerce) that when said over the TellMe network, would direct the mobile user to a specific site or content.
TellMe develops a direct to connect mobile application.
Advertisers incorporate "TellMe" words into all forms of advertising similar to SMS shortcodes and keywords today.
Would TellMe's voice platform be a great acquisition for Google (voicewords for advertising) or Verisign (offer voicewords with domain registration)?
TechCrunch has the scoop on TellMe launching a Killer Mobile Product
If you have a cell phone that supports the new TellMe mobile application, you will never use 411 again to find a business. It launches today at 5 AM PST.
TellMe mobile is a free Java application that you install on your phone. You can then find normal 411 information via a voice activated menu. Just hold the talk button and say the city and state you are searching in. Then say the business name. Phone and address information comes up on the screen. You can then call the business, see a map and/or get driving directions, and send the information to a friend via SMS. The best part is that the service is completely free.
For now the service is only available to Sprint and Cingular customers.
Would you download this application for this service?
Chances are you have probably used TellMe without knowing it when you used a voice recognition service to get a stock quote, track a package or find flight info.
How much longer before we see a speech recognition browser? Or a combination of GPS and search functions with voice?
Thoughts comments?
Smart Communications Licenses Nextcode's Physical World Connection Platform
I think Nextcode is the first U.S. based Physical World Connection company to have their platform incorporated by a wireless carrier. 
The Philippines generate more SMS traffic than any other country and it says a lot that an innovative mobile provider like SMART chose Nextcode's platform for the next generation of mobile marketing and mobile commerce.
"SMART is recognized around the world as a leader in advanced mobile applications offerings," said Jim Levinger, CEO of Nextcode Corporation.
Nextcode Corporation, a worldwide leader in optical bar code scanning technology, announced today that Smart Communications, Inc. (SMART), the leading Philippine wireless services provider with 22.9 million subscribers, is the first major carrier to license Nextcode's ConnexTo(TM) for Carriers platform.
The ConnexTo carrier package enables carriers to deploy sophisticated barcode scanning-based services to subscribers. The carrier platform provides software that allows camera phones to read codes, and tools to create and manage code-based programs for content discovery and merchandising, mobile marketing, commerce, community and other subscriber services.
Nextcode's technology is designed to be cost effectively deployed and managed easily. It operates on standard camera phones without requiring modification to phone hardware or optics. It provides unmatched flexibility and usability for subscribers, advertisers and content providers.
The mCode:
1. uses much less space than a QR code
2. is much more reliable
3. provides more security than a QR code
4. can offer more applications than a QR code
Based on the size of the code, the size of data is most efficient with an mCode.
Some mCode examples
"The code scanning platform that Nextcode provides significantly enhances our ability to bring innovative new services to our customers," said Napoleon L. Nazareno, president and CEO of SMART.
More information about Nextcode and their ConnexTo platform.
The Philippines generate more SMS traffic than any other country and it says a lot that an innovative mobile provider like SMART chose Nextcode's platform for the next generation of mobile marketing and mobile commerce.
"SMART is recognized around the world as a leader in advanced mobile applications offerings," said Jim Levinger, CEO of Nextcode Corporation.
Nextcode Corporation, a worldwide leader in optical bar code scanning technology, announced today that Smart Communications, Inc. (SMART), the leading Philippine wireless services provider with 22.9 million subscribers, is the first major carrier to license Nextcode's ConnexTo(TM) for Carriers platform.
The ConnexTo carrier package enables carriers to deploy sophisticated barcode scanning-based services to subscribers. The carrier platform provides software that allows camera phones to read codes, and tools to create and manage code-based programs for content discovery and merchandising, mobile marketing, commerce, community and other subscriber services.Nextcode's technology is designed to be cost effectively deployed and managed easily. It operates on standard camera phones without requiring modification to phone hardware or optics. It provides unmatched flexibility and usability for subscribers, advertisers and content providers.
The mCode:
1. uses much less space than a QR code
2. is much more reliable
3. provides more security than a QR code
4. can offer more applications than a QR code
Based on the size of the code, the size of data is most efficient with an mCode.
Some mCode examples
"The code scanning platform that Nextcode provides significantly enhances our ability to bring innovative new services to our customers," said Napoleon L. Nazareno, president and CEO of SMART.
More information about Nextcode and their ConnexTo platform.
Physical World Connection A Top Trend
The Institute for Global Futures came out with their 2007 Global Trends Report.
In the top 10 trends, 2 of the trends are based on, or use, Physical World Connection.
3. Always-On Connectivity - The pervasive Internet is coming in 2007 and will connect everyone—business, customers—everywhere, and all the time, across borders, supply chains and industries. WiFi will be everywhere. Entirely new supply chains, markets and industries will be born from this always-on connectivity. New business models that deliver real-time value all the time anywhere and everywhere will redefine industry—get ready now for this shift. Business must embrace this trend and customers will expect it.
5. Get Smart: Products That Think - Talking, thinking, sensing products are coming. Biometrics, GPS, RFID chips in products, always-on Internet devices, clothes and connected cars. Every product will be online, chatting and sensing us. A new world of smart products will provide features, upgrades, connections, memory, information, diagnostics to enhance customer and enterprise value. There is a dark side--privacy advocates beware.
From more info visit Global Futurist
A list of companies that can play a role in this upcoming trend is here
In the top 10 trends, 2 of the trends are based on, or use, Physical World Connection.
3. Always-On Connectivity - The pervasive Internet is coming in 2007 and will connect everyone—business, customers—everywhere, and all the time, across borders, supply chains and industries. WiFi will be everywhere. Entirely new supply chains, markets and industries will be born from this always-on connectivity. New business models that deliver real-time value all the time anywhere and everywhere will redefine industry—get ready now for this shift. Business must embrace this trend and customers will expect it.
5. Get Smart: Products That Think - Talking, thinking, sensing products are coming. Biometrics, GPS, RFID chips in products, always-on Internet devices, clothes and connected cars. Every product will be online, chatting and sensing us. A new world of smart products will provide features, upgrades, connections, memory, information, diagnostics to enhance customer and enterprise value. There is a dark side--privacy advocates beware.
From more info visit Global Futurist
A list of companies that can play a role in this upcoming trend is here
Friday, January 19, 2007
Physical World Connection Implementation Next Week
There will be an announcement next week about a major carrier implementing a Physical World Connection platform.
They are a U.S. based company, and they are on the list .
They are a U.S. based company, and they are on the list .
Mobile Marketing 101 Permission Comes First
When Sprint announced they were laying off 5000 employees, and Apple unveiled their iPhone in the same week, it got me thinking.
I did a piece called We Interrupt This Broadcast a couple years ago that explained where mobile marketing would be going. These same issues exist today.
Are we seeing another industry, another commodity business, that can't change.
They, along with the other carriers are trying to find a way to tap into mobile advertising and increase ARPU.
Wireless carriers are in a sense, able to place their own "toolbar" or home page, on the mobile, why aren't they monetizing this?
What happens to wireless carriers when VOIP and WiMax aren't just concepts? What happens when voice is free?
With all of the upcoming mobile applications, shouldn't this be an exciting time for a mobile operator?
Advertising is about to encounter a significant obstacle with the mobile phone. Will mobile carriers be able to figure out how to get permission from consumers in order to reach them at anytime and anywhere?
It all boils down to permission and creativity.
Advertisers can't just slap a 30 second ad on the highest rated TV shows/channels anymore. The consumer has Tivo and DVRS which allow the consumer to retrieve, or be in control of "permission"
Satellite radio has taken the advertiser out of the picture.
Internet pop ups and banners didn't get permission from the consumer and that advertising method ultimately failed. That won't happen with mobile advertising, permission must be granted first.
When and how did Internet advertising take off? When a free application (search engine) was introduced that provided relevant information, advertisers could place advertising along side of that information. It's a give and take relationship. I will give you permission to advertise to me when I get/take relevant information from you.
If the latest text message campaigns from NBC's TV shows are any indication of how advertisers should implement mobile marketing, then there is HUGE opportunity for anybody with any creative thinking. Send a text (and get charged a fee) for a chance to win $10,000. They are building a huge database that can't be used because they are not getting permission.
This is the best they can do?
A company that seems to be doing everything right in mobile marketing is Qtags.
Qtags is doing a great job of landing big clients that are using their short code 78247 for various campaigns. Brands are using a keyword and the Qtag shortcode on various forms of medium to get interested consumers to initiate a relationship (ie permission). Take a look at some of the big brands they have landed and their latest campaigns
For now I see two methods or approaches to mobile marketing, direct and indirect. Each has their own method of gaining permission from the consumer.
Companies like 4INFO will provide ads along side of text message info queries (phone number listings, sports scores, stock quotes, weather etc). They are provided advertising next to info you are searching for (indirect mobile marketing)
The other method, like Qtags, is direct mobile marketing. A magazine ad, radio spot or TV commercial will invite people to send a text message to a specific shortcode for more info.
Eventually the shortcode will be replaced by a 2d code that users can click on with a camera phone for more info or to be directed to a specific website.
A common complaint I hear from mobile marketing guys is the length of time to get a short code. Imagine if it took close to two months to get a domain name.
Here are some of the variables I see for mobile marketing.
The amount of time to register a shortcode may force advertisers to use a shortcode "portal".
Major short code owners (Yahoo, Google 4INFO) offering LINK words, become SMS portals.
Percentage of mobile phones with cameras and increased resolution of the camera.
2d code generating sites...could replace the shortcode/keyword method when people can create their own physical world hyperlink .
I did a piece called We Interrupt This Broadcast a couple years ago that explained where mobile marketing would be going. These same issues exist today.
Are we seeing another industry, another commodity business, that can't change.
They, along with the other carriers are trying to find a way to tap into mobile advertising and increase ARPU.
Wireless carriers are in a sense, able to place their own "toolbar" or home page, on the mobile, why aren't they monetizing this?
What happens to wireless carriers when VOIP and WiMax aren't just concepts? What happens when voice is free?
With all of the upcoming mobile applications, shouldn't this be an exciting time for a mobile operator?
Advertising is about to encounter a significant obstacle with the mobile phone. Will mobile carriers be able to figure out how to get permission from consumers in order to reach them at anytime and anywhere?
It all boils down to permission and creativity.
Advertisers can't just slap a 30 second ad on the highest rated TV shows/channels anymore. The consumer has Tivo and DVRS which allow the consumer to retrieve, or be in control of "permission"
Satellite radio has taken the advertiser out of the picture.
Internet pop ups and banners didn't get permission from the consumer and that advertising method ultimately failed. That won't happen with mobile advertising, permission must be granted first.
When and how did Internet advertising take off? When a free application (search engine) was introduced that provided relevant information, advertisers could place advertising along side of that information. It's a give and take relationship. I will give you permission to advertise to me when I get/take relevant information from you.
If the latest text message campaigns from NBC's TV shows are any indication of how advertisers should implement mobile marketing, then there is HUGE opportunity for anybody with any creative thinking. Send a text (and get charged a fee) for a chance to win $10,000. They are building a huge database that can't be used because they are not getting permission.
This is the best they can do?
A company that seems to be doing everything right in mobile marketing is Qtags.
Qtags is doing a great job of landing big clients that are using their short code 78247 for various campaigns. Brands are using a keyword and the Qtag shortcode on various forms of medium to get interested consumers to initiate a relationship (ie permission). Take a look at some of the big brands they have landed and their latest campaigns
For now I see two methods or approaches to mobile marketing, direct and indirect. Each has their own method of gaining permission from the consumer.
Companies like 4INFO will provide ads along side of text message info queries (phone number listings, sports scores, stock quotes, weather etc). They are provided advertising next to info you are searching for (indirect mobile marketing)
The other method, like Qtags, is direct mobile marketing. A magazine ad, radio spot or TV commercial will invite people to send a text message to a specific shortcode for more info.
Eventually the shortcode will be replaced by a 2d code that users can click on with a camera phone for more info or to be directed to a specific website.
A common complaint I hear from mobile marketing guys is the length of time to get a short code. Imagine if it took close to two months to get a domain name.
Here are some of the variables I see for mobile marketing.
The amount of time to register a shortcode may force advertisers to use a shortcode "portal".
Major short code owners (Yahoo, Google 4INFO) offering LINK words, become SMS portals.
Percentage of mobile phones with cameras and increased resolution of the camera.
2d code generating sites...could replace the shortcode/keyword method when people can create their own physical world hyperlink .
Thursday, January 18, 2007
RFID Has Infinite Potential
I think it's a safe bet that the market for using various forms of RFID to monitor items (dynamic) will be significantly larger than using RFID to identifying items (static).
From TUV Product RFID has infinite potential, panelists say
Radio frequency identification (RFID) could have "infinite potential" for advertising and retail sectors, a panel of experts has claimed. (Don't forget industrial use).
According to panellists at New York City's National Retail Federation, 2007 could be the year in which RFID application methods are advanced, after 2005 was the year of "hype" and 2006 the year of "validation", Electronics Supply & Manufacturing reports
From TUV Product RFID has infinite potential, panelists say
Radio frequency identification (RFID) could have "infinite potential" for advertising and retail sectors, a panel of experts has claimed. (Don't forget industrial use).
According to panellists at New York City's National Retail Federation, 2007 could be the year in which RFID application methods are advanced, after 2005 was the year of "hype" and 2006 the year of "validation", Electronics Supply & Manufacturing reports
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Mobivity Offers Do It Yourself Mobile Marketing
Add Mobivity to the Mobile Marketing company list
Whether you want to send coupons, a simple text message response, or connect to an elaborate SMS application or API, with Mobivity you'll be connected instantly! Their shared short code service is simply the easiest and most inexpensive way to integrate text messaging into your business
You simply choose a KEYWORD that identifies your company. Your customers, and prospects then send a text message with your keyword to our short code (95495).
Take the free trial
Take a tour of how easy it is to build your own mobile marketing platform.
Whether you want to send coupons, a simple text message response, or connect to an elaborate SMS application or API, with Mobivity you'll be connected instantly! Their shared short code service is simply the easiest and most inexpensive way to integrate text messaging into your business
You simply choose a KEYWORD that identifies your company. Your customers, and prospects then send a text message with your keyword to our short code (95495).
Take the free trial
Take a tour of how easy it is to build your own mobile marketing platform.
Ode To The BarCode
Angel has a great summary of the various types of codes (barcode, 2d codes etc) and their origins.
Physical world connection companies mentioned include:
Cobblestone Software
Semacode
ShotCode
Veritec
An extensive list of companies that using barcodes, 2d codes and other physical world hyperlinks to connect physical objects to the Net can be found here .
Physical world connection companies mentioned include:
Cobblestone Software
Semacode
ShotCode
Veritec
An extensive list of companies that using barcodes, 2d codes and other physical world hyperlinks to connect physical objects to the Net can be found here .
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
meshBee Offers More Than Mobile Coupons
Imagine a world where businesses can send real-time information, coupons, ads or other messages directly to consumers who are interested and near. That same world would allow consumers to receive this type of information in a friendly, reliable and personalized way.
Outermesh's flagship product called meshBee is a patent pending proximity-based mobile coupon and direct marketing solution based on new innovative technologies.
The solution creates a powerful new touchpoint between advertisers, retailers and consumers.
The vision of Outermesh is to empower people with real-time information about people, places and things in the physical world.
Advertisers create and manage targeted marketing campaigns, while shoppers receive relevant, personalized and contextual deals through a fast and friendly medium. Unlike conventional mobile marketing solutions that use text messaging or WAP, meshBee offers a very unique delivery mechanism that shoppers are eager to use
Outermesh's flagship product called meshBee is a patent pending proximity-based mobile coupon and direct marketing solution based on new innovative technologies.
The solution creates a powerful new touchpoint between advertisers, retailers and consumers.
The vision of Outermesh is to empower people with real-time information about people, places and things in the physical world.
Advertisers create and manage targeted marketing campaigns, while shoppers receive relevant, personalized and contextual deals through a fast and friendly medium. Unlike conventional mobile marketing solutions that use text messaging or WAP, meshBee offers a very unique delivery mechanism that shoppers are eager to use
Microsoft's Barcode Scanning A.U.R.A. Called A Powerful Tool
Scanning any barcode (or 2d code) with a camera phone and connecting to targeted websites, (Physical World Connection) will indeed create power to those that recognize this next-generation Internet opportunity.
Ryan Stewart over at ZDNet discusses Microsoft's A.U.R.A camera phone barcode scanning application and says this application has the potential to be a powerful tool for consumers and developers. (I would include corporations/brands too)
I hope the A.U.R.A. project sees the light of day but it's very cool to see what Microsoft Research is working on. This has the potential to be a powerful tool for the consumer and developers (as well as stores) that can take advantage of something like this have a huge head start. I can see a broad range of barcode applications that use A.U.R.A. as a starting point and build on its solid foundation. I think this kind of interaction is one in which RIA developers need to take a long hard look.
Download the AURA mobile client here .
A.U.R.A. requires close, focused pictures of barcodes to convert the image into a decoded string. Many Windows Mobile devices have cameras that cannot focus at the close distances required by A.U.R.A. To work around this you can apply an A.U.R.A. Lens Kit to your phone. Microsoft will send a lens kit to anyone who sends a self-addressed stamped envelope to:
Project A.U.R.A. Lens Kit Request
Microsoft Research, Community Technologies Group
One Microsoft Way
Redmond, WA 98052
United States of America
Ryan Stewart over at ZDNet discusses Microsoft's A.U.R.A camera phone barcode scanning application and says this application has the potential to be a powerful tool for consumers and developers. (I would include corporations/brands too)
I hope the A.U.R.A. project sees the light of day but it's very cool to see what Microsoft Research is working on. This has the potential to be a powerful tool for the consumer and developers (as well as stores) that can take advantage of something like this have a huge head start. I can see a broad range of barcode applications that use A.U.R.A. as a starting point and build on its solid foundation. I think this kind of interaction is one in which RIA developers need to take a long hard look.
Download the AURA mobile client here .
A.U.R.A. requires close, focused pictures of barcodes to convert the image into a decoded string. Many Windows Mobile devices have cameras that cannot focus at the close distances required by A.U.R.A. To work around this you can apply an A.U.R.A. Lens Kit to your phone. Microsoft will send a lens kit to anyone who sends a self-addressed stamped envelope to:
Project A.U.R.A. Lens Kit Request
Microsoft Research, Community Technologies Group
One Microsoft Way
Redmond, WA 98052
United States of America
ShotCode And Winksite Offer Physical World Hyperlinks To Mobile Webpages
Being mobile and accessing mobile content has never been easier.
Did you know that creating a mobile webpage can be as simple as creating a webpage for ‘the regular Internet’? WinkSite
Did you know that instead of typing a lengthy Internet address on your mobile phone, you can access each mobile webpage in three clicks? ShotCode
This is why Winksite and ShotCode , highly compatible companies, have decided to join forces to provide connections between the physical world and the mobile Internet.
ShotCodes are circular sequences of black and white blocks (2D codes) that represent an internet address. By installing the free ShotCode software on your mobile phone you extend your camera’s functionality into that of a ShotCode reader.
The ShotCode works much in the same way as the reading of barcodes in supermarkets, you point your phone’s camera at a printed ShotCode, click, and your phone’s browser is automatically connected to the corresponding internet address.
Currently ShotCode and Winksite are in talks with several large international brands to offer the combined service bundled with promotional products such as personalized t-shirts, Winksite/ShotCode business cards, personalized ShotCode stamps, stickers and more.
See how ShotCodes work
David Harper, founder of Winksite , “ShotCode’s unique shape makes for an attractive and recognizable symbol that is easily branded or used in more personalized outings. With customers such as Coca Cola, Heineken and Xbox, ShotCode has proven to be the frontrunner in this exciting market. We’re enthusiastic about offering these real world hyperlinks to the Winksite mobile community for free.”
Make your ShotCodes here
Did you know that creating a mobile webpage can be as simple as creating a webpage for ‘the regular Internet’? WinkSite
Did you know that instead of typing a lengthy Internet address on your mobile phone, you can access each mobile webpage in three clicks? ShotCode
This is why Winksite and ShotCode , highly compatible companies, have decided to join forces to provide connections between the physical world and the mobile Internet.
ShotCodes are circular sequences of black and white blocks (2D codes) that represent an internet address. By installing the free ShotCode software on your mobile phone you extend your camera’s functionality into that of a ShotCode reader.
The ShotCode works much in the same way as the reading of barcodes in supermarkets, you point your phone’s camera at a printed ShotCode, click, and your phone’s browser is automatically connected to the corresponding internet address.
Currently ShotCode and Winksite are in talks with several large international brands to offer the combined service bundled with promotional products such as personalized t-shirts, Winksite/ShotCode business cards, personalized ShotCode stamps, stickers and more.
See how ShotCodes work
David Harper, founder of Winksite , “ShotCode’s unique shape makes for an attractive and recognizable symbol that is easily branded or used in more personalized outings. With customers such as Coca Cola, Heineken and Xbox, ShotCode has proven to be the frontrunner in this exciting market. We’re enthusiastic about offering these real world hyperlinks to the Winksite mobile community for free.”
Make your ShotCodes here
Friday, January 12, 2007
Create Your Own Physical World Hyperlink RFID Tag?
Create your own physical world hyperlink RFID tag.
This story has some interesting physical world connection potential.
Vernon Hills-based Zebra Technologies said Thursday it has agreed to buy WhereNet Corp., bolstering its position in an up-and-coming technology known as RFID.
Zebra will pay $126 million in cash for the privately-held WhereNet
Zebra is involved in 'passive' RFID, meaning it prints labels that can be read only when a wireless scanner is within 10 feet.
WhereNet makes 'active' RFID labels and the wireless systems that read them. Active RFID tags are battery-operated, and send out signals that can be read from 1,000 feet away.
Having a website and being able to print a shipping/postage label have allowed anyone to sell any product anywhere.
What companies and services will be created when an individual user can create their own RFID tag and scan it with an RFID browser ?
This story has some interesting physical world connection potential.
Vernon Hills-based Zebra Technologies said Thursday it has agreed to buy WhereNet Corp., bolstering its position in an up-and-coming technology known as RFID.
Zebra will pay $126 million in cash for the privately-held WhereNet
Zebra is involved in 'passive' RFID, meaning it prints labels that can be read only when a wireless scanner is within 10 feet.
WhereNet makes 'active' RFID labels and the wireless systems that read them. Active RFID tags are battery-operated, and send out signals that can be read from 1,000 feet away.
Having a website and being able to print a shipping/postage label have allowed anyone to sell any product anywhere.
What companies and services will be created when an individual user can create their own RFID tag and scan it with an RFID browser ?
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Apple's iPhone Offers More Than A Phone But A Killer Platform
Apple probably has to go down as one of the first companies to link the physical world with the Internet.
When you download a song on iTunes from the the Net, and then transfered to an Ipod (mobile device), indirectly and in reverse order you created a physical world connection.
Apple and iTunes got millions of people (especially the targeted demographics) to link a mobile device to their PC. The disruption isn't in the iPod or the Nano, but in the iTunes platform. I think the same thing will occur around the platform for the iPhone.
I see the iPhone being more than just a communication device that surfs the Net and holds music. An iPhone pplication could provide the platform for two of the fastest growing industries, mobile marketing and mcommerce.
An iPhone application on the PC could link your mobile world to your PC.
If Apple can make it as easy to interlink a mobile phone and a PC (like they do with iTunes and an iPod), they could become a mobile marketing and mobile commerce powerhouse .
I know iPhone won't be the name of Apple's new phone, but I use the term because it's easy to identify.
Apple could do what every wireless carrier dreams of, tying your PC world with your mobile world. iTunes provided the conduit for the PC and mobile worlds. The iPhone will provide the Internet access.
Your iPhone application on your PC becomes a place where you store all of your mobile search requests, text messages, pictures, phone calls (think voIP applications), mcommerce transactions (soon). Yes a universal remote control but with a website that allows control and review.
How many times in the last 6 mos have you logged into your wireless account online?
I have often wondered why wireless carriers don't spend more time marketing a "MyCell" webpage. They are sitting on an advertising and customer relationship goldmine but they are ignoring it.
Apple Computer Inc. will finally end the rumors and announce a cell phone today with wireless service from Cingular Wireless LLC, a news report said.
Apple and Cingular team up for cell phone
Rather than tie itself to a single service provider, Apple is likely to introduce an “unlocked” phone that can be used on different networks.
Would you allow Apple to deliver ads on your iPhone if they compensated you with extra minutes?
Apple can provide a billing platform for movie tickets, coupons, airline tickets.
Go to iTunes or the iPhone application, download a ticket for Jimmey Buffet concert and get a 2d code, barcode on your iPod/iPhone. The billing is ALREADY IN PLACE and you just wave your iPod/iPhone at the door.
Apple has already tapped into a Physical World Connection application
Just imagine the possibilities if the iPhone has a camera too.
Thoughts comments?
When you download a song on iTunes from the the Net, and then transfered to an Ipod (mobile device), indirectly and in reverse order you created a physical world connection.
Apple and iTunes got millions of people (especially the targeted demographics) to link a mobile device to their PC. The disruption isn't in the iPod or the Nano, but in the iTunes platform. I think the same thing will occur around the platform for the iPhone.
I see the iPhone being more than just a communication device that surfs the Net and holds music. An iPhone pplication could provide the platform for two of the fastest growing industries, mobile marketing and mcommerce.
An iPhone application on the PC could link your mobile world to your PC.
If Apple can make it as easy to interlink a mobile phone and a PC (like they do with iTunes and an iPod), they could become a mobile marketing and mobile commerce powerhouse .
I know iPhone won't be the name of Apple's new phone, but I use the term because it's easy to identify.
Apple could do what every wireless carrier dreams of, tying your PC world with your mobile world. iTunes provided the conduit for the PC and mobile worlds. The iPhone will provide the Internet access.
Your iPhone application on your PC becomes a place where you store all of your mobile search requests, text messages, pictures, phone calls (think voIP applications), mcommerce transactions (soon). Yes a universal remote control but with a website that allows control and review.
How many times in the last 6 mos have you logged into your wireless account online?
I have often wondered why wireless carriers don't spend more time marketing a "MyCell" webpage. They are sitting on an advertising and customer relationship goldmine but they are ignoring it.
Apple Computer Inc. will finally end the rumors and announce a cell phone today with wireless service from Cingular Wireless LLC, a news report said.
Apple and Cingular team up for cell phone
Rather than tie itself to a single service provider, Apple is likely to introduce an “unlocked” phone that can be used on different networks.
Would you allow Apple to deliver ads on your iPhone if they compensated you with extra minutes?
Apple can provide a billing platform for movie tickets, coupons, airline tickets.
Go to iTunes or the iPhone application, download a ticket for Jimmey Buffet concert and get a 2d code, barcode on your iPod/iPhone. The billing is ALREADY IN PLACE and you just wave your iPod/iPhone at the door.
Apple has already tapped into a Physical World Connection application
Just imagine the possibilities if the iPhone has a camera too.
Thoughts comments?
Monday, January 08, 2007
Mobile Phone And Barcode Called Disruptive Technology
I expect to see more tech magazines and pundits recognize the physical world connection and physical world hyperlinks as disruptive technology.
From GizMag ScanBuy Barcode software on your camera
January 8, 2007 From time-to-time, we see a potentially disruptive technology of such magnitude we ponder its ability to shake the foundations - Scanbuy rates in that category.
The whole story
From GizMag ScanBuy Barcode software on your camera
January 8, 2007 From time-to-time, we see a potentially disruptive technology of such magnitude we ponder its ability to shake the foundations - Scanbuy rates in that category.
The whole story
Friday, January 05, 2007
Google And China Mobile Get Ready To Link The Physical World With QR Codes
Last year Time Magazine named "You" as the Person Of The Year because "You" made an enormous impact when "You" created and uploaded digital content to the Net.
The next transformation and major impact for the Internet will be when "You" link physical objects to it and "You" will play a big role in that too.
I don't imagine it will be much longer before Google introduces a 2D code creating application.
When Google signed a deal with China Mobile for mobile search services, and China Mobile will be delivering a preinstalled QRcode reader, it means the physical world will soon be connected ( in China for now) .
China Mobile's subsidiary ASPire Technologies is handling the QRcode service.
Google would just need to add a QRcode creator site, to one of it's applications/menus, and just about ANYTHING online or in the physical world could be connected using a mobile phone.
I know there are free 2D code generating sites out there, that's not the point. The money isn't in creating 2D codes, it's in scanning them with a mobile phone.
When a platform as big as Google's implement ANOTHER form of search, advertisers will follow. Google is all about CREATING and finding content on the Net. Think of QR code as a "mobile keyword".
Pay per click is replaced by pay per scan for mobile info, not search.
Big Mouth Media sums it up pretty good.
What happens when a high percentage of a country's population, as in China, don't have access to computers and hence the internet and their search engines?
Start thinking of the camera on the mobile phone as the browser. Instead of typing lengthy URLS, users will be able to click on QR codes, or physical world hyperlinks.
The next transformation and major impact for the Internet will be when "You" link physical objects to it and "You" will play a big role in that too.
I don't imagine it will be much longer before Google introduces a 2D code creating application.
When Google signed a deal with China Mobile for mobile search services, and China Mobile will be delivering a preinstalled QRcode reader, it means the physical world will soon be connected ( in China for now) .
China Mobile's subsidiary ASPire Technologies is handling the QRcode service.
Google would just need to add a QRcode creator site, to one of it's applications/menus, and just about ANYTHING online or in the physical world could be connected using a mobile phone.
I know there are free 2D code generating sites out there, that's not the point. The money isn't in creating 2D codes, it's in scanning them with a mobile phone.
When a platform as big as Google's implement ANOTHER form of search, advertisers will follow. Google is all about CREATING and finding content on the Net. Think of QR code as a "mobile keyword".
Pay per click is replaced by pay per scan for mobile info, not search.
Big Mouth Media sums it up pretty good.
What happens when a high percentage of a country's population, as in China, don't have access to computers and hence the internet and their search engines?
Start thinking of the camera on the mobile phone as the browser. Instead of typing lengthy URLS, users will be able to click on QR codes, or physical world hyperlinks.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
BeeTagg Passes One Hundred Million Tagg Mark
The guys at BeeTagg have been as busy as, well, you know.
A couple weeks ago they were named Start Up of the week by Cash, the largest financial newspaper in Switzerland.
BeeTagg , a physical world connection player with a unique code, is running probably the biggest mobile tagging game in the world so far.
Overall they are publishing over 100 million BeeTaggs in several media campaigns.
This is the second PWC player that has publicly quantified the number of codes in a mobile marketing campaign. We are starting to see some physical world connection metrics.
OP3 recently announced their ShotCode was being placed on 40 million Sprite bottles.
Gradually physical world hyperlinks (2D codes) are being attached to content in addition to the ones that already exist (1D code) and the physical world is being connected.
It is my opinion that the next big trend after uploading content to the Internet, will be to tag, (add a physical world hyperlink) to physical world objects.
BeeTagg already offers the ability to link items on eBay.
Sponsors of this tagging game include Sony, Orange, Fujitsu, Sony Ericsson, Toshiba, Freixenet, Lipton. Media partners include Blick (biggest newspaper in Switzerland) and Heute
The mobile tagging game is based on the famous European computer game character Moorhuhn . Users are placing their codes in the real world and media partners are publishing codes in their newspapers, posters and even radio broadcasts.
Supported phones
Get the BeeTagg reader
Create your own BeeTaggs and attach them to Flickr, a blog, business card.
Don't have a camera phone? Their BeeTagg Reader Lite allows a user to enter a number or keyword and be directed.
A couple weeks ago they were named Start Up of the week by Cash, the largest financial newspaper in Switzerland.
BeeTagg , a physical world connection player with a unique code, is running probably the biggest mobile tagging game in the world so far.
Overall they are publishing over 100 million BeeTaggs in several media campaigns.
This is the second PWC player that has publicly quantified the number of codes in a mobile marketing campaign. We are starting to see some physical world connection metrics.
OP3 recently announced their ShotCode was being placed on 40 million Sprite bottles.
Gradually physical world hyperlinks (2D codes) are being attached to content in addition to the ones that already exist (1D code) and the physical world is being connected.
It is my opinion that the next big trend after uploading content to the Internet, will be to tag, (add a physical world hyperlink) to physical world objects.
BeeTagg already offers the ability to link items on eBay.
Sponsors of this tagging game include Sony, Orange, Fujitsu, Sony Ericsson, Toshiba, Freixenet, Lipton. Media partners include Blick (biggest newspaper in Switzerland) and Heute
The mobile tagging game is based on the famous European computer game character Moorhuhn . Users are placing their codes in the real world and media partners are publishing codes in their newspapers, posters and even radio broadcasts.
Supported phones
Get the BeeTagg reader
Create your own BeeTaggs and attach them to Flickr, a blog, business card.
Don't have a camera phone? Their BeeTagg Reader Lite allows a user to enter a number or keyword and be directed.
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Scanbuy Receives Mobile Barcode Patent
Scanbuy , a physical world connection company best known for scanning a barcode with camera phone, receives barcode and mobile device patent.
Patent # 7,156,311
System and method for decoding and analyzing barcodes using a mobile device
The present invention discloses a system and method for decoding barcodes using mobile device.
Generally, the barcode image is acquired via a digital camera attached to the mobile device.
After the barcode image has been acquired, software located on the mobile device enhances the barcode image and subsequently decodes the barcode information. The barcode information is then transmitted to a server via a wireless network. The server processes the barcode information and transmits media content related to the barcode back to the mobile device
They were just recently listed as a company to watch in 2007 by Microsoft's Don Dodge.
Patent # 7,156,311
System and method for decoding and analyzing barcodes using a mobile device
The present invention discloses a system and method for decoding barcodes using mobile device.
Generally, the barcode image is acquired via a digital camera attached to the mobile device.
After the barcode image has been acquired, software located on the mobile device enhances the barcode image and subsequently decodes the barcode information. The barcode information is then transmitted to a server via a wireless network. The server processes the barcode information and transmits media content related to the barcode back to the mobile device
They were just recently listed as a company to watch in 2007 by Microsoft's Don Dodge.
Mobile Phone Makers Sued Over Bluetooth IP
Just having a broad patent isn't a business model.
The WRF was smart to let the major industry players (cellphone manuf) incorporate Bluetooth before throwing their weight around and stifling the adoption.
From ZD Net U.S. Group sues over Bluetooth IP
An intellectual-property management group has sued mobile phone makers Nokia, Samsung Electronics and Matsushita-owned Panasonic for infringing on a patent for wireless Bluetooth technology.
"Defendants have manufactured, used, imported into the United States, sold and offered for sale devices which, or the use of which, infringes at least the '963' patent," Washington Research Foundation said in a complaint filed at the U.S. Western District Court of Washington at Seattle. WRF helps manage investment in and licensing of technology developed by researchers in the state of Washington.
The WRF complaint targeted products containing Bluetooth chips from British chipmaker CSR, which is the world market leader for chips that wirelessly connect electronic gadgets such as cell phones, headsets and laptops.
CSR, which was not immediately available to comment, was not sued by the research group. And CSR rival Broadcom, based in the U.S., has acquired a license to use the radio frequency receiver technology, which was patented in 1999, WRF said.
Engineer Jaap Haartsen, at Swedish mobile phone maker Ericsson, has been credited with the invention of Bluetooth during his research work in the second half of the 1990s.
Ericsson donated the technology, royalty-free, to create a large market for its applications. Since then, hundreds of millions of mobile phones, headsets and laptops have been equipped with Bluetooth chips every year
The WRF was smart to let the major industry players (cellphone manuf) incorporate Bluetooth before throwing their weight around and stifling the adoption.
From ZD Net U.S. Group sues over Bluetooth IP
An intellectual-property management group has sued mobile phone makers Nokia, Samsung Electronics and Matsushita-owned Panasonic for infringing on a patent for wireless Bluetooth technology.
"Defendants have manufactured, used, imported into the United States, sold and offered for sale devices which, or the use of which, infringes at least the '963' patent," Washington Research Foundation said in a complaint filed at the U.S. Western District Court of Washington at Seattle. WRF helps manage investment in and licensing of technology developed by researchers in the state of Washington.
The WRF complaint targeted products containing Bluetooth chips from British chipmaker CSR, which is the world market leader for chips that wirelessly connect electronic gadgets such as cell phones, headsets and laptops.
CSR, which was not immediately available to comment, was not sued by the research group. And CSR rival Broadcom, based in the U.S., has acquired a license to use the radio frequency receiver technology, which was patented in 1999, WRF said.
Engineer Jaap Haartsen, at Swedish mobile phone maker Ericsson, has been credited with the invention of Bluetooth during his research work in the second half of the 1990s.
Ericsson donated the technology, royalty-free, to create a large market for its applications. Since then, hundreds of millions of mobile phones, headsets and laptops have been equipped with Bluetooth chips every year
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