New Developments in Information Technology Summary and Analysis

I. What You Need to Know About Google Buzz
A. Summary
The new feature in Gmail, generally known as Google Buzz, was not entirely received positively by users around the world (Richmond 2010). The main reason for the negative perception of the users toward this feature is that it may become a potential way of unknowingly sharing private information. In fact, Gmail users were not informed beforehand of the features implementation which in effect automatically signed up each user to the information sharing capabilities of Buzz, which not only possibly exposed ones status to the public but in a way also highlighted ones social activities and connections (Richmond 2010). Expectedly, the number of user-related concerns regarding the feature has led Google to reconsider some aspects of Buzz. Specifically, eliminating automatic connections to other social networking services, placing options for privacy, and disabling the service were among the most notable changes (Richmond 2010).  

B. Analysis
Googles attempts in hastily incorporating the Buzz feature in the account of every Gmail user should be considered as a vital lesson for all firms that focus on information technology. It is undeniable that automatically providing and signing up users to features which may compromise ones private information would not garner public support and instead would only attain complaints. Google should be relieved that Buzz was applied after Gmail has already acquired countless users. If they released such a feature through such means during the first few months of Gmail, then users may not have increased as it did. Hence, in a business perspective, the Google Buzz is proof that firms should always prioritize privacy, or else, the potential success of a product may be detrimentally affected.  

II. The Apple iPad First Impressions
A. Summary
The iPad, a new interactive and portable device considered to begin a new genre of gadgets is soon set to be released into the market. Definitely though, its appearance are not entirely unique. As a matter of fact, its resemblance to the iPod Touch is undeniable as the same colour scheme and base material have been used as well for the iPad (Pogue 2010). However, it is also evident that in relation to features, the iPad is definitely superior to the other portable devices offered by Apple. Specifically, aside from being used as a phone, the iPad also contains laptop-like capabilities such as watching, browsing, and productivity-based features as well (Pogue 2010). Unlike a laptop though, the new device is relatively smaller. To further expound, critics have pointed out that the iPad may be considered as a fusion of contemporary devices, with an emphasis upon the capability to read a book electronically (Pogue 2010). Of course, doubts regarding the devices success are still present.  

B. Analysis
The development of new devices such as the iPad, with its capabilities as an electronic book reader, is of vital importance in information technology as it signifies continuous progress. However, in relation to business, novel devices should not necessarily be made completely different from previous generation gadgets. The reason for this is that presenting a new device in a partly familiar fashion would prevent consumers from assuming that the device has a steep learning curve required for unlocking full functionality and capability. In addition, designing an original product such as the iPad after the iPod Touch would present an undeniable appeal to consumers as the latter is universally identified as an example of a globally successful product. Therefore, despite the presence of some doubts regarding the marketability of the iPad, given that Apple has taken the aforementioned steps then it would be most probable that such concerns would be unfounded.

III. Projecting a New Laptop
A. Summary
Projectors were previously regarded as pricey devices often used for high-end entertainment purposes or business applications. However, through certain advances in manufacturing technology, projectors would soon be incorporated into laptops (Williams 2010). In fact, one of the most well-known firms in the computer industry has made such claims regarding projector integration. Specifically, Hewlett Packard (HP) aims to release laptops with integrated projector lens which of course would allow users to project images to nearby walls albeit comparatively inferior to the images produced through conventional projectors (Williams 2010). Nevertheless, such a concept would definitely gain the interest of consumers and may indeed become a potential selling point. As a matter of fact, digital cameras with integrated projectors are already available as developed by Nikon which further implies that this technology is undeniably real (Williams 2010).    

B. Analysis
Mobile devices such as laptops are an important part of information technology. Thus, significant developments such as the integration of projectors would allow for new heights of convenience. However, business wise, firms which develop laptops should be careful in estimating whether such a technology would potentially become a common requirement of consumers. Considerations such as pricing and costs associated with research, development, and manufacturing must be carefully taken into account. In this sense, it would be best to first observe the markets response to HPs new line of laptops. If customer response and sales would be positive, then it may be an appropriate course of action for firms to follow HPs pursuits. In general, if integrated projectors would be a success, then new and more accessible means of providing presentations would surely emerge.  

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