Sanders Media

It’s a slow day, so I thought I’d talk about my current favorite things going on in the tech world. Here’s my Top 5.

1. iPhone: The so-called “Jesus Phone” is still a wonder. I’ve had both editions, and it’s still new and fresh. None of the copycats have come close to equaling it’s ease of use, sleek look and great features. I am really excited about the iPhone OS 3.0 due out soon.
2. Xbox 360: Despite it’s hardware issues, Microsoft (against all odds) has created a terrific gaming ecosystem. The online Xbox Live community is vibrant, and the game library is immense. The addition of Netflix streaming to Xbox Live has made it a can’t-live-without device in my home.
3. Gmail: I was once a Hotmail user who paid $20 a year to get a miserly 2GB of storage. Now, with Gmail, I get over 7GB for free. While there are some services that provide unlimited for free, I haven’t found any that match Gmail’s features. The creation of labels instead of folders is a great organization tool. I am also able to use Gmail as a web-based email client. It checks all of my email accounts, and brings the email to one place.
4. iTunes: This is still the best music organization tool for your music. iTunes enabled me to bring my music together better than any service I’ve come across. The recent move to DRM-free music, the App Store and the availability of movies and TV shows has made the iTunes store the best place to buy digital media.
5. Skype: This service has been around for awhile, but it’s still one of my favorites. I love being able to keep up with family in North Carolina and Colorado. In both places, there are new little ones that I’m able to watch grow up.

I’m sure I’ll think of 20 more things I love as soon as I post this, but it’s a good start.

I am an avid gamer. I started out with the original Sega Master System, and I am currently using the XBOX 360. Years ago, I never could have imagined where gaming would be today. With broadband internet now the norm, the Internet has entered our lives outside of the computer. 

Microsoft recently updated the XBOX 360 operating system and it’s internet service, XBOX Live. With this update comes the ability to stream content from your Netflix account. My XBOX 360 is no longer merely a gaming device. While you could download content before, it’s never been as easy as it is now. I watched three straight episodes of The Office without leaving my living room.

The Internet is getting more powerful all the time. It is truly amazing to see how lives can be transformed by being connected. I am excited by existing technology, and I am enthusiastic about the innovation to come.