:: I Stream, You Stream ::

Many of us (ok, many of you ) in the wadi are working these days on this or the other solution for streaming media. More specifically, streaming media to mobile devices. Be it video streaming or audio streaming, be it software or hardware, there are many companies around trying to make the next thing happen: Fast (25+ fps) good quality (600x800+) video or cd-quality sound flowing to your cellphone or pager.

But didn't we solve that problem decades ago? I thought we did.

Because What's a radio receiver, a boombox, a transistor radio, a "WatchMan" (Remember those - in the 80ies people thought they were gonna be a hit)? What are they but portable media streaming devices.

Now you're gonna say: Come on! This is analog, it's low quality, it's not D-i-g-i-t-a-l, man!

Have you seen the latest in video streaming or internet audio? So don't talk to me about quality. I'll take analog RF any day (and so do you, hundreds of hours every year).

The reason that so many companies want you to get it digital is not their concern for the quality of your life or your entertainment. They might sell you this altruistic bullshit ("Making the world better"), but they're doing it for the ancient reason of getting more money. Digital means: Knowing what you get and controlling it. Knowing what you do and pushing you the "right" kind of commercials. Showing you this when you really want to see that. And not the other way around.

So the next time they tell you: "Hey look at those flickering blocks that once have been a movie. It's not perfect, but wait and we'll make it better," Just remember, they're not doing you a favor worth waiting for. You're doing them one by even waiting.

Wadi Writer #2 (Blue)
WadiList@mail.com

Related Wadi Issues:
:: The Snake Bites Its Own Tail :: http://oocities.com/wadilist/0022.htm