KIXS FM 108 » smartphones

Soon Your Smartphone Will Know Your Mood

Dan Seitz — Sun, 09 Dec 2012 16:53:49 +0000

Imagine a world where your smartphone can realize that you’re angry or sad, and react accordingly. Thanks to the University of Rochester, it’s not as far away as you might think. The app is designed to measure twelve different factors, such as the pitch of your voice, and determines whether you’re in one of six [...]

Is Your Smartphone Giving You 'Text Neck?'

Donald Deane — Sun, 23 Sep 2012 19:00:46 +0000

Getting your hands on the iPhone 5 may be a real pain in the neck. And not for the reasons you may think. These essentials of the modern day world have become a staple of daily life, but physical therapists warn that heavy usage can actually result in a painful physical condition. It’s called [...]

US Army May Issue Smartphones for Combat Use

Shauna Wright — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 11:30:40 +0000

After a successful trial run using touchscreen phones and tablets in combat, US Army officials say they may begin equipping service members with the devices later this year. It would be used to complement tactical radios and other existing technology.

Smartphones can be used to text updates about surroundings, send GPS photos, and access maps. “When they have a problem or need to submit a report, they default to the texting. These young soldiers grew up with this technology. They’re very familiar with it. They’re very comfortable with it,” said Michael McCarthy, an Army director for the program.

Upgrade? Maybe You Should Wait

KIXS 108 — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 14:30:48 +0000

Stand Alone
GPS Navigators vs. GPS Smartphone Apps

Most modern smartphones have built-in maps and GPS units. But those built-in apps don't give turn-by-turn audio directions, like those you may be used to from a dedicated GPS. You can buy apps that give turn by turn directions, but they tend to be expensive, and require up-front costs or monthly subscription fees. (Mapquest is a notable exception; it's free for iPhone, BlackBerry and Android.)