Mindmeister

Check out this new mind mapping technology called mindmeister. I've only been using it a short time but so far it's pretty neato and it's FREE. Not only can you collaborate on mind maps with other users, you can also include web content from Google, Wikipedia and tags from del.icio.us. Could be a great tool for brainstorms or trend tracking...

Algorithms and Lipstick Shades

Seems like an unlikely combination but not to Hewlett Packard.

Scientific American wrote about HP's recent announcement of a new service that aims to use images, algorithms and wireless technology to help women determine the best colorings for their skin tone.

"The biggest issue with cosmetics is selecting the color," says Nina Bhatti, principal scientist at HP labs. "This is a common pain point—women can't find colors that look good on them."

Simply snap a photo of yourself holding color swatches and HP will run "them through sophisticated image-processing algorithms, and returning scientifically based recommendations for the shade of foundation, lipstick, blush and eye shadow that best suits a person's skin tone."

This comes along around the same time that IconNicholson announced their new "Talking Mirror" - both very interesting ways to use technology to solve classic problems for consumers.

Prez Debates To Be Held Online

Proof that the web has officially made its way into the lives of middle Americans.

I have to admit that although clever, I am slightly annoyed with candidates' use of MySpace to rally troops around their campaigns. However, I love this idea. It will be interesting to see which types of web 2.0 features they use to bring this event to life online. Live chats anyone?

Find out more here...

Future of Blogging

What is it anyway? We debate this alot. Fewer words. More stimulus. Greater Experience. Real-time technology. How do we engage? (I follow the greeting card model: More than 10 words on the inside and I quit reading). What's the answer?