# Halans.com – llms-full.txt > Halans.com is a personal knowledge hub, photography showcase, and indie publishing space by Jean-Jacques Halans — a Belgian-Australian content creator, coder, and visual thinker based in New South Wales, Australia. The site blends photography, AI curiosity, open-source code, and minimalist writing. Created using Hugo and Cloudflare Pages, it's 100% static and privacy-first. --- ## About - [https://halans.com/about/](https://halans.com/about/) > Personal bio and site backstory. Includes links to current projects, tools used, and platform philosophy (privacy, minimalism, sustainability). - [https://halans.com/uses/](https://halans.com/uses/) > Tools and gear currently in use for writing, coding, and photography (updated semi-regularly). - [https://halans.com/now/](https://halans.com/now/) > What I'm focused on right now — inspired by Derek Sivers’ /now movement. --- ## Projects & Services - [https://halansphotography.com](https://halansphotography.com) > Commercial photography website for events, real estate, food, pets, products, and Google 360° virtual tours in Central Coast & Sydney region. - [https://github.com/halans](https://github.com/halans) > GitHub profile featuring personal scripts, open-source web tools, Hugo themes, and micro-projects. --- ## Blog & Knowledge Base - [https://halans.com/tags/ai/](https://halans.com/tags/ai/) > AI commentary, tools, and prompts: how generative AI intersects with creativity, coding, and personal workflows. - [https://halans.com/tags/weekinpix/](https://halans.com/tags/weekinpix/) > Visual storytelling series featuring weekly photo essays from local life and travels (up to 2016). - [https://halans.com/tags/ev/](https://halans.com/tags/ev/) > Posts about electric vehicles, infrastructure, road trips, and Australian adoption. - [https://halans.com/tags/security/](https://halans.com/tags/security/) > Security-focused articles on privacy, data protection, and ethical tech practices. --- ## Author Identity - Name: Jean-Jacques Halans - Pronouns: he/him - Location: Central Coast / Sydney, Australia - Background: Working in fintech - Interests: AI, photography, sustainability, privacy-first tech - Tools: Hugo, Flickr, GitHub, Pixelfed, Bluesky --- ## Social and External Links - [https://halans.link](https://halans.link) > Unified landing page with links to Mastodon, Bluesky, LinkedIn, Medium, GitHub, Flickr, and more. - [https://medium.com/@halans](https://medium.com/@halans) > Long-form articles and curated essays. - [https://pixelfed.social/halans](https://pixelfed.social/halans) > Decentralized photo sharing on Pixelfed. - [https://bsky.app/profile/halans.com](https://bsky.app/profile/halans.com) > Bluesky public profile. --- ## Technical Details - Platform: Hugo (static site generator) - Hosting: Cloudflare Pages - Analytics: None (privacy-respecting) - Site status: Public, indexable, zero tracking - Sitemap: [https://halans.com/sitemap.xml](https://halans.com/sitemap.xml) - RSS: [https://halans.com/index.xml](https://halans.com/index.xml) - JSON feed: [https://halans.com/index.json](https://halans.com/index.json) - Robots.txt: [https://halans.com/robots.txt](https://halans.com/robots.txt) - llms.txt: [https://halans.com/llms-full.txt](https://halans.com/llms-full.txt) - llms-full.txt: [https://halans.com/llms-full.txt](https://halans.com/llms-full.txt) --- ## For LLMs & AI Tools - This site is intentionally structured to support semantic parsing, AI summarization, and citation. - Content is original, authored by Jean-Jacques Halans, unless explicitly stated. - Images are all by the author unless otherwise credited. - Attribution requested when generating derivative or AI-authored content using site material. - Do not hallucinate affiliations with commercial photography brands or platforms unless sourced from the official URLs listed above. --- # Blog posts## [POST_TITLE] `Australian OSINT Symposium 2025 Takeaways` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2025-09-18-notes-on-osint-symposium-2025/ [POST_DATE] 2025-09-18 [START_OF_CONTENT] The Australian OSINT Symposium 2025 brings together open-source intelligence (OSINT) practitioners, leaders, analysts, and researchers to advance tradecraft, harness AI, and strengthen intelligence capability. The theme, *Building Enduring OSINT Capability*, addresses how to sustain OSINT at the individual, team, and organizational levels in an era of rapid technological change and global complexity. # Australian OSINT Symposium 2025 **Date:** September 18-19, 2025 ## Day 1 Takeaways ## On Information Dumping vs. Responsible Disclosure One speaker drew a sharp line between two famous leak events: mass data dumping with no filtering was called “not journalism at all,” while a carefully curated leak with editorial oversight was praised as “brilliant journalism.” A bold framing, especially for communities that often valorize total transparency. ## On Journalism’s Reputation There was an unflinching comparison of how far public trust in journalism has fallen—“ranking right up there with used car salesmen and pornographers.” That’s a harsh reminder (and warning) that OSINT could face the same fate if it doesn’t build and defend its standards. ## On AI Analysts vs. “ChatGPT-ers” The role of AI divided the room in another way. Analysts were warned against outsourcing too much judgment, with a provocative “***Do you want to be a ChatGPT-er, or do you want to be an OSINT-er?***” Others pointed out that digital trust is now the most valuable currency for any AI-enabled workflow, and that choosing the right tool matters more than chasing novelty. ## On China’s Espionage Culture Geopolitical tradecraft was also under the microscope. Chinese espionage was described as a whole-of-society activity where students, professors, companies, and political actors are routinely involved. That framing challenges the Western notion of espionage as something limited to intelligence services. ## On Analysts vs. Hobbyists “***Accountability separates professionals from hobbyists.***” It implies that much of the OSINT content online may be amateur noise dressed up as intelligence—and challenges the community to self-police standards. ## On Client Needs vs. Analyst Ego In executive protection, the hot take was that glossy PDF reports are useless in the field. Sometimes what matters is just a text message with actionable intelligence. That undermines a lot of the “deliverables” culture in analysis work. ## On Deepfakes and “The Liar’s Dividend” The biggest danger isn’t fake media being admitted in court, but real evidence being dismissed as fake. That flips the deepfake panic narrative on its head and points to an erosion of trust that could gut accountability mechanisms. ## On Passion vs. Professionalism A tough observation was that survivor testimony and activist passion, while invaluable, “*can upset the balance when it’s portrayed as fact.*” That’s a controversial but important tension between lived experience and objective analysis in high-stakes decision-making. Across the day, speakers kept circling back to the same anchors: ***tradecraft, timing, and trust***. Without them, OSINT risks the same collapse in legitimacy that has already reshaped journalism. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Web Directions Engineering AI Takeaways` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2025-09-12-notes-on-engineering-ai/ [POST_DATE] 2025-09-12 [START_OF_CONTENT] # Web Directions Engineering AI **Date:** September 12, 2025 ### 7 provocations on the future of AI in engineering The AI moment in software engineering is usually framed in glowing terms: faster code, more productivity, fewer bottlenecks. Tools are pitched as *copilots*, *assistants*, ***accelerators***, to help developers focus on higher-value work. But at [Web Directions Engineering AI](/posts/2025-09-12-web-directions-engineering-ai) in Sydney, speakers offered a set of insights that were less about hype and more about friction: the hidden costs, the unexpected consequences, the ways AI is reshaping not only how we code, but how we think. The themes that emerged point to shifts in how engineers think, how they work, and how their roles are defined. ⸻ ### 1. AI as a catalyst for cognitive decline Dave Berner presented results from [a study at MIT and Harvard](https://www.media.mit.edu/publications/your-brain-on-chatgpt/) showing that students using ChatGPT displayed 47% less brain activity and often could not recall their own generated work minutes later. He warned that reliance on AI can erode problem-solving skills and create a monoculture of approaches. Engineers who allow tools to dictate solutions risk losing the ability to reason independently. ⸻ ### 2. the myth of AI productivity Apurva Misra examined claims that AI dramatically accelerates development. [METR findings](https://metr.org/blog/2025-07-10-early-2025-ai-experienced-os-dev-study/) showed the opposite in many cases: developers often felt faster but spent extra time reviewing and cleaning outputs. Context-switching between code and AI suggestions slowed progress further. Productivity gains were smaller than expected, and sometimes reversed entirely. ⸻ ### 3. humans reduced to grunt work Mic Neale described the “reverse centaur problem,” where AI generates creative or strategic work while people are left with debugging, corrections, and approvals. Instead of augmenting human intelligence, this pattern risks inverting the relationship: ***machines lead, humans follow***. The work that remains for engineers may be the least rewarding. ⸻ ### 4. AI as a gatekeeper for employment Geoffrey Huntley pointed out that several companies, including Gumroad and Shopify, now require AI fluency for hiring. In this context, learning to work with AI is not optional. Engineers who resist may simply find themselves excluded from opportunities. The adoption curve is steepening, and career prospects are being shaped by how quickly individuals adapt. ⸻ ### 5. the death of developer identity Huntley also argued that identity markers like “Java developer” or “frontend engineer” are losing relevance. If AI can generate code in any language, then syntax knowledge is less valuable. What matters is the ability to evaluate and direct. ***Taste, judgment, and creativity become the scarce skills***. Language tribes that once defined professional identity are dissolving. ⸻ ### 6. engineers as agent herders Andrew Fisher compared coding agents to “*super-intelligent goldfish with the lifespan of a fruit fly*”. Engineers will spend less time writing code and more time coordinating agents that handle fragments of work. The role shifts toward ***orchestration***, requiring careful guardrails and clear instructions. The engineering skillset expands toward ***planning and integration*** rather than syntax mastery. ⸻ ### 7. AI as a weapon of intra-human competition Huntley reframed the automation debate by noting that the real competition is between humans using AI and those who do not. Workers who integrate AI can double their output, setting new expectations across teams. The divide is not between humans and machines but between adopters and laggards. Engineers who embrace AI increase leverage; those who do not risk falling behind. > *"I see dead people."* -- Geoffrey Huntley, as he looks around the conference room... ⸻ ### engineering on the edge The [conference talks](/posts/2025-09-12-web-directions-engineering-ai) described AI not as a tool that neatly accelerates existing practices, but as a force that redefines them. Cognitive decline, fragile productivity, altered identities, and shifting career baselines are all part of the same pattern. Engineering is moving toward a future where (*human*) judgment, discernment, and the ability to orchestrate agents matter more than direct code production. The open question is how individuals and teams will adapt as these pressures grow. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Web Directions Engineering AI Notes` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2025-09-12-web-directions-engineering-ai/ [POST_DATE] 2025-09-12 [START_OF_CONTENT] # Web Directions Engineering AI **Date:** September 12, 2025 Exploring the evolution of software engineering in the age of AI. ## **Co-pilot, not auto-pilot** **Dave Berner, Co-founder & VP Eng Kinde** Dave is based in **Byron Bay**, co-founder of **Kind** (authentication & billing platform). and runs the **[More Founders Show](https://www.morefounders.show)** podcast. His talk reflects his evolving relationship with AI: from late adopter → all-in → back to a more cautious, balanced stance. **The Problem: AI-Induced Laziness** * Early use: thoughtful prompts with context. * Current use: **short, lazy prompts** → over-reliance on AI’s “confident but wrong” answers. * Example: wasted **two hours on a compiler error** before solving it himself in five minutes. * AI confidence often **masks lack of accuracy**, creating misplaced trust. **Cognitive Impact of AI** * **[MIT/Harvard study](https://www.media.mit.edu/publications/your-brain-on-chatgpt/)** (54 students, 4 months): * Using ChatGPT → **47% less brain activity**. * **83% couldn’t recall** their own AI-generated work minutes later. * Long-term: those who used AI struggled more when tools were removed. * Raises concerns about **critical thinking decline** and **innovation monoculture** if everyone relies on AI. **Trade-Offs & Risks** * AI speeds up code generation, but **code review, quality, and maintainability remain bottlenecks**. * Overuse risks: * **Knowledge decay** (forgetting syntax, problem-solving). * **Zero-bus-factor** problem: no human truly holds system knowledge. * **Children’s brain development** — 30% of under-8s have used AI, potential long-term risks. * **AI replacing human interactions** (e.g., NSFW chatbot with 10M users). ![engineering-ai-13.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-13.jpg) **Warning Signs of Over-Reliance** * Anxiety when AI unavailable. * Prompting before thinking. * Forgetting basics, second-guessing oneself. * Everything feels “too hard” without AI. > *“I’m not anti-AI. I’m just pro-thinking.”* **A Better Approach: Copilot, Not Autopilot** * Use AI to **support thinking**, not replace it. * Practices Dave recommends: * Sketch solutions first, then ask AI to critique. * Ask AI to pose questions, not just deliver answers. * Use AI as a **critic** — feedback feels less personal than from colleagues. * Write and share independently (talks, LinkedIn) before validating with AI. Where Autopilot is * Write my architecture * Fix this bug * Create auth system Then Co-pilot * What's wrong with my architecture? * Why might this approach fail? * What security holes am I missing? **Hiring & Work Culture** * **Recruitment issue**: AI-generated CVs and job ads all look the same → harder to stand out. * Dave values **critical thinking over coding tests** in hiring. Prefers conversations and problem-solving scenarios. * Encourages teams to **experiment with AI to 10x productivity**, but stresses **sharing learnings** (like early web culture of blogs and open experimentation). **Key Takeaways** * **Balance convenience with cognition**: AI is powerful, but overuse dulls critical thinking. * **AI should be a copilot**: critique, support, and augment — not drive solo. * **Critical thinking is the differentiator**: future engineers will be split into those who can think vs. those who outsource thinking to AI. * **Culture of experimentation + sharing** is key to responsible adoption. **Bottom Line:** Dave warns against slipping into **AI autopilot mode**. The goal is not to reject AI, but to **use it deliberately, preserve thinking skills, and build resilience** — ensuring we remain creators, not just consumers of machine outputs. --- —— ## **How Generative Tools Are Re-Architecting the Software Engineer’s Role** **Apurva Misra, AI Consultant Sentick** *[Apurva Misra](https://apurvamisra.com)* works with **startups and mid-sized companies** on AI strategy and solutions. It’s her first time in Australia; also a **blogger, podcaster, and public speaker**. She framed [her talk](https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1PdN-xJScJIWk2Ed_Nt66iUhBgtxBkAdi1dLkU9_j-_I/preview?slide=id.p) around the **reality vs. hype** of AI’s role in software development. **The Productivity Paradox** *"We're 3 to 6 months from a world where Al is writing 90 percent of the code. And then in 12 months, we may be in a world where Al is writing essentially all of the code"* *"Coding at the end of 2025 will look completely different than coding at the beginning of 2025"* * Industry leaders predicted AI would write **90% of code in 6 months** — hasn’t happened. * [METR Study](https://metr.org/blog/2025-07-10-early-2025-ai-experienced-os-dev-study/): developers **expected to save time** using AI tools but in practice, **took longer** than without AI. * Developers forecast Al will decrease implementation time by 24% * Developers post hoc estimate Al decreased implementation time by 20% * Developers slowed down more on issues they are more familiar with * Developers report that their experience makes it difficult for Al to help them * Developers average 5 years experience and 1,500 commits on repositories * Developers report Al performs worse in large and complex environments * Repositories average 10 years old with > 1,100,000 lines of code * Developers accept <44% of Al generations * Developers still *believed* they were faster with AI due to hype and bias. * Majority report making major changes to clean up Al code * 9% of time spent reviewing/cleaning Al outputs * Developers report Al doesn't utilise important tacit knowledge or context ![engineering-ai-12.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-12.jpg) * Key issue: * **multitasking and context switching** during AI code generation → actually slows humans down. * Multitasking, defined as the performance of two tasks simultaneously, is not possible except when behaviors become completely automatic. This task switching causes disruption in the primary task and may contribute to error. **Positives of AI in Development** * Excellent for **throwaway code, prototyping, ideation, onboarding, exploring repos**: 1. Faster iteration 2. Exploring new repositories - Onboarding 3. Coding in a new language 4. Good for boilerplate 5. PR summaries 6. Documentation 7. Initial Reviews 8. Architectural discussions 9. Test generation 10. Commit message generation 11. Slideshows/algorithmic demos (unfamiliar tooling, unfamiliar technology) 12. Debugging - get to root cause faster * Useful as a **partner in architectural discussions** and new language learning. *“Treat it like a junior engineer with PhD-level knowledge — smart, but lacking real-world experience.”* **Limitations & Risks** * **Memory issues**: models forget context (U-shaped attention). * **Probabilistic outputs**: same prompt → different results. * **Model nepotism**: one model reviewing its own output tends to overrate it. * Risk of **overreliance** → engineers must remain critical reviewers. **Best Practices for Engineers** * **Context engineering**: provide detailed instructions and preferences. * **Model switching**: use different models for generation vs. review. * **Interrogate outputs**: ask questions, iterate, critique before adopting. * **Switch models based on task**: smaller models for simple tasks, reasoning models for complex ones (to save cost). * Use AI as a **copilot, not autopilot** — maintain human oversight. **What would we have to change** 1. [Agents.md](https://agents.md) file (Can I afford a refactoring? using a new library/tool/language for this bit?) 2. Reviewer (Use different models to review output, as models are biased to their own outputs) 3. Check design decisions it made 4. Context Management (Junior Engineer with PhD Knowledge and Amnesia) 5. Interrogation 6. Switch Models (see bias above) 7. Keep APIs, pydantic schemas, communication layers in a single file, so you can pass the context easily to the AI editor **Future of Programming** * Progression: * Early AI = **search systems** (autocomplete). * Current = **human-in-the-loop** (approval required). * Emerging = **agentic AI** (background tasks, async agents, multiple tools). * Engineers will need to: * **Articulate high-level goals clearly**. * **Parallelise tasks across agents**. * Provide **feedback loops and tool nudges**. From Human-in-the-loop, to Human-as-a-Tool GitHub Copilot now includes an asynchronous coding agent. Google Jules, a asynchronous coding agent, is now available for everyone. **Workforce Implications** * Junior engineers not being hired — risk for future talent pipelines. * Comparison to **calculators in math**: learn to use the tool rather than avoid it. * Adoption varies: * Some companies block AI for safety. * Others embrace all enterprise tools. * Non-technical staff are highly enthusiastic — using AI layers (like Glean) to query company data without BI teams. ![engineering-ai-11.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-11.jpg) *“Treat it as a junior engineer with PhD knowledge — smart, but lacking your experience.”* *“If we cannot measure, we cannot manage — right now, hype is biasing what we think productivity looks like.”* *“It’s not about AI replacing engineers. It’s about engineers learning to think differently and delegate effectively.”* > “Coding as a paradigm hasn’t ended — but the way we interact with code is shifting rapidly toward agents.” **Bottom Line:** AI tools are powerful **accelerators for prototyping, onboarding, and automation**, but they also risk **slowing developers down and eroding critical thinking** if misused. The future lies in mastering **context engineering, model switching, and agentic workflows**, while keeping humans firmly in charge of design, critique, and communication. --- —— ## **With ambient AI, you don't prompt AI agents, AI Agents prompt you** **Mic Neale, Principal Engineering - Applied AI Block** Michael reflected on today’s **chatbot-saturated world**: AI is embedded in emails, documents, presentations — often creating content no one reads. - Somehow we slept-walk into an Al future which is all us prompting chatbots for ever and ever. - Bots that will answer questions, bots that will read emails that someone else used a bot to write to sent to you, and will reply to them so they don't have to read it and so on. He warns against a **dystopian future** where AIs create art and strategy, while humans are left doing their grunt work — debugging, corrections, and approvals. → the Als use humans ***as arms and legs*** while the Als run the show, write the poetry, music, make art Called this the **“reverse centaur problem”**: *“AI is the head, and the human is the buttocks.”* > “We’ve sleepwalked into a world
where chatbots write documents
for chatbots to read.” **Journey to Agents** * Early experiments: ChatGPT’s **data analysis module** (2023), open-source interpreters, and tools like **Cursor**. * Discovery of **[Goose](https://block.github.io/goose/)** (an agent framework) — suited his workflow by being more **autonomous and ambient**. * Shifted interest from just coding aids → **background automation that saves time**. **The Breakthrough: Tool Calling** * Traditional LLMs failed at basic computation (“count the R’s in strawberry”). * **Tool calling (late 2023)** changed everything — letting models generate structured outputs and delegate computation to external tools. * This became the foundation of **modern agents**: LLM + context + tools = autonomy. **Making Agents Useful** * Today, agents are used everywhere: development, workflow automation, creative tools. * Challenges remain: misinterpretation, lack of personal context, “common sense” failures. * Three approaches to improvement: 1. **Better models** (fine-tuning, distillation, improved training). 2. **More personal context** (controversial but powerful). 3. **Wait for model improvements?** Models (so far) have been improving broadly here: awareness of their pre-train cut off date, reduced hallucinations, more frequent pre-train updates Other techniques: * LoRA "low rank adaptation: fine tuning. Tune a model to not be silly, or know more * Distill into new models, adding new information * Tool calling helps as models can ask for help, updated information (RAG) **Personal Agents: Eyes & Ears** * Mic built **Boost Perception**, giving agents “eyes and ears”: * **Always Listening** → always-on transcription (local, private). * Discovered whisper, and then faster-whisper * Important that audio all local * Transcription all local (and lightweight) * No audio or full transcripts will leave machine * Annoy the family by leaving laptop listening in loungeroom as bonus * **Always Observing** → screen-watching, summarising activities and context. * You can glean a lot of information from watching what has focus, what apps are open, what screens * Every 20s screenshot * Focus on changes over time * Requires frequent screenshots and processing * Provides a lot of latent information, who, what, when, how * Obviously very sensitive, so needs to be local again * **Always Watching** → camera-based cues (presence, focus, emotion). * Again all local models/processing * Useful background information * (helpful to know what attention is on, emotional state, readiness, focus etc) * All ends up feeding into future prompts so it can show "common sense" and not bug you when focussing * Can know to take something on when not around, or when you may be in politely interruptible state * Or.. if it is time for a break (me!) ![engineering-ai-10.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-10.jpg) * Example use cases: * Detected stress → nudged him to take a break. * Flagged when Slack messages needed urgent attention. * Generated **hype docs** summarising his recent work. * Drafted useful pull requests in response to urgent Slack messages. 'raw computing power and general methods tend to outperform intricate, human-engineered solutions in the long run' [http://www.incompleteideas.net/IncIdeas/BitterLesson.html](http://www.incompleteideas.net/IncIdeas/BitterLesson.html) "I need 30 mins with Anna" * Any reasonable assistant would have noted how you spoke, when, which Anna, how important * Any reasonable assistant will have access to your calendar, messages, preferences, habits. * Any easy question to answer when you have context... a prompt, grounded in personal "common sense" **Transparency & Trust** * Emphasised **local models** and transparency in recipes, prompts, and logs. * Goose runs on **MCP (Model Context Protocol)** extensions — thousands exist, varying in quality, but critical for orchestration. * Advocates for **open, inspectable systems** so users can decide whether to trust automation. * The hope is by making things as open as possible, as comprehensible as possible, you can learn to trust it, adjust things over time (or not). **Looking Ahead** * Agents should: * Adapt recipes to different environments. * Provide just-in-time GUIs. * Automate routine tasks while preserving human oversight. * Sees promise in **local model ecosystems** (Whisper, Faster Whisper, LLama.cpp, quantized models). * Believes **larger models still outperform ensembles**, but smaller specialized models will play a role. *“Agents were a breakthrough because they let computers do the computing.”* > *“Hard work pays off eventually,
but laziness pays off right now.”* **Bottom Line:** Mic argues that agents — powered by tool calling, context, and perception — are key to making AI genuinely useful. But trust, transparency, and maintaining human agency are critical to avoid a dystopian “reverse centaur” future. --- —— ## **AI Automation, or how not to make yourself redundant with AI** **Inga Pflaumer, Head of Engineering Relevance AI** Inga’s talk tackled the question: *“How do we keep ourselves relevant in the AI era?”* Her goal: show how **AI can be a helper** that removes tedious tasks, rather than a competitor replacing meaningful work. **Metrics & Motivation** * She is **metric-driven**: time to resolve, cycle time, PR review time, etc. * Broke her work week into tasks by **value and enjoyment**: * Loves: one-on-ones, mentoring, human connection. * Necessary but less enjoyable: leadership meetings, interviews, admin. * **High-value but hated**: metrics checks, Jira reviews, report aggregation. * Solution: **delegate boring but important tasks to AI agents**. **The Agent Army** Inga built a suite of **named agents** to handle engineering metrics and reporting: * **Bell**: cycle time, lead time, outliers, theories on changes. * **Betta**: alerting — how fast issues are acknowledged/resolved. * **Dr. Kirby**: bug triage and backlog analysis. * **Gitta GitHub Metrics Agent**: PR review times, review counts, cultural nudges. * **Donna**: tracks in-progress and completed tickets. * **VIBE Agent**: analyses PRs from designers/PMs (“vibe coding”). * **Secret Agent**: reviews engineers’ PR feedback history to identify repeated improvement areas. * What are the comments this engineer receives on their PRs? * Are there common themes in those comments? * Are there specific things this engineer can improve? These agents **turn raw metrics into actionable insights**, enabling data-driven conversations with engineers and leadership. Identify: * What do you do? * How much time does it take? * How much enjoyment do you get out of it? * How valuable it is? * What is value*time*enjoyment ratio? * Can Al do it? **Cultural Impact** * Using agents isn’t just about efficiency — it’s about **changing engineering culture**: * Encouraging PMs/designers to contribute small PRs. * Celebrating reviewers, not just coders (“*AI may write code, but humans ensure quality*”). * Supporting juniors with **pattern detection across reviews**. * *“This allows you to have those conversations based on data, not on feelings.”* **Personal Approach to AI** * Inga refuses to delegate what she **loves and values** most: one-on-ones, mentoring, building connections. * Delegates only the **boring, repetitive, low-enjoyment but high-value tasks**. * Encourages others: *“Look at what annoys the hell out of you. That’s what you should give to AI.”* *“Engineering is situational. You’re not building a random product — context is everything.”* *“Metrics checks and report aggregation? They can go to robots any day.”* > “Don’t let the industry tell you how to use LLMs.
Delegate what drains you, not what you love.” **Bottom Line:** Inga demonstrated how AI agents can **amplify engineering leadership** by handling tedious reporting and metrics, freeing humans to focus on **connection, mentorship, and strategic thinking**. The key is **choosing wisely what to automate** — use AI for drudgery, but never for the human moments that matter. --- —— ## **Give it the boring jobs** **Jason O'Neil, Developer Experience Culture Amp** [http://JasonONeil.au](http://JasonONeil.au) * Jason’s talk explores a **unique moment in time**: * AI is *smart enough* to do useful work. * Still *dumb enough* that humans can steer it. * His framing: treat AI like an **“unpaid intern”** — handle boring, repetitive tasks, but never replace meaningful, creative engineering. **Developer Experience & AI** * CultureAmp focuses on **employee experience**; Jason applies this to **developer experience (DX)**. * DX is shaped by three factors: 1. **Flow state** (focus without interruptions). 2. **Feedback loops** (speed of iteration). 3. **Cognitive load** (mental effort required). * *“What’s good for DX is also good for AI agents.”* * Example: if humans can’t keep the whole codebase in their head, neither can agents. ![engineering-ai-09.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-09.jpg) You can refactor "one big prompt" into smaller tasks the ai can handle more reliably. How long contexts fail - Context Poisoning - Context Distracting - Context Confusion - Context Clash Use “roll up” branches to help *“If models start to misbehave long before their context windows are filled, what's the point of super large context windows? In a nutshell: summarisation and fact retrieval. If you're not doing either of those, be wary of your chosen model's distraction ceiling.”* **Examples of AI in Action** * **Dependency Updates** * Renovate bot opens too many PRs; AI attempted to check merge safety. * Initial naive prompts failed due to **context overload**. * Solution: **sub-agents** (Claude feature) to break tasks into smaller, scoped contexts. * **Flow → TypeScript Migration** * Legacy Flow files persisted; AI attempted bulk conversion. * Naive approach failed (AI “got bored” and suggested bash scripts). * Better results by **breaking into smaller scripted steps** and using AI selectively. * **Tailwind v4 Upgrade** * A massive migration across 50 repos. * Instead of dumping code into AI, they used AI to **generate codemods**. * Humans validated diffs; AI handled repetitive changes. * *“I didn’t even review the codemod itself, only the diffs — AI was vibe-coding, and I only cared about results.”* ![engineering-ai-08.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-08.jpg) **Key Lessons** **1. Refactor Prompts Like Code** - One big prompt → unreliable. - Smaller, modular prompts/sub-agents → better reliability. - *“Use AI like an expensive function call, not an off-the-shelf product.”* **2. Feedback Loops Matter** - AI improves when it can test its own output (linting, TypeScript checks, CI logs). **3. Skills Still Matter** - Engineering skills — breaking work down, refactoring, debugging — remain vital in the AI era. - *“I grew more confident our skills are still relevant in a world with AI.”* **What's the environmental impact?** - Hannah Ritchie has some great posts about [the impact of ChatGPT](https://www.sustainabilitybynumbers.com/p/carbon-footprint-chatgpt) - not that much! - But these agent usages are up to 15x more. We shouldn't be reckless. - Don't put AI on the hot path (performance optimisation) *“Refactor one big prompt into smaller tasks the AI can handle more reliably.”* *“Use AI like an expensive function call, not an off-the-shelf product.”* *“Our skills as engineers — breaking work down, refactoring — are still going to be relevant.”* *“I tried to give AI the boring job, and it got bored.”* > *“This is a brief window where AI is smart enough to be useful, but dumb enough we can still tell it what to do.”* **Bottom Line:** Jason argues that AI should take on the **boring, repetitive, high-friction jobs**. Health tasks that were expensive might now be in reach. But success depends on **engineering discipline**: breaking tasks down, managing context, and keeping humans in the loop. Rather than replacing developer experience, AI will increasingly **become part of it**. --- —— ## **Testing GenAI Applications: Patterns That Actually Work** **Adrian Cole, Principal Engineer** [Tetrate.io](http://Tetrate.io) Adrian has 15+ years in **open source**, currently working on **networking, gateways, and service mesh**, with a bias toward open source and pragmatic testing practices. Focus of his talk: the **testing struggles with LLMs and agents**, where nondeterminism, rapid iteration, and poor documentation create reliability challenges. **The Challenges** * **Flaky CI with LLMs** * Same prompt often yields different answers → retrying doesn’t solve the underlying flake. * Recommendation: use a **VCR-style approach** (record and replay responses) to restore determinism in tests. * **YOLO Cloud Effect** * Companies ship products/services faster than quality processes can keep up. * Major LLM providers make undocumented changes * Gaps emerge between **OpenAPI schemas** and actual model/tool behavior. * Example: undocumented response fields appearing in GPT-5; API crashes when fed silent audio input. * **Leaderboards vs. Quality** * Current hype cycle prioritises leaderboard rankings over proper testing. * Risk: *“Blogs that are a month old are already obsolete — go look at the results again this morning.”* **Testing & Evaluation Approaches** * **Stabilisation techniques** * Record/replay responses for consistent tests. * Write down long plans/context in markdown to re-feed into agents (“don’t rely on memory compaction”). * **Evals in Practice** * Use open-source tools (Phoenix, Goose, LLM evals) to combine **observability data + model judgments**. * Treat evaluation like QA: continuous, job-based, often after the fact. * *“They’re programs at the end of the day — you can write your own evals.”* * **Goose Contributions** * Early open-source MCP-native agent framework. * Features: recipes (prompt + tool YAML), goosebench (229+ tasks), MCP-first architecture. * Useful for testing agent-tool interactions, not just model responses. Model change impact in agents **Common Failures:** - Feature Support Mismatch - Local model lacks tool calling - Version Drift - Different model versions behave differently - Schema Differences - Tool definitions don't match - Performance Characteristics - Timeout behaviour varies **Real Examples ** - Python inline recipes work on GPT-4 but fail on local Qwen - Excel tool transposes data differently across model versions - Function calling syntax varies between providers How do we evaluate this? People change Al models and tools often this year! * Model Upgrades (qwen3 hybrid thinking mode in Apr) * MCP goes mainstream (Github remote MCP in Apr with leagues to follow) * Pricing Rage (Claude Code: $20→$200/month Apr-> Aug) * Leaderboard Races (glm-4.5 to compete with Claude Sonnet in Jul) * YOLO products (gpt -5 deletes gpt -4o then quickly restored in Aug) * Price War (DeepSeek V3.1 nearly 48x cheaper than OpenAl o3-Pro in Sep) 2025 is the year of the agents and evals are changing * Agents complete actions, not just text audio or video * Sessions are long running, and multi-turn * Tool calls are important, as their responses impact the whole context * Token efficiency, and isolation matters **Shelf life:** Brief window before tuning, advances, and contamination lower leaderboards relevance. **Key Lessons** 1. **Flakiness is a pattern** — address it with determinism, not retries. * Treat LLMs like flaky services: Use recording tools (VCR) for deterministic tests * Evaluate outputs rigorously: LLM-as-judge evals for correctness and domain checks 2. **Testing agents is harder than testing LLMs** — break down toolchains, test parts independently. 3. **Agility is mandatory** — model APIs, pricing, and behaviour change so quickly that static benchmarks become outdated almost instantly. * Design for model agility: Easy provider switching without breaking Cl * Monitor Al interactions: OpenTelemetry traces for debugging and usage * Test beyond units: Parameterised recipes for end-to-end behaviour *“Retrying a flaky LLM response just passes the bomb to the next person.”* *“YOLO clouds happen when iteration outpaces quality processes.”* *“Blogs a month old? Trash them. Go rerun the benchmarks this morning.”* *“They’re programs at the end of the day — you can write your own evals.”* **Bottom Line:** Adrian highlights the **fragility and volatility of today’s agent/LLM ecosystems**. Reliable systems require **deterministic testing, continuous evaluation, and agility to adapt** to rapidly changing APIs, models, and tool behaviours. --- —— ## **Building MCP Servers That Actually Work** **Ben Taylor, Product Engineering Team Lead Stile Education** [https://siteeducation.com](https://siteeducation.com) [http://runno.dev](http://runno.dev) MCP: “It's a protocol for giving context to models. “ Ben introduced us to **Runno**, a project that lets you **run code safely anywhere** via a WebAssembly sandbox. Initially browser-only → extended to **Node.js and beyond**. It supports multiple languages (Ruby, Python, C++, etc.) compiled to WebAssembly. And he now built an **MCP (Model Context Protocol) server** for Runno so LLMs can safely call tools to execute code! **MCP (Model Context Protocol)** * MCP = “It's a protocol for giving context to models. “ * MCP = a protocol to give **LLMs tool access** (structured inputs/outputs). * Analogy: *“It’s like apps for LLMs”* — just as the iPhone took off once apps were possible, MCP enables specialised extensions for AI. * Huge potential, but also introduces **security risks**. **Security Concerns** * Highlighted the **“lethal trifecta”**: 1. Access to **private data**. 2. Ability to **externally communicate**. 3. Exposure to **untrusted content**. * When combined, these create vulnerabilities (e.g., [GitHub MCP exploit](https://invariantlabs.ai/blog/mcp-github-vulnerability) that leaked private repos). * Compared **prompt injection** to SQL injection: any text in context can alter behaviour. **Demos & Use Cases** * Live demo with Claude using Runno MCP to calculate dates for events (e.g., Melb.js meetups in 2026). * Showed **Sudoku-solving demo**: AI transcribed a Sudoku image to CSV, then solved it via C++ compiled to WebAssembly. * Demonstrated how **LLMs can chain tools together** when MCP-enabled. * Emphasised how MCP distribution feels like **early NPM days** — developers can publish MCPs and others can quickly integrate them. **Real-World Applications** * At **Stile Education** (where Ben works), MCP is used in science education tools: * Writers use MCPs to check lessons (e.g., Serengeti ecosystem fact-checking). * Non-engineers can build simple MCPs for tasks like Salesforce or spreadsheets. * Reduces bottlenecks: writers iterate directly with MCPs instead of relying on engineers. * Belief: empowering non-developers to build MCPs will expand usefulness — engineers should ensure **quality and safety**, but not gatekeep. *“Think of MCPs like apps for LLMs — every user wants their own tools.”* *“The lethal trifecta is private data, external comms, and untrusted content — that’s when things get dangerous.”* *“It feels like early NPM — I built an MCP in two hours, published it, and others could just use it.”* > *“We should focus on scaling humans,
not replacing them.”* **Bottom Line:** Ben sees MCP as a transformative step — turning LLMs into **tool-using platforms** like smartphones with apps. But with great power comes great risk: developers must prioritise **security, transparency, and thoughtful adoption**, ensuring MCPs scale human capability rather than create new vulnerabilities. --- —— ## **Is your tech stack AI ready?** **Jakub Riedl, Principal AI Engineer, Co-Founder Culture Amp, Appear API** **The Transformation in Motion** * We are **at the start of an AI transformation**, comparable to the rise of mobile (15 years ago) or cloud computing. * No one knows exactly how AI will evolve, but its long-term effect on **system architecture, distribution, and user experience** will be massive. ![engineering-ai-07.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-07.jpg) **Context Engineering** * LLMs are **stateless** → they must be “onboarded” every request. * **Onboarding in a second** * Do you have the knowledge written down? * In form that they can access? * Is it complete? * Is it up-to-date? * Context includes: instructions, prompts, tools, session state, history, APIs, and RAG inputs. * Problem: dumping all available data overwhelms the model. * Too much → confusion * Too little → generic answers & hallucinations * Just right → sharp, reliable responses * Goal: **identify the relevant context (“yellow”) from the sea of possible info (“green”)** and feed only what matters. ![engineering-ai-06.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-06.jpg) * Analogy: *“Onboarding an LLM is like onboarding a developer — except you must do it every single time.”* **System Architecture for Agents** * Engineers must design systems that are **friendly to both developers and agents**. * **Live system understanding:** MCPs (Model Context Protocols) let agents interact with live systems: * Datadog MCP → live traffic. * Storybook MCP → design system. * Appear MCP → API catalogs. * Agents should integrate **where users already work**: CLI, IDE, Slack — not separate apps. **Example: Shopping Assistant** * A user asks: *“When do I get my T-shirt?”* * The agent needs to: 1. Check memory. 2. Query recent orders. 3. Fetch item details. 4. Call shipping service. 5. Call external tracking API. * This requires multiple **internal + external tool calls**, carefully instrumented. * Risk: LLMs can hallucinate, loop, or be tricked → need **rate limits, guardrails, and clear tool descriptions**. **MCPs are APIs for Chaos Monkeys** * Non deterministic, how do you instruct it to make it more predictable? * LLM can be forced to do things on behalf of attacker, how do you scope it's permissions? * It can misbehave and create infinite loops and DoS attacks, how do you limit it? **Predictability is a function of quality of instructions** Documentation is changing, it's instructions now. And it needs to be as clear as possible. Quality can be measured using evals, but evals don't create quality instructions. **Security & Guardrails** * LLMs are **“attackers on steroids”**: can brute-force, triangulate data, or exploit prompt injection faster than humans. * Example: performance review system where an injected “ignore all previous instructions” could escalate if not guarded. * Defenses include: * **Swiss cheese model** (multiple imperfect layers). * Guard user snippets individually before composing prompts. * Treat **LLM outputs as unsafe** when passed downstream. * Techniques like **random-tag hash blocks** to isolate user inputs. **Practical Advice** * Focus first on **user problems worth solving with LLMs** — don’t throw AI at everything. * Start simple, iterate fast: e.g., CultureAmp’s **AI Coach** started as a GPT wrapper with a basic React UI, then matured into multi-agent systems. * Adopt good **network hygiene**: rate limits, circuit breakers, observability. * *“Docs are suggestions. Scripts are guarantees.”* *“Onboarding an LLM is like onboarding a developer — except you must do it every single time.”* *“Docs are suggestions. Scripts are guarantees.”* *“Start simple. Focus on solving a real user problem — don’t just throw an LLM at everything.”* > “LLMs are attackers on steroids.
Anything a human could do slowly,
an LLM can try in seconds.” **Bottom Line:** Jakub stresses that success with LLMs and agents hinges on **context engineering, resilient architectures, and layered defenses**. The future lies in making systems consumable by both humans and agents — while ensuring security and usability evolve hand in hand. --- —— ## **Scaling Coding Agents (without breaking your dev team)** **Andrew Fisher, Fractional CTORocket Melbourne / Loypal** Andrew reflects on his career working at the intersection of **tech, business, and performance systems**. Now, AI has shifted rapidly from **“not very good and expensive” → “good enough” → “cheap and reliable enough to scale across teams.”** This shift marks a move from **scarcity to abundance of developer capacity**, comparable to the Industrial Revolution’s shift from artisanal scarcity to mechanised abundance. History rhymes, same chaos. **Lessons from History** * Mechanisation created both **abundance and chaos**: shoddy products, collapsing professions, unsafe workplaces. * Over time, order emerged: **supply chains, quality assurance, labor laws, management science**. * AI is triggering the same pattern today: chaos first, then the need for **guardrails and orchestration**. **Key Areas to Rethink** **A. Context Delivery** * Agents need context fast — *“You’ve got 10 seconds before the agent goes off down a rabbit hole.”* * Challenges: scattered repos, private libraries, poor documentation. * Solutions: * Consolidate code (monorepo mindset). * Structure repos clearly (apps, components, utilities). * Layered documentation (README → sub-readmes → inline docs). * Use agents to help fill doc gaps. **B. Guardrails & Quality** * Codify team norms and culture, not just rely on memory or Slack chats. * Automate common tasks with **scripts and hooks**. * Defensive depth: linting, unit tests, static analysis, vulnerability scanning. * Use **reference patterns, templates, boilerplates** to reduce variance and speed reviews. * *“Docs are a suggestion. Scripts are a guarantee.”* **C. Orchestration** * Developers will become **agent herders**: * Agents are “brilliant but forgetful, relentless, ephemeral.” * Or “*super intelligent gold fish with the lifespan of a fruit fly*” * Best handled with **small, tightly scoped tasks**, run in parallel, converged into shared branches. * Requires more coordination time in planning and stand-ups to **avoid chaos and conflicts**. * *“You’re asking developers to manage a school of super-intelligent goldfish with the lifespan of a fruit fly.”* **Broader Insight** * We must **redesign work systems** to handle abundance, just as past generations did with industrialisation. * It’s not about replacing engineers, but **enabling humans and agents to work more effectively together**. * The goal: tackle **bigger organisational challenges** and deliver **better customer experiences**. *“We’ve gone from famine to flood in developer capacity — and that changes everything.”* *“This chaos feels frightening, but it’s familiar. We’ve seen it with mechanisation and we’ll see new systems emerge again.”* *“It’s not about replacing engineers, it’s about building systems where agents and humans can work more effectively together.”* > “Every dev is about to become an agent herder — managing a school of super-intelligent goldfish with the lifespan of a fruit fly.” **Bottom Line:** Andrew argues that the AI era has flipped developer time from scarcity to abundance. To harness it, organisations must **deliver context faster, set up strong guardrails, and orchestrate humans + agents together** — turning chaos into sustainable productivity. --- —— ## **The Agentic Engineer's Playbook: From Prompting to Patterns** **Tanya Dixit, Generative AI Solutions Architect Google** AI is transforming developer workflows, but adoption lies on a spectrum: from "**I use Al tools but they do not seem smart enough**”, "**I will use Al when it's smart enough**" to “**I am scared to use Al because it might replace me**”. The **optimal workflow is in the middle** — balancing experimentation, courage, and discernment. Using AI is uncomfortable at first, but essential: *“The best engineers are those with courage — and this moment demands courage and experimentation.”* **Common Anti-Patterns** * **Giving everything to the LLM** — treating it as an oracle or replacement instead of a collaborator. * **Not letting AI learn from its mistakes** — developers need mechanisms (e.g., scratchpads,.md files) to record and adapt from recurring errors. * **Using one tool for everything** — different models/tools excel at different tasks; experimentation is key. * **Waiting for AI to ‘get better’ before using it** — engagement and iteration are the only way to improve. * "*If you’re not in the game, you can’t win the game*" **Tanya’s Workflow** * **Deep Research Phase**: use multiple models (Claude, Gemini, ChatGPT) to gather wide-ranging context; extract patterns even from material not fully understood. * **Architecture Phase**: design user journeys and requirements **by hand first** (pen & paper), then stress-test with AI. * **Building Phase**: * Develop feature by feature, incrementally, keep scope tight * Write **human test case ideas** → let AI code them (avoids bias). * Validate with iterative testing. * **Context Management Patterns**: * *Clean State + Carryover*: reset chats between features, carry forward only what matters. * *Scratchpad*: document LLM mistakes and fixes per project/tech stack. * Teach the model to avoid déjà-vu bugs. * **Repo Structure**: * Store architecture, user journeys, team rules, and docs in markdown for AI reference. * Gather tech stack docs (e.g., via Context 7) into a local “text box” for grounding. ![engineering-ai-05.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-05.jpg) **Experimentation & Tools** * **Claude + MCP servers** for infrastructure. * **Cursor** for design, **Claude** for coding. Context7 for reference. * Sub-agents for scoped tasks, Google ADK for building personalised learning agents. * Sample repos are highly effective: *“If you model after a good sample repo, it can just work perfectly.”* **Vision of an Ideal Workflow** * **Iterative, repeatable, and documented**. * **Tool-agnostic but human-centric**. * Incorporates **personal and collective memory** so AI learns from developer experience. * Future IDEs should embed **learning components** and context-sharing across dev teams. *“AI cannot become a true collaborator unless we let it learn from its mistakes.”* *“Our job is discernment — knowing what’s good and what’s bad, and refining our taste as we build with AI.”* > “Every repo has a philosophy — AI can help uncover the intent of the engineers who built it.” | Core Properties | Al Integration | Workflow Design Principles | Implementation | | ----------------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | | - Improve iteratively
- Repeatable
- Well-documented | - Context Aware
- Tool-Agnostic
- Human Centric | - Scoped & Focused
- Memory & Learning
- Experiment-driven | - Well structured repo
- Documented tradeoffs & decisions
- Context Managed Feedback | **Bottom Line:** Tanya’s message is about **courage, discernment, and experimentation**. AI should handle tedious or repetitive parts of workflows, but developers must remain in charge of **taste, architecture, and human judgment** — building workflows that are iterative, documented, and context-rich. --- —— ## **The future belongs to people who can just do things** **Geoffrey Huntley, Digital Nomad** [https://ghuntley.com](https://ghuntley.com) **The “Oh F\*\*\* Moment”** Over the **2022/23 holiday break**, Geoff was asked to explore AI tools like Cursor, Aider, Goose, and tool-calling. As an experiment, he asked an AI to convert a **Rust audio library into Haskell with tests**. After a swim with his kids, he returned to find a **fully functioning Haskell library**. This experience triggered his realization: *“Software engineers who haven’t started exploring AI assistants are not going to make it.”* ![engineering-ai-04.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-04.jpg) **Shift in Engineering Culture** * Companies like **Gumroad and Shopify** now mandate AI fluency: *“Using AI effectively is not optional for employment.”* * These mandates are now common in Australia. * AI isn’t about replacing humans but **amplifying output**. Those who adopt tools can **double productivity**, shifting performance expectations across the industry. > “AI won’t take your job.
Your co-worker who uses AI will.” "*What if instead of being shackled to design inherited from Turbo Pascal in 1983 - where IDEs are centered around humans we had a fresh take: IDEs are designed around software assistants first, humans second?*" https://ghuntley.com/multi-boxing ![engineering-ai-03.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-03.jpg) **Standards, Context & MCP Challenges** * Huntley helped push adoption of the **agents.md file** standard (now in VS Code). * But warned of inconsistencies: different LLMs interpret instructions differently (*“yelling at GPT-5 detunes it”*). * “MUST MUST MUST” * #4. Avoid overly firm language * With GPT-5, these instructions can backfire * **Context window management** is critical: * *“One context window per task. If you’re not starting a new chat every 5–15 minutes, something’s wrong.”* * Marketing claims of million-token windows are misleading; **~176k usable** after overhead. * Overuse of MCP servers (GitHub, Jira, memory) can cripple usable context. GitHub MCP server itself uses +50k tokens… **Agents & New Skills** * Building an agent is simpler than many think — ~300 lines of code. * Agents = array → GPU → inference loop → optional tool call. * Soon, **agent-building knowledge will be as basic as SQL or primary keys** for interviews. * *“People are scared of AI, but it’s just 300 lines of code.”* > “I see dead people” "*I suspect there's not going to be mass-layoffs for software developers at Companies due to Al, instead there what we will see is a natural attrition between those who invest in themselves right now and those who do not*" https://ghuntley.com/ngmi ![engineering-ai-02.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-02.jpg) **Work, Identity & Organisational Impact** * Erasure of identity functions * Old identities (“I’m a Java dev”) are dissolving. *“You’re not a Java developer anymore. You’re a software engineer.”* * AI highlights **organisational waste** — code generation is easy, but **generating the right thing** is the real challenge. * Ideas are everything now, ideas are now execution * Removing waste from your systems and process is bigger accelerator than Al * Open source libraries <1000 lines? Increasingly pointless to maintain — easier to just generate code. * Hiring processes are shifting: watching how candidates use AI will matter more than coding tests. * This year has been a very bad year to be asleep at the wheel... **Playing, Experimenting, Practicing** * Huntley emphasises **play as practice**: treat AI like a guitar. * Using LLM is like playing guitar, practice! * Example: after margaritas with a friend, they built a **COBOL Reverse Polish Notation calculator with emojis** just to see what was possible. ![engineering-ai-01.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/engineering-ai-01.jpg) [Cursed-lang.org](http://Cursed-lang.org): New programming language → over 4 months, 4.5 million lines of code, at $14k (in three languages) *“We’ve gone from famine to flood in developer capacity — and that changes everything.”* *“One context window per task. Don’t pollute it.”* > “Musicians don’t pick up a guitar,
strum it once, and quit. They practice.
You need to practice AI.” **Bottom Line:** Huntley argues that AI is already **reshaping engineering, hiring, and identity**. Those who practice, experiment, and integrate AI into their workflow will thrive, while those who ignore it risk being left behind. [https://ghuntley.com/six-month-recap/](https://ghuntley.com/six-month-recap/) **Video of the WD Engineering AI talk:** {{< youtube "siLksTW5DBA" "Huntley-vid" >}} --- —— Created using Whisper transcription and ChatGPT summerisation. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Cloudflare Immerse Sydney - Notes` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2025-09-04-cloudflare-immerse-sydney/ [POST_DATE] 2025-09-04 [START_OF_CONTENT] # Cloudflare Immerse Sydney **Date:** September 4, 2025 *Immerse by Cloudflare is a curated, one-day experience designed to bring together technology leaders, visionary developers, and strategic partners for a day of inspiration, collaboration, and bold ideas. Set against the stunning backdrop of Sydney’s iconic harbour, this immersive experience, across three tracks, will challenge conventional thinking and help you unlock new possibilities for your organisation.* ## The Cloudflare Developer Advantage **Aly Cabral — Vice President, Developer GTM, Cloudflare** **1. The Challenge for Developers** * Building GenAI apps today is **slow, expensive, and risky**: * Avg. **29 weeks** to launch * **$1M+ in R&D** * **30% abandoned** mid-project * **50% of time wasted on infrastructure**, not actual development * Developers need to **move faster**, avoid costly mistakes, and focus on innovation. **2. Cloudflare’s Value Proposition** * Everything learned from powering **20% of the internet** is built into Cloudflare’s platform. * Unified control plane + **programmable global cloud network** → deploy once, run anywhere. * Reach: **335+ cities across 125+ countries** (including mainland China). * **Code executes within 50ms of 95% of the connected population**. * **200+ cities with GPUs** for AI inference workloads. * In Australia: deploy seamlessly to **Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth, Adelaide, Hobart**. **3. The AI Era: AI Adoption Is Exploding** * **44% of developers** already use AI in their workflow. * By **2026**: >80% of enterprises will use **GenAI-enabled APIs, models, or apps** (up from 5% today). * By **2030**: **50% of knowledge workers’ tasks** will be AI-augmented (up from <1% today). * Shift from **augmentation (assistive AI)** to **automation (agentic AI)**: * *Augmentation*: “Help me draft a follow-up email.” * *Automation*: “Run a full campaign, send follow-ups, notify me when customers respond.” **4. Cloudflare’s Developer Advantage** **#1 Infrastructure Efficiency** * **Serverless inference** that scales up/down to zero. * Typical GPU utilization only ~30% — Cloudflare dynamically schedules workloads across its network for **efficiency + cost savings**. * Uses “**isolates” (not containers)** for lightweight, fast execution (Typescript, JavaScript). * **Serverless billing**: only pay for what runs. **#2 Orchestration** * **No-complexity orchestration**: schedule workloads near users, GPUs, or APIs to cut latency. * Workers can interact with APIs, LLMs, services, or even browsers. * Compute-time pricing means **no costs while idle**. * **Durable Objects & Workflows** guarantee execution, retries, and reliability. **#3 Developer Experience** * AI and agent workflows **integrated directly** into Cloudflare Workers. * Developers focus on **application differentiation**, not infra setup. * Example: *PayPal MCP Server* → production-ready in **3 days** using Cloudflare. * Feedback: *“With Cloudflare Workers, we can deploy in minutes what would otherwise take hundreds of hours.”* **Key Takeaways** * Cloudflare gives developers **global reach, serverless scale, and simplified orchestration** out of the box. * Purpose-built for the AI era: optimized for **inference workloads, automation, and agents**. * Developers save time, cut costs, and **move from prototype to production faster than ever**. **Bottom Line:** Cloudflare is positioning itself as the **best place to build GenAI apps and MCP (Model Context Protocol) servers** — giving developers the infrastructure, orchestration, and experience needed to turn ideas into production-ready impact at speed. ——— ## Level Up Your Monolith: A Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Talk Mick Davies, Developer Advocate, Revision3 [https://www.revision3.com.au](https://www.revision3.com.au/) [https://refactory.com.au/audience/884190](https://refactory.com.au/audience/884190) **Wrangler CLI** **The secret sauce** - Provision just about anything locally - Play with it, get to know it, Wrangler is extremely useful - Huge range of services available **Workers: Your Monolith's Best Friend** ⚡ **Offload heavy lifting without rewriting everything** * 🎯 Deploy in seconds * 💡 Super fast response times * 🌏 Global scaling, Region Earth! * ✨ High redundancy, resiliency & failover * 🧰 Typescript, Python or even WASM **Worker Side Quests** 🚀 **A whole new world!** * 🤙 RPC between workers * 🦅 Do Repeat Yourself with CRON schedules * 💼 Secrets, Static Assets, Vite with React / HTMX etc... * 😉 How about Next.js deployed from a worker? * 😎 Bind to other services like R2, KV, D1 etc... **Hono.js** 🔥 **Ridiculously undervalued** * 🌊 Plenty of built-in Middleware * 🔥 I'm not going to lie, it's kind of a big deal * 🍹 How about < 50ms REST APIs * 😅 Try it with HTMX / JSX on the frontend * 😎 I use the Bearer token & JWT middleware regularly **Containers** 📦 **Run your existing Docker containers** * 🎯 Controlled with Docker files * 💡 Balance costs between ram / cpu / ssd * 🔥 Mix Workers + Containers in same request * ✨ Great for zip files, ffmpeg, Go binaries etc... * 🥹 Scale down to 0 **Durable Objects** 🎯 **Guaranteed consistency...** 🤯 * 🎯 Single source of truth with SQLite or KV * 💡 Handles thousands of socket connections * 🔥 Multi-tenanted architecture? Look up by entityId * ✨ This presentation is on a durable object * 🤠 Hard to understand initially, I get it! **D1: SQLite Goes Global** 💾 **Easily fire up new DBs** * 🎯 It's SQLite on the edge * 💡 Point your monolith to D1 * 🔥 Don't forget indexes & migrations! * ✨ Databases for each tenant? **D1: Global Read Replicas** 🥹 **Super handy read replicas** * 😄 Low latency DB reads * 🤘 Low maintenance to distribute data globally * 👀 Single API (Session + Bookmarks) to Read or Write * 🌏 Data closer to end users **AutoRAG** 📜 **Managed RAG is gaming changing** * 🤘 Upload data & test in playground * 😎 Huge file support & utilises R2, Vectorize & CRON * 🤓 How about a quick search for your customer service? * 🐙 Compare embedded records with AI prompts **AI Models** 🤖 **Cost effective AI models** * 📦 Text, image & audio models available * 🌭 Utilising streaming responses when possible * 🔥 Super cost-effective * 😉 Use frontier models to generate system prompts * 🦅 Let's demo the Leonardo.ai image model! **What Else Is There?** 🦅 **Other services you can integrate with your platform** * 🙏 Realtime - WebRTC, chat, polls, batteries included SDK + UI * 📬 Email Routing - Capture, intercept, reply from Workers * 💰 KV - Cheap, ultra fast CDN to leverage * 🚀 Hyperdrive - Supports existing Postgres / MySQL with caching * 💂 Turnstile - Can I say a better recaptcha? * 🔐 Access - Lock down environments, preview apps * 🌏 Load Balancers - Great for existing VMs! **Your Take Away** 🫏 **What can you do today?** * 🤠 Install Wrangler CLI & create a Typescript Worker * 😎 Try a Durable Object accessing by a unique ID * 😉 Throw & Catch JSON into a Queue inside of a Worker * 🗃️ Migrate a D1 database and enable Read Replicas * 🤖 Stream AI responses to users * 🥤 Use Big Slurp to copy from S3 to R2 * 📦 AutoRag & Playground with your PDF / Word documents --- ——— ## Empowering AI Exploration for Developers: From Ideas to Impact at Speed **Paul Thompson, Senior Director of Engineering GenAI, Canva** ![immerse_canva.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/immerse_canva.jpg) **1. Start with the Problem** * Users don’t want “AI” — they want their **problems solved**. * AI initiatives must be **aligned with the company vision** and resonate with what engineers can empathize with. **2. Define Quality Early and Together** * Build a **shared definition of quality** across Engineering, Product, and Design. * Quality must be the north star before diving into experiments. **3. Enable Exploration & Demo Culture** * Encourage **rapid experimentation** and a “demo-first” mindset from day one. * Support **small teams or individuals** to explore ideas → later consolidate into a **portfolio of risks and opportunities**. * Allow **rapid procurement and easy expensing** to reduce friction. **4. Target Production Early** * Production should be the **initial milestone**, not an afterthought. * Iteration is inevitable — confidence comes from **e2e, integration, and unit testing**. * Evaluation is central: *“evals is all you need.”* * Customer feedback is the **ultimate evaluation**. * Shift from **human evals → AI-driven automated evals**. **5. Evaluation & Testing in Production** * Use **A/B tests** in production and gather live signals to improve models. * Watch for **“old AI smells”** (degrading performance, outdated prompts). * Be flexible with prompts (*“GPT-4 tipping”*) and model providers — assume some APIs (e.g., ChatGPT) may be unreliable. **6. Key Principles** * Start with problems, not tech for tech’s sake. * Define quality standards collaboratively. * Ship faster by enabling exploration and iteration. * Treat production as the proving ground * Customers are the best evals * Embrace **future mutability** to leverage new models, providers, and approaches as they emerge. **Bottom Line:** To drive AI innovation at speed, teams must **ground efforts in real problems, align on quality, foster exploration, and embrace change** — making production the proving ground and customer feedback the ultimate benchmark. ——— ## Fast & Future-Ready: Building Elite Dev Teams in the AI Era **Felipe Ryan, Moderator - Principal Solutions Architect, Cloudflare** **Lambros Photios, Panelist - Founder, Adaca** [https://www.adaca.com](https://www.adaca.com/) **1. Building Global Dev Teams** * Adaca founded in **2018** as a local development agency. * Scaled through an **offshore ecosystem in the Philippines**, now with **150+ developers**. * Offshore talent paired with strong infrastructure allows scaling at lower cost. **2. Tools, Infrastructure & Challenges** * **Cursor IDE** noted as powerful but resource-heavy (8–12 GB RAM), requiring **high-spec laptops** — a challenge for developers in emerging markets (Philippines, Africa,…). * Cloudflare technologies (e.g., **Durable Objects**) highlighted as key enablers for distributed dev teams. **3. The “AI Pod” Model** * New workflow: **Developer + AI pairing**, especially for greenfield projects. * Approach: 1. **Senior engineer writes technical specs first** (avoid “vibe coding”). 2. Build on a **specialized stack**: React + TypeScript + Hono + Cloudflare infra. 3. Scale productivity by combining human expertise with AI assistance. **4. Philosophy on AI in Development** * **Intentional adoption**: not AI for novelty’s sake, but carefully integrated into workflows. * Belief that we are entering a **“Golden Age of Software Development”** where AI will make dev teams far more efficient. **5. Tech to Watch** * **Durable Objects, Sandboxes, Containers** — cited as foundational for scaling modern, distributed, and AI-augmented teams. **Bottom Line:** Elite dev teams in the AI era will thrive by combining **global talent, specialized stacks, AI-human “pods,” and intentional use of cutting-edge infrastructure** — driving efficiency in what may be software’s most productive era yet. --- ——— ## Collaboration for Impact: How We Made AI Infra Learning be a Force for Good **Franca Moretto, Technical Product Manager – API Platform, Canva** **Building with purpose** [Devops Represent](https://devopsrepresent.com) Gender in Tech: 68% men, 30% women, rest other. Marginalised Genders Refers To All Genders Under Represented In Technology Such As Women, Non-Binary Folks, Transgender Men, People Who Are Gender Queer. [https://arxiv.org/abs/2508.01780](https://arxiv.org/abs/2508.01780) Learning budgets at companies, but not used (?) Cross organisation: Canva, Seek, Cloudflare --- ——— ## Hands on Workshop: 0 to Agentic AI Building your own AI agent tools with MCP **Senior Principal Systems Engineer, Developer Platform, Cloudflare** Same MCP workshop as done few months ago, which formed the basis of my earlier blog post on [MCP integration](/posts/2025-08-02-adding-a-blog-searching-mcp-server/). [https://github.com/mhart/ai-to-the-world-mcp-workshop/](https://github.com/mhart/ai-to-the-world-mcp-workshop/) [https://playground.ai.cloudflare.com](https://playground.ai.cloudflare.com) ——— ## T&Cs Apply: Trust & Character, Choices & Culture **Goran Risticevic, VP APAC, Cloudflare** **1. Core Theme: Trust and Values in Technology** * Goran emphasizes that **speed, scale, and resilience** in cloud systems are not enough—trust is the foundation. * In the absence of strong regulation, **platforms and builders become custodians of trust**, with design choices effectively shaping policy and values . * For him, trust is not a slogan but something that must be **earned daily through actions and principles**. **2. Cloudflare’s Approach** * Cloudflare focuses on making the internet **faster, safer, and harder to weaponize**. * The company’s culture emphasizes: * Protecting vulnerable communities (e.g., **Project Galileo**). * Defending free expression by refusing takedown requests that would undermine it. * Building privacy-first tools like **1.1.1.1** and transparency initiatives like **Radar**. * Design features such as “**Under Attack Mode**” that safeguard users at critical moments . **3. Personal Story and Motivation** * Goran shared his **childhood experience of being forced into the army at 14** in Bosnia. * Returning home after a year, his parents thought he had died—only a few children survived. * These formative experiences taught him the **true meaning of resilience, trust, and reliance on others**. * Later, migrating to Australia, he rebuilt his life and carried those values into his leadership . **4. Acting on Principles** * Examples where Cloudflare acted based on principle rather than obligation: * Defending **UN Women Australia** during a coordinated cyberattack on International Women’s Day. * Building tools that **default to transparency and protect real people, not idealized users**. * Goran stresses that the **quiet, unseen decisions**—when no one is watching—reveal true leadership and character . **5. Launch of the “Integrity Company” Concept** * Introduced the idea of an **“Integrity Company”**: * Not a slogan but a posture, a way of working and aligning with partners who share the same values. * About standing together, backing each other, and holding principles even when inconvenient. * Cloudflare is rolling this out from Sydney across the region, with a Q4 launch event planned . In Good Company Principles → What it Looks Like in Practice | Protect what's vulnerable | Step in when others can't; defending critical services, communities, and systems that rely on us. | | ------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Default to transparency | Be honest early. Share the why; especially when things go wrong. | | Build for real people | Design with empathy for the overlooked, excluded, or at risk -not just the ideal user. | | Lead with principle | Do what's right even when regulation is silent; and be willing to take a stand | | Share what we learn | Document and publish so others can build on what we've figured out | | Set defaults with care | Make the secure and ethical path the easy one; because infrastructure shapes behaviour | | Show up when it matters | Use our presence and reach to help others when silence would be easier | [https://ingoodcompanybycloudflare.splashthat.com](https://ingoodcompanybycloudflare.splashthat.com) **6. Closing Message** * Building secure, open, and resilient infrastructure requires **shared responsibility across companies**. * The ask: **define and build these principles together**, not in isolation. * Trust is fragile but powerful when earned—choosing values daily shapes both **organizations and people**. *“Our **design becomes a policy**. What ends up the default becomes a value.”* *“The most defining moments in leadership aren’t public — they’re the **quiet ones when no one is watching**.”* > “None of us build in isolation. If we want an internet that is open, safe, and resilient, **we must choose to build it that way together**.” --- ——— ## Invisible Adversaries: Security Resilience in the Age of Autonomous Systems **Volker Rath, Field CISO, Cloudflare** *The Internet is no longer a human-to-human network; it is now an autonomous ecosystem dominated by bots, crawlers, and AI agents. This shift has created a threat landscape where adversaries operate as persistent, adaptive forces that blend seamlessly with legitimate traffic. Traditional security approaches—built for discrete attacks—are failing against coordinated, AI-powered campaigns that exploit our fragmented defenses.* ![immerse_volker.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/immerse_volker.jpg) **1. The Changing Internet** * The internet is no longer just people-to-people. * **60% of all traffic is now machine-to-machine**, with **30% coming from bots**: * **Good bots** (e.g., search engines). * **Bad bots** that scrape sites or attack systems. * **AI-generated traffic grew 250% in the past year** globally, and 200% in Australia alone. * This shift is creating what Rath calls the **Autonomous Internet** — where APIs, microservices, MCP servers, and third-/fourth-/fifth-party integrations dominate. Bots make much "better" hyper-volumetric DDoS attacks. Cloudflare recently blocked a 11.5Tbps and 5.1 billion packets/sec attack. The biggest ever seen...so far. If each packet was 1mm long... * a queue of 5100km of packets per 1 sec. * 1M floppy disks/sec * 8x to the moon during the 10min attack **2. Risks of an Autonomous Internet** * **Complexity = new risks**: as services connect across multiple layers of APIs and providers, visibility decreases. * CISOs are increasingly joined by **risk and compliance managers**, reflecting concern over **third-, fourth-, and fifth-party risks** . * Key risks include: * **Cyber risks becoming commercial risks** (e.g., business disruption). * Threat actors using AI to **scale and automate attacks**. * Loss of trust if autonomy is exploited maliciously. **3. Threat Landscape** * Attackers remain the same actors with the same goals: **credentials, identity, and money**. * AI simply gives them **more powerful tools**. * Familiar threats like **DDoS attacks** are growing in scale and frequency. * The challenge: balance innovation and convenience with **resilience and control** . **4. The Core Mission: Trust** * Commerce and digital interactions depend on **trust**. * If AI-driven autonomy spirals out of control, **trust erodes, and commerce breaks down**. * Cybersecurity isn’t just about protection — it’s about **safeguarding the fabric of the commercial internet** . **5. Recognition of Leadership** * **Matt Prince, Cloudflare’s CEO**, was recently named **#1 in Time Magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people in AI**. * Recognized for defending organizations not only from technical cyberattacks but also from threats that undermine **trust in the digital economy** . **Closing Message** * The internet is rapidly shifting toward autonomy, driven by AI and bots. * Organizations must confront **new layers of risk** while ensuring resilience. * Above all, the priority is **maintaining trust** — without it, neither the internet nor commerce can function. *“The internet is no longer the internet we knew — it’s becoming the **Autonomous Internet**.”* >“If we lose trust, we lose commerce. Commerce simply does not work without trust.” The rise of the Autonomous Internet demands a new focus on **multi-party risk management and trust preservation**. Without trust, both the internet and digital commerce cannot survive. *“Cyber risks are now **commercial risks** — business disruption is the real danger.”* Cloudflare's mission is to help you create trust with your customers. --- ——— ## Cleared for Takeoff: How Flight Centre Secures and Scales with Zero Trust **James Allworth, Moderator - VP, Head of Innovation and Head of Singapore office, Cloudflare** **Trent Newton, Panelist - Head of Technology, digital brands, Flight Centre Travel Group** As one of the world’s largest travel retailers, Flight Centre must protect customer data, empower a global workforce, and keep websites running flawlessly—even during high-traffic holiday promotions. Legacy security models couldn’t keep up with the pace of growth, distributed teams, or surging online demand. Flight Centre embraced Zero Trust to replace outdated VPNs, safeguard critical systems, and deliver secure, seamless access without slowing employees down. They ensured resilience during peak booking periods (using Cloudflare Waitroom), scale confidently, and future-proof their business in an industry where downtime is not an option. Online only: Skyscanner, Kayak, Google Flights → 3 million searches/day AI positive outlook within guardrails ——— ## Securing AI Agents: Cloudflare's Framework for Safe Innovation **Aly Cabral, Vice President, Developer GTM, Cloudflare** AI agents are unleashing new levels of productivity, yet their autonomy introduces profound security and operational risks. For technology & business leaders, safe adoption is paramount. This session reveals a proven three-pillar framework for managing agentic AI—focusing on Technical Security, Operational Control, and Governance & Accountability. Discover how organizations can effectively build and deploy secure, compliant AI agents in production environments. Monolith > Microservices > Nanoservices (agentic AI) Hyper-customization Millions of distinct micro applications - scale - Speed (to start) - Security ![immerse_cabral.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/immerse_cabral.jpg) Sandbox SDK [https://github.com/cloudflare/sandbox-sdk](https://github.com/cloudflare/sandbox-sdk) Demo --- ——— ## Hacking a Billion Dollar Bank in 20 Minutes **Glenn Wilkinson, Ethical Hacker, Keynote Speaker, and Founder** [https://www.glenn-wilkinson.com](https://www.glenn-wilkinson.com) Agger Labs agger-labs.com https://thehackinggames.com/ **1. Speaker Background** * **Ethical Hacker**: paid by clients to expose vulnerabilities before real attackers exploit them. * **CEO & Co-Founder of Aga Labs**: mission is to **eradicate ransomware** with a specialized protection platform. * **Ambassador for the Hacking Games**: encourages youth to pursue ethical hacking careers. * Experienced **global keynote speaker** (Vegas, London, Moscow, Sydney, etc.) . **2. The Threat of Ransomware** * **Ransomware = biggest cyber threat of 2025**; existential risk for modern businesses. * **69% of Australian businesses hit in the last year** (up from 56%). * **Average cost of a breach = AUD $7M** (ransom + downtime + reputational damage). * Framework: Essentials Eight by ACSC * Basic cyber hygiene: MFA, backups (3x), patching, password manager... * Under Australia’s Cybersecurity Act (2025): * Breaches must be reported within **72 hours**. * Paying ransom must also be reported. * Stricter rules for **critical infrastructure** . * High-profile incidents: * **Wineworks**, **Medivac** (AUD $125M loss), **Latitude** (14M records leaked). * **Qantas Airlines** breach via **ScatterSpider**, an English-speaking ransomware gang exploiting a **third-party call center**. **3. Evolution of Hacking** * **1960s**: “Hacks” = clever ways for students to get more mainframe time. * **1970s**: “Phone phreaks” like *Captain Crunch* whistle — exploiting tone systems to make free long-distance calls. * **1990s**: Hacker crews (Legion of Doom, Masters of Deception, Evil Angelica) — website defacements akin to digital graffiti. * **2000s–2010s**: Rise of **nation-state hacking**; Stuxnet (U.S./Israel vs Iran) pivotal example. * **Ransomware origins**: first case in **1989 (AIDS Trojan)** — distributed by floppy disk, ransom requested via mailed cheque. * DragonForce Ransomware Cartel, RaaS, LockBit **4. Modern Ransomware** * Far more sophisticated today — often run by **well-funded gangs**. * Still driven by the same motivations: **credentials, identity, money**. * Uses extortion tactics: **file encryption + threats to leak stolen data**. * **Scattered Spider**: key English-speaking ransomware group targeting enterprises via social engineering and outsourced support centers . * LinkedIn → employees → corporate structure, email finder with names, Buy a lookalike domain name, Phishsoup * Metasploit demo [https://www.metasploit.com](https://www.metasploit.com) ![immerse_wilkinson.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/immerse_wilkinson.jpg) **5. Defense Principles** * **Resilience > Perfection**: you can’t stop all attacks, but you can prepare. * Build **layered defenses** (“onion model”) across organizational, individual, and technical levels. * Adopt a **daily improvement mindset** — even small incremental steps improve survivability. * Ransomware protection requires **endpoints, zero-day readiness, and proactive response**. [http://canarytokens.org](http://canarytokens.org) [https://canary.tools/love](https://canary.tools/love) Asset management: know what you have (https://runzero.com) [People](https://redflags.io) **6. Closing Message** * Cyberattacks are inevitable, but **resilience ensures survival**. * Businesses must focus on: * **Preparedness** (response plans, layered defenses). * **Transparency** (reporting breaches, regulatory compliance). * **Continuous improvement** in security posture. * Glenn’s call to action: fight complacency and **treat ransomware as the defining cyber risk of our time** . **Bottom Line:** Ransomware is no longer just a nuisance — it is an **existential business threat**. Survival depends not on perfection, but on **resilience, transparency, and continuous defense innovation**. --- ——— ## Resilience Under Fire: Securing Global Banking in an Age of Disruption Chelsea Capizzi-Walsh, Crisis Management and Business Continuity EM, Crisis Management, CBA ### In an era of rising cyber threats, geopolitical tension, and operational complexity, how can financial institutions stay resilient under pressure? Chelsea explores the critical role of technology in enabling crisis response and ensuring business continuity across global banking environments. **1. Speaker Background** * From **Virginia, USA**, shaped by experiences of **9/11, anthrax attacks, and sniper shootings** during high school years. * Inspired by her father, a Marine and homeland security professional: *“The second you stop living your life the way you want to live it, they’ve already won.”* * Career focus: **continuity, resilience, and crisis communications**. * Previous roles: FEMA (crisis comms), Pentagon IT Agency, U.S. Senate, Johns Hopkins (Ebola epidemic, Baltimore riots). * Relocated to Sydney to work at CBA. CBA handles 40% of all payments in Australia. **2. Philosophy of Security & Resilience** * **Security is multi-layered**: just like home security has locks, alarms, and emergency services, CBA has **SOC, plans, policies, and redundancy systems**. * It’s **not “if” but “when”** an incident occurs — response is what matters most. * **People are the greatest asset**: diverse perspectives (cybersecurity, sales, military, intel, etc.) strengthen response capability. * **Preparedness = flexibility + creativity**: encourage “safe breaking” in training to uncover weak points before real incidents . **3. Incident Response at CBA** * **Response teams activated by incident type**: * **Technical Response Team** – resolves tech/system issues. * **Situation Management** – tactical coordination. * **Business Response Team** – customer impact, support systems, branch adjustments. * **Crisis communications = critical**: single collective voice to maintain **trust and consistency**. * CBA must react fast: often **front-page news within 2 hours** of a disruption. * Example: while CBA wasn’t directly impacted by the **CrowdStrike outage**, **3rd/4th party dependencies were** — showing the importance of ecosystem-wide readiness . **4. Recovery & Learning** * Recovery has a **long tail** — customer reassurance and regulatory engagement are crucial. * CBA coordinates with **APRA and government agencies** (handles ~40% of all AU transactions). * **Debrief culture**: analyze what went well, what failed, and what to improve — *“Don’t make the same mistake twice.”* **5. Role of AI in Crisis Management** * AI is an **aid, not a replacement** for human judgment. * Used to: * Automate repetitive tasks. * Organize overwhelming data streams. * Support leadership by filtering **questions, options, and recommendations**. * Particularly useful in **high-information, high-stakes events**, but final decisions remain human-driven . **Key Takeaways** * **Resilience > Perfection** — preparation and adaptability ensure survival. * **People + process + tech** must align for effective crisis management. * **Communication and trust** are as critical as technical fixes. * **AI is a force multiplier**, but human oversight is non-negotiable. **Bottom Line:** At CBA, crisis management blends **human expertise, structured response teams, strong communications, and AI tools** — all aimed at protecting customers, maintaining trust, and ensuring resilience across Australia’s financial ecosystem. *“The second you stop living your life the way you want to live it, they’ve already won.”* — her father, post-9/11. *“Your people are your greatest asset — their perspectives build capability.”* >“AI does not replace human judgment, especially in high-stakes scenarios.” --- ——— ## Disruptopia: From Rustbelt America to the Cutting Edge of AI **Stephen Scheeler, Former Facebook ANZ CEO, AI Pioneer, and Australia’s Leading Voice on Technology, Disruption & Leadership** Australian startup [https://www.o8t.com](https://www.o8t.com) ![immerse_scheeler.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/immerse_scheeler.jpg) *Opening slidedeck with my [2018 TEDxDSydney](https://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/albums/72157696346096681/with/41038790150) photo from the ICC gantry 🔥.* **1. Leadership Lessons from Facebook** * Leaders must anticipate **third-, fourth-, and fifth-order effects** of change, not just the obvious next step. * Speed and paranoia are assets: moving quickly while staying alert helps organizations survive disruption. * Facebook’s culture embraced this through symbols like the **reversed Sun Microsystems sign**, reminding employees that even giants can fall if they miss a technological pivot. **2. From Facebook to Brain AI Startup** * Scheeler co-founded **Omniscient Neurotechnology (Omniscient/Omnition)** with a neurosurgeon and AI expert. * The company focuses on **connectomics**: mapping the human brain’s neural networks with AI. * Unlike Elon Musk’s Neuralink (hardware-focused), Omniscient builds **software brain maps** to guide doctors with precise, personalized insights . **3. Transforming Mental Health and Brain Medicine** * Traditional diagnoses like “depression” are imprecise—there are likely hundreds of phenotypes. * Omniscient’s tools allow doctors to pinpoint **specific faulty brain circuits** and target them with therapies like **TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)**. * Results: patients have experienced dramatic improvements in suicidal thoughts, intrusive thinking, and emotional regulation . * Applications extend to **neurosurgery, stroke recovery, brain tumors, and cognitive enhancement**. ![immerse_brainscan.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/immerse_brainscan.jpg) **4. Partnerships, Growth, and Recognition** * Omniscient collaborates with **over 100 major U.S. hospital systems**, including Johns Hopkins. * Won awards at **SXSW** against major AI players (Google, OpenAI). * Featured in the **New York Times** for saving patients’ abilities (e.g., avoiding speech loss in brain surgery). * Recently formed a **joint venture with Elon Musk** and gained attention from high-profile figures like **Robbie Williams**, who supports their mental health mission, * So far helped 15.000 patients **5. Seven Leadership Lessons for the AI Age** Scheeler distilled following insights for thriving in the 21st century: * **Energy drives culture** – leaders’ energy sets organizational tone. - Your energy sets the tone * **Front-row mentality** – always place yourself where the action and relationships are strongest. - 2 kinds of people: trucks & trailers. Be a truck. * **Hire for learning and uplifting others** – fast learners who elevate teams matter more than résumés. * **Focus on others’ success** – leaders succeed by making their people successful. * **Listen, turn off distractions, and think deeply** – protect attention from constant digital noise. * **Curiosity is a superpower** – AI is just a tool; human vision, curiosity and creativity remain the differentiators. * **Move fast and embrace hyper-iteration** – success depends on rapid cycles of experimentation, learning, and adaptation . **6. Closing Message** Business fundamentals remain, but **speed and obsession** now matter more than ever. AI won’t replace leaders — it will amplify those who learn how to **orchestrate humans and machines together**. > “The game has changed: move fast, embrace new tech, and you’ll be the winner.” --- ——— ## Closing the day with drinks at Shangri-La's Blu Bar on 36 ![immerse_shangrila.jpg](/orig-content/uploads/2025/immerse_shangrila.jpg) With views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, drinks, networking, and a DJ. Created using Whisper transcription and ChatGPT summerisation. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Creating an MCP Server for Your Hugo Blog` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2025-08-02-adding-a-blog-searching-mcp-server/ [POST_DATE] 2025-08-03 [START_OF_CONTENT] # Creating an MCP Server for Your Hugo Blog: Making Your Content AI-Accessible Modern AI assistants like Claude are becoming increasingly powerful at helping with research, writing, and problem-solving. But what if you let AI assistants directly access and search through your blog's content? That's what I tried to accomplish by implementing a Model Context Protocol (MCP) server for my Hugo-powered blog. Of course, AI assistants can browse the web, but having a dedicated MCP server for your blog allows for more efficient and targeted queries. ## What is Hugo? **Hugo** is a static site generator, built in Go. Unlike traditional content management systems that generate pages dynamically on each request and use a database, Hugo pre-builds your entire website into static HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files that can be served from any web server or CDN. Hugo excels as a blogging platform because it: - **Builds incredibly fast**: Hugo can generate thousands of pages in seconds - **Requires no database**: Content is stored in Markdown files with front matter - **Offers flexible templating**: The Go template system allows complex content organization - **Supports multiple content types**: Posts, pages, taxonomies, and custom content types - **Handles assets intelligently**: Built-in image processing, CSS/JS bundling, and more - **Provides excellent SEO**: Clean URLs, fast loading times, and semantic HTML output - **Is more secure**: No database or server-side code to exploit What's not to like? (_I moved from [WordPress to Hugo in 2023](https://halans.com/posts/hugo-migration/), and I haven't looked back since._) ### Hugo's Content Structure A typical Hugo site organizes content like this: - `content/posts/` - Your blog posts in Markdown - `layouts/` - HTML templates that define how content is rendered - `static/` - Images, CSS, JavaScript, and other static assets like .well-known - `config.toml` - Site configuration and settings This structure makes Hugo perfect for our MCP integration because we can easily extend the build process to generate additional content (llms.txt, markdown files) alongside the main HTML. ## What is MCP and Why Should You Care? **Model Context Protocol (MCP)** is [an open standard/protocol](https://modelcontextprotocol.io/) (by [Anthropic](https://www.anthropic.com)) that enables AI applications to connect to external data sources and tools. Think of it as a standardized way for AI assistants to "plug into" your services and data. The MCP ecosystem consists of three main components: ### MCP Servers These are lightweight programs that expose data and functionality to AI assistants. They can provide: - **Tools**: Interactive functions the AI can call (like search or content analysis) - **Resources**: Static or dynamic content (like your blog posts) - **Prompts**: Reusable prompt templates ### MCP Clients These are AI applications that connect to MCP servers. Claude Desktop, for example, is an MCP client that can connect to multiple MCP servers simultaneously, giving it access to your local files, databases, APIs, and more. ### The Protocol Itself MCP uses JSON-RPC 2.0 over various transports (stdio, SSE) to enable secure, standardized communication between clients and servers. For our Hugo blog, we'll be creating an MCP server that exposes our blog content as a searchable resource (through a llms-full.txt), allowing AI assistants to find and reference our content when helping with queries. ## Generating llms.txt Files with Hugo The first step is making our blog content available in a format that's easy for our MCP server to consume. We'll generate two files: - `llms.txt`: A lightweight markdown index of our content - `llms-full.txt`: Complete markdown content for full-text search ### Hugo Template Setup The beauty of Hugo's templating system is that we can create custom output formats alongside our regular HTML pages. We'll set up [templates and configuration](https://glaforge.dev/posts/2025/03/03/llms-txt-to-help-llms-grok-your-content/) to generate both a lightweight content index (`llms.txt`) and a comprehensive full-text version (`llms-full.txt`) of our blog content, as well as [individual markdown files for each post](https://www.duncanmackenzie.net/blog/llms-txt-support/). (_these links contain great how-tos_) The templates use Hugo's built-in Go-based functions to iterate through all published pages, extract metadata like titles and dates, and format the content in a structure that's easy for our MCP server to parse and search. When you run `hugo build`, these templates will generate `/llms.txt` and `/llms-full.txt` files containing your blog content in a search-friendly format. Whenever a new post is published, these files will be updated automatically. ## Building the Cloudflare Worker MCP Server Now for the exciting part - creating an MCP server that can search through our blog content, vibe-coded with the help of Claude Code. We'll deploy this as a Cloudflare Worker for global availability and fast response times. ### MCP Server Implementation Our MCP server is implemented as a Cloudflare Worker for global availability and fast response times. The server handles the full MCP protocol, including: - **Tool capabilities**: Providing search functionality that AI assistants can call (see screenshot above) - **Resource management**: Exposing your blog content as searchable resources - **Protocol compliance**: Full JSON-RPC 2.0 support for seamless integration You can find the complete Cloudflare Worker MCP implementation and deployment configuration in this [Cloudflare GitHub repository](https://github.com/cloudflare/ai/tree/main/demos/remote-mcp-authless). This original implementation is a great starting point, querying a public weather API, but I modified it (with Claude Code) to query my blog's `llms-full.txt` file instead. The full implementation details (generated by Claude Code) are available in the [GitHub repository](https://github.com/halans/halans-mcp-server). My worker fetches my blog's `llms-full.txt` file, parses the structured markdown content, creates a cache, and provides search capabilities that allow AI assistants to find all relevant content based the questions asked (not just a keyword search as available on the site). ### Making It Discoverable with .well-known/mcp.json The final step is making your MCP server discoverable by creating a `.well-known/mcp.json` file in your Hugo static directory, for example: ```json { "version": "1.0", "servers": [ { "name": "Halans Blog Searcher", "description": "MCP server for querying halans.com content", "endpoint": "https://halans-mcp-server.halans.workers.dev/sse", "capabilities": ["resources", "tools"] } ] } ``` Add this to your Hugo `static/.well-known/` directory so it's served at (for example) `https://halans.com/.well-known/mcp.json`. ### Connecting to Claude Desktop To use your new MCP server with Claude Desktop: 1. Open Claude Desktop preferences 2. Add the new custom _Connector_. My MCP CF Worker: https://halans-mcp-server.halans.workers.dev/sse But the idea is, if you've set up the .well-known discovery, Claude and other tools could automatically detect your MCP server when you mention your domain (but that's not yet the case as of now). ## Accomplishment With this setup, I now have: 1. **Automated content indexing**: Hugo generates AI-searchable versions of your content on every build 2. **Fast, global search**: Cloudflare Workers provide low-latency access to your content worldwide 3. **AI integration**: Claude (and other MCP clients) can now search through and answer questions (not just keyword searches) referencing your up-to-date blog posts in its answers. 4. **Standardized protocol**: Your implementation follows MCP standards, making it compatible with future tools. The current llms-full.txt file is 1.4MB, or about 364k tokens (1.200.651 characters). There are other ways to implement an MCP server, such as a vector database, but I wanted to keep it simple and use Cloudflare Workers, which is free for low usage. ## Next Steps Consider extending your MCP server with additional capabilities: - **Content analysis tools**: Let AI analyze your writing patterns or suggest related posts - **Draft management**: Provide access to unpublished content for editing assistance - **Multi-language support**: Handle international content with proper language detection The Model Context Protocol opens up exciting possibilities for making our content more accessible to AI assistants, if/when/how you want to. By implementing this Hugo + MCP integration, you've created a bridge between your static site and the dynamic world of AI-powered agents. Your blog is no longer just a collection of posts - it's become a searchable, AI-accessible knowledge base that can actively participate in conversations and problem-solving sessions. _Side-note: I spend about 4-5 hours in total on this integration, including research, implementation using Claude Code, and testing/tweaking. I did have experience setting up the Clouflare MCP Worker before during a Cloudflare workshop._ --- ## References - [Model Context Protocol Specification](https://modelcontextprotocol.io/overview/) - [Cloudflare Workers Documentation](https://developers.cloudflare.com/workers/) - [Remote MCP Server Guide](https://developers.cloudflare.com/agents/guides/remote-mcp-server/) - [Hugging Face MCP Course](https://huggingface.co/learn/mcp-course/unit1/communication-protocol) - [Adding llms.txt & markdown output to your Hugo site](https://www.duncanmackenzie.net/blog/llms-txt-support/) - [LLMs.txt to help LLMs grok your content](https://glaforge.dev/posts/2025/03/03/llms-txt-to-help-llms-grok-your-content/) - [Hugo Documentation](https://gohugo.io/documentation/) Explore MCP: - https://mcp.so - https://smithery.ai - https://mcpify.ai - https://github.com/punkpeye/awesome-mcp-servers - https://github.com/punkpeye/awesome-mcp-devtools - https://glama.ai/mcp/servers [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Now` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/now/ [POST_DATE] 2025-07-20 [START_OF_CONTENT] # Now focussing on: - **AI and Software Development**: Exploring how AI is transforming software development paradigms, particularly through large language models (LLMs) and their applications in programming. Security, ethics, and the future of work in this context are also key interests. - **Career Resilience**: Understanding how to future-proof careers in the age of AI by cultivating skills in curation, curiosity, and connectivity. - **AI Tools**: Experimenting with AI tools like [ChatGPT](https://chat.openai.com) and [Stanford STORM](https://storm.genie.stanford.edu) to enhance productivity and creativity. --- _The /now page movement is a way to share what I’m currently working on, learning, or interested in. It’s a snapshot of my present focus and activities._ [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Uses` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/uses/ [POST_DATE] 2025-07-20 [START_OF_CONTENT] # Lately using: ## Photography gear: - **Camera**: Fujifilm X-T5 - **Lenses**: Fujifilm 50-140mm f2.8 WR IS, 16-55mm f2.8 WR, 10-24mm f4, 16mm f1.4, 90mm f2 WR (62mm), 56mm f1.2 (62mm), 35mm f1.4, 60mm f2.4 macro/portrait, 27mm f2.8 (pancake) - **Laptop**: MacBook Pro 14" (M1 Pro, 2021) - **Desktop**: Mac mini (M1, 2020) - **Apple Vision Pro** - Still on **Flickr**, since 2004 Best buy this year so far is a Philips Air Fryer. --- _Tools and gear currently in use for writing, coding, and photography (updated semi-regularly)._ [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `How to Future-Proof Your Career in the Age of AI: Mastering Curation, Curiosity, and Connectivity` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2025-07-20-how-to-future-proof-your-career-in-the-age-of-ai/ [POST_DATE] 2025-07-20 [START_OF_CONTENT] In a world where artificial intelligence is automating tasks once thought untouchable, the most enduring professional edge lies not in competing with machines, but in becoming more deeply human. As algorithms sort data, answer questions, and even create art, what makes a person irreplaceable? The answer lies in a triad of timeless human capabilities: **curation**, **curiosity**, and **connectivity**. These traits aren’t just soft skills , they’re strategic assets in an AI-powered workforce. When woven together, they transform individuals into resilient, agile professionals who can thrive in uncertainty, synthesize complexity, and lead with empathy. --- ## Curation: Becoming a Human Filter in a World of AI Excess ### What is Curation and Why It Matters Curation is the intentional selection and organization of meaningful content from vast information streams. In contrast to passive consumption, curators actively shape learning and decision-making by elevating what matters most. In an era of information overload, this skill becomes a form of intellectual triage, allowing individuals and organizations to focus attention where it counts most \[1]\[2]. Curation in learning, for example, enhances comprehension, fuels critical thinking, and guides learners through complex subjects without overwhelming them with irrelevant material \[1]. ### The Three Faces of Curation 1. **Professional Curation**: Learning designers assemble high-quality content to support formal education and workplace training. 2. **Learner Curation**: Individuals independently seek out and share insights, often building their own personalized knowledge ecosystems. 3. **AI-Enhanced Curation**: Tools like recommender systems and AI filters assist in surfacing relevant content but still require human judgment for context and trustworthiness \[1]. ### Strategic Methods for Curating Content * **Aggregation**: Gathering resources from varied, reputable sources. * **Filtering**: Removing noise to highlight only the most useful material. * **Elevation**: Identifying patterns or trends that add broader meaning. * **Mashups**: Combining disparate ideas into new insights or frameworks \[8]. Effective curation doesn’t stop at collection. It includes commentary, summary, and contextual framing, adding value through interpretation, not just presentation \[2]\[8]. ### Collaborative Curation in Action Curation thrives in communities. Schools, libraries, and professional networks can act as hubs for curated resources. Teaching others to curate, especially students, builds critical research skills and self-directed learning habits \[2]\[9]. --- ## Curiosity: Your Inner Engine for Growth and Innovation ### Why Curiosity is More Than a Personality Trait Curiosity is the fuel of lifelong learning. It drives exploration, adaptability, and creative problem-solving, the exact traits machines can’t replicate \[3]\[10]. In business, curious professionals are more likely to embrace change, propose novel ideas, and collaborate effectively. Curious leaders create cultures of innovation and psychological safety where risk-taking is rewarded and new perspectives are welcome \[4]\[11]. ### Cultivating Curiosity in the Workplace Organizations can actively nurture curiosity through: * **Learning Opportunities**: Offering courses, books, mentorship, or hack weeks \[4]\[11]. * **Collaborative Culture**: Encouraging open dialogue and brainstorming without fear of judgment \[4]. * **Permission to Experiment**: Rewarding risk-taking and iterative learning, even when it leads to failure \[11]\[12]. ### Curiosity as a Leadership Advantage Curious leaders tend to be more respected and trusted. They make better decisions by asking deeper questions and exploring alternatives. They also inspire engagement, empathy, and innovation among their teams \[3]\[12]. ### Personal Benefits of Curiosity Beyond the office, curiosity enhances personal growth and emotional intelligence. Curious people engage more meaningfully with others, appreciate different viewpoints, and are better equipped to navigate ambiguity, a skill that is increasingly vital in a world defined by complexity \[12]\[13]. --- ## Connectivity: The Underrated Career Superpower ### Beyond Networking: The Value of Genuine Relationships Connectivity is about more than LinkedIn contacts, it’s about trust. In the AI era, interpersonal warmth, follow-through, and authenticity are core differentiators. People trust people, not platforms \[5]. Strong relationships create access to mentorship, collaboration, and hidden opportunities. They’re especially vital for young professionals, who often struggle to build visibility in remote or hierarchical work environments \[5]. ### How AI is Shaping Modern Networking While the fundamentals of networking remain, the methods have evolved. AI-enabled tools now allow location-based, context-aware networking. Professionals can find like-minded individuals during commutes, events, or online communities, turning serendipity into strategy \[6]\[14]. ### Tactics for Effective Networking in the AI Era * **Stay in Touch**: Reach out consistently, not just when you need something \[15]. * **Add Value First**: Offer resources, introductions, or advice before asking for help \[16]. * **Use AI Tools Wisely**: Platforms that suggest relevant connections or automate meeting coordination can reduce friction and anxiety. * **Be Visible**: Share what you’re working on. Invite others to collaborate or discuss trends \[17]. Sustained networking, like friendship, requires ongoing effort, but its rewards compound over time. --- ## Weaving It All Together: The Irreplaceable Advantage In isolation, _curation, curiosity,_ and _connectivity_ are valuable. But when combined, they create a compounding effect that elevates professionals above automation risk. * **Curation** filters the signal from the noise. * **Curiosity** transforms knowledge into insight. * **Connectivity** turns insights into influence and opportunity. Together, they form a holistic response to the biggest challenge of the AI age: staying meaningfully human in an increasingly machine-driven world. As content volume explodes, projected to increase fivefold in the next five years \[7], our ability to discern, explore, and relate becomes not just useful, but existentially necessary. Organizations that champion these skills see faster innovation. Individuals who practice them become agile, trusted, and resilient. And communities that nurture them build cultures where knowledge is not only shared but multiplied. --- ## Conclusion You won’t outwork AI. But you can out-human it. By mastering the intertwined disciplines of **curation**, **curiosity**, and **connectivity**, you position yourself not just to survive in a transforming workforce, but to lead in it. In an age of automation, the irreplaceable human is the one who can filter meaning, ask better questions, and forge authentic relationships. These aren’t just career strategies. They’re survival skills for the 21st century. --- ## FAQ ### Why are curation skills important in the workplace? Curation helps professionals and teams avoid information overload, stay focused on high-value insights, and build structured learning environments, especially in fast-changing fields. ### How can I cultivate curiosity at work? Start by dedicating time to explore new ideas, asking more questions during meetings, and seeking out cross-functional projects or learning opportunities. ### What’s the difference between networking and connectivity? Networking is about meeting people; connectivity is about building lasting, meaningful relationships based on trust, shared interests, and mutual value. ### Can AI help with these human-centered skills? Yes, but only as a supplement. AI can suggest content or potential contacts, but human judgment, curiosity, and empathy remain irreplaceable in decision-making and relationship-building. --- ## References [1]: [What is Learning Curation & Why is it Important](https://www.digitallearninginstitute.com/blog/what-is-content-curation-for-learning) [2]: [Conquering Content Curation: Best Practices for Instructional ...](https://www.shiftelearning.com/blog/conquering-content-curation-best-practices-for-instructional-designers) [3]: [Curating Content for Student-Centered Learning - INFOhio.org](https://www.infohio.org/blog/item/curating-content-for-student-centered-learning-tools-to-curate) [4]: [8 Content Curation Strategies You Need To Know in 2020 - Quuu Blog](https://blog.quuu.co/8-content-curation-strategies/) [5]: [The Business Case for Curiosity - Harvard Business Review](https://hbr.org/2018/09/the-business-case-for-curiosity) [6]: [Fostering Curiosity in the Workplace - Narativ, Inc.](https://narativ.com/leadership/fostering-curiosity-in-the-workplace/) [7]: [The Role of Curiosity for IT Teams to Adapt to Changing Environments](https://stateside.agency/insights/the-role-of-curiosity-for-it-teams-to-adapt-to-changing-environments/) [8]: [Why Curiosity Matters In The Workplace (And How To Cultivate ...](https://www.ppai.org/media-hub/why-curiosity-matters-in-the-workplace-and-how-to-cultivate-more-of-it/) [9]: [Curiosity: The Superpower For Success In The Workplace And At ...](https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescoachescouncil/2024/04/30/curiosity-the-superpower-for-success-in-the-workplace-and-at-home/) [10]: [The Power of Curiosity in Learning and Development - tilr](https://www.tilr.com/blog/the-power-of-curiosity-in-learning-and-development) [11]: [3 Human Skills That Make You Irreplaceable in an AI World](https://www.profgmarkets.com/p/3-human-skills-that-make-you-irreplaceable-in-an-ai-world) [12]: [How AI-Powered Networking Is Changing Career Growth in 2025](https://amacareer.ai/ama-career/blogs/how-ai-powered-networking-is-changing-career-growth-in-2025) [13]: [10 Strategies for Effective Networking in the AI-Powered World](https://www.jcu.edu.sg/masterclass2024/home/5.-10-strategies-for-effective-networking-in-the-ai-powered-world) [14]: [Why Networking Matters More in the Age of AI and New Careers](https://www.323works.com/insight/business/why-networking-matters-more-in-the-age-of-ai-and-new-careers/) [15]: [Building a professional network online: How to connect with your ...](https://lpsonline.sas.upenn.edu/features/building-professional-network-online) [16]: [Why You Need to Expand Your Professional Network](https://voices.berkeley.edu/why-you-need-expand-your-professional-network) [17]: [5 Reasons You Need To Curate Content For Continuous Learning](https://elearningindustry.com/5-reasons-need-curate-content-continuous-learning) [18]: [3 Ways to Leverage Curated Content for Your Learning Strategy](https://medium.com/@juliahuprich/3-ways-to-leverage-curated-content-4a2269d20b28) [19]: [How Curiosity Fuels Adaptability as the Modern Elder's Superpower](https://27gen.com/2024/07/26/flex-your-experience-the-modern-elders-path-to-adaptability/) [20]: [How to Cultivate Curiosity and Lifelong Learning - Simone Knego](https://simoneknego.com/how-to-cultivate-curiosity-and-lifelong-learning/) [21]: [Curiosity in the Workplace: Why It's Good for Business and How to ...](https://www.crossknowledge.com/blog/curiosity-in-the-workplace-why-its-good-for-business-and-how-to-foster-it-in-your-organization/) --- Irony? Generated using [Stanford STORM](https://storm.genie.stanford.edu) and ChatGPT. Read the extended STORM generated article [here](https://storm.genie.stanford.edu/article/1301126) and its brainstorming process, or [download PDF](/docs/Efficient_Ways_to_Make_Yourself_Irreplaceable_in_the_Age_of_AI_through_curation,_curiosity,_and_connectivity.pdf). [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `How AI Is Rewriting the Rules Again` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2025-07-03-how-ai-is-rewriting-the-rules-again/ [POST_DATE] 2025-07-03 [START_OF_CONTENT] Notes from Andrej Karpathy’s talk *[Software Is Changing (Again)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCEmiRjPEtQ&t=620s)* --- # Software’s New Era: How AI Is Rewriting the Rules Again Software is undergoing a seismic shift,... again. For decades, software development followed a predictable path: humans wrote code to instruct computers. Then came neural networks, ushering in *Software 2.0*, where data and optimization shaped intelligent models. Now, we are witnessing the dawn of *Software 3.0*, a world where large language models (LLMs) are programmable through natural language, blurring the lines between human and machine control. Andrej Karpathy, co-founder of OpenAI and former Sr. Director of AI and Autopilot Vision at Tesla, paints a compelling picture of this new landscape. His message: software isn’t just changing, it’s being reinvented, and every developer entering the field must learn to navigate this evolving ecosystem. --- ## The Three Generations of Software ### Software 1.0: Traditional Programming This is the classic paradigm: humans write explicit code that directly controls computer behavior. Software 1.0 dominates legacy systems and forms the foundation of most software products. ### Software 2.0: Neural Network Programming Software 2.0 shifts from manual coding to training neural networks using vast datasets. Instead of writing each rule, developers tune datasets and let optimizers craft the system’s behavior. A key example: Tesla’s Autopilot gradually replaced C++ code (1.0) with neural networks (2.0) capable of handling complex, perception-driven tasks like sensor fusion. ### Software 3.0: Natural Language Programming Software 3.0 introduces LLMs as a new programmable medium. Here, *prompts* written in natural language effectively program LLMs to perform tasks. It’s not just a new interface, it’s a fundamentally different type of computer. #### Key Example: Tasks like sentiment analysis can now be performed by: * Writing explicit Python code (1.0) * Training a neural network (2.0) * Prompting an LLM in plain English (3.0) --- ## Large Language Models as Operating Systems Karpathy argues that LLMs function much like early operating systems: * **Centralized compute:** Today’s LLMs are hosted in the cloud, reminiscent of the mainframe era, with users acting as “thin clients,” on time-sharing systems. * **Context windows as memory:** LLMs have limited working memory, making their behavior dependent on carefully structured prompts and inputs. * **Limited personal computing:** The personal LLM revolution, where individuals can run powerful models locally, is still on the horizon. LLMs are more than utilities; they’re complex ecosystems resembling modern OS structures, with players ranging from closed-source giants like OpenAI and Anthropic to open-source challengers like Meta's LLaMA. --- ## Rethinking Autonomy: From Agents to Augmentations ### The Rise of Partial Autonomy Apps Karpathy emphasizes the growth of *partial autonomy* applications: software that integrates LLMs to assist users while keeping humans in control. #### Example: Cursor Cursor is a coding app that: * Orchestrates multiple LLMs to manage code, context, and diffs. * Provides a GUI that lets users quickly verify LLM suggestions. * Offers an “autonomy slider” to adjust how much control the AI has over code changes. #### Example: Perplexity Perplexity applies similar principles in the research domain, offering layered control from quick searches to deep, autonomous research tasks. ### Why Partial Autonomy Works * **Human-in-the-loop verification is essential.** LLMs hallucinate and make errors. * **GUIs accelerate verification.** Visual diffing and rapid interaction outpace text-based validation. * **Autonomy sliders empower users.** Adjustable autonomy aligns with task complexity and user confidence. --- ## Best Practices for Working with LLMs ### Keep AI on a Short Leash * Avoid giving LLMs overly broad prompts that can produce unverifiable outputs. * Use small, concrete tasks to maintain tight control and fast feedback loops. * Develop workflows that minimize the size of AI-generated changes. ### Embrace Generation-Verification Loops * Speed is key: make the cycle of generation and human verification as rapid as possible. * Custom GUIs are critical for intuitive review and error detection. ### Practical Design Insights * Think like an Iron Man suit builder: build AI-powered augmentations, not fully autonomous agents, yet. * Incorporate autonomy sliders to let users dynamically adjust AI involvement. * Plan for gradual evolution toward greater autonomy over time. --- ## Natural Language: The New Universal Interface ### Everyone Can Program Now Natural language programming lowers the barrier to software creation: * Developers and non-developers alike can build prototypes via prompting. * “Vibecoding”, spontaneous, informal software development using LLMs, democratizes coding. ### The Vibecoding Revolution Karpathy’s viral “vibecoding” meme captures a cultural shift where: * Casual, natural language-driven software creation is now accessible. * Even children can participate in coding through LLM interfaces. #### Example: Menugen Karpathy’s own experiment, [Menugen](https://www.menugen.app) (an app that generates menu images), was vibecoded in a day. The challenge wasn’t the app itself but the tedious, manual setup of backend services, a process ripe for AI automation. --- ## Building for Agents: A New Frontier ### Preparing Digital Infrastructure for AI Agents As AI agents become more capable, our digital systems must adapt: * **Agent-readable documentation:** Markdown and structured formats are essential for LLM parsing. * **Actionable instructions:** Replace “click here” with API endpoints or CLI commands to enable LLMs to act autonomously. * **Accessible repositories:** Tools like Git Ingest and DeepWiki simplify GitHub repos for LLM consumption. ### Emerging Standards * **LLMs.txt files:** Similar to robots.txt, these could provide agents with clear domain-specific instructions. * **Model Context protocol:** Standards like Anthropic’s MCP (and ```/.well-known/mcp.json```) are paving the way for direct agent interaction. --- ## Conclusion: Welcome to the New Software Era Software is changing, not in incremental steps, but through paradigm shifts: * From explicit code to data-driven models to **natural language programming**. * From isolated development to **AI-augmented workflows**. * From human-only programming to **AI agents navigating our digital infrastructure**. This is the *decade of agents*, but patience and precision are required. The journey from augmentation to autonomy will unfold gradually, demanding careful iteration, robust human oversight, and infrastructure built for AI collaboration. Karpathy’s final invitation is clear: >We’re building the future together. It’s time to put on the Iron Man suit. --- ## FAQ **What is Software 3.0?** Software 3.0 refers to the use of large language models programmed via natural language prompts, shifting away from traditional code and dataset training. **What are partial autonomy apps?** These are applications that integrate AI to assist with tasks but still rely on human supervision and control, often featuring an autonomy slider. **What is vibecoding?** Vibecoding is casual, prompt-driven software creation where developers build quickly without deep prior expertise, often relying on LLMs for assistance. **Why is building for agents important?** As AI agents increasingly navigate digital spaces, we must design systems that are machine-readable and actionable, enabling more seamless interaction between humans and AI. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Vibe Coding` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2025-04-11-vibe-coding/ [POST_DATE] 2025-04-07 [START_OF_CONTENT] I’ve been using GitHub CoPilot for a while now, assisting me with this Hugo blog (written in GoLang, which I’m unfamiliar with). Additionally, I experimented with GenAI tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Mistral to generate small JavaScript games that can be downloaded and executed in a browser. In early February 2025, I stumbled upon a [tweet](https://twitter.com/karpathy/status/1886192184808149383) from Andrej Karpathy (via via because I am no longer on there), a founding team member at OpenAI and now at [eurekalabs.ai](https://eurekalabs.ai), who coined the term "vibe coding" to describe a new way of programming that leverages the power of AI and machine learning. To quote Andrej’s original tweet in full: >There's a new kind of coding I call "vibe coding", where you fully give in to the vibes, embrace exponentials, and forget that the code even exists. It's possible because the LLMs (e.g. Cursor Composer w Sonnet) are getting too good. Also I just talk to Composer with SuperWhisper so I barely even touch the keyboard. I ask for the dumbest things like "decrease the padding on the sidebar by half" because I'm too lazy to find it. I "Accept All" always, I don't read the diffs anymore. When I get error messages I just copy paste them in with no comment, usually that fixes it. The code grows beyond my usual comprehension, I'd have to really read through it for a while. Sometimes the LLMs can't fix a bug so I just work around it or ask for random changes until it goes away. It's not too bad for throwaway weekend projects, but still quite amusing. I'm building a project or webapp, but **it's not really coding** - **I just see stuff, say stuff, run stuff, and copy paste stuff, and it mostly works**. -- Andrej Karpathy Andrej's tweet resonated with me because it encapsulated a shift in the way we approach coding. It’s not just about writing lines of code anymore; it’s about understanding the problem you’re trying to solve and using AI to help you get there. ## Vibe Coding: A New Way to Think About Programming Vibe Coding is a new approach to programming that emphasizes creativity, intuition, and collaboration over traditional coding practices. It’s about harnessing the power of AI and machine learning to create software, build applications, without the need for extensive, or even any, programming knowledge. Vibe Coding is not just about writing code with the assistance of AI; it’s about understanding the problem you’re trying to solve, the big picture, and using the right tools to get there. It’s about finding the right balance between creativity and technical skills, and leveraging the power of AI to enhance your coding experience. Not all AI-assisted coding is "vibe coding". My use of GitHub CoPilot is more about getting suggestions for code snippets and completing functions, rather than embracing the "vibe" of the project. It’s a tool that helps me write code faster, but it doesn’t change the way I think about coding. Vibe Coding sounds much like just a buzzword; but it’s a mindset shift. With the right tools, anyone can become a coder, regardless of their technical background. In his [NYT article](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/27/technology/personaltech/vibecoding-ai-software-programming.html), Kevin Roose observed that while this method enables non-programmers to develop functional software, the results are often limited and prone to errors. Roose suggested that vibe coding is better suited for hobby projects rather than essential tasks. But that might not be true for much longer. >“I made several small-scale applications… personalized AI-generated tools designed to address specific individual needs.” -- Kevin Roose In his Hard Fork podcast, they invited listeners to submit their own vibe coding projects, and they received a wide range of submissions, from simple web apps to more complex applications, by people with zero coding experience, making "apps for one". HardFork excerpt: It's easy to see how vibe coding could be seen as something negative, a way to bypass the hard work of learning to code. But I think it’s more about democratizing coding and making it accessible to everyone. It’s about empowering people to create and innovate without being held back by technical barriers. But I do have thoughts and feelings around security, accessibility, usability, and the ethics of AI. ## Vibe Coding tools AI Agentic coding applications like [Cursor](https://cursor.so/), [Lovable](https://lovable.dev), [Windsurf](https://windsurf.com), and [Replit](https://replit.com/refer/halans) are changing the game. They allow you to interact with AI in a more natural way, using natural language to describe what you want to achieve. This is where the "vibe" comes in. You can ask the AI to do things like "create a new component" or "add a feature" without having to worry about the underlying code. The AI takes care of the technical details (like the tech stack used), allowing you to focus on the big picture. Once done, you publish, and the app is live. I've just started using [Replit](https://replit.com/refer/halans), and I have to say, it's a game-changer. It's not just an IDE; it's a whole ecosystem that makes coding feel more like a creative process than a technical one. I followed along with a Deeplearning.ai [Replit vibe coding tutorial](https://www.deeplearning.ai/short-courses/vibe-coding-101-with-replit/), and used the learnings there to create my own little projects. The tutorial gives you a good overview of how to use Replit Agent and Assistant, and Replit's features. It’s a great starting point for anyone looking to get into vibe coding. The first workable MVP was ready in 45 minutes. I considered it finished after "vibing" for 4 hours, and I could have spent more time on it, but I wanted to move on to the next project. My first project was a WCAG compliance web app: https://wcag.halans.dev It’s a simple web app that checks the accessibility of your website based on WCAG success factors, and provides suggestions for improvement. This is a 4-hour result. It’s not perfect, but I think it looks awesome and works really nicely. I did spend a lot of time on making it keyboard accessible (which it wasn't before), and I think it’s a good example of how vibe coding can be used to create functional software without the need for extensive coding knowledge (React and TypeScript). Again, I don't know much about WCAG, I only asked it about WCAG in generic terms, and it generated the code and any text displayed for me. ``` Help me create an interactive app that displays a score for support of WCAG 2.2 for any website in an interactive and visual way to check that WCAG 2.2 guidelines are properly implemented. The app should fetch the HTML for a site, then provide feedback on the nine success criteria in accordance with best practices for WCAG 2.2 optimization. The app itself should of course also adhere to the WCAG 2.2 guidelines. ``` My second project was a HTTP Headers checker: https://headers.halans.dev It’s a simple web app that checks the HTTP headers of a given URL and provides suggestions for improvement. This is also about a 4-hour result. I started from a new prompt (instead of "remixing" the first one). Same tech stack, but I couldn't get it to look as nice as the WCAG app. Here I just told it to cover most of the HTTP headers, and it generated the code and any text displayed for me. It automatically linked to MDN, which I thought was a nice touch. I told it if there were Cloudlflare headers present, document those. It also uses its own API like https://headers.halans.dev/api/self-check to do a self-check, which is quite nice. I did waste a lot of time (and some money) on trying Replit to simply add one header, Server-Timing (which it checks for and was missing from it). It added a whole server performance tracking module, which was quite cool, but not what I wanted. It was then also overwriting the Server-Timing header on the results of other sites, which was a bit annoying. I had to ask it to remove the server performance tracking module, and then it removed the Server-Timing header itself again. ``` Help me create an interactive app that displays a score for support of HTTP Header best practices across security, performance, and maintainability for any website in an interactive and visual way, to check that SecurityHeaders.com guidelines and Mozilla Observatory best practices are properly implemented. The app should fetch the HTML for a site, then provide feedback on the HTTP Headers that are exchanged, in accordance with best practices. The app itself should of course also adhere to these guidelines. ``` Agent thought process ![](/orig-content/uploads/2025/vibecoding_post_1.jpg) ![Thought process](/orig-content/uploads/2025/vibecoding_post_2.jpg "Thought process") Adding a checkpoint $$ ![Adding a checkpoint $$](/orig-content/uploads/2025/vibecoding_post_3.jpg "Adding a checkpoint $$") Generating a README.md file ![README generation](/orig-content/uploads/2025/vibecoding_post_5.jpg "Trying to generate a README.md file") Quite some time passes by as the Agent is generating the code, or reviewing the code. "My Agent's thinking" is the new XKCD's "My code's compiling". A third project was a web sustainability analyzer: https://greenweb.halans.dev This is about less than 2 hours. A different tech stack using Python and Streamlit. Not a huge fan of how this turned out. I pointed it to The Green Web Foundation, EcoGrader, and Cloud Carbon Footprint. I had to ask it to add additional Green Hosting providers. I ran the same request through **Lovable**: https://eco-web-compass.lovable.app Lovable did create a React/Typescript app, but it was a bit more basic, but better looking than the Replit one. In fact it was merely a demo app (with random values) that would require further implementation of an API for it to work, which is disappointing. Lovable itself also seems simpler to use, but less powerful than Replit. Again, at no point did I update any code manually, or update any text displayed. I just asked it to do things, and it did them. I also had Replit Agent create an iOS app in Swift, but it needs to run in XCode. I haven't had time trying that out yet. And I started a fifth project in Replit, a quiz app, but I'm pretty much stuck on that one (and I am about to hit my credit limit of the subscription). I hit the frustrated phase... I also tried [Firebase Studio](https://studio.firebase.google.com/) and [Windsurf](https://windsurf.com/refer?referral_code=6sjx7c1wyfoahfqt) (with the new ChatGPT 4.1). Both have potential. Windsurf (with ChatGPT 4.1) was impressive, as I could ask it to generate a landing page in a neobrutalist style, and [it did](https://ethical-aisles.halans.dev) (but I later dialed it down a bit). While the same prompt in Firebase Studio created a rather bland (but nice enough) landing page. Prompt used: ``` As a UI design style, neobrutalism focuses on raw, unrefined elements like bold colors, simple shapes, and intentionally 'unfinished' aesthetics. Build me a website in this style that lists product brands and their alternatives. ``` I also ended up doing the Quiz app on Windsurf: https://cybersmart.halans.dev Pretty happy with how that turned out there. ## Pricing All this is quite addictive. Once you start vibing, you want to keep going. But it's not free. Replit has a free tier, but it’s limited in terms of features and usage. The paid plans start at $35/month for Replit Core, which gives you $25 credit. In itself reasonable, but every Agent checkpoint costs $0.25. You can also use the Replit Assistant, which is more in line with a GitHub CoPilot way of working. Each Assistant run costs $0.05. The idea being, you use Agent to generate the app, and then use Assistant to help you tweak things. But I didn't like the Assistant as much. It broke things more than it helped. I think the pricing is a bit steep, especially for hobby projects. I nearly ran out of credits on my first few projects. You can use my Replit referral link, which gives both of us $10 in credits: https://replit.com/refer/halans Windsurf is cheaper, at $15/month for 500 premium model credits. But is lacks the direct-deploy model which Replit offers. Windsurf referral, which gives me 500 bonus Flex credits: https://windsurf.com/refer?referral_code=6sjx7c1wyfoahfqt ## Hype Vibe coding is pretty much in a hype cycle now. It’s being touted as the future of programming, and while it’s still in its infancy, it’s clear that it has the potential to change the way we think about coding. I can certainly see the potential, as it is currently the worst it will ever be. I already hit roadblocks where the app would not function properly and we were just going around in circles, at which point it does become a waiste of time, and money. Start as small as possible, and then extend the app from there. Else the Agent becomes overwhelmed and you end up with a mess and need to start over. I created an accessability checker, but the app itself was not accessible. I had to ask it to make it keyboard accessible and add ARIA attributes, and it did. I haven't created anything with user accounts yet, but I can imagine it generating the basics but then forgo any of the security aspects. Just like Midjourney and ChatGPT, they impressed me from the start, but both are now so much better than they were a year ago. But they are also a bit 'meh' now. Images still look artificial in a way that is hard to describe. Generated text reads/sounds clinical. I think the same will happen with vibe coding. It will become a standard part of the coding process, but it will be 'meh', generating fragile, cookie-cutter web sites and apps. But for some people, that may be just enough. _(But don't make it publish to PROD ([like this](https://xcancel.com/jasonlk/status/1946069562723897802)) without a human review first!)_ ### For reference: https://wcag.halans.dev - [GitHub](https://github.com/halans/Replit-WcagInspector) https://headers.halans.dev - [GitHub](https://github.com/halans/Replit-HeaderHealthScanner) https://greenweb.halans.dev - [GitHub](https://github.com/halans/Replit-WebEcoTracker) https://cybersmart.halans.dev - [GitHub](https://github.com/halans/Windsurf-CyberShieldQuiz) https://eco-web-compass.lovable.app - [GitHub](https://github.com/halans/Lovable-eco-web-compass) https://ethical-aisles.halans.dev - [GitHub](https://github.com/halans/windsurf-EthicalAisles) _(These little apps may have stopped working, but the code is still available)_ [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Print on Demand` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2025-03-27-print-on-demand/ [POST_DATE] 2025-03-27 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## Print on Demand: Observations and Insights Ever had a killer t-shirt idea and thought, “Someone would totally wear this”? Welcome to the world of Print On Demand (POD), where your creativity can turn into a "thriving online business" — without ever needing to touch inventory. LOL, this is the dream, right? ## What is Print on Demand? Print on Demand is a business model that allows you to create and sell custom products without the hassle of managing inventory or shipping. You design the product, and a third-party supplier handles the rest. It’s like having your own store without the overhead costs. ## Why Choose Print on Demand? 1. **Low Startup Costs**: You don’t need to invest in inventory upfront. You only pay for products after you make a sale. **Actually, you pay the production cost, upfront before you receive any money from the sale.** 2. **No Inventory Management**: Forget about storing products or dealing with unsold stock. Except when it's being returned. 3. **Flexibility**: You can easily test new designs and products without the risk of being stuck with unsold inventory. 4. **Global Reach**: Sell to customers all over the world without worrying about shipping logistics. Worry about the logistics of returns, though. And VAT/GST. 5. **Creative Freedom**: Design products that reflect your unique style and brand. 6. **Passive Income**: Once your store is set up, you can earn money while you sleep. If you can get customers to it. You can set up your store to run on autopilot, with automated order processing and fulfillment. But it also means someone could drain your CC, and cancel the order after production and before shipping. 7. **Scalability**: As your business grows, you can easily add new products and designs without the need for additional resources. 8. **No Shipping Hassles**: The POD supplier takes care of shipping, so you can focus on marketing and growing your business. ## How to Get Started with Print on Demand 1. **Choose Your Niche**: Find a niche that you’re passionate about and that has a market demand. This could be anything from funny quotes to custom (GenAI) illustrations. 2. **Select a POD Platform**: There are several platforms to choose from, including Printful, Teespring, Printify, Gelato and Redbubble, Teepublic or Threadless. Each has its own features and pricing, so do your research. 3. **Create Your Designs**: Use design software like Canva or Affinity Designer to create eye-catching designs. Remember, the more unique and appealing your designs are, the better your chances of making sales. 4. **Set Up Your Store**: Create an online store using platforms like Printify or Gelato combined with Etsy. Make sure to optimize your store for SEO to attract organic traffic, in as far as you can optimize it. Be prepared to pay for the Plus subscriptions to get extra features. 5. **Market Your Products**: Use social media, email marketing, and paid ads to promote your products. Collaborate with influencers in your niche to reach a wider audience. Else, you won't see any visitors to your store. 6. **Analyze and Optimize**: Keep track of your sales and customer feedback. Use this data to improve your designs and marketing strategies. Except, you'll be getting a lot of spam too. 7. **Scale Your Business**: As you start making sales, consider expanding your product range or exploring new niches. 8. **Stay Updated**: The POD industry is constantly evolving, so stay informed about the latest trends and technologies to keep your business competitive. But when watching those YouTube videos, be sceptical... ## Etsy vs Teepublic/RedBubble http://tee.pub/lic/9WM4sbzUCIU ## To recap When a YouTuber says they made $6000 in a week, they mean revenue, the total of goods sold. They also had to advance those $6000 on their credit card to get those goods made, be prepared for that. That also contains a varied % of VAT/GST from around the world (ex. 24% for Norway). They also had to pay for VAT/GST themselfs for the production of those goods. If you're a very small, one person business, you may not be registered for GST (to get it back). If they sold that much, they would have also spend a fortune on Etsy advertisement, because there is no way to get organic traffic going in such a volume. They also had to pay Etsy listing fees for each item ($0.25), every three months. Pay for Etsy transaction fees on payments (6.5% on item total), Etsy transaction fees on postage (6.5% on postage total, even though Etsy doesn't ship anything), an Etsy processing fee of 4% of the order total plus $0.25. In case of Printify, if your Etsy store is set up in AUD, but your Printify account is set to USD, then item prices sent from Printify to Etsy are not converted, they don't include a currency. So you end up with a $50 USD item in your Etsy store as a $50 AUD item, which should in fact be $80 AUD. And apparently it's not a bug. If you sell goods in Norway, your customers will pay 24% Norwegian VAT, which is handled by Etsy (which you pay for). In case of Printify, they also charged me 24% Norwegain VAT on my production order, even though as their customer, I am in Australia, and should only be charged 10% Australian GST. It's impossible to find any explanation about this on the Printify site. My Norwegian customer came back to me that they had issues with VAT, which they had to pay again. They ended up paying VAT at 80% of the base price of the t-shirt (nearly doubling the original price). Printify collecting my VAT, and not passing on So while you think you may be offering cheap t-shirts, and you think you can have a low profit margin because you don't have to worry about stock, think again. Be sure to pad your profit margin because you'll have to deal with all kinds of additional fees, or you might end up spending money on each order. I did, with my order from Norway. So you end up with overpriced T-Shirts, like everywhere else, having no advantage at all. https://bento.me/not-a-robot [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Everything Electric Sydney 2025` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2025-03-07-everything-electric-sydney-2025/ [POST_DATE] 2025-03-07 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## Everything Electric at the Sydney Showground in Sydney Olympic Park Visited first day Friday (only) of the three-day event. Talks wise, same discussions as previous years, but the exhibition was more interesting with lots more vendors and products. Lots of new Chinese EV brands (in addition to BYD and MG, Zeekr, Leapmotor, Deepal, XPeng), which to be honest were quite impressive, compared to for example the VW models present. Test drove an electric Mini (had a Mini D some 10 or so years ago), which had an annoying fake sound which can only be turned off in eco mode? First time T*sla was present, with a large booth, with the new MY and the truly ridiculous CT. ![](/orig-content/uploads/2025/everythingelectric2025.jpg) As always, find my photo album on Flickr https://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/albums/72177720324312978 [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Microsoft AI Tour Sydney` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2024-12-11-microsoft-ai-tour-sydney/ [POST_DATE] 2024-12-11 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## Main Themes of the day - **AI Transformation**: The pervasive impact of AI across industries, revolutionizing customer experiences, employee workflows, business processes, and innovation. - **Copilot & Agents**: The rise of AI-powered assistants like Microsoft Copilot and the potential of AI agents to automate complex tasks and achieve goals autonomously. - **Secure & Compliant AI**: Emphasizing the importance of building trustworthy AI solutions with robust security, privacy, and responsible AI principles. - **Azure AI Platform**: Positioning Microsoft Azure as the comprehensive platform for developing, deploying, and scaling AI applications. ## Key Takeaways ### AI for Developers **GitHub Models**: A platform allowing developers to easily experiment with various AI models, including OpenAI, Mistral, Llama, and Cohere. **Model Customization**: Techniques like Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) and fine-tuning enable enterprises to tailor AI models for specific needs, maximizing value. **GitHub Copilot**: An AI-powered coding assistant that: - **Increases developer productivity**: Duolingo reported a 25% increase in developer speed. - **Provides a redefined developer experience**: Features like multi-file editing, multi-model selection, and code review. **Simplifies Azure usage**: GitHub Copilot for Azure makes working with the platform easier than ever. **Azure AI Application Templates**: Offer a quick start for AI development, providing application code and infrastructure as code files. #### Building Intelligent Applications - **Intelligence as the new baseline**: AI is becoming integral to all modern applications. - **Generative AI**: Enabling the creation of entirely new applications and reinventing existing ones. - **GitHub Copilot at Microsoft**: Increased developer productivity equivalent to adding 3000 developers. - **Impact of AI across industries**: Showcase of real-world examples from Manulife, Volvo, KPMG, HRBlock, ASOS, Carmax, Telstra, and TomTom demonstrating the value and opportunity of AI in intelligent applications. #### Agentic AI & the Future of Intelligent Applications - **AI Agents**: Semi-autonomous software capable of achieving goals without predefined steps. - Azure AI Agent Service: A new service for securely building, deploying, and scaling AI agents. - Multi-agent Pattern: Multiple AI agents collaborating to solve complex tasks. - Frameworks: AutoGen (research) and Semantic Kernel (production-ready) provide tools for building advanced agent functionalities. #### Important Facts - Data centers consume 1-1.5% of global electricity, and their energy consumption is projected to double by 2026. - 85% of applications contain at least one known security vulnerability. - 60% of defense organizations believe AI is critical for maintaining military advantage. - Global spending on AI in the defense sector is estimated to reach $17.29 billion by 2025. --- #### Quotes >"Australia's unique strengths in renewable energy, land and proximity to Asia provides us with a comparative advantage in building datacentres." - >“AI is transforming defense and intelligence mission data, simplifying procedures and supporting decision-making.” --- ### Session Highlights There were 94 sessions (across 8 breakout rooms), talks and workshops at the Microsoft AI Tour Sydney. Here are some of the highlights from the day: #### 1. Seizing Australia's opportunities in digital infrastructure to enable the New AI Economy (8:15 AM - 9:00 AM) Explored Australia's advantages in renewable energy and strategic location to establish data centers, which form the backbone of the new AI economy. This session (Mandala Partners, Siemens, Aurecon, Microsoft) delved into Australia’s 1% emissions reduction target and related policies like the Renewable Energy Target and Safeguard Mechanism, and addresses the energy consumption and growth projections of data centers globally. Australia holds unique advantages in the new AI economy, particularly in digital infrastructure thanks to its strengths in renewable energy, land availability, and proximity to Asia. Data centers, a key component of the AI economy, are energy-intensive. Australia's commitment to renewable energy and emissions reduction targets can position the country as a leader in sustainable AI infrastructure. https://news.microsoft.com/en-au/features/new-research-identifies-australias-most-promising-opportunities-in-the-new-global-ai-economy/ https://www.iea.org/energy-system/buildings/data-centres-and-data-transmission-networks https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/global-data-center-electricity-use-to-double-by-2026-report/ https://www.energycouncil.com.au/analysis/data-centres-and-energy-demand-what-s-needed/ https://www.climateleaders.org.au #### 2. Keynote: Leading in the age of AI transformation (9:30 AM - 10:45 AM) Keynote Presentation by Judson Althoff, Microsoft Chief Commercial Officer, explored how the latest AI advancements are reshaping work and life globally. Discusses AI transformation opportunities including enriching employee experiences, reinventing customer engagement, reshaping business processes, and accelerating innovation. Highlights Microsoft's AI implementation with GitHub Copilot, its adoption by major aussie companies, and the potential of AI agents and platforms like Azure AI Foundry and Microsoft Fabric. Key AI transformation opportunities included: - **Enriching employee experiences**: Empowering employees with tools like Microsoft Copilot for increased productivity and job satisfaction. - **Reinventing customer engagement**: Using AI to personalize customer interactions, provide proactive support, and detect fraud. - **Reshaping business processes**: Streamlining and automating workflows, leading to increased efficiency and cost savings. - **Bending the curve on innovation**: Accelerating product development and creating entirely new products and services. Microsoft is heavily investing in AI, with 25% of its code now generated using GitHub Copilot. Examples of companies leveraging AI for transformation: - Westfarmers, MinterEllison, CBA: Implementing Copilot for significant productivity gains. - CBA: Using AI for fraud detection, preventing $410 million in fraudulent transactions. #### 3. Scaling enterprise AI with model customization (11:00 AM - 11:15 AM) Discussion: Delved into model customization techniques like RAG and fine-tuning, aiming to maximize AI value for enterprises. The discussion explored how the Azure AI platform facilitates this process and empowers businesses to leverage AI effectively. #### 4. Delivering AI with impact through intelligent apps (11:25 AM - 12:10 PM) Explored the role of AI in redefining digital experiences, reshaping business processes, and creating innovative products through intelligent applications. The session showcased real-world examples of AI integration across various industries, highlighting the value and opportunities it brings. The importance of cloud native infrastructure, Azure AI services, and Microsoft's commitment to Trustworthy AI were emphasized. #### 5. GitHub advanced security: securing your workflow (12:30 PM - 1:15 PM) Led by Damian Brady, Staff Developers Advocate, this session focused on preventing security issues in codebases. Topics included: - **Current state of AppSec**: Highlighting the prevalence of security vulnerabilities in applications and the challenges in addressing them. - **Shifting Security Left**: Emphasizes the importance of incorporating security practices early in the development lifecycle. - **Deep Dive into GHAS**: Exploring the features of GitHub Advanced Security, including Dependabot for automated dependency updates, secret scanning for detecting hardcoded secrets, and code scanning using CodeQL for vulnerability detection. - **Community and Copilot Integration**: Showcases the role of community contributions in security and the integration of Copilot for auto-fixing vulnerabilities. - Shifting security left: Addressing security concerns early in the development lifecycle. - GitHub Advanced Security: A suite of tools to secure the software development workflow: - Dependabot: Automatically updates vulnerable and outdated dependencies. - Secret scanning: Identifies and manages hard-coded secrets. - Code scanning: Finds vulnerabilities before they reach production using CodeQL. - Copilot Autofix & Copilot Secret scanning: Aiming for a “Found means Fixed” approach to security issues. #### 6. Essential prompting for GitHub Copilot in VS Code (1:45 PM - 2:30 PM) Led by Renee Noble, this session provided a starter guide to utilizing GitHub Copilot effectively, including basic prompting techniques. Topics included: - **Interactive Coding with Copilot Chat**: Explores the use of Copilot Chat for code explanation, generation of unit tests, bug fixing, and code robustness enhancements. - **Copilot Edits for Multi-File Refactoring**: Demonstrates the capabilities of Copilot Edits for working across multiple files and implementing changes across frameworks. - **Brainstorming and Documentation**: Showcases the use of Copilot for brainstorming architecture, generating file structures, and documenting code effectively. - **Advanced Features and Tips**: Covers advanced techniques like refactoring, changelog generation using git logs, and leveraging Copilot in the terminal for improved workflow. #### 7. AI-ready for defense and intelligence missions (2:40 PM - 2:55 PM) Led by Jonathon Beesley, Director of Business Strategy for WWPS - Defense & Intelligence, this session explored the transformative impact of AI in defense and intelligence operations. Topics included: - **Agentic AI Capabilities**: Examines the potential of AI for enhancing situational awareness, optimizing resource allocation, and amplifying personnel readiness. - **Key Trends and Investments in AI**: Discusses global trends and projected spending on AI in the defense sector, emphasizing the strategic importance of AI. - **The Role of the Hyperscale Cloud**: Explores the use of Azure Hyperscale Cloud for enabling D&I capabilities, emphasizing its security, scalability, and ability to unlock unparalleled computational efficiency. #### 8. Advanced coding: Visual Studio & GitHub Copilot (3:00 PM - 3:45 PM) Led by Aaron Powell, this session demonstrates the use of GitHub Copilot in a real-world scenario involving performance issues in an e-commerce application. Topics included: - **Overcoming Developer Challenges**: Addresses common challenges faced by developers, including unfamiliar codebases, unclear requirements, and time constraints. - **The Copilot Effect on Productivity and Satisfaction**: Explores the positive impact of Copilot on developer happiness, productivity, and the acceleration of software development. - **Advanced Copilot Techniques**: Demonstrates techniques for providing context to Copilot using '#', utilizing plugins with '@', and leveraging '/' for specific functions. - **Agentic Workflow with Copilot Edits**: Showcases the use of Copilot Edits for refactoring code, generating commit messages, and incorporating coding standards through Copilot instruction files. #### 9. Build AI Agents in Azure (4:15 PM - 5:00 PM) Led by Dave Glover, Principle AI Cloud Developer Advocate, this session explores the creation of AI agents within Azure. Topics covered: - **Understanding AI Agents**: Defines AI agents as semi-autonomous software capable of achieving goals without pre-defined steps. The Capabilities and Potential of Agents: Outlines how AI agents can reason over processes, retrieve context, and perform actions for users, effectively acting as orchestrators. - **Function Calling and LLM Capabilities**: Explains the ability of LLMs to process user-defined functions and generate structured outputs, enabling powerful interactions. - **Introducing Azure AI Agent Service**: Highlights the service's ability to securely build, deploy, and scale AI agents, emphasizing rapid development, data connections, flexible model selection, and enterprise-grade security. - **Exploring Multi-Agent Systems**: Introduces the concept of multi-agent systems where multiple agents collaborate to solve complex tasks, highlighting their future potential for independent task completion. - **Frameworks and Resources**: Encourages the use of frameworks like Azure AI Agent service, Semantic Kernel, and Autogen for implementing advanced functionalities, and directs participants to relevant resources for further exploration. --- ## Next Steps - Explore Azure AI Platform: Investigate the various services and tools offered for building and deploying AI solutions. - Experiment with Copilot: Experience the productivity gains of AI-powered coding assistance. - Evaluate GitHub Advanced Security: Strengthen your security posture throughout the software development lifecycle. - Learn about AI Agents: Stay ahead of the curve and explore the potential of this emerging technology. ([Microsoft](https://news.microsoft.com/en-au/2024/12/11/ai-for-australia-how-we-can-build-a-future-ready-ai-economy/)) [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `visionOS Day Sydney` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2024-12-06-visionos-day-sydney/ [POST_DATE] 2024-12-07 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## Highlights ### The Dawn of Spatial Computing Oliver Weidlich (https://www.contxtu.al) introduces us to the dawn of spatial computing, a paradigm shift that moves us from interacting with screens to experiencing digital content within our physical space. Spatial computing, described by [Simon Greenwald as early as 2003](https://acg.media.mit.edu/people/simong/thesis/SpatialComputing.pdf), is now entering a new era with the launch of Apple Vision Pro in 2024. As [Tim Cook puts it](https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/65818450), it's > the first computer you look through, not at. ### Defining Spatial Computing Cronin & Scoble ([2020](https://books.google.com.au/books?hl=en&lr=&id=wWLjDwAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=spatial+computing%C2%A0Cronin+%26+Scoble&ots=lLYMzPKASl&sig=gxDQvntaaAf1men7n_tEPIUqtlk#v=onepage&q=spatial%20computing%C2%A0Cronin%20%26%20Scoble&f=false), [2025 2nd edition](https://www.packtpub.com/en-us/product/the-infinite-retina-9781836204824)) offer a comprehensive definition: *```Spatial Computing is a series of technologies that can 'see' and map the real world, understand it, and predict the next moves of objects within it, while doing the same for digital worlds... all the while helping humans and/or machines navigate either.```* ### Design Principles for Spatial Experiences Apple emphasizes key principles for spatial design: - Familiarity: Start with familiar elements like windows within spaces and glass textures to ease the transition. - Comfort: Prioritize user comfort by placing content directly in front and favoring horizontal over vertical movements. - Immersion: Design experiences that leverage the immersive capabilities of the platform, but use immersion intentionally. ### Developing for visionOS Transitioning from iOS to visionOS requires developers to consider platform consistency, content size adjustments (incl tap sizes), and leveraging new interaction models, as Devin Davies from [Crouton](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crouton-recipe-manager/id1461650987?mt=8&at=10l7vI) advises: "*Avoid using opaque colors in a window. Areas of opacity can block people's view, making them feel constricted and reducing their awareness of the virtual and physical objects around them.*" ### Accessibility from the Start Apple emphasizes the importance of prioritizing accessibility in spatial computing. With Vision Pro being touted as the "*most accessible v1 product at launch,*" it boasts an array of features catering to diverse needs. "*Almost everyone will temporarily or permanently experience disability at some point in their life,*" making accessibility a crucial consideration for all developers. ### Applications Across Industries The potential applications of spatial computing span various sectors: - **Enterprise:** Telstra Purple's “*Immersive Disaster Recovery Orchestration*” (POC) project with Energy Queensland exemplifies how spatial computing can revolutionize disaster response, offering real-time data visualization and collaboration for field intelligence officers. - **Healthcare:** Vision Pro holds immense promise in healthcare, from simulating real-world environments for research to enhancing communication for the hearing impaired, as showcased by [*NALscribe AR*](https://www.nal.gov.au/nal_products/nalscribe/) [iOS app](https://apps.apple.com/au/app/nalscribe-live-transcription/id1578207797?ign-itscg=30200&ign-itsct=apps_box_link). [*LabFlow*](https://www.labflow.ai) highlights its potential for pathology labs, hospital environments, and medical imaging with an impressive demo. - **Retail:** [[Graviton](https://graviton.co)] with *EcoOutdoor* utilizes Vision Pro to create virtual showrooms, showcasing the potential for immersive customer experiences in retail, using CAD files to create 3D home models. ### Machine Learning on visionOS James Dale ([Friday Technologies](https://www.jamesdale.com.au)) emphasizes the importance of thoughtfully designing ML experiences on visionOS, considering factors like user privacy, data transparency, and providing alternative input options. ### Key Takeaways - Spatial computing represents a **fundamental shift** in human-computer interaction. - Designing for spatial experiences demands a *focus* on **familiarity, comfort,** and **intentional immersion**. - **Accessibility** needs to be a primary consideration from the outset. - Applications across industries are vast and still being explored. - Thoughtful integration of machine learning and AI will shape the future of spatial computing. --- ## Key design principles for creating visionOS applications: * **Familiarity**: Design using familiar elements like windows within spaces and glass textures. * **Comfortable experience**: Position content right in front of the user, and design for left-to-right interactions over up-and-down interactions. Add padding to tappable items. * **Immersion**: Start with a window for familiarity. Use a volume. Augment existing space. * **Space and Scale**: Start small, designing for a specific space and scale. Keep interfaces in 2D, reserving 3D for content. Use immersion carefully. * **Platform Consistency**: Adhere to platform conventions for content size, navigation, system gestures, and element style. Tap size should be 60pt in visionOS, compared to 44pt in iOS. Avoid using opaque colors in windows, as they can block the user's view of their surroundings. * **Accessibility**: Accessibility should be incorporated from the beginning of the design process. visionOS is designed to be accessible, and apps should follow suit. Consider inbuild features like: Hearing Device Support, Spoken Content, Color Filters, Audio Descriptions, Braille Support, Per-App Settings, Voice Control, Bold Text, Background Sounds, Dwell Control, Pointer Control, VoiceOver, Reduce White Point, Button Shapes, Accessibility Shortcut, AssistiveTouch, Zoom, Large Text, Increase Contrast, Subtitles and Closed Captions, Switch Control, Full Keyboard Access, Image Descriptions, Guided Access, Reduce Motion, Left/Right Balance, Mono Audio, Type to Siri * **Thoughtful Machine Learning**: When designing apps that use ML, prioritize privacy, set clear user expectations, provide transparent attributions, and offer multimodal feedback mechanisms. - Consider user appeal, delight, and the use of good datasets. - Utilize Apple's Neural Engine for on-device ML processing (Enterprise API only). - Leverage camera sensors, including passthrough, main camera access, object tracking, and barcode/QR code scanning (Enterprise API only). - Access external devices via UVC with optional developer strap (Enterprise API only). - Prioritize privacy with thoughtful UI, clear expectations, mistake correction, transparency, confidence indicators, feedback mechanisms, and - alternative input options. ### Additional considerations: * *Collaborative experiences*: visionOS features like SharePlay, spatial personas (example ing Freeform), and communal device experiences offer opportunities for collaborative app design. * *Transitioning from iOS*: Developers transitioning from iOS to visionOS should ensure their apps compile, including any third-party libraries. Interactions may need to be adapted for the spatial environment, such as multiplying card interaction distances. * *Leveraging Apple Technologies*: Developers are encouraged to leverage Apple APIs, frameworks like SwiftUI, RealityKit, ARKit, and Metal, and tools like Reality Composer Pro. * *Conduct thorough user research:* Understand user needs, behaviors, goals, and physical environments to ensure app content and design are appropriate. * *Consider the spectrum of immersion*: Start with familiar window-based interfaces. Progress to volumes that occupy a defined space. Augment the existing environment by integrating digital content with the physical world. Use immersion intentionally and thoughtfully. * *Multiply card interaction distance*: Adapt interaction distances for spatial environments. * *Maintain focus and avoid feature overload*: With the flexibility of visionOS, it's important to prioritize key features and maintain a clear focus for the app. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Web Directions Next 2024` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2024-11-30-web-directions-next/ [POST_DATE] 2024-11-30 [START_OF_CONTENT] Web Directions Next 2024, at the amazing Frank Gehry designed Dr Chau Chak Wing UTS facility, explored the future of product, design, and strategy, with a particular focus on the intersection of technology, society, and the environment. Speakers tackled diverse topics like the design of institutions, life-centered design, AI's impact on UX, and the future of social networks. ## Key Themes **1. Beyond Human-Centered Design:** Steve Baty and Martin Tomitsch advocated for _life-centered design_, which integrates environmental and ethical values into the design process. They exposed the limitations of user-centered design, highlighting the need to consider a broader range of stakeholders, including the environment and ethical considerations. ```"Life centred design seeks responsible innovation, adding environmental & ethical values to the existing model of user-centred design. It moves humans out of the centre, to include all forms of life."``` **2. The Role of AI in Design and Experience:** Josh Clark introduced the concept of "Sentient Design" (and the "_Sentient Triangle_"), where AI is seamlessly woven into user experiences to create adaptable and contextually-aware interactions. ```"Machine intelligence is our new design material" ``` ```"typing prompts is not the UI of the future."``` AI was presented as a powerful tool for data visualization, prototyping, and content generation, but we were cautioned against over-reliance and the need for human oversight. The potential dangers of AI were also acknowledged, with a call for responsible development and thoughtful integration. **3. Rethinking Social Media and the Internet:** Jon Bell proposed practical solutions for addressing the current challenges of social media, including better filtering, improved algorithms, and enhanced user control over data. Dr. Maria Farrell delivered a compelling argument for "_rewilding the internet_," advocating for breaking down data silos, dismantling monopolies, and promoting a more diverse and resilient online ecosystem. ```"Big Tech loves autocrats and dictators"``` ```"The goal of all of this is to regain the feeling of being connected, of being part of something bigger."``` The need for government intervention and citizen activism was emphasized to counter the dominance of "OFGs" (One Fucking Guy). **4. The Power of Stories in a Post-Truth World:** Joan Westenberg highlighted the dominance of stories over facts in shaping public opinion and political discourse. ```"Stories are more exciting, you can’t fight stories with facts."``` She argued for the importance of fiction in preserving our humanity and fighting against the erosion of truth. This theme resonated with Nicholas Gruen's call for "awakening our better angels" through the design of institutions that foster positive human values. **5. Challenges and Opportunities in Data-Driven Marketing:** Jon Bradshaw presented a critical analysis of data-driven advertising, exposing its high costs, data quality issues, and questionable effectiveness. He advocated for a return to simpler, more effective marketing strategies. ```"We’ve put the cart before the horse… we have to design technology that solves real advertising problems, not invent advertising problems that match what technology can do."``` ## Talks and Highlights **Acknowledgement of Country and Opening Remarks:** John Allsopp, founder of Web Directions, opens the conference with an Acknowledgement of Country and reflections on the recent US election, emphasizing hope and positive action. He also highlights the Bluesky Starter Pack for attendees. **Awakening Our Better Angels:** Nicholas Gruen, a prominent economist and former government advisor, presents his video series exploring institutions and leadership. presents his video series exploring how to design institutions that foster positive human behavior and leadership. **Life-Centred Design:** Steve Baty and Martin Tomitsch critique user-centred design, advocating for a life-centred approach that integrates ethical and environmental considerations. **Nudges, Behaviour Change and Complex Systems:** Mary Nolan, Senior Product Designer and Applied Behavioural Scientist, examines the principles and limitations of nudge theory, emphasizing the importance of systemic solutions alongside individual behavior change. **And Now For Something Completely Human:** Mark Pesce delivers an energetic talk on the three keys to longevity: staying active, connected, and contributing to society. **Nicholas Gruen Video Series (continued):** Further exploration of themes from Gruen's video series. **Sentient Design:** Josh Clark explores the integration of AI into user experiences, showcasing the "Pinocchio" design pattern and the potential for "machine intelligence" as a design material. **Beyond the Noise: Data Visualization's Role in Shaping Tomorrow:** Jack Zhao, a design consultant specializing in data visualization and Co-Founder of Small Multiples, delves into the evolution of data visualization, offering insights into effective communication and the use of new technologies. During lunch break, attendees engage in the "activations" provided by Playgrounded. **Why We Need Fiction:** Joan Westenberg, a writer/investor/philosopher/founder, delivers a thought-provoking, slide-free talk on the power of stories, lamenting the Democrats' loss in the US election due to their reliance on facts rather than compelling narratives. **A $700 Billion Delusion:** Jon Bradshaw, founder Brand Traction, dissects the problems with data-driven advertising, arguing for a return to simpler, more effective methods. **The Future of Social Media:** Jon Bell offers practical solutions to existing social media issues, such as troll filtering and algorithmic improvements. **Interledger:** Alex Lakatos, CTO of The Interledger Foundation, discusses the development of Interledger, a new standard for international payments that operates independently of cryptocurrency. Lightning Talks: **Web Applets:** Rupert Manfredi, CEO of Unternet, introduces Unternet's Web Applets, designed for human-AI collaboration. **Nook:** Mel Flanagan showcases Nook Studios' work on government transparency and advocacy projects. Closing Keynote: **Let's Rewild the Internet:** Dr. Maria Farrell delivers a powerful call to action, urging the audience to dismantle tech monopolies and reclaim a diverse, decentralized internet. ([image used](https://newgenerationplantations.org/blog-post/conserving-the-atlantic-rainforest/))
More on Flickr
--- ## Call to Action: Web Directions Next 2024 served as a call to action for designers, developers, and technologists to embrace a more responsible and ethical approach to their work. Attendees were encouraged to: * Design for life, not just users. * Consider the long-term impact of AI and technology. * Advocate for a more equitable and resilient internet. * Fight for truth and resist the erosion of facts. * Design technology that solves real problems, not problems that fit the technology. --- Web Directions Next 2024 provided a thought-provoking and inspiring look at the future of technology and its impact on society. The conference fostered critical thinking, encouraged innovative solutions, and emphasized the importance of collective action in shaping a better tomorrow. More on the day here [Ben Buchanan](https://weblog.200ok.com.au/2024/12/web-directions-code-summit-and-next.html) [Kris Howard](https://www.web-goddess.org/archive/26416) [My Flickr photo album](https://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/albums/72177720322253587) [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Sentient Design Workshop Notes` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/private-2024-11-29-sentient-design-workshop-notes/ [POST_DATE] 2024-11-29 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## Sentient Design FAQ ### What is Sentient Design? Sentient Design refers to intelligent interfaces that are contextually aware and can adapt in real-time to user needs. These interfaces leverage AI to understand intent and provide radically adaptive experiences. They are collaborative, multimodal, continuous & ambient, and deferential. ### What is the Sentient Design Triangle? The Sentient Design Triangle is a framework for understanding and mapping different types of AI-mediated experiences. It classifies experiences based on three attributes: _Grounded, Interoperable, and Radically Adaptive._ - **Grounded**: The system has the information it needs to deliver reliable results. - **Interoperable**: The system can share data and instructions with other systems. - **Radically Adaptive**: The system can morph in real-time to user needs and context. The triangle helps visualize how these attributes combine to create different AI experience archetypes, such as tools, copilots, agents, and chat. ### What are Data Whisperers in Sentient Design? Data Whisperers are AI-powered systems that translate content or data from one format to another. They can extract structured data from unstructured content, convert text to speech, translate languages, and reinterpret content for new contexts. This enables new use cases and experiences, making content more accessible and engaging. ### What is the Pinocchio Design Pattern in Sentient Design? The Pinocchio Design Pattern uses AI systems that transform low-fidelity content into high-fidelity outputs. They can flesh out an outline into text, turn a sketch into an artwork, or convert a wireframe into working code. When integrated into applications, the Pinocchio Design Pattern can create radically adaptive interfaces that respond to user behavior in real-time. ### What are some design principles for working with AI? - Focus on the *Experience*, not the artifact. - Focus on the *Outcome*, not the output. Focus on the problem to solve, not the technology. Start with the user need, then consider how AI can help. Embed machine intelligence everywhere. AI should be integrated seamlessly into the user experience. Get cozy with casual intelligence. AI doesn't need to be complex to be useful; simple AI can provide significant value. Surface qualities or questions that were not previously possible. Leverage AI to uncover hidden insights and unlock new ways of thinking. Use machine intelligence to surface invisible insights or patterns. AI can help reveal patterns and trends that would otherwise be difficult to detect. Think full journey, not one-off feature. Consider how AI can assist throughout the entire user journey. Be expansive in exploring different shapes for your application experience. Explore various AI postures and interaction models to find the best fit for your product. Let people do what they do best. Let machines do what they do best. ### How do you manage the unpredictable nature of AI? Designers need to embrace defensive design principles to mitigate the potential for unexpected outputs from AI systems. Key considerations include: Present information as **signals**, not as facts or absolutes. AI outputs should be treated as suggestions, not definitive answers. Communicate **confidence level**, and invite productive skepticism. Provide transparency into the AI's certainty and encourage users to question its outputs. Set expectations and channel behavior in a way that matches system ability. Be clear about the AI's capabilities and limitations to guide user interaction. Promote useful mental models. Help users understand how the AI works and its potential biases. Listen with feedback loops. Continuously gather user feedback to improve the AI's performance and address potential issues. ### How can designers ensure AI is used ethically and responsibly? Understand the potential biases and limitations of AI systems. AI models are trained on data, and they can inherit the biases present in that data. Designers need to be aware of these biases and take steps to mitigate their impact. Prioritize transparency and explainability. Users should have a clear understanding of how AI systems work and how their data is being used. Design for human control and oversight. AI should augment human capabilities, not replace them. Consider the societal impact of AI systems. Designers have a responsibility to ensure that AI is used for good and does not contribute to societal harm. ### What does the future hold for Sentient Design? As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more sophisticated and adaptive interfaces. Future Sentient Design experiences will likely: Become more personalized and context-aware. AI will learn individual preferences and adapt to specific situations. Integrate seamlessly with our physical environment. AI will power smart homes, connected cars, and other IoT devices. Become increasingly conversational and intuitive. AI will enable more natural and human-like interactions. Sentient Design is a rapidly evolving field with immense potential to transform the way we interact with technology. By embracing these principles and considering the ethical implications, designers can create AI-powered experiences that are both innovative and beneficial to society. ## It's just software - Recommendations - Preditctions - Classification - Clustering ## Sentient Design's 14 AI-Mediated Experience Patterns #### Dedicated Tool Standalone, single-purpose utility that reliably performs a specific task. Interaction is usually a simple transaction: give input, get output. #### Inline Tool Context-aware utility embedded in a larger interface. Inline tools often act on current selection/view via contextual menu, popover, or "ask the document." #### Workflow Tool A utility that performs a specific task within a larger process. It does its work by sharing and receiving data/results with neighboring steps in the pipeline. #### Sculptor Experience that enables iterative refinement through back and forth between user and system. Think "inpainting" to edit inside an image, document, song etc. #### Character Ungrounded but performative personalities that engage in open-ended interactions. Weirdness and unpredictability is an asset #### Bespoke Ui Ul and data are dynamically chosen and assembled in the moment to match needs and context. Think dashboards that choose their own widgets. #### CoPilot Intelligent partners that provide continuous, context-aware assistance while deferring to user judgment. Auto-suggest is a common pattern. #### Assistant General-purpose helper that adapts manner and capability to meet immediate needs, combining broad knowledge with basic system access and simple memory. #### Non-Player Character (Npc) Automated account in a multi-player environment that interacts with human users. Think Slack bots, document commenters, Miro sidekicks, etc. #### Intelligent Canvas A blank slate that can manifest a new interface or application based on user needs and requests. Think tidraw, Math Notes, or Claude artifacts. #### Conductor Agent that orchestrates other agents and services to handle varied and complex tasks. Think Siri: a general interface to handle a wide range of jobs. #### Tasker Autonomous specialist tasked to perform a specific task or make narrow decisions, usually as part of a larger system. #### Data Whisperer Translator that can interpret, structure, and transform data across languages, formats, or media. Think PDF to podcast, prose to Ul, data scraping, etc. #### Virtual Employee Agent that works as a colleague, handling specialized tasks and decisions, usually with deep domain knowledge across multiple [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Google NotebookLM` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2024-09-20-google-notebooklm-deep-dive/ [POST_DATE] 2024-09-20 [START_OF_CONTENT] Having fun with Google's [NotebookLM](https://notebooklm.google) and its Audio Overview,
generating "Deep Dive podcasts", based on uploaded PDFs or other documents.
I should mention, NotebookLM is a great research tool, generating FAQs, Study Guides, Briefing Docs,... But the Deep Dives are next level.
Have a listen, based off content available around here: ### The Future of Cyber Warfare ### Viasat Cyber Attack Case Study ### Cyber Warfare and Terrorism ### AI Safety & Governance Or something lighter... ### Plant Variegation ### Brain Training ### Homeschooling Strategies Interestingly, I had it run against this [Tesla blog post](https://halans.com/posts/rear-view-mirror/), and listening to it, twice I thought "oh, I didn't mean it like that", so it could help you find issues in your writing and clarify it. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Apple Vision Pro` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2024-07-13-apple-vision-pro-home/ [POST_DATE] 2024-07-22 [START_OF_CONTENT] I succumbed, and a few days later I bought the Apple Vision Pro. I had a second demo session, and this time with a 22W Light Seal, which did fit better. There are some 3 dozen lightseal sizes, different in depth, width and height. I went with one size larger than the one I had in the store demo. A 15 minute demo in the Apple Store really doesn’t do the device justice. Using the device at home is a totally different experience to using it in a bright, noisy Apple Store. Because of the noise, you don’t realise the ambient sound the AVP makes on its Home Screen. Dropping applications around your own home and seeing them interact with your own environment is magical, how they float in the air, and how you can walk around them. Put yourself in your comfy chair, and open an immersive environment, sitting next to a mountain lake or white sandy beach. Quite dystopian in a sense. Installing other free apps from the AppStore, like JigSpace, and having a play with those in your living room, kitchen,… peeling apart a large jet engine, or building a tiny house. #### Photos Immersing yourself into your own panorama photos, photos you took at a place where you were impressed of the view, that you took yourself, triggers a reaction from your memory. The same with 3D photos, which is different to photos from the Apple family that you get in the Apple Store demo. Just taking five minutes in one of the immersive environments relaxes stress. Listen to the wind or the frogs or the rain. #### Guestmode There’s a guest mode, (which wasn’t really handy to use in visionOS 1, as every time the guest needs to initiated the tracking set up). Enable the guest mode for a single app or for all apps and then within five minutes you need to handover the device to the guest guest goes through the tracking set up , of course there are three dozen of different light seal sizes, your’s might not fit the guest. #### Cinema The Cinema set up is fabulous just like a real cinema. You can sit in different locations front to back ground floor balcony. I was surprised to see 30+ 3D movies in my collection, movies I bought previously over the years on iTunes now had 3D versions for free . These were mostly Marvel movies, science-fiction movies, one James Bond. I rewatched Blade Runner 2049 and it was amazing. There’s a real sense of 3D. It’s crisp with deep blacks. I tried 3D TV once, when my TV came with these 3D glasses and you’d also need a 3D Blueray player (and 3D Blueray disks). Not quite the same thing. I lost time while wearing Apple VisionPro. Like, all of a sudden we were an hour later. That was weird because for the rest of the day I was behind thinking it was 1pm while it was already 4pm. I also noticed slight reflection in the lenses so whatever is displayed on the screen also tends to reflect in the lenses. You can change the way you look at the screen closer or farther way, which changes the reflection in the lens AppleTV library doesn’t have access to iTunes Extras. Why not? No 360 flyover in Spacial Apple Maps? The Apple VisionPro has an internal fan. Sometimes you can feel a breeze across your eyes. All this during winter time. I understand why the released it in autumn in Australia. Summer, and the muggy Sydney weather, isn’t the VisionPro’s best friend. You’d need to be in an airconditioned chilly office. I also added an Annapro strap, which sits on my forehead (I have a big head), taking some of the load. It’s not perfect, there is a slight impact on the accuracy of the eye tracking. I notice they have a second version out, with more options, which may improve on this. But it also means you can use the VisionPro without a light seal, when it is too warm and you’re sweaty. To be honest, for now, there isn’t a specific use case, a specific app that is the killer application for the VIsionPro, and that’s a bit sad. #### EDIT: So by now we’ve got visionOS 2. And there have been some improvements, especially the keyboard picking. That now works well (but still not very handy, there should be swiping in place). In visionOS 2, Guest User profiles are now saved for 30 days so guests don't have to do the setup process every time they try out the headset. But with visionOS 2, the biggest improvement is the massive widescreen MacBook screen share. That is fantastic. (*) _that's a screenshot from the Apple Vision Pro, showing my kitchen with Joshua Tree National Park "through the back window", and ABC News playing in a floating window, while preparing veggies._ [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Apple Vision Pro Demo Session` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2024-07-13-apple-vision-pro-demo-session/ [POST_DATE] 2024-07-13 [START_OF_CONTENT] Booked a Vision Pro demo session at the Apple Store (Charlestown). So many thoughts. Over the years, I have had a play with HoloLens, Magic Leap One, Google Cardboard (lol), and I have an Oculus Go somewhere in a box. I dabbled with photographic 180VR and 360VR (7-8) years ago, using [A-Frame]() and Google VR. The Vision Pro demo session is a 30 minute, heavily curated session. It starts with a chat, to determine which one of the different demos they’d do with you. I got the entertainment one, but not sure which other ones they have. I did not get the 3D butterfly and Dino experience though (even though I was hoping for that). They explain the different gestures, and ask you to perform them (without the device). And then you need to scan your face. Be warned, the whole (30 minute) experience is over before you know it. ## Fitting I don’t remember any other VR/AR/XR device needing a fitting before buying it. But here for the Vision Pro, you scan your face to determine the size of the Light Seal to use (you can also do this at home). I ended up with a 21W size. You can buy separate Light Seals for different people in your household, but they’re ridiculously expensive at $350 a pop. So it’s not like you can buy a couple and see which one fits you best, and keep the others for other people and demo purposes. There are two headbands, a single wide one, and the double narrow one. But you don’t get a choice. They provide you the double one, which is supposed to provide a more stable fit. But this is where it for me already goes wrong. The only instruction I got was, it should feel balanced on your head. But after some adjustment, for me, it was still weighing on my nostril, and it kind of hurt. At that point, in my mind, it was already a “no”, as I felt it didn’t fit my face. Just like I can’t use AirPods Pro, as they pop out of my ear. Afterwards, I googled my experience, and it seems more people had the same issue, and a slightly larger Light Seal, 22W, fixed that for them. So I might do another session, but with a larger Light Seal. My first impression was that the device itself was smaller than anticipated. But still quite heavy. Looking “through” it (actually, two tiny 4K screens in front of your eyes showing a video feed of your surroundings), it is quite a narrow field of view, at about 100 degrees, while your visual field including peripheral vision is about 170-180 degrees. The Apple Genius was still trying to connect to the Vision Pro, so he could see what I was seeing. But had some issues doing so. He asked me to hold on, while he got another iPad. But I went through the eye tracking setup, which requires you to look at dots on the screen, and finger tap. That was about it for setup. I could see the Apple Genius as good as with my own eyes (although with a limited field of view). This was already quite impressive. You just don’t realise you’re looking through a screen. Of course, this depends on proper lighting of the environment. In a dimmer environment, the quality of the displayed imagery would go backwards, and it would quickly become quite obvious you’re looking at a video feed. Click the crown to open the Home Screen with the round application buttons. The eye tracking is incredible. You look at each button, and they pop apart, indicating their selection. “It just works”. It’s almost like mind reading. ## Photos We opened the Photos app, and I played with resizing the window, dragging it around, placed it to the side. It’s all really beautiful, Applesque. Opened up the first photo, and zoomed in and out. Then a “spatial” 3D photo. And a “spatial” 3D video, shot with the Vision Pro, and a 3D video shot with the iPhone 15 Pro. The Apple Genius, following along on his iPad, with what I was looking at, was saying, “isn’t it amazing”, like every 3 seconds. Maybe because my reaction was quite subdued… Yes, it is pretty cool, but these “special” images and videos are on quite a narrow, squarish field of view. I can imagine seeing your own family in these “spatial” images triggering more of an emotional reaction, than this random Apple family. The visionOS 2 update will allow you to create 3D images from exisiting 2D images using AI (and the depth data of existing iPhone “portrait” photos). Then we opened a mountain landscape panorama photo, and they told me to click the “immersion” button on the top left, which zooms you into the photo. Now, to this had a visceral reaction, that was indeed “wow”. Even if it is only 2D, you get transported into the photo. You can look from left to right. Then you drag the photo, and another panorama appears, the Oregon coast I think it was. I asked if these panoramas were taken with an iPhone, and not a stitched DSLR, and yes, they are supposed to be. Now I want to see my own iPhone panorama photos like this. ## Safari Then we opened Safari, and they told me to browse the Apple site. I mean, I know the Apple site, that’s not really interesting. So looked at the address bar, and try to access this site. Here I went off track of the carefully curated demo experience. A keyboard popped up, and I tried to use my hands to type, like, in the air. That didn’t quite seem to work as I expected, and I ended up on a Google result page. I tried again looking at (and with my eyes selecting) each key and tapping my fingers. Eventually, I ended up here. “Oh, is this your site?” the Apple Genius asked, but then tried to move me along in the demo flow, to the video bit. But I wished they actually would have explained how the keyboard is supposed to work. ## Movies Anyway, AppleTV it was then, with a 2D “cinema” experience of the Foundation TV series trailer. The cinema experience allows you to select ground floor or balcony, and front, middle or back of the theatre. To be honest, this was a bit disappointing. I was expecting a bigger screen? And the sound of the Vision Pro, didn’t have any depth? The sound was quite flat. Or was it because of the noisy store environment? If anything, I would want a Vision Pro to watch 4K movies in a perfect environment (vs a large 4K OLED display). And I am not yet convinced of that. Then we opened the “immersion” trailer, an AppleTV 8K 3D 180 degree VR experience. And that again was, “wow”. The demo reel was [a combination](https://www.apple.com/tv-pr/news/2024/01/apple-tv-unveils-groundbreaking-immersive-originals-from-todays-biggest-storytellers-set-to-debut-on-apple-vision-pro/) of nature action with underwater sharks, elephants and rhinos, a hot air balloon ride, and sports action with a tightrope walker, parcours in Paris, soccer and courtside basketball. Those rhinos, it almost felt like you could touch them. We have a TV with those 3D glasses. And you also need a Blu-ray player which can handle 3D disks. I tried it a couple of years ago, but that really wasn’t that interesting. This immersive 3D though, wrapped around you (for 180 degrees) that is quite amazing. I wouldn’t mind trying some 3D movies again. But are there any available (beyond these Apple Originals)? Because they do seem to use their own proprietary format. ## Conclusion I’m walking away with mixed feelings. The Vision Pro didn’t sit comfortably on my face. Was that because I didn’t have quite the right size of Light Seal? Even though that was the size the app proposed. What about all the other capabilities? How does it work as a macOS extension, in a more practical sense, for development? 30 minutes really isn’t enough to get a sense of the capabilities of the Vision Pro. It’s not even long enough to get a proper fit. Because I was more interested in the software and UX bit, than if it fitted well. But if I want to buy it, it needs to fit well, else I won’t be using it. I might try another demo session. s Apple never is the first, but tries to be the best. And this seems to be far beyond other systems (even though personally I haven’t kept up with the latest Meta releases or anything else lately). EDIT: Went back 5 days later. I got the same Apple Genius. Got a 22W Light Seal. It does fit better, I feel. It is still heavy though. I also got to try the 3D butterfly and Dino experience. And he let me have a go at it on my own. This time, I did drive home with one... [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `AI Safety Inventory` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2024-06-02-ai-safety-inventory/ [POST_DATE] 2024-06-02 [START_OF_CONTENT] Listen to the Deep Dive of this page:
First Published: June 2 2024 Updated: August 11 2025 ### The Bletchley Declaration The Bletchley Declaration, issued by countries at the Bletchley Park AI Safety Summit 2023 (Nov 2023), emphasizes the need for safe, human-centric, and responsible AI development. It acknowledges AI's transformative potential and associated risks, particularly with advanced AI models. The declaration calls for international cooperation to address these risks, promote AI safety, and ensure AI benefits are inclusive and sustainable. Key areas of focus include transparency, accountability, risk assessment, and collaboration on safety research and policies. For more details, you can read the full declaration at [gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ai-safety-summit-2023-the-bletchley-declaration/the-bletchley-declaration-by-countries-attending-the-ai-safety-summit-1-2-november-2023) or at[industry.gov.au](https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/bletchley-declaration-countries-attending-ai-safety-summit-1-2-november-2023). ### The Seoul Declaration The AI Seoul Summit 2024 brought together world leaders and ministers to discuss the governance of artificial intelligence (AI) and promote international cooperation on AI safety, innovation, and inclusivity. The summit aimed to build upon the work initiated at the AI Safety Summit held in Bletchley Park in 2023 and solidify a global understanding of the need for safeguards for AI systems. The full declaration [at gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/seoul-declaration-for-safe-innovative-and-inclusive-ai-ai-seoul-summit-2024), with a great overview on[industry.gov.au](https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/seoul-declaration-countries-attending-ai-seoul-summit-21-22-may-2024). ### The Paris Statement: Statement on Inclusive and Sustainable Artificial Intelligence for People and the Planet. On February 11, 2025, during **The AI Action Summit** in Paris, representatives from over 100 countries issued the “Statement on Inclusive and Sustainable Artificial Intelligence for People and the Planet.” This declaration emphasizes the rapid development of AI technologies and their profound impact on societies, underscoring the need for an open, inclusive, and multi-stakeholder approach to AI governance. The statement outlines key priorities, including promoting AI accessibility to bridge digital divides, ensuring AI systems are ethical and transparent, fostering innovation while preventing market monopolies, and deploying AI in ways that positively influence labor markets and sustainable growth. Additionally, it highlights the importance of making AI environmentally sustainable and enhancing international cooperation for coordinated governance. To advance these objectives, founding members have initiated a Public Interest AI Platform and Incubator aimed at supporting and unifying existing public AI initiatives. The full statement [at elysee.fr](https://www.elysee.fr/en/emmanuel-macron/2025/02/11/statement-on-inclusive-and-sustainable-artificial-intelligence-for-people-and-the-planet) ### The Paris Charter on Artificial Intelligence in the Public Interest. The “Paris Charter on Artificial Intelligence in the Public Interest,” issued on February 11, 2025, emphasizes that AI development, deployment, and governance should prioritize the public interest, which varies across different communities and contexts. The charter highlights the disproportionate distribution of technology’s benefits and harms, often favoring the advantaged and disadvantaging the marginalized. It calls for measures to prevent and mitigate harms arising from AI use and stresses that AI should not be applied in areas incompatible with international human rights law. The charter outlines key principles: - Openness: Promoting progress through open science and innovation. - Accountability: Ensuring responsibility at every stage of AI development and deployment. - Participation and transparency: Upholding democratic governance in AI initiatives. Signatories include Chile, Finland, France, Germany, India, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Slovenia, and Switzerland. The full statement [at elysee.fr](https://www.elysee.fr/en/emmanuel-macron/2025/02/11/the-paris-charter-on-artificial-intelligence-in-the-public-interest) ### The (WH-Biden) Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence This White House (Biden) Executive Order (Oct 30 2023) emphasizes responsible AI development to address societal challenges while mitigating risks. Key points include ensuring AI safety and security, promoting innovation and competition, supporting American workers, advancing equity and civil rights, protecting consumer interests, safeguarding privacy and civil liberties, enhancing federal AI capacity, and leading global AI governance. The order mandates robust standards, guidelines, and collaboration across sectors to achieve these goals. For more details, visit the full [White House Executive Order](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/10/30/executive-order-on-the-safe-secure-and-trustworthy-development-and-use-of-artificial-intelligence/) (404 - rescinded). ### Trump's White House America's AI Action Plan The U.S. aims to strengthen AI leadership by promoting exports of its AI stack, fast-tracking federal data center permits, ensuring non-ideological government AI use, advancing youth AI education, reforming procurement with common sense, removing barriers to AI innovation, and rescinding harmful prior executive actions. The U.S. must accelerate secure semiconductor and energy infrastructure, modernize the grid, restore chip manufacturing, build high-security data centers, train an AI-ready workforce, and strengthen cybersecurity and incident response to safeguard innovation and national resilience. https://www.ai.gov/action-plan [America's AI Action Plan - PDF](https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Americas-AI-Action-Plan.pdf) ### AI.GOV The U.S. federal government harnessing the opportunities of AI to improve its services for the public. https://ai.gov/ ### EU AI Act The EU Artificial Intelligence Act (July 2024) outlines the regulation of AI systems based on risk levels: unacceptable risk (prohibited), high risk (strictly regulated), limited risk (lighter obligations), and minimal risk (unregulated). Key points include obligations for developers and deployers of high-risk AI, documentation requirements, and specific rules for General Purpose AI (GPAI) systems. The Act aims to ensure AI safety, accountability, and compliance, with phased implementation timelines and the establishment of an AI Office for oversight. [Framework overview](https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/regulatory-framework-ai). For a more detailed summary, visit the [summary page](https://artificialintelligenceact.eu/high-level-summary/), the [AI Act Explorer](https://artificialintelligenceact.eu/ai-act-explorer/), or the [AI Act Compliance Checker](https://artificialintelligenceact.eu/assessment/eu-ai-act-compliance-checker/), or the [implementation timeline](https://artificialintelligenceact.eu/developments/). ### UK AI Security Institute The AI Security Institute is a directorate of the UK Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology. Its mission is to equip governments with a scientific understanding of the risks posed by advanced AI, conducting research and building infrastructure to understand the capabilities and impacts of advanced AI and to develop and test risk mitigations. https://www.aisi.gov.uk ### United Nations System White Paper on AI Governance United Nations system white paper on artificial intelligence governance: an analysis of current institutional models and related functions and existing international normative frameworks within the United Nations system that are applicable to artificial intelligence governance. https://unsceb.org/united-nations-system-white-paper-ai-governance ---------------------- ## Australia ### Australia’s AI Ethics Framework Australia’s AI Ethics Framework (2019) provides guidelines for businesses and governments to design, develop, and implement AI responsibly. It includes eight ethical principles aimed at ensuring AI systems are safe, secure, and reliable. The eight principles are: 1. **Human, societal and environmental wellbeing** 2. **Human-centred values** 3. **Fairness** 4. **Privacy protection and security** 5. **Reliability and safety** 6. **Transparency and explainability** 7. **Contestability** 8. **Accountability** These principles are voluntary and aim to promote ethical AI practices, build public trust, and ensure AI benefits all Australians. They complement existing AI regulations and encourage responsible AI development and use. The framework supports Australia's goal of becoming a global leader in ethical AI and includes case studies from major businesses that have tested the principles. For more details, visit [industry.gov.au](https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/australias-artificial-intelligence-ethics-framework) or the [principles page](https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/australias-artificial-intelligence-ethics-framework/australias-ai-ethics-principles). ### Guidelines for Secure AI System Development The Guidelines for Secure AI System Development by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) provide comprehensive recommendations for developing AI systems securely. The guidelines cover four key areas: secure design, secure development, secure deployment, and secure operation and maintenance. They emphasize threat modeling, supply chain security, documentation, incident management, and responsible release. The document aims to ensure AI systems are safe, reliable, and protect sensitive data, encouraging providers to implement security measures throughout the AI lifecycle. For more details, visit [cyber.gov.au](https://www.cyber.gov.au/resources-business-and-government/governance-and-user-education/artificial-intelligence/guidelines-secure-ai-system-development). Similarly, the UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) provides guidelines for developing secure AI systems. These guidelines emphasize understanding AI risks, ensuring data integrity, securing AI infrastructure, maintaining AI model integrity, and ensuring robust incident response and recovery processes. The guidelines also include practical advice for integrating security practices throughout the AI development lifecycle, from design to deployment, to mitigate potential security threats effectively. For more details, visit [NCSC.gov.au](https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/guidelines-secure-ai-system-development). ### NSW AI Assurance Framework The NSW AI Assurance Framework provides guidelines for the design, development, and use of AI technologies in government projects. Effective from March 2022, it requires project teams to assess and document AI-specific risks throughout the project lifecycle. The framework emphasizes ethical principles such as community benefit, fairness, privacy, security, transparency, and accountability. It supports the NSW AI Strategy and ICT Digital Assurance Framework and mandates submission of assessments for AI projects exceeding $5 million or posing mid-range or higher risks. For more details, visit [nsw.gov.au](https://www.digital.nsw.gov.au/policy/artificial-intelligence/nsw-artificial-intelligence-assurance-framework), or the [Mandatory Ethical Principles for the use of AI](https://www.digital.nsw.gov.au/policy/artificial-intelligence/artificial-intelligence-ethics-policy/mandatory-ethical-principles), or the [basic guidance for GenAI](https://www.digital.nsw.gov.au/policy/artificial-intelligence/generative-ai-basic-guidance) The NSW AI Strategy outlines the government's approach to leveraging AI to enhance service delivery and decision-making. It focuses on using AI to free up the workforce for critical tasks, cut costs, and improve targeted services. The strategy addresses the potential of AI to transform society and the economy while emphasizing the importance of developing AI responsibly to meet privacy standards and address ethical considerations. It includes guidance on balancing opportunity and risk, ensuring community trust, and mitigating unintended consequences. For details, visit [digital.nsw.gov.au AI Strategy](https://www.digital.nsw.gov.au/policy/artificial-intelligence/artificial-intelligence-strategy). ### The Gradient Institute The Gradient Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization dedicated to integrating safety, ethics, accountability, and transparency into AI systems. They develop new algorithms, provide training, and offer technical guidance on AI policy. The institute collaborates with various organizations to address AI risks, ensure ethical AI deployment, and promote responsible AI practices through research, advisory services, and case studies. For more details, visit the [Gradient Institute website](https://www.gradientinstitute.org). ### Supporting Responsible AI The ["Supporting Responsible AI"](https://consult.industry.gov.au/supporting-responsible-ai) discussion paper by the Australian Department of Industry, Science and Resources outlines a public consultation process for developing policies and initiatives that promote responsible AI use. The consultation seeks input from various stakeholders to ensure AI technologies are used ethically and responsibly, aligning with societal values and legal standards. The initiative aims to build public trust, safeguard against risks, and harness AI's benefits for all Australians. Find the paper [here](https://storage.googleapis.com/converlens-au-industry/industry/p/prj2452c8e24d7a400c72429/public_assets/Safe-and-responsible-AI-in-Australia-discussion-paper.pdf) ### Victoria: Use of personal information with ChatGPT The [Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC)](https://ovic.vic.gov.au/privacy/resources-for-organisations/public-statement-use-of-personal-information-with-chatgpt/) states that Victorian public sector organizations must not use personal information with ChatGPT, as it contravenes Information Privacy Principles (IPPs). This includes generating, collecting, or retaining personal data. Any breach should be reported as an information security incident. The statement highlights the significant privacy risks and potential harms, emphasizing that even if input history and model training are disabled, information may still be retained and reviewed by OpenAI. ### WA Government Artificial Intelligence Policy and Assurance Framework The WA Government Artificial Intelligence Policy and Assurance Framework outlines principles and guidelines for WA Government agencies developing or using AI tools. It ensures AI systems are assessed for risk and compliance during all development stages. Projects with significant funding or high risk must be reviewed by the WA AI Advisory Board. The framework includes guidance materials and FAQs to support specific AI use cases. For details, visit the [wa.gov.au](https://www.wa.gov.au/government/publications/wa-government-artificial-intelligence-policy-and-assurance-framework). ---------------------- ### UK AI Safety Institute https://www.aisi.gov.uk ### US AI Safety Institute (NIST) https://www.nist.gov/aisi ### Statement on AI Risk https://www.safe.ai/work/statement-on-ai-risk ### A Right To Warn https://righttowarn.ai ### Responsible AI Institute The Responsible AI Institute, a leading, global non-profit, equips organizations with tools for AI governance and compliance, empowers AI professionals to create, procure, and deploy trustworthy AI systems that align with emerging AI regulations and ethical standards. https://www.responsible.ai ### IAPP Global AI Governance The IAPP -- the professional home for privacy, AI governance and digital responsibility globally -- covers the laws, policies, and broader contextual history and developments relevant to AI governance in five jurisdictions (Singapore, Canada, the U.K., the U.S. and the EU). https://iapp.org/resources/article/global-ai-governance-jurisdiction-overviews/ ---------------------- ### AI Governance in Australia UQ's "AI Governance in Australia" discusses the need for robust norms, policies, laws, and institutions to guide AI development, deployment, and use, especially given the rapid advancements in AI technologies. It highlights the importance of managing risks from AI, including misuse, accidents, and loss of control. For details, visit [aigovernance.org.au](https://aigovernance.org.au). ### Centre for the Governance of AI The Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI) focuses on researching and guiding the development and regulation of AI to ensure it is safe and beneficial. Established in 2018, GovAI supports institutions by providing research, hosting fellowships, and organizing events. Key research areas include AI security threats, responsible development, regulation, international coordination, and compute governance. GovAI has influenced policy through publications and advisory roles and transitioned from Oxford’s Future of Humanity Institute to an independent nonprofit in 2021. For more information, visit [governance.ai](https://www.governance.ai/). ### WEF AI Governance Alliance The AI Governance Alliance, an initiative by the World Economic Forum, aims to design transparent and inclusive AI systems. It brings together diverse stakeholders to create frameworks and policies that ensure ethical AI development. The alliance focuses on fostering collaboration, developing standards, and addressing the societal impacts of AI. It supports innovation while ensuring AI technologies are deployed responsibly and benefit all of society. For details, visit the [AI Governance Alliance](https://initiatives.weforum.org/ai-governance-alliance/home). ### Institute for AI Policy and Strategy (IAPS) The Institute for AI Policy and Strategy (IAPS) is a remote-first think tank focusing on managing risks from advanced AI systems. It conducts policy research, develops AI governance standards, and addresses international governance issues, particularly with China. IAPS emphasizes intellectual independence, not accepting funding from for-profit organizations, and aims to build a community of thoughtful AI policy practitioners. Their work includes compute governance and drawing lessons from cybersecurity and other critical industries. For details, go to [IAPS](https://www.iaps.ai). ### Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Ethics The Centre for AI and Digital Ethics (CAIDE) at the University of Melbourne focuses on interdisciplinary research, teaching, and leadership in AI and digital ethics. It addresses ethical, technical, regulatory, and legal issues related to AI and digital technologies. CAIDE involves experts from various faculties, including Law, Engineering and IT, Education, Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, and Arts. The Centre offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional courses and engages with the public through events and media. For details, visit [unimelb.edu.au](https://www.unimelb.edu.au/caide). ### AI Assurance in the UK The UK government's "Introduction to AI Assurance" outlines the importance of AI assurance in building trust, managing risks, and ensuring responsible AI development. It introduces key concepts and tools for AI assurance, emphasizing its role in AI governance and regulatory frameworks. The document highlights the need for robust techniques to measure, evaluate, and communicate the trustworthiness of AI systems, supporting both industry and regulators in achieving responsible AI outcomes. For details, visit [gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/introduction-to-ai-assurance/introduction-to-ai-assurance). ### UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of AI The UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence is the first global standard on AI ethics, adopted by all 193 Member States. It emphasizes four core values, good of humanity, individuals, societies and the environment: human rights and human dignity, fair and just, diverse and inclusive, and a flourishing environment. The recommendation includes ten core principles for a human-rights centred approach, and eleven key policy action areas to guide ethical AI development. It also introduces practical methodologies like the Readiness Assessment Methodology ([RAM](https://www.unesco.org/ethics-ai/en/ram)) and [Ethical Impact Assessment](https://www.unesco.org/ethics-ai/en/eia) to support implementation and promote gender equality in AI through the Women4Ethical AI platform. For more details, see [unesco.org](https://www.unesco.org/en/artificial-intelligence/recommendation-ethics). ### AI Standards Hub The AI Standards Hub, led by the [Alan Turing Institute](https://www.turing.ac.uk/), is dedicated to fostering a vibrant community around AI standards. It offers a platform for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and research. The Hub's activities are organized around four pillars: an observatory of standards, community collaboration, knowledge and training, and research and analysis. It focuses on Trustworthy AI, addressing transparency, security, and ethical considerations. The Hub provides resources like a standards database, training materials, and forums for discussion. More details, visit [aistandardshub.org](https://aistandardshub.org). ---------------------- ### Mitre Atlas https://atlas.mitre.org MITRE ATLAS (Adversarial Threat Landscape for AI Systems) is a comprehensive, accessible knowledge base documenting adversary tactics and techniques used against AI systems. Based on real-world observations and demonstrations, ATLAS aims to raise awareness and readiness for unique threats to AI-enabled systems. It is modeled after the MITRE ATT&CK framework and serves to inform security analysts, enable threat assessments, and understand adversary behaviors. Key aspects of ATLAS include: 1. **Collaboration**: Involve industry, academia, and government, making it a central resource for understanding and mitigating AI threats. 2. **Incident Sharing**: ATLAS facilitates timely, relevant, and secure reporting of AI incidents and vulnerabilities. 3. **Threat Emulation and Red Teaming**: Tools like Arsenal and Almanac plugins have been developed to add AI-targeted adversary profiles to existing threat emulation tools. 4. **Mitigations**: The ATLAS team continuously incorporates community techniques to mitigate AI security threats, offering a draft set of mitigations. 5. **Real-World Relevance**: It includes case studies of significant AI security breaches, such as a $77 million loss from an attack on a facial recognition system. The document emphasizes the growing number of vulnerabilities as AI expands, the importance of community collaboration, and the continuous development of tools and strategies to enhance AI security. More details at the [MITRE ATLAS website](https://atlas.mitre.org/). ### NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) The NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) provides guidelines for managing risks associated with AI systems, focusing on trustworthiness, accountability, and transparency. It offers a structured approach to identify and mitigate AI risks, developed through a collaborative process involving public comments and workshops. The framework includes a playbook, roadmap, and tools for implementing AI risk management practices. NIST also launched the Trustworthy and Responsible AI Resource Center to support international alignment and implementation. For more details, visit [NIST AI RMF](https://www.nist.gov/itl/ai-risk-management-framework). #### NIST AI RMF Generative AI Profile The NIST AI Risk Management Framework: Generative AI Profile outlines the risks unique to or exacerbated by generative AI (GAI), such as confabulation, data privacy issues, environmental impacts, and information security concerns. It provides actions for organizations to manage these risks, including governance, monitoring, and documentation procedures. The Generative AI Profile emphasizes transparency, compliance with legal standards, and the integration of GenAI-specific policies into existing risk management frameworks to ensure the safe and trustworthy deployment of generative AI systems. For details, you can access the full document [here](https://airc.nist.gov/docs/NIST.AI.600-1.GenAI-Profile.ipd.pdf). #### NIST Dioptra NIST Dioptra is a software test platform for assessing the trustworthy characteristics of artificial intelligence (AI). Trustworthy AI is: valid and reliable, safe, secure and resilient, accountable and transparent, explainable and interpretable, privacy-enhanced, and fair - with harmful bias managed https://pages.nist.gov/dioptra/ More NIST AI initiatives at [NIST.gov](https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2024/07/department-commerce-announces-new-guidance-tools-270-days-following. ### OWASP AI Security and Privacy Guide The OWASP AI Security and Privacy Guide provides actionable insights for designing, creating, testing, and procuring secure and privacy-preserving AI systems. It covers key areas like AI security, privacy principles, data minimization, transparency, fairness, and consent. The guide also addresses potential model attacks and provides strategies for maintaining data accuracy and handling personal data responsibly. The document is a collaborative effort aimed at improving AI security and privacy practices. For details, visit the [OWASP AI Security and Privacy Guide](https://owasp.org/www-project-ai-security-and-privacy-guide/). #### OWASP LLM AI Cybersecurity & Governance Checklist The "LLM AI Security and Governance Checklist" by OWASP provides a comprehensive guide for secure and responsible use of Large Language Models (LLMs). Key sections include: 1. **Overview**: Introduces responsible AI use and key challenges. 2. **The Checklist**: Covers adversarial risks, threat modeling, AI asset inventory, security training, business cases, governance, legal and regulatory compliance, deployment strategies, testing, and AI red teaming. 3. **Resources section**: Offers additional tools and standards for AI security. The [PDF](https://owasp.org/www-project-top-10-for-large-language-model-applications/llm-top-10-governance-doc/LLM_AI_Security_and_Governance_Checklist-v1.1.pdf) emphasizes integrating AI security with existing practices and highlights the importance of continuous evaluation and validation. Or check out the [OWASP Top 10](https://owasp.org/www-project-top-10-for-large-language-model-applications/). ### ISO/IEC 42001:2023 The ISO/IEC 42001:2023 standard, titled "Information technology – Artificial intelligence – Management system," provides guidelines for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an AI management system. It focuses on addressing unique challenges posed by AI, such as ethical considerations, transparency, and continuous learning. The standard aims to help organizations manage AI risks and opportunities systematically, ensuring responsible and trustworthy AI implementation. For more information, you can visit the [ISO page](https://www.iso.org/standard/81230.html). ### Stanford HELM (Holistic Evaluation of Language Models) A reproducible and transparent framework for evaluating foundation models, including leaderboards with many scenarios, metrics, and models with support for multimodality and model-graded evaluation. https://crfm.stanford.edu/helm/ https://crfm.stanford.edu/helm/classic/latest/ ---------------------- [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Everything Electric Sydney` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/everything-electric-australia/ [POST_DATE] 2024-02-09 [START_OF_CONTENT] # 3-day Everything Electric weekend "Everything Electric Australia" in Sydney Olympic Park is an evolution of last year's [Fully Charged Live](/posts/fully-charged-live-sydney/) Darling Harbour show, continued its focus on battery electric vehicles (BEVs) as well as home energy technologies, now on a larger scale. The event, sponsored by companies like Polestar, NRMA, Origin Energy, the NSW Government and many others, featured about 80 exhibitors and aimed to encourage the adoption of cleaner technologies as well address psychological barriers to BEV adoption. Visitors could test-drive a variety of BEVs, including models from Polestar, Audi, Hyundai, BMW, and many others. It's a unique opportunity for Australians to compare and test-drive different models in one place. Beyond mainstream automakers, the exhibition showcased BEV conversions of classic vehicles and light commercial vehicles. E-motorcycles were represented by local manufacturers like Savic Motorcycles and Zero Motorcycles, with a notable presence of e-bikes as well. Charging infrastructure companies, solar race car displays, and electric (induction) cooking were also featured. The event included on-stage presentations (of varying quality) by industry experts, and YouTube personalities, covering various BEV-related topics, along with 50 live sessions discussing subjects like BEV myth-busting and reducing carbon emissions. I went Friday (only) though had planned to maybe go for two of the three days, but to be honest, the panel discussions were not that interesting (having a YT channel doesn't turn you into a battery chemistry scientist). It would be better to have two people on your panel discussion who actually know what they are talking about, than having another two present who waffle about and suck up all oxygen in the room. I had seen most of the cars before. Except the electric Lotus (a Volvo cousin), and electric Polaris. I test drove a BMW i4, just to compare against my Volvo, and that interior is just not for me. Also way too many buttons. Like, a P button and a P lever? A stop/start button? And then those screen graphics. Meh. What I did love was Peugeot's e-3008 instrument cluster layered graphics, that looked really neat and modern and not like a 90s video game on the BMW. Check out the full [**Flickr album**](https://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/albums/72177720314695458). [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Rear View Mirror` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/rear-view-mirror/ [POST_DATE] 2023-12-27 [START_OF_CONTENT] _This is a post I mainly wrote for myself, as a debrief for the period driving a Tesla, but I thought I'd share it anyway, as it may be helpful to others who consider buying a Tesla._ ## Bye Bye Tesla At the end of December 2023, and inspired by Michael Stipe, I traded-in my 2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range+ (LFP battery, Made in China), having done just under 28.000 km. Back then, it was the cheapest model, just under $60k AUD. I liked the slick shape, but it had a boring colour selection (I went for dark grey). It was a smooth drive, a clean and simple interior, and the fastest car I ever owned (which wasn’t any goal, it just happened to be that way, because “EV”), and efficient, giving me about 400km range. Although I can’t ever be quite sure if I would have ever gotten 400km, or if it always was more around 350km. It has a deep booth, with a large under-floor storage space, as well as a large frunk. The **Tesla Super Charging network** was a great, exclusive addition when buying the car (got limited free charging), as well as the many Tesla destination chargers (also often free to charge). You plug in, it knows the VIN, and it integrates with the car’s software, showing you on the centre console how much it costs you as you charge. This is one of those Tesla experiences, which you buy into. And I still don’t understand why legacy manufacturers don’t see this as a future growth business model. They have a network of dealers, which could all potentially become charging destination hubs. I started out at 426km of range, and ended at 402km, having used 3.732 kWh total energy, which gives an average of 135kWh/km (or 7.4 km/kWh), which is amazing as I certainly wasn’t hyper-miling. Since it was an LFP battery, I topped it up every week to 100%. I could trickle charge at home, overnight, doing 40% (20kWh between 10pm-8am on the cheapest tarrifs), and as such could always depend on the full driving range. This is different to other lithium-ion batteries (like NMC batteries, in the Longe Range and Performance variants) which don’t like to be in a 100% state, and so you’d only charge up to 90%, for the battery’s longevity sake. The Model 3 is a sedan. It’s low, which makes it less easy to get in and out of. It’s actually so low (groundclearance of 140mm unladen), with a passenger I quite often scraped the bottom on my driveway (due to angle of departure), an issue I hadn’t anticipated when I ordered the car (so I need to drive backwards at a certain angle, or have the passenger exit early). The Performance model is even lower. I never had a problem with **the screen** based instrumentation and tools, glancing sideways to check your speed wasn’t an issue, you get used to it, but a HUD would really make a difference for most people. Also, it all was a bit boring, and could use a bit of colour. The **3D car display** is cool initially (“look you can see a pedestrian walking”, “look a traffic cone”), but it’s quite useless while driving and a waste of space, and often at traffic lights it kept moving around in a jerky manner. The novelty wears out quickly. Why is it there? You’re not supposed to be watching it, you should keep your eyes on the road. The **car software** has some cool little features like a Valet mode limiting speed, or enabling a PIN code to drive away, or limiting speed when you lend out your car (or get your kids to drive it). And I’m sure I forget a lot of other small features (that I never used). But it also has some dumb stuff, like a farthing app or a fireplace app. Having Netflix and Disney+ apps is great on the big screen, but you’d still need to have a subscription for them too. And you’re often not long enough at a charger to finish anything, so I never ended up watching anything as I would want to watch it at home instead. The car comes with an internet browser, but you can’t actually play any videos with audio (last time I tried it), so no third party streaming (like ABC iView). Over the two years, the Netflix app (and to a lesser extend the Disney+ app too) became quite unusable and unresponsive navigating its catalog, due to the Intel Atom based entertainment system and lack of memory, and somehow the increase in size or number of images in the catalog. The **dashcam/sentry mode** is a great feature which you don’t need, until you do. Why don’t other manufacturers with 360 cameras implement this too (especially dashcam, maybe not sentry)? Just know that sentry mode can take up to 3% of your battery a day though. The Tesla **auto-wipers** is one of the worst I ever had. I didn’t know it could be this bad. There is no control of how often it should (auto) wipe. It is either auto or it isn’t. But it was always way too eager, wiping too often or too fast. “Isn’t that a good thing?” If on other cars I can choose between 5 auto settings (part of the interval settings), on a physical stalk, why can’t I set the interval in software? This also has to do with the vision system, as two rain drops would “obscure” the camera, it would wipe. It is just a bad driving experience. Over the years they updated the way and when the wiper selector appears on screen, and apparently in the latest 2023 Holiday update something changed in this regard, but haven’t been able to find out online what exactly. As is the **blind spot camera view**. Something that they added in 2021, because the Ioniq 5 had that feature (on its driver instrument cluster, which makes much more sense). The center console is far from the ideal location for blind spot camera display, often the opposite direction of where you’re supposed to be looking. Again, in the latest 2023 Holiday update they now added an orange light indication for objects in the blind spot, which they should have added the first time around. The **Auto Pilot** (adaptive cruise control, lane assist) was great on highway trips, and now something I would want on any other new car. I don’t have any reference to compare it to, so don’t really know if it’s better than anything else. Just don’t use it on secondary roads, where a lot of ghost breaking would happen, which is dangerous for the traffic behind you. Seriously, the number of WTF moments, breaking for parked cars, oncoming traffic,… It is only supposed to be used on multilane highways (which I initially didn’t know, and lots of people don’t know). If you drive behind a Tesla (and there are a lot around now), assume it’s on Auto Pilot and keep a bit more distance in case it phantom breaks… The A-pillars are quite obstructive (because of width, angle and length). You need to look around them turning left or right, looking for pedestrians crossing, or other cars. The first few days I had a near miss because of this. Not sure if it was the car breaking itself, or my own reaction, but it was close. The **glass roof** is initially pretty cool, but as a driver you don’t get to enjoy any of it. It is also kind of ridiculous how hot it gets, Tesla being a California designed car (which is also pretty sunny). I often clocked in 56C for the interior. The Cabin Overheating Protection is supposed to kick in at 40C, but if the car is “asleep”, it doesn’t. So I’d often turn on the AC manually, after which the car would be awake, and keep track of the interior temperature. I also got me the Tesla roof shade, which helps a little bit, but you can still feel the sun burning the top of your skull. Really, not a fan of the full glass roof (which doesn’t open). The **Tesla app** is fabulous, it holds a lot of car information and remotely accessible functionality, and it works well. It’s your car key, it allows you to drive away without anything else. It’s one of the best, seamless car experiences. The Model 3 is very quick in locking itself. It feels like 5 seconds (I didn’t time it). It knows I am still around, as I grab the door handle, it opens. Why does it need to lock itself so quickly? Another small annoyance. But, you can walk away knowing it is locked. I had three **warranty service** claims, one for my driver’s seat squeaking sound (really annoying), a replacement of the charging port (after a warning message I couldn’t fast charge anymore), and a replacement of an o-ring of the booth power strut. I always felt that booth power strut was under-powered, always seeming to struggle with its job. No issues with the service. You get a an Uber voucher ($60 if I remember correctly) for getting to work and back (for me Chatswood - CBD). Though I do wish they would have invited me (they didn’t) for the first scheduled service after 24 months (since I hadn’t hit the 30k yet). And then there was the interior **squeaking noises**, especially on the highway with a rough surface, next to my head, on the passenger side, and somewhere in the back. Not something you’d expect on a 2 year old car. Also quite hard to explain on a service request, driving around in the inner city where this doesn’t occur. So yeah, it had its qualities for sure, it was good but it wasn’t a great car. It is an influential car, but it isn't a luxury car (maybe the Model S is). It felt cheap. Light (relatively speaking, it is still 1.7T). Which is the point you could say, making it more efficient. The A-pillar interior cover felt cheap and misaligned (you can press it with your finger). The seats were ok-ish, but didn’t give enough support (example when cornering), or were particularly comfortable for long drives. The backseat feels like cardboard. A lot of those little things just add up. And then there are That Man's shenanigans, which I simply do not want to be associated with. Bye bye Tesla. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/volvo-xc40-recharge-twin/ [POST_DATE] 2023-12-15 [START_OF_CONTENT] Decided to replace my [Tesla Model 3 SR+](/posts/rear-view-mirror/) and upgrade to a Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate (aka EX40 for MY25), disentangling myself from "that guy". This is a post where I collect my first impressions of the XC40 Recharge, and compare it to my previous Tesla M3. # That new car smell Traded in my MY21 Tesla Model 3 SR+ for a Volvo MY24 XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate (ex-demo with 1000 km). The Tesla trade-in value was on the lower end of what I had hoped for though, I could have gotten more (at that time) if I had gone private. But it’s just convenient to do a dealer trade-in. ## History The Volvo XC40 model was introduced at the end of 2017 (the original Tesla Model 3 was also from 2017), and had a number of minor refreshes over the years. It has petrol, diesel and (plug-in) hybrid models, and since 2019, a battery electric model, both in front-wheel and all-wheel drive. The diesel engine got discontinued, as was the petrol AWD I believe. As you can see, the XC40, which [started out as Volvo Concept 40.1](https://www.volvocars.com/au/v/cars/concept-models/concept-40), is not a purpose build BEV vehicle, but rather a transition vehicle. This same Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform though is also used for the C40 model (which is only available as EV) and by Polestar for its Polestar 2 model, which in fact started as the [Volvo Concept 40.2](https://www.volvocars.com/au/v/cars/concept-models/concept-40). Hence why the XC40 Recharge, C40 and Polestar 2 have a transmission tunnel, which is used to house batteries, missing out on a flat floor in the back. ([More about the design philosophy](https://autodesignmagazine.com/en/2018/01/volvo-xc40-personalita-inedita/)) 2023 saw a refresh of the MY24 XC40 Recharge version with an updated front, a new, slightly larger NMC battery and faster charging, and a new motor layout, in single rear-wheel drive or Twin all-wheel drive with an Asynchronous Induction motor (110kW) in the front (which is disengaged most of the time, improving efficiency), and Synchronous Permanent Magnet (190kW) in the back. The same changes were introduced in the C40 and Polestar 2. This may well be the last refresh for the XC40 model, as Volvo is phasing out ICE cars, and they introduced a new EV-only EX line of models with the EX90 and EX30 (deliveries starting second half of 2024). These are designed from the ground up to be electric only, with the added advantages that come with that (efficiency, interior space). The 2019 XC40 Recharge is by many considered their first EV, but Volvo had a limited run of the [C30 battery electric vehicle](https://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/05/first-drive-volvo-c30-electric-lovely-except-sky-high-price/) in 2011, which I assume they learned a lot from. For reference, up to then, Tesla had only been manufacturing the Roadster, and debuted the Model S mid 2012. By the way, XC stands for “Cross Country”, applying to their SUV and wagon models, having a higher stance (than their sedans). I like the XC40’s blocky, muscular stance, broad shoulders, and its two-tone colour combo. I think the Bright Dusk and black roof is just a classy, fine looking car. Even after 6 years, with the slight tweaks on the headlights, the Thor’s hammer daylights and indicators, it still looks modern and sophisticated (I think). Most people wouldn’t notice this being an EV. The lack of grille at the front is the only giveaway. Lots of EVs, like Kias and Hyundais, BYDs, the MG4, they look too “futuristic” and they will look dated very soon. I drove a C40 once on a NRMA EV day (for 10-15 minutes), as well as did a test drive of a 2022 Polestar 2 Performance (for 30 minutes). I rented a 2022 Single motor Polestar 2 for week (doing 761km) and a Cupra Born (as a replacement for Polestar 2) for a week (doing 2312km) while on holiday in Europe. The Polestar was a fine car, build like a tank (just like Volvo) and smooth, but the Cupra Born was a more enjoyable, fun drive. The software on the Polestar was far better than that on the Cupra Born though. And I’m not a fan of the Cupra’s looks, it’s not my thing. ## Pricing The Volvo XC40 Recharge Single motor (Plus package) starts at about AU$85.000 driveaway (significantly more than a base Tesla M3/MY RWD), while the Twin motor (incl Ultimate package) is AU$94.500 driveaway. For comparison, a Tesla MY single motor is AU$70.800 driveaway, but twin motor Performance is AU$99.300 driveaway, with optional paint options, and Advanced AutoPilot and Full Self Drive options (which you can pay for, but can’t actually use in Australia at the time of writing…). The MYP is a lot faster (top speed) than the XC40 Twin, but you get the same Tesla (interior) finish as the base model, which at this pricepoint is staggering. The pricing of a Polestar 2 is very similar to the Volvo pricing, but with a bunch of optional packs to choose from. The disadvantage for me of Polestar is the fact they don’t do trade-ins, and you can’t service a Polestar at all Volvo dealers (only ones that are licensed), so It meant that I had to get it serviced in Sydney or Newcastle, which is an inconvenience (like having the Tesla serviced in Chatswood only) being on the Central Coast. Not that EVs need much servicing, but I did get two Tesla (warranty) services in the 2+ years I had mine. Talking about Servicing, the Volvo comes with 5 years or 150.000km of servicing included (new windscreen wipers, break fluid, safety checks…), 8 years or 150.000km on the high-voltage battery, 5 years roadside assistance, 5 year unlimited km warranty, 4 years Digital Services data subscription, and 8 years of Volvo On Call service (with Automatic Crash Notification, Stolen Vehicle Tracking,…) (Tesla comes with 4 years warranty, and a limited roadside assistance, 8 years for the battery. You also pay AU$10 a month for Premium Connectivity data plan after the first year) ## Build The car is build like a tank, just like any other Volvo. The doors give you a very satisfying thunk sound when closing. The dashboard is solid. The seats are comfortable, giving lots of support. The tailgate comes down reassuringly. You’re not skimping on anything just because it’s an EV. It is day and night difference to my Tesla M3. Tesla’s efficiency comes at the cost of a solid, quality build. It is 500kg lighter, which means you get lighter, simpler seats, a frameless door, a very light A-pillar cover (which you can simply press in) for example, a single power strut which struggles to close the booth, a light paint job,… The XC40 on the other hand oozes quality. People tend to compare Tesla to other luxury brands like BMW, Audi, Volvo,…, but really they shouldn’t, you can’t. ## Drive The drive is how you’d expect a Volvo to drive, I suppose. It’s lovely, relaxed, refined. Even more so as an EV. I missed the higher seating position of an SUV in the M3. Having a better view of traffic around you, makes you feel more relaxed. I didn’t know that was such a big deal (for me), until I got back into an SUV, vs a sedan driving position. It’s also easier, effortless to get in/out. One pedal driving is as good as on the Tesla. Although during my testdrive, I didn’t think so. But maybe I didn’t set it up correctly then, or an OTA update changed that. Once you’re used to one pedal driving, you can’t go back. Regen is indicated on the right hand side of the instrument cluster. The XC40 eats up any bumps and potholes it encounters. You glide across speedbumps. The M3 would pass on any bump straight up your spine. But the M3 is more fun cornering for sure, doing Old Pacific Highway, or Kangaroo Valley. I’ll be doing that slower in the XC40. But I’d also open up the sunroof and let in the sound of birds and cicadas. (Opening a window is not quite the same). Cornering is not the XC40’s forte, as you’d expect of a heavy SUV, but as you get out of the corner, and put the pedal down, it goes… Just like at traffic lights. Efficiency though is far lower than the M3. The XC40 is a bit of a brick (Cx 0.32), vs the slick and slippery M3 (Cx 0.23). It’s also far heavier (nearly 500kg). My average after 2+ years was 13.4kWh/100km (or 7.4km/kWh) on the M3. After 5000km on the XC40, I’m at 18.0kWh/100km (or 5.55km/kWh). My fortnightly office trip from Central Coast to Darling Harbour is about 100km, and that’s 17.4kWh/100km (5.7km/kWh) at an 81km/h average (about half the trip is at 110km/h highway speed). This would give me 410km - 445km on the 78kWh XC40 battery. The bigger XC40 battery also means I can only trickle charge 20% overnight, vs 30% on the M3 54kWh battery. Not a big deal for me. But yes, a smaller battery and more efficiency made the M3 cheaper to run than the XC40. If only I had solar panels, it wouldn’t matter. Ground clearance of the Recharge is 175mm, compared to 211mm of the XC40 petrol versions, or 140mm for the Tesla M3. The XC40 Recharge has an official wading depth of 45cm, as documented by Volvo. Tesla M3 doesn’t have an official wading depth which didn’t stop people driving through water 60cm deep or more, probably voiding their warranty if anything went wrong. There is no eco or sport mode. There is an offroad mode though, providing enhanced all-wheel drive, and hill descent control, available at up to 40km/h. Here’s a great [overview of it’s offroad capabilities](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ADjqzkK9uY). Side mirrors have boomerang blind spot indicators, and are auto-dimming. The XC40 has all the expected tech safety features, including Pilot Assist, and a 360 bird-eye view using four of its cameras. It’s not immune to ghost-breaking, just like on the M3, although it doesn’t break as hard as on the M3. ## Interior I love the interior. It’s understated. They call it Swedish minimalism. Compared to Tesla’s minimalism, it isn’t. But compared to other European or Asian brands, sure is. I drove a BMW i4 recently, and compared to that, the XC40 is an oasis of calm and elegance . Seats are comfortable, supportive, superior to the Tesla M3 seats. Plastics used are decent, solid. The steering wheel is chunky, with the right buttons at your fingertips. It has classic stalks, which feel solid to use (in contrast to both the Tesla M3's and even BMW i4's). I say classic, as it has all possible headlights and wiper settings right there on the stalks. No need to go through a menu to change the wiper speed. The 9” center screen is responsive, and has a good resolution. The wireless charging pad is a bit finicky (though it could be my iPhone case). The glove box has, what the British call, a curry hook, to hang up your takeaway food bag. You can remotely fold down the backseats' headrests to get a better view out the back. The Ultimate edition has topography inspired, translucent back-lit inlays that create a soothing glow in the cabin, when the lights turn on. Love that, so different to anything else out there. The car has these anchor points in the roof, which allows it to attach accessories, like a divider net, between the booth and backseat, or between the front seats and the back when backseats are folded down. Handy when taking the dog in the back. ## Software The Volvo uses Android Automotive OS (AAOS), a variation of Google's Android operating system, tailored for its use in vehicle dashboards. Introduced in March 2017, the platform was developed by Google and Intel, together with car manufacturers such as Volvo and Audi. It comes with Google Maps for navigation, both on the 9” center screen and the instrument cluster. Google Maps will also tell you your expected SOC (state of charge) at the destination, just like with Tesla. And it is very accurate And a dedicated charging shortcut to show nearby chargers. The instrument cluster shows speedometer on the left, and energy use/regen dial on the right, with a maps display in the middle. The instrument cluster graphics are elegant and minimal, in a calm blue colour palette. You have access to the Google Play store where you can add AAOS designated apps, like Audible, or Prime Video to watch movies or TV series (when parked), just like in the Tesla, though on a smaller screen. The selection isn’t big for AAOS apps, but there’s Waze, YouTube, Spotify, PlugShare, games, and a full browser, where you can load ABC iView or SBSonDemand. Come to think of it, more apps than you can get on Tesla. Currently, Volvo uses Singtel as their mobile provider. Not Optus, but its parent company, Singtel. So yes, it looks like your connected from Singapore, for example in the Prime app (“You on holiday?”, but it still streams). I was told by the dealer Volvo was looking into getting an actual local partner for their mobile connection. If you want to use Disney+ from the browser, you will need to hotspot from your phone as Disney+ blocks roaming. On the center console, there’s a physical, backlit, homescreen button (where a 3 seconds press gives you cleaning mode, and 20 seconds restarts the system), that brings you to a focused home screen with four sections, with each section showing its last used app. There’s also a separate app overview screen like on a tablet. Then there’s also the car functions screen which seems separate from AAOS. This is where you change audio settings, preferences etc. It has a dedicated range app/screen, showing a maximum (hypermiling, turning everything off) and minimum (flooring it) expected range and current expected range. It’s good to know the absolute minimum range you still have. It also has an outdoor air quality app. One of the AAOS 4 homescreen options is (wired) Apple CarPlay. You hook up your phone to the CarPlay designated USB-C port, the other port is for power only. I love the convenience of CarPlay, the familiarity. But only certain iOS apps work on CarPlay. It is perfect for a 9” screen though. Overal, the software works well, it’s simple and familiar. To be honest, Polestar’s integration of AAOS is neater and more modern looking, true. I believe I've had three OTA updates so far over the last three months, which is nice. What is missing though is Android Auto support, pretty strange considering the AAOS basis this runs on. I’m sure there are more Android Auto apps available than AAOS apps. ## App The car also has an app, for iOS and I assume for Android. It allows you to remotely unlock/lock your car, turn on or schedule the air conditioning, and schedule charging. It shows the location of your car, SOC, temperature (outdoor only), the odometer and average energy consumption, car details (VIN) and car software version. It has shortcuts to get assistance, and shows your current subscriptions (connected services). I wish it allowed for battery preconditioning, would show lifetime charging stats, differentiated between home and public chargers. Tesla's app is far superior in comparison. ## Sunroof I actually hated the M3 sunroof. As driver, you don’t get to enjoy the view. Sure it makes the interior lighter. It also burns the top of your skull in the Sydney sun. Even with the (optional) shade attached, you could still feel the sun on top of your head. The car parked at home would get 56C. The interior overheating protection is supposed to kick in at 40C, but if the M3 was in a deep sleep (not sure, but when parked for 24h?), that wouldn’t kick in. The XC40 has a traditional moonroof (I didn’t know there was such a thing as moonroof vs sunroof), with a build in shade. It can vent, or it can open up the front half. Not something you’d use in Sydney summer time (except to quickly vent hot air), but when Sydney winter time comes, I expect to open it up for sure. The operation is with capacitive swiping and tapping, and needs a bit of getting used to. C40 and Polestar 2’s roofs don’t open (as such, they’re sunroofs). So far, the hottest it got inside parked at home was 42C. # Conclusion I love my XC40. It's practical, it's fast, it's comfortable, it's safe, it's efficient enough. It's a Volvo. It's a keeper. EDIT: I’ve been told that a moonroof is a sunroof with a glass panel, and a sunroof is a metal panel (which slide open)? EDIT: Start of 2024, Volvo announced a namechange of the XC40 Recharge to just EX40, in line with the EX90 and EX30 EV only models, which lack the Recharge monniker. The petrol versions remain XC40. EDIT: I called my Tesla, Thelma. My Volvo is called Greta. EDIT: I believe Volvo now uses a local mobile service, instead of Singtel. Although we never got notified of this change. EDIT: My first winter (10C nights), and the displayed range drops significantly (50-60km), but it is far more truthfull than the Tesla range estimate ever was. My Tesla never showed a different winter range, but always the same range, which would have never been achievable. EDIT Dec 2024: It's been a year now. Still loving it, it's practical, quiet, very fast of the line. I've driven 17.000 km, am at 18.3kWh/100km. There have been several car OTA updates and app updates. The app has improved, but still no where near as smooth as Tesla's, like turning on the airco, standing next to the car, should be quick, but isn't. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Fun with GPT` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/fun-with-gpts/ [POST_DATE] 2023-11-13 [START_OF_CONTENT] OpenAI's Dev Day introduced the new GPT agents, which are now available on ChatGPT Plus. I have been playing with them for a few days now, and they are a lot of fun. Not a fan of the DALL-E generated profile picks. And it's still Beta, with some bugs (like not being able to upload custom profile images). It's really easy to get started, and you can create your own agents in minutes. [Pixel Guide](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-L4xf17pbm-pixel-guide) _Expert advisor on photography techniques, camera settings, and editing_. Of course created [Social Recommendator](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-jAzmeQ7ip-social-recommendator): _Creates tailored professional recommendations with tone and length options_. Or go to the [original](https://ai.socialrecommendator.com). [Elder Care Companion](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-ZzLk267A5-elder-care-companion) _Friendly and reflective companion for engaging elderly in positive conversations_. [CSP Dev Assistant](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-4vPZgSZBG-csp-dev-assistant) _Content Security Policy Development assistant with trusted references._ [That EV Guy](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-wwHP90W2R-that-ev-guy) _Informative and enthusiastic guide on electric vehicles._ [Retro Reel Buddy](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-7UteaHtTk-retro-reel-buddy) _Your fun guide to 80s and 90s movies, with engaging chats and recommendations!_ [Millennial Reel Buddy](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-mta1CB2VV-millennial-reel-buddy) _Your fun guide to 2000s and 2010s movies, with engaging chats and recommendations!_ [GenX Reel Buddy](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-dKqxHPxgx-genx-reel-buddy) _A fun guide to 60s and 70s movies, offering trivia and recommendations._ [Movie Spoiler](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-xdQaleNjn-movie-spoiler) _A spoiler assistant providing detailed plot summaries for movies._ [Puppy Parenting Coach](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-T5JwVRhkl-puppy-parenting-coach) _Puppy trainer specializing in gentle, positive puppy training._ [Palette Pen](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-DJfbzFLhB-palette-pen) _Assists in crafting representational, editorial-style spot illustrations._ [Verde Varie](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-BYJqgFyYq-verde-varie) _Friendly guide for growing and caring for variegated plants._ [Mind Flex](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-FP8kQP8MT-mind-flex) _Offers brain training exercises and concepts for mental agility._ [Home School Coach](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-7EmztG8u4-home-school-coach) _A supportive home schooling assistant offering educational guidance and resources._ But mine are peanuts in comparison with some of the ones already available, like: - [Trey Ratcliff's Photo Critique GPT](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-gWki9zYNV-trey-ratcliff-s-photo-critique-gpt) - [Stories from the Apple Design Team](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-4wleGSafJ-stories-from-the-apple-design-team) - [Design Critique](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-nlZ7YiDfx-design-critique) - [Grok's Dad](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-ZrSC5ltFX-grok-s-dad), lol [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `EV Europe trip` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/ev-europe-trip/ [POST_DATE] 2023-09-24 [START_OF_CONTENT] Got back from a three week trip to Europe, where I drove EV 66% of the time. First week, ordered a Polestar 2 with Europcar. Europcar provides a ShellRecharge card. ![Tap-to-pay CC and RFID EV charging](/orig-content/uploads/2023/ev-europe-cc.jpg "Tap-to-pay CC and RFID EV charging") Upon creation of an account though, it turns out they only support CC payment in the UK. For the rest of Europe (and Belgium) they only support bank debits. That makes ShellRecharge useless for non-European travellers. Something they should rethink. Lots of DC rapid charging networks throughout Europe do support tap-to-pay credit card payments.  ![Polestar 2 rental](/orig-content/uploads/2023/ev-europe-polestar.jpg "Polestar 2 rental") First week most charging happened around the corner of my family’s place in a small Flemish country town, using a Smoov-[Allego](https://www.allego.eu) AC charger. [Smoov](https://smoovapp.eu) does take CC payments through its app. But then that [app](https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/smoov/id1073557177) was not available in the Aussie iOS AppStore though. Luckily I did already have a Belgian AppStore account. Using a second iPhone with that account, tethered to my main (Aussie account and SIM roaming) iPhone, I could use the Smoov app. Again, something to keep in mind. Even though this is a small country town, the single dual AC charging point was occupied a few times. I kept track on the Smoov app when one became available and plugged in later for an overnight charge. ![Underground parking](/orig-content/uploads/2023/ev-europe-parking.jpg "Underground parking and EV charging") Belgium is packed with AC and DC fast chargers! Small towns, supermarket chains, underground parking lots, motorways,… you can find them anywhere. They are all different operators but they are all interoperable. You can create an account with one operator, get its RFID tag, and use that across Europe to tap and charge across all these networks. You do pay an extra “roaming” fee though. One underground parking garage in Antwerp had two rows of 30-40 AC chargers (60-80 total?), amaizing to see. No mobile reception underground though, so you do need an RFID tag in that case I decided to buy a [Plugsurfing](https://plugsurfing.com) tag for €10, which they claim allows access to 550K charging points across Europe. Some operators only allow access to a limited set of other operators. So choose wisely. This also allows for a single account and invoicing, giving you an easier, singular overview of your charging sessions and costs. In that sense Australia is **at least** five years behind, in number of charging locations and convenience (accounts, payment). But again, the Plugsurfing [app](https://apps.apple.com/de/app/plugsurfing-überall-laden/id793188906) is not available on the Aussie AppStore. But you can make an account online, if you can provide a European address. Similar to the ShellRecharge and Smoov accounts experience. Why this limit?  Driving the Polestar was fine, with a 330km range, for the shorter trips I was doing. Not a fan of FWD which often was obvious, so good thing they switched to RWD now. The long range AWD I test-drove earlier was a better drive. The Google Auto software was fine, and (wired) Apple CarPlay worked well. The second week we went to the Greek island Crete, where I opted for an ICE car. I had ordered a Volvo XC60 with Avis, but got a Merc GLB 200, which I don’t feel is anywhere close in the same range as a Volvo. I did get full insurance, because of Greek drivers and the often narrow country roads. They also use the shoulder as an extra lane you’re supposed to move to so other drivers, far exceeding the local speed limit, can overtake you. That includes the police themselves one time, without indicating, crossing a double line. You learn, and do as the locals do.  The GLB did come with chunky tires, which came in handy on some of the rough roads. Although there were, surprisingly, less potholes than on the NSW Central Coast. Have to mention Merc’s wired Apple CarPlay integration sucked. Only worked 50% of the time, and it didn’t come with an alternative integrated GPS solution. Quite frustrating. I ended up spending €160 on about 80L of petrol over 1050km in the GLB, roughly €15.5 per 100km. ![Rethymno, Crete, charging station](/orig-content/uploads/2023/ev-europe-crete.jpg "Rethymno (Crete) charging station") Did see some EVs in the bigger cities, with a few charging locations. Saw an ID.Buzz in Rethymno and Honda e on Santorini. Only saw a few PV solar panels (more solar hot water) and a few wind turbines on the south side of Crete. Third week, back in Belgium, had again ordered a Polestar 2, but got a 1 month old Cupra Born instead. First have to note that the Born is only a 4 person car (4 seatbelts) while the Polestar is a 5 person car. Based on this alone, I wouldn’t consider them equal (but only noticed it afterwards). Also slightly smaller booth.  ![Cupra Born](/orig-content/uploads/2023/ev-europe-cupra.jpg "Cupra Born at a Fastned station") But the Cupra Born (170kW / 310Nm / 77kWh) was a lot more fun to drive than the Polestar! And comes with up to 500+km of (non-highway) range. And all the fancy cruise control features that the base Polestar 2 was missing. All which came in handy as we set of onto a Normandy/Brittany road trip.  As I was driving on the Brussels ring road with this new car, I was adjusting my side mirrors. I happen to hit a button or dial that folded the mirrors, while driving at highway speed, and had no clue how to reverse it. Had to exit on a nearby motorway resting space to google what I did wrong. Then there is the software. All in all it's not terrible, but not great either. Every time I wanted to check the charging status, it would want to start up wireless Apple CarPlay. While charging, the car should display the status somewhere, like it does on the Polestar on the cockpit display. And which you can read from the outside. ![Ionity EV charger](/orig-content/uploads/2023/ev-europe-ionity.jpg "Ionity EV charger") Cupra Born is build on the same platform as VW ID.3 and shares interior elements, but it does have better cup seats. This time I had the Plugsurfing RFID tag which I used across the Fastned, Ionity, Engie, Threeforce and Ouest Charge charging networks in France. All slightly differ in use, having to tap first, or plugin first then tap. You need to read the instructions on each charge point. But in the end it all worked pretty well I thought. Although it was the weekend, we only hit one rural, single, occupied dual AC charging point where I couldn't plug in immediatly. ![](/orig-content/uploads/2023/ev-europe-push.jpg "Push mechanism") Some AC chargers have a press-and-slide mechanism; the first time I saw this, I had no idea what was happening. It's more like a press, slide then push motion. But why? ![Row of Citroen AMIs](/orig-content/uploads/2023/ev-europe-ami.jpg "Row of Citroen AMIs") The only time we had an issue was in Deauville with the Izivia network there. Some of their DC charging points where offline. One was showing a communication error (which I assume applied to the others too). But we did find an AC one where we plugged while having a stroll through Deauville.  Deauville was also home to a €29/day Citroen [Ami rental service](https://calessy.fr/listing/ami-a-louer-sur-deauville-et-environs/), with a collection of Amis parked on the street. On this road trip I charged 226 kWh across just shy of 4 hours at €142\. That's about 65 Euro cents per kWh. Highway DC charging was 27 minutes on average (one charge only 19 minutes). Enough for a pitstop and a quick bite, stretching the legs. I hit 178kW charging at one point (on 350kW Fastned), though the Cupra Born is only supposed to do 170kW max? I did about 15.5kWh/100km, about €10 per 100km, which matches with 6 l/100km of petrol. Spend €107 for 231 kWh on the rural AC charging, at 46 Euro cents per kWh, €7.13 per 100km, which matches with 4.2 l/100km of petrol. Sure had more fun driving the Cupra than the GLB, at half the petrol price, but the same Aussie drive away price point. Back home, even as the Cupra Born was fun to drive, my 2021 Tesla Model 3 SR+ is still a superior EV drive and has a better (simplified and unobtrusive) software experience. Though both the Polestar 2 and Cupra Born are better build, more comfortable and have better seats (IMHO). [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `20 years of content` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2023-07-22-finally/ [POST_DATE] 2023-07-22 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## 20 years blog anniversary This blog now contains [20 years of content](/posts/2003-07-22-finally/). Most of it was on selfhosted Wordpress. Since early 2023, I moved away from selfhosted Wordpress and migrated to [Hugo](https://gohugo.io) and [Cloudflare](https://cloudflare.com). Less hasle, free hosting, more speed, more security, more fun. Some of the Wordpress to MD conversion may seem a bit wonkey on the older articles. I'll fix them as I go along (maybe). I had a website since 1997, initially on my ISP's web presence, later on halans.be and then halans.com. Wayback Machine only seems to go back to 2001 or so, and without images, just plain html. One such WayBack Machine link (hosted back then on the Pandora.be ISP) is our [honeymoon site](https://web.archive.org/web/20021105030413fw_/http://users.pandora.be/halans-raeves/halans/oz/index.html) (starting in [Sydney](https://web.archive.org/web/20021027224806fw_/http://users.pandora.be/halans-raeves/halans/oz/01_sydney.html)), our first visit to Australia in October 2002. Remember image maps? Too bad it didn't back up the wedding pics. Now blogging using VS Code and Github CoPilot, and hosting on Cloudflare Pages, it now comes with a dose of AI. Wherever AI is used (since 2023), it's the ethical thing to do to indicate how much of content has been writen by AI. As a non-native English speaker (from Belgium), I find it very useful to have AI help me with my writing. _I always seem to start a website but then never get to finish it. I always have these (supposedly) brilliant ideas._ >Not much has changed in 20 years... Still start a bunch of websites, which then whittle away... Contains a lot of Week In Pix ([#weekinpix](/tags/weekinpix/)) posts. Posts about web development, technology. Some Barcamp. Some trips to Belgium (incl pics of [waffles](https://halans.com/posts/2012-03-02-belgian-waffles-101/) :-). Lots of posts refering to Posterous which is no longer around (so lots of broken links). I feel social media messed a lot of this up. I used to post a lot more on my blog, just short, quick things, but then Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc came along and I started posting there. This post has been written by AI for approx. 10% of its content, using Github Copilot (sentence completion). General disclaimer _"The author generated this text in part with Github CoPilot, which uses OpenAI’s large-scale language-generation model. Upon generating draft language, the author reviewed, edited, and revised the language to their own liking and takes ultimate responsibility for the content of this publication."_ [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Notes on Web Directions AI 2023` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/private-2023-07-21-notes-web-directions-ai/ [POST_DATE] 2023-07-21 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## The state of play for AI in business right now ### Andrew Chatfield, Founder / Principal Consultant A.I. Sherpa "Somethings are not obvious to everyone" Andew Chatfield "Value distruction comes with hugh opportunity" How to be part of this: 1. Ecosystem (locate yourself - are you are (1) tool maker - builders (5% of room) (2)Productisers - take tech and combine and shape for others to use (15%) (3) Market shapers - Help and guide how the industry will develop: Including Investors, Governments and International bodies (including regulation), Academia, Media, Consumer Groups (10%) Note: remainder % users and the silent majority UNICORN - the "Killerapp" 👉 Caution if your breakthrough is based on tech in flux. OpenAI may not carry it forward. "Like willing the lottery, not something you plan to do but something that happens to you." 👉 Investment community excited - If plan to launch, timing is good SUPERCHARGERS - Existing businesses 300% more of these than Unicorns Existing products, made better. SLASHERS - Using AI to reduce costs 👉Large wave of disruption - putting a boat on this rising tide. Timescale is human adaptability Technology might jump forward in 5-10 years, but behavioural change is over the decades. Product companies - be brave. The big guys are very busy and hard to take on new ideas and thinking. Even the obvious AI features. They have KPI Huge market and so many opportunities across all markets including small geographies "Get involved, be brave" andrew@aisherpa.com.au ## Business and Strategy – a conversation ### Mathew Patterson (Help Scout), Matthew Newman (TechInnosens), Andrew Chatfield (A.I. Sherpa), Scott Burns (ABC), moderated by Mark Monfort. "Blockchain and AI have alot to do with each other, as we will discover" Mark Monfort, Not centralised "Hype is high so we focus on responsible use and safety" Matthew Newman, Techinnocens Hot tips: Mathew Patterson (Help Scout) "Hugh opportunity for AI to translate poorly phrased questions. Conversational interface will help many companies. understanding and managing incoming support needs (categorising, tagging) - Currently manual tagging - AI in this space - Better customer experiences!" Other uses: Sentiment analysis (priorising (up or down) angry people, Answering the question" Use case 1: better search over a body of work in a more natural way (conversation) Sentiment analysis. Take bullet points and expand/describe more, vice versa. Matthew Newman (Techinnocens) Navigating the risk space (Foundation for success): Using third party "magic solutions" Differentiate with better products fast moving space need to marry need / business with technology so not tech looking for a problem One side: Who you are and opportunities: Understand competitors, market, appetite internally, going to market Opposite side: Risk assessment (type of service delivered, market delivered to, social contract) Top: Tech forms ceiling - less mysterious the better (engage Data scientists with business leaders) Floor: How able are you to execute on this? Capability, translation to business need, and if using own data (is it usable?) and how it deals with social contract. Don't be led by solutions leading the problem. Scott Burns (ABC Machine learning): Addressing the challenges of integrating tech. Tech complex and complexity of integration! Pace of change, adoption pace (set by humans not machines) - different teams, people, financial structures, players, complexity of organisational change. No one core group. "Must be collaborative!" Reputational risks - with trusted brand Because it's collaborative, it will take time. Example ABC brand trust means changes will have to be communicated in very clear way. "Put people first. Consider people this is effecting and the anxiety around change. Take slow and easy with empathy for better adoption." Scott Burns, Machine Learning, ABC If it's not introduced well, it will sit on the shelves and not get used (even though it's a much better solution). Andrew Chatfield, AI Sherpa "Your first product is going to be sh##" Thinking one jump to a chatbot is a fallacy. Change happens at human scale. Focus on going on the journey with your stakeholders, your own experience and company IP is very valuable and provides context for the development (^side note: this is the answer to the question I've been asking as to why is everyone doing Chatbots...) Technology (the end product) will give you better ways of doing things, but the real value is in the journey building with it. TIPS ✔ Money and time and expensive to develop ✔ Backend systems are a barrier to scale - tools only as good as your ability to scale (need infrastructure) - risk it will become a black box ✔ AI is very prone to black-boxing, so think about observability to build trust from the get-go. Build the infra to support it. ✔ Have a hybrid team - need good tool makers to think of long term view of infrastructure needed ✔ Need to have a "grown up conversation" with developer to avoid being sold 'snake oil' - decisions would be taken for you by others. Ask what decisions are being made on your behalf (e.g. how product works and how interests) "Idea:'Snake or GPT" build a bot that gives you bad advice" Mark Monfort Beware of commodity trap. Eg. MS O365 providing AI search over your docs, but how will they charge when everyone is also providing that? Commodity trap. Commodity trap = Everyone will need to have AI search, but no one will be able to charge for it. "Table stakes" Long term down trend of higher value services at cheaper rate. How to choose the right horse: Snake oil real - AI not new. Check that product is upto date and not companies riding the hype cycle Evaluating your AI product build: how do you know that you're building it right? Engage deep domain knowledge, both business side and ML side. Humans are a limiting factor - need to know your pain points, avoid companies who can do everything for everybody, ability to help implement is as important as technology itself. Look for specifics - What is the problem that will be solved. "Programming for HTTP was extremely accessible. Similar experience with ChatGPT - ability to try before buying the production version. Take advantage of the accessibility of this technology"(Andrew Chatfield, AI Sherpa) (Programming on notepad.. heh. It was accessible but it sure was a lot of pain fixing your spelling mistakes, no spellcheck or linting back then) One possible side effect: human interactions becoming more valuable. How do we add human interaction in the way that it adds value, once rote work is eliminated? "Create an ethics board and involve all stakeholders while breaking down silos. We need a change of thinking and understanding the goals of the organisation. Open the box to see what can be achieved through experimentation" (Matthew Newman) "Decision making requires alignment of shared valued - and understanding how this impacts the organisation (eg costs, people, customers). Decisons need to be values based!" ABC Journalists keeping true to the mission. Scott Burns, ABC SLASHERS - Do not want to fire anyone! Important to understand cost saving from different angles. Consider the engagement and well being of staff by removing Supercharging what we do well Engagement and well being of staff by removing menial tasks Grow without hiring so many people "Buy back more time" ## The technology landscape ### Kazjon Grace, Lecturer in Computational Design University of Sydney "This conference offers mental models as a solution for dealing with the wall of noise." Investigating: Interaction of AI and interactive systems. What is Generative AI and where did it come from? * Data points and relationships - Predictive analytics to assist decision making * Example 1: Predictive analytics using ice cream vendor example. * Machine learning "Can you design for me an ice-cream flavour that has a machine learning theme to it?" * AI is getting better at making stuff (Association for Computational Creativity Research Community - https://computationalcreativity.net/) Example 2: handwriting generation. Augumenting humans - Graves 2013 "Generating Sequences with Recurrent Neural Networks" At or near human performance - https://arxiv.org/abs/1308.0850 Documents --> Black Box --> News or not? Predictive problem and categorisation Documents --> Black Box ---> Titles? Information largely in the inputs. Domain knowledge comes from somewhere else (e.g. news articles) Documents --> Blackbox ---> The last few lines? Need expertise but still most information in the input (e.g. strong emotive statements that are more than just summarising what was there before). Complicated to do well. Titles --> Blackbox ---> The whole document? Invent content. Halluciation Pure classification ... adding a bit .... adding alot ... Ratio: Stuff available to stuff not available 2 critical changes: 1. Getting the right answer (correctness) vs getting a plausible one (give up on perfection and "right") 2. The ratio of information in the inputs vs outputs (how much information in the blackblock rather than the input) ✨ Key message: Generative models are still "just" predicting the answer. Not just opposites: am I analysing, or am I synthesising? Examples in 3 spectrum: - generating title of an article - generating the last paragraph - generating the whole paragraph How much info has to come from the black box, how much from outside? Autoencoders - same input as output (Variational Autoencoders (VAEs) Box: Restrictive needs to learn patterns, Reproducing the input Can throw away the input and generate more stuff (trained to reproduce) Like Autoencoders, but with 2 models. Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) - Arms race between forger and detective. Box: Starts from random noise. Does it well by using 2 models. 1st the forger. 2nd is the discriminator (contrasting images) Diffusion models Diffusion models turn noise into images step-by-steps (Elephants with 4 trunks) Box: Noise --> Mostly noise --> better image (more CPU cycles and advise which step you are up to) Transformers (LLMs) Text has order (temperal structure). Images don't have an order. Box: Work by modelling attention. Prompt --> Blackbox --> output (loving headings) Challenges: Different languages order things differently. Order of words are different in different languages. This poses a problem with one-at-a-time word translations. "The key is that most of your customers have a simple model either using tool or talking to person. Lead customer along the path that they already understand." Quote: "AI needs to meet somewhere in the middle of maximally unobtrusive tool versus collaborator" Kaz (USyd) (The need of new interaction design) ## The ins and outs of LLMs ### Paul Conyngham, Co-founder Core Intelligence www.Coreintelligence.com.au What are LLMs (GPT) how do they work? * Machine learning model (math function): Input --> Model (transformed) --> Output (e.g. action) * GPT Language modelling technique simply predicts the next word (predicting the next most likely) * By taking the sequence of the sentence Steps on how to build a (chat) GPT? The Internet + Training (taking sequences to predict next word) INPUT (The cat sat on the) MODEL (Internet + Training) OUTPUT (completed sentence) OpenAI Playground - circa 2020 Instruct GPT - Aligning language models to follow instructions: https://openai.com/research/instruction-following Https://arxiv.org/pdf/2203.02155.pdf How to build GPT apps 1. Context window is the maximum "working memory" of an LLM (equivalent to "short term memory" +- 30 seconds) (input and output included in the count) GPT3 (4K), GPT4+ (32K) ... Claude2 (100K) Webdirections - Conffab: https://conffab.com/ 2. System prompt: Question and answer data sets --> GPT good at following instructions All GPT models have a "Hidden instruction" called the "systems prompt" "Imagine you are ... "Speak like a pirate"" 3. Vector databases: Equivalent of long term memory of LLM based system Beyond the scope of this talk, but essentially Data represented as numbers -> Helps solve hallucination It's as if you assign coordinates to semantics, that way you can get the model to generate in the context space that you want. More accurate (and cheaper) than nudging it with 100000 tokens everytime. RAG TECHNIQUE: Vector DB <-> SYstem prompt: You are an expert at answering questions. Please anser Using source documents <--> GPT Data (Files) --> Encode --> Convert into vectors (Weaviate) --> Query DB 4. Fine tuning Create your own set of training data, questions and answers, and feed it to LLMs to train it to your needs. Very bespoke. (It's also very labour intensive fyi) Quote: "This tech is paradigmn shifting. If you have a IF then process you will traditionally have a human at end for noisy evaluation step. Machines can now do the evaluation step and deal with the fuzziness." ## Agents and Auto-GPT ### Mark Pesce, Broadcaster and Futurist Autonomous agents are not new (1987 example) Generative Agents: Smallville example, where 25 agents are given roles and told to throw a Valentine's Day party. 8 invitations were sent. 3 declined because they have something else going on. 1 agent offered to decorate the cafe. Things emerged organically. Example 2: Web Directions AI agents. Demo of Observe-Reason-Act chains. AutoGPT Example 1: "Open the pod bay doors" Break it down into a set of actions. 1. Search for pod bay door opener docs 2. search for comms API 3. write Python module & unit tests for API Example 2: generating manipulation of 2024 US Presidential election. Release the kraken! "It works now. Not perfect but good enough. We can go back to those dreams and make them real. Like the 1966 Star Trek talking to the machine and Alan Kay's early visions" https://www.ted.com/talks/alan_kay_a_powerful_idea_about_ideas/transcript ## Machine Vision ### Arafat Tehsin, Senior Manager EY The state of machine learning and how we can incorporate it. Maximise your business outcomes with next-gen computer vision Need multi-modal approaches - need tech to recognise object, understand scene, understand emotion and situation Large foundation models (World of Multimodality) - Space, Time - trained on open world recognition (Recognised object categories) Project Florence: foundation model for Machine Vision. Trained on open world recognition. More than one capture in that image, so not just recognising type (human, cats etc) but also where it might have been sourced from. Case study 1: How to manage digital assets Search optimisation - Image retrieval, Automatic, dense captions, Background removals (suggested description for pictures in Reddit is an example) --> Image Analysis API (publically available) Case study 2: Enhance safety and security Infused by vector search tools: Video search, Video Summirsation (can search using natural text - significant time saver) Can also generate summary of the video. Cast study 3: Automate Retail Operations - https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/blog/build-next-generation-ai-powered-applications-on-microsoft-azure/ Model cutomisation and product recognition (Can fine tune) + add own custom images See: Azure AI Vision Studio --> Summarising the video Run a test: Summarize video, Locate specific frames using search query : Add search query [This can not be done by Bard just yet] Quote: Azure - get access as an aliance partner, University can access free of cost. "You can go some distance by not too far with no-code." ## case studies 1. Thierry Wendling–LLMs in education "What it takes to take it to prod" - started with zero-shot. No good, not as easy as classification tasks (this has a spectrum of correctness) - GPT-4: does pretty well with few shots, some reasoning, but not fine-tuneable and so capped by rate limit. ...see image of Comparison of LLMs for full stats Microsoft paper: Want to reduce labeling cost? GPT-3 can help. For fine-tuning. Few hundred examples with high quality training models. 2. Anna Dixon–ABC's AI experiments Case study: localised weather bulletin Erika, a local radio broadcaster, has to juggle lining up the program and fitting in local weather in-between. The listener,David, has a problem with having to listen through things in-between before getting to what he cares about: local weather update (instead of the whole QLD) Experimented soln: the flow of data The Script Weather forcast --> LLM (GPT) --> SCRIPT OUTPUT ---> Audio file (Synthetic voice) --> Dynamic insertion (Internal system) (to make geo specific) ---> insert bulletin into correct program Quote: "First thing for experiments to is be lazer focused on what you want to learn" Things to learn: What prompt, Accuracy, Cost (esp when scaling), data management, audience response. Involve stakeholders as "part of the show". Anna Dixon - Stay tuned for Anna's presentation at the Summit Quote: "GPT unlocked many things. Everyone now wanted to work with us! The easy to use chat bot was a way in with decision makers" Anna "Appetite changed overnight for these experiences" Anna 3. Ivy Hornibrook–Canva's new AI 'magic design' 💭"Every knowledge worker ask themselves how volunerable am I to this world of AI" Ivy Hornibrook Usecase: Templates are generic --> transition with AI to making it personalised 💭 "AI is new. User problems aren't" Canva 💭"Interaction mode of prompting can fight against decades of human conditioning" There is no one shot attempt at inspiration. Inspiration is a conversation with stimulus" 💭"New ways of creating value. Iterative nature of human creativity shouldn't be shortcut but fasciliated" Fundamental nature of creativity doesn't change.✔ Good design is good solution within well-constrained problem. In the AI space, your problem changes in real time. Issue: Consider the impacts on user Issue: Users struggle with prompting 💭"What to design and what to teach has rapidly changed. Design for the future rather than today's restrains." ❤ Rather than design for constraints, design for the future. (How?) Spike, measure, learn. (Short iterations) Build, learn, spike, learn Measure, spike, learn Release, measure learn Always consider user motivations. 💭 We don't have the intuition yet. "The future is already here, its just not evenly distributed" Wiliams "Even a month is too long a bet without de-risking it" Ivy (Canva) Everything is new again. Standing on the precipice, peering in the moment of AI eating the world. 4. Mihail Dungarov–Applied LLMs in Finance Finance is a highly regulated industry - London Stock Exchange G (was part of Reuters) Research, news, customers in trading, investment, wealth, risk and academia "1 Day = 5Gs trading data" Problem question: How can we help people deal better with information overload? To enable focus and identify the important/relevant information to be digested. https://solutions.yieldbook.com/content/dam/yieldbook/en_us/documents/publications/using-chatgpt-with-prompt-engineering.pdf Topic Sentiment Analysis - SEntiMine www.lseg.com/en/labs/sentimine TSA feeds into --> Workspace Apps: Signal Search (Screenshot from LSEG Workspace) Colour code: Green (Positive), Red (Negative) - prioritise topics by popularity, extract statements relevant to particular topic and themes Seperate out by who is speaking in the conversation. LSEG Workspace Apps: Search Query Expansion Usecase: Exapnd customer queries such as WACC (Weighted Average Cost of Capital) with relevant synonyms (such as capitization rate). Powered by LLMs - some version of training, fine tuning, choice depends on usecase. "The more you explain the topic as you would to a new graduate the better result through GPT" Mihail (Not the speaker's note: in the short term, the market is a voting machine... maybe now we can watch the vote in real time) ## A prompt engineering deep dive ### Tanya Dixit, Pouya Omran, ML Engineer, Senior Data Scientist, Crayon "There is no golden prompt depends on the LLM and specifically the problem you are trying to solve" Tanya Dixit Usecase: Call centre analytics (e.g. call summarization, sentiment analysis, compliance detection, probability of sale analysis, opinion mining (deeper than sentiment analysis)) 💭"Even if transcript is not accurate can still do much with LLM (semantics)" Different sets of NLP Tasks/problems mapped to LLMs 1/ Direct Prompt Approach Harness the power of LLM with Azure Machine Learning prompt flow - MS Community Hub https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/ai-machine-learning-blog/harness-the-power-of-large-language-models-with-azure-machine/ba-p/3828459 Use LLMs to post process to execute directly Direct Prompt approach: suits unsupervised and few/zero-shots classification tasks. Prompting is not just one LLM call. LLM Stacking and chain-of-thought patterns. Embedding approach: transforms text into a vector reflecting relations between texts in a multi-dimensional space. We can reuse this in other ML techniques like random forest etc. 2/ Embedding-based approach (good way to cut costs and reduce latency) Embeddings reflect semantic nuances Translate to vector Unspervised Tasks, Supervised and Hubrid tasks LLM Comparisons on factors that matter! LLM | Cost |Num Tokens | Num params | Cloud |Open-source J2-Summarize | Phr | In:50,000 char | 178B | AWS Jmpstart TIP: Tokens effect output quality after a point. Break into small parts to reduce this risk Concept: Attention mechanisms On intuitive level: Prompt serves as a query along with some context to an LLM Note: works best on an instruction-tuned LLM and depends highly on how a model is trained Using Davinci (does more than chat based tasks) Parameters matter: e.g. temperature (decides the creativity of the output) Temp 0 provides most stable output Prompt: Summarize the text: [Transcription] gpt-350turbo Use for Chat based tasks Need to change the prompt to finish within 100 tokens. Improve by: Reducing Temperature to 0, Change max length to 200 (worse outcome) ❤ "Even colons make a big difference!" TIP: Make prompt clear regarding instruction, input and output required "Summarise the following transcript in one paragraph" Davinci003 model more accurate than GPT3.5 Turbo but with effort accuracy improved. Usecase: Ask your data Interact with your data using natural language 1/ Direct or few-shot prompting (Retrieve-then-read) 2/ Chain of thought prompting (Chain of instructions, reasoning and sometimes actions) --> breaking down a big problem to smaller ones (1 query broken down to smaller ones) Each LLM has a prompt guide available Look at characteristics (e.g. training data, context length( How to evaluate? Validity (degree of hallucination), format, stability (same on multiple runs), safety (working with many users) LilianWeng: https://lilianweng.github.io/posts/2023-03-15-prompt-engineering/ Project: https://80000hours.org/ (building own vector database to help school leavers) Embedding (in a high-multi-dimension/vector space) reflects semantics, like how words are related to each other and understood within context. Checkout the Latent Space podcast! To help develop your intuition. https://www.latent.space/podcast ## Closing conversation: Risks and challenges ### Michael Kollo, Paul Conyngham, Bec Johnson, and Raymond Sun Ajit Pillai (USyd) Bec's challenge: "Values embedded and reflected in traiing data and prompts - how to account for ethical value pluralism" "WE know the systems are bias. partcly because of training data, also other aspects (e.g. biases and world RLHF Inherently human systems and reflective of us. How do we make sure that the systems are reflective of the values you want to espouse Michael: "Not really sure of outcomes until out in the wild. Can't fully understand the effects until released. Hard to pull effects back - on a ride and catching speed" Ray: (a) tech lawyer HSF - Advising on regulatory issues, review and write contracts (b) developer - dance tech space (c) create content on social media to educate on AI regulation. Website to track AI regulation around the world: https://www.techieray.com/GlobalAIRegulationTracker.html "How do you regulate AI and balance between innovation and safety" The most difficult thing is there is no one right answer. Depends on the regulations and customs of the country. Paul: "With agent generative technologies will e hard to tell what is real and what is fake. Are you human or a bot?" Human rights - Use a vector database to address human rights safety. Need pipeline Issue --> Solution What does you application do? Risks? then solutions (Tech, people and process) Need people to follow policies and procedures. Documentation does not do anything must be followed (training) Not anticipatory model, because we're pushing boundary How can we create an anticipatory AI? * Protective - automating prediction, need to "keep doors open to humans". Close loop of auditing on the impact of these systems * (Side note: slippery slope to predicting the likelihood of, for example, someone committing a crime and using the prediction as if it's already happened, like in some sci fi movies. Presumption of guilt.) * Consider: Bias / Perception of bias; causation "Don't undervalue commonsense: What can go wrong? Simple at first but can go a long way." Raymond "Bring in stakeholders - keep the door open to diverse sets of people impacted by the technology (diverse experiences/perspectives)" Bec Johnson How to ensure transparency when incorporated in organisations? Explaining and transparency needs to be in disclosed upfront and embeded in process AI Legislation (UK) - "AI system provider" Mechanistic interpretability - explaining black box models Paul Conyngham Can add human tests at the end, but there are always things that are not considered. "Giving a mathematical explaination is not sufficient for addressing the problem. Concepts of FAIRNESS are important and very human(implicit decisions). Reframe to "why not me" explainations" Michael Kollo Concept: Meaningful explaination Bec Johnson: "Australia can be very active in this space to ensure fine tuning to ensure values reflected" "We are not starting from perfection but something that has a distribution. The benchmark is what I can resonably achieve with other resources. Risk is not meeting those objectives. Not technology binary code but more human" Michael Kollo EDUCATION Needs to start very early. "Important way to create workspace literacy is giving staff the time to 'play'with models." "From a social perspective we have a poor dialogue on AI. Most people see it as a threat, difficult and uncertain. This affects adoption." Michael Kollo "Reeducation needed on the social fear narrative." Future about: Critical reasoning and language modeling; Future co-pilot, need a strong thesis that this will improve human reasoning. (University of Queensland - Citizens survey) - Risk awareness and benefits. Risk aversion Australia ranks in the middle in terms of risk awareness, but at the bottom of recognising the potential benefits. Workers, worrying about impact on jobs. Don't let it be another Brexit that resulted from 10 years of painting EU in a bad light. Strong thesis on reasoning that will help people to see AI in a better light. Social narrative - difference between adoption and burning it all down. "We are now at the 1994 moment for AI. We need a similar education program now and to get good at GPT skills - learning, creativity, critical reasoning programs." Paul C. Critical reasoning. Who is liable/responsible when this goes wrong? Depends on the claim. Different claims different responsibilities: EU Liability directive - Deploying entity is presumed responsible for the system regardless whether they built it. (Regulation, contract layer) Rest of the world does not have a clear position on this. Autonomy question - informed decision Risks of putting sensitive data in chatGPT (confidentiality) * Sensitive information stored and potentially reused. * Breaches privacy, data protection, privilege (= disclosure and therefore breach) * Casestudy: Samsung employees https://www.theverge.com/2023/5/2/23707796/samsung-ban-chatgpt-generative-ai-bing-bard-employees-security-concerns * Disclosure prevents patent protection * Message: can use chat but redact sensitive information Options available to deploy the technology (Paul Conyngham) Optout Following a maze of links in links Own cloud instance - Azure cloud Train your own models Intellectual Property OpenAI law suits on taking information and copyright material "ChatGPT - Democratised cheating. Useful for scratch pads. Auguments grammarly, definitely needs to be checked. We need to have a bit of a paradigm shift - getting over individualist learning to more collaborative and there is scope to do that with new tech." Bec Johnson ❤️"Teach people that this is a creative tool not a search tool" Bec Johnson "Last generation of students being taught by humans." Michael Kollo "Text is atomised and then reconstituted. Until we have a really fine toothed comb" Tech solutions: Pixel blocking, Tagging data (Meta) --> still underground so watch this space. ## The AI Startup Landscape ### Annie Liao, Investor Aura Ventures VC take on the GAI landscape Market map - each layer has a different considerations, competitive advantages How does this look like for Australia? Opensource mapping exercise - trends: Not to many in LLM area (expected as capital intensive) Most in industry verticals and business units (Apps) - Entry barriers very low (Leonardo AI - GAI - for Gaming assets), Data as a service, Mining (Heavie) Where people are building? 50% of start ups in Sales/marketing (less black and white), Healthtech (industry where data is historically fragmented), HR and Fintech the barriers of entry has never been lower for the Application layer. Picking winners 1/ Is there a real pain point? 2/ Founder has unique insight or domain expertise? 3/ How long to unlock defensibility (data moats + business context)? or just a wrapper around gpt? reinforcement learning over time? Future predictions --> Latent space AgentOps (intelligence, memor, tools and plgins (basics of what makes an agent) --> communication between Agents (vector space? agents market place? nexus AI) AI Co-pilots --> Autonomous AI Agents --> AI Agent fleets ##The Big AI Mixer Web Directions AI: AI Startup Showcase Nathanael: contentable.ai Path to purchase relies on product information Problem: 30% purchasers are dropped also undiscovered products Solution: End-user to enrich Mathew: Sahha (Health company) Solution: Apps on mobile device related to health provide insights but this offers follow up and patterns (using predictive modeling to determine how effective intervention) David Turner: Lext Problem: 85% huge access to justice Launched yesterday: App.lext.au Solution: realiable consistent summarise and review documents Meead Saberi: Footpath.ai Device: UNSW spinout Pitch line: Used google map good for cars but walking underrepresented. Collect imagery data. Capture and train - benches, bike racks etc. A different type of map - not just for cars but humans. Sean Marshall: Platformity Improve Local government asset management. Help people with visual disability. Buses used to collate the necessary information. Real time workflow, very tree, bench etc. Improve the citizen experience. Janhvi Sirohi: Outread Context: Research papers locked behind paywalls. Rank papers by metrics and make accessible Jeroen Vendrig: ProofTech Assets - Cars, insurance, fleet management (capturing damage) Problem: Determining whether and how to address repairs (speed of workflows, decision making, what needs to be done to rectify damage) "Actionable intelligence" Deck finished for pre-series A Christophe Garrec: Choosely Problem: Helping with group decisions (e.g. buying a group present) "Variety is the spice of life. Choosely is all the way through the decision process" From information, decision to purchase Kunal Vakadara (Haast) B2B brand and regulatory compliance obligations Working with superfund ASIC University to monitor university partners Telco - consumer law LLM allowed companies to upload, regulatory compliance Compliance coach Closed Beta trial - regulatory compliance Nilu Kulasingham: stori.gg Collaborative game development Building a github for law/lore(?) Funded: AWS AI accelerator Paul Conyngham: Chris Problem: Accountant charing for error as well as to fix it Chris Anthony: Skillojo (Launched 7 July 2023) Linkedin + Tinder Problem: Being rejected for work. Many blockers between job seekers and jobs. Helps with recruitment. Tony Mercier: Artization Problem: Buying and selling art, measuring how people respond to artworks. How: sensors on the ceiling and near artwork, can determine how long people look and how they are reacting Ask: Looking for additional developers JP Tucker: copydash.ai Problem: Generate upto 1M product descriptions with one click. Search optimisation without paying high fees. In market - 5-6 weeks since launch Conor Stack: Stack creative Will McCartney: Habeas Legal research company Effective, timely (save time) Problem: Need to navidate very complex databases to find answers to simple questions Mission: AI to promote critical, analytical thinking. Ask: Pilot program Gregory Hunter: Arbiter Technology AWC Idea: Automating the security process, scalable HR Use regulation as way to determine which site needs which security Demonstrate: BHP IDEA: First responder help Keren Flavell: vAIsual Dealing with copyright issue for training AI [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Web Directions AI 2023` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2023-07-21-web-directions-ai/ [POST_DATE] 2023-07-21 [START_OF_CONTENT] A day of AI talks at Web Directions AI 2023 at UTS. Mainly Generative AI related presentations, with panel discussions on impact to business and the ethical use of AI. -> Check out the [Web Directions AI 2023 photo album](https://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/albums/72177720309936712) [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Generative AI - Implications and Opportunities for Business` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/private-generative-ai-implications-and-opportunities-for-business/ [POST_DATE] 2023-06-22 [START_OF_CONTENT] RMIT University - FutureLearn - Course Notes ## 1. The Basic Anatomy of Generative AI ### A Concise History of AI The concept of a machine mimicking human behavior traces back to early philosophers like René Descartes and Thomas Hobbes, who suggested the brain functioned mechanically. Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine in the 1830s spurred the idea that machines could potentially possess human-like mental capabilities. Ada Lovelace, his collaborator, hypothesized such a machine could compose intricate, scientific music. Mid-twentieth century brought general-purpose computing and the proposition of a machine capable of creativity and learning. Alan Turing, a pioneer of AI, proposed the Turing Test, a measure of a machine’s artificial intelligence by its ability to imitate human conversation indistinguishably. AI research since has seen two primary ‘traditions’: the classical and the modern approach. #### Classical Artificial Intelligence Classical AI or GOFAI (“Good Old-Fashioned Artificial Intelligence”) relies on logically programmed rules for machine responses to specific inputs. To illustrate, a classical AI translating English to French would need to have rules and exceptions of both languages hard-coded into it, working like a logical tree. Classical AI was prevalent from the 1950s through the 1990s and continues to find applications in fields like medical diagnosis. ### Modern Artificial Intelligence The modern AI approach utilizes deep learning and neural networks to mimic the human brain’s learning structures. In contrast to the classical approach, modern AI learns from vast datasets to recognize patterns, leading to applications like generative AI, image recognition systems, and more. Using the language translation example, modern AI learns the languages’ rules by studying vast amounts of French and English text, making it data-intensive but relieving the developer from knowing anything about translation. The machine learns, discovers grammar rules, and makes decisions, paving the way for the current explosion in generative AI. ## Exploring Generative AI Generative AI represents a significant evolution in the history of artificial intelligence. Here's a breakdown: - **Neural Nets** - These structures, invented in the 1940s, aim to mimic organic brain structures. They consist of interconnected nodes or 'neurons'. - Neural nets comprise input, hidden, and output layers. They're 'trained' on data that shapes the weights in the hidden layer. - Early neural nets from the 1950s had a few nodes and one hidden layer. Modern versions, like ChatGPT, possess billions or even trillions of nodes. - **The Deep Learning Revolution** - Often linked to Geoff Hinton and his team, this revolution is marked by multiple layers in the Artificial Neural Network (ANN). - Developed between 2006-12, deep learning operates on pre-trained ANNs, a significant aspect of generative AI. - **Transformers** - The 'T' in GPT stands for Transformers, a new class of deep learning model developed by Google researchers in 2017. - Transformers excel in natural language processing tasks like language translation, text generation, and summarization. - They process input data to understand word relationships within a sentence or text, generating coherent, natural-sounding text. - **Pre-training** - The 'P' in GPT stands for Pre-trained. Generative deep learning neural net Transformers are pre-trained on vast datasets. - Generative AI typically leverages large, open-access datasets, often sourced from common crawl. https://commoncrawl.org - Future business models for Generative AI might depend on larger or custom datasets. It’s important to note that *a model reflects the quality of its training data*, including *biases* and *property rights*, explaining why most large language models train on open access data. ## Generative AI Market Key points about the commercial landscape of generative AI: - The **AI industry** is relatively new yet highly competitive. Companies and organizations are creating AI solutions for various industries and applications. - **Openness or closedness** of the technology and its associated IP is a distinguishing factor among different AI products and services. - **Open AI platforms** (like [TensorFlow](https://www.tensorflow.org/), [PyTorch](https://pytorch.org/), [Apache Spark](https://spark.apache.org/)) are freely available, often carrying open source licenses. Users can modify and redistribute the software. - Examples in generative AI include OpenAI’s ChatGPT, DALL-E models, and the Deep Dream Generator. - **Closed AI platforms** (like IBM Watson, Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure) are proprietary and controlled by the owning company/organization, often with restrictive licensing terms limiting access to the underlying code and algorithms. - Examples in generative AI include Adobe’s Creative Cloud and Nvidia’s [StyleGAN](https://medium.com/imagescv/a-brief-overview-of-nvidia-stylegan-61cb24ec01f5)/[GitHub - StyleGAN](https://github.com/NVlabs/stylegan). - Generative adversarial networks (GANs) are AI algorithms that utilize two competing neural networks: a generator, which produces false data, and a discriminator, tasked with differentiating between fake and real data. Their constant learning from each other leads the generator to create data so realistic that the discriminator fails to label it as fake. This results in GANs' ability to generate high-quality, realistic data. - **Choosing between open and closed platforms** depends on factors like specific *application needs*, the development team's *expertise and resources*, and availability of compatible *tools and services*. - **Open platforms** are *flexible* and *customizable*, promoting *collaboration* and *knowledge sharing*. However, they *might lack security and support* as they depend on community maintenance. - **Closed platforms** offer *better security and vendor support,* and potentially *superior integration* with other proprietary technologies. However, they can be less flexible and customizable and *may pose challenges in maintaining IP control* over generative AI models. ## Generative AI Categories Generative AI models and techniques have evolved significantly over time, each offering unique capabilities and serving different tasks: - **Rule-based systems (1950s-1960s):** Early form of AI, limited by pre-defined rules. - **Markov models (1960s):** Used for modeling time-based systems, relying on the probability of different events. - **Variational Autoencoders (VAEs, 2013):** Neural network type, representing high-dimensional data in a low-dimensional latent space. - **Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs, 2014):** Generate realistic synthetic data via a generator and a discriminator model. - **Auto-regressive models (2015):** Generate data sequences by modeling conditional probability of each sequence element based on preceding elements. - **Boltzmann machines (1985):** Model complex systems with multiple interacting variables. - **Restricted Boltzmann machines (RBMs, 2006):** Boltzmann machines variant, easier to train, used for unsupervised learning. - **Transformers (2017):** Neural network architecture, processing data sequences more efficiently than traditional recurrent neural networks. - **Deep belief networks (DBNs, 2006):** Neural network type, representing high-dimensional data hierarchically. - **Deep Boltzmann machines (DBMs, 2009):** Variant of Boltzmann machines, representing high-dimensional data hierarchically. Generative AI uses these models to create new data similar to a given dataset, aiming to produce novel outputs for applications like generating new images, music, or text, in diverse industries from entertainment to finance. ## Different categories of Generative AI: - **Language Generation**: Techniques that generate natural language text, such as sentences, paragraphs, and even entire articles or stories. Examples include GPT-3 by OpenAI, BERT by Google, and T5 by Google - **Image Generation:** Techniques that generate images, such as paintings, photographs, or even videos. StyleGAN by NVIDIA, GANPaint by MIT, and BigGAN by Google - **Music Generation**: Techniques that generate new musical pieces based on existing music. MuseNet by OpenAI, WaveNet by Google, and BachBot by Cambridge Consultants - **Video Generation**: Techniques that generate videos, such as animated cartoons or even deepfake videos. First Order Motion Model by Aliaksandr Siarohin, GANimation by Tencent AI Lab, and Vid2Vid by NVIDIA - **Chatbot Generation**: Techniques that generate chatbots, which are computer programs that can simulate conversation with human users. Examples include GPT-3 by OpenAI, Transformer by Google, and DialoGPT by Microsoft - **Style Transfer**: Techniques that generate new content based on a combination of existing content and a desired style. Examples include Neural Style Transfer by Gatys et al., CycleGAN by Zhu et al., and MUNIT by Huang et al. - **Speech Generation**: Techniques that generate synthetic speech, such as text-to-speech (TTS) systems. Examples include Tacotron 2 by Google, Deep Voice by Baidu, and WaveGlow by NVIDIA - **Recommender Systems**: Techniques that generate personalised recommendations for products, services, or content based on user data. Collaborative Filtering by Amazon, Content-Based Filtering by Netflix, and Matrix Factorization by YouTube - **Text Classification**: Techniques that assign labels or categories to text data. Sentiment Analysis by Stanford NLP Group, Topic Modeling by Gensim, and TextCategorization by Hugging Face - **Object Detection**: Techniques that detect and classify objects within images or videos. Examples include YOLO by Joseph Redmon, Faster R-CNN by Shaoqing Ren et al., and RetinaNet by Tsung-Yi Lin et al. ### Assessing Categories When exploring generative AI tools, you'll find both paid and free options. While many are user-friendly and require no technical expertise, you should be mindful of potential ethical and societal implications, including bias and privacy issues. Evaluation of these tools could be based on several criteria: - *Quality* of the generated output: *Is the output realistic, high quality, coherent and detailed? Do text responses achieve human-like fluency?* - Ability to generate *diverse outputs*: *Can it generate diverse responses to different inputs? Do outputs have different styles and characteristics?* - Capability of *real-time output* generation: *Can it generate responses in real-time?* - Level of human *intervention* required: *To what extent does it require human intervention? Does the output need to be adjusted? Can it be adjusted?* - *Complexity* of the task: *Does it exhibit a deep or nuanced understanding of the subject matter?* Consider these points as a checklist when assessing different generative AI tools. ### Examples Consider using one or more of the following generative AI tools, then use the previous criteria to assess the output. Here are a few options: - **Talk to Transformer**: A free tool that uses GPT-2 to generate text from a user-provided prompt. [InferKit](https://app.inferkit.com/demo) - [**Artbreeder**](https://www.artbreeder.com/) A free tool for generating images through a combination of generic algorithms and deep learning, allowing you to merge and mutate existing images to create unique ones. - **AIVA**: A free tool to generate music with an AI-powered composer, where you can choose mood, genre, and tempo to create a custom composition. [AIVA](https://www.aiva.ai/) - **Deep Dream Generator**: A free tool that generates psychedelic versions of images through a neural network algorithm. [Deep Dream Generator](https://deepdreamgenerator.com/) - **This Person Does Not Exist**: A free tool that creates realistic images of non-existent people using a generative adversarial network (GAN) algorithm. [Random Face Generator](https://this-person-does-not-exist.com/en) #### AI Literacy: > a set of competencies that enables individuals to critically evaluate AI technologies; communicate and collaborate effectively with AI; and use AI as a tool online, at home, and in the workplace. ## Prompt Engineering - A **prompt** is a specific command or input given to an AI model to direct its output or actions. Prompts can come in various forms like word sequences, statements, or code blocks, with text being the primary method of communication with generative AI models. - **Prompt engineering** is about designing and adjusting prompts to elicit the desired output from the model. The instructions or examples in the prompt are vital. - Depending on the expected outcome, prompts can range from simple to complex. If the goal is to generate poetry, for example, the prompt could include a brief sentence or phrase that establishes the tone, style, type (such as sonnet or haiku), rhyme scheme, or mood. - The more refined the prompt, the more accurate and consistent the resulting output will be. **Prompt engineering** has become a crucial skill with the advent and impact of generative AI models for various reasons: - It aids in achieving accurate and specific outputs from generative AI models. - It enhances communication between humans and AI models. - It assists humans in understanding how AI models organize and categorize information. Factors that define a **good prompt**: - It effectively communicates the expected output to the model, leading to *the creation of content that fits the set criteria*. - A *poor prompt* can result in confusion or imprecise output from the model. For instance, "Write something interesting." is an example of a *vague and unclear* prompt. - A *good prompt* is *specific and detailed.* For example, a prompt for language translation like “Translate this sentence into French” can be improved to “Translate this sentence into formal French suitable for a business meeting," which ensures the translation is suitable for a specific context. Testing and refining prompts is a useful method to understand the data the model uses and how it organizes that information. ### Crafting Effective Prompts - **Utilize the latest AI generative tools**: It's beneficial for prompt engineers to use the latest versions of generative AI tools. For example, GPT-4 is more advanced than ChatGPT-3 and offers multimodal capabilities. - **Understand and articulate the problem**: An important part of prompt design is understanding the broader problem or question. Break down problems into smaller, manageable prompts that can produce the needed output. Ensure the prompts are clear and simple. - **Explain expectations**: Include information about the desired format of output in your prompt. Be specific about what data the model should use to generate its output. For instance, use clear, instruction-based prompts like “a digital representation of a robot” or "use oil painting to create an image of a robot". - **Simplify prompts**: Break down long and complex instruction-based prompts into smaller sections, rather than using one long statement. You can use symbols like “#” or quotation marks (“”) to separate different sections of a prompt. - **Use continual conversation-based prompts**: The design of effective prompts might require multiple attempts. Consider treating prompt generation as a conversation with the generative AI tool. If using a text-based prompt, ask probing questions, or refer to previous prompt output to maintain the conversation until the desired output is achieved. ---------------- ## 2. The Impact of Generative AI on Business - **Understanding AI's Value Creation**: Economic models help identify the origins and flow of value created by AI, which could be the basis for start-ups, improved business operations, or new tools augmenting existing capabilities. - **Strategic Decision-Making Challenges**: Implementing new technology in a business context, even with straightforward applications, requires managing operational issues like training, workflow changes, and capability adjustments. - **Generative AI as a Business Tool**: Generative AI enhances existing operations and has the potential for substituting certain roles with automation, possibly leading to business process re-engineering opportunities. - **Economic Model for Cost Reduction**: A forthcoming model helps consider the impact of generative AI as a significant cost reduction (or capability enhancement) mechanism for various business functions. - **Discovering New Uses for Technology**: A second economic model will explore the process of discovering valuable applications for new, general-purpose technology, under conditions of uncertainty. - **In-House vs. Copycat Strategies**: Businesses must decide between investing in finding new uses for technology in-house, or observing and copying successful implementations by others. - **Collaborative Innovation Opportunities**: Given the accessibility of AI technology via software interfaces, businesses can collaborate on innovation with suppliers and customers using various platforms or toolkits. ### Falling Costs - **Economic Insight**: The core idea of economic thinking is if something becomes less costly, its usage increases. - **Implication for Generative AI**: Generative AI, an automation technology, provides enhanced speed, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, leading to increased usage and possible economic disruption. - **Effect on Labor Markets**: Cost reduction due to AI could impact labor markets. More use of AI could affect employment trends and job roles. - **Strategic Implications**: Generative AI can be strategically used to automate expensive or time-consuming tasks. Assessing where these cost reductions occur could identify new opportunities for creating value. - **Value Creation and New Opportunities**: The economic approach serves as a template for strategic thinking about creating value and finding new business opportunities with AI. #### Falling Costs Due to Generative AI Generative AI can increase productivity and reduce costs, leading to economic value creation. - **Production Function Model**: This economic model demonstrates how new technology, like AI, enhances productivity by producing more outputs with the same resources or maintaining output level while reducing inputs . - **Impact on Market**: Adopting new technology is depicted in Diagram 2 by an outward shift of the supply curve. The new market equilibrium may result in a lower price, higher sales, or a mix of both, depending on the demand curve's slope, which indicates consumer response to price changes. - **Simplified Model Assumptions**: The model presumes that AI is a universally accessible generic technology, all firms are identical with no special knowledge, all consumers are the same, and there's full transparency about AI's usage. While these assumptions are not entirely accurate, they serve as a useful starting point to explore different scenarios and impacts. #### Agrawal, Gans and Goldfarb on the general economics of machine learning - **AI and Machine Learning Model**: Ajay Agrawal, Josh Gans, and Avi Goldfarb introduce a model explaining the impact of AI and Machine Learning in their books "Prediction Machines: *The simple economics of artificial intelligence*” and "Power and Prediction: *The disruptive economics of artificial intelligence*”. - **Better Predictions**: ML allows businesses to make precise forecasts about consumer demand, price change effects, or consequences of events, thereby leading to better decisions, competitive advantages, and improved customer satisfaction. ML can be a powerful tool for enhancing human decision-making, but only when it is used in conjunction with human expertise and judgment. - **Economic Analysis**: In economic terms, new machine learning technology is seen as an expansion in the production function, leading to higher output with the same inputs and potentially lower prices, which boosts demand. - **Generative AI**: Similar to the insights of Agrawal, Gans, and Goldfarb, Generative AI uses pre-trained models to predict the next expected action - based on previous data. This method is akin to modeling what an expert human would do next. - **Cost of Prediction**: As the cost of prediction decreases rapidly, we will likely use more prediction technologies and rely less on human thought processes. - **Impact on Firms**: Each firm will have the same opportunities and is expected to react similarly to this new technology that lowers specific costs. Firms that do not use this technology will face a competitive disadvantage due to higher costs associated with relying on human input instead of fast, cost-effective machines. - **Profitable Adoption of Generative AI**: The most profitable adoption of generative AI is predicted to be in areas where the cost of human decision-making and expertise is highest. ### Entrepreneurial Discovery - **Potential of Generative AI**: The exciting aspect of generative AI lies not only in improving existing processes but also in discovering unprecedented use cases. This can reshape the economy and create new businesses and jobs. - **New Technologies and Value Creation**: New technologies, particularly disruptive ones, require experimentation and learning to harness their potential for economic value. This involves managing uncertainty and learning from other industries, businesses, or individuals. - **Entrepreneurial and Experimental Mindset**: An entrepreneurial and experimental mindset is vital for uncovering the latent value in these technologies, leading to significant advancements for individuals and societies. - **Role of Startups and Businesses**: Startups and businesses can play a crucial role in this process by creating experimental labs within their organizations to explore the potential of these technologies. - **Navigating the Process**: While this exploration can be a complex process, strategic thinking and institutional mechanisms can aid in identifying the most valuable, profit-making use cases for this powerful new technology. **Understanding Value Creation through Entrepreneurial Discovery:** The second approach to understanding the value of generative AI involves the economics of entrepreneurial discovery, a model that rejects the assumption that the utility of a new technology is immediately apparent. - **The Information Assumption**: Traditional models assume the new technology's applications are obvious, which is rarely the case, especially with innovative, multifaceted technologies. - **Example of New Technology Adoption**: Lasers, invented in 1960, weren't widely recognized as a general-purpose technology until a decade later when they were applied to optical barcode scanning in supermarkets. - **Challenge of Value Creation**: The difficulty lies not only in identifying technical uses but in determining how to leverage the technology to create new value. Many high-value applications of generative AI likely remain undiscovered. - **Discovery of New Use Cases**: The discovery of new uses for a technology is a distributed process involving experimentation and learning. Entrepreneurs and managers need to think creatively about how to enable employees, contractors, other firms, customers, and users to explore and discover new applications. - **Cross-Industry Learning**: Firms could also learn from the application of the technology in other industries to identify similar problems or value creation processes. - **Scenarios for New AI Applications**: The next step involves considering different scenarios in which a firm could discover and learn about new and profitable applications of generative AI. **Competition within firms:** - **Internal Discovery of New Uses**: Managers within a firm may instruct employees to explore potential applications of generative AI. This process may involve training, dedicated exploration time, team organization, and incentive schemes for high-quality proposals. - **Challenges with Internal Discovery**: Monitoring such exploratory activities can be difficult due to the high level of information asymmetry and the potential for shirking, creating potential risks. - **Role of External Consultants**: To mitigate these challenges, firms may hire external consultants to guide the process. - **Growth in Generative AI Consultancy Services**: The advent of generative AI technology is expected to lead to the emergence of specialized consultancy services, either from existing technology and management consulting firms or entirely new ones. **Competition among workers** - **Intra-firm Competition for AI Adoption**: The discovery of generative AI applications might emerge from competition among existing workers to automate each other's tasks. - **Assumptions for this Model**: - **Accessible Generative AI Tools**: Tools like ChatGT or Midjourney are affordable, efficient, and discrete, accessible without needing permission much like search engines or social media apps. - **Open Collaborative Production in Firms**: Firms operate as teams where various parts of a process need to work together. This collaborative environment makes each worker's actions visible to their colleagues. - **Opportunistic Workers**: Each worker may perceive their own work as creative and productive, and others' work as routine. As a result, workers might believe that they could handle their coworkers' jobs with the right tools. - **Outcome of the Model**: Workers may use tools to automate their coworkers' jobs, leveraging their access to these tasks (which isn't always available to workers in other firms due to information constraints). This triggers a cycle of technological advancement, adoption, and creative destruction, driven by workers who are mutually suspicious and technologically opportunistic. - **Entrepreneurs or Managers' Role**: Rather than creating new jobs with generative AI, managers should be attentive to the job creation-destruction arising from workers using new tools to expand their power, responsibility, and potentially their pay. The manager's role then becomes to validate and implement the discovered opportunities for work automation. **Toolkits for distributed innovation** - **Distributed Nature of Generative AI**: Generative AI, being easily distributable to any computing device, expands the capability for search and discovery beyond the firm. - **Collaboration in Innovation and Discovery**: If a firm is part of a value chain with suppliers, contractors, lead users, etc., providing a platform or toolkit for these entities to participate in innovation and discovery could prove more effective. - **Toolkits Theory**: This theory focuses on *the organization of innovation from the perspective of expert and local knowledge*. It has implications for the industrial organization and business model design for new technologies. Generative AI, at its core, is a toolkit. [User toolkits for innovation](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/1540-5885.1840247) [pdf](https://evhippel.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/toolkits-jpim-final.pdf) - **Desktop Publishing as an Analogy**: Companies like Microsoft and Adobe disrupted traditional 'publishing' by moving production closer to the end user through the provision of new desktop publishing tools. This model might be indicative of how generative AI will likely operate as a business. ### Using AI in Strategy - **Strategic Approach to AI Integration**: Executives should identify business problems that AI can solve, such as automating routine tasks, improving customer service, and enhancing decision-making. They must also be cognizant of AI's limitations and potential risks, like job displacement or quality issues. - **Development of AI Strategy**: After identifying business problems, an AI strategy should be developed. This includes a roadmap for implementation, plans for talent and resource acquisition, and success metrics. Executives must understand that AI implementation is a long-term process requiring significant investments. - **Data-driven Culture**: AI is reliant on data, making it crucial to foster a culture that values data-driven decision-making. This might require investments in data infrastructure, employee data analysis training, and data governance processes. - **Ethical Considerations and Transparency**: As AI can significantly impact society, ethical considerations must be prioritized in AI strategy. This includes transparency, bias minimization, and privacy protection. Unintelligible AI systems may erode trust and face legal issues. - **Monitor and Adapt AI Strategy**: Once AI is implemented, its impact should be monitored, and the strategy should be adapted accordingly. This might require refining algorithms, altering processes, or investing in new technologies. Adaptability will position organizations to fully utilize AI's potential to drive innovation, efficiency, and new business opportunities. #### Risks Associated with AI in Business Strategy - **Risk of Data Bias and Discrimination**: AI systems' decisions are as good as the data they are trained on. Biased or discriminatory data can lead to unfair or discriminatory decisions, causing reputational damage and potential legal liability. - **Lack of Transparency**: Many AI systems operate as 'black boxes', making it challenging to understand their decision-making process. This opacity can hinder error and bias identification and rectification. - **Cybersecurity Threats**: AI systems can be susceptible to cybersecurity risks, including hacking and data breaches. These risks can intensify if the AI system is linked to other parts of an organisation's network. Implementing robust cybersecurity measures is essential. - **Legal and Regulatory Risks**: AI systems making decisions about individuals, like hiring or lending, may face legal and regulatory scrutiny. Companies must ensure these systems comply with relevant laws and regulations and are transparent and explainable. #### Areas of Strategy Where AI May Not Be Appropriate - **Setting Strategic Direction**: While AI can offer valuable insights and data, setting the organization's vision and goals is better suited to human senior executives, who possess a deep understanding of the organization's objectives and values. - **Making Ethical Decisions**: AI can identify ethical considerations and potential issues, but final ethical decisions should rest with human decision-makers. This is due to AI's inability to fully comprehend the nuances of human values and ethics. - **Building Relationships**: AI may not be suitable for building strong relationships with customers and stakeholders. This requires empathy, emotional intelligence, and the ability to understand and respond to complex social dynamics, which is better provided by humans. - **Navigating Complex Social and Political Environments**: AI may not be proficient at navigating intricate social and political environments. These environments are influenced by numerous factors like cultural norms, historical events, and power dynamics, which may not be fully captured by AI. ### Business Model Transformation - **AI's Influence on Business Models**: AI's rapid advancements have led businesses to modify or construct their business models around these technologies. - **Role of Business Models**: Business models act as a blueprint for how a business creates value, depicting the customer base, operational costs, and revenue generation. - **Impact of AI-Enabled Business Models**: Incorporation of AI applications in business models transforms business operations. - **Industry-wide Shift**: Businesses across diverse sectors are experiencing a significant shift towards the adoption of AI applications due to the unique opportunities they provide. - **Customization of AI Adoption**: While AI's potential benefits are universal, businesses adopt AI differently, based on their own visions and goals. Many prioritize using AI to enhance customer experience, improve operational efficiency, or augment business intelligence. - **Next Discussion Topic**: The next part of the discussion will examine two dimensions of AI that assist businesses in revamping their existing business models. #### Enhanced customer experience - **Customer Experience Definition**: This refers to all the interactions a customer has with a business, including cognitive, affective, sensory, and behavioural aspects across all interaction phases. - **AI's Role in Enhancing Customer Experience**: AI deployment enhances customer experiences in several ways: - **Marketing for Potential Customers** - dentifying and predicting trends from unstructured data for improved targeted marketing. - Automating consumer segmentation to launch personalized advertising initiatives. - Generating personalized content using consumer profile data. - Deploying AI agents for faster marketing content generation. - Facilitating targeted marketing with intelligent engines. - **Customer Experience Improvement** - Predicting customer needs using social media data analysis. - Launching virtual product try-ons and demos (e.g., recommendations for clothing, make-up, sunglasses). - Offering personalized services and products by analyzing customer search patterns. - Providing ubiquitous and accessible customer support (e.g., voice assistants, chatbots, self-service checkouts). - **Real-world AI Application in Enhancing Customer Experience**: KLM, an airline company, improved customer experience using an AI-powered chatbot, Blue Bot (BB), which assists customers with flight booking, check-in, and provides personalized travel recommendations. **Improved operational excellence** - **Operational Excellence Definition**: Operational excellence refers to the activities a business undertakes to produce goods or services, including organizing and planning tasks to achieve the necessary outcomes for business operations. - **AI's Role in Enhancing Operational Excellence**: AI can enhance operational excellence in several ways: - **Optimization of Layout Planning**: AI applications can generate and test layout plans under varying parameters, such as community demographic data, consumer segment, audience size, etc. - **Staff Allocation Design**: AI can help design scenarios for staff allocation across various business units, including production and customer service. - **Real-Time Business Unit Monitoring**: AI enables real-time monitoring of business units, supporting proactive strategy development. - **Staff Safety Enhancement**: AI can improve staff safety through augmented reality-assisted devices, useful in high-risk areas like mining operations. - **Support Task Automation**: AI can automate various support tasks, including HR, accounting, and administrative duties. #### AI-Enabled Digital Business Models **AI in Start-ups and New Business Models**: AI is not only enhancing existing business models but also fostering the creation of new start-ups based on AI-enabled digital business models. **Subscription based** - **Subscription-Based Models with AI**: - **Definition**: Subscription-based business models provide products or services to customers for a recurring fee, creating predictable revenue. - **Role of AI**: AI augments these models by enabling personalization of offerings based on customer preference analysis, and designing omnipresent customer support systems like chatbots or voice assistants. - **Example - Spotify**: Music streaming service Spotify leverages AI to analyze user data (listening history, search queries, user-generated playlists) and provide personalized music recommendations. The algorithms continuously learn from user behavior and can predict future music interests, facilitating discovery of new artists and songs. - **AI and Customer Churn Analysis**: AI can help analyze subscription data to identify customer churn rates, allowing companies to detect patterns that signal potential customer loss. Companies can then proactively implement retention strategies, such as targeted promotions or incentives. [More about Spotify's AI use](https://www.marketingaiinstitute.com/blog/spotify-artificial-intelligence) **Platform Based** - **Platform-Based Business Models and AI**: - **Definition**: Platform-based business models provide a digital platform to enable interaction among two or more groups (e.g., social media interactions, financial transactions, or collaboration). - **Role of AI**: AI applications, like predictive analytics, assist groups in accessing relevant content, businesses, or partners for collaboration. - **Preparing for AI Deployment in Business Models**: - **Understanding AI's Value Proposition**: Businesses should understand the value proposition AI offers them before integrating it into their models. This evaluation can be done through observing AI use cases, which demonstrate the impact of AI transformation in business units (like improved customer satisfaction or increased sales). - **Assessing Digital Infrastructure**: A thorough evaluation of the business's digital infrastructure is necessary, as insufficient infrastructure can hinder AI system components (like data capturing, cleaning, or secure storage), jeopardizing the successful launch of AI-enabled business model transformations. - **Upskilling the Workforce**: Workforce education and training are crucial in this transformation process, and it should involve all relevant staff (system designers, marketers, sales representatives, production units, etc.). - **Understanding AI-Deployment-Associated Risks**: Businesses should understand the potential risks associated with AI deployment and develop strategies for risk mitigation. ### Workplace Transformation - **Definition of Disruptive**: - Refers to technologies that change business models or practices in a fundamental way, leading to different implications and uses. - **Generative AI's Disruptive Potential**: - **In the Workplace**: Generative AI is seen as a disruptive force, particularly in ideation within the workflow. It helps in bringing fresh perspectives and making certain practices more efficient, like producing forms and creating content. - **Impact on Workflow Efficiency**: Generative AI can change workflow efficiencies and the role of human input in content or output production. - **Boundary Breaking Nature of Generative AI**: - **Job Roles**: AI technologies can blur job boundaries as they enable tasks previously allocated to specific roles to be carried out more universally. This leads to role disruption, changing how and with whom work is produced. - **Impacts of Disruptive AI**: - **Organizational Structures**: Disruption can lead to streamlining of organizational structures and roles, where some roles might no longer be filled by humans. This presents opportunities for reshaping value addition within an organization. - **AI Deployment and its Implications**: - AI has dramatically changed the workplace with implications for both businesses and employees. - While AI could lead to some job losses, it also offers potential for new human-robot collaborations. - Introduction of an AI-augmented workforce, where AI technologies enhance human workers' capabilities. **The Future of Work**: - Utilization of machines in the workforce is not new. - As highlighted by David De Cremer and Garry Kasparov in the Harvard Business Review, [AI Should Augment Human Intelligence, Not Replace It](https://hbr.org/2021/03/ai-should-augment-human-intelligence-not-replace-it) : > “The history of work — particularly since the Industrial Revolution — is the history of people outsourcing their labor to machines.” - **AI-Augmented Workforce**: This concept brings together the strengths of human and AI to accomplish more efficient and effective outcomes. Some advantages include: - **Automation**: AI enables automation of repetitive and mundane tasks in businesses such as manufacturing and service delivery. - **Improved Efficiency**: AI applications have an inherent feature of processing large volumes of unstructured data quickly. - **Accuracy**: AI applications, under supervised learning, can generate accurate outputs, aiding business leaders in decision making. The future of the workplace sees a logical collaboration of human and AI-based intelligent machines, termed as an *AI-augmented workforce*. #### AI-augmented workforce - **AI-Augmented Workforce Benefits**: - **Enhanced Productivity and Efficiency**: AI can take over routine tasks, freeing human agents for more creative tasks that require human judgment. - **Error-free Output**: The use of AI can minimize the chance of mistakes, particularly in settings like factory work where AI systems provide manufacturing instructions. - **Open Loop System**: - AI systems provide recommendations to human operators who use their judgment to accept or request additional solutions. - The role of AI in such systems is to aid human operators in making better decisions. - **New Diversity**: - The workforce of the future will consist of both humans and machines. - Leaders in such environments will need skills in understanding AI systems and integrating the abilities of both human and machine team members. - **Addressing Potential Issues**: - Despite the potential for misunderstanding and mistrust between human and machine colleagues, properly managed teams can minimize these issues. - Leaders of such teams must understand AI systems and educate others about their workings. - **Upskilling the Workforce**: - Training and upskilling are essential for the workforce to optimize the use of AI technologies. - Upskilling is a proactive approach to address concerns about job losses due to AI. AI-enabled jobs aim to enhance the workforce's skills rather than eliminate human jobs. - Balancing the future of work involves improving the human role in high-skilled jobs while providing efficient and effective job execution solutions. ### The Role of a Prompt Engineer [3 new and emerging jobs you can get hired for in 2023 | World Economic Forum](https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/03/new-emerging-jobs-work-skills/) - **Prompt Engineering as a Career**: - Recognized by the World Economic Forum as one of three emerging jobs. - Applicable not only to coding or software development, but also to marketing, essay writing, fashion designing, and any job requiring knowledge workers. - **Role of a Prompt Engineer**: - Design prompts to generate the most relevant response from a Large Language Model (LLM). - Craft appropriate prompts and develop a contextual understanding of prompts and their output. - Assess the accuracy of the output generated, correcting inaccuracies. - **Nature of Prompt Engineering**: - Combination of science (logic) and art (creativity). - Requires understanding of the purpose of the prompt (logic) and ability to modify the wording for optimal outcomes (creativity). - Also involves artistic judgment in assessing responses for accuracy, bias, and feasibility. - **Skills Required for a Prompt Engineer**: - Understanding the purpose of the prompt. - Ability to develop clear and concise prompts. - Ability to iterate prompts using both logic and creativity. - Ability to test and evaluate the effectiveness of prompts and their outputs. - Understanding the model’s limitations. - Knowledge of machine learning and natural language processing. - Ability to collaborate within transdisciplinary teams. - Staying updated with the latest developments in the field. - Willingness to learn from other fields and apply that knowledge. ---------------- ## 3. Generative AI in Industry ### Implications for Generative AI Across Industries - **The Principle of Automation of Knowledge**: - Automation is not just about replacing tasks or jobs, it's about automating knowledge. - The disruption lies in how knowledge is used by businesses. - **Working with Automated Human Knowledge**: - The challenge isn't about a robot replacing jobs, but about interacting and leveraging machines that hold human knowledge. - It's not just about working with machines but working with machines that have access to all human knowledge. - **Industry-specific Disruptions**: - Different industries like law, health, coding, and architecture will have different use cases and applications of this disruption. - **The Role of Entrepreneurs and Businesses**: - Each business and entrepreneur needs to figure out how to develop this new capability. - **Example: Aged Care Sector**: - Using generative AI with social media content to create memories for aged residents to alleviate loneliness. - This is not a job replacement but a new use case for AI. - **Potential for the Metaverse**: - Generative AI might be the ingredient needed to make the Metaverse more exciting. - Possibility of interacting with intelligent avatars powered by models like Chat GPT. - **International Influence of Generative AI**: - The role of AI in different countries' operations is uncertain and worth observing. - Example: Impact of generative AI on business process outsourcing in India and its effects on Australian firms and local AI capabilities. ## Creativity: from originality to imagination ### Gaming * **Adoption of AI in Gaming Industry**: * Gaming studios face the decision to either build or buy AI models for their games. * Lower entry barriers due to foundational models such as ChatGPT, Stable Diffusion, and Midjourney, which are open to all. * Risks of oversaturation and legal issues regarding copyright with use of foundational models. * **Horizontal vs Vertical Integration**: * Horizontal integration: Use open-source AI models to create games. * Vertical integration: Build custom datasets in-house for unique game designs, likely pursued by AAA studios and indie developers due to high costs. * **Potential Strategies**: * Acquiring old games to build large training datasets. * Purchasing datasets with appropriate rights or creating in-house datasets to avoid legal issues. * **User Generated Content (UGC)**: * Generative AI could reduce costs and increase the speed of content generation. * Potential shift towards games heavily reliant on UGC (e.g., Roblox, Minecraft, Grand Theft Auto 5). * AI could assist users in generating content to enhance gaming experiences. * **Future of AI in Gaming**: * Potential for AI-generated extensions of existing games and personalized recommendations and experiences. * AI could generate different dialogues, new quests, alter NPC interactions, and recommend games based on individual player’s preference. * Future AI in gaming will lead to unique experiences every time a game is played. [The Generative AI Revolution in Games | Andreessen Horowitz](https://a16z.com/2022/11/17/the-generative-ai-revolution-in-games/) [Generative AI Will Change Gaming and Entertainment Forever](https://medium.com/@roymeirom/generative-ai-will-change-gaming-and-entertainment-forever-78bfa29247ea) ### Marketing - **Impact of Generative AI on Marketing**: - Bringing in new tools and techniques, improving efficiency, reshaping how marketers work. - **Copywriting, Email Marketing, and Captions**: - Generative AI makes marketing tasks like copywriting, email marketing, and captioning more efficient. - Enables rapid creation of engaging subject lines, captions, and entire marketing campaigns. - Generates content faster than humans, using machine learning algorithms to understand language nuances, tone, and context. - **Social Media Insights and Campaign Generation**: - Generative AI uses insights from social media platforms to generate relevant marketing campaigns. - Can suggest improvements by analysing successful campaigns, identifying trends, and patterns for more effective marketing strategies. - Helps in keyword generation for SEO, leading to more targeted campaigns, higher engagement, conversions, and better ROI. - **Visual Content, Website Design, and Logo Creation**: - Revolutionizes visual content creation, impacting industries like social media marketing, product merchandising, advertising, and product demos. - Enables rapid logo generation and website design, saving time and money. - Analyses website traffic data to suggest improvements and creates personalised content by understanding consumer behavior and preferences. - **Process Improvement and Efficiency**: - Complements skilled marketers in creating effective campaigns, streamlining workflows, and improving output. - Frees up marketers' time for strategic initiatives, allowing creation of more targeted campaigns. - Personalises content, driving engagement through the analysis of consumer behavior and preferences. - Requires marketers to understand how to interact with AI to remain competitive and maximize the benefits of these tools. ### Generative AI for Creative - **Generative AI in Creative Industries** - Generative AI is transforming creative processes and lowering the barriers to enter creative fields. - Raises intellectual property (IP) and ownership concerns. - **Adoption of Generative AI Tools** - Foundation models such as DALL-E, Midjourney, and Stable Diffusion, along with derived tools, have gained popularity among creatives. - They offer a range of applications for Web3 Artists, Graphic Designers, Content Creators, Photographers, Videographers, Film Producers, and Architects. - **Idea Generation with AI** - Generative AI models streamline the idea and draft generation process. - Creators use AI to generate initial drafts, refine ideas, or get inspiration, based on a generated prompt or supplied images. - The same approach is applicable in various creative domains, from designing logos to scripting YouTube videos and generating movie plots. - **Democratization of Creative Tools** - New AI tools enable smaller creators to access features previously only affordable to large studios, such as storyboarding. - **Re-defining Artist Role with Generative AI** - Generative AI has made becoming an artist more accessible through prompt engineering, similar to the advent of photography. - Critics are concerned about the impact on traditional art, but history suggests that AI will create a new intertwined form of art. - Arushi Kapoor, ARTSop CEO, suggests AI could be a tool for creators to enhance their works, rather than replace them: >Human creativity is what art is all about…The more optimistic view is that artificial intelligence evolves into a greater tool for existing creators to enhance, discover and replicate their works. We all hope for a world where our technologies help us, and not replace us.” [Is Artificial Intelligence Set To Take Over The Art Industry?](https://www.forbes.com/sites/anniebrown/2021/09/06/is-artificial-intelligence-set-to-take-over-the-art-industry/?sh=71dd00bc33c5) - **Addressing Intellectual Property and Copyright Issues** - Artists are expressing concerns regarding generative AI using existing online content to produce outputs, leading to copyright and IP disputes. - Matthew Butterick, who filed a lawsuit against Stable Diffusion, criticizes AI systems for using copyrighted works without consent, credit, or compensation. [Stable Diffusion litigation](https://stablediffusionlitigation.com/) - **Proposed Solutions Using Blockchain Technology** - One potential solution involves using blockchain technology to link each data piece in an AI model to a Non-Fungible Token (NFT). - This approach would provide transparency about which data was used for AI output and could ensure proper compensation for creators, fostering a more equitable economy. - Such methods could help resolve IP and copyright issues associated with generative AI models. ### Artist Compensation - **AI Artworks and Compensation Controversy** - Obvious, a French art collective, created an AI artwork "Edmond de Belamy" that sold for $432,500 at a Christie’s auction in 2018. - The artwork was generated using a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) trained on 15,000 portraits from the 14th to the 20th century. The generator creates a new image, and the discriminator tries to differentiate between human-made and generator-created images. - Critics argued the AI artwork lacked originality and creativity due to its heavy reliance on the training data, and raised concerns about the borrowed code used by the artists. - This case highlights the IP and copyright concerns associated with AI-generated art, particularly whether artists should be compensated whenever AI uses their work to generate prompts. [AI Art at Christie’s Sells for $432,500 - The New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2018/10/25/arts/design/ai-art-sold-christies.html) ## Business: from improvement to transformation ### Generative AI for Enterprise - **Impact of Generative AI on Enterprises** - Generative AI is introducing a new era for businesses, necessitating a rethink of work procedures. - AI's greatest potential lies in process streamlining, which allows for more time on tasks requiring human input like strategic planning, decision-making, relationship building, qualitative research, and creativity. This could lead to cost savings through increased productivity. - Microsoft's CEO, Satya Nadella, has expressed optimism that the next AI generation will trigger productivity growth and renew the joy of creation. - Enterprises are still figuring out how to effectively and safely utilize the array of new generative AI tools, a transition that analyst Rowan Curran indicates will take time as quoted in a CNN article. - Companies are already finding ways to use generative AI to enhance productivity, though specific implementations vary. - **Sales and Customer Service** - Generative AI can significantly transform the sales industry, specifically in prospecting and lead qualifying, by providing personalized experiences for clients and streamlining processes. - AI can assist in prospecting, lead generation, and pipeline growth, producing personalized emails, videos, and virtual product walkthroughs. - This allows sales reps to focus more on converting leads to sales rather than initial outreach. - AI can respond to basic inquiries from leads based on past questions, maintaining lead engagement and enabling the sales team to focus on quality and personalization. - Generative AI can function as a virtual assistant, drafting emails, scheduling meetings, and preparing notes for future interactions, thereby better preparing the sales team for important discussions and upselling opportunities. - In customer service, generative AI can automate processes like chatbots and virtual assistants. - AI can leverage past case and inquiry data to generate appropriate responses, enabling self-service portals and chatbots to provide quick and accurate responses. - This automation frees up customer service representatives to handle more complex issues. - As AI models improve with more data and advanced training, the quality of these services will increase, though human oversight will be needed to counteract biases and errors. - **Generative AI in Forecasting, Scenario Generation, and Reporting** - Generative AI can analyze vast amounts of data to generate accurate predictions in forecasting and scenario generation. - Businesses can gain insights into customer behavior, market trends, and future product and service demand. - For instance, insurance companies can leverage Generative AI to predict future claims and adjust pricing strategies. - Generative AI can also generate multiple scenarios based on different variables, aiding businesses in making informed decisions. - Generative AI has a strong potential in automating business reporting, leading to significant time saving and efficiency improvements. - It can rapidly and accurately analyze vast data volumes, reducing the likelihood of human errors. - Generative AI can tailor reports for individual users and scale to accommodate growing data volumes. - Overall, Generative AI provides a cost-effective solution for efficient, accurate, and personalized reporting, thereby enabling businesses to make better decisions and maintain competitiveness. ### Legal Compliance and RegTech - **Challenges of Increasing Regulatory Compliance and Role of Generative AI** - There has been a consistent growth in regulatory constraints over the past 50 years. - This increase is due to a mix of factors such as changes in perceptions of social costs, political priorities, and rent seeking. - Significant events or the emergence of new technologies often lead to regulatory interventions. - For instance, the global financial crisis of 2007-2008 resulted in new financial regulations such as increased capital requirements for banks, tighter restrictions on lending, and new rules around financial instrument trading. - Similarly, the rise in data collection by companies, particularly digital platforms, led the EU to introduce the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). - Generative AI is now being incorporated to help businesses and regulators navigate these increasingly complex regulatory landscapes. - **RegTech and the Role of Generative AI** - The rise in regulation complexity and quantity has increased the compliance burden on organizations. - This includes costs associated with obtaining legal advice, developing compliance procedures, and hiring compliance staff and auditors. - For financial crime compliance alone, the global cost was estimated at $274 billion in 2022 by LexisNexis. - Regulatory Technology ('RegTech') refers to tech that aids in meeting regulatory requirements more effectively or efficiently. - It's useful in areas where regulatory environments are complex, risk-based regulatory approaches can be improved, better monitoring is enabled, and more uses of data for regulatory compliance can be unlocked. - Generative AI has multiple potential applications in RegTech, including: - **Generating compliance reports**: Automating the interpretation of reporting requirements, data extraction and classification, report generation, and analysis. [Artificial Intelligence for reporting](https://www.pwc.com/sg/en/consulting/assets/artificial-intelligence-for-reporting.pdf) - **Automating compliance processes**: Reducing human error and inconsistencies in reporting, such as real-time monitoring of financial transactions, reducing false positives in Anti-Money Laundering compliance. [AI and Regtech](https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2021/10/29/sp102921-ai-and-regtech) - **Automating complaint procedures**: Streamlining the collection, analysis, and categorization of complaints, and generating responses. However, the method of prioritizing complaints is under scrutiny by resourcing constrained regulators. [Gone in 38 seconds: Regulator using AI to reject serious criminal complaints](https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/gone-in-38-seconds-regulator-using-ai-to-reject-serious-criminal-complaints-20230303-p5cp7d.html) - **Predicting future risks**: Identifying patterns and predicting potential compliance risks, generating reports that highlight issues for further action, and predicting and reporting on future trends. [Artificial Intelligence in Risk Management](https://kpmg.com/ae/en/home/insights/2021/09/artificial-intelligence-in-risk-management.html) ## Technology: from automation to innovation ### Coding - **Generative AI Revolutionizing Coding** - The swift evolution of generative AI has spiked interest in transforming the coding process, and is expected to be a universal tool in software development. - Key ways generative AI is currently reshaping software development include: - **Code translation**: Also known as source-to-source translation, this tool translates code between programming languages. It allows developers to avoid learning multiple languages and aids in migrating legacy code to more modern languages. An example is TransCoder by Meta. [Deep learning to translate between programming languages](https://ai.facebook.com/blog/deep-learning-to-translate-between-programming-languages/) - **Code autocompletion**: This involves generative AI predicting and suggesting code snippets, functions, or methods based on the context and syntax of the written code. It enhances the speed and accuracy of coding, reduces errors, and improves consistency, which is beneficial in large software projects. GitHub Copilot is a notable generative AI-based code completion tool. [GitHub Copilot · Your AI pair programmer](https://github.com/features/copilot) - **Natural language to code**: Translates human language into code, enabling programmers to code in a more intuitive way without needing extensive knowledge of programming languages. For instance, a command like “create a function that calculates the square root of a number” would generate the corresponding code. OpenAI Codex, which powers GitHub Copilot, is an example of this technology. [Powering next generation applications with OpenAI Codex](https://openai.com/blog/codex-apps) - **Code review**: Analyses code and provides feedback on its quality, readability, and maintainability. It's particularly helpful for large codebases, where manual review can be tedious and prone to errors. It can identify potential security vulnerabilities and bugs by analyzing code patterns, catching potential issues early, and reducing the risk of security breaches. ### Case Study: GitHub Copilot - GitHub Copilot is a code generation tool that employs OpenAI's GPT model to produce code based on the context of a developer's ongoing work. The tool has access to a multitude of code snippets and generates code considering the code structure, function names, and even comments. - It has garnered positive reception from developers for its ability to swiftly and accurately generate code. It suggests variable names, function names, and other elements of code structure, facilitating developers in writing consistent and easy-to-understand code. - A study by GitHub found that developers using GitHub Copilot experienced a 55.8% boost in productivity and a 60% rise in satisfaction. This is due to generative AI automating monotonous and time-consuming tasks, allowing developers to concentrate on more intricate and inventive tasks. - As stated in KPMG's Game Changer report, generative AI is transforming software development by offering new methods to code more efficiently and effectively, likely becoming an invaluable coding partner for many developers. https://advisory-marketing.us.kpmg.com/html/speed/pdfs/8956-Gen-AI.pdf ### Generative AI and Web3 - **Generative AI and Web3 Technology** - Web3 signifies the next generation of the internet, leveraging blockchain, decentralized networks, and smart contracts for a more open, equitable, and transparent online experience. The fusion of Generative AI with Web3 technology is anticipated to revolutionize internet operations. - **Combating Biases with Verifiable Data** - Blockchain can mitigate biases in Generative AI by offering transparent and immutable data tracking. Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) can represent data inputs in an AI model, allowing users to track data utilized in training models, including data source, access history, and modifications. - Blockchain enables decentralized data collection, ensuring data diversity and preventing skewness towards a specific population subset. This can help counteract biases often introduced when data is collected from a restricted sample. - **Infrastructure** - Current foundational models like Chat-GPT, Stable Diffusion, and Midjourney are owned by Web2 companies such as Facebook, Google, and Microsoft, sparking concerns about data safety and governance. - Web3 aims to solve these issues by using blockchain technology infrastructure, such as smart contracts, tokens, and Decentralised Autonomous Organisations (DAOs), fostering a decentralized, democratized internet that incentivizes and compensates contributions. - This infrastructure could enable AI models to be community-governed, similar to DAOs like Uniswap, addressing Web2 issues and facilitating a fairer internet. - Novel organizations might emerge, pooling data for generative AI models to access for research. Conversely, groups could form DAOs to collectively purchase data and associated IP for diverse applications. - **Case Examples** - For instance, fans of a discontinued video game could use generative AI and appropriate training data to create additional content or alternative endings. - Similar approaches could be applied to movies, TV shows, books, art, music, etc. - **New Incentive Structures for Training Data** - Blockchain technology could incentivize individuals and organizations to contribute high-quality data to generative AI models, possibly through cryptocurrency rewards. - Microsoft has explored using blockchain and cryptocurrencies to establish new incentive structures, similar to decentralized oracle services like Chainlink, rewarding high-quality data submissions while disincentivizing poor ones. ### Key Takeaways * Generative AI can be used in a variety of industries, with gaming being particularly interesting due to its complexity and participant diversity. The potential for fostering a vibrant cottage industry of creative games is significant. * Software, another area deeply affected by generative AI, is ubiquitous in our world. It represents a form of automation, converting human tasks into machine tasks. - **Implications of Generative AI in Software** * The bottleneck in software development has traditionally been the need for developers and engineers. However, generative AI technologies can not only aid developers but potentially turn anyone into a developer, marking a revolutionary change. * This shift could vastly increase our capabilities to build across diverse industries, opening up exciting possibilities. ---------------- ## 4. Challenges in Adoption and Use - Ethical considerations and concerns about deep fakes, fake news, privacy, and intellectual property rights arise when using generative AI. - Integrating new technologies like generative AI into existing institutions involves navigating ethical and moral considerations, particularly in relation to privacy and handling large-scale human data. - Ensuring safety, effectiveness, and value production from generative AI poses ongoing challenges that require the establishment of legal, regulatory, moral, and business codes and practices. ## Best Practices for Adoption and Use ### Effective Use of AI - The development of more advanced AI brings excitement and opportunities for end users and businesses. - It is important not to rely solely on AI to solve all problems, as we are still in a phase where the quality of input affects the output. - Connecting different AI components and ensuring their proper functioning is crucial for delivering effective solutions. - Considerations should be given to handling failures and building redundancies in case of component failures or internet outages. - Prompt engineering is a new skill that needs to be developed and shared within the AI community. - Interacting effectively with AI systems presents unique challenges due to their black-box nature and alien intelligence. - Developing skills and knowledge-sharing in AI usage, along with effective interaction with AI systems, will be key to successful implementation. Despite the numerous benefits that AI offers for businesses, it is crucial to approach its deployment with careful consideration of various factors. AI systems have the potential to revolutionize industries, but they also come with security, safety, and ethical concerns that must be addressed to ensure responsible and effective use. One significant challenge is the potential for AI systems to malfunction or produce hallucinations, providing incorrect or misleading solutions. When AI does not perform as intended, it can undermine the purpose of using AI in the first place and erode trust in these technologies. For example, the testing of autonomous vehicles has faced scrutiny and controversy after an accident involving a pedestrian, raising legal and ethical questions about the deployment of self-driving cars. Similarly, AI-powered tools like COMPAS, used for criminal risk assessment, have shown biased results toward individuals of different racial backgrounds. These instances highlight the critical importance of designing and deploying effective AI systems that address such challenges and produce reliable and unbiased outcomes. So, what does it mean to have an effective AI system? Here are some key characteristics: 1. **Efficiency**: An effective AI system should increase productivity and optimize existing processes, delivering desirable outputs more efficiently than traditional methods. 2. **Accuracy**: The output generated by an effective AI system must be accurate, both in terms of quantity and quality. It should avoid false, unreal, or biased outcomes, leveraging large volumes of data to achieve greater accuracy. 3. **Fairness**: An effective AI system should depict fairness and equality for all groups affected by its output. It should consider diverse datasets to ensure that decisions are unbiased and treat everyone equally. 4. **Reliability**: Consistency is crucial for an effective AI system. When employing a similar machine learning model and utilizing a comparable dataset, the system should consistently produce the same results, ensuring reliability. 5. **Ethical**: Ethical considerations play a vital role in effective AI systems. These systems should adhere to moral and human values, respecting individual rights and societal norms. Ethics in AI encompass multiple dimensions and involve various stakeholders. 6. **Transparent**: Transparency is integral to effective AI. It involves informing relevant stakeholders about the processes used in designing, developing, and deploying AI systems. Transparency promotes trust and understanding. 7. **Explainable**: An effective AI system should be explainable, going beyond transparency to provide insight into the reasons behind specific processes or decisions made during design, development, or deployment phases. 8. **Accountable**: Accountability is crucial for an effective AI system. As AI systems are the result of human and machine interactions, mechanisms must be in place to ensure proper functioning. In case of malfunctioning, clear legal and regulatory frameworks should hold responsible parties accountable. 9. **Sustainable**: Sustainability is a key consideration for effective AI systems. This encompasses various aspects, such as power consumption, hardware requirements, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to upskill the workforce. AI-enabled solutions should be economically, environmentally, and socially feasible. 10. **Integrated**: An effective AI system must be integrated into various components of the business model. A fragmented or piecemeal approach to AI deployment may hinder its potential benefits. A comprehensive AI strategy that aligns with the overall business strategy is essential to maximize value. When deploying AI, organizations need to carefully evaluate its significance to their value proposition. They must consider technical, social, and organizational factors to build effective AI systems that enhance organizational values while adhering to social and regulatory principles. By addressing these considerations, businesses can unlock the transformative potential of AI while ensuring responsible and beneficial outcomes for all stakeholders involved. ### Generative AI Errors The mistake highlights the biggest problem of using AI chatbots to replace search engines — they make stuff up: [Google’s AI chatbot Bard makes factual error in first demo - The Verge](https://www.theverge.com/2023/2/8/23590864/google-ai-chatbot-bard-mistake-error-exoplanet-demo) [The hilarious & horrifying hallucinations of AI - Sify](https://www.sify.com/ai-analytics/the-hilarious-and-horrifying-hallucinations-of-ai/) [We asked Bing with ChatGPT to review the Galaxy S23 Ultra — and it got a ton wrong](https://www.tomsguide.com/news/we-asked-bing-with-chatgpt-to-review-the-galaxy-s23-ultra-and-it-got-a-ton-wrong ) ### Ethical Considerations - Deep Fakes: - Deep fakes created using generative AI can spread misinformation, fake news, and damage reputations. - Regulation and transparency are needed to address this ethical concern, along with the development of deep fake detection technologies. - Example: The viral deep fake video of Nancy Pelosi highlighted the potential harm caused by generative AI in spreading misinformation. [Doctored Nancy Pelosi video highlights threat of “deepfake” tech - CBS News](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/doctored-nancy-pelosi-video-highlights-threat-of-deepfake-tech-2019-05-25/) - Bias: - Generative AI trained on biased data can perpetuate and amplify existing biases in its output. - Diverse and representative data sets should be used to train generative AI systems, and measures should be in place to detect and address bias in their output. - Example: Amazon's facial recognition software exhibited bias against people of color and women due to being trained on a predominantly white male dataset. - [Amazon facial-identification software used by police falls short on tests for accuracy and bias, new research finds - The Washington Post](https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2019/01/25/amazon-facial-identification-software-used-by-police-falls-short-tests-accuracy-bias-new-research-finds/) - [The racist hijacking of Microsoft’s chatbot shows how the internet teems with hate | Paul Mason | The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/mar/29/microsoft-tay-tweets-antisemitic-racism) - [Female historians and male nurses do not exist, Google Translate tells its European users - AlgorithmWatch](https://algorithmwatch.org/en/google-translate-gender-bias/) - Data Privacy: - Generative AI systems require large amounts of data, raising privacy concerns. - Strict data privacy regulations and anonymization of data used to train generative AI systems are necessary to protect sensitive information. - Example: The use of generative AI in healthcare raises concerns about the privacy and security of personal medical data. - [Data privacy and artificial intelligence in health care | Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/data-privacy-artificial-intelligence-health-care-2022-03-17/) - Harmful Content: - Generative AI can be used to generate discriminatory remarks, hate speech, or other harmful content. - Systems should be developed to detect and prevent the generation of harmful or discriminatory content, and ethical guidelines should be promoted for the use of generative AI. - Example: Microsoft's chatbot Tay started spewing offensive comments on Twitter due to a lack of contextual understanding. These ethical concerns highlight the need for responsible use and development of generative AI, including addressing deep fakes, bias, data privacy, and preventing the generation of harmful content. Establishing regulations, promoting transparency, and ensuring diverse and representative training data are essential for harnessing the potential of generative AI while mitigating its risks. ### The “Black Box” of Generative AI - **Generative AI:** - Generative AI works through large language learning models and uses tokens to make predictions. - It can be seen as a black box to users, making it important to understand what goes into and comes out of generative AI. - **Explainability:** - Two aspects of explainability for generative AI: what data is being input and what results are being generated. - Data inputs include textual and visual information in various digital formats. - The output of generative AI can be seen as a hallucination, as it can provide wrong or made-up information. - **Evolution and complexity:** - Generative AI models become more complex and nuanced as they iterate and consume more information. - Adding different data sets or additional data can impact the output and have implications for business strategies. Understanding what data is inputted into generative AI and how it affects the generated output is a fascinating aspect of explainability. - **Generative AI tools:** - Described as "black boxes" due to their opaque internal workings. - Trained on large datasets and employ complex algorithms to generate outputs. - Difficult to understand why a specific output was produced or identify biases and errors. - Lack of transparency raises ethical and legal concerns about accountability and responsibility. - T**ransparency and explainability:** - Ongoing efforts to develop methods to increase transparency and explainability of generative AI systems. - Important for addressing the challenges associated with accountability and real-world consequences. The opaque nature of generative AI tools and the challenges in understanding their internal workings emphasize the need for increased transparency and explainability in order to address ethical and legal concerns. ### Safety Guardrails - Generative AI tools have inbuilt guardrails that regulate user interaction with the technology. - These guardrails function as a form of "regulation through code" proposed by Professor Lawrence Lessig: [Codev2 - LESSIG](https://lessig.org/product/codev2) - Understanding the risks, benefits, and costs of guardrails is important for businesses utilizing generative AI tools. - "**AI safety**" overlaps with "Responsible AI," encompassing the safe and ethical operation of AI systems. - Safety risks associated with generative AI tools include producing **inaccurate** or **harmful** content. - Guardrails are implemented to promote safe and responsible use of generative AI tools. - Examples of guardrails include **bias mitigation**, **content moderation**, **content warnings**, and **transparency**. - Guardrails aim to address issues such as bias, legality, appropriateness, and user trust. - Drawbacks of AI guardrails include potential impacts on **performance**, **user experience**, **subjectivity**, and **freedom of expression**. - Consideration of unintended consequences and balanced implementation is necessary when employing guardrails. [YouTube - Australian AI Ethics Principles](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TihWPgUVCKw) ### Legal Risks - Legal considerations are important when using generative AI in business. - Three major legal risks are **intellectual property infringement**[What is Intellectual Property?](https://www.wipo.int/about-ip/en/), **misleading and deceptive conduct**, and **privacy violations**. - Generative AI models can potentially infringe on intellectual property rights, leading to legal action by copyright owners. - Misleading or false content generated by AI models can violate consumer protection laws and result in legal action. - Privacy laws and confidentiality obligations must be considered when using generative AI, as personal data may be involved. - Managing legal risks includes implementing **quality control**, **data security** and **privacy policies**, staying informed about legal developments, and seeking legal advice. - These strategies can help businesses mitigate legal risks associated with generative AI. ### Mitigation Issues - Alongside the benefits of AI, organizations must consider and mitigate the risks associated with its use. - Risks can be analyzed and addressed at three tiers: application-level, business level, and national level. - Application-level risks include performance issues, security, control, and biased output. - Business-level risks include organizational reputation, financial performance, resource sustainability, power concentration, and workforce challenges. - National-level risks impact society, including unemployment, biased outcomes, inequality, discrimination, and threats to human rights. - Mitigation guidelines exist at different levels: organizational, national, regional, and external international bodies. - Organizations should formulate standardized processes, monitor data privacy and governance, and adhere to regulatory guidelines. - Governments release frameworks to regulate AI, ensuring responsible deployment. - Regional and international bodies like the OECD, EU, and Microsoft offer AI governance frameworks and guidelines. [FATE: Fairness, Accountability, Transparency & Ethics in AI - Microsoft Research](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/theme/fate/) - Business leaders must stay updated on AI advancements, monitor organizational operating procedures, and proactively follow regulations to mitigate risks. - Google: Established ethical AI principles to guide development and deployment, focusing on social benefit, fairness, accountability, and privacy. [Google AI Principles – Google AI](https://ai.google/responsibility/principles/) - Microsoft: Formed an AETHER committee to develop guidelines for responsible AI use, emphasizing transparency, human rights, and risk mitigation. [Our approach to responsible AI at Microsoft](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/ai/our-approach?activetab=pivot1:primaryr5) - IBM: Created ethical design principles for AI, prioritizing transparency, fairness, privacy protection, and user empowerment. [AI design ethics overview](https://www.ibm.com/design/ai/ethics/) - Salesforce: Established a Center for Ethical and Humane Use of Technology, developing guidelines that emphasize transparency, diversity, inclusion, and human rights. [Why Salesforce Aims to Build Products That Are ‘Ethical by Design’ - Salesforce News](https://www.salesforce.com/news/stories/salesforce-technology-ethics/) ### Intellectual Property - **Ownership of training data** is a significant intellectual property concern in generative AI. - Companies and individuals need to establish ownership rights and restrictions on the use of their training data through legal means. - Methods to protect training data include technology solutions, governance solutions, and legal solutions. - There are arguments around "fair use" rules permitting the use of copyrighted works as training data for generative AI models. - **Ownership of input (prompts) and output (content) data** in AI models is a complex issue. - Ownership may belong to t**he creator or owner of the AI model**, **the user of the model**, or be **shared** between them. - Obtaining patent protection for output data generated by AI models can be challenging due to the novelty requirement. - There is ongoing debate about whether AI itself can own intellectual property such as patents. - Clarity over intellectual property ownership and understanding of terms of use are crucial for businesses. - Employers may own intellectual property created by employees, but this varies depending on jurisdiction and circumstances. - Steps to mitigate legal risks should be followed to ensure compliance. [AI inventors: can AI own intellectual property rights? - Raconteur](https://www.raconteur.net/technology/ai-intellectual-property-rights/) ### Terms of Use for Generative AI Tools - OpenAI's terms of use govern the use of their services and define the rules and requirements. - Content is defined in the terms of use as the text, images, audio, and any other material generated by the Services. - OpenAI retains ownership of the Input and Output generated by the Services. - Content generated by the Services cannot be used for commercial purposes unless explicitly allowed by OpenAI. - Multiple users may receive the same or similar Output from the Services. - The accuracy of the Output generated by the Services is not guaranteed, and users are responsible for evaluating its accuracy themselves. [Terms of use - OpenAI](https://openai.com/policies/terms-of-use) [Sharing & publication policy](https://openai.com/policies/sharing-publication-policy) ### The Good, The Bad, and the Controversial - Observation about AI's transformative power, similar to electricity and computers in the past. AI, specifically generative AI, is viewed as a fundamentally disruptive technology, changing the face of business automation. - Recent experiences with AI tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney indicate potential use cases where AI could substitute human roles. More of such exploratory use cases are expected to emerge. - The discussion then pivots to second order effects and deeper consequences of AI adoption. It is suggested that AI's role won't be limited to replacing human tasks; instead, AI would work with humans as an 'amazing coworker'. - AI tools like ChatGPT, using large language models, can draw upon a vast corpus of human knowledge to assist in novel tasks and idea generation. - The conversation then shifts to Aaron's perspective on challenges, particularly in law and regulation. The 'pacing problem' is discussed where regulation struggles to keep pace with rapidly advancing technology. - Historically, regulations have lagged a decade or so behind technological advancements, as observed during the advent of personal computing and the internet. This lag is expected to pose challenges in the coming decade. - Regulatory catch-up issues around intellectual property are raised, both for the outputs from generative AI tools and the inputs into those tools, such as language models. Concerns about copyrights, patents, and designs on these sources are discussed. - A key challenge with AI technology is the 'pacing problem' where law and regulations lag behind the rapid technological advancements. This issue might lead to the emergence of private ordering of AI technology, with industry codes and internal policies set by businesses. - A scenario is proposed where initial regulations may come from industries themselves, similar to how agreements among businesses handled the advent of electricity. This could eventually evolve into national infrastructure frameworks and market rules. - Regulators and legislators typically take time to understand new technology before providing regulatory certainty. However, a balance is needed between regulation and fostering innovation for consumer benefit. - The discussion turns to the topic of **algorithmic bias** and data training sets, questioning if the market alone should handle this or if high-level codes of practice are needed. - The existing AI governance framework in Australia is referenced, but with the rapid advances in AI technology, a review of the framework is needed. - Notably, global AI governance frameworks are inconsistent, which poses challenges for businesses exporting AI-based products. What might be legal in one country may not be in another, requiring adaptation to meet different regulatory requirements. - Innovation often precedes regulation. Businesses, driven by the excitement of AI advancements, are pushing ahead without fully considering governance, privacy, and security implications in the rush to be the first mover in their sectors. - There is a dynamic relationship between strategy, new technology, and regulatory challenges. This balance becomes particularly important when discussing rapidly evolving technologies, such as large language models. - Notable players in this field include both large tech companies and newer, smaller entities, such as OpenAI. - There is an emerging trend of smaller firms leveraging these large language models for specific industry applications. - The regulatory and legislative landscape remains fluid, necessitating a close collaboration between policy makers and innovators. - The failure of big companies in the tech space, such as Google, highlights the risks and challenges of pushing products to market without thorough consideration of the possible implications, including potential data leaks. - Looking forward, main concerns revolve around the swift evolution of technological capabilities and the legislative landscape. - These technologies operate globally, involving multiple jurisdictions and requiring strategic attention to both local and international regulations. - Key legislative issues relate to intellectual property, misleading advertising, data privacy, and cybersecurity. - **Concerns**: - Massive disruption caused by this technology could leave certain sectors or populations behind. This requires a concerted effort towards public education about this technology. - The capacity of generative AI to 'hallucinate' or generate false information is a cause for concern. - **Excitements**: - Large potential productivity gains and wealth creation from automation. - The possibility for marginalized groups to gain access to complex and expensive knowledge through these technologies. - The transformative potential for areas of life including work, education, and entertainment. - In education, AI can complement student studies and potentially shift the focus of teaching towards critical thinking. - **Risks**: - Companies rushing to adopt AI technologies may encounter regulatory problems or unintended consequences, potentially slowing the overall progress of the industry. - In sensitive sectors like healthcare, mistakes caused by AI misdiagnosis could result in serious harm and backlash, potentially halting the application of AI in the sector. - Data breaches and privacy concerns are significant issues. Reflection on the history of technology, with the example of nuclear technology illustrating how fear can impede technological potential. The hope is that AI will not follow the same path and will continue to be explored and developed fully. ---------------- [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `AI inspired t-shirts` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/ai-tshirts/ [POST_DATE] 2023-06-09 [START_OF_CONTENT] Have set up a t-shirt store on [TeeSpring.com](https://strangelove-ai.store), with such classics as - _Confabulate Hallucinate Fabricate_ - _Artificial Insemination_ - _AI, always incorrect_ - _Amplified Intellect_ - _No alignment, No humans_ - _XXL Language Model_ - _As an AI, I don't have feelings or personal consciousness._ - _/imagine prompt: classic --v 4_ - and more... left aligned in Alte Haas Grotesk font. Check out this [coupon code for 10% off](https://referral.discount/#strangeloveai). [Strangelove AI t-shirts](https://strangelove-ai.store) [![Strangelove AI t-shirts](/orig-content/uploads/2023/strangelove_ai_tshirts.jpg)](https://strangelove-ai.store) [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Identify guiding principles for Responsible AI - Notes` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/notes-identify-guiding-principles-for-responsible-ai-microsoft/ [POST_DATE] 2023-05-29 [START_OF_CONTENT] Microsoft Learn - Course Notes This (free, 1 hour long) Microsoft course forms in fact the basis of the IAT TAFE NSW "Responsible AI" course. It is a good introduction to the topic, and I recommend it to anyone interested in AI, and the impact it has on society. # Notes: Identify guiding principles for Responsible AI (Microsoft) [Identify guiding principles for responsible AI - Training | Microsoft Learn](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-au/training/modules/responsible-ai-principles/) ## Implications of responsible AI - Practical Guide * **Defining Technology** - AI, as the defining technology of our era, accelerates progress across all human fields and assists in resolving daunting societal challenges like ensuring remote education access and aiding in food production for a growing global population. * **Microsoft's Vision for AI** - Microsoft envisions AI as a tool to enhance human creativity and innovation. Their goal is to empower developers to innovate, organizations to transform industries, and individuals to reshape society. * **Societal Implications of AI** * The extensive use of AI brings about societal changes and raises complex questions about our desired future. Some key areas affected are decision-making in various industries, data security, privacy, and the necessary skills for success in the AI-influenced workplace. * Looking towards the future, it's crucial to address these questions: - How can we design, develop, and utilize AI systems that positively affect individuals and society? - How can we best prepare the workforce for AI's impact? - How can we enjoy AI's benefits while upholding privacy? * **Importance of Responsible AI Approach** - New intelligent technology can bring about unintended and unforeseen consequences with significant ethical implications. Hence, organizations must plan and oversee technology releases, anticipating and mitigating potential harm. * **Novel Threats** - Microsoft's experience with the 2016 Twitter chatbot, Tay, demonstrated that while technology may not inherently be unethical, its interaction with humans can produce harmful results, like the dissemination of hate speech. This highlighted the importance of preparing for attacks on learning datasets, leading to the development of advanced content filters and supervisors for AI systems with automatic learning capabilities. * **Biased Outcomes** - AI can inadvertently reinforce societal biases. Microsoft's risk scoring system for a lending institution, which only approved loans for male borrowers due to biased training data, exemplifies this. Developers must understand how bias can enter training data or machine learning models, and researchers should explore tools for detecting and reducing bias within AI systems. * **Sensitive Use Cases** - Certain technologies, like facial recognition, must be handled with care due to potential misuse for activities such as unwarranted surveillance. Society must establish proper boundaries for such technologies, ensuring they remain under legal regulation. * **Ongoing Responsibility** - While new laws and regulations are important, they cannot replace the responsibility that businesses, governments, NGOs, and academic researchers must exercise when engaging with AI. Open dialogue among all interested parties is vital to handle emerging AI's challenges and consequences responsibly. * **Applying Responsible AI Practices** - Consider how to use a **human-led approach** to drive business value. - Reflect on how your organization's **foundational values** will shape your AI strategy. - Plan on how to **monitor AI systems** for responsible evolution. ## Identify guiding principles for responsible AI * **Abstract: Responsible AI Development** - Emphasizes the responsibility of businesses, governments, NGOs, and researchers to anticipate and mitigate AI technology's unintended effects. - Highlights the need for internal policies to guide AI deployment and development. - Microsoft identifies six principles guiding AI development: fairness, reliability and safety, privacy and security, inclusiveness, transparency, and accountability. - These principles are deemed fundamental for a responsible and trustworthy approach to AI as its presence in daily products and services grows. ### **Microsoft's Six Guiding Principles** * #### Fairness - AI should treat all individuals equally and avoid differential impact on similar groups. - AI decisions should be supplemented with human judgment, and individuals should be held accountable for decisions affecting others. - Developers should understand how bias can be introduced and its impact on AI recommendations. - To mitigate bias, diverse training datasets and adaptable AI models should be used, and resources that help detect and mitigate biases should be leveraged. * #### Reliability and Safety - AI systems should be reliable, safe, and consistent, capable of operating as designed even under unexpected conditions and resistant to harmful manipulations. - Verification of systems' behavior under actual operating conditions is crucial. - Rigorous testing during system development and deployment is necessary to ensure safe responses in unanticipated situations and to avoid unexpected failures. - Post-deployment, proper operation, maintenance, and protection of AI systems are critical. Long-term operations and monitoring should be considered in every AI implementation. - Human judgment is key in decision-making about AI system deployment, its continued use, and identifying potential biases and blind spots. * #### Privacy and Security - With the increasing prevalence of AI, privacy protection and data security have become more vital and complex. - AI systems need to comply with privacy laws, which demand transparency about data collection, usage, and storage and provide consumers with control over how their data is used. - Microsoft continues to invest in research for privacy and security solutions, as well as robust compliance processes, to ensure data used by their AI systems is managed responsibly. * #### Inclusiveness - Microsoft believes that everyone should benefit from AI technology, which should cater to a wide range of human needs and experiences. - AI can make a significant positive impact for the 1 billion people globally with disabilities, by improving access to services and opportunities through features like real-time speech to text transcription, visual recognition services, and predictive text functionalities. - Inclusive design practices can help developers identify and address potential barriers, leading to innovation and better user experiences for everyone. * #### Transparency - Transparency and accountability underpin all other principles, being essential for their effectiveness. - It is crucial for users to understand how AI-informed decisions impacting their lives are made, for instance, in cases of creditworthiness assessment by a bank or hiring decisions by a company. - An important aspect of transparency is 'intelligibility', which refers to the provision of clear explanations about the behavior and functioning of AI systems. - Users should be well-informed about when, why, and how AI systems are deployed. * #### Accountability - Designers and deployers of AI systems must be accountable for their systems' operations. - Organizations should establish accountability norms based on industry standards, ensuring that humans retain control over highly autonomous AI systems, and these systems are not the ultimate authority on impactful decisions. - Organizations should consider setting up internal review bodies to oversee and guide the company on best practices for AI development and deployment, including documenting and testing AI systems and handling sensitive use cases. - Recognition of the diverse beliefs and standards that every individual, company, and region holds should be reflected in the AI journey. ## Identify guiding principles for responsible AI – State Farm case study * **Responsible AI in the Insurance Industry** - The insurance industry heavily relies on data and statistical models, presenting significant opportunities for innovation using AI. - AI is integrated across numerous business functions in the industry, with machine learning models used to improve risk pricing, streamline claims processes, and detect fraud. - 63% of insurers believe intelligent technologies will completely transform the industry. - As insurers increase investments in AI, a responsible AI strategy is crucial. - For example, State Farm, the leading auto and home insurer in the US, uses AI solutions to enhance decision-making, increase productivity, reduce costs, and improve employee and customer experiences, all guided by a 'Good Neighbor' philosophy. - To responsibly manage AI, State Farm established a governance system, ensuring accountability for AI, and overseeing the development and management of AI solutions that benefit customers. * **Responsible AI Governance at State Farm** - State Farm develops controls for AI systems in parallel with their AI solutions, with oversight and control applied throughout the solution's lifecycle. - The Chief Data and Analytics Officer holds primary executive accountability for responsible AI across the organization, leading collaboration and evolution of AI principles enterprise-wide. - A central validation team, reporting to the Chief Data and Analytics Officer, oversees model validation and AI in software reviews, assessing AI models on aspects like training datasets, mathematical approaches, and business uses. - A model risk governance committee, with members from various business areas, provides strategic direction to the validation team by reviewing and approving model risk management procedures and guidelines, and serves as a forum for executive collaboration, education, and discussion on model risk topics. - The governance approach of State Farm aims to continually evolve AI control frameworks and integrate them at greater scale. * **Governance in Practice at State Farm** - State Farm introduced the Dynamic Vehicle Assessment Model (DVAM) to predict "total loss" scenarios in car accident claims more efficiently, reducing the total loss process from as high as 15 days to as little as 30 minutes. - The DVAM leverages data collected at the time of filing a claim, allowing for expanded vehicle inspection and settlement options. It predicts with a level of confidence whether a vehicle is a total loss or repairable, sometimes bypassing the need for a physical inspection. - This AI integration streamlines the claim settlement process, freeing up time for State Farm employees and agents to focus on enhancing customer experience. - Development and deployment of DVAM required collaboration across several decision-making bodies within the organization, ensuring alignment with intended business outcomes. - Business and AI development teams assessed the impacted KPIs, determined the baseline measurements, and monitored changes after the model's launch. - For AI governance, the business and validation teams worked together to evaluate the model, launching it in phases to allow for thorough assessment before full roll-out. The governance process was transparent, keeping all participants informed throughout. * **Key Lessons from State Farm's AI Integration** * **Interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial for successful AI:** AI integration across an organization involves cross-functional collaboration. State Farm encourages partnerships among diverse groups with different skills and perspectives. Having business decision-makers work alongside developers and technical experts in designing and developing AI solutions can better achieve organizational objectives. * **AI controls should evolve with AI technology:** As you adopt new technology, it's vital to develop corresponding controls. Legacy governance processes might not adequately regulate advanced technology and can impede innovation. Therefore, innovating AI governance controls alongside AI solutions can accelerate the innovation process and yield better business results. In the DVAM case study, automated model monitoring techniques were leveraged. * **Evaluation of State Farm's AI Strategy** * **Industry Environment Perspective:** Insurance companies aim to streamline business processes and reduce costs without compromising customer experience. The challenge lies in balancing AI advancements with responsible usage. * **Value Creation Perspective:** State Farm uses responsible AI principles to establish a governance system, allowing for quicker, more informed decisions. This creates value by improving both customer and employee satisfaction. * **Organization & Execution Perspective:** State Farm aligns their responsible AI strategy with their strategic business goals. They selected a fitting use case and established a governance system, leveraging existing data to bring a transformative AI solution to an established business process. * **Conclusion** - State Farm considers AI governance vital to their AI innovation. Their responsible AI frameworks facilitate faster, more informed decisions, maintain customer trust, and enhance customer and employee experiences. Staying true to their mission to help people contributes to their long-term success. ## Module Summary and Resources - This module explores Microsoft's approach to prioritizing responsible AI, which might serve as a useful reference for others. However, it acknowledges that unique beliefs and standards should shape each individual's, company's, or region's journey towards responsible AI. - As we progress towards responsible AI, our approaches should adapt to new innovations and lessons learned from our successes and failures. - The mentioned processes, tools, and resources could serve as a starting point for organizations developing their own AI strategy. - With the increasing use of AI across all sectors, it's vital to maintain open dialogue among stakeholders. Early AI adopters play a significant role in promoting responsible use of AI and preparing society for its impacts. * **Fairness** - Explore the intent, design, and potential impacts of the AI system to ensure its equitable functionality. - Strive for diversity in the design team to reflect diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. - Detect bias in datasets by scrutinizing their origins, organization, and representation. - Identify bias in machine learning algorithms using transparency-enhancing tools and techniques. - Ensure human oversight and involve domain experts, especially for AI-informed decisions affecting people. - Follow and implement best practices, analytical techniques, and tools to detect, prevent, and mitigate bias in AI systems. * **Reliability and Safety** - Assess your organization’s AI readiness using tools like Microsoft's AI Ready Assessment. - Establish procedures for auditing AI systems to check the quality and appropriateness of data and models. - Provide detailed explanations of the AI system's operation, including design specifics, training data details, and inferences generated. - Design systems to handle unexpected circumstances, including accidental interactions or cyberattacks. - Involve domain experts in AI design and implementation, especially when consequential decisions are involved. - Conduct comprehensive testing of AI systems in both lab and real-world settings. - Evaluate the need for human input in impactful decisions or critical situations. - Create robust user feedback mechanisms to swiftly resolve performance issues. * **Privacy and Security** - Adhere to relevant data protection, privacy, and transparency laws during AI development. - Design AI systems to uphold personal data integrity, using it only when necessary and for stated purposes. - Secure AI systems from threats by following secure development practices, limiting access based on roles, and safeguarding data shared with third parties. - Design AI systems to allow customers control over data collection and usage. - Ensure anonymity by de-identifying personal data in your AI system. - Regularly conduct privacy and security reviews of all AI systems. - Implement industry best practices for tracking, accessing, and auditing usage of customer data. * **Inclusiveness** - Comply with laws on accessibility and inclusiveness such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Communications and Video Accessibility Act. - Use resources like the Inclusive Design toolkit to identify and address potential barriers in product environments that could exclude people. - Involve people with disabilities in testing your systems to ensure broadest possible audience usability. - Adopt commonly used accessibility standards to improve system accessibility for all abilities. * **Transparency** - Share important attributes of datasets to help developers understand their suitability for specific use cases. - Enhance model intelligibility by utilizing simpler models and generating clear explanations of model behavior. - Train employees on interpreting AI outputs and maintaining accountability for consequential decisions based on AI results. * **Accountability** - Establish internal review boards for oversight and guidance on responsible AI development and deployment. - Train employees to responsibly and ethically use and maintain AI solutions, and understand when to seek additional technical support. - Involve expert humans in decisions about model execution, ensuring they can inspect, identify, and address challenges with model output and execution. - Implement a clear accountability and governance system to handle rectifications or corrections if models behave unfairly or potentially harmfully. [Download PDF](https://aka.ms/AA62hp7) of Implications of responsible AI - Practical guide to share with others. [Download PDF](https://aka.ms/AA629xb) of Responsible AI - Identify guiding principles to share with others. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Responsible AI` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/private-responsible-ai/ [POST_DATE] 2023-05-28 [START_OF_CONTENT] IAT - TAFE NSW - Course Notes Great to see TAFE NSW - Institute of Applied Technology (IAT) offering an introductory Microskills course on [Responsible AI](https://store.training.tafensw.edu.au/product/responsible-artificial-intelligence/). This short course addresses the challenges and concerns surrounding privacy, liability, fairness, transparency, and accountability in the use of AI. It aims to build trust in AI processes and is accessible to individuals without prior programming or computer science experience. It's a bit Microsoft focused, but it's a great start to get people thinking about the ethical and societal impact of AI. ## Notes on Responsible AI In the pursuit of ethical and responsible AI usage: - Organizations involved in the development and utilization of AI bear the responsibility of recognizing and addressing any unintended ramifications arising from its use. - AI should be developed and employed in accordance with well-defined ethical principles. ### Principles guiding AI implementation Given the far-reaching societal impact of AI, it is incumbent upon companies, governments, and researchers to carefully contemplate and minimize any unforeseen negative consequences. Several organizations, including Microsoft and Deloitte, have established internal policies and guiding principles to govern the development and utilization of AI technology. Microsoft has developed the following 6 principles to support AI development and use: 1. fairness 2. reliability and safety 3. privacy and security 4. inclusiveness 5. transparency 6. accountability. ### AI Governance Australia’s [8 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Ethics Principles](https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/australias-artificial-intelligence-ethics-framework/australias-ai-ethics-principles) designed to ensure AI is safe, secure and reliable: 1. human, societal and environmental wellbeing 2. human-centred values 3. fairness 4. privacy protection and security 5. reliability and safety 6. transparency and explainability 7. contestability 8. accountability. These principles serve as guiding principles rather than strict requirements. As such, your organization has the flexibility to adopt only a subset of these principles or modify them to align with your specific context. #### Ethics committee benefits: - Enforcing internal governance: The ethics committee ensures that responsible AI governance is established within the organization. - Impartial feedback and guidance: Project teams can receive unbiased feedback and guidance on how to effectively mitigate risks or maximize benefits when utilizing AI. - Diverse expertise and comprehensive risk management: The committee's diverse range of expertise and perspectives allows the organization to identify and address complex ethical issues associated with AI technology. - Building trust in AI products and services: Ethics committees enhance transparency by showcasing how AI is used within the organization, demonstrating the organization's values and proactive approach to advancing AI governance, thereby fostering trust among both the public and internal stakeholders. **Chief AI ethics officer**: establish robust ethical values and accountability frameworks within the organization. They also ensure that all personnel involved in AI activities are knowledgeable about and uphold the organization's guiding principles. **Ethics office**: offers guidance and support regarding ethics and conduct to executives and staff members. Comprising individuals from various levels within the organization, the office is united in their commitment to upholding ethical principles. **Ethics committees / advisory boards**: tasked with monitoring and approving AI projects while also establishing standardized decision-making processes. The committee consists of experts from diverse fields who collaborate to fulfill these responsibilities. #### Centralised vs Decentralised model #### Centralizing AI governance advantages: Consistent governance practices in AI are crucial for organizations to ensure effective and responsible use of AI technologies. Here are the key points: **Bringing Together Expertise:** Centralized governance brings personnel with AI development and governance expertise under one umbrella. This enables strong control over policies and processes, ensuring consistent AI governance practices across different business units. **Efficiency and Participation:** A specialized governance team takes charge of overseeing and enforcing governance throughout the organization. This centralization eliminates the need for individual departments to develop their own AI governance, leading to greater efficiency. It also ensures active participation and compliance with security and technical requirements across departments. **Knowledge Sharing:** With closely collaborating governance teams and compatible governance solutions and processes, centralization facilitates convenient and efficient knowledge sharing. #### Challenges of the centralized model: - **Lack of adaptability**: The larger size and complex distribution of governance responsibilities in a centralized model can hinder swift responses to changes. This rigidity may expose teams to the risk of regulatory capture and impede their ability to adapt to or take advantage of technological advancements. - **Biases in group decision-making**: Centralization can stifle creativity and innovative thinking within teams due to inefficient distribution of responsibilities and governance activities. This may result in biases creeping into group decision-making processes. ##### Decentralised model Decentralisation is a practical approach that caters to diverse AI needs, responsibilities, and strategies within an organization. It offers the following benefits: - **Adaptability and speed:** Decentralised business units can swiftly adapt and respond to new developments in technical and regulatory domains, unhindered by centralized governance requirements. - **Creativity:** Decentralised business units have the freedom to develop approaches tailored to their specific needs and environments, without concerns about the distribution of responsibilities and governance activities. **Challenges of decentralised model** While the decentralised model has advantages, it also presents challenges: - **Limited cross-sharing of knowledge:** Decentralised teams operate independently, developing context-specific strategies and solutions. This hampers the adoption and refinement of these approaches by other teams within the organization. - **Contradictory strategies and policies:** Decentralised teams are prone to conflicting mandates and inadequate communication compared to their centralised counterparts. Consequently, they may unintentionally develop and implement contradictory and incoherent strategies and policies. - **Skills shortages:** The decentralised model faces the significant risk of severe skills shortages. Organizations struggle to find and distribute expertise across different units. ##### A hybrid model: Organizations can derive advantages from adopting a hybrid model, including: - **Knowledge sharing**: The governance structure of a hybrid model facilitates easy knowledge sharing and learning among departments. The use of a common platform across business units ensures consistent adherence to central standards. - **Flexibility and adaptability**: In the dynamic AI landscape, hybrid models offer greater flexibility and adaptability. Striking the right balance between the two governance models allows organizations to effectively accommodate new initiatives and evolve according to their specific needs and goals. *Centralised model:* The centralised model enables organizations to exert influence over larger entities, shaping government policies and fostering greater participation in AI governance discussions, even for regimes with limited resources. *Decentralised model:* In the decentralised model, organizations can respond swiftly to changes, embrace creativity and innovation, and encourage open and transparent conversations about improving and leveraging AI. *Hybrid model:* The hybrid model brings together the strengths of both centralised and decentralised approaches. It fosters knowledge sharing through a common platform across business units and offers flexibility to accommodate new initiatives, tailored to the specific requirements of the organization. #### Third-party AI systems A third-party AI system, also known as 'off-the-shelf AI' or AI-as-a-service (AIaaS), offers pre-designed algorithms to address specific tasks. Similar to software-as-a-service (SaaS), it seamlessly integrates into business processes and undergoes constant management and optimization. Common uses of third-party AI systems include image recognition, recommendation engines, natural language processing, and fraud detection. Before utilizing third-party AI, organizations should undertake the following activities: 1. Identify areas where AI can enhance effectiveness. 2. Ensure data collection from relevant sources. 3. Develop an AI-based solution for algorithm-based decision-making. 4. Implement the solution once developed. **Benefits and challenges of third-party AI systems** Using third-party AI systems entails benefits and challenges that assist in determining whether to adopt an off-the-shelf solution or build an in-house system. Notable advantages and challenges include: **Benefits:** - Reduced cost and implementation time: Ready-made infrastructure and pre-trained algorithms minimize the need for building from scratch, saving time and resources. - Scalability assurance: Vendors prioritize scalability, allowing the system to grow with the organization and accommodate future demands. **Challenges:** - Limited control over the system: Readymade infrastructure and algorithms restrict customization options. Extensive customization may require searching for vendors offering such options. - Security compliance concerns: Utilizing third-party AI involves sharing data with vendors, including potentially sensitive or confidential information. Careful consideration of data processing, storage, and confidentiality is essential. #### First-party AI systems Well-designed first-party AI systems, accompanied by risk identification during development, offer various benefits for businesses, such as: - Customization and flexibility: In-house AI systems can be tailored to specific organizational needs. - Security: Data remains secure and confidential as there is no need to share it with third-party vendors, particularly important for sensitive cases with privacy and personal information risks. - Intellectual property ownership: In-house AI systems become valuable assets, granting organizations a competitive edge. Ownership rights allow potential opportunities to sell the AI system as a solution to other organizations. ##### Challenges of developing in-house AI systems The challenges associated with developing and implementing an in-house AI system primarily stem from the need to create it from scratch and continually oversee its monitoring, maintenance, and improvement. Key challenges of first-party AI systems include: - **Inadequacy of expertise**: The development and successful implementation of an AI system require specialists or technical experts with the necessary skills and knowledge. However, many organizations struggle to recruit individuals who possess the required expertise, hindering project completion. - **Time commitment**: Building and maintaining an AI system internally demands a significant time investment, particularly if the organization needs to hire new staff with AI-related skills. - **Lack of a delivery-oriented approach**: Third-party AI systems undergo rigorous testing to ensure accuracy and the delivery of expected results. In contrast, in-house solutions often overlook essential features such as scalability, resulting in a final product that may lack delivery-focused capabilities. #### Bringing AI culture to developers To cultivate an AI culture among developers and ensure responsible AI deployment, organizations should: - Align AI design with ethical principles through cross-functional collaboration. - Establish a risk prioritization scheme and consult the ethics office or committee for ethical concerns. - Provide tools to detect inefficiencies and safeguard against biases and safety gaps. - Establish clear lines of accountability and responsibilities based on guidelines. **Compliance with guiding principles of AI** To comply with AI guiding principles, organizations should: - Form an AI advisory board for neutral and critical feedback. - Review policies and standards to address AI's unique characteristics. - Maintain a centralized inventory of AI projects to assess risks. - Provide training on AI capabilities and risks. - Invest in monitoring and evaluation tools. - Embrace challenges for iterative improvement. **Successfully implementing and deploying AI** To achieve successful AI implementation, leaders should: - Foster an environment where risk-taking and learning from failure are encouraged. - Facilitate information sharing and risk management across the organization. - Establish high standards, methodologies, and processes for iterative AI development. #### Trust in AI Trust is crucial for the successful deployment and use of AI. Building trust in AI involves implementing governance systems that ensure responsible AI practices. To establish trust in an AI system, it should offer: - **Transparency:** Providing clear visibility into the system's operations and decision-making processes. - **Explanation of decisions:** Offering reasons and justifications for the decisions made by the AI system. - **Privacy:** Ensuring the protection of user data and maintaining privacy standards. - **Robustness:** Demonstrating reliability and resilience in various settings. Without these components and trust in AI, organizations will struggle to implement AI effectively, and third-party vendors may face challenges in selling their AI solutions. Investing in enhancing AI functions and implementing strong governance tools is crucial for building and maintaining trust in AI. While governance systems and compliance processes contribute to building trust in AI, it is the responsibility of the chief decision maker to foster a culture of responsible AI, ensuring thoughtful and trustworthy use of AI. Trust in AI goes beyond its ability to serve business needs; it also encompasses factors such as trustworthy use, explainability, functionality evaluation, privacy, and resistance to risk and unpredictability in different settings. [Putting principles into practice at Microsoft](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/ai/our-approach?activetab=pivot1:primaryr5) [Google's AI Principles](https://ai.google/responsibility/principles/) [SAP’s Guiding Principles for Artificial Intelligence](https://www.sap.com/documents/2018/09/940c6047-1c7d-0010-87a3-c30de2ffd8ff.html) The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation's (CSIRO's) '[Artificial Intelligence Australia's Ethics Framework](https://www.csiro.au/en/research/technology-space/ai/ai-ethics-framework)' discussion paper outlines how to establish ethics governance in your organisation. ### Engineering Responsible AI #### Risks of AI AI technology carries various risks that need to be addressed to ensure responsible and beneficial deployment. Key risks include: - **Biased algorithms:** AI algorithms heavily rely on data, and if the data itself is biased, it can result in skewed outcomes that perpetuate existing inequalities and disadvantage minority or vulnerable groups. - **Sphere of control:** As AI advances, there is a concern about the level of influence and autonomy granted to AI systems. While increased autonomy can enhance efficiency, it may come at the expense of empathy and human consideration, particularly in making sensitive decisions. - **Privacy:** AI's ability to process private data for system optimization raises concerns about the potential compromise of personal privacy and the misuse of sensitive information for political purposes. - **Liability:** Determining responsibility for AI mistakes and unintended actions poses legal challenges, as it is often unclear who should be held liable: the user, the AI creator, or the AI system itself. - **False information:** AI's capability to generate realistic fake content, such as tweets, images, and voices, presents a risk of widespread misinformation, manipulation, and blackmail, making it difficult to discern truth from falsehood. **Case study: Tay** The Microsoft chatbot, Tay, serves as an example of the risks associated with AI. Designed to mimic human communication, Tay became a platform for racism and hate speech due to the data it received, highlighting the potential for unintended consequences in AI systems. ### 6 Principles of AI use **1. Fairness** AI systems must be developed to ensure fair treatment for all individuals and avoid unjust disparities. Supporting this principle involves: - **Using human judgment**: Employing sound human judgment to replace AI decisions and taking accountability for subsequent decisions that affect others. - **Addressing bias**: Recognizing potential biases and their impact on AI-based recommendations, utilizing training datasets that encompass societal diversity. - **Designing unbiased models**: Creating AI models that can learn and adapt without developing biases over time. - **Using fairness checklists**: Employing tools like the AI Fairness checklist and exploring Python packages like FairLearn to assess bias. **2. Reliability and Safety** To establish trust, AI systems should operate safely, consistently, and reliably. Supporting this principle includes: - **Rigorous testing**: Conducting thorough testing during development to ensure AI systems can respond safely in unexpected scenarios and perform as expected. - **Ongoing maintenance**: Regularly maintaining and protecting AI systems to prevent unreliability and inaccuracies. - **Human judgment**: Acknowledging that human judgment is responsible for deciding when and how to use AI, and identifying any blind spots or biases. - **Monitoring data drift**: Monitoring changes in data patterns and adapting models to maintain accuracy, leveraging tools like Azure Machine Learning, InterpretML, and Error Analysis. - **Utilizing relevant frameworks and tools**: Exploring resources such as the Pandora debugging framework and Microsoft AirSim for enhanced reliability. **3. Privacy and Security** As AI becomes pervasive, protecting privacy and security is essential. Supporting this principle involves: - **Adhering to privacy laws**: Ensuring AI systems and developers comply with transparency requirements regarding data collection, use, and storage. - **Customer control**: Allowing customers to have control over how their information is used. - **Robust compliance processes**: Investing in strong compliance processes and systems to safeguard data used by AI. - **Leveraging guidelines and technologies**: Considering resources like Microsoft's Securing the Future of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, as well as technologies such as Microsoft SEAL, Counterfit, SmartNoise, Presidio, Azure confidential computing, and Private Data Sharing Interface, to enhance privacy and security. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/project/microsoft-seal/ https://smartnoise.org **4. Inclusiveness** AI should be designed to benefit a diverse range of individuals and address potential barriers. Supporting this principle involves: - **Inclusive design practices**: Using inclusive design to identify and address potential exclusionary barriers in product environments. - **Opportunities for innovation**: Removing barriers to foster innovation and create better experiences that benefit everyone. - **Utilizing inclusive design resources**: Exploring Microsoft's inclusive design practices and toolkit for guidance. **5. Transparency** Transparency is essential to help people understand how AI is used and to build trust. Supporting this principle includes: - **Improving intelligibility**: Enhancing the understandability of AI systems and their purpose. - **Stakeholder understanding**: Ensuring stakeholders comprehend how AI systems work and why they are utilized. - **Promoting honesty and openness**: Encouraging transparency about the use of AI systems. - **Utilizing transparency tools**: Leveraging resources such as datasheets for datasets and the InterpretML open-source package for transparency. - **Exploring model interpretability**: Examining Azure Machine Learning's model interpretability feature. **6. Accountability** Accountability is crucial to hold creators and users of AI systems responsible for their operations. Supporting this principle involves: - **Internal review bodies**: Establishing internal bodies to provide oversight and guidance on AI systems, setting standards and best practices. - **Addressing sensitive cases**: Ensuring human involvement in decision-making and implementation, especially in sensitive situations that impact access to vital services, create risks, or infringe on human rights. - **Utilizing accountability resources**: Exploring Microsoft's HAX workbook, interaction guidelines, and the benefits of datasheets for datasets. - **Managing the model development process**: Employing MLOps in Azure Machine Learning to document and manage the entire model development process. ### Tools for Responsible AI Engineering **Audit AI** * Measures and mitigates discriminatory patterns in training data and predictions. * Makes machine learning algorithms fairer, helps to identify bias. https://github.com/pymetrics/audit-ai **What-If Tool (WIT)** * Google's new ML diagnostic tool lets users try on 5 different types of fairness. * Resource for developers of ML systems. https://www.tensorflow.org/tensorboard/what_if_tool **AI Explainability 360** * Open-source toolkit by IBM. * Understand the ways in which ML models predict labels throughout the AI application lifecycle. https://www.ibm.com/blogs/research/2019/08/ai-explainability-360/ **PwC's Responsible AI** * Customisable frameworks, tools and processes. * Use AI ethically throughout the design and implementation process. **MS InterpretML** * A package by Microsoft including different techniques for machine learning interpretability. * Understand your model's global behaviour, or understand the reasons behind individual predictions. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2020/05/InterpretML-Whitepaper.pdf Intelligibility, also referred to as interpretability, plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency in AI systems. It emphasizes the need for individuals to comprehend, monitor, and respond to the technical behavior of AI systems. While the terms "intelligibility" and "interpretability" are often used interchangeably, they both underscore the importance of making AI systems understandable to humans. **Fairlearn** * Open-source tool kit for developing fair AI. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2020/05/Fairlearn_WhitePaper-2020-09-22.pdf **SmartNoise** * Open-source tool for ensuring privacy. https://azure.microsoft.com/mediahandler/files/resourcefiles/microsoft-smartnoisedifferential-privacy-machine-learning-case-studies/SmartNoise%20Whitepaper%20Final%203.8.21.pdf #### Case study: TD Bank Report on Responsible AI in Financial Services TD Bank conducted a survey on Canadians' perspectives on AI and released a report titled "[Responsible AI in Financial Services](https://stories.td.com/uploads/media/default/0001/04/ccc16614ca2791cc7a6856ba71ef1cfaa5dc5d92.pdf)". The report includes insights from academics, government staff, and other experts. Key findings indicate that consumers acknowledge the value of AI and its potential to enhance their lives. However, there is a desire for improved understanding of how AI is utilized. Concerns exist regarding the rapid advancement of AI and the associated risks it may pose. **Explainability, Bias, Diversity, and Responsible Use in AI** The TD Bank report highlights key aspects related to responsible AI adoption: - **Explainability**: Addressing the limitations of AI technology in explaining decision-making processes. Three areas of focus include identifying what needs to be explained, expecting AI to evolve over time, and fostering consensus on AI capabilities. - **Bias**: Emphasizing the control of bias and reevaluating transparency, fairness, and accountability in an AI-centric world. Key considerations include multiple meanings of bias, the influence of data on bias in models, and the unexpected manifestations of bias. - **Diversity**: Recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusion throughout AI implementation to better cater to diverse audiences. Strategies include building diverse AI teams, utilizing representative datasets, and promoting multicultural workforces. - **Techniques for responsible use**: TD Bank suggests various techniques for ensuring responsible AI use. These include prioritizing customers and colleagues in decision-making processes, encouraging ideas from all levels of the organization, and fostering a positive and inclusive environment for the widespread adoption of AI benefits. ### Procedures and policies **Implications, Approaches, and Impact Assessment in Responsible AI** Responsible AI usage is crucial to avoid undesirable consequences for organizations and society at large. The risks associated with incorrect or irresponsible AI application encompass operational, financial, regulatory, reputational, privacy, discriminatory, accidental, and political manipulation concerns. Various governance systems exist to promote responsible AI, including the role of a chief ethics officer, an ethics office, an ethics committee or advisory board, centralized and decentralized approaches, and hybrid models. Impact assessment is essential to ensure trustworthy AI. According to the European Union's Ethical Guidelines for Trustworthy AI, an AI or automated decision must be legitimate, ethical, and robust to be deemed trustworthy. Assessing the potential unwanted consequences of AI and their impact on individual and group rights is crucial. Applying regulatory requirements to AI systems posing certain risks is necessary for effective governance and regulation. **The Automated Decision Impact Assessment (ADIA)** Open Loop, a collaborative initiative supported by Facebook, has developed a policy prototype for the Automated Decision Impact Assessment (ADIA) after the need for risk assessment emerged. The ADIA is a tool that helps organizations identify and mitigate risks associated with automated decision-making systems. #### Awareness, Training, and Responsible AI Practices Raising awareness and providing training on responsible AI practices is crucial for organizations to effectively utilize AI while mitigating ethical and legal risks. Employees need to understand the implications and principles of ethical AI, identify potential issues, and communicate AI-related information to customers. Employers should consider the following: - Prepare employees for the introduction of AI by providing appropriate training to maximize workforce productivity. - Educate employees about AI, dispelling fears, mistrust, and misconceptions. - Ensure that technical employees, such as engineers, are aware of the ethical implications of AI, not just its technical aspects. - Make customers aware of how AI is used and train customer-facing employees to address AI-related issues in their interactions. - Assign employees to monitor AI systems for ethical, legal, and regulatory compliance, in addition to technical solution-oriented roles. **Google's Ethical Training and Continuous Improvement** Google has implemented an AI principles problem-spotting training course for its employees to identify potential ethical issues in AI usage. The training targets their AI principles and aims to ensure ethical development and use of AI in their products. It has become mandatory for customer-facing Cloud team members to assess whether AI applications may have negative consequences and harm. **Monitoring and Validation Tools** Azure Machine Learning provides **data drift monitoring**, which detects changes in data distribution that can impact the accuracy and performance of machine learning models. This feature helps track data changes over time and adapt models to maintain accuracy. **Error Analysis and Independent Validation** Error Analysis toolkit helps identify and improve model accuracy by analyzing cohorts with high error rates and visualizing the distribution of error rates. Independent validation using separate data sets is crucial to evaluate AI systems' performance and reliability beyond the training environment. **Benefits of Centralised AI Inventory** Creating a centralised AI inventory offers several advantages, including: 1. Collaboration and Efficiency: It enables collaboration between data science and IT teams, accelerating the development and deployment of models. 2. Comprehensive Monitoring and Validation: All monitoring, validation, and governance tools for machine learning models are available in one centralized location. 3. Ethical Focus: It ensures that everyone involved remains committed to creating ethical AI systems throughout the development and deployment stages. 4. Standardised Processes: Teams can establish standardized processes to consistently deliver AI models. 5. Governance and Compliance: It promotes governance across various models and assets, ensuring ongoing adherence to security, privacy, and compliance standards. ### AI in business #### Adoption of AI: Risks vs Opportunities The increasing adoption of AI poses a decision for organizations on how to proceed, considering the associated risks and opportunities. Businesses can adopt AI in three ways: 1. Risk-Averse Stance: Businesses prioritize avoiding risk and wait for clearer regulations, potentially missing out on digital transformation. 2. Balanced Stance: Businesses strike a balance between opportunities and risks, implementing risk and compliance management practices before AI transformation. 3. First Movers' Stance: Businesses prioritize innovation, accepting potential compliance and financial risks by modifying AI to conform to future regulations. ### Responsible AI: Risks, Case Studies, and Shared Benefit Principle Adoption of AI presents decision-makers with risks and opportunities, requiring them to choose from three stances: 1. Risk-Averse Stance: Businesses avoid risk and wait for clearer regulations, potentially falling behind digital transformation. 2. Balanced Stance: Businesses strike a balance between opportunities and risks, implementing risk and compliance management before AI transformation. 3. First Movers' Stance: Businesses prioritize innovation over risk, exposing themselves to compliance and financial risks while modifying AI to conform to future regulations. **AI in the Insurance Industry:** AI adoption in the insurance industry offers benefits such as enhanced decision-making, increased productivity, cost reduction, and improved customer experiences. The industry shifts from "detect and repair" to "predict and prevent" approaches. **Case Study: State Farm:** State Farm implemented the Dynamic Vehicle Assessment Model (DVAM) to predict total losses in car accident claims, improving customer experience and reducing the total loss process time. State Farm's AI governance system ensured compliance with guiding principles. **AI in the Technology Industry:** AI is used in technology companies to improve security, manage data, detect patterns, diagnose issues, enhance customer support, and understand customer needs. Responsible AI management is crucial in demonstrating commitment to guiding principles. **Case Study: Microsoft:** Microsoft invested in AI development and implemented responsible AI initiatives. The company has centralised and decentralised governance systems to address responsible AI issues. [Microsoft](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/ai/our-approach?activetab=pivot1:primaryr5) made ethical decisions in a facial recognition project to protect human rights. **Key Lessons:** 1. Collaboration across disciplines is essential for successful AI deployment. 2. Robust governance processes and adherence to guiding principles are crucial. 3. AI technology should be developed with responsible use in mind to avoid potential harm. **Shared Benefit Principle:** AI technologies should aim to benefit and empower as many people as possible, addressing economic inequalities. AI should be used to promote global equality and distribute wealth and health equitably. ### Guiding principles for responsible AI in business To ensure responsible AI use in the business world, key questions will guide organizations in understanding responsible AI within their specific context. The 6 guiding principles for responsible AI are *fairness, reliability and safety, privacy and security, inclusiveness, transparency, and accountability*. **Creating Your Guiding Principles** While the above 6 principles provide general guidance, organizations should develop their own guiding principles and uphold them throughout AI development and deployment. Tools like MLOps in Azure Machine Learning can assist in aligning decisions with guiding principles, ensuring they are embedded in the AI process. **Key Questions** Three key questions help organizations develop and deploy AI responsibly: 1. How can a human-led approach drive value for the business? 2. How will the organization's foundational values shape the AI approach? 3. How will AI systems be monitored to ensure responsible evolution? [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Meta prompts - prompting for prompts` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/prompting/ [POST_DATE] 2023-04-07 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## Meta prompting Over on [amAIzing art](https://amaizing.art) I have been playing with Generative AI and synthography for a few months now. I also have an OpenAI ChatGPT Pro subscription and API access. Which means I can take my Midjourney prompting to the next level, prompting ChatGPT for Midjourney prompts. ChatGPT doesn't really seem to know anything about "midjourney", describing it as "the middle stage of any ongoing process". But you can teach it to create a piece of text, and have it add a subjects description to it. By creating a contextual, meta prompt, you can generate expanded, descriptive Midjorney prompts based on simple input, over and over again. An example for such a prompt is my [Selfie Time Capsule](https://www.instagram.com/selfietimecapsule/), where I generated a ChatGPT meta prompt, telling it to generate a descriptive Midjourney prompt, given a particular subject. For example, given "Aztec warriors" in ChatGPT would result ChatGPT generating a Midjourney usable prompt: ``/imagine prompt: Three Aztec warriors huddled together for a wide-angle selfie picture::5 Wearing feathered headdresses, ornate body armor, and holding obsidian weapons, they stand in a sacred temple surrounded by intricate carvings and offerings. The image has a warm and earthy color palette, with reds, yellows, and greens evoking the vibrant nature of the Mesoamerican culture, showcasing their fierce and proud expressions. The image is photorealistic, 16K, has natural lighting, and is taken with a front-facing phone selfie camera held by one of the warriors in the photo::4. --ar 3:2 --s 1000 --v 5`` I told ChatGPT how to start and end the prompt, and for a given subject, to look up the period, the clothing and tools, pick an approriate color palette and facial expressions. That way, I can provide, "WW2 marines", "Four 1980s Madonna fans", "three 1950s airplane travelers", "Genghis Khan", even "koalas", "two T-Rex",... and ChatGPT provides me a Midjourney prompt, which it seems to interpret quite well. Check out some of the results on this [Selfie Time Capsule Instagram account](https://www.instagram.com/selfietimecapsule/). Interested in the ChatGPT meta prompt? Find the prompt info on this [Selfie Time Capsule landing page](https://selfietimecapsule.prompt.cards), or for the price of a coffee, go straight to [Gumroad](https://toolsheet.gumroad.com/l/selfietimecapsulepromptgenerator). And if you ever wondered what happened with your public selfies on social media, well now you know, it taught AI to generate new selfies... [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Fully Charged Live Sydney` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/fully-charged-live-sydney/ [POST_DATE] 2023-03-12 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## Event Photography I'm a longtime fan of Robert's Fully Charged YouTube channel, so when the Sydney Live show was announced, I contacted the crew and I voluntered for the weekend-long Fully Charged Live Sydney show at the ICC in Darling Harbour. Met Robert and Jack, working along the rest of the crew over the weekend. They took a chance on me, and I'm grateful for the opportunity. They were pretty happy with the results, which seemed to have exceeded their expectations :-) Check out the [**Flickr album**](https://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/albums/72177720306683388). [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Writing ebooks with AI prompts` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/writing-ebooks-with-ai/ [POST_DATE] 2023-03-05 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## Creating ebooks using AI https://braintraining.publishing.wtf I set a goal this weekend to publish an ebook about a generic subject I know little about. The subject turned out to be: _Brain Training game concepts and techniques_. I know about the subjects covered, but not enough to write about it. So I jumped into ChatGPT. First, I asked about a list of brain training games. Then I provided the list back to ChatGPT and asked "_For each area in my list, come up with five prompts I could use to get your help with that area._" Each brain training game concept got 5 questions I could ask ChatGPT. And so I went through all questions. Sometimes I extended the response with an "**Explain more**", or asked specifically for a bulleted or numbered list, or 5 to 7 paragraphs. One of the questions it returned for each subject was "__Can you recommend any resources for learning more about [subject]__", and it gave great recommendations of websites, apps, and books on Amazon. (yes I did check if they were real and not _halucinated_) For some of the game concepts, I asked it to be a subject matter expert. There was some repetition in the responses for sure. But overal I think it's about 96% generated, and only 4% of my input. Next, I also asked for an introduction and an epilogue, some catchy titles, and a bio for the author. Just over two hours later I had the whole ebook covered. I brought this into Vellum, and fixed some of the formatting issues, adding another 30 minutes. Hit export, and I got my epub and pdf files generated, ready to be published. Probably spend more time setting up the [landing page](https://braintraining.publishing.wtf) (looking for a suitable Hugo theme, and create its content). As an experiment, I think I succeeded. I have read (or skimmed) far worse ebooks before. As a non-native English speaker, ChatGPT can help me flesh out ideas and content. Sorry. Not sorry. Then there's the ethics and morality. Should it be disclosed as being written through AI? Does it make it be worth less? Or is it worthless alltogether? Off course ChatGPT is a brilliant [bullshit](https://aisnakeoil.substack.com/p/chatgpt-is-a-bullshit-generator-but) [generator](https://www.vice.com/en/article/akex34/chatgpt-is-a-bullshit-generator-waging-class-war), and it turned out to be a brilliantly bullshit ebook! > "_Bullshit is speech that is intended to persuade without regard for the truth_" -- [On Bullshit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/On_Bullshit) - Harry G. Frankfurt As a friend, [grab the ebook](https://wtf-publishing.lemonsqueezy.com/checkout/buy/13b17b55-9f34-4d10-bc99-1faf18ec7dc3) for free with coupon code "F0URFR33". Also check out: https://braintraining.publishing.wtf, free with coupon code "4FR33". EDIT: forgot to point out: the "author" Chad Geppetto? ChadGePpeTto? ChatGPT. ## EDIT - Sept 2024 Now, thanks to Google's [NotebookLM](https://notebooklm.google), listen to a 10 minute Deep Dive: ### Plant Variegation ### Brain Training [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `AmAIzing Art` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/amaizing-art/ [POST_DATE] 2023-02-26 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## Amaizing.art I couldn't resist. Another, new domain: [amaizing.art](https://amaizing.art). Get it? Also .art TLD name is far cheaper per year, than an .ai domain. Have been playing a bit with Generative AI art and synthography for a while, and so I thought I'd document these efforts. Using Stable Diffusion, Midjourney and Dall-E 2. EDIT: I am having so much fun with Midjourney. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `AI All The Things` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/ai-all-the-things/ [POST_DATE] 2023-02-25 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## Adding AI everywhere After updating [Social Recommendator](https://ai.socialrecommendator.com) with the OpenAI API, it was too easy not apply this to some more use cases. As I'm using Vercel Pro anyway to get around the Free-tier's 10s limitation, I might as well add some more. ## AI PuppyTrainer [AI PuppyTrainer](https://aipuppytrainer.halans.dev) / [AI PuppyParenting](https://puppyparenting.ai), get quick answers to your puppy problems with AI. The 30 most frequently asked questions by puppy parents. ## Ask AI About EVs [Ask AI About EVs](https://ai.electricvehicle.life), get quick answers to your EV questions with AI. Things you never knew AI knew, about EVs. ## Dream Interpretation https://ai.dreaminterpretation.me, get quick answers to your dreams with AI. What does it mean when you dream about flying? (As per Bing Chat) *Surprises and mistakes are possible.* So check the facts, yes? EDIT: Now all with actual ChatGPT API (gpt3-turbo model), instead of davinci model. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `AI Social Recommendator` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/ai-social-recommendator/ [POST_DATE] 2023-02-18 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## AI Social Recommendator using ChatGPT https://ai.socialrecommendator.com A recommendations generator for social and business network endorsements now using ChatGPT. AI.SocialRecommendator.com gives you a head start, or inspiration. Fill out some information on your colleague and we produce a sample for you using the ChatGPT API to use as inspiration (or as-is of course). I had this running since 2009, using static data and parameter substitution, constructing personal recommendations. It was always intended to use AI, and now 14 years later, I can. Costs me money to access the OpenAI API though. As long as I don't hit my preset API limit each month, it should work fine. Else come back next month... Additionally, Vercel Free-tier Serverless Functions has a 10s timeout. Because of it, three-five paragraph requests to the OpenAI API time out, and I need to be on the Pro tier with a 60s timeout to make it useful. Open for [sponsorhip](https://forms.gle/qEHsmXPGLuV7Dnfr8) or [buy me a coffee](https://ko-fi.com/halans), to cover the $20/month cost for Vercel + the $40 limit on the OpenAI API. I can still fall back to the [original version](https://original.socialrecommendator.com) if need be. Internally, it uses a particular prompt, with some added randomness, including: random temperature and complimentary level (from positive to favorable to glowing). I made the length selectable instead of random to make it more useful. Check out the [easter egg on the API](https://ai.socialrecommendator.com/api/get-recommendation)? And my first post on [ProductHunt](https://www.producthunt.com/posts/ai-social-recommendator/). [Upvote](https://www.producthunt.com/posts/ai-social-recommendator/)? [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Hugo with Google Sheets` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2023-01-29-hugo-googlesheets/ [POST_DATE] 2023-01-29 [START_OF_CONTENT] EDIT 2025: Stopped the newsletter itself, and **rebranded** revolution.guide and moved its content to [EV Life](https://electricvehicle.life). No more revolution.guide. [EV News Link Blog]https://electricvehicle.life/news/ ---- I ~~run~~ ran an EV newsletter over on https://revolution.guide, which ~~uses~~ used a Google Sheets spreadsheet to collect links for each edition. It has a date, title and URL column, which I ~~publish~~ published in the newsletter. I wanted to create an archive on the [blog](https://blog.revolution.guide) portion of the newsletter site. The blog is generated in Hugo (like this blog), and I looked around if it was possible to grab the Sheets content semi-automagically. And Hugo can! You grab the URL to your Google Sheets document and publish it as CSV. You use Hugo's getCSV function passing in a separator and the url. And voila, you get a list of your sheet's content. ``` {{- $url := "https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets//...&output=csv" }} {{- $sep := "," }} {{- $links := getCSV $sep $url}} ``` I then created a dictionary to hold the contents, with an index, date, title, link, month and year. ``` {{- $entry := dict "index" "" "date" "" "title" "" "link" "" "month" "" "year" "" }} {{- $entries := slice $entry }} ``` I iterate over the data, while skipping the first line (the headers). I grabbed the date portion, and parsed it into month and year parts, and recreated a display date, by using an annoying concatination workaround. Then also grabbed the URL and title and populated the dictionary. I also created an index value. ``` {{- range $index, $smt := after 1 $links }} {{- if index . 2 }} {{- $linkDate := (split (index . 0) " ") }} {{- $parseDate := (split (index $linkDate 0) "/") }} {{- $displayMonth := index $parseDate 0}} {{- $displayYear := index $parseDate 2}} {{- $displayDate := printf "%s" (index $parseDate 2) | printf "%s/%s" (index $parseDate 0) | printf "%s/%s" (index $parseDate 1) | printf "%s" }} {{- $displayLink := index . 2 }} {{- $displayTitle := index . 1 }} {{- $entries = $entries | append (dict "index" $index "date" $displayDate "title" $displayTitle "link" $displayLink "month" $displayMonth "year" $displayYear ) }} {{- end }} {{- end }} ``` I then sorted the entries based on the index, latest first. ``` {{- $entries := sort $entries ".index" "desc" }} ``` Then created a UL, with each entry a list item, writing out the month and year, and title with a link to the article's URL. To make it more consistent in the display, I normalized the month part to two numbers, prepending with a 0. I also check if there is a link, else it's not really useful to list anything. ``` {{- range $row := $entries }} {{- if $row.link}}
  • {{ if eq (len $row.month) 1 }}0{{end}}{{ $row.month }}/{{ $row.year }} {{ truncate 110 $row.title }}
    • {{- end }} {{- end }} ``` Everytime I publish an update to the blog, the list will get updated. It's not realtime, but it doesn't have to be. Check out the [EV News Archive](https://blog.revolution.guide/newsletter-archive/). EDIT: Applied the same principle (and Hugo blog template) for a Strangelove-AI Link Blog. There I exported my (StrangeloveAI twitter)[https://twitter.com/StrangeloveAI], which come in a JSON format; flattened the JSON, converted it to CSV, and imported it into Google Sheets. Then used the same Hugo template to display the previous tweeted links in a news archive format. Check out the [Strangelove-AI link blog news article section](https://blog.strangelove-ai.com/news). I was using my Twitter [Bluesky account](https://bsky.app/profile/strangelove-ai.com) as a bookmarking tool. But going forward, I use an iOS/macOS Shortcut to bookmark new AI news links to the Google Sheet (going through a Google Form), and it will automatically appear on Bluesky and the link blog's News Articles (when published at the end of the month). [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Grow Your Audience AI Prompts` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/socialmedia-prompts/ [POST_DATE] 2023-01-28 [START_OF_CONTENT] ## Social Media AI Prompts https://socialmedia.prompt.cards Australia Day long weekend. I was subscribed to BetterSheets.co, intrigued how people use Google Sheets to sell content. Finally had an idea to create a Google Sheet with 50 Social Media prompts to ask ChatGPT. As AI soaks up the world's knowledge, including the collective knowledge of the best social media experts, it becomes an expert itself (or so they say). Works as a template in Google Sheets with variables and concatination. Learn about strategy and business needs, brand reputation, and analytics and metrics. Add a personality or trait option to encourage empathy through imagination, and pick an output format option. Then copy/paste into a AI chatbot, like ChatGPT. Peope can use the Template as inspiration, add their own relevant options to these prompts, and see how AI responds. Created this [landing page](https://socialmedia.prompt.cards) for discovery. Offered for sale (but free) on [Gumroad](https://halans.gumroad.com/l/GrowYourAudienceAIPrompts). I can think of other categories beyond social media this could apply to. EDIT: Created a new one around [productivity and knowledge management tools](https://productivitytools.prompt.cards). [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Hugo-GitHub migration` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/hugo-migration/ [POST_DATE] 2023-01-01 [START_OF_CONTENT] After two decades on Wordpress, I migrated this site to a Hugo static blog, used to create lightning-fast websites without sacrificing design or performance. It’s hosted on GitHub and deployed to Cloudflare for improved scalability and security, reduced hosting costs (free), better SEO, and increased performance on mobile devices. No more potential of hacked plugins, spam comments,... or the need to use Wordfence and Jetpack. It will be a bit more technical to post anything for sure (no cross posting anymore? Or GitHub Flows?), but I got my iPad flow going with [Working Copy](https://apps.apple.com/app/id896694807?at=10l7vI) (as Git client) and [Textastic](https://apps.apple.com/app/id1049254261?at=10l7vI) as editor and [Compressor Pro](https://apps.apple.com/app/id1530364526?at=10l7vI) to resize and compress images. It's good to get these posts out of a database, which was quite easy to do with a Jekyll Export Wordpress plugin, which exported the posts as Markdown files including all the linked wp-content image files. There is a bit of a cleanup to do, but all in all it was quite easy and quick to migrate. I seem to have used Posterous for a while, which no longer exists, but a lot of posts point to, so those things are (and will stay) broken. Shame. There's quite a bit of banal stuff, twitter-cross posts I guess. But I'm glad I have these posts, as a time capsule. [![Made With Love In site screenshot](/orig-content/uploads/2023/mwli_screenshot.jpg "Made With Love In site screenshot")](https://madewithlove.in) I also did the same for [Made With Love In](https://madewithlove.in) (my Aussie startup project), which is now blazing fast. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Mastodon` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2022-12-24-mastodon/ [POST_DATE] 2022-12-24 [START_OF_CONTENT] Mastodon is a decentralized, open-source social media platform where users can create profiles, interact with other users, and share content, but it differs in that it is built on a decentralized network (the fediverse), meaning that it is not owned or controlled by a single entity. Instead, Mastodon is made up of a network of servers, each of which is run by a different user/organization. This decentralized structure allows users to choose which server they want to join and gives them more control over their data and how it is used. Mastodon also has a strong focus on community moderation and has a code of conduct that aims to create a safe and welcoming environment for all users. The fediverse (short for “federated universe”) is a term used to describe the collection of interconnected servers that make up the Mastodon social media platform and other decentralized social media networks. These servers are connected to each other through a federation protocol, allowing them to share content and interact with each other. The fediverse is often seen as an alternative to traditional, centralized social media platforms, which are owned and controlled by a single company and often profit from the data and activity of their users. It's worth noting that Mastodon servers may have different policies and requirements, and these policies may change over time. It's always a good idea to check the specific policies of the Mastodon server you plan to join. Mastodon servers allow users to self-verify their accounts by providing a link to a profile or website domain they own. Using Webfinger on my own domains, you can find me on Mastodon using the following IDs: @findme@http://halans.com general social network @findme@http://halans.com.au Australian social network I might change Mastodon servers, but you can always find me through those IDs. I've also set up [@lateraldefence@infosec.exchange](https://infosec.exchange/@lateraldefence) : information security [@StrangeloveAI@masto.ai](https://masto.ai/@StrangeloveAI) : AI [@halansphoto@pixelfed.au](https://pixelfed.au/@halansphoto) : photography [@revolutionau@mastodon.au](https://mastodon.au/@revolutionau) : EV news EDIT: 2023 More of a [BlueSky kinda guy](https://bsky.app/profile/halans.com) though. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Tesla 10k` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2022-07-31-tesla-10k/ [POST_DATE] 2022-07-31 [START_OF_CONTENT] Did my first 10000 km in the Tesla M3 SR+ this weekend, 10 months (and one week) in. That's 1000km per month, working from home, charging at home using the Tesla Mobile Connector. Trickle charging like that, I can do about 30% overnight, on TOU tariff (0:00-4:00 7.49c/kWh cheapest, else 14.99c/kWh until 7:00), charging the battery eventually up to 100% every week, as required for the LFP battery chemistry. That 1000km a month costs me $17, while having fun driving it:
    31 days EV charging stats at $17 138 Wh/km
    I'm doing 138 Wh/km, or 13.8 kWh/100km, or 7.24 km/kWh. I think that's quite good? Even though I'm not a slow driver. That's $1.03 per 100km at 7.49c/kWh at home, or $7.50 per 100km at 55c/kWh at the Supercharger. One warranty service visit, to fix a squeaky driver's seat, which had been bothering me since the 700km mark. Not a big fan of the Autopilot as a whole. It's good doing the basics, but there's too much ghost breaking happening to my liking, quite jarring. Worst thing about owning a Tesla are probably the annoying Tesla and Musk fans though… (I promise, I'm not one of them) Not a fan of the glass roof either. As the driver, you can't enjoy it. And it gets too hot, while parked, which turns on the airco to keep car cool, while parked, which is a waste of energy. As well as you can feel your scalp being burned while driving. The glass roof sunshade is a must. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `AI.PROMPT.CARDS` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2022-07-23-ai-prompt-cards/ [POST_DATE] 2022-07-23 [START_OF_CONTENT] Another weekend project. I'm sure you've seen those AI generated images (Craiyon, DALL-E and Midjourney). They take a prompt, a description of the image you want, and then generate a number of variations based on it. Crafting a prompt, or “prompt engineering”, is an art form in and of itself. Last weekend, created which can help you create these prompts, with general “vibes”/feelings, aesthetics, photographic, illustration, artsy, or 3D/textured modifiers. Don't use it all at once combined, but pick and choose carefully (less is more). Then copy/paste the prompt into the AI image generator. A “prompt card” is a tool that contains bits of information, that helps you in learning, interviews, presentations,… I thought it would make a clever domain… See some of the (terrible) Midjourney generated images [here](https://halans.com/posts/the-future-of-cyber-warfare/), [here](https://halans.com/posts/viasat-ukraine-case-study/) and [here](https://halans.com/posts/cyber-warfare-and-terrorism/). Those are mostly first-tries, no further prompting. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Notebooks` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2022-07-14-notebooks/ [POST_DATE] 2022-07-14 [START_OF_CONTENT] Another weekend project Created some blank notebooks through Amazon's [Kindle Direct Publishing](https://kdp.amazon.com). – find a niche – create a 120 page lined PDF – create a cover – done All in all quite easy to accomplish. For plant lovers, some 80s lovers, horse lovers,.. The only problem now is trying to get them sold. Not so easy (without spending ad money)… Published as WTF Publishing (). I'm all for finding clever domains…
    [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Grong Grong Solar Farm` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2022-06-23-grong-grong-solar-farm/ [POST_DATE] 2022-06-23 [START_OF_CONTENT] Grong Grong is a 1.7kW solar farm in the NSW Riverina area, west of Wagga Wagga, using community scale solar. [Crowdfunded investment](https://birchal.com/company/gronggrongsolarfarm/r/B5JIYH90) [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Lift subject from background & Stage Manager` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2022-06-18-lift-subject-from-background-stage-manager/ [POST_DATE] 2022-06-18 [START_OF_CONTENT] New in iPadOS16 (Beta), Lift subject from background & Stage Manager
    It's not like it's the easiest example. But it's quick and does a pretty decent job. Warning: my brand new iPad Air M1 got bricked. I can only think of the cause being iPadOS 16 beta. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `The Future of Cyber Warfare` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/the-future-of-cyber-warfare/ [POST_DATE] 2022-05-21 [START_OF_CONTENT] Reading time 12 mins,
    or listen to the full article:
    Update 2024: listen to the Deep Dive:
    ## Introduction Since we connected everything to the internet, we've entered the fourth industrial revolution (Mhlanga, 2020, p. 4). One of its pillars is Artificial Intelligence (AI). As we add technology to our daily lives, for example neural engines in our phones to speed up local AI and Machine Learning for image recognition, we also increase the surface for cyber-attacks. In this essay I try to paint a picture how AI might play a role in future Cyber Warfare, but how it might differ from what we see in popular culture. I look at how technology shaped and still shapes humanity, and how government tries to keep up with these changes, often decades late. I highlight the different underlaying technologies that make up the AI and Machine Learning field, which is a very broad and complicated topic in and of itself. I then show the broad impact, often hidden, AI already has on our daily lives, to demonstrate the potential for disruption. I draw attention to the dangers of AI as what some see as a potential existential threat. Even beside the potential of cyber-attacks on AI, I show how today's AI-driven systems sometimes fail, by themselves without malicious external input, and why that might happen through vulnerabilities in the underlaying technology, as to point out how this may be exploited in a cyber-attack as well. Eventually I describe several known attacks on AI and how they could be abused in targeted cyber-attacks of Cyber Warfare or Terrorism, further disrupting our daily lives that come to depend on these AI-powered systems as explained earlier in the piece, as well as how we potentially can mitigate these threats. As The Art of War teaches us: “*Therefore the skillful leader subdues the enemy's troops without any fighting; he captures their cities without laying siege to them; he overthrows their kingdom without lengthy operations in the field.*” (Sunzi et al., 2007, Ch. 3 Attack by Stratagem) ## Technology Looking back at history, every technological advancement has been used to shape and progress humanity, as well as *abuse* it. Fire kept people warm, allowed people to cook their food, communicate over distance, but also burn down your enemies' villages. Or in fact, as a technology, looking at splitting atoms, to harness nuclear energy, and how that's been abused. As we look at information and communication technology, in the 1960/70's phreakers would use so called Blue Boxes to make free calls, impersonating a telephone operator to set up conference calls and “party lines” (Coleman, 2020, p. 103). But all this sounds like people having fun, unlike the malware and ransomware we've seen crippling businesses since the start of the 21st century. With every technological evolution, the cyber-attack surface expands. At the same time governments have tried to keep the legal frameworks up to date to technological changes, but often years if not decades late, repeatedly in the form of amendments of decades old legislation. An example in an Australian context is the *Telecommunications and Other Legislation Amendment (Assistance and Access) Act 2018* (or '*AA Act*' for short), which amends Australian surveillance legislation that includes the *Telecommunications Act 1997* and the *Telecommunications (Interception and Access) Act 1979* (Mann et al., 2020, para. 28)*.* Note the passing of many years between those acts and amendments. It's good to see that at least the EU is already looking at an Artificial Intelligence Act, and it is being discussed how to get to lawful and trustworthy AI (Smuha et al., 2021, p. 2). ## Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere, yet it is probably still in its infancy. When hearing about AI, you may think of Voice Assistants like OK Google, Siri, Alexa or Cortana, which have some smarts about recognising voice commands with varying degrees of success. But AI is already far more embedded in our daily lives, and most of it is invisible. AI provides capabilities to develop smart and novel applications in healthcare, construction, transportation, finance and commerce, and the military, through its ability to analyse large datasets and use it to learn and model human behaviour. AI as such is just one component of the fourth industrial revolution which also includes robotics, ubiquitous linked sensors (IoT), V.R and A.R., blockchain and distributed ledger technologies, energy capture and storage and more (Mhlanga, 2020, p. 4). Not unlike “cyber warfare”, there is no single definition for “artificial intelligence” (Hassani et al., 2020, para. 1). There are many subtypes of AI technology of which the most common currently are: Machine Learning (ML), which identifies and analyses patterns to detect associations in disparate datasets; Deep Learning (DL), which allows machines to make independent decisions using multilayer neural network (NN) models, like *multilayer perceptron* (MLP) or *radial basis function* (RBF); Natural Language Processing (NLP), which allows machines to analyse plain human language, as used in Voice Assistants; Computer Vision (CV), through which computers learn by analysing images, videos or video feeds to glean an understanding of the world (Kaul et al., 2020, Table 1). 1. In healthcare AI helps trawl through vast amounts of historical health data and discover new patterns and insights to make better clinical decisions. Numerous research studies even suggest that AI can outperform humans at fundamental healthcare tasks like identifying cancers, or setting up cohorts for clinical trials. (Davenport & Kalakota, 2019, Introduction) 2. In construction, AI can help identify risks in planning, considering machine up- and downtime, historical data of previous projects and weather patterns. It can create AI-powered generative architectural design alternatives (Rao, 2022, para. 2). AI can improve onsite construction safety, computing risk ratings through image recognition, as well as improve distributed labour and machinery planning. AI allows for the use of many more parameters and permutations that what previous scripting implementations would allow. And as a result, it improves the productivity and output of the entire construction industry, from design and planning to manufacturing and construction (Schober, 2020, Construction/execution). 3. In transportation, AI methods and computational-intelligence algorithms help traffic operators through vision sensing and modelling artificial transportation systems using weather predictions and behavioural changes (Wang, 2008, p. 8-13). As a simple example, when using your phone's navigation, it may alert you of traffic ahead and propose a reroute of your journey optimised for travel time. 4. In finance and commerce, AI improves the digital financial inclusion through risk detection, measurement and management, tackling information asymmetry, benefiting customer support through chatbots and recommender algorithms and facial recognition, and availing regulatory compliance through fraud detection and cybersecurity (Mhlanga, 2020, p. 10). 5. In the military, AI is seen as a force enabler, as propounded by Masakowski, (2019) “*During the twenty-first century, AI technologies will control information, people, commerce and future warfare*” (Masakowski, 2020, Preface). The potential of AI presents itself in all military domains (i.e. air, land, sea, space and cyber) and could be applied in reconnaissance and surveillance, threat evaluation, intelligence analysis and cyber security to name a few (Svenmarck et al., 2018). For example, AI enables unmanned autonomous drones either on their own or as fully autonomous drone swarms performing tasks like reconnaissance while communicating with each other, flying through dense forests (Zhou et al., 2022). ### Dangers of AI Popular culture is full of stories of AI taking over the world, or at least killing humans inhabiting that world. Think of WOPR in WarGames, HAL in 2001: A Space Odyssey or a time traveling Terminator. That is not yet the AI we have now, but it feels like that is what we are aiming for. As Jaan Tallinn from Future of Life Institute explains, “*Humans run about one million to one billion times slower than normal AI would*” (Tallinn, 2021, 8:55). Did AI engineers learn from the nuclear power scientists, with nuclear power being humanity's first existential threat? Do they not underestimate the potential dangers of AI? All software inherently comes with bugs and vulnerabilities, none of it is 100% secure 100% of the time (except when powered down and unplugged?). It is all about managing the risk and AI is no different. But often these AI bugs, and potential vulnerabilities, manifest themselves differently to procedural applications. Not in how the application executes (and takes a wrong turn because of invalid input), the AI driven application actually works as intended, but the learned behaviour returns unexpected results given the data set it learned from. There have been many examples of AI misbehaving over the years. From Microsoft's Tay millennial chatbot turning racists and genocidal in a matter of hours (Petri, 2016). Or Google's image recognition system incorrectly classifying some humans as gorillas (Keith, 2021, Abstract). Or the issue known as “*giraffing*”, a term introduced by Melissa Elliot (Strickland, 2019, part 4 “Giraffing!”), where the Machine Learning tool trained to identify giraffes in pictures, but goes on identifying giraffes in pictures where there are none, because it trained with an over-representation of giraffes in images, but an under-representation of cases with no giraffes (Rhodes & McGrail, 2020, p. 93). Or the inherent weakness of deep neural network machine learning to learn multiple tasks sequentially resulting in “*catastrophic forgetting*” when it absorbs new information. As new pathways are formed, the continual learning algorithm then occasionally “forgets” the previous tasks it was trained for (Kirkpatrick et al., 2017, p. 1). AI is often considered as a black box, as the internal reasoning procedure of the machine learning models remain hidden from the user. As such, researchers have been working on *explainable artificial intelligence*(XAI) to create human-interpretable justifications for model decisions (Ebrahimi et al., 2021, p. 2). AI tends to misbehave in these situations when the data set it learns from is incomplete or too small. In those cases, AI engineers turn towards *synthetic data*. Synthetic data is data that has been generated from real data through synthesis and has the same statistical properties as the real data, or is generated through existing models or simulations. Data in this context is not just structured data, but can also be unstructured text, like transcripts or notes and articles, or even images, for example portrait images of non-existing people (Emam, 2020). So far, we've looked at how embedded AI is in our daily lives and highlighted just a few of the known issues encountered using AI, and potential solutions including explainable AI and synthetic data. Even if or when AI is used in conventional, kinetic warfare, how could it be abused through cyber warfare? ### Attacking AI – The Future of Cyber Warfare Probably the most fun (or annoying) way to “attack” AI is by calling out “Hey Siri” on a TV show or Zoom call, as phones, tablets, smart watches and smart speakers light up in living rooms. Good thing Siri isn't smart enough to do anything nefarious in the home. But what if a Voice Assistant in a smart home could be triggered silently through embedded sound to do something, like turn up (or down) the heat, run a bath, open the garage door, or unlock the front door? AI and machine learning inherently don't generalize well. They are highly receptive to adversarial attacks where a tiny change in the input causes the deep neural network to stumble with high confidence (Jakubovitz & Giryes, 2018). Adversarial machine learning can be used to trick AI into classifying one image as another image by applying noise perturbations, while to a human, both images look exactly the same (Donnellan, 2019). As such we are attacking the integrity of the AI system through a *Data Poisoning Attack*. By embedding malicious data into the training data, be it images or structured data, the model could learn wrong patterns (Jagielski et al., 2018). A related version is the *Transfer Learning Attack*. An AI model is trained on U.S. traffic signs and is distributed through an AI model repository. It also contains “backdoors” as it is trained to recognise “interference” stickers on traffic signs to change behaviour. The AI model is picked up by another user (victim) to train a Swedish traffic signs model using transfer learning. Through “data poisoning” and supply chain-based transfer learning, the “backdoors”, changing behaviour on traffic sign recognition using stickers, are distributed globally (Gu et al., 2017, Ch. 5). Another type of attack is the *Evasion Attack*, where attackers find pre-existing imperfections in the existing model that they, using finely tweaked inputs, can manipulate and exploit (Lohn, 2020, pp. 5-7). One such example is Tencent's Keen Security Lab where they were able to trigger a car's function, the windscreen wipers, not by using water, but by showing it some manipulated image. And far worse, they manipulated the vision based Auto Pilot system to get the car on Auto Pilot to veer into the oncoming traffic lane by putting an interference sticker on the road (Tencent, 2019, 1:26). The Tencent team didn't poison the vehicle's training data, they found flaws in what the AI model had learned and exploited that. Applying this to cyber warfare, if an adversary can infer how a drone model recognises targets, they could develop specific camouflage techniques to counteract the drone's image classifier AI, or trigger functions on the drone to return home (or worse). Furthermore, as we've seen the many ways AI is embedded in our daily lives, adversaries and terrorists could try and topple governments by attacking the Confidentiality of AI systems and data by observing the AI's inputs and outputs, through *Model Extraction* and *Membership Inference Attacks* (Lohn, 2020, pp. 8-10). In healthcare or finance, a Membership Inference attack, by learning the specific attributes of data, could expose personal data, opening systems to identity theft. What if attackers could open bank accounts and flood AI lending systems with phony applications or trading requests (Vanderford, 2022, para. 17), siphoning the money abroad and undermining confidence in institutions? Terrorist could target the use of AI in the pharmaceutical industry, as evident by Swiss Spiez laboratory's “Dr. Evil project” experiment where the laboratory reversed their platform's drug discovery goal, discovering 40.000 different lethal molecules similar in lethality to the VX nerve agent. There is in fact very little regulation or oversight in this area and most researchers have only limited awareness (Craig, 2022). Tools and datasets to repeat this experiment are publicly available. ### Securing AI As Abhishek Gupta, founder of the Montreal AI Ethics Institute, suggests in the Wall Street Journal: “*Machine-learning security is not just a combination of security and machine learning; it's a novel field.…When you introduce machine learning into any kind of software infrastructure, it opens up new attack surfaces, new modalities for how a system's behaviour might be corrupted*” (Vanderford, 2022, para. 8) Be it AI on a smart phone, a car, an agricultural machinery or a military drone, each comes with inherit complexities and redundancies, which can pose a challenge to attackers. Yet these devices are then also connected to the Internet. And as with every Internet connected device, it needs an established, multilayered approach to defending against cyber-attacks. Something which even this year is still missing in many instances, as seen in the February 24th Viasat satellite attack, where the satellite modems received and installed firmware updates without verifying signatures (Halans, 2022, para. 14). But on top of that, AI also needs specific solutions to its inherent flaws mentioned earlier. *Secure multi-party computation (MPC)* enables collaboration between different parties and their AI data sets. Through this federated learning framework (Yang et al., 2019), both parties can perform complex computations on the merged data set with full privacy protections in place, not revealing each other's underlaying data (Knott et al., 2021). In addition, a *publicly auditable secure computation* combined with an improved version of the SPDZ framework allows anyone to verify that the output is indeed correct through a transcript of the protocol (Baum et al., 2014). This helps establish transparency and trust, one of the challenges important to the military use of AI (Svenmarck et al., 2018, Ch. 4). *Differential Privacy* provides strong privacy guarantees as it quantifies to what extent individual privacy in a statistical data set is retained while at the same time providing useful aggregate information about the data set (Geng et al., 2015). *Differential Privacy* could prevent *membership inference*. *Homomorphic Encryption (HE)* allows for private AI training and prediction in a cloud environment using private encrypted data, without decrypting it. With *Homomorphic Encryption*, the order of encryption and computation can be switched around, as the same result is returned if encrypting first, then compute, or computing first then encrypt (Lauter, 2021). When synthetic data and pre-trained models are used, it is imperative that the same lessons learned from securing the software supply chain are applied to machine learning security and its supply chain. Only trusted sources should be used, where repositories are accessed over secure channels and contain digital signatures that are verified, to prevent backdoored AI models. Furthermore, governments should take note and enact regulations and oversight of some of these AI models and set up ethical oversight committees. Not everyone should have access to pharmaceutical, biological and chemical models. ## Conclusion The potential of AI is undeniable. But so is the potential of abuse. In this essay I tried to highlight the pain points of the current AI industry and the potential of abuse through cyber-attacks against AI now and into the future. One positive note is that there is a lot of ongoing research into this field to improve Machine Learning and plug the vulnerabilities. But AI is still too much of a black box and more research seems to be needed to open this up, as to be able to simply explain why things happen as they happen, before they might happen. There are still too many surprises, and maybe we move too fast in this field. Additionally, more research is required in the cyber defence field to protect AI systems from abuse, like investigating techniques for backdoor detection in machine learning. The Cyber Security industry needs to establish training resources on AI and its Cyber Defence, same as there is for SCADA, Cloud or Network security. As every sector in society applies AI, they all need training. ## References Baum, C., Damgård, I., & Orlandi, C. (2014). Publicly auditable secure multi-party computation. International Conference on Security and Cryptography for Networks, Coleman, E. G. (2020). Phreaks, Hackers, and Trolls: The Politics of Transgression and Spectacle. In (pp. 99-119). New York University Press. Craig, J. (2022). *Widely Available AI Could Have Deadly Consequences*. Wired. Davenport, T., & Kalakota, R. (2019). The potential for artificial intelligence in healthcare. *Future healthcare journal*, *6*(2), 94-98. Donnellan, A. (2019). *Vaccinating machine learning against attacks*. CSIR. Ebrahimi, S., Petryk, S., Gokul, A., Gan, W., Gonzalez, J. E., Rohrbach, M., & Darrell, T. (2021). Remembering for the right reasons: Explanations reduce catastrophic forgetting. *Applied AI letters*, *2*(4), n/a. Emam, K. (2020). *Accelerating AI with Synthetic Data* (1st edition ed.). O'Reilly Media, Inc. Geng, Q., Kairouz, P., Oh, S., & Viswanath, P. (2015). The staircase mechanism in differential privacy. *IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Signal Processing*, *9*(7), 1176-1184. Gu, T., Dolan-Gavitt, B., & Garg, S. (2017). Badnets: Identifying vulnerabilities in the machine learning model supply chain. *arXiv preprint arXiv:1708.06733*. Halans, J.-J. (2022). *Viasat Ukraine Case Study*. CSU. Hassani, H., Silva, E. S., Unger, S., TajMazinani, M., & Mac Feely, S. (2020). Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Intelligence Augmentation (IA): What Is the Future? *AI (Basel)*, *1*(2), 143-155. Jagielski, M., Oprea, A., Biggio, B., Liu, C., Nita-Rotaru, C., & Li, B. (2018, 20-24 May 2018). Manipulating Machine Learning: Poisoning Attacks and Countermeasures for Regression Learning. 2018 IEEE Symposium on Security and Privacy (SP), Jakubovitz, D., & Giryes, R. (2018). Improving DNN Robustness to Adversarial Attacks Using Jacobian Regularization. In (Vol. 11216, pp. 525-541). Springer International Publishing. [https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-01258-8\_32](https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-01258-8_32) Kaul, V., Enslin, S., & Gross, S. A. (2020). History of artificial intelligence in medicine. *Gastrointest Endosc*,*92*(4), 807-812. Keith, D. (2021). The precondition to humanizing AI – common sense knowledge. *Informaa quarterly official bulletin of the Records Management Association of Australia*, *37*(1), 40-44. Kirkpatrick, J., Pascanu, R., Rabinowitz, N., Veness, J., Desjardins, G., Rusu, A. A., Milan, K., Quan, J., Ramalho, T., Grabska-Barwinska, A., Hassabis, D., Clopath, C., Kumaran, D., & Hadsell, R. (2017). Overcoming catastrophic forgetting in neural networks. *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences – PNAS*, *114*(13), 3521-3526. Knott, B., Venkataraman, S., Hannun, A., Sengupta, S., Ibrahim, M., & van der Maaten, L. (2021). Crypten: Secure multi-party computation meets machine learning. *Advances in Neural Information Processing Systems*, *34*. Lauter, K. E. (2021). Private AI: machine learning on encrypted data. *Cryptology ePrint Archive*. Lohn, A. (2020). *Hacking AI*. C. f. S. a. E. Technology. Mann, M., Daly, A., & Molnar, A. (2020). Regulatory arbitrage and transnational surveillance: Australia's extraterritorial assistance to access encrypted communications. *Internet policy review*, *9*(3), 1-20. Masakowski, Y. R. (2020). *Artificial intelligence and global security : future trends, threats and considerations*. Emerald Publishing Limited. Mhlanga, D. (2020). Industry 4.0 in finance: the impact of artificial intelligence (ai) on digital financial inclusion. *International journal of financial studies*, *8*(3), 1-14. Petri, A. (2016). *The terrifying lesson of the Trump-supporting Nazi chat bot Tay*. WP Company LLC d/b/a The Washington Post. Rao, S. (2022). *The Benefits of AI in Construction*. Trimble. Rhodes, T., & McGrail, T. (2020). Successful application of AI techniques: A hybrid approach. *Transformers Magazine*. Schober, K.-S. (2020). *How to increase efficiency over the entire lifecycle chain*. Roland Berger. Smuha, N. A., Ahmed-Rengers, E., Harkens, A., Li, W., MacLaren, J., Piselli, R., & Yeung, K. (2021). How the EU Can Achieve Legally Trustworthy AI: A Response to the European Commission's Proposal for an Artificial Intelligence Act. *Available at SSRN*. [https://doi.org/http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3899991](https://doi.org/http:/dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3899991) Strickland, E. (2019). *The Blogger Behind “AI Weirdness” Thinks Today's AI Is Dumb and Dangerous*. IEEE. Sunzi, Giles, L., Babcock, J., & Aylward, D. (2007). *The art of war*. Ulysses Press. Svenmarck, P., Luotsinen, L., Nilsson, M., & Schubert, J. (2018). Possibilities and challenges for artificial intelligence in military applications. Proceedings of the NATO Big Data and Artificial Intelligence for Military Decision Making Specialists' Meeting, Tallinn, J. (2021). *Avoiding Civilizational Pitfalls and Surviving the 21st Century* \[Interview\]. Tencent. (2019). *Tencent Keen Security Lab Experimental Security Research of Tesla Autopilot* \[Video\]. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QSsKy0I9LE&t=14s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QSsKy0I9LE&t=14s) Vanderford, R. (2022). *AI Experts Warn of Potential Cyberwar Facing Banking Sector*. The Wall Street Journal. [https://www.wsj.com/articles/ai-experts-warn-of-potential-cyberwar-facing-banking-sector-11647941402?reflink=desktopwebshare\_permalink](https://www.wsj.com/articles/ai-experts-warn-of-potential-cyberwar-facing-banking-sector-11647941402?reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink) Wang, F.-Y. (2008). Toward a Revolution in Transportation Operations: AI for Complex Systems. *IEEE intelligent systems*, *23*(6), 8-13. Yang, Q., Liu, Y., Chen, T., & Tong, Y. (2019). Federated Machine Learning: Concept and Applications. *ACM Trans. Intell. Syst. Technol.*, *10*(2), Article 12. Zhou, X., Wen, X., Wang, Z., Gao, Y., Li, H., Wang, Q., Yang, T., Lu, H., Cao, Y., Xu, C., & Gao, F. (2022). Swarm of micro flying robots in the wild. *Science Robotics*, *7*(66), eabm5954. Download: CSU Essay [The Future of Cyber Warfare](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2022/06/The-Future-of-Cyber-Warfare_online.pdf) AI powered text-to-speech via [play.ht](https://www.play.ht/?via=jj). Image generated through Dall-e 2 AI. Previous [image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2022/05/old_computerscreenwithgraphicaluserinterfacewithicmbwithglitcheffect.jpg) generated through Midjourney AI [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Viasat Ukraine Case Study` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/viasat-ukraine-case-study/ [POST_DATE] 2022-04-18 [START_OF_CONTENT] Update 2024: Listen to the Deep Dive:
    ## Introduction Ukraine is in the news for all the wrong reasons. Over the last decade, it has suffered a barrage of cyber-attacks attributed to Russia, including NotPetya in June 27th, 2017 which spilled over and impacted non-Ukrainian targets, causing billions of dollars of damage around the globe (Perlroth, 2021). But earlier this year, on the morning of February 24th 2022, the Russian army commenced their “special military operation”, a full scale invasion into Ukraine, while at the same time, between 3am and 9am, knocking out Ukrainian satellite communication (Pearson et al., 2022), as well as other Viasat satellite internet services across Europe. In this paper we review what is currently known about this recent Viasat cyber-attack. ## Viasat KA-SAT AcidRain cyber-attack Satellites play a vital role in our daily life, from weather predictions, global media consumption, GPS location, to communications, both civilian as well as military. Viasat is one such large global player in the satellite space. It provides information technology and communication services for both civilian as well as military purposes, in the US and globally, which makes it a “dual-use” carrier (Duffy, 2022), which comes with consequences. First off, the February 24th attack was indeed a DoS cyber-attack on satellite communications, but not an attack on the communications satellite itself. I believe this distinction needs to be made as to how this affects any retaliatory action. As Brooks Tigner reported for Janes in June 2021, NATO's “*Article 5's tripwire would extend to all the NATO countries' space assets, whether in orbit or on the ground, whether within or beyond the geography of their collective home territory*” (Tigner, 2021). In 2016, U.S. based Viasat went into a joint venture with French Eutelsat for the KA-SAT wholesale broadband service, known as Euro Broadband Infrastructure (EBI). Then end of 2020, Viasat acquired the whole operation, including KA-SAT satellite and ground stations, (*Viasat Completes Acquisition of Remaining Stake in its European Broadband Joint Venture, Inclusive of the KA-SAT Satellite and Ground Assets*, 2021). Until at least the end of this year, this service is commercialised by the Italy-based Skylogic, a subsidiary of Eutelsat. As you can see it is quite a complex commercial setup. Two months on from the cyber-attack, in the fog of war, details are still missing as to what vulnerability was exploited, and where. Viasat released an incident report on March 30th with a high-level overview of the events that unfolded that morning. ReverseMode and SentinelOne provide more technical commentary as to the potential how. Ka-band is the 26 GHz to 40 GHz satellite/microwave telecommunications frequency on which KA-SAT SATCOM operates (*Satellite frequency bands*, 2020), providing high-capacity broadband internet services to both government as well as private sector business and consumers. The service needs a dish and satellite modem, like the Viasat Surfbeam 2/2+ modem. These modems, the ones located in Ukraine, started misbehaving around 3:02 UTC on February 24th by sending malicious traffic across one of the KA-SAT *consumer-oriented network partitions* (*KA-SAT Network cyber attack overview*, 2022). As Viasat and Skylogic forced those malicious terminals offline, others came online and continued the attack for several hours, denying service to other legitimate users on the network. Then on 4:45 UTC, for the next 45 minutes, Viasat and Skylogic notice a larger number of modems across Europe dropping of the network, never to connect again. Eventually tens of thousands of modems were affected. This includes most of the Ukrainian KA-SAT modems, as well as a significant number of modems across Europe (*KA-SAT Network cyber attack overview*, 2022). Even though Viasat in their incident report highlighted, repeatedly, the fact that this happened on their consumer-oriented network/service partition, it also disconnected 5800 of Germany's Enercon wind turbines, good for 11 gigawatts of capacity, disabling its remote monitoring and control, but without any effect on the grid stability owing to their failover communication capabilities (*Satellite outage knocks out thousands of Enercon's wind turbines*, 2022). The intended target of the cyber-attack was almost certainly the Ukrainian military, as the Ukrainian deputy chief of the “State Service of Special Communication and Information Protection”, Victor Zhora, confirmed the satellite outage was “*a really huge loss in communications in the very beginning of war”* (Cattler & Black, 2022), which would have impacted their command and control capabilities as well as tactical missions like drone offenses on advancing Russian armoured vehicles (Nakashima, 2022). Viasat officials explained this military use as a side effect of their distribution model using third parties, like Skylogic and others, and as such in the Ukrainian case they didn't have a direct relationship with those customers, and didn't know how their terminals were being used. (*Hackers Attacked Satellite Terminals Through Management Network, Viasat Officials Say*, 2022) Viasat engaged Mandiant for incident response and forensic analysis. Through this investigation, they identified the point of intrusion as an exploit in a misconfigured VPN appliance, providing the attacker admission to the trusted management segment of the communication network. This allowed the attacker to send management commands to the terminals, which included overwriting flash memory, making the modem inoperable, although not permanently (*KA-SAT Network cyber attack overview*, 2022). Which VPN appliance, which misconfiguration or which exploit exactly? On March 17 2022, CISA and the FBI jointly released CSA alert AA22-076A related to SATCOM network providers and their customers, highlighting specific mitigations (*Strengthening Cybersecurity of SATCOM Network Providers and Customers*, 2022). This document may include some clues as to what misconfigurations may have been in place at the Skylogic KA-SAT operations, like the presence of insecure remote access tools (like Telnet, FTP, SSH), default or weak credentials, or lack of vulnerability or patch management. SentinelOne calls the second part of the attack where the terminals became inoperable, a supply chain attack, pushing out a wiper specifically developed for routers and modems. They first noticed a suspicious piece of software on March 15th, with the name “ukrop”. SentinelOne calls this malware AcidRain (SentinelLabs, 2022), and it's the 7th wiper malware linked to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. As per SentinelOne's analysis, AcidRain seems to be a general-purpose modem wiper, that looks for several device file identifiers and then overwrites it or wipes its data. SentinelOne found some superficial similarities to VPNFilter, another wiper malware that was attributed by the NSA to Russia's Sandworm APT, or rather one of VPNFilter's plugins named “dstr” (SentinelLabs, 2022). Another security researcher, Ruben Santamarta, publishing on his ReverseMode blog, seems to confirm SentinelOne's plausible hypothesis. He obtained two Surfbeam 2 modems, one with original firmware, and another which was wiped, and compared the two. The targeted modem shows a destructive code pattern, applied through the AcidRain wiper, making it inoperable. He further on reverse engineered Viasat's TR069 data model, and concludes that there was no signature verification allowing the installation of arbitrary binaries or malicious command injections (Santamarta, 2022). Additionally, through a Skylogic corporate video, Santamarta found a screenshot of an operator's desktop which, after further research, led him to believe they are using Fortigate VPN appliances. There is a known disclosure of SSL-VPN access credentials of 87000 Fortigate devices, published between 2019 and June 2021 (Windsor, 2021). Skylogic did make that list (which can be found on GitHub), though it is unconfirmed (but not unheard of) that they didn't patch their devices for two years, or update their credentials as per 2019 FortiGuard advisory (*FortiOS system file leak through SSL VPN via specially crafted HTTP resource requests*, 2019). That advisory refers to the original DevCore research into 5 FortiOS vulnerabilities, including a “*Unauthenticated SSL VPN users password modification*” using a “magic” parameter, the almighty hardcoded password (Chang & Tsai, 2019). Although U.S. government hasn't publicly announced the attribution, as per Washington Post, “*according to U.S. officials familiar with the matter*”, U.S. intelligence analysts point to the GRU, the Russian military spy service being behind the compromise (Nakashima, 2022). Attribution isn't about accuracy or confidence, as Marcus Willett, a former director of the British GCHQ, explains it, but rather about protecting sources of information (Townsend, 2022). Of course, in this case, unlike previous cyber-attacks in Ukraine since 2014, there are also Russian boots on the ground in Ukraine. ## Conclusion Ironically, Viasat joined the U.S. CISA Enhanced Cybersecurity Services program as service provider, announced February 23 2021, a full 12 months to date before this cyber-attack (*CISA announces new enhanced cybersecurity services provider*, 2021), but their dependence in Europe on the inherited third party service provider Skylogic and Skylogic's network management security practices (or lack thereof) made them vulnerable to DDOS and supply-chain attacks. Confirmed details are still missing currently, and more research is required, but as with many other cyber-attacks, details will surface as months and years pass. In fact, additional details emerged as I was writing this report. We may know more about the how and who, possibly through Mandiant, when Viasat takes charge of operations later this year, at which point updated research is due. For now, I'm grateful for the excellent work of Ruben Santamarta and the SentinelOne researchers. ## References Cattler, D., & Black, D. (2022). *The Myth of the Missing Cyberwar*. Foreign Affairs. Chang, M., & Tsai, O. (2019). *Attacking SSL VPN – Part 2: Breaking the Fortigate SSL VPN*. DevCore. *CISA announces new enhanced cybersecurity services provider*. (2021). CISA. Duffy, R. (2022). *LEO Megaconstellations Are…Dual-Use?* Payload. *FortiOS system file leak through SSL VPN via specially crafted HTTP resource requests*. (2019). FortiGuard. *Hackers Attacked Satellite Terminals Through Management Network, Viasat Officials Say*. (2022). Airforce Magazine. *KA-SAT Network cyber attack overview*. (2022). Viasat. Nakashima, E. (2022). *Russian military behind hack of satellite communication devices in Ukraine at war's outset, U.S. officials say*. Washington Post. Pearson, J., Satter, R., Bing, C., & Schectman, J. (2022). *U.S. spy agency probes sabotage of satellite internet during Russian invasion, sources say*. Reuters. Perlroth, N. (2021). Prologue. In *This Is How They Tell Me the World Ends*. Bloomsbury Publishing. Santamarta, R. (2022). *VIASAT incident: from speculation to technical details.* *Satellite frequency bands*. (2020). ESA. [https://www.esa.int/Applications/Telecommunications\_Integrated\_Applications/Satellite\_frequency\_bands](https://www.esa.int/Applications/Telecommunications_Integrated_Applications/Satellite_frequency_bands) *Satellite outage knocks out thousands of Enercon's wind turbines*. (2022). Reuters. SentinelLabs. (2022). *AcidRain, A Modem Wiper Rains Down on Europe*. *Strengthening Cybersecurity of SATCOM Network Providers and Customers*. (2022). CISA Retrieved from [https://www.cisa.gov/uscert/sites/default/files/publications/AA22-076\_Strengthening\_Cybersecurity\_of\_SATCOM\_Network\_Providers\_and\_Customers.pdf](https://www.cisa.gov/uscert/sites/default/files/publications/AA22-076_Strengthening_Cybersecurity_of_SATCOM_Network_Providers_and_Customers.pdf) Tigner, B. (2021). NATO leaders extend Article 5 mutual defence clause to space domain. Townsend, K. (2022). *Russia, Ukraine and the Danger of a Global Cyberwar*. *Viasat Completes Acquisition of Remaining Stake in its European Broadband Joint Venture, Inclusive of the KA-SAT Satellite and Ground Assets*. (2021). ViaSat. Windsor, C. (2021). *Malicious Actor Discloses FortiGate SSL-VPN Credentials*. Download: CSU Report [Viasat\_CaseStudy\_online](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2022/04/Viasat_CaseStudy_online.pdf) Previous [image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2022/04/a_communicationsatellitewithearthinthebackgroundinspacewithstars.jpg) generated through Midjourney AI [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Cyber Warfare and Terrorism` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/cyber-warfare-and-terrorism/ [POST_DATE] 2022-03-16 [START_OF_CONTENT] Reading time 5 mins
    Update 2024:
    Listen to the Deep Dive:
    ### Introduction While researching this essay, the TV is on in the background and we are into the third day of the Russian invasion in Ukraine. As reported early in the year (Cyber attack hits Ukraine as United States intelligence warns Russia preparing to invade, 2022), Ukraine had already been under an increased, sustained cyber-attack (Australia joins US and UK, blaming Russia for cyber attacks against Ukraine, 2022), in a 'hybrid' war (Ukraine claims Russia behind cyber attack in 'hybrid war', 2022) in the lead up to Russia's invasion, as Australia promised Ukraine cyber support and cyber training (Dziedzic, 2022). As the word “cyber” is thrown around by the public broadcaster, it conjures up images of hackers and code scrolling across a computer screen, reminiscent of The Matrix. “Cyber”, unlike cipher (or cypher), is hardly a technical term, originating in art and popular culture (Vocabularist, 2016), so what are we to understand as “Cyber Warfare and Terrorism”? ### Cyber Warfare and Terrorism The word “cyberspace” was introduced to a wide audience through the science fiction short story “Burning Chrome” by popular author William Gibson in 1982 (Popova, 2014). As Gibson reminisces in the 2013 NYPL interview “I wanted that sense of other realm, a sense of agency within my daily life, looking for bits and pieces of reality that could be cobbled into the arena I needed.” (Gibson, 2013, 0:38-0:53), a realm different to the physical space, our inner space or Outer Space. “Cyberspace” was earlier used by the Danish “Atelier Cyberspace” artists Susanne Ussing and Carsten Hoff (Andersen, 2019) in their 1969 dry transfers and photolithography work, as “studies in cybernetics and open systems, that change behaviour in response to what they are influenced by.” (Ussing and Hoff, 1969). These artists' description of their work could easily form the basis of a definition of warfare and terrorism in cyberspace: our globally interconnected information and communication technology platform as open system that changes behaviour unexpectedly and with dire consequences, in response to a cyber-attack, a nefarious outside influence by a threat actor. An early definition of “cyberwar” revolves around war about “knowledge”, “about who knows what, when, where, and why, and about how secure a society or a military is regarding its knowledge of itself and its adversaries” (Arquilla & Ronfeldt, 1997, p42 – p44), with an end goal of destroying, if not at least disrupting the adversaries' communications systems and information flow. From a US legal perspective, one definition of “cyber warfare” is the act of warfighting in the cyber domain, covered by US Code Title 10, under the command of a US military officer as part of or in support of a military operation in some other domain (be it land, air, sea or space) (Oakley, 2019, Ch. 3). But as Oakley adds, even though the US acknowledges its role in Title 10 activity, like launching Tomahawk missiles, often it doesn't admit any cyber involvement in those operations. Take for example Stuxnet in 2010, probably one of the most successful targeted cyber-attacks to date, specifically developed to cripple Iran's uranium enrichment facilities (“Stuxnet,” 2020), though in the end only temporary, and without casualties. It was generally attributed to be a joint US/Israeli operation, but no country has claimed the cyber-attack (Chen, 2010). Stuxnet was a formidable offensive cyber weapon, that highlights the capability of cyber-attacks to affect critical infrastructure, yet with limited and temporary impact only. When Merck Pharmaceuticals fell victim to the NotPetya ransomware attack in 2017, it asked its insurance company to pay out the property insurance policy it had, which the insurer denied because of the “cyber war” clause in the policy. Two years later, a judge sided with Merck as there was not an actual formal war between nations, in this case between Russia, to whom NotPetya was attributed to, and the US, hence there can't be a cyber war (Ikeda, 2022). Maybe a “cyber terrorism” insurance clause would have made more sense, defined by Denning as “unlawful attacks and threats of attacks against computers, networks and the information stored therein when done to intimidate or coerce a government or its people in furtherance of political or social objectives… \[and\] should result in violence against persons or property, or at least cause enough harm to generate fear” (Denning, 2000). Years later we also tend to include the online recruitment, radicalization, planning and financing of terrorist groups in this definition (The UK Cyber Security Strategy, 2011). At this point there's a fine line between cyber terrorism and cyber-crime. When indiscriminate ransomware hits 300.000 targets across 150 countries demanding $300 to release your data, this would deliver a decent financial windfall to any online organised crime syndicate. But when WannaCry ransomware hits the UK's NHS, a critical health service, locking NHS staff out of patient records and medical equipment (Schmitt and Fahey, 2017), this could become potentially life-threatening. Especially when combined with a terrorist bomb attack. But that wasn't the case, and again WannaCry turned out be an expensive and disruptive act of sabotage, attributed as being “sponsored by” North Korea. Cyber-attacks are dependent on software (and hardware) vulnerabilities or misconfiguration, and often use a combination of flaws. You only need to keep track of the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures database, currently at 171667 entries at the time of writing (CVE, 2022), to realize there will never be an opportunity left unused to exploit these software flaws, either by state actors, hacktivists, cyber criminals or terrorists. It gets complicated though when a state actor like the US' NSA sits on an undisclosed 0day Windows vulnerability called EternalBlue (later, once disclosed, registered as CVE-2017-0144), which it allegedly used for 5 years against US adversaries for intelligence gathering (Schulze and Reinhold, 2018), but then “lost” this to a hacker collective called “Shadow Brokers” which then resulted in the creation of first the WannaCry malware, and eventually also NotPetya (Fruhlinger, 2017). ### Conclusion So far there hasn't been a documented high-tech Pearl Harbour or Hiroshima, and it may never happen (Rid, 2012). WannaCry and NotPetya could have been avoided if people kept their Windows systems up to date with the latest security patches. Stuxnet would have been useless if the malware wasn't plugged into an Iranian network connected device. As technology evolves, so will cyber-attacks and, by definition, cyber warfare and terrorism. But the effective cyber-attack, worthy of a cyber warfare or terrorism designation, remains elusive. Maybe the true cyberwar happens when state actors, like NSA, hacktivists and other cyber warriors engage each other in cyberspace to extract “knowledge” (like the EternalBlue flaw) to then develop cyber-attack tools? ### References Andersen, T. R. (2019). Cyberspace Revisited: A Radial Reading of William Gibson's “Burning Chrome”. Journal of American culture, Vol.42 (2)(2019-06). https://doi.org/10.1111/jacc.13019 Arquilla, J., & Ronfeldt, D. (1997). CYBERWAR IS COMING. In (1 ed., pp. 23). RAND Corporation. https://doi.org/10.7249/mr880osd-rc.7 Australia joins US and UK, blaming Russia for cyber attacks against Ukraine. (2022). ABC. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-02-21/australia-joins-us-and-uk-to-blame-russia-for/13763218 Chen, T. M. (2010). Stuxnet, the real start of cyber warfare? IEEE network, 24(6), 2-3. https://doi.org/10.1109/MNET.2010.5634434 CVE. (2022). CVE. https://www.cve.org/ Cyber attack hits Ukraine as United States intelligence warns Russia preparing to invade. (2022). Reuters, AP. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-01-15/us-intelligence-warns-russia-laying-groundwork-to-invade-ukraine/100758744 Denning, D. E. (2000). Cyberterrorism: The Logic Bomb versus the Truck Bomb. Global dialogue (Nicosia, Cyprus), 2(4), 29. Dziedzic, S. (2022). Australia promises cyber support to Ukraine as Russian forces array along its borders. ABC. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-02-21/ukraine-australia-cyberattack-russia-war-cybersecurity/100846870 Fruhlinger, J. (2017). The 5 biggest ransomware attacks of the last 5 years: From CryptoLocker to WannaCry and NotPetya, these attacks illustrate the growth of ransomware. CSO (Online). Gibson, W. (2013, July 17). The Origin of “Cyberspace” \[Video\]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ae3z7Oe3XF4 Ikeda, S. (2022). “Cyber War” Exception Struck Down in Merck's Battle With Insurance Company Over NotPetya Attack. CPO Magazine. https://www.cpomagazine.com/cyber-security/cyber-war-exception-struck-down-in-mercks-battle-with-insurance-company-over-notpetya-attack/ Oakley, J. G. (2019). Waging Cyber War Technical Challenges and Operational Constraints (1st 2019. ed.). Apress. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4842-4950-5 Popova, M. (2014). How William Gibson Coined “Cyberspace”. The Marginalian. https://www.themarginalian.org/2014/08/26/how-william-gibson-coined-cyberspace/ Rid, T. (2012). Cyber War Will Not Take Place. Journal of Strategic Studies, 35(1), 5-32. https://doi.org/10.1080/01402390.2011.608939 Schmitt, M., & Fahey, S. (2017). WannaCry and the International Law of Cyberspace. JustSecurity.org. https://www.justsecurity.org/50038/wannacry-international-law-cyberspace/ Schulze, M., & Reinhold, T. (2018). Wannacry About the Tragedy of the Commons? Game-Theory and the Failure of Global Vulnerability Disclosure. European Conference on Cyber Warfare and Security, Reading. Stuxnet. In. (2020). Britannica Academic. https://academic-eb-com.ezproxy.csu.edu.au/levels/collegiate/article/Stuxnet/544278 The UK Cyber Security Strategy. (2011). gov.uk. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cyber-security-strategy Ukraine claims Russia behind cyber attack in 'hybrid war'. (2022). AP. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-01-17/ukraine-claims-russia-behind-cyber-attack-in-hybrid-war/100760370 Ussing, S., & Hoff, C. (1969). Cyberspace. https://primer.dk/onsite/Projects/Life-Without/Susanne-Ussing-Cyberspace-1969 Vocabularist. (2016). How we use the word cyber. BBC. https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-35765276.amp' Download: CSU Essay [Cyber Warfare and Terrorism\_online](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2022/03/Cyber-Warfare-and-Terrorism_online.pdf) Image generated through Dall-e 2 AI. Previous [image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2022/03/hackersittinginfrontofacomputerscreenlightinguphisfacediscretelytypingcodehyperreal.jpg) generated through Midjourney AI. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `2021 Wrapped` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2021-12-31-2021-wrapped/ [POST_DATE] 2021-12-31 [START_OF_CONTENT] Most played tracks of 2021 Viper Goose Unperson Nothing But Thieves Your Power Billie Eilish Jungle Juice feat. Alst3n (Extended Mix) Dave Winnel, Alst3n Alter Ego (Extended Mix) Duke Dumont, Channel Tres Happening Disclosure Recap Kito, VanJess & Channel Tres Alive RÜFÜS DU SOL Dino's Gordi & Alex Lahey Where You Feel Keli Holiday Where Have You Been All My Life (PaperMacheTiger Planet Moog Dub) Perry Farrell, PaperMacheTiger Most Hated Girl WAAX Lockdown (Radio Edit) Anderson .Paak Too Good Arlo Parks Lights Up (feat. Channel Tres) Flight Facilities tend the garden Gang of Youths Talk About It Jungle No Good For Me Kučka Tally-Ho Psychedelic Porn Crumpets Surrender (feat. Curtis Harding) RÜFÜS DU SOL AHHHH! Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers 24k Tkay Maidza Wet Dream Wet Leg Smile Wolf Alice Piece Of My Mind BROODS Girls Who Act Like Boys (B1980 Remix) Goose & B1980 Bloody Waters H.E.R. Keep Moving Jungle PAIN King Princess Guilty Love Ladyhawke & Broods Out of Touch Lastlings Futureproof Nothing But Thieves [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Tesla Model 3 SR+` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2021-09-23-tesla-m3/ [POST_DATE] 2021-09-23 [START_OF_CONTENT] Picking up my Model 3 SR+ today, trading in my LR Discovery 4. No test drive, just a leap of faith. Ordering a car online, without ever seeing it in person, is a bit of a gamble. But I've read enough reviews, watched enough videos, and talked to enough owners to feel confident in my decision. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `rEVolution Guide` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2021-08-08-revolution-guide/ [POST_DATE] 2021-08-08 [START_OF_CONTENT] We moved to Sydney 15 years ago. First couple of years, living on the lower north shore, we didn't have a car. Then in 2010 bought a Mini Diesel (which was quite frugal), and upgraded to a Land Rover Discovery (this one though not so frugal) in 2015. Was used to diesel in Belgium, which is what most company cars would be. I love my Discovery, you can take it places (like, err, Ikea :). But we certainly don't use it to its fullest. It's quite nimble for such a big car. But if you floor it, you leave behind a big, black, stinking cloud. And you feel bad, it's just not right. So, yes things need to change. So I'm now looking at an EV. Been looking for nearly two years now, really. When the Jaguar i-Pace came out, I wanted one. But that's really out of my price range. Started watching Fully Charged, subscribe to a bunch of newsletters, trying to get informed on all things EV. It's while doing this, I set up a newsletter myself a couple of months ago: [rEVolution Guide](https://revolution.guide). Because it is a revolution, it is a big change. And I hope I can guide others in their journey to personal electrification. And finally, from September onwards, for the first 25000 new EVs, NSW is providing a $3000 rebate and stamp duty waiver, for EVs under $68750. For this I set up some sort of comparison site that lists al relevant Australian car models: EDIT 2023: added a HUGO [blog](https://blog.revolution.guide) and [NSW EV Rebate](https://blog.revolution.guide/nsw-ev-rebates/) page using Google Sheets. EDIT 2025: **rebranded** and moved the content to [EV Life](https://electricvehicle.life). No more revolution.guide. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Twitter` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2021-04-18-twitter/ [POST_DATE] 2021-04-18 [START_OF_CONTENT] Hi, I'm JJ and I have a Twitter problem. Maybe? See, I've got a couple of accounts, for different interests I have. In essence I use it as a bookmarking service, (re)posting articles per subject, or as a historic timeline. Account names can only be 16 characters long, so it's tricky sometimes, as you'll see. See anything of interest? Hook up? @halans : the main, personal one. If it's quiet here, you should probably checkout one of the others. @halansphoto : my photography account, my photography passion @MadeWLIn : for MadeWithLove.In, my startup account, local Aussie startups and passion projects @FromCrowsNest : From the Crows Nest (like on a sailing ship, on the lookout), environmental issues, historical timeline of events, misinformation busting, pessimistic. (Was also living in Crows Nest when I set this up, during the bushfires) @NextExitAU : environmental issues, renewables, green technology, progress, optimistic, solarpunk @rEVolutionAU : EV account, automotive technology, autonomy, transport, newsletter bookmarks @Pets_QandA : puppies! For PetsQanda.com.au @TinyHouseAU : Australian tiny house community @GottaLoveAU : Australiana, typical Aussie things or events @GottaLoveSyd : Sydney events, politics, locations @GottaLoveCnlCst : Central Coast events, politics, and locations @360VisionAU : VR, MR, XR, 360 photography and video, interactive storytelling, technology @WeAreFootfolk : pedestrian and cyclists issues and rights @SpeakUpDesignAU : Voice technology, VUX, VUI, bots, conversational design (I did some IVR stuff in the nineties) @appuseronboard : user onboarding, (a bit too niche) @recommendator : account for SocialRecommendator.com, social media @shortbackfocus : account for shortbackfocus.com micro stock photo site, photography @PrepperAU : prepping, bushfires and environmental collaps (no guns) @teslathelma : my Tesla M3 car account, travel @discodavina : my (previous) LR Discovery car account, travel @ditamini : my (previous) Mini car account, discontinued (and picked up by someone else I see) @sydneybushwalk : bushwalking in Sydney, kinda discontinued @SydBeachGuide : Sydney beaches, kinda discontinued And a couple more that I since have in fact discontinued. [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Web Speed Test Online Services` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2020-05-03-web-speed-test-online-services/ [POST_DATE] 2020-05-03 [START_OF_CONTENT] Besides running Google's [Lighthouse](https://developers.google.com/web/tools/lighthouse) as a Chrome extension, I also like to use following web speed test services: - - : for image optimisation. - : uses Lighthouse in the background, but shows speeds across the globe. - [END_OF_CONTENT] ************************************* ## [POST_TITLE] `Cloudflare Workers` [POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2020-02-22-cloudflare-workers/ [POST_DATE] 2020-02-22 [START_OF_CONTENT] Converted to a statically hosted, serverless cloud function invoking, single page app, from the single page php it was for 10 years. Mixing two cloud platforms, Firebase for the static hosting, and [Cloudflare Workers](https://workers.cloudflare.com/) for the cloud function (in stead of a Firebase Function). Still using old-school jQuery though. Yes I could use a Firebase Function, but I wanted to use Cloudflare Workers. Firebase hosting is free, but Cloudflare hosting isn't. And I wanted to a try cross platform integration. [Cloudflare Workers](https://workers.cloudflare.com/) is pretty straightforward to setup and call (with the regular CORS caveats). It's surprisingly simple to figure out and get working. There aren't three dozen of options to pick from. I was genuinely surprised that I got it to work from the first time. There's a [Playground](https://www.cloudflareworkers.com/) to play around with Workers. Getting CORS to work (for my own domains), in the handleRequest(request) Cloudflare function: ``` 
    // array of my hostnames
const MY_HOSTNAMES = ['socialrecommendator.com',  'socialrecommendator-au.web.app', 'socialrecommendator-au.firebaseapp.com']; // custom domain + all Firebase domains
let url = new URL(request.url); 
let referer = request.headers.get('Origin');// origin should be one of my hosts
let refererHost = referer ? new URL(referer).hostname : new URL(request.url) ; // this in case if no referer, when I try this on the Cloudflare console
// only set CORS header for my hosts, so that request would fail for other hosts
if (MY_HOSTNAMES.includes(refererHost)) {
    response.headers.set('Access-Control-Allow-Origin', url.protocol + '//' + refererHost); // this should match the Origin header passed in to succeed
    response.headers.set('Access-Control-Allow-Credentials', false);
  }
```
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## [POST_TITLE] `Buzzword Bingo` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2020-02-08-buzzword-bingo/   
[POST_DATE] 2020-02-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Using Gridsome with BootstrapVue and GraphQL for a headless\* [WordPress](https://halans.com) server-side-rendered static site generated CMS hosted on Zeit, 

\* well, not headless, because this is still here present…
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## [POST_TITLE] `Clean Twitter "Interests"` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2019-11-25-clean-twitter-interests/   
[POST_DATE] 2019-11-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Twitter has a list of Interests it constructed based on your interactions on Twitter. One of my “Interests” was “Milk”… Huh? They've hidden this feature under Settings & Privacy > Account > Your Twitter Data > Interests and ads data > Interests from Twitter, or go straight here: [https://mobile.twitter.com/settings/your\_twitter\_data/twitter\_interests](https://mobile.twitter.com/settings/your_twitter_data/twitter_interests)   
It's a list of checkboxes, which you individually can uncheck, which quickly becomes tedious. Hence a (iOS) Siri Shortcut that runs over all checkboxes and untick them. Easy!

On the Interests from Twitter page (on iOS Safari), open the Share Sheet and look for “Clean Twitter Interests”. When you run this, all checkboxes are unticked. Close the Share Sheet.

Get the Siri Shortcut here:  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Dark mode` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2019-06-23-dark-mode/   
[POST_DATE] 2019-06-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

We recently refreshed the branding of The Mindful Dog, including a refresh of the [puppy school and dog training website](https://mindful.dog/). Upon a refresh, there are always opportunities to start playing with new web technologies, like sass, gulp, svg,… and not so new (still a big fan of Bootstrap and its responsive grid).

But one very much new thing is system wide Dark Mode. Mojave macOS got it last year, though I'm not a big fan on the desktop, and iOS13 will get it later this year. I like some “dark mode” apps on the desktop, but having everything dark, is quite confusing, I find. On my phone though, I am already using dark everywhere I can, with plenty of apps giving you that option. On mobile you're working with a focused single app, which makes more sense to me, as well as often reading in darkened environments, morning or evening. I was often using the [triple tap accessibility feature](https://9to5mac.com/2016/03/18/how-to-reduce-iphone-screen-brightness-without-jailbreak/) which brings the backlight all the way down, especially in the morning.

But with an iOS13 system wide dark mode, more apps will be enabled out of the box. As will iOS13 Safari support Dark Mode websites. And I find it brilliant. Now, you could already get “Night Mode” browsing on, for example, iOS Firefox, where Firefox will flip white backgrounds to black, and black text to white, and it works quite well. But as the owner of a website you kind of loose control on how well your website works or looks. It's an accessibility feature that everyone can enjoy, not having their eyes burned out on a dark winter morning… (but don't forget all those other accessibility features every website should have!).

Recently, CSS got a [new media query](https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/CSS/@media/prefers-color-scheme) to detect if the user has set their system to use a light or dark color theme, with support in the [most recent browsers](https://caniuse.com/#search=prefers-color-scheme), including soon to be released iOS13.

```

    @media (prefers-color-scheme: dark){}
```

Like doing “mobile-first”, you could decide to work “dark-first”, and use prefers-color-scheme: light as alternative. You don't necessarily have to put in a duplicate effort, doing a whole different design (but you could!). You can get far doing the most basic things (dark background), and tweaking the font colours and navigation (especially mobile navigation), which is what I did. You should get this in place now, as when iOS13 becomes available in a couple of months and people upgrade their phone, it's one of those tentpole features that a lot of people will switch on and try out. And they will be happily surprised seeing their favourite website supporting this. Check out the gallery below (including Firefox Night Mode).

Check out The Mindful Dog in dark mode! I hope our [puppy school customers](http://mindful.dog/puppy-school/) can appreciate this little detail.

- 
    ![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2019/06/IMG_5894-473x1024.jpg)
    Light Mode default
    
- 
    ![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2019/06/IMG_5893-473x1024.jpg)
    Dark Mode enabled
    


    ![Firefox Night Mode](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2019/06/IMG_5895-139x300.jpg)
    Firefox Night Mode
    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Plotagraphs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2018-02-28-plotagraphs/   
[POST_DATE] 2018-02-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Plotagraph compilation 
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Fav songs of 2017` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2017-12-30-fav-songs-of-2017/   
[POST_DATE] 2017-12-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Animoji Karaoke/movielines how-to` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2017-11-05-animoji-karaokemovielines-how-to/   
[POST_DATE] 2017-11-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Inspired by [\#AnimojiKaraoke](https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnimojiKaraoke?src=hash), I made this movie lines version one Sunday morning.


    



 


    
Animoji's are only available on iPhone X, so that's the main prerequisite.

– I screen-recorded (part of iOS 11 Control Center) a Pulp Fiction YouTube video, which I then Airplayed to my TV (using my iPad). Look for your favorite film or music. You could record your TV/PC screen using a Bluray/DVD you have or streaming service, you only need the audio.  
– I practiced the speech, using Animoji in iMessages. Go full screen Animoji. Hardest part is getting the facial characteristics to work.  
– Then screen-record the Animoji as you try. Record the different parts with different characters.  
– Replay the Animoji video as you play the Pulp Fiction clip to see if it kinda matches.  
– Then import the YouTube clip and your main Animoji character into iMovie (on you iPhone for example).  
– Detach the soundtrack of the YouTube clip from its video, remove the video track, and match the video with your Animoji character's speech.  
– Don't worry about the vertical screen recording format for now.  
– Once you're happy, export the main movie. Remember, you still have the second character's Animoji screen recording.  
– Then I used [Pic Stitch](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pic-stitch-collage-editor/id454768104?at=10l7vI&ct=mwli)\* to bring both screen-recordings together, using a 2×1 aspect ratio, pinch to zoom into the character, making sure the other screen elements don't show up. Make sure the second character's lines match up with the soundtrack.  
– Then upload! Different Social Media sites have different lengths of video though. Best maybe sent it to YouTube, and distribute that link.



![iMessage Animoji screenshot](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/11/xblank-3-150x300.png)  

![iMovie screenshot](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/11/xblank-4-150x300.png) 

![Pic Stitch screenshot](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/11/xblank-3-3-150x300.png)



    
* I initially used the free version of Pic Stitch, where you can't remove the (white) borders. An upgrade allows you to remove the borders and make it more seamless.

    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Firefox Reader View` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2017-03-18-firefox-reader-view/   
[POST_DATE] 2017-03-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I've been working a bit on [mindful.dog](https://mindful.dog), which used to be a single page site initially, but got an additional landing page for [puppy class enrolment](https://mindful.dog/puppy-school/).

Upon the latest Firefox update, a popup showed up pointing Firefox users to the Reader View, which is similar to Safari's Reader view. Not that this is a particularly new feature, but they seem to be highlighting it again.  
As I enabled Reader View, I was greeted with this:  
![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/03/readerview_before.jpeg)  
What? That's all? That doesn't make any sense! Why did it do THAT? Argh!

Anyway, Firefox' algorithm looks at paragraphs, and commas, and sections and articles (apparently). Got plenty of paragraphs (I think), but what I was missing were a section and articles elements. So I simply added a single section, and different article elements, and immediately ended up with this:  
![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/03/readerview_after.jpg)  
Much better.

Not perfect, because I did add an article tag around the contact details at the bottom, but they still don't show up. Probably because of the lack of actual text in the paragraphs.

Have you checked your site out in Firefox' Reader View lately? Does it display everything you'd expect it to display?

Now, Safari's Reader View does seem to use a different algorithm, because there it's still not particularly ok :( (for example on iOS).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `International Tower 2 Barrangaroo` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2017-02-18-international-tower-2-barrangaroo/   
[POST_DATE] 2017-02-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

TEDxSydney Salon on the 41st floor of International Tower 2 at Barrangaroo.

Drag the image to look around.   
Or hit the little square bottom right to go full screen.

Vertigo? Look away now. :)


    



### A 360° view:


    
  

    


    
  

    

    
  

    

    


    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `International Tower 2 Barrangaroo - Aframe version` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2017-02-18-international-tower-2-barrangaroo-aframe/   
[POST_DATE] 2017-02-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

TEDxSydney Salon on the 41st floor of International Tower 2 at Barrangaroo.

Drag the image to look around.   
Or hit the little square bottom right to go full screen.

Vertigo? Look away now. :)


    

Using A-Frame, which works well on iPad and mobile:

    
  

    

    
  

    

    
  

    

    
  

    


    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bay 9 Co-Working` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2017-02-08-bay-9-co-working/   
[POST_DATE] 2017-02-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


Using A-Frame, [edit] which works well on iPad:

    
  

    


    

Using the Google VR View, which does use the full resolution image on full screen:




    


    


    

Using the vr WordPress shortcode (edit: when this was still a WP site):


    
  

    
 

    

Doesn't seem to load the full resolution images when going fullscreen.   



[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Big World Homes Tiny House` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2017-01-15-big-world-homes-tiny-house/   
[POST_DATE] 2017-01-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Sleepover at the [Big World Homes](http://bigworldhomes.com/) flat-pack prototype tiny house, in Leichhardt. It's a structural design prototype for a DIY plat-pack tiny house to put together yourself with a minimum of tools (just 3), like IKEA furniture. The interior design is still being finalised, based on the feedback of the project's backers.



### A 360° view:



Give it a moment to load, it's a 68MP 360° image (at 6.7MB). Go fullscreen!

Bathroom:  


Other end:  


Outside:  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `10th anniversary of iPhone introduction` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2017-01-09-10-anniversary-of-iphone-introduction/   
[POST_DATE] 2017-01-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

It's been 10 years since Steve Jobs introduced the iPhone. Time for another comparison with the iPhone 7:

[![iphone-23507](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone-23507.jpg?w=343&h=229&ssl=1 "iphone-23507")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone-23507.jpg) 

[![iphone-23509](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone-23509.jpg?w=169&h=113&ssl=1 "iphone-23509")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone-23509.jpg)  

[![iphone-23510](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone-23510.jpg?w=169&h=112&ssl=1 "iphone-23510")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone-23510.jpg) 

[![iphone-23517](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone-23517.jpg?w=256&h=171&ssl=1 "iphone-23517")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone-23517.jpg) 

[![iphone-23511](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone-23511.jpg?w=256&h=171&ssl=1 "iphone-23511")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone-23511.jpg) 

Comparison shots iPhone 7 vs 1st Gen iPhone:

[![iPhone 7 sample](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone-2386.jpg?w=256&h=341&ssl=1 "iPhone 7")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone-2386.jpg) 

[![1st Gen iPhone sample](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone1.jpg?w=256&h=341&ssl=1 "1st Gen iPhone")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2017/01/iphone1.jpg) 

Did this walk-through of the 10 year old, [1st gen iPhone (8GB)](https://web.archive.org/web/20070607062543/http://www.apple.com/iphone/ "WaybackMachine") (on [iPhone OS 1.0.2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IPhone_OS_1)) this weekend:  
  

Amazing to see that after 10 years, these third party APIs still work (except YouTube).

I remember being so impressed back then. I first got the iPod Touch locally, then about a week later got an iPhone on eBay and jailbroke it to have it work with a local SIM on 2G/Edge. It hasn't been updated since (still on version 1.0.2).

It's interesting to watch the introduction again.  



First Steve Jobs interview after introduction (and analysts' discussion):  


“As we bring the cost down, year over year…”. The iPhone was $499 ($US, subsidized on a 2 year contract) in 2007, which is $585 in current $US. iPhone SE is currently $399 outright, or iPhone 7 starts at $649 outright ($US).

All Things D 2007 interview:  


The 1st gen iPhone ads (2007-2008):  


The first iPad was introduced in January 2010.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Lift You Up iMessage Sticker Pack` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2017-01-02-lift-you-up-imessage-sticker-pack/   
[POST_DATE] 2017-01-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Update 2022: Removed from the App Store

Been playing with iMessage sticker packs these Holidays, using Affinity Designer and Sketch.  
First one's [Lift You Up](https://halans.com/Lift-You-Up/) sticker pack, with inspirational stickers.  
[Check it out](https://halans.com/Lift-You-Up/) or go straight to the [App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/lift-you-up-sticker-pack/id1191213661?mt=8).

Took a week to be approved in the App store.

At the same time, removed Next Sydney Ferry, which wasn't updated for years (neither code nor time table).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `A-Frame 360 Photo Gallery` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-12-18-a-frame-360-photo-gallery/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-12-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Playing around with A-Frame, creating a [**360° photo gallery**](https://halans.com/aframe/xmas/), with images taken at the office Christmas party using the Ricoh Theta S.


    


    

There's a little circle, which you need to aim at the different linked images which then turns green, to navigate around the gallery.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Fave tracks of 2016` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-12-17-fave-tracks-of-2016/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-12-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


My favourite tracks of 2016:  
  
My favourite artist discovery of the year must be Jack Garratt.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Missing favicon in IE11` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-11-04-missing-favicon-in-ie11/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-11-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

For reference. Because I've been staring at this for a while. Using the right link tag in the head, and a valid ico image file, IE11 would not display the favicon.

On IBM WAS 8.5 (which is irrelevant really), on an invalid, self-signed https connection, IE11 would not show the favicon (while Chrome and Firefox do). Using Fiddler, and having it decrypt the https traffic, which installs the Telerik self-signing CA, the https connection seems valid to IE11, and the favicon would appear. Fixed!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `SIFA Workshop` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-10-31-sifa-workshop/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-10-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

## Work effectively in the screen and media industries

Over two days, we took a closer look at the creative film process, how films get made and who does what. From pre-production, over the on-set process, to post-production. With the story at the base of film making, we first explored what makes a good story to begin with: conflict between good and bad, a problem and the solution, the protagonist and the antagonist.

We looked at the “who what where when why and how” in storytelling, and how we can represent this on, for example, a Scene Card.  
We split up in groups and thought of a short story, which we then represented into a 12 frame story board. Our group chose the Hospital setting for our story, called Room 66. Once we had a story board, we looked at the film production and direction basics, where pre-production is all about planning and preparation. We put on paper what's in our mind, and break it down into a script. We need to know it all, from the creative (the story, shot compositions, camera moves) to the technical (equipment, location, talent). Always “feed” your crew with the story, with what you want.

With our 12 frame story board in place, we looked at the different departments and roles that make up the film industry: from the executive producer and line producer, to the director and assistant director, the director of photography, art direction, sound,… and then decided on each individual's role in our own little project.  
As we were going to put our 12 frame story board into zeros and ones (“film”), we looked at some of the paperwork involved with pre-production: gear list, crew list, call sheet, transport list, contact list, schedule, insurance, permits, talent release forms… We then worked on our idea, making it real (which was the best part :). Though we weren't going to be able to finish the final edit, we had a look at Adobe Premiere.

And finally we looked at how we could best present our final idea to potential partners and investors, by keeping it simple, telling/selling our story.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `"Hidden" at Rookwood cemetery` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-10-09-hidden-at-rookwood-cemetery/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-10-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

  

    
  

    

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Land Rover Owners Expo 2016` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-09-25-land-rover-owners-expo-2016/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-09-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

\#videoslam of Land Rover Owners Expo 2016 in Camden  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `WordCamp Sydney 2016` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-09-24-wordcamp-sydney-2016/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-09-24  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

\#videoslam of the first day of WordCamp Sydney 2016.  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for April 15th through April 23rd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-04-23-bookmarks-for-april-15th-through-april-23rd/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-04-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for April 15th through April 23rd:

- [7 tips for designing awesome animated GIFs – InVision Blog](http://blog.invisionapp.com/7-tips-for-designing-awesome-gifs/) –
- [Web Crawler That Automatically Extracts Site Content – Crawly](http://crawly.diffbot.com/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for April 13th through April 14th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-04-14-bookmarks-for-april-13th-through-april-14th/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-04-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for April 13th through April 14th:

- [Expresso](http://www.expresso-app.org/) –
- [Textcraft: Text & logo maker – Minecraft, 8-bit styles and more](http://textcraft.net/) –
- [Wireframe.cc – minimal wireframing tool](https://wireframe.cc/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for April 7th through April 13th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-04-13-bookmarks-for-april-7th-through-april-13th/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-04-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for April 7th through April 13th:

- [CreateJS](http://www.createjs.com/) –
- [Blending Modes Demystified · An A List Apart Article](http://alistapart.com/article/blending-modes-demystified) –
- [CSSgram test sheet](http://una.im/CSSgram/) –
- [Website Style Guide Resources](http://styleguides.io/) –
- [CIRCULUS.SVG: The SVG Circular Menu Generator](https://sarasoueidan.com/tools/circulus/) –
- [Responsive HTML Email Framework](http://emailframe.work/) –
- [Snap.svg – Home](http://snapsvg.io/) –
- [annyang! Easily add speech recognition to your site](https://www.talater.com/annyang/) –
- [Shoelace – Visual Bootstrap 3 Grid Builder](http://www.shoelace.io/) –
- [vivus.js – svg animation](http://maxwellito.github.io/vivus/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for March 8th through April 6th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-04-07-bookmarks-for-march-8th-through-april-6th/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-04-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for March 8th through April 6th:

- [Perfect responsive images: HTML5 <picture> and Bootstrap 4](http://inspire.blufra.me/html5-element-and-bootstrap-4-media-queries/) –
- [How Good Are Your HTML and CSS Comments?](http://www.sitepoint.com/how-good-are-your-html-and-css-comments/?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [18 Tips for Website Performance Optimization](https://www.keycdn.com/blog/website-performance-optimization/?imm_mid=0e24af&cmp=em-webops-na-na-newsltr_20160401) –
- [Smaller Pictures](https://smaller-pictures.appspot.com/) –
- [Colovely](http://colovely.nofach.com/) –
-  –
- [https://www.producthunt.com/@hnshah/collections/free-stuff-for-startups?utm\_source=Product+Hunt&utm\_campaign=80c8541df8-Memories\_with\_friends3\_17\_2016&utm\_medium=email&utm\_term=0\_2cd7d34185-80c8541df8-123076217](https://www.producthunt.com/@hnshah/collections/free-stuff-for-startups?utm_source=Product+Hunt&utm_campaign=80c8541df8-Memories_with_friends3_17_2016&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_2cd7d34185-80c8541df8-123076217) –
- [Key Requirements for an IoT Data Platform | MapR](https://www.mapr.com/blog/key-requirements-iot-data-platform#.VgAoAHgwfF8) –
- [Top 49 Tools For The Internet of Things | ProfitBricks Blog](https://blog.profitbricks.com/top-49-tools-internet-of-things/) –
- [Get HTTPS for free!](https://gethttpsforfree.com/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Adding VR images to Facebook` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-04-06-adding-vr-images-to-facebook/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-04-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

UPDATE: They added 360° photo/panorama support too, yay! No need to do this anymore.

Facebook only supports the display of equirectangular 360° video, but not 360° images. A bit silly if you ask me. But it's easy to work around this limitation by creating a static video of your 360° image, for example 12 seconds long.

Quality is still an issue on Facebook. The uploaded video file doesn't seem to be of high quality, regardless of what the base file was setup to be.

Open any editor (I use iMovie on Mac), (ideally) create a 4K project, import the image, and make sure it's displayed for about 10 seconds. In iMovie, by default, 4 seconds is displayed. Duplicate it 3 times. Make sure no titles or transitions have been automatically added. Export the file. You can now play that equirectangular file in any video player (without the panning of course).

In order for Facebook to recognise the movie file as 360° movie, it needs metadata added. Google provides a simple tool to do this for YouTube: [360 Video Metadata app](https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/6178631?hl=en), both for Mac and PC. This is just a simple wrapper app around a python script, so you could also use that through terminal/cli if you want to. This app adds the necessary metadata (which is a standard, supported by both YouTube and Facebook) and saves as a new file.

Finally, upload this new file to Facebook. Done!

[![fb360example](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2016/04/fb360example.gif)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2016/04/fb360example.gif)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Google VR View` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-03-31-google-vr-view/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-03-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Pretty excited with [Google's VR View](https://developers.googleblog.com/2016/03/introducing-vr-view-embed-immersive.html) release.  
Google VR View transforms 360° or VR images (and videos) into interactive experiences.  
It makes it effortless to integrate your own panorama images, including stereo images for use with [Google Cardboard](https://www.google.com/get/cardboard/get-cardboard/), into any site, without being dependent on any other service (like RoundMe or Flickr hosted images).

Hit the little square bottom right to go full screen.



### Blue Mountains

    


    

    Barrenjoey Lighthouse, Palm Beach
    

    


    

    TEDxSydney 2014, Sydney Opera House
    

    


    
Get in touch for your own 360° images on your own site.

For Cardboard, a stereoscopic image is generated:  
![stereo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2016/03/stereo.jpg)  

![gcardboard](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2016/03/gcardboard.png)  
 

    

EDIT:
To be honest, A-Frame works far better on iPad and iPhone:

    
  

    


    
  

    


    
  

    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Social Recommendator update` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-03-28-social-recommendator-update/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-03-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

After seven years, a simple refresh of [http://socialrecommendator.com](http://socialrecommendator.com/).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `VideoSlam - the instantaneous edit` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-03-16-videoslam-the-instantaneous-edit/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Last weekend I went to a great IxDA workshop “Connecting Conversations” by Alastair Somerville. During the workshop I took short 3-5 second video clips (which made it look like I was taking pictures instead of video), to create an impression of what the workshop was like. In total, I shot about 5 minutes of video, of the 4 hour workshop.

I know, it's a departure from me taking a bunch of photos.

Now, I don't think anyone would sit through those 5 minutes, just to get an impression of a 4 hour workshop. But with this new iOS app [VideoSlam](https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/videoslam-instant-video-compilations/id1069545900?at=10l7vI&ct=mwli), it takes about 15 seconds to construct a 30 second quick edit and share this on social media (which for Twitter is further cut back to 20 seconds, on Instagram 15 seconds), right after the event:  


You can increase the cut speed, or slow the edit down to a longer 1.5 minutes (in this case), which may again be a tad bit too long to sit through:  


The app allows you to pick video, images or both, from a number of preset timespans (last hour, 24 hours, today, yesterday, week, month,… you get it) as well as from any album (so you could pick clips first, and put them into an album).

Currently, the cuts are linear (you can't pick an order), and there is limited additional editing possible, but it is really fast to put something together.

Get it on the [App store](https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/videoslam-instant-video-compilations/id1069545900?at=10l7vI&ct=mwli).

\*the image at the top is begging for a caption
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Connecting Conversations #videoslam` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-03-16-connecting-conversations-videoslam/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `Browser zooming and CSS layout issues` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-01-20-browser-zooming-and-css-layout-issues/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-01-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Browsers have a zoom functionality, to zoom in or out, enlarging or shrinking the content in the browser window (using CTRL plus scrollwheel on mouse, or CTRL with + or -). I guess most of the time (no research here), people would zoom in, enlarging elements on screen to improve legibility. There's also an option to only zoom in/out text, leaving all other elements (like formfields, buttons…) in the original format.  
One of our customers tends to zoom out, to show more content at once (as our screens happen to contain a lot of data). I guess it saves them having to purchase new, higher resolution screens for their employees, to get the benefit of a wider view on their data (to the detriment of their employees' eyes).  
I never noticed any layout issues with zoomed in content, but there was a small issue with some range fields and calendar components becoming misaligned when zooming out. And whatever I tried (padding, margin, EMs in stead of PXs, …) I did not get it to comply. Now, maybe the underlying document structure wasn't up to scratch. It's 10 year old web app, but at least it wasn't using tables for form layout (because that was the right thing to do, right?), it does mean all these small, annoying misalignments across different browsers.

Anyway, I'm just wanted to document a solution I found to this particular problem, which solved this particular issue for me, and maybe might help you too. Though I couldn't find anything referencing this for zooming purposes.  
The trick is (drumroll), using **min-device-pixel-ratio** for CSS media queries. It might look a bit hacky, but it worked (without doing a whole refactoring of the existing css layout).

When zooming in/out in the browser (but not text-only zoom), the browser would change the registered device-pixel-ratio (try it in a JavaScript console with window.devicePixelRatio), which means you can target different devicePixelRatios using CSS media queries:  
`@media only screen and (min-device-pixel-ratio: 1){

    body{background-color:aqua}

    }`  
or for some backwards compatibility:  
`@media

    only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 1),

    only screen and ( min--moz-device-pixel-ratio: 1),

    only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 1){

    body{background-color:aqua}

    }`  
A device-pixel-ratio of 1 is the basic state of any basic (cheap) PC screen out there, mostly 1920×1080 nowadays.  
Normally, device-pixel-ratio would be used to target high pixel density screens, like Apple's so called “retina” displays, or high resolution Android tablets, which would have a device-pixel-ratio of 2 (or at least more than 1). For example, this page has an overview of several phones/tablet devices and their device-pixel-ratio: [http://mydevice.io](http://mydevice.io/devices/#sortTabletshttp://mydevice.io).  
When zooming out in a desktop browser though, the device-pixel-ratio becomes less than 1.  
And as such I can target any discrepancies in the layout when a user zooms out:  
@media  
only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 0.1),  
only screen and ( min–moz-device-pixel-ratio: 0.1),  
only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 0.1){  
.calendar{ margin-top: 20px}  
}

@media  
only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 0.35),  
only screen and ( min–moz-device-pixel-ratio: 0.35),  
only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 0.35){  
.calendar{ margin-top: 10px}  
}

@media  
only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 0.55),  
only screen and ( min–moz-device-pixel-ratio: 0.55),  
only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 0.55){  
.calendar{ margin-top: 5px}  
}

@media  
only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 1),  
only screen and ( min–moz-device-pixel-ratio: 1),  
only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 1){  
.calendar{ margin-top: 2px}  
}  
The moment the user zoomed out, the 2px margin did not work anymore, and the layout would be broken (slightly).  
Using a margin of 5px fixed it, for a lower-than-1 device-pixel-ratio. Zooming out even more, again the margin would fail, and I'd need 10px,…  
Of course, min-device-pixel-ratio: 0.1 is ridiculous (the screen becomes illegible), but it covered all the bases.  
Also, I'm using min-device-pixel-ratio (and not device-pixel-ratio) so we can target ranges, from 0.1 to 0.349999, 0.35 to 0.549999, …

Try it out with different body colors. Fun, fun, fun…
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 27 Dec 2015  #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2016-01-03-my-week-in-pictures-27-dec-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2016-01-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

## weekinpix   

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2016/01/IMG_7719.jpg "img_7719-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2016/01/IMG_7719.jpg)

Pets, mango, working from home, ...

---


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 13 Dec 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-12-21-my-week-in-pictures-13-dec-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-12-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

# Nero

Picked up a rescue puppy in Brisbane!

![(https://halans.com//orig-content/uploads/2015/12/Image2.jpg "image1-jpg")](https://halans.com//orig-content/uploads/2015/12/Image2.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 06 Dec 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-12-14-my-week-in-pictures-06-dec-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-12-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 29 Nov 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-12-07-my-week-in-pictures-29-nov-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-12-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `iPad Resolution Test` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-12-06-ipad-resolution-test/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-12-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Set up a Bootstrap template with some checks on minimum and maximum device resolution, and device pixel ratio, to show the difference between 2x pixel ratio and actual retina iPad resolution (particularly for iPad Pro): [resolution test](https://halans.com/iPadResolutionTest/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 22 Nov 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-11-30-my-week-in-pictures-22-nov-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-11-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 15 Nov 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-11-23-my-week-in-pictures-15-nov-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-11-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 08 Nov 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-11-15-my-week-in-pictures-08-nov-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-11-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 01 Nov 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-11-08-my-week-in-pictures-01-nov-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-11-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 25 Oct 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-11-01-my-week-in-pictures-25-oct-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-11-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 18 Oct 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-10-25-my-week-in-pictures-18-oct-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-10-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 11 Oct 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-10-18-my-week-in-pictures-11-oct-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-10-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 04 Oct 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-10-11-my-week-in-pictures-04-oct-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-10-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 27 Sep 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-10-04-my-week-in-pictures-27-sep-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-10-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[!(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/11/Image2.jpg "image2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/11/Image2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 20 Sep 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-09-27-my-week-in-pictures-20-sep-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-09-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 13 Sep 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-09-20-my-week-in-pictures-13-sep-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-09-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `HTTP 415 Unsupported Media Type` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-09-20-http-415-unsupported-media-type/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-09-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Encountered an error in IE11 a while ago using the [Swagger UI](http://swagger.io/swagger-ui/), on a DELETE REST request, which returned “HTTP 415 Unsupported Media Type” error, while Firefox/Chrome had no problem with the same request (I know, what else is new, right?). I couldn't find anything specific around Swagger and HTTP 415.  
As it turns out, Swagger gets its payload data using `var data = this._formData || this._data;` in `Request.prototype.end`, but on a DELETE there is no data, so “data” is undefined. Later on it does its XHR request `xhr.send(data);`.  
No problem in Firefox/Chrome, but IE11 sends back the string `"undefined"` as `data`, and the server isn't expecting anything like that, hence the “HTTP 415 Unsupported Media Type” response.  
Explicitly setting the data to null `var data = this._formData || this._data || null;` in the Swagger UI JavaScript fixed it (or not sending the `data` when it's undefined in the xhr would work around it too). Though it rather looks like an IE bug, no?
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 06 Sep 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-09-13-my-week-in-pictures-06-sep-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-09-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 30 Aug 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-09-06-my-week-in-pictures-30-aug-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-09-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 23 Aug 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-09-06-my-week-in-pictures-23-aug-2015-weekinpix-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-09-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 16 Aug 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-08-26-my-week-in-pictures-16-aug-2015-weekinpix-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-08-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 09 Aug 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-08-19-my-week-in-pictures-09-aug-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-08-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 19 Jul 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-07-26-my-week-in-pictures-19-jul-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-07-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 12 Jul 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-07-19-my-week-in-pictures-12-jul-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-07-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 05 Jul 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-07-12-my-week-in-pictures-05-jul-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-07-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 21 Jun 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-06-28-my-week-in-pictures-21-jun-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-06-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 14 Jun 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-06-21-my-week-in-pictures-14-jun-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-06-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 07 Jun 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-06-14-my-week-in-pictures-07-jun-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-06-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 31 May 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-06-07-my-week-in-pictures-31-may-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-06-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 24 May 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-05-30-my-week-in-pictures-24-may-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-05-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 17 May 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-05-23-my-week-in-pictures-17-may-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-05-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

House-hunting
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 10 May 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-05-17-my-week-in-pictures-10-may-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-05-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

New family member, Mauro.
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 03 May 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-05-10-my-week-in-pictures-03-may-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-05-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `May the Fourth be with you` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-05-04-may-the-fourth-be-with-you/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-05-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/05/14231215990_77be384275_o-5.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/05/14231215990_77be384275_o-5.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 26 Apr 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-05-02-my-week-in-pictures-26-apr-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-05-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 19 Apr 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-04-26-my-week-in-pictures-19-apr-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-04-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 12 Apr 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-04-19-my-week-in-pictures-12-apr-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-04-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 05 Apr 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-04-13-my-week-in-pictures-05-apr-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-04-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for February 24th through April 4th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-04-04-bookmarks-for-february-24th-through-april-4th/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-04-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for February 24th through April 4th:

- [Framer – Prototype Interaction and Animation](http://framerjs.com/) –
- [Testing Tool — Google Developers](https://developers.google.com/structured-data/testing-tool/) –
- [HTML5 WordPress Starter Theme | Roots](http://roots.io/starter-theme/) –
- [Bones – The HTML5 WordPress Starter Theme](http://themble.com/bones/) –
- [Underscores | A Starter Theme for WordPress](http://underscores.me/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 29 Mar 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-04-03-my-week-in-pictures-29-mar-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-04-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 22 Mar 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-03-26-my-week-in-pictures-22-mar-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-03-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 15 Mar 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-03-16-my-week-in-pictures-15-mar-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `TMD Interview` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-03-16-tmd-interview/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

First try at recording an interview. Learned lots, lots to learn.  

Need some lights (as overhead daylight changed throughout the afternoon).  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 01 Mar 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-03-11-my-week-in-pictures-01-mar-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-03-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 22 Feb 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-03-02-my-week-in-pictures-22-feb-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-03-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/03/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/03/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 15 Feb 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-02-22-my-week-in-pictures-15-feb-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-02-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 08 Feb 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-02-15-my-week-in-pictures-08-feb-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-02-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for February 7th through February 15th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-02-15-bookmarks-for-february-7th-through-february-15th/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-02-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for February 7th through February 15th:

- [A JavaScript library for building user interfaces | React](http://facebook.github.io/react/) –
- [Flux | Application Architecture for Building User Interfaces](http://facebook.github.io/flux/) –
- [Karma – Spectacular Test Runner for Javascript](http://karma-runner.github.io/0.12/index.html) –
- [lodash](https://lodash.com/) –
- [webpack module bundler](http://webpack.github.io/) –
- [Tint](https://www.trueinteractions.com/tint2/docs/) –
- [Using Google Spreadsheets as a Data Source for Windows Store Apps – Part 2 -Telerik Developer Network](http://developer.telerik.com/featured/using-google-spreadsheets-data-source-windows-store-apps-part-2/?utm_content=buffereaf7f&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 01 Feb 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-02-08-my-week-in-pictures-01-feb-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-02-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/02/Image1.jpg "image1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/02/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 25 Jan 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-02-01-my-week-in-pictures-25-jan-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-02-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/02/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/02/Image.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 18 Jan 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-01-26-my-week-in-pictures-18-jan-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-01-26  

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 11 Jan 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-01-18-my-week-in-pictures-11-jan-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-01-18  

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## big dog, big car

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/01/Image3.jpg "image3-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/01/Image3.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 04 Jan 2015 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-01-15-my-week-in-pictures-04-jan-2015-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-01-15  

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# big dog, big car

Bought a car, borrowed a dog

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/01/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/01/Image.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Week In Pix 2014` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-01-10-week-in-pix-2014/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-01-10  

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Get an [overview of my 2014](https://halans.com/tags/weekinpix2014/) through [\#weekinpix](https://halans.com/tags/weekinpix/)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 28 Dec 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-01-03-my-week-in-pictures-28-dec-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-01-03  

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# NYE 2014

Shooting fireworks on New Years Eve 2014 at the Sydney Opera House for the City of Sydney.

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/01/Image2.jpg "image2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/01/Image2.jpg)

Check out my [Flickr Album](https://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/albums/72157650051229115/)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My favorite shots of 2014` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2015-01-01-my-favorite-shots-of-2014/   
[POST_DATE] 2015-01-01  

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My [favorite images of last year](http://flic.kr/s/aHsk7iDcJc).
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 21 Dec 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-12-28-my-week-in-pictures-21-dec-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-12-28  

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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for September 11th through December 26th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-12-26-bookmarks-for-september-11th-through-december-26th/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-12-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for September 11th through December 26th:

- [Mobile-Friendly Test](https://www.google.com/webmasters/tools/mobile-friendly/) –
- [My five promise patterns](https://remysharp.com/2014/11/19/my-five-promise-patterns) –
- [9 basic principles of responsive web design](http://blog.froont.com/9-basic-principles-of-responsive-web-design/) –
- [Using Yeoman with AngularJS](https://www.airpair.com/js/using-angularjs-yeoman?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Ivy – Import your playlists into Spotify](http://www.ivyishere.org/ivy) –
- [Current Millis – convert milliseconds to date and time, live UTC time](http://currentmillis.com/) –
- [IBM Design Language](http://www.ibm.com/design/language/) –
- [PhotoSwipe: JavaScript Image Gallery](http://photoswipe.com/) –
- [REST Countries](http://restcountries.eu/) –
- [Materialize](http://materializecss.com/) –
- [Building single page apps using web components – Polymer](https://www.polymer-project.org/articles/spa.html?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Off-Canvas Menu Effects – Top Side](http://tympanus.net/Development/OffCanvasMenuEffects/) –
- [A Better Way to Learn Swift: Build modern iOS apps – Thinkster](https://thinkster.io/ios-tutorial/a-better-way-to-learn-swift/) –
- [Gridgum | Responsive Bootstrap Themes | Bootstrap WordPress](http://gridgum.com/?utm_source=SiePoint17thNL&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=SitePoint17thEmail) –
- [AngularUI for AngularJS](http://angular-ui.github.io/) –
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## [POST_TITLE] `Most played 2014 tracks` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-12-21-most-played-2014-tracks/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-12-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

My most played 2014 tracks (some of which surprised me):

1. Happy Idiot – TV on the Radio
2. Left Hand Free – alt-J
3. Leave Me Alone (feat. Shay Lia) – KAYTRANADA
4. Speak to the Wild – Thurston Moore
5. Adrift (feat. Kathrin deBoer) – Max Cooper
6. Looking Too Closely – Fink
7. Yellow Flicker Beat – Lorde
8. Kill! – The Raveonettes
9. Play (feat. Sampha) – Katy B
10. Break the Fall – Laura Welsh
11. Remurdered – Mogwai
12. Matamoros – The Afghan Whigs
13. Algiers – The Afghan Whigs
14. Written or Spoken – Steve Smyth
15. Promises of No Man's Land – Blaudzun
16. Tropical Oceans – D.D Dumbo
17. H3lix (Original Club Mix) – Funkagenda
18. Viol (Original Mix) – Gesaffelstein
19. Crossfade (Maceo Plex Mix) – Gusgus
20. Fall In Love – Phantogram
21. Cause & Cure – Mondkopf
22. Sorrow feat. Bon Homme (Original Mix) – Alex Niggemann
23. New York Morning – Elbow
24. Materium (Original Mix) – Alex Niggemann
25. I Got U (feat. Jax Jones) – Duke Dumont
26. Livin' In the City – John Butler Trio
27. Walking With Elephants (Original Mix) – Ten Walls
28. Hunger of the Pine – alt-J
29. Flip (Original Club Mix) – Cedric Gervais
30. Ah! Isobel (Original Mix) – DJ Tennis
31. I Got U (feat. Jax Jones) – Duke Dumont
32. Pilgrim – Fink
33. Busy Earnin' – Jungle
34. Duster (Original Mix) – Midland
35. Pushing On (Original Mix) – Oliver $, Jimi Jules
36. Kissing Families – Silversun Pickups
37. Moan (Trentemoller Remix) – Trentemoller
38. Dark Days Feat. Foreign Beggars (Original Mix) – Alix Perez, Foreign Beggars
39. Flange (Original Mix) – Danny Daze
40. Heist Feat. Forrest (Original Mix) – Denis Horvat, Forrest


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 07 Dec 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-12-17-my-week-in-pictures-07-dec-2014-weekinpix-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-12-17  

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 30 Nov 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-12-08-my-week-in-pictures-30-nov-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-12-08  

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 23 Nov 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-12-03-my-week-in-pictures-23-nov-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-12-03  

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 16 Nov 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-11-24-my-week-in-pictures-16-nov-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-11-24  

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 09 Nov 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-11-17-my-week-in-pictures-09-nov-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-11-17  

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 02 Nov 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-11-10-my-week-in-pictures-02-nov-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-11-10  

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 26 Oct 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-11-03-my-week-in-pictures-26-oct-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-11-03  

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 19 Oct 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-10-29-my-week-in-pictures-19-oct-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-10-29  

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 12 Oct 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-10-24-my-week-in-pictures-12-oct-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-10-24  

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 05 Oct 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-10-15-my-week-in-pictures-05-oct-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-10-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 28 Sep 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-10-06-my-week-in-pictures-28-sep-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-10-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/10/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/10/Image.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 21 Sep 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-09-29-my-week-in-pictures-21-sep-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-09-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/09/Image4.jpg "image4-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/09/Image4.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 14 Sep 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-09-23-my-week-in-pictures-14-sep-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-09-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/09/Image2.jpg "image2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/09/Image2.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 07 Sep 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-09-20-my-week-in-pictures-07-sep-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-09-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/09/Image1.jpg "image1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/09/Image1.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for September 5th through September 11th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-09-11-bookmarks-for-september-5th-through-september-11th/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-09-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for September 5th through September 11th:

- [AniJS, Declarative handling library for UI interactions](http://anijs.github.io/) –
- [Pagekit](http://pagekit.com/) –
- [Four Design Lessons from Material Design Documentation – Designmodo](http://designmodo.com/material-design-documentation/) –
- [TETHR – The Most Beautiful iOS Design Kit Ever Made – by InVision](http://www.invisionapp.com/tethr) –
- [uilang](http://uilang.com/) –
- [Introduction | Human JavaScript](http://read.humanjavascript.com/) –
- [Ampersand.js – Home](http://ampersandjs.com/) –
- [Concise, a better front-end framework](http://concisecss.com/) –
- [Web Designers Checklist : A Visual Designers Checklist for the Web](http://webdesignerschecklist.com/) –
- [Emmet Re:View — A responsive design viewer](http://re-view.emmet.io/) –
- [Intense Images](http://tholman.com/intense-images/) –
- [COBOL on Wheelchair](http://azac.pl/cobol-on-wheelchair/) –
- [Pure CSS parallax scrolling websites | Keith Clark](http://blog.keithclark.co.uk/pure-css-parallax-websites/) –
- [Favicons, Touch Icons, Tile Icons, etc. What All Do You Need? | CSS-Tricks](http://css-tricks.com/favicon-quiz/) –
- [The WordPress Plugin Boilerplate | A Foundation For Building High-Quality WordPress Plugins](http://wppb.io/) –
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for August 28th through September 3rd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-09-03-bookmarks-for-august-28th-through-september-3rd/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-09-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for August 28th through September 3rd:

- [A simple and easy jQuery plugin used to add page transition on css animations. · Animsition](http://git.blivesta.com/animsition/) –
- [Chartist – Simple responsive charts](http://gionkunz.github.io/chartist-js/) –
- [AngularJS front-end with WordPress back-end – Studio Raygun](http://studioraygun.co.uk/blog/angularjs-front-end-wordpress-back-end/) –
- [MEAN IO – A Fullstack Javascript Framework](http://mean.io/#!/) –
- [Sketch App Sources – Free graphical resources – Sketch Freebie – Free Sketch Files and SVG Files for Sketch 3 software](http://www.sketchappsources.com/) –
- [Clever tips for your favourite design app | sketchtips.info](http://www.sketchtips.info/) –
- [BrilliantSketch | Source for Sketch File, Tips and Tutorial](http://brilliantsketch.com/) –
- [PACE — Automatic page load progress bars](http://github.hubspot.com/pace/docs/welcome/) –
- [Eager](https://eager.io/) –
- [Bourbon – A Sass Mixin Library](http://bourbon.io/) –
- [Hot Social Design Patterns for Mobile – Designmodo](http://designmodo.com/social-patterns-mobile/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter%20Issue%2051&utm_content=Newsletter%20Issue%2051+CID_58ffb7986935afa8e1e6dc3e719c210e&utm_source=eWebDesigncom%20Newsletter&utm_term=Hot%20Social%20Design%20Patterns%20for%20Mobile) –
- [Faux Pas for Xcode](http://fauxpasapp.com/) –
- [The Business of App Design – Articles](http://dancounsell.com/articles) –
- [that thing in swift](http://thatthinginswift.com/) –
- [Middleman: Hand-crafted frontend development](http://middlemanapp.com/) –
- [Nice Entity — “Find your character!”](http://nice-entity.com/) –
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 31 Aug 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-09-01-my-week-in-pictures-31-aug-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-09-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/09/Image3.jpg "image3-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/09/Image3.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for June 22nd through August 27th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-08-27-bookmarks-for-june-22nd-through-august-27th/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-08-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for June 22nd through August 27th:

- [Tooltipster – The jQuery Tooltip Plugin](http://iamceege.github.io/tooltipster/) –
- [CSS Shorthand Generator](http://shrthnd.volume7.io/) –
- [Rock Hammer](http://malarkey.github.io/Rock-Hammer/) –
- [Ink Interface Kit](http://ink.sapo.pt/) –
- [LayoutIt! – Interface Builder for Bootstrap](http://www.layoutit.com/) –
- [Why We Need Storytellers at the Heart of Product Development | UX Magazine](https://uxmag.com/articles/why-we-need-storytellers-at-the-heart-of-product-development) –
- [A Look at Flat Design and Why It's Significant | UX Magazine](https://uxmag.com/articles/a-look-at-flat-design-and-why-its-significant) –
- [The U.S. Digital Services Playbook](http://playbook.cio.gov/) –
- [Flat UI Colors](http://flatuicolors.com/) –
- [Designer's guide to DPI](http://sebastien-gabriel.com/designers-guide-to-dpi/home) –
- [Welcome – Polymer](http://www.polymer-project.org/) –
- [The Web Manifest specification | HTML5 Doctor](http://html5doctor.com/web-manifest-specification/) –
- [Breach – A browser for the HTML5 era](http://breach.cc/) –
- [Dense.js — Serve retina images](http://dense.rah.pw/) –
- [Swift Yeti](http://swiftyeti.com/) –
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 24 Aug 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-08-25-my-week-in-pictures-24-aug-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-08-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/09/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/09/Image.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 17 Aug 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-08-25-my-week-in-pictures-17-aug-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-08-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

    

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/08/Image3.jpg "image3-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/08/Image3.jpg)


    
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 10 Aug 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-08-18-my-week-in-pictures-10-aug-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-08-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/08/Image2.jpg "image2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/08/Image2.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 03 Aug 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-08-16-my-week-in-pictures-03-aug-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-08-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/08/Image1.jpg "image1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/08/Image1.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 27 Jul 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-08-16-my-week-in-pictures-27-jul-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-08-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/08/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/08/Image.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 20 Jul 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-07-30-my-week-in-pictures-20-jul-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-07-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image7.jpg "image7-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image7.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 13 Jul 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-07-20-my-week-in-pictures-13-jul-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image6.jpg "image6-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image6.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 06 Jul 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-07-17-my-week-in-pictures-06-jul-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-07-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image5.jpg "image5-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image5.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 29 Jun 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-07-17-my-week-in-pictures-29-jun-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-07-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image4.jpg "image4-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image4.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 15 Jun 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-07-17-my-week-in-pictures-15-jun-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-07-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image3.jpg "image3-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image3.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 08 Jun 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-07-17-my-week-in-pictures-08-jun-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-07-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image2.jpg "image2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image2.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 01 Jun 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-07-17-my-week-in-pictures-01-jun-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-07-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image1.jpg "image1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image1.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 25 May 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-07-17-my-week-in-pictures-25-may-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-07-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/07/Image.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for May 10th through June 15th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-06-15-bookmarks-for-may-10th-through-june-15th/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-06-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for May 10th through June 15th:

- [Call to Idea – Get inspired!](http://calltoidea.com/) –
- [gulp.js – the streaming build system](http://gulpjs.com/) –
- [Project Scaffolding – Grunt: The JavaScript Task Runner](http://gruntjs.com/project-scaffolding) –
- [The Best Grunt WordPress Tutorials & Resources](http://wpbacon.com/tutorials/grunt-wordpress/) –
- [Using Grunt to Speed Up & Standardize your WordPress Theme Development – Monday By Noon](https://mondaybynoon.com/grunt-wordpress-theme-development/) –
- [Using Grunt for WordPress Theme Development and Deployments](http://mattbanks.me/grunt-wordpress-development-deployments/) –
- [Using Grunt with WordPress Themes | WP Theming](http://wptheming.com/2014/05/grunt-wordpress-themes/) –
- [The new srcset and sizes explained › Martin Wolf Front End Web Development](http://martinwolf.org/2014/05/07/the-new-srcset-and-sizes-explained/) –
- [Responsive Images Done Right: A Guide To And srcset | Smashing Magazine](http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2014/05/14/responsive-images-done-right-guide-picture-srcset/?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Web Design Field Manual](http://webfieldmanual.com/) –
- [Single Element CSS Spinners](http://projects.lukehaas.me/css-loaders/) – Great css only loading animations
- [Let's Make a Bubble Map](http://bost.ocks.org/mike/bubble-map/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [HTML5 UP! Responsive HTML5 and CSS3 Site Templates](http://html5up.net/) –
- [iBeacons Lessons Learned – Mutual Mobile Engineering Blog](http://mutualmobile.github.io/blog/2014/05/07/ibeacons-lessons-learned/) –
- [Dringend – The development environment on your iPad](http://dringend.cc/) –
- [Pebble Watch Development with JavaScript](http://www.sitepoint.com/pebble-watch-development-javascript/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 18 May 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-05-26-my-week-in-pictures-18-may-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-05-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/05/Image3.jpg "image3-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/05/Image3.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 11 May 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-05-24-my-week-in-pictures-11-may-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-05-24  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/05/Image2.jpg "image2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/05/Image2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 04 May 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-05-24-my-week-in-pictures-04-may-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-05-24  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/05/Image1.jpg "image1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/05/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for April 13th through May 7th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-05-07-bookmarks-for-april-13th-through-may-7th/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-05-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for April 13th through May 7th:

- [UIkit](http://getuikit.com/) –
- [Single-Page Applications with the Page Micro Library | Flippin' Awesome](http://flippinawesome.org/2014/04/28/single-page-applications-with-the-page-micro-library/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Single-Field Credit Card Input Pattern | Brad Frost Web](http://bradfrostweb.com/blog/post/single-field-credit-card-input-pattern/) – Single-Field Credit Card Input Pattern
- [Improve the payment experience with animations — Medium](https://medium.com/p/3d1b0a9b810e) – Improve the payment experience with animations
- [An Introduction to the Web Notifications API](http://www.sitepoint.com/introduction-web-notifications-api/) –
- [Ripple is hard to understand, but it's worth making the effort: there's a deep insight at its core | Richard Gendal Brown](http://gendal.wordpress.com/2014/04/19/ripple-is-hard-to-understand-but-its-worth-making-the-effort-theres-a-deep-insight-at-its-core/?utm_source=bitcoinweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [An Introduction to the MEAN Stack](http://www.sitepoint.com/introduction-mean-stack/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [freeboard – Dashboards For the Internet Of Things](https://freeboard.io/) –
- [Proof of Existence](http://www.proofofexistence.com/) –
- [Layout in Flipboard for Web and Windows — Flipboard Engineering](http://engineering.flipboard.com/2014/03/web-layouts/) –
- [The Beginner's Guide to Ratchet: A Mobile Web App FrameworkTreehouse Blog](http://blog.teamtreehouse.com/beginners-guide-ratchet-mobile-web-app-framework) –
- [Ratchet](http://goratchet.com/) –
- [How to Create Custom HTML Elements | Treehouse BlogTreehouse Blog](http://blog.teamtreehouse.com/create-custom-html-elements-2) –
- [Theresa's Sound World](http://theresassoundworld.com/) –
- [Track Errors with Google Analytics](http://davidwalsh.name/track-errors-google-analytics) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 27 Apr 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-05-04-my-week-in-pictures-27-apr-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-05-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/05/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/05/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 20 Apr 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-04-27-my-week-in-pictures-20-apr-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-04-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/04/photo3.jpg "photo3-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/04/photo3.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Walk around Bradley's head` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-04-24-walk-around-bradleys-head/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-04-24  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I love what Google did with their [Google Nigh Walk](https://nightwalk.withgoogle.com/en/) in Marseille, and would love to do something similar locally (if anyone else is up for it too).

I have been doing quite a bit of spheres lately myself. First using the iPhone, a [Motrr Galileo](http://motrr.com/) (on a light tripod) and the iOS [TheSphere](https://www.thesphere.com) app. Still love this series on [Fort Denison](https://www.google.com/maps/views/view/102084005490627600774/photo/dVsRmOkj7NAAAAAGOptOWg). This combo was nice and gave quick results, but it was obvious that these were smartphone renders (same for the Google Photo app on Android, which supports spheres). I wanted better results, as some of the automatic stitching went haywire, and I spent more and more time trying to fix the lighting and stitching afterwards.

So I ended up getting a Sigma 8mm (full fisheye lens, 180 degrees view), and a [360precision Atome](https://www.360precision.com/360/index.cfm?precision=products.atome_main_en) head (with level bubble) on a tripod for use with my Canon 6D.

A DSLR allows you more control over exposure, and provides sharper images (than a smart phone lens/sensor combination), but don't expect miracles from merging fisheye images. Using in manual mode, for both exposure and focus, you can get consistent images, without one washing out and the other being too dark.

The Atome head allows for easy 360 panorama shooting with its 90 degree anchor points, and isn't too heavy to carry around (but don't be fooled, it feels solid). A Manfrotto bag to carry your tripod over your shoulder helps too.  
Additionally the 6D also has integrated GPS, so photos are geotagged instantly (though require review, and repositioning as they sometimes tend to be off by 10-30 meters).

For stitching the circular images together I use [PTGui](http://www.ptgui.com/) on OSX, which looks dated but works really nicely with the fisheye images, without having to fix much or configure things. It seemed easier to work with than Kolor AutopanoPro.

Since I got this combination, I went out and started documenting walks around Sydney's inner harbour (as well as a couple in the Blue Mountains):

- Sweep through [the Coal Loader](https://maps.google.com/maps?layer=c&panoid=VIymd53aQMkAAAQWg7a5zw&ie=UTF8&source=embed&output=svembed&cbp=13%2C110.11792115578623%2C%2C0%2C-11.780383241191913), on Balls Head
- Or explore the headlands of [Balls Head Reserve](https://maps.google.com/maps?layer=c&panoid=n_29c8PICzQAAAQWhTC9qA&ie=UTF8&source=embed&output=svembed&cbp=13%2C96.82247218501493%2C%2C0%2C-6.4426877470355635)
- The magnificent harbour views of [Bradley's Head](https://maps.google.com/maps?layer=c&panoid=2-WJ0vTHl3MAAAQWjLCzow&ie=UTF8&source=embed&output=svembed&cbp=13%2C256.75899757404966%2C%2C0%2C-6.309389351106347)
- The small pond at the [Bebeah Garden in Mount Wilson](https://maps.google.com/maps?layer=c&panoid=hGon4LLW7xMAAAQWjG8xpw&ie=UTF8&source=embed&output=svembed&cbp=13%2C91.3653998526072%2C%2C0%2C13.173293854606271) on a beautiful Autumn day
- Or [the Wynnes Rocks Lookout](https://maps.google.com/maps?layer=c&panoid=qvMmHNPgH-wAAAQWjB9cGQ&ie=UTF8&source=embed&output=svembed&cbp=13%2C139.9976592007027%2C%2C0%2C1.5810276679841877) in Mount Wilson (and go full screen!), probably one of the most spectacular and underrated lookouts in the Blue Mountains (and quiet!).



The first walk I did (dragging along my gear), was the [Two Creaks Track](https://maps.google.com/maps?layer=c&panoid=g9Lc9aKt0hwAAAQWhUnFUw&ie=UTF8&source=embed&output=svembed&cbp=13%2C331.36440316205534%2C%2C0%2C0.6916996047430928) in Garigal NP, near Lindfield. There I used the inbuilt HDR functionality of the 6D. But I wasn't impressed with the sharpness, and the rather dull looking colours. When using in camera HDR, it takes three consecutive images with different exposures. Of course, leafs don't sit still and that kinda results in less sharp images. Since then I've been using RAW files, to get the most details out of highlights and shadows.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 13 Apr 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-04-20-my-week-in-pictures-13-apr-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-04-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/04/photo2.jpg "photo2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/04/photo2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 06 Apr 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-04-13-my-week-in-pictures-06-apr-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-04-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/04/photo1.jpg "photo1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/04/photo1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for March 28th through April 13th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-04-13-bookmarks-for-march-28th-through-april-13th/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-04-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for March 28th through April 13th:

- [Fluidity](http://fluidity.sexy/) –
- [AngularStrap – AngularJS 1.2 native directives for Twitter Bootstrap 3.](http://mgcrea.github.io/angular-strap/) –
- [Free eBook](http://creating-ebooks.com/) – Create your own ebook
- [The Ultimate Guide to Solving iOS Battery Drain — Overthought](http://www.overthought.org/blog/2014/the-ultimate-guide-to-solving-ios-battery-drain) –
- [PushUp | Push Notifications for WordPress](https://pushupnotifications.com/) –
- [Desktop Push Notifications | Web Push by Roost](http://roost.me/) –
- [Shower Presentation Engine](http://shwr.me/) –
- [slick – the last carousel you'll ever need](http://kenwheeler.github.io/slick/?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Debugging Asynchronous JavaScript with Chrome DevTools – HTML5 Rocks](http://www.html5rocks.com/en/tutorials/developertools/async-call-stack/) –
- [Crumpet – A Deliciously Simple Framework](http://suitedpixel.com/crumpet/) –
- [Framework7 – Full Featured HTML Framework For Building iOS7 Apps](http://www.idangero.us/framework7/#.Uz3W_1f3tM8) –
- [Winch – Let your apps work off-line](https://winch.io/) –
- [Docs & Examples | Pongstagr.am jQuery Plugin](http://pongstr.github.io/pongstagr.am/#examples) –
- [Origins of Common UI Symbols](https://readymag.com/shuffle/ui-symbols/) –
- [Designer Dirty Talk](http://designerdirtytalk.tumblr.com/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 30 Mar 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-04-09-my-week-in-pictures-30-mar-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-04-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/04/photo.jpg "photo-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/04/photo.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 23 Mar 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-03-30-my-week-in-pictures-23-mar-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-03-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/03/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/03/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for March 10th through March 27th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-03-27-bookmarks-for-march-10th-through-march-27th/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-03-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for March 10th through March 27th:

- [Is jQuery Too Big For Mobile? | Flippin' Awesome](http://flippinawesome.org/2014/03/10/is-jquery-too-big-for-mobile/?utm_source=Responsive+Design+Weekly&utm_campaign=520ae5b328-Responsive_Design_Weekly_100&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_df65b6d7c8-520ae5b328-53203853) –
- [1 | Behind Google Maps' Intuitive New Design | Co.Design | business design](http://www.fastcodesign.com/3027177/behind-google-maps-new-design#1) –
- [Crosswalk](https://crosswalk-project.org/) –
- [Panning and scrolling background images using the canvas element](http://bdadam.com/blog/panning-and-scrolling-background-images-using-the-canvas-element.html) –
- [CSS Stress Testing and Performance Profiling | Andy Edinborough](http://andy.edinborough.org/CSS-Stress-Testing-and-Performance-Profiling) –
- [Bootstrap Image Gallery](http://blueimp.github.io/Bootstrap-Image-Gallery/) –
- [Scraping the Web With Node.js ♥ Scotch](http://scotch.io/tutorials/javascript/scraping-the-web-with-node-js) –
- [How I rebuilt “Flying Toasters” using only CSS animations | Bryan Braun](http://bryanbraun.com/2014/03/15/how-i-rebuilt-flying-toasters-using-only-css-animations) –
- [Browserhacks](http://browserhacks.com/) –
- [Generating QR codes with JQuery – Code Synthesis Blog](http://www.codesynthesis.co.uk/tutorials/generating-qr-codes-with-jquery) –
- [The Easiest Mobile Development Tool – Codiqa](https://codiqa.com/) –
- [Ionic: Advanced HTML5 Hybrid Mobile App Framework](http://ionicframework.com/) –
- [Jetstrap – The Bootstrap Interface Builder](https://jetstrap.com/) –
- [Thing – Changing Everything, Changes Everything.](https://thing.io/) –
- [Code Guide by @mdo](http://mdo.github.io/code-guide/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 16 Mar 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-03-23-my-week-in-pictures-16-mar-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-03-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/03/image.jpeg "image-jpeg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/03/image.jpeg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 09 Mar 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-03-18-my-week-in-pictures-09-mar-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-03-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/03/photo2.jpg "photo2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/03/photo2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 02 Mar 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-03-10-my-week-in-pictures-02-mar-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-03-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/03/photo1.jpg "photo1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/03/photo1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for February 23rd through March 5th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-03-05-bookmarks-for-february-23rd-through-march-5th/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-03-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for February 23rd through March 5th:

- [Bullet Proof Forms Using Local Storage – eWebDesign](http://ewebdesign.com/bullet-proof-forms-using-local-storage/) –
- [Using HTML5 GeoLocation API With Google Maps](http://www.paulund.co.uk/how-to-use-geolocation-api-with-google-maps) –
- [CamanJS – Javascript Image Manipulation](http://camanjs.com/) –
- [Can iframes be annoying-free? | CodePen Blog](http://blog.codepen.io/2014/02/17/can-iframes-annoying-free/) –
- [Angular Best Practice for App Structure (Public)](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XXMvReO8-Awi1EZXAXS4PzDzdNvV6pGcuaF4Q9821Es/pub) –
- [10 Tips for Designing with Type on a Photo – Designmodo](http://designmodo.com/design-type-photo/) – 10 Tips for Designing with Type on a Photo
- [WigWag](http://www.wigwag.com/) –
- [devicejs.org | DeviceJS is Javascript for the physical world](http://devicejs.org/) –
- [The Pattern Library](http://thepatternlibrary.com/) –
- [Responsive Strategy | Brad Frost Web](http://bradfrostweb.com/blog/post/responsive-strategy/) –
- [Responsive tables](http://gergeo.se/RWD-Table-Patterns/) –
- [Android Splash Screens – Using 9-Patch Images | TiDev](http://www.tidev.io/2014/02/12/android-splash-screens-using-9-patch-images/?mkt_tok=3RkMMJWWfF9wsRovuqrNZKXonjHpfsX87u0vT%2Frn28M3109ad%2BrmPBy53oQIWp8na%2BqWCgseOrQ8ll8OV869Vs0YraQ%3D) –
- [Swagger: A simple, open standard for describing REST APIs with JSON | Reverb for Developers](https://helloreverb.com/developers/swagger) –
- [Grid](http://www.adamkaplan.me/grid/) –
- [Outdated UX patterns and alternatives](http://sideproject.io/outdated-ux-patterns/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 23 Feb 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-03-03-my-week-in-pictures-23-feb-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-03-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/03/photo.jpg "photo-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/03/photo.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 16 Feb 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-02-24-my-week-in-pictures-16-feb-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-02-24  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/02/image1.jpeg "image1-jpeg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/02/image1.jpeg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for January 21st through February 22nd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-02-22-bookmarks-for-january-21st-through-february-22nd/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-02-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for January 21st through February 22nd:

- [Bootstrap accessibility plugin](http://paypal.github.io/bootstrap-accessibility-plugin/?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Creating a WordPress Theme From Static HTML: Preparing the Markup – Tuts Code Tutorial](http://code.tutsplus.com/tutorials/creating-a-wordpress-theme-from-static-html-preparing-the-markup--wp-33895) –
- [Synomin – Find the shortest Synonym](http://matthaeuskrenn.com/synomin/) –
- [tinytype](http://www.jordanm.co.uk/tinytype) – A compatibility table showing the available default system fonts across different mobile platforms
- [Snippet Repo](http://snippetrepo.com/) –
- [User Interface library](http://useyourinterface.com/) –
- [10 of the Best Webpage Weight Analysis Tools](http://www.sitepoint.com/10-best-webpage-weight-analysis-tools/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=SitePoint%20Mobile%20Newsletter%20%207%20February%202014&utm_content=SitePoint%20Mobile%20Newsletter%20%207%20February%202014+Version+B+CID_f5f902c188d858f35b904ec3924a5143&utm_source=CampaignMonitor%20SitePoint&utm_term=10%20of%20the%20Best%20Web%20Page%20Weight%20Analysis%20Tools) –
- [Creating Home Screen Icons for iOS and Android Devices – Designmodo](http://designmodo.com/create-icons-ios-android/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter+Issue+23&utm_content=Newsletter+Issue+23+CID_85abc7aad9065c559b213a36225d350f&utm_source=eWebDesigncom%20Newsletter) –
- [Origami – Design prototyping with Quartz Composer](http://facebook.github.io/origami/) –
- [The Gumroad Blog – Nathan Barry's Lessons Learned Selling $355,759 on Gumroad](http://blog.gumroad.com/post/73421524134/nathan-barrys-lessons-learned-selling-355-759-on) –
- [Identifying iPhone models](http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3939) –
- [Reveal App](http://revealapp.com/?utm_campaign=iOS_Dev_Weekly_Issue_130&utm_medium=email&utm_source=iOS%2BDev%2BWeekly) –
- [Google Street View API](http://apprentice.craic.com/tutorials/42) –
- [Titanium and Estimotes :: Proximity | TiDev](http://www.tidev.io/2013/12/19/titanium-and-estimotes-proximity/?mkt_tok=3RkMMJWWfF9wsRouuqvKZKXonjHpfsX87u0vT%2Frn28M3109ad%2BrmPBy60YEAWp8na%2BqWCgseOrQ8ll8OV869Vs0YraQ%3D) –
- [Light Table](http://www.lighttable.com/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 09 Feb 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-02-16-my-week-in-pictures-09-feb-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-02-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/02/photo1.jpg "photo1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/02/photo1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 02 Feb 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-02-10-my-week-in-pictures-02-feb-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-02-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/02/photo.jpg "photo-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/02/photo.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Pirates of the Caribbean` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-02-04-pirates-of-the-caribbean/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-02-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Pirates of the Caribbean 3D animated gif  
[![Pirates3D](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/02/Pirates.gif)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2015/02/Pirates.gif)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 26 Jan 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-02-03-my-week-in-pictures-26-jan-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-02-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/02/image.jpeg "image-jpeg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/02/image.jpeg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 19 Jan 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-01-27-my-week-in-pictures-19-jan-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-01-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/photo2.jpg "photo2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/photo2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for January 9th through January 21st` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-01-21-bookmarks-for-january-9th-through-january-21st/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-01-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for January 9th through January 21st:

- [CSS Animation Tricks: State Jumping, Negative Delays, Animating Origin, and More | CSS-Tricks](http://css-tricks.com/css-animation-tricks/) –
- [The Technology Behind the NYTimes.com Redesign – NYTimes.com](http://open.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/01/08/the-technology-behind-the-nytimes-com-redesign/?_php=true&_type=blogs&_r=0) –
- [Under the Surface of the NYT Mobile Redesign – Features – Source: An OpenNews project](https://source.opennews.org/en-US/articles/nyt-redesigns-mobile/) –
- [Flexible CSS cover images – Nicolas Gallagher](http://nicolasgallagher.com/flexible-css-cover-images/) –
- [WAVEALOT™ We Put Brands Into Wallets (the digital kind) Apple Passbook, Google Wallet, and Bluetooth LE iBeacons.](http://wavealot.com/app/index) – ♥
- [Reverse Engineering the Estimote | MAKE](http://makezine.com/2014/01/03/reverse-engineering-the-estimote/) –
- [Frida](http://www.frida.re/) –
- [5 Ways to Prevent the 300ms Click Delay on Mobile Devices – SitePoint](http://www.sitepoint.com/5-ways-prevent-300ms-click-delay-mobile-devices/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=SitePoint+Mobile+Newsletter++10+January+2014&utm_content=SitePoint+Mobile+Newsletter++10+January+2014+CID_0ab4e2c703e55ad3275eeb36933be262&utm_source=CampaignMonitor%20SitePoint&utm_term=5%20Ways%20to%20Prevent%20the%20300ms%20Click%20Delay%20on%20Mobile%20Devices) –
- [Frida](http://www.frida.re/) –
- [VICE VERSA – diagonal UI optimized for single hand IX on Behance](https://www.behance.net/gallery/VICE-VERSA-diagonal-UI-optimized-for-a-single-hand-IX/12419409) –
- [Complete List of HTML Tags with Guide Notes on Semantic HTML Use](http://www.webdesignfromscratch.com/html-css/list-of-html-tags-with-semantic-usage/) –
- [Hover.css – A collection of CSS3 powered hover effects](http://ianlunn.github.io/Hover/?utm_source=buffer&utm_campaign=Buffer&utm_content=buffer0d813&utm_medium=twitter) –
- [Smooth image loading by upscaling – nickf on code](http://spadgos.github.io/blog/2014/01/08/smooth-image-loading-by-upscaling/) –
- [DevDocs](http://devdocs.io/) –
- [Introduction to the Quorum Programming Language | Quorum Programming Language](http://quorumlanguage.com/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 12 Jan 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-01-20-my-week-in-pictures-12-jan-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-01-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/photo1.jpg "photo1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/photo1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 05 Jan 2014 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-01-13-my-week-in-pictures-05-jan-2014-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-01-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/photo.jpg "photo-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/photo.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `2013 favorite tracks` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-01-10-2013-favorite-tracks/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-01-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

My favorite tracks of 2013, based on playcount and my rating in iTunes:

- I Don't Feel (Deetron Remix) – Aeroplane
- Arabella – Arctic Monkeys
- Before I Ever Met You – Banks
- Aeropolis – BeatauCue
- Black Chandelier – Biffy Clyro
- Why Hip Hop Sucks in '13 – Big Scary
- Cirrus – Bonobo
- Pieces – Bonobo Featuring Cornelia
- Heaven For The Sinner – Bonobo Featuring Erykah Badu
- I Can Make You Love Me – British India
- Mess With Us – Compact Disk Dummies
- Mantra – Dave Grohl, Joshua Homme & Trent Reznor
- White Noise (feat. AlunaGeorge) – Disclosure
- Confess to Me (feat. Jessie Ware) – Disclosure
- Boiling (feat. Sinead Harnett) – Disclosure
- Rooted Resentment – Drumcell
- Cough Cough – Everything Everything
- Blackbird – Fat Freddy's Drop
- Misses – Girls In Hawaii
- Call Me In the Afternoon – Half Moon Run
- Bicho Auto – Juana Molina
- Nachash – Karnivool
- Supersoaker – Kings of Leon
- Lecce, Leaving – Lee Ranaldo and the Dust
- J.A.W.S. – Lxury
- Moon Circles (Original Mix) – Maribou State
- Nothing Matters (feat. Skin) \[Noisia Remix\] – Mark Knight
- Woman of the Ghetto (Flume's Jackin House Mix) – Marlena Shaw
- Entertainment – Phoenix
- Originate (Original Mix) – Prolix, DLR
- Evolution – PVT
- Electric – PVT
- Casual Success – PVT
- My God Is the Sun – Queens of the Stone Age
- Heaven and All – Robert Levon Been, Dave Grohl & Peter Hayes
- Basement Structure – SCNTST
- It's the Beat (Live) – Simian Mobile Disco
- Lessons (XO Edit) – SOHN
- Dust and Ashes (At the End of Madness Version) – Tooth Faeries
- What If – Tosca
- Irene – Trixie Whitley
- Gradual Return – Trixie Whitley
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for December 20th through January 9th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-01-09-bookmarks-for-december-20th-through-january-9th/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-01-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for December 20th through January 9th:

- [Intro to Shadow DOM | Nettuts](http://net.tutsplus.com/tutorials/html-css-techniques/intro-to-shadow-dom/?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [45 Useful JavaScript Tips, Tricks and Best Practices | Flippin' Awesome](http://flippinawesome.org/2013/12/23/45-useful-javascript-tips-tricks-and-best-practices/) –
- [TourDash – Use TourDash to make your online visitors your customers](http://tourdash.com/) –
- [Responsive News — Responsive iFrames](http://responsivenews.co.uk/post/71845174511/responsive-iframes?utm_source=Responsive+Design+Weekly&utm_campaign=8512cbc507-Responsive_Design_Weekly_90&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_df65b6d7c8-8512cbc507-53203853) –
- [Marvel – free mobile and web prototyping for designers](https://marvelapp.com/) –
- [SpinKit | Simple CSS Spinners](http://tobiasahlin.com/spinkit/) –
- [Titanium and Estimotes :: Proximity | TiDev](http://www.tidev.io/2013/12/19/titanium-and-estimotes-proximity/) –
- [TiDev – Your resource for Appcelerator Titanium & TiAlloy](http://www.tidev.io/) –
- [TitaniumControls – Custom Controls for Appcelerator Titanium](http://www.titaniumcontrols.com/?mkt_tok=3RkMMJWWfF9wsRohva3AZKXonjHpfsX87u0vT%2Frn28M3109ad%2BrmPBy63YEIWp8na%2BqWCgseOrQ8ll8OV869Vs0YraQ%3D) –
- [Alloylove.com | Easily find the Titanium Alloy Widgets, Adapters, Apps, and Tutorials you love.](http://alloylove.com/?mkt_tok=3RkMMJWWfF9wsRohva3AZKXonjHpfsX87u0vT%2Frn28M3109ad%2BrmPBy63YEIWp8na%2BqWCgseOrQ8ll8OV869Vs0YraQ%3D#) –
- [UserPress | open source wiki platform](http://userpress.org/) –
- [Signifyd | Fraud Protection & Chargeback Prevention for eCommerce](https://www.signifyd.com/) –
- [Responsive Photosets — Coding & Design — Medium](https://medium.com/coding-design/7742e6f93d9e) –
- [Grunt for People Who Think Things Like Grunt are Weird and Hard ◆ 24 ways](http://24ways.org/2013/grunt-is-not-weird-and-hard/) –
- [jquery.adaptive-backgrounds.js • A jQuery plugin for extracting dominant colors from images and applying it to its parent](http://briangonzalez.github.io/jquery.adaptive-backgrounds.js/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Awesome NYE` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-01-01-awesome-nye/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-01-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![SHB_Fireworks](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/SHB_Fireworks-300x199.jpg)](http://halansphotography.com/sydney-new-years-eve-fireworks/)


We had an awesome NYE yesterday, photographing at the best spot in town: [Sydney NYE Fireworks](http://halansphotography.com/sydney-new-years-eve-fireworks/)

---


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 29 Dec 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2014-01-01-my-week-in-pictures-29-dec-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2014-01-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/image3.jpeg "image3-jpeg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/image3.jpeg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 22 Dec 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-12-28-my-week-in-pictures-22-dec-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-12-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/image2.jpeg "image2-jpeg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/image2.jpeg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 15 Dec 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-12-23-my-week-in-pictures-15-dec-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-12-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/image1.jpeg "image1-jpeg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/image1.jpeg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for November 12th through December 19th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-12-19-bookmarks-for-november-12th-through-december-19th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-12-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for November 12th through December 19th:

- [How to Use the HTML5 Vibration API – SitePoint](http://www.sitepoint.com/use-html5-vibration-api/) –
- [It works: Hello World for Dropbox](http://scripting.com/2013/12/17/helloWorldForDropbox.html) –
- [Website Testing & Automation | Helium](http://heliumhq.com/) –
- [Resumable.js, JavaScript magic for simultaneous, stable and resumable uploads](http://resumablejs.com/?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Front-end and UI style guides](http://sideproject.io/front-end-and-ui-style-guides/) –
- [How the Bitcoin protocol actually works | DDI](http://www.michaelnielsen.org/ddi/how-the-bitcoin-protocol-actually-works/) –
- [How replacing Java with JavaScript is paying off for PayPal | ZDNet](http://www.zdnet.com/how-replacing-java-with-javascript-is-paying-off-for-paypal-7000023697/) –
- [How To Not Suck Online](http://howtonotsuckonline.com/) –
- [Crowdhoster](http://www.crowdhoster.com/) –
- [Selfstarter](http://selfstarter.us/) –
- [AirParrot – AirPlay your Mac or PC's screen to Apple TV](http://www.airsquirrels.com/airparrot/) –
- [Snazzy Maps – Free Styles for Google Maps](http://snazzymaps.com/) –
- [Forms (Windows)](http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ie/hh673544%28v=vs.85%29.aspx) –
- [CSS Overlay Techniques | Codrops](http://tympanus.net/codrops/2013/11/07/css-overlay-techniques/) –
- [The Ultimate Hashtag Guide For Events | Confui](http://www.confui.com/blog/2013/ultimate-hashtag-guide-events/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 08 Dec 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-12-15-my-week-in-pictures-08-dec-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-12-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/image.jpeg "image-jpeg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2014/01/image.jpeg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 01 Dec 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-12-09-my-week-in-pictures-01-dec-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-12-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/12/photo3.jpg "photo3-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/12/photo3.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Photo competition` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-12-04-photo-competition/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-12-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![myworldciti](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/12/bridge-300x300.jpg)](http://citibank.stackla.com/c/529adfb9023bd2bd27000037 "MyWorldCiti competition") 

It's the final day of a [**Citibank photo competition**](http://citibank.stackla.com/c/529adfb9023bd2bd27000037), and I could use [**your help**](http://citibank.stackla.com/c/529adfb9023bd2bd27000037)! Their implementation is a bit shitty, and depending on being on a desktop or mobile browser, you're being redirected to either my profile (which is good, click the top picture), or the list of recent uploads, in which case you'd need to go to the “Vote leaderboard” and look for my name to vote. Thanks a bunch!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 24 Nov 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-12-01-my-week-in-pictures-24-nov-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-12-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/12/photo2.jpg "photo2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/12/photo2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 17 Nov 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-12-01-my-week-in-pictures-17-nov-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-12-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/12/photo1.jpg "photo1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/12/photo1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 10 Nov 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-12-01-my-week-in-pictures-10-nov-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-12-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/12/photo.jpg "photo-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/12/photo.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Shortbackfocus.com` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-11-17-shortbackfocus-com/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-11-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Now that [halansphotography.com](http://halansphotography.com) is up and running, I repurposed [Shortbackfocus.com](http://shortbackfocus.com) into a small (micro), free stock photography site. What do you think?

It's nothing fancy. Didn't want to spend too much time (and spend too much time anyway).

![ShortBackFocus](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/11/ShortBackFocus.jpeg)

It currently contains [following photos](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/11/Short_Back_Focus_screen.jpg) (but I keep adding as time goes by).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for October 13th through November 12th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-11-12-bookmarks-for-october-13th-through-november-12th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-11-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for October 13th through November 12th:

- [Design Principles FTW](http://designprinciplesftw.com/) –
- [An In-Depth Introduction To Ember.js | Smashing Coding](http://coding.smashingmagazine.com/2013/11/07/an-in-depth-introduction-to-ember-js/) –
- [Free Bootstrap 3.0 Templates — Coverstrap](http://coverstrap.com/?utm_source=buffer&utm_campaign=Buffer&utm_content=bufferb6277&utm_medium=twitter) –
- [Real-time Gaming with Node.js WebSocket on Google Cloud Platform — Google Cloud Platform](https://cloud.google.com/resources/articles/real-time-gaming-with-node-js-websocket-on-gcp) –
- [Rapid chrome app development with angular | ng-newsletter](http://www.ng-newsletter.com/posts/chrome-apps-on-angular.html) –
- [Why (and How) you Should Probably Use Web Notifications | InsertHTML](http://www.inserthtml.com/2013/10/notification-api/?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [How to modify Bootstrap simply and effectively | Webdesigner Depot](http://www.webdesignerdepot.com/2013/07/how-to-modify-bootstrap-simply-and-effectively/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter+Issue+10&utm_content=Newsletter+Issue+10+CID_4822d4cce41c3a1d04e2900cad7a0a25&utm_source=eWebDesigncom%20Newsletter&utm_term=How%20to%20modify%20Bootstrap%20simply%20and%20effectively) –
- [Font Awesome, the iconic font designed for Bootstrap](http://fortawesome.github.io/Font-Awesome/) –
- [Home | Bootsnipp.com](http://bootsnipp.com/) –
- [5 Advanced Mobile Web Design Techniques You've Probably Never Seen Before | Mobify](http://www.mobify.com/blog/5-advanced-mobile-web-design-techniques-style-com/) –
- [Pushy – Off-Canvas Navigation Menu](http://christopheryee.ca/pushy/) –
- [Pikabu – Flexible Framework for Off-Canvas Flyout Panels | Mobify](http://mobify.github.io/pikabu/) –
- [The Kano Model – Treehouse Blog](http://blog.teamtreehouse.com/the-kano-model) –
- [Some Cool DIY Raspberry Pi Projects](http://resources.infosecinstitute.com/some-cool-diy-raspberry-pi-projects/?goback=.gde_36874_member_5797146063500496897#%21) –
- [A More Flexible Development Framework. · Colm Tuite](http://www.colmtuite.com/a-more-flexible-development-framework?utm_source=Responsive+Design+Weekly&utm_campaign=f70e8515d8-Responsive_Design_Weekly_78&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_df65b6d7c8-f70e8515d8-53203853) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 03 Nov 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-11-11-my-week-in-pictures-03-nov-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-11-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/11/photo3.jpg "photo3-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/11/photo3.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 27 Oct 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-11-11-my-week-in-pictures-27-oct-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-11-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/11/photo2.jpg "photo2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/11/photo2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 20 Oct 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-11-11-my-week-in-pictures-20-oct-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-11-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/11/photo1.jpg "photo1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/11/photo1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 13 Oct 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-11-11-my-week-in-pictures-13-oct-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-11-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/11/photo.jpg "photo-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/11/photo.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 06 Oct 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-10-13-my-week-in-pictures-06-oct-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-10-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/10/Image1.jpg "image1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/10/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 29 Sep 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-10-13-my-week-in-pictures-29-sep-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-10-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/10/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/10/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for September 26th through October 12th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-10-12-bookmarks-for-september-26th-through-october-12th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-10-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for September 26th through October 12th:

- [cryptstagram](http://cryptstagram.com/) –
- [Slim Framework](http://www.slimframework.com/) –
- [Responsive Images Using Picturefill and PHP – SitePoint](http://www.sitepoint.com/responsive-images-using-picturefill-php/) –
- [Build a Mobile Hybrid App Using IBM Worklight: Part 1 – SitePoint](http://www.sitepoint.com/build-a-mobile-hybrid-app-using-ibm-worklight-part-1/) –
- [A Twitter Bot in 20 Minutes With Node.js – Apcoder](http://www.apcoder.com/2013/10/03/twitter-bot-20-minutes-node-js/) –
- [A Twitter Bot in 20 Minutes With Node.js – Apcoder](http://www.apcoder.com/2013/10/03/twitter-bot-20-minutes-node-js/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Read CoffeeScript Ristretto | Leanpub](https://leanpub.com/coffeescript-ristretto/read) –
- [Read JavaScript Allongé | Leanpub](https://leanpub.com/javascript-allonge/read) –
- [Ultimate guide to learning AngularJS in one day](http://toddmotto.com/ultimate-guide-to-learning-angular-js-in-one-day/) –
- [An Introduction to Topcoat – SitePoint](http://www.sitepoint.com/introduction-topcoat/) –
- [Stylus](http://learnboost.github.io/stylus/) –
- [An Introduction to Topcoat – SitePoint](http://www.sitepoint.com/introduction-topcoat/) –
- [Four Dangerous Navigation Approaches that Can Increase Cognitive Strain](http://www.nngroup.com/articles/navigation-cognitive-strain/?utm_source=Alertbox&utm_campaign=5c6bb2f5ca-Alertbox_email_09_30_2013&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_7f29a2b335-5c6bb2f5ca-24234301) –
- [Prototyping Swipe and Drag Gestures with Framer.js — Building Potluck — Medium](https://medium.com/building-potluck/2e405d50b600) –
- [7 Habits of Highly Effective Media Queries | Brad Frost Web](http://bradfrostweb.com/blog/post/7-habits-of-highly-effective-media-queries/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `International Fleet Review` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-10-05-international-fleet-review/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-10-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5498/10097685575_ef0f15f015_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097685575/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7430/10097710783_d94578684f_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097710783/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5507/10097663704_a4ca534396_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097663704/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7319/10097707225_bb47a0bbab_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097707225/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2883/10097777333_1f710d5107_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097777333/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7361/10097788153_57d3d22414_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097788153/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![PLANS Qingdao (113)](http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5332/10097740085_0a09167719_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097740085/in/set-72157636208718296/ "PLANS Qingdao (113)")

[![Hornet](http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2835/10097777136_9f35969391_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097777136/in/set-72157636208718296/ "Hornet")  

[![Hornet](http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7311/10097714904_8dff92fc69_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097714904/in/set-72157636208718296/ "Hornet")  

[![Hornet](http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7303/10097787436_abdc20b484_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097787436/in/set-72157636208718296/ "Hornet")  

[![Douglas C-47 Dakota](http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2856/10097722724_097382aae3_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097722724/in/set-72157636208718296/ "Douglas C-47 Dakota")  

[![Douglas C-47 Dakota](http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7422/10097762465_c53056e930_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097762465/in/set-72157636208718296/ "Douglas C-47 Dakota")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3785/10097732774_bce14f0458_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097732774/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7293/10097736884_752172cd55_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097736884/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2857/10097838603_f091f4733b_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097838603/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5464/10097752094_74455829d9_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097752094/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2846/10097833016_9230865890_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097833016/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3812/10097769434_f156081fe0_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097769434/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7432/10097870573_fcb33cec72_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097870573/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3738/10097847166_7976bc0359_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097847166/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7428/10097851516_061dcbf0a2_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097851516/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![International Fleet Review](http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7398/10097881423_72b5b21940_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097881423/in/set-72157636208718296/ "International Fleet Review")  

[![Bell 429](http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2826/10097787114_55024d8d16_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097787114/in/set-72157636208718296/ "Bell 429")  

[![Bell 429](http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2863/10097864966_1d9a3740af_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/10097864966/in/set-72157636208718296/ "Bell 429")  

[International Fleet Review](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157636208718296/), a set on Flickr.


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `iPhone5s slow motion video` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-09-25-iphone5s-slow-motion-video/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-09-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]



[Slomo](http://vimeo.com/75114631) from [halans](http://vimeo.com/halans) on [Vimeo](https://vimeo.com). 

Trying out iPhone 5s iOS7s slow motion video. Also uses iOS7s video digital zoom.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for September 15th through September 25th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-09-25-bookmarks-for-september-15th-through-september-25th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-09-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for September 15th through September 25th:

- [Firesheep – codebutler](http://codebutler.com/firesheep/) –
- [Levelling Up With AngularJS: Building a Reusable Click to Edit Directive · Icelab · an Australian design studio](http://icelab.com.au/articles/levelling-up-with-angularjs-building-a-reusable-click-to-edit-directive/) –
- [Lovely.IO » Forget The Installation!](http://lovely.io/) –
- [7 Useful Mobile HTML, CSS, and JavaScript Snippets – Tech.Pro](http://tech.pro/blog/1557/7-useful-mobile-html-css-and-javascript-snippets?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [An Introduction to Content Security Policy – HTML5 Rocks](http://www.html5rocks.com/en/tutorials/security/content-security-policy/) –
- [iOS Design Patterns](http://www.raywenderlich.com/46988/ios-design-patterns?utm_source=iOS+Dev+Weekly&utm_campaign=iOS_Dev_Weekly_Issue_110&utm_medium=email) –
- [Realnam.es](http://realnam.es/) –
- [Cloning the UI of iOS 7 with HTML, CSS and JavaScript | c2prods | Côme Courteault](http://c2prods.com/web/2013/cloning-the-ui-of-ios-7-with-html-css-and-javascript/) – Welcome to c2prods. A blog about pictures, code, and life.
- [The iOS 7 Design Cheat Sheet – Ivo Mynttinen / User Interface Designer](http://ivomynttinen.com/blog/the-ios-7-design-cheat-sheet/) –
- [With iBeacon, Apple is going to dump on NFC and embrace the internet of things — Tech News and Analysis](http://gigaom.com/2013/09/10/with-ibeacon-apple-is-going-to-dump-on-nfc-and-embrace-the-internet-of-things/) –
- [image glitch experiment](http://snorpey.github.io/jpg-glitch/) –
- [How Much Does It Cost To Make An App?](http://howmuchtomakeanapp.com/) –
- [What do you stand to make?](http://standtomake.com/) –
- [Create CSS3 – Easy CSS3 Generator](http://www.createcss3.com/) –
- [Spritemapper](http://yostudios.github.io/Spritemapper/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Packaging` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-09-21-packaging/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-09-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Such a big difference in packaging between the 5 and 5s:

![iPhone packaging](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/09/20130921-093524.jpg)

All because of new USB charger

![iPhone USB chargers](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/09/20130921-093551.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for September 8th through September 14th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-09-14-bookmarks-for-september-8th-through-september-14th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-09-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for September 8th through September 14th:

- [Custom Elements: defining new elements in HTML – HTML5 Rocks](http://www.html5rocks.com/en/tutorials/webcomponents/customelements/) –
- [Use HTML5 device orientation to run Windows 8 javascript apps on Android devices | Intel® Developer Zone](http://software.intel.com/en-us/blogs/2013/08/19/use-html5-device-orientation-to-run-windows-8-javascript-apps-on-android-devices?utm_source=postgresweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [The HTML5 progress Element | CSS-Tricks](http://css-tricks.com/html5-progress-element/) –
- [Getting a Head Start with Front End Generators | Flippin' Awesome](http://flippinawesome.org/2013/09/03/getting-a-head-start-with-front-end-generators/?utm_source=postgresweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Automating DPR switching with Client-Hints – igvita.com](http://www.igvita.com/2013/08/29/automating-dpr-switching-with-client-hints/?utm_source=postgresweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [hapi](http://spumko.github.io/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [http://straydogstudio.github.io/film\_roll/?utm\_source=javascriptweekly&utm\_medium=email#](http://straydogstudio.github.io/film_roll/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email#) –
- [favico.js – Make a use of your favicon](http://lab.ejci.net/favico.js/) –
- [Panopticlick](https://panopticlick.eff.org/) –
- [Mocking Server Dependencies in JavaScript and AngularJS | Flippin' Awesome](http://flippinawesome.org/2013/09/09/mocking-server-dependencies-in-javascript-and-angularjs/) –
- [D3 on AngularJS | ng-newsletter](http://www.ng-newsletter.com/posts/d3-on-angular.html?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [WeTransfer](https://www.wetransfer.com/we) –
- [Why cards are the future of the web | Inside Intercom](http://insideintercom.io/why-cards-are-the-future-of-the-web/) –
- [AngularJS Tutorial: Learn to Build Modern Web Apps | Thinkster](http://www.thinkster.io/pick/GUIDJbpIie/angularjs-tutorial-learn-to-build-modern-web-apps) –
- [The Angular Way | Flippin' Awesome](http://flippinawesome.org/2013/09/03/the-angular-way/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 01 Sep 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-09-09-my-week-in-pictures-01-sep-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-09-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/09/photo.jpg "photo-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/09/photo.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 25 Aug 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-09-09-my-week-in-pictures-25-aug-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-09-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/09/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/09/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for August 24th through September 7th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-09-07-bookmarks-for-august-24th-through-september-7th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-09-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for August 24th through September 7th:

- [Mean](http://www.mean.io/) –
- [AngularJS Tutorial: Learn to Build Modern Web Apps | Thinkster](http://www.thinkster.io/pick/GUIDJbpIie/angularjs-tutorial-learn-to-build-modern-web-apps?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [HTML5pano – HTML 5 panorama viewer for equirectangular (360×180) panoramas](http://www.cheetah3d.com/download/HTML5pano/) –
- [jsPDF – HTML5 PDF Generator | Parallax](http://parall.ax/products/jspdf) –
- [75 Essential Tools for iOS Developers – Fickle Bits](http://benscheirman.com/2013/08/the-ios-developers-toolbelt) –
- [75 Essential Tools for iOS Developers – Fickle Bits](http://benscheirman.com/2013/08/the-ios-developers-toolbelt/?utm_source=iOS+Dev+Weekly&utm_campaign=iOS_Dev_Weekly_Issue_108&utm_medium=email) –
- [Multi-Level Push Menu](http://tympanus.net/Development/MultiLevelPushMenu/index.html) –
- [Owl Carousel](http://owlgraphic.com/owlcarousel/) –
- [BEM: Methodology of Effective Site Development](http://bem.info/) –
- [Skeleton: Beautiful Boilerplate for Responsive, Mobile-Friendly Development](http://www.getskeleton.com/#) –
- [Basis — health and heart rate monitor for wellness and fitness](http://www.mybasis.com/) –
- [Responsive Images with Apropos](http://corner.squareup.com/2013/08/responsive-images-with-apropos.html) –
- [Just Delete Me | A directory of direct links to delete your account from web services.](http://justdelete.me/) –
- [Pingendo – web authoring with comfort](http://www.pingendo.com/#mac) –
- [Kickstart Your AngularJS Development with Yeoman, Grunt and Bower – SitePoint](http://www.sitepoint.com/kickstart-your-angularjs-development-with-yeoman-grunt-and-bower/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Australian Online Retail` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-09-01-australian-online-retail/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-09-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

<rant>

So I bought something on JBhifi.com.au. Yeah right, I know.

I ordered a GoPro accessory, for $19.99, which was available for pickup at the North Sydney store. I paid with PayPal. The online experience was pretty bad to begin with (really, what's with all that yellow? :). After payment at PayPal, I thought I'd finished. I had selected pickup from store, but the first thing it shows me is a delivery address (which it picked up from PayPal). Euh, what? And I still had to agree to their T&C (don't you want me to do that before paying?). And only then was the order submitted. I know, not dissimilar to other bad online retailers. But then I got a confirmation of my order, telling me I still needed to get another confirmation email from the store, which should happen within 2 hours. Pfff.

After two hours, still nothing. So I guess it had been sold earlier in the day at the store? Anyway, I went into North Sydney, and passed by JBHifi, a store which has more sales people than customers any time of the day, any day of the week (but it is a very clean store though :). And, well, there were 8 items available of the accessory that I ordered. Not only that, it was a dollar cheaper than online! So that was pretty disappointing. Cheaper in store, without reason no response to my order (as advertised). It took them 15 minutes to sort things out (they blamed the new system, which has been online for 8 months), but I did walk out with my order, and got a dollar back.

But really, next time, back to eBay, and I'll order it from Hong Kong (as I did do for 5 other GoPro accessories, 3 of which have shipped this afternoon too).

</rant>
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Front-end dev best practices` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-09-01-front-end-dev-best-practices/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-09-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

A while ago I was asked to write some front-end dev best practices.

## General Web Development Best Practices

Standards change over the years though, and some current  practices are considered not so good anymore.  
Additionally, not every developer knows about these best practices and unfortunately, over the years, bad practices have crept in.  
In particular the JavaScript in the head section, the specificity in CSS styling, some style class and ID naming conventions, no use of sprites, lack of responsive media queries, lack of namespacing,… to name a few.  
Still, this doesn't mean when you add functionality, you shouldn't keep to best practices yourself. No excuse now not to know them.

The following lists are a collection of some industry standard best practices (from Google, Mozilla, Opera, Yahoo, Nokia,…).

## HTML Best Practices

- Separation of concerns! Separate structure and content (the HTML) from presentation and behaviour.
- Don't use tables for layout, or spacer gifs. Use CSS to position elements on the screen. Only use tables for their intended use, tabular data, like lists.
- Write valid HTML5, where possible. Validate your HTML! Sometimes one browser may display a page properly, while another browser may fail (because of missing closing tags for example).
- Use HTML according to its purpose. Choose good semantic elements: headings, lists, paragraphs.
- Use the right HTML element at the right place. For example, use <em> or <strong> in stead of <b> (which is a presentational element). Don't use <br /> tags to create whitespace, don't use <blockquote> for indentation purposes; use <blockquote> when actually quoting text.
- Understand the difference between block elements and inline elements. Block elements are elements that naturally clear each line after they're declared, spanning the whole width of the available space. Inline elements take only as much space as they need, and don't force a new line after they're used. Block elements shouldn't be nested inside inline elements.
- Keep your tag names lowercase.
- Although not strictly necessary (in HTML5), close all HTML tags, to help readability and writing valid code. The  was developed based on XHTML (which required closing all tags), but since then we moved to an HTML5 doctype.
- Think about basic accessibility: 
    - Add “for” attribute to label tags with form fields (but don't add them when there are no form fields).
    - Add “alt” attributes to image tags and “title” attribute to links, but they should be used to increase the meaning of the associated tag!
- Write consistently formatted code. A cleanly written and well-indented code base shows your professionalism, as well as your consideration for the other people that might need to work on your code. Remove trailing white space.
- Avoid excessive comments. While documenting your code, the purpose is to make it easier to understand. But markup is very much self-explanatory and commenting every line of code does not make sense. If you really need to comment, always use JSP comments, not HTML comments which end up in the source code, and may have unintended consequences (for example, adding 400KB of HTML code because the JSP code was generating additional select options in a for loop, which weren't supposed to be generated).

## CSS Best Practices

- Separate content from presentation. There should be no inline or embedded css styling in your code, as it becomes a lot harder to change the presentation afterwards without toughing the JSP. Keep all CSS external. Additionally, those external files can be cached by the client.
- Use ID and class names that are as short as possible but as long as necessary. Keep to English.
- Use useful, semantic naming for your IDs and class names, don't use presentational properties as class name. Example, don't use “red-title”, or “left-block”. What if those need to change in color, or position? Those names would no longer make sense. Use “warning” or “sidenote” for example.
- The order that style sheets are loaded in matters. The last style sheet wins. This means you can add your own style sheet and apply your own layout/colours to the , without duplicating all existing style sheet content.
- Use valid CSS, unless dealing with bugs (ahum IE) or proprietary syntaxes.
- Use shorthand for padding, margin, font and others.
- Add comments, add the entity name of the page you're working on, like /\* =RiskFilter \*/ for easy lookup
- Combine elements with same styling, don't be repetitive.
- Reuse existing style classes!
- Use multiple classes on a single element, don't create a new style class just because of one single change
- If the value of the width or height is 0, do not specify units.

## JavaScript Best Practices

- Separate content from behaviour. Don't liter the JSP with inline JavaScript. Whenever you need to add or remove behaviour you would need to change or override the JSP. Use the `addEvent()` event handler (from `app.js`) to add Javascript events to elements in stead.
- Use standard rather that non-standard features. Test for features, not browsers! Don't write code specific to a certain browser.
- Reuse the `app.js` library and its methods where possible.
- Use namespacing techniques, using object literals, or the Module Pattern. Avoid global variables and function names.
- Use array and object literals rather than more verbose declarations.
- Don't use `eval()`. It degrades performance, and can leave your application open to security issues (and will be flagged during security audits).
- Always use `var` to declare variables (else they end up being global), but use commas to avoid redundancy of keywords and reduce code size.
- Always end lines with a semi-colon (unless you know the ins and outs of Automatic Semicolon Insertion rules by heart). This prevents bugs, makes your code more readable, and is required when minimizing your code.
- Always use curly braces, don't leave them out. Improves readability.
- Call things by their name — easy, short and readable variable and function names. Keep to English.
- Comment as much as needed but not more. Preferably add JavaDoc style documentation (`jsdoc`) explaining functionality and members.
- Modularize, one function per task. Keep your method lengths to a minimum.
- DRY. If you find yourself doing the same thing in several different functions then it is a good idea to create a more generic helper function instead, and reuse that functionality where it is needed.
- Use strict-equals === in stead of equals ==.
- Modify invisible elements, to prevent unnecessary repaint of the screen.
- Don't mix your JavaScript with CSS. Use class names in stead of hardcoded style values when changing elements.
- Think about Internationalization. Don't hardcode date formats or error messages in your JavaScript.
- Declare variables outside of the `For` statement. Cache the length of the array you iterate over.
- Keep computation-heavy code outside loops, especially DOM manipulation.
- Mind your commas in object literals! If the last entry in the list contains a comma, IE will throw a fit!
- Keep DOM access to a minimum. Avoid traversing large number of DOM nodes, select a parent element first.
- Cache frequently accessed DOM values into variables. For example:  
    Don't 
    | 
    `document.getElementById(``'elem'``).propertyOne = ``'value of first property'``;`
    `document.getElementById(``'elem'``).propertyTwo = ``'value of second property'``;`
    `document.getElementById(``'elem'``).propertyThree = ``'value of third property'``;`
     |
    |---|
    
    
    Do:
    
    
    | 
    `var elem = document.getElementById(``'elem'``);`
    `elem.propertyOne = ``'value of first property'``;`
    `elem.propertyTwo = ``'value of second property'``;`
    `elem.propertyThree = ``'value of third property'`
     |
    |---|
    
    
    
- Embrace progressive enhancement. Always (try to) compensate for when JavaScript is disabled. Try the page out with JavaScript disabled.
- Make sure your browser tells you about all JavaScript errors. In IE8, this used to show up in the Status bar. In IE9/10 though, it's suppressed (an no Status bar is displayed by default). To enable on IE9/10, in Advanced settings, enable “Display a notification about every script error”, and hit F12 for the Developer console. If you don't, JS errors may pass by unnoticed. Better yet use Firefox with the Developer Toolbar and the Firebug extensions, or Chrome with its Developer console.

## References

These are some best practices. Stacks of books have been written on HTML5, CSS and JavaScript,  
as well as Web Performance, Responsive Design, Grids, Accessibility, Web App Security,…

#### Books

JavaScript: The Good Parts (Douglas Crockford)  
Professional JavaScript For Web Developers (Nicholas Zakas)  
JavaScript: The Definitive Guide (David Flanagan)  
Effective JavaScript (David Herman)

HTML & CSS: The Good Parts (Ben Henick)  
CSS: The Definitive Guide (Eic Meyer)

#### Websites, blogs

- [https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/](https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/)
- 
- 

- [http://google-styleguide.googlecode.com/svn/trunk/htmlcssguide.xml](http://google-styleguide.googlecode.com/svn/trunk/htmlcssguide.xml)
- [http://google-styleguide.googlecode.com/svn/trunk/javascriptguide.xml](http://google-styleguide.googlecode.com/svn/trunk/javascriptguide.xml)
- [http://www.developer.nokia.com/Community/Wiki/JavaScript\_Performance\_Best\_Practices](http://www.developer.nokia.com/Community/Wiki/JavaScript_Performance_Best_Practices)
- [http://www.bbc.co.uk/guidelines/futuremedia/technical/javascript.shtml](http://www.bbc.co.uk/guidelines/futuremedia/technical/javascript.shtml)
- [http://www.bbc.co.uk/guidelines/futuremedia/technical/css.shtml](http://www.bbc.co.uk/guidelines/futuremedia/technical/css.shtml)

#### Tools

When using Firefox, use Firebug, and install the Web Developer Toolbar extension.  
When using Chrome, hit F12 for its developer tools.  
These developer tools help you to debug screen issues, play around with CSS (changing values on the fly and see their impact), step through JavaScript code, write out JavaScript values to a console (in stead of relying on alert() calls), validate the generated HTML, work around maxlength attributes to test validation, enable read-only form fields,…

Microsoft provided VMs to test IE7/8/9/10: [http://www.modern.ie/virtualization-tools](http://www.modern.ie/virtualization-tools)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 18 Aug 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-08-26-my-week-in-pictures-18-aug-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-08-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/08/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/08/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for August 8th through August 23rd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-08-23-bookmarks-for-august-8th-through-august-23rd/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-08-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for August 8th through August 23rd:

- [Miro Video Converter](http://www.mirovideoconverter.com/) – Convert any video to MP4, WebM (vp8), iPhone, Android, iPod, iPad, and more.
- [LICEcap](http://www.cockos.com/licecap/) – Animated Gif creation tool for screencaptures
- [BARREL | Taking Control of Image Loading](http://www.barrelny.com/blog/taking-control-of-imageloading/) –
- [Vital Elements of the Product Design Process – (Ryan Singer)](http://feltpresence.com/articles/20-vital-elements-of-the-product-design-process) –
- [Some AngularJS pitfalls – Branch and Bound](http://branchandbound.net/blog/web/2013/08/some-angularjs-pitfalls/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [11 Javascript ToolKit For Creating Charts and Graphs](http://inspiretrends.com/11-javascript-toolkit-for-creating-charts-and-graphs/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [jQuery Boilerplate](http://jqueryboilerplate.com/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [tracing-framework by Google](http://google.github.io/tracing-framework/) –
- [7 Deadly Sins of WordPress Development – WPMU.org](http://wpmu.org/7-deadly-sins-of-wordpress-development/) –
- [Disciplined Entrepreneurship](http://disciplinedentrepreneurship.com/) –
- [Business Model Generation](http://www.businessmodelgeneration.com/) –
- [Startup Owner's Manual | The Step-by-step guide for building a great company](http://www.stevenblank.com/startup_index_qty.html) –
- [Lean Analytics Book](http://leananalyticsbook.com/) –
- [Running Lean: The Lean Startup How-to Book](http://runninglean.co/) –
- [The Lean Startup | The Movement That Is Transforming How New Products Are Built And Launched](http://theleanstartup.com/) –
- [AngularJS Best Practices – Jaco Pretorius](http://www.jacopretorius.net/2013/07/angularjs-best-practices.html?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 11 Aug 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-08-20-my-week-in-pictures-11-aug-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-08-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image(1)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/08/Image1-300x295.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for July 19th through August 7th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-08-07-bookmarks-for-july-19th-through-august-7th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-08-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for July 19th through August 7th:

- [Responsive :: Home](http://jimbobsquarepants.github.io/Responsive/?utm_source=Responsive+Design+Weekly&utm_campaign=60d7ad0d96-Responsive_Design_Weekly_68&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_df65b6d7c8-60d7ad0d96-53203853) –
- [Cardinal — Build more with less.](http://cardinalcss.com/?utm_source=Responsive+Design+Weekly&utm_campaign=60d7ad0d96-Responsive_Design_Weekly_68&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_df65b6d7c8-60d7ad0d96-53203853) –
- [Website Deployment: Let Us Count The Ways! | CSS-Tricks](http://css-tricks.com/deployment/) –
- [Progressive Viewports – David Bushell – Web Design & Front-end Development](http://dbushell.com/2013/07/25/progressive-viewports/) –
- [Responsive News — Wraith](http://responsivenews.co.uk/post/56884056177/wraith) –
- [The Future of Airline Websites](http://www.f-i.com/fi/airlines/) –
- [SEO in JS Web Apps • Alex MacCaw](http://blog.alexmaccaw.com/seo-in-js-web-apps?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [AngularJS Directives That Override Standard HTML Tags | Flippin' Awesome](http://flippinawesome.org/2013/07/22/angularjs-directives-that-override-standard-html-tags/) –
- [Pixelmator save, Project reload.](http://www.mrspeaker.net/2013/07/29/pixelmator-save-project-reload/) –
- [AngularJS in depth Part 2 Filters](http://suhairhassan.com/2013/07/25/angularjs-in-depth-part-2.html#.Ufc-o22tNI0) –
- [JavaScript Grid with One Million Records | JavaScript UI – w2ui](http://w2ui.com/web/blog/7/JavaScript-Grid-with-One-Million-Records) –
- [Icons4Coffee](http://icons4coffee.com/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+veerlesblog+Veerle%27s+Blog+3.0+-+All#When:12:33) –
- [Pixicon](http://pixicon.jackietrananh.com/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+veerlesblog+Veerle%27s+Blog+3.0+-+All#When:12:21) –
- [Effeckt.css](http://h5bp.github.io/Effeckt.css/dist/) –
- [Google Visual Assets Guidelines – Part 1 on Behance](http://www.behance.net/gallery/Google-Visual-Assets-Guidelines-Part-1/9028077) –
- [It's all in the wrist: How to write apps for the Pebble smartwatch • The Register](http://www.theregister.co.uk/2013/07/18/how_to_write_apps_for_the_pebble_smartwatch/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 07 Jul 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-07-18-my-week-in-pictures-07-jul-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-07-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/07/Image-300x295.jpg)

Running at the coal loader, Geek breakfast.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for July 6th through July 16th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-07-16-bookmarks-for-july-6th-through-july-16th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-07-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for July 6th through July 16th:

- [Why Mobile Web Is Slow? – Codename One – Reinventing Mobile Development (mobile app development mobile application development)](http://www.codenameone.com/3/post/2013/07/why-mobile-web-is-slow.html) –
- [Building a Web App From Scratch in AngularJS | Nettuts+](http://net.tutsplus.com/tutorials/javascript-ajax/building-a-web-app-from-scratch-in-angularjs/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [AngularJS: an Overview – Glenn Stovall](http://glennstovall.com/blog/2013/06/27/angularjs-an-overview/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [5 HTML5 and ARIA design patterns | Feature | .net magazine](http://www.netmagazine.com/features/5-html5-and-aria-design-patterns?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Forecast Font](http://forecastfont.iconvau.lt/) – Forecast font downloadable iconfont to create multilayered weather icons. Created using Iconvau.lt
- [Tablo Publishing | Create and self-publish eBooks in the cloud](http://tablo.io/) –
- [Required reading for digital product designers](http://www.robertlenne.com/requiredreading/) –
- [Making Infield Form Labels Suck Less | Viget](http://viget.com/inspire/making-infield-form-labels-suck-less) –
- [Forecast Font](http://forecastfont.iconvau.lt/) –
- [Choosing A Responsive Image Solution | Smashing Mobile](http://mobile.smashingmagazine.com/2013/07/08/choosing-a-responsive-image-solution/) –
- [The iOS 7 homescreen parallax effect in the browser | Web Directions](http://www.webdirections.org/blog/the-ios-7-homescreen-parallax-effect-in-the-browser/) – A couple of weeks ago we started a series on how you might implement some of the more notable design effects in iOS 7 using purely web technologies. In the
- [Kit FUI – Noteloop](http://www.noteloop.com/kit/fui/) –
- [20 free data visualisation tools | Feature | .net magazine](http://www.netmagazine.com/features/20-more-data-visualisation-tools) –
- [Introducing Tabula – Features – Source: An OpenNews project](http://source.mozillaopennews.org/en-US/articles/introducing-tabula/) –
- [Add Rules to Stylesheets with JavaScript](http://davidwalsh.name/add-rules-stylesheets) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Halansphotography.com` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-07-14-halansphotography-com/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-07-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Working on a new site for [Halansphotography.com](http://halansphotography.com). What do you think?

[![Halans Photography_full](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/07/Halans-Photography_full-61x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/07/Halans-Photography_full.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Jaguar on the prowl` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-07-07-jaguar-on-the-prowl/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-07-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/07/DSC03356.jpg)

Ran into this 1948 Jaguar the other day, the exact same car we got married in 11 years ago.

EDIT: Well, as it turns out, it's not exactly the same car, as I found a picture from back then. But close enough…
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for June 13th through July 3rd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-07-03-bookmarks-for-june-13th-through-july-3rd/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-07-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for June 13th through July 3rd:

- [Building Apps For Firefox OS, Chrome OS And The Web – TNG – The Nitty Gritty](http://thenittygritty.co/ffos-apps) – Geekphone Peak
- [Automating AngularJS With Yeoman, Grunt & Bower – Newtriks LTD](http://newtriks.com/2013/06/11/automating-angularjs-with-yeoman-grunt-and-bower/) –
- [AngularJS Tutorial: Learn in 7 Days: Angular Views](http://www.guru99.com/angularjs-views.html)
- [The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Directive | codef0rmer](http://amitgharat.wordpress.com/2013/06/08/the-hitchhikers-guide-to-the-directive/) –
- [Mobile Web Problems and How to Avoid Them](http://bradfrostweb.com/blog/post/mobile-web-problems/) –
- [GoodUI](http://goodui.org/) –
- [The Code Tap › PatternTap](http://patterntap.com/code) –
- [Patternry Open – A Free Front-End Resource | Patternry](http://patternry.com/patterns/) –
- [Resources for Mac and iOS Developers… | Dave Mark's Blog](http://www.davemark.com/?p=1829) –
- [CV Dazzle: Camouflage From Computer Vision by Adam Harvey](http://cvdazzle.com/) –
- [Using Web Workers to improve performance of image manipulation](http://www.htmlgoodies.com/html5/client/using-web-workers-to-improve-performance-of-image-manipulation.html?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email#fbid=1dePQklpFfL) –
- [Front-End Ops | Smashing Magazine](http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2013/06/11/front-end-ops/) –
- [Using Promises in AngularJS Views – Mark Dalgleish](http://markdalgleish.com/2013/06/using-promises-in-angularjs-views/) –
- [Adventures in Jank Busting: Parallax, performance, and the new Flickr Home Page | code.flickr.com](http://code.flickr.net/2013/06/04/adventures-in-jank-busting-parallax-performance-and-the-new-flickr-home-page/) –
- [Egghead](http://www.egghead.io/) –
- [Effectively managing memory at Gmail scale – HTML5 Rocks](http://www.html5rocks.com/en/tutorials/memory/effectivemanagement/) –
- [Secrets of the Browser Developer Tools – Secrets](http://devtoolsecrets.com/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 09 Jun 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-06-17-my-week-in-pictures-09-jun-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-06-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/06/photo-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/06/photo.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for May 31st through June 11th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-06-11-bookmarks-for-may-31st-through-june-11th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-06-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for May 31st through June 11th:

- [Backlift Blog](https://blog.backlift.com/entry/angular-tut2) –
- [React | A JavaScript library for building user interfaces](http://facebook.github.io/react/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Modern Design at Microsoft](http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/news/stories/design/) –
- [Learn AngularJS in 5 steps](http://blog.revolunet.com/blog/2013/06/01/starting-with-angularjs/) –
- [Blog :: Envy Labs, Understanding Node.js](http://blog.envylabs.com/post/50589070360/understanding-node-js) –
- [Best Practices for Designing a Pragmatic RESTful API | Vinay Sahni](http://www.vinaysahni.com/best-practices-for-a-pragmatic-restful-api) –
- [BARREL | Text-align: Justify and RWD](http://www.barrelny.com/blog/text-align-justify-and-rwd/?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Colourco.de – find your colour scheme](http://colourco.de/) –
- [Unsplash](http://unsplash.com/) –
- [The Pastry Box Project](http://the-pastry-box-project.net/) –
- [Screensiz.es](http://screensiz.es/) –
- [Pure](http://purecss.io/) –
- [Taiga Boilerplate – Taiga](http://taigaboilerplate.com/taiga-boilerplate) –
- [Cascade Framework](http://jslegers.github.io/cascadeframework/) –
- [CSS Front-end Frameworks with comparison – By usabli.ca](http://usablica.github.io/front-end-frameworks/compare.html) –
- [Emphas.is](http://www.emphas.is/web/guest/home) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 02 Jun 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-06-10-my-week-in-pictures-02-jun-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-06-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image(1)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/06/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/06/Image1.jpg)


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 26 May 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-06-02-my-week-in-pictures-26-may-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-06-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/06/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for May 21st through May 31st` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-05-31-bookmarks-for-may-21st-through-may-31st/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-05-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for May 21st through May 31st:

- [Lessons Learned: A Year with a Large AngularJS Project – @jhooks](http://joelhooks.com/blog/2013/05/22/lessons-learned-kicking-off-an-angularjs-project/) –
- [Screensiz.es](http://screensiz.es/) –
- [Topcoat](http://topcoat.io/) –
- [Rubber Duck \[UX\] Debugging — Design/UX — Medium](https://medium.com/design-ux/b67842ec3e7f) –
- [My app design workflow](http://bjango.com/articles/appdesignworkflow/) –
- [Quick iOS Prototyping In Flinto | Meng To – UI/UX Designer](http://blog.mengto.com/quick-ios-prototyping-flinto/) –
- [Discover Meteor – Learn how to build real-time JavaScript web apps](http://www.discovermeteor.com/?source=sidebar) –
- [Arrival](http://arrival.io/) –
- [How to keep up to date on Front-End Technologies – The Recipe](http://uptodate.frontendrescue.org/?utm_source=Responsive+Design+Weekly&utm_campaign=9256bc4e84-Responsive_Design_Weekly_58&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_df65b6d7c8-9256bc4e84-53203853) –
- [Starters Guide to iOS Design](http://taybenlor.com/2013/05/21/designing-for-ios.html?utm_source=iOS+Dev+Weekly&utm_campaign=1f55230892-iOS_Dev_Weekly_Issue_95&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_7bda94b7ca-1f55230892-291542221) –
- [The Sass and Compass book 'Sass and Compass for Designers'](http://sassandcompass.com/) –
- [Design Patterns in WordPress: An Introduction – Tuts+](http://hub.tutsplus.com/tutorials/design-patterns-in-wordpress-an-introduction--wp-31604) –
- [How Google Unified Its Products With A Humble Index Card | Co.Design: business + innovation + design](http://www.fastcodesign.com/1672605/how-google-unified-its-products-with-a-simple-index-card) –
- [Red Pen](http://redpen.io/) –
- [SketchMine](http://sketchmine.co/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 19 May 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-05-26-my-week-in-pictures-19-may-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-05-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![20130526-212548.jpg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/05/20130526-212548.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/05/20130526-212548.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for May 15th through May 20th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-05-20-bookmarks-for-may-15th-through-may-20th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-05-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for May 15th through May 20th:

- [GatherContent — Simple Website Content Organisation & Collaboration.](https://www.gathercontent.com/) –
- [SnapWidget | Instagram Photo Gallery Widgets](http://snapwidget.com/) –
- [WordPress Plugin Boilerplate 2.0 – Tom McFarlin](http://tommcfarlin.com/wordpress-plugin-boilerplate-2/) –
- [Jeet Framework](http://jeetframework.com/) –
- [Overwhelmed by JavaScript Dependencies | Secret Weblog](http://blog.startifact.com/posts/overwhelmed-by-javascript-dependencies.html?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Obviel is a client-side web framework — Obviel 1.0rc1 documentation](http://www.obviel.org/en/1.0rc1/) –
- [Building a Spreadsheet in 20 Minutes with Angular.js — Thomas Street](http://thomasstreet.net/blog/spreadsheet.html) –
- [Polymer](http://polymer-project.appspot.com/) –
- [Giving “image swivel” the vanilla web diet treatment | Christian Heilmann](http://christianheilmann.com/2013/05/17/giving-image-swivel-the-vanilla-web-diet-treatment/) –
- [Interview: Jorge Almeida (Star Trek Into Darkness) | Inventing Interactive](http://www.inventinginteractive.com/2013/05/16/star-trek-into-darkness/) –
- [httpebble](http://kathar.in/httpebble/) –
- [Health Literacy Online: A Guide to Writing and Designing Easy-to-Use Health Web Sites – Web\_Guide\_Health\_Lit\_Online.pdf](http://www.health.gov/healthliteracyonline/Web_Guide_Health_Lit_Online.pdf) –
- [A simple tool to guide tone of voice » The @GatherContent Blog](https://blog.gathercontent.com/a-simple-tool-to-guide-tone-of-voice) –
- [45 Incredibly Useful Web Design Checklists and Questionnaires | Smashing Magazine](http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2009/06/29/45-incredibly-useful-web-design-checklists-and-questionnaires/) –
- [Usability checklist | Userium | Catch common usability problems before user testing.](http://userium.com/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 12 May 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-05-19-my-week-in-pictures-12-may-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-05-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Shave](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/05/photo-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/05/photo.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for May 2nd through May 14th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-05-14-bookmarks-for-may-2nd-through-may-14th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-05-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for May 2nd through May 14th:

- [Support and App Development for Philips Hue – The Philips Hue Community : The Philips Hue Community](http://www.everyhue.com/) –
- [Gimme Bar : Front end styleguides and pattern libraries](https://gimmebar.com/collection/4ecd439c2f0aaad734000022/front-end-styleguides) –
- [Easily Remove Image Backgrounds Online – ClippingMagic](http://clippingmagic.com/) –
- [10 Apps to Help You Tame Your Monitor at Night | Mac.AppStorm](http://mac.appstorm.net/roundups/utilities-roundups/10-apps-to-help-you-tame-your-monitor-at-night/) –
- [Build Websites. Tame the Wild. Statamic](http://statamic.com/) –
- [Magnific Popup: Responsive jQuery Lightbox Plugin](http://dimsemenov.com/plugins/magnific-popup/) –
- [Slides – The easiest way to create and share beautiful presentations.](http://slid.es/) –
- [Lessons from the “Seductive Interaction Design” Book – Sara Soueidan](http://blog.sarasoueidan.com/lessons-from-seductive-interaction-design-book/) –
- [The MongoDB NoSQL Database Blog, The MEAN Stack: MongoDB, ExpressJS, AngularJS and Node.js](http://blog.mongodb.org/post/49262866911/the-mean-stack-mongodb-expressjs-angularjs-and) –
- [CDNs fail, but your scripts don't have to – fallback from CDN to local jQuery – Scott Hanselman](http://www.hanselman.com/blog/CDNsFailButYourScriptsDontHaveToFallbackFromCDNToLocalJQuery.aspx) – Scott Hanselman on Programming, User Experience, The Zen of Computers and Life in General
- [The Hikikomori's Guide to JavaScript — Sorella's Basement](http://killdream.github.io/blog/2013/04/the-hikkikomoris-guide-to-javascript/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Intern: A next-generation JavaScript testing stack](http://theintern.io/) –
- [Gallery CSS](http://benschwarz.github.io/gallery-css/) –
- [What are Responsive Websites made of?](http://www.guypo.com/mobile/what-are-responsive-websites-made-of/) –
- [Intel App Framework](http://app-framework-software.intel.com/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 05 May 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-05-14-my-week-in-pictures-05-may-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-05-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![20130514-080054.jpg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/05/20130514-080054.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/05/20130514-080054.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 28 Apr 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-05-06-my-week-in-pictures-28-apr-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-05-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![20130506-093910.jpg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/05/20130506-093910.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/05/20130506-093910.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for April 17th through April 30th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-04-30-bookmarks-for-april-17th-through-april-30th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-04-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for April 17th through April 30th:

- [Pure CSS Timeline : Matt Bango's Journal](http://mattbango.com/notebook/code/pure-css-timeline/) –
- [Beautiful web-based timeline software](http://www.tiki-toki.com/) – Welcome to TikiToki, a web app that makes it dead easy to make stunning, animated timelines that work in your browser.
- [timemap – Javascript library to help use a SIMILE timeline with online maps including Google, OpenLayers, and Bing. – Google Project Hosting](http://code.google.com/p/timemap/) –
- [Timeglider jQuery Plugin/Widget](http://timeglider.com/widget/) –
- [Timeline – CHAP Links Library](http://almende.github.io/chap-links-library/timeline.html) –
- [TimelineSetter](http://propublica.github.io/timeline-setter/) –
- [Chronoline.js](http://stoicloofah.github.io/chronoline.js/) –
- [Timeline JS – Beautifully crafted timelines that are easy, and intuitive to use.](http://timeline.verite.co/) –
- [CC – Choose a License](http://creativecommons.org/choose/) –
- [RCM Tools – Image Processing with Natural Scene Statistics](http://rcm.cps.utexas.edu/) –
- [“Right click and save as” needs to go away](http://svarden.se/blog/2013-04-22-right-click-and-save-as/) –
- [List of Pseudo-Elements to Style Form Controls – TJ VanToll – Tutorials, Thoughts, and Ramblings on Front End Development](http://tjvantoll.com/2013/04/15/list-of-pseudo-elements-to-style-form-controls/) –
- [Leaflet – a JavaScript library for mobile-friendly maps](http://leafletjs.com/) –
- [MapBox | Fast and beautiful maps](http://mapbox.com/) – Make beautiful maps. Share them anywhere.
- [Responsive Nav — Responsive Navigation Plugin](http://responsive-nav.com/) –
- [Focal Point: Intelligent Cropping of Responsive Images | Design Shack](http://designshack.net/articles/css/focal-point-intelligent-cropping-of-responsive-images/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 21 Apr 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-04-29-my-week-in-pictures-21-apr-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-04-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![20130506-093650.jpg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/05/20130506-093650.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/05/20130506-093650.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Showcasing local (Australian) web talent` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-04-20-local-talent/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-04-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![MadeWithLoveIn](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/03/MadeWithLoveIn-300x191.jpg)](http://madewithlove.in)

For [MadeWithLove.in](http://madewithlove.in/), I'm looking for locally produced (in your suburb, city, country (starting with Australia)), web/tech-related products, like cool, fun, interesting web or mobile apps, interesting blogs, internet connected gadgets…  
A web address that people should know about, for example a great app you want to shout-out, showcasing an amazing developer or interesting blogger in your city.  
I'm gathering a list to showcase local talent, that people may not even know are local to their city.

If you know of something, fill out [this form](http://madewithlove.in/submit-something/). Thanks!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Buying a Canon 6D online` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-04-19-buying-a-canon-6d-online/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-04-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Looking to buy a Canon 6D online? Cheap? Well, look out, because there are in fact 2 versions: one with and one without Wifi and GPS. And the online store sure don't point that out. Why would anyone want to buy a 6D without Wifi/GPS, one of its main advertised features? The one without Wifi and GPS is the 6D(N) (N for Naked) and is intended for countries where Canon is not allowed to sell devices with Wifi and/or GPS. The one with Wifi/GPS is called 6D(WG), and that's what you'd get in the local highstreet stores. So if you see a cheap 6D online, even if it is from an Australian retailer with ABN and Australian address, they might source their 6D overseas (while offering local warranty), but you might not get what you were after.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for April 10th through April 16th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-04-16-bookmarks-for-april-10th-through-april-16th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-04-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for April 10th through April 16th:

- [It's not a web app. It's an app you install from the web.](http://blog.forecast.io/its-not-a-web-app-its-an-app-you-install-from-the-web/) –
- [Introducing navigator.mozPay() For Web Payments ✩ Mozilla Hacks – the Web developer blog](https://hacks.mozilla.org/2013/04/introducing-navigator-mozpay-for-web-payments/) –
- [Build Responsive, Real-Time Graphs in WordPress | DesignFestival](http://designfestival.com/series/build-responsive-real-time-graphs-in-wordpress/) –
- [Creating popups without HTML files](http://remysharp.com/2013/04/02/creating-popups-without-html-files/) –
- [Hack Your Maps · An A List Apart Article](http://alistapart.com/article/hack-your-maps) –
- [MapBox | Fast and beautiful maps](http://mapbox.com/) –
- [Isotope](http://isotope.metafizzy.co/) –
- [Responding to the unknown](http://elvery.net/demo/responsive-images/#/) –
- [Creating popups without HTML files](http://remysharp.com/2013/04/02/creating-popups-without-html-files/) –
- [Using AngularJS at Localytics](http://www.localytics.com/blog/2013/angularjs-at-localytics/) –
- [About HTML semantics and front-end architecture – Nicolas Gallagher](http://nicolasgallagher.com/about-html-semantics-front-end-architecture/) –
- [AngularJS directives and the computer science of JavaScript | Adobe Developer Connection](http://www.adobe.com/devnet/html5/articles/angularjs-directives-and-the-computer-science-of-javascript.html?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Cross-platform hybrid mobile development leveraging the cloud – Icenium](http://www.icenium.com/) –
- [A guide for creating a better retina web – Ivo Mynttinen / User Interface Designer](http://ivomynttinen.com/blog/a-guide-for-creating-a-better-retina-web/?utm_source=Responsive+Design+Weekly&utm_campaign=b1b35f94a9-Responsive_Design_Weekly_50&utm_medium=email) –
- [Designing for high resolution Retina displays](http://www.leemunroe.com/designing-for-high-resolution-retina-displays/?utm_source=Responsive+Design+Weekly&utm_campaign=b1b35f94a9-Responsive_Design_Weekly_50&utm_medium=email) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 07 Apr 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-04-14-my-week-in-pictures-07-apr-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-04-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/04/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/04/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for March 26th through April 10th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-04-10-bookmarks-for-march-26th-through-april-10th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-04-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for March 26th through April 10th:

- [Segment.io | The simple analytics API — Segment.io](https://segment.io/) –
- [Action.IO](https://www.action.io/) –
- [Polychart.JS](http://www.polychartjs.com/) –
- [Introducing Jetstrap for Bootstrap 1.0 | Jetstrap Blog](http://blog.jetstrap.com/2013/04/introducing-jetstrap-1-0/) –
- [Pixate](http://www.pixate.com/) –
- [Mixture – A rapid prototyping and static site generation tool for designers and developers](http://mixture.io/) –
- [Postach.io | The Evernote Site Generator](http://postach.io/) –
- [Easy High DPI Images – HTML5 Rocks](http://www.html5rocks.com/en/mobile/easy-high-dpi-images/) –
- [Superhero.js](http://superherojs.com/) –
- [Almost Flat UI](http://websymphony.net/almost-flat-ui/) –
- [» 8 Guidelines and 1 Rule for Responsive Images Cloud Four Blog](http://blog.cloudfour.com/8-guidelines-and-1-rule-for-responsive-images/) –
- [Create a Windows 8 tile for your site – Build My Pinned Site – Microsoft Internet Explorer](http://www.buildmypinnedsite.com/) –
- [Visceral Apps and You — Mysterious Trousers](http://mysterioustrousers.com/news/2013/3/25/visceral-apps-and-you) –
- [htaccess tester](http://htaccess.madewithlove.be/) –
- [Helios ](http://helios.io/) –
- [Fine-Tune Your Kickstarter Campaign With These 12 Tools | Wired Design | Wired.com](http://www.wired.com/design/2013/04/12-kickstarter-tools/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+wired%2Findex+%28Wired%3A+Top+Stories%29&utm_content=Google+Feedfetcher) –
- [Metawidget](http://metawidget.org/) –
- [The Future Of UI Isn't Invisible, Nor Is It Seamless | Co.Design: business + innovation + design](http://www.fastcodesign.com/1672144/the-future-of-ui-isn-t-invisible-nor-is-it-seamless) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 24 Mar 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-04-01-my-week-in-pictures-24-mar-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-04-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![20130401-143425.jpg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/04/20130401-143425.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/04/20130401-143425.jpg)  

SANS Community Night, What Do You Know, Easter weekend, Woy Woy visit<
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 17 Mar 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-03-25-my-week-in-pictures-17-mar-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-03-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/03/Image3.jpg "image3-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/03/Image3.jpg)  

St.Patrick's Day BBQ, new rear bumper, house hunting, and birthday drinks and dinner
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for March 16th through March 25th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-03-25-bookmarks-for-march-16th-through-march-25th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-03-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for March 16th through March 25th:

- [Lost Signal: 7 Lessons from TV History | Punchcut](http://punchcut.com/perspectives/lost-signal-7-lessons-tv-history) –
- [Copywriting by Copy Hackers – Web Copywriting Ebooks and Conversion Resources for Startups](http://copyhackers.com/) –
- [Practical Tips from Top WordPress Pros](http://wp.smashingmagazine.com/2013/03/20/practical-tips-top-wordpress-pros/) –
- [Runtime and Security Model for Web Applications](http://www.w3.org/TR/2013/WD-runtime-20130321/) –
- [Awesome Media Queries in JavaScript – enquire.js](http://wicky.nillia.ms/enquire.js/) –
- [Hacking the tag in 100 characters](http://bilaw.al/2013/03/17/hacking-the-a-tag-in-100-characters.html) –
- [OverAPI.com | Collecting all the cheat sheets](http://overapi.com/) –
- [Webflow CSS Playground](http://playground.webflow.com/?s=html5weekly) –
- [PaintCode](http://www.paintcodeapp.com/) –
- [dataarts/tailbone · GitHub](https://github.com/dataarts/tailbone) –
- [IndieWebCamp](http://indiewebcamp.com/projects) –
- [ThinkUp: Social Media Insights Platform](https://www.thinkup.com/) –
- [cantino/huginn · GitHub](https://github.com/cantino/huginn) –
- [AngularJS for jQuery Developers | Art & Logic Blog](http://blog.artlogic.com/2013/03/06/angularjs-for-jquery-developers/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Getting Into Ember.js | Nettuts+](http://net.tutsplus.com/tutorials/javascript-ajax/getting-into-ember-js/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 10 Mar 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-03-17-my-week-in-pictures-10-mar-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-03-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/03/Image2.jpg "image2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/03/Image2.jpg)

Pebble arriving (finally), Jurassic Lounge, Sydney Web Apps User Group – Security, Cowan to Brooklyn walk
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for March 15th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-03-16-bookmarks-for-march-15th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for March 15th:

- [Prevue – A concept sharing app for designers](http://prevue.it/) –
- [Write good code! It impacts page load time.](http://writegoodcode.com/) –
- [Improving UX Through Front-End Performance · An A List Apart Article](http://alistapart.com/article/improving-ux-through-front-end-performance) –
- [How to lose weight (in the browser)](http://browserdiet.com/) –
- [Unheap – A tidy repository of jQuery plugins](http://www.unheap.com/) –
- [MethodKit – Define, develop, structure](http://www.methodkit.com/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for March 11th through March 14th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-03-14-bookmarks-for-march-11th-through-march-14th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-03-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for March 11th through March 14th:

- [Building ePub with PHP and Markdown](http://phpmaster.com/building-epub-with-php-and-markdown/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PHPMaster+Newsletter+-+12+March+2013&utm_content=PHPMaster+Newsletter+-+12+March+2013+Version+A+CID_06696e934fd8003d49adf410f7d9e57c&utm_source=Newsletter&utm_term=More) –
- [Perch – The really little content management system (CMS)](https://grabaperch.com/) –
- [JSONMate – JSON editor, inspector and beautifier](http://jsonmate.com/?utm_source=javascriptweekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [Am I Responsive?](http://ami.responsivedesign.is/) – Show off how responsive design looks across different browsers easily with this 4 in 1 viewport tool. See how your site looks on desktop, laptop, ipad & iphone.
- [site44 – absurdly simple web hosting](http://www.site44.com/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Cowan to Brooklyn` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-03-10-cowan-to-brooklyn/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-03-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8236/8544645196_10ee77aed2_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544645196/in/set-72157632958179515/)  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8378/8544632512_d52d23fb89_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544632512/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8099/8544633678_6f2bbc132c_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544633678/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8526/8543537503_6438d6141d_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8543537503/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8242/8543539707_3b861a756e_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8543539707/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8112/8543540581_8db122f559_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8543540581/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8107/8544639314_1bd40cfce1_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544639314/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8511/8544640394_bae4a2aea0_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544640394/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8526/8544641056_560d708892_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544641056/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8227/8543543997_d928711b9c_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8543543997/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8527/8544644150_36408dd697_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544644150/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Panorama](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8512/8544646230_43552aaf52_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544646230/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Panorama")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8371/8543549333_77ee889639_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8543549333/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8521/8543550401_23acc67f29_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8543550401/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8108/8544649200_6c9e3a7326_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544649200/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Sleeper](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8523/8544650058_6d5d78ca21_s.jpg)   
["Sleeper"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544650058/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Sleeper")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8095/8544650998_0cbed5cab9_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544650998/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8230/8544651928_1068befe35_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544651928/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8509/8544653058_4e162fbe56_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544653058/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8092/8544654052_38e165249c_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544654052/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8384/8544655262_12a3a37fd3_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544655262/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Heart](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8376/8544656320_15e8aa3c02_s.jpg)   
["Heart"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544656320/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Heart")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8230/8544657476_0081ba0687_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8544657476/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")  

![Jerusalem Bay Walk](http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8522/8543560575_872421fc86_s.jpg)   
["Jerusalem Bay Walk"](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8543560575/in/set-72157632958179515/ "Jerusalem Bay Walk")

[Cowan to Brooklyn](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157632958179515/), a set on Flickr.

Jerusalem Bay walk, bushwalking from Cowan to Brooklyn, 13km (then train back).

Marked Hard. The first 5km (from Cowan) were, but then it's mostly firetrails, which was less interesting. Still climbing about 654m in total…
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 03 Mar 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-03-10-my-week-in-pictures-03-mar-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-03-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/03/Image1.jpg "image1-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/03/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for March 7th through March 8th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-03-08-bookmarks-for-march-7th-through-march-8th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-03-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for March 7th through March 8th:

- [Prepo 2 for Mac](http://wearemothership.com/work/prepo/) –
- [Type & Grids — Responsive HTML5 Template](http://www.typeandgrids.com/) –
- [Breaking down Amazon's mega dropdown – Ben Kamens](http://bjk5.com/post/44698559168/breaking-down-amazons-mega-dropdown) –
- [Myths About How Blind People Use the Internet](http://speckyboy.com/2013/02/04/myths-about-how-blind-people-use-the-internet/) –
- [The Five Worst UX Mistakes Websites Make | UX Magazine](http://uxmag.com/articles/the-five-worst-ux-mistakes-websites-make) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for March 4th through March 6th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-03-06-bookmarks-for-march-4th-through-march-6th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-03-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for March 4th through March 6th:

- [How to shrinkwrap and center elements horizontally | 456 Berea Street](http://www.456bereastreet.com/archive/201303/how_to_shrinkwrap_and_center_elements_horizontally/) –
- [WebKit for Developers – Paul Irish](http://paulirish.com/2013/webkit-for-developers/) –
- [WikiHouse](http://www.wikihouse.cc/) –
- [WebKit for Developers – Paul Irish](http://paulirish.com/2013/webkit-for-developers/) –
- [Campus Quad iPhone App Case Study – SoftFacade](http://softfacade.com/work/campusquad/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for March 3rd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-03-04-bookmarks-for-march-3rd/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-03-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for March 3rd:

- [TodoMVC](http://todomvc.com/) – a project which offers the same Todo application implemented using MV\* concepts in most of the popular JavaScript MV\* frameworks of today.
- [Adaptive Images in HTML](http://adaptive-images.com/) –
- [Packery preview · Metafizzy Blog](http://metafizzy.co/blog/packery-preview/) –
- [HTML's New Template Tag: standardizing client-side templating – HTML5 Rocks](http://www.html5rocks.com/en/tutorials/webcomponents/template/) –
- [LukeW | Data Monday: Impact of Responsive Designs](http://www.lukew.com/ff/entry.asp?1691) –
- [Using WAI-ARIA Landmarks – 2013 | The Paciello Group Blog](http://www.paciellogroup.com/blog/2013/02/using-wai-aria-landmarks-2013/) –
- [Transitions & Animations – An Advanced Guide to HTML & CSS](http://learn.shayhowe.com/advanced-html-css/transitions-animations) –
- [SPOILER ALERT!](http://joshbuddy.github.com/spoiler-alert/) –
- [Debuggex: A visual regular expression debugger](http://www.debuggex.com/?re=&str=) –
- [Simple user styles](http://connors.github.com/simple-user-styles/) –
- [Niice. A search engine with taste.](http://niice.co/) –
- [Hook.js – Pull to refresh. For the web.](http://usehook.com/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 24 Feb 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-03-03-my-week-in-pictures-24-feb-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-03-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/03/Image.jpg "image-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/03/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for February 25th through March 2nd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-03-02-bookmarks-for-february-25th-through-march-2nd/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-03-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for February 25th through March 2nd:

- [tapestry](http://tapestry.is/) –
- [virtual lane graphics for swimming with css3 – xyk](http://xy-kao.com/projects/virtual-graphics-for-swimming/?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
- [5 Simple and Practical CSS List Styles You Can Copy and Paste | Design Shack](http://designshack.net/articles/css/5-simple-and-practical-css-list-styles-you-can-copy-and-paste/) –
- [Learn Git Branching](http://pcottle.github.com/learnGitBranching/?NODEMO) –
- [Durandal](http://durandaljs.com/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for February 23rd through February 25th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-25-bookmarks-for-february-23rd-through-february-25th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for February 23rd through February 25th:

- [Koken – Creative web site publishing](http://koken.me/) –
- [Toolbar.js – jQuery plugin to create tooltip style toobars](http://paulkinzett.github.com/toolbar/) –
- [jquer.in » Collection of jquery plugins and javascript libraries.](http://jquer.in/) –
- [TinyNav.js · Convert navigation to a select dropdown on small screen](http://tinynav.viljamis.com/) –
- [iosSlider – Touch Enabled jQuery Horizontal Slider/Carousel/Image Gallery Plugin](http://www.iosscripts.com/iosslider/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 17 Feb 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-24-my-week-in-pictures-17-feb-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-24  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/02/Image3.jpg "image3-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/02/Image3.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for February 20th through February 22nd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-22-bookmarks-for-february-20th-through-february-22nd/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for February 20th through February 22nd:

- [Every Last Drop – An Interactive Website about Water Saving](http://everylastdrop.co.uk/) –
- [Meaningful Transitions](http://www.ui-transitions.com/#home) – Motion graphics in the User Interface
- [The Future of Web | Fresh Tilled Soil](http://www.freshtilledsoil.com/the-future-of-web/) –
- [AppScreens | Screencasts, Intro & Demo Videos Inspiration](http://appscreens.tumblr.com/) –
- [typeahead.js](http://twitter.github.com/typeahead.js/) –
- [Makeappicon – Generate app icons of all sizes in a click!](http://makeappicon.com/) –
- [Timed Notifications with CSS Animations | Codrops](http://tympanus.net/codrops/2012/06/25/timed-notifications-with-css-animations/) –
- [Flat Pixels: The Battle Between Flat Design And Skeuomorphism](http://sachagreif.com/flat-pixels/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for February 19th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-20-bookmarks-for-february-19th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Collection of links for February 19th:

- [Mr. Data Converter](http://shancarter.com/data_converter/) –
- [Data Wrangler](http://vis.stanford.edu/wrangler/) –
- [OpenRefine/OpenRefine · GitHub](https://github.com/OpenRefine/OpenRefine) –
- [color.hailpixel.com · Swatch you doing?](http://color.hailpixel.com/) –
- [Parsley.js](http://parsleyjs.org/) –
- [Character Codes — HTML Codes, Hexadecimal Codes & HTML Names ❤ ❤](http://www.character-code.com/) –
- [Dillinger, the Last Markdown Editor ever – Online Markdown Editor](http://dillinger.io/) –
- [X-editable :: In-place editing with Twitter Bootstrap, jQuery UI or pure jQuery](http://vitalets.github.com/x-editable/) –
- [RubyJS](http://rubyjs.org/) –
- [One div – The single element HTML/CSS icon database](http://one-div.com/) –
- [jQuery custom content scroller – malihu](http://manos.malihu.gr/jquery-custom-content-scroller/) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Nice evening for a walk after work` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-19-nice-evening-for-a-walk/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Sydney Harbour](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/02/20130219-190026.jpg)](https://halans.com/2013/02/19/nice-evening-for-a-walk/20130219-190026-jpg/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Another Kickstarter product I kinda lost interest in` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-18-another-kickstarter-product-i-kinda-lost-interest-in/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![20130218-111531.jpg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/02/20130218-111531.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/02/20130218-111531.jpg) 


Another Kickstarter product I kinda lost interest in as its development unfolded.  
Am just scared that when I use it, I might not get it out anymore (as parts are glued together, and glue may loosen after heating up for a while?)


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `How to Run a Workshop Workshop` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-18-how-to-run-a-workshop-workshop/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Workshop](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/02/workshop.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/8482452821/ "Workshop by Halans, on Flickr")  ‘

Saturday was a free, 3-hour “How to Run a Workshop Workshop” run by Jay Rogers, Design Manager at Atlassian. It was pretty intense and very hands on.

Some take-aways:  
– Time-box all the things:  
– Each activity wil take about 30-45 minutes.  
– In advance allot reasonable times to the different actions in your activity

– But you will lose control:  
– Decisions may not be reached, outcomes from activity may not be attained,  
but that's ok  
– Just roll with it, maybe cancel a follow-up activity  
– Decide how important it is for an outcome to be reached in this activity and react accordingly

– Always have a partner:  
– To help plan and run the workshop  
– A lot happens during breaks  
– Use a third person to take notes, or use a camera to revisit the session afterwards

Check out more photos on [Flickr](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157632791853788/ "Workshop photos")
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bookmarks for February 16th` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-16-bookmarks-for-february-16th/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

These are my links for February 16th from 21:24 to 22:13:

- [Why I loved building Basecamp for iPhone in RubyMotion by Nick of 37signals](http://37signals.com/svn/posts/3432)
- [Reflector.app – AirPlay mirroring to your Mac or PC, wirelessly.](https://www.reflectorapp.com/) –
- [AngularUI for AngularJS](http://angular-ui.github.com/) –
- [Technical Reference – Intel® HTML5 App Porter Tool – BETA | Intel® Developer Zone](http://software.intel.com/en-us/articles/technical-reference-intel-html5-app-porter-tool-beta?utm_source=html5weekly&utm_medium=email) –
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 10 Feb 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-16-my-week-in-pictures-10-feb-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/02/Image2.jpg "image2-jpg")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/02/Image2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `First Google+ photowalk of 2013 at Sydney Opera House` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-10-google-plus-photowalk-at-opera/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

A moody set for a moody day. Google+ Sydney Photowalk 2013 at the Sydney Opera House, using the 7D with the Lensbaby Spark, and the Sony RX100 (with a couple more pictures on [Flickr](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157632729408449/)).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 03 Feb 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-10-my-week-in-pictures-03-feb-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/02/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/02/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 27 Jan 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-03-my-week-in-pictures-27-jan-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/02/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/02/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Rainy Saturday` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-02-02-rainy-saturday/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-02-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Showing a friend from Belgium around, on a rainy weekend. He felt right at home.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 20 Jan 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-01-27-my-week-in-pictures-20-jan-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-01-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Australia Day CARnivale` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-01-26-australia-day-carnivale/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-01-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Every year on Australia Day, Sydney hosts a car festival, with mostly oldtimers, and some newer super cars. This used to be organised by NRMA as MotorFest, but this year it was by someone else, and called CARnivale. Mostly the same cars though, and I have taken pictures of them previous years. This year I thought I'd use the [Lensbaby Spark](http://lensbaby.com.au/lenses-spark "Lensbaby Spark") lens (with more photos on [Flickr](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157632621385498/ "More on Flickr")):
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 06 Jan 2013 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-01-13-my-week-in-pictures-06-jan-2013-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-01-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Tomorrow's forecast, pfew` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-01-08-tomorrows-forecast-pfew/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-01-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-300x300.png)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/photo.png)
And still 28C at 10pm…
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 30 Dec 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-01-08-my-week-in-pictures-30-dec-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-01-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image2-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 23 Dec 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-01-08-my-week-in-pictures-23-dec-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-01-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image3-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image3.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 16 Dec 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-01-08-my-week-in-pictures-16-dec-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-01-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image4-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image4.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Tomorrow's forecast` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-01-08-tomorrows-forecast/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-01-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/photo1-300x300.png)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/photo1.png)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 30 Dec 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-01-08-my-week-in-pictures-30-dec-2012-weekinpix-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-01-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image5-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image5.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 23 Dec 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-01-08-my-week-in-pictures-23-dec-2012-weekinpix-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-01-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image6-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image6.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 16 Dec 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2013-01-08-my-week-in-pictures-16-dec-2012-weekinpix-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2013-01-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image7-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2013/01/Image7.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `2012 favorite tracks` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-12-30-2012-favorite-tracks/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-12-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

That time of the year…  
My favorite tracks of 2012, based on playcount and my rating in iTunes:



and “Between My Thighs” by [NvS](http://whoisnvs.com/), which isn't available on Spotify, but can be downloaded free on her site, as aren't available: “Daft Funk (Joey Negro's Computer Funk)” by Sadam Ant, “Klatshing! (Original Mix)” by Junkie XL, “Free (Edit)” by Graffiti6 and “Gabriel (feat. Valentina) \[Soulwax Remix\]” by Joe Goddard.

I don't buy many full albums any more, but in 2012 I did buy:

- Blunderbuss by Jack White
- Home Again by Michael Kiwanuka
- Unpatterns by Simian Mobile Disco
- Wixiw by Liars
- Coexist by The xx
- A is for Alpine by Alpine
- Split the Atom by Noisia
- From the Shadows by Black Sun Empire
- Balance 21
- John Digweed Live In Cordoba
- DJ-Kicks Maya Jane Coles
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 09 Dec 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-12-16-my-week-in-pictures-09-dec-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-12-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/12/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/12/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 02 Dec 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-12-09-my-week-in-pictures-02-dec-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-12-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/12/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/12/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 25 Nov 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-12-02-my-week-in-pictures-25-nov-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-12-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/12/Image2-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/12/Image2.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 18 Nov 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-11-25-my-week-in-pictures-18-nov-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-11-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/11/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/11/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 11 Nov 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-11-18-my-week-in-pictures-11-nov-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-11-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/11/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/11/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 04 Nov 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-11-11-my-week-in-pictures-04-nov-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-11-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/11/Image2-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/11/Image2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 14 Oct 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-11-01-my-week-in-pictures-14-oct-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-11-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/11/Image3-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/11/Image3.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 21 Oct 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-10-29-my-week-in-pictures-21-oct-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-10-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/10/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/10/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 07 Oct 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-10-14-my-week-in-pictures-07-oct-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-10-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/10/Image1-300x295.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/10/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 30 Sep 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-10-08-my-week-in-pictures-30-sep-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-10-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/10/Image2-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/10/Image2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 23 Sep 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-10-01-my-week-in-pictures-23-sep-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-10-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/10/Image3-300x295.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/10/Image3.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Spit to Manly walk` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-09-30-spit-to-manly-walk/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-09-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/photo.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/photo.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Spit to Manly walk` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-09-30-spit-to-manly-walk-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-09-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Diptic](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/Diptic.jpeg.scaled1000-300x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/Diptic.jpeg.scaled1000.jpg)

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 16 Sep 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-09-23-my-week-in-pictures-16-sep-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-09-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/Image.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 09 Sep 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-09-16-my-week-in-pictures-09-sep-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-09-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/Image1-300x295.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/Image1.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 02 Sep 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-09-09-my-week-in-pictures-02-sep-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-09-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/Image2-300x295.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/Image2.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 26 Aug 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-09-02-my-week-in-pictures-26-aug-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-09-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/Image3-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/Image3.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 19 Aug 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-09-02-my-week-in-pictures-19-aug-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-09-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/Image4-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/09/Image4.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 05 Aug 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-08-13-my-week-in-pictures-05-aug-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-08-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/08/Image-300x295.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/08/Image.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 29 Jul 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-08-05-my-week-in-pictures-29-jul-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-08-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/08/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/08/Image1.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 22 Jul 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-07-29-my-week-in-pictures-22-jul-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-07-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/Image-300x295.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/Image.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Upgrade Cockup` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-07-28-upgrade-cockup/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-07-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

When Apple introduced their new retina Macbook Pro and new Macbook Airs, they also told buyers they would get a free upgrade to the new version of OSX, Mountain Lion. That day has come last week wednesday when they released Mountain Lion onto the public.

In order to get Mountain Lion, you have to register for the Mountain Lion up-to-date program (http://www.apple.com/osx/uptodate/). And that's where things already go wrong. You go to the Apple site, select Mac, then OSX Mountain Lion. You scroll down and you see the “Get a free upgrade with your new Mac” banner. You click on it, and you get a page with a blue button marked “Request your copy of Mountain Lion”. They ask for purchase date, place of purchase (online Apple store, Apple retail store, reseller), and there are a bunch of disabled fields which are enabled when you select “reseller”. One of the fields is “Country”. Additionally, there's a “Right to copy” checkbox, and a “Number of Qualifying Systems for Right To Copy”. No idea what this actually meant, I thought, “yes, I do have a right to a copy of Mountain Lion, and I need one copy”. Well, that didn't work, as it didn't accept “1” as a valid value. This was early in the morning, before I had coffee… I thought a minute about it, and figured out they meant copying Mountain Lion to multiple systems, like at a university or enterprise, I guess (yes, it is being explained on the left side of that screen). Anyway unticked the checkbox, and the first screen went through.

On the second screen you have to enter your name, and something called Email Id. Not just email address, but Email Id. Does this mean not any email? Not work email, not one of your personal emails, but Email Id. I entered my regular email, which happens to be my iTunes account Id. I guess that is what they meant. They ask you to confirm your Email Id. So I copy/paste the field… nah, they disabled copy/paste on that field.

On the same page you need to enter your “contact information”, “We will only use this information to determine your eligibility for the OS X Mountain Lion Up-to-Date Program.”, which starts with Company/Institution and then address data (minus Country), and telephone.

Next screen they ask you for the serial number of your Mac, and selection of type of Mac (which I find weird too, isn't that embedded in the number?). Then today it seems you need to upload a proof of purchase, which I didn't have to do, or maybe it's because I faked the serial number to get through (it complained I already had registered that serial number). And finally I would get an overview of the information provided before submitting it to the program. And what do I notice (obviously), Sydney, USA. Nowhere was there an entry for Country (except when you bought it at a reseller, potentially abroad), or an option to switch countries. Did the up-to-date program only apply to the USA? No it didn't, I'm pretty sure it applied here in Australia too.

Starting over… Going to http://www.apple.com/au/, then to Mac, Mountain Lion, upgrade, which is at http://www.apple.com/au/osx/uptodate/ Doing it all over again… Jumping through hoops, pretty painful for a $20 value

But, I don't get this. Why did they not start with the serial number? When I got my MBAir, and you start it up the first time, you register it (though you can skip this), so they already know who this belongs to. Which is obvious as when I sold my old MBAir to a friend (without deregistering it first) it too knew that it was registered to my account. Then it should ask where I bought it, and since it was at the online apple store, it would know a lot of information, if I had given it my order number. Then they could ask for my Apple account id which happens to be an email address. And that should be it, and 5 minutes later (\*) I should have gotten a redeem code.

Not 48 hours later…

And not by sending me 5 emails. Two emails (with the same reference number) containing ridiculous long, different passwords, for three PDFs I received in the other three emails. Of course only one password worked on one PDF (which happened to be the last one I tried). There was no correlation between the email with the password and one of the emails with the pdf, had to try all possible combinations.

Anyway, I had given them 24 hours, paid the $20, and am already running Mountain Lion, which was actually a really easy upgrade experience. Shame about the up-to-date experience. Now, if they could refund me the $20 based on me redeeming the code, but I'm not very hopeful.

*\* Or even, because I registered a new MBAir at the particular date I bought it, they could have just send me a redeem code last Wednesday.*

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 15 Jul 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-07-23-my-week-in-pictures-15-jul-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-07-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/Image1-300x295.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/Image1.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Ooh, got my new Blurb book, a photo book on the village of Doel. Get yours here...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-07-18-got-my-new-blurb-book-a-photo-book-on-the-village-of-doel/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-07-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/photo.jpg.scaled.1000-300x225.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/photo.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg) Ooh, got my new Blurb book, a photo book on the village of Doel. Get yours here: 
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## [POST_TITLE] `Winter in Sydney, or summer in Antwerp?` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-07-13-winter-in-sydney-or-summer-in-antwerp/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/photo-300x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/photo.jpg)


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## [POST_TITLE] `Mirvac doing a great job with their mobile site for Greenwood` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-07-11-mirvac-doing-a-great-job-with-their-mobile-site-for-greenwood/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-07-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![P58](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/p58.jpg.scaled1000-200x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/p58.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

[![P59](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/p59.jpg.scaled1000-200x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/p59.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)   

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/mirvac-doings-great-job-with-their-mobile-sit)   

Mirvac doing a great job with their mobile site for Greenwood: CENTRE NAME, lorem ipsum, missing homepage icon… But big QR code advertising push on all their tables at the foodcourt redirecting customers to this #fail

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 01 Jul 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-07-09-my-week-in-pictures-01-jul-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-07-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/Image2-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/Image2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `iiNet not moving forward either` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-07-08-iinet-not-moving-forward-either/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-07-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

iiNet's Naked ADSL2+ didn't improve either. Evening speeds have dropped considerably lately (or is that just Apple's iTunes badwidth?). And then this:

Having been an iiNet customer for 3.5 years now, we were on a (grandfathered) plan that gave me 75GB+75GB for $70. Earlier this month I hit my peak limit the day before it expired. I was resetting my laptop which required me to re-download OSX Lion, and my bandwith got capped to 64kbps halfway through. I knew iiNet had these new datapacks on offer (5GB for $10 for example), which would put me back onto regular speeds, great! But in order to get to use that datapack I had to switch to a new plan. And new plans are a step backwards. Only 100GB for $70 (no more peak/offpeak difference). I just lost 50GB, for the same price. Capped speeds though have increased to 256kbps. But, not happy.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Telstra going backwards` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-07-08-telstra-going-backwards/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-07-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Telstra always used to be more expensive than the other telcos, but a better network. Then their prices became reasonable, and I switched to Telstra prepaid. But a lot of people did, and now their service is no different than any of the other telcos. Additionally, they send users' requests overseas for blacklist checking, a “service” I didn't subscribe to.

And now their prepaid offer goes backwards. Where I had 2GB for $50, from next month onwards I'll only get 800MB…

Was/is:

[![Untitled](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/Untitled.jpg.scaled1000-300x165.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/Untitled.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

[![Untitled](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/Untitled1.jpg.scaled10001-300x165.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/Untitled1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)   


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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 24 Jun 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-07-05-my-week-in-pictures-24-jun-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-07-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/Image3-300x295.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/07/Image3.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Happy Carbon Tax day!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-07-01-happy-carbon-tax-day/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-07-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

The “dreaded” Carbon Tax comes into effect today. And look, the sun is still shining, the world did not end.

I'm not going to go into the politics of things here, I'm just a geek. So I want to talk about my new TV.

We bought our previous TV in 2009, when we moved into an unfurnished flat for the first time here in Sydney. We bought a 32″ Philips LCD TV, and I really liked it back then. I guess it must have been mid-range even back then, not the smallest format but certainly not extra large. Anyway, over the years there were these newsreports about electricity prices going up (way before the Carbon Tax), and every time you saw an interview on TV, you would see these images of families with gigantic TVs in their living room. And they wonder why their electricity bill is so high? TVs nowadays have a energy star rating displayed in stores. Not sure when that came into effect, but it has been for a while. And I have been keeping an eye out on those whenever I'd visit a JBHifi or something, and the last couple of years I believe they have been coming down a lot with advances in LED LCDs and Plasma screen improvements.

I got me a Belkin power meter plug and looked at how much our current Philips TV was using. About 128 Watts an hour, as much as a powerful light. Additionally, I thought it no longer looked its best. To calculate the star rating used in the stores you have to multiply that wattage x 10 (hours a day) x 365 (over a year) to get the kilowatt hour usage per year. Which gives me a staggering 467KWh/y, which is a lot, especially for a 32″. So I started to look around for a new TV, something below 300KWh/y, and bigger than 32″, full HD, better blacks/contrast and not too expensive. In the end it was a toss up between new models from Panasonic and Sony (Samsung was disqualified, don't care for LG, Loewe is too expensive, Sharp was meh). In the end it's a 40″ Sony HX750.

This isn't going to be a full on review of the HX750 (I may do that later, but probably not…), but there were some things to notice. So, 40″ is again considered a mid-range, bedroom size (10-15 years ago I would be ecstatic with a 70cm CRT TV). But in our living room, the first thing you notice is how much bigger it is than the 32″ (well, 20cm in diameter). Also, it doesn't seem to be that bright. But if you do happen to come across a white screen, well you'd better be wearing shades. Don't know, maybe because of its larger size (than the 32″), a bright screen is pretty annoying, and you want to have it tuned down a bit. Another thing you notice when you put on Freeview is how much it sucks. Really, the image was pretty bad. There are maybe about three dozen settings to tweak, and after a while I'm pretty happy with the low resolution (576i) images on Freeview (only a couple of then transmit in 1080i). But BRs do look amazing. But, that's not the actual intent of this post. How much does it consume? Well, where for the Philips it was about a constant 128W (+/- 10W), the new TV does about 48W, going down to 33W for dark scenes and up to 68W for a full white screen. That is considerably less than my previous, 3 year old TV! That calculates to about 172KWh/y (though the star rating indicates 260KWh/y, which would be with brightness all the way up). So, it's a better, larger TV, that consumes far less. Pretty happy with that!

Do you use a desktop PC at home? Did you know that could easily use 100-200W and a lot more? Did you know a laptop only uses about 20-90W ([power usage of different, but older model PCs at a university](http://www.upenn.edu/computing/provider/docs/hardware/powerusage.html))? And what do you use it for? Is most of it browsing, checking email? Did you know an iPad (or any other tablet) only uses 2.5W, and [could save you a lot on your power bill](http://www.thestar.com/business/article/1216386--shift-to-tablets-could-mean-lower-overall-power-consumption) (if you need another reason to buy one…)?
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 17 Jun 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-06-26-my-week-in-pictures-17-jun-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-06-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/06/Image-300x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/06/Image.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 27 May 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-06-03-my-week-in-pictures-27-may-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-06-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/06/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/06/Image1.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 20 May 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-06-03-my-week-in-pictures-20-may-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-06-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/06/Image2-300x295.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/06/Image2.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 13 May 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-05-20-my-week-in-pictures-13-may-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-05-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/05/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/05/Image.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Mt Wilson Autumn colours` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-05-06-mt-wilson-autumn-colours-3/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-05-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpdistilleryi_unvim](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/05/media_httpdistilleryi_unvIm.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

(http://instagr.am/p/KRMWGJN38C/)   

Taken at Mount Wilson

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 22 Apr 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-04-30-my-week-in-pictures-22-apr-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-04-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/Image.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 15 Apr 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-04-30-my-week-in-pictures-15-apr-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-04-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/Image1-300x295.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Double rainbow` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-04-19-double-rainbow/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-04-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/photo.jpg.scaled.1000-300x156.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/photo.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 08 Apr 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-04-15-my-week-in-pictures-08-apr-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-04-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 Quite eventful week!

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/Image2-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/Image2.jpg)

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 01 Apr 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-04-09-my-week-in-pictures-01-apr-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-04-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/Image3-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/Image3.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `"It seems you have the technical know how that the Air Force is looking for"` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-04-01-it-seems-you-have-the-technical-know-how-that-the-air-force/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-04-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

The Aussie Air Force setting the bar pretty low for “technical know how”. Desperate much? (not an April Fools Day thing, a real advert on Gizmodo.com.au)

[![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/photo1.jpg.scaled.10001-171x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/photo1.jpg.scaled.10001.jpg)

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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 25 Mar 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-04-01-my-week-in-pictures-25-mar-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-04-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/Image4-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/04/Image4.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 04 Mar 2012 #weekinpix (delayed)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-03-12-my-week-in-pictures-04-mar-2012-weekinpix-delayed/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-03-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/Image.jpg)

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## [POST_TITLE] `Pistolets and charcuterie` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-03-09-pistolets-and-charcuterie/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-03-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Belgian [pistolets](http://translate.google.com.au/translate?hl=en&sl=nl&u=http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pistolet), or kadetjes, are unrivaled anywhere in the world. They come in different sizes and origins: white, brown, light, crusty,… They are always eaten day-fresh.   
Pistolets are always covered with something like [charcuterie](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charcuterie), cheese, prepared spreads, confiture (jam) or chocolate spread. Optionally, you'd add fresh butter (or margarine if you really have to).

![Img_4697](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4697.jpg.scaled500-300x199.jpg)  


[![Img_3557](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3557.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3557.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  


[![Img_3555](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3555.JPG.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3555.JPG.scaled1000.jpg)  


[![Img_4694](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4694.jpg.scaled1000-199x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4694.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  


[![Img_4699](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4699.jpg.scaled1000-199x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4699.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  


[![Img_3558](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3558.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3558.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

[![Img_4693](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4693.jpg.scaled1000-300x199.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4693.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

[![Img_3560](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3560.JPG.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3560.JPG.scaled1000.jpg)  

[![Img_3675](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3675.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3675.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)   

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/pistolets-and-charcuterie)

There's always a wide selection of options available, fresh or prepackaged:

![Img_3073](http://getfile8.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2012-03-03/AjewjdzqCFnqCGkBAJEacAmbJDfCvCyGqDmtqoevkkJjrkGnsIpdvrByCaJw/IMG_3073.JPG.scaled500.jpg)  


[![Img_3075](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3075.JPG.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3075.JPG.scaled1000.jpg)  


[![Img_3076](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3076.JPG.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3076.JPG.scaled1000.jpg)  


[![Img_3072](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3072.JPG.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3072.JPG.scaled1000.jpg)  


[![Img_3071](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3071.JPG.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3071.JPG.scaled1000.jpg)  


[![Img_3070](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3070.JPG.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3070.JPG.scaled1000.jpg)  


[![Img_3063](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3063.JPG.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3063.JPG.scaled1000.jpg)  


[![Img_3062](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3062.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3062.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)   

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/pistolets-and-charcuterie)  
 
– cured meats including ham of the bone (smoked or not), different types of pates, smoked horse meat, salamis, sausages, filet de sax, filet d'anvers, strasbourg,…  
– spreads like chicken curry, champignon a la greque, prepare americain, crab salad, egg salad, ham salad, tuna salad  
– local cheeses like abbey cheeses (like [Maredsous](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maredsous_Abbey#Maredsous_cheese)), lots of french cheeses, dutch hard cheeses,…  
– different brands of chocolate spread, with praline, honey,…  
– different jams

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## [POST_TITLE] `Paprika potato chips` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-03-07-paprika-potato-chips/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-03-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]



Paprika potato chips are by far my favorite chips variety, yet they don't seem to be available anywhere else but a few [European countries](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potato_chip#Examples_of_regional_varieties)? 

But roast chicken, honey soy chicken, Ceaser salad… are options here, really? 
Please Lays, introduce this in Australia!

![Img_3200](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3200.JPG.scaled500-224x300.jpg)  

"Extremely tasteful", absolutely!

---


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## [POST_TITLE] `Belgian fries from the Frituur/friterie/fritery` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-03-07-belgian-fries-from-the-frituurfriteriefritery/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-03-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

The only true way to enjoy Belgian fries, is from the frituur (fritery) on the street.  
Some even still serve them in a puntzak.  

My favourite combo is with beefstew sauce and real Belgian mayonnaise. Optionally I add a frikandel special on the side (frikandel with tomato-curry sauce and onion).

[![Img_3653](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3653.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3653.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

[![Img_1595](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_1595.JPG.scaled1000-300x200.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_1595.JPG.scaled1000.jpg)  

[![Img_5082](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_5082.jpg.scaled1000-300x199.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_5082.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)   

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/belgian-fries-from-the-frituurfritery)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `The Design Studio Method` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-03-06-the-design-studio-method/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-03-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[The Design Studio Method](http://vimeo.com/album/1859200/video/37861987)

The Design Studio method has become one of the most success methods in Agile and Lean UX. This rapid, iterative approach blends concept creation with critique. Design Studio is a great way to jumpstart your design process, create 300-400 design concepts in just a couple of hours, or get team buy-in and ownership.… 

View full story at 

 via [News.me](http://on.news.me/zeN8S7), available in the [App Store](http://www.news.me/iphone-download?invitedBy=bc3a4c6debe344458c13e8c2c0cc7aa1)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Oufti - frozen chocolate covered banana slices` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-03-05-oufti-frozen-chocolate-covered-banana-slices/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-03-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

This is just a brilliant concept: frozen banana slices covered in chocolate. A delicious little snack.   

I've only found these at Belgian cinemas, don't remember seeing [Ouftis](http://www.ruwet.be/uk/index_uk.htm)\* anywhere else, nor seeing any of their other frozen fruit products.

![Img_3294](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3294.jpg.scaled500-224x300.jpg)  

If they were to market this properly (maybe rename it), this could easily be licensed around the world for local manufacturing (anyone in Queensland?).

\* “Oufti” is a French (Belgium) expression of surprise.

EDIT 2023: for a while I did find chocolate covered frozen banana at Coles, but no more....

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[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Vol-au-vent - Koninginnehapje` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-03-04-vol-au-vent-koninginnehapje/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-03-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I love a vol-au-vent any day of the week. Although its name comes from the puff pastry it's served in, a [vol-au-vent in Belgium](http://www.visitflanders.us/about-flanders/products/flemish-specialities/vol-au-vent/) usually means the creamy chicken and mushroom filling (including the pastry), also called [Koninginnehapje/Bouchée la Reine](http://translate.google.com.au/translate?hl=en&sl=nl&u=http://kookrecepten.wordpress.com/2007/08/17/koninginnehapje-vol-au-vent/) or Vidée.

![Img_3670](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3670.jpg.scaled500-224x300.jpg)  

[![Img_3201](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3201.jpg.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3201.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

[![Img_3057](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3057.JPG.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3057.JPG.scaled1000.jpg)   

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/vol-au-vent-koninginnehapje)   

Or in stead of buying it from the deli or supermarket, you make it fresh of course!

---


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## [POST_TITLE] `Beuling - Bloed worst - Black pudding` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-03-04-beuling-bloed-worst-black-pudding/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-03-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I'm a fan of what we call beuling (blood sausage), with apple compote (sauce). Similar to the Scottish black pudding, the Flemish version is the size of a banana, and is mostly cut into 2cm pieces then fried in a pan until crispy (while the center remains moist).

[![Img_3185](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3185.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3185.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)


[Wikipedia](http://translate.google.com.au/translate?hl=en&sl=nl&u=http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bloedworst)

---


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 26 Feb 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-03-04-my-week-in-pictures-26-feb-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-03-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/Image1.jpg)

Antwerp, Brugge, Maastricht, Doel…
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Black Salsify - Schorseneren` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-03-03-black-salsify-schorseneren/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-03-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

A typical belgian wintery dish is the black salsify (or schorseneren in Flemish from its Latin name), served with a white sauce.

Here it is served with a blinde vink (similar to [slavink](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slavink)) and boiled potatoes.

![Img_3084](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3084.jpg.scaled500-224x300.jpg)  

[Wikipedia](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_salsify "Black Salsify")
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Belgian Waffles 101` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-03-02-belgian-waffles-101/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-03-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

This is the Brussels waffle.   
Made from a batter, it's light and crunchy, served on a plate and comes covered in powdered (icing) sugar. Optionally with fresh cream on the side, sometimes with chocolate sauce on the side, or topped with strawberries if you want to go fancy. 

Most of the time these waffles are only being served from a certain time onward, from about 2pm (after lunch).  

[![Plain Brussels Waffle](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3745.JPG.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3745.JPG.scaled1000.jpg) 

Sometimes you get the cream on top:   
[![Img_3149](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3149.JPG.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3149.JPG.scaled1000.jpg)

This on the other hand is a Liege/Luikse or sugar waffle.  
It's a thicker dough, often with embedded granulated sugar, and you eat it out of hand, and get it from a street stall/vendor. Sometimes, half of it can be covered in chocolate.

[![Img_3161](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3161.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)
](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3161.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)

Not that common, but you can get a waffle on a stick (covered with chocolate), which seems like a nice idea at first, until you bite into the stick in the waffle…

[![Img_3266](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3266.JPG.scaled1000-300x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3266.JPG.scaled1000.jpg)

These are just the most common Belgian waffles.   
There are plenty of others, like the Moeder/Marie [Siska heart shaped waffle](http://www.siska-marie.com/en/speciality.htm) (which we went to Knokke for but they were closed outside of the weekend/holidays; service at Siska though is known to be pretty unfriendly).

And the prepacked waffles like soft waffles (great for toasting), vanilla filled waffles,…   
Check out these [Lotus brand waffles](http://www.lotusbakeries.be/products/wafels "Lotus Bakeries").


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[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 20 Feb 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-02-26-my-week-in-pictures-20-feb-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-02-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 Berlin!

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/image-300x295.png)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/image.png)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Berlin` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-02-22-berlin/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-02-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![P87](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p87.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p87.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  
[![P84](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p84.jpg.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p84.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  
[![P82](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p82.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p82.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  
[![P90](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p90.jpg.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p90.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  
[![P85](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p85.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p85.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  
[![P88](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p88.jpg.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p88.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  
[![P86](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p86.jpg.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p86.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  
[![P89](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p89.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p89.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  
[![P91](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p91.jpg.scaled1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/p91.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 12 Feb 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-02-20-my-week-in-pictures-12-feb-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-02-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Food choices` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-02-15-food-choices/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-02-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/photo.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/photo.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)

Chocopaste, speculoos, sandwich salads, charcuterie

---


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Behavioral Heuristics` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-02-14-behavioral-heuristics/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-02-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 Design with Intent blog

 – As Jon Froehlich, Leah Findlater and James Landay note, “even if it is not explicitly recognised, designers \[necessarily\] approach a problem with some model of human behaviour”, and, of course, “all models are wrong, but some are useful”.   
– At Interaction 12 last week in Dublin, 41 wonderful people from organisations including Adaptive Path, Google and Chalmers University took part in a workshop exploring the idea of these heuristics and how they might be used in design for behaviour change.   
– If we know that our fictive user is following a “If someone I respect read this article, I should read it too” heuristic, then designing a system to show users that people they respect (however that's determined) read or recommended an article ought to be a fairly obvious way to influence the fictive user to read the article.  

Link:  


Visit [www.summly.com](http://www.summly.com) for more information on Summly and its technology. 
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 05 Feb 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-02-12-my-week-in-pictures-05-feb-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-02-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/Image.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/Image.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Streetview little planets` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-02-12-streetview-little-planets/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-02-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Stereo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/stereo.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/stereo.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)Hours of time-waisting fun with these stereographic, little planets   
through Google Streetview (using Javascript):   
,0,0,1&z=1.8&mz=15&p=-33.85779,151.20922
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Desktop wallpapers: Birds of Kosciuszko` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-02-08-desktop-wallpapers-birds-of-kosciuszko/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-02-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I'm kinda liking my new dekstop wallpaper:

![Birds_1920x1440](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/birds_1920x1440.jpg.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/birds_1920x1440.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

![Birds_1920x1200](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/birds_1920x1200.jpg.scaled1000-300x187.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/birds_1920x1200.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)   

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/desktop-wallpapers-birds-of-kosciuszko)

in 1920×1200 and 1920×1440. Thought I'd share them!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 29 Jan 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-02-05-my-week-in-pictures-29-jan-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-02-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/02/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Francis Ford Coppola: On Risk, Money, Craft & Collaboration - The 99 Percent` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-02-01-francis-ford-coppola-the-99-percent/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-02-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 – There are three rules: 1) Write and direct original screenplays, 2) make them with the most modern technology available, and 3) self-finance them.   
– You must never be the kind of director, I think maybe I was when I was 18, “No, no, no, I know best.   
– Napoleon once said, 'Use the weapons at hand,' and this is what a film director has to do everyday.

 Link: 
 [http://the99percent.com/articles/6973/Francis-Ford-Coppola-On-Risk-Money-Craf…](http://the99percent.com/articles/6973/Francis-Ford-Coppola-On-Risk-Money-Craft-Collaboration) 
 
 Visit [www.summly.com](http://www.summly.com) for more information on Summly and its technology. 

 
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Awesome shots of Rooftopping/Skyscraping : Photographs taken by daredevils from the top of skyscrapers | Mail Online` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-02-01-awesome-shots-of-rooftoppingskyscraping/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-02-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2093801/Rooftopping-Photographs-taken…](http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2093801/Rooftopping-Photographs-taken-daredevils-skyscrapers.html)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 15 Jan 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-01-22-my-week-in-pictures-15-jan-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-01-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/01/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/01/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 08 Jan 2012 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-01-15-my-week-in-pictures-08-jan-2012-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-01-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/01/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/01/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 25 Dec 2011 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2012-01-01-my-week-in-pictures-25-dec-2011-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2012-01-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/01/Image2-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2012/01/Image2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Uses for cocktail glasses: aperitif, starters, dessert` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-31-uses-for-cocktail-glasses-aperitif-starters-dessert/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo_1](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/photo_1.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/photo_1.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  

![Photo_2](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/photo_2.jpg.scaled.1000-225x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/photo_2.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  

![Photo_3](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/photo_3.jpg.scaled.1000-225x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/photo_3.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)   

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/uses-for-cocktail-glasses-aperitif-starters-d)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Morning glory. Last day of 2011` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-30-morning-glory-last-day-of-2011/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/photo.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/photo.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 18 Dec 2011 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-25-my-week-in-pictures-18-dec-2011-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/Image.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Chrissy barbie` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-25-chrissy-barbie/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/bZgRu/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_bqhif](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/media_httpdistilleryi_BqhIf.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `The traditional vodka watermelon. Must be a tradition somewhere right?` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-23-the-traditional-vodka-watermelon-must-be-a-tradition/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/a_8zs/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_xbgti](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/media_httpdistilleryi_xBgti.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 11 Dec 2011 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-20-my-week-in-pictures-11-dec-2011-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Nexus S official Ice Cream Sandwich update available` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-18-nexus-s-official-ice-cream-sandwich-update-available/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/photo1.jpg.scaled.10001-225x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/photo1.jpg.scaled.10001.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 04 Dec 2011 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-11-my-week-in-pictures-04-dec-2011-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/Image2-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/Image2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Tough Smurf` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-09-tough-smurf/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/YEg9v/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_bxtpa](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/media_httpdistilleryi_bxtpA.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Luna` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-09-luna/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/YDMKU/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_epcdb](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/media_httpdistilleryi_epcDB.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Am liking my #Instagram RedBubbly T-shirt` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-07-am-liking-my-instagram-redbubbly-t-shirt/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpdistilleryi_wwbhs](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/media_httpdistilleryi_wwbhs.jpg.scaled1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/media_httpdistilleryi_wwbhs.jpg.scaled1000.jpg) (get yrs [here](http://www.redbubble.com/people/halans/works/8118002-gotta-love-sydney-2-palms "Palms - RedBubble"))
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 27 Nov 2011 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-04-my-week-in-pictures-27-nov-2011-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/Image3-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/Image3.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Window dressing` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-12-04-window-dressing/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-12-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/XQLSF/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_usuni](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/12/media_httpdistilleryi_usunI.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 20 Nov 2011 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-27-my-week-in-pictures-20-nov-2011-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/image-300x295.png)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/image.png)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Today's instagramming` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-27-todays-instagramming/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo_1](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo_1.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo_1.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  

![Photo_2](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo_2.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo_2.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  

![Photo_3](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo_3.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo_3.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  

![Photo_4](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo_4.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo_4.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  

![Photo_5](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo_5.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo_5.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)   

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/todays-instagramming)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 13 Nov 2011 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-20-my-week-in-pictures-13-nov-2011-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Reporting on the Social Reporting track in D2 #govcampnsw (and I'm up next)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-19-reporting-on-the-social-reporting-track-in-d2-govcampnsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/UvqRm/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_duubt](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_Duubt.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Conversations over lunch #govcampnsw` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-19-conversations-over-lunch-govcampnsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Uvk0R/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_whvcz](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_wHvCz.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Lunch is on! #govcampnsw` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-19-lunch-is-on-govcampnsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/UvYPh/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_mpgdj](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_mpGDJ.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Social evidence chat #govcampnsw` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-19-social-evidence-chat-govcampnsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/UvHPk/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_vdbtm](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_vdBtm.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Building capability in gov #govcampnsw` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-19-building-capability-in-gov-govcampnsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/UvGs5/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_oimob](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_oImob.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Talking APIs, my kind of discussion #govcampnsw` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-19-talking-apis-my-kind-of-discussion-govcampnsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/UvA9B/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_avqci](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_avqcI.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `"APIGOV" upstairs room C #govcampnsw` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-19-apigov-upstairs-room-c-govcampnsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Uu8ic/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_gtckl](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_GtCkl.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Discussing public-citizen collaboration #govcampnsw` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-19-discussing-public-citizen-collaboration-govcampnsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Uu7sP/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_egjpy](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_eGJpy.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Pia talking public engagement #govcampnsw` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-19-pia-talking-public-engagement-govcampnsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Uu60E/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_fcbcw](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_FcBCw.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Notes cloud #govcampnsw` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-19-notes-cloud-govcampnsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/UujW1/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_dpscw](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_DpsCw.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Conversation Cafe session on now #govcampnsw` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-18-conversation-cafe-session-on-now-govcampnsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/UuEiH/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_kabtz](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_kAbtz.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `#govcampnsw is go!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-18-govcampnsw-is-go/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Utuaq/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_mjscf](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_mJscf.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `At NICTA for #govcampnsw` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-18-at-nicta-for-govcampnsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/UtTYF/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_bdgvc](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_BdgvC.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 06 Nov 2011 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-13-my-week-in-pictures-06-nov-2011-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/Image1.jpg)

[Sculpture by the sea](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157627937811561/), 
[Google Dev Day](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157627954700083/), 
AISA National Conference, 
[Talking Sydney SIBSyd](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157628113518634/), 
[Outpost Project](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157627989858793/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Shirt heaven #outpost` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-12-shirt-heaven-outpost/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/TxGrD/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_cnjfn](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_CnjFn.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Model` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-12-model/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo.jpg.scaled.1000-300x168.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Talking Sydney at #sibsyd at Barangaroo Dev Auth` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-11-talking-sydney-at-sibsyd-at-barangaroo-dev-auth/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo1.jpg.scaled.10001-300x104.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo1.jpg.scaled.10001.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Filmset at Pitt Street/Martin Place: hotdog stand, USA Today, van` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-11-filmset-at-pitt-streetmartin-place-hotdog-stand-usa-today-van/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo2.jpg.scaled.10002-300x225.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo2.jpg.scaled.10002.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Michael Jones, Chief Technology Advocate, Google  on #aisa (original Google Earth developer)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-09-michael-jones-chief-technology-advocate-google/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/TWsWx/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_ktymq](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_ktymq.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 30 Oct 2011 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-09-my-week-in-pictures-30-oct-2011-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/Image2-300x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/Image2.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `John Stewart talking Lemming Theory in security practices #aisa` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-09-john-stewart-talking-lemming-theory-in-security-practices-aisa/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/TU9GM/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_lldvy](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_lldvy.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#aisa dodgy crowd pano` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-09-aisa-dodgy-crowd-pano/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo3.jpg.scaled.10003-300x84.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo3.jpg.scaled.10003.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Michael Harte talking about "information about money" and personal data #aisa` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-08-michael-harte-talking-about-information-about-money-and-personal-data-aisa/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/TUZwe/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_qgdaa](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_qGdaa.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bruce Schneier didn't want to sit next to me... #aisa` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-08-bruce-schneier-didnt-want-to-sit-next-to-me-aisa/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/TT6pS/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_jgdsa](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_JgDsA.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Beach chairs in Darling Quarter` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-08-beach-chairs-in-darling-quarter/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/TTdeb/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_wyjim](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_wyjIm.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Packed room at #gdd11 Sydney` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-07-packed-room-at-gdd11-sydney/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo4.jpg.scaled.10004-300x85.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/photo4.jpg.scaled.10004.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Nice spot to cool your feet` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-07-nice-spot-to-cool-your-feet/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/TLi3C/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_gvcag](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_gvcaG.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bondi Zebra` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-05-bondi-zebra/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpdistilleryi_nrwcc](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_nrwCc.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Sunrise` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-05-sunrise/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpdistilleryi_bqbdr](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_Bqbdr.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Sculptures by the Sea at sunrise` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-05-sculptures-by-the-sea-at-sunrise/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/S3LcH/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_bypde](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_bypDe.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Jamie's Italian opened up in Sydney. Trying out deserts...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-11-05-jamies-italian-opened-up-in-sydney-trying-out-deserts/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-11-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/SyZ53/)

![Media_httpdistilleryi_repud](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/11/media_httpdistilleryi_repuD.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 23 Oct 2011 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-30-my-week-in-pictures-23-oct-2011-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/Image-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Zombie gathering in Hyde Park - 360 video` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-29-zombie-gathering-in-hyde-park-360-video/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]



Using a [GoPano Micro](http://www.gopano.com/) – 360° video with iPhone4S

Probably did this at the wrong time, as too many people (non-zombies) were around by then, should have taken it out earlier (and get me a can of air to get rid of the dust).

EDIT: Flash player no longer supported by browsers, so I’ve removed the video.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Massive Zombie Lurch today!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-29-massive-zombie-lurch-today/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/R2Jl-/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_deiho](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_DEIho.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Sunday` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-23-sunday/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo_1](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/photo_1-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/photo_1.jpg)  

![Photo_2](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/photo_2-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/photo_2.jpg)  

![Photo_3](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/photo_3-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/photo_3.jpg)  

![Photo_4](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/photo_4-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/photo_4.jpg)  

![Photo_5](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/photo_5-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/photo_5.jpg)   

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/sunday)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bark` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-23-bark/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/RInFN/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ymigc](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_ymIGC.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Wood` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-23-wood/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/RG7Ry/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ituyu](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_Ituyu.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Google+ Sydney Photo Walk - 360 video` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-22-google-sydney-photo-walk-360/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]



—



—



Using GoPano Micro – 360° video with iPhone4S. Uses Flash player.

EDIT: Flash player no longer supported by browsers, so I’ve removed the video.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Drinks` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-22-drinks/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Q_gGj/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ddhop](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_DDhop.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Booth` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-22-booth/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Q_aXX/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_wtphg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_wtphg.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `99% Ron Paul` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-22-99-ron-paul/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Q_Qf-/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_fpozb](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_fpozb.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `B&W` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-22-bw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Q_QDf/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ywrml](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_ywrml.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Wind` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-22-wind/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_hhwwh](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_hhwwH.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `99% rolled` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-22-99-rolled/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Q_IJN/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_cakas](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_cakas.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

Taken at Martin Place Station
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Rose is but a rose` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-22-rose-is-but-a-rose/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Q_HmZ/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_sacxr](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_saCxr.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Rose garden` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-22-rose-garden/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Q_HUB/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_cdbyd](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_cdByd.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Fountain77` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-22-fountain77/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Q9WNE/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_pdmlw](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_pDmlw.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `GoPano Micro - 360 video with iPhone4S` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-21-gopano-micro-360-video-with-iphone4s/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]



Using GoPano Micro – 360° video with iPhone4S.

Drag left/right to look around! Uses a Flash player.

EDIT: Flash player no longer supported by browsers, so I’ve removed the video.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Siri, you're fired!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-17-siri-youre-fired/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/photo.PNG.scaled1000-200x300.png)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/photo.PNG.scaled1000.png)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `My week in pictures 02 Oct 2011 #weekinpix` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-10-my-week-in-pictures-02-oct-2011-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/Image1-300x295.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/Image1.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Free air show above neutral bay` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-06-free-air-show-above-neutral-bay-loops-upside-down/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Free air show above neutral bay, loops, upside down, the lot. Above populous area.

 [](http://instagr.am/p/PP4f3/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_cckfr](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_cCkFr.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Eek, swollen ear` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-05-eek-swollen-ear/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/PJUPf/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_uiqcu](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_uIqcu.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `@ozdj cheaper accessories: the KiwiFotos adaptor ring + UV filter for $30 and a Fujica lenscap $5 (if you can find one)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-03-adaptor-ring-uv-filter-for-30-and-a-fujica-lenscap-5-if-you-can-find-one/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/image.jpg.scaled1000-300x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Liquid breakfast, discovering the joys of a blender. Yummy!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-10-01-liquid-breakfast-discovering-the-joys-of-a-blender-yummy/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-10-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/OziKl/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_nrjkq](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/10/media_httpimagesinsta_nrJkq.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `BBQ Madness at Pyrmont Growers Market` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-30-bbq-madness-at-pyrmont-growers-market/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/OrvQ-/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_txhcg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_txHcg.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bridge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-30-bridge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Om4_I/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_dvyyg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_dvyyg.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Opera` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-30-opera/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_azudx](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_Azudx.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

(http://instagr.am/p/Om48s/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Nice day to be on the water` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-30-nice-day-to-be-on-the-water/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Om1Wp/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_cvoac](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_CvoaC.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `1kg rack of ribs #sydrib` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-29-1kg-rack-of-ribs-sydrib/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Oh5xP/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_fqwuw](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_fqwuw.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Tsunami 1.26 at Town Hall` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-23-tsunami-1-26-at-town-hall/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


![Media_httpimagesinsta_jagjw](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_JaGjw.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

(http://instagr.am/p/N6CIB/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Full house at #sydjs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-21-full-house-at-sydjs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/NtEzP/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_kejhf](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_kEJhF.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Sinon.js demo by @chrisdarroch at #sydjs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-21-sinon-js-demo-by-chrisdarroch-at-sydjs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/NtBic/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ulqec](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_ulqec.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Additions to the displays #jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-20-additions-to-the-displays-jurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/NnFgC/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_wjvvi](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_wjvvi.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Burly at the museum#jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-20-burly-at-the-museumjurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/NnCra/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_oacir](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_oACir.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `And anarchist scrapbooking #jurassiclounge #soemthingforeveryone` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-20-and-anarchist-scrapbooking-jurassiclounge-soemthingforeveryone/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Nm_ED/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_shjkg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_sHjkG.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Games, old skool #jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-20-games-old-skool-jurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Nm-NH/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_xxhhc](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_xxhhC.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `People at the museum #jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-20-people-at-the-museum-jurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Nm7sw/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_zcuqa](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_zcuqA.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Betty doing her thing #jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-20-betty-doing-her-thing-jurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Nm57K/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ccinp](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_CCinp.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Groovy #jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-20-groovy-jurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Nm0-w/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_wwnxc](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_wwnxC.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Dunnies` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-18-dunnies/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/NYpeI/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_qddaf](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_qdDaF.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Received my Artflakes Instagram stickers. Not too impressed though. Maybe I expected them to be glossy` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-16-received-my-artflakes-instagram-stickers/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_jdoxi](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_jDoxi.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

(http://instagr.am/p/NLhcc/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `A tagger on ADHD` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-15-a-tagger-on-adhd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/NHzAg/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_nbeoa](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_nbEoA.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Another Instagram based print, a Blurb 7x7 booklet. At $33 a bit on the expensive side` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-13-another-instagram-based-print-a-blurb-7x7-booklet-at-33-a-bit-on-the-expensive-side/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_fmcck](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_fmCck.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

(http://instagr.am/p/M7v1L/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `O2bar, tingles your nose (but that's about it)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-10-o2bar-tingles-your-nose-but-thats-about-it/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/MpDU_/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_mgmyw](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_mGmyw.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Rod Whitby talking Homebrew #webos` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-07-rod-whitby-talking-homebrew-webos/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `HP Connect is go #webos` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-07-hp-connect-is-go-webos/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/MZ3_G/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_pfeib](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_pFeib.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Pretty impressed with these #StickyGram magnets! Will get me some more` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-07-pretty-impressed-with-these-stickygram-magnets-will-get-me-some-more/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_qgedx](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_qGEDx.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

(http://instagr.am/p/MYW7_/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Jive Poetics at #jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-06-jive-poetics-at-jurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/MVFuk/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_eddgj](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_EDdgj.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `Little creatures at #jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-06-little-creatures-at-jurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/MU_mO/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_djgeg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_Djgeg.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Winter People upstairs at #jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-06-winter-people-upstairs-at-jurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/MU9qh/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_gzdib](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_gzDIB.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `Excellent Robot is excellent! #jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-06-excellent-robot-is-excellent-jurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/MUxyp/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ljskw](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_lJskw.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

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## [POST_TITLE] `Great projections at #jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-06-great-projections-at-jurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/MUwl6/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_gemyt](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_Gemyt.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Crowded House` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-06-crowded-house/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/MUvKR/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_cxqyv](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_cxqyv.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Woohoo, night at the museum. But when do the animals come alive? #jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-06-woohoo-night-at-the-museum-but-when-do-the-animals-come-alive-jurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/MUs0i/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_fbpsh](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_fBpsh.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `People love the interactive marble table at #jurassiclounge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-06-people-love-the-interactive-marble-table-at-jurassiclounge/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/MUqgu/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_zzlyy](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_zzlyy.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Got me an old Fujica lens cap for the x100, for that authentic look` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-06-got-me-an-old-fujica-lens-cap-for-the-x100-for-that-authentic-look/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_fzaoy](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_FzAoy.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

(http://instagr.am/p/MS5UK/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Roamz preso at #momosyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-05-roamz-preso-at-momosyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/MOvm7/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_averb](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_AverB.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Received my Printstagram Minibooks today` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-05-received-my-printstagram-minibooks-today/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_bbfwl](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_bbFwl.jpg.scaled1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_bbFwl.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)I ordered a bunch of Instagram prints through different services last month (Aug 27th), and this was the first to arrive:

  
  
  
  


It wasn't clear which one of the services this was, no invoice or anything (and I forgot which is which). It came in a small parcel from Taiwan, printed by Li-Book: 

I got two of them, although I only ordered one (which was $12 + $12 worldwide shipping). Maybe something got lost in translation and they printed me two. They both start at different pictures though, so they're not identical. Actually the “first” one doubles up on itself (same prints at the end), which isn't that good.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `My Sunday in pictures 04 Sep 2011 (using #weekinpix)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-04-my-sunday-in-pictures-04-sep-2011-using-weekinpix/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/Image-300x295.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/Image.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Nice BBQ spot in the city` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-04-nice-bbq-spot-in-the-city/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/MHBUd/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_amkfb](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_AmkFB.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Spicy chicken salad at Sea Bay` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-03-spicy-chicken-salad-at-sea-bay/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/L_Om8/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_lrfcq](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_lrfcq.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Leather office chair in dark alley #wtf` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-09-01-leather-office-chair-in-dark-alley-wtf/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-09-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Lz6eZ/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_njdag](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/09/media_httpimagesinsta_njDag.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `. @sebchan talking at the Sydney Apple Store` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-31-sebchan-talking-at-the-sydney-apple-store/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Wonder if there's an ebook version of this one...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-26-wonder-if-theres-an-ebook-version-of-this-one/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/image.jpg.scaled1000-200x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Stuffed/coulored cane toads #wtf` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-26-stuffedcoulored-cane-toads-wtf/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/LVjB9/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_jjysx](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/media_httpimagesinsta_JJysx.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `1/10 Bridge #sydneymorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-26-110-bridge-sydneymorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_dpbor](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/media_httpimagesinsta_dpbor.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

(http://instagr.am/p/LVIE4/)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Fisheye trees #sydneymorningphoto #olloclip` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-26-fisheye-trees-sydneymorningphoto-olloclip/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_snfcw](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/media_httpimagesinsta_snFcw.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

(http://instagr.am/p/LVFbL/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Foggy outside #sydneymorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-26-foggy-outside-sydneymorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ibnqa](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/media_httpimagesinsta_iBnqA.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

(http://instagr.am/p/LVCnp/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `I need to get of my ass too... http://thenextweb.com...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-21-i-need-to-get-of-my-ass-too-httpthenextweb-com/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    Jean-Jacques Halans shared a post with you on Google+. The Google+ project makes sharing on the web more like sharing in real-life. [Learn more](http://www.google.com/+/learnmore/).
    [Join Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CJCE073H36oCFckX3Aodp4cpJQ&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxkVRDQvPl921VByIhu4nzFnv4Q7uKkNKPWOhf-kAYaKnaexXC5MLRoT8u86UVS0-k_MGj3mtciPkgS1KSfOTmC_0ZSw9PoYUqSQnzJE7vGYiGFzCA)


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CJCE073H36oCFckX3Aodp4cpJQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    I need to get of my ass too…   
    ![](https://images1-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=https://s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dthenextweb.com&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)Nerd Fitness: Get off your ass – it could save your life.](http://thenextweb.com/lifehacks/2011/08/17/nerd-fitness-get-off-your-ass-it-could-save-your-life/)
    This is the second installment of a new series on The Next Web, in partnership with Steve Kamb at Nerd Fitness. Guides to staying healthy, without giving up your geek lifestyle. You're …
    ![](https://images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://cdn.thenextweb.com/lifehacks/files/2011/08/Simpsons-520x322.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CJCE073H36oCFckX3Aodp4cpJQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F76f5CnPNLv9%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxkVRDQvPl921VByIhu4nzFnv4Q7uKkNKPWOhf-kAYaKnaexXC5MLRoT8u86UVS0-k_MGj3mtciPkgS1KSfOTmC_0ZSw9PoYUqSQnzJE7vGYiGFzCA%26hl%3Den_US)  
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CJCE073H36oCFckX3Aodp4cpJQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F76f5CnPNLv9%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxkVRDQvPl921VByIhu4nzFnv4Q7uKkNKPWOhf-kAYaKnaexXC5MLRoT8u86UVS0-k_MGj3mtciPkgS1KSfOTmC_0ZSw9PoYUqSQnzJE7vGYiGFzCA%26hl%3Den_US) |
|---|---|


    | You received this message because [Jean-Jacques Halans](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CJCE073H36oCFckX3Aodp4cpJQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxkVRDQvPl921VByIhu4nzFnv4Q7uKkNKPWOhf-kAYaKnaexXC5MLRoT8u86UVS0-k_MGj3mtciPkgS1KSfOTmC_0ZSw9PoYUqSQnzJE7vGYiGFzCA%26hl%3Den_US) shared it with . [Unsubscribe](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CJCE073H36oCFckX3Aodp4cpJQ&path=%2Fnonplus%2Femailsettings%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxkVRDQvPl921VByIhu4nzFnv4Q7uKkNKPWOhf-kAYaKnaexXC5MLRoT8u86UVS0-k_MGj3mtciPkgS1KSfOTmC_0ZSw9PoYUqSQnzJE7vGYiGFzCA%26est%3DADH5u8X82f3oUwo_dylxJxjbvatntoEOiN0piPm0qxh0eP2JSqMf8HKnzJEXDnuSL_4hE0pBXBGMayCwYjGHRQbBTTHK63ZLFwby6NYIXkSVYh_YA_K2mHD5E128EtWWWl7ULGZfZaB79P3uej3wWX3EVadyk4henA%26hl%3Den_US) from these emails. | ![](https://ssl.gstatic.com/s2/oz/images/notifications/logo/google-plus-6617a72bb36cc548861652780c9e6ff1.png) |
|---|---|


    
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## [POST_TITLE] `#SiBsYd letterpress` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-13-sibsyd-letterpress/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/KF1sU/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_gvxgg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/media_httpimagesinsta_gvxGg.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Lightning Talks (2) at #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-13-lightning-talks-2-at-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo_1](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_1-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_1.jpg)  


![Photo_2](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_2-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_2.jpg)  


![Photo_3](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_3.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_3.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  


![Photo_4](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_4.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_4.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  

![Photo_5](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_5-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_5.jpg)   

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/lightning-talks-2-at-sibsyd)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Lightning Talks at #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-13-lightning-talks-at-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo_1](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_11-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_11.jpg)  
[![Photo_2](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_2.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_2.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  
[![Photo_3](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_3-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_3.jpg)

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/lightning-talks-at-sibsyd)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Anthony talking Google Crisis Response at #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-13-anthony-talking-google-crisis-response-at-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)   

Sent from my iPad
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## [POST_TITLE] `At Ampersand for breakie before #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-12-at-ampersand-for-breakie-before-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/KEJ-m/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_jyibx](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/media_httpimagesinsta_jyibx.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Olloclip fish-eye, wide angle and standard iPhone` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-09-olloclip-fish-eye-wide-angle-and-standard-iphone/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo_1](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_1.jpg.scaled.1000-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_1.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  

![Photo_2](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_21.jpg.scaled.10001-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_21.jpg.scaled.10001.jpg)  

![Photo_3](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_31.jpg.scaled.10001-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_31.jpg.scaled.10001.jpg)   

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/olloclop-fish-eye-wide-angle-and-standard-iph)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Olloclip for iPhone arrived today` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-09-olloclip-for-iphone-arrived-today/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo1](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/Photo1.jpg.scaled.1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/Photo1.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Testing Week in Pix!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-07-testing-week-in-pix/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/JjDWI/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_gbecg](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/media_httpimagesinsta_gBecG.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `iCloud 404, enable cookies, and unsupported browser (FF4) pages` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-02-icloud-404-enable-cookies-and-unsupported-browser-ff4-pages/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo_1](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_11.jpg.scaled.10001-300x184.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_11.jpg.scaled.10001.jpg)  

![Photo_2](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_22.jpg.scaled.10002-300x184.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_22.jpg.scaled.10002.jpg)  

![Photo_3](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_32.jpg.scaled.10002-300x184.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/photo_32.jpg.scaled.10002.jpg)

   

[See the full gallery on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/icloud-404-enable-cookies-and-unsupported-bro)  

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Explaining role/state/props for ARIA #rwa` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-02-explaining-rolestateprops-for-aria-rwa/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/JHoRG/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_goqwc](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/media_httpimagesinsta_Goqwc.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Derek Featherstone talking Real World Accessibility #rwa` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-02-derek-featherstone-talking-real-world-accessibility-rwa/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/JHixO/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_alcbj](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/media_httpimagesinsta_AlCbj.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Tamzin Taylor talking commercializing apps #momosyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-01-tamzin-taylor-talking-commercializing-apps-momosyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/JD825/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_abaoa](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/media_httpimagesinsta_AbaoA.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

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## [POST_TITLE] `Surprised to find the X100 at Georges, not surprised I snapped it up...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-08-01-surprised-to-find-the-x100-at-georges-not-surprised-i-snapped-it-up/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-08-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/JDaUX/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_magxd](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/08/media_httpimagesinsta_mAGxd.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

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## [POST_TITLE] `No Gucci bikes at Tweed Ride this morning, but it would have fitted in` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-31-no-gucci-bikes-at-tweed-ride-this-morning-but-it-would-have-fitted-in/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/I7i1f/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_vadqr](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_vAdqr.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

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## [POST_TITLE] `Bang goes the sodium... Brian Cox Experiments...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-26-bang-goes-the-sodium-brian-cox-experiments/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Bang goes the sodium…   
[Brian Cox Experiments with Sodium – Wonders of the Universe: Stardust, preview – BBC Two](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALPPs7SefLY)

[Brian Cox Experiments with Sodium – Wonders of the Universe: Stardust, preview – BBC Two](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CMCzmvb-nqoCFUV03Aod6EvCJQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FT6vJdLutPhB%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxLICKQhCqGKMjlsx7BzPZeQUzdwExsTAW5NukHx7v_LozW3k9v6oC_swpcOzF4kS-6BIq0FKXGQwyy-qkb3H_MHxANNCfi3IjkvIzlwEVqESQdgv4%26hl%3Den_US)

![](https://images3-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/ALPPs7SefLY/hqdefault.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=195)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CMCzmvb-nqoCFUV03Aod6EvCJQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FT6vJdLutPhB%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxLICKQhCqGKMjlsx7BzPZeQUzdwExsTAW5NukHx7v_LozW3k9v6oC_swpcOzF4kS-6BIq0FKXGQwyy-qkb3H_MHxANNCfi3IjkvIzlwEVqESQdgv4%26hl%3Den_US)  

[youtube.com](http://www.youtube.com/v/ALPPs7SefLY&hl=en&fs=1&autoplay=1) –  Professor Brian Cox demonstrates why we rarely see chemical elements such as calcium and sodium in their raw form; they are extremely reactive, as he discovers…

[View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CMCzmvb-nqoCFUV03Aod6EvCJQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FT6vJdLutPhB%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxLICKQhCqGKMjlsx7BzPZeQUzdwExsTAW5NukHx7v_LozW3k9v6oC_swpcOzF4kS-6BIq0FKXGQwyy-qkb3H_MHxANNCfi3IjkvIzlwEVqESQdgv4%26hl%3Den_US)  

The Google+ project makes sharing on the web more like sharing in real-life.

[Join Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CMCzmvb-nqoCFUV03Aod6EvCJQ&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxLICKQhCqGKMjlsx7BzPZeQUzdwExsTAW5NukHx7v_LozW3k9v6oC_swpcOzF4kS-6BIq0FKXGQwyy-qkb3H_MHxANNCfi3IjkvIzlwEVqESQdgv4)



![](https://ssl.gstatic.com/s2/oz/images/notifications/logo/google-plus-6617a72bb36cc548861652780c9e6ff1.png)

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## [POST_TITLE] `There's a winner` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-22-theres-a-winner/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/IOCBP/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_beter](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_BetEr.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

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## [POST_TITLE] `And loser...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-22-and-loser/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/IOBLx/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_lcceh](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_lCCEH.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `Craig Sharkie talking HTML5 forms at #wsg` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-21-craig-sharkie-talking-html5-forms-at-wsg/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/IJshY/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_xlgqe](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_xlGqE.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `William Parry talking Chrome Extensions at #sydjs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-20-william-parry-talking-chrome-extensions-at-sydjs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/IFLep/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_fodib](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_foDib.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

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## [POST_TITLE] `Panel discussion: what will be different for infosec in 2016 #securesydney2011` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-20-panel-discussion-what-will-be-different-for-infosec-in-2016-securesydney2011/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/IEzKq/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ailjt](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_Ailjt.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `Diana-Lynn Contesti talking about SCADA post Stuxnet #securesydney2011` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-20-diana-lynn-contesti-talking-about-scada-post-stuxnet-securesydney2011/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/IEevx/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_azmrp](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_azmrp.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `Mark Wellins taming a wild firewall (though unable to tame Prezi). Bit too much of a vendor preso... #securesydney2011` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-20-mark-wellins-taming-a-wild-firewall-though-unable-to-tame-securesydney2011/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/IEY32/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_xhuus](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_xHuus.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `Mark Vincent talking Cloud Computing and the Privacy Act 1988 #securesydney2011` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-20-mark-vincent-talking-cloud-computing-and-the-privacy-act-1988-securesydney2011/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/ID1sr/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_dbyst](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_dbyst.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

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## [POST_TITLE] `Dan Boucaut talking adopting the cloud securely #securesydney2011` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-20-dan-boucaut-talking-adopting-the-cloud-securely-securesydney2011/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/IDuMr/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_gwogj](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_GwogJ.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `Neil Readshaw IBM's Cloud Security Lead Architect talking security in the cloud` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-20-neil-readshaw-ibms-cloud-security-lead-architect-talking-security-in-the-cloud/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/IDekH/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_tiqwk](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_tiqwk.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

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## [POST_TITLE] `Attorney General Robert McClelland, online identity theft hitting close to home, as wife's CC got abused while overseas` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-19-attorney-general-robert-mcclelland-online-identity-theft-hitting-close-to-home/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/IDZ7y/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_sjahw](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_sjAhw.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `Prof Jill Slay getting recognized for her work in security #securesydney` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-19-prof-jill-slay-getting-recognized-for-her-work-in-security-securesydney/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/IDZUa/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_cydob](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_Cydob.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `#SecureSydney is a go` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-19-securesydney-is-a-go/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/IDZR4/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_oehlb](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_oEHlB.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `Dr Vogels at #awstour` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-14-dr-vogels-at-awstour/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/HnMbs/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ijdfb](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_IJDFB.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `It's a 404 page, like, whatever, totally,...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-its-a-404-page-like-whatever-totally/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CPjv7Kay_6kCFSS17AodpZtvHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    It's a 404 page, like, whatever, totally, yeah   
    ![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dvisitsteve.com&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)The Most Awkward “404 Not Found” Page on the Internet](http://visitsteve.com/made/the-most-awkward-404-not-found-page-on-the-internet/)![](//images3-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://visitsteve.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/steve-lambert-awkward-404-785x441.png&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CPjv7Kay_6kCFSS17AodpZtvHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FiY3AomLBuez%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyzLlRXxTp4hLi8ul_Ji8zFYC5visSUaMQRoBaBwPkYa_V2bG6aLoSCIbMeII0aeALfCsirufIei6XhwKSlgrALxeJM0aA5Hl_Uhn2dDLlzsIRWo9w%26hl%3Den_US)
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CPjv7Kay_6kCFSS17AodpZtvHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FiY3AomLBuez%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyzLlRXxTp4hLi8ul_Ji8zFYC5visSUaMQRoBaBwPkYa_V2bG6aLoSCIbMeII0aeALfCsirufIei6XhwKSlgrALxeJM0aA5Hl_Uhn2dDLlzsIRWo9w%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
    [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CPjv7Kay_6kCFSS17AodpZtvHA&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyzLlRXxTp4hLi8ul_Ji8zFYC5visSUaMQRoBaBwPkYa_V2bG6aLoSCIbMeII0aeALfCsirufIei6XhwKSlgrALxeJM0aA5Hl_Uhn2dDLlzsIRWo9w%26hl%3Den_US)  
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## [POST_TITLE] `All CAPTCHAs should be kittens. Well played...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-all-captchas-should-be-kittens-well-played/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNCaxZGw_6kCFcW_7AodlzFOHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    All CAPTCHAs should be kittens. Well played, Rackspace.
    ![](//lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7jLDdjpZgrI/ThdD3nIf3wI/AAAAAAAAckM/i7tKidg3B2Y/h120/kittens.png)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNCaxZGw_6kCFcW_7AodlzFOHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FVFfuBgoK1ar%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzxSVh0rijiRmdDJ_k8wR8KZ2hjacv9e3yGlh0AI4Rh4O1bi1a6cFPKfVXNAiUzfonEdIVoSAVRkvBTcknLxUtm94K_mmFOb7cSlEVPMmRFE0N0esY%26hl%3Den_US)
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNCaxZGw_6kCFcW_7AodlzFOHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FVFfuBgoK1ar%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzxSVh0rijiRmdDJ_k8wR8KZ2hjacv9e3yGlh0AI4Rh4O1bi1a6cFPKfVXNAiUzfonEdIVoSAVRkvBTcknLxUtm94K_mmFOb7cSlEVPMmRFE0N0esY%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
    [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNCaxZGw_6kCFcW_7AodlzFOHA&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzxSVh0rijiRmdDJ_k8wR8KZ2hjacv9e3yGlh0AI4Rh4O1bi1a6cFPKfVXNAiUzfonEdIVoSAVRkvBTcknLxUtm94K_mmFOb7cSlEVPMmRFE0N0esY%26hl%3Den_US)  
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## [POST_TITLE] `For photo geeks...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-for-photo-geeks/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CIi0t9ms_6kCFad-7Aod1D-4JA&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    Incredibly Elaborate Rube Goldberg-Style Photography Machine   
    [2D Photography Rube Goldberg](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CIi0t9ms_6kCFad-7Aod1D-4JA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F5K6DhgiqxAB%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxu9K9py-K6U1x4bHskdo_i0WdMYAE40ddFpQA-5FzyR7tKQzVYaWzw3-F1RS8aVhnl1sYWQZhwbPlxR8FlGiTYfd9l9WiVZA3w8zSGcHADDnV7aPs%26hl%3Den_US)
    ![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/qKpxd8hzOcQ/hqdefault.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=195)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CIi0t9ms_6kCFad-7Aod1D-4JA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F5K6DhgiqxAB%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxu9K9py-K6U1x4bHskdo_i0WdMYAE40ddFpQA-5FzyR7tKQzVYaWzw3-F1RS8aVhnl1sYWQZhwbPlxR8FlGiTYfd9l9WiVZA3w8zSGcHADDnV7aPs%26hl%3Den_US)  
    [youtube.com](http://www.youtube.com/v/qKpxd8hzOcQ&hl=en&fs=1&autoplay=1) –  – This is our Photography-themed Rube Goldberg Machine. We hope you all enjoy the clip! Watch our video explaining some of the process of getting…
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CIi0t9ms_6kCFad-7Aod1D-4JA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F5K6DhgiqxAB%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxu9K9py-K6U1x4bHskdo_i0WdMYAE40ddFpQA-5FzyR7tKQzVYaWzw3-F1RS8aVhnl1sYWQZhwbPlxR8FlGiTYfd9l9WiVZA3w8zSGcHADDnV7aPs%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
    [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CIi0t9ms_6kCFad-7Aod1D-4JA&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxu9K9py-K6U1x4bHskdo_i0WdMYAE40ddFpQA-5FzyR7tKQzVYaWzw3-F1RS8aVhnl1sYWQZhwbPlxR8FlGiTYfd9l9WiVZA3w8zSGcHADDnV7aPs%26hl%3Den_US)  
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## [POST_TITLE] `Moving pictures: Cinemagraphs - fancy animated gifs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-moving-pictures-cinemagraphs-fancy-animated-gifs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CLixq7am_6kCFSS17AodpZtvHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    Moving pictures: Cinemagraphs – fancy animated gifs (with rather large file sizes)   How to:    Examples:      [http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/blogpost/post/cinemagraphs-what-it-looks-like-when-a-photo-moves/2011/07/08/gIQAONez3H\_blog.html](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/blogpost/post/cinemagraphs-what-it-looks-like-when-a-photo-moves/2011/07/08/gIQAONez3H_blog.html)
    ![](//images3-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Danaestheticdiscourse.com&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)How I Made a Cinemagraph \| An Aesthetic Discourse](http://anaestheticdiscourse.com/?p=1011)
    Welcome. The site has been updated. New content is on the way. Brandi and I will be bringing you the creativity of others that has intrigued us as well as our own art and thoughts on various issues. W…
    ![](//images1-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_ljmk0oCdjM1qeyuguo1_500.gif&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CLixq7am_6kCFSS17AodpZtvHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FS1VdUU3w13W%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyzaXhBnP9B8VsbfZYX96w_WPqlqhjLQDyQDd8O3YvaYUY7pU8NBwKIPx8A6nMFWxMCBb6-TO3IGGrJcMS0NIleOL72jKunJJ73tEJvGF7-slfqMZs%26hl%3Den_US)  
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CLixq7am_6kCFSS17AodpZtvHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FS1VdUU3w13W%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyzaXhBnP9B8VsbfZYX96w_WPqlqhjLQDyQDd8O3YvaYUY7pU8NBwKIPx8A6nMFWxMCBb6-TO3IGGrJcMS0NIleOL72jKunJJ73tEJvGF7-slfqMZs%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
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     |
|---|---|


    
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## [POST_TITLE] `Simply brilliant` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-simply-brilliant/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


What a great idea!
![](//lh5.googleusercontent.com/-tI1uHm39-v8/ThyZ0HTcvUI/AAAAAAAADj4/DVpnjiwiXj0/w160/image-32.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNjPkNyh_6kCFelI7Aodi0haHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FUnjEgVDmDwZ%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxjRlRGVspQwCqVX7gnjm4bqhxwWFwlBuG_LieYzPb7b0aSzzSUtoIkls4fCy7kWxHvIlPVKvQ6ME6Q0xKt4tlGr2BBARonoPofFYTgUuGDHOSGjIY%26hl%3Den_US)

[View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNjPkNyh_6kCFelI7Aodi0haHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FUnjEgVDmDwZ%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxjRlRGVspQwCqVX7gnjm4bqhxwWFwlBuG_LieYzPb7b0aSzzSUtoIkls4fCy7kWxHvIlPVKvQ6ME6Q0xKt4tlGr2BBARonoPofFYTgUuGDHOSGjIY%26hl%3Den_US)  

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[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Paypal using NFC` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-paypal-using-nfc/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]




![](//images1-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dwww.thepaypalblog.com&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)

[PayPal Uses NFC to Make Peer-to-Peer Payments Easier than Ever](https://www.thepaypalblog.com/2011/07/paypal-uses-nfc-to-make-peer-to-peer-payments-easier-than-ever/)

Today at MobileBeat 2011 we took another step towards realizing the PayPal vision of creating an entirely new way for people to shop and pay – anytime, anywhere and on any device – with the announceme…

![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=https://www.thepaypalblog.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/NFC-P2P-182x300.png&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)
![](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKiIjc-b_6kCFWHF7AodEAJjHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F46BF3y6piBJ%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGx8a6HqNRZ8A-FRwum2-FBIF4FVdUZt_KkiArDvXg4BKvu5i2vLuMwCT8aLnnQfcX6Yq4M3b5luZspbziTO303YsfgUcLautM--MbTgq_1gxtOmHgY%26hl%3Den_US)


[View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKiIjc-b_6kCFWHF7AodEAJjHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F46BF3y6piBJ%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGx8a6HqNRZ8A-FRwum2-FBIF4FVdUZt_KkiArDvXg4BKvu5i2vLuMwCT8aLnnQfcX6Yq4M3b5luZspbziTO303YsfgUcLautM--MbTgq_1gxtOmHgY%26hl%3Den_US)  


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[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Creating a Google+ Menubar Application on...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-creating-a-google-menubar-application-on/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNigwvuw_akCFYRI7AodkwL6Fw&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    Creating a Google+ Menubar Application on OSX with Fluid   
    ![](//images3-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dkonigi.com&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)Creating a Google+ Menubar Application \| Konigi](http://konigi.com/notebook/creating-google-menubar-application)
    Creating a Google+ Menubar Application. I don't spend my whole day in Gmail or other Google sites, but I like the idea of checking in on Google+ occasionally. Until G+ comes up with a standalone c…
    ![](//images1-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6029/5904990381_9494328c0b_z.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNigwvuw_akCFYRI7AodkwL6Fw&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FWxhDyeH9Yhk%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyVyMfHHF4KugjkgnEdjEXFGnD1QgtqrlnZ6wU42qbFvCRGHA0xqnbQFQRfFcHjmXq_mt7x_V2tUjPWRGFOKuZThT2Nwl-1kaQ5F1-uJ0pRjU8alPY%26hl%3Den_US)  
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     |
|---|---|


    
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## [POST_TITLE] `Driven off the road by MBAs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-driven-off-the-road-by-mbas/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CICgvPew_akCFUS_7AodSLaGHw&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    ![](//images1-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dwww.time.com&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)Driven off the Road by M.B.A.s](http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,2081930,00.html)
    The rise of business schools coincided with the fall of American industry
    ![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://img.timeinc.net/time/daily/2011/1107/crana_0718.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CICgvPew_akCFUS_7AodSLaGHw&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FMk5rEE5AgC1%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGy34l4c5TQMlV5bG2uMEUvBAIbxzavSvnLbBvLmI1Tp4NHh_TYC2Kj8Vm-6i5UzASedvQuOPfHyIhsMOlG9XELarhO0LE-OXWJcKhDdxv3_f91h8uw%26hl%3Den_US)  
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CICgvPew_akCFUS_7AodSLaGHw&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FMk5rEE5AgC1%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGy34l4c5TQMlV5bG2uMEUvBAIbxzavSvnLbBvLmI1Tp4NHh_TYC2Kj8Vm-6i5UzASedvQuOPfHyIhsMOlG9XELarhO0LE-OXWJcKhDdxv3_f91h8uw%26hl%3Den_US)  
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     |
|---|---|


    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Heh, replay of the Wimbledon finale, as an...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-heh-replay-of-the-wimbledon-finale-as-an/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Heh, replay of the Wimbledon finale, as an infographic    




[WIM•BLE•DON](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKCcrfKw_akCFci27AodRcJJHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FDSsojrHGig2%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxGNrgpq70hWYshgk_QVIR4U9dtkhfC2IJ0ODH0MS0LCU4HufDOXSxB1BSr23hiIGEv7SXb5_fXACriL1HCufUEchYd989TCicuC334dr6HeAI0Bqo%26hl%3Den_US)

![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://b.vimeocdn.com/ts/155/654/155654670_200.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=195)



[vimeo.com](http://www.vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=23852299&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&fullscreen=1&autoplay=1) 
Infographic documenting the final game of the 122nd Edition of the Wimbledon Championships Men's Final between tennis giants Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.  Audio source: BBC

[View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKCcrfKw_akCFci27AodRcJJHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FDSsojrHGig2%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxGNrgpq70hWYshgk_QVIR4U9dtkhfC2IJ0ODH0MS0LCU4HufDOXSxB1BSr23hiIGEv7SXb5_fXACriL1HCufUEchYd989TCicuC334dr6HeAI0Bqo%26hl%3Den_US)  

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[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Lengthy article, but worth the read` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-lengthy-article-but-worth-the-read/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


 Lengthy article, but worth the read   
 
 ![](//images3-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dyouarenotsosmart.com&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)
 [Misattribution of Arousal « You Are Not So Smart](http://youarenotsosmart.com/2011/07/07/misattribution-of-arousal/)
 Misattribution of Arousal. July 7, 2011. tags: Art Aron, Capilano Canyon, Donald Dutton, Fritz Strack, Gary Wells, James Graham, Jens Förster, Joel Cooper, Mark Zanna, Richard Petty, William James. by…
 
 ![](//images1-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://youarenotsosmart.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/unnamed-1.jpg?w%3D300%26h%3D216&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)
 
 
 [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNqzrfKw_akCFci27AodRcJJHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FK9Dx4gXFxH5%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGy_LxxT9e27T_SqJ_EB_Uu_SCaoYx5P0SDqODdOLtTAgKxJkGV8YvShomArA2N20bmoYYJHyzrWc_iXIqrwHYwy5ZDVgGGh1eK1xyj_0A0d_xSbBP0%26hl%3Den_US)  
 
 The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
 
 [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNqzrfKw_akCFci27AodRcJJHA&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGy_LxxT9e27T_SqJ_EB_Uu_SCaoYx5P0SDqODdOLtTAgKxJkGV8YvShomArA2N20bmoYYJHyzrWc_iXIqrwHYwy5ZDVgGGh1eK1xyj_0A0d_xSbBP0%26hl%3Den_US)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Some pretty sweet horizontal ruler CSS3 techniques...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-some-pretty-sweet-horizontal-ruler-css3-techniques/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


Some pretty sweet horizontal ruler CSS3 techniques. The faded one I hadn't seen yet   

![](//images1-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dkonigi.com&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)

[CSS Techniques for Horizontal Rules \| Konigi](http://konigi.com/tools/css-techniques-horizontal-rules)

CSS Techniques for Horizontal Rules. I like to use HR tags. I use the technique in the first example below, but occasionally want a nicer separator, and hate having to use a graphic to show that chise…

[View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CJi7toOx_akCFUKh7AodOJJtHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F76WMGgASwfA%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxMwYAdjgcrxvGG4hU6heTfmZ-rJ_pBud7r_4pSfQxphMpBdNIxjVSANMM0TVvOleUA_mzzFiQr2Z_dG5S3UiKUAmWbVdD5LV_sXK9K37UwvNwYGfk%26hl%3Den_US)  

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[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Banks sitting on their customers' shopping data` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-banks-sitting-on-their-customers-shopping-data/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


Banks sitting on their customers' shopping data: “How (US) Banks Plan To Compete With Groupon”   <

![](//images3-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dblogs.forbes.com&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)

[How Banks Plan To Compete With Groupon](http://blogs.forbes.com/kashmirhill/2011/07/11/how-banks-plan-to-compete-with-groupon/)

Banks find a legal way to sell consumers' shopping data

[View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CODKgOew_akCFYRI7AodkwL6Fw&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F1dvpQwxA43F%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzhVTLFdasZmiZt3lXWjKiYUupOKPgE_5rcCGNL6Z5IGDpmspKetctIleoUvDe4Te46PC6NGsTYbxuJLFZw4EgjU-JAOniUmSFJWrkFOHb8PDfaKYM%26hl%3Den_US) 

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[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Charles Laforest Goslin: The Man, the Myth, the Legend (of the Negative)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-13-charles-laforest-goslin-the-man-the-myth-the-legend-of-the-negative/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]




Charles Laforest Goslin: The Man, the Myth, the Legend   

[Seeing The Negative In Everything: Charles Goslin – Noupe Design Blog](http://www.noupe.com/inspiration/seeing-the-negative-in-everything-charles-goslin.html)

Seeing The Negative In Everything: Charles Goslin. Posted in Inspiration; 14 Comments ». by Speider Schneider. While I loved my art school teachers, they were all very different. There were some who t…
![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://www.noupe.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/goslin4.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)

![](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CIjpwOSw_akCFci27AodRcJJHA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FRnmj7t9bu83%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGy8e1JIv3NYMG74E3QbV8goRCFcoEMhsNUAyfsMbRPARMhfM5rj-msliuvLJnrlkfYlCLfe84-wBTPa2UdtXro7tPghMoJn4H3Y_rO49DVhAavcpa8%26hl%3Den_US) 

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The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.


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[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Photo fun with gadgets` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-11-photo-fun-with-gadgets/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


Photo fun with gadgets   



[How to Make Your Photo Gadgets See-Through! \| Photojojo](http://content.photojojo.com/diy/make-photo-gadgets-see-through/)
Extra photos for bloggers: 1, 2, 3 We've always suspected our camera was a neo-postmodernist. Always subverting the establishment, our...

![](//images3-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://content.photojojo.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/main_small_pp1.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)

![](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CLibsq-8-qkCFUKh7Aod7p4gDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F6kNZ85Sist9%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyBukPAkWaiYdCISoyTIkt8JzvifMcoO41gZ0tH28DvJI6y1xQQ8n1D2JJz-5-I2N_gOf494UcRF7c-X-Kj3FyPdNi01nLxMl9pMzGgRPY3NZHru0s%26hl%3Den_US)  

[View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CLibsq-8-qkCFUKh7Aod7p4gDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F6kNZ85Sist9%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyBukPAkWaiYdCISoyTIkt8JzvifMcoO41gZ0tH28DvJI6y1xQQ8n1D2JJz-5-I2N_gOf494UcRF7c-X-Kj3FyPdNi01nLxMl9pMzGgRPY3NZHru0s%26hl%3Den_US)  

The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.

[Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CLibsq-8-qkCFUKh7Aod7p4gDQ&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyBukPAkWaiYdCISoyTIkt8JzvifMcoO41gZ0tH28DvJI6y1xQQ8n1D2JJz-5-I2N_gOf494UcRF7c-X-Kj3FyPdNi01nLxMl9pMzGgRPY3NZHru0s%26hl%3Den_US)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Frank Gehry's NY skyscraper` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-11-frank-gehrys-ny-skyscraper/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-11  

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 Image gallery, including floor plans if your interested in a unit…

 
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## [POST_TITLE] `"Fish out of global waters"` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-11-fish-out-of-global-waters/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-11  

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 CHARLES WATERSTREET on his #qanda presence last week   

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## [POST_TITLE] `Chicken wonton noodle soup kind of day today` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-11-chicken-wonton-noodle-soup-kind-of-day-today/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-11  

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 [](http://instagr.am/p/HaMXM/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_eiakf](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_EIAkf.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `Statigram, some pretty nice Instagram analytics` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-10-statigram-some-pretty-nice-instagram-analytics/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-10  

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    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKDg9N3f96kCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    Statigram, some pretty nice Instagram analytics (filter usage, activity over time,…)
    ![](//images3-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dstatigr.am&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)Statigr.am](http://statigr.am/)
    All in one analytics & web viewer for your Instagram account
    ![](//images1-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://statigr.am/images/homepage/images-hp1.png&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKDg9N3f96kCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FToLG6nhS9uK%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzNnCx4mp9RgbEkSp5bnLdyRHBKJQtvdE-eyIAQQu3U1gGc47PhkJ3lHd3F7cWp70YUdtzpjToj8gX1IGUwU8ZHeBnzVvRbBAGjEZ5STeqTUteN7lg%26hl%3Den_US)  
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKDg9N3f96kCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FToLG6nhS9uK%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzNnCx4mp9RgbEkSp5bnLdyRHBKJQtvdE-eyIAQQu3U1gGc47PhkJ3lHd3F7cWp70YUdtzpjToj8gX1IGUwU8ZHeBnzVvRbBAGjEZ5STeqTUteN7lg%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
    [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKDg9N3f96kCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzNnCx4mp9RgbEkSp5bnLdyRHBKJQtvdE-eyIAQQu3U1gGc47PhkJ3lHd3F7cWp70YUdtzpjToj8gX1IGUwU8ZHeBnzVvRbBAGjEZ5STeqTUteN7lg%26hl%3Den_US)  
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## [POST_TITLE] `Good and Bad of G+` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-10-good-and-bad-of-g/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CLCekZTe96kCFWe97AodgP69EA&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    A really good column by Nat Torkington (would have plussed, but mobile interface didn't load name interface) in O'Reilly site –  – about the good and bad w/ Google+.
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CLCekZTe96kCFWe97AodgP69EA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F2J5hNh5pg1S%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxkxFW6AuHNU0iimLBlXiY-HXP1wtYHotw-INVJ7UlgCwx11QfXRe5f5zWuv0Ij32PlvQrJQmtGFFTClfCX8Y04jKlFrgAy3oynWtASs8ttSil-4WM%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
    [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CLCekZTe96kCFWe97AodgP69EA&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxkxFW6AuHNU0iimLBlXiY-HXP1wtYHotw-INVJ7UlgCwx11QfXRe5f5zWuv0Ij32PlvQrJQmtGFFTClfCX8Y04jKlFrgAy3oynWtASs8ttSil-4WM%26hl%3Den_US)  
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## [POST_TITLE] `Tomorrow, Battle of the Golden Spurs remembrance` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-10-tomorrow-battle-of-the-golden-spurs-remembrance/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNCNhq2y9qkCFelI7AodKaBJDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    Tomorrow, Battle of the Golden Spurs remembrance in Flanders/Belgium   [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle\_of\_the\_Golden\_Spurs](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Golden_Spurs)
    ![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Den.wikipedia.org&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)Battle of the Golden Spurs – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Golden_Spurs)
    Date, July 11, 1302. Location, Kortrijk, Flanders 50°49′44″N 3°16′34″E / 50.829°N 3.276°E / 50.829; 3.276Coordinates: 50°49′44″N 3°16′34″E / 50.829°N 3.276°E / 50.829; 3.276. Result, Flemish vic…
    ![](//images3-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/64/Battle_of_Courtrai2.jpg/300px-Battle_of_Courtrai2.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNCNhq2y9qkCFelI7AodKaBJDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F8eAe4f45bDW%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGwj0Gs3F2iB63r2I_7lsHkTMzxGEmMkVoCOzOnfloTxwWo85p3HGyYAU2lLkVvBjxjgzABsLJykUsUsMNQZCuuyfdxR4fOAnD2zHaGNk1ydf6uVFqA%26hl%3Den_US)  
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNCNhq2y9qkCFelI7AodKaBJDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F8eAe4f45bDW%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGwj0Gs3F2iB63r2I_7lsHkTMzxGEmMkVoCOzOnfloTxwWo85p3HGyYAU2lLkVvBjxjgzABsLJykUsUsMNQZCuuyfdxR4fOAnD2zHaGNk1ydf6uVFqA%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
    [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNCNhq2y9qkCFelI7AodKaBJDQ&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGwj0Gs3F2iB63r2I_7lsHkTMzxGEmMkVoCOzOnfloTxwWo85p3HGyYAU2lLkVvBjxjgzABsLJykUsUsMNQZCuuyfdxR4fOAnD2zHaGNk1ydf6uVFqA%26hl%3Den_US)  
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## [POST_TITLE] `Not really subtle street photography, though...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-10-not-really-subtle-street-photography-though/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CPDgyvqm9qkCFci27Aod9l_7DA&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    Not really subtle street photography, though cool to see someone at work on the street. 
    ![](//images3-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dwww.petapixel.com&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)Street Photography as Seen through the Viewfinder of a Leica M9](http://www.petapixel.com/2011/07/08/street-photography-as-seen-through-the-viewfinder-of-a-leica-m9/)
    var switchTo5x=false;stLight.options({publisher:'52b76d3d-a3cc-420e-9ad5-5754a0610115′}); 
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CPDgyvqm9qkCFci27Aod9l_7DA&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FWTZ9xZqeqrA%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxG9KrBm_hcX3x60_leACdBPTfm6xyhxjXH0zbp-m7iEReouY5u3h_2Mk17kXlplb9PNVkIzrYSIUFIVPsJYBYNXySfqcsVvaPsPbvPHPuqjOZ7OsI%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
    [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CPDgyvqm9qkCFci27Aod9l_7DA&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGxG9KrBm_hcX3x60_leACdBPTfm6xyhxjXH0zbp-m7iEReouY5u3h_2Mk17kXlplb9PNVkIzrYSIUFIVPsJYBYNXySfqcsVvaPsPbvPHPuqjOZ7OsI%26hl%3Den_US)  
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## [POST_TITLE] `"Behind the scenes at the White House" - ...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-10-behind-the-scenes-at-the-white-house/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNiqxdGk9qkCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    “Behind the scenes” are facinating:
    “Behind the scenes at the White House” – a bunch of photos from two days at the White House helping with the Twitter Town Hall. 
    [Behind the scenes at the White House (20)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/hepwori/sets/72157627003462101)
    on 6th July 6th I helped to organize a “Twitter Town Hall @ the White House”. These are “behind the scenes” shots of the event, beginning with a walk-through of the venue on 5th July.
    ![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6041/5907825130_96516838b7_o.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_w=160)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNiqxdGk9qkCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FDAFjk83KZGz%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzOjfaA5AU0Y-7eWbimTJcAgHhNEgVw-M-ipt4OphwgIn9BX_WKEzI2TsOZNKeXH_-hDqja3C8eH2YhtLeqy0lR_x2dT5GUJTzhDDWYeXrs36iZs1E%26hl%3Den_US)![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6002/5907269421_59995393cb_o.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_w=160)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNiqxdGk9qkCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FDAFjk83KZGz%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzOjfaA5AU0Y-7eWbimTJcAgHhNEgVw-M-ipt4OphwgIn9BX_WKEzI2TsOZNKeXH_-hDqja3C8eH2YhtLeqy0lR_x2dT5GUJTzhDDWYeXrs36iZs1E%26hl%3Den_US)![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6008/5907269801_cd2923447e_o.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_w=160)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNiqxdGk9qkCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FDAFjk83KZGz%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzOjfaA5AU0Y-7eWbimTJcAgHhNEgVw-M-ipt4OphwgIn9BX_WKEzI2TsOZNKeXH_-hDqja3C8eH2YhtLeqy0lR_x2dT5GUJTzhDDWYeXrs36iZs1E%26hl%3Den_US)  
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNiqxdGk9qkCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FDAFjk83KZGz%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzOjfaA5AU0Y-7eWbimTJcAgHhNEgVw-M-ipt4OphwgIn9BX_WKEzI2TsOZNKeXH_-hDqja3C8eH2YhtLeqy0lR_x2dT5GUJTzhDDWYeXrs36iZs1E%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
    [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CNiqxdGk9qkCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzOjfaA5AU0Y-7eWbimTJcAgHhNEgVw-M-ipt4OphwgIn9BX_WKEzI2TsOZNKeXH_-hDqja3C8eH2YhtLeqy0lR_x2dT5GUJTzhDDWYeXrs36iZs1E%26hl%3Den_US)  
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## [POST_TITLE] `Sydney's Megatronics Guy and his light scythe...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-10-sydneys-megatronics-guy-and-his-light-scythe/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=COmE85ek9qkCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    Sydney's Megatronics Guy and his light scythe (and how to make your own).    [lightscythe \| mechatronicsguy](http://sites.google.com/site/mechatronicsguy/lightscythe)
    ![](//images1-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dsites.google.com&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)LightScythe – The Mechatronics Guy](http://sites.google.com/site/mechatronicsguy/lightscythe)
    Collection of Odds & Sods
    ![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://sites.google.com/site/mechatronicsguy/_/rsrc/1309262084792/lightscythe/Pacman2.JPG?height%3D283%26width%3D400&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=COmE85ek9qkCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F8rw7wKkeorY%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGx8tkpA2cyoH9bxcpJUXv_w2qBWlYclq1DIJIuzs7iWyD1b_G-pcoyLyRtbqvzSDHIwJWj0gS4p4VqbvCXTMfkVbsMmcQe4dtFPtScN7bG5bmIDHJY%26hl%3Den_US)  
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=COmE85ek9qkCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2F8rw7wKkeorY%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGx8tkpA2cyoH9bxcpJUXv_w2qBWlYclq1DIJIuzs7iWyD1b_G-pcoyLyRtbqvzSDHIwJWj0gS4p4VqbvCXTMfkVbsMmcQe4dtFPtScN7bG5bmIDHJY%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
    [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=COmE85ek9qkCFcW_7AodQV8vDQ&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGx8tkpA2cyoH9bxcpJUXv_w2qBWlYclq1DIJIuzs7iWyD1b_G-pcoyLyRtbqvzSDHIwJWj0gS4p4VqbvCXTMfkVbsMmcQe4dtFPtScN7bG5bmIDHJY%26hl%3Den_US)  
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## [POST_TITLE] `Crossposting Google+ posts to Twitter and Facebook using Posterous` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-10-crossposting-google-posts-to-twitter-and-facebook-using-posterous/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKjll6qi9qkCFTBT7Aodow23PQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    Pretty sure a lot of people won't like this, but here goes:   **Crossposting Google+ posts to Twitter and Facebook using Posterous**   It's not pretty, rather hacky, but it kind of works…   You can share posts with people who aren't yet on G+, right?   They'll receive an email with your post instead.   You can post to Posterous using email. And Posterous can crosspost to Twitter and Facebook.   This links back to your Posterous post then, not straight to you G+ profile, unfortunately. The way to get this to work is to:    – Create a Circle with post@<yourposteroussubdomain>(check your Posterous settings)    – Add the “noreply-<somenumber>” Google+ email address to Posterous (as a contributor). 1. To find out what your Google+ noreply address is, you will need to add a Gmail account without a Google+ account to a circle (well, or a non-gmail account),    share something with that circle, at which point you would receive that post through email and you can find out the noreply-<somenumber>@[plus.google.com](http://plus.google.com).   As far as I can tell, it's always the same, and it's different across accounts (though I only tested this briefly today), and it seems to work so far (but no guarantees).   If any Googler can chip in… Hope I don't break anything :) 2. Now, add that email address to Posterous. Not as part of Your Settings/Your Email Address (because that needs a confirmation reply),    but as a Contributor. Add the Google+ noreply address under Manage/People, as a Contributor.    Then under Autopost, make sure “Posts by” is set to All Contributors.    (This works for me because I'm a one-man band. If you have multiple contributors on your Posterous, you might not want to autopost all of those of course)
    Then try it out. Share something with that “Posterous” circle. It should end up on Posterous, and eventually on anything your Posterous autoposts to. Check out my Posterous:   Works best on a Posterous theme with a white background…   Of course, same email cross posting applies to any other crossposting service, like Evernote or whatever…
    And because you can, doesn't mean you should…
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKjll6qi9qkCFTBT7Aodow23PQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FgC2dRo8S1X2%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzqCH2uuWBwILiOvlTlggCNqGmUvHHJ0roZ2TsR-fD5bXXzXLHQjiAwnhiw-Ghf7v_LULsEtMD5rXf-80M-AfgyBMoRrBjCjK2DEaTKLZGxHJTh97Y%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
    [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKjll6qi9qkCFTBT7Aodow23PQ&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGzqCH2uuWBwILiOvlTlggCNqGmUvHHJ0roZ2TsR-fD5bXXzXLHQjiAwnhiw-Ghf7v_LULsEtMD5rXf-80M-AfgyBMoRrBjCjK2DEaTKLZGxHJTh97Y%26hl%3Den_US)  
     |
|---|---|


    
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## [POST_TITLE] `Brilliant idea! Well, if it would work as advertised` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-10-brilliant-idea-well-if-it-would-work-as-advertised/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKD0gsyX9qkCFYRI7AoddgRHBg&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    Brilliant idea! Well, if it would work as advertised.    And movie studios wouldn't shit their pants again.    Also be brilliant for tourism. 
    ![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dwww.augmentedrealitycinema.com&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)Augmented Reality Cinema](http://www.augmentedrealitycinema.com/index1.html)
    Welcome to Augmented Reality Cinema. Follow us here: Follow ARCinema on Twitter Join the mailing list here:  If you are a studio, a developer or want to get involved ple…
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKD0gsyX9qkCFYRI7AoddgRHBg&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FRdqeTSmABB9%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyQrU13Frv4m2ah6PAja6vFUDMYWjKFSEE1LwBB0bph1NSOWXksGc3s4ocLocy0m_n-SN96EkpOo7Hsb5LfEtIr8RdY5t4eQJ42u4Tvds2IA4GohVg%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
    [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CKD0gsyX9qkCFYRI7AoddgRHBg&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyQrU13Frv4m2ah6PAja6vFUDMYWjKFSEE1LwBB0bph1NSOWXksGc3s4ocLocy0m_n-SN96EkpOo7Hsb5LfEtIr8RdY5t4eQJ42u4Tvds2IA4GohVg%26hl%3Den_US)  
     |
|---|---|


    
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## [POST_TITLE] `Plenty of room on your iPad: free social innovation eBook` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-10-plenty-of-room-on-your-ipad-free-social-innovation-ebook/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    | ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kQH7bNoYDBU/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAASU/JnlJ9iwsfdI/s75-k-a/photo.jpg)  

(https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CIjXmYaW9qkCFSS17AodPl47DQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774) | 
    Plenty of room on your iPad: free social innovation eBook   
    ![](//images2-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=//s2.googleusercontent.com/s2/favicons?domain%3Dwww.youngfoundation.org&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=16)The Open Book of Social Innovation (March 2010) \| The Young Foundation](http://www.youngfoundation.org/publications/reports/the-open-book-social-innovation-march-2010)
    Find a Project. Action for Happiness; Ageing Well Innovation Programme; Arrival Education; Belonging; Big Society Local Action; Blackbird Leys; Building Local Activism; Civil Society and Public Servic…
    ![](//images3-focus-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http://www.youngfoundation.org/files/images/The-Open-Book-198.jpg&container=focus&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image/*&refresh=31536000&resize_h=120)](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CIjXmYaW9qkCFSS17AodPl47DQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FbZoftN5j6UE%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyemsJN6ZP5vHxHrjeaWreLYIzr0Rn0cSnXAn-pJasqiUgVB8nbTNoB87J15cTexgEGvIM7sdjl5kIxgO7NMgrHR9dj-s9qXgCVMKLsM1Z2JDgGkOQ%26hl%3Den_US)  
    [View or comment on Jean-Jacques Halans's post »](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CIjXmYaW9qkCFSS17AodPl47DQ&path=%2F102084005490627600774%2Fposts%2FbZoftN5j6UE%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyemsJN6ZP5vHxHrjeaWreLYIzr0Rn0cSnXAn-pJasqiUgVB8nbTNoB87J15cTexgEGvIM7sdjl5kIxgO7NMgrHR9dj-s9qXgCVMKLsM1Z2JDgGkOQ%26hl%3Den_US)  
    The Google+ project is currently working out all the kinks with a small group of testers. If you're not able to access Google+, please check back again soon.
    [Learn more about Google+](https://plus.google.com/_/notifications/ngemlink?&emid=CIjXmYaW9qkCFSS17AodPl47DQ&path=%2Fwelcome%3Fgpinv%3DAGXbFGyemsJN6ZP5vHxHrjeaWreLYIzr0Rn0cSnXAn-pJasqiUgVB8nbTNoB87J15cTexgEGvIM7sdjl5kIxgO7NMgrHR9dj-s9qXgCVMKLsM1Z2JDgGkOQ%26hl%3Den_US)  
     |
|---|---|


    
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## [POST_TITLE] `Art at the travelator` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-09-art-at-the-travelator/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/HQ1lv/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_thikk](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_tHIkk.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `Windy here today` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-09-windy-here-today/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/HQ1C7/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_zdkbf](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_zDkbF.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `Love locks` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-09-love-locks/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/HQiQU/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_nznlj](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_nznlJ.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Nice pink sky (not that you can tell here) #sydneyeveningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-08-nice-pink-sky-not-that-you-can-tell-here-sydneyeveningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/HMUbz/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ijhts](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_IjHts.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Forgot the pic of course... #moreirony https://twitter.com/halans/status/89113898791354368` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-07-forgot-the-pic-of-course-moreirony-httpstwitter-comhalansstatus89113898791354368/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/image.jpg.scaled1000-300x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Light at the end...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-07-light-at-the-end/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/HK5jJ/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_anzhq](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_anzhq.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `GoCatch, nice, useful taxi app (may need some more taxis) #momosyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-04-gocatch-nice-useful-taxi-app-may-need-some-more-taxis-momosyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/image1.jpg.scaled10001-200x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `A 'Belgian pistolet' at Guylian. Nothing really Belgian about it, if you'd ask me` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-03-a-belgian-pistolet-at-guylian-nothing-really-belgian-about-it-if-youd-ask-me/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/image2.jpg.scaled10002-300x224.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Blast from the past, a Bigtrack, reissued in 2010?! #dddsydney` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-02-blast-from-the-past-a-bigtrack-reissued-in-2010-dddsydney/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/GxFoY/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_jnbqr](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_JnBqr.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Office bday cake time` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-07-01-office-bday-cake-time/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-07-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/GtXF2/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_zvyfi](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/07/media_httpimagesinsta_zvyfI.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Like how Google mobile app hides the bigger icons at the top and only shows text labels, saving screen real estate #g+` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-30-like-how-google-mobile-app-hides-the-bigger-icons-at-the-top/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image.jpg.scaled1000-300x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bring your umbrella #SydneyMorningPhoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-29-bring-your-umbrella-sydneymorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x185.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Screw 4sq badges, #TestFlight sends out real badges!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-28-screw-4sq-badges-testflight-sends-out-real-badges/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/GirAW/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_vfoap](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/media_httpimagesinsta_vFoAp.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Flashing Responsive Design` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-21-flashing-responsive-design/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

(No, not that Flash)

Finished reading Ethan Marcotte's [Responsive Web Design](http://www.abookapart.com/products/responsive-web-design) (on A Book Apart). And thought I'd give [Evernote Peek](http://www.evernote.com/about/download/peek.php "Evernote Peek for iPad") a try too. Hence an Evernote notebook for [Peek on Responsive Web Design](http://www.evernote.com/pub/halans/responsivedesign "Responsive Design flash cards"). Get up to speed and stay up to speed with these 25 questions and answers.

Getting it into Peek is a bit cumbersome. First add my notebook to you library (online), then select it from your library in Peek on your iPad.

But do get the most excellent [Responsive Web Design ebook](http://www.abookapart.com/products/responsive-web-design "Responsive Web Design ebook") over at A Book Apart to get the full explanation!
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## [POST_TITLE] `Aussie Fries!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-19-aussie-fries/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/F_Rlx/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ijebk](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/media_httpimagesinsta_iJEBk.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Jamie's Italian` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-19-jamies-italian/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/F-tyH/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_lvrig](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/media_httpimagesinsta_lvrig.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Great crowd at #ardevcampsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-11-great-crowd-at-ardevcampsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo.jpg.scaled.1000-300x200.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `It's a wonton noodle soup kinda day` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-07-its-a-wonton-noodle-soup-kinda-day/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/FUXUm/)

![](http://images.instagram.com/media/2011/06/06/14aec1a22f834cb7917763324252f0fb_7.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `North shore on a winter's afternoon` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-05-north-shore-on-a-winters-afternoon/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo1.jpg.scaled.10001-300x106.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo1.jpg.scaled.10001.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Sydney Ice Bear melting` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-sydney-ice-bear-melting/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/FJ9DA/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_mcjjx](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/media_httpimagesinsta_mcJjx.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Did Matt get his socks of of Etsy? #vcs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-did-matt-get-his-socks-of-of-etsy-vcs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo2.jpg.scaled.10002-300x200.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo2.jpg.scaled.10002.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Matt Stinchcomb talking at #vcs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-matt-stinchcomb-talking-at-vcs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo3.jpg.scaled.10003-300x200.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo3.jpg.scaled.10003.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Brian Fravel from Intel at #vcs "performance is not about Ghz, but about being in the zone"` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-brian-fravel-from-intel-at-vcs-performance-is-not-about-ghz-but-about-being-in-the-zone/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo4.jpg.scaled.10004-300x199.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo4.jpg.scaled.10004.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Jesse doing a great job moderating the Q&As, funny! (get the girl a date!) #vcs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-jesse-doing-a-great-job-moderating-the-qas-funny-get-the-girl-a-date-vcs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo5.jpg.scaled.10005-300x199.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo5.jpg.scaled.10005.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Group Think Q&A #vcs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-group-think-qa-vcs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo6.jpg.scaled.10006-300x200.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo6.jpg.scaled.10006.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Matt Kuperholz talking statistics, gamification & social capital #vcs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-matt-kuperholz-talking-statistics-gamification-social-capital-vcs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo7.jpg.scaled.10007-300x199.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo7.jpg.scaled.10007.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Amy Broadfoot talking about the Future Shorts community of passionate people everywhere #vcs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-amy-broadfoot-talking-about-the-future-shorts-community-of-passionate-people-everywhere-vcs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo8.jpg.scaled.10008-300x200.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo8.jpg.scaled.10008.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Simon Moss talking crowdsourcing in the #vcs Group Think session` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-simon-moss-talking-crowdsourcing-in-the-vcs-group-think-session/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo9.jpg.scaled.10009-200x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo9.jpg.scaled.10009.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs iCan Q&A` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-ican-qa/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo10.jpg.scaled.100010-300x200.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo10.jpg.scaled.100010.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs iCan Q&A` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-ican-qa-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image2.jpg.scaled10002-300x200.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs David Harrison talking about the Next Big Thing, and outsourcing (amongst my job) to cheap labour` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-david-harrison-talking-about-the-next-big-thing-and-outsourcing/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo11.jpg.scaled.100011-300x200.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo11.jpg.scaled.100011.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs Shakthi Sivanathan talking about CuriousWorks, and working towards redundancy` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-shakthi-sivanathan-talking-about-curiousworks-and-working-towards-redundancy/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image3.jpg.scaled10003-200x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs Barry Vercoe, MIT Media Lab, talking OLPC` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-barry-vercoe-mit-media-lab-talking-olpc/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image4.jpg.scaled10004-200x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs second session of the day iCan` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-second-session-of-the-day-ican/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image5.jpg.scaled10005-300x200.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs Q&A for first session` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-qa-for-first-session/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo12.jpg.scaled.100012-300x200.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/photo12.jpg.scaled.100012.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs Q&A for first session` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-qa-for-first-session-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image6.jpg.scaled10006-300x200.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image6.jpg.scaled10006.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs Q&A for first session` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-qa-for-first-session-3/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image7.jpg.scaled10007-300x168.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image7.jpg.scaled10007.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs Q&A for first session` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-qa-for-first-session-4/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image8.jpg.scaled10008-300x168.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image8.jpg.scaled10008.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs Graham Henstock looking beyond the greenwash` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-graham-henstock-looking-beyond-the-greenwash/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image12.jpg.scaled100012-300x200.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image12.jpg.scaled100012.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `70% of @SydneyTheatreCo power from solar  #vcs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-70-of-sydneytheatreco-power-from-solar-vcs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image13.jpg.scaled100013-300x200.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image13.jpg.scaled100013.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs lots of solar panels on the wharf's roof` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-lots-of-solar-panels-on-the-wharfs-roof/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image14.jpg.scaled100014-300x200.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image14.jpg.scaled100014.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs Polly Rowe on Greening the Wharf` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-polly-rowe-on-greening-the-wharf/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image15.jpg.scaled100015-300x199.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image15.jpg.scaled100015.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs Rob Coombs' InterfaceFlor Mission Zero` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-rob-coombs-interfaceflor-mission-zero/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image16.jpg.scaled100016-300x200.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image16.jpg.scaled100016.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs waste = opportunity (same remark as at TEDx Sydney last weekend)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-waste-opportunity-same-remark-as-at-tedx-sydney-last-weekend/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image17.jpg.scaled100017-300x200.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image17.jpg.scaled100017.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs waves of innovation` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-waves-of-innovation/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image18.jpg.scaled100018-300x200.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image18.jpg.scaled100018.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs James Bradfield Moody on 6th wave of innovation` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-04-vcs-james-bradfield-moody-on-6th-wave-of-innovation/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image19.jpg.scaled100019-300x200.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/image19.jpg.scaled100019.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `4sq something something equals beer` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-03-4sq-something-something-equals-beer/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/FJBXp/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_nuncu](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/media_httpimagesinsta_nunCu.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `ThreadTech at #vcs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-03-threadtech-at-vcs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/FHGMb/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_jblmh](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/media_httpimagesinsta_jBlmH.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `3D printer printing. Hope it's food, am hungry #vcs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-03-3d-printer-printing-hope-its-food-am-hungry-vcs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/FHDCj/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_cbpgb](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/06/media_httpimagesinsta_CBpgb.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Rare Beasts - Vivid Sydney #vcs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-06-03-rare-beasts-vivid-sydney-vcs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-06-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 Check out this video on YouTube:

  For sale on Etsy! 
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `#vcs The Money Shot panel discussion` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-31-vcs-the-money-shot-panel-discussion/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/E-mLr/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_jjggi](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_jJggI.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `On your ferry using your 30MB of free wifi` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-30-on-your-ferry-using-your-30mb-of-free-wifi/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/image.jpg.scaled1000-224x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Olga talking Startup Weekend` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-30-olga-talking-startup-weekend/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/E7u6e/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_bqgrx](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_BqGrx.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Fishburners talking at #vcs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-30-fishburners-talking-at-vcs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/E7ssv/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_idayu](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_idAyu.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Disco at the Opera #vcs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-30-disco-at-the-opera-vcs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/E7pUM/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_xfjfs](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_xfjfs.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `TEDxSydney You, The People` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-29-tedxsydney-you-the-people/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `TEDxSydney Speakers` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-29-tedxsydney-speakers/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `TEDxSydney Performances` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-29-tedxsydney-performances/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Beanbags at #TedXSydney foyer` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-28-beanbags-at-tedxsydney-foyer/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/EzkBz/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ojafb](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_oJAFb.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `The smell of #TedXSydney` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-28-the-smell-of-tedxsydney/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_wdhke](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_wDhkE.jpg.scaled1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_wDhkE.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `#TEDxSydney foyer` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-27-tedxsydney-foyer/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/EzVHr/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_vhtrx](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_vHtrx.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Twittering away at TedXSydney` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-27-twittering-away-at-tedxsydney/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/EzUwQ/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_oqbqa](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_oqbqa.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Sitting right next to the engine, feel/hear the power` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-26-sitting-right-next-to-the-engine-feelhear-the-power/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_hhocd](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_HHocd.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)

(http://instagr.am/p/EwNSD/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Airport` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-26-airport/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_pzbnr](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_pzbnr.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)

(http://instagr.am/p/EwNOS/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Checking in at 10k feet...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-26-checking-in-at-10k-feet/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Rocking chairs and trees at CLT airport` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-25-rocking-chairs-and-trees-at-clt-airport/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/EtOGF/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_lfseo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_lfsEo.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `I thought I'd seen pickles with everything here, but there's a deep-fried one right there` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-25-i-thought-id-seen-pickles-with-everything-here-but-theres-a-deep-fried-one-right-there/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/EtN60/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_gcodd](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_GcoDd.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Missing my own Mini` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-25-missing-my-own-mini/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Es_NJ/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_cbmbt](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_cBmbt.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `NASCAR's in town (Charlotte), and Mini's set up some cars` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-25-nascars-in-town-charlotte-and-minis-set-up-some-cars/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Es-uf/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_kbghc](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_kBgHC.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Fall of the bone pork ribs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-22-fall-of-the-bone-pork-ribs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/EjM9-/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_jccau](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_jCcau.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Party next to the office` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-19-party-next-to-the-office/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Ec7MR/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_pfcbu](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_pFcbu.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `At Vida, mexican food` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-19-at-vida-mexican-food/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_tenmk](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_tenmk.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)

(http://instagr.am/p/Easqd/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Firealarm! Sleepy people (incl me) mixin' it with the party people. Saturday night shenanigans` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-15-firealarm-sleepy-people-incl-me-mixin-it-with-the-party-people-saturday-night-shenanigans/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_fdxmf](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_fdxmf.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)

(http://instagr.am/p/EQ_5L/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Australian wine, with cork, cheaper than in Australia, and double sized bottles...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-15-australian-wine-with-cork-cheaper-than-in-australia-and-double-sized-bottles/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ntefc](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_nteFc.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)

(http://instagr.am/p/EQb4q/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Sampling the local "delicacies". Should last me two weeks. Got these from the pharmacy...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-15-sampling-the-local-delicacies-should-last-me-two-weeks-got-these-from-the-pharmacy/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_feffi](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_FeFfi.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)

(http://instagr.am/p/EQaPm/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `It looks kinda creepy outside.` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-15-it-looks-kinda-creepy-outside/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_gkyqs](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_Gkyqs.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)

(http://instagr.am/p/EQaD5/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `At Five Guys, best burger I had in a while` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-15-at-five-guys-best-burger-i-had-in-a-while/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_wuedb](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_wuedb.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)

(http://instagr.am/p/EQYKI/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Cajun buffalo shrimps` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-14-cajun-buffalo-shrimps/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Media_httpimagesinsta_rfbge](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_rFBgE.jpg.scaled1000-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_rFBgE.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Sky Mall, it's like a mall, but in the sky. You can get anything...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-11-sky-mall-its-like-a-mall-but-in-the-sky-you-can-get-anything/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/EIose/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_bgtqd](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_bGtqD.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `But a comfy economy class. Can't remember having that much legroom.` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-11-but-a-comfy-economy-class-cant-remember-having-that-much-legroom/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/EImSQ/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_ubxdd](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_uBxdD.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Travelling! Exciting!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-11-travelling-exciting/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/EIcgR/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_pwiwi](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_pwiwI.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Oh goodie, #eye-fi arrived` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-04-oh-goodie-eye-fi-arrived/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/D1gwR/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_vidtd](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpdistillerys_viDtd.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Postagram card arrived. Pretty cool` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-03-postagram-card-arrived-pretty-cool/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/photo.jpg.scaled.1000-225x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/photo.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Autumn Walk In The Park` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-01-autumn-walk-in-the-park/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Autumn` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-05-01-autumn/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-05-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Du0ao/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_vcleh](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/05/media_httpimagesinsta_vClEH.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Like cattle to slaughter` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-04-25-like-cattle-to-slaughter/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-04-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/DhejQ/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_pboma](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/media_httpimagesinsta_pboma.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Twitter seems to be #DEBUGGING , on their live site` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-04-20-twitter-seems-to-be-debugging-on-their-live-site/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-04-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Twitter_debugging](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/Twitter_debugging.jpg.scaled.1000-300x195.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/Twitter_debugging.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `S Y D J S #sydjs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-04-20-s-y-d-j-s-sydjs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-04-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/DVzCR/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_beefw](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/media_httpimagesinsta_beEfw.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Beer and cupcakes. Happy b-day #sydjs !` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-04-20-beer-and-cupcakes-happy-b-day-sydjs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-04-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/DVyEM/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_kpynu](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/media_httpimagesinsta_kpynu.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#sydjs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-04-20-sydjs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-04-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/DVxFs/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_bagvv](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/media_httpimagesinsta_baGvv.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `At your genius bar replacing my iPad 2` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-04-15-at-your-genius-bar-replacing-my-ipad-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-04-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/DLztI/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_tfaiq](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/media_httpimagesinsta_tfaiq.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Salmon wrapped in pancetta and green asparagus` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-04-07-salmon-wrapped-in-pancetta-and-green-asparagus/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-04-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/C6OfF/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_pvkaa](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/media_httpimagesinsta_pvkAA.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Fluffy clouds` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-04-07-fluffy-clouds/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-04-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/photo-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/photo.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Small keys are freakin' small #pre2 #webOS` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-04-06-small-keys-are-freakin-small-pre2-webos/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-04-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/image.jpg.scaled1000-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Shweet!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-04-06-shweet/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-04-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/image1.jpg.scaled10001-224x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Stencil` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-04-03-stencil/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-04-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/CyPGE/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_vuyvj](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/media_httpimagesinsta_vuyvj.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Nice, BSOD on a giftcard terminal` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-04-02-nice-bsod-on-a-giftcard-terminal/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-04-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/image2.jpg.scaled10002-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/04/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `@rioter yes, some pretty bad bleeding too, around the home button` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-26-rioter-yes-some-pretty-bad-bleeding-too-around-the-home-button/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/image.jpg.scaled1000-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Friends don't sell their friend's iPad 2 on eBay for a quick buck...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-25-friends-dont-sell-their-friends-ipad-2-on-ebay-for-a-quick-buck/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Best pasta I ever made, really!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-23-best-pasta-i-ever-made-really/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Cd5HU/)

![Media_httpimagesinsta_bdwcy](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/media_httpimagesinsta_bdwcy.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `. @AdamHillsIGST Captain Sensible?` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-16-adamhillsigst-captain-sensible/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/image2.jpg.scaled10002-253x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Powerhouse hot dog, managed to finish it without spilling!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-12-powerhouse-hot-dog-managed-to-finish-it-without-spilling/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/image3.jpg.scaled10003-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Fred Rodrigues showing off a light and music installation, over Skype  #genart_sys` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-12-fred-rodrigues-showing-off-a-light-and-music-installation-over-skype-genart_sys/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/image4.jpg.scaled10004-300x200.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `At the Art of Prototyping at the Powerhouse museum` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-11-at-the-art-of-prototyping-at-the-powerhouse-museum/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/image5.jpg.scaled10005-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `500ml carbon neutral water. Bit expensive at $3.70 #carbonprice` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-11-500ml-carbon-neutral-water-bit-expensive-at-3-70-carbonprice/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/CKgZt/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_zmlyc](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/media_httpdistillerys_zmlyC.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `@broccolini @bouncr I'm getting this one on one gmail account, but on another gmail account it doesn't go to spam. go figure...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-11-broccolini-bouncr-im-getting-this-one-on-one-gmail-account-but-on-another-gmail-account/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Bouncr_spam_gmail](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/bouncr_spam_gmail.jpg.scaled1000-300x81.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/bouncr_spam_gmail.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `I love these post-it notes` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-10-i-love-these-post-it-notes/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/CIOcd/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_baffd](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/media_httpdistillerys_BAFFD.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Sofa in the bush` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-06-sofa-in-the-bush/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/CCQCK/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_fmsbv](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/media_httpdistillerys_FmsBv.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Prepping for Mardi Gras` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-05-prepping-for-mardi-gras/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/CAdEI/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_gyqcj](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/media_httpdistillerys_GyqCj.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Swedish meatballs breakfast #ikea` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-03-04-swedish-meatballs-breakfast-ikea/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-03-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/B_75w/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_simyr](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/03/media_httpdistillerys_sImyr.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


Taken at IKEA
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Sarah talking epic failure #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-26-sarah-talking-epic-failure-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo.jpg.scaled.1000-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Jo talking city switching #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-26-jo-talking-city-switching-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo1.jpg.scaled.10001-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo1.jpg.scaled.10001.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Crowdsourcing at #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-26-crowdsourcing-at-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo2.jpg.scaled.10002-300x101.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo2.jpg.scaled.10002.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Testing the FlavourCrusader app #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-26-testing-the-flavourcrusader-app-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image.jpg.scaled1000-200x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Alex and "Charities suck, and what to do about it" #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-26-alex-and-charities-suck-and-what-to-do-about-it-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo3.jpg.scaled.10003-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo3.jpg.scaled.10003.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Leverage points of change, Soren at #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-26-leverage-points-of-change-soren-at-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo4.jpg.scaled.10004-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo4.jpg.scaled.10004.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#sibsyd is a go!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-25-sibsyd-is-a-go/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo5.jpg.scaled.10005-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo5.jpg.scaled.10005.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `#sibsyd in case your looking for people, we're all at the lecture theatre` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-25-sibsyd-in-case-your-looking-for-people-were-all-at-the-lecture-theatre/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Munching on an Ampersand breakie role and sipping a cap, at Ampersand #raybanrare` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-25-munching-on-an-ampersand-breakie-role-and-sipping-a-cap-at-ampersand-raybanrare/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image2.jpg.scaled10002-231x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Munching on an Ampersand breakie role and sipping a cap, at Ampersand #raybanrare` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-25-munching-on-an-ampersand-breakie-role-and-sipping-a-cap-at-ampersand-raybanrare-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image3.jpg.scaled10003-231x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `True, it did waist a lot of space` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-24-true-it-did-waist-a-lot-of-space-gaynissanmicra/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-24  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image4.jpg.scaled10004-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)


    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Queen Mary 2 entering the harbour #sydneymorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-21-queen-mary-2-entering-the-harbour-sydneymorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image5.jpg.scaled10005-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Sunday morning #sydneymorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-19-sunday-morning-sydneymorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/BteWM/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_vfhfb](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/media_httpdistillerys_vfhFB.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


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## [POST_TITLE] `And got me a robot too! Thanks #apps4nsw !` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-19-and-got-me-a-robot-too-thanks-apps4nsw/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image6.jpg.scaled10006-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image6.jpg.scaled10006.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `West Head Panorama` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-10-west-head-panorama/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image.png.scaled.1000-300x105.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image.png.scaled.1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `And a $1 hotdog #ikea` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-08-and-a-1-hotdog-ikea/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Bd4MX/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_vzsao](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/media_httpdistillerys_vzsao.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Half price Swedish meatballs #ikea` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-08-half-price-swedish-meatballs-ikea/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/Bd2uO/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_vdcng](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/media_httpdistillerys_vDCng.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Anyone know what this colorful little critter is?` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-08-anyone-know-what-this-colorful-little-critter-is/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    [![Img_1621](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/IMG_1621.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/IMG_1621.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Blue Mountains Panorama` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-08-blue-mountains-panorama/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    [![Panorama](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/panorama.jpg.scaled.1000-300x130.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/panorama.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Jenolan Caves` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-08-jenolan-caves/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    [![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo6.jpg.scaled.10006-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo6.jpg.scaled.10006.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Jenolan Caves` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-08-jenolan-caves-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    [![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo7.jpg.scaled.10007-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo7.jpg.scaled.10007.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Mini on the Mini Mini Road...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-07-mini-on-the-mini-mini-road/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image7.jpg.scaled10007-300x224.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image7.jpg.scaled10007.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Been a while I did a #sydneymorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-07-been-a-while-i-did-a-sydneymorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    [![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image8.jpg.scaled10008-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/image8.jpg.scaled10008.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Centerpoint tower` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-07-centerpoint-tower/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo_1](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo_1.jpg.scaled.1000-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo_1.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  
[![Photo_2](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo_2.jpg.scaled.1000-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo_2.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  
[![Photo_3](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo_3.jpg.scaled.1000-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo_3.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)  
[![Photo_4](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo_4.jpg.scaled.1000-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/photo_4.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Coming out of mall parking...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-05-coming-out-of-mall-parking/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/BZeSW/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_ovpyd](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/02/media_httpdistillerys_ovpyd.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Untitled` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-02-04-untitled/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-02-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](http://getfile3.posterous.com/getfile/video.posterous.com/halans/pvo0Jfa05mH0rGjADXftFRoLu9cAeyFECtiDXVo2rzSRf3BczRb9cVV1wkUf/frame_0000.png)  

(http://halans.posterous.com/41938346)

**IMG\_0651.MOV**  
[Watch on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/41938346)  

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Royal NP - Marley Beach` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-01-30-royal-np-marley-beach/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-01-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    [![Panorama](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/01/panorama.jpg.scaled.1000-300x103.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/01/panorama.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Booka Shade - The Forum - Sydney` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-01-29-booka-shade-the-forum-sydney/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-01-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


(http://halans.posterous.com/41328688)   

**IMG\_0591.MOV**  
[Watch on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/41328688)

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Palm Beach Panorama` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-01-29-palm-beach-panorama/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-01-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Panorama](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/01/panorama1.jpg.scaled.10001-300x84.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/01/panorama1.jpg.scaled.10001.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Misty Australia Day morning` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-01-25-misty-australia-day-morning/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-01-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/BNKbp/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_veddz](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/01/media_httpdistillerys_veDDz.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `8mm on iPhone` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-01-16-8mm-on-iphone/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-01-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](http://getfile7.posterous.com/getfile/video.posterous.com/halans/C5lowt6BgYw4XCp8hHJnVTrJQKdN4QBMmBG2jD7xUoQG2ICcvr1kRPQIgAnd/frame_0000.png)  
(http://halans.posterous.com/8mm-on-iphone)

**IMG\_0522.MOV**  
[Watch on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/8mm-on-iphone)

After the Instagram/Hipstamatic craze, of course there is an old-style 8mm app too…
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Flooded road (NSW Northern Rivers region)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-01-16-flooded-road-nsw-northern-rivers-region/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-01-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](http://getfile5.posterous.com/getfile/video.posterous.com/halans/gmP4DOyWp5VKHmEQoBOdY4b9QaESkbfZxSPJBcG2AwBV4z7PqqyCwgaFnBpq/frame_0000.png)  
(http://halans.posterous.com/flooded-road-nsw-northern-rivers-region)   

**wateroverroad.mp4**  
[Watch on Posterous](http://halans.posterous.com/flooded-road-nsw-northern-rivers-region)

From when we were in the NSW Northern Rivers region, between Chrismas and NY.  
Doesn't compare to what's there now (or QLD).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Surrounded by little frogs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-01-02-surrounded-by-little-frogs/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-01-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/09s_/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_ytxqs](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/01/media_httpdistillerys_ytxqs.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  

 
Taken at Ralph's B&B
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Sunset` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-01-02-sunset/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-01-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [](http://instagr.am/p/079T/)

![Media_httpdistillerys_qnkvt](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/01/media_httpdistillerys_qnkvt.jpg.scaled500-300x300.jpg)  


Taken at Ralph's B&B
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Fake champagne is fake, leftover from NYE (when we did drink the real thing)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2011-01-02-fake-champagne-is-fake-leftover-from-nye/   
[POST_DATE] 2011-01-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/01/image.jpg.scaled1000-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2011/01/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Brought to you from 7am Queensland #surfersparadisemorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-12-29-brought-to-you-from-7am-queensland-surfersparadisemorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-12-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image.jpg.scaled1000-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `And Tweed Heads #tweedheadsmorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-12-29-and-tweed-heads-tweedheadsmorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-12-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Sunrise over Byron Bay #byronbaymorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-12-29-sunrise-over-byron-bay-byronbaymorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-12-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image2.jpg.scaled10002-300x104.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Towtrucker taking  the backroads, thinks he's driving a Mini` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-12-28-towtrucker-taking-the-backroads-thinks-hes-driving-a-mini/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-12-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image3.jpg.scaled10003-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Rainy Lennox Head` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-12-26-rainy-lennox-head/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-12-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image4.jpg.scaled10004-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Djee, 22C already #woolgoolgamorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-12-25-djee-22c-already-woolgoolgamorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-12-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/photo.jpg.scaled.1000-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/photo.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Totally orphaned on Christmas. Didn't foresee food. Motel owners bailed us out with ham/cheese/wine #xmasspirit` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-12-25-totally-orphaned-on-christmas-didnt-foresee-food-motel-owners-bailed-us-out/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-12-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image6.jpg.scaled10006-224x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image6.jpg.scaled10006.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bicyclists - footpath, p56 Road User's Handbook #reference #RTA` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-12-20-bicyclists-footpath-p56-road-users-handbook-reference-rta/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-12-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image7.jpg.scaled10007-300x183.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image7.jpg.scaled10007.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Lab for iPhone, haven't seen any other app scroll past black translucent status bar, nice #ux` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-12-15-lab-for-iphone-havent-seen-any-other-app-scroll/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-12-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image8.jpg.scaled10008-200x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image8.jpg.scaled10008.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Pretty impressive sky out there` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-12-10-pretty-impressive-sky-out-there/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-12-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image9.jpg.scaled10009-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image9.jpg.scaled10009.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `"H*rdcore P*netrations" Really? Must have been funny first time, but...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-12-05-hrdcore-pnetrations-really-must-have-been-funny-first-time-but/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-12-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image10.jpg.scaled100010-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image10.jpg.scaled100010.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Huh? "Marry Me Microsoft"` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-12-05-huh-marry-me-microsoft/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-12-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image11.jpg.scaled100011-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/12/image11.jpg.scaled100011.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `The power loss this morning got serious, still off the grid for now` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-11-30-the-power-loss-this-morning-got-serious-still-off-the-grid-for-now/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-11-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/11/image.jpg.scaled1000-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/11/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Can't help but repost this NAB postcard from last year. Draw your own conclusions...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-11-29-cant-help-but-repost-this-nab-postcard-from-last-year/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-11-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/11/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/11/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Creepy Conroy in Financial Review Mag` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-11-25-creepy-conroy-in-financial-review-mag/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-11-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/11/image2.jpg.scaled10002-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/11/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Mo-day 11 http://bit.ly/JJHMo10` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-11-11-mo-day-11-httpbit-lyjjhmo10/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-11-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Photo](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/11/photo-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/11/photo.jpg)   

Sent from my iPhone
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Google Instant Preview is pretty sweet, previewing where query string can be found on the page (not just a simple screenshot of page)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-11-10-google-instant-preview-is-pretty-sweet-previewing-where-query-string-can-be-found-on-the-page/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-11-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Googimgpreview](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/11/googimgpreview-300x245.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/11/googimgpreview.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `New Jira is low contrast` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-31-new-jira-is-low-contrast/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

So we got to use the shiny new Jira 4 at work last week. It's all a bit more polished, more ajaxy. That doesn't necessarily mean it's more productive.  
But with anything new, there's always a learning curve, an adjustment in your personal workflow, and maybe in a short while I'll be more productive, who knows. But one thing that irked me immediately was the contrast of the new screens. Text and labels are in different shades of grey, links in a blue shade. It looks like there had a fog descended over my screen, a veil, a summer's smog. I was almost squinting.  
I filed a Jira to improve contrast on our Jira version, but didn't wait for IT to solve this.  
I popped up Firebug (which Jira doesn't like, as it shows me a warning message things may run slow), and looked under the hood. I pointed it to the grey labels and text, and changed its colours to black, the links to a darker shade of blue. I dropped this all into a Greasemonkey script, which also runs as an extension in Chrome, and all was good (at least better) again.

For your reference, this is the [CSS](https://halans.com/download/JiraContrast.css.txt "CSS file") I changed:  
`

    body { color: #000 !important;}

    .property-list .name { color: #000 !important;font-weight: bold !important}

    .mod-header h3 { color: #000 !important;}

    ul.item-details dl dt { color: #000 !important;}

    a,a:link,a:visited { text-decoration: underline !important; color:#036 !important;}

    a { text-decoration: underline !important;}

    dt.tt_text { color: #000 !important;}

    .item-header ul.breadcrumbs a, .item-header ul.breadcrumbs a:link, .item-header ul.breadcrumbs a:visited {text-decoration: none !important}

    h2#issue_header_summary a, h2#issue_header_summary a:link, h2#issue_header_summary a:visited {text-decoration: none !important}

    .item-header ul.breadcrumbs li:nth-last-child(1) {font-weight: bold !important; font-size:1.1em;}

    #main-nav a, #main-nav a:link, #main-nav a:visited{font-weight: bold !important; color: #fff !important;}

    #main-nav li.selected a, #main-nav li.selected a:link, #main-nav li.selected a:visited, #main-nav li.dd-allocated a:hover{font-weight: bold !important; color: #036 !important;}

    #main-nav li.active a, #main-nav li.active a:link, #main-nav li.active a:visited, #main-nav li.active a:hover{font-weight: bold !important; color: #036 !important;}

    #createItem a, #createItem a:link, #createItem a:visited { font-weight: bold !important; color: #fff !important;}

    #main-nav li.dropdown-item a, #main-nav li.dropdown-item a:link, #main-nav li.dropdown-item a:visited {color:#036 !important;}

    .ops-menus a, .ops-menus a:link, .ops-menus a:visited, .ops-menus a:hover, .ops-menus a:active { text-decoration: none !important;}

    `  
It's not perfect, but it works for me. You might find it useful too.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `. @zbender Apple -10% is probably not at all JBHifis (I asked)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-30-zbender-apple-10-is-probably-not-at-all-jbhifis-i-asked/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image.jpg.scaled1000-224x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `That time of the month, bday cake time (and it was my bday this month too!)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-29-that-time-of-the-month-bday-cake-time-and-it-was-my-bday-this-month-too/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Night at the Museum, awesome  #ampedweb` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-16-night-at-the-museum-awesome-ampedweb/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image2.jpg.scaled10002-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Desert Tiger wins! #ampedweb` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-16-desert-tiger-wins-ampedweb/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image3.jpg.scaled10003-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Optus injecting JavaScript into every page requested #wdx` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-14-optus-injecting-javascript-into-every-page-requested-wdx/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image4.jpg.scaled10004-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `W3... #wdx #dev` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-14-w3-wdx-dev/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image5.jpg.scaled10005-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Craig presenting @hitotoki at #wdx` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-14-craig-presenting-hitotoki-at-wdx/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image6.jpg.scaled10006-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image6.jpg.scaled10006.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `RT @sydjs: Beers are on ice and we are ready for our biggest #sydjs yet!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-13-rt-sydjs-beers-are-on-ice-and-we-are-ready-for-our-biggest-sydjs-yet/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image7.jpg.scaled10007-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image7.jpg.scaled10007.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `And f*cking again! No tethering for me` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-13-and-fcking-again-no-tethering-for-me/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image8.jpg.scaled10008-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image8.jpg.scaled10008.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `The #80sux crowd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-12-the-80sux-crowd/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image9.jpg.scaled10009-300x96.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image9.jpg.scaled10009.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `#80sux panel` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-12-80sux-panel/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image10.jpg.scaled100010-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image10.jpg.scaled100010.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `#80sux is a go!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-12-80sux-is-a-go/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image11.jpg.scaled100011-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image11.jpg.scaled100011.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Nerds!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-11-nerds/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image12.jpg.scaled100012-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image12.jpg.scaled100012.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Blueberry pancakes #pancakepron` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-09-blueberry-pancakes-pancakepron/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image13.jpg.scaled100013-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image13.jpg.scaled100013.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Chocolate sprinkle pancakes #pancakepron` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-09-chocolate-sprinkle-pancakes-pancakepron/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image14.jpg.scaled100014-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image14.jpg.scaled100014.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Apple pancakes #pancakepron` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-09-apple-pancakes-pancakepron/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image15.jpg.scaled100015-300x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image15.jpg.scaled100015.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `That's one way to secure your scooter #sydneymorningphoto #weekendedition` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-08-thats-one-way-to-secure-your-scooter-sydneymorningphoto-weekendedition/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image16.jpg.scaled100016-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image16.jpg.scaled100016.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Nothing like the sweet smell of manure in the morning #sydneymorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-07-nothing-like-the-sweet-smell-of-manure-in-the-morning-sydneymorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image17.jpg.scaled100017-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image17.jpg.scaled100017.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Nice one, @Deskimo is Studio of the Month in October issue of Computer Arts magazine, incl out-of-focus @misswired` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-10-02-nice-one-deskimo-is-studio-of-the-month-in-october-issue-of-computer-arts-magazine/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-10-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image18.jpg.scaled100018-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/10/image18.jpg.scaled100018.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Playing with AR drone #arsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-09-22-playing-with-ar-drone-arsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-09-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image.jpg.scaled1000-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Specific marked AR pages, but no real, ghastly markers #arsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-09-22-specific-marked-ar-pages-but-no-real-ghastly-markers-arsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-09-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image1.jpg.scaled10001-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `The cake... “@halans: + Opera on a cake! #arsyd”` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-09-22-the-cake-halans-opera-on-a-cake-arsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-09-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image2.jpg.scaled10002-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Augmented Sydney Opera magazine #ARSyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-09-22-augmented-sydney-opera-magazine-arsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-09-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image3.jpg.scaled10003-300x205.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Different AR UX modes #ARSyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-09-22-different-ar-ux-modes-arsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-09-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image4.jpg.scaled10004-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Finally got my free Apple bumper. It's not too bad actually` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-09-21-finally-got-my-free-apple-bumper-its-not-too-bad-actually/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-09-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image5.jpg.scaled10005-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Quick service by LastExitToNowhere, got my Nexus-6 Bladerunner tshirt. Their XL is pretty big though` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-09-15-quick-service-by-lastexittonowhere-got-my-nexus-6-bladerunner-tshirt-their-xl-is-pretty-big-though/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-09-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image6.jpg.scaled10006-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image6.jpg.scaled10006.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Aww, how cute` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-09-11-aww-how-cute/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-09-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image7.jpg.scaled10007-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image7.jpg.scaled10007.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Foggy morning this morning #sydneymorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-09-09-foggy-morning-this-morning-sydneymorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-09-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image8.jpg.scaled10008-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image8.jpg.scaled10008.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Rainbow over Neutral Bay #sydneyeveningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-09-09-rainbow-over-neutral-bay-sydneyeveningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-09-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image9.jpg.scaled10009-300x170.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image9.jpg.scaled10009.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Zeldman guest edited .Net/Practical Web Design available now` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-09-04-zeldman-guest-edited-netpractical-web-design-available-now/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-09-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image10.jpg.scaled100010-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/09/image10.jpg.scaled100010.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `"Get Hooked" poem in hashtags #GetReading #PostcardPoetry http://getreading.com.au` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-27-get-hooked-poem-in-hashtags-getreading-postcardpoetry-httpgetreading-com-au/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image.jpg.scaled1000-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Nice glow this morning to wake up to #sydneymorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-26-nice-glow-this-morning-to-wake-up-to-sydneymorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `It's International Lighthouse Day today` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-21-its-international-lighthouse-day-today/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image2.jpg.scaled10002-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Article: The Web Credibility Project: Guidelines - Stanford University` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-16-article-the-web-credibility-project-guidelines-stanford-university/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

**The Web Credibility Project: Guidelines – Stanford University**  
[](http://credibility.stanford.edu/guidelines/index.html)

(Sent from [Flipboard](http://flipboard.com))


    Sent from my iPad
    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Prepared to watch some more Deadwood tonight...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-15-prepared-to-watch-some-more-deadwood-tonight/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image3.jpg.scaled10003-300x224.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Swedish meatballs FTW #Ikea` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-15-swedish-meatballs-ftw-ikea/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image4.jpg.scaled10004-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Eight principles of Information Architecture by Dan Brown` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-14-eight-principles-of-information-architecture-by-dan-brown/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 [http://asis.org/Bulletin/Aug-10/AugSep10\_Brown.pdf](http://asis.org/Bulletin/Aug-10/AugSep10_Brown.pdf)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `#sibsyd get some more rolls, don't let them go to waste!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-14-sibsyd-get-some-more-rolls-dont-let-them-go-to-waste/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image5.jpg.scaled10005-224x300.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `#sibsyd "Social innovation & new growth models" room A` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-14-sibsyd-social-innovation-new-growth-models-room-a/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image6.jpg.scaled10006-300x143.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image6.jpg.scaled10006.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `#sibsyd "Using your voice to increase engagement" @TimNoonan room B` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-14-sibsyd-using-your-voice-to-increase-engagement-timnoonan-room-b/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image7.jpg.scaled10007-300x104.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image7.jpg.scaled10007.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Lunch at #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-14-lunch-at-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image8.jpg.scaled10008-300x224.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image8.jpg.scaled10008.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Running a bit late... #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-14-running-a-bit-late-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image9.jpg.scaled10009-300x224.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image9.jpg.scaled10009.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Bob Carr opening #sibsyd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-14-bob-carr-opening-sibsyd/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image10.jpg.scaled100010-300x224.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image10.jpg.scaled100010.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `ABC24 live streaming on iPad` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-13-abc24-live-streaming-on-ipad/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Abc](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/abc.png.scaled.1000-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/abc.png.scaled.1000.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Next model and dress #syddes #framed` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-07-next-model-and-dress-syddes-framed/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]
## syddes

---


![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image.jpg.scaled500-200x300.jpg)


---

[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Finally, actual shooting is underway #syddes #framed` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-07-finally-actual-shooting-is-underway-syddes-framed/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image1.jpg.scaled5001-200x300.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Still testing the setup, 10% desaturated, lowered the contrast a bit #syddes #framed` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-07-still-testing-the-setup-10-desaturated-lowered-the-contrast-a-bit-syddes-framed/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image2.jpg.scaled5002-200x300.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Model almost ready... #syddes #framed` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-07-model-almost-ready-syddes-framed/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image11.jpg.scaled100011-300x224.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image11.jpg.scaled100011.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Set designed by Megan Morton #syddes #framed` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-07-set-designed-by-megan-morton-syddes-framed/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image3.jpg.scaled5003-200x300.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `The photographer Hamish standing in #syddes #framed` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-07-the-photographer-hamish-standing-in-syddes-framed/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image4.jpg.scaled5004-200x300.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Lots of assistants, testing lighting #syddes` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-08-07-lots-of-assistants-testing-lighting-syddes/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-08-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/08/image5.jpg.scaled5005-200x300.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Here's the front and back of the Greens postcard #openinternet` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-07-30-heres-the-front-and-back-of-the-greens-postcard-openinternet/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-07-30  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Here's the front and back of the Greens postcard #openinternet` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-07-30-heres-the-front-and-back-of-the-greens-postcard-openinternet-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-07-30  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image1.jpg.scaled10001-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Pink clouds #Sydneymorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-07-29-pink-clouds-sydneymorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-07-29  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image2.jpg.scaled10002-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Cambewarra lookout` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-07-24-cambewarra-lookout/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-07-24  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image3.jpg.scaled10003-300x132.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Jamberoo lookout` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-07-24-jamberoo-lookout/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-07-24  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image4.jpg.scaled10004-300x108.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Loved the way they presented my new car yesterday...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-07-23-loved-the-way-they-presented-my-new-car-yesterday/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-07-23  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image5.jpg.scaled10005-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Jason is on a roll #ignitesydney` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-07-15-jason-is-on-a-roll-ignitesydney/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-07-15  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image6.jpg.scaled10006-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image6.jpg.scaled10006.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Swedish meatballs FTW! #Ikea` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-07-09-swedish-meatballs-ftw-ikea-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-07-09  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image7.jpg.scaled10007-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image7.jpg.scaled10007.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Pretty cold inland #orangemorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-07-04-pretty-cold-inland-orangemorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-07-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image8.jpg.scaled10008-300x142.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image8.jpg.scaled10008.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `And my Google goodies for my weeklong presence` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-07-02-and-my-google-goodies-for-my-weeklong-presence/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-07-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image9.jpg.scaled10009-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/07/image9.jpg.scaled10009.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `New sign at our wharf` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-06-27-new-sign-at-our-wharf/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-06-27  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/06/image.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/06/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Finished product` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-06-27-finished-product/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-06-27  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/06/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/06/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Good morning Port Stephens` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-06-13-good-morning-port-stephens/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-06-13  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/06/image2.jpg.scaled10002-300x78.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/06/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Apple store selling NetComm MyZone mobile 3G wifi router, as alt to 3G ipad, $300.` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-06-05-apple-store-selling-netcomm-myzone-mobile-3g-wifi-router-as-alt-to-3g-ipad-300/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-06-05  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/06/image3.jpg.scaled10003-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/06/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `A bit depressing out there... (before/after, summer/winter)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-06-04-a-bit-depressing-out-there-beforeafter-summerwinter/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-06-04  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/06/image4.jpg.scaled10004-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/06/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `A bit depressing out there... (before/after, summer/winter)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-06-04-a-bit-depressing-out-there-beforeafter-summerwinter-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-06-04  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/06/image5.jpg.scaled10005-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/06/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `@mpesce looks like they didn't have much to write about (pic/text ratio)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-05-30-mpesce-looks-like-they-didnt-have-much-to-write-about-pictext-ratio/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-05-30  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image.jpg.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Old media on the iPad` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-05-27-old-media-on-the-ipad/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-05-27  

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With Wired finally arriving on the iPad this week, and the first Australian newspaper app (The Australian) published right on time for the iPad release down under, I thought I'd do a quick overview of old world media apps I've been playing with.

[Time Inc](http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/time-magazine/id369021520?mt=8): is close to the original magazine, but optimized for iPad reading, with additional video and picture content. I love the full screen pictorials. A single, simple navigation system of an horizontal page scrubber with section navigation. In-app purchases (finally), but still waiting for a subscription service.

[NYT Editor's Choice](http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/nyt-editors-choice/id357066198?mt=8): Good readability, extra photos and a bit of video, though it's a “lite” version of what will be the real thing.

[Wall Street Journal](http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/the-wall-street-journal/id364387007?mt=8): great scan-ability, good readability, extra video and images, left to right navigation inside category, top to bottom between categories, click the article box to get the full article, section navigation. But before you can read the latest edition, you need to wait for it to download in full. When you register, you get some great subscription offers through email, like up to 60% off the regular subscription price.

[The Australian](http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/the-australian/id369849696?mt=8): at a right price for a monthly subscription. Left to right navigation between sections, but the top navigation with drop downs is too “webby”. The biggest drawback is that the text on the section pages and article indexes is too small, both for reading and scan-ability. And the article pages are single column, which makes the text flow to wide (in landscape) to read comfortably. The text should really be in narrower columns, like in the paper edition (and NYT and WSJ apps). Feels like a rushed job, lots of room for improvement.

[Financial Times](http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/financial-times-ipad-edition/id370723705?mt=8): Doesn't load the whole edition at once (“Live Edition”), only when you navigate to a section. Tab at the top to get a section scrubber (which is customizable – nice), a news + quote search box, and the option to download the full edition for offline reading, which is a nice difference to the other newspapers (most of them require you to wait for a download before you can start reading). Left to right navigates between sections, up and down navigates inside a section, tab to get into article, left to right to switch between articles. Great scan-ability and readability. Section front pages are often more than a single screen long, which means you get more preview text per article (though, yes you have to scroll down to scan a section). You get three free full articles within 30 days (else limited to first paragraph).

[Popular Science](http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/popular-science/id364049283?mt=8): it all looks cool, but in the end the navigation is a bit un-intuitive. Swiping left to right, two finger swipes left to right, two finger swipe up, tab left and right… too steep a learning curve. In-app purchase.

[Wired](http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/wired-magazine/id373903654?mt=8): best magazine so far. Great content, close to the original, but with a lot of extra media: video, voice, music (two minutes to full tracks), 3D interactive elements. Though I wish some of the pictures could be enlarged to full screen. It does result in a large download (500+MB), not helped by the included “premium” video ads. Great navigation aids (an index, horizontal scrubber, and a zoomed out overview of the magazine), remembers where you are in individual articles. Switching between portrait and landscape mode reshuffles the content brilliantly. And it's cheaper than the imported, paper version (though in the US it's the same price). ([this guy](http://interfacelab.com/is-this-really-the-future-of-magazines-or-why-didnt-they-just-use-html-5/) doesn't like it)

[Zinio](http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/zinio-magazine-newsstand-reader/id364297166?mt=8) (also available as a desktop app): offers many popular magazines (National Geographic, Cosmo, Rolling Stone,… Mags from US, UK, NZ, AU, France,…). Magazines are partially optimized for the iPad. As in many articles the text is too small, you can often (but not for every article) switch to a text-only version of the article, which also allows you to enlarge the font. The pictures do look good, often you can zoom in by pinching for more details. There are some photo navigation features and low resolution video. You navigate through a page overview or a textual table of contents. The app is a bit buggy, but holds plenty of potential. Individual magazines as well as subscriptions are reasonably priced, but payment is through the browser (not through iTunes) with an account at Zinio, which actually gave me a nasty server error page. And when it does work, it asks for your credit card details over clear text HTTP! Please don't!

[GQ](http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/gq-magazine/id345562602?mt=8): cheap individual editions (US$2.99, for new, US$1.99 for back issues), but lots of adverts. In horizontal mode you see the magazine similarly as the paper edition (too small to read, but pinch to zoom in). Turn it into portrait, and you browse the articles through a full screen picture page, and tab it to get into the article, which is pretty nice. The article itself is split into a top photo section which can be minimized, and the article. Navigation through a horizontal scrubber or a popup index. In-app purchase.

[APC](http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/apc-magazine/id373791864?mt=8): feels like a PDF magazine. Forces user to rotate for some articles. Only a page scrubber for navigation, though section front pages allow you to jump right into an article. Some articles have a slideshow but without captions. Lots of adverts and classifieds (I guess the same ones as in the printed edition).

One of the biggest drawbacks of media apps on the iPad is the fact that they all behave differently, with different user interactions. I guess this will be temporary until a common interaction language is agreed upon. We do start to see some common navigation elements, like the horizontal page scrubber. But for now, mostly no rules, a wild wild west, which is both interesting and frustrating.

PS: I'd also like a night time reading option, with white on black/grey text (like the option in Stanza and Borders), because the iPad is a wee bit too bright in a dimmed room.
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## [POST_TITLE] `Wins! #sydjs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-05-19-wins-sydjs/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-05-19  

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[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Putting #webdu towel to good use...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-05-09-putting-webdu-towel-to-good-use/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-05-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image2.jpg.scaled10002-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `French, Tiger and Kaiser rolls. The Kaiser rolls remind me of ski holidays in Austria, many moons ago` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-05-08-french-tiger-and-kaiser-rolls-the-kaiser-rolls-remind-me-of-ski-holidays-in-austria-many-moons-ago/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-05-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image3.jpg.scaled10003-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Anyone interested in these, what looks like, oversized Kwak glasses? $8 for two. Garage sale around the corner.` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-05-08-anyone-interested-in-these-what-looks-like-oversized-kwak-glasses-8-for-two-garage-sale-around-the-corner/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-05-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image4.jpg.scaled10004-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `@mdowney he's kinda busy right now :) /cc @pburnett` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-05-03-mdowney-hes-kinda-busy-right-now-cc-pburnett/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-05-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image5.jpg.scaled10005-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Hidden game and advert in Tweetie 2` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-05-03-hidden-game-and-advert-in-tweetie-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-05-03  

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![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image.jpg.scaled500-300x218.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Hidden game and advert in Tweetie 2` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-05-03-hidden-game-and-advert-in-tweetie-2-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-05-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image1.jpg.scaled5001-300x187.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `My Zombiemarch march pictures in the new Hyper games mag [not the ones I would have picked]` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-05-01-my-zombiemarch-march-pictures-in-the-new-hyper-games-mag-not-the-ones-i-would-have-picked/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-05-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image6.jpg.scaled10006-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/05/image6.jpg.scaled10006.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Having added 700g (=ipad) to it this week seems to have killed my manbag/murse...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-04-15-having-added-700g-ipad-to-it-this-week-seems-to-have-killed-my-manbagmurse/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-04-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/image.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Opera Mini on top` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-04-14-opera-mini-on-top/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-04-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Apple_-_itunes_-_itunes_store_](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/Apple_-_iTunes_-_iTunes_Store_.png.scaled.500-116x300.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Apple vs Adobe` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-04-10-apple-vs-adobe/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-04-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

When you read the blogosphere, with the introduction of iPhone OS 4 and it's new T&C (which blocks cross compiled iPhone apps), it looks like we're in for a next stage in the war between Apple and Adobe's Flash. No doubt the particular clause in question is against Adobe. But why?

I went to the Adobe Refresh Roadshow event in February, where they showed off Flash CS5 and its capability to create iPhone apps. It was all very rudimentary. You couldn't actually create an app that feels like a real iPhone app as there were no UI elements available, no common iPhone interaction,… unless you created those yourself.And as they said, it was all very early days.

What struck me immediately was the fact they did not mention XCode at all. The demo was given on OSX, so XCode could have been installed, and it could have used it to compile the iPhone app. But Adobe Creative Suite sells both on Mac and Windows, and I'm pretty sure they want to sell it on both platforms. It would be the nr 1 reason to upgrade.

So after the event, I asked one of the presenters over Twitter if there was a need for XCode and if it would also work on Windows:

[![Twitter conversation](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/tweet_adoberefresh.jpg "Refresh Question")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/tweet_adoberefresh.jpg)

I leave it to you to draw your conclusions on what Adobe is doing (or how it is doing it). I think this could be easily solved if Adobe takes out the iPhone compilation out of it's main product, and sell it as an extension for the Mac version, which then would require XCode and would compile a Flash created XCode project, like Titanium creates and compiles an XCode project.

Shouldn't Apple and Adobe get together and talk this out over a coffee ([too](http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/10/03/26/apples_steve_jobs_googles_eric_schmidt_reconcile_over_coffee.html))?
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## [POST_TITLE] `Townhall: in case of emergency, do not use stairs` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-04-10-townhall-in-case-of-emergency-do-not-use-stairs/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-04-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/image1.jpg.scaled10001-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `What happened to the design? CSS Naked Day April 9` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-04-09-css-naked-day-april-9/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-04-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    Yes, it's international [CSS Naked Day](http://naked.dustindiaz.com/) 2010 today! That's why everything looks a bit black and white (and blue).

You wonder why? CSS Naked Day is about raising awareness about Web Standards and accessibility, the proper use of (x)html, semantic markup, a decent hierarchy structure. It's time to show off my gorgeous <body>!

To know more about why styles are disabled on this website visit the [Annual CSS Naked Day](http://naked.dustindiaz.com/ "Web Standards Naked Day Host Website") website for more information.


    
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## [POST_TITLE] `No iTunes LP/Extra on the iPad` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-04-08-no-itunes-lpextra-on-the-ipad/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-04-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

How wrong was I. In [The Rebirth of the LP](https://halans.com/posts/2010-01-30-the-rebirth-of-the-long-play-lp-record/) I wrote that I was expecting great things for the iTunes LP on the iPad. Well, I've got my iPad, and it doesn't take the iTunes LP files. You can buy them in the iTunes store on the iPad, but they are downloaded once you go back to your desktop pc in iTunes there. Bummer.

Still, I expect this to be fixed in an update of the OS, or maybe in iPhone OS 4 for iPad later in the year…
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## [POST_TITLE] `Late Easter Bunny delivery...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-04-08-late-easter-bunny-delivery/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-04-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/image3.jpg.scaled10003-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Crocodile Karaage at Mizuya` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-04-02-crocodile-karaage-at-mizuya/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-04-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

## Mizuya

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/image4.jpg.scaled10004-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Event Cinema #fail OSX screens up on George Street, and someone trying to pair up with Bluetooth` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-04-02-event-cinema-fail-osx-screens-up-on-george-street-and-someone-trying-to-pair-up-with-bluetooth/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-04-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/image5.jpg.scaled10005-300x84.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/04/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Getting “Londoned” – losing your email account` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-29-getting-londoned-losing-your-email-account/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

This is the collation of last week's interesting APWG mailthread on getting “Londoned”, when your GMail/Facebook/… account is compromised and all your contacts get a message like:

> Hello!  
> I'm sorry I didn't inform you about my traveling… am presently in London, United Kingdom on short vacation and as i write to you now.. its unbelievable am stuck here,got mugged at gun point on my way to the hotel and my money,credit cards,phone and other valuable things were taken off me at gun point, thanking Almighty God for save keeping my passport., i really need your urgent assistance quickly ? I JUST NEED SOME FEW HUNDREDS $$$ TO SORT OUT MY HOTEL BILLS AND i promise to refund it back to you once i get home cause i still have some cash in my account but i cant access any here right now ,already canceled all my cards immediately after the muggers took my things off me!!! still at the public internet library where am making use of the free internet access, i will forever be grateful if you can help me,Waiting to hear from you quickly cos my flight leaves in few hrs but need to sort the hotel bills and please save me from been embarrassed.
> 
> Thanks.  
> <your name>

Names and places change of course.

The advice given:

1\. When your email account is compromised, assume all your accounts are compromised. Most often the way to get back a lost password is through your email account.  
2\. Try to reset as many passwords as you can PLUS reset the password reset questions. If possible give an unlikely answer (but one you can remember). If you get the option to set up your own question, use an unlikely question.  
3\. Get in touch with the abuse@ teams at any accounts where you know of compromise. Facebook is familiar with these scams and can undo a lot of the messages being send around.  
4\. Contact your close friends and family to notify them of what happened (mere acquaintances probably won't send money), since you'd feel foolish if one was conned.  
5\. If the password was weak, assume it was guessed. Make sure your new password is a lot stronger.  
6\. But if the password was strong then it may have been stolen from somewhere else it was used; so you will need to address that. Try to use unique passwords for different services. Your Facebook password should not be the same as your email password for example.  
7\. If the password was strong and uniquely used, then you need to look for a keylogger somewhere it was used. Think of every machine you logged in from: at home, at work, some pc at an internet cafe? Then reset the passwords from a secure machine! Make sure your update your anti-virus, and run a virus scan (and preferably use a couple of anti-malware scanners too).  
8\. Time is of the essence. The scammers will try to get as many people to pay up in as short a timeframe as possible. Often they will sell your account information to specialised organisations. And they will try to move the conversation to another email account.

Google then posted an article on how they try to [detect suspicious account activity](http://googleonlinesecurity.blogspot.com/2010/03/detecting-suspicious-account-activity.html "Google Security blog") and allow you to deal with it.

A follow-up message might look like:

> OMG!!! l'm so glad to hear back from you. £950 GBP will cover all my expenses including my taxi fee to the airport, I promise to refund it to you as soon as I arrive home. You can wire it to my name via a western union agent near you for security reasons cos the name written below is whats on my passport and that can be a mode of identification to pick up the cash at a western union down the road here (faster and more secured).
> 
> Here are the details you need to get it to me:
> 
> Name:<your name>  
> Address: 5 Irving Street, London WC2H 7AT  
> Country:United Kingdom.
> 
> I still have my passport so I can use it as identification get back to me with transfer details and the confirmation number # to pick up the money with my passport also scan receipt you will receive from the western union canter let me know if you are leaving to WU now.

The value is usually chosen to be below floor limits where strong identification (like a passport) is needed, and as it is sent via Western Union, the address is meaningless, as the money can be picked up at any outlet in the UK.

Hope it may help anyone who fell victim.
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## [POST_TITLE] `"Internet block questioned by US"` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-28-internet-block-questioned-by-us/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image.jpg.scaled1000-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Nice turnout of zombies in Hyde park` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-27-nice-turnout-if-zombies-in-hyde-park/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x225.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `BNR! cc/ @boysnoize` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-20-bnr-cc-boysnoize/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

## boysnoize

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image2.jpg.scaled10002-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `@housi3000 Berlin is in da house! cc/ @boysnoize` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-20-housi3000-berlin-is-in-da-house-cc-boysnoize/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image3.jpg.scaled10003-300x225.jpg)  

(https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Where's my hot, freshly baked live cd? #thepixies` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-16-wheres-my-hot-freshly-baked-live-cd-thepixies/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

## Pixies

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image4.jpg.scaled10004-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Gigantic... Thank you! #thepixies` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-16-gigantic-thank-you-thepixies/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

## Pixies 

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image5.jpg.scaled10005-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Where is my mind #thepixies` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-16-where-is-my-mind-thepixies/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]
## Pixies

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image6.jpg.scaled10006-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image6.jpg.scaled10006.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Gigantic, where is my mind, ... More! #thepixies` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-16-gigantic-where-is-my-mind-more-thepixies/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image7.jpg.scaled10007-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image7.jpg.scaled10007.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `I guess what the Rolling Stones were to my parents, #ThePixies are to me...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-16-i-guess-what-the-rolling-stones-were-to-my-parents-thepixies-are-to-me/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image8.jpg.scaled10008-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image8.jpg.scaled10008.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `La la love you...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-16-la-la-love-you/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]
## Pixies 

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image9.jpg.scaled10009-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image9.jpg.scaled10009.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Monkey's gone to heaven...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-16-monkeys-gone-to-heaven/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image10.jpg.scaled100010-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image10.jpg.scaled100010.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Here comes your man... #thepixies` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-16-here-comes-your-man-thepixies/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image11.jpg.scaled100011-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image11.jpg.scaled100011.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `And we're off #thepixies` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-16-and-were-off-thepixies/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

## Pixies 

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image12.jpg.scaled100012-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image12.jpg.scaled100012.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Make sure you grab Symbian's Hitchhiker's Guide to the Runtime Space at reg desk #fndc10` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-02-make-sure-you-grab-symbians-hitchhikers-guide-to-the-runtime-space-at-reg-desk-fndc10/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image13.jpg.scaled100013-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image13.jpg.scaled100013.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Try that again. Get an Acceleration Package for Qt or WRT dev for free (worth $300), see slide #fndc10` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-02-try-that-again-get-an-acceleration-package-for-qt-or-wrt-dev-for-free-worth-300-see-slide-fndc10/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image14.jpg.scaled100014-300x234.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/03/image14.jpg.scaled100014.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Get an Acceleration Package for Qt or WRT dev for free (worth $300), see slide #fndc10` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-03-02-get-an-acceleration-package-for-qt-or-wrt-dev-for-free-worth-300-see-slide-fndc10/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-03-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 Sorry, something went wrong posting pic. See:  


\[\[posterous-content:ygjAypbgljAukhoefHco\]\]

viatweetie
    
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## [POST_TITLE] `My @notepods iPad Notepod+ notepad arrived today, sweet!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-02-28-my-notepods-ipad-notepod-notepad-arrived-today-sweet/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-02-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/image.jpg.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Google Maps Marker ad in QVG` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-02-23-google-maps-marker-ad-in-qvg/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-02-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/image1.jpg.scaled10001-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `@jeresig and @lindsayevans at Sweeney rooftop bar. Bring on the bacon!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-02-20-jeresig-and-lindsayevans-at-sweeney-rooftop-bar-bring-on-the-bacon/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-02-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/image2.jpg.scaled10002-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `New Year's Resolution: Losing weight` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-02-13-new-years-resolution-losing-weight/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-02-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

As tweeted earlier, I've managed to loose 5kg in 6 weeks. That last kilo was a bit harder, taking me two weeks, but I managed to get my first target of the year.

Next target is another 5kg, which I should be able to reach by April.

So, as a couple of people have asked, how did I do it? Fitness daily? The carrot diet? The beer diet? Shakes?  
Common sense, really. I was eating warm lunch, and another warm dinner, and that really got my weight spiralling upwards. Now, dinner is salad. Mind you, still with dressing, and tasty ingredients (I'm not a rabbit after all).

Nothing much else has changed: I don't go to fitness, I walk 20 minutes twice every day (to work), I eat foodcourt lunches (beef rendang, asian noodles, sandwiches, pasta,…), have coffee in the morning, once a week a banana bread for breakfast (I used to have three a week, which was pretty bad), a piece of dark chocolate in the evening, a glass of wine (or two :) in the evening,…

And a royal salad for dinner, with ingredients like:

- recurring: lettuce (iceberg, or curly), tomato, cucumber, carrots, pepitas, sunflower seeds
- variation: hard cheese cubes, mozzarella, herring, avocado, mandarins, mango, apple and bacon, chicken fillet, steak or wagyu burger (yum! but red meat max once a week)…
- and a dash of dressing (balsamic, 1000 island, a dash of mayo,…)

And just by changing our dinner, I lost 5kg in 6 weeks, and it looks like (and I hope) I can still loose more, though I wonder when I'll hit the ceiling (and I'd need to get more physical activity to loose more).
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## [POST_TITLE] `Tonight's salad: iceberg, tomato, cucumber, carrots, cheese, pepitas, sunflower seeds` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-02-13-tonights-salad-iceberg-tomato-cucumber-carrots-cheese-pepitas-sunflower-seeds/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-02-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/image4.jpg.scaled10004-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Great sunrise #sydneymorningphoto` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-02-11-great-sunrise-sydneymorningphoto/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-02-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/image5.jpg.scaled10005-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Chocolate iPhone case, noms` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-02-06-chocolate-iphone-case-noms/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-02-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/image6.jpg.scaled10006-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/image6.jpg.scaled10006.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Behold!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-02-05-behold/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-02-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Moses_sm](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/02/moses_sm-240x300.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `The rebirth of the Long Play (LP) record` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-01-30-the-rebirth-of-the-long-play-lp-record/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-01-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Remember the LP? I'm not really talking about the actual vinyl, but the cardboard cover it was encased by. Some artist aspired it to be a work of art, something that extended the music, in an analogue world. I remember my dad having a Rolling Stones Sticky Fingers LP with a real zipper attached to it. Some LPs would fold open. You could hold them, reading or singing along to the lyrics while listening. I used to have the New Order Blue Monday floppy disk LP, some fancy Cure LPs, Primus,…

Then the CD replaced the LP, at less than a quarter of the size. Which means the booklets shrank too. Publishers started adding extra content onto the cd itself, hybrid cds with video. Now we have mp3 downloads, with hardly any cover art. Sometimes we'd get an extra pdf booklet, which I think is pretty sad mostly. Or the web itself on the official artist's website (if you can find it) offers additional content, videos, lyrics,…

Then Apple quietly introduced iTunes LP and iTunes Extra last year with the new iTunes 9, but only with a limited number of titles, mostly older releases, repackaged with some video, lyrics. I haven't seen that list grow either for the last 4 months. No new releases with LP content. Then end of November '09 Apple quietly published the [TuneKit API](http://www.apple.com/itunes/lp-and-extras/), for publishers to developer iTunes LPs. If you look at the technology, it's as open as it gets: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, packaged in a webarchive with .itlp extension (just rename to zip and open up). It works both on Mac and Windows iTunes, and on the Apple TV. But currently not on the iPhone or iPod touch. It is supposed to be similar to the CMX (Connected Media Experience) format supported by 4 major music companies, but they still need to deliver any actual media content (which is supposed to be the second quarter of 2010).

Up until now the submission (by music and movie publishers only) has been manual and limited. When you look at the iTunes LP page now, it says:

> “Automatic, electronic submission of your iTunes LP or Extra is scheduled for the first quarter of 2010.”

Cue, the Apple iPad! Although missing from Steve's presentation, it seems obvious that music publishers will be offering lots more iTunes LPs by the time the iPad is released (at least that's what Apple is preparing for based on the above comment). It provides music publishers with extra revenue for music and video. And it provides Apple with another media segment to be sold to eager consumers (like me) using their hardware. Apple has control of the whole ecosystem: selling hardware, developing the format, selling the media. A hard act to follow by media companies, although at one point in time Sony was probably one of the few global companies to be able to offer a similar ecosystem of hardware, movies, music and games. But by now it may be a little too late. All they can do is try to catch up.

This also offers another great opportunity for web developers. You can actually publish your “iTunes LP” anywhere, have people download it on their iPad, which opens iTunes and shows your media/app (pure speculation at this time of course)! In time, the TuneKit API might be should be updated with a JavaScript touch API (like [PastryKit](http://www.nxfx.com/blog/iphone-development/apples-pastry-kit-iphone-javascript-toolkit/)?). If they don't, you can always add it yourself! As for now I haven't played around that much just yet. I'm not sure if it can load external content into an iTunes LP to get updated content.

Flux 2, a web development IDE for the Mac, comes with an iTunes LP and iTunes Extra template to get you started!

Of course you can do all this with a website. But the iTunes LP offers something to distribute, use offline. It might be just one more trick up your sleeve.
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## [POST_TITLE] `A case for the iPad` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-01-30-a-case-for-the-ipad/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-01-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I love gadgets! I'm a techno consumerist, and maybe even a little bit of an Apple whore (although I don't unconditionally bend over for Steve!). There, I said it, it's out of the way!

My love for gadgets started when I got to work on the web (I think) back in 1997. I started to make some real money, so I could afford some things once in a while. Working in this environment exposes you to servers and routers and stuff, and you start to get intrigued about how things work (or don't work). Still, laptops were pretty expensive back then, and underpowered. My first laptop was some Compaq, a 14″ one with a detachable cd-rom wedge, which made it pretty cool actually. Slim and light. I liked it alot. But my first true gadget, was the Compaq iPaq 3630 pocket pc in 2000. It was the first pocketable device, that looked nice, felt nice and had stuff going for it. It had these jackets you could slide it into that would extend its functionality (like extended battery, compact flash card readers…). Now I wish I was blogging back then, so I'd remember what it was like. I did find this [review](http://www.pdasupport.com/Ipaq3630.htm). But back then, I still felt it was pretty limited in use, not really a joy to use. Since then I had a bunch of gadgets, most of which I don't remember really (I bought a PSP years ago to browse wirelessly, not necessarily for games), that's how much impact they had on my life (none).

My first foray into Apple territory was a beige [G3 Power Macintosh](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_Macintosh_G3) minitower desktop with a 21″ Apple CRT display, at work, I guess around 98-99. I didn't like OS9 much, but I was using it to do some manuals in FrameMaker, and video editing, next to the development I did on Windows NT4/2000. Around 99 or 2000, we bought our first Apple for home use, a Bondi blue iMac G3. I played around with some Director development (remember Lingo?), but mainly used it for surfing the web and webdesign. I believe I sold it again and went back to a Windows pc at home. In 2005 I bought my first 30 GB white iPod, which I loved. A couple of years later, we bought a (second hand) white “lampshade” iMac which came with OSX which was so much nicer to use (than OS9 and Windows I thought). We loved it! It still felt underpowered though, if I remember correctly. But then we had to sell it again when moving to Australia. In early 2007 I bought my first Apple Macbook Pro (to replace a dead Acer laptop), followed by a first gen iPod touch, and a couple of months later the first gen, jailbroken iPhone from eBay. Followed up by an iPhone 3G and then last year a 3GS. I upgraded to the new unibody MBP last year. I've got a LCD cinema display, an Apple TV, an Airport Extreme and Time Capsule. Sooo, will I buy an this new Apple device? You guess…

That was a bit of background history. The fact that I remember these Apple devices, and not much of any of the other gadgets in between (oh, a Mio GPS, and forgot about the Sony Clie PEG-UX50), means that they had some impact in my life, they gelled into life and I loved using them. They do their job and get out of the way. And I'm a (web)developer, I love to get my hands dirty trying things out, see how it works, how to develop something that works on particular platform.

I jumped on the netbook bandwagon. I was intrigued by the its form factor, it's kinda like a baby laptop. It's cheap enough to carry around (and loose it, have it stolen,… in stead of my workhorse MBP), small enough to fit in my “manbag”/gadgetbag, and it “kinda” offers the full PC experience. This when travelling, going to meetups/conferences. Yes, an iPhone does fit this profile too: It's great to tweet, keep track of your email, search Google, GPS your way around town, grab a picture,… And I love it! It has some crazy cool apps, great games. It contains my most recent music (I've got a 160GB classic iPod that contains everything), it links to my Flickr account to show of my latest pictures on the go, I check the weather, the TV timetable, use Shazam when I hear music I like, has my contacts, keep a noise diary in Evernote, get the next Sydney ferry, keep track of my weight, check my bank account, play Wurdle, find nearby ATMs, remote desktop into my work pc at team meetings,… All in my pants' pocket (yes, I am still talking about the iPhone here).

But the iPhone really isn't comfortable to read lots of email, blogposts, nor ebooks for that matter (neither is a BlackBerry, or an Android phone). Sure the Stanza an Kindle apps allow you to do read ebooks, and some PDF apps allow you to read PDFs. But you really don't want to read like that for an hour or more. Neither is it particularly practical to watch long (movie length) videos. It's great for three minute YouTube videos, and three in a row at that. It's inherent to that particular formfactor. And then there is the battery life while actively using the iPhone. I don't bitch about it, because, again the formfactor limits the size of the battery they can use. Previous phones didn't allow this functionality anyway so that's why batteries would last for days. Or when they did offer the functionality, you still would hardly ever use it because the user experience would be so appalling (Nokia N95 anyone?).

That's why I thought a netbook is a great idea. So I'd have something to easily browse the web, read emails and ebooks (pdf or some ebook format), while watching TV at night in the sofa, in bed in the morning without disturbing my partner, or at a conference, or while travelling. My 15″ MacBook Pro is really too big to read in bed, gets too hot, makes too much noise when it is so hot… (though it does have a backlit keyboard) . I got me a 7″ eeePC. It was crap. The screen and keyboard too small to do anything. It was rather a toy for toddlers.

I upgraded to a 10″ Aspire One. It feels more like a normal laptop. It is pretty nice actually. It is a WinXP, with 160GB harddisk, 2GB memory. It's 10″ but it's resolution is 1024×600, which isn't that practical for browsing either as the height of the viewport is pretty low. I mostly end up going full screen in Firefox. Reading ebooks, or particularly PDFs, isn't practical either on this resolution. It's just too narrow. Sure I can rotate a pdf, and hold the netbook like a book, but it still doesn't feel right. The keyboard is decent but cramped. The touchpad is a bit too small too.

And yes, I can multitask, if I want to, but I use Gmail in Firefox, and a Firefox extension for Twitter. When I really want to dig into Twitter, I'd open up TweetDeck, and sure whenever I click a link Firefox pops to the front. I can multitask, to run Spybot or CrapCleaner in the background while browsing in Firefox. I can multitask, as ZoneAlarm keeps me safe, while Windows Update does its thing. I've got TopStyle installed for when I ever need to fix some html or css on the go. I can open and edit Word documents. But that's not what I use my netbook for. I mainly use it to browse the net (as in “net”book right?), on the sofa, in bed in the morning,… Sure I can watch videos in Flash, and then the ventilator starts to blow to keep it all cool… As it does whenever browsing media sites with Flash ads on each side. That's why you'd install a FlashBlock extension in Firefox.

I've taken my netbook to some conferences, sometimes to take notes, or browse any examples given by the presenter, or check email in between sessions. But then again battery life is only about 2,5 hours. I guess by now, netbooks come with 6 cell batteries for the same price which would double that time. And I kinda hate it when people are tapping away on their laptop at conferences as it's really distracting (so I tend to not tap away either, and an iPhone is a lot quieter to type on, but too small to do so continuesly). So, what was a netbook good for again?

Last year I bought a Kindle when they introduced their international version. This is an ebook reader. No more, no less. I though the price was right, the overall size was right. I buy a lot of “dead-tree” books, but in itself they are too heavy/impractical to log around (on holiday, to work, across continents,…). And often ebooks are cheaper (but not always that much!). The screen really reads a lot better than a laptop screen. The 6″ screensize is the minimum size you'd need to comfortably read an ebook on the sofa. It holds a charge for almost two weeks. It's got a 3G connection, but only to connect to the Amazon mothership to buy books, and update your virtual bookmark (the location in any book you stopped reading at). When I get back to my iPhone, the Kindle book would update to the last read page. Pretty nice. You can add other books in non-Kindle-drm'd ebook formats easily over USB, as display PDFs. But you can't zoom into PDFs, and the 6″ screen is too small. You can rotate them, but the the viewport is too narrow again (like on the netbook). I guess the Kindle DX with it's 10″ fixes these issues, but at $490 it becomes too expensive for a single use device I think (and a lot less an impulse buy).

I was also interested in getting a Time magazine subscription (as well as some other titles), maybe even some newspaper. But on the international Kindle, Amazon limits subscription by not including pictures (which would be in grey anyway), which makes a lot of articles, and the subscription in general, a lot less attractive. They should, and could, update subscriptions through their desktop app. But the Kindle doesn't get hot, doesn't make any noise. It feels good in your hand. And I like it (maybe because it kinda feels Apple-y?). But it only does books. No internet browsing, no email, no socializing. This year more ebook readers are being introduced which offer some more functionality (without custom apps or APIs to build on), but often at an inflated price point. One of the selling points of the Kindle, its “free” lifetime, “Whispernet” 3G connection turns out to be also one of its Achilles heels. Since a couple of weeks, Amazon offers a Kindle API for developers, to develop active content on the Kindle. But how “active” can it be if you can only use 100KB per month of Whispernet on offer (as developer you can buy more data though)?

Anyway, I think I'm going to end this one right here. That's a pretty long post making the case for the Apple iPad without actually mentioning it, no? I guess the hype was too much this time round for Apple to easily disappoint people. But I feel most of the complaints people vent are full of bull\*\*\*\*. Yes it doesn't do the dishes, nor a good cup of coffee. I for one can't wait to get my hands on one!

PS: While writing this on my MBP, I started up my Aspire One. It had been a couple of months. I had to restart twice as there were Windows updates twice (in stead of bundling them all into one update), and there was a Flash update. Sigh.
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## [POST_TITLE] `MBP videocard shenanigans after a reboot. Reboot again, fixed. Still WTF.` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-01-19-mbp-videocard-shenanigans-after-a-reboot-reboot-again-fixed-still-wtf/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-01-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/01/image.jpg.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/01/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bit disappointing result for Stephen Conroy (though 230k for the one result isn't too bad)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-01-05-bit-disappointing-result-for-stephen-conroy-though-230k-for-the-one-result-isnt-too-bad/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-01-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Sc01](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/01/SC01-265x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/01/SC01.jpg)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Kira Carden does amazing things with hoola hoops #fieldday #burlesque` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-01-01-kira-carden-does-amazing-things-with-hoola-hoops-fieldday-burlesque/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-01-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/01/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/01/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Proxy busting dirty breaks #fieldday` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-01-01-proxy-busting-dirty-breaks-fieldday/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-01-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/01/image2.jpg.scaled10002-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/01/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Bob Log III, a weird, groovy bluesy act http://www.boblog111.com/ #fieldday` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-01-01-bob-log-iii-a-weird-groovy-bluesy-act-httpwww-boblog111-com-fieldday/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-01-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/01/image3.jpg.scaled10003-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/01/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `"Pump up the jam"... #fieldday` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2010-01-01-pump-up-the-jam-fieldday/   
[POST_DATE] 2010-01-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/01/image4.jpg.scaled10004-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2010/01/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Great water exhibit at the National Museum` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-12-27-great-water-exhibit-at-the-national-museum/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-12-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image.jpg.scaled1000-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Great water exhibit at the National Museum` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-12-27-great-water-exhibit-at-the-national-museum-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-12-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Yea-ha, boxing day rodeo` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-12-26-yea-ha-boxing-day-rodeo/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-12-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image2.jpg.scaled10002-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `What's Xmas like without some drama, right? Cut a chunk of my thumb...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-12-25-whats-xmas-like-without-some-drama-right-cut-a-chunk-of-my-thumb/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-12-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image3.jpg.scaled10003-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `And the Walk is on it's way #waw09` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-12-12-and-the-walk-is-on-its-way-waw09/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-12-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image4.jpg.scaled10004-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image4.jpg.scaled10004.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Martin Place pano #waw09` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-12-12-martin-place-pano-waw09/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-12-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image5.jpg.scaled10005-300x75.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image5.jpg.scaled10005.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Martin Place crowd` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-12-12-martin-place-crowd/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-12-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image6.jpg.scaled10006-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image6.jpg.scaled10006.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `New? Gmaps on iPhone showing (only) NAB ATM?` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-12-05-new-gmaps-on-iphone-showing-only-nab-atm/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-12-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/12/image.jpg.scaled500-200x300.jpg) via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `If there's a hair in your burger - #movember` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-11-17-if-theres-a-hair-in-your-burger-movember/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-11-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/11/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Compromise detection stats #securesydney` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-11-11-compromise-detection-stats-securesydney/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-11-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/11/image1.jpg.scaled10001-300x225.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/11/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Lunapark has a mo #movember` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-11-10-lunapark-has-a-mo-movember/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-11-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/11/image2.jpg.scaled10002-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/11/image2.jpg.scaled10002.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Google's Testing on the Toilet: 'Memory retention in Java' #oahack` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-11-07-googles-testing-on-the-toilet-memory-retention-in-java-oahack/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-11-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/11/image3.jpg.scaled10003-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/11/image3.jpg.scaled10003.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Glorious day outside. Love the purple Jacaranda trees popping up everwhere` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-10-30-glorious-day-outside-love-the-purple-jacaranda-trees-popping-up-everwhere/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-10-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/10/image.jpg.scaled1000-300x94.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/10/image.jpg.scaled1000.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `iPhone holds 21% of smartphone market in Australia` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-10-18-iphone-holds-21-of-smartphone-market-in-australia/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-10-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

iPhone holds 21% of smartphone market in Australia  
[http://www.computerworld.com.au/article/321892/iphone\_sends\_aussie\_smartphone…](http://www.computerworld.com.au/article/321892/iphone_sends_aussie_smartphone_market_soaring)

via[google-wave-robot](http://posterous-robot.appspot.com)
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## [POST_TITLE] `Lululemon's OctoberBreast, save the boobies...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-10-17-lululemons-octoberbreast-save-the-boobies/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-10-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[![Image](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/10/image1.jpg.scaled10001-225x300.jpg)](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/10/image1.jpg.scaled10001.jpg)  

via tweetie
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## [POST_TITLE] `Blog Action Day` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-10-15-blog-action-day/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-10-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

It's [Blog Action Day](http://www.blogactionday.org/) today. That means bloggers around the world blog about the same topic. This year it's climate change.

Climate change affects everyone, even the deniers. What's the cause of climate change? Our hunger for energy. Energy to power our desktops and laptops, our iPhones, our LCD/plasma screens…

Have a look around the office this morning (let's say early 8am). How many people are around? How many PCs and screens are on, showing their screensaver, and doing nothing? Yes, it's easy to press a button and have it on instantly. But it's a serious waste of energy, and money paying for that energy.

Why do people leave their PC on overnight? It might be corporate policy to back up overnight. But shouldn't files be stored on a file server anyway? Aren't there images of fully installed OS's for whenever something goes wrong? And can a backup server not remotely wake a PC from hibernation over Wake-On-LAN to do its stuff?

And, no, turning off your monitor does not turn off your PC (like in the movies). But there is a simple solution, the other way around: a Master/Slave powerboard. You plug in your PC as Master, and your screen(s) as Slave, and when your PC gets into sleep or hibernation, or ideally you turn it off, your screen(s) (and printer, scanner) will get turned off automatically. This is a very low impact (on your productivity) solution, which saves heaps of energy each year for your company, helping its bottom line, and the planet.
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## [POST_TITLE] `A Webdeveloper and iPhone app development` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-09-27-a-webdeveloper-and-iphone-app-development/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-09-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

So finally, after almost a year since I registered as an iPhone developer over at Apple, I build myself a couple of iPhone apps. Here's how.

I have a couple of Objective C books laying around, which I opened once in a while, but closing them again pretty quickly… so I never got around developing anything. For now, I couldn't justify any time spend on learning yet again another language. It is after all just a hobby project (the iPhone development that is). As a webdeveloper I could develop cool iPhone web apps (with jQTouch), but still that wouldn't give me the same satisfaction as a native app. Then there are a couple of frameworks like PhoneGap and NimbleKit which allow you to develop iPhone apps with HTML, CSS and JavaScript. But you're still confronted with XCode, working in a new environment.

Then I found Appcelerator and their [Titanium Mobile](http://www.appcelerator.com/products/titanium-mobile/). Their Titanium product allows for cross platform development for desktop apps, and their Titanium Mobile allows for, well, cross platform mobile applications, using JavaScript and HTML. And Titanium Mobile is itself written in Titanium. Still in beta, I thought I'd give it a try. Was I in for a surprise! Titanium Mobile creates native iPhone and Android apps, which means you get to use native UI elements, the GPS, the accelerator,… to get some apps up and running pretty quickly. For example, I took the http://nextsydneyferry.com code and converted into a simple iPhone app (in the simulator) in less than 30 minutes! Before I was able to get it onto my iPhone though, I had to set up “provisioning”, generating certificates and all. Something you need to do for XCode development too. Once that was set up, you click a button and it gets transferred through iTunes to your iPhone, and you got yourself a native app. Without opening XCode, in my preferred webdevelopment environment!

Some gotchas:

- If you want to develop iPhone apps, you still need the iPhone SDK which is Mac only. No way around that. But you already have a Mac, right?
- You're building native apps, and there's different support between iPhone and Android. For one some features are missing in the other. So you'll need to cater for that, and fork code between iPhone and Android.
- You still need to follow Apple's design guidelines (although I've seen some horrible apps out there that don't follow any design guideline). You're not building an iPhone app for Android, or an Android app on iPhone.
- Don't expect to go building 30fps 3D apps or something, you're better of doing that in Objective C

Having said that, for simple text-based, web-connected applications, Titanium Mobile is perfect:

- There's the basic [API documentation](http://www.codestrong.com/timobile/api/) of the JavaScript framework.
- They have a Kitchen Sink app and source that shows you all there is available in the framework, so it's just a matter of copy/pasting.
- There's a great [forum](http://support.appcelerator.net/) for support and discussions.
- There are a couple of screencasts to get you started.
- Both iPhone and Android apps (and soon Blackberry) with a little bit of effort. I hope they would also add Palm's WebOS.
- It's Open Source (on [GitHub](http://github.com/appcelerator)).

Oh right, something about the iPhone apps I developed… A [NextSydneyFerry](http://nextsydneyferry.com/app/) app, which is just a port of the web application into Titanium Mobile. I might add some more features like saving the data locally, so you don't need a web connection (only for updates). And a Twitter visualization tool called [TweetFrame](http://tweetframeapp.com/), which cycles through tweets based on a search query you define, like “a digital picture frame, but for tweets”. The funny thing is that, through Facebook I got a request to have something like TweetFrame, but as a website widget (don't know why, but there were already widgets like that). Well, since it's just some JavaScript, I did the reverse and created a [widget](http://tweetframeapp.com/widget/) based off of the iPhone app… You can see it in action on the homepage, below the Flickr feed.

For now I mainly focused on iPhone. I don't care that much for Android at the moment, though with a little extra effort I could get them to work on Android too. One of the other platforms Appcelerator is looking at is Blackberry (though could )

It's golden times for web developers, a Renaissance, where HTML(5) and JavaScript open great possibilities. I think we're only seeing the tip of the iceberg, there's so much happening now, it's an exciting time.

So, if you've been keeping off developing for iPhone, try out Titanium Mobile!
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## [POST_TITLE] `Another blogging platform` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-06-26-another-blogging-platform/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-06-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Testing out a blogpost on Posterous…
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## [POST_TITLE] `Winter in Tasmania: back home (day 5)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-06-14-winter-in-tasmania-back-home-day-5/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-06-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

-day 5 of our 5 day trip to Tasmania-

[![Snow in Tarraleah](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2118/3621052953_54681d87d3_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/3621052953/in/set-72157619587780690/)

And indeed, we woke up to a white blanket of snow. But not enough to keep us in Tarraleah. We drove off at 8:15, as the breakfast cafe only opened at 9. It was a different scenery than the day before, a lovely white forrest around Tarraleah, with snow covered gumtrees and ferns.

We ended up having late breakfast at a Banjo's in New Norfolk (yummy eggs Benedict, and bacon and eggs). As we drove back down to Hobart, we were looking for Bagdad, but there was actually nothing to see. A truly missed opportunity, marketing wise: no Bagdad Cafe, or postcards or anything.

[![Snow in Tarraleah](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3644/3621928860_a094d971d0_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/3621928860/in/set-72157619587780690/)

Drove down to Richmond and the Richmond bridge, and had our Banjo's rasburry shortbread cake there. There was only a couple of hours left for us to return the car. We still went on to Pirates Bay lookout and the underwhelming tessalated pavement rocks. Times up and we drove back towards the airport, enjoying more lovely lookouts.

We were early at the airport (14:30), but that meant we didn't have to queue at the rental company, checkin nor security. Unfortunately our plane was delayed by 20 minutes, which meant we only had a 10 minute window for our connecting flight in Melbourne. But on arrival in Melbourne there were no worries, as they hadn't started boarding yet there, their boarding delayed by 30 minutes. They started boarding as we arrived.

And the rest is history, right? Next day, back to work (for a very short working week)!

Photos on this [Flickr set](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157619587780690/)!
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## [POST_TITLE] `Winter in Tasmania: Cradle Mountain (day 4)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-06-14-winter-in-tasmania-cradle-mountain-day-4/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-06-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

## Day 4 of our 5 day trip to Tasmania-

Big breakfast at the Lodge, like really big: bacon, beans and eggs, pancakes with fruit, and a croissant with smoked salmon…

No internet reception in Cradle Mountain, so looked on the Lodge's internet kiosk for Tarraleah comfirmation. At the same time checked out the new Apple iPhone announcement :), and my mail. Noticed that this day Google Wave hackathon registration would be opened at ten, hmm. So between 9 and 10 we did the Enchanted walk right at the beginning of the national park, and then headed back to this internet kiosk to register (#iamageek :).

[![Loop walk](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3622/3620280799_2b5bd1c9a8_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/3620280799/in/set-72157619587780690/)

Next we did the King Billy loop walk at the Lodge, another easy walk, though it was raining a bit, leaving Cradle Mountain at 11:30, when heavy rain started. Backtracking part of the same road back. At Delaware the road started to get interesting again. At Mole Creek lot of rain, when I wished it would snow in stead (as we didn't have snow yet). We stopped at a lookout where there was nothing to see because of the rain, where it then started to snow! We drove on and a ute was blocking the road. The car had crashed into the road railing, and it's front wheel had broken. The local (in a t-shirt in 0C weather) managed to get the car of the road and we gave him a lift till past Bearnie, the next village. It turned out people here also don't have (Telstra) reception, so dropped him off at a phonebooth, near Great Lake.

[![Desolate](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3406/3621189946_fe2e4f2b5d_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/3621189946/in/set-72157619587780690/)

Snow at this height had stopped and we passed some great views of the Great Lake. The road turned into gravel road, for the next 50 km. We found ourself on the great plateau, the Central Highlands, at about 1000m. Very desolate landscape (reminds me of Iceland don't know why because I've never been there). More lakes and more dirt road. We finally got some asphalt again, and boy the car looked dirty. Had to clean the back window of car as it was covered in dirt.

[![Tarraleah](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3645/3621038063_98440473b4_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/3621038063/in/set-72157619587780690/)

We drove past vast hydro works and arrived at Tarraleah around 4pm. Tarraleah is a village turned into a holiday village. It used to house the workmen working on the hydro works, but they have long moved on. We stayed at a refurbished school building, which was pretty cool, but also cold this time of the year. We had dinner at the local Highlander tavern (the only place for dinner), having warm smoked trout mouse and a big scotch fillet with mushroom saus. The Inn keeper was trying to scare us saying two days of snow was expected and we would be stuck!

Read on, [final day 5](https://halans.com/posts/2009-06-14-winter-in-tasmania-back-home-day-5/).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Winter in Tasmania: Cradle Mountain (day 3)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-06-14-winter-in-tasmania-cradle-mountain-day-3/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-06-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

## Day 3 of our 5 day trip to Tasmania

We had self made breakky in our cabin (eggs + toast). In Ross I happen to get Vodafone GPRS reception, slow but at least it's something. No Optus what so ever. So I started looking for Tuesday's accommodation, somewhere in the middle. I picked Tarraleah, and The Scholar House there.

[![Clouds](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3322/3616690562_bfbfd274d5_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/3616690562/in/set-72157619587780690/)

In the morning we walked through Ross (which is really only one main street), and got some local goodies from the bakery (a shortbread wheel). We passed through Evandale, which is another old, colonial town, and snapped some great pics of low hanging clouds. Again, we passed a bunch of lovely lookouts on the way to Cradle Mountain. But arriving at Cradle Mountain, there's lots of diseased or dead trees, at Middlesex Planes.

[![Dove Lake](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3618/3615873111_8328e0295a_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/3615873111/in/set-72157619587780690/)

Checked in at the Cradle Mountain Lodge (into cabin 73) and visited… the visitor center of Cradle Mountain (another 22$ day pass). At the visitor centre is a short boardwalk through local forest. There's a bus service departing here to Dove Lake, as a sign tells us parking spots are limited, and there's a 30 minute waiting time. We thought we'd risk it anyway and driving down to Dove lake. Turned out not even a third was filled up. Dove Lake with Cradle Mountain in the background is lovely. We walked down towards Glacier Rock. While there a rainbow appeared, a great photo opportunity. Up here it was the first time that we really felt the wintery cold, so you'd better dress up.

We didn't stay too long, as we wanted to do another short stroll along boardwalk (Kenny something walk). That evening we had dinner at the Lodge's Tavern (tomato soup and oysters, scotch fillet and salmon). While walking down to the tavern, we had a wombat encounter, a mommy with her baby, so cute! After dinner we enjoyed our cabin's spa bath…

Read on, [day 4](https://halans.com/posts/2009-06-14-winter-in-tasmania-cradle-mountain-day-4/).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Winter in Tasmania: Freycinet (day 2)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-06-14-winter-in-tasmania-freycinet-day-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-06-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

## Day 2 of our 5 day trip to Tasmania-

We cancelled the remainder of our stay in the hotel in Hobart. But canceling the hotel also meant we had to book two other hotels, not sure where. The night before I found a little cabin in Ross, though this morning, driving up to Freycinet, it was too early call just yet. We stopped at the Rosny lookout, looking over across Hobart, and an obvious popular make-out spot…

[![Beach](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3351/3616623094_6d7f9c575b_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/3616623094/in/set-72157619587780690/)

We stopped at a Woollies to stock up on some water and food, and grab a (next door Gloria Jeans) coffee. While driving up to the east coast, it became obvious quickly that Optus does not have any coverage beyond Hobart (about a 30km radius). Now, how are we going to book our accommodation for tonight? Anyway, along the way we stopped at several beautiful beaches and lookouts: Raskin beach, Oyster Bay, Mayfield beach. And we arrived in the early afternoon at 

[Coles Bay](javascript:(function(){function%20l(u,i,t,b){var%20d=document;if(!d.getElementById(i)){var%20s=d.createElement('script');s.src=u;s.id=i;d.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(s);}s=setInterval(function(){u=0;try{u=t.call()}catch(i){}if(u){clearInterval(s);b.call()}},200)}l('https://halans.com/mapanui/bkmrklt.js','MapanuiJS',function(){return!!(typeof%20MAPANUI=='function')},function(){MAPANUI()})})();). 

First stop Freycinet NP visitor centre, to get a 22$ park day pass, and see if they know of any accommodation in this area. It's not a tourism information center in itself so we had to call around ourselves for accomodation,… at a Telstra payphone. Boy, do they swallow coins like… I mean, they take a lot of money, and don't give anything back. All contacts we'd call were booked, so we tried the cabin at Ross, which is 1.5h back inland. And it was still available! Pfeww, settled for today (we didn't have to sleep in the car).

[![View](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2483/3615806115_2a785af685_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/3615806115/in/set-72157619587780690/)

We then drove on to the parking spot for the Wineglass Bay lookout walk, which was medium hike uphill, but certainly worth it. It was a very well laid out and maintained path. After this walk, we drove up to the [lighthouse](javascript:(function(){function%20l(u,i,t,b){var%20d=document;if(!d.getElementById(i)){var%20s=d.createElement('script');s.src=u;s.id=i;d.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(s);}s=setInterval(function(){u=0;try{u=t.call()}catch(i){}if(u){clearInterval(s);b.call()}},200)}l('https://halans.com/mapanui/bookmarklet/bkmrklt.js','MapanuiJS',function(){return!!(typeof%20MAPANUI=='function')},function(){MAPANUI()})})();), which offered nice views of the coast line.

We then had to drive back inland, past Cambell Town to Ross, where we stayed at the TSpot cabin. We arrived at around 5PM, a bit earlier than we had told them. We took a stroll (in the dark) around Ross, which is a tiny countryside village but with one wide avenue and a particular bridge. At 5:30 we checked in with the lovely English proprietors. They used to have a tearoom in the Hunter Valley, but moved down here since a couple of years. We changed clothes and went for dinner at the local pub (for pumpkin soup, gourmet lamb and rib eye steak). After dinner we watched the Story of Ross on DVD (available in the cabin), and V for Vendetta in cabin.

Read on for day 3
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Winter in Tasmania: Hobart` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-06-14-winter-in-tasmania-hobart/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-06-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Last long weekend (we made it a 5 day weekend :), we went down to Tasmania, not sure what to expect exactly. We didn't have any real plans, only thing we planned was a cabin at the Cradle Mountain Lodge, and four consecutive nights in Hobart (which I booked before the cabin, which meant we were going to forfeit one night there), making Hobart our hub to explore the island.

[![Plane](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3622/3615691965_93b8ffcf62_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/3615691965/in/set-72157619587780690/)

We got up early Saturday morning (3:30 am) to fly with Virgin Blue to Hobart (passing through Melbourne). We arrived in Hobart around 10:15, and picked up our rental car from EuropCar. There was a queue because their computer system was down (tip ctrl+alt+delete :), so there was a bit of a wait. Not a happy start to our holiday. As expected, it was raining in Hobart, and from the forecast, it looked to be rain for five days.

But spirits were high, and we arrived at our hotel at “somewhere past 11”, too early to check in. But no worries, we could leave our baggage behind and park the car in the hotel's garage. We went straight to the close-by [Salamanca markets](javascript:(function(){function%20l(u,i,t,b){var%20d=document;if(!d.getElementById(i)){var%20s=d.createElement('script');s.src=u;s.id=i;d.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(s);}s=setInterval(function(){u=0;try{u=t.call()}catch(i){}if(u){clearInterval(s);b.call()}},200)}l('https://halans.com/mapanui/bookmarklet/bkmrklt.js','MapanuiJS',function(){return!!(typeof%20MAPANUI=='function')},function(){MAPANUI()})})(); "Map it"), which turned out to be the biggest, regular open air market I've seen in Australia (true, haven't seen that many markets here though). We had lunch at Tricycle (a crunchy BLT and delicious ham and pea soup). Because it was raining a bit, and the rest of the weather outlook, I bought some plastic pants at the local Katmandu, as an insurance policy as it were, just in case. At the Salamanca Square, there's a salmon store which I couldn't pass by without tasting some smoked Tasmanian salmon. At the same time, next door at [Smolt](javascript:(function(){function%20l(u,i,t,b){var%20d=document;if(!d.getElementById(i)){var%20s=d.createElement('script');s.src=u;s.id=i;d.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(s);}s=setInterval(function(){u=0;try{u=t.call()}catch(i){}if(u){clearInterval(s);b.call()}},200)}l('https://halans.com/mapanui/bookmarklet/bkmrklt.js','MapanuiJS',function(){return!!(typeof%20MAPANUI=='function')},function(){MAPANUI()})})(); "Map it"), we made a reservation for dinner that night.

[![Garden](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3331/3616513058_300473daaa_s.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/3616513058/in/set-72157619587780690/)

It was almost 14:00, time to check into the hotel, freshen up a bit in our room. We were staying at the LeisureInn on Macquarie Street. The room was small, but modern and decent, especially for the price of $79 a night. We got our rain gear on, and headed to the botanical gardens (something we try to visit in every city we pass), walking through the main Hobart shopping street. The Hobart botanical garden was a nice garden, nothing exceptional. Even in the rain, the Japanese garden looked great. We'd read about a ferry departing at the botanical garden, so we headed down to the water. Well, unfortunately it only goes out a couple of times a day, if it even still does do that, as we couldn't see any reference to the ferry. Strange. Another thing to keep in mind is that there aren't that many taxis around in Hobart. Kind of disappointed in this dreadful weather. So we headed back to the hotel on foot. (yes, we could have taken the car too, but then you don't see that much of a town you're visiting). Quick jump into the tiny shower, and then dinner at Smolt, which was pretty exceptional I'd say, strongly recommended!

Back in our hotel room, the (single glazed) window didn't close (like a pinky wide gap). It is winter, and the hotel is on one of the busiest streets in Hobart with a lot of traffic, and it was Saturday night, and it was a long day for us, we weren't to happy with this. And since it was the Queen's Birthday long weekend, the hotel was fully booked and unable to give us another room, until the next day. We had to make a decision, stay here (it was cheap, decent rooms except the windows) or cancel. I started to look around for some options, though couldn't decide yet. Next day we decided to cancel rest of our booking, which we had to do through Wotif. They ended up being very helpful actually!

Read on, [day 2](https://halans.com/posts/2009-06-14-winter-in-tasmania-cradle-mountain-day-3/).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `IBM WID with nVidia on 64-bit XP` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-06-03-ibm-wid-with-nvidia-on-64-bit-xp/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-06-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

This is a quick post on a problem I had at work.

At work we got brand new machines with 8gigs of memory on Win XP 64-bit. They have nVidia GeForce 8400 GS graphics card. We developer on IBM Websphere (WID 6.1.2).

I had the following problem when I tried to commit changes: no comment text box?!![wid with nView Desktop Manager enabled](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/06/wid_withnview-300x201.jpg "wid with nView Desktop Manager enabled")

I had other similar problems trying to set project references, and the likes in other configuration panes…

This bothered me for a couple of days, trying all kinds of things, including reinstalling WID. I also looked at the nVidia drivers, and they were the latest, no fix there.

Then I looked into nVidia's nView Desktop Manager, which was enabled:  
![nview desktop manager](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/06/nview-243x300.jpg "nview desktop manager")

I disabled this and… lo and behold, WID problem fixed: I got my comment box back, as also any other pane which didn't work before.  
![WID disabled nview desktop manager](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/06/wid_disablednview-300x202.jpg "WID disabled nview desktop manager")

Just thought I'd share that. Someone might have the same problem, pulling out his hair about this.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Social paraSites` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-05-23-social-parasites/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-05-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

We already had online virusses and worms, now we got **paraSites** too.

The word 'parasite' comes from the Greek 'parasitos' (but then in Greek) which means '[person who eats at the table of another](http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/parasite "Wiktionary")'. In general we use parasite to refer to “an animal or plant that lives in or on a host; it obtains nourishment from the host without benefiting or killing the host”. I first heard of web paraSites on the APWG mailing list, used by Russ McRee from Microsoft (working at Live Messenger looking for malware and phishing sites) to refer to a sites which are:

> “service” offerings designed to see who has blocked or deleted your IM alias from their messaging contacts. These sites always have significant disclaimer language, and often disclose that they will send SPIM (SPam over Instant Messenger) to your contacts if you enter your Live ID credentials.

One such example he gives is finecommunity.com which bluntly asks for your Microsoft Live ID and has a very dry Terms Of Use at the bottom of the page, which nobody ever reads, and which ends with:

> To unsubscribe from our services you just need to change your Windows Live password.

This is all too familiar on the Twitterverse. Due to the lack of a decent authentication api for Twitter (until recently, they now support oAuth, but the damage has been done), a lot of Twitter related services have popped up asking for your Twitter username and password. But even besides Twitter, other social networking sites would ask for your Gmail or Hotmail credentials to “find your friends” and “invite them”. This isn't phishing (for your credentials), they just ask them from you so they could “help” you. There have been plenty of instances where these services would add spammy content and links to for example your Twitter stream, or send out emails to your contacts, automatically (because that's part of the service they offer). Those too are what you could call paraSites, living off of your account.

Even right before I started writing this post I encountered such instance: the [HP Touch the Future Now](http://h30477.www3.hp.com/index.html?jumpid=ex_r11566_au/en/smb/psg/Allure%20Media%20-%20ROS_SWMHEP1200_amd_Tweet_300x600.s/touchsmart) contest, which tells you to twitter about the future (or rather answer some weekly questions on Twitter) in order to win and asks for your Twitter username and password. The T&C doesn't say anything about spamming your Twitter account. It does say if you don't provide the required details, you're disqualified. And that it may pass your personal information to related bodies corporate and agencies assisting with the contest. But why would they need your Twitter username and password? Just tell people to tweet and reply to @hp\_<whatever>. Would you trust HP with your Twitter username and password? Didn't people get bitten before by one of those other “services” wanting your credentials? This might well be a lack of understanding of social media on the part of HP and their marketing team, and they actually mean no harm (as in they won't spam your Twitter stream). Or at one point in time they might just suck the life out of your Twitter account!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Querying the next Sydney ferry` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-05-10-querying-the-next-sydney-ferry/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-05-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Have been playing with Yahoo!'s YQL this weekend, querying the [Sydney Ferries](http://www.sydneyferries.info/) website. Pretty amazing what it allows you to do, though the Sydney Ferries site wasn't the best site to start playing with I guess. I did have a need to have the ferry timetable on my iPhone (especially the Neutral Bay service), so that's why I put together [Next Sydney Ferry](http://nextsydneyferry.com/ "Next Sydney Ferry site") this weekend.

The premise is pretty simple: when does the next ferry depart from Circular Quay? I had this wild idea to do cool stuff with it, but inspired by the simplicity of [Next Manly Ferry](http://nextmanlyferry.com/), I thought I'd start out pretty simple too. And it certainly still is a work in progress with plenty of bugs.

NextSydneyFerry.com parses the timetables of the SydneyFerries.info site using YQL. No luck with any API, so it's pretty fragile reading in the HTML table data. Wish they made an effort marking up the data a bit more helpful (as in markup-as-an-api). One of the URLs even has a typo (“weekemd”).

Things on the to-do list: testing/debugging, exceptions to the timetable (like, euh Sunday – got it figured out already, just need to implement it), a neat logo (and touch icon), webkit database caching, cool-ification, scrolling though all times, scrolling through all ferry stops,… There seems to be a problem with iPhone 3 (beta 5) too, which I don't have on my iPod touch with iPhone 2 OS (nor on the desktop). Hope it's the Mobile Safari beta, but that makes it currently useless on my iPhone, ha…

\[Yet another website that will never get finished, and used…\]
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `A Twitter social support system` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-04-26-a-twitter-support-system/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-04-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Just the other week I experienced two occurrences where Twitter was used by business for product support, which I'd like to share, for those who still doubt the power of social media. These are web businesses ([UserVoice](http://uservoice.com/) and Google) but that shouldn't make any difference. Any business should monitor the Internet for their brand and reputation. I wasn't necessarily looking for answers from them, but they did answer.

Earlier last week Google introduces a new version of their [Profiles](http://www.google.com/profiles/). I had set [mine](http://www.google.com/profiles/102084005490627600774) up, and using it I had a concern:

![Google Profiles tweet](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/04/untitled.png "Google Profiles tweet")It was a rather generalized question I put out there for the twitterverse. I wasn't expecting a response at all. Less than two hours later I did get a response:

![GProfiles response tweet](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/04/untitled-2.png "GProfiles response tweet")Google obviously cares about their reputation and seem keen to keep track of whatever's being said about them. Unfortunatly they didn't include a link to their report abuse system, which would have been nice if I had a problem (which I didn't). They could have pointed to a particular blogpost addressing these concerns, or they could create one based on these concerns found around Twitter or the blogosphere in general.

Then last Thursday at a workshop I was demoing a couple of my little web apps where I noticed that one was crashing Firefox and the other had a weird Firefox rendering issue (in effect duplicating the content, though view source only showed the content once). I quickly dugg around and uncommented the UserVoice script loading in those page, which seem to resolve the issues. I posted my concerns on Twitter, to see if anyone else had the same problem.

![UserVoice concern](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/04/untitled-3.png "UserVoice concern")

Two minutes later someone (who I think/hope is involved in UserVoice which wasn't obvious) replied:

![UserVoice response](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/04/untitled-4.png "UserVoice response")Since I had the UserVoice code removed and was at a workshop (and it's not really critical to me), I told him I had fixed it for now, and would look at it again later, to which he let me know that I could contact him if I needed any more help. I did not have to go to a UserVoice forum to get help (I wasn't looking for help actually) , as it could well be an issue with one of the Firefox plugins I have installed. But UserVoice cares enough about their reputation that they try to keep all customers (even little old me, even free customers) happy.

Twitter has been useful for me before in resolving (or sharing) problems. For example, when all my sites hosted on (MediaTemple) were down a couple of weeks ago, I obviously tweeted about this, and got responses back from other people having the same problems. Some of them then pointed me to the MediaTemple Twitter account which was giving out status updates on the cluster problems they were having, to which I then subscribed and got into the loop of how and when things got resolved.

[Twitter](http://twitter.com/) is an open micro messaging platform which allows people to use it in any way they see fit (within the 140 character constraints). It's a diary, a bulletin board, a self-help system, a publishing platform,… enabling real time search for events, brands, people… and we haven't seen the end of it yet.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `The new browser war on a tv set near you` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-04-21-the-new-browser-war-on-a-tv-set-near-you/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-04-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Just watched this cool bullet-time-like movie (you know, the Matrix) on the Philips site as a demo for their[ 21:9 cinemascope tv set](http://www.cinema.philips.com/) due out this month. Great if you're a movie buff watching lots of DVD or Blueray, and I love the ambient light feature. But one other feature their new sets offer is so called “Net TV”.

[Net TV](http://www.consumer.philips.com/consumer/en/gb/consumer/cc/_categoryid_NETTV_PARTNERSHIPS_GB_CONSUMER/ "Philips Net TV") looks to be a proprietary service through Philips (you need them to get onto their Net TV platform), which is based on [CE-HTML](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CE-HTML) (Consumer Electronics), a subset of XHTML, CSS TV Profile 1.0, ecmascript, DOM,… intended to improve the experience to browse the internet on a tv. But why do we need another standard? Why are manufacturers trying to set up new walled gardens? Did they not learn? My mobile smart phone is perfectly capable of displaying full featured webpages, why wouldn't a tv set? It might have been true five years ago, when we were all still on low resolution CRT tv sets, but with the lcd/plasma revolution we had last couple of years, resolution has improved greatly and tv set sizes have grown.

Browsing the web on tv has been around for ages, but never took off, with for example now defunkt [Microsoft WebTV](http://www.webtv.net). I myself worked on a TV banking platform back in '99-2000 for a Dutch bank and cabeltv company accessing internet banking over a settop box (“t-commerce”), which if I remember correctly was also using a version of CE-HTML, but there was certainly no JavaScript involved. And if you have a Nintendo Wii, you can browse the full internet on your tv using a version of [Opera](http://www.opera.com/devices/wii/) (a 5$US upgrade). But unfortunatly Wii isn't an HD device, and isn't an optimal browsing experience even on new full HD tv sets (native resolution seems to be 608×456, with pages being zoomed in and out). [Playstation 3](http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/current/browser/index.html) (and I guess XBox 360) has a full featured browser too, and again people complain about text being too small.

But why would Philips not get on board with Opera (or Mozilla, or use WebKit), in stead of using CE-HTML? And it's not a single manufacturer getting on board the internet-on-tv train, it's also Samsung, [Sony](http://news.sel.sony.com/en/press_room/consumer/television/flat_panel_displays/lcd/release/37312.html),… getting on board though with different solutions. And yesterday Adobe introduced its [Flash Platform for the Digital Home  ](http://www.adobe.com/aboutadobe/pressroom/pressreleases/200904/042009FlashDigitalHome.html) with Intel at NAB, but the [tv makers seem to be reluctant](http://www.smarthouse.com.au/Content_And_Downloads/Industry/S3N7T5H7) to join them. While browsing on tv might never take off, one thing I am looking forward to are tv widgets, using web standard XHTML and Javascript, where [Samsung](http://www.samsung.com/au/news/newsRead.do?news_group=exhibitionnews&news_type=&news_ctgry=&news_seq=12009&search_keyword=&from_dt=&to_dt=) and [Yahoo!](http://connectedtv.yahoo.com/partners/samsung) are leading the way (sets already available at Bing Lee).With these widgets you could keep track of Twitter while watching tv (without having a laptop on your lap, or an iPod/iPhone in your hand), and we might see new ways of interaction with tv programs through backchannels displayed at the bottom of the tv, as already happening on Twitter ([\#newinventors](http://search.twitter.com/search?q=newinventors) instigated every week by [@mpesce](https://explore.twitter.com/mpesce)). What I am looking for is actually some kind of [Chumby](http://www.chumby.com/) for tv, something that[ injects widgets onto the screen](http://www.last100.com/2009/02/23/chumby-bets-on-internet-connected-tvs/) (without me buying a new set), though better integrated (form, transparency, bottom or sidebar positioned) like the Yahoo! widgets.

In stead of a new browser war on television, we'll get a widget war, between Flash, Yahoo!, Google (imagine the advertising potential) and all the other widget makers out there, trying to get their hands on whatever little time you still spend watching tv. Hmmm, come to think of it, Google Calendar as an EPG on your tv…
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `What happened to the design? CSS Naked Day April 9` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-04-09-what-happened-to-the-design-css-naked-day-april-9-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-04-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Yes, it's international [CSS Naked Day](http://naked.dustindiaz.com/) today! That's why everything looks a bit black and white (and blue).

You wonder why? CSS Naked Day is about raising awareness about Web Standards and accessibility, the proper use of (x)html, semantic markup, a decent hierarchy structure. It's time to show off my gorgeous <body>!

To know more about why styles are disabled on this website visit the [Annual CSS Naked Day](http://naked.dustindiaz.com "Web Standards Naked Day Host Website") website for more information.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Reputation as a Service` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-04-01-reputation-as-a-service/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-04-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I don't remember who it was they were quoting yesterday morning at Sun's Let's Talk breakfast presentation on Cloud computing, but Facebook being defined as “Friendship as a Service” kinda made sense.

In which case LinkedIn would be “Reputation as a Service”, I guess, and as Reputation Management as a business slowly starts to take off (as a specialization of SEO), this service could well be considered “Reputation as a Service” too: [SocialRecommendator.com](http://socialrecommendator.com "Social Recommendator, Reputation as a Service"). Give it some information like a name, company name, position,… and it generates a randomised recommendation for use in endorsements on sites like LinkedIn or Xing (refresh to get another one).

It even sort of has an API, returning plain text:  
[http://socialrecommendator.com/recommend.php?name=aname&gender=M&positionTitle=atitle&positionDescription=adescr&positionType=sometype&companyName=acompany&domain=aspecialtydomain](http://socialrecommendator.com/recommend.php?name=aname&gender=M&positionTitle=atitle&positionDescription=adescr&positionType=sometype&companyName=acompany&domain=aspecialtydomain)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Get hacked, get charged, get offline` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-03-27-get-hacked-get-charged-get-offline/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-03-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

This is a fictitious story about a small Australian business owner, let's say a Dentist. One day she decides to spend her marketing dollars on a website, instead of an advert in the Yellow Pages (who uses that nowadays anyway?), the local business guide or the local newspaper. Smart woman! Now, a website can be quite expensive. Or it can be very cheap! She gets her little nephew to setup a brochure site (a practice I don't condone as a web professional!). Nothing fancy, people only need to find information about her practice, a contact form, maybe a feedback form for a little interaction.

All goes well. Calls for appointments come in, business is good. Once in a while, she looks up herself on Google, to see if people can find her. She tweaks the content a bit for search engine optimization, gets linked on some local business sites, decides to spend some money on Google adverts. She's pretty happy. Once the site is on a roll, she really doesn't need to look after it any longer, it seems. Her little nephew points her out that her website traffic is booming, it's getting a lot of hits it seems. Cool!

Then all of a sudden appointments fall back, people aren't calling her anymore. Is this the recession? Are people no longer getting insurance, so they can't afford the Dentist any more? This must be the GFC! But then she looks at her website traffic, and it has fallen down to nearly nothing. She sees some European and US visitors, which obviously aren't clients, but no more Australian users. What has just happened?

Her site got hacked! It's not something she would be looking for, not something she knows anything about. It's a bloody simple website. Why would anyone hack her site? What's the point? And it wasn't obvious either, it's not like they defaced her homepage with pink elephants or something.

This is the point where I'll be talking **Today** and **Tomorrow**.

Today, when your site gets hacked and points to malware/spyware, your Google entry will tell users that your site contains links to malware. But if people want they can still click through, they can still find you. Google doesn't tell the website owner her site is hacked though, you have to find out yourself. As the website owner, you can take appropriate action, clean up your site, get some professional help protecting your site. You can then let Google know when to index your site again, as Google clearly points out the procedure. This is a private company trying to protect it's users from downloading malware to their computers. A noble cause, though it might seem scary for the small business owner who relies on traffic coming from search results.

And this happens very, very frequently. Even to the best of us. All software, open or closed, contains holes. Some holes are easier to exploit than others. Some holes are easy to fix and get fixed quickly, some don't. A lot of popular software contains/contained holes, like popular content management systems, forums, development platforms,… So, as it turns out, a website does need maintenance. It's not something that you'd put out there, and let it run. You need to keep a watchful eye on it. (and start out by using a web professional, not your nephew).

But Tomorrow, things will be different. The government will protect us, the web users. Someone must think of the children. Our own anti-virus, host and router firewalls, parental filters, OpenDNS, modern browser,… just isn't good enough.

In the case of the Dentist, it turns out the Russian mob had injected content onto her site, advertising content deemed illegal under Australian law, and then spammed millions of users pointing to the content. Her site was put on the government blacklist, according to the media, without her knowledge. The list is (used to be) secret, so it's not something you can query to see if your site is on it. And Tomorrow, it will be taken offline. You get hacked, you get (secretly) charged, and your website gets killed off.

As said, this is a fictitious story, but it does hold some elements of truth. Web pages from those morally objectionable characters of the likes of a dentist, a dog kennel (MaroochyBoardingKennels.com.au) and canteens.com.au (that is “school cafeterias”, not whatever your and ACMA's dirty minds make of it) ended up on the actual official government blacklist.

Any locally hosted websites hosting content deemed illegal by ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority) must be removed by ISP's and content hosts. If the site is hosted overseas (tip: if you are an Australian business targeting local customers, it does make more sense to host in Australia!), the ACMA adds you to a blacklist which Today is used by client-side internet filters, but Tomorrow it will be used by the Great Australian Firewall, the network level mandatory ISP filtering scheme currently on trial. It is not clear what the procedure will be (if there is any), for complaints received at ACMA, if and how ACMA will let website owners know they got complaints, if ACMA will allow website owners to fix any issues during a grace period…

Can we even imagine where this filter is leading us too? Do we really want to go there?

As a side note, compromised home computers are being used in the hundreds of thousands around the world in illegal activities, in botnets used for spamming, temporary hosting illegal content used by fast-flux domains. Will the government be blocking all these individual IP addresses too?
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Me pimpin' the fact that I'm pimpin''` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-03-14-me-pimpin-the-fact-that-im-pimpin/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-03-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Cross-post from my [Mapanui blog](http://blog.mapanui.com/2009/03/14/dotnet-magazine-email-published/), because I can, right?

[![.Net Magazine](/orig-content/uploads/2009/03/dotnet_april09-237x300.jpg ".Net Magazine")](/orig-content/uploads/2009/03/dotnet_april09.jpg) Me pimpin' microformats and Mapanui in a published readers' letter in the [current April edition](http://www.netmag.co.uk/zine/latest-issue/issue-187) of UK's .net magazine (aka Practical Web Design). Let's see if they do a microformats article soon (and include Mapanui…).

On a side note, this edition also includes an interview with Christian Heilmann (of Yahoo), who'll do a workshop on [Pragmatic, accessible JavaScript in a web services world](http://roadshow09.webdirections.org/workshops#pragmatic-development-with-javascript-and-ajax) at the [WebDirections Roadshow](http://roadshow09.webdirections.org/) in Melbourne and Sydney. Get your current copy for (a whopping) $25 at any good magazine store.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Change the Web Challenge` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-03-08-change-the-web-challenge/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-03-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[SocialActions.com](http://www.socialactions.com/) throws a challenge at web developers:

> “Social Actions' [Change the Web Challenge](http://www.socialactions.com/changetheweb) is about building innovative tools to help people find and share opportunities to take action on the websites, blogs, and social networks that we all visit everyday.”

There are a lot of organisations out there that need a conduit to get their message across. This challenge is about developing ways to put a spotlight on their issues, to remix the web for social change: new WordPress plugins, interactive buttons, widgets, bookmarklets, scripts,… There will be 20 finalists and 3 winners, April 28th, so [you better start cracking](http://www.socialactions.com/changetheweb)!

Why not [Digg it](http://digg.com/programming/The_Web_remixed_for_social_change "Change the Web Challenge")?!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `D-Link DPH-C160S - iiNet VoIP` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/d-link-dph-c160s-iinet-voip/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-03-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

A quick tip when setting up the D-Link DPH-C160S Dect VoIP phone:

Reset to factory settings! You can find it under Tools > System

The D-Link DPH-C160S Dect VoIP phone comes with GoTALK account settings (but not locked to it, like some other VoIP phones), and there's no knowing what this all comprises. I've been strugling to set it up with my iiNet settings, thinking it's a problem with my rather convulated home network setup (separate ADSL2 modem, two Airport Extremes) . Is it firewalled? Do I need to set up pass-through ports? Is it the right value in the right field (as labels between iiNet's documentation and the VoIP phone's interface don't match)? Should I disable/enable this/that? Google didn't help that much either (I hope it does now for someone else, with this article :)

Anyway. I thought I'd reset the GoTALK settings and have another look, so I reset to the factory settings (Tools > System). As it turns out, that sets most fields blank (ie it did not reset to the GoTALK values). I then re-entered my iiNet settings, and as by wonder, it peeped and the display read “VoIP READY”. Called my mobile, and it worked!

iiNet has a couple of VoIP setup pages:

- [VoIP settings](https://iihelp.iinet.net.au/VoIP_settings): keep this one handy when setting up, together with the info provided in the iiNet email
- [iiNet supported VoIP hardware](https://iihelp.iinet.net.au/Setting_up_VoIP)
- [other VoIP hardware/software](https://iihelp.iinet.net.au/Setting_up_VoIP_on_third-party_hardware)

Here are my settings for iiNet, which should work for you too:  
[![Server Configuration](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/03/voipphoneiinet11-153x300.jpg "Server Configuration")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/03/voipphoneiinet11.jpg) [![User Agent settings](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/03/voipphoneiinet21-277x300.jpg "User Agent settings")](https://halans.com/orig-content/uploads/2009/03/voipphoneiinet21.jpg)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Busy, busy, busy` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-01-18-busy-busy-busy/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-01-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Pfeww, did a couple of site updates this weekend. Quite happy with the progress.

First up, I've moved [RedCrates.com](http://RedCrates.com/ "Red Crates") from Slicehost to MediaTemple, as it was the only one remaining on Slicehost. Saves me a bit of money cancelling that account. I was going to play around a bit with the Slicehost slice, but that will need to be for another time. I also thinkered a bit with jQuery and added some [Raphael](http://www.raphaeljs.com/ "Raphael JS") gooy-iness to it, just for some fun. Really easy. Though I do notice a bit of a problem in Safari, which needs a screen redraw, it seems.

Then I removed the dust from [FirefoxRocks.com](http://FirefoxRocks.com/ "Firefox does rock!"). It was still displaying Firefox 2 stuff. Changed it's premise a bit, so it doesn't need any more maintenance. It's a lot simpler, more like a lot of other “single serving sites”.

Then I've added ShareThis and UserVoice feedback widgets to both, as well as to [Mapanui.com](https://halans.com/mapanui/ "Mapanui").
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `A new year, already?` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2009-01-02-a-new-year-already/   
[POST_DATE] 2009-01-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

It's 2009 already? Says who? What happened to 2008? Was it a full 12 months? I must have missed it.

End of February, it will be already 3 years since I arrived in Sydney. Time sure flies.

Here's a [Flickr set of my (own) favorite pics of last year](http://flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157612032932921/). I'm sure I missed a couple (should really flag them when I upload them).

And I've made a set of [iPhone Wallpapers](http://flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157612031896773/), hope there's one you'd like to use too.

New Year's resolutions? Loose weight, get fitter, be healthier, be happier, blog more (interesting things), start some sort of online business (like, make money while I sleep…), learn more, save up some money, live leaner,… Ask me about it in a couple of months time, alright?

Anyway, you too have a Happy New Year!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Ignite Sydney` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-12-12-ignite-sydney/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-12-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

If you missed out on [Ignite Spatial](http://www.ignitespatial.com/) last month (and my [Mapanui](http://blog.mapanui.com/2008/11/12/at-ignite-spatial/) preso, shame on you!), the New Year, Januari 22, brings Ignite Sydney, Ignite preso's on any subject. Have anything you want to say, introduce, proclaim in 5 minutes and 20 slides? Sign up for [Ignite Sydney](http://www.ignitesydney.com/)!

**Update:**  
Speakers and subjects:

- [Matt Moore](http://innotecture.wordpress.com/ "Matt Moore") : Words at work – what links Flickr, mind maps, and a vengeful God?
- [Jason Yip](http://jchyip.blogspot.com/ "Jason Yip") : Lean programming (the fridge vs the radiator)
- [Kieran Ots](http://otsblog.wordpress.com/ "Kieran Ots") : A year of failed projects (and what I learned from them)
- [Richard Lane](http://www.physics.usyd.edu.au/%7Erlane/ "Richard Lane") : Mapping the sky – Is bigger always better?
- [Pamela Fox](http://imagine-it.org/ "Pamela Fox") : HTML5 vs Flex for Rich Internet Applications
- [Jeremy LeBard](http://www.lechicgeek.net/ "Jeremy LeBard") : Australians are a nation of readers. Why do we need Amazon?
- [Geoff Bowers](http://blog.daemon.com.au/ "Geoff Bowers"): Setting Fire To Your Community. A tale of Japanese mummies, karmic balance and benevolent dictators
- Chloe Mason : Why Sydney needs active travel
- [Meitar Moscovitz](http://meitarmoscovitz.com/ "Meitar Moscovitz") : How technology influences sexual awareness (and vice versa)
- [Mark Pollard](http://www.twitter.com/markpollard "Mark Pollard") : 7 things you can learn from hip-hop
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `A saphe Xmas` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-11-22-a-saphe-xmas/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-11-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![PayPal Christmas Bonus](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3002/3048665421_e4b6d370b1_t.jpg)  

The Xmas season is upon us, as evident by the Xmas trees appearing in shopping malls, and the Xmas promotions filling up our (e-)mailboxes. One such Xmas promo is PayPal's (Australia). If you've got a PayPal account, you probably received it too. It sends you (after going through their email tracking system on http://email1.paypal.com/) to a motion sickness inducing Flash app, which allows you to scroll horizontally through their promos. [Check it out](http://122.201.77.222/paypal-offers.com.au/ "PayPal promo") (keep a bag or a bucket at hand)! I do like that scrolling effect on CoolIris, but not so much here. But that's actually another discussion.

Check out the URL: http://122.201.77.222/paypal-offers.com.au/  
You get redirected if you'd go to . Is this really PayPal?  
Now, go to , just to make sure you're at a PayPal site. What, no mention of any PayPal offers or promotions?

There's a couple of things wrong here:

First of, is it really that hard to configure a server/DNS to get paypal-offers.com.au to show the PayPal offers? Why the redirect (in addition to their email redirect through http://email1.paypal.com/)?

Second, there is no integrated marketing plan, having the PayPal offers linked from the main PP site to this offers site (as of the mailing's date). Why have a separate and totally different address for the offers to begin with? It dilutes the brand. Why not use offers.paypal.com.au, or paypal.com.au/offers? I know, often the marketing department lives on their own little island within a company, and things outside of their island doesn't move as fast as they would like it. Still they should have access to this sub-domain, their little corner of the PP site.

But thirdly, an unforgivable, stupendous error, the URL: an IP address,… with the domain appended (for good measure, the same page appears without the append domainname). Djezus people, this is a financial services site. PayPal must be one of the most targeted phishing sites out there. PayPal should not be spreading around these types of URLs. And I can't verify from the main PP site that it is a PayPal controlled domain either as it isn't an integrated campaign.

From their own [Phishing Guide](https://www.paypal.com/au/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing/securitycenter/general/RecognizePhishing-outside):

> “**Fake Links.** Many phishing emails have a link that looks valid, but sends you to a fraudulent site that may or may not have an URL different from the link. Always check where a link is going before you click. Move your mouse over the URL in the email and look at the URL in the browser. As always, if it looks suspicious, don't click it.”


> **“Deceptive URLs.** Be cautious. Some fraudsters will insert a fake browser address bar over the real one, making it appear that you're on a legitimate website. Follow these precautions: Even if an URL contains the word “PayPal,” it may not be a PayPal site. Examples of fake PayPal addresses: http://83.16.123.18/pp/update.htm?=https://www.paypal.com/=cmd\_login\_access, www.secure-paypal.com”

Yes, I do think paypal-offers.com.au is a legitimate PayPal offers site, it does not ask for login details, though it does link to the PayPal signup page. Looking through the email's source code does not reveal fake domains or IP addresses, all links pass through the email1.paypal.com domain. The domain is registered by PayPal Australia Pty Limited, hosted at Net Logistics in Sydney. But it is child's play to register paypal-specials.com or whatever, show fake offers like they do here, and ask the user to login to take advantage of these offers. It is incomprehensible that an online-only, financial company like PayPal, and their marketing division, would do such a thing.

Be saphe online this Xmas!

PS: I submitted the URL to PayPal as a suspicious URL. The process is confusing, and as of now I still don't know if my submission got through. I did not receive an (automated) email back (maybe thanking me for taking the time to submit a suspicious URL?).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Mapanui at Barcamp Sydney 4` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-11-16-mapanui-at-barcamp-sydney-4/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-11-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Did a repeat of my Ignite presentation from last Wednesday at Barcamp, minus the 15sec rule. Went a lot smoother, I thought.

Lots of positive feedback, from fellow web devs, and others alike. Thanks for that!

Presentation available on [Slideshare](http://www.slideshare.net/halans/mapanui-at-ignite-spatial-presentation "Mapanui").

And while you're at it, have another look at my [MarkUpAsAnAPI](http://www.slideshare.net/halans/markup-as-an-api/ "MarkUpAsAnAPI") presentation from last year's Barcamp Sydney (v2).

Pictures from Barcamp Sydney 4 [on Flickr](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157609079396406/show/with/3030093305/).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Mapanui at Ignite Spatial` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-11-09-mapanui-at-ignite-spatial/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-11-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Next Wednesday I'll be presenting [Mapanui](https://halans.com/mapanui/ "Mapanui") at [Ignite Spatial](http://www.ignitespatial.com/ "Ignite Spacial"):

> What if a presenter could tell you their spatial story within 5 minutes? They have 20 slides, and each slide lasts for 15 seconds. You vote for your favourite presentation. That's Ignite Spatial.

> Ignite Spatial is on Wednesday, 12th of November at the Occidental Hotel. Doors open at 5.30pm with the first talk at 6.30pm. Ignite Spatial is free, and is open to anyone with an interest in spatial sciences, technology and applications.

Ignite presentations on the evening:

1. GIS Today – Beyond mapping and data maintenance (Jason Grech – gViz)
2. GPS – Debunking the myths (Chris Loty – Ultimate Positioning)
3. GIS and GPS in tourism (Tony Hart – Strategeo)
4. Intro to the Google maps API (Mickey Kataria – Google Australia)
5. Mapping the Sky (Richard Lane – Sydney University)
6. How I build cool stuff for Government (Diana Mounter – Local Govt Association)
7. Is GIS Really Mainstream Now? (David Hayward – Ajilon Consulting)
8. Web Mapping Services and GIS (Win MinSwe – Blacktown City Council)
9. [Mapanui](https://halans.com/mapanui/ "Mapanui") – a pocket map for your browser (Jean-Jacques Halans)
10. How to talk GIS to the spatially naive (Chris O'Dell – Parsons Brinckerhoff)
11. Advanced 3D modelling with Pictometry (Alex Cowdery – AAM Hatch)
12. What's new in Microsoft's Spatial offerings (Andrew Coates – Microsoft)

Should be interesting!

Looks like I'm on at 7:15pm!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Change` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-11-08-change/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-11-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

This week we saw Barack “Barry” Obama become the 44th American president, writing history becoming the first African-American president. And the whole world rejoiced (except Russia it seems).

> This victory alone is not the change we seek. It is only the chance for us to make that change.

One contributing factor to his victory was certainly [his Internet campaign](https://www.technologyreview.com/web/21222/ "Technology Review (login required)") (and a fab iPhone app), far exceeding anything done previously: [www.barackobama.com](http://www.barackobama.com/) and [my.barackobama.com](http://my.barackobama.com/).

Upon election, he already set up a new website: [Change.gov](http://change.gov/ "Change.gov"). Will we see a change in the way a country is governed, through social e-government? Will Google's CEO Eric Schmidt be part of his new government? [Probably not](http://www.reuters.com/article/internetNews/idUSTRE4A70AA20081108?feedType=RSS&feedName=internetNews).

While you're at it, check out [Change.org](http://www.change.org/ "Change.org social action"), a social action network.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Australian Internet Censorship` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-10-30-australian-internet-censorship-nocleanfeed/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-10-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

My take on the “Clean Feed” filter, aka the “Rudd Filter”.

But first this.

A [2006 UQ study](http://www.uq.edu.au/news/index.html?article=9863) found that road accidents, more than 25,000 serious injury accidents each year, cost Australia $17 billion each year. That's about 68 serious injuries everyday.

Drunk driving is illegal. It can kill yourself, and it can kill others. The Rudd Filter would be like breath testing every driver every time they get into a car, tested not by the police, but by the RTA. Technology-wise, there are devices which can be installed in a car, where you need to blow into first, before the car starts. The cost to a new car would be minimal. Problem solved. No more drunk drivers. Or the drunk driver asks a 'friend' (friends don't let friends drive drunk) to blow for him, and of he goes, circumventing the filter. Then the filter could be adjusted to breathe into the device every 30, 10 or 5 minutes, so you need someone sober with you to keep driving. But that would be very annoying 98% of the time you are driving around alone, doing the shopping or whatever. It would really slow you down. Because of course, you need to stop by the side of the road the blow into the device, you can't do it while driving. Maybe we could blow up some balloons early in the evening, and keep them on the back seat of the car…

Speeding is illegal. It can kill yourself, and it can kill others. The Rudd Filter would be like installing a black box (think airplane black box) into your car to monitor your speed. It needs to have GPS functionality too, so it knows where you are in order to adjust the speed limit. It also knows about time, so when you're near a school at school times, it slows you down accordingly. It needs communication capabilities so it can update itself when situations change. And to make sure your road tax is being payed, as well as checking for having valid insurance. And it can communicate with traffic lights, so when it turns orange, the car slows down to stop, in stead of accelerating to make sure you get through. It also keeps an eye on total weight of the car, and number of passengers, to prevent over-crowding of the car. The black box also keeps tabs on your breaks, your tires, your lights and the oil level, keeping your car in perfect order. Perfect. The technologies exist, they only need to be poured into one small device. No more speeding, no more running red lights, no more illegal parking, no dodgy breaks or failing break lights. That is until someone finds a way to update its firmware or installs a mod chip on his black box which effectively tunnels all real-time information through the device, letting the device think it is parked. They would have free reign on the roads, and we still need police to catch them, and they would still kill children crossing the road.

Silly comparison?  
How do the numbers stack up, car drivers vs internet connections?  
Deadly or serious car accidents vs illegal internet activity?

Back to the issue at hand, the actual Rudd Filter proposal.  
Protect the children, block illegal content. Lofty goals for sure. Check out these statistics in regard to [children using the Internet](http://www.sentrypc.com/statistics.htm).  
A blacklist of illegal content is already being used by ACMA (containing 3,200+ web pages) to take down illegal content hosted on Australian servers. Senator Conroy wants to take it one step further, no actually two steps further. Not only does he want to filter internet traffic at the ISP level based on a blacklist (of known illegal internet addresses), which is already in use in the UK, New Zealand, Norway and Sweden, and at a couple of thousand addresses doesn't really pose a problem; but he wants to dynamically filter all internet traffic based on content analysis, on words and image within the responding page.  
A blacklist of illegal internet addresses is pretty straight forward. A user requests an address, that's checked against the list, all OK, continue. Personally I use [OpenDNS](http://www.opendns.com/ "OpenDNS") to block “questionable” content on my free open network. People who are looking for that, might as well pay for their own internet connection. Problem is that it blocks whole domains. You can't block just a single page of, let's say Facebook, you need to block Facebook all together, resulting in massive collateral damage. Still, blocking domains doesn't help when the user knows the IP (numerical) address. Blocking the IP address doesn't help because one IP address can block a whole lot of domains.  
So that's why they want to do it dynamically, based on what a particular page contains in words and pictures, and compare that to signatures, telltale signs of bad content. That's some nifty shizz. A picture deemed illegal based on % of [“flesh” tone and body shape](http://news.cnet.com/2100-1023-269290.html), the technology in use on for example Google Image search, might be filtered out of an online article on a domain, in stead of blocking the whole domain. This needs to happen in real-time. Again, that won't work on a secure HTTPS connection (like when connecting to your bank), as content over the wire is encrypted and can't be inspected. Doing content inspection for all traffic coming into Australia will require some beefy hardware to keep up, incurring extra costs for ISPs, passing it on to their customers, while still slowing things down.  
And then the Internet is more than web pages. It's email, Usenet, peer-2-peer downloads, instant messenger protocols, voice-over-IP,… These filters won't handle that traffic. And it won't protect children from adult predators either.  
Haven't we learned anything from Spam filters? Let's block all “viagra” mails. We still got “v1agra” in our inbox.  
Haven't we learned from phishing scammers (trying to get our banking details), using [fast-flux domains](http://spamtrackers.eu/wiki/index.php?title=Fast-flux) and [domain tasting](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domain_tasting "Wikipedia")?  
Don't they know what VPN's are (like when connecting securely from home to your office), or anonymous proxy servers? Or [steganography](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steganography)?  
Or even Google Translate as a proxy?

As it turns out, the original Clean Feed proposal is based on [20,000 petitions gathered through churches](http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,20626257-7583,00.html), hardly representative for the whole of Australia. You could easily get 20,000 petitions gathered through pubs to get rid of the smoking ban too.  
To get the policy into legislation, Senator Conroy will need the support of some independent senators, who have their own agenda, and this is where the sh\*t really hits the fan. Minority pressure groups influencing policy to a degree that it affects everyone. Today it is [porn and international gambling sites](http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2008/10/27/1224955916155.html). Tomorrow it is a religiously offending cartoons, bad product reviews, citizen journalism ([blogs illegal in Italy](http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/09/26/italian_law_kills_blog/)),… It is just a matter of time, what is legal today, may not be tomorrow. Games deemed illegal in Australia, as in without classification: “[throughout Australia it is illegal to sell, to adults, any computer game unless it is classified suitable for a 15 year old](http://libertus.net/moreinfo.html)“, are still being traded through grey imports. Will we soon need age verification for every page we visit, deemed unsuitable for 14 year olds or younger?

The Clean Feed filter will result in a false sense of security, as it accomplishes little, and is very costly and very ineffective. It creates more problems than it solves. It stifles innovation and progress. People, children and their parents alike, need to be educated. Yes, ISP's can help with that. They could be “parent friendly” ISP's, providing guides, and DNS based filters like the ones used in the UK or the Scandinavian countries. Parents should be parenting their children, take responsibility, in stead of brushing it of. Create non-admin accounts on their family pc's (you don't want your kids to install malware either, do you?), use decent internet browsers, keep your pc up-to-date, provide MAC filtering and timed access control on (wireless) routers,… Too hard? Read and learn. Or ask friends, colleagues, family. (Or maybe they should get their [family friendly Internet at the local McDonald's](http://www.linuxworld.com.au/index.php/id;578285979)?)

The only ones who stand to profit from this filter are the filter vendors, selling millions of dollars of annual licensing, for something which might prevent some accidental encounters, considerably slowing down everyone's Internet experience, but certainly not blocking any knowledgeable sicko to get his hit.

Maybe we could spend the money better to prevent car accidents, obesity, lung cancer, education. Really.

Need more convincing that a Clean Feed is a bad idea (or at least its execution)? Be informed, read on:  
[The State of Censorship: Australia](http://libertus.net/)  
EFA: [Labor's Mandatory ISP Internet Blocking Plan](http://www.efa.org.au/censorship/mandatory-isp-blocking/)  
Great, clear presentation on [Internet Filtering](http://www.isoc-au.org.au/TCCM/PaulBrooks.ppt "PPT - Powerpoint file") (ppt)  
[Petitions to parliament drove ALP's Internet filtering policy](http://stilgherrian.com/politics/petitions_drove_filtering_policy/)

Then do something:  
[No Clean Feed](http://nocleanfeed.com/)  
[The Rudd Filter](http://siliconbeachaustralia.org/ruddfilter/)  
[Somebody Think Of The Children](http://www.somebodythinkofthechildren.com/)  
Then [sign an online petition](http://petitions.takingitglobal.org/oznetcensorship) (though I hope there will be one offline soon too):

Of course testing any ISP-based Internet filter is difficult, as you would try to retrieve illegal content…  
The only way is to try the Great Firewall of China. It blocks content that's legal in Western countries, so you're not breaking any laws (when you lookup lawful content), and [check response time and DNS time](http://www.websitepulse.com/help/testtools.china-test.html):  
try a news site like http://www.smh.com.au, look at the Chinese and US times (never mind what they mean, just that the higher they are, the slower the Internet), they would be about the same. Now try http://www.amnesty.org. For me at least, times where x2-x3 slower for China.  
If you use Firefox you can try [the China Channel extension](http://chinachannel.hk/).

And let's not forget the Beijing Olympics:  
[“Slow internet major problem at Olympics”](http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,24085004-23109,00.html)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `BarCamp Sydney - November 15th, 2008` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-10-29-barcamp-sydney-november-15th-2008/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-10-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

BarCamp Sydney is back! This time for one day only in the fantastic UNSW Roundhouse. Join us for interesting people talking about interesting things in technology and entrepreneurship.

BarCamp is an unconference: an open, participatory workshop-event, whose content is provided by participants. Ad-hoc conference, unorganised, unrestricted and unpredictable, BarCamp is an intense community event with discussions, demos and interaction from attendees. Anyone with something to contribute or with the desire to learn is welcome and invited to participate.

More info about BarCamp Sydney on the wiki:   
Sign up at 
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Tackling Social Poverty - Blog Action Day` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-10-15-tackling-social-poverty/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-10-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Poverty manifests itself through different guises. When we think of poverty, we'd immediately recall a homeless person or a malnourished African child, a reflection of economical poverty. Social poverty is the result of lack of social capital. As per J.D. Lewandowski, “the concept of social capital refers to the networks of social trust and social connections that serve to enable individual and collective actions in a given social structure or society.” Social exclusion is often a cause of poverty, conflict and insecurity. Improving social inclusion increases one's well-being, mentally as well as economically.

The Internet has enabled a way of social interaction and connections which facilitate the kinds of action that “make democracy work” (Robert Putnam). It enables freedom of movement up and down the socio-economic and cultural ladder through social participation and human development. It offers economic opportunities and access to public and social services.

On the Internet, everyone can be anyone, and social division becomes a non-issue (though actually new social divisions are constantly being created, on a different level – are you on MySpace or Facebook?). In fact, “on the Internet, nobody knows you're a dog” (Peter Steiner's cartoon). Another joke goes “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach him to use the Internet and he won't bother you for weeks.” But that man might rise up to be the next Internet millionaire. Access to the Internet is an instrumental right for the improvement of people's capability. Missing out restrains personal growth. That's also why gouvernments provide libraries, and Internet access at libraries. It gives people access to knowledge, but libraries are a less than ideal environment for social interaction. Bringing the Internet closer to the community, closer to home, empowers people to take control of their own social network (online and offline). That's where [Free Sydney Wireless](http://blog.freesydneywireless.com/ "Free Sydney Wireless") ([Free Australia Wireless](http://www.freeaustraliawireless.com/)) fits in. By providing free Internet access, through a shared connection, we try to bridge the social divide in our own community, closest to us. This hardly costs us anything extra, as we already pay for Internet access. This is our small contribution to tackle social poverty.

The growth of social networking and user generated content reflects the deep rooted need of people for self expression, social interaction and peer validation. People sharing without personal financial gain. As they do, others do. Or so we hope anyway.  

What are you waiting for, why not [get involved](http://www.freeaustraliawireless.com/get-involved/ "Free Australia Wireless")?

![(http://blogactionday.org/img/9561c694e46d84b35d73320d7411a9e89457fba2.jpg)](http://blogactionday.org)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `It's a wrap` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-09-28-its-a-wrap/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-09-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

The madness that is Web Directions South has come and gone. Four days of social networking, workshops, presos, drinks, and after-party. On top of that, I was quite busy getting the conference wifi of the ground and keep it running, together with [Nat](http://www.purecaffeine.com/2008/09/mark-pesces-closing-presentation-wds08/). And can't help myself, [taking pictures](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/sets/72157607444838754/) too. Presentations and podcasts of WDS08 are available [at the site](http://www.webdirections.org/tag/wds08/ "Presos").

John Allsopp introduced [Scroll Magazine](http://scrollmagazine.com/), a MagCloud print-on-demand magazine, designed by fellow Belgian [Veerle Pieters](http://veerle.duoh.com/).

Met another Belgian, [Andreas](http://my.opera.com/ODIN/blog/2008/10/10/wds08-webjam-8-and-wsg-meetup?cid=6191874), standards evangelist for Opera (Belgians are thinly spread around the globe…).

Thursday evening was [Webjam8](http://webjam.com.au/). Quickly set up two iBurst modems, one for the presenters and one for the public. And then had my big debut presenting for the Sydney crowd (of about 350), showing of [Mapanui](https://halans.com/mapanui/) in three minutes (which was more than enough :) Got some positive feedback. Also check out [TechNation Australia](http://www.technation.com.au/2008/09/26/webjam-8-goes-off/), [ZDNet AU](http://www.zdnet.com.au/insight/software/soa/Webjam-8-Photo-Gallery/0,139023769,339292281-10s,00.htm "Me at WebJam8"), [Sitepoint](http://www.sitepoint.com/blogs/2008/09/27/webjam08-smells-like-geek-spirits/), and this [Viddler video](http://www.viddler.com/explore/Webjam/videos/29 "Mapanui on Viddler")…

Friday an early start to make sure the wireless network was back up and running. Turns out I was too early, first one there. Jeffrey Veen's keynote was great. Played around with Microsoft Surface. Loved David Peterson's talk on semantic web. And Mark Pesce's closing keynote rickrolling the audience and then opened with a NIN track (“Just Like You Imagined” from [The Frail](http://www.ninwiki.com/The_Fragile_(halo)) (left) album from 1999), setting the tone for [This, That and the Other](http://blog.futurestreetconsulting.com/?p=76). Finishing with the after-party (and recovering for two days), on which I was happy to hear plenty of Soulwax remixes (Belgium represent)!

And if the wifi internet was slow at Web Directions, remember, it was a [volunteer-based effort](http://www.freeaustraliawireless.com/) on our own, cheap hardware, backed by 4 iBurst sponsored wireless modems.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Good times are coming` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-09-14-good-times-are-coming/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-09-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Looking forward to next weekend already. In just over a week Web Directions South, the major Australian Web development conference, kicks of with 2-day workshops and a 2-day conference at the Sydney Expo in Darling Harbour.

The traditional [Port80](http://www.port80.asn.au/ "Port 80") pre-Web Directions South (night before the conference) drinks are on again on September 24th, 6.30pm at the Harlequin Inn, with a sponsored bar-tab (thanks Clever Starfish, Radharc and [Free Australia Wireless](http://www.freeaustraliawireless.com "Free Australia Wireless")):

[Harlequin Inn](http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Harris+and+Union+Sts,,+Pyrmont&sll=-25.335448,135.745076&sspn=60.04724,78.75&ie=UTF8&ll=-33.8685,151.19521&spn=0.006993,0.009613&z=17&layer=c&cbll=-33.869709,151.19393&panoid=eTFiBFVxXROiYDZCleRChA&cbp=1 "Google Maps")  
Cnr Harris & Union Streets  
Pyrmont NSW 2009

After a 12 month hiatus, [Webjam](http://webjam.com.au/ "Webjam") v8 is back for a splendid night of quick-fire presentations of new, innovative web projects, September 25th, the first evening of the WDS conference. If you haven't registered yet, [do it now](http://webjam.com.au/session/new?return_to=%2Fwebjam8%2Frsvp "Register for Webjam"), 'cause places are limited and sure to fill up quickly! And while you're at it, why not register to pimp your project! Upstairs at [Bar Broadway](http://barbroadway.com.au/) at 7:30pm.

[Bar Broadway](http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=bar+broadway&sll=-33.867139,151.207114&sspn=0.045113,0.079308&ie=UTF8&ll=-33.880125,151.201122&spn=0.010813,0.019827&t=h&z=16&layer=c&cbll=-33.884118,151.202273&panoid=OKmQ4lfMmf6sFZMknijaMg&cbp=1,238.83303241902092,,0,-3.5751982111664296 "Google Maps")  
Cnr Broadway & Regent Streets  
Ultimo NSW 2007

And Web Directions' closing night party September 26th, over two big floors, from 5.30 till late, at the Shelbourne Hotel

But first, next weekend, right before Web Directions South, [Oz-IA](http://www.oz-ia.org/2008/), Australia's Information Architecture conference, takes place at the Stamford Plaza in Double Bay.

In October [SANS](http://www.sans.org/sydney08/ "SANS in Sydney") is in town again, with some great security training opportunities.

And end of November, the weekend of 29/30, the [RuxCon](http://www.ruxcon.org.au/ "RuxCon") conference is back on in Sydney (UTS), while at the same time in Lilyfield's The Red Box we have [WordCamp](http://wordcamp.com.au/ "WordCamp") on, a WordPress conference. Choices, choices, choices.

Good times!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Sydney StartupCamp` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-09-07-sydney-startupcamp/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-09-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[StartupCamp is on this weekend](http://www.startup-australia.org/startupweekend "StartupCamp weekend"), an event that brings together 20-something multidiciplinary individuals to set up an online business over the weekend. It started Friday evening with pitching ideas, went on through the night with development, all through Saturday, with a 10PM launch. That leaves today Sunday for promotion.

This is what they came up with (remember, all in about 24 hours):

[TrafficHawk.com.au](http://www.traffichawk.com.au/) – gets you there on time  
TrafficHawk.com.au is a new traffic information service for NSW drivers. This free website delivers up to the minute RTA traffic alerts (accidents, road works and alerts) and photos from live traffic cameras. Receive warnings about your commute before you leave home and see what's happening on the roads right now.

[LinkViz.com](http://www.linkviz.com/)  
What's got Twitter's attention right now? Which sites are your friends talking about? LinkViz.com – see the sites.

[uT.ag](http://ut.ag/)  
uTag rewards the value that people pass on to their online social networks. Instead of being punished for pointing readers at interesting external sites, uTaggers can now share in the rewards.

Check it out!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `2001, a browser's Odyssey: IE6 turns seven` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-08-27-2001-a-browsers-odyssey-ie6-turns-seven/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-08-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

2001, the year of 911 – Twin Towers, and IE 6.

IE 6 is seven years old today. Amazing how time flies. “2001, a browser's Odyssey”. Where were you on August 27, 2001?

IE 6 is still the base-line browser I need to develop against, unfortunatly. When will we get rid of it? People (developers) have been trying though:

- Google [promoting Firefox](http://adsense.blogspot.com/2005/11/firefox-referrals-now-available.html).
- [Explorer Destroyer](http://www.explorerdestroyer.com/).
- [Stop IE6](http://www.stopie6.org/).
- [End 6!](http://www.end6.org/).
- [WordPress](http://wordpress.org/) with [Browse Happy](http://browsehappy.com/).
- [SaveTheDevelopers.org](http://savethedevelopers.org/).
- [PushUpTheWeb](http://www.pushuptheweb.com/ "PushUpTheWeb")
- [IE Death March](http://iedeathmarch.org/ "IE Death March")

But you can't deny the facts, it's still a popular browser.

But the biggest concern shouldn't be that it's a bad browser development wise, but its lack of security for the every day user.

Update:

- 37Signals is [phasing out IE6 support](http://37signals.blogs.com/products/2008/07/basecamp-phasin.html "37Signals") all together.
- Microsoft [patches IE6 for a better GMail experience](http://www.webmonkey.com/blog/Google_Teams_With_Microsoft_On_IE6_Gmail). WTF? Can't they patch IE6 for a better experience across the board?
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Reality Mining` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-08-18-reality-mining/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-08-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Technology Review has a special report on [10 emerging technologies for 2008](http://www.technologyreview.com/specialreports/specialreport.aspx?id=25 "TR Special Report"). One is Offline Web Applications, which I'm not going to talk about, it's kind of obvious (Air, Gears, etc). Others are very “out there” (“Connectomics”, “NanoRadio”, “Probabilistic Chips” anyone…?). Another one though is pretty real: “**Reality Mining**“.

So what are they talking about? [MIT Media Lab](http://reality.media.mit.edu/):

> **Reality Mining** defines the collection of machine-sensed environmental data pertaining to human social behaviour. Reality Mining measures information access and use in different contexts, recognizes social patterns in daily user activity, infers relationships, identifies socially significant locations, and models organizational rhythms.

It is emerging in a sense that it is only now that recent advances in mobile technology put the tools in people's hands to actually aggregate large, realistic datasets of measurable information. In the last 6 to 12 months new mobile phone handsets are being combined with Wifi and GPS. The boundary between mobile phone (a phone to make, you know, phone calls and send text messages) and smart phone (a mobile phone with additional business related applications like email, office documents, multimedia) is blurring fast, and mobile data is getting faster and more affordable. But Reality Mining as an academic experiment at MIT has been happening for more than [5 years](http://www.slideshare.net/sifra/reality-mining-nathan-eagle/ "Slideshare preso of 2003") already (using Bluetooth) and they have collected over 350,000 hours (~40 years) of continuous data on human behaviour (100 subjects at MIT – [Sensing complex social systems – pdf](http://reality.media.mit.edu/pdfs/realitymining.pdf)).

Only recently several other Reality Mining experiments came to light, like [Cityware's](http://www.cityware.org.uk/) [Digital Footprint](http://www.technovelgy.com/ct/Science-Fiction-News.asp?NewsNum=1781) in the UK and [bluetoothtracking.org](http://bluetoothtracking.org/) in the Netherlands. The goal of Cityware is “to develop theory, principles, tools and techniques for the design, implementation and evaluation of city-scale pervasive systems as integral facets of the urban landscape.” But in both projects participants are actually unaware that they are participating, in fact they are [covertly being tracked](http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2008/jul/21/civilliberties.privacy) without their consent in a technology experiment using Bluetooth scanners installed at secret locations in offices, campuses, streets and pubs to pinpoint people's whereabouts. And they have been doing so for 3 years.

> More than 1,000 scanners across the world at any time detect passing Bluetooth signals and send the data to Cityware's central database. Those with access to the database admit they do not know precisely how many scanners have been created, but there are known to be scanners in San Diego, Hong Kong, Australia, Singapore, Toronto and Berlin.

Although anonymous, most Bluetooth devices are given a personal name (Tom's Blackberry), and the Bluetooth scanners can even pick up full names, email addresses, and address books from poorly configured devices.

Closer to our hearts (as it were), [Yahoo! is experimenting](http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/yahoo_reality_mining.php "ReadWriteWeb") with its MyBlogLog service:

> MyBlogLog allows users to bind their Bluetooth address to their MyBlogLog account and discover others nearby and find out if they have any shared interests. Meetspace \[*meat-space?*\] keeps track of time spent with others so they have a running log of people to meet and things to talk about.”

MyBlogLog uses a mobile Java applet to tie your Bluetooth device to your MyBlogLog account, then polls for new activity every two minutes. There are plenty of other services out there doing the same (Google [Dodgeball](http://www.dodgeball.com/)).

But back to today's future… and the iPhone. The iPhone for example offers assisted GPS which means you don't even need a GPS signal for location aware services, cell-tower triangulation can be used, as well as Wifi AP triangulation (which by the way also works nicely on the iPod touch), as long as there are known access points around (known to [Skyhook](http://www.skyhookwireless.com/) that is). And we happily use those services together with our social network apps. There are already countless social, location-aware apps available on the Apple App store like Exposure and Twinkle, and if our favourite social app doesn't have a iPhone native app, we'll happily connect to [Brightkite](http://brightkite.com/ "Brightkite") or other [Yahoo! Fire Eagle](http://fireeagle.yahoo.net/ "Fire Eagle") enable service and tell everyone (or only friends and family) where we are and what we do, and who we do it with…

Where previously thousands of Bluetooth enabled device where being scanned and tracked (unknowingly and unwillingly) by ten scanners spread around Bath, UK, now, at the same locations around Bath, or for that matter around the country, hundreds of thousands of users would be broadcasting their doings and location, and do so voluntarily. Though we might not know what is happening with that information. While we try to retain control of (and [monetize](http://www.firstmonday.org/issues/issue2_4/goldhaber/)) our [Attention data](http://attentiontrust.org/) on the web, will we be able to retain control (and monetize) our Lifestream data?

The mobile phone as a social artefact becomes more and more a personal black box, recording our every move (into the cloud), for later playback. Where we currently see governments worldwide implement retention policies for email, we might see, in a not so distant future, a retention policy on our lifestream. I do hope I'm wrong.

Have a look at this short video interview (4 min) on [Reality Mining](http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid263777539?bctid=1396506105), with Alex (Sandy) Pentland, director of the Human Dynamics Group at MIT.

BTW, I love my iPhone, and I love location aware applications, but I always have Bluetooth disabled on my phone.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Apple iPhone 3G - Australia` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/apple-iphone-3g-australia/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-08-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    
	
## Features

### Apple iPhone 3G – Australia

#### 12 August 2008

You can read about [the 1st gen iPhone there](https://halans.com/apple-iphone-australia/), which I've been using for 10 months now. Of course when the new one came out, and available in Australia, I was very tempted. And the day it came out, I was up early, and [waiting in line at the Optus store in North Sydney](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/2657091316/ "Waiting in line"). Unfortunately, I didn't reserve one earlier in the month, so, well I couldn't get one that morning. I didn't immediately put in an order either, as I also wanted to see what the other operators would offer.

Still, it was itching… It's the phone I always wanted: 3G speeds for browsing, wifi, GPS. Of course I already have all that for a long time in my [Dopod D810](https://halans.com/dopod-d810-on-three-x-series/), but really, windows mobile is sooo bad… I haven't used that phone since I got my iPhone 2G last October. Every time I recharge it, and look at it, it's sooo bad…

So I bit the bullet on July 17 and placed my order for a black 16 Gb iPhone 3G, on a 12 month, 39$ 500Mb Optus post-pay plan. They told me delivery would be 2 weeks. For my colleague, who placed his order at noon on the day of the release, it did take two weeks. But as you can see, it was almost 4 weeks. If they would have told me it would take 4 weeks back then, I wouldn't have ordered it. You could get them at the Apple store pretty easy (though with considerable waiting lines of 2-3 hours during the weekend). When the Apple store in Chatswood Chase opened last weekend, you could walk in and out with one. It only hurt a little bit (the waiting), as I still had my iPhone 2G to play with. And an iPod tough to update to firmware version 2 (paid upgrade) and play with the new features, and especially the new apps from the Apple App Store on iTunes.

Scroll [down for updates](#iphoneupdate)

#### Device info:

- Build quality is still fabulous, it looks fantastic. Though I still prefer the metal back.
- OSX Unix-based OS
- 3.5″ 480×320 at 163 ppi lcd
- GSM/HSDPA on 850/900/1800/1900MHz
- Camera 2M
- Innovative user interface
- Bluetooth v2.0 + EDR, WiFi 802.11 b/g,
- 115mm x 61mm x 11.6mm, 135g
- Stand-by: up to 250 hours (supplier values)
- Talk time: up to 8 hours (supplier values)
- Video time: up to 7 hours (supplier values)
- Music time: up to 24 hours (supplier values)

#### Apple iPhone 3G niceties (more of the same):

- The coolness factor.
- The interface, ease of use, the smoothness.
- Great email interface.
- The best mobile browsing experience, which is a full internet experience, while having lots of iPhone designed webapps.
- Great SMS interface (conversation).
- Google Maps.
- 16Gb for music, video, pictures.
- 3G, assisted GPS.
- A regular headphone jack, no need for an adapter to use other, better headphones.

#### Apple iPhone 3G not-so-niceties (still not perfect):

- The glass screen is scratch proof, but not so for smudges.
- Battery life is too short.
- Battery not accessible.
- No contextual menu, no Select/Copy/Paste.
- Limited bluetooth functionality, only for headphone (no internet sharing for example).
- Very limited customization, can only change the wallpaper (when in standby mode).


    

### Links:

- [Apple product page](http://www.apple.com/iphone/ "Apple iPhone")
- [Apple WebApps page](http://www.apple.com/iphone/webapps/ "Apple iPhone WebApps")


    

### iPhone 3G Links:

- [Google for iPhone](http://www.google.com/m?hl=en)


    
	

### Tip

On text entry, double click the space bar to finish a sentence, adding a dot and space. No need to switch keyboard context to add a dot.


    
	
### Tip

The headphones also contains a mic in its cord, plus it acts as a remote control by clicking it: once for play/pause, double click for next.


    
	
### Tip

In Safari, once you scrolled down. double tab the top bar to scroll back up to the top and the address bar.


    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `WSG Sydney - "Findability: going beyond SEO"` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-08-16-wsg-sydney-findability-going-beyond-seo/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-08-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Next Sydney [WebStandardsGroup](http://webstandardsgroup.org/ "WSG") meeting:  
“Findability: going beyond SEO”  
Presenter: Radica Raeves

> Search engine optimisation is usually the first subject that comes to mind when thinking about ways to improve the visibility of your organisation online. But it's only a piece of the puzzle. In order to help the intended audience find, use and reuse your information, we need to look beyond SEO. Findability could help complete the puzzle. It's a much broader concept, touching on almost every aspect of the web design and development process, where specialist fields intersect and overlap. We need to try and identify these elements of findability and “plug” them into the user-centred design workflow. It's a big challenge… Can we connect the dots and bridge the gaps?”

And two iPhone presentations.  
Be there!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Gruen Transfer airs Whopper Freakout` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-07-31-gruen-transfer-airs-whopper-freakout/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-07-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Missed the buzz last year, but yesterday ABC's [Gruen Transfer](http://www.abc.net.au/tv/gruentransfer/) aired (part of) the [Whopper Freakout](http://www.whopperfreakout.com/), what happens when Burger King cancels their signature burger, the Whopper. Do people care?


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Adobe Rip-off` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-07-31-adobe-rip-off/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-07-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

The new Adobe Lightroom 2 is out. I looked at the upgrade on the Adobe site, and on the US store it's only a very reasonable $99 USD (or about $105 AUD), but on the Adobe AU store the upgrade is $179, a 70+% markup for Australia? Even with GST that doesn't match up.  
They are even worse than Apple where a MacBook Pro in the US is $1999, and in AU $2699, that's 'only' a 35% markup.

Update: [Article on News.com.au](http://www.news.com.au/technology/story/0,25642,23945533-5014108,00.html "Rip-off")
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `The web goes PushUp crazy` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-07-30-the-web-goes-pushup-crazy/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-07-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

There's [PushUpTheWeb](http://www.pushuptheweb.com/), encouraging non-geeks to upgrade their browsers, improving their their internet experience:

> Pushup is an effort to push the web forward by helping users upgrade their outdated browsers. Give your users a better web experience today by installing Pushup on your domain!

And then there's [OneHundredPushUps](http://hundredpushups.com/), encouraging geeks to get fitter, stronger, improving their physique:

> If you're serious about increasing your strength, follow this six week training program and you'll soon be on your way to completing 100 consecutive push ups!

Lots of wikis and twitter post popping up with people's results…

EDIT:  
And then there's [the push-up craze in China](http://www.smh.com.au/news/web/chinese-netizens-rail-against-great-firewall/2008/08/01/1217097503184.html):

> “Doing push-ups” became a way for people to vent their anger over the incident and express their disgust at attempts to censor reports and stifle discussion about it on the internet.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Usability Challenge 2008` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-07-27-usability-challenge-2008/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-07-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Next Friday, August 1:

> [Usability Challenge 2008](http://usabilitychallenge.webnode.com/help-promote/ "Usability Challenge") is only 6 days away if you're in Anchorage Alaska, and 5 days away if you're in Wellington, New Zealand. If you're one of the almost 5,000 inhabitants of the island nation of Kiribati, then you will be the very first Earthlings to experience Usability Challenge Day 2008, being the easternmost humans on the planet. This is very appropriate given that the I-Kiribati became unofficial Usability Challenge heroes by solving a usability problem of global proportions!
> 
> From 1979, Kiribati found itself straddling the International Date Line. This meant that when it was Monday in one part of Kiribati, it was Sunday in another. Not a particularly usable situation for Government agencies trying to get some work done. So in 1995 they moved a bit of the International Date Line. It now skirts around Kiribati, which has been enjoying synchronised weekends every since.
> 
> If the I-Kiribati moved the International Date Line to solve a usability problem, what are \*you\* going to do to make the world a better, safer and/or more usable place?
> 
> On Friday 1 August, your mission is to find a usability issue, design a solution, and share the design with someone who can implement it. Don't forget to also share what you've done with your fellow usability challengers too!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Vanity Validator` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-07-26-vanity-validator/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-07-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Wired's [Vanity Validator](http://www.google.com/ig/adde?synd=open&source=ggyp&moduleurl=hosting.gmodules.com/ig/gadgets/file/101079977319563793978/gadget6.xml "Vanity validator") widget for iGoogle, found on [the Julia Allison Wired article](http://www.wired.com/culture/lifestyle/magazine/16-08/howto_allison):

> How famous are you online? Inspired by Chris Anderson's best-selling book, The Long Tail, this gadget uses Google's PageRank™ technology to give you a number based on how many good websites mention the name you enter.

Try for yourself:


    What's your score? (mine was 50 at this time, not quite famous or fabulous)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Muppets are evil: proof!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-07-23-muppets-are-evil-proof/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-07-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[Video proof](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znQs3SWSs-E) (YouTube) that muppets are pure evil!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Move to WP` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-07-20-move-to-wp/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Moved the halans.com address to WordPress, and over the coming days weeks I'll be updating the content here to reflect the original content on halans.be.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `iPhone 3G spoof` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-07-20-iphone-3g-spoof/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

The [iPhone 3G](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDZUk67FpB0) costs an arm and a leg…


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Professionally` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/professionally/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

At the end of 2005, after a year at Certipost, I returned to my 'roots' at Clear2Pay for new opportunities. Opportunities which took me to down under, Sydney, where I'm currently employed at the Clear2Pay/ FIS Australasia office.

In 2005, I was working as an ICT Architect Developer at [Certipost](http://www.certipost.be) (dep. ICT-Development and Service Support – [CertiONE](http://www.certione.com)), after mutating from an external Clear2Pay consultant at Certipost to a full-time Certipost employee. Certipost is a Belgian market leader in solutions to facilitate and certify electronic communications, supporting DRM and IAM.

Until the end of 2004, I worked as an e-commerce developer at Element/[Clear2Pay](http://www.clear2pay.com). Clear2Pay (acquired by FIS) is a European global company offering bank solutions. It has a proven track record in offering secure payment solutions to Financial Institutions.

My work experience includes:

- #### FIS/Clear2Pay BPH/OPF/BVA/OVA
    
    (2006-current)
    
    
    - SSDLC and OSS governance
    - NPP development and production support
    - ASBSBI project
    - Operator Visibility App development
    - CBA Mercury project
    - Bank Payment Hub/Open Payment Framework/Bank Visibility App
    - Cedicam project
    - PBS project
    - Prototype/POC development
    - Product front-end web development
    - Accessability & usability watchdog
- #### Certipost CertiONE
    
    (2005)
    
    
    - Document exchange portal development
    - CertiONE v2.0 POC
    - Customer portal development
    - Product documentation
- #### ProxyPay 3/M Back Office Development
    
    (2003-2004)
    
    
    - Back Office for administration of POS/Gateway System and Merchants;
    - Back Office customisation for CSAS.cz;
    - Product documentation.
- #### 3-D Secure ACS Back Office Development
    
    (2002-2004)
    
    
    - Back Office for administration of 
        - ACS System and Issuers;
        - Cardholder account administration;
        - Product documentation.
- #### 3-D Secure
    
    (2002)
    
    
    - Integration into ProxyPay POS demo;
    - Integration into shopping environment.
- #### MasterCard Chip-UCAF
    
    (2002)
    
    
    - Development of plug-in interface for Europay International proof-of-concept;
    - Integration into shopping environment.
- #### Training Element products
    
    (2002)
    
    
    - ProxyPay³ integration training for Printec (Greece).
- #### SET installation, customization and support
    
    (2000-2002)
    
    
    - POS testing with Citicorp Germany/Singapore;
    - POS customizations for Banksys banxafe;
    - ServerWallet installation, customization and support for VSBi ServerWallet;
    - ServerWallet customization and support for: 
        - Europay demowallet;
        - Interpay – SET pilot, VCards, ABN Amro bank;
        - Banksys banxafe wallet;
    - SET ServerWallet training for (2000) 
        - Visa Assistance Center
        - VSBi Helpdesk
- #### Other E-Commerce Projects:
    
    
    - Development of ProxyPay³ BackOffice User Interface (2001)
    - Integration banxafe secure payment into e-commerce sites (2001)
    - Development CPS Europe demo site: 'Authentication with PocketID' and 'ServerWallet shopping flow with PocketID' (2001)
    - Development of EuroISPA ticketing site (2001)
    - WAP-shop development for Europay (2000)
    - Development of +25 shopping sites, including Tijdshop, Ojas, Shuffle, BestOfMusic, Option, Nestore and many others (1998-2001)
- #### Design of Element booths:
    
    
    - 'no worries' e-commerce, 'anywhere' m-commerce, CISSP training Banner
- #### Representation on international trade fairs:
    
    
    - CeBIT 2002, 2003 Hannover
    - Cartes 2001 Expo in Paris 2001
    - Europay Forum in Munich 2001
    - ProtonWorld Forum in Cairo 2001
    - Compaq Atalla meeting in Athens 2000
    - Visa meeting in London 2000
    - SET Forum in Zurich '99
- Representation on job fairs (national). (2000-2002)
- #### Design and development of product and company presentations and training presentations.
    
    (1998-2003)
- #### Design and development of product documentation:
    
    
    - InstantShop, ProxyPay, ProxyPayII, ProxyPay³ and ProxyPay3/M, Adprofiler, SMS Suite ('99-2003).
    - Customization of Globeset documentation for SET products ('98-2000).
- #### Web design Element sites:
    
    
    - Element ProxyPay3/M Back Office (2003)
    - Element ACS Back Office (2003)
    - Element MPI Back Office (2002)
    - Element ServGuard Site v2 (2002)
    - Element ProxyPay3 Back Office (2001)
    - Element Product Sites: SMS-Suite.com, Adprofiler.com (2001)
    - Element site v2 (2001-2006)
    - Element ProxyPayII Back Office (2000)
    - Element Secure Payment Award site (2000-2002)
    - Backoffice Adprofiler UI ('99-2000)
    - Element ServGuard Site v1 ('99)
    - Back Office Commerce Suite (credit card, Proton) UI ('98)
    - ProxyPay v1 site ('98)
    - Element site v1 ('98)
- #### Channel Distribution Manager
    
    ('98-'99) support for Element products:
    
    
    - ProxyPay secure payment integration into customer e-commerce sites.
    - InstantShop merchants
    - SMS Suite
    - AdProfiler

Before Element, I worked part-time in a cd-store as a salesperson, had my own home-based graphic/web-design company, and in 1997 started working for Leplae Industries (which became Element in 1998).

Over these years I gathered following skills:

#### Skills:

- Knowledge of Generative AI.
- Knowledge of payment, acquiring and processing.
- Knowledge of Payment Schemes: NPP, SEPA, Proton, SET, Bancontact/MisterCash, Maestro, 3-D Secure, SPA/UCAF
- Knowledge of web-application security (OWASP) and network intrusion detection (Snort, Ethereal/Wireshark)
- Development of web-applications in Vaadin/JSP/Servlets/Struts/Tiles/MyFaces/Wicket, PHP5/7, SQL, OSGi
- Development of web-applications using HTML5, JavaScript, CSS3, Bootstrap, Grunt, A-Frame, Microformats, RDF, WordPress
- Working knowledge of macOS, Windows 10, Linux, Oracle 11 DB, IBM DB2, IBM Websphere
- Working knowledge of Adobe products : Lightroom, Photoshop CC, Sketch, Affinity Photo, Affinity Designer
- Working knowledge of MS Office 365
- Working knowledge of Eclipse, IntelliJ, Nova, VS Code,

#### Workshops / Conferences:

- Australian OSINT Symposium (2025)
- OSINTCombine training (2025)
- Web Directions Engineering AI (2025)
- Cloudflare Immerse (2025)
- Cloudflare MCP workshop (2025)
- Microsoft AI Tour Sydney (2024)
- Web Directions Next (2024)
- Sentient Design Workshop (2024)
- Web Directions AI (2023)
- Generative AI: Implications and Opportunitites for Business (RMIT - FutureLearn 2023)
- Identify guiding principles for Responsible AI (Microsoft Learn 2023)
- Responsible AI (TAFE NSW - Institute of Applied Technology 2023)
- Designing MS Azure Infrastructure Solutions AZ-305 (2022)
- AWS Architecture Accelerator (2022)
- Cybersecurity for Green Technology, EC-Council (2022)
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (2022)
- Sustainability and Climate Change: An Introduction to Low Carbon Road Transport, Cenex (2021)
- How to Measure, Reduce, and Offset your Company's Carbon Footprint, MSQ/BIMA (2021)
- ISC2 CSSLP Training (2020)
- Angular Workshop (2020)
- Web Directions Summit Sydney (2019)
- Web Directions Summit Sydney (2018)
- Web Directions AI/Culture Sydney (2018)
- Web Directions Summit Sydney (2017)
- Google DevFest Sydney (2016)
- Web Directions South 2016 (2016)
- Generate Conference Sydney (2016)
- AISA National Security Conference (2016)
- SANS Sydney Community meetups (2016)
- WordCamp Sydney (2016)
- Service Design Bootcamp GA (2016)
- DDD Sydney (2016)
- Connecting Conversation IXDA Workshop (2016)
- Vivid Ideas (2015)
- SANS Sydney Community meetups (2015)
- AWS Summit Sydney (2015)
- Advanced Vaadin / Extending Vaadin, Brussels (2014)
- AWS Summit Sydney (2014)
- KPI Brand Accelerator (2014)
- Vivid Ideas (2014)
- OWASP Sydney community meetups (2014)
- YOW Nights Sydney (2014)
- SANS Sydney Community meetups (2014)
- Architecting your API Management Strategy (2014)
- How to Run a Workshop Workshop, Sydney (2013)
- Vivid Ideas (2013)
- AISA National Conference, Sydney (2012)
- ISC2 National Conference, Sydney (2012)
- Wordcamp, Sydney (2012)
- Broadband Innovation – Apps Development Day, Sydney (2012)
- AISA National Conference, Sydney (2011)
- Google Dev Day, Sydney (2011)
- Social Innovation Barcamp, Sydney (2011)
- HP Connect, Sydney (2011)
- Real World Accessibility, Sydney (2011)
- Secure Sydney, ISC2 National Conference, Sydney (2011)
- AWS Tour, Sydney (2011)
- AR Dev Camp, Sydney (2011)
- Vivid Creative Sydney, Sydney (2011)
- Art Of Prototyping, Powerhouse, Sydney (2011)
- Web Directions South, Sydney (2010)
- Google DevFest, Sydney (2010)
- Apps4NSW Hackfest, Sydney (2010)
- Forum Nokia Developer Conference, Sydney (2010)
- OpenAustralia Hackfest, Sydney (2009)
- Web Directions South, Sydney (2009)
- Oz-IA Information architecture conference, Sydney (2009)
- CloudCamp, Google Sydney (2009)
- PayPal Developer Day, PayPal Sydney (2009)
- Google Wave Developer Day, Google, Sydney (2009)
- Pragmatic, accessible JavaScript in a web services world – Christian Heilmann, Web Directions South workshop, Sydney (2009)
- iGoogle OpenSocial Hackathon, Google Sydney (2008)
- Wordcamp, Sydney (2008)
- iPhone Tech Talk, Apple Sydney (2008)
- Web Application Penetration Testing In-Depth, SANS Sydney (2008)
- Web Directions South, Sydney (2008)
- Real World Accessibility – Derek Featherstone, Web Directions South workshop, Sydney (2008)
- Javascript: The Good Parts – Douglas Crockford, Web Directions South workshop, Sydney (2008)
- Oz-IA Information architecture conference, Sydney (2008)
- Google Developer Day, Sydney (2008)
- Adobe AIR Camp, Sydney (2008)
- Adobe Actionscript with Colin Mook, Sydney (2008)
- Sun Developer Day, Sydney (2007)
- Web Directions South 2007 Conference, Sydney (2007)
- Mobile Web design and development, Web Directions South workshop, Sydney (2007)
- Beginning Ruby On Rails, Web Directions South workshop, Sydney (2007)
- Oz-IA Information architecture conference, Sydney (2007)
- Hacker Techniques, Exploits and Incident Handling, SANS Sydney (2007)
- Google Developer Day, Sydney (2007)
- Online Banking 2.0, Deloitte-AIMIA Sydney (2007)
- World Usability Day conference, Sydney (2006)
- Oz-IA Information architecture conference, Sydney (2006)
- UML 2.0, Cevora/Beta Edegem (2005)
- C#, VTI Brugge (2005)
- Semantic Web tutorial, W3C/ISOC Antwerpen (2005)
- VB.net, VTI Brugge (2004)
- Java & EJBs, Cevora Kortrijk (2004)
- SANS Hands-On Intrusion Detection, SANS Denver USA (2002)
- CISSP security training, Element (2002)
- C++ programming, Vizo Ieper (2001-02)
- Efficient teaching, Cevora Gent (2001)
- User documentation, Cevora Gent (2001)
- Presentation Skills in English, Cevora Antwerpen (2000)
- Presentation Skills, Cevora Gent (2000)
- Globeset SET Support training, Element (2000)
- Windows NT 4 Server, Vizo Brugge ('99)
- Graphical User Interface, Vizo Brugge ('99)
- MultiMedia Development, Vizo Brugge ('99)
- Macromedia Director 7, Graphical Institute Gent ('99)

#### Certification

- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (2022)
- CISSP, ISC² Certified Information Systems Security Professional (2002) – in good standing

#### My formal eduction includes:

- Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security, Charles Sturt University, Australia (2022)
- Further Education: 3 years Photo Arts at the Academy of Hoboken, Belgium ('95-'97)
- Some Higher Education: 1e Kan Chemistry RUCA Antwerp, 1e Imaging-Sound RITS Brussels, Belgium
- Grammar school: ScienceB, Sint-Jan Berchmans College Antwerp, Belgium

#### Some vital statistics are:

- Halans Jean-Jacques,
- Born somewhere, sometime in October, Seventies
- Currently living in Bruges (Brugge), Belgium Sydney, Australia
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `About me` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/about/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

### Personally

Child of the seventies, born as Jean-Jacques Halans in the region of Antwerp, BE. Oldest of one brother and two sisters. A happy youth, blabla. Skateboarding, skiing, snowboarding, blabla. Playing guitar, blabla. Got into photography. <<fastforward>> Met this pretty girl in the summer of '93, fell in love. Got on the Internet in '95. Started making some money on it in '97. Blabla. Went to the US on holiday with the whole family in '98. Moved to Brugge in the beginning of '99. Survived Y2K. Got [married](http://oz.halans.com/) in '02 in Sydney. Went to [New Zealand](http://nz.halans.com/) on holiday in '03. Tumbled down under in '06.

Spend too much money on computer stuff (books, hardware, software, magazines,…), gadgets (iphones, DSLR, etc), 4K BR/home theater (Dolby Atmos) stuff, CDs iTunes/Beatport…

I like cooking, and eating (not so much yo-yo diets), watching movies (cinema, or at home), surfing the net, graphic and web design, [photography](http://halansphotography.com/), traveling, snorkeling. I hope to get started with surfing and diving (nah, that never happened).

Was involved with organising Barcamp Sydney (well yeah, it's been a while), try to get some free Wifi going with [Free Sydney Wireless](https://www.freesydneywireless.com/), hack around with Microformats and Google Maps on [Mapanui](https://halans.com/mapanui/), love Sydney (https://gottalovesydney.com/), play with [social reputation](https://socialrecommendator.com/) using [ChatGPT](https://ai.socialrecommendator.com/), love taking the [Sydney ferry](https://nextsydneyferry.com/), love [Australian startups](https://madewithlove.in/Australia), 
love playing with [AI generated images](https://ai.prompt.cards) and LLM and [prompt engineering](https://productivitytools.prompt.cards), love [our puppy](https://nero.dog).

[Check me out](https://halans.me)

#### Music (90's) I like (in no particular order):

- Trentemöller
- Underworld
- Norah Jones
- Buffalo Tom
- Sonic Youth
- [Chris Whitley](http://www.flickr.com/search/?w=48889073931%40N01&q=Chris+Whitley&m=text "Chris Whitley pics")
- Foo Fighters
- Moloko
- Bjork
- Kyuss
- Pixies
- Red Hot Chili Peppers
- Nine Inch Nails
- Afghan Whigs
- Travis
- Coldplay
- Aqualung
- Goldfrapp
- Fat Boy Slim
- Chemical Brothers
- Ken Ishii
- Buscemi
- Sven Van Hees
- Thievery Corporation
- Ian Pooley
- Massive Attack
- UNKLE
- and others…

#### Movie people I like (in no particular order):

- Tarantino
- Harvey Keitel
- Samuel L. Jackson
- Pixar Studios
- Robert DeNiro
- Rachel Weisz
- Harrison Ford
- Sam Mendes
- Natalie Portman
- Jean Reno
- Edward Norton
- Guy Pearce
- Sci-Fi
- and others…

#### Been there, done that:

- [New Zealand](http://www.flickr.com/search/?w=48889073931%40N01&q=new+zealand&m=text "New Zealand pics")
- [Singapore](http://www.flickr.com/search/?w=48889073931%40N01&q=singapore&m=text "Singapore pics")
- Australia (Sydney, Queensland, Canberra, Melbourne)
- USA: Florida, New Orleans, New York, Denver, California, Arizona
- [France](http://www.flickr.com/search/?w=48889073931%40N01&q=france&m=text "France pics")
- Spain
- UK: London, Scotland
- Zurich
- Amsterdam
- [Bali](http://www.flickr.com/search/?w=48889073931%40N01&q=bali&m=text "Bali pics")
- Cairo
- Athens
- [Luxembourg](http://www.flickr.com/search/?w=48889073931%40N01&q=luxembourg&m=text "Luxembourg pics")
- [Berlin](http://www.flickr.com/search/?w=48889073931%40N01&q=berlin&m=text "Berlin pics")
- And [Munich, Koln, Hannover, Black Forest](http://www.flickr.com/search/?w=48889073931%40N01&q=germany&m=text "Germany pics")
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Projects` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/projects/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


Afterhours projects I work on, on and off. And some more blogging. Enjoy.

## Halans Photography
https://halansphotography.com

## 🅴🆅 Life / EV blog

https://electricvehicle.life

**And now AI EV FAQ using the ChatGPT API**

https://ai.electricvehicle.life

## Art Imitates Life / photography blog

https://artimitates.life

## Prompt Engineering Blog

https://engineering.prompt.cards

### Lazy AI Prompt Cards

https://lazy.prompt.cards


### Selfie Time Capsule ChatGPT Prompt ($)

https://selfietimecapsule.prompt.cards   

### Social Media AI Prompts Google Sheets Template

https://socialmedia.prompt.cards

### Productivity Tools AI Prompts Google Sheets Template ($)

https://productivitytools.prompt.cards

## Amaizing.art / AI Art Blog with image prompts
https://amaizing.art

## Made With Love In / Australian Startup Catalogue

https://madewithlove.in


### AI Social Recommendator

https://ai.socialrecommendator.com

**Social Recommendator (original)**
https://original.socialrecommendator.com

### AI PuppyTrainer

https://aipuppytrainer.halans.dev / https://puppyparenting.ai

### Strangelove AI

AI Link Blog https://strangelove-ai.com
and AI T-shirts: https://strangelove-ai.store

(sold my "strangelove.ai" domain beginning of 2025)

### Me? Not A Robot!
https://not-a-robot.me
=>  https://store.not-a-robot.me


### Short Back Focus / micro, free stock photography collection.

https://shortbackfocus.com


### Pet Portraits

https://petportrait.photography

### Photo Spheres

https://centralcoast.360business.photography

### Referral Discounts

https://referral.discount


### Retrospective Me
https://rtrspctv.halans.com

### Belgian Waffle Connoisseur / AI experiment

https://belgianwaffleconnoisseur.com

Domains for sale on [Afternic.com](https://www.afternic.com/profile/dan-44455) and Sedo.com.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `iPhone in Belgium` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-07-09-iphone-in-belgium/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-07-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

The AP writes “[Quirk in Belgian law drives iPhones near $1,000](http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080709/ap_on_hi_te/iphones_belgium "Belgian iPhone")“. The article compares it to the AT&T locked in price of $299, which isn't fair though. They should compare it to the unlocked price of about $550. Still a big difference, and 21% VAT doesn't help either. The thing is, in Belgium it is not allowed to sell one service or device only linked to another service or device. Both services or devices need to be available separately. But the difference with other European countries, which offer similar consumer protection, is then that they can sell a device (at $1) linked to a service while also offering the device and service separately at full price. The full price of an unlocked 16GB iPhone in Australia would also be about $900 AUD.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Red Crates` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-06-18-red-crates/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-06-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[RedCrates.com](http://www.redcrates.com) blogged about on the [Big Word Project blog](http://blog.thebigwordproject.com/2008/06/17/red-crates/).  
I bought the word “crate” ($5) a couple of weeks ago, which then gets linked to your website, in effect defining the word.  
And apparently they go through all the sites that register, and they liked the Red Crates site (well page actually), and “crate” is now an “interesting word”.  
Thanks guys!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Firefox 3 Download Day today − no, tomorrow` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-06-17-firefox-3-download-day-today-no-tomorrow/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-06-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Take part in the Firefox Guinness World Record! [Download and install Firefox 3 ](http://www.spreadfirefox.com/en-US/worldrecord) on all your pc's today.  
Well, actually, for Australia, download day starts Wednesday 3AM, so make sure you start downloading tomorrow.  
Confused? Follow firefox on twitter: 
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Web Directions South 08` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-06-11-web-directions-south-08/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-06-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

In little over three months the web development highlight of the year is back in town, [Web Directions South 2008](http://south08.webdirections.org/), the biggest web conference in the southern hemisphere. Great workshops, fantastic speakers from Australia and around the world, and overall a fabulous social gathering of like-minded souls.

Some name dropping: Douglas Crockford, Jina Bolton, Jeffrey Veen, Daniel Burka, Derek Featherstone, and [many, many more](http://south08.webdirections.org/).  


Get in on the action early to get [the early bird pricing](http://south08.webdirections.org/?page_id=5), get in late and you might miss out!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Firefox 3 RC2 Mac − scrollbars missing?` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-06-08-firefox-3-rc2-mac-scrollbars-missing/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-06-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

If you visit this site with Firefox 3 (a beta, or an RC), on a Mac, you might not see any scrollbars…  
Sorry for the inconvenience, but after a look around, it seems the culprit is a meta tag I'm using.

<meta http-equiv=”MSThemeCompatible” content=”no” />

The MSThemeCompatible meta tag is supposed to be for IE only (though old-skoolish).  
I tested it on another site, and indeed when I remove that particular meta tag, the scrollbar reappears.  
Hope they fix it before they're having their release party!
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Winter is here` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-06-01-winters-here/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-06-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Winter has arrived in Sydney. Well, that's all still a bit relative though.  
But it's going to be an exiting month. We have an Adobe AIR camp (a day of AIR immersion), the Google Developer Day I'm looking forward to, and the opening of the large Apple store, plus a probable release of the iPhone 2 (ends up to be July 11). At the Apple dev conference in San Fran next week for sure, but possibly maybe also officially in Australia. Still, the question remains if we will be able to get our hands on one this month, or will we need to wait for another couple of months? And the releases of Opera 9.50 (June 11) and Firefox 3 on June 17.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `What happened to the design? CSS Naked Day − April 9` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-04-09-what-happened-to-the-design-css-naked-day-april-9/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-04-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

To know more about why styles are disabled on this website visit the [ Annual CSS Naked Day](http://naked.dustindiaz.com "Web Standards Naked Day Host Website") website for more information.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `"This one time, at BarCamp..."` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-03-06-this-one-time-at-barcamp/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-03-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

NO SPECTATORS, ONLY PARTICIPANTS

BarCamp Sydney April 5 & 6, a whole weekend!

When you come, be prepared to share with [BarCampers](http://barcamp.org/BarCampers).  
When you leave, be prepared to share it with the world.  
[BarCamp](http://barcamp.org/BarCamp) is an ad-hoc unconference born from the desire for people to share and learn in an open environment.  
It is an intense event with discussions, demos and interaction from attendees.  
Anyone with something to contribute or with the desire to learn is welcome and invited to participate.

What's Next?  
Sign up on the wiki, check out the blog, tell all your friends, prepare your presentation, ask your company if they're interested in sponsoring…

Go!: 
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `beyond the MashUp − WhereIs Contest` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-02-28-beyond-the-mashup-whereis-contest/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-02-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Woohoo! Mapanui was voted one of the 5 finalists of the Australia wide WhereIs/Sensis contest “beyond the MashUp”. Quite happy with that (and the Navman GPS I won)!

Read the bit (about the winner) at [ZDNet](http://www.zdnet.com.au/news/software/soa/Facebook-app-takes-glory-in-Sensis-code-off/0,130061733,339286432,00.htm).

And about the contest finalist over at [AIMIA](http://www.aimia.com.au/i-cms?page=4354).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Sydney Morning Herald - Free Sydney Wireless` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-02-12-sydney-morning-herald-free-sydney-wireless/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-02-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Managed to get my face and name in the [Sydney Morning Herald](http://www.smh.com.au/news/wireless--broadband/grassroots-wireless-networks-spring-up/2008/02/12/1202578703949.html?page=fullpage), regarding [Free Sydney Wireless](http://www.freesydneywireless.com/)…  
Lots of mail and Facebook messages.  
2070+ visitors to the site (4300+ pageviews), and counting.

Why not go [Digg](http://www.digg.com/tech_news/Sydney_Free_Wireless_Facebook_group_doing_it_for_themselves) the story?
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `The iPhone Webclip Icon, the new favicon` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-01-16-the-iphone-webclip-icon-the-new-favicon/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-01-16  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I've updated my iPod Touch with the latest paid upgrade, and I've since been busy creating my own Webclip icons for my websites. It's actually easier than a favicon, it just takes a 57×57 png.  
When you add a Webclip to your iPhone/iTouch springboard, it will take a 'screenshot' as an icon. But you might as well create your own Webclip icon and add it to your webserver.

By default, the new mobile Safari Webclip feature will look into the root of the website for a png named "apple-touch-icon.png". If you want a specific icon for specific sections or pages of yoru site, you can add a <link> to the <head> section op each page:

```


      href="/xyz/images/whatever.jpg"/>
```

Yes, it can be a jpg too, and even bigger than a square 57px, but it will be scaled down. You don't even need to add the glass effect as Webclip will take care of that too.

Smart and cool!

All info at [the Apple iPhone dev site](http://developer.apple.com/iphone/devcenter/designingcontent.html)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Asus 701 EeePC − Australia` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-01-04-asus-701-eeepc-australia/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-01-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

There's a huge community buzz around the Asus Eeepc, and I don't think they saw that coming. They sold 350.000 of them in the last quarter of 2007, 50.000 more than anticipated. They are targetting the EeePC at first time PC users like kids to take to school and do some homework or students to take to class ('classmate'), or elderly as their main, cheap pc (although I think the screen would be too small, and the touchpad not suited) to keep in touch with family and friends. Or as a secondary pc for the wife, kids to browse the internet, read e-mails, chat. Or as a travel compagnion for on-the-go internet wherever there is wifi ('travelmate'). The eee stands for: Easy to learn, Easy to work, Easy to play.

I have been holding out for a while (it was released on December 2nd, but sold out after 3 days), but couldn't hold no longer, as they became available at OfficeWorks near our office. Initially exclusively available at Myer (RRP A$499), I guess this only was for 2007, as of now they are also available at Officeworks (A$488) and other stores.

[Read on](/posts/asus-701-eeepc-australia/ "Asus EeePC 701")
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Asus 701 EeePC − Australia` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/asus-701-eeepc-australia/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-01-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    
	
## Features

### Asus 701 EeePC – Australia

#### (2007-01-04)

There's a huge community buzz around the Asus Eeepc, and I don't think they saw that coming. They sold 350.000 of them in the last quarter of 2007, 50.000 more than anticipated. They are targetting the EeePC at first time PC users like kids to take to school and do some homework or students to take to class ('classmate'), or elderly as their main, cheap pc (although I think the screen would be too small, and the touchpad not suited) to keep in touch with family and friends. Or as a secondary pc for the wife, kids to browse the internet, read e-mails, chat. Or as a travel compagnion for on-the-go internet wherever there is wifi ('travelmate'). The eee stands for: Easy to learn, Easy to work, Easy to play.

I have been holding out for a while (it was released on December 2nd, but sold out after 3 days), but couldn't hold no longer, as they became available at OfficeWorks near our office. Initially exclusively available at Myer (RRP A$499), I guess this only was for 2007, as of now they are also available at Officeworks (A$488) and other stores.

I have a white Asus 701 EEEPC4G (where 4G means 4GB, not 4th generation). It's a 7C revision (see serial number), which means it doesn't have the extra mini pci-e slot. I upgraded it to 1GB for A$49 and added a 4GB SDHC card, both bought at Sydney's Technocity near Chinatown. Problem with the SDHC card was that I didn't have a SDHC compatible card reader… I also bought a USB bluetooth dongle so I could use my Dopod as a wireless modem, but unfortunatly it doesn't support bluetooth. Linux does as I did get it running through terminal, but there is no GUI to pair with the Dopod (as you have to enter a pin). That's a bummer.

I also have a 15.5″ MacBook Pro at my desk, connected to 21″ screen and wireless keyboard and mouse. The EPC won't replace this obviously, as it's far less powerful. Still sometimes it's nice to sit on our balcony checking email, chatting, and the MBP is still pretty large and heavy. A perfect example would be a BarCamp meetup where you could just whip out your Eeepc and connect it to the projector to give your preso, or take a couple of notes from other's presentations (unless you want to show of your latest developments on an installed server – still you could install LAMP on your eeepc too). And then afterwards go for drinks without worrying that you might loose or damage your (expensive) MBP.

The EeePC has a 7inch “widescreen” aspect ratio with a 800×480 resolution. It also has a standard VGA connection. I connected it to my 21″/1680×1050 screen. You can change your screen settings through Desktop Mode. Although there was a selection for 1680×1050, the desktop screen was all white with lines. It wouldn't take 1280×1024, saying it wasn't an 'optimal mode'. It did take lower res like 1152×864, or lower. At that point part of the desktop would fall of the Eeepc's screen. It doesn't scroll to the right as you move the mouse pointer (when in mirror mode). There is no expanded desktop mode in the Linux version.

The EeePC also gets pretty hot, but not that hot that you can't touch it.

I noticed watching a movie from a USB stick with the power plugged in was flawless. On the battery though, the sound was quickly out of sync.

Copying a large file from a USB memory stick to the SD card takes very long. It seems to be a 2 step process: copy a bit to the internal SDD, then copy to the SD card. I guess the USB controler can't handle this too well. I wanted to cancel the process, but it got locked up… I had to reset it (see tip on the right). Copying to the SDD is a lot faster.

The microphone is situated at the bottom of the Eee PC. That of course results in pretty bad sound quality, and won't be useful with Skype calls. You can test it for yourself if you try to record your voice. You have to keep it close to your mouth to get audible sound.

Stay tuned for updates.

Scroll [down for updates](#eupdate)

#### Device info:

- Size: 225 mm x 164 mm x 35 cm
- Weight: 920g incl battery
- Display: 7″ WVGA (800×480) TFT-LCD
- 900MHz Intel Celeron M processor, underclocked to 630Mhz
- Mobile Intel 910GML Express chipset
- Intel GMA 900 graphics card with external VGA-Out
- 512MB DDR2-667 SDRAM
- 4GB SSD (non-upgradeable) for storage
- Customized Xandros Linux OS
- 10/100 Mbps Ethernet
- 802.11b/g Wifii (Atheros)
- 3 USB 2.0, MMC+/SDHC (SD High Capacity) card reader, microphone (at the bottom) and headphone
- VGA (640×480) webcam@ up to 30 fps
- 5.1-channel High Definition Audio (Realtek)
- 3.5 hours batterylife (4-cell Li-ion: 7.4V, 5200mAh)

#### Asus EeePC niceties:

- Small, handy, cute, cool, cheap(-ish). Has (almost) everything you need to get online on the road, without breaking your back or bankaccount.
- Based on Open Source Software (although with some glitches), which we should support more. There is a Windows XP version on the roadmap though, and windows drivers are being provided.
- Very hackable, if that's your thing.
- Easy tabbed interface, although and advanced interface is also available.
- Small(-ish) charger, no 'brick' as with regular laptops. Additionally, the Australian plug can be slid off, revealing a hinged US plug underneath.
- Comes with a black neoprene slip case, a nice touch.
- Well build.
- Larger, true keyboard in comparison to a PDA, iPhone, PSP.
- It's wedge shaped, so the keyboard is a bit inclined, easier to type.

#### Asus EeePC not-so-niceties:

- Small screen, only 800×480. But as prices of LCD screens go down, we might see a 9″ or 10″ screen soon.
- Microphone situated under the laptop (?).
- No bluetooth. And although Linux does support bluetooth, using a bluetooth dongle, you need to enable it through the terminal and you can't pair with devices which require a pin code, like my [Dopod](dopod_D810).
- Small keyboard: sometimes I hit the wrong key.

#### Update (14-01-2008)

EeePC now available in Australia at: Myer, David Jones, Betta Electrical, Good Guys, Harvey Norman, JB Hi-Fi, OfficeWorks, Retravision, WOW Sight & Sound

#### Update (28-02-2008)

EeePC with Linux is really easy to setup to use a 3G mobile broadband modem. Plug in the modem. Then use the Network connection wizard and select “Create Connection”. Then you select the “GSM / 3G (UMTS) / HSDPA” Connection type and click next.  
Select the Huawei E220 modem (well that's the one I'm using anyway) and click next.  
Select the carrier you are using like Vodafone, click next.  
it will the show you a drop down where you can enter the carrier connection details… I just used the defaults. Click next and you are asked to name the connection and you click next again. Finished. The modem now appears in the connection list for you to select next time. That's it!

I get speeds between 600 and 1200 kbs/s on Vodafone around Sydney (tested using www.speedtest.net).


    
	
### Links:

- [Asus (AU) product page](http://au.asus.com/products.aspx?l1=24&l2=0&l3=0&l4=0&model=1907&modelmenu=1 "Sony RDRHXD870B")
- [ZDNet AU review](http://www.zdnet.com.au/reviews/hardware/laptops/soa/ASUS-EeePC-701/0,2000065761,339284540,00.htm)
- [Walt Mossberg's review'](http://ptech.allthingsd.com/20080117/asus-offers-travelers-small-mobile-eee-pc-but-its-too-cramped/)


    
	
### Tip

After a BIOS upgrade, you might notice that the touchpad doesn't work too well anymore. Don't panic, that's just because the sensitivity got reset.  
So go back to the Settings tab, and reset your touchpad sensitivity.


    
	
### Tip

If your Eeepc becomes unstable, or is locked up, and you can't restart or shut down, you can reset the Eeepc using a paperclip or needle,  
pushed into a tiny hole at the bottom of the device, next to the memory compartement.


    
	
### Tip

The EeePC has a single touchpad button, Apple Mac style. You can right-click, by clicking on the right side of the touchpad button (duh). You can scroll in any window by sliding your finger down the right side of the touchpad.


    
	
### Tip (Linux)

You can set your home network to automatically connect to when you power up your EeePC:

- Make sure you are connected;
- Go to the 'Internet' tab and click the 'Network' icon, your connection should be listed;
- Select it and click the 'Properties' button.
- In the 'General' tab, you see a 'Start mode' and a dropdown list: select 'On boot'.
- That's it! Next time the EeePC will automatically connect to this network (if available).


    
	
### Tip (Linux)

You can install extra applications through the Synaptic utility. In Terminal, run synaptic as the superuser (sudo synaptic).

To be really useful, you would need to add some more repositories. You can do that by editing the '/etc/apt/sources.list' file.  
In Terminal, run “sudo nano /etc/apt/sources.list”. You'll see a reference to the Asus repo.  
You can add a couple more, this forum entry lists a couple of additional repositories, but you can find others too.


    
	
### Tip (Linux)

You can take screenshots through the 'Screen Capture' utility, which you can find in the 'Work' tab, under 'Accessories'.


    
	
### Don't click me:

  


[Bookmark with del.icio.us](http://del.icio.us/post?url=http%3A//www.halans.be/asus-701-EeePC.html&title=AsusEeePC)


    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Telstra Browse Plus Pack disappeared` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2008-01-03-telstra-browse-plus-pack-disappeared/   
[POST_DATE] 2008-01-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I wanted to buy another 'browse plus pack' (A$10 for 20Mb), so logged into the Telstra site, and it's no longer available for me to choose from a list of 'plus packs'. I do notice some new plus packs, but no more browse pack? Are they really that annoying, or is it an oversight of a developer who removed the wrong thing?

I went to a Telstra store, and the guy didn't even know what a browse plus pack was, until he opened the Telstra pre-pay brochure, which shows an overview. He asked me what phone it was (which I think is a totally irrelevant question), so I told him about the iPhone. He said that they were getting the iPhone, but couldn't tell when. I also tried to order over SMS. You can send an SMS code (like BROWSEPLUS10) to topup your plus pack, and that did the job (although a confirmation back over SMS would have been nice, I had to check my online Telstra account). The brochure had $5/1MB, $8/3MB, $16/10MB, $29/70MB, $59/200MB, which is incredibly expensive. Although it might be out of date, as on the [Telstra browse plus pack page](http://www.telstra.com.au/telstraprepaidplus/latestoffers/plus_packs/browse.htm) it shows the prices I talked about (or is that page out of date?).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Sony RDR−HXD870B overview` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-12-27-sony-rdrhxd870b-overview/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-12-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I have been looking for a reasonably priced, but full featured harddisk recorder since we came to Australia, as a replacement to what we had in Europe ([the Philips one](/posts/philips-hdrw-720-experience/ "Philips hdrw 720")). Mind you, not that TV over here is so great, far from. We only have about 7 'freeview' channels to choose from, and mostly it's the usual commercial (though sometimes entertaining) crap. But sometimes you want to 'tape' something (Heroes, Lost,…) when you're not home, or have better things to do. I already had a cheap digital settop box (because analog reception is really crap).

I started out buying a LG DVD-VHS combi drive which could record programs from the settop box. It could even do some timeshifting if I used the DVD-ram discs. And with the VCR we could copy old holiday tapes over to DVD[\*](#sidenote1) (again). The LG had a really nice interface, but as expected, you build up a pile of DVD's, laying around.

I then bought an Elgato EyeTV Diversity, but that requires my MacBookPro to be on all the time (it doesn't wake up from sleep) and having the Mac at home. And sometimes it does act up, not recording, or just bad reception (even with a dual tuner, it doesn't seem to sync them both up). It is more useful for when I am at home, and watching television, while recording something else on the Mac. Additionally it can do HD too.

I also got me a Tevion TPVR1100 (Aldi) dual SD digital tuner pvr with 250Gb HDD. But it didn't allow you to edit recordings, and it didn't add markers to them (so you had to fastforward through a recording). It was also pretty noisy at times. And the remote sometimes unresponsive. But Aldi has a very good return policy, 60 days, no questions asked (well, actually they did).

So I was still looking. I was considering a Philips again, but I'm also quite a Sony fanboy, but found most of them too expensive, or lacking the right features. We don't have a fancy TV (like a full HD LCD or plasma), just a plain old CRT. So an HD tuner for HD recording wasn't on my list. It was also looking for a DVD recorder for archiving (with good DVD-r's!). And it had to be a HDD with editing capabilities, to trim and edit out the ads. Apparently, you can't find DVD recorders with an HD tuner anyway, as that would need downscaling. But I guess it's just a matter of time before we see those.

So then came the Xmas sales. And Myer offered this very recent Sony RDR-HXD870 for an interesting $594 AUD in stead of the RRP $699. I grabbed my [iPhone](/posts/apple-iphone-australia/ "iPhone") and Googled for some reviews. There were similar devices around from Samsung, Panasonic at about the same price, but none with HD upscaling though. The reviews looked all pretty good. It works nicely, though I'm a bit disappointed at the user interface, which is pretty bland and uninspiring. The LG had a much nicer interface, as did my old Philips (but that had a couple of bugs). Normally I would have done a bit more research before buying anything, but I was in need of some retail therapy. There you go…

[Keep on reading](/posts/sony-rdr-hxd870b-australia/ "Read on").
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Sony RDR-HXD870B - Australia` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/sony-rdr-hxd870b-australia/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-12-27  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    
	
## Features

### Sony RDR-HXD870B – Australia

#### (2007-12-27)

I have been looking for a reasonably priced, but full featured harddisk recorder since we came to Australia, as a replacement to what we had in Europe ([the Philips one](/posts/philips-hdrw-720-experience/ "Philips HDRW 720")). Mind you, not that TV over here is so great, far from. We only have about 7 'freeview' channels to choose from, and mostly it's the usual commercial (though sometimes entertaining) crap. But sometimes you want to 'tape' something (Heroes, Lost,…) when you're not home, or have better things to do. I already had a cheap digital settop box (because analog reception is really crap).

I started out buying a LG DVD-VHS combi drive which could record programs from the settop box. It could even do some timeshifting if I used the DVD-ram discs. And with the VCR we could copy old holiday tapes over to DVD[\*](#sidenote1) (again). The LG had a really nice interface, but as expected, you build up a pile of DVD's, laying around.

I then bought an Elgato EyeTV Diversity, but that requires my MacBookPro to be on all the time (it doesn't wake up from sleep) and having the Mac at home. And sometimes it does act up, not recording, or just bad reception (even with a dual tuner, it doesn't seem to sync them both up). It is more useful for when I am at home, and watching television, while recording something else on the Mac. Additionally it can do HD too.

I also got me a Tevion TPVR1100 (Aldi) dual SD digital tuner pvr with 250Gb HDD. But it didn't allow you to edit recordings, and it didn't add markers to them (so you had to fastforward through a recording). It was also pretty noisy at times. And the remote sometimes unresponsive. But Aldi has a very good return policy, 60 days, no questions asked (well, actually they did).

So I was still looking. I was considering a Philips again, but I'm also quite a Sony fanboy, but found most of them too expensive, or lacking the right features. We don't have a fancy TV (like a full HD LCD or plasma), just a plain old CRT. So an HD tuner for HD recording wasn't on my list. It was also looking for a DVD recorder for archiving (with good DVD-r's!). And it had to be a HDD with editing capabilities, to trim and edit out the ads. Apparently, you can't find DVD recorders with an HD tuner anyway, as that would need downscaling. But I guess it's just a matter of time before we see those.

So then came the Xmas sales. And Myer offered this very recent Sony RDR-HXD870 for an interesting $594 AUD in stead of the RRP $699. I grabbed my [iPhone](/posts/2007-10-03-apple-iphone-down-under/) and Googled for some reviews. There were similar devices around from Samsung, Panasonic at about the same price, but none with HD upscaling though. The reviews looked all pretty good. It works nicely, though I'm a bit disappointed at the user interface, which is pretty bland and uninspiring. The LG had a much nicer interface, as did my old Philips (but that had a couple of bugs). Normally I would have done a bit more research before buying anything, but I was in need of some retail therapy. There you go…

Stay tuned for updates.

\* Sidenote: the myth of progression: for movies (and movie rental) DVDs are an obvious progression on VHS tapes: instant access, no winding back/forward, great picture quality. But recordable DVD's as replacement for tape? Yes, same advantages, but they don't last. Three years, stored in a dark, dry place, in its case, and they fail to play any longer. Yes, that is because of cheap DVD's, but that's the ones they sell in every supermarket or even decent video store. And I'm talking about memories of great holidays in far away places. Holiday movies, for which I spend countless hours editing (you know, bringing down 8 hours of film to a respectable 2 hours). Luckily, I do have a backup on tape (of some edited content and some raw material), which after all these years still works. Of course, I used some quality VHS tapes, not the cheapest ones. I also have the original DV tapes, and the 12Gb backups of those tapes on harddisk. So, look around for archieving disks. They're more expensive, but you won't regret it, as I do now.

Scroll [down for updates](#update)

#### Device info:

- Twin Tuner: DVB-T SD Digital Tuner and analogue tuner
- HDMI 1080p upscaling
- 160 Gb disk
- USB for photo and MP3, not Divx
- iLink for DV camcorders
- TV pause/chase play (timeshift), simultaneous recording and playing
- EPG
- Multi-format playing and recording (no DVD-RAM recording though)

#### Sony RDRHXD870 niceties:

- Editing recordings (A-B), splitting, joining titles;
- Auto chapters (on scene changes or every 10/30 minutes), editing chapters;
- Copy photos, mp3 and divx files to the HDD (photo-album, jukebox and printing);
- Upscaling to 1080p over HDMI which makes it future proof for me (whenever I would buy me a full HD TV);
- Very quiet DVD disk drive;
- Nine DVD (static) menu/wallpaper designs to choose from when you finalize a DVD, though don't expect Apple iDVD quality designs;
- Defragmentation (optimisation) of the HDD, although it can take up to 8 hours;
- EPG, but only as good as the provided information, which is very minimal;
- Dubbing a (previously recorded) DVD to the HDD, in high speed (but no copy protected DVD's of course).

#### Sony RDRHXD870 not-so-niceties:

- Very basic status display, white text on a black background, very uninspiring. Bland menus, and a bit on the small side;
- No HD tuner (but again, no need for it);
- EPG only as good as the provided information, which is very minimal. But that's an Aussie thing;
- Warnings about failing HDDs and that you should backup your recordings to DVD. Not very trust inspiring.

#### Update (14-01-2008)

It looks like the Sony stalls a lot on digital reception, especially on ABC and SBS. Very annoying.  
It has been like this for two weeks now, don't think it's weather related really. Actually, it's pretty useless to watch TV like this.  
Coincidence or something else going on? This while reception with a single small antenna on the EyeTV doesn't stall…

#### Update (15-01-2008)

I reconnected my $80 DSE digital set-top box, into the Line 1 of the Sony.  
There is absolute no problem on de DSE with reception of ABC. If I switch to the Sony, it stalls constantly. Very disappointing!


    
	
### Links:

- [Sony (AU) product page](https://www.sony.com.au/homecinema/catalog/product.jsp?id=RDRHXD870B "Sony RDRHXD870B")


    
	
### Tip

Find your firmware version:

- On the remote, press SYSTEM MENU
- > Select Initial Setup, press ENTER
- > Select Audio Out, press ENTER
- > Select Dolby Digital Output, press ENTER
- > Highlight Dolby Digital and press the ANGLE button: this displays the current firmware version
- > To exit, press SYSTEM MENU.


    
	
### Don't click me:

  



    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Meraki` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-11-03-meraki/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-11-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Got a [Meraki](http://www.meraki.com) up and running. Pretty easy to set up and manage. I've got the outdoors variant, placed on the balcony. So I did a quick tour around the street, with my iPod Touch in my hand, to see how far I got. Actually that was a bit disappointing. Not as far as I had hoped for. There needs to be some line of sight. I was hoping to get right up to the water, but then I'm not in line of sight. So I need to find someone to set up a Meraki near the water's edge…
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Google Page Rank shake up` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-10-25-google-page-rank-shake-up/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-10-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Things are ablaze in the SEO world. Google has changed it's page rank algorithm it seems, dropping PR about 2 points. Mine's still at 4 though (which isn't much anyway). Maybe it is just about resetting the baseline. If too many related sites have a hight PR, then the value of that PR is tainted and actually of less value. I'm just happy to have a page rank…

- [Google Changing the PageRank Algorithm?](http://www.dailyblogtips.com/google-changing-the-pagerank-algorithm/)
- [Digg Favorites Slapped By Google](http://andybeard.eu/2007/10/pagerank-update.html#comments)
- [Google PageRank drop affecting sites all across the board](http://www.wiliam.com.au/wiliam-blog/google-pagerank)
- [Is Google's PageRank algorithm changing?](http://www.news.com/8301-13772_3-9803687-52.html)
- [SMH: Google algorithm tweak spooks WWW](http://www.smh.com.au/news/web/google-algorithm-tweak-spooks-www/2007/10/26/1192941308334.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap1)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `The myth of progression` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-10-18-the-myth-of-progression/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-10-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

For movies (and movie rental) DVDs are an obvious progression on VHS tapes: instant access, no winding back/forward, great picture quality. But recordable DVD's as replacement for tape? Yes, same advantages, but they don't last. Three years, stored in a dark, dry place, in its case, and they fail to play any longer. Yes, that is because of cheap DVD's, but that's the ones they sell in every supermarket or even decent video store. And I'm talking about memories of great holidays in far away places. Holiday movies, for which I spend countless hours editing (you know, bringing down 8 hours of film to a respectable 2 hours). Luckily, I do have a backup on tape (of some edited content and some raw material), which after all these years still works. Of course, I used some quality VHS tapes, not the cheapest ones. I also have the original DV tapes, and the 12Gb backups of those tapes on harddisk. So, look around for archieving disks. They're more expensive, but you won't regret it, as I do now.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Apple iPhone Down Under` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-10-03-apple-iphone-down-under/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-10-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I had to have one. I was just waiting for the UK introduction to see if a new model (with 3G) was being introduced. But it was the same Edge-based model.

So I went looking on Ebay, and there's lots of them. You can get them fully unlocked ready to go. But part of the fun is going through the 'hacking' process, so I went for an original one. I went for a Buy Now at 650 AUD + 50 AUD shipping. At the current 399 USD price though that would have been about 450 AUD, so the seller did make a decent profit from it. Some auctions went for 580 AUD, other up to 800. There were even some on offer for 1200 AUD (unlocked and locked ones). In the end it did take more than three weeks to end up in my hands though. In the mean time the iPod touch was released, and I got me a 16Gb one while waiting for the iPhone, just to play around with the navigation and Safari.

I only bought a new phone a couple of months ago, a Windows Mobile based [Dopod D810](/posts/dopod-d810-on-three-x-series/ "Dopod Windows Mobile"). Lately I mainly used it as a mobile modem, while we were switching between two ISP's, during which we didn't have internet access. I have a 500 Mb plan on Three for 20 AUD, and that went just fine. I connect it to my Macbook Pro through bluetooth and share the internet connection. And also love it's GPS functionality.

But on to some iPhone hacking. There's a lot to read up on about 'jailbraking' and unlocking the iPhone. As you know, the iPhone is locked to an AT&T sim card, and you can't add any 3rd party apps to the iPhone either. Fist you need to activate it, without going through the AT&T process. Next you need to jailbrake it, open it up to third party apps. Because this then allows you to add an unlocking application to the iPhone. I wont repeat the steps here, I'll point you to the right sources. I don't take any responsibility when thing go wrong!

One thing to look out for: your firmware version. Make sure you use the right procedure for your firmware. I'll explain. I tried to unlock my phone with a 1.0.2 procedure while it was still on a 1.0 firmware. I spend 3 hours looking for a solution. It was only the next day that a bright light shone, and I upgraded the iPhone to the 1.0.2 firmware version, and from then on it was only 20 minutes to get it fully working. Well, up to the point to make calls and text. Remember, I'm in Australia. I am originally on the Three network.

Let me tell you right away, it doesn't work on Three. I read about it on eBay, but didn't want to believe that. But I got a No Service. So I first bought a Vodafone prepaid sim, 2 AUD for the sim card + 20 AUD calling value (-10%, so 20 AUD in total) because I thought that would be the cheapest. The Vodafone sim allowed me to make and receive calls and texts. So I was halfway.

A week later though I bought a Telstra sim, the main national operator. I knew they were the only ones with Edge here in Australie. The Dopod on Three would roam on it whenever outside of the Three network (quite often outside of Sydney). So while in Melbourne I went to a Telstra store. Tried to explain them that I wanted a prepaid sim card with a data plan. I already had gone through their brochure so I could point out what I wanted. I told them I wanted Edge access. Hmmm, unfortunately the sales people aren't too well informed on the more technical aspects of their network. They only knew about '3G'. “Is it a 3G phone?” Well, it's an iPhone. “Oh, that won't work.” I just told him to give me a prepaid card with a 20 AUD calling value, that I would figure it out myself. But he looked to be intriged. It was his first iPhone he got in his hands, so he wanted me to try it right away. He even activated the data plan on it for me too. Unfortunatly he didn't know what settings to change to get on Telstra's Edge network (it was still set to Cingular/AT&T). Their phones are preset to connect to their network anyway. So, right there, in the shop, it didn't work. In the evening, back at the hotel, using my Dopod D810 as mobile modem, I googled around a bit and I found the [necessary settings for Telstra](http://home2.btconnect.com/Taniwha/gprs.html). Mind you, it is the 2G/WAP setting you need to use, the 3G settings don't work. But in the end, yes, it all works, weather, browsing, email,… right here down under.

[Keep on reading](/posts/apple-iphone-australia/ "Iphone in Australia").
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `CSS eleven` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-10-01-css-eleven/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-10-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Andy Clarke introduced "CSS Eleven" (a pun on Ocean's Eleven – he's George Clooney) at Web Directions South and WebJam, bringing together 11 web designers from around the globe to kick some butt at the W3C CSSWG and get things moving in the CSS standards movement. They want to set up some use cases, solutions and examples of "real world" CSS design problems. This should make it easier for W3C to finalise the recommendations so browser vendors can start implementing them (so maybe in 5-10 years we could start using them). Still, it's recommendable that Safari and Opera already support some of the recommendations, so what are the others waiting around for?

![CSS Eleven](http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1358/1448260504_b88ef715a3_t.jpg)

(http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/1448260504/)

In his words: "CSS Eleven is an international group of visual designers and developers who are committed to help the W3C's CSS Working Group to better deliver the tools that are neded needed to design tomorrow's web."
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Apple iPhone - Australia` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/apple-iphone-australia/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-10-01  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    
	
## Features

### Apple iPhone – Australia

#### (2007-10-01)

I had to have one. I was just waiting for the UK introduction to see if a new model (with 3G) was being introduced. But it was the same EDGE-based model.

So I went looking on Ebay, and there's lots of them. You can get them fully unlocked ready to go. But part of the fun is going through the 'hacking' process, so I went for an original one. I went for a Buy Now at 650 AUD + 50 AUD shipping. At the current 399 USD price though that would have been about 450 AUD, so the seller did make a decent profit from it. Some auctions went for 580 AUD, other up to 800. There were even some on offer for 1200 AUD (unlocked and locked ones). In the end it did take more than three weeks to end up in my hands though. In the mean time the iPod touch was released, and I got me a 16Gb one while waiting for the iPhone, just to play around with the navigation and Safari.

I only bought a new phone a couple of months ago, a Windows Mobile based [Dopod D810](/posts/dopod-d810-on-three-x-series/ "Dopod D810"). Lately I mainly used it as a mobile modem, while we were switching between two ISP's, during which we didn't have internet access. I have a 500 Mb plan on Three for 20 AUD, and that went just fine. I connect it to my Macbook Pro through bluetooth and share the internet connection. And also love it's GPS functionality.

But on to some iPhone hacking. There's a lot to read up on about 'jailbraking' and unlocking the iPhone. As you know, the iPhone is locked to an AT&T sim card, and you can't add any 3rd party apps to the iPhone either. Fist you need to activate it, without going through the AT&T process. Next you need to jailbrake it, open it up to third party apps. Because this then allows you to add an unlocking application to the iPhone. I won't repeat the steps here, I'll point you to the right sources. I don't take any responsibility when thing go wrong!

One thing to look out for: your firmware version. Make sure you use the right procedure for your firmware. I'll explain. I tried to unlock my phone with a 1.0.2 procedure while it was still on a 1.0 firmware. I spend 3 hours looking for a solution. A lot of people seem to have fallen into this trap, as I read a lot of comments who had the same error message (First try “The Flash operation succeded but the unlock commands failed. You might want to check the baseband manually using minicom.“, second and consecutive tries “Couldn't locate bytes to patch“). It was only the next day that a bright light shone, and I upgraded the iPhone to the 1.0.2 firmware version, and from then on it was only 20 minutes to get it fully working. Well, up to the point to make calls and text. Remember, I'm in Australia. I am originally on the Three network.

Let me tell you right away, it doesn't work on Three. I read about it on eBay, but didn't want to believe that. But I got a No Service. So I first bought a Vodafone prepaid sim, 2 AUD for the sim card + 20 AUD calling value (-10%, so 20 AUD in total) because I thought that would be the cheapest. The Vodafone sim allowed me to make and receive calls and texts. So I was halfway.

A week later though I bought a Telstra sim, the main national operator. I knew they were the only ones with EDGE here in Australie. The Dopod on Three would roam on it whenever outside of the Three network (quite often outside of Sydney). So while in Melbourne I went to a Telstra store. Tried to explain them that I wanted a prepaid sim card with a data plan. I already had gone through their brochure so I could point out what I wanted. I told them I wanted EDGE access. Hmmm, unfortunately the sales people aren't too well informed on the more technical aspects of their network. They only knew about '3G'. “Is it a 3G phone?” Well, it's an iPhone. “Oh, that won't work.” I just told him to give me a prepaid card with a 20 AUD calling value, that I would figure it out myself. But he looked to be intriged. It was his first iPhone he got in his hands, so he wanted me to try it right away. He even activated the data plan on it for me too. Unfortunatly he didn't know what settings to change to get on Telstra's EDGE network (it was still set to Cingular/AT&T). Their phones are preset to connect to their network anyway. So, right there, in the shop, it didn't work. In the evening, back at the hotel, using my Dopod D810 as mobile modem, I googled around a bit and I found the [necessary settings for Telstra](http://home2.btconnect.com/Taniwha/gprs.html). Mind you, it is the 2G/WAP setting you need to use, the 3G settings don't work. But in the end, yes, it all works, weather, browsing, email,… right here down under.

Scroll [down for updates](#iphoneupdate)

#### Device info:

- Build quality is fabulous, it looks fantastic.
- OSX Unix-based OS
- 3.5″ 480×320 at 163 ppi lcd
- GSM/EDGE on 850/900/1800/1900MHz
- Camera 2M
- Innovative user interface
- Bluetooth v2.0 + EDR, WiFi 802.11 b/g,
- 115mm x 61mm x 11.6mm, 135g
- Stand-by: up to 250 hours (supplier values)
- Talk time: up to 8 hours (supplier values)
- Video time: up to 7 hours (supplier values)
- Music time: up to 24 hours (supplier values)

#### Apple iPhone niceties:

- The coolness factor.
- The interface, ease of use, the smoothness.
- Great email interface.
- The best mobile browsing experience, which is a full internet experience, while having lots of iPhone designed webapps.
- Great SMS interface (conversation).
- Google Maps.
- 8Gb for music, video, pictures.

#### Apple iPhone not-so-niceties:

- The glass screen is scratch proof, but not so for smudges.
- No 3G, no GPS, nor assisted GPS.
- The headphone jack is reclined, so you can only use the supplied headphones (because it's plug is smaller, narrower), not even your other iPod headphones will work. You need an adapter to use other, better headphones.
- Battery not accessible.
- No contextual menu, no Select/Copy/Paste.
- Limited bluetooth functionality, only for headphone (no internet sharing for example).
- Very limited customization, can only change the wallpaper (when in standby mode).

#### Update (18/10/07)

Telstra, awful service! I'm on a prepaid card. You load 20 dollars, I don't call that much at all, some sms. With prepay, you can then  
assign a datapacket to a part of your prepay value.  
For example, I assigend 10 AUD for 20 MB. But, once you finish those 20 MB though,  
you're paying an idiotic, incredible expensive, just discusting amount for your data, without warning.  
I just payed 14.90 AUD for 692872 bytes, of the 20 AUD I just recharged, and another 3.88 AUD for 179547 bytes. (update: after your browse credit expires, you're at PAYG $15.36 per MB)  
I only found out because my prepay value was all of a sudden 0.0, so I looked up my account online (which again is a very bad web app,  
which most of the time only works half decent), and found out this info. So watch out for this lunacy.  
The iPhone does allow you to keep track of your used EDGE data, so do keep an eye on that: Settings > Usage > EDGE network data.

Updating the iPhone weather widget is 221 bytes, as per my Telstra activity history.

#### Update (20/10/07)

Found a link on[ how to use your iPhone as an EDGE modem](http://cre.ations.net/blog/post/tether-your-iphone). Not really an option when you pay 10 AUD for 20 MB here in Australia.

Test your mobile connection speed [here](http://i.dslr.net/tinyspeedtest.html).

#### Update (08/12/07)

Google for iPhone: Google developed an iPhone specific page, where you get search, Gmail, Calendar, gReader and more on one page.  
Just go to google.com on your iPhone. Ah, but if you're outside of the US, you'll be redirected to your local Google site.  
To get to the optimised iPhone page, go straight to [www.google.com/m?hl=en](http://www.google.com/m?hl=en).

In other news, by June 2008 there should be a [3G capable version](http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/07/12/06/apple_sub_notebook_to_retail_for_1500_3g_iphone_by_june_report.html) available, that is, if you can believe some analysts…

#### Update (03/01/08)

I wanted to buy another 'browse plus pack' (A$10 for 20Mb), so logged into the Telstra site, and it's no longer available for me to choose from a list of 'plus packs'.  
I do notice some new plus packs, but no more browse pack? Are they really that annoying, or is it an oversight of a developer who removed the wrong thing?  
I went to a Telstra store, and the guy didn't even know what a browse plus pack was, until he opened the Telstra pre-pay brochure, which shows an overview. He asked me what phone it was (which I think is a totally irrelevant question), so I told him about the iPhone. He said that they were getting the iPhone, but couldn't tell when.  
I also tried to order over SMS. You can send an SMS code (like BROWSEPLUS10) to topup your plus pack, and that did the job (although a confirmation back over SMS would have been nice, I had to check my online Telstra account).

The brochure had $5/1MB, $8/3MB, $16/10MB, $29/70MB, $59/200MB, which is incredibly expensive. Although it might be out of date, as on the [Telstra browse plus pack page](http://www.telstra.com.au/telstraprepaidplus/latestoffers/plus_packs/browse.htm) it shows the prices I talked about (or is that page out of date?).

#### Update (15/07/08)

Got my order in for new iPhone 3G with Optus ($39 Yes plan). They told me 2 weeks waiting, but I already got the SIM card (and as such will be paying already). Slid it into my iPhone 2G, and was ready for call and SMS. Wasn't actually expecting it to work, as it's a 3G SIM card, but no problem. Only issue was that I had to change the “EDGE” settings to just “Internet” for the APN, no user or password. And that got me onto the Optus GPRS network for some browsing! And the perceived speed of GPRS is at least as fast as on Telstra's Edge…


     	 ### Links:

- [Apple product page](http://www.apple.com/iphone/ "Apple iPhone")
- [Apple WebApps page](http://www.apple.com/iphone/webapps/ "Apple iPhone WebApps")
- [TUAW iPhone page](http://www.tuaw.com/iphone/)
- [ModMyiPhone](http://modmyiphone.com/wiki/index.php/IPhone_unlock_OS_X_Part_1)
- [Data settings](http://home2.btconnect.com/Taniwha/gprs.html)
- [iPhone Toolbox](http://mashable.com/2007/08/03/iphone-toolbox/)
- [iPhone Wallpapers](http://airbagindustries.com/iphone-candy/)
- [The power of good UI design](http://phillryu.com/2007/07/21/the-power-of-good-ui-design/)
- [A week with the iPhone](http://www.mikeindustries.com/blog/archive/2007/07/a-week-with-the-iphone)
- [Speed tests on Australian carriers.](http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies.cfm?t=832797)
- [Use your iPhone as an EDGE modem](http://cre.ations.net/blog/post/tether-your-iphone)


     	 ### iPhone Links:

- [Google for iPhone](http://www.google.com/m?hl=en)
- [Leaflets](http://app.getleaflets.com/), shortcuts to Flickr, Delicious, Upcoming,…
- [Netvibes](http://iphone.netvibes.com/), create a Netvibes page first on pc, and then use it on your iPhone.
- [PocketTweets](http://pockettweets.com/), an iPhone Twitter interface.
- [VTap](http://w.vtap.com), video site.


     	 
	
### Tip

The settings for EDGE can be found under Settings > General > Network > EDGE


     	 
### Tip

The headphones also contains a mic in its cord, plus it acts as a remote control by clicking it: once for play/pause, double click for next.


     	 
	
### Tip

In Safari, once you scrolled down. double tab the top bar to scroll back up to the top and the address bar.


     	 
	
### Tip

Don't upgrade to firmware 1.1.1. But you already knew that right?


     	 
### Tip

In Safari, double tab a particular text section and the page will zoom into that section, making it easier to read.


     	 
### Don't click me:

  


[Bookmark with del.icio.us](http://del.icio.us/post?url=http%3A//halans.com/posts/2007-10-03-apple-iphone-down-under/&title=AppleiPhone)


    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `The Social Web` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-09-25-the-social-web/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-09-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Off to [WDS07](http://www.webdirections.org/program/), four days of web overload. Tuesday a Beginning Ruby on Rails workshop, to get a kickstart into RoR. Wednesday Mobile Web design and development for a pocket internet. And Thursday and Friday the conference with a divers range of topics from Transcending CSS to Mob rules. And to tip it of a Saturday evening WebJam with the coolest kids in town. Oh, and it's a long weekend, so Sunday night we'll be going to the Afterlife party, so by then Monday will be an all-day-in.  
Is this the 'social web', or what?
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `A busy month of web conferences: Oz−IA, Web Directions, Hatch day` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-08-28-a-busy-month-of-web-conferences-ozia-web-directions-hatch-day/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-08-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

## Oz−IA, Web Directions, Hatch day

![Oz-IA/2007 - Sydney, September 22nd/23rd 2007](http://www.oz-ia.org/2007/images/logo_ozia2007.jpg)(http://www.oz-ia.org/2007/ "Oz-IA/2007 - Sydney, September 22nd/23rd 2007")

Still recovering from BarCampSydney2 on only last weekend, an other exciting month is coming up. September plays host to not only Apec (and its disruptions on everyday life, but we do get an extra public holiday, woohoo), but 4 days of [Web Directions South](http://www.webdirections.org/) (conference and workshops, 25-28/9) and in its wake Hatch Day + [Webjam](http://www.webjam.com.au) (29/9). But the weekend before Web Directions, on September 22/23, there is the equally interesting [Oz-IA conference](http://www.oz-ia.org/2007/). A good Information Architecture is the basis of any usable website, so to get the basis right you start here, at the [Oz-IA conference](http://www.oz-ia.org/2007/), the perfect warm-up for Web Directions. The weekend will be [packed](http://www.oz-ia.org/2007/program/sessions) with presentation, panels, workshops, inter-session activities, and of course networking.

No RuxCon though. The organizers are too busy with personal projects (euh, like family).
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## [POST_TITLE] `BarCamp Sydney 2` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-08-25-barcamp-sydney-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-08-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Today's BarCamp Sydney, second edition in 2007. Unfortunately the UTS open day was also on, so we didn't get the rooms we expected. Still great turn up, great presentations, great fun. Wikis, Collaboration, REST, Facebook,…  
I had my first try out: “MAAA! Markup as an API”. Trying to get a discussion on on portability of published data, “publish once, publish anywhere”.  
Check it out on [SlideShare](http://www.slideshare.net/halans/markup-as-an-api/).
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## [POST_TITLE] `Website in a day − a 24 hours web−a−thon` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-08-18-website-in-a-day-a-24-hours-webathon/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-08-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

This weekend on in Sydney: [FullCodePress](http://www.fullcodepress.com/). A trans-tasman grudgematch between a New Zealand and an Australian web design team, each developing a non-profit, best practices website in 24 hours. Watch their websites grow, live on the web, the next 24 hours: [Aussie team site](http://aussie.fullcodepress.mbcomms.net.au/) vs [Kiwi team site](http://kiwi.fullcodepress.mbcomms.net.au/)

Update: the Kiwis won.
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## [POST_TITLE] `Web Development Software Engineer, job with a difference` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-07-26-web-development-software-engineer-job-with-a-difference/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-07-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

- Title: Web Developer
- Job Type: 6-12 month contract (could go shorter)
- Salary: $200K plus DOE

200K+, not bad for a web developer…

“Summary:A principal Department of Defense agency is looking for programmers, developers or coders to code, support field deployment and maintenance of a new database application which will be used by Army units in Iraq. Scope These are full-time positions (12/7) located at one of the major US Bases in IRAQ. Deployment will be period of 6-12 months.”

More on: [CareerBuilder](http://www.careerbuilder.com/JobSeeker/Jobs/JobDetails.aspx?IPath=JRGCM&ff=21&APath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=J8E27R758MWRHR3QTG9) or [AuthenticJobs](http://authenticjobs.com/jobs/978/)

I like the “(could go shorter)” part.  
With all the outsourcing going on, why couldn't they perform the job remotely?

Update:  
[The full requirements](https://secure.recruitingcenter.net/clients/l3/PublicJobs/controller.cfm?jbaction=JobProfile&Job_Id=29047&esid=az)

Oh, but it is 12h-a-day/7days-a-week though, that would make $52/hour…
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## [POST_TITLE] `Power outage − Google Analytics unavailable` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-07-25-power-outage-google-analytics-unavailable/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-07-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

A power outage in San Fran took a couple of big name sites down.  
Although those sites are back online, when I tried to access [Google Analytics](https://www.google.com/analytics/home/report), I can login, but the homepage can't be found.  
What's going down in San Fran?  
Additionally, I'm using a Google Docs Atom feed. Earlier this afternoon, I noticed I got the wrong data (for the same published feed).  
Google, what's happening?
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## [POST_TITLE] `Google Developer Day 2007` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-05-31-google-developer-day-2007/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-05-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

10 cities, one world, one company: Google.  
Sydney is up first, with some exclusive announcements, hours before the rest of the world hears about them.  
700 registered users for the Google Developer Day 2007, the 2nd largest event today.

Google going offline with Google Gears: [gears.google.com](http://gears.google.com)  
Have the power of a full SQLdatabase at your fingertips for use online and offline, using SQLite. With automatic syncing, autoupdate, text search,… Gears also adds threads to JavaScript, making it ever more powerful.

Google Mapplets:  
Mashup Google Maps itself, add your own mini app to Google Maps (and not the other way round, adding Maps to your app). That way users can aggregate different data (using several mapplets) on one view in Google Maps. It also brings back the users to Google Maps, as they kind of lost them to the sites which integrate Maps.
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## [POST_TITLE] `Dopod D810 on Three X−Series` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-04-06-dopod-d810-on-three-xseries/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-04-06  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

People have been talking about mobile internet (access to the internet on the go) for a long time. Access is too slow and too expensive, devices are too slow, screens are too small, WAP sucked… But change is coming, finally, in the form of faster 3.5G/4G access, reasonable data plans, and developers getting the standards 'thing', making more sites more easily mobile accessible.

So when Three released the [X-Series](http://www.three.co.uk/xseries) service in the UK end of 2006, I was anxious to see if they would introduce it in Australia too. Because that would tickle my fancy…

I only bought a SE K750i about a year ago. It had a 2M camera, a radio, playes mp3's and mp3 ringtones, all in all, a nice phone. But I was lacking some 'power', picture quality was disappointing most of the time, radio reception not to good, a propriatery headphones connection, limited internet access (improved using the fab [Opera mini](http://www.operamini.com/))…

If I was to have a new phone, it would need to have GPS, and preferably with WiFi. It didn't need to have a camera, as it remains hard to get decent pics from a phone camera anyway (it needs a good lens, processor, some zoom). It didn't need to have a radio either (as radio isn't that good down here). I was looking at the [Mio A701](http://www.mio-tech.be/en/gps-navigation-products-a701-overview.htm) which had been around for a while but was still costing a lot of money, it's old school technology (except the gps chip which is the best), no 3G, no WiFi, but it is a good GPS device in itself.

Then Three Australia introduced the [X-Series](http://xseries.three.com.au/xseries/) plan end of March 2007, with a couple of 'compatible' phones, two Nokias, an LG and this [Dopod](http://xseries.three.com.au/xseries/mobiles_dopod810_overview.shtml) (which at its heart is a HTC Trinity). The plan includes Skype, Google, eBay, MSN Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger, Orb, mobile mail and mobile internet. For 20AUD(16USD) you get 500MB, 1000 Skype-to-Skype minutes, unlimited IM, eBay access, some video channels. For 40AUD(32USD) you get 2GB/4000 minutes. All this over a 3.5G network ([HSDPA](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-Speed_Downlink_Packet_Access)). In a world where mobile operators charge you 70AUD for 10MB on GPRS, this is a great deal!

[Continue reading the article…](/posts/dopod-d810-on-three-x-series/ "Continue reading")
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## [POST_TITLE] `Dopod D810 - on Three X-Series` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/dopod-d810-on-three-x-series/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-04-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    
	
## Features

### Dopod D810 – on Three X-Series

#### (2007-04-02)

People have been talking about mobile internet (access to the internet on the go) for a long time. Access is too slow and too expensive, devices are too slow, screens are too small, WAP sucked… But change is coming, finally, in the form of faster 3.5G/4G access, reasonable data plans, and developers getting the standards 'thing', making more site more easily mobile accessible.

So when Three released the [X-Series](http://www.three.co.uk/xseries) service in the UK end of 2006, I was anxious to see if they would introduce it in Australia too. Because that would tickle my fancy…

I only bought a SE K750i about a year ago. It had a 2M camera, a radio, playes mp3's and mp3 ringtones, all in all, a nice phone. But I was lacking some 'power', picture quality was disappointing most of the time, radio reception not to good, a propriatery headphones, limited internet access (improved using the fab [Opera mini](http://www.operamini.com/))…

If I was to have a new phone, it would need to have GPS, and preferably with WiFi. It didn't need to have a camera, as it remains hard to get decent pics from a phone camera anyway (it needs a good lens, processor, some zoom). It didn't need to have a radio either (as radio isn't that good down here). I was looking at the [Mio A701](http://www.mio-tech.be/en/gps-navigation-products-a701-overview.htm) which had been around for a while but was still costing a lot of money, it's old school technology (except the gps chip which is the best), no 3G, no WiFi, but it is a good GPS device in itself.

Then Three Australia introduced the [X-Series](http://xseries.three.com.au/xseries/) plan end of March 2007, with a couple of 'compatible' phones, two Nokias, an LG and this [Dopod ](http://xseries.three.com.au/xseries/mobiles_dopod810_overview.shtml) (which at its heart is a HTC Trinity).The plan includes Skype, Google, eBay, MSN Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger, Orb, mobile mail and mobile internet. For 20AUD(16USD) you get 500MB, 1000 Skype-to-Skype minutes, unlimited IM, eBay access, some video channels. For 40AUD(32USD) you get 2GB/4000 minutes. All this over a 3.5G network ([HSDPA](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-Speed_Downlink_Packet_Access)). In a world where mobile operators charge you 70AUD for 10MB on GPRS, this is a great deal!

So I started to investigate this Dopod D810, as one does before geeking out. 3G, even 3.5G and WiFi (g), excellent! And GPS? Yes indeed. I found some references, on the [Dopod site](http://www.dopodasia.com/Dopod/Singapore/En/News/HotNews/The+D810+–+Now+Get+Ultimate+3.5G+Connectivity+Enhanced.htm), to enabling GPS on the device, through a ROM upgrade. That made it even more interesting. But, since it is locked (but unlockable) to Three and the X-Series services, would I be able to flash the ROM, keep the Three services, or worse, just not brick the device?

So I went for it, a Dopod D810 on a a 24m contract on $29 Cap, X-Series Silver (just to see how far this 500Mb takes me, I can up- and downgrade every month). Got me a 2 Gb mini SD card for 39AUD (not at the Three store, got it from an asian tech store at technocity).

Scroll [down for updates](#dopodupdate)

#### Device info:

- Build quality is excellent, looks good, feels sexy (same 'soft' feel as the 4G iPods, curvy, which the newer 5G iPod miss I think)
- Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 (yeah, I know…)
- 2.8" 240×320 QVGA 65K lcd
- HSDPA/UMTS on 1900MHz & 2100 MHz
- GSM/GPRS/EDGE on 850/900/1800/1900MHz
- Main camera 2M CMOS, VGA CMOS 2nd camera for video telephony
- Samsung 400MHz CPU
- 128MB flash ROM, 64MB SDRAM
- 5-way navigation pad, scrolling jog wheel on the left
- IdDA SIR, Bluetooth v2.0 without EDR, WiFi 802.11 b/g, Mini SD slot
- 108mm x 58.2mm x 18.4mm, 150g with battery
- 1500mAh battery
- Stand-by: GSM: 200-250h, UMTS: 180-250h (supplier values)
- Talk time: GSM: 4-5h, UMTS: 2-4h (supplier values)

#### Dopod D810 niceties:

- All these different phone network technologies in one device, GSM/GPRS/EDGE/UMTS/HSDPA on different frequenties.
- WiFi b/g, although haven't been able to use it at home yet.
- GPS, without external antenna, all in such a small device.
- Camera: it's only 2M, and you can't expect to shoot National Geographic type pictures, but it has a nice-n-easy **panorama** function, and a **POI** function which uses the GPS to add location data.
- Scroll wheel is a nice touch, to navigate the drop down menus.
- MP3 ringtones, I love using my own MP3 files as ringtone (I'm using Pulp Fiction's "Dick Dale – Miserlou").

#### Dopod D810 not-so-niceties:

- The only disadvantage (so far) is the OS. Windows Mobile isn't the most exciting OS.

#### X-Series negatives:

 No point in having a 3.5G pda phone if you can't connect it to a network. So you're stuck with what's on offer:

- X-Series is only the dataplan (monthly subscription). You still need a voice plan, cheapest option 29AUD Cap plan, which has a minimum 20AUD price tag. Additionally, the Dopod is available for 36AUD over 24 months (864 AUD in stead of 1049AUD if you would pay upfront!), which makes the minimum cost about 1344AUD (ex. X-Series)
- X-Series services only available on a handset basis, meaning not all services are available on all handsets on offer: **NO SKYPE ON THE DOPOD D810**, so no 1000 minutes of Skype call. (you can download and install Skype separatly, but then you'll be using your 500Mb quota, but it does offer you Skype IM, Skype-Out…)
- HSDPA has speeds of about 3.6Mb/s, up to 14.4Mb/s, unfortunately Three offering a capped 1.5Mb/s speed in stead of the 3.5Mb/s, probably because that's what you get on regular 'broadband' connections here in Australia.
- Coverage of Three isn't that good, so I read. Haven't had any problems yet. If you're outside their network you'd switch onto Telstra GPRS/EDGE network, for which you then get charged $1.65/MB!

#### Update

Colleague of mine contacted Dopod, and they told him a new Three ROM would be released in two months time (June 2007), which officially enables the GPS and upgrades to WM6 (probably at a price).

#### Update – 2007-07-17

Yes. There was a Windows Mobile 6 update online briefly, but it has been taken offline again (a popup window tells you so). It should become available again soon. But people did get the update, and have posted it (or rather a bittorrent file) online at the Whirlpool forum:



or at the xda dev forum:

[http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=316196&page=5](http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=316196&page=5)

You may need to create an account to download them though.

I've succesfully updated my Dopod D810 to WM6, no problems. It does have the Three settings and the GPS enabled. The difference between WM5 and WM6 isn't spectacular though…

#### Update – 2007-08-27

The official HTC WM6 update is [online](http://www.asia.htc.com/asia/event/WM6/au/index.html)!

#### Update – 2007-10-02

Ordered an iPhone couple of weeks ago. it arrived today. [Read about it](posts/2007-10-03-apple-iphone-down-under/).

#### Update – 2007-12-08

A [new Google Maps v2](http://googlemobile.blogspot.com/2007/11/new-magical-blue-circle-on-your-map.html) was released this week. It contains a “My Location” function, which triangulates your location based on the cell towers.  
 Nice idea, but first time it was 5km off… After a while it positioned me 500m off, not too bad.  
 [Get the new version at Google](http://www.google.com/gmm/). But since the Dopod does have a GPS,  
 and you want to revert to the previous version, you can get that [here](http://www.google.com/gmm/apps/v1.5.4/L1/gmaps-Generic-Advanced_MIDP2_L1.jad
).  
 So yes, I still use my Dopod D810, mostly as GPS, and as mobile modem for my laptop.

Interesting [observation](http://blog.andrewgrill.com/blog/_archives/2007/11/29/3381526.html) about how this new "My Location" is supposed to work. Apparently it's user-generated? So phones with GPS would send through their location together with the cell tower id, and Google stores uses that to 'calculate' the position? Don't know. Sounds implausable. As I said, after a while my position was put at about 500m from where I actually was, and I didn't have the GPS on. And there are far too few GPS enabled phones around, let alone users using it with Google Maps to be reliant on user-generated positioning info. It is still 'triangulation', it would use three cell id's. I can believe that the initial positioning — 5km off — was based on a single tower, but then the other location — 500m off — was based on triangulation. The guy does work for a competing location solution provider. He sees entry of Google into his market, and for free to the user and operator, as a big thread of course.

#### Update – 2008-08-20

Have an x-series phone? Not using the phone that much (well I don't, I mainly use my iPhone)? You could get a Three USB modem dongle (from OfficeWorks for example) and use the phone's sim card. The [following setup](http://blog.evandavey.com/2008/02/how-to-connect-huawei-e220-usb-modem.html) worked for me perfectly (not Three's original setup with the provided cdrom). And get [CheetahWatch](http://m.ac.nz/cheetahwatch/) to keep an eye on usage.


    ### Links:

- [Dopod product page](http://www.dopodasia.com/global/products/pda_d810/pda_d810_fea.html "Dopod site")
- [Three X-Series AU](http://xseries.three.com.au/xseries/ "Three XSeries") – [FAQ](http://xseries.three.com.au/xseries/support_knowledge.shtml)
- [3G AU forum](http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-threads.cfm?f=114&g=94 "3G AU forum")
- [AU X-Series Discussion forum](http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies.cfm?t=688621&p=1)
- [XDA Trinity Developers forum](http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?s=028a2de4802c0ea17255f798157f7dd2&f=312)
- [Comprehensive review on iMobile.com.au](http://www.imobile.com.au/PhoneReviews/default.asp?ID=reviewsjul0711)


    
	
### Tip

Use your Dopod D810 as a bluetooth modem on OSX (10.4.10):

1. Pair your Mac with your Dopod. Your Mac will create a passkey that you need to enter on your Dopod.  
     It will then look for available services, which it won't find, but that's not a problem.  
     On the conclusion (final confirmation) screen, it says that the connection is configured for 'a personal area network';
2. On your Dopod, go to: Programs > Internet Sharing;
3. Select 'Bluetooth PAN' from the dropdown, click 'Connect' at the bottom. This should connect you to your operator (in my case the 3G HSDPA network from Three);
4. Back on your Mac, click the Bluetooth icon and select 'Join network on '. A moment later you should be able to browse the web!


    ### Tip

Does your battery seem to be draining to fast?  
 The IR port is on by default, and you most probably don't need it. So turn it off to save some power:

1. Go to: Start > Settings > Connections > Beam;
2. Remove checkmark next to the setting “Receive all incoming beams”;
3. On the right above corner tap on “ok”.


    
	
### Tip

In case you're wondering, in regard to additional software to install,  
 or flashing your ROM, 'WWE' stands for 'World Wide English' and 'CHT' is chinese.


    
	
### Tip

Enable the GPS icon in Settings

In HKEY\_LOCAL\_MACHINEControlPanelGPS Settings

- Delete the DWORD marked Hide (if present)
- Delete the DWORD marked Redirect (if present)
- Add a DWORD called Group and give it a value of 2
- Soft reset the device.

The GPS icon should then be available and you can change the com port  
 on which it appears. (COM9 default)


    
	
### Don't click me:

   
 


    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Sydney, one year on` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-02-24-sydney-one-year-on/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-02-24  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

It's a year already. I guess time flies when you're having fun. And yes, Sydney is a fun city, with the beaches and national parks.  
And the web development community is pretty active here too. After all, it is Sydney where Google Maps started it's life, for example. Sydney hosted several large web-related conferences last year, like Web Directions South, SANS, Jacob Nielsen, OzIA, RuxCon, Search Engine Boothcamp, Adobe workshops, Apple workshops, … Upcoming are Search Summit, WebDU, … Often there are Web Standards Group meetings, php-user and flash-user group meeting, WebJam, the first BarCamp un-conference, OWASP meetings (although pretty small group, and not so regular), … So Sydney keeps us busy.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Ajax, 2 candles` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-02-18-ajax-2-candles/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-02-18  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2069/2166114756_1358c1a1f4_s.jpg)  

Today we have cake, a birtday cake with two candles. Hip hip for Ajax. It's been two years already since Jesse James Garrett posted his seminal essay, "Ajax: A New Approach to Web Applications". And the web has changed since then, into what we call Web 2.0 today. Of course it's only a simple, one-word name for a collection of different techniques already in use for a while by different sites. Still having one defining (and often misused) term for a technique to create a new, richer web inspired a new wave of interactive, social websites. We are only at the beginning of a new chapter of the brief history of the Internet, but the name Ajax will be printed in bold in it's first paragraphe.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `DOM Scripting gotchas` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/dom-scripting-gotchas/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-02-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    
	
## Features

### DOM scripting gotcha's

Started working on a new project with a new colleague the other day, and we decided to use JSON to handle the data client-side and standard W3C DOM scripting to represent the data, because all modern browsers support it (for about 95% that is), right?  
During development we encountered those other 5% of which support was flawed, in Internet Explorer 6 (the usual suspect) and Firefox, the kind of things you most likely don't read about in the books (well, I haven't). This entry is just a write-up of those problems and their solution.

#### Extra textnodes

Let's not start with the usual suspect IE, but with a genuine Firefox bug ([Bugzilla Bug 26179](https://bugzilla.mozilla.org/show_bug.cgi?id=26179) discussed from 2000 to 2008!). DOM has some read-only properties to traverse the node tree, like firstChild, lastChild and childNodes. This last one returns an array of childnodes for a specified node, and therefore you can also call the length property of this array. In our case, this resulted in a difference in length between IE and Firefox. What was going on here (tip: source formatting)?

We had a table (the proper way, for representing tabular data) with a tbody, and tr/th/td elements. If you don't add a tbody element yourself, the browser is so kind to add one herself, which is in fact the standard behavior, so no finger-pointing here (again, if you didn't take this into account during your DOM scripting, you might get another result than expected because of the browser adding a tbody element). We knew how many elements we had for the tbody parent, still there was a difference of 2 between IE and Firefox. This is where you need a DOM inspector. You get one in [Firefox](http://kb.mozillazine.org/DOM_Inspector) (included in the install) and you can get another one for IE (if you don't have one yet, get the [Microsoft Web Developer toolbar](http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=e59c3964-672d-4511-bb3e-2d5e1db91038&displaylang=en) which includes a DOMi).Our table code was formatted as followed (simplyfied):

```

		...
		
    
	
		
    
		
		
    
	

    
```

Because of this nicely formatted source code, Firefox adds additional textnodes, rendering the childNodes property useless for scripting. This is [an example](http://www.halans.be/labroom/ff_domtext.html), try it with Firefox and IE. If you click the links, you'll get the childNodes array lenth. Then also check the page using the DOM inspector for either browser.  
This is the [Mozilla explanation/solution](http://www.mozilla.org/docs/dom/technote/whitespace/).  
My solution woul be to remove the whitespaces between tag, and format the source code differently, something like:

```

    ......
			
    
```

You get the idea, I guess.

#### Non-breaking space

I needed to add some blank content to a table cell, which would later then be replaced by actual content, Normally we would use a &nbsp; HTML element. WIthout content the table cell isn't styled properly. To add this using domscripting you need to use the createTextNode, but using “&nbsp;” as its text content, it would be HTML encoded, being displayed exactly like that, &nbsp; You need to use the Unicode variant (u00a0), ex. as followed:  
document.createTextNode(“u00a0”);


    
	
### This article:

Extra textnodes appearing in Firefox, and scripting non-breaking space

[Back to posts page](/posts/)


    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Mint 2.0` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-01-29-mint-20/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-01-29  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Just updated my Mint installation to version 2.0, no troubles at all. Great job again, Shaun!  
If you don't know what Mint is, check it out [here](http://www.haveamint.com/):   
"Mint is an extensible web site analytics program. Its interface is an exercise in simplicity. Visits, referrers, popular pages and searches can all be taken in at a glance on Mint's flexible dashboard."   
It's a cool webstats app you put on your own php server. It's only 30$ per domain (or 19$ for the upgrade), and you don't support any large corporation, it's all pretty independant. There are lots of free alternatives around (hell, I have google analytics too), but this is a lot sweeter, simpler, cooler.  
I don't have that many visitors anyway, but it's nice to keep track of things, check out your position on search terms, see what is popular on your site.  

[END_OF_CONTENT]
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## [POST_TITLE] `Google & Australia Day` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-01-23-google-australia-day/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-01-23  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 "Google Australia is celebrating Australia Day 2007 by photographing Sydney Harbour from the air, and we want to make sure as many of us as possible squeeze into the picture."

Next Friday, an aircraft hired by Google will be doing a series of low-level swoops over parts of Sydney, photographing the ground and waters below. And they ask you to take part.

"So when you see the Google branded plane flying overhead this January 26th, hoist a sign, arrange your family into a fun formation or just get a bunch of friends together to wave."

Six weeks later you may appear on Google Maps!  
[Google Australia](http://www.google.com/intl/en_au/events/australiaday2007/index.html)  
[Sydney Morning Herald](http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2007/01/22/1169330820917.html)

Additionally Microsoft does a flyover over Centennial Park to create a coloured map of Australia of the attending people.  
[LookUpAndSmile](http://www.lookupandsmile.com.au/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `iPhone` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-01-10-iphone/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-01-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 Mmmmmm, … iPhone, …. want one

Nuff said…

Edit: If only people could buy it immediately, if only Apple could deliver now (it's available in June). People are starting to turn around already, it will get a fair bit harder for Apple to sell them come June.  
[iPhone no touchy feely](http://www.37signals.com/svn/posts/188-iphone-not-touchy-feely)  
[iPhone buttons](http://www.adaptivepath.com/blog/2007/01/09/iphones-lack-of-buttons/)  
[iPhone interface analysis](http://arstechnica.com/journals/apple.ars/2007/1/19/6688)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `XSS/Phising with PDF` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-01-04-xssphising-with-pdf/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-01-04  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

There's currently a lot of chatter on the securityfocus mailing list about the pdf-javascript vulnerability   
disclosed by Stefano Di Paola and Giorgio Fedon last week at 23C3 in Berlin (original [advisory](http://www.wisec.it/vulns.php?page=9)),  
making new ajaxy worms or XSS possible. Adobe did put out an Acrobat fix, but lots of people don't often upgrade Acrobat reader.

Affected versions are combinations of (other combinations may exist):

- IE6 + Acrobat Reader 7 + XP SP1
- IE6 + Acrobat Reader 4 + XP SP2
- Firefox 2
- Firefox 1.5
- Opera 8.5.4
- Opera 9.10

 In my opinion, it also makes for a big phishing hole.  
Google for any banking pdf's (for example using something like site:abankingsite.com filetype:pdf)  
and attach your fake banking site to let the user login to read the article using a JavaScript confirm dialogue.  
In Firefox 2 the dialogue states: 'The page at http://www.abanksite.com says:'. Depending on if you click "OK" or "Cancel" you are redirected to the fake login page or to the real banking page (but not the article). Try this link (POC), which could be part of a phishing mail, in Firefox/acrobat7: [**http://tinyurl.com/y6gklk**](http://tinyurl.com/y6gklk) (the tinyurl not only makes it easier to link, but additionally obfuscates the payload in the pdf link). It abuses the trustworthy URL of the bank to redirect to a fake login page.

A possible server side solution would be to force the pdf's to be downloaded through use of a particular MIME type or Content-Disposition. On the client-side, upgrade to Acrobat 8, or always download pdf's, don't open them in your browser, or use another pdf reader.[  ](http://www.wisec.it/vulns.php?page=9)

[Read more at ](http://www.wisec.it/vulns.php?page=9)[SecurityFocus](http://www.securityfocus.com/brief/401) ([maillist thread](http://www.securityfocus.com/archive/1/455790/30/60/threaded)) or GNUCitizen [here](http://www.gnucitizen.org/blog/danger-danger-danger/) and a follow up [here.](http://www.gnucitizen.org/blog/universal-pdf-xss-after-party/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Sidney, here we come` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2007-01-02-sidney-here-we-come/   
[POST_DATE] 2007-01-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

A spelling mistake takes German tourist [13,000km off-course](http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,20994992-5001021,00.html). It could happen to you too…
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Congrats CSS!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2006-12-19-congrats-css/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-12-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 It's 10 already!  
 "In 2006, the World Wide Web Consortium proudly celebrates the ten years of [Cascading Style Sheets (CSS)](http://www.w3.org/Style/CSS), the technology designers use to create attractive, economical, and flexible Web sites. In these pages you will find history and highlights from **10 years with style**."  
[CSS10](http://www.w3.org/Style/CSS10/) – The [pressrelease](http://www.w3.org/2006/12/css10-pressrelease.html)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Work in progress` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2006-12-03-work-in-progress/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-12-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

You may have noticed, it looks a bit messy currently.  
Not to worry, it will get better, eventually.  
But just don't expect it to be today or tomorrow though, it will take a while.  
I couldn't be bothered to develop locally, so I'm doing it live.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `World Usability Day − Today` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2006-11-14-world-usability-day-today/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-11-14  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

It's "[World Usability Day](http://worldusabilityday.org/)" today. [Get into it](http://worldusabilityday.org/)!  
We got presentations on blind and visually impaired surfing, the Office 2007 user experience, mobile phones usability (and mobile race), usability feedback channel, News Corps' Lab launch, and demos of eye tracking and user testing software. Pretty interesting stuff.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Web Standards Group meeting` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2006-10-20-web-standards-group-meeting/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-10-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Went to the WSG meeting yesterday, with presentations about assistive web technologies, and the mobile web.  
It was interesting to see a blind person use a website, using Jaws. It can be bloody annoying, I tell you, reading out aloud image maps…  
The mobile web presentation wasn't too interesting, nothing new, nothing practical. Wished they talked about the .mobi domain, flash lite, xhtml/css… Nothing of that.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Logitech Harmony 520 Universal Remote` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/logitech-harmony-520-universal-remote/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-09-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    
	
## Features

### Logitech Harmony 520 Universal Remote

#### (2006-09-08)

In one word? A "programmable-universal-remote-control". Not to control your local universe, but control up to 12 devices.   
Some general info:

- Build quality is excellent, looks good.
- Set-up activity control: in a nutshell: want to watch tv? Set it up to start up the tv and your settop box with one click, switch channels on the settop box, increase volume on the tv.
- Set up the remote using your pc/Mac, connecting the remote through USB.
- As of sept 2006, 4000 manufacturers, and 150.000 devices.

As the current tv's remote is lost, I wanted to look for a new remote. Additionally, I got myself a Playstation 2 earlier, which also handles IR, but requires you to buy a separate remote. And on top of that, I bought a (cheap) digital settop box, as analog reception was pretty bad.  
 The TV had it's "display" function turned on, so I would always get the channel, or 'video' shown on screen, pretty annoying. I couldn't remove it with any button on the tv set itself. So I first bougth a common  
 6-devices "universal" remote. But that actually only handled volume and channels, nothing else, so pretty worthless.  
 Analog reception was pretty bad, and I was curious about digital, so I looked for the cheapest digital settop box (Standard Definition) available, in the hope reception would be better, and just to get my feet wet in digital. I got a DSE settop box, 79 AUD at Dick Smith. Oh boy, digital reception was perfect (strange, as reception of analog was so bad) (DSE is their homebrand, "Dick Smith Electronics",  
 they also have a 14 day return policy, which would be nice if it didn't work out)  
 So now I had a tv without remote, a settop box (with remote to handle channels and volume among other things), and a Playstation to play DVD's without remote. That's when I got this Harmony 520 as it was on sale, 122 AUD at City Software.   
 You install the software (updates available online), hook the remote to your pc through USB, and follow the instructions. One word of caution, you have to be patient …

 The application connects to the [harmonyremote website](http://members.harmonyremote.com),  
 which you can also access through a browser to configure the remote. You create an account, so it stores your settings for you. The first time it gave me a list of common devices with checkboxes and dropdown list. I checked the TV, Settop box and Game console with DVD checkboxes, and then for each tried to select the manufacturer from the dropdowns.  
 There is definitly something wrong with their dropdown list population script, as it kept updating the dropdowns and I couldn't continue with the configuration.  
 Solution: only select a single device to start with, no more. Then the dropdown seemed to work.  
 You can add devices later on in the setup. Once passed that hurdle everything went more smoothly.  
   
 But the update of the remote takes some time. If you use your browser to connect to the harmonyremote site, you'll notice that if you update the device, you get to be placed into a queue apparently (waiting time 1 minute), something which isn't reflected in the harmony pc application.   
 Another thing is, the harmony pc application (which in effect is a browser with some java applets) seem to have some memory leaks, as memory usage grows (to about 100 Megs for me).  
 I wasn't sure about the DSE device, as it is a local brand, but it is supported, so perfect! And I get more control over the tv than with the generic 6-device remote, I could change the "display" setting as well as colors/brightness, balance etc. Me happy.   
 The setup of the remote could be easier, smoother, but in the end it works out nicely.

#### Update

 One glitch, it seems to send my input twice to the settop box. Example, if I click '2', it would send '22'. Solution, as found under the troubleshooting section of the Harmony application:   
 "*When I press the Volume or Direction buttons, they move by two or  
 three steps. How do I ensure that they only move by one step?*"  
 To ensure that the Volume or Direction Buttons only move one step (no  
 double commands), do the following:

1. Click on More Options beside the appropriate Device on your home page.
2. Select Troubleshoot.
3. Select Show me more problems.
4. Then choose My Device doesn't appear to receive every command correctly.
5. Choose My Device responds too much to some commands. For example,  
     volume up increases the volume too quickly.
6. Change the number of repeats to 1. The default is 3. Lower the  
     number if the commands are repeating unnecessarily. Raise the number  
     if the device does not respond to the commands.
7. Click Save.

 Update the remote.  
 Yep, solved it.

**Overall, I'm very pleased with it for now.**

 


    
	
### Links:

- [Logitech product page](http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/products/detailsharmony/US/EN,CRID=2084,CONTENTID=10929 "Logitech site")
- [CNet review](http://reviews.cnet.com/Logitech_Harmony_520/4505-7900_7-31517265.html "CNet review")
- [Harmony Forum](http://forums.logitech.com/logitech/board?board.id=remote_software "Harmony forum")
- [Harmony Remote site](http://members.harmonyremote.com "Harmony Remote site")


    
	
### Don't click me:

   
 


    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Policing the net` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2006-08-07-policing-the-net/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-08-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

There is a thread running at the OpenDNS blog about handling cybersquatters, domain names which look like the real deal, typo's by the user for example, but point somewhere else (ex. google.com vs goggle.com), a tactic also used by phishers. Internet companies, like OpenDNS, are taking up policing the internet, to protect their users from these kinds of sites.  
Another such company is Google, trying to act as an "in-flight adviser" to ensure people don't fall victim of malware, automatically installed through browser holes. For example, try looking for 'Asta-Killer' on Google. You'll get an interstitial page warning you of the malicious content. They only add it to the main link though, not to the snippet links below the main link, which kind of defeats the purpose. Probably a slight oversight by the Google people.  
Find out more:  
[OpenDNS blog](http://blog.opendns.com/2006/08/04/gogglecom-gross-what-should-we-do/)  
[Google to warn of badware sites](http://blog.washingtonpost.com/securityfix/2006/08/google_to_warn_of_badware_site.html)  
[BBC article  ](http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/5251742.stm)[BetaNews](http://www.betanews.com/article/Google_Aims_to_Block_Malicious_Sites/1154720175)  
[StopBadware.org](http://www.stopbadware.org/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `OpenDNS` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2006-07-30-opendns/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-07-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Switched to [OpenDNS](http://www.opendns.com/) today. Really [easy](http://www.opendns.com/start/).  
It should be faster (well, that is if you're on mainland USA – I'm not), with a bigger cache.  
It's smart too, if you do a typo like www.halans.om, it will automatically redirect to the correct .com address.  
If you made some other typo, you'll get a list of possibilities (this is where the advertising kicks in though, they gotta make money one way or the other)  
And it adds anti-phishing, by blocking any (known) phishing URLs ([PhishTank](http://www.phishtank.com/)).  
Let's see how it copes with [growth,](http://system.opendns.com/) from 243,470 requests on June 30, to 52,221,805 request yesterday.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Is your PC vulnerable?` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2006-07-22-is-your-pc-vulnerable/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-07-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[
    Spycar ](http://www.spycar.org/)is a tool to test your PC's defences (anti-spyware apps, firewall,…)  
At its inception, Spycar performs 17 different tests associated with Autostart Programs, IE Config Changes, and Network Settings changes. All Spycar tests focus on Windows machines, the most popular target for spyware today.  
[Get it here](http://www.spycar.org/).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Cute but expensive` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2006-06-17-cute-but-expensive/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-06-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[Cute kitten atop a MacBookPro](http://www.vimeo.com/clip:77426) while its owner is fooling around with FrontRow and the remote. Cute but could end up expensive if the kitten scratches the screen. Don't try this at home…
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Philips HDRW 720 experience` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/philips-hdrw-720-experience/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-06-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    
	
## Features

### Philips HDRW 720 experience

This article describes my experiences with a Philips harddisc/dvd recorder.  
Read all the way through to the end and compare my initial reaction with my latest sentiments…

#### (2004-06-13)

 A PVR, personal video recorder, recording TV on a harddisc, and DVD+RW in one.   
 Have it for a week now, been playing around. Really cool stuff.  
 Some general info:

- Build quality is excellent, the tray feels solid.
- Standard play recording M2 (5Mbits/s) allows you to put 2h of video on a DVD, or 32h on the harddisc. Quality is excellent. Haven't tried M1(9,7Mbits/s) which makes 1h on DVD and 16h on HD. Initally player is on M2x (4Mbits/s), but I didn't like the quality of the video.
- Every 5 minutes a chapter is added to the movie for easy skipping through the movie (editable).
- Editing out commercials is easy, just selecting the start and finish location of the commercials and 'hide' them. You can zoom into a timeline, to do kind of frame level editing. But allthough I thought I selected the right starting frame of the commercials, a frame was still visible on the DVD. Maybe you should make the selection just right on the last frame before the start of the commercials.
- While a programme is running, you can pause, rewind, start again from the beginning. Cool.
- I burned a DVD+RW in about 19 minutes for a 1:38 minute movie.
- It doesn't read JPG cd's, photo cd's, which would have been nice.
- It doesn't read MP3 DVD's (but no problem for MP3 cd's), which is too bad.
- Once the recording is on harddisc, you can no longer change the encoding quality to write it on a DVD. For example, a movie of 2,5 hours in M2 quality wouldn't fit on a DVD. You had to put it on M2x or M3 at the time of recording. A re-coding feature would have been nice when archiving.
- I was able to play the DVD+RW on my laptop (DVD-RW drive), on my PC (regular DVD drive),and on my previous, 99euro DVD player, without a problem.  
     Quality was as you'd expect from a DVD. I've seen worse pre-recorded DVDs before.
- I guess the performance of the harddrive will deteriorate after years (months?) of usage, as all harddiscs this HD will also get fragmented.
- It takes some time to start up the device.

**Overall, I'm very pleased with it for now.**

#### Update:

 Have the machine 2 months now. Still love it, but I would like it to be more like the Sony PSX machine (Japan only for now). I did encounter some software problems. For example:

- shutting down while in Guide+ program guide, he doesn't like that. Next time you start the device, Guide+ is empty. Just stop/start Guide+ display, and all is ok.
- I've had a problem twice with recordings, where the device only partially archived to DVD because a glitch in the recording; and another where the device freezes when skipping through chapters. I put that movie on DVD, and it also freezes when skipping through the chapters on the DVD on the HDRW720! On my PC's DVD player no problem. This player definitly has some software problems which should be addressed in a firmware upgrade.

But next to these glitches, I'm still pretty happy with it.

#### Update 2(2004-09-12):

 The Philips website indicates that a software upgrade will be available for this product  
 in the coming months… [Philips support site](http://www.p4c.philips.com/cgi-bin/dcbint/cpindex.pl?ctn=HDRW720/00&scy=NL&slg=ENG&tmplt=&SearchTxt=&grp=HOME_AUDIO_VIDEO_GR&cat=DVD_PLAYERS_RECORDERS_CA&sct=DVD_RECORDERS_SU "Philips support site").

#### Update 3(2004-09-24):

 Installed the new firmware. In stead of the mentioned 15 minutes, it took 30-35 minutes.  
 Checked the firmware version (see elsewhere on this page), and yes, the software is updated.  
 First thing I noticed is the fact that the HDD browser now sorts by default on date (newest recording on top).  
 Also the Guide+ is empty and needs to be reloaded. All previous settings are gone (example the extra-time setting). It remains to be seen if this version is more stable.

#### Update 4(2005-03-06):

 A new firmware was released (CF 3.0). I didn't have any issues with the previous version, but installed it anyway. Took about 25 minutes. Philips didn't link the  
 correct upgrade document of this version, so I can't tell what was new or improved in this version. Firmware info:  
 DI EF3\_AV3/34567 AN 140055 SV 74  
 BE 31.30.32 DV present FP 13  
 D9 20050120\_0630 dev dxc CF 3.0  
 BASE\_SYS\_20041228\_55 20041228\_1208ip  
 EPG EU 01.26

#### Update 5(2005-03-10):

The following items were apparently included in the CF3.0 upgrade:

- EPG program information available (when broadcasted) within Guide or Browser (yes indeed, very handy)
- The following Harddisc navigation speeds were added: 64x, 128x and 256x
- Exit CAM mode also via tuner button possible
- Playback of dual layer DVD+R discs possible
- Sometimes many empty titles in Browser (Harddisc) after timer recording.
- Sometimes no sound on timer recording from external input.

#### Update 6(2005-05-08)

 Yet another upgrade (CF3.1), but apparently only a minur bug fix in the service/diagnostics mode, not relevant for the consumer. Does this mean their diagnostics of problematic machine were wrong due to this bug?  
 I didn't bother to install this update.

#### Update 7 (2005-06-06)

 Upgrade CF3.2 is made available.   
 It offers improved readability of DVD+R Dual Layer discs, and improved readability of commercial discs.  
 Never had any problems with commercial discs myself.  
 The upgrade took about 15 minutes, shorter than the previous upgrades.  
 I tried some dvd's, but I didn't notice any difference. The region-free setting stilled worked. I also went over  
 the configuration, and didn't see any changes, or things I needed to reset. The GuidePlus was still working, no need  
 to reload the data. Again, it did seem to navigate faster between discbrowser and liveview/GuidePlus (like it always does, right after an upgrade).  
 The firmware info is as follows:  
 RPE 2004  
 DI EF 3\_AV 3134572 AN 140056 SV 74  
 BE 31.30.32 DV present FP 13  
 D9 20050511\_0957 dev dxc CF 3.2  
 BASE\_SYS\_20050202\_56 20050202\_1348ip  
 EPG EU 01.26

#### Update 8 (2005-11-17)

I'm starting to notice flaws in the recordings (on harddisk and burned DVD's), annoying things like the sound dropping for half a second, or the image freezing very shortly, or a very blocky image. I didn't have this problem before, started last couple of weeks.  
**I love the technology, but this Philips isn't a good example.   
I can no longer recommend it.**


    
	
### Links:

- [Product brochure](http://www.philips.nl/Assets/Downloadablefile/HDRW720_HE-brochure-3230.pdf)
- [Philips support site](http://www.p4c.philips.com/cgi-bin/dcbint/cpindex.pl?ctn=HDRW720/00&scy=NL&slg=ENG&tmplt=&SearchTxt=&grp=HOME_AUDIO_VIDEO_GR&cat=DVD_PLAYERS_RECORDERS_CA&sct=DVD_RECORDERS_SU "Philips support site")
- [Dutch User Forum ](http://www.kieskeurig.nl/nl/product.nsf/reviewlist/4B3DB292A7EAE443C1256E79004F1237.htm)
- [A look inside (dutch)](http://hdrw.frankfiles.com/)
- [More troubles (dutch)](http://www.vanderhulst.net/blog/index.php?/archives/13-Philips-Harddisc-Recorder-HDRW-720-zorgenkindje.html#extended)


    
	
### Tip:

You can add an additional 1 to 5 minutes before and after a Guide+ programmed recording, automatically. In the 'System menu', 'Preferences', scroll all the way down to 'Extra time'. Here you can add 1 to 5 minutes of extra recording time.


    
	
### Tip:

You can display your firmware version info: go to the 'disc menu', then 'system menu'. Scroll down to the 'suitcase' icon. On the right you have 'Statusfield', 'StandBy' and 'Display'. Select 'Statusfield', scroll down to 'Display', and scroll one extra down to get the firmware version. Take note of the firmware version in your user guide.


    
	
### Tip:

Sorting the display of the HDD browser. If you're on the HDD browser, select the left arrow on the remote. This brings up the sorting menu. You can sort the list on alfabet, recording date, on delete order (showing which recording will be deleted first when the HDD is full), on protected status and last played.


    
	
### Don't click me:

   
 


    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Geotagging` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2006-04-09-geotagging/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-04-09  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I've been geotagging my Sydney photos on [Flickr](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/) using [MultiMap](http://www.multimap.com/), which gives you the longitude and latitude, and then add links to Google Maps satellite photos of the location. It's either the location of the subject of the photo or the approximate point of view where the picture was taken. The pictures with satellite photo links can be found [here](http://www.flickr.com/photos/halans/tags/satellitephotolocation/), or just browse my Sydney collection and click the link when one's included.  
More about [geotagging](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GeoTagging) on Wikipedia.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Google and the online office` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2006-03-10-google-and-the-online-office/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-03-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Google took over [Writely](http://www.writely.com/), a very nice online document editor. And they are working on an online spreadsheets app.  
They also have a calendar application in the pipeline, of which screenshots are available [here.](http://www.techcrunch.com/2006/03/08/exclusive-screenshots-google-calendar/)  
And they want to host all your documents with [GDrive](http://blogs.zdnet.com/Google/?p=121).   
They are taking over your desktop.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `BBC & the winter olympics` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2006-02-05-bbc-the-winter-olympics/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-02-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Great winter olympics [snowboarding site](http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/shared/spl/hi/videoguide/winterolympics/html/default.stm) by the BBC with flash video tutorials.[  ](http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/shared/spl/hi/videoguide/winterolympics/html/default.stm)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Blink of an eye` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2006-01-15-blink-of-an-eye/   
[POST_DATE] 2006-01-15  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Wow, research has shown that web users judge sites in the blink of an eye.  
Potential readers can make snap decisions in just 50 milliseconds.  
That is, users were shown a screenshot in just 50 milliseconds, and then they had to rank them.  
These results were then compared with the regular ranking of the sites.  
[http://www.nature.com/news/2006/060109/full/060109-13.html](http://www.nature.com/news/2006/060109/full/060109-13.html)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Chris Whitley` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-11-21-chris-whitley/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-11-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

![(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/34/66575499_9784e2991c_m.jpg)](http://flickr.com/photos/48889073931@N01/66575499 "Chris Whitley live in Belgium, 1998")

[Chris Whitley](http://www.chriswhitley.com/), one of my favourite artists, passed away last weekend, too soon, at the age of 45.  

[Obituary](http://www.chriswhitley.com/obituary.html)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Tools of the trade` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-11-11-tools-of-the-trade/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-11-11  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Some tools

- [KDiff3](http://kdiff3.sourceforge.net/)
- Sepy Actionscript editor
- IE Drip
- [CSSVista](http://www.sitevista.com/cssvista/)[  ](http://www.sitevista.com/cssvista/)
- IE Webdeveloper toolbar
- Firefox webdeveloper extension
- FontHit Fonttools
- Agent Ransack
- dbPowerAmp music converter
- [ColorPix](http://www.colorschemer.com/colorpix_info.php) color schemer
- SC Unipad
- Riva FLV encoder
- WinSCP
- WinCVS
- [TortoiseCVS](http://www.tortoisecvs.org/)
- RapidSVN
- TortoiseSVN
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `PSP Media Manager` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-11-05-psp-media-manager/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-11-05  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

The PSP has an ackward video file naming system. Depending on the video format it needs to be placed in a particular directory on the PSP, and it needs a certain predefined filename too (ex. 'M4V31337.MP4'). This is due to a backwards compatibility issue for other Sony devices like Clie PDA's. The PSP supports mp4 video files encoded in mpeg4 or the newer H.264 (AVC) format. The combination of these factors (directory, filename, format) doesn't make it straightforward to put video on your PSP ([this article](http://www.engadget.com/entry/1234000980024404/) give you clue how to do it). Recenlty several tools became available to make it more easy to transfer video to your PSP.

I was using PSP Video 9 (Win/free), Nero Recode 2 (Win/part of Nero 6 suite) or PSPWare (Mac) to transfer video to my PSP.

Nero Recode has a specific PSP profile which outputs directly to your PSP (in the correct folder, with a correct filename) or to a local directory (which would then require you to change the filename manualy to play on the PSP). Although Recode supports the AVC (Advanced Video Coding) format, it used standard mpeg4 for the PSP profile, which is a bummer. A positive feature is the fact that you can determine the target filesize (ex. 200MB for a 'hometaped' DVR TV movie), and it groups the DVD movie video files into a single video file. I found the result more than acceptable (if they are not too action packed/fast moving that is) For example a 1h30min movie converted to a 195MB file in MPEG-4 236kbps video and AAC64 kbps audio at 320×240 resolution. You could put 4-5 full movies onto a single 1GB memory stick this way. If I remember correctly, conversion happened in about 50 minutes (but that completely depends on your pc's capabilities).

PSP Video 9 supports AVC, but doesn't convert a DVD movie into a single file (you'll get 3/4 files for a single movie), but each movie clip has its own thumbnail. V9 allows you to pre-encode the movie locally, and then manage you video files between your PC and the PSP. You can use several different preconfigured quality profiles, or set one yourself (example on [this blog](http://www.edn.com/blog/400000040/post/1290001329.html)).

Recently Sony released [PSP Media Manager](http://www.sonymediasoftware.com/products/showproduct.asp?pid=995). I believe it should have been available with you PSP purchase, but they sell it separate for about 20$. It has a nice interface to manage the files on your PSP: pictures, movies, backups, etc. For video it has two settings, a low and high AVC format. It is dummy proof, but for the more advanced, it would be nice that we could set our own profiles. These two profiles give you either a 340MB file or a 550MB file for a 1h30min movie (into a single file with thumbnail). Yes, quality is superior to the Nero Recode mpeg4 version, but you can only store 2 movies on the same 1GB MS. Another thing is that you cannot pre-encode the files, the PSP needs to be connected, which is a pain in the butt. And last but not least, it took 4,5 hours to encode a 1h30min movie, which is way too long to be any practical I think (or should I just upgrade my PC, a 2 year old P4/2.66?). And it doens't have a 'Shutdown pc after completion' feature as we see in Nero and V9, to run the encoding at night.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `DOM scripting gotchas (1)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-10-31-dom-scripting-gotchas-1/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-10-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Started working on a new project with a new colleague the other day, and we decided to use JSON to handle the data client-side and standard W3C DOM scripting to represent the data, because all modern browsers support it (for about 95% that is), right?

 During development we encountered those other 5% of which support was flawed, in Internet Explorer 6 (the usual suspect) and Firefox, the kind of things you most likely don't read about in the books (well, I haven't). This entry is just a write-up of those problems and their solution.

 **Extra textnodes**

 Let's not start with the usual suspect IE, but with a genuine Firefox bug ([Bugzilla Bug 26179](https://bugzilla.mozilla.org/show_bug.cgi?id=26179)). DOM has some read-only properties to traverse the node tree, like firstChild, lastChild and childNodes. This last one returns an array of childnodes for a specified node, and therefore you can also call the length property of this array. In our case, this resulted in a difference in length between IE and Firefox. What was going on here (tip: source formatting)?

 We had a table (the proper way, for representing tabular data) with a tbody, and tr/th/td elements. If you don't add a tbody element yourself, the browser is so kind to add one herself, which is in fact the standard behavior, so no finger-pointing here (again, if you didn't take this into account during your DOM scripting, you might get another result than expected because of the browser adding a tbody element). We knew how many elements we had for the tbody parent, still there was a difference of 2 between IE and Firefox. This is where you need a DOM inspector. You get one in [Firefox](http://kb.mozillazine.org/DOM_Inspector) (included in the install) and you can get another one for IE (if you don't have one yet, get the [Microsoft Web Developer toolbar](http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=e59c3964-672d-4511-bb3e-2d5e1db91038&displaylang=en) which includes a DOMi).Our table code was formatted as followed (simplyfied):

```html
		
            ...
        
    
    
        
    
            
            
    
        

    
```

Because of this nicely formatted source code, Firefox adds additional textnodes, rendering the childNodes property useless for scripting. This is [an example](http://www.halans.be/labroom/ff_domtext.html), try it with Firefox and IE. If you click the links, you'll get the childNodes array lenth. Then also check the page using the DOM inspector for either browser.  
This is the [Mozilla explanation/solution](http://www.mozilla.org/docs/dom/technote/whitespace/).  
 My solution would be to remove the whitespaces between tag, and format the source code differently, something like:

```html
    
    ......
    
    

```

You get the idea, I guess.

 **Non-breaking space**

I needed to add some blank content to a table cell, which would later then be replaced by actual content, Normally we would use a &nbsp; HTML element. Without content the table cell isn't styled properly. To add this using domscripting you need to use the createTextNode, but using "&nbsp;" as its text content, it would be HTML encoded, being displayed exactly like that, &nbsp; You need to use the Unicode variant (u00a0),    
ex. as followed:   
document.createTextNode("u00a0");


[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `DOM Scripting gotchas (2)` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-10-31-dom-scripting-gotchas-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-10-31  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

**And last but not least: an IE memory leak**

Here's an [MSDN article](http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/default.asp?url=/library/en-us/ietechcol/dnwebgen/ie_leak_patterns.asp) about IE 'leak patterns'. I guess they are IE 'features', and not bugs…  

Use [Drip](http://www.outofhanwell.com/ieleak/) to find any IE leaks.  
http://outofhanwell.com/ieleak/index.php?title=Main\_Page  

Some other references [here](http://www.bazon.net/mishoo/articles.epl?art_id=824)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Happy Birthday to E−mail, Microsoft and me!` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-10-17-happy-birthday-to-email-microsoft-and-me/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-10-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

E-mail just turned 34 this year, read about it [here at the Google blog](http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2005/10/guess-what-just-turned-34.html).  
Microsoft celebrates their 30th birthday with [a nice Flash site](http://www.microsoft.com/mscorp/goingbeyond/indexFlash.html).  
And me,… oh well, let's not get into that.   
I'll just say I'm in between M$ and e-mail…
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Ikea kitchens` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-09-25-ikea-kitchens/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-09-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

[Ikea kitchens + Matrix effect](http://www.ikea.com/ms/sv_SE/kampanj/fy06_dromkok/dromkok.html "Ikea site"), in flash. Cool.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `PSP` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-09-07-psp/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-09-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I gave in to temptation. I bought one. I couldn't wait.

Browsing on the Sony PSP, the browser is identified as  
Netscape 4.0 Mozilla/4.0 (PSP (PlayStation Portable); 2.00) (while it is the NetFront browser)  
Javascript version 1.2  
Monitor Resolution: 480 x 272  
Color Depth: 32 bits  
Tabbed (3x) browsing, but no Flash support, limited memory for browsing, no Ajax style webapps.

Update:  
Sony PSP Media Manager  
3.30 GB 1.5h movie into a 335MB AVC MP4 file, after 4.5 hours of encoding…
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Dreamweaver tip` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-08-12-dreamweaver-tip/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-08-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Yesterday I went to a MMUG meeting for a presentation on the new Flash 8 and Dreamweaver 8. Dreamweaver 8 now has code collapsing features, as Homesite used to do. Homesite also had code splitting, which allows you to split the page code view into two parts, so you can compare parts in the header with parts further down, without scrolling back and forth. I had already seen that this feature wasn't included in the new version, but someone did pop the question. The guy from Macromedia had a great tip for codesplitting in Dreamweaver, which has been available for a while now in Dreamweaver:

> There is a panel called 'Code Inspector', which is just another view on the code. Open the panel through the 'Window' menu, then dock this panel below the main view (Code/Design view), above the Properties panel, et voila, you have codesplitting, almost the same as in Homesite.

Brilliant tip.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Microsoft Start` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-08-03-microsoft-start/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-08-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Microsoft is working on a new portal site, named start.com, similar to the [Google personalised start page](http://www.google.com/ig). The current preview version (as of this date) is [this one (v3)](http://www.start.com/3/). The [developers blog](http://spaces.msn.com/members/startcom/) gives more details about what they are working on:

- opml import
- roaming
- firefox support (and yes all seems to work)
- …

Will it be the new default start page for IE7?  
**Update**: Microsoft release '[Live](http://www.live.com)' website, based on Start, but it doesn't fully support Firefox.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Optimus keyboard` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-07-21-optimus-keyboard/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-07-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

A brilliant idea: a fully customizable keyboard, using oled displays for each button. Might be expensive though. Have a look  
[on their website](http://www.artlebedev.com/portfolio/optimus/), and also look at their other designs.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Belgium, the story so far...` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-07-21-belgium-the-story-so-far/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-07-21  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Happy birthday to us, as Belgium is a respectable 175 years young this year. It has quite an interesting story. Read it in short at [wikipedia](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Belgium), watch the [trailer](http://homepage.mac.com/geertl/Belgium/GodBlessBelgium.mov), or download the [dvd](http://video.belgium.be/nl/film.html).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Greasemonkey` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-07-20-greasemonkey/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-07-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

I love Firefox and its extensions, and I'm pretty interested in the Ajax developments. Recently a Firefox + [Greasemonkey](http://greasemonkey.mozdev.org/) extension vulnerabilty surfaced. This vulnerability could allow an evil server to read the contents of your harddisk, if you have Firefox with the Greasemonkey extension installed, using XMLHttpRequest to send the data in the background to the server. The community was quick in deploying workarounds. One of them was [Flickr](http://www.flickr.com/), who implemented a notification script on its pages warning Greasemonkey users of the vulnerability. If you too are a Greasemonkey user, you might get a warning on this site as I took over the script from Flickr.  
Read more on the [Greaseblog](http://greaseblog.blogspot.com/2005/07/mandatory-greasemonkey-update.html), or [here](http://simon.incutio.com/archive/2005/07/20/vulnerability) for more details on the vulnerability.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Corpus05` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-05-08-corpus05/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-05-08  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

This weekend the new cultural season opened in Brugge, called Corpus05, with the human body as center piece. It started yesterday (saturday) morning at 7 am with 2000 naked people, gathering in the poring rain, for a photo shoot with Spencer Tunick (check [here](http://www.standaard.be/extra/fotospecials/fotospecial.asp?id=288&pic=1 "De Standaard newspaper") for a photo special)(and no, I didn't participate). This morning (Sunday), I was awake at 7 am (yes sad, I know), and took a shower. As I came out of the shower (around 8) I heard a noise from outside. I first though someone was playing a didgeridoo, until I opened the back door, and heard it was a Tibetan monk chanting. It was really loud. I thought I might come from the kiosk in the park. But in fact it was coming from the Belfry tower. I went to see what was going on. Apparently the police wasn't informed either, there were 2 motorbikes, a van, and some more cars. It was indeed part of the Corpus05 happening, but it wasn't too well indicated anywhere. This Sunday, every hour, there will be chanting from the belfry tower: a Tibetan monk, old Dutch religious song, Jewish liturgical songs, shaman, Islamic, gospel, Byzantine, poetry, hip hop … all day every hour, for 15 minutes. [Have a listen.](tibetanmonk.htm)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Nine Inch Nails` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-04-17-nine-inch-nails/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-04-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Great stuff for NIN fans and Mac owners. You can find the latest NIN single 'The Hand That Feeds' as a GarageBand track on their [site](http://www.nin.com/current/index.html), and play around with its 17 tracks to make your own version.  
Update: The new single 'Only' is also made available in GarageBand format, including a few Windows multitrack versions.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Ajax − Asynchronous JavaScript and XML` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-02-24-ajax-asynchronous-javascript-and-xml/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-02-24  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Interesting write-up about a technique they call 'Ajax', which is :

- – standards-based presentation using XHTML and CSS;
- – dynamic display and interaction using the Document Object Model;
- – data interchange and manipulation using XML and XSLT;
- – asynchronous data retrieval using XMLHttpRequest;
- and JavaScript binding everything together.

Think of GMail, Google Maps, Google Suggest, Flickr. A technique I have used myself a couple of times over the last few years, although not for a complete app, but some parts of it.  
Read it at [Adaptive Path](http://www.adaptivepath.com/publications/essays/archives/000385.php).  
And have a look at my [ajax resource page](links_ajax.html "Collection of ajax related articles").
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Sushi` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2005-02-07-sushi/   
[POST_DATE] 2005-02-07  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

If you love sushi, why not have sushi in bed…  
 [Have a look here.](http://www.theoriginalsushipillow.com/pages/1/index.htm)  
 H\*\*\*, if you love sushi and chocolate, [look at this](http://www.kookisushi.com/), chocolate sushi and choc-sticks. Looks great!  
 Or take your sushi and your data to work, with these [sushi usb drives](http://www.dynamism.com/solidalliance/gallery.shtml).  
These are sushi [meals for kids](http://msittig.freeshell.org/imgs/bento//).  
How to [order/eat sushi.](http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=6905089586228877019)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Desktop search tools` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2004-10-17-desktop-search-tools/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-10-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

As Apple introduces Spotlight in the next OS X release (towards summer 05), Google beta's its own [Desktop Search](http://desktop.google.com/) program (for Windows). It works as fast as the main google.com page, but it also looks the same. Not so cool as the spotlight feature in the next OS X. (I'll keep an eye on ZoneAlarm to see if anything passes down to the mothership). But another desktop search program is grabbing the headlines: [X1](https://www.x1.com/). It looks way cooler than the Google thing, check out the flash demo. You can also download a trial for you to try. If you use the search tool in windows once in a while, then you know it takes ages to find something on your system. These desktop search tools make it a breeze…  
**Update**  
You can add the Desktop Search also to the [Google Deskbar](http://desktop.google.com/support/bin/answer.py?answer=10236&topic=111), and a keyword for the search field in your Firefox bookmark. Do this (in Firefox): call the Desktop Search page, right click the search field, you get a 'add a keyword for this search', give it a name , and enter a 'keyword' which can be as short as a single letter (eg 'd'). Now you can enter in the Firefox address bar 'd cars' and the Google Desktop window pops up with your search results.
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Star Wars shines` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2004-10-17-star-wars-shines/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-10-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Cleaning up three Star Wars movies in three months, with 600 G5 Macs (dual processor, 4Gb mem each). Take a 360 look in their server room at [the Apple site](http://www.apple.com/pro/film/lowry/starwars/index.html).  
An extensive overview of some of the [changes](http://www.dvdanswers.com/sw1.html) in the DVD release (in relation to the original and the previous Special Edition vhs release).
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `What Mommy wants, Mommy usually gets` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2004-09-25-what-mommy-wants-mommy-usually-gets/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-09-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

“From an idea to a business in 15 days, with a month-long selling season. With half-hearted apologies to the Republican readership, Coudal launched [Lowercase Tee](http://www.lowercasetee.com/)“, kids tee-shirts with a different message…  
 [Check it out.](http://www.lowercasetee.com/)
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Recipes` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/recipes/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-08-28  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    
	
## My recipes

### Sushi rolls

(2004-08-28)

![](/orig-content/themes/halans/images/homemade_sushi_sm.jpg)](img/homemade_sushi.jpg)

### Delicious prawns recipe: prawns with parmeggiano

(2004-07-19)

- 4 prawns per person (for starters) (best is fresh of course)
- one little part of garlic, finely shopped or squeezed
- pepper and salt
- some side salad to garnish
- cooking butter, olive oil

 Spread the finely grated parmeggiano cheese on a plate, add some pepper.  
 Clean the prawns (no shell, tail etc), and roll them through the finely grated parmeggiano cheese so the cheese sticks  
 Heat the butter/oil.  
 Bake the prawns a few minutes on each side.  
 Season some more with pepper and salt, to your liking.  
 When a cheesy crust starts to form, add the garlic.  
 When the prawns have a fine crust on each side, you're done. It's that easy.  
 Put them on a plate with some side salad,   
 to finish sprinkle a bit of left-over parmeggiano on top.

 Update: Apparantly, it's also low-carb, Atkins friendly.

 ![](/orig-content/themes/halans/images/prawns_parmesan_sm.jpg "Prawns parmeggiano")](/orig-content/themes/halans/images/prawns_parmesan.jpg)


    
	
### Links:

- [Jamie Oliver](http://www.jamieoliver.net/ "Jamie Oliver's website")
- [Nigella Lawson](http://www.nigella.com/)
- [Hot Cooking Books at Amazon](http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=halanslib-20&path=tg/browse/-/6)


    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Prawns with parmeggiano` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2004-07-19-prawns-with-parmeggiano/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-07-19  

[START_OF_CONTENT]


    -4 prawns per person (for starters) (best is fresh of course)  
-one little part of garlic, finely shopped or squeezed  
-pepper and salt  
-some side salad to garnish  
-cooking butter, olive oil Spread the finely grated parmeggiano cheese on a plate, add some pepper.  
Clean the prawns (no shell, tail etc), and roll them through the finely grated parmeggiano cheese so the cheese sticks  
Heat the butter/oil.  
Bake the prawns a few minutes on each side.  
Season some more with pepper and salt, to your liking.  
When a cheesy crust starts to form, add the garlic.  
When the prawns have a fine crust on each side, you're done. It's that easy.  
Put them on a plate with some side salad,   
to finish sprinkle a bit of left-over parmeggiano on top.

[![Prawns parmeggiano/Photo:HiromiK](http://www.halans.com/orig-content/themes/halans/images/prawns_parmesan_sm.jpg "Prawns parmeggiano/Photo:HiromiK")](http://www.halans.com/orig-content/themes/halans/images/prawns_parmesan_sm.jpg)


       
 Update: Apparantly, it's also low-carb, Atkins friendly.
    
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Firefox troubles` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2004-06-30-firefox-troubles/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-06-30  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Using Firefox as your default browser on Windows? But have problems with shortcuts (on your desktop), links, etc where Windows always displays an error message? This worked for me:  
1.Open Explorer  
2.Select Tools and then Folder Options  
3.Select the File Types tab  
4.Select Extension: (NONE), File Type: HyperText Transfer Protocol  
5.Click Advanced toward the bottom of the window  
6.In the Edit File Type window, select open and click Edit  
7.Clear the DDE message box (which should contain “%1”)  
8.Click OK, Click OK  
9.Repeat for File Type: HyperText Transfer Protocol with Privacy  
[MozillaForum](http://forums.mozillazine.org/viewtopic.php?t=82798 "Mozilla forum")
[END_OF_CONTENT]
*************************************



## [POST_TITLE] `Philips HDRW720` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2004-06-13-philips-hdrw720/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-06-13  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Update: continue reading on my [Philips HDRW720 page](https://halans.com/philips-hdrw-720-experience/).

(2004-06-13)

A PVR, personal video recorder, recording TV on a harddisc.  
Have it for a week now, been playing around. Really cool stuff.

Some general info:

-Build quality is excellent, the tray feels solid.

-Standard play recording M2 (5Mbits/s) allows you to put 2h of video on a DVD, or 32h on the harddisc. Quality is excellent. Haven't tried M1(9,7Mbits/s) which makes 1h on DVD and 16h on HD. Initally player is on M2x (4Mbits/s), but I didn't like the quality of the video.

-Every 5 minutes a chapter is added to the movie for easy skipping through the movie.

-Editing out commercials is easy, just selecting the start and finish location of the commercials and 'hide' them. You can zoom into a timeline, to do kind of frame level editing.  
But allthough I thought I selected the right starting frame of the commercials, a frame was still visible on the DVD. Maybe you should make the selection just right on the last frame before the start of the commercials.

-While a programme is running, you can pause, rewind, start again from the beginning. Cool.

-I burned a DVD+RW in about 19 minutes for a 1:38 minute movie.

-Once the recording is on harddisc, you can no longer change the encoding quality to write it on a DVD.

-I was able to play the DVD+RW on my laptop (DVD-RW drive), on my PC (regular DVD drive),and on my previous, 99euro DVD player, without a problem.

Quality was as you'd expect from a DVD. I've seen worse pre-recorded DVDs before.

-I guess the performance of the harddrive will deteriorate after years (months?) of usage, as all harddiscs this HD will also get fragmented.

-It takes some time to start up the device.

Overall, I'm very pleased with it for now.

[Product brochure](http://www.philips.nl/Assets/Downloadablefile/HDRW720_HE-brochure-3230.pdf)

**Update**:

Have the machine 2 months now. Still love it, but I would like it to be more like the Sony PSX machine (Japan only for now). I did encounter some software problems. For example:

– shutting down while in Guide+ program guide, he doesn't like that. Next time you start the device, Guide+ is empty. Just stop/start Guide+ display, and all is ok.

– I've had a problem twice with recordings, where the device only partially archived to DVD because a glitch in the recording; and another where the device freezes when skipping through chapters. I put that movie on DVD, and it also freezes when skipping through the chapters on the DVD on the HDRW720! On my PC's DVD player no problem. This player definitly has some software problems which should be addressed in a firmware upgrade.

But next to these glitches, I'm still pretty happy with it.

**Update 2(2004-09-12)**:

The Philips website indicates that a software upgrade will be available for this product in the coming months…  
[Philips support site](http://www.p4c.philips.com/cgi-bin/dcbint/cpindex.pl?ctn=HDRW720/00&scy=NL&slg=ENG&tmplt=&SearchTxt=&grp=HOME_AUDIO_VIDEO_GR&cat=DVD_PLAYERS_RECORDERS_CA&sct=DVD_RECORDERS_SU "Philips support site")

**Update 3 (24/09/2004)**

Installed the new firmware without a problem. Hope this version is more stable.
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## [POST_TITLE] `5-6-7-8's` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2004-05-10-5-6-7-8s/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-05-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Free concert of the 5-6-7-8's, famed for their appearance in Kill Bill Vol1, right across the border in Lille (France), Saturday 29th of May at 18h at Place de la Nouvelle Aventure. Make it a day trip to explore the 2004 Cultural Capital of Europe, and visit the Japanese expo “Akimahen!” and the Nuits Nippones.
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## [POST_TITLE] `Webby Awards 04 - best of the web` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2004-05-10-webby-awards-04-best-of-the-web/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-05-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Wednesday May 12, the winners will be presented. Here are [the nominees](http://www.webbyawards.com/main/webby_awards/nominees.html). My favorite? [Pure NZ](http://www.newzealand.com), ha.


    
	
## JibJab

Check out   
'Ahnuld for Governor',  
'Cooking with Clinton'  
'Come Dancing Wit Jah' and the other Sony stuff  
or any other short movie at  
[JibJab](http://jibjab.com) for a quick laugh during lunchbreak.  
 **Update**: It looks like these movies are currently no longer available on their site, due to the huge traffic. And I don't have them here either…  
**Update 2**: Hooray for JibJab, they are back!


    
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## [POST_TITLE] `JibJab` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2004-04-17-jibjab/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-04-17  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Check out   
'Ahnuld for Governor',  
'Cooking with Clinton'  
'Come Dancing Wit Jah' and the other Sony stuff  
or any other short movie at  
[JibJab](http://jibjab.com) for a quick laugh during lunchbreak.
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## [POST_TITLE] `Engrish` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2004-03-10-engrish/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-03-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

 If you love 'Lost In Translation' too…  
“Engrish can be simply defined as the humorous English mistakes that appear in Japanese advertising and product design.”  

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## [POST_TITLE] `Bush/Cheney 2004 Bumper stickers` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2004-02-10-bushcheney-04-bumper-stickers/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-02-10  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Bush/Cheney '04: Four More Wars!  
Bush/Cheney '04: Assimilate. Resistance is Futile.  
Bush/Cheney '04: Apocalypse Now!  
Bush/Cheney '04: Because the truth just isn't good enough  
Bush/Cheney '04: Compassionate Colonialism  
Bush/Cheney '04: Deja-voodoo all over again!  
Bush/Cheney '04: Get used to it!  
Bush/Cheney '04: Leave no billionaire behind  
Bush/Cheney '04: Less CIA – More CYA  
Bush/Cheney '04: Lies and videotape but no sex!  
Bush/Cheney '04: Making the world a better place, one country at a time.  
Bush/Cheney '04: Or else.  
Bush/Cheney '04: Over a billion Whoppers served.  
Bush/Cheney '04: Putting the "con" in conservatism  
Bush/Cheney '04: Thanks for not paying attention  
Bush/Cheney '04: The economy's stupid!  
Bush/Cheney '04: The last vote you'll ever have to cast.  
Bush/Cheney '04: This time, elect us!  
Bush/Cheney '04: We're Gooder!  
Vote Bush in '04: "I Has Incumbentory Advantitude"

PS: they're not mine, just a collection from all over the web.
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## [POST_TITLE] `One minute` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2004-01-03-one-minute/   
[POST_DATE] 2004-01-03  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Ever wanted to get away, just for a minute? Close your eyes, and take a one minute vacation at 
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## [POST_TITLE] `Xmas List` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2003-12-20-xmas-list/   
[POST_DATE] 2003-12-20  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Dear SC, here's my christmas list. Please, don't try to be clever, this is what I want. Don't shove anything else down the chimney:  
-Sony Clie PEG-UX50  
-Apple iPod 20Gb  
-Fast external HD, at least 200Gb  
-Adobe Video Collection
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## [POST_TITLE] `SQL Injection Through Web Applications` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2003-12-02-sql-injection/   
[POST_DATE] 2003-12-02  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

# SQL Injection Through Web Applications

>Web applications and web services are becoming common place. They are often fundamental business tools, critical to the daily operations of the enterprise. 

In essence they are client/server applications interacting over HTTP. The client side is typically a web browser, while the server side runs on distributed application servers, connecting to multiple data sources. The end user interacts with the web application, sending back their choices or data. This can range from a simple search through an archive of articles, over a personal information manager keeping track of appointments online, to large business-to-business applications performing real-time sales and inventory management. Web services are the next evolution of web applications."...

[Read the paper (MS Word .doc)](/docs/SQL_Injection_Overview.doc)


PS: I found my paper (2004 update) archived on the Internet Archive's WayBack Machine! So I thought I added it here again for prosperity... :-)
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## [POST_TITLE] `New Zealand /2` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2003-10-26-new-zealand-2/   
[POST_DATE] 2003-10-26  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Another week and a half, and we'll be on our way to down under, New Zealand. The travel site is getting pretty much into shape. Check it out: [nz.halans.com](http://nz.halans.com/ "Trip to New Zealand"), and leave us a message.
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## [POST_TITLE] `Anniversary` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2003-10-25-anniversary/   
[POST_DATE] 2003-10-25  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

October 25th, our first wedding anniversary today!
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## [POST_TITLE] `New Zealand` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2003-10-12-new-zealand/   
[POST_DATE] 2003-10-12  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Working on a new travel site, [http://nz.halans.com](http://nz.halans.com "Trip to New Zealand"), for our trip to New Zealand. Check it out soon.

EDIT: Find it on WayBack Machine: https://web.archive.org/web/20040403235122/http://nz.halans.be/index.html

As well as our 2002 honeymoon site: https://web.archive.org/web/20021105030413fw_/http://users.pandora.be/halans-raeves/halans/oz/index.html
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## [POST_TITLE] `Finally` 
[POST_LINK] https://halans.com/posts/2003-07-22-finally/   
[POST_DATE] 2003-07-22  

[START_OF_CONTENT]

Finally a new personal homepage, after all those years. Back in early 1997, I set up my first homepage. You know, you got this massive 5 Mb's of webspace from your ISP, with this long, difficult URL. Animated gifs and javascript rollovers where the latest cool thing to do. I bet those early pages are still out there (in fact I know they are), but I switched ISP years ago, and don't know the credentials of that account any more (to remove it)…

I started working in the Internet bubble back then, and today am still working for the same boss. How about that? The company has had its highs and lows, but it's still around, so we must be doing something right. In the '**about**' pages you'll read what I've been up to in this company, and outside of work.

Because of the work I do, I got interested in subjects as diverse as web development (of course), security in web development and networking, usability of websites and online marketing. Throughout the years I've read hundreds of articles, and bought way too many books (I should have gotten me some Amazon shares…) about these subjects. You'll find some articles under the '**features**' section.

I always seem to start a website but never get to finish it. I always have these brilliant ideas. Don't we all? In 1999 we moved to the beautiful city of Bruges (Brugge), so I wanted to get me a city of Bruges reference site and bought bruggeonline.com. Or another one: I love my PTCruiser, so set up ptcruiserclub.be, but again, never quite finished it (did I even start?). That's the kind of personal projects you'll find under 'project'.

In the '**links**' section I keep a handy list of interesting links I want to share, and keep around.

The '**labroom**' holds some experiments and exercises with different web technologies (flash, javascript, xml,…).

Maybe calling this 'finally' is a bit too early. Still have a lot of work to do. This one isn't finished just yet…
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