Parenting Pointers: Tech Advances

Kiplinger just released a story about amazing inventions and I had a chance to interview one of the editors with his take on things.

1)    How does a light-field camera work and what are the advantages?
Essentially, the light-field camera has an extra layer composed of thousands of micro lenses, so it captures more data than a conventional camera. By collecting that extra data---all the colors of light from all directions---you are able to focus the picture after you take it. It then takes special software that lets you focus the picture however you’d like, in a similar way to how you’d usually focus before you take a picture. (Here’s a great photo from the company: https://www.lytro.com/science_inside)
 
2)    What are the advantages of having a watch that can communicate with a cell phone? Isn't this like something out of a spy movie?
The advantages of watches communicating with your phone is that you’ll have easier access to information and reminders right on your wrist, like appointment updates. Having access to a mobile phone means access to GPS and maps, and a clear use of a watch like this is for runners to track their routes. You can also quickly check email, Facebook or Twitter via a watch. So the connection to your phone boosts the power and ability of the watch. The realm of wearable gadgets is similarly related to the “Internet of things”…and will have an impact in the health and fitness industry. The technology is simply getting better and more user-friendly.

3)    What are the advantages of advances in technology that make it possible to connect virtually everything to a computer chip?
There are many advantages to having sensors and chips in more than just electronics…the ability to collect data in real-time from “things”…appliances, cars, event livestock, etc….means that stoves can be more energy efficient, cars can tell you where to take a detour or when to get gas, or farmers will know when cows may get sick. Tying everything to the web will create the opportunity to track and analyze data in ways that aren’t now possible, along with the fact that you’ll be able to monitor “things” even when you aren’t there. The power of computers and the Internet will be placed onto items all around you.
 
4) What technological development do you personally find the most fascinating?
I think the idea of the “Internet of things” has the potential to change our homes and businesses. While broad in scope, the idea means that every appliance in a home could be tracked and monitored via the internet. The consumer would have more information than ever and be able to make smarter decisions on energy use…or the devices themselves would adjust to be “smarter,” such as being more energy efficient.