In our digital age, every year brings with it exciting new developments in technology. The companies and organizations that bring us these promising advances rely a great deal on industry trade shows to showcase their new products and services. At these events, industry insiders as well as enthusiasts gather to examine the years latest innovations. Without a doubt, 2011 promises to be an exciting year in tech!Considering the recent buzz regarding smart phones, as well as the continued importance of mobile phones in the developing world, one event to monitor is the GSMA Mobile World Conference, taking place February 14-17 in Barcelona, Spain. In addition to the latest and greatest in mobile phone concepts, the conference will feature seminars and panel discussions, with a great deal of industry leader participation.From Spain, we make our way over to Hanover, Germany for CeBIT 2011, taking place March 1-5. CeBIT is the largest computing trade show in the world, and the range of this years events are correspondingly grandiose and are outlined at the event details homepage.If you’ve been on YouTube recently, chances are you’ve stumbled upon a video of an individual upon stage giving a presentation, with TED featuring prominently in the title. In recent years, the annual TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) talks have been generating a lot of interest. Each year, these talks feature experts in their respective fields giving simple and easy to understand presentations regarding their area of expertise, which are nevertheless entertaining and informative. These years talks will take place in Edinburgh, Scotland from July 11-14. If you haven’t heard of TED talks yet, just do a bit of searching on YouTube. Those interested in attending in person should learn more about TED Talks.

3-D TV is clearly the next big thing.Considering that the movie industry has opted to produce hit films like Avatar, Toy Story 3 and Alice in Wonderland in three dimensions, it is only a matter of time before audiences grow tired of conventional movies. There will soon come a time when new releases will be shown exclusively in 3-D.With talk of major networks brewing up even more exciting 3-D programming, upgrading your standard television to a 3-D TV may soon be a smart option in the years to come. A good 3-D TV may be the only way to enjoy television programs and Blu-ray content in 3-D.At the moment, prices have been the main stumbling block. Considering the prohibitive cost of purchasing a 3-D TV, it may be a wise to hold until more 3-D material is made available. However, while most major brick and mortar electronics stores still maintain their prices, a few online retailers have chose to lower the bottom line on some of their 3-D equipment.Those who are thinking about buying a 2-D plasma or LCD television may want to compare the prices of 3-D televisions that may be on sale. While viewers get that extra dimension with a 3-D TV, the picture quality of a 3-D TV in 2-D mode is actually better than most 2-D plasma or LCD televisions.While a number of budget 2-D televisions still displays images in 720p and plays standard Blu-rays in 1080i, any 3-D TV will play 2-D programming in full 1080p. 3-D televisions also have high dynamic contrast ratios which basically means, that contrasts in light and dark hues – especially with black, is accurately shown.For those lucky enough to find an affordable 3-D TV, it may be a good enough price to seal the deal and buy it. Not only will you enjoy fantastic 3-D programming, your 2-D shows and movies will be even more enjoyable to watch. For reviews on the latest 3-D televisions, read through 3-D TV to see which models are considered the best.

As we enter a time of year in which goodwill towards all mankind is on the forefront of most minds, it is important to remember that not people out there are so kindhearted. With more online purchases taking place than any other time of year in the days leading up to the holiday season. Though internet has infiltrated the day to day lives of nearly person planetwide, the increasing convenience also puts less savvy internet surfers in increased danger when they don’t use caution. How can you avoid simple mistakes that could result in identity theft or worse? These simple tips will help to mitigate your risk and should be followed no matter what time of year to ensure your safety.Unplug When you aren’t using the internet, there’s no need to be connected. Whether you “unplug” in a literal sense or merely disconnect from your wireless internet, you ultimately safeguard against the same type of attack. This isn’t just to increase the hassle with which you log on and off-line, it reduces the timeframe in which virus scanners can target your computer. The easiest targets are computers that are constantly logged on at any time of day or night.Use Settings At Your Own Risk Again, convenience comes at a price. Both web browsers and email services, where you might receive sensitive information, allow for plenty of customizable features to make your user experience as simple as possible. Bear in mind any steps you jump or shortcuts you take are equally easy in the wrong hands. Would you walk across the street before looking both ways? No. So, why not take an extra second or two to ensure that you navigate the internet with care as well? Read the rest of this entry »