(Credit:
Devicescape)
Devicescape is a free Wi-Fi helper service that was announced at the Demo 07 conference this past week. It's designed to take the struggle out of connecting to various commercial Wi-Fi hot spots while on the go. After downloading the low profile Devicescape application to your PC, Windows Mobile smart phone, or Wi-Fi-enabled handset, you can instantly connect without having to manage log-ins or remember passwords.
The Devicescape client works with a number of Wi-Fi services, most notably T-Mobile's HotSpot service, which can be found in over 8,000 locations (mostly Starbucks). Devicescape is at work on interoperability with Wayport, the Wi-Fi service you find at McDonalds, Hertz, and hotels like Hilton and Marriott.
Devicescape is an ideal service for road warriors and prepared travelers. Managing several different hot spots (airport, hotel, coffee shop) can be a pain, which is why automating the log-in process is a great idea. It's also a nice prospect to pair Devicescape with a VoIP handset since managing log-ins on a 12-digit keypad can be a struggle. There is one catch to using Devicescape: You have to know which services you're planning to use and the log-ins for each, which is why it's a service aimed at the prepared among us.
PairUp launched today at the Demo 07 conference. The service helps business travelers network with others going to the same event or locale. PairUp imports your Microsoft Outlook contacts, or you could also add them by name and e-mail address. You then enter basic trip information like hotel name, flight numbers, and the purpose of the visit, along with privacy options for how much of that information will be shared with others. When it finds connections with other PairUp users, it lets you know. From there you can contact those with similar travel plans and potentially save on shared expenses or gain a personal contact while on your trip.
PairUp would make a good compliment to other business-related social networking tools such as LinkedIn. Meeting other people in your industry prior to an event or conference is easily accomplished if you're well established, but for newcomers, PairUp a great way to make a connection without having to rely on introductions or meet-up events. See also AirTroductions.com.
(Credit:
CNET Networks)
(Credit:
CNET Networks)
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