Net neutrality has been a topic of heated debate for years. Should the Internet be network neutral, and what does that even mean?

Basically, network neutrality is the principle that all content providers are given equal access to Internet users. Likewise, Internet users ability to see content is not restricted based on which sites Internet Service Providers (ISP) deem inappropriate.

Recently, discussions regarding net neutrality have gained momentum due to a flurry of rumors that Google and Verizon were not only holding top secret meetings in their underground lairs, but had evil plans to take over the internet in an attempt at worldwide web domination. As we all know, rumors tend to get out of hand from time-to-time, but there is some truth behind the buzz.

According to a Google Public Policy Blog, posted by Alan Davidson, Google director of public policy and Tom Tauke, Verizon executive vice president of public affairs, policy, and communications, the two companies have been discussing net neutrality for some time. As a result, they have drafted a proposal concerning the topic, which “takes the form of a suggested legislative framework for consideration by lawmakers.”

Though Google’s blog is meant to clear the air of rumors and assure the public that nothing “evil” is afoot, it has stirred up additional concern for the Internet’s future. Worries are mainly due to vague statements that some say open the possibility for a tiered Internet service; the collapse of net neutrality.  In other words, companies would have to pay extra for preferred access to the ISP’s customers. If a company wants faster load times for their site’s content, they would be required to pay more money. Those who refuse or are unable to pay the higher price will not have the luxury of reaching their audience as quickly, or at all (in extreme cases of net neutrality collapse).

While a non-neutral Internet may have it benefits, it’s not so great for the independent video producers who rely on the Internet as a means of video distribution and promotion, while already pinching pennies to do what they love. It’s hard to say how new laws will affect the Internet in the future. One can only hope that the lawmakers view net neutrality as an important aspect of the Internet’s continued growth and success, as well as an appropriate venue for sharing one’s art and freedom of expression as equally as the next guy.

The days of science fiction are over. It seems the ideas once thought to be impossible are now only several lab tests away from becoming reality (i.e., designer babies and steaks grown in petri dishes). On the video side of technology, we already have a complete convergence of digital technology on our hand-held devices, not to mention the ability to make paper-thin, “go-anywhere” digital displays. However, there are those who desire something just a little more portable than the fore mentioned. Lucky for them, they need not wait too long, for scientists are developing the most portable of all displays: the LED tattoo.

The brains at the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Illinois, and Tufts University in Medford, MA, have combined their research to develop implantable silk-silicon electronics. These implantable electronics include silk-silicon LEDs that can be placed into the skin, as well as biocompatible electrodes that could work in conjunction with the nervous system. The intention is to apply this technology to medical devices, such as blood-sugar readings that would automatically appear on the skin. Philips’ Design Probe took a different approach to the obvious medical implementation. Their vision is a world of touch sensitive body art, or “interactive skin technology.” Read the rest of this entry »