Denuo - denuology.com

This week’s issue of Reflecteur looks inward, seeing how digital culture can both connect and inspire us emotionally, while also making us feel more alone than ever. Between photostreams telling life-threatening illnesses to “f**k off” and using social media inspiring others to leave affirmations of beauty and self-worth in public places, the web connects and heals. However, as evidenced by the popular video, “How to Be Alone,” connected culture doesn’t always mean personal fulfillment.

Also, 1 million giraffes.

Download it here!

The latest must have app on the iPad has to be Flipboard. It is equal parts content aggregator and magazine for those that haven’t had hands-on time yet which doesn’t sound too groundbreaking. It becomes very interesting because it integrates content from your social networks into other pre-selected news/content sources (e.g. Wired, Fast Company, etc.).

My relationship with this new app darling got off to a rocky start. As with most initial courtings, Flipboard was playing hard to get. While the early access to those general sources was cool, the real attractive feature (the social integration customized to my virtual circle) was hidden in a walled off garden. Unfortunately, the overwhelming demand for access meant I would be forced to wait on a list, which is the digital equivalent of a line. I hate lines. Needless to say, my first impression was not off to a good start despite the obvious potential of the app.

I recently upgraded to the iPhone 4. I was waiting for the white one but I could wait no longer. Especially after this rather curt press release outlining that the white iPhone was delayed again and would be available “later this year.”

So I hopped over to the Apple Store last week, waited in line (!!), and got my new phone. I was expecting to love it. I mean I’m a sucker for all Apple design (especially in the Jon Ives era) and I loved my 3GS. What I wasn’t expecting was to be reminded, ever so humbly, of Clarke’s third law.

Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.

Reflecteur 65 looks into new and exciting ways digital culture brings us together and sets us apart, whether its the data from social media sites mapping our mood and location, markets catering to a specific person’s need online, or separating our social feeds by friends and ex-significant others. Also, fingerpainting with an iPad and Denuo’s foray into social gaming, via FarmVille and organic foods.

Download the latest issue here.

This past week, my little sister and I headed West on a roadtrip; the final destination was one very familiar to us as we’ve been visiting cousins and uncles and aunts there since we were born but for most others, you’d have a hard time finding it on a map. And so apparently did Google via my iPhone.