Web log

Compiled by JOHN COLLINS

Why does that QR Code go to justinsomnia.org?

Back in 2007, software engineer Justin Watt discovered QR codes – those 2D bar codes you can scan with a phone to be brought to a website. He created one for his personal blog and posted it there. But soon afterwards, it became the second result that comes up in Google images for “QR code” searches. With that came a massive boost in traffic as designers began to use the image in mock-ups and occasionally in finished designs.

Further proof, if any was needed, of the power of Google’s search results.

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Silicon Valley video parody

You’ve probably seen lots of these videos making fun of stereotypes, which were popularised by the Shit My Dad Says Twitter feed. The cliches that abound in the tech community were just crying out for similar treatment, and this video from husband and wife team Tom Conrad and Kate Imbach does just that. Imbach delivering phrases such as “It’s Instagram for hamburgers”, “Michelle Obama invested” and “How is that different from Facebook” has already clocked up more than 1.5 million YouTube views.

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40 secret iPhone features and shortcuts

Who ever reads phone manuals any more? In the case of Apple, the included information on using your iPhone is minimal at best. While it may be easy to use, that doesn’t mean most of us are accessing even a fraction of the advanced features. From using your camera flash for alerts to managing your storage, this list by AppStorm includes lots of useful but not-so-well-known tips.

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UPC app for iPhone

Catching up on competitor Sky, cable operator UPC has launched an app for iOS devices so you can access your electronic programme guide and record TV while you are out and about. For non-Apple users, a mobile web version is also available. Mobile users get access to a seven-day TV guide, as well as a TV tips guide which highlights popular shows. You can also specify which box to record to if you have more than one in your home.

[ upc.ie ]

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