Trending today on T³:
-Google to Rival Foursquare and Gowalla
-Apple iPad and Slate PCs
-New Facebook Virus

YOU ARE HERE

Google and others keep the world up-to-date on your location

Foursquare and Gowalla, the leaders in geolocation services, are causing a tidal wave among big tech companies. What do Foursquare and Gowalla actually do? People use the programs to “check in” to an entertainment event, store, restaurant, wherever, and share the location with friends also using the platforms.

Google, Twitter and Facebook, are among the big tech companies gearing up to join the geolocation competition. Did you know that Google’s Chrome browser now automatically determines where you are so you can type in “sushi” and get the phone number for the Japanese restaurant down the street? Pretty cool stuff.

Also, Twitter now offers a “tweet location” feature which users can opt-in to use, while Facebook will begin offering a similar service in the near future so you can share where you are when you send status updates. Is geolocation will the “next big thing”?

IPAD LAUNCH COUNTDOWN

Apple iPad will bring the first generation of slate PCs

The Apple iPad is less than two weeks away from launch, and computer companies are already scrambling to make the first “iPad Killer”.

Some, such as the German WePad, will offer a Google Android interface, with features directly programmed to rival the Apple iPad, such as Flash support, USB and flash card, and a built-in webcam – all of which are noticeably missing in the first generation of iPads.

The Windows 7 HP Slate, whose release date is targeted for June, was unveiled at CES this year with less than stellar reviews. The Dell Mini 5, an Android based device, is much smaller than rival slate PCs, and could be positioned to gain some major market share.

The “slate” trend will continue throughout 2010, as we see ultra-portable tablets sprouting up, attempting to take some of the iPad spotlight.

URGENT! FACEBOOK EMAIL VIRUS

Fake Facebook Email Contains Password Stealing Virus

Facebook users beware! Hundreds of millions of Facebook users are the target of an email whose express purpose is to steal your password and other private data. It is growing more rampant everyday!

This email, which appears to be written by an 8-year-old, says “your password has been changed. You can find your new password in attached document.” It is signed, “Your Facebook.” The attachment immediately infects your computer and can steal login credentials, and other personal information.

As a general safety precaution, do not open or follow directions on ANY email that directs you to change your password or download a suspicious attachment. Common sense is key!