Image via WikipediaIsn't it weird how everyone refers to any music file as an MP3? Like Kleenex, Xerox and Rollerblade it's a recognized brand name. What you probably don't know is that you aren't buying MP3's from iTunes.
You're buying M4P files. They have DRM (Digital Rights Management) so that you can only load it onto Apple devices. That's not a big deal for as long as you own an iPod, but the second someone else makes a better device, you'll be out in the cold on your music library. [There are ways around it, but it's a load of trouble.]
I bring it up because I read some stats claiming that Amazon's music store is a flop because it's just not as easy to use as iTunes so people aren't buying it. I recently bought a bunch of music from Amazon's webstore. It was very easy. On my mac after purchase, Amazon has you install a download manager which automatically imports your songs to the iTunes library. Totally easy, basically one step and the best part is that I'll be able to take my music with me on any device I ever buy without hassle.
The only other piece of advice I can give is to change some of the settings in the Preferences window. Under Advanced, make sure two boxes are checked. First, 'Keep iTunes Music folder organized'. Second, 'Copy Files to iTunes folder when adding to library'. For me, when I download a new song from Amazon or an audiobook from Audible, I just open it with iTunes and it is organized automatically in my folder and in my Library.
The bottom line: it's your music. Make sure you know how to keep it in your control. You don't want to be a victim like you were when they made the switch from cassettes to CDs and were forced to buy the White Album again, do you? [Not that The Beatles are actually available digitally, yet].
[So, immediately after I mentioned horror stories in cable company customer service, I got great service from my cableco. Although, that was in response to the literally immediate failing of my television and internet. Conspiracy? Prob not, unless it goes down tonight too]
Here are some of my ideas for Boxee to generate revenue. I'm focusing mostly on the video services, but Boxee also provides the ability to listen to music. [Also, please understand that I could talk for hours about each of these options. I tried to balance brevity with background.]
1. Get onto the cable or telco's set top boxes.
Cable companies control the television through their cable boxes. Getting into those boxes opens up a new world of potential user to your software.
This has to be the most unlikely of all of my suggestions because the cable companies don't want to give up control over the television. TiVo has been trying this strategy for a while with limited success. Even though they have gotten themselves on some Comcast and DirecTV boxes as a premium service, these agreements haven't reached their full potential. The cable monopolies continue to dominate. IPTV services like U-VERSE and FiOS might want a differentiator (which FiOS brought with whole home DVR).
However, for a long time the music industry thought it had a nice monopoly. As the distribution and consumption habits changed, Apple has taken control of nearly everything through iTunes (even though their DRM should turn off consumers and drive them to Amazon, but that's another post). Itunes even has made inroads into downloaded television programs and if they ever decide to focus on AppleTV, it could put a lot of pressure on the incumbent boxes. Maybe it's time for the cable companies to get out in front of this thing. The right software on an existing box can transform that loud, slow, unextensible box into something really strong. [Aside: it's amazing how lacking the existing boxes are. People are forced to put up with it because they don't know what could be better, but that's another post].
Why shouldn't the cable companies be happy to take $7 a month (what they get now) from any number of set top boxes and let box keep the premium above that?
2. Get on ANY set top box
There are tons of companies working on being the set top box that finally bridges the gap between computer and television. It seems unlikely that many of them will be able to successfully make their value proposition work to end consumers, unfortunately. The low chance of success of these companies could be an opportunity for Boxee to be basically outsourced UI design and help them conserve cash (especially right now). If you can be the software on every box, you can be the Microsoft of home media. You can make it easier for people to switch between boxes because of the common interface. That could drive hardware sales similar to sales of stereos and VCRs in years long since passed. Which could appeal to today's hardware companies.
Obviously this plan probably has a lot more development costs associated with it. Think of why they chose to build on Apple machines first, one type of hardware makes development way easier.
3. Make deals with content providers
Similar to how Netflix made a deal with Roku, why couldn't Boxee make a deal with Netflix? Why couldn't Boxee make deals with every content provider, Including the traditional networks?
If CBS needs more eyeballs watching its shows, wouldn't they be willing to pay a share of revenue for those eyeballs? Obviously, Boxee could be more targeted in its advertising than traditional television (as all new media products propose to be) so that should have value to advertisers and in turn content providers. This would be low-risk for the providers as it could be completely variable pricing based on the impressions, potentially with guarantees, etc.
Further, who knows how Hulu will be operating in a few years. Hulu could be buyers of original content not shown on TV first and basically become the world's first online 'network' with syndicated and original content (Boxee could become that as well, but Hulu has the head start here). That makes companies like Hulu and Joost and even YouTube potential partners (assuming they can figure out their own sufficient revenue streams).
4. Sell premium content
If Boxee provides the on-demand viewing we've all been waiting for, in addition to the helping us discover new content that we want, Boxee could sell downloads, rentals, individual channels (like a la carte pricing IPTV has been promising).
You can even leverage the social networks that Boxee is tapping into. When a friend buys a program, you could let them share a version that has commercials in it. Potentially, a whole load of friends would be buying the same content.
5. Launch an app store for plug-ins
Similar to how Apple does it with the iPhone. They provide value in the being the operating environment. If they can make plug-ins easy to buy and install, people might do it, but there are major hurdles to clear in order to get people to pay and download anything. Depending on how the above strategies play out, you may still have only a core of users who dowloaded Boxee already, in which case they would be more likely to pay for add-ons. I'm not sure exactly what those add-ons would look like, but that's why it's an app store and not a feature request. This is can be considered a modified 'freemium' model.
When I first wrote these down, I thought they were groundbreaking (or at least creative). Are they still that way? I'm not as sure. When I finally get to my post about the ideal mediacenter (based on technology that is around today), it will be more clear where I'm coming from.
However, Boxee's focus on Apple and Linux gives it a great foundation with people who are generally ready to find and install software. It also makes a bet on Boxee look a lot like a bet on Apple. The only real concern is whether they might be too early.
As always, readers, the floor is yours. What do you think?
Image via CrunchBaseImage via CrunchBaseVery few people that I know have Macs or run Ubuntu (Linux). Otherwise, I would have written about this program earlier.
Boxee is a great program that brings content from your computer and the internet to your computer. It's very easy to use, and though still in an alpha (read: very early) stage, it runs reliably with video quality as good as your sources. The major drawback is that it only runs on Apple or Linux machines (you can also hack it onto an AppleTV pretty easily). Frankly, this program has had me checking out how cheaply I could get a Mac Mini on eBay to plug into my TV (not cheaply enough, I might repurpose an old windows PC with linux, though a proper video card is expensive and might be tough to make work). Currently, I'm using a DVI to HDMI cable from my Macbook Pro to get the video onto my TV--it works great. The Apple Remote works to easily browse through the interface to access the different content. Also, you can pull in video RSS feeds, like the TED conference videos.
In addition to the typical mediacenter features, it has social aspects as well. You can set up friends (yes I have invites, just ask!) and recommend shows that you watch to friends with boxee or connect it to twitter to tell the world how much you loved $100 Baby.
Overall, the features of this product are great, assuming you already have hardware that can run it. For more on how to use Boxee check the links at the end of the post. Here's a video intro:
More importantly, it's part of the trend towards getting your tv to act as the on-demand device that was promised in that IBM commercial that I referenced when I first wrote aboutHulu. This is an amazing trend and one that I have been looking forward to for years. Every major network has full length episodes online. The NCAA streamed March Madness games live online last year (though not in HD, which made it tough suboptimal when I plugged my computer into my TV via VGA). Meanwhile, nearly everyone has a horror story of dealing with the cable company that has a monopoly on providing your service. Maybe Boxee (along with all of the recent set top boxes being made) can be the beginning of a major change in the way we treat our cable infrastructure. This is a topic that I've been meaning to bang out a post about for a while. So, I'll stop here for now.
Boxee raised $4MM from some very respectable VCs in Fred Wilson from Union Square VenturesBijan Sabet from Spark Capital to join its board. So, next up for Boxee is to find revenues. I have a lot of ideas about how they could make it happen, which is the topic of another post that has been in the works for a while (and that I've been telling anyone who will listen, along with what the ideal mediacenter looks like). Not surprisingly, Fred is anti-hardware for Boxee the company (but loves the mac mini as a mediacenter), so that's out of the picture.
So, if you have a mac or run linux, let me know and I will happily send you an invite to Boxee!
Image via WikipediaYou should know by now how much I love the keyboard. I try very hard to convince people to shun the mouse (and especially their laptop touchpad) and start using the keyboard.
I constantly rack my brain trying to understand what are the sticking points preventing keyboard adoption and how I can overcome them. Productivity gains are not enough for most people (for some crazy reason). Despite the fact that you obviously don't care, I will continue to plead my case.
I think there are a few factors at work here. People are generally frightened of computers. They don't understand the design of the technology. They are scared to look through the advanced features and make changes. (I worked in technical support, so I have seen just how ignorant people can be when it comes to computers. Even remembering two different passwords can be a herculean feat.) On top of that, it takes some effort to learn a new trick. I've heard this a few times, 'For me, the mouse will always be faster'. No way. Not possible. Especially not if you're starting with your hands on the keyboard. Sure, it might take a minute to learn the shortcuts, but trust me they make your life a whole lot easier.
In order to simplify the world of keyboard shortcuts here are some ways to think about navigating Microsoft programs from the keyboard (some apply to Apple, generally by switching ALT for the Apple key)
ALT + TAB - cycles through open programs
SHIFT + ALT + TAB - cycles backwards through open programs
CTRL + TAB - cycles through open windows within a program (this works in most programs, but not all, and is especially great when using tabbed internet browsing)
SHIFT + CTRL + TAB - cycles backwards through open windows within a program
ALT + F4 - closes a program
CTRL + F4 - closes a window within a program
You may have noticed a pattern. ALT works at the global level and CTRL works within the programs. SHIFT will shift the direction of your actions for some commands.
Another key tip to keep in mind is that windows keyboards have the menu key. I call this the right-click key because it brings up the right-click menu that you would get from the mouse. Sometimes faster than knowing the actual keyboard shortcut to perform a specific action.
The other windows specific key that you should know about the Windows Key. There are a few keyboard shortcuts associated with this, but for me, the best one is just that it brings up the start menu and with that, access to all your programs with just a few keystrokes. For example, you hit Windows Key + P to open the programs list and then pressing the first letter of your program name will take you there. In Windows Vista, the start menu has been improved by providing you a search bar that you can just type in what you're looking to open and it brings it right up.
Lastly, you should definitely be aware of the generic ARROW KEYS and PAGE UP/PAGE DOWN keys. These bad boys will let you easily scroll down a webpage or document you are using and are a million times faster than going to that stupid scroll bar at the right side of the screen.
So, those are all good tips. I use them constantly. Frankly, if this is the first you've heard about ALT+TAB, welcome to the first day of the rest of your life.
I'll leave you with this bit of wisdom to help you implement this in your daily life: (it's not even just for the keyboard)
If you use Microsoft Powerpoint, I have a couple of really good tips. First, always use snap to grid and snap to shape. Then, you can select items (using TAB to cycle through the objects on the slide rather than the mouse). Move those objects into place using the ARROW KEYS. By keeping snap to grid on and using the arrow keys, you can be sure that your objects are nicely aligned. If for some reason, you need more granular control, you can use CTRL+ARROW KEYS to move as though snap to grid was off (though I'm not sure why you would want to do that). You could also use ALT+the mouse to do the same thing (occasionally useful for resizing objects). This tip is especially useful for consultants working on laptops while on the road (with that awful touchpad).
I'll be back with more tips on making the keyboard the focus of your computer input devices. If you'd like special one-on-one sessions, I am available for private tutoring. I already have one McKinsey consultant 'raving about the keyboard shortcuts' I introduced into his life.
I am a lifelong windows user. I've been with it since you had to load it up from DOS. I've been using Alt+TAB since taking a BASIC class and trying to quickly switch back to work from DOOM that we would play on the school network. I am comfortable making changes to the system settings since working in tech support had me making changes to network settings every day. In short, Windows is like my home away from home.
So, when I needed a new computer, why did I buy a mac?
There were loads of concerns that I had about making the switch. Chief among them were as follows:
Keyboard shortcuts
Software
Price
So, what finally got me over the hump? I still am not sure. Like a lot of people, I figured I would just use Windows if I really couldn't take it. Right now, I'm using OS X.
That is definitely not to say that I am completely satisfied with my purchase. I read a LOT of reviews. They were nearly all positive. I must be missing something. OS X is fine, but I don't really see why it is such a major improvement over Windows.
I am getting more comfortable with it. I'll never understand why I had to change the keyboard shortcuts to have a way to get to the menu bar with an easy keystroke (apple+space vs. Ctrl+F2). It will take a few years before I'm as quick with it as I am with Windows. I also don't understand why they make it so annoying to resize a window to use the whole screen.
Software issues have turned out to not be much of an issue, except with Microsoft Office programs. Quicksilver, which helps launch programs, is one of my favorite programs and is keeping me sane.
The Macbook Pro was expensive upfront, but aside from the operating system, I really am a big fan of the design. No fans on the bottom makes it truly a 'laptop' computer and the battery lasts a long time. Plus, its really thin (though the Macbook Air makes it look like an encyclopedia).
My bottom line: I am happy with my purchase, but I think the mac worship is overdone. If anyone out there has some pointers about what you love about your mac, please share it with me. I really want to be wowed.
Image via WikipediaIsn't it weird how everyone refers to any music file as an MP3? Like Kleenex, Xerox and Rollerblade it's a recognized brand name. What you probably don't know is that you aren't buying MP3's from iTunes.![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=4fda8857-e0ae-4c36-b930-456494f5d2d8)
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=c82626f2-8148-4569-856e-f0de6069a5c4)
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=56a82b1c-0824-4f28-bc58-d733d1e3ec4a)
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=c91c4066-9065-4008-8b94-b6c86b6a9437)
