North Coast Connections

For instance, only recently has the US rolled out digital cell phone networks (as opposed to analog), while the Asians have had these features for what seems like ages. The first thing that struck me when I bought a cell phone in Hong Kong was that, aside from my credit card, the dealer didn't care to know who I was. That's because cell phones in Asia are largely GSM-technology SIMM chip phones to which the user purchases advance time by picking up value-add cards just about anywhere. These phones are Internet savvy and coverage is excellent, even when traveling to other nearby countries.

Another thing that struck me in Hong Kong is their ubiquitous "Octopus Card" that was a credit card sized device you kept in your wallet or purse and used to pay for buses, trains, purchases at Starbucks or 7-Eleven, and even taxi cabs. When the card got low, you just pumped in more value at handy kiosks all over town.

Now the word is that in Japan, these technologies have merged into your cell phone so that purchases can be made on your "value add" cell phone SIMM chip. And in true Asian fashion, they have expanded the number of transactions that you can make with your cell phone to include purchases from vending machines, ordering a bowl of noodles, trading stock and even bidding at online auctions. This is in addition to transit charges and minor convenience store purchases.

These smart cell phones can pick up (and even record) TV stations. Think that's cool? Hold on to your hats ...

As you are walking down the street in Kyoto, you can use your cell phone to read bar codes in a concert poster that automatically takes you to a website for more information. The website has ticket prices, choices of seating and the ability to buy tickets. Same goes for magazine ads and a whole host of consumer services.

The Asians I know are notorious gamblers, and this technology now allows off-track and on-site horse race betting. Imagine handicapping a race, surfing the Japan Racing Association website, and placing a bet without leaving your racetrack seat or visiting a teller window. What's more, winnings are deposited automatically into a registered user's bank account. WOW.

Are you thinking that someone could swipe your phone and go on a spending spree at your expense? Think again! These smart phones use encrypted technology that verifies an owner's identification by log-in, voice recognition or even fingerprint recognition.

OK, the world is already full of demolition derby, cell phone wielding car drivers not paying attention to the road. The last thing we need is someone playing Texas Hold-em on their cell phone while trying to maintain 50 MPH on Hwy 101 between Arcata and Eureka.

Still, you have to admit that whether you're a techno-geek or not, this is pretty cool stuff.

Chris Crawford
www.justiceserved.com