Posted 10:52 AM by seth godin

What's the Frequency?

If you're hearing a buzzing in your ear, it may be all the wifi radiation out there. A simple in-office networking technology has morphed into a low-cost wireless ISP technology that's spreading pretty fast.WiFi Metro.com shows you one example. (Though I'm told there are other options in the NY area that are a little more streamlined for sending mail.

The basic idea is to use 802.11b (aka "wifi") to do something it wasn't intended to do. Basically, it's like using cordless phones outside of your house. By putting repeaters all over the place, it's possible to paste together a wireless network that truly works.

So, here's the question: what happens in two years when every single device can cheaply and easily be hooked up with a pretty wide and fast connection to the Net? Brand new world, a lot faster than some people expected.

Posted 7:53 AM by seth godin

Opt out nationwide?

Congress is getting closer to mandating a nationwide opt-out list that would make it a crime for a telemarketer to call you at home during dinner if you've taken the time to register your phone number.

Readers of Permission Marketing know that I'd much prefer an opt-in list (and that I believe an opt-in list is ultimately more profitable) but this is a fine start. How could anyone be against such a common sense, highly efficient idea? Well, the DMA is opposed. Go figure. The Direct Marketing Association

Posted 7:45 AM by seth godin

A Neat Ideavirus

No real business model here, but it's organic and it's growing like a weed. Thanks to Joel Kotarski for the tip. Click here to see The Human Clock

I think the lack of smoothness is part of the appeal. Daniel, the creator of the site, isn't trying too hard. It's a neat idea, and if you want to share it, go ahead. No prizes, "tell-a-friend" buttons or much of anything else.