IVI Inc. Brings Live TV to the Internet

The Seattle based company IVI Inc. may have finally bridged the gap between Television and the Internet. For years we have been able to watch previously recorded episodes of network TV on Youtube/Hulu. Then Slingbox came along and offered a way to stream your local cable channels from one location to any laptop or desktop. But until now we haven't been able to stream live local network TV from various locations around the country, to any computer in the country.

After downloading the IVI Player a Redsox fan living in Arizona can now watch the same live local NY broadcast of the game just like he was a block away from the stadium. During the commercials he can flip channels to check out the Mariners game and get local Seattle news and weather. Various local channels are now just a click away, no matter where you are. IVI lets you choose which brocast location of Fox you want to watch. It also allows you to pause fast forward and rewind live TV.

IVI makes it possible for me to watch live TV on my laptop during my commute on the train, just like I was sitting at home.

Here are some of the Pros and cons that I found:

1.) User interface is very easy to use.

2.) Picture is Clear, but not yet HD.

3.) Currently limited to NY and Seattle but more stations are coming.

4.) No buffer delay or pause when flipping channels.

5.) First month is free, but it costs $4.99 or $5.99 per month. (Still cheaper than basic cable)

6.) No Box or Equipment.

7.) It can be installed on multiple computers, but only one will play at a time.

8.) Includes all the major networks ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX

9.) Does not yet have all the regular cable channels.

Overall I am very impressed with the IVI player, and recommend it for couch potatoes on the go.

Emergency Waterproof iPhone Case

My friend and I regularly go salmon fishing on the local rivers. While wading across the river he accidentally submerge his iphone. Now the screen is dark and the button doesn't work.

On our next outing I decided to carry my phone in a zip-lock bag as a safety precaution. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the touch screen still works while inside. The display can also be easily viewed through the plastic. This no-brainer actually works quite well.

The next time you go near water, try putting your cell phone in a zip-lock bag. It is a cheap way of avoiding a costly mistake.

Fight Quasimodo with a Yoga Ball

Minding your posture can be a difficult and daunting task, especially if you are tall like me. At 6'3" I've started to realized that my old high school slouch is becoming a full on Montgomery Burns. I've never had back problems growing up, but as I get older there will be days when I feel soreness and tension. I consulted a Chiropractor, who recommended arching my back over a yoga ball twice a day. As embarassing as it was, I went out and bought a yoga ball. Now it has become my new favorite past time. After a long day, I look forward to coming home and stretching out my back. I've been sleeping better at night and my posture is improving.

How much time do you spend lounging on a couch, leaning over a desk, or stuck in traffic? When was the last time you stretched out your back. Maybe its time to swallow your pride, be a man, and buy a yoga ball.