Runner-up Winner: Lincoln (Ohio, USA)

"Cloud computer" service to build personal lifestyle profile: Includes my favorite movies, TV shows, and music. Collects and stores all personal search behavior. I can schedule recordings to my STB or events or media to stream to my mobile device. Behind the scenes, this service builds a relational search based on my lifestyle preferences and "pushes" those results to all of my devices: My mobile device, my STB, and my home media/entertainment center. Because it is web-based, I can access my profile anywhere as long as I have a connected client device. My profile can be shared with others.

"Cloud computer" Service: Q&A with Lincoln

Why did you decide to enter this contest?
I’m something of a futurist ….I read the news every day, and I’m always trying to forecast trends and how things are changing.  It's not just a hobby of mine, but as an Independent Technical Consultant, it's a service to my customers.

What inspired your entry?
The idea came from the fact that I use a pocket PC, which is basically a very small computer, and it got me thinking: “why should I ever be disconnected, just because I’m on the road?”  It’s inevitable that there will come the day when a cell phone rivals the power and functionality of the desktops we have today … and to be able to stay always connected with that device too would be amazing.   

Which technologies do you use today?
I have a Scientific-Atlanta digital cable receiver, through which I receive HD and have a DVR service.  I have a PDA phone that runs Windows Mobile, and an Intel-based iMac which runs both Windows and Mac operating systems.  A tool called “Parallels” allows me to run both concurrently – this is important because I do web development and need to check sites on both systems.

Which technologies do you think people will be using in the future?
Mobile has to be the big trend, but not necessarily mobile devices – the next big thing could be an application that allows us to use the device in a new way. Apple claimed to reinvent the mobile phone, but all the actually invented was new ways to use it.

What will you do with your prize money?

One word – vacation!  I haven’t had a decent holiday in the last 3-5 years ….