PR Newswire's Business Technology Round-up, 27th September 2012

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Sep 27, 2012, 09:00 ET

LONDON, September 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

New App Creates Global Data Project, University Launches First Online Master's Degree and Libratone Takes AirPlay to Next Level

A new app released this week will allow users to share their personal experiences with strangers from across the world over the next seven days, as part of a new project to demonstrate how data can be collected in the 21st century.

The "Human Face of Big Data" will give users the opportunity to share everything from the places they have visited to their innermost dreams, as well as take part in regular quizzes about their lives. This data is collected and stored to create an innovative feature that allows users to find their "digital doppelgänger" by matching similar interests and even facial features.

The University of Anaheim, one of California's most prestigious institutions, has launched the first online master's degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), as part of an effort to modernise learning by embracing new and emerging technologies.

Participants will have access to real-time lectures conducted using high-definition webcams, as well as having to complete online modules devised by some of the world's foremost language studies experts. The online degree will make it possible for students from all over the world to join the course without leaving their home countries, with the exception of a short residential session in California. Speaking after the launch, University President Dr. William Hartley praised the approach for giving students the unique opportunity to have face to face sessions with "expert professors."

Libratone, a company specialising in high-end wireless sound systems, has released the Libratone Zipp this week, the first wireless speaker to work without the need for a conventional wireless network. The device uses the innovative PlayDirect technology, which creates a direct link between wireless devices and the speakers.

The new sound system will be compatible with a number of platforms, including the majority of Apple products and certain Microsoft devices, making this an exciting development in the world of wireless sound systems. According to creative director Kristian Kroyer, every effort has been made to create a one-size-fits-all product, with the ability to change the exterior of the device making it "a long-lasting design object… [that can] include everyone in the music experience." The Libratone Zipp is available to buy now for around £350.

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