Google getting into the Fiber-To-The-Home Business ? I have no doubt that they are serious about it. They have the money, the know-how and more importantly they have some very good reasons. Some very valuable points they want to prove to the US regulators and the US operators. But before I comment on their serious plans, let's take a look at Google's first attempt to enter the Fiber-To-The-User (FTTU) business, an initiative they launched on April 1st, 2007 and which was supposed to bring a self-install fiber connection to everyone. The system was called TiSP and you can download the Google FTTU TiSP description here and even the Google FTTU TiSP Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - have fun.

Now, let's get serious. Here is the official Google Statement. .

And to know my opinion on Google's plans... Click here to read more »

The Champagne Bureau has stepped up their efforts to inform and mobilize people in the US to sign the 'Protect Wine Place & Origin' Petition. In short: a law proposal that would enforce that Champagne can only come from the Champagne region in France, and Napa wine only out of California in the US. A no brainer ? Well, apparantly not, as this has been going on way too long... Click here to read more »

In December, Starbucks has launched their new "rewards card" which is combined with the "gift" or "debit" card... and even better: you can create your own custom Starbucks Card and load it with any debit value... Click here to read more »

When Lufthansa cancels your connecting flight so you get stuck for hours on the Munich airport, after a long haul flight of more than 12 hours originating from China, what can you expect from their customer service ? Nothing much... and certainly no free use of their shower facilities ! Read on Click here to read more »

Google claims they want to play by the US rules in China - no censorship, full freedom of information. At that is great. However, when you are in China, you will notice that for their local Google China Service they do they advantage of the more liberal Chinese rules on Intellectual property... Using the regular google service, you can download just about any song for free in plain mp3 format. No kidding. Click here to read more »