The quarterly publication of the International Legal Technology Association
Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/230349
5. 3D PRINTING FOR EVERYONE! An article I read recently suggested that in the future we won't actually purchase many things that are NOT created on a 3D printer. If that's the case, why not purchase a 3D printer of your own and start cranking out smartphone cases, re-sealable food bowls and just about anything else you want or need that is made out of plastic? One person even printed and successfully fired a handgun. There is currently a project that is being developed that will allow you to print virtually any food. I bet it all tastes like plastic (or maybe chicken). 3D Systems announced the CubeX 3D printer this year, bringing a professional-grade 3D printer to the consumer marketplace. Albeit a bit pricey, it brings multicolor 3D printing to your desktop (see www. cubify.com). Models range from $1,300-$4,000, and these things are just plain cool! FIRM IMPACT: I'm sure one of you enterprising readers could think of something legal-related to use this for, but I could only think about printing a Stormtrooper with my face on it (see: http://bit.ly/GRk2XJ). 6. GOOGLE GLASS: I SEE YOU (AND I'M ABOUT TO POST YOUR PICTURE ON FACEBOOK) Google announced its first version of Google Glass. Truth be told, it appears to be cool, yet only semi-practical. Google Glass is a wearable device that simulates a pair of futuristic glasses. The device responds to voice commands or various taps on the device itself if the surrounding area is too noisy. Glass will even talk back to you (using apps such as GPS to give you directions, for example). You can use Glass to surf the Internet, take pictures (or 720p video), post items to the social network of your choice and access Glass-specific applications. The first Glass app was created by "The New York Times" and will read articles and news summaries to you. But what are the downsides to Glass? The biggest worry I've come across is the issue of privacy. Glass makes it easy to take pictures and create videos quickly and silently (although a lit screen alerts the subjects of a video). Glass has already been banned from many types of businesses: casinos, strip clubs, schools and hospitals are just a few. Expect movie theaters and live entertainment events to be next if they haven't already done so. The ability to record video in such a secretive way is sure to open up the doors to bootlegging of movies, concerts and more. There is even a website that provides free downloads of "Ban Google Glass" signage (licensed under the Creative Commons license). This is a group of folks that promote the protection of personal privacy. They seem to have a sincere dislike for this technology. FIRM IMPACT: In the case of my firm, increased business. Let the copyright infringement begin! CubeX 3D www.cubify.com Google Glass www.google.com/glass/start/ Peer to Peer 43