Qik Brings New Dimension to Mobile Broadcasting
Qik, a new web application, allows users to stream live video directly from their cellphone to the web.
Like many other web 2.0 innovations, the technology is old (not much different from video chat capabilites that have been around for years) but greatly improved and streamlined for a specific purpose. Qik users can upload their live streams to all sorts of social-networking sites, including myspace, facebook, and a host of others.
The integration of high-quality video with the live-streaming on multiple sites with minimal lag is what makes this technology promising. However, these abilities are also what makes Qik applications something that parents should be on the lookout for. Qik states in its terms of service that users must not publish any material that is harassing, threatening, or pornographic, so they are taking the right stance, and hopefully this service will be used as it is intended.
The medium is incredibly promising, but it remains to be seen whether or not users will abide by the terms of service, or attempt to skirt them. Since Qik appears to be a quickly ascending medium (pardon the pun), chances are it will get big fast, and parents need to be aware of it and what it can do. Most phones with cameras do have the ability to record small, low-res videos, and chances are that teens will be among the first to use the service.
Filed under: Internet Safety News, Internet Safety Tips
