Article Abstract:
Internet retailers currently make little use of the information they collect, as the software required to process this information is still under development. However, there is clearly significant potential for using the information, and Internet retailers will eventually be able to establish one-to-one relationships with customers. Existing tracking technology uses a 'cookie,' a small file implanted on the user's hard drive. Some observers believe that the tracking process should be more consensual, as usually users do not realize the implications of accepting a cookie.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Article Abstract:
There has been a sharp rise in electronic commerce via the Internet, but it is clear that the full potential of the Internet for electronic commerce will not be achieved until technology is developed which makes microtransactions dealing with very small sums of money cost-effective for vendors. A small number of companies provide microtransaction systems already, but it is possible that the software industry itself will have to be the main driving force for microtransactions as the limits of the traditional means of selling products are reached.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Article Abstract:
Sun Microsystems' Java Ring is designed to look like a fashion accessory, but is in fact a mobile security device and data carrier. It contains a Dallas Semiconductor Crypto iButton with almost 1 million transistors. This implements a Java Virtual Machine, which is able to handle communications and store data. It will be possible for Java programmers to write small applications that can be loaded into the ring. These can be used to support a wide range of security applications, including digital signatures.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic: