Mark Evans

We’re Talking Tech

From the better late, than never file…another episode of Talking Tech. So, Google made yet another acquisition - this time one with Canadian roots as Google picked up AdScape, which makes technology to deliver advertising in online video games and virtual worlds. AdScape was started in Ottawa (and still does most of its R&D in the nation’s capital) but it moved its headquarters to the U.S. a couple of years ago.

Sadly, there were no Canadian VCs involved with AdScape - much like there were no Canadian VCs involved with Calgary-based iStockphoto, which was acquired by Getty Images last year for $50-million, or Voodoo Computers, which was acquired by HP. Is this a sign Canadian VCs aren’t investing in high-tech start-ups or just anonmalies?

Another mystery is whether a wireless spectrum auction being held early next year will lead to the emergence of a fourth wireless carrier to provide some competition to the incumbents - Rogers, Bell and Telus. When you think about it, there really isn’t much competition in Canada’s wireless market despite the efforts of folks such as Virgin Mobile.

Finally, we take a look at a U.S. study that suggests Blackberry users work more hours than folks who don’t carry a mobile e-mail device. As a rather undisciplined Blackberry user, the study definitely resonates with me.