For ANURAG DOD, technology is more than just about convenience. The CEO and co-founder of Guruji.com earns his living online, calling himself an Internet addict. His obsession with gadgets, however, might be his only saviour: Dod is convinced that playing on the Nintendo Wii with his daughter helps make up for all the time he spends away at work.
If you had to choose between Internet and TV, what would it be and why?
I prefer the Internet because it is interactive and gives far more control and options as to what I want to consume. Besides, it is a great source of entertainment. I can find all of my favourite TV shows on the Internet, and watch them at my convenience, unlike the TV.
Are you on Twitter? How often do you use it?
Yes, I do have an account on Twitter. One of my friends recommended that I join, though I confess that I am yet to fully understand the site’s potential. I use it just a few times a month, but intend to explore it further.
Which is your favourite — Xbox or PlayStation?
As of now, I prefer the Nintendo Wii to an Xbox or PlayStation. There is this fabulous game of boxing from Wii Sports that I am obsessed with. It’s more than just pressing buttons on a controller. I find myself spending most of my time in the office, which means a lot of sitting. So at home, the Wii provides me with a great mix of fun and exercise.
What is the most expensive gadget you have bought yourself?
The Apple iPhone. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. It still amazes me to see how far technology has reached in such a short time. This perfect gadget is also great to tune in to your digital music library, and the gaming capabilities are mindblowing. I now plan to get the latest Apple iPhone 3GS.
Do you have an iPod? What’s your favourite song on your playlist?
“With or Without You” by U2 is the song I listen to the most.
Which of your gadgets do you now think was a complete waste of time and money?
The Sony digital FM/AM radio that today seems unnecessary. Any good phone has a radio built in. I have most of my favourite songs on my iPod or iPhone.
Do you visit any social networking sites?
I tend to log on to Facebook at least two or three times a week, which I know is not a lot for the average user. But it is enough time for me to keep myself aware about all friends from IIT and the San Francisco Bay Area. I don’t think I would have met so many of my old friends if it wasn’t for this site.
What was the first true gadget you owned? Do you still have it?
When I was a kid, I had an Atari videogame. I used to spend a lot of time playing it, going even against my parents’ wishes. But the amount of fun I had playing those games remains unmatched. I no longer have it, but wish I did, purely for nostalgia.
