> (15) Calling software features 'technologies' is [non-]transparent ... (Easy rule: technology's physical, software's not) If we're going to be pedantic about

> (15) Calling software features 'technologies' is [non-]transparent ... (Easy rule: technology's physical, software's not) If we're going to be pedantic about it, let's consult our friends at dictionary.com. Technology, n. 1. the branch of knowledge that deals with the creation and use of technical means and their interrelation with life, society, and the environment, drawing upon such subjects as industrial arts, engineering, applied science, and pure science. 2. the terminology of an art, science, etc.; technical nomenclature. 3. a scientific or industrial process, invention, method, or the like. 4. the sum of the ways in which social groups provide themselves with the material objects of their civilization. I have highlighted the bits under which software counts as technology in one sense or another. (EDIT: I have now.) There is also an aspect of common usage with an Arthur C Clarke sort of definition - "that which, sufficiently advanced, is indistinguishable from magic". When my techno-semi-literate parents gaze with wonder at their iPhones and say "It's amazing what they can do with technology nowadays", are they talking about the hardware or iOS? Both. I agree with much of the rest.