Android vs Apple: Does it Matter?

First my disclosure – I have been a loyal Apple fan since my parents bought an Apple 2E and made me take computer courses decades ago. I have since enjoyed all iterations of the iPhone, iPad, Macbooks, iMacs, Apple Watch and I am salivating as I await the release of the new iPad Pro. I nearly cried when I could scan my wrist with my United airlines boarding pass to fly to San Francisco last week – I felt a close kinship to number 99 from "Get Smart!"

But in the end, I want to discuss how the evolution of all forms of technology, Apple or Android - has revolutionized this meeting. The utility of these tools is spectacular. The ACR app has been exceedingly helpful, and improving annually to make sure we get to where we need to on time. Tracking sessions and monitoring our CME is made so much easier. People are no longer carrying those annoying large bags that clog up suitcases, but rather they have the option of a small book or having online access to the abstracts. Taking notes from good talks is much easier with access to the Q reader and taking pictures. The use of GPS to find out where you are going to dinner or shopping is exceedingly helpful. I have even seen many attendees using Uber to get to where they need to go.

Most importantly, technology has encouraged the development of excellent resources like RheumReports, which has provided a fresh way to look at rheumatology meetings. Its been great to take a "bite" of this meeting with my Apple tools – thanks to Andy Thompson and Janssen – it will be exciting to see where technology helps take this project in the future.

More reports from ACR 2015