阅读理解
Don't talk to me.I'm busy with my iPhone.
Riding a London subway, a person from China will notice one major difference:in London, people do not look at each other.In fact, eye contact is avoided at all times.That's not rudeness-people are just too busy to bother looking.
Busy doing what, you ask? Well, they're certainly not using the time for a moment of quiet reflection(沉思).Nor are they reading a book.New technology has replaced quiet habits.Today the only acceptable form of book on the London Underground is an e-book.
Apple must earn a fortune from London commuters(乘车上下班的人).Since the launch of the iPhone in 2007, over 40 000-yes, that's 40 000--" apps"(programs downloaded for the iPhone)have been designed.
Commuters love them because they are the perfect time-filler.One" app", called iShoot, is a game that features tanks.Another one, Tube Exits, tells passengers where to sit on the train to be closest to the exit of their destination(目的地)ISteam clouds the iPhoue screen when you breathe into the microphone.You can then write in the" steam" on your phone screen.
For those without an iPhone, another Apple product, the iPod, may be the distraction(消遣)of choice.It's not just teenagers who"plug in" to their music--iPods are a popular way to pass the time for all ages.
And if games e-books and music aren't enough to keep you occupied.Then perhaps you would prefer a film? The development of palm DVD technology means many commuters watch their favorite TV show or film on the way to work.With all this distraction, it's amazing that people still remember to get off the train.
By Nicola Davison,21st Century staff
|