Five Betas to Fight Boredom

The museum of modern betas (MOMB ) is one really cool place to get a "heads up" on upcoming startups and beta tests. I gathered a short list of new startups that might just add some fun and/or utility to your day. We review so many sites that are fantastic innovations and some that have the ability to change the way we think about Web 2.0, but there are plenty that are just plain fun and that are not designed to alter the universe. Take a look at these simple and cool new sites and see what you think.

Flickr Fight (fight with images)- This site imply pits one keyword against another and the ensuing Flickr photo fight is displayed with the most prevalent keyword declared the winner. The accompanying photo graphics display the Flickr images for the two opponents reveal some interesting content from the Flickr site and of course the winning keyword.

StickK - This is a creative and rather unique site that beacons the user to "put a contract out on themselves" - the site is designed to help people achieve their goals: from quitting smoking to exercising regularly - the vision is obviously geared to applying self help for new users. Healthier and happier living are just a contract away and there is fun at the end of the StickK rainbow too. Be careful - failure may cost you.

Flickr to iPhone - This simple widget (?) allows users to export Flickr sets to their iPhone in two easy steps. The slick little tool simplifies what might otherwise take half a lifetime (if you are like me) into a drop-dead-simple two step process. The service is fun and simple to use for iPhone aficionados.

Fanista - This is a site where fans can share their enthusiasm for games, movies, music in a little different setting. Users simply drag and drop their favorites first to the favorites bar and then into their own profiles. From here registered and unregistered users can shop, view other user favorites and view products. Registered users can create profiles, write reviews and participate in community activities. The site is not rocket science but it does approach media fanaticism from a slightlz different angle and the interface is fun.

Ushops - This is a new online shopping site that claims to simplify buying and selling online for individuals and businesses. The site is very well designed and offers a rather more interesting approach to the buying/selling process. This Hong Kong startup is not eBay yet but the interface and relative simplicity of the process are inviting. With a little effort these guys just may have a shot at becoming - well sort of - a mini eBay. This is a nice site and it looks like fun.

Sometimes we get all immersed in state-of-the-art technology and the big headliners. So often we miss the simple things in life and also some of the best web startups. None of these sites is going to change the world, but a few of them may just change some of your surfing habits. If you get sick of searching for VeohTV movies late one night, just go to MOMB and sign up for some simple surfing fun.