Somewhere in the bowels of the Kremlin, a Russian president tweets his dismay.
His Excellency President Dmitri Medvedev scored a Samsung Galaxy Tab on a recent visit to South Korea and has apparently used it for some amateur photo-taking. Judging by the evidence that has surfaced, a snow-covered bunch of trees caught his inner artist’s eye, compelling him to capture the bleak winter scene’s raw emotion. The result? Mr. Un-smiley face right there on a tweet. (See the pic above.)
Medvedev’s Affinity for Technology
Medvedev, known to be the chummier half of the strange partnership he has with Vladimir Putin, who is widely believed to be the true Big Boss in today’s Russia, has a taste for gadgets and rock music. He’s the urbane opposite of bare-chested Putin who shoots tigers with tranquilizer guns and stomps on Georgia in his past time. In fact, Medvedev is known to have an affinity for a Leica M9, which probably explains his disappointment at the kind of photography Samsung’s GT-P1000 camera affords him.
Medvedev’s interest in technology is not just limited to photography. He has been seen using various modern gadgets, and his engagement with social media platforms like Twitter shows his attempt to connect with the younger, tech-savvy generation. This is quite a departure from the traditional image of Russian leaders, who have often been portrayed as stern and disconnected from everyday technological advancements.
A Modern Leader in a Traditional Setting
Funny, but not since uh, well not since forever has a Russian leader been so in touch with the times that he bothers to tweet such mundane happenings as the poor quality of a Galaxy Tab photo. But at least we know it’s winter in Russia.
Medvedev’s use of social media to express his personal experiences, such as his dissatisfaction with a gadget, humanizes him in a way that is rare for political figures, especially in Russia. This approachability can be seen as a strategic move to present a more relatable and modern image to the public, contrasting sharply with the more traditional and authoritarian image often associated with Russian leadership.
Moreover, Medvedev’s public display of his interests, such as his love for rock music and high-end cameras, paints a picture of a leader who is not just a political figure but also a person with hobbies and passions. This multifaceted persona can help in bridging the gap between the government and the people, making the leadership seem more accessible and less intimidating.
Medvedev’s tweet about the Galaxy Tab photo also highlights the global nature of technology and how it connects people across different cultures and countries. Despite the political tensions and differences, the use of common gadgets and social media platforms creates a shared experience that transcends borders.
Vodka, anyone?
Via Gearlog
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.