WW communications (was Jo's site etc)

[Arya]

No: HPFGUIDX 119740


Carolyn wrote:
I've never decided whether we have found out what Jo was referring to
in this interview quote about WW communications:

Q. Has Harry ever used the Internet?
A. No. He's not allowed near Dudley's computer and Dudley's the only
one who's got a computer. He gets beaten up if he goes too near the
keyboard. So no, he's never used the Internet. I use it a lot but
not Harry. Wizards don't really need to use the Internet but that's
something that you'll find out later on in the series. They have a
means of finding out what goes on in the outside world that I think
is more fun than the Internet. Could anything be more fun than the
Internet? Yes!


Variously, it's been suggested that it's the portraits, or mirrors,
or travel devices such as the Floo network and portkeys. Or magical
books, rather like Riddle's diary, where you can literally lose
yourself in the pages (shades of Jasper Fforde). Maybe she meant Gred
& Forge's extendable ears ?

But none of these things seem to quite fit, IMO. She seems to be
indicating something which you can search for news and information.
The closest thing I can think of that we have seen so far is a
crystal ball. <SNIPPED REST OF MESSAGE>
-----------------

Carolyn, I'm wondering when this quote is from?  Specifically, I'm wondering if it's before 
the publishment of GoF as that is when, IIRC, Floo as a means of mere communication is 
first introduced.  I think I've leaned towards thinking it is the Floo Network.  I even think I 
might have read an idea (or a fanfic) where someone proposed the Floo could be used like 
a television of sorts (to get a view in on a Quidditch game for example).  Of course I'd say 
that sounds inefficient as the Floo is a main thru-way for travel and probably shouldn't be 
blocked up for mere entertainment.


Arya