Laptop launched to aid computer novices
February 20, 2010
People confused and frustrated by computers can now turn to a laptop called Alex built just for them.
Based on Linux, the laptop comes with simplified e-mail, web browsing, image editing and office software.
Pirate boss to make the web pay
February 13, 2010
One of the founders of the Pirate Bay is kicking off a venture that aims to help websites generate cash.
Called Flattr, the micropayments system revolves around members paying a fixed monthly fee.
At the end of each month that cash will be divided among participating sites a Flattr member wants to reward.
Flickr co-founder unveils online game Glitch
February 10, 2010
One of the co-founders of popular photo-sharing site Flickr has taken the wraps off his latest web venture, a multiplayer online game called Glitch.
Stewart Butterfield’s creation will launch in autumn 2010 but gamers can register to test the game now.
The 2D platform game is initially set in a surreal, utopian future and allows gamers to collaborate to solve puzzles.
German government warns against using MS Explorer
January 17, 2010
The German government has warned web users to find an alternative browser to Internet Explorer to protect security.
The warning from the Federal Office for Information Security comes after Microsoft admitted IE was the weak link in recent attacks on Google’s systems.
Data losses to incur fines of up to £500,000
January 13, 2010
The Information Commissioner’s Office will be able to issue fines of up to £500,000 for serious data security breaches.
The new rule is expected to come into force in the UK on 6 April 2010. It has been approved by Jack Straw MP, Secretary of State for Justice.
Complaints greet Google Nexus One phone
January 11, 2010
Google is being inundated with complaints about its Nexus One phone.
The touchscreen smartphone was launched on 5 January and can be bought direct from Google and used on almost any phone network.
But confusion over who should answer customer queries has lead many to file complaints on support forums.
Ban on sales of Microsoft Word upheld
December 23, 2009
Microsoft has failed in its attempt to dismiss a court case that would stop it selling Word.
The software giant appealed against a ruling which found it infringed a patent owned by Canadian company i4i.
With the failure of the appeal Microsoft must now pay i4i damages of $290m (£182m) and comply with an injunction ending the sales of some versions of Word.
YouTube video leads to Hollywood contract
December 17, 2009
A producer from Uruguay who uploaded a short film to YouTube in November 2009 has been offered a $30m (£18.6m) contract to make a Hollywood film.
The movie will be sponsored by director Sam Raimi, whose credits include the Spiderman and Evil Dead films.
Hackers target leading climate research unit
November 22, 2009
The e-mail system of one of the world’s leading climate research units has been breached by hackers.
E-mails reportedly from the University of East Anglia’s Climatic Research Unit (CRU), including personal exchanges, appeared on the internet on Thursday.
T-Mobile staff sold personal data
November 18, 2009
Staff at mobile phone company T-Mobile passed on millions of records from thousands of customers to third party brokers, the firm has confirmed.
Details emerged after the firm alerted the information commissioner, who said his office was preparing a prosecution.