Symantec blocks 'malicious' AOL

Security firm Symantec was rushing to reassure irate AOL users at the end of last week after the Intrusion Detection signature that was loaded with the latest update prevented people from logging into the ISP. The problem arose with the regular 15 March LiveUpdate and affected both Norton AntiVirus itself or, as a part of Norton SystemWorks, Norton Internet Security and Norton Personal Firewall. As a result, traffic coming from AOL was deemed to be malicious and prevented users from connecting to the service. ...more

Yahoo! launches fresh Messenger beta

Yahoo! has released a new beta of its Messenger communications suite. As well as support for plug-ins - to better customise the application - Yahoo! has opened up the program interfaces (APIs) to encourage third-parties to pick up the Messenger ball and run with it. Those leading the way include Amazon and eBay. ...more

VAIO: take two

With the emphasis on multimedia, Sony has announced enhancements and bundled extras for its super slim Pro VAIO notebooks. The new lightweight models - the R505 series - will be available in October and feature upgraded hard drives, mobile Pentium III processors, and a choice of operating system that includes Microsoft Windows 2000, XP Home Edition or XP professional. Sony maintains the R505 series will bring multimedia capabilities without a compromise in mobility. ...more

Intel Viiv platform PCs said to cost $1,000-1,500

Taiwan PC and chipset makers expect high prices for Intel Viiv PCs, slated for launch next year, will initially make it difficult for the platform to find traction in the market, limiting the threat to Taiwan chipset vendors, according to Taiwan-based PC makers. The makers noted that Intel will face some issues trying to get the market to adopt the Viiv platform, including higher quotes for using Microsoft Window Media Center OS and insufficient software support for digital audio and video capabilities. The selling prices of Viiv-based system will be $1,000-1,500, whereas mainstream PCs cost $299-499, the makers said. ...more

Lastminute makes more money, but still makes a loss

Lastminute.com is gaining custom, but still making a loss. The gift and travel site increased sales sevenfold in the fourth quarter of 2000 compared to 1999, but made a loss of ?15. ...more