Web services, the Java way

Scott McNealy, Sun Microsystem's CEO and Chairman, rallies the Java troops at the seventh JavaOne conference. Speaking yesterday in San Francisco, McNealy emphasised the worldwide success of Java technology. 'From the more than 30 application server suppliers to the 15 handset manufacturers offering Java-based products to the companies leading the exciting developments in the smart card, automotive telematics and gaming markets, Java technology is stronger and in more places than ever,' said McNealy. ...more

Flamboyant AMD founder Sanders steps down

Jerry Sanders III, the flamboyant chairman and founder of AMD, is to step down from the chair of the board in favour of the president and CEO Hector Ruiz. The handover will happen at the company's annual meeting on 29 April and Sanders will retain the title of chairman emeritus. Sanders, who stepped down from the positions of president and CEO two years ago, is credited with keeping AMD afloat against competition from the much bigger Intel. ...more

New AIM threat from 'talking' worm

A new threat has emerged for user of AOL Instant Messenger - a virus that 'talks' to the victim. The new talking virus tries to convince the target user that it is not malicious and encourages them to visit a site that, of course, contains the malicious code. The worm, known as IM. ...more

GameCube plays itself in

With official figures expected in the next 24 hours, early reports indicate GameCube is selling like hotcakes across the continent. Released across Europe at the stroke of midnight on May 3, Nintendo's GameCube console looks to have got off to an impressive start, initial reports reveal. For the launch itself, queues of hundreds formed outside shops readying for the midnight opening, with fanatical gamers desperate to get their hands on a console. ...more

UK Office XP prices announced

Microsoft has announced its UK pricing scheme for the forthcoming Office XP release, along with details of a pre-release trial programme. The latest version of the all-singing all-dancing Office suite that replaces Office 2000 will be available for similar retail prices. There are four versions: Standard (ERP ?429, upgrades ?199), Professional (?519, ?269), Professional Special Edition (ERP ?319) and Developer (?749, ?449). ...more