LEGO goes to the movies

Things have moved on a lot since I was first introduced to these plastic building blocks when I was a wee nipper. First, they tried to put motors into LEGO blocks, then it was computers and now those Dutch scallywags want our children to have hands-on experience of video editing with their brand new LEGO Moviemaker package. Produced in association with Pinnacle Systems, the pack includes LEGO studio software, which has been aimed at the younger Steven Spielbergs out there. ...more

BT plugs talking SMS into landlines

Owners of standard landlines can now receive SMS messages via a new BT service. SMS messages are converted to automated speech using a mechanical-sounding female voice. Likewise speech can be converted to text. ...more

Google agrees self-censorship for Chinese launch

Google has sidelined a number of its principles as it launches the Chinese version of its search engine. Like others before it, Google has capitulated to the Chinese authorities' demand to censor content indexed for Google.cn in return for having servers based locally. ...more

Ofcom proposes a crack down on premium rate telephone scams

Telecoms watchdog Ofcom is proposing a crack down on fraudulent premium rate telephone services. The regulator proposes that premium rate services should not be paid for calls for a period of 30 days to allow for any complaints. It says that the current ?100,000 fine for fraudulent use should be raised. ...more

UK games chart: FIFA 07 holds off Pro Evolution Soccer 6

EA's FIFA 07 football game (DS, GBA, GC, Mob, PC, PS2, PSP, Xb, Xb360) was the Christmas number one and has now held the top spot going into 2007, according to the ELSPA UK games chart. Its footballing rival, Konami's Pro Evolution Soccer 6 (PC, PS2, Xb360, DS, PSP), climbs one place to number two. EA's street racing game Need For Speed: Carbon (DS, GBA, GC, PS2, PSP, Wii, Xb360, Xb, PC, PS3) completes the top three. ...more