Boeing cans in-flight wireless network

Boeing has dropped plans to use wireless networking to deliver in-flight entertainment on its new 787 Dreamliner plane because of problems with plane weight and the technology itself. A wireless network would add 200lbs (90kg) per plane, rather than 50lbs (22kg) for a wired network. Also, Boeing could not get permission to use certain wireless frequencies from some countries, spokeswoman Lori Gunter said. ...more

Taiwanese manufacturer Soltek announces new 'Prescott' motherboards

Mobo manufacturer Soltek has launched a new 'Pro' top of the line motherboard, which is said to support the new 'Prescott' range of Intel Pentium processors due out by the end of the year. The SL-865Pro-FGR mainboard supports Intel Socket 478 microprocessors and Hyper Threading technology. The mobo is based around the Intel 865PE chipset and features a 400/533/800 MHz Front Side Bus and supports Dual Channel DDR SDRAM running at speeds of 400, 333 and 266 MHz. ...more

Samsung named world's fastest growing brand

Samsung has been named the 'Fastest Growing Global Brand' by Interbrand, a global brand consultancy. For a second year in a row the South Korean electronics giant has taken this particular marketing garland. Interbrand calculates that Samsung's brand value has more than doubled from $5. ...more

Toshiba wins over Microsoft in CE deal

Toshiba and Microsoft are to work closer in the realm of consumer electronics. Specifically, this will involve HD DVD, Toshiba's proposed successor to the DVD optical disc format. Their stated aim is to increasingly share their respective hardware and software technologies, and help bring more innovative products to market quicker. ...more

Napster goes legit

The file-swapping service is to begin charging users for access. One of Napster's legal opponents, record label BMG, has agreed to drop its lawsuit against the company when the subscription service becomes active. In fact, it will then make its catalogue of music available. ...more