Dixons launches Internet phone service

The Dixons Group which revolutionised the ISP business with the launch of Freeserve in 1998, now hopes to play the same trick with the telephone business. The company is launching a 'Freetalk` all-in-one unit which is aimed at transforming the telephone business. Freetalk, which will be sold in DSG 1000 PC World, Dixon, Currey and Link stores throughout the UK is based on VoIP technology developed by 8x8 Inc, one of the US's leading suppliers. ...more

Apple claims Flash memory supplies assured

Apple has announced that it has secured long-term supply deals with a number of nand Flash memory manufacturers. Hynix, Intel and Micron, Samsung Electronics and Toshiba will all provide Apple with flash chips until 2010. In return Apple will to prepay a total of $1. ...more

AOL advances its instant messaging into Microsoft Outlook

AOL has begun taking steps towards integrating its AIM instant messaging software into the Windows desktop by releasing a beta version of a new tool that provides buddy information in Microsoft Outlook. AIM Sync lets Outlook users add contacts to their AIM buddy list and matches email addresses to AOL screen names. This enables it to show the current availability of buddies, by placing the familiar AIM 'running man' icon in emails, the address book and phone lists. ...more

Apple loses legal fight with 'rumour' websites

Californian judges have found against Apple in the latest twist of the company's lawsuit against various 'rumour' websites. Apple has pursued the website's PowerPage and AppleInsider to reveal their sources for leaks about a product launch in November 2004. Specifically, the details of a FireWire audio interface for the music app Garage Band. ...more

Internet Explorer to block pop-ups by default

Microsoft has outlined its security strategy over the next year and confirmed that Windows XP Service Pack 2 will block pop-ups by default. Service Pack 2 will be out in beta before the end of the year, with a final release in the first half of 2004. It will also contain an improved Firewall, which will be turned on by default and will boast an improved user interface to allow finer tweaking. ...more