A digital security service for the UK and Hong Kong

Secure electronic trade between the UK and Hong Kong is the goal of a recently signed agreement between the Royal Mail's digital security service, ViaCode, and the Hong Kong Post. A "memorandum of understanding" has been signed that binds the authorities to collaborate on the development of security services for businesses and individuals. "Both our organisations are market leaders in digital security for government, industry and citizens. ...more

Microsoft loses appeal to EU court over anti-trust remedies

The Luxembourg-based European Court of First Instance has ruled that Microsoft must abide by the decision this year of the EU Competition Commissioner. It must publish technical interoperability data allowing rival companies to create competing server products. Microsoft must also introduce a version of Windows into Europe without the disputed Windows Media Player. ...more

Microsoft tempts enthusiast programmers with new Express products

Microsoft is to release lightweight 'Express' versions of its development tools. Aimed at enthusiasts and budding programmers, the tools are intended to ease the path into developing applications for Windows. The new Express line consists of: SQL Server Express Edition (a free version of SQL Server 2005 designed for building data-based apps; Visual Web Developer 2005 Express Edition (a tool for building websites and Web services; Visual Basic 2005 Express Edition (a cut-down version for building Windows apps); and Visual C# 2005, Visual C++ 2005, and Visual J# 2005 Express Editions (for students and enthusiasts getting to grips with Java, C++ and Basic). ...more

eBay intros Skype service and Wiki

Auction site eBay has unveiled the first collaborations with Skype following the $2.6 billion acquisition of the VoIP pioneer last year. eBay is also clambering aboard the 'social networking' bandwagon with two new products - eBay Blogs and the eBay Wiki. ...more

W3C moves on plug-in patent dispute

The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), which looks after Web standards is looking into the implications of the court ruling involving Microsoft and Eolas - Microsoft loses $500 million plus patent battle. The Web standards body has held an Ad Hoc Meeting on the patent dispute and has opened a general discussion email forum. You can find the W3C mailing list here. ...more