Orange adds consumer Smartphones

Orange to launch consumer Smartphone - the SPVx Following a successful launch last November of the world's first phone to feature Microsoft's Smartphone platform, Orange is boasting more than 40,000 customers across Europe and the confidence to bring out a consumer-oriented version. Richard Brennan, Executive Vice-President of OrangeWorld and Brand at Orange, said: 'The launch of the first SPV has been a great success. We've sold over 40,000 units and had some great feedback. ...more

Researcher boots Linux from Intel Mac

An IBM researcher working on operating systems, virtualisation and computer security has developed an application that enables Linux, and potentially Windows XP, to boot on an Intel Mac. Amit Singh's BAMBIOS works by running the BIOS (basic input output system) - code that Linux and XP use during the boot process - as a small OS within the Intel Mac's EFI boot environment. Singh says that a non-EFI version of Linux can be 'readily' booted using this software and that he has made 'good progress' with booting an unmodified Windows XP installation. ...more

Skype makes video-version 2.0 official

Skype has released the new look version 2 of its Internet telephony software, the first version to provide one-to-one video calls. It also boasts Skype's best-ever call quality and around a dozen or so minor feature additions such as the ability to group and filter contacts, new sound events and an improved history. There is also a long list of bug fixes and support for several additional languages. ...more

Griffin plugs in iTrip for 2G iPod nano

Griffin Technology has released a new version of its iTrip wireless transmitter for the latest version of the iPod nano. Compatible with the 2G version of the nano, released in a variety of colours in September, the iTrip transmits music from the compact portable music player to any FM receiver, typically a car stereo. It uses the nano's own screen to display tuning and set-up information, using Griffin's SmartDisplay technology to integrates all of the player's functions and features. ...more

Nipper gets web video

HMV renews deal with Virtue Broadcasting to offer even more music webcasting from its site. The two companies have been working with each other for over a year and have decided to consolidate their partnership by signing a three-year deal. In the last year, we’ve seen exclusive webcasts from bands as varied as The Charlatans, Cold Play and Ocean Colour Scene. ...more