IDF Fall 2006: Intel confirms November quad-core release

At the first full day of the Intel Developer Forum Fall 2006, Intel has completely taken the wraps off its first quad-core chip and announced availability in November. The chip, previously codenamed Kentsfield, is now officially called the Core 2 Extreme QX6700. Being composed of two separate dual-core dies in one physical package, the new offering will run at 2. ...more

SuSE delighted big bro HP helping Linux fend off SCO

SuSE happy at HP indemnities, but feels no pressure to offer same HP's action yesterday to offer its Linux customers indemnification against any legal action from SCO has made SuSE, one of the Linux vendors used by HP, very happy. 'It's like our big brother coming to help deal with the schoolyard bully,' said Joe Eckert, VP of Corporate Communications at SuSE. However, he said that SuSE would not be doing the same: 'We just haven't felt the desire, the pressure, the need to offer this - we haven't been pressured by our customers at all,' he said. ...more

Sun launches Java desktop

Sun has unveiled its desktop platform, the Sun Java Desktop System, formerly known as Project Mad Hatter. Except that the only mad thing about seems it has little to do with Java. The Java Desktop system is built on SuSE's distro of Linux, with office apps from Star Office 7, Mozilla's browser and Ximian's Evolution calendaring and PIM apps suite among the host of open-source programs provided. ...more

IBM boosts group working for Notes, WebSphere and Workplace

To coincide with its annual LotusWorld conference in Florida, IBM has announced new software and services for its range of collaborative solutions. The highlights are increased interoperability which, IBM says, are based on open standards and better performance as well as a host of new features. IBM offers three product families for group working: - the tried and trusty Notes and Domino, the e-commerce solution WebSphere Portal and finally Workplace. ...more

Apple's iTunes phone at the final stages claims analyst

Apple has produced a prototype mobile phone with a production unit near to completion, according to American Technology Research Analyst Shaw Wu. Wu believes that the smartphone has been in development for over 12 months with Apple overcoming substantial challenges including design, interference, battery life, and other technical glitches to produce a blend of cell phone and portable media player that meets the 'very high standards' of CEO Steve Jobs. The phone will adopt the candy bar form factor, much like Apple's iPod nano music player, and will be available in three colours, probably black, white and platinum, Wu said. ...more