Don't mistake VSA for VBA

Microsoft is keen to clarify that it's upcoming VSA framework is not a replacement for Visual Basic technology. And it won't be avialble on MSDN, either. This was a point Ari Bixhorn, Microsoft Product Manager Visual Studio. ...more

Computer Aid bids for eBay support

The charity Computer Aid International is teaming up with eBay to boost the donations of computer equipment to the developing world. The scheme will enable sellers to donate a percentage of money made through sales on eBay to Computer Aid. The charity will, in turn, use the donations to ship kit to needy schools and hospitals. ...more

Computer games can be educational - official

Computer games can be used to encourage children to learn according to research by the government sponsored Learning and Skills Development Agency. The report says that computer games have a bad reputation for eating away at time better served by homework or outdoor play. On the contrary, it says that the right sort of game can help develop a range of creativity, decision making and problem solving skills especially for children who lack interest in or confidence in learning. ...more

Apple iPod Eminem advert hit by copy-cat claims

A US footwear manufacturer has asked Apple to withdraw its latest iPod television advertisement featuring Eminem. Lugz alleges that the advert bears a striking resemblance to its 2002 ad that similarly featured black silhouettes on a red, orange and yellow background with a hip hop soundtrack. AdWeek reports that Lugz has issued a cease and desist order to Apple and its advertising agency TBWA\Chiat\Day. ...more

Digital music sales double worldwide in 2006

Worldwide digital music sales almost doubled in 2006 to around $2 billion, according to figures from the music industry body, the IFPI. In its latest publication - the Digital Music Report 2007 (pdf) - it surveys the music scene from a digital perspective. Digital sales now account for around 10 per cent of the music market, it believes, as record companies increasingly experiment with different business models and extend licensing partnerships. ...more