Oracle lets field workers tap into grid-computing

Oracle has announced the latest version of its mobile database software, Oracle Database Lite 10g. The latest version enables field workers to tap into Oracle's grid-computing technology and input and access data and applications held on corporate back-end systems when away from the office. The entire installed base of Database Lite 10g can be managed as part of the existing grid through a Web-based console, rather than deploying dedicated mobile management software separately. ...more

Microsoft offices raided in Japan

Japan's Federal Trade Commission has raided the offices of Microsoft to look for evidence of anticompetitive behaviour, according to reports. Officials are investigating complaints from Japanese computer builders that the software company had included terms in Windows XP licensing agreements that forbid those companies from seeking licensing revenues from Microsoft - even if Windows XP contained their intellectual property. Japan is Microsoft's second largest market after the US. ...more

Apple 'refused to sell the charity Band Aid song', Times claims

Apple has refused to sell the new Band Aid 20 version of Do They Know It's Christmas? through the iTunes Music Store, according to Times Online. The Times reports that Apple was not prepared to make an exception to its standard track price of 79p, and sell the song for ?1.49. ...more

HP tops out its range for consumer printers with the Photosmart 7550

Quality photo and text output - without cartridge change - is the brief for HP's first consumer-oriented seven-ink printing system. 'Lab quality printing for photo enthusiasts' is HP's tag for its new Photosmart 7550 printer. Enabling you to mix the printing of high-quality photos with text-based documents without the need to change ink cartridges, it is HP's first consumer seven ink printing system. ...more

Lenovo confirms flaming ThinkPad incident

Lenovo has confirmed that a ThinkPad T43 laptop burst into flame at Los Angeles' international airport last weekend. The Chinese company is investigating the incident and was not prepared to say whether it contained a Sony battery. Three laptop manufacturers, Apple, Dell and Toshiba, have recalled more than four million Sony batteries because they may overheat causing burns and, in extreme cases, catch fire. ...more