Multi-core Cell chip gets SDK

IBM and Sony have released a software development kit to open up developer access to the Cell processor, destined for the PlayStation 3 and next-generation workstations. The goal is stimulate the growth of third-party applications for the Cell Broadband Engine Architecture (CBEA). As well as software components and documentation for CBEA technology, the kit includes extensions to Linux that support Cell programming. ...more

The Cloud has a silver lining for Vista users

The Cloud, which operates Europe's largest number of Wi-Fi hotspots, is offering UK-based Vista users a month's free wireless access. Until 30 April 2007, all Vista users who register with The Cloud will be able to connect to its 7,500 hotspots nationwide, located in coffee shops, hotels, train stations, pubs and airports. This is in addition to the 'hotzones' that provide coverage within the city centres of Birmingham, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Leeds, Manchester, Nottingham and Oxford, plus the City of London and the boroughs of Camden, Islington and Kensington. ...more

SCO sets out new product roadmap

Taking time out from being the company that everyone loves to hate, SCO has unveiled a roadmap of new Unix products stretching into next year, including its first foray into embedded systems. Immediately available are UnixWare 7.1. ...more

PARC opens its gates

Xerox has announced that it is planning to sell off part of its famed PARC research centre, turning it into an independent company, though it will also retain a 'significant' stake. Reuters reports that Xerox is 'actively talking to investors' who may be interested in buying into the facility. PARC (Palo Alto Research Centre) has been the source of many major technological innovations since its inception in 1970, including the laser printer and the graphical user interface (GUI), though Xerox has not always been successful in reaping the rewards. ...more

EC to investigate copyright cartel

The European Commission is set to take on what it believes is a music copyright cartel. It says that it will open formal proceedings against CISAC - the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) and the national collecting societies over the way they collect royalties through new media. The EC has particularly taken issue with monopolistic practices that force both music authors and licensees to work solely through the national collecting agencies. ...more