Google boosts literacy through Book Search project

The spread of Google continues a-pace: the latest initiative from Mountain View is The Literacy Project. Described as a resource for teachers, literacy organisations and 'anyone interested in reading and education', Google has launched a literacy-related initiative. It is partly based on its existing Book Search service as well as its traditional search strengths. ...more

New interactive TV range from Thomson

Tired of thumbing through the Radio Times in search of your favourite TV programmes? Well fret no more as Thomson launches its new range of television sets complete with time-saving interactive features. The new range of European TVs feature an interactive service called TAK and this will allow the viewer to send and receive e-mail, display an electronic programme guide (which features detailed information about current or future shows), interact with TV programmes (good for programmes that feature opinion polls) and have access to the Internet. The service is delivered via a dedicated module and a built-in modem. ...more

Motorola boosts wireless city ambitions

Motorola has announced that its technology will play a large role in the creation of wirelessly-connected cities around the UK. As part of BT's Wireless Cities initiative, the communications giant will provide mesh Wi-Fi infrastructure and services, enabling businesses and consumers to take advantage of wireless broadband connectivity, for six locations, including Birmingham and Newcastle. BT's wireless city grand plan was announced in May this year and aims to transform 12 UK cities into connected environments that benefit local residents and businesses. ...more

Boo.com comes back from the dead

Doomed fashion site Boo.com may be making a comeback, just before Halloween. The site, which came to grief in June this year, was bought by US clothes portal Fashionmall. ...more

Intel plans WiMAX cameras by 2009

Intel says we can expect to see WiMAX built into devices such as digital cameras and handheld games consoles as soon as 2009. At a London briefing this morning, the company outlined its roadmap for the long-range wireless technology, which it claims will complement existing Wi-Fi and 3G services. Whereas Wi-Fi offers a maximum range of only a few hundred metres, WiMAX can be beamed from base stations several miles away, potentially reaching areas that are outside of 3G coverage. ...more