XP's SP2 geared for August launch

Microsoft has confirmed the imminent release of XP Service Pack 2, which contains significant security enhancements for the latest Windows platform. A spokesperson confirmed that August would see the appearance of the long-awaited update. The August date refers to both RTM (release to manufacturing, for production of CDs, which creates a lead time of up to a month before public availability) and also RTW (release to Web). ...more

Symbian OS 7.0, building for 3G

At the 2002 3GSM World Congress in Cannes, Symbian has unveiled the latest version of its operating system for smartphones and communicators. Headline features of Symbian OS 7.0 include support for 3G mobile comms, mobile messaging in terms of EMS (Enhanced Messaging Service) and MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) and mobile networking in terms of IPv6. ...more

Apple denies iTunes sales slump

Apple has rejected a report that music sales through its iTunes Store have slumped by 65 per cent since January. Spokeswoman Natalie Kerris said that the figure, from research firm Forrester, 'is simply incorrect'; sales are up 75 per cent on 2005 and Apple, with six per cent of the market, is now the country's fourth largest music retailer. Apple's share price fell by 2. ...more

Microsoft to appeal Japan's Federal Trade Commission findings

Microsoft has said it will appeal against the findings of an investigation by Japan's Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that said a part of its contracts for computer makers to use Windows violated Japanese Fair Trade Law. The sticking point is a clause that forbids the box builders from pursuing any patent claims against Microsoft. Japan's FTC says this violates Section 19 of the Antimonopoly Act. ...more

Dell set to launch B2B exchange

Dell is due to unveil details of its new business to business exchange at its DirectConnect conference this week. The occasion will be the first time Dell has revealed its plan for the exchange, announced in March. It is thought to be a B2B exchange for small to medium-sized businesses offering hardware, software and services from Dell itself and partners such as Microsoft, Intel, Novell, 3Com and Seagate. ...more