Google to offer free application downloads

Although overshadowed by the announcement of the Video service, Larry Page also announced the 'Google Pack' in Las Vegas. As rumoured, the Google Pack is a free bundle of tools from Google and other vendors designed to provide a broad set of functions for new computer users. Naturally the pack includes a number of Google tools such as Earth, Desktop, Talk, Picasa - the toolbar for Internet Explorer - and a 'Pack Screensaver' which allows a user to view their own photographs either as a collage or in full screen. ...more

Microsoft prepares to open Windows

Microsoft has revealed how it will modify Windows XP to comply with last year's agreement that the company must allow PC manufacturers (OEMs) to include software from other developers on new machines. The company will release a 40Mb service pack update that will introduce a new option on the Windows Start menu - Set Program Access and Defaults tool - which will allow the user or OEM to hide Microsoft applications such as Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player and Outlook. OEMs will be able to use this feature to effectively replace the Microsoft products with alternative from the likes of Netscape and Real Networks. ...more

New Handspring Visor leaked

With Palm ready to announce details of its M500 range, it comes as no surprise that rival Handspring has a new PDA up its sleeve. Specifications of the Visor Edge have been appearing on the organiser fan site PDABuzz.com. ...more

Opera 7.5 Web software released

Opera has updated its eponymous cross-platform Web software, completely revamping the user interface in the process. A single panel now gives access to all Opera's features, the browser, email and contacts and as well as the new RSS news reader and IRC-compatible chat client. Opera's CEO Jon S von Tetzchner could nopt resist a dig at Internet Explorer: 'Most Internet users are browsing slowly and conducting other Internet activities with applications that should have been retired years ago. ...more

Microsoft skins XP with Stardock's WindowBlinds

Microsoft has adopted Stardock's app for customising the Windows environment as an official add-on for its upcoming XP OS. The company has created a beta version of WindowBlinds XP for its testers. WindowBlinds enables you to change the look, feel and even functionality of the desktop environment. ...more