Microsoft puts finishing touches to Updates Services

The end is finally in sight for companies looking for a new updates management system from Microsoft. Redmond has at last begun shipping a release candidate version of its integrated security patch management system for enterprises. Now known as Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), the product formerly known as Software Update Services (SUS) and Windows Update Service (WUS), has been repeatedly delayed. ...more

EMI insists DRM CDs will play on iPods

The head of EMI's content-protection division has restated the company's claim that its copy protected CDs will be compatible with iPods, despite Apple's denial. Richard Cottrell said that he has been working with Macrovision, the firm that is supplying the DRM technology for the CDs, to test a 'tweak' that will enable songs from the discs to be transferred to the leading portable music player. The DRM, he said, 'is almost ready' and from 2006 will be employed on all EMI's new releases worldwide. ...more

Yahoo! Desktop Search released

Yahoo! has become the latest search engine to join the desktop search party. A beta version of the Yahoo! Desktop Search is now available from its web site. Yahoo! is taking a different approach to desktop search from its main rivals. ...more

A transatlantic emergency rescue

A Canadian Web surfer has saved the life of a suicidal Scot after speaking to him in a chat room. The Scottish man had taken an overdose of alcohol and Valium after a bout of depression and was slurring his words over his PC microphone and having difficulty typing. The Canadian, from Calgary, alerted the authorities by dialling 911. ...more

Sony agrees truce with MP3.com

Sony has settled its copyright infringement lawsuit with MP3.com, taking the unusual step of granting the company a licence to use its music. Sony is one of several record companies that have sued MP3. ...more