Apple investigates iPod working conditions

Apple has opened an investigation into allegations in the Mail on Sunday about working conditions in iPod factories. 'Apple is committed to ensuring that working conditions in our supply chain are safe, workers are treated with respect and dignity, and manufacturing processes are environmentally responsible,' the company said in a statement. 'We do not tolerate any violations of our supplier code of conduct. ...more

BBC bids for big increase in licence fee

The BBC has put in a bid to increase the licence fee paid by British viewers and listeners well above the rate of inflation. The corporation says it needs the extra funds in part to finance the rapid increase in its digital services ranging from the digital channels such as BBC3 and BBC4 and online services like the TV and radio programme download service currently under trial. The plea for a rise of 2. ...more

Intel releases Pentium M for communications networking

Intel has targeted the Intel Pentium M processor at embedded environments in the communications market. The Pentium M (codenamed Banias) - along with an Intel 855PM or 855GM motherboard chipset, and Intel Pro Wireless LAN support - is an element of Intel's Centrino package. The operating constraints of space, power and heat generation - that governed Intel's redesign of mobile processing - make the Pentium M suitable for different markets. ...more

US media manufacturers vote for HD DVD

A group of US media manufacturers has voted to back HD DVD over Blu-ray as its preferred next-generation optical disc format. The American Independent Media Manufacturers Association (AIMMA) comprises senior executives from 37 media manufacturing companies. It made its decision following presentations from both camps and a discussion focussing on the economics and efficiencies of transitioning to either format, including equipment costs and installation timing. ...more

Google agrees self-censorship for Chinese launch

Google has sidelined a number of its principles as it launches the Chinese version of its search engine. Like others before it, Google has capitulated to the Chinese authorities' demand to censor content indexed for Google.cn in return for having servers based locally. ...more