Microsoft moves to block vote on Net neutrality stance

Microsoft is trying to block an effort by a shareholder to force it to explain its reasons for backing Net neutrality. According to Reuters, Microsoft has asked the US financial regulators for permission to ignore the shareholder's call for a vote on the issue. The shareholder, The Free Enterprise Action Fund, believes Microsoft should elaborate on its support for Net neutrality which it claims represents 'expanded government regulation of the Internet'. ...more

Panrix performs name-change reappearing act

Panrix Electronics is no longer in administration, nor is it Panrix Electronics any longer, but Panrix Technology. Speaking with owner Gulberg Panesar today, he told us the company "was out of administration.. ...more

Corel draws in Micrografx

In a stock-for-stock transaction, Corel has acquired Micrografx the venerable design and charting software company whose products include Designer and Picture Publisher, as well as some business process documentation tools. The move is part of Corel's strategy to concentrate on "creative" graphic products before more fully embracing Web functionality across its range. Derek Burney, president and CEO of Corel, identified three main motives behind the deal: to broaden Corel's portfolio in the "technical illustration" market, to incorporate new Micrografx technology to deliver rich content for the Web, and to invest in Micrografx's Enterprise Process Management (EPM) division, which is seen as a new and lucrative market for Corel. ...more

HP's wider notebook aims at the desktop nervous

HP will introduce a wide-screen consumer notebook aimed at those that still fear bringing home a desktop PC. Although you can put it away once you've finished using it, it's smooth styling is easy on the eye. A 17in TFT screen means there's plenty of room on the other side of the hinge for a full-size keyboard and numerical pad. ...more

A revolution in your laundry

Forget the Web tablet, it's the Persil tablet you'll want on hand for the latest gadget from Japanese electronics giant Matsushita. The ten-litre N-BK2 Electric Bubble Bucket goes on release in Japan from 1 September and promises to be "the fun and snappy way to wash away the dirt". The company bills it as "not just another ordinary bucket, this one can wash clothes too. ...more