Internet virus updates patented

Network Associates, whose McAfee division develops the Virex anti-virus software, has patented technology that enables anti-virus software to be automatically updated over networks including the Internet. The Method and System for Providing Automated Updating and Upgrading of Antivirus Applications Using a Computer Network patent covers two distinct areas: the uploading of updates from source to a server and then onto another server and hence to individual desktops; and the retrieval of information from a desktop computer to determine whether the anti-virus software on that computer is up-to-date, and - if not - uploading the latest version to that desktop. The patent does not appear to prevent individual users from downloading virus updates from Web sites. ...more

BT allies with Microsoft for broadband onslaught

A marriage made in broadband heaven BT and Microsoft have signed a deal for the former to become a key strategic partner in Europe. In recent months, the companies began their relationship by inking deals that included offering broadband Internet connections to users of Microsoft's Xbox Live games console. Now the marriage looks to be fulfilled, with both companies following the technology as a service dream. ...more

MP3 goes to your head

I know that MP3 players are getting a little long in the tooth these days, but the new Sharp E-mus?e is a player that can be worn around the head like a headband, leaving your pockets free for loose change... ...more

Colour screens drive global handset sales

Worldwide handset sales grew 6 per cent to reach 423.4 million units last year, boosted by replacement purchases of feature-packed mobile phones, according to a research report by Dataquest, a unit of Gartner. Fourth-quarter sales grew 14 per cent from a year earlier to 122. ...more

German company sues Google

A German is the latest company to sue the search engine Google. Metaspinner Media alleges that Google Deutchland infringed its trademarks by allowing competitors to buy ads triggered by keywords using those trademarks. Metaspinner says that when customers searched for its price comparison 'Preispiraten` (Price Pirate) software, ads appeared through its Adwords programme against the search results Metaspinner says it is seeking unspecified damages. ...more