• Ask AW Delayed...
  Time: 17:08 EST/22:08 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Dennis Gregory

  We have delayed the Ask AW section, because we are still investigating one question, and considering its Halloween, most people are probably not online tonight. So it just makes sense to release it when the most people are visiting. We'll see you tomorrow! Btw... Chuck, its your TSRQuery issue we are investigating and we should have an answer for you when we release Ask AW.

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• Omikron: The Nomad Soul - Review
  Time: 10:03 EST/15:17 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Byron Hinson

  I have posted my review of the new game from Eidos Interactive called Omikron: The Nomad Soul. Here is a snippet from the review:

  Both music and sound are used to great effect during the game, the music more so. The David Bowie and Reeves Gabrels soundtrack and ambiance music is very well suited to the game. Most of the David Bowie tracks are only played when you visit one of the bars his band is playing in (You pick up flyers that tell you where the next gig is). Unfortunately though you can't actually skip any of these virtual concerts.

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• Ask AW!
  Time: 09:02 EST/14:02 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Dennis Gregory

  Ask AW will be premiering today! We only received 2 questions!!! If you have ANY questions you'd like to ask us about ANYTHING computer/technical related, please email us at askaw@activewin.com so your question will be included in the premiere!

  I'm not going to be the one to answer them! Everyone on the AW team has access to them and has the chance to answer them! So if you have a question to Byron or Bob or whoever, email askaw@activewin.com!

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• Daylight Savings Time Apology
  Time: 09:00 EST/14:00 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Dennis Gregory

  I am very sorry about my post regarding Daylight Savings Time, I didn't think of others in the southern hemisphere who took offense to my post. However, if you look at the post again, there is the way to change your clock for it, whether you're in Antartica or Asia!

  Thanks for visiting ActiveWindows, and we sincerely apologize for the problems the post may have caused.

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• Site News
  Time: 06:03 EST/11:35 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Byron Hinson

  Hi Everyone, happy Halloween to you all. As you can tell we have made a few main page and navigation changes on the site over the weekend, if you don't like them or have any site suggestions, just e-mail them in to me or post them on our community message board.

  Remember to sign up for our online community where you can chat with us and ask questions via our message board, our next chat is on November 13th so mark your calendars. On another note, our new domain for ActiveLinux, A website dedicated to Linux news, tips, downloads and articles which will be run in a similar fashion to ActiveWindows will be http://www.activelinux.net for all of those who have been asking. We are still after a few more Linux fans to help us run it, if you are interested then drop us a line ASAP as we have already started full work on the new site. Here is a list of our upcoming reviews:

  Hardware: Microsoft Sidewinder Precision Racing Wheel, Microsoft IntelliMouse Explorer, Regular Visor, Microtek SlimScan6, SoundBlaster Live! Platinum
  Software: Reverent, The Nomad Soul, Asheron's Call, Unreal Tournament, Wheel Of Time, Delta Force 2, Nocturne, Fifa 2000, Prince Of Persia 3D, Flight Simulator 2000 Pro, Pandora's Box, Links LS 2000, Firestorm, System Shock 2, Rogue Spear, Driver
  Applications: Corel Suite 9, Vizact 2000

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• Online Chat Reminder
  Time: 18:03 EDT/23:03 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Byron Hinson

  Just a final note to remind you that our first online chat in a long time will start in just under an hour, so remember to join us for a general chat about windows/dvd/games/linux and just about anything else you feel like.

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• Daylight Savings Time
  Time: 11:30 EDT/16:30 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Dennis Gregory

  With Halloween approaching, we thought we'd remind you to push back your clocks one hour tonight. If you're lazy, Microsoft has implemented a feature in their clock program just for you! Here's how to get Windows to automatically update its time for Daylight savings time, and it will remind you to change your other clocks.
  
  

  • Double click your time at the lower right hand corner of your screen. If you have that disabled, go to Start > Settings > Control Panel > Date/Time
  • Go into the Time Zone Tab, and check "Automatically adjust clock for daylight savings time changes"

  That's it! We at ActiveWindows wish you a happy and safe Halloween! We hope you like our slight changes to our posts and layout!

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• Asheron's Call Went Gold, Where to get it?
  Time: 11:22 EDT/16:22 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Dennis Gregory

  Sorry, we havn't posted this, but we thought it was pretty much self explanatory when Asheron's Call's beta ended. Asheron's Call did go gold on October 26, 1999. Gold means that it is ready for release. Asheron's Call is expected to be in stores on November 2-4, 1999 depending where you go. You can purchase it online and get it the day its in stores. We've compiled a list to where you can pre-order Asheron's Call and get a free month in addition to the other free month, for a toal of 2 free months!

  GameStop (Babbages & Software Etc) - $ 44.99 - November 2nd
  EBWorld - $ 44.99 - November 2nd

  GameStop uses an overnight delivery and I don't believe EBWorld does, so we recommend GameStop, however with not that many stores online preordering, it will be hard to get it when it first comes out. As thousands of people are preordering it and I doubt they'll have enough copies.

  We will be receiving our Asheron's Call Gold copy next week, and will post an update to our review. If you emailed comments about the review, I will be taking those into consideration when I update it.

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• AOL launches beta for voice-enabled messenger
  Time: 07:19 EDT/12:19 GMT News Source: News.com Posted By: Alex Harris

  America Online is planning to take its AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) service one step closer to the telephone.

  The company is testing a voice-enabled service on its next-generation instant messenger product called AIM Talk. The software allows users to communicate by voice through their PCs by speaking into a computer microphone.

  An AOL representative said the company plans to officially release the new software by the end of this year.

  AOL's messenger product has gained enormous popularity that spans beyond its proprietary membership. Web users who are not AOL members can download the software and communicate in real time with AOL members and other AIM users.

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• Rambus-based PCs set to debut at Comdex
  Time: 07:15 EDT/12:15 GMT News Source: News.com Posted By: Alex Harris

  PCs containing next-generation Rambus memory will make their debut at the Comdex trade show, sources said, although sales could be fairly negligible this year.

  Several major PC makers, including IBM, Hewlett-Packard, Micron Electronics, and Dell Computer are expected to release business and/or consumer desktops containing high-speed memory chips based on the Rambus design during the high-tech convention, which begins November 15 in Las Vegas.

  These PCs will contain Pentium III processors and 820 chipsets from Intel. IBM, according to sources close to the company, is expected to release a Rambus-based PC for around $1,300 and a workstation, with Rambus memory and the 820 chipset, for close to $2,000.

  An Intel spokesman would not comment on the prospective release date, but said that final validation is taking place and that the 820 chipset will be out by the end of the year.

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• Firms work to kill Net congestion
  Time: 07:03 EDT/12:03 GMT News Source: News.com Posted By: Alex Harris

  Although companies have built the biggest, fastest series of high-speed networks the world has ever seen, they've overlooked the points where they all come together.

  Despite billions of dollars invested in fiber-optic Net connections across the country, the system still breaks down at the points where all of these lines meet--often acting like an over-burdened freeway on-ramp at rush hour.

  But a handful of start-ups--such as hub builder Equinix and Web-caching firms Akamai Technologies and Edgix--have come on to the scene with new technology and ideas for eliminating these reoccurring bottlenecks.

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• Lost NDS feature muddles NetWare/Win 2000 management
  Time: 18:17 EDT/23:17 GMT News Source: IDG Posted By: Alex Harris

  Novell has quietly shelved a key directory-integration tool, which will likely force IT executives with mixed environments to make an either/or choice between NetWare and Microsoft's forthcoming Windows 2000.

  And that choice may not be good news for Novell.

  At issue is the redirect capability of Novell Directory Services (NDS) for Windows NT. Redirect allows users to reroute authentication and access-control calls made to NT 4.0 domains into NDS, which nearly eliminates user management on NT servers.

  However, in NDS 8 for NT -- the next version of the software -- redirect is being replaced by a bidirectional synchronization tool called DirXML.

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• Hollywood and Paul Allen go Pop.com
  Time: 18:15 EDT/23:15 GMT News Source: Red Herring Posted By: Alex Harris

  Hollywood was abuzz this week over a newcomer in town. But this potential starlet is an Internet startup.

  Ron Howard's Imagine Entertainment, Steven Spielberg's Dreamworks SKG, and Paul Allen's Vulcan Ventures teamed up to announce a company called Pop.com. The new Internet entertainment venture will launch in Spring 2000.

  "Just about every Hollywood exec I run into is thinking about how they can get into a dot-com company," says John Geirland, who cowrote Digital Babylon: How the Geeks, the Suits, and the Ponytails Fought to Bring Hollywood to the Internet.

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• Microsoft Releases A Bear of a Workflow Designer
  Time: 18:08 EDT/23:08 GMT News Source: Windows NT Magazine Posted By: Alex Harris

  Microsoft has released what is arguably its first tool in the knowledge-management realm. Access Workflow Designer for SQL Server, formerly code-named Grizzly, is available for free to licensed users of Office 2000 Developer.

  According to Microsoft white papers, Access Workflow Designer is designed to ”create and enforce business rules for your Microsoft Access 2000 data projects.” Workflow Designer “simplifies designing the basic linear workflow process with a wizard-driven interface that automatically generates the business rules for the workflow process, saving weeks or months of development time.”

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• IBM Plans Cheap Roll-Up Computer Screen
  Time: 17:58 EDT/22:58 GMT News Source: Techweb Posted By: Alex Harris

  Researchers at IBM said Thursdaythey had created a thin, flexible kind of transistor thatcould be used one day to make, for instance, a computer screen that could be rolled up.

  Their invention is cheap and can be sprayed onto plastic, making it useful in a variety of applications, they said.

  "We are really talking about a new class of materials for transistors," said Cherie Kagan, a materials scientists at IBM, in Yorktown Heights, N.Y., who led the study.

  The transistors are made out of very thin layers of materials that can be laid down onto plastic.

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• Judge 'No Show' For Microsoft Findings This Week
  Time: 17:57 EDT/22:57 GMT News Source: Techweb Posted By: Alex Harris

  Update - A federal judge Friday put on hold for another week his eagerly awaited findings of fact in the Microsoft antitrust suit.

  The court said at 4:30 p.m. EDT that the findings, which will signal how U.S. District Judge Thomas Penfield Jackson will finally rule in the historic case, would not be released this week. A Justice Department spokeswoman said no other indications were given regarding the findings.

  Jackson's findings will follow the findings presented last month by the two protagonists. This is not Jackson's final ruling. The final finding of law is due out in early 2000.

  "The judge's findings of fact foreshadow his conclusions about whether the company violated the law and in what way," said William Kovacic, law professor at George Washington University, in Washington, D.C. The federal court said last week that Jackson would issue his findings on a Friday, but did not stipulate which Friday.

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• Big Blue names Java VP
  Time: 17:52 EDT/22:52 GMT News Source: ZDNet Posted By: Alex Harris

  IBM Corp. Friday named Rod Smith as its new vice president of Java, replacing Pat Sueltz, who joined Sun Microsystems Inc. in September.

  Smith was IBM's chief technology officer for Java and has worked closely with Sun (Nasdaq:SUNW), especially on embedded Java where standards are not yet established. Smith also worked closely with Sueltz before she was named as Alan Baratz's replacement to run Sun's software business.

  Smith's appointment is expected to be good news for Java because Sueltz and Smith have worked well together in the past. IBM (NYSE:IBM) has played a pivotal role in supporting Java while at the same time pushing Sun to keep Java open.

  Smith said his priorities are to "keep IBM's full focus on Java going and to keep the team together."

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• Can Gates the salesman sell Win2000?
  Time: 17:51 EDT/22:51 GMT News Source: ZDNet Posted By: Alex Harris

  Can Bill Gates still sell software? That's the critical question Microsoft faces, as its CEO hits the road to stir up corporate demand for Windows 2000. Microsoft Corp. CEO Gates on Thursday spent his 44th birthday in the Big Apple. While there, he was scheduled to call on Chase Manhattan's top IT brass to discuss why Chase isn't committed to deploying Windows 2000 next year, say sources close to the New York bank.

  Individual Chase divisions are, in fact, Microsoft (Nasdaq:MSFT) shops. But the financial giant is largely committed to rival products Novell Directory Services, Lotus Notes and Unix.

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• Judge may announce findings in MS trial
  Time: 15:56 EDT/20:56 GMT News Source: USA Today Posted By: Matt Sabean

  In the year since the antitrust trial opened against Microsoft Corp., the nation's high-tech industry has made some of its most dramatic shifts since consumers began discovering the Internet in droves.

  The former Netscape Communications Corp., whose pioneer browser software helped popularize the Web, has a powerful new owner in America Online Inc., plus another strong new ally whose chief executive is no friend to Bill Gates.

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• Microsoft Project virus discovered
  Time: 15:44 EDT/20:44 GMT News Source: Computer World Posted By: Matt Sabean

  A new computer virus has emerged that infects Microsoft Corp.'s Project application, according to anitvirus vendor Data Fellows Corp.

  P98M/Corner is the first macro virus to infect Project, the Finland-based company said in a statement. It is also capable of attaching itself to Microsoft Word and traveling between the two applications. When an infected document is opened in Microsoft Project 98, Corner.A infects the Word application, even if it isn't running.

  Researchers at Data Fellows said the virus sample arrived in an anonymous e-mail sent through a re-mailer server and hasn't yet been observed in the wild. They said the Corner virus spreads through infected Word .doc and Project .mpp files.

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• The Papyrus/Sierra NASCAR 3 Racing - Review
  Time: 13:12 EDT/18:12 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Robert Stein

  We have posted our review of the latest racing gaming from Papyrus/Sierra - NASCAR 3 Racing. Here is a snippet from the review:

  Then, there's the sound. One of the biggest knocks on the NASCAR Racing series was that its engine sounds didn't quite measure up. So, in development of this game, Papyrus took recorders to Richard Petty's Driving School and was allowed to tape one of their cars on test runs for use in the game. These cars, incidentally, use the same engines as the real WC & BGN cars. This guarantees that the sound will be realistic. And, the computer-controlled cars use the same engine sounds, so it's guaranteed to make your teeth rattle.

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• MS consumer group: your executive departures tonight
  Time: 11:06 EDT/16:06 GMT News Source: The Register Posted By: Byron Hinson

  The turnover of executives at Microsoft's consumer and commerce group continues. Pete Higgins pulled the plug about a year ago; Peter Neupert - who did much to bolster Microsoft's new media efforts - went last year; Brad Silverberg is leaving today, and now it's the turn of Rob Bennett, director of marketing for the consumer unit.

  He has left to join encoding.com as director of product marketing. There can be little doubt that the internal pressure to make the group he leaves profitable and world-leading is very strong, but it remains a tough area in which to work for such a demanding company. Microsoft probably now regrets that it is not charging for IE. Bennett worked recently as co-director with Yusuf Mehdi (who achieved some notoriety during the trial on a videotape), and was previously on various Windows and IE products. He took the flack when the Windows 98 serial number (the Globally Unique Identifier, GUID) scandal erupted.

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• The F.A. Premier League Football Manager 2000 - Review
  Time: 10:23 EDT/15:23 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Byron Hinson

  I have posted my review of EA Sports latest foray into Soccer management - The F.A. Premier League Football Manager 2000. Here is a snippet from the review:

  The main area from which you view statistics, stadium date and results are all in full view, moving the mouse over to the right side of the screen brings up a pop-up menu where you can jump to different sections such as training, results, transfers, and you can also move to the business area where you can employee new staff, change ticket prices etc.

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• Microsoft Acquires Entropic, an Innovator in Speech Technologies
  Time: 09:26 EDT/14:26 GMT News Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron Hinson

  Committed to making speech a powerful, reliable method of interaction for Microsoft® Windows® platforms, Microsoft Corp. today announced it has acquired Entropic Inc., a worldwide leader of software and toolkits for speech recognition. Entropic's proven expertise in speech recognition, dialogue development and telephony integration technologies will complement Microsoft's ongoing efforts to facilitate speech-enabled applications, promote speech technologies and specifically advance server-based telephony solutions.

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• Age Of Empires 2 - Released In The UK
  Time: 06:08 EDT/11:08 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Byron Hinson

  Just a note to say that Microsoft's Age Of Empire 2 has finally been released in the UK today as we mention a few weeks ago. A few other titles were out that might take your fancy:

  Omikron: The Nomad Soul
  Nocturne
  FA Premier League Manager 2000 (Review later today)
  Abomination
  Age Of Empires 2

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• Community Updates
  Time: 05:46 EDT/10:46 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Matt Sabean

  Just another reminder about signing up for our ActiveWindows Community on MSN. It allows you to chat with us in our chat room or via our message board, it also lets you post your own screensavers and backgrounds for other ActiveWindows readers to download.

  So please don't hesitate to join our community--we would love to have you! We are currently the largest Windows site on the MSN community list.

  We have an upcoming chat taking place on October 30th at 7pm EST 12pm GMT, we will all be there.

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• IBM To Adopt Win 2000 Companywide
  Time: 04:42 EDT/09:42 GMT News Source: TechWeb Posted By: Matt Sabean

  IBM is set to become one of the biggest early adopters of Windows 2000 and plans to standardize its many desktops on the long-awaited Microsoft operating system worldwide.

  Big Blue's integrated solutions marketing manager Dick Sullivan told journalists in London this week that Windows 2000 Professional would be the company's desktop OS of choice across the enterprise when it becomes available next year. The company will buy 300,000 copies, he said.

  "We have a standard desktop across the corporation and ours will be Windows 2000, with Notes and Lotus Smartsuite," Sullivan said.

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• Union group accuses Microsoft of mishandling permatemps
  Time: 04:28 EDT/09:28 GMT News Source: Computer World Posted By: Matt Sabean

  A labor group trying to unionize contract workers at Microsoft Corp. has accused it of illegally withholding performance reviews from the so-called permatemps who work long-term assignments there.

  The Washington Alliance of Technology Workers claimed yesterday that Microsoft has refused to let permatemps see evaluations done by their managers -- violating Washington state law.

  Microsoft countered that, technically, the contract agencies through which the temporary workers found their jobs are their employers -- not Microsoft. Therefore, Microsoft doesn't have to reveal the reviews.

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• Microsoft Sees No Jump To NYSE From Nasdaq
  Time: 03:54 EDT/08:54 GMT News Source: Yahoo Daily News Posted By: Matt Sabean

  Microsoft Corp (Nasdaq:MSFT - news).'s Chairman and Chief Executive Bill Gates said Thursday he was comfortable with the software giant's listing on Nasdaq and doesn't expect a move to the New York Stock Exchange.

  ``As far as what exchange we're traded on, I doubt we'd make a change there,'' he said in a speech to the New York Institute of Technology, where he was honored for his contributions in education and technology.

  ``Our financial people are always looking at that,'' he said. ``But we've done very well as a Nasdaq company. So I wouldn't expect we'd make a change.''

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• ActiveWindows Mouse Pads
  Time: 03:45 EDT/08:45 GMT News Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Matt Sabean

  The Mouse Pads have been so popular that we have had to order another batch so don't forget that the first ActiveWindows piece of merchandise is now available to order. The first product in our new range of logos is the ActiveWindows Mouse Pad.

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• IT Week calls Windows 2000 Professional the system of choice for laptop PCs
  Time: 03:09 EDT/08:09 GMT News Source: Microsoft Daily News Posted By: Alex Harris

  Microsoft® Windows® 2000 Professional is an "essential upgrade" for laptop PCs, according to IT Week.

  The British magazine's review of Windows 2000 Professional recommended the operating system based on the strength of its support for power management and Plug and Play. IT Week also praised system improvements that make it easier to set up virtual private networks, synchronize files and install Windows 2000 on legacy hardware.

  Improved support for mobile computers was one of Microsoft's goals for Windows 2000 Professional.

  Features in Windows 2000 Professional can help people extend the battery life of their laptops. And the operating system supports the latest power-management technology, called Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI). When run on computers that support the ACPI standard, Windows 2000 can manage power in response to the user, applications and device drivers.

  When running on a laptop, for example, Windows 2000 can notify applications that the system is on battery power; this will prevent the applications from running battery-draining operations like compressing mail files. In another example, a computer can be set to wait for a fax with only the modem on. When a fax arrives, the modem can automatically turn on the computer, and then shut it down again when the fax is finished.

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• New music by platinum artists pumps up the volume for Windows Media
  Time: 03:07 EDT/08:07 GMT News Source: Microsoft Daily News Posted By: Alex Harris

  Microsoft® Windows Media™ is in tune with new music.

  Over the next month, new songs by leading artists such as Alice in Chains, Michael Hutchence, Shania Twain, Robbie Williams, Stone Temple Pilots, Queen and the Grateful Dead will be available for download in the Windows Media format. Fans can click on WindowsMedia.com for links to the music downloads.

  The announcement marks another milestone in establishing Windows Media as the leading technology for Internet-based entertainment.

  "[This] announcement means more great digital music from leading artists will be available in Windows Media format," said Will Poole, general manager of marketing and business development for Microsoft's Streaming Media Division. "We're gratified that more and more major labels are choosing Windows Media to deliver their artists' music to millions of fans via the Internet."

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• Microsoft's Wireless Priorities
  Time: 03:04 EDT/08:04 GMT News Source: PC World Posted By: Alex Harris

  "Any time, any place, and on any device" is the new strategic target for Microsoft's software--and the software giant's plans for mobile data growth go well beyond running handheld gadgets.

  "We are taking our core business ... and making sure that wireless is a built-in part," says Jonathan Roberts, general manager for market development of Windows CE.

  Seen as coming from behind with its Windows CE operating system for handheld devices, Microsoft is scanning a much vaster horizon, aiming to leapfrog into the mass market by making more everyday items smarter.

  From voice-operated computers in cars to personal organizers that can play music downloaded from the Internet, Microsoft is experimenting across the board, flagging a $3.8 billion research spend for next year.

  "We are going to continue to make big bets and take risks," says John Leftwich, European vice president for marketing.

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• Strange Bedfellows
  Time: 02:36 EDT/07:36 GMT News Source: Windows NT Magazine Posted By: Byron Hinson

  This seems to be the week to think about Linux. First, as you’ll see in the news section of this newsletter, Red Hat is now shipping the Linux Independent Computing Architecture (ICA) client with its version of Linux. You can download this software for free from the Citrix Web site, but now Red Hat users don’t have to go to the trouble of downloading the client—they’ve already got it. "So what?" I hear you cry. Okay, think of it this way: The sellers of an open-source OS think it's desirable to include a tool that lets Linux users easily run Microsoft applications. You can think of this development as either a triumph for Microsoft or, as I prefer, a triumph for true interoperability. You can use the OS you need when you need it, but you’re not prevented from using the abilities of another OS from the same desktop—no reboot required.

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• Dear Microsoft: Apology not accepted
  Time: 15:04 EDT/20:04 GMT Source: ZDNet Posted By: Byron

  Although Microsoft doesn't think so, I (begrudgingly) do try to give the company credit when credit is due. But Microsoft's recent reversal of its decision to kill its Most Valuable Professional (MVP) advocacy program is not a move that merits kudos.

  Many MVPs who vented vociferously when Microsoft sent them a note last week, informing them their services were no longer needed, publicly thanked Microsoft for being quick to respond to popular outcry. (CEO Gates and President Ballmer's inboxes were supposedly flooded with thousands of heart-felt pleas from MVPs and their friends as soon as Microsoft delivered the bad news.)

   
• MS dangles 'server appliance' in front of ISPs
  Time: 15:03 EDT/20:03 GMT Source: ZDNet Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT) has a number of initiatives in the works targeting service providers, including an as-yet-unnamed server appliance ISPs can resell to small businesses.

   
• X-Box: Microsoft's Handheld Revealed
  Time: 10:21 EDT/15:21 GMT Source: FGN Online Posted By: Byron

  Industry sources have confirmed to FGN Online that Microsoft is working on a portable handheld project to accompany its X-Box console.

  A number of industry sources have confirmed to FGN Online that Microsoft is working on a new handheld and the whole project is nearing completion. "There is a handheld in development that is part of the X-Box project," said one source. Another informed, "The project is nearly complete and Microsoft has already started working with a select number of developers."

  This news follows IGNPocket's reports that the handheld is said to feature a powerful 3D graphics chip and processor that could be supplied by Toshiba. The unit is said to be compatible with Microsoft's Direct X API, making it easier to program for, as well as to port PC code to. The new unit could also hook up to X-Box in some way.

   
• ActiveLinux Site News & Community Update
  Time: 10:21 EDT/15:21 GMT Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Byron

  Remember to sign up for our online community where you can chat with us and ask questions via our message board. On another note, our new domain for ActiveLinux, A website dedicated to Linux news, tips, downloads and articles which will be run in a similar fashion to ActiveWindows will be http://www.activelinux.net for all of those who have been asking. We are still after a few more Linux fans to help us run it, if you are interested then drop us a line ASAP as we have already started full work on the new site.

  On a last note, we are not going anti-MS (We got enough e-mails about ActiveLinux being a bad idea thanks), we just despise one person at Microsoft at the moment (No names) and we have had plans for the new site for over 2 months. Here is a list of our upcoming reviews:

  Hardware: Microsoft Sidewinder Precision Racing Wheel, Microsoft IntelliMouse Explorer, Regular Visor, Microtek SlimScan6, SoundBlaster Live! Platinum
  Software: Unreal Tournament, Wheel Of Time, Delta Force 2, Nocturne, Fifa 2000, Prince Of Persia 3D, Flight Simulator 2000, Pandora's Box, Links LS 2000, Firestorm, System Shock 2, Rogue Spear, Driver
  Applications: Corel Suite 9

   

• Ask ActiveWindows
  Time: 10:19 EDT/15:19 GMT Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Dennis

  While we are working on ActiveLinux, we are also working on a question and answer page, in which we will answer 7 questions a week. This new section named Ask AW will be released this weekend. You can email your question about software/hardware at askaw@activewin.com. We will try to answer all your questions.

   
• MSN Is First National ISP to Offer Nortel Networks' Internet Call Waiting Service
  Time: 10:10 EDT/15:10 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp. and Nortel Networks™ Corp. today announced an agreement to provide MSN™ Internet Access subscribers across the country with Nortel Networks' Internet call waiting (ICW) service. ICW alleviates the need for a second telephone line and enables consumers to quickly and easily receive and manage incoming telephone calls while remaining connected to the Internet. With MSN ICW, consumers can take advantage of traditional call waiting and caller ID services via the Internet, meaning while online they can identify who is calling and manage the call without losing their Internet connection.

   
• Microsoft CEO Bill Gates and Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. Launch Encarta Africana 2000
  Time: 10:10 EDT/15:10 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  In a speech before educators and students, Microsoft Corp. CEO Bill Gates and Harvard professor Dr. Henry Louis "Skip" Gates Jr. today announced the latest version of Microsoft's award-winning CD-ROM encyclopedia about black history and culture: Encarta® Africana 2000. During a demonstration of the new product, Bill Gates highlighted it as an example of how technology can enhance learning.

   
• Bill Gates Speaks of Opportunities and Challenges Facing "Generation I"
  Time: 09:36 EDT/14:36 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  In an address today to New York educators, students, faculty and friends of New York Institute of Technology (NYIT), Microsoft Corp. Chairman and CEO Bill Gates outlined the opportunities and challenges facing "Generation I," the first generation of American kids to grow up with the Internet. Gates said Microsoft is helping to lead the way in preparing the nation's parents and educators to take advantage of the Internet, and he used the opportunity to call for comprehensive technology training in education to empower teachers to meet the needs of this new generation.

   
• PC makers may shutout MS
  Time: 08:49 EDT/13:49 GMT Source: Wall Street Journal Posted By: Byron

  Major personal-computer makers in the U.S. are quietly working on a new wave products that won't use Microsoft Corp. Windows. The new desktop machines, which are expected to become available early next year, and will be designed primarily to surf the Internet and will be priced far below standard PC's running Microsoft's ubiquitous Windows 98 operating software, industry executives said.

   
• MS wins Big Brother award for Linux spam atrocity
  Time: 08:26 EDT/13:26 GMT Source: The Register Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Austria has collected the top prize in the Community category of the Austrian Big Brother Awards. The prize, a tacky looking robot thing which can be viewed here, was given for the company's activities in spamming Austrian Linux users with questionnaires.

  Microsoft Austria recruited G3 GMBH to handle the mailing. This outfit seems to have helped itself to the email addresses of Austrian users registered with the Linux Counter and then sent them the questionnaire, which asked about their views on the software industry, about Linux, and about their employment.

   
• Unisys Expects Most Web Revenues To Come From Web
  Time: 03:33 EDT/08:33 GMT Source: Yahoo Daily News Posted By: Alex H

  Computer services supplier Unisys Corp (NYSE:UIS - news). expects more than half of the revenues of the now more than $7-billion-a-year company to come from the Internet within about three years, its chief executive said Wednesday.

  At a news conference here, Unisys Chairman and CEO Lawrence Weinbach unveiled a portfolio of Internet services and aggressively priced products aimed at winning a piece of the fast-growing Web market and boosting the company's flagging financial performance.

   

• Microsoft, Sun Hung Kai in hi-tech alliance
  Time: 03:30 EDT/08:30 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Alex H

  Microsoft Hong Kong, a unit of Microsoft Corp (NasdaqNM:MSFT - news), and Sun Hung Kai Properties announced on Thursday a partnership to develop opportunities in information technology and property development.

  The companies said in a joint statement their first joint project would help create a new generation of ``intelligent'' commercial properties.

  Microsoft technology will be used in Sun Hung Kai commercial and industrial developments to provide knowledge-management capabilities to tenants, giving them faster access to information, it said.

   

• Microsoft solicits game console opinions
  Time: 03:28 EDT/08:28 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Alex H

  Like a political candidate who hasn't "officially" announced candidacy but is testing the waters, Microsoft is holding meetings and hammering out strategies on a potential plan to enter the game console market.

  One such meeting happened this week, as Microsoft played host to representatives from companies such as Thomson Consumer Electronics and Toshiba--as well as game developers and other PC firms--at the company's headquarters in Redmond, Washington.

   

• AIM glitch affects users coast to coast
  Time: 03:25 EDT/08:25 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Alex H

  A "network routing issue" today prevented as many as ten percent of all AOL Instant Messenger users from logging on to their accounts, America Online said.

  The problem was spotted earlier this morning by News.com readers in the San Francisco Bay Area. An AOL representative said that some users from the New York area also notified the company of the problem.

• Commtouch and Microsoft Enter Into Distribution and Service Agreement
  Time: 17:51 EDT/22:51 GMT Source: Yahoo Posted By: Alex H

  Commtouch Software Inc. (NASDAQ: CTCH - news), a leading global provider of outsourced email for businesses and consumers, has signed an agreement with Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT - news). Microsoft will utilize the Commtouch Custom Mail(TM) service to provide private label web-based email solutions for select MSN partners and international markets. In addition, Commtouch will provide MSN Messenger Service and Microsoft Passport to its customers while building upon its Windows NT expertise by supporting future MSN messaging technologies.

  The Commtouch Custom Mail solution, built on the Windows NT platform and other Microsoft technologies, will provide reliable and scalable communication services to key MSN partners and international markets.

   

• Microsoft Announces 1999 Industry Solution Award Winners For Customer Relationship Management
  Time: 17:44 EDT/22:44 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Alex H

  Today at DCI's Customer Relationship Management conference, Microsoft Corp. announced the winners of the 1999 Industry Solution Awards for customer relationship management (CRM). Sponsored by DCI, Microsoft, and Sales and Marketing Automation Magazine, the awards are designed to recognize the independent software vendors in the CRM market that best utilize Microsoft^® technology to provide tangible business and customer benefits. The awards were presented to four leading independent software vendors, Clarify Inc., Onyx Software Corp., Pivotal Corp. and UpShot.com, during a ceremony at the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center in Boston.

   

• TransPoint Expands Global Reach With Agreement to Develop Electronic Bill Payment and Presentment Service for Australia Post
  Time: 17:42 EDT/22:42 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Alex H

  Marking a significant step in its global growth plans, TransPoint today announced it has signed a contract to help develop and implement an electronic bill payment and presentment (EBPP) service for the Australian Postal Corp., which serves more than 18 million Australians. The EBPP service, the most comprehensive of its kind in Australia, will allow Australia Post's customers to receive and pay bills electronically through the Internet by accessing the postal service's Web site. The announcement was made today in Sydney.

   

• Main Street USA Meets the Information Superhighway
  Time: 17:40 EDT/22:40 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Alex H

  The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and Microsoft Corp. today announced a partnership to help ensure that small businesses don't get left behind on the information superhighway.

  According to research released today by Microsoft and NFIB, many traditional small businesses are behind in using technology, while small firms in the high-tech industry are anxious to take a more active role in the public policy arena.

   

• Novell, Microsoft Spar Over Directory Space
  Time: 17:36 EDT/22:36 GMT Source: Techweb Posted By: Alex H

  Novell pulled on its boxing gloves Tuesday to attempt to deliver a blow against Microsoft over which company's offering was truly cross-platform.

  A Novell official said NDS was cross-platform and would cater to Linux, Solaris, Win NT, Macintosh, and OS2. It would also support Lotus Notes, Netscape, Oracle, Cisco, Lucent, and Apache products, according to Novell product strategist J.D. Marymee, who added that IBM had demonstrated it running on an OS 390 mainframe.

   

• Key Microsoft exec resigns
  Time: 17:10 EDT/22:10 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Byron

  A key architect of Microsoft's core successes over the last decade is leaving the company. Brad Silverberg will serve his final day at Microsoft on Friday, capping a tumultuous nine-year career at the software giant, News.com has learned.

  Silverberg will leave Microsoft to spend more time with his family, pursue personal interests, and mentor and invest in small start-up companies, Microsoft said. Silverberg has already gotten his feet wet in the start-up game, investing in Tellme Networks in July.

   

• Right of Reply: MS says stealing is wrong (And so is throwing people off betas for no reason)
  Time: 15:45 EDT/20:45 GMT Source: The Register Posted By: Byron

  Further to an article by Graham Lea entitled Microsoft piracy losses claims don’t stack up’ appearing on The Register on 19 October, 1999, I wish to draw your attention to a number of points in response to the accusations directed at Microsoft, namely "trying to scare consumers, businesses, governments and institutions into having licensed software".

  The anti-piracy message on our Web site that Mr Lea refers to does not refer simply to a Microsoft issue but to an industry wide concern. Other organisations care just as deeply about the rightful protection of licensed software and the figures used are in line with figures provided by several other parties.

   
• Microsoft has bigger plans for CE
  Time: 15:40 EDT/20:40 GMT Source: ZDNet Posted By: Byron

  PARIS -- "Any time, any place and on any device" is the new strategic target for Microsoft's software -- and the U.S. giant's plans for mobile data growth go well beyond running handheld gadgets.

  "We are taking our core business ... and making sure that wireless is a built-in part," Jonathan Roberts, general manager for market development of Windows CE, said in an interview with Reuters.

   
• MS wants to push Win2K upstream
  Time: 15:37 EDT/20:37 GMT Source: ZDNet Posted By: Byron

  A day after acknowledging that Windows 2000 won’t be available commercially until mid-February next year, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) previewed plans on how it intends to make Windows 2000 more of a competitor at the high-end of the market. Microsoft group vice president Jeff Raikes offered attendees of the Unisys e-Business rollout in New York on Wednesday a preview of the "Datacenter For the Next Millennium" -- a web order entry system that Microsoft, Intel, Cisco, Unisys and EMC -- will highlight at Fall Comdex. -- Full story to come.

   
• Windows NT v4.0 Service Pack 6 - Released
  Time: 15:28 EDT/20:28 GMT Source: Desktop Watch Posted By: Byron

  SP6 is available in Standard Encryption or High Encryption (128-bit) versions for both the Intel x86 and DEC Alpha platforms. Both versions contain the same updates and differ only in the level of encryption. This is not a Service Pack for use on Microsoft Terminal Server. The latest Service Pack for Terminal Server is still SP4, they say they will be releasing SP5 for Terminal Server shortly.

  Choose a download version:

  • Standard Encryption version for the Intel (x86) platform
    Available to all customers, this version provides standard encryption capabilities for computers running on the Intel (x86) platform.
  • Standard Encryption version for the DEC Alpha platform
    Available to all customers, this version provides standard encryption capabilities for computers running on the DEC Alpha platform.
  • High Encryption version for the Intel (x86) platform - English Language Version
    Available only to customers in the United States, U.S. territories, and Canada, this version provides 128-bit encryption capabilities for computers running on the Intel (x86) platform.
  • High Encryption version for the DEC Alpha platform - English Language Version
    Available only to customers in the United States, U.S. territories, and Canada, this version provides 128-bit encryption capabilities for computers running on the DEC Alpha platform.

   

• TransPoint Expands Global Reach With Agreement to Develop Electronic Bill Payment and Presentment Service for Australia Post
  Time: 09:51 EDT/14:51 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  Marking a significant step in its global growth plans, TransPoint today announced it has signed a contract to help develop and implement an electronic bill payment and presentment (EBPP) service for the Australian Postal Corp., which serves more than 18 million Australians. The EBPP service, the most comprehensive of its kind in Australia, will allow Australia Post's customers to receive and pay bills electronically through the Internet by accessing the postal service's Web site. The announcement was made today in Sydney.

   
• Fore! Microsoft "Links LS 2000" Hits Retail Shelves
  Time: 09:51 EDT/14:51 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp. today delivered a hole-in-one with the "Links™ LS 2000" golf simulation, now available in retail stores. The latest version of the best-selling golf simulation game captures all the precision and passion that has become synonymous with the Microsoft® "Links LS" series. A perennial award-winner, "Links" has received the coveted Codie Award and PC Magazine's Editor's Choice Award. Both novice and experienced PC golfers are sure to marvel at the accessibility and unrivaled depth of features in "Links LS 2000."

   
• Microsoft and Vadem Collaborate to Speed Development Of Mobile Computing Products
  Time: 09:51 EDT/14:51 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp. and Vadem today announced an alliance to drive the innovation of applications and services for the growing mobile computing and handheld device markets. Under the terms of the agreement, Microsoft has purchased the rights to the natural handwriting and ink compression technology including the award-winning CalliGrapher® natural handwriting recognition software developed by ParaGraph®, a Vadem division. In addition, Microsoft has made an equity investment in Vadem to help speed its development of future Microsoft® Windows® CE operating system-based products and services.

   
• Microsoft Works to Thwart Software Piracy in Connecticut and Rhode Island
  Time: 09:47 EDT/14:47 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp. today filed five lawsuits against software resellers in Connecticut and Rhode Island as part of its ongoing effort to protect consumers and honest resellers from the detrimental effects of software piracy. The lawsuits were filed against three resellers in Connecticut and two resellers in Rhode Island for allegedly distributing counterfeit software and/or installing unlicensed software on computers.

   
• MS reveals red ink in Expedia IPO filing
  Time: 05:54 EDT/10:54 GMT Source: The Register Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft yesterday re-filed its IPO for Expedia, hoping to cash in on the Internet stock craze. A 13.6 per cent stake, amounting to 5.2 million shares, will be offered, with the share price expected to be in the 10 to $12 range. This was not disclosed in the first SEC filing in September. Assuming an $11 initial price and the sale of all the shares offered (a safe assumption), the 38.2 million outstanding shares would give an implied market value of $420 million. The CEO is Richard Barton and the CFO Gregory Stanger.

   
• Microsoft begins testing IE 5.5 'Mars'????
  Time: 04:12 EDT/09:12 GMT Source: WinInfo Posted By: Alex H

  WinInfo has posted some information about Internet Explorer 5.5 (They state that it is Codename Mars, it isn't as we have mentioned about Mars before, it is a communication system). He also states that some screenshots of IE 5.5 floating around the web were mistaken for "Neptune", doubtful as IE 5.5 is identical to every version of Internet Explorer 5 out. Here is a snippet:

  Microsoft Corporation welcomed beta testers this week to its latest Internet Explorer 5.x technologies beta, code-named "Mars," which will be released as IE 5.5. This release, which will be also be incorporated into Windows Millennium, the next Consumer Windows, is expected to include the display technologies necessary to facilitate the basis of the next Windows user interface. Mars, which will make Activity Centers and other user interface gadgets in Windows Millennium possible, will also be available as an add-on for Windows 2000 and other versions of Windows. Some early screenshots of Mars were mistakenly identified as "Neptune," the Consumer Windows that will follow Millennium.

  And if you're seeing a theme here with names such as Mars and Neptune, you're not alone. Microsoft has other related Windows products and add-ons in the works such as Asteroid, a future point release to Windows 2000.

   
• Microsoft Gathers Hundreds of Industry Partners To Preview Windows 2000 Launch Activities
  Time: 04:02 EDT/09:02 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Alex H

  Microsoft Corp. met with more than 600 industry partners at its Partner Marketing Day in Las Vegas to develop the launch plans for Microsoft® Windows® 2000 and help ensure that customers will have the widest choice of products, solutions and services supporting Windows 2000 on the launch date. At the event, Microsoft announced that the Windows 2000 Professional, Windows 2000 Server and Windows 2000 Advanced Server operating systems are on schedule to release to manufacturing (RTM) in calendar year 1999. While the final release depends on continued positive feedback from early-adopter customers regarding quality and on meeting shipment criteria, Microsoft plans to have general retail, channel and OEM availability of Windows 2000 on Feb. 17, 2000.

   
• IT Pros: New Centra solution demonstrates possibilities of digital dashboards
  Time: 04:00 EDT/09:00 GMT Source: Microsoft Daily News Posted By: Alex H

  Centra and Microsoft are helping to put digital dashboards on the map.

  Centra, a leader in e-business collaboration solutions for knowledge management, last week released Centra 99 for Microsoft® BackOffice®. It provides live Web-based collaboration solutions for employees using the Microsoft desktop and server platform, as well as integrating with digital dashboards built with Microsoft technologies. The solution is designed to help employees organize and access their e-mail, calendar and important information via an online portal. The Centra product gives companies a way to expand on the digital dashboards they can construct using Microsoft technologies and resources such as the Digital Dashboard Starter Kit.

  Both Centra99 and digital dashboards give employees more efficient ways to share and access information.

   
• Andreessen makes it official: Loudcloud
  Time: 03:34 EDT/08:34 GMT Source: ZDNet Posted By: Alex H

  Marc Andreessen today officially announced his new Internet startup, Loudcloud Inc., which is seeking to provide back-end infrastructure to other Net startups. As first reported by Sm@rt Reseller on Friday, the Menlo Park, Calif.-based startup is chock-full of former Netscape executives and other Internet gurus.

  Their task: To weave together a back-end platform -- comprising databases, app servers, directory servers and other critical elements -- for quick and easy deployment by nascent Web companies.

   
• Microsoft Wallet makes little sense for online shopping
  Time: 03:29 EDT/08:29 GMT Source: Chicago Tribune Posted By: Alex H

  Microsoft's latest invention, the Microsoft Wallet, is designed to lift your identification, credit card numbers and other valuables right out of your pocket and store them on one of the company's servers.

  Unlike real pickpockets, Microsoft isn't trying to do this behind anyone's back. Still, the company seems in this case to be pursuing the same goal as any common crook: To get rich without doing anything productive.

   
• Study reveals not-so-hot Java
  Time: 03:26 EDT/08:26 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Alex H

  Java may be one of the hottest development languages of the future, but it's getting a mostly chilly reception now, according to a study.

  Despite Java's growing popularity, many big businesses just aren't ready to use it for their most important applications, the study said. For instance, business software developers still primarily reach for tried-and-tested tools, such as Microsoft's Visual Basic, along with C and C++ for building business applications, according to the study by Zona Research.

   
• Microsoft's Expedia to sell 13.6 percent stake
  Time: 03:24 EDT/08:24 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Alex H

  Expedia, the online travel bookings service owned by Microsoft, said it hopes to sell a 13.6 percent stake to new investors through its initial public offering.

  The stock sale will consist of 5.2 million common shares ranging in price from $10 to $12 apiece, according to an amended registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Expedia, based in Redmond, Washington, didn't disclose the number of shares it hoped to sell or their estimated price when it first filed to go public last month.

   

• Lotus boosts unified messaging effort
  Time: 03:22 EDT/08:22 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Alex H

  Lotus unveiled a new unified messaging strategy today along with a number of deals that would bolster those efforts.

  The IBM subsidiary debuted its unified messaging initiative based on its Domino messaging server software. The technology will allow users to access email, voice, and fax data from a desktop computer or handheld.

  It marks the first time the company has publicly articulated its plans for unified messaging software, which is growing in popularity among business users.

   

• Site News & Downtime
  Time: 01:53 EDT/06:53 GMT Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Byron

  Well we have suffered from a large increase in visitors today which brought down the server, everything should be ok now. We are still working hard on new sections and new sites for you all. Here is a repeat of our last site news along with our upcoming reviews:

  Hardware: Microsoft Sidewinder Precision Racing Wheel, Microsoft IntelliMouse Explorer, Regular Visor, Microtek SlimScan6, SoundBlaster Live! Platinum
  Software: Unreal Tournament, Wheel Of Time, Delta Force 2, Nocturne, Fifa 2000, Prince Of Persia 3D, Flight Simulator 2000, Pandora's Box, Links LS 2000, Firestorm, System Shock 2, Rogue Spear, Driver
  Applications: Corel Suite 9

  Hi again everyone. Just a note to say that we are going to be launching a couple of new sites in the next few weeks, one will surprise quite a few of you. First up we have ActiveSci-Fi, the mess up with the domain and Internic has been fixed and the site will go live at the end of next week, and be regularly updated by a new group of Sci-Fi fans.

  Last but certainly not least, we are launching ActiveLinux. A website dedicated to Linux news, downloads and articles run in a similar fashion to ActiveWindows. So all we need now are a few more Linux fans to help us run it, if you are interested then drop us a line ASAP as we have already started full work on the new site.

• Lovesick hacker hits Microsoft site
  Time: 17:53 EDT/22:53 GMT Source: ZDNet Posted By: Byron

  Earning a footnote in the annals of computer vandalism, a lovesick hacker known as "flipz" on Tuesday became the first person known to have defaced one of Microsoft Corp.'s Web sites. The hacker, who also altered a handful of government Web sites in recent days, says he expects to be arrested soon. "Its (sic) all about fun till the feds bust down the door," said a message left on one of the defaced Web sites.

   
• Microsoft sets Windows 2000 D-Day
  Time: 17:53 EDT/22:53 GMT Source: ZDNet Posted By: Byron

  The only date that counts for Windows 2000 is the official one, and here is a snippet from ZDNet's article on it:

  Microsoft Corp. will launch its long-awaited Windows 2000 product on Feb. 17, 2000, officials told partners attending Windows 2000 Marketing Day in Las Vegas this week.

  The company will launch the product in San Francisco at IDG World Expo's Windows 2000 Conference and Expo trade show slated for Feb. 15 through 17 at the Moscone Center, sources said. Word of Microsoft's plans to launch Windows 2000 in February began leaking out earlier this month.

   
• Microsoft's dastardly plot
  Time: 14:44 EDT/19:44 GMT Source: ZDNet Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft has been in hot water recently with various security problems affecting a variety of products, from Windows NT to MS Messenger to MSN Hotmail. I believe the Hotmail flaw was planted specifically for long-term marketing purposes. It's actually part of a complex scheme to halt the buzz building around Web-based applications. Hear me out on this one.

   
• Microsoft's X-Box to take on Sony
  Time: 10:28 EDT/15:28 GMT Source: ZDNet Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp., determined to head off Sony Corp. in the battle to control digital entertainment, is considering a move that could shake up the video game market, industry executives said.

  Microsoft (Nasdaq:MSFT) may pour billions of dollars over four years into developing and promoting a home video game console, code-named X-Box, said one person who has been briefed on Microsoft's plans. Microsoft's proposed machine, a hybrid akin to a PC that plugs into a television to play games, is expected to be manufactured to the company's specifications by PC makers or subcontractors.

   
• Microsoft Windows Media Turns Up the Volume With New Music from Platinum Artists
  Time: 10:24 EDT/15:24 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp. today announced the availability of new digital music in the popular, high-quality Microsoft® Windows Media™ technology format from leading platinum artists including Alice in Chains, Grateful Dead, Michael Hutchence, Queen, Stone Temple Pilots, Shania Twain and Robbie Williams. This new digital music is scheduled to be available at WindowsMedia.com (http://windowsmedia.com/), part of the MSN.COM™ network of Internet services, within the next 30 days. Today's announcement encompasses artists from such diverse major labels as EMI Group plc, Sony Music Entertainment and Warner Music Group and marks another milestone in establishing Windows Media as the leading platform for Internet-based entertainment.

   
• Microsoft Forms New District to Serve Central and South Texas and Louisiana Customers
  Time: 10:24 EDT/15:24 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp. today announced the formation of a new district to support Microsoft customers and technology partners throughout Central and South Texas and Louisiana. The new Gulf Coast District, with headquarters in Houston, will be responsible for Microsoft's sales, marketing and consulting operations throughout the region.

   
• Microsoft Unveils Programs, Tools for Application Hosting at ISPCON Fall '99 As ISPs, ASPs Increasingly Adopt Microsoft Platform
  Time: 10:23 EDT/15:23 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  At ISPCON Fall '99 today, Microsoft Corp. unveiled tools that enable Internet service providers (ISPs) and application service providers (ASPs) to launch new, high-margin hosting services based on the Microsoft® Windows NT® Server operating system. The new initiative includes ASP deployment kits for business service application hosting; the Office Server Extensions Program, which help ISPs and ASPs offer powerful, Web-based collaboration hosting services; and the Windows® 2000 Readiness Program, which positions ISPs and ASPs for rapid deployment of Windows 2000 operating system-based hosting services. Details for all these programs are available at the Microsoft ISPCON Web page, http://www.microsoft.com/isp/.

   
• Microsoft and Cisco Collaborate to Provide ASPs With End-to-End Solution for Deploying Hosted Applications and Services
  Time: 10:21 EDT/15:21 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp. and Cisco Systems Inc. today announced they will collaborate to provide application service providers (ASPs) with an end-to-end solution for deploying outsourced applications and services. The two companies are delivering industry-leading infrastructure and support while working with independent software vendors (ISVs) such as Clarus Corp., Great Plains and Pivotal Corp. to provide specific service offerings to midsize businesses in corporate purchasing, business management and customer relationship management, allowing ASPs to offer these services to customers.

   
• Microsoft and NBDC Announce Able to Work Consortium
  Time: 08:40 EDT/13:40 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp. Chairman and CEO Bill Gates today announced the formation of Able to Work, an independent business consortium dedicated to increasing employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Together with the National Business & Disability Council (NBDC), Microsoft has assembled an Able to Work membership of 21 leading North American companies, all of which will bring their experience to bear in identifying tools and strategies to help businesses in every industry tap into this capable, motivated work force. With an unemployment rate topping 70 percent among working-age people with disabilities, this is the most underutilized segment of America's work force.

   
• Microsoft and NTT DoCoMo Form Joint Venture To Deliver Mobile Data Services
  Time: 08:40 EDT/13:40 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp. and NTT Mobile Communications Network Inc. (NTT DoCoMo) today announced they would broaden their existing relationship to deliver mobile data services in Japan by creating a joint venture company. Mobimagic Company Ltd. will be a Japanese corporation, equally held between Microsoft and NTT DoCoMo. The purpose of the joint venture will be to develop and market mobile data services for users of NTT DoCoMo's wireless networks.

   
• Still Testing Win 2000
  Time: 06:23 EDT/11:23 GMT Source: PC World Posted By: Alex H

  So far, developers have written about 10 million lines of code to test Microsoft Windows 2000, which is nearing its final beta version.

  Microsoft developers hope the last test version will be Release Candidate 3 (RC3), but they won't say when it, much less the final version, will appear.

  But the company is "very close to Release Candidate 3," says Sanjay Jejurikar, director of test for Windows NT for Microsoft. Some reports say the last beta should ship in the second week in November.

   
• MarketStar uses SQL Server to create customer and reseller data warehouse for HP
  Time: 06:22 EDT/11:22 GMT Source: Microsoft Daily News Posted By: Alex H

  Using Microsoft® SQL Server™ 7.0, MarketStar is helping Hewlett-Packard (HP) make the most of market data.

  MarketStar field representatives collect and analyze market data for HP, gathering information from stores, value added resellers and other outlets where HP's printers, scanners and other products are sold. This data includes everything from where HP products are located in a store to the pricing of competing products. And with a new data warehouse solution based on Microsoft SQL Server 7.0 and the Knosys ProClarity tool, HP managers can start putting this data to work in near real-time.

   
• Intel Opens Coppermine
  Time: 06:20 EDT/11:20 GMT Source: PC World Posted By: Alex H

  It's all about the Internet. Intel steadily pounded that point here Monday while unveiling a fleet of "Coppermine" Pentium III processors that officials say are crafted to enhance the Web-surfing experience.

  Still, other than firing up your browser faster, the admittedly quicker PIIIs will be most effective speeding up the Web if they're powering Web servers.

  And, to Intel's chagrin, some of what it's about is the 820 chip set, delayed from its September launch because of technical problems. It's the missing link that enables the fastest PIIIs, and its delay has prompted some vendors to stall releasing systems. Micron has turned instead to the Via chip set.

  Intel executives say only that they expect to ship the chip set sometime before 2000.

   
• Sun shines Solaris on new Intel chip
  Time: 06:14 EDT/11:14 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Alex H

  Sun's Solaris operating system is running on prototypes of Intel's upcoming 64-bit chips, becoming the last of the major server computer operating systems to do so.

  Sun Microsystems was beaten to the punch by Microsoft, IBM, Hewlett-Packard, and the collection of programmers working on adapting the Linux operating system to run on the forthcoming chip. The processor had been code-named Merced but now is called Itanium.

   

• Will Net stamps, email hurt postal monopoly?
  Time: 06:12 EDT/11:12 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Alex H

  Have reports of the U.S. Postal Service's demise been greatly exaggerated?

  First-class mail is expected to begin declining by 2003 in the face of email and electronic bill-paying, according to a General Accounting Office (GAO) report delivered to the House Subcommittee on the Postal Service last week. Based on projections provided by the USPS, the document says the Internet could wipe out $17 billion in postal service revenues and threaten the agency's ability to provide universal first-class mail service.

   

• Cisco looks to tap wireless Net market
  Time: 06:11 EDT/11:11 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Alex H

  Cisco Systems isn't waiting for the wireless Internet market to come to it--it's coming to the market.

  The networking equipment giant is looking to jump-start a nascent business by culling interest and support from a wide array of partners for a proposed technology standard, ideally helping in the development of new wireless networks. A standard is a kind of industrywide blueprint for a given product, agreed upon to ensure products made by different companies are interchangeable for end users.

  The firm also plans to unveil new products based on the still-developing technology by the end of this year, according to company executives.

   
• Microsoft Reinstates MVPs
  Time: 04:54 EDT/09:54 GMT Source: ZDNet Posted By: Byron

  Less than a week after notifying its volunteer support team that its services were no longer needed, Microsoft is said to have reinstated the program due to the public outcry that followed its initial decision.

  The ActiveWin web site, which initially reported Microsoft’s decision to axe its Most Valuable Professional (MVP) program, is now reporting that Microsoft has reinstated its MVPs.

   

• Microsoft Research: Touch Mouse
  Time: 04:54 EDT/09:54 GMT Source: E-Mail Posted By: Byron

  Just got an e-mail about this new mouse that Microsoft research has been working on, it is called the Touch Mouse. Here is a snippet of info on the new mouse design, take a note that the info is quite old and a lot of it sounds like the Intellimouse Explorer:

  The Touch Mouse is a new input device created by Ken Hinckley and Mike Sinclair of Microsoft Research. The Touch Mouse senses contact from the user's hand via capacitance, allowing a new pair of events (Touch and Release) to be generated for each touch sensor. The touch sensors enable new interaction techniques that can't be supported very well with traditional mice.

  The Touch Mouse pictured above includes touch sensors for the palm/thumb area, for the left mouse button, for the wheel, and for the areas immediately above and below the wheel (5 total sensors). The sensors surrounding the wheel are used for enhanced scrolling behaviors.

• Updated Exclusive: Microsoft MVP Program Back On
  Time: 16:31 EDT/21:31 GMT Source: E-Mail Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft has announced that due to overwhelming demand the MVP program has been reinstated immediately. This is great news for MVPs and users alike. More as we get it, but I guess that means you can now start to apply again ;o)

  Here is part of the official posting to MVPs (Posted with the consent of Microsoft)

  Last week Microsoft made an announcement about changes to the Most Valuable Professional (MVP) Program. Since that announcement, we have received feedback from customers and MVPs, asking us to reconsider this decision. Our objectives have always been to provide the best technical support in the industry and a part of that support is the activity taking place in the newsgroups today. MVPs make a significant contribution to our customer satisfaction, and we sincerely appreciate their efforts.

  Clearly, the feedback received recently is in strong support of the MVPs and the great contributions they make in the newsgroups. Based on this feedback, we will reinstate the MVP Program effective immediately. We will also take an additional step to organize an MVP advisory council that will help us shape the program going forward. Our existing customer advisory councils will also be used to gather feedback and help us shape the future of our newsgroups.

   
• Microsoft backs job effort for disabled
  Time: 15:52 EDT/20:52 GMT Source: Reuters Posted By: Byron

  Software giant Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT) will lead a group of 21 major North American corporations in a program designed to boost hiring of people with disabilities, company officials said Monday. Dubbed 'Able to Work,' the business group will set up a Web site at http://www.abletowork.org and share strategies aimed at finding jobs for the 70 percent of 17 million Americans with disabilities that are unemployed.

   
• Microsoft, thanks for the lesson
  Time: 14:45 EDT/19:45 GMT Source: ZDNet Posted By: Byron

  Dear Bill: I wrote to you a little more than a year ago when Windows 98 shipped. I said, Bill, thanks for nothing, because you weren't doing us any favors by delivering a product that really wasn't whole. You had your reasons, though, like beating the feds and the holiday rush all at the same time. But we don't need to go over all that again.

   
• ActiveWindows Editorial: Broadband will change Internet distribution but not quite in the way you might think
  Time: 11:40 EDT/16:40 GMT Source: ActiveWindows/Stardock Posted By: Byron

  We have posted our first editorial piece, this one comes from Brad Wardell at Stardock. Here is a snippet:

  Traditionally, people have gone to their local super store and bought a box that contains software in it.  As someone with a background in having to deal with the retail channels, the barrier to entry for developers is getting very high in that segment.  And yet, demand for software, or as we are starting to call it “electronic content” is still increasing at a rapid pace.  It has long been assumed that the Internet would provide an alternative channel for software developers and publishers to provide their technology to the masses and thus being able to bypass the traditional retailers.

   
• Microsoft to pay $3 billion for Telewest stake
  Time: 11:23 EDT/16:23 GMT Source: Reuters Posted By: Byron

  Telewest Communications Plc (Nasdaq:TWSTY) under terms of the deal disclosed in a federal filing this week. Microsoft agreed to buy the shares in Telewest currently owned by cable operator MediaOne Group Inc. in May as part of a complex three-way deal under which AT&T (NYSE:T) would acquire MediaOne for $58 billion in cash and stock.

   
• MS and Symantec spar over 'hoax' Windows Y2K email
  Time: 11:20 EDT/16:20 GMT Source: The Register Posted By: Byron

  When Microsoft and Peter Norton's people do not agree on a Y2K issue, whose side will you be on? Just this situation developed when anonymous chain emails recently warned of a Y2K problem right in the heart of Windows default date format.

  The mails claimed that the "short date format WILL NOT rollover in the year 2000. It will roll over to 00". According to the mail, this may have consequences in actual application software in millions of systems worldwide. Although the mails I've seen were not rude or faked, Microsoft calls those mails "hoax" in a page on the Microsoft site.

   
• MSN.COM Hosts Official New York City Marathon Web Site
  Time: 08:54 EDT/13:54 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  When more than 30,000 runners fill the streets of Manhattan for the 30th annual New York City Marathon on November 7, race enthusiasts worldwide will be able to track the results in real-time, thanks to an innovative "ChampionChip" and the marathon's first official Web site.

  MSN.COM and the New York Road Runners Club (NYRRC) have joined to create the official NYC Marathon Web site, providing real-time race results along with a wealth of additional race information, training tips and interactive marathon-related activities for enthusiasts and participants.

   
• Licenses of Microsoft FrontPage 2000 Top 1 Million Units in Four Months
  Time: 08:53 EDT/13:53 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  Standalone license sales of Microsoft® FrontPage® 2000, the most recent version of the world's best-selling Web site creation and management tool, have surpassed 1 million units since the product was introduced four months ago. The popularity of FrontPage 2000 brings the total number of users of FrontPage to more than 3 million, highlighting the growing demand for commercial and personal Web sites and reinforcing the widespread popularity of FrontPage among a broad set of customers, including Web professionals, small-business users and people creating personal Web sites.

   

• Cisco Enhances IP/TV Streaming Video Solution By Integrating Microsoft Windows Media
  Time: 08:52 EDT/13:52 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp. and Cisco Systems Inc. today announced that the new Cisco IP/TV streaming media solution 3/4 including its new line of Cisco IP/TV 3400 broadcast servers and the new Cisco IP/TV 3.0 software 3/4 is now built on the Microsoft® Windows Media™ Technologies platform. The pairing of technologies will provide corporations with the most comprehensive and flexible solution for using streaming media to deploy media-intensive business applications, such as e-learning and corporate communications, for a wider range of PC users on IP networks.

   

• PubliCARD to Adopt the New Microsoft Windows for Smart Cards Operating System
  Time: 08:47 EDT/13:47 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  PubliCARD, Inc, www.publicard.com, today announced that its subsidiary, Amazing Smart Card Technologies, Inc., will adopt the new Microsoft Windows for Smart Cards operating system for use in SmartPassky, PubliCARD's consumer-based Internet password management solution. In addition to SmartPassky, which conveniently and securely remembers passwords and ID numbers for heavy Internet users, Amazing plans to port its entire suite of consumer Internet applications to Windows-powered chip cards in the coming months.

   

• B-Tree Joins the Microsoft Embedded Systems Tool Provider Program as a Provider of Test Automation Systems
  Time: 08:43 EDT/13:43 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  B-Tree(TM) Systems Inc., the leader in non-intrusive test automation, has joined the Microsoft (R) Embedded Systems Tool Provider Program. B-Tree brings its powerful Validor® family of automated product verification tools and its extensive experience in product testing and verification to products and applications based on the Microsoft Windows® CE, Windows NT, and Windows NT Embedded operating systems and applications.

  ``Microsoft is extremely pleased to welcome B-Tree Systems into the ranks of the Microsoft Embedded Systems Tool Provider Program'' said Scott Horn, Group Program Manager, Windows CE Tools Group. ``We believe that such synergistic partnerships broaden the applicability of our products and enable the large, growing Windows CE, and Windows NT Embedded developer community. ''

   

• Cisco, Microsoft advance business software partnership
  Time: 08:31 EDT/13:31 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Byron

  Cisco and Microsoft will flesh out their business software partnership tomorrow, introducing ways to deliver applications across a network.

  The two companies plan to jointly promote their respective technological expertise so that application service providers, or ASPs, can deliver programs hosted on computers running Microsoft's software and sent across networks based on Cisco's infrastructure technology, according to the two companies. The initiative is aimed at small and medium-sized businesses.

• Ask AW.....
  Time: 22:30 EDT/03:30 GMT Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Dennis

  While we're working on ActiveLinux, we're also working on a question and answer page, in which we will answer 7 questions a week. This new section named Ask AW will be released this weekend. You can email your question about software/hardware at askaw@activewin.com. We will try to answer all your questions.

   
• Site News: New Sites On The Way
  Time: 18:54 EDT/23:53 GMT Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Byron

  Hi again everyone. Just a note to say that we are going to be launching a couple of new sites in the next few weeks, one will surprise quite a few of you. First up we have ActiveSci-Fi, the mess up with the domain and Internic has been fixed and the site will go live at the end of next week, and be regularly updated by a new group of Sci-Fi fans.

  Last but certainly not least, we are launching ActiveLinux. A website dedicated to Linux news, downloads and articles run in a similar fashion to ActiveWindows. So all we need now are a few more Linux fans to help us run it, if you are interested then drop us a line ASAP as we have already started full work on the new site.

   
• USB Bug found with fast AMD chips, Win98SE
  Time: 10:54 EDT/15:54 GMT Source: The Register Posted By: Byron

  People with AMD microprocessors running at clock speeds over 350MHz and who use Windows 98 Second Edition need a workaround if they're using USB devices.

  The Microsoft support site, which has a specific page on the problem here, is offering a downloadable file which it claims will solve the problem.

   

• Microsoft axes free newsgroup support team
  Time: 10:53 EDT/15:53 GMT Source: The Register Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft is pulling the plugs on its Most Valuable Professionals (MVPs) support system, according to a 'so long, and thanks for all the fish' email sent to MVPs by company director of business development Joseph Lindstrom last week.

  The system, which will end from the beginning of December, used volunteer MVP labour to provide free newsgroup-based support via newsgroups. According to Lindstrom's email Microsoft will replace it with a programme "in which technical newsgroups are staffed by Microsoft support professionals."

• Microsoft Links LS 2000 - Review
  Time: 16:50 EDT/21:50 GMT Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Bob

  ActiveWindows has posted our review of the new Microsoft Links LS 2000 game. Here is a snippet from the review:

  The Gameplay in Links LS 2000 is so much like the real thing you would think you were on the course. When I first started the game I wanted to hop right in and see what it had to offer. I played a nice round of 18 holes in Hawaii and I was pathetic (you don’t have to be the best golfer to enjoy this game). The putting is so realistic, you want to break your club as the computer player does it for you! The slopes and speed on the putts are very accurate.

   
• Encarta 2000 Reference Suite DVD Edition - Review
  Time: 13:56 EDT/18:56 GMT Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Byron

  I have posted my review of the new Encarta 2000 Reference Suite DVD Edition. Here is a snippet from the review:

  The 360-Degree Views are as I mentioned, very impressive. They add a good level of interactivity into the encyclopedia, even more so when they are used in the Virtual Tours section of Encarta. From the Virtual Tours section (Shown below) you can travel to destinations across the world and view them via the 360-Degree option, but it isn't limited to just one view, clicking on hyperlinks in the video window moves you onto new locations.

   
• Site Of The Year Reminder
  Time: 13:45 EDT/18:45 GMT Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Byron

  Just a final reminder for you to vote for us as site of the year on Window Planet's site of the year award poll. We mentioned this last week but haven't posted about it since, so this is the last one until the final announcement is made.

   
• Asheron's Call Beta Comes to a Close, October 24th
  Time: 11:47 EDT/16:47 GMT Source: Microsoft Posted By: Dennis

  To herald the end of the Asheron's Call beta, which takes place at the stroke of midnight this Sunday, October 24 (PDT), Microsoft and Turbine Entertainment announced that adventurers in the land of Dereth are currently in the midst of several apocalyptic events. In-game sages have confirmed rumors that these occurrences are simply the harbingers of even more unexpected, world-shaking events to hit the citizens of Dereth in the coming days.

  You can read our Asheron's Call review here.

   
• Microsoft Security Bulletins: (MS99-044)(MS99-045)(MS99-046)
  Time: 05:28 EDT/10:28 GMT Source: E-Mail Posted By: Matt

  Microsoft has hit us with 3 new patches.
  
  1.  Microsoft Security Bulletin (MS99-044) - Patch Available for "Excel SYLK" Vulnerability
  
  2.  Microsoft Security Bulletin (MS99-045) - Patch Available "Virtual Machine Verifier" Vulnerability
  
  3.  Microsoft Security Bulletin (MS99-046) - Patch Available to Improve TCP Initial Sequence Number Randomness

  Read More -->

 
• New Mac operating system on sale this weekend
  Time: 04:47 EDT/09:47 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Alex H

  Apple Computer said today the latest operating system for its Macintosh family of computers, beefed up with special Internet features, will hit store shelves this weekend.

  The new Mac OS 9 operating system will carry a suggested retail price tag of $99 and will include Sherlock 2, Apple's Internet search and shopping tool that lets users find and compare products online, the company said.

  "Mac OS 9 is the best Internet OS ever," Apple's interim chief executive officer Steve Jobs said in a statement. "With great new features like Sherlock 2, we think our customers are going to love Mac OS 9."

   
• Netscape founder delves into pictures
  Time: 04:45 EDT/09:45 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Alex H

  Jim Clark, founder of Netscape Communications, Silicon Graphics, and Healtheon, has started a new venture called Shutterfly.com with plans to zoom in on the digital photo market.

  George Zachary, a member of Shutterfly's board of directors and a partner in Mohr Davidow Ventures, which is backing the company, said he has been working on the project with Clark for the past five months.

  Clark could not be reached for comment.

  Thus far, Shutterfly has launched a token Web site but does not have a listed telephone number. Zachary said the company has hired a chief executive officer, Jane Spiegelman, formerly a senior vice president of marketing at the Good Guys and prior to that at Macy's Women's Group.

  A company representative said the site is scheduled to go live December 1.

   
• Compaq to unveil wireless Armada
  Time: 04:43 EDT/09:43 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Alex H

  Compaq Computer will on Monday unveil wireless networking technology for its Armada commercial notebooks.

  The Houston, Texas-based PC maker will also launch two new Armada notebooks and refresh existing models with Pentium III processors. Prices range from $1,499 to $2,999.

  Wireless notebook networking is one of the hottest trends in mobile computing, particularly among corporations and educational institutions. Market research firm International Data Corporation expects the boom to start next year, with an estimated $839 million in sales and $1.56 billion in 2001.

   

• WebTV expands recording, connection options
  Time: 04:42 EDT/09:42 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Alex H

  Microsoft's WebTV, originally conceived as an inexpensive and simple way to access the Internet via the TV, is reinventing itself as the next-generation answer to the VCR.

  Upcoming WebTV boxes will feature expanded digital video recording, sources say, similar to what is offered by TiVo and Replay Networks. Digital video recording essentially replaces a VCR's videotape with a hard drive, offering typical VCR functions such as record and playback, as well as newer features such as freezing and playing back television shows while they are being broadcast.

  Also in the works are plans to include high-speed digital subscriber line (DSL) access and larger hard drives in WebTV Plus boxes, industry sources said. Those new features should be available early next year, sources said.

  A WebTV spokesperson said the company does not comment on unannounced products or rumors.

  These upcoming changes are but the latest events in the WebTV tale. When acquired by Microsoft, WebTV was beginning to make a name for itself as a low-cost and simple Internet access device working in conjunction with the TV.

  Since the 1997 acquisition, however, the division's focus has been somewhat blurry, as the company has tried to carve a niche in Microsoft's competing online and cable efforts. With PC and Internet service provider (ISP) prices declining, WebTV has seen its low-cost argument erode. Subscribers continue to sign up for the service, but sales have not met expectations. WebTV has less than 1 million subscribers, sources have said.

• Microsoft eyes lucrative home networking market
  Time: 18:55 EDT/23:55 GMT Source: News.com Posted By: Matt

  As high-speed Internet access becomes a staple in the home and PCs give way to new Web-based handheld gadgets, Microsoft--like its rivals--envisions a future where every electronic device can communicate.

  While the software giant is still developing its overall strategy for the home networking market, company executives, analysts, and even competitors believe Microsoft will easily become a major force with its vast collection of software technology, investments, and partnerships.

  The fledgling market could mean big profits--from the sale of new handheld devices and their operating systems to the sale of expensive back-end server technology.

  Microsoft has collected a motley group of technologies that fits into its home networking strategy. Standing in Microsoft's way, however, are some familiar names. Sun Microsystems, IBM, and Oracle, as well as Motorola, Sony, and Philips, have gathered to form a networking consortium. Analysts say the goal of the group is to ensure Microsoft doesn't dominate the soon-to-be lucrative market.

   
• Microsoft Security Bulletin (MS99-045) - Patch Available "Virtual Machine Verifier" Vulnerability
  Time: 17:59 EDT/22:59 GMT Source: E-Mail Posted By: Matt

  Summary
  Microsoft has released a new version of the Microsoft(r) virtual machine (Microsoft VM) that eliminates a security vulnerability that could allow a Java applet to take unauthorized actions on the computer of a web site visitor. Although no standard Java compiler can generate such an applet, a Java applet constructed by hand with a Java bytecode assembler could bypass the sandbox and take virtually any action on the computer that the user would be capable of taking.

  Frequently asked questions regarding this vulnerability can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/security/bulletins/MS99-045faq.asp.

  Issue
  The Microsoft VM is a virtual machine for the Win32(r) operating environment. It runs atop Microsoft Windows(r) 95, 98 or Windows NT(r). It ships as part of each operating system, and also as part of Microsoft Internet Explorer.
  
  The version of the Microsoft VM that ships with Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 and Internet Explorer 5.0 contains a security vulnerability in the bytecode verifier that could allow a Java applet to operate outside the bounds set by the sandbox. If hosted on a web site, it could cause any action to be taken on the computer of a visiting user that the user himself could take. This could include, for example, creating, deleting or modifying files, sending data to or receiving data from a web site, or reformatting the hard drive.

  Affected Software Versions
  Versions of the Microsoft VM are identified by build numbers, which can be determined using the JVIEW tool, as discussed in the FAQ. The following builds of the Microsoft VM are affected:
  - All builds in the 2000 series
  - All builds in the 3000 series prior to but not including build 3188
  
  NOTE: The Microsoft VM ships as part of several products. However, the primary ship vehicle is Internet Explorer. IE 4 ships with builds in the 2000 series; IE 5 ships with builds in the 3000 series.

  Patch Availability
  http://www.microsoft.com/java/vm/dl_vm32.htm
  NOTE: The above URL installs the latest version of the 3000 series. It can be installed by anyone, including customers currently using a 2000 series build. A new version in the 2000 series will be available shortly for customers who are using a 2000 series build and do not wish to upgrade to the 3000 series. When this is available, we will modify the bulletin to provide the specific URL.

  More Information
  Please see the following references for more information related to this issue.

  Microsoft Security Bulletin MS99-045: Frequently Asked Questions, http://www.microsoft.com/security/bulletins/MS99-045faq.asp.
  
  Microsoft Security Advisor web site, http://www.microsoft.com/security/default.asp.

   

• Microsoft fights piracy with swap offers
  Time: 16:23 EDT/21:23 GMT Source: CNN Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft wants it nice and legal--your software, that is. Are you the owner of pirated software? Well then, Tuesday was your lucky day in Chicago as Microsoft sponsored "Be Sure It's Legal Day," a kind of amnesty program that let you get legal if you inadvertently bought pirated software. Microsoft has staged similar events in San Diego and San Francisco, and expects to schedule others around the country.

   

• USB Devices May Not Work in Windows 98 Second Edition
  Time: 16:21 EDT/21:21 GMT Source: Windows 98 Central Posted By: Byron

  Windows 98 Central has posted word of a driver update for the USB under Win98 SE . These drivers were posted on the 15th of this month and according to the FAQ USB devices that are plugged in to a computer running Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition may not work if the following hardware components are installed on the computer:

  - An AMD processor (running at 350 MHz or faster)
  - A VIA Technologies USB controller

  You can hit the link above and read more about it and also grab the updated drivers.

   

• Site News & Community Update
  Time: 15:41 EDT/20:41 GMT Source: ActiveWindows Posted By: Byron

  We are still working hard to get our new sections up this weekend, the MS Hardware & Games area will certainly be complete, but we are currently not too sure about the Windows 2000 section. Here are some of our upcoming reviews:

  Hardware: Microsoft Sidewinder Precision Racing Wheel, Microsoft IntelliMouse Explorer, Regular Visor, Microtek SlimScan6, SoundBlaster Live! Platinum
  Software: Grand Theft Auto 2 (This weekend), Delta Force 2, Nocturne, Fifa 2000, Prince Of Persia 3D, Flight Simulator 2000, Pandora's Box, Links LS 2000 Encarta 2000 Reference Suite DVD Edition (This Weekend), Firestorm, X: Beyond The Frontier, System Shock 2, Rogue Spear and Driver
  Applications: Corel Suite 9

  Just another reminder about signing up for our ActiveWindows Community on MSN. It allows you to chat with us in our chat room or via our message board, it also lets you post your own screensavers and backgrounds for other ActiveWindows readers to download. We are currently the largest Windows site on the MSN community list.

   
• Microsoft angels have wings plucked
  Time: 14:18 EDT/19:18 GMT Source: ZDNet Posted By: Byron

  ZDNet has now posted an article on the news about the MVP program we broke earlier:

  As part of its campaign to take over the administration of its own MSN newsgroups, Microsoft has decided to pull the plug on its Most Valuable Professional (MVP) advocacy program as of December 1.

   
• Microsoft expands China base
  Time: 09:38 EDT/14:38 GMT Source: Reuters Posted By: Byron

  Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq:MSFT) and Sun Hung Kai Properties Ltd. said on Friday they would jointly announce on Thursday their plans to form a strategic partnership. The partnership to be formed between Microsoft Hong Kong and Sun Hung Kai Properties would substantially contribute to the development of Hong Kong's property industry and help establish the territory as a regional information technology centre in the next millennium, the companies said in a joint statement.

   
• Aviation Industry Lines Up Behind Flight Simulator 2000
  Time: 09:36 EDT/14:36 GMT Source: Press Release Posted By: Byron

  From British Airways to Cessna, several leaders in aviation are lending their expertise to make Microsoft^® Flight Simulator 2000 the most realistic flight simulation available for the PC. Scheduled for broad availability in late October, Flight Simulator 2000, the newest version of the best-selling PC simulation of all time, features everything from flying lessons and accurate flight modeling in each plane to downloadable real-time weather - all provided by the experts.

   

• Microsoft Kills Off The MVP Program
  Time: 07:07 EDT/12:07 GMT Source: Various Posted By: Byron

  As of December 1st 1999 the Microsoft MVP program will end, although the people who took part in it will still be around they will not have MVP status as the technical newsgroups will be staffed by Microsoft "support professionals". As many of you know, the MVP's have spent a great deal of their own personal time helping people out with support in the Microsoft newsgroups, so it has come as a bit of a shock to a lot of them, as it has to many users of the Microsoft newsgroups...

  Read More -->

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