Monthly Archives: April 2009

Apple sued over iTunes workaround, Microsoft tighten up Windows 7 and Nintendo can help mom

April 30, 2009

Apple has been sued over an iTunes workaround.   The owners of  Bluwiki sued after Apple made legal threats about a discussion on an iTunes workaround.   Bluwiki wants to secure a ruling that will allow it to host a discussion on the use of alternative music software to manage an iPod or iPhone.  Earlier this year, Apple sent OdioWorks, the owners of Bluwiki,  a cease-and-desist letter supported by the Digital Millennium Copyright Act because Bluwiki users discussed a plan to develop software that could sync music or videos to iPods or iPhones.  OdioWorks  has compiled with Apple’s legal request while they work on their legal case with Apple.  It is important to note that the discussions on Bluwiki had not advanced to the point of developing a product that will bypass iTunes.   I’ll keep you posted as events change.

In the wake of the conficker threat last month Microsoft released a patch to disable the autorun feature and saved 1,000s of PCs and laptops from becoming infected. As a follow-up, Microsoft has patched the Windows 7 release candidate that will be available to the public on May 5th.   In a nutshell, an infected USB drive will not have the autorun task available.   CDs, DVDs and “smart”  USB drives with the U3 software installed will be able to use the autorun features.  Microsoft will be releasing a patch for Windows Vista and XP systems shortly, but the release of the patch could be influenced by the sales of Windows 7.

And finally, Nintendo has a new target…  Mothers.  The new DS bundle is available and tailored to the middle-aged women.  The package includes a lime green console, matching carrying case and Personal Trainer: Cooking and sells at the regular price. While it could be a good idea, its not something I would buy for the mother of my children.

Remember, that the only dumb question is the one never asked. If you have any questions or comments, I look forward to them, please email or call me.

Cheers.

Allan

RESQBug.com Technical Services and PRAD Enterprise
“Managing Your Technology for Improved Workplace Performance”

c: 416.464.1508
e: allan@resqbug.com

Download our toolbar at http://pradenterprise.LoyaltyToolbar.com
Visit us on the Web at http://www.resqbug.com

This article is for information purposes only.  It is recommended that individuals consult with an IT professional before acting on any information contained in this article. The opinions stated are those of Allan Waddington and not a reflection of any company he currently works with or has in the past.

SP2 for Vista, Windows 7 will fake Windows XP and RealDVD will copy rentals

April 28, 2009

Service pack 2 for Vista will be released officially in the later half of the 1st quarter of 2009.  This update  will have support for Bluetooth 2.1, an updated Windows search technology and the ability to natively record data to Blu-ray discs.    Office 2007 will also have a service pack 2 released around the same time.  As with all service packs, I strongly suggest that you test them on a system that won’t impact your business or personal life.

What is the number #1 Windows operating system of choice?  Windows XP      To combat this issue Windows 7 beta now has a Windows XP mode.   According to Microsoft,  this will give Windows XP users the ability to run their older applications on Windows 7 without issue.   While I can see some benefit to this approach, I can’t justify the price of upgrading  to a new operating system that will act just like the old one.

RealDVD, a product from RealNetworks, gives the consumer the ability to create copies of their DVDs and store them on a hard drive.  This ability has landed RealNetworks in court with the  Motion Pictures Association of America (MPAA).   While I see the point of the MPAA, which is RealNetworks has given the public a way to pirate DVD.  I don’t believe that was the plan of RealNetworks, as their FAQ explains the difference between pirating and making a backup copy.  I guess, we will have to wait and see what the courts have to say.

Remember, that the only dumb question is the one never asked. If you have any questions or comments, I look forward to them, please email or call me.

Cheers.

Allan

RESQBug.com Technical Services and PRAD Enterprise
“Managing Your Technology for Improved Workplace Performance”

c: 416.464.1508
e: allan@resqbug.com

Download our toolbar at http://pradenterprise.LoyaltyToolbar.com
Visit us on the Web at http://www.resqbug.com

This article is for information purposes only.  It is recommended that individuals consult with an IT professional before acting on any information contained in this article. The opinions stated are those of Allan Waddington and not a reflection of any company he currently works with or has in the past.