APC - Tagged Articles - Microsoft

Microsoft targets Windows 8 for 2012

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:59:30 GMT

Microsoft wants to stick to the three-year OS development track, with the latest roadmap showing Windows 8 due for release around 2012. Did the Mayans know something we don't?

Windows Home Server gets Power Pack 3 update next week

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:18:37 GMT

Got Windows 7 on your PCs and a Windows Home Server box sitting in the corner? Then you’ll want to grab the Power Pack 3 update as soon as it’s released next week.

Samsung details new ‘Bada’ smartphone OS

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:39:40 GMT

Do we really need another smartphone OS? Samsung thinks so... its new Bada OS will debut next month, with the first handsets and Bada app store due by min-2010.

Office 2010 beta released to public

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:35:25 GMT

Microsoft has opened the floodgates for public downloads of Office 2010 Beta 2, along with its smartphone sibling Office Mobile 2010.

Advertising coming to your Windows 7 desktop theme

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 01:12:53 GMT

Big-name companies may soon be able to place adverts on the Windows 7 desktop thanks to a marketing-friendly initiative from Microsoft

App stores a go-go at App Planet 2010

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:54:04 GMT

App stores are where it's all happening – so much so that the annual Mobile World Congress is launching the App Planet 2010 expo to claim slice of the action.

Smartphone shake-up: Windows Mobile falls behind iPhone and BlackBerry

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 17:12:42 GMT

Microsoft’s slice of the worldwide smartphone market slumps into single digits and is barely twice the share of newcomer Android, while the iPhone and BlackBerry pull well ahead.

Intel preps new home server designs for Atom

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:43:01 GMT

January could see a new wave of compact mini-servers marrying second-gen Atom chips to Windows Home Server systems.

Windows 7 NOT a Mac rip-off, says Microsoft

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 22:15:13 GMT

A lot of tech sites were reporting an admission from Microsoft that it was "inspired by" Mac OS X. That's not the case according to an actual Windows 7 designer.

Office 2010 Beta 2 leaks onto BitTorrent

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 13:29:19 GMT

Microsoft will release the public beta of its next-gen Office suite on Wednesday but it’s already landed on popular BitTorrent file sharing sites.

Office 2010 Beta 2 and Office Web Apps set for public release this week

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 12:44:15 GMT

Microsoft will release public beta editions of Office 2010 and the online Office Web Apps components this coming Wednesday.

Windows 7 hits 4% penetration rate in PC market

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 04:51:06 GMT

Windows 7 is removing the bad taste Vista left in the mouths of consumers.

IN PICTURES: Zut alors! Inside the Windows Cafe in Paris

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:30:27 GMT

In what may well be the weirdest promotional strategy ever, Microsoft has opened a Windows Café in the heart of Paris. APC takes you on a tour.

Upgrading to Windows 7? Check the compatibility site

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:43:22 GMT

If you're thinking of upgrading to Windows 7 but haven't started yet, you can check your software and hardware on a Microsoft site to see if your PC can enter Win 7th heaven

Vista: goodbye and good riddance!

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:39:02 GMT

Almost three years to the day of its debut, Windows Vista is shunted off the stage to make way for Windows 7. What won’t you miss about the much-maligned OS?

Super-thin Dell Adamo XPS breaks cover

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 13:34:20 GMT

Following a surprise appearance at last week’s Windows 7 launch, more details are revealed about the unique design of Dell’s ultra-thin Adamo XPS.

Apple makes a play for Windows 7 upgraders

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 19:50:02 GMT

Boot Camp update to deliver full Windows 7 compatibility, while new TV ads target Windows XP users as potential switchers.

Windows 7 Family Pack for Australia is a “possibility”, concedes Microsoft

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 17:32:05 GMT

Microsoft Australia’s Windows 7 chief responds to consumer anger over its decision not to offer the discount three-licence Windows 7 Family Pack available in other countries.

Microsoft: don’t trust us about Windows 7 security

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 16:30:10 GMT

Microsoft admits that its new TV advertisements about the security features of Windows 7 are potentially misleading, saying users “can get better guidance at retail or on the Web”.

DirectX 11 games break cover at Windows 7 launch

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 05:39:16 GMT

DiRT 2 and other games have been polished way beyond their console cousins as Windows gamers get ready for the next-next-gen.

Windows 7 launches, world fails to end

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 20:46:58 GMT

Somehow, civilisation makes it through the WIndows 7 launch unscathed, but there was the odd stumble along the way

Microsoft's online store now selling PCs and third party apps

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 22:01:43 GMT

Other things are afoot from Microsoft today, besides the launch of Windows 7, its US online store has had a major makeover and now offers PCs and software from other publishers

Microsoft turns to Twitter for quick Windows 7 support

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:16:31 GMT

If you're having trouble with an aspect of Windows 7 then you can turn to Twitter to get some rapid response from Microsoft techs.

Acer to launch Atom-powered Windows Home Server in Australia

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 18:36:57 GMT

Acer’s cute’n’compact Aspire easyStore AH340 Windows Home Server box gets a local launch in early 2010.

LIVE: Windows 7 launch

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 09:46:58 GMT

APC is at the Microsoft Windows 7 launch this morning -- but you can be too, with a live video feed.

HP’s Windows Home Server systems finally reach Australia

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:22:47 GMT

Just in time for tomorrow’s Windows 7 launch, HP’s third-gen Windows Home Server boxes touch down – starting with a nimble 1TB Atom system for $599.

Office 2010 gets free ad-supported ‘Starter Edition’

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:20:58 GMT

The new Office 2010 Starter Edition will be free forever, pledges Microsoft, as long as you can put up with advertisements running in cut-down versions of Word and Excel.

Office 2010 beta goes public next month

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 05:12:32 GMT

With Windows 7 crossed off the to-do list Microsoft is now gearing up for next year’s launch of Office 2010, with the first public beta available in November.

Firefox designer slams ‘pick your browser’ option in Windows 7

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 16:23:09 GMT

Microsoft’s ‘browser ballot’ for European editions of Windows 7 ranks Safari and Chrome before Firefox on the menu. Apple and Google seem happy, but not Mozilla...

Microsoft: “No Windows 7 Family Pack for Australia”

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:00:01 GMT

Windows 7 launches next week, but don’t go looking for the three-licence Family Pack edition – Microsoft has confirmed this won’t be offered to its Australian customers.

Windows 7 launch to have “minimal impact on PC growth”

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 12:21:41 GMT

Tech analyst firm Gartner predicts no mistletoe delight for Microsoft this Christmas, but forecasts a rapid take-up of Windows 7 next year.

CSIRO rakes in $200m from Wi-Fi patent

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 03:00:34 GMT

It’s payday for Australia’s peak science body, which yesterday reported a $200m boost to its coffers based on royalty payments for its work on the 802.11 wireless standard.

Big patch day for all Windows versions, including 7

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 21:45:21 GMT

Windows 7 gets its first patches and its not even officially out yet as a monster bundle of fixes and updates hit the net today.

Microsoft, HTC and Telstra to launch Windows Mobile 6.5 tomorrow

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:51:19 GMT

Microsoft is set to lift the covers off Windows Mobile 6.5 this Wednesday, with local launch partners Telstra and HTC joining in for the occasion.

Microsoft backs out of Family Guy / Windows 7 sponsorship

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 05:16:24 GMT

Jokes about on deaf people, the Holocaust, feminine hygiene and incest were “not a fit with the Windows brand.”

From today, anti-virus is free, says Microsoft

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:50:05 GMT

The free anti-malware shield for Windows XP, Vista and 7 goes live today, replacing OneCare (and Windows Defender) as a simplified and streamlined solution.

Microsoft opens ‘Windows Cafe’ in Paris

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 23:47:22 GMT

Drop in for some coffee, a croissant and free Wi-Fi, and you can get a side serve of Windows 7...

Spy shots reveal Microsoft’s ‘Project Pink’ smartphones

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:27:31 GMT

Microsoft is set to stamp its name onto a new wave of Windows Mobile smartphones aimed at the social networking set. Here’s a sneak peak at ‘Project Pink’.

Microsoft gets into the "Courier" business - secret Tablet leaked

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:39:45 GMT

U.S. Site Gizmodo has seem some sparkly pics of Microsoft's attempt to break into the tablet market - a market next in line to be Apple's next big plaything.

Microsoft releases preview edition of Office Web Apps

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:12:56 GMT

Office finally heads online as Microsoft previews the first browser-based version of its suite, to be formally known as Office Web Apps.

Netgear unveils new $399 home NAS box

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 22:11:31 GMT

The two-bay Stora takes aim at home media collections with centralised storage, backup, local sharing and remote access.

Google brings ‘push Gmail’ to iPhone and Windows Mobile

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 21:03:29 GMT

Gmail joins Calendar and Contacts as a Google Sync service with instant delivery to any mobile device that supports Exchange ActiveSync.

Is HP’s third-gen Windows Home Server box headed for Australia?

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 09:58:10 GMT

With stacks of shiny new kit prepped to launch alongside Windows 7, we might finally get to see HP’s new – and ironically, more Mac-friendly – Windows Home Server box.

AMD debuts US$99 quad-core CPU

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 09:12:38 GMT

With its US$99 Athlon II X4, AMD seeks to change the price-performance ratio for desktop PCs.

Microsoft: still no Zune for Australia

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:31:53 GMT

Almost three years after Microsoft’s iPod wanna-be hit the market, and on the eve of the third-gen Zune HD’s debut, there’s still no sign of the Zune hitting Aussie shores...

Dell unveils trio of slim ULV-based ‘Inspiron Z’ ultraportables

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:00:17 GMT

The 11.6 inch ‘Argos’ notebook is revealed as the Inspiron 11z, which joins 14 inch and 15 inch models running Intel’s ULV silicon and offering up to 11 hours battery life.

Acer announces first wave of Windows 7 touchscreen PCs

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:04:55 GMT

Beginning its roll-out of Windows 7 systems, Acer is betting on the ‘multi-touch’ UI as a key selling point for desktops and laptops alike.

Have a Windows 7 launch house party, score a free copy

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 05:52:33 GMT

If you have a weird affinity for your operating system, and are prepared to rent your soul to Microsoft, why not get your mates round to celebrate the launch of Windows 7?

Is ‘Googlism’ the new religion?

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 10:38:34 GMT

The Church Of Google suggests the super-powered search engine is a man-made God, with more evidence in favour of its divinity than for “other more traditional gods”.

Touchscreen laptops queue up for Windows 7 launch

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 21:47:25 GMT

Touch might not be such a big feature on big screen computers, but the notebook market is getting ready to tempt Windows 7 users

Windows 7 may slow PC sales

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:45:00 GMT

Vista may have been a groaning, hefty beast needing fast hardware, but Windows 7's snappy performance on older computers has the computer industry worried.

Microsoft shuts the doors on Windows 7 pirates

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 06:01:54 GMT

Last week we reported on Windows 7 being pirated in the wild. This week, Microsoft and Lenovo are trying to repair the damage, locking out pirates.

Microsoft shows off first Windows 7 hardware

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 03:25:01 GMT

Even we find it hard to get excited about a mouse and keyboard set but, hey, this one has the "Compatible with Windows 7" logo on it.

Microsoft fires Windows Embedded straight at Chrome OS

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 21:16:01 GMT

The pint-sized ‘Windows Embedded’ OS is set to join its desktop and smartphone cousins in Microsoft’s war against ‘little Linux’ distros such as Android and Mobilin.

Windows 7 Touch demo shows no soul

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 07:22:23 GMT

A recent video of Windows 7 in action on a touch notebook shows a desperate lack of innovation from Microsoft -- is there any hope?

Windows 7 “made for multicore”

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 14:42:25 GMT

Intel and Microsoft work together to fine-tune Windows 7 so it can take advantage of multicore and multithreading processors.

Telstra lands ‘BlackBerry wanna-be’ HTC Snap

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 17:40:55 GMT

HTC’s Snap boasts familiar Berry-esque design and features but starts at $100/month when paired with Telstra’s push email service.

New Seagate NAS boxes kick off at $1,400 for 2TB

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 18:52:20 GMT

The aptly-named BlackArmour systems have landed on the local market, with the four-bay boxes offering 2TB through 6TB of off-the-shelf storage.

Corel seeks to woo netbook fans

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 17:14:54 GMT

More than Works but less than Microsoft Office, Corel’s new Home Office suite is being pitched at netbook users and comes with the installer on a USB key.

First Look: HP’s Mini 5101 ‘business class’ netbook

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 15:22:43 GMT

HP amps up the netbook recipe with a larger keyboard, bigger (and faster) hard drive and optional SSD, high-res HD display and inbuilt 3G modem.

Samsung preps Android smartphone for Aussie launch

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 23:45:12 GMT

Next month sees Samsung roll out its full line of touchscreen ‘Icon’ mobiles, among them the Android-powered Galaxy Icon.

OffiSync makes Microsoft Office and Google Docs play nice

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 22:25:23 GMT

Free plug-in for Microsoft Office goes beyond file syncing between your hard drive and the Google Docs cloud, with tricks like support for collaboration and Google Image Search.

No more Money for Microsoft

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 18:03:53 GMT

Microsoft has pulled the plug on its Money personal finance program, adding yet another title to Redmond’s software deadpool.

Windows 7 free-for-all till 2010

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 21:32:20 GMT

There's no rush to buy Windows 7, it seems -- Microsoft says the release candidate will keep working through till 2010.

Windows 7 gaming: will it hit the spot?

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 19:16:50 GMT

Gamers fled Windows Vista in droves thanks to at-launch performance and driver issues. Has Windows 7 fixed the problem?

Windows 7 product activation cracked already

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 20:40:13 GMT

In what promises to be a very long-running battle, crackers have already found a way around the product activation in Windows 7

Windows 7 is ready to roll as code gets RTM sign-off

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:46:17 GMT

Microsoft overnight blessed the latest build of Windows 7 for ‘release to manufacture’, reaching a milestone in its efforts to push the memory of Vista far behind.

Sony Ericsson’s ‘Rachel’ set to join Android friends

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 18:12:24 GMT

It’s codenamed Rachel but we’ll see this Android-powered smartphone debut as the Xperia X3 and sporting a custom Sony Ericsson UI.

Intel's second-gen solid-state drives: faster, cheaper and ready for Windows 7

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 14:23:41 GMT

New SSDs still top out at 160GB but the move to a 34nm process halves the cost while doubling write performance. Yeah, we can live with that...

Countdown: Windows 7 to RTM in the next two weeks

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:57:36 GMT

Microsoft outlines the timetable for when developers, PC builders and businesses will get the final code for Windows 7, with August 6th as the last possible date for RTM.

Microsoft confirms Windows 7 Family Pack

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:12:54 GMT

While staying mum on pricing, Microsoft has revealed that a ‘family pack’ edition of Windows 7 will allow Home Premium to be installed on three PCs.

Windows Home Server gets ready for Windows 7

Sat, 18 Jul 2009 14:47:13 GMT

The newly-released ‘Power Pack 3’ beta for Windows Home Server adds support for Windows 7 libraries and other features of the forthcoming OS, as well as better backup for netbooks.

Finally, Bill's take on Google's OS

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 04:03:45 GMT

"It just shows the word browser has become a truly meaningless word"

Windows 7 will just work: Microsoft

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 07:42:31 GMT

Microsoft has promised the compatibility nightmares when Vista came out won't be repeated with Windows 7.

Microsoft to open retail stores this year

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 10:26:12 GMT

The first Microsoft store will open in time for the Windows 7 launch this October – with some located “right next door to Apple stores”, the company promises.

Will Gazelle gazump Google OS?

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 05:31:50 GMT

Microsoft's plans for domination of the netbook market face a growing challenge from Google's pipsqueak OS

Microsoft to offer Office Web apps for free

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 08:38:06 GMT

Microsoft borrows a page from Google’s playbook with free and paid-for versions of its Office Web apps online suite, but also offers DIY hosting on your own server.

Will Windows 7 be a hit or a miss?

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 19:41:23 GMT

Two new reports contain starkly contrasting forecasts for Windows 7. They can’t both be right...

Microsoft set to release Windows 7 this month

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:07:59 GMT

With Windows 7 set to be finalised this week, business customers will get the fresh-baked OS by the end of this month – almost three months before its public debut.

HP releases $500 Linux netbook onto Aussie market

Sat, 11 Jul 2009 13:18:42 GMT

The budget-priced Mini 110 makes its Aussie debut this week with HP’s Ubuntu-based ‘Mi’ edition and a 16GB solid state drive for $499. Want Windows XP? That’ll be another $200...

Windows 7 - don't believe the type

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 08:43:03 GMT

ClearType has long been a feature of Windows and evolved over the various OSes since Millennium -- find out what has changed in the Windows 7 version.

Is Windows 7 in the Family Way?

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 05:56:45 GMT

Some "casually" left text in a post-release candidate beta of Windows 7 suggest a family pack is on the way.

Windows 7 not looking hot to the IT crowd

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:26:52 GMT

While the consumer market seems keen on jumping on the Windows 7 bandwagon, the people with the big money are sticking to XP

Beta the devil you know: Windows 7 needs a patch

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 07:22:08 GMT

Windows 7 RC users may have tracked down the missing Movie Maker, but a quick update is needed to keep using it.

Looks like Windows 7 will shift a few copies

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 07:14:54 GMT

Looking around online stores, Windows 7 is rocketing to the top of the sales charts as users pre-order their copies while its going cheap

You know where you can stick your Windows 7?

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 07:49:28 GMT

DVDs are so last century and downloads, well we don't all have great broadband, so how can Microsoft get Windows 7 to the netbooking masses? Could a cute little stick do the trick?

Windows 7 is free, well kind of

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 03:21:25 GMT

Windows 7 pricing details are out and its a mix of the good, bad and indifferent for the world's Windows-using PC owners

Windows 7: now easier to open!

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 09:23:57 GMT

Microsoft has added another bullet point its brag list of Great Things in Windows 7 – the redesigned box containing the OS can be opened without needing an instruction sheet!

Microsoft releases free beta of Security Essentials software

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:52:37 GMT

Now in public beta phase, Microsoft Security Essentials will not only replace the OneCare security suite but also deep-six Windows Defender.

Windows 7 gets a new look

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 22:36:28 GMT

The latest leaks of Windows 7 pre-release code show a new desktop background. While unlikely to be the final version, its always good to look at something different

Test your PC for its Windows 7-handling skills

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 05:36:20 GMT

If you've sat out the Windows 7 testing bun-fight, you can now check your system to see how it will cope with the demands of Windows 7 with Microsoft's Upgrade Advisor.

Windows 7 pricing, the haggling begins

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 08:09:23 GMT

At every level of retail, the knives are out as customers look for their pound of flesh from Microsoft in the new era of OS pricing

Windows 7 won't come with web browser in Europe

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 05:44:50 GMT

Due to the constant badgering, massive fines and threatening noises coming out the European Union, no browser will be installed when the new OS launches in October.

Windows 7 takes a final leak

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 07:08:28 GMT

For the last time, until Windows 8 comes along, we bring news about a new leaked version of the Windows 7 code.

Google releases Apps Sync for Outlook

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:52:33 GMT

Like Google Apps for your email, calendar and contacts but prefer to run Microsoft Outlook as your desktop client? Now you have have your cloud computing cake and eat it too...

Microsoft preps public beta of free ‘Morro’ security software for Windows 7

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:19:20 GMT

Free software will protect against malware such as viruses, spyware, rootkits and trojans, but won’t be bundled with the OS.

Windows 7 won't save the hardware market

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:02:16 GMT

After the Windows Vista "dear partners - everyone will rush out and buy your new PCs" debacle. Microsoft is taking a more reserved stance on the impact Windows 7 will have.

Dell axes its Mini 12 netbook, preps 'thin and light' Mini 11 ULV?

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:22:11 GMT

The super-sized netbook has disappeared from several Dell sites around the world. Is the rumoured Mini 11 ‘thin and light’ ULV notebook waiting in the wings?

Microsoft blames economic crash on search engines. WTF?!

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 09:07:26 GMT

Microsoft has launched its first ad in a $100 million campaign for its newly rebranded search engine, Bing.

Apple mauls Microsoft with ‘Snow Leopard’ OS X upgrade pricing

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 07:01:22 GMT

Stepping up to Apple’s OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard will cost you half as much as Microsoft will charge for Windows 7 Home Premium, and you get you a full-featured OS too...

Selling Windows 7, this could do it!

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 15:35:44 GMT

Windows 7 needs something to spark the imagination of the buying public to help it shift... perhaps this for instance.

HOW TO: skin Windows 7 and share with your friends

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 22:18:34 GMT

Windows 7 looks pretty smart and comes with some great looking themes, but they'll last five minutes when you see what can be created by modding fans, friends or yourself.

Intel’s second-gen Atom “not validated” for Windows 7 Home Premium or higher

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 15:26:39 GMT

Windows 7 Home Premium is not “the right solution” for netbooks, says Intel, so its forthcoming Pineview processors will be tested only for Windows 7 Starter and Home Basic.

Microsoft says “Goodbye netbook, hello LCSN-PC”

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:20:16 GMT

“Low cost small notebook PC” is Microsoft’s laughable new tag for what everyone else calls netbooks. Whatever they’re smoking, keep it away from us.

It's official: Windows 7 to launch October 22nd

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 13:59:11 GMT

Microsoft has confirmed a late October lift-off for Windows 7, confirming the date leaked last month by a loose-lipped Acer executive.

Microsoft hardware to get Windows 7 exclusive features

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 23:30:34 GMT

What would be the point of a new OS if you couldn't flog all-new versions of your old hardware with some new bells and whistles?

Dell axes the Mini 9 netbook, the Mini 12 soon to follow?

Sat, 30 May 2009 17:06:53 GMT

It seems that Dell is dropping its first-gen Mini 9 netbook from the line-up, with the Mini 12 also for the chop due to Microsoft’s netbook restrictions for Windows 7...

Windows 7 Starter drops three-app limit

Sat, 30 May 2009 12:18:41 GMT

Microsoft confirms that the ‘netbook edition’ of Windows 7 will now be able to run more than three apps simultaneously, although other limits remain in place.

Windows 7 "Touch" Pack Revealed

Thu, 28 May 2009 05:13:03 GMT

Windows 7's big - but so far invisible - feature is Touch, lovingly demonstrated in all those Apple adverts. Now Microsoft is starting to ramp up the hype for the tactile OS.

Zune goes HD, kind of. Becomes TV player, sort of.

Thu, 28 May 2009 08:15:58 GMT

MIcrosoft says Zune goes international this Autumn, but the new HD player will only be available in the U.S. What is going on and does anyone care?

HP refreshes netbook line with new Mini 110 and 1101

Wed, 27 May 2009 21:30:02 GMT

Two new models based on the popular Mini 1000 see the return of the VGA port and bigger hard drives, plus optional HD graphics and 3G.

Microsoft releases Vista Service Pack 2 for download

Wed, 27 May 2009 01:30:35 GMT

Vista SP2 has gone live to the masses, but if you’ve used vLite to streamline Vista you could be facing a total reinstall of the OS from scratch.

Microsoft to launch new Aussie search engine at Bing.com.au

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:06:03 GMT

Microsoft’s all-new ‘Kumo’ search engine, which replaces Live Search, will be branded as Bing and launched in Australia this week at bing.com.au

Microsoft's Windows 7 sales pitch revealed

Tue, 26 May 2009 05:54:14 GMT

The code is nearly finished, the date is set, all Microsoft needs is to arm its sales shocktroops with a killer, secret, PowerPoint presentation, this one for instance.

Acer releases cute’n’compact Windows Home Server

Mon, 25 May 2009 23:28:43 GMT

The Atom-powered four-drive system looks set to be the second major WHS system that we can’t get here. Surprise, surprise...

Windows 7 spin kicks in as Beta 1 shuts down

Mon, 25 May 2009 21:53:01 GMT

A leaked PowerPoint deck reveals part of Microsoft’s marketing playbook as it gears up for Windows 7. Plus: Beta 1 installs will go into ‘two-hour shutdown mode’ from this Monday.

Free upgrades from Vista to Windows 7 begin June 26th

Tue, 26 May 2009 00:01:47 GMT

From next month Microsoft will offer a free copy of Windows 7 to buyers of new PCs running Vista, and in some cases XP.

No 3-app limit for netbooks; Windows 7 pricing imminent?

Sat, 23 May 2009 17:01:05 GMT

While the official mouthpiece remains firmly closed, around the edges of the Windows ecosystem, it seems things are changing on the Windows 7 front.

Microsoft revises ‘netbook’ hardware spec for Windows 7

Sat, 23 May 2009 19:14:04 GMT

Netbooks eligible to for the low-cost Windows 7 Starter edition can’t exceed a 10.2 inch screen or 1GB of RAM, although larger drives and faster processors are allowed.

Samsung’s four-way netbook play

Thu, 21 May 2009 23:34:00 GMT

The Korean powerhouse returns to the Australian PC market with a bang, unleashing four netbooks including a 12.1 inch mini-note and a 3G model.

Acer's slim Timeline ULV notebooks are dressed (and priced) to impress

Wed, 20 May 2009 23:22:58 GMT

Less than an inch thick, boasting an eight hour battery life and starting at $1,299, the Aspire Timeline series is the slim shape of ultra-portable notebooks to come..

Dell launches $700 Ubuntu Linux netbook onto Australian market

Tue, 19 May 2009 21:03:04 GMT

Dell’s innovative new Latitude 2100 netbook is the company’s first Aussie PC with Linux factory-installed – and while it’s intended for school students, anyone can buy it...

Microsoft moves Windows Mobile My Phone online backup service into open beta

Tue, 19 May 2009 11:15:42 GMT

The cloud-based My Phone service stores text messages, contacts, photos and video clips from Windows Mobile phones on the Web.

Windows 7 to be “more expensive” than Vista, XP

Tue, 19 May 2009 00:21:05 GMT

Dell has seen Microsoft’s price list for Windows 7 and the PC manufacturer isn’t happy, warning that over-pricing will cruel consumer demand for OS upgrades and new PCs.

Office 2010 ‘technical preview’ beta leaks onto BitTorrent

Mon, 18 May 2009 13:16:19 GMT

Microsoft hasn’t officially opened its preview program for Office 2010 but the beta test build has already hit the Web via BitTorrent...

First Look: Toshiba NB200 netbook

Mon, 18 May 2009 11:55:23 GMT

We get hands-on with all three models in Toshiba’s second-gen NB200 netbook family, which go on sale next week starting at $699 after cashback rebate.

Gmail makes it easier to switch from Hotmail and Yahoo

Sun, 17 May 2009 18:40:37 GMT

New Gmail accounts gain an Import option to smooth the transition from competing Webmail services. Also now available: managing tasks in Calendar and Google searching inside Gmail.

Dell uses Via Nano netbook chip to create modular ‘mini-servers’

Sun, 17 May 2009 16:53:10 GMT

Nimble low-power processors like Nano and Intel’s Atom continue to find a niche outside the netbook market.

Google's Chrome 2.0 browser to support plug-in extensions

Sat, 16 May 2009 14:22:51 GMT

The latest beta release of Google’s open source Web browser introduces support for third-party extensions.

Google closes the gap on Microsoft Exchange

Thu, 14 May 2009 23:48:19 GMT

With a new Apps Connector software to push Gmail, Google Calendar and Contacts direct to a BlackBerry Google takes another step towards becoming a complete alternative to Exchange.

Microsoft opens ‘technical preview’ beta program for Office 2010

Thu, 14 May 2009 15:36:24 GMT

Want to get your hands on the next-gen Office suite? Microsoft is now accepting public registrations for its invitation-only preview of Office 2010.

Windows 7 and Mac OS X 10.6 ‘Snow Leopard’ set for a showdown

Thu, 14 May 2009 01:57:25 GMT

Things are looking surprisingly neck-and-neck as Apple and Microsoft race towards the OS finish line, but it might not even matter who gets there first...

Apple to release Mac OS X 10.6 ‘Snow Leopard’ preview next month

Thu, 14 May 2009 01:26:48 GMT

Attendees at next month’s Worldwide Developers Conference will receive a ‘developer preview’ build of Apple’s next-gen OS on June 8. Watch for it on BitTorrent on June 9.

Samsung brings its netbooks to Australia

Wed, 13 May 2009 23:06:59 GMT

Enthusiasts may no longer need to privately import Samsung netbooks once the Korean colossus begins local sales of its 10.1 inch and 12.1 inch models.

New Windows 7 logo revealed?

Wed, 13 May 2009 11:53:52 GMT

Leaked box shots and a closed Microsoft-only FaceBook group reveal what appears to be the new look of Windows 7.

Internet Explorer to drop below 50% browser share by 2011?

Wed, 13 May 2009 00:10:25 GMT

Steady uptake of Firefox, Safari and Chrome sees Microsoft’s browser slip to 66% of share – and the slide will continue until it tumbles below 50%, says one analyst.

Microsoft ditches ‘Windows Genuine Advantage’ in Windows 7

Tue, 12 May 2009 23:24:47 GMT

But you can put away that celebratory bottle of bubbly... the widely criticised anti-piracy system is just having its name changed to Windows Activation.

Give XP a fast and free Windows 7 make-over

Tue, 12 May 2009 22:48:54 GMT

The Windows 7 Transformation Pack gives XP a top-to-tail interfacelift with a fresh yet familiar result...

Windows 7 to skip RC2, go straight to RTM in August

Tue, 12 May 2009 22:16:01 GMT

Microsoft will skip a second Release Candidate for Windows 7 as it steams towards an RTM date in August ahead of an October launch.

Microsoft fires blanks at Windows 7 users

Mon, 11 May 2009 15:54:50 GMT

Today sees a fire-drill test of the Microsoft Windows Update system for Windows 7 RC users: there will be downloads but Windows Update will actually be firing blanks.

Windows 7 flaws start to show

Fri, 08 May 2009 07:52:06 GMT

Tossed like a clay target into the air, everyone is now taking potshots at the Windows 7 Release Candidate

Microsoft releases Vista Service Pack 2

Fri, 08 May 2009 01:42:58 GMT

This week isn’t all about Windows 7. Microsoft has released Vista SP2 to the members-only MSDN network. Next stop: public release (if it's not on BitTorrent beforehand).

Windows 7 chokes interweb tubes

Thu, 07 May 2009 16:22:10 GMT

The release of the Windows 7 Release Candidate saw a huge spike in Aussie IP traffic, showing that the mass interest in Windows 7 is not just MS hot air.

First Windows 7 RC feature gets pulled

Wed, 06 May 2009 17:00:02 GMT

The Windows 7 release candidate has been live for just 24 hours, but Microsoft has already pulled one feature amidst fears it could make the new OS unsuitable for netbooks.

Windows 7 Release Candidate, get it here

Tue, 05 May 2009 15:24:59 GMT

The public release of the final Windows 7 test version is here for the world to try, will you be tempted?

Will you swing on Microsoft's Vine?

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 19:12:59 GMT

Banish those dirty thoughts! It's a new Twitter-competitor from Microsoft.

Four small but cool features of Windows 7

Wed, 06 May 2009 09:20:32 GMT

Besides the big-ticket features in Windows 7 Release Candidate there are plenty of small but welcome touches that makes real sense in everyday use.

Microsoft to offer XP upgrades to Windows 7, kinda sorta...

Tue, 05 May 2009 20:48:47 GMT

Users of XP will quality for a free or low-cost upgrade to Windows 7, but they won’t be able to install 7 without first nuking XP from their hard drive.

Got Windows 7? Get to know these new keyboard shortcuts!

Wed, 06 May 2009 01:19:38 GMT

Microsoft has added a dozen handy hotkeys and keystroke combos to Windows 7.

Nvidia releases GeForce drivers for Windows 7 RC1

Sun, 03 May 2009 16:01:24 GMT

Just in time for this week’s downloadfest, Nvidia has posted updated Windows 7 Release Candidate drivers for its GeForce graphics cards.

Beyond Windows 7: Geneva, Hawaii and Dublin

Sat, 02 May 2009 21:10:25 GMT

Microsoft may have dumped Vienna as the codename for Windows 7 but there’s still plenty of virtual globetrotting in Redmond’s beta labs.

Windows 7 Release Candidate blocks upgrade from pre-RC builds

Mon, 04 May 2009 11:30:34 GMT

Microsoft has rigged the new Windows 7 Release Candidate to prevent upgrades on top of the pre-RC Beta 1 build, but there’s a work-around to save you from doing the Vista shuffle.

Inside Windows 7’s virtual ‘XP Mode’

Sun, 03 May 2009 18:53:03 GMT

Microsoft won’t be bundling its virtualised XP Mode with this week’s Windows 7 Release Candidate, but here’s how to get it and what you need to know...

Windows 7 to launch October 23rd?

Sun, 03 May 2009 00:46:51 GMT

A senior exec from Acer leaks the launch date for Windows 7 as being October 23rd...

Download Windows 7 RC and keep it for a year, free

Sat, 02 May 2009 23:09:06 GMT

Microsoft will let users run the fresh-baked Windows 7 Release Candidate for a full year – through to June 2010, to be precise!

Microsoft releases Office 2007 Service Pack 2

Sat, 02 May 2009 22:20:36 GMT

A faster and more stable Outlook, better charting in Excel plus inbuilt support for OpenDoc ODF file formats are all part of Microsoft’s Office 2007 refit.

XP to remain on netbooks for one year after Windows 7 launches

Sat, 02 May 2009 20:29:01 GMT

Netbook manufacturers will be allowed to continue licensing and loading Windows XP until the end of 2010 – 12 months after Windows 7 arrives.

Windows 7 RC is out, but downloads are in the slow lane

Fri, 01 May 2009 06:29:51 GMT

MIcrosoft seems to be winning the hearts and minds battle for Windows, as the release of the official Release Candidate sees download times of weeks quoted for MSDN users

Microsoft Australia aims blowtorch at Apple

Fri, 01 May 2009 12:23:15 GMT

Microsoft is no longer shy about openly attacking Apple: it says PCs are cheaper and has the stats to prove it.

Smart Installer Pack: download Windows apps automatically

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 22:04:04 GMT

Just bought a new PC? What... you're dreading downloading and installing all your favorite software?

Are you compatible with Windows 7?

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 20:06:57 GMT

Actually, we mean your applications, but it does help if you're compatible too. If Windows 7 launches in October, a mutual understanding of Librans will be a plus.

No plans for ‘7Lite’ reveals vLite creator

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 16:08:41 GMT

The author of the popular nLite and vLite programs for trimming Windows XP and Vista down to size says he currently has no plans to release a similar tool for Windows 7.

Microsoft dumps Auto Play due to Conficker

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:48:33 GMT

The Conficker virus has prompted a rethink in Redmond, and Auto Play in Windows will be largely disabled in Windows 7 as a result.

Windows 7 to include ‘Virtual XP’ for 100% XP compatibility

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 15:54:31 GMT

Premium editions of Windows 7 will include an ‘XP mode’ for running the aged OS or individual apps directly from a Virtual PC session.

Next-gen netbooks to run best under Windows 7

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 15:02:12 GMT

Netbooks with Intel’s Atom GN40 graphics, solid state drives and 2GB of RAM will be the big winners under Windows 7.

Windows 7 Release Candidate leaked to BitTorrent

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 11:31:24 GMT

Ahead of this week’s expected debut for the Windows 7 ‘release candidate’, it seems that the RC1 edition – labelled Build 7100 – has already hit the BitTorrent network

How about a snack of Windows 7?

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 07:56:38 GMT

Microsoft is making learning your way around Windows 7 easy with some bite-size Silverlight videos using a natty snack player

Toshiba preps second-gen NB200 netbook

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 14:21:54 GMT

While Asus and Dell continue to roll out netbooks ad nauseam, late-comer Toshiba looks to make up lost ground with the much-improved NB200.

CSIRO could scoop billions from Wi-Fi patent

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 12:54:33 GMT

A 15-year old CSIRO patent on wireless LAN technology could rake in billions of dollars in ongoing loyalties from the likes of Microsoft, Intel, Dell, HP, Toshiba and even Nintendo

Lenovo preps touchscreen ThinkPads for Windows 7

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 21:33:52 GMT

New ThinkPads will support Windows 7 multi-touch gestures and allow users to add their own customised gestures to the OS.

What would you add to Windows 8?

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 08:00:11 GMT

With Windows 7 not even have hit the streets yet, but Microsoft is looking for new blood to lead the development of Windows 8, do you fit the bill?

Microsoft names Windows 7 RC release date

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 16:33:41 GMT

Microsoft is monkeying around with its various websites again, suggesting the release date of the final-ish version of Windows 7 is close.

Around the world with Windows 7 wallpapers

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 05:43:23 GMT

Install the beta of Windows 7 for different countries and you now get a cool set of individual wallpapers -- so who's got the best scenery?

Microsoft now focused on "real world" Windows 7 install testing

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 07:11:10 GMT

Future upgrades to the release candidate version of Windows 7 are going to get more complicated as Microsoft looks for real-world feedback.

Microsoft to offer XP downgrades from Windows 7

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 09:38:40 GMT

Microsoft to offer downgrades from Windows 7 to Vista or even XP, will they stop at nothing to keep users in the Microsoft fold?

Microsoft gears up for ‘technical preview’ beta of Office 2010

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 17:01:55 GMT

The next-gen Office suite won’t arrive until the first half of next year, but a ‘technical preview’ beta will be widely available this September.

Microsoft's five big revelations

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 21:03:44 GMT

When one of Microsoft's head honchos speaks, its usually well worth a listen. Kevin Turner, Microsoft's Chief Operating Officer lists five epiphanies the company has had.

Don't get hopeful about Windows 7 on your work PC

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 16:45:25 GMT

Despite the love-in for Windows 7's stability and compatibility, businesses are still cool on taking the plunge of upgrading from XP.

Experts to Microsoft: set your Windows patches free!

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 02:10:15 GMT

There’s a growing call for Microsoft to drop its Windows Genuine Activation process so that every Windows user can keep their PC completely up to date.

Office 14 becomes Office 2010

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:53:57 GMT

While Windows 7 gallops confidently towards the pre-Christmas finish line, it’ll be next year before we see the next-gen Office suite.

Acer debuts Nvidia ‘Ion’ platform with new mini desktop

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:15:27 GMT

Take an Intel Atom processor, pump up the graphics with an Nvidia GPU and you’ve got the new Ion platform for mini desktops and maybe even netbooks.

Microsoft mulls Office for iPhone?

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:42:37 GMT

Microsoft is playing coy on its plans to bring Office to the iPhone, but it’s about to be beaten to the punch by an independent iPhone app due this month...

Linux may lose Windows file system

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 02:41:08 GMT

Linux may lose a key Windows file system after a patent lawsuit from Microsoft.

Further Windows 7 features revealed

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 08:12:07 GMT

More information emerges from Microsoft about compatibility issues and features of the forthcoming Windows 7, in the form of answers to user's questions.

Microsoft launches Windows 7 developer blog

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 05:19:31 GMT

Last week Microsoft added a new blog to its army of sites offering Windows 7 information, this one is aimed at those developing software for the OS.

Surprises in store for Windows 7 launch

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 02:20:06 GMT

Microsoft still has some tricks up its sleeves to add a little jazz to the launch of its latest OS

Asus and HP netbooks to run Google Android?

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 03:14:23 GMT

Asus and HP are both looking into Google’s Android as an alternative to Windows 7 for a new wave of netbooks.

Latest Windows 7 leak shows off version features

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 05:25:26 GMT

A new build of Windows 7 leaked over the weekend, allow eager users to see the latest features as the OS approaches Release Candidate status

"I'm not cool enough to be a Mac person": Microsoft ad

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 14:58:43 GMT

Microsoft has turned the tables on Apple, featuring people in ads who are "not cool enough to be a Mac person".

Windows 7 RC in May, touchscreen details revealed

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 22:28:42 GMT

While the mouse isn't an endangered species, yet - It looks like touch is could be the future of user interaction, if the Windows engineers get their way.

What you'll get in each version of Windows 7

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 01:09:16 GMT

If you are planning on picking up a copy of Windows 7, a glance at the feature tick list for the different versions will show which is the right edition for you.

Hands on with Windows 7: Jump Lists

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:15:25 GMT

A new feature in Windows 7 lets you make Windows jump to your command.

TomTom gets muscle in patent spat with Microsoft

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 02:54:32 GMT

When Microsoft sued TomTom for patent violations in its Linux-based navigators, it probably didn't figure what would happen next.

Windows 7 proving to be hot for gamers

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 18:16:37 GMT

Despite all the console hype, it seems PC gaming is doing just fine, thank you and Windows 7 looks to bring gamers up to date, while hardware upgrades may go the way of the dodo.

Microsoft releases Power Pack 2 update for Windows Home Server

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 23:48:21 GMT

The souped-up server OS now streams content to Windows Media Centres and Extenders, streamlines Remote Access and squashes the ‘81% backup freeze’ gremlin.

CAMPAIGN: Death to Internet Explorer 6

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 15:25:26 GMT

Web developers and online services lead a campaign to stamp out IE6 from the face of the planet.

Windows 7 makes changes to searching

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 10:41:00 GMT

Federated search is a common term in big business, with its billions of items of data, but now it comes to the personal desktop, courtesy of Windows 7

Features quietly go M.I.A. from Windows 7

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 07:26:56 GMT

While much of the focus is about what's new in Windows 7, its worth taking a look to see what has vanished from previous editions.

IE8 launched by Microsoft

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 09:06:01 GMT

Microsoft has finally delivered the browser that its fans have been anticipating, hopefully.

Which browser do you want to use today?

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 22:05:30 GMT

With IE8 released and Google Chrome battling against Firefox and a host of niche browsers, what will you install on your Windows 7 desktop?

Linux use booming in global recession

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 03:27:42 GMT

Businesses are turning to Linux en masse as they face massive budget cuts driven by the economic crisis, according to a new report.

Hands-on with Windows 7: Properties

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 10:10:53 GMT

In our first look at Windows 7, we took a peek at the main desktop changes. Now, we see what the Properties feature has to offer.

AMD updates Catalyst drivers for Windows 7

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 20:01:31 GMT

Been holding off trying out Windows 7 because you're worried about games performance from your ATI/AMD GPU? You can now breathe easy.

Microsoft launching Windows 7 RC in May

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:53:19 GMT

Microsoft looks likely to have a final release candidate of Windows 7 within months, and a gold release this year.

Netbooks hurting Apple sales

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:41:06 GMT

Apple is on a trajectory to slow and painful decline if it doesn't meet consumer demand for netbooks.

SPEED BOOST: Latest Windows 7 beta is faster

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:35:18 GMT

Something felt odd having installed the latest Windows 7 beta; it took a while - but it soon clicked that the performance has gone up a notch.

New Firefox 3.1 beta released: final to be Firefox 3.5

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 03:15:44 GMT

Hold on to your seats Firefox fans. The new Firefox packs a superfast Javascript engine, better private browsing, and it's getting closer to release.

Microsoft: IE faster than Chrome or Firefox, nyah nyah

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 08:02:16 GMT

Via its own research Microsoft has determined that its Internet Explorer 8 browser (expected to launch next week) is faster than both Google’s Chrome 1.0 and Firefox 3.0.

Student sues airline for $1,000,000 over lost Xbox 360

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 06:23:24 GMT

The passengers aboard the flight which landed in the Hudson River were compensated $5,000 each for their damages, one individual feels his Xbox is worth more.

Leaked Windows 7 Release Candidate sports artistic touches

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 19:24:30 GMT

The leaked Windows 7 build 7057 is tagged "Release Candidate", suggesting that Microsoft is working furiously towards that early release. Interesting new touches in this build.

Microsoft to drop Internet Explorer for Gazelle?

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 09:22:20 GMT

The concept of Microsoft dropping Internet Explorer like a bad habit is next to thrilling.

Interesting Windows 7 nuggets emerge from Microsoft

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:16:07 GMT

A dig around in some of Microsoft's technical forums has uncovered some interesting facts about additional Windows 7 features and tweaks that will make user's lives easier.

Windows 7 beta analysed and improved

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 06:50:26 GMT

Within days of the latest Windows 7 beta being released it has been skeletonized by a hungry pack of testers to find out what's new and improved in the rush to final code.

Yes, you can debloat Windows 7 with Microsoft's blessing

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:38:29 GMT

Microsoft has confirmed that if you want to choose all your own apps, you'll be able to uninstall nearly everything from Windows 7.

Netbooks could be Microsoft's revenue hope for Windows 7

Sat, 07 Mar 2009 01:20:10 GMT

With netbooks being the only kind of system making any sales headway, Microsoft will be going all out to generate revenue with Windows 7.

Win 7 to be sexier-than-Vista for business

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 07:59:51 GMT

Much of the talk about Windows 7 has been about features for home users. However, since much of Microsoft's money comes from millions of business upgrades, what's in it for them?

Microsoft pinching the pennies: no Blu-ray in Win 7

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 14:43:26 GMT

Windows 7 won't be able to play Blu-ray movies without third-party software support.

Vista Service Pack 2 RC out to test

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 09:16:36 GMT

After our recent flood of Windows 7 news, it is easy to forget that a lot of Vista users are still grinding away, in need of help! The latest service pack offers some assistance.

Windows 7 should get an iTunes-like app store

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 01:15:37 GMT

If Microsoft can open bricks and mortar stores, why not build one in to every copy of Windows 7?

Is Windows 7 beta better than Vista?

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 00:27:22 GMT

Some reader comments on our Windows 7 articles suggest that the OS is not as big a boost as Microsoft would have us believe. We took to Twitter to see what other people think.

Bill Gates bans iPods, iPhone at home

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 12:30:23 GMT

Microsoft supremo Bill Gates' kids have to put up with Zune and Windows Mobile, his wife has revealed.

2,000 Windows 7 bugs squashed, says Microsoft

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 08:29:00 GMT

NEWS ROUNDUP | A newly leaked beta of Win 7, new drivers from NVIDIA that offer more grunt under 7, and the 2,000 bugs that Microsoft reckons it has squashed thanks to beta testers

Hands-on with Windows 7: the desktop

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 23:43:25 GMT

The latest beta build of Windows 7 includes improvements that Microsoft is making over Vista. We've take a user's look at what's on offer on the desktop.

How to dual-boot Vista with Linux (with Linux installed first) -- the step-by-step guide with screenshots

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 04:22:56 GMT

So you want to install Linux and Vista on the same drive? This UPDATED dual booting tutorial shows you how to do it even if Vista SP1 scorches your bootloader.

Microsoft's vision of tech in 10 years time

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 00:27:21 GMT

Wonder what tech will be like in 10 years' time? Microsoft has produced a handy video to show you how.

Microsoft and Nokia launch mobile app stores

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 23:10:20 GMT

Two of the biggest mobile phone players join the app store stampede, with Windows Mobile and Nokia phones to get over-the-air software shops by mid-year.

Microsoft "My Phone" put to the test: does it work?

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 11:39:51 GMT

Microsoft's recently-announced My Phone service offers cloud storage and synchronization services to Windows Mobile users. But what's it actually like to use?

Sol's stolen phone wiped remotely

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 11:30:33 GMT

The pickpocket that scored Sol Trujillo's prototype Windows Mobile 6.5 phone will be very unhappy. Very unhappy indeed.

Telstra CEO's prototype mobile phone stolen

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:47:38 GMT

Telstra's CEO has been left red-faced after a pickpocket stole a prototype mobile phone with unreleased Windows Mobile 6.5 Software at 3GSM Barcelona.

Stuff the iPhone: Telstra to launch its own App Store

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 06:35:33 GMT

Telstra is working on an Apple-style app store for mobile phones. The icon even looks like Apple's one.

MobileMe begone: Google Sync comes to iPhone, Nokia, Windows Mobile

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 08:49:58 GMT

Google Sync now supports iPhone, Windows Mobile and other devices that support SyncML.

Microsoft paints Windows 7 versions as simpler than Vista

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 18:32:17 GMT

Microsoft will focus on selling just two versions of Windows 7 to customers, but don't be deceived -- four other versions are still lurking in the shadows to confuse you.

Will Windows Mobile 6.5 measure up to iPhone?

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 21:36:15 GMT

Redmond’s oft-criticised smartphone OS gets a make-over before Windows 7 arrives, while Microsoft is also set to announce a Windows Mobile app store and Mobile Me-style service.

How to dual boot Windows Vista and Windows 7 (Vista installed first)

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:06:37 GMT

Got your hands on the Windows 7 beta and want to dual boot it alongside Windows Vista? Here's our step-by-step tutorial to get you up and running with Microsoft's latest OS.

Windows 7 a dud for sight-impaired people

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 11:01:11 GMT

According to an analyst, Microsoft has done a slipshod job of making Windows 7 usable for vision impaired people.

Yes, he can: Obama to keep his beloved BlackBerry

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 15:27:20 GMT

The President-elect gets to hang onto his favourite gadget, although he’ll also have to carry a chunky second super-secure mobile for “government” use.

Highest-res mobile phone screen in HTC Touch HD

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 22:30:29 GMT

HTC’s Touch HD smartphone has a huge, lush high-res screen -- twice the resolution of the iPhone 3G's.

How to dual boot Windows XP and Windows 7 (XP installed first)

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 21:11:40 GMT

Got your hands on the Windows 7 beta and want to dual boot it alongside Windows XP? Here's our step-by-step tutorial to get you up and running with Microsoft's latest OS.

Apple ditches Macworld in favour of CES 2010?

Sun, 11 Jan 2009 21:00:39 GMT

Days after Apple's last appearance at Macworld, reports say the company will headline at next year’s Consumer Electronics Show – perhaps with Steve Jobs presenting the keynote...

Take Windows 7 for a free test drive Saturday!

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 22:53:55 GMT

Here's how to get the official Beta 1 of Windows 7, free of charge and legally!

Windows 7 public beta is all yours, says Ballmer

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 00:58:26 GMT

Like a proud parent seeing his kid off into the big wide world, Steve Ballmer has handed over the keys to the Windows 7 beta to the world. (Or will in a few days).

Rock Band beats iTunes to selling The Beatles online

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 00:45:56 GMT

It may not be inextricably linked to every iPod in the world, but the Rock Band console game has beaten Apple to the punch in selling Beatles music online.

Windows 7 Beta 1 busts loose onto BitTorrent!

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 21:14:04 GMT

Ahead of an expected preview at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas next week, the fresh-baked beta edition of Windows 7 has already broken cover and hit the Web.

How to virtualize XP on Mac OS X

Wed, 24 Dec 2008 00:13:44 GMT

How to run Windows XP inside Mac OS X free of charge, without paying for Parallels or VMware. Our step-by-step tutorial has all the answers!

How to virtualize Vista on Mac OS X

Wed, 24 Dec 2008 00:06:24 GMT

How to run Windows Vista inside Mac OS X, without paying for VMware or Parallels. Our step-by-step tutorial will give you all the information you need!

How to virtualize Ubuntu on XP

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 20:47:39 GMT

Virtualize Ubuntu on top of Windows XP without spending a cent, with our step-by-step tutorial.

How to virtualize Vista on Ubuntu

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 20:56:19 GMT

Want to get Vista up and running on your Ubuntu system? Find out how with our step-by-step tutorial.

How to virtualize Vista on XP

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 21:16:30 GMT

Want to check out Vista without migrating off XP? Virtualization is the key and our step-by-step tutorial is the answer.

How to virtualize XP on Ubuntu

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 21:27:36 GMT

Need to get Windows XP up and running on Ubuntu? Our step-by-step tutorial covers all you need to know.

How to virtualize XP on Vista

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 21:35:09 GMT

Need to keep XP running on your Vista system? Virtualization is the key and our step-by-step tutorial will get you there.

HTC Touch Pro: bigger, faster and more buttons

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 08:27:00 GMT

It's not as supermodel-sexy as the Touch Diamond, but the Pro makes up for its thicker waist with a full QWERTY keyboard, faster performance, and beefier battery.

Microsoft Live Mesh comes to the Mac

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 13:54:09 GMT

Live Mesh, Microsoft's file sync technology has come to the Mac, but you'll need to be running the latest version of 10.5, and be comfortable using a Windows UI to use it.

ARGH: Here comes Windows Home Server 2.0 "basic" and "premium"

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 19:44:51 GMT

While work continues on a mid-2009 ‘Power Pack 2’ update, Microsoft mulls splitting the next release of its Windows Home Server OS into separate editions

Microsoft names the date for IE8

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 11:41:59 GMT

A release candidate for Microsoft's browser is due in early 2009, which suggests that Windows 7 could also hit the decks by the end of the year.

Microsoft to release free security software

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:53:18 GMT

Anti-trust ruling would prevent it from building virus protection into Windows, so Microsoft is doing the next best thing: giving away its security software for free.

Windows 7 to launch in 56 fruity flavours?

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 15:22:34 GMT

Mid-2009 is tipped as Windows 7's release date, but the big question is: will Microsoft abandon, or expand, its strategy of making umpteen versions of the same OS?

Blue Badge hack opens up hidden Windows 7 features

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 13:55:52 GMT

Features baked into the first public Windows 7 build but hidden from most users can now be unlocked using a simple download.

Grammar check optional for Microsoft boss Steve Ballmer

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 11:25:39 GMT

Hey, it looks I'm trying to write a letter that's going to come out later in a lawsuit. Should I use some grammar in that?

WORLD FIRST review of Inspiron Mini 12: Dell’s super-slim netbook!

Sun, 26 Oct 2008 21:42:25 GMT

Handed to us by Michael Dell himself, APC has the world’s first Inspiron Mini 12 netbook, so sit back and enjoy as we serve up the spy shots and dig deep into the tech.

15 reasons Macs are still better than Windows PCs

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 21:47:33 GMT

With Windows 7 coming up, it's time to yet again ponder on whether Microsoft has the upper hand in operating systems. Here's 15 reasons it doesn't.

Windows 7 Device Stage could cut crapware bloat

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 13:04:45 GMT

Microsoft is promising its new "Device Stage" will help you connect hardware without having to install vendor rubbish software.

How does Windows 7 improve performance?

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 18:05:24 GMT

"We believe we can get below 1% idle CPU utilisation with Windows 7." What technical tricks is Microsoft using to try and get the next release of Windows to those levels?

USB in Windows 7: More reliable but no 3.0 speed boost

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 15:19:18 GMT

Microsoft will combat driver installation woes in Windows with a much tougher approval regime -- and it's looking increasingly likely USB 3.0 won't be supported in Windows 7.

Can Windows 7 overcome Vista driver woes?

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 13:55:02 GMT

Microsoft has revealed some staggering figures showing how often driver installations fail in Vista. Ouch.

Microsoft demos amazing 3D multitouch tech

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:52:50 GMT

Microsoft Surface was just the beginning, it seems. Microsoft has demoed an amazing, 3D multitouch technology which allows interaction to happen "beyond the screen".

Windows 7 gets SSD-friendly

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:20:36 GMT

Microsoft wants Windows 7 to run better on solid state drives in notebooks and netbooks, but draws the line at adopting a new SSD interface designed to replace ATA.

Microsoft: c'mon bro, your first taste is free...

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 16:05:36 GMT

Love or loathe Microsoft, you've gotta admit they're persistent and willing to try anything to get people hooked.

Microsoft: Windows 7 torrents are a fact of life

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 11:35:06 GMT

Microsoft has stopped just a millimetre short of giving royal consent for users to download pirated copies of Windows 7 that have hit the trackers.

Windows 7 hits torrent sites

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:20:17 GMT

You don’t have to wait until next year to try Windows 7 – Microsoft’s successor to Vista is on the Net right now and ready for you to illegally download!

Microsoft begs hardware makers: don't screw Windows 7 like Vista

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 08:09:57 GMT

Microsoft confirms Windows 7 public beta and begs hardware companies to take driver support seriously this time.

Windows 7 surprise: DivX built in

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 08:37:11 GMT

No more trawling the web for the latest media codecs. Windows 7 comes ready to play all your favourite "downloaded" videos.

Dell: many users will skip Vista, “go straight from XP to Windows 7”

Sun, 02 Nov 2008 23:29:33 GMT

Michael Dell says he’s working closely with Microsoft on Windows 7 and likes the way the OS is shaping up, but can understand why many people will skip Vista entirely.

OOPS: Microsoft forgot to register Windows 7 domains

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:30:30 GMT

Enthusiasts have snapped up a variety of Windows 7 domain names from under the nose of Redmond (and North Ryde).

Microsoft’s Google Apps killer – Office 14 with web apps

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 14:52:20 GMT

Microsoft has unveiled its next-generation Office. Version 14 will have web-based versions too, in a clear move to tackle Google Docs.

REAL SCREENSHOTS: inside Windows 7

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 23:02:52 GMT

We've got one of the first copies of Windows 7 in the world -- and the screenshots and juicy tech details to prove it.

Dell's 12 inch Vista netbook will cost $999

Sun, 26 Oct 2008 20:58:32 GMT

The Inspiron Mini 12 packs a big screen (and Windows Vista) into a thin and light chassis, but Dell says the upcoming 3G broadband card is why Linux remains missing from the menu.

Windows 7 to get ‘instant on’ mode?

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 21:08:17 GMT

Microsoft is considering giving Windows users near-instant access to Web browsing, VoIP, video IM chat and multimedia playback without waiting for the entire OS to load.

Microsoft dumps dinky Windows names: it's Windows 7

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:44:17 GMT

Microsoft hopes 7 will be its lucky number as it sidesteps convention for the Vista follow-up by adopting its codename and version number as the real deal.

Coming soon: Firefox for Windows Mobile

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 10:06:58 GMT

Mozilla to the rescue! A mobile version of Firefox is in the works that'll bring desktop-class browsing to Windows Mobile

Hotmail's many ways of closing your mail account

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 08:23:45 GMT

What do you do when you try to open your Windows Live Hotmail account – as you have every day for several years – and find it's been deleted, along with all emails and contacts?

Four times the return rate for Linux netbooks compared to XP

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 14:26:20 GMT

As MSI sees Linux netbooks returned four times more often than Windows models, Microsoft loosens its licensing restrictions on XP for netbook makers.

Microsoft extends Windows XP to mid-2009

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 23:53:59 GMT

Continued popularity of XP over Vista sees Microsoft give the never-say-die OS an unprecedented third stay of execution – this time to July 31 next year.

Microsoft's Phone Data Manager - not quite cloud computing

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 17:13:19 GMT

Want to sync your phone's contacts with the cloud? Sure, Microsoft says, just let us stick a Windows PC in the middle.

Windows 7 promises fixes for Vista taskbar screw-ups

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 10:12:28 GMT

Microsoft has promised that Windows 7 will fix two minor but highly annoying features of Vista: the near-invisible 'shut down' menu and the overcrowded taskbar.

Windows 7 won't break ties with Vista, goes public in November

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 19:15:24 GMT

Microsoft's plans for Windows 7 remain ambitious, with 100% backward compatibility for Vista applications one of the features it hopes to have ready for public display in November.

Microsoft rolls out new "BluRay" mice, keyboards, particle colliders

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 10:35:00 GMT

Alright, the last one is a lie and technically the new mice are blue beam, not BluRay, but Microsoft Hardware's new devices are interesting nonetheless.

Microsoft's new Seinfeld ad: one word - WTF?

Sat, 06 Sep 2008 15:41:44 GMT

Microsoft provides proof that even $300 million and Jerry Seinfeld can't revive the fortunes of the sickened Vista OS.

Microsoft debuts Live Mesh for mobiles

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 12:09:48 GMT

Microsoft has demonstrated a version of its Live Mesh synchronisation platform for mobile devices, due out at the end of the year.

15 second boot times in Windows 7: Microsoft

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 15:19:27 GMT

Microsoft wants to dramatically improve boot times in Windows 7 after admitting that Vista has failed to meet its goal of providing high-speed booting for the majority of PCs.

Microsoft releases IE8 beta 2: MS porn mode included

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 11:42:57 GMT

The second beta of Internet Explorer 8 looks a lot better than the first one — but frankly, a lot of that is due to features copied from Firefox 3.

Microsoft releases faster Desktop Search 4.0

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 10:15:32 GMT

If you've wondered how exactly Vista's sluggish desktop search saves you time, you might be pleasantly surprised by the updated version.

Microsoft goes into Speed Launch mode

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:00:24 GMT

No, we're not talking about the launch of Windows 7, unfortunately. Speed Launch is a cool, free app launcher from Microsoft.

Windows 7 nearly ready for public debut

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 05:29:27 GMT

With Vista roundly declared a dog in the marktplace, Microsoft is gearing up to reveal the next-gen Windows and has started the countdown towards a Beta 1 release.

Michael Dell: "I'd be glad to take on Steve Ballmer any time"

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 07:49:13 GMT

Dell is getting into the operating system business, and Michael Dell is unashamed about taking on one his biggest suppliers, Microsoft.

XP still killing Vista in sales volume: HP

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 14:42:07 GMT

Business PC buyers are still overwhelmingly opting for XP, computer giant HP has revealed.

Intel set to unleash dual-core Atom

Sun, 27 Jul 2008 23:27:25 GMT

The pint-sized processor shifts to a dual-core design intended for mini-notes and a new breed of desktops

DirectX 11 announced: too much too soon?

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 19:28:32 GMT

Considering that the vast majority of users still run DirectX 9, is Microsoft making a Vista-sized mistake with its latest multimedia API?

NICE: Microsoft's Live Mesh syncs files between all your PCs over the net

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 11:59:51 GMT

Microsoft's foray into cloud computing, centralised online storage and remote system access is now open to the hordes of the great unwashed. A public beta, in other words.

Microsoft hobbles XP mini-notes with 1GB RAM limit

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:07:35 GMT

Redmond’s new XP mini-note licence dictates a 1GB memory limit to protect the high-profit position of Vista-powered notebooks

Microsoft Office 14 set to go online

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 22:43:52 GMT

Microsoft is readying the first beta of its next Office suite – and web versions of Word, Excel and PowerPoint could be on the cards.

The curtain finally closes on Windows 3.11

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 19:34:25 GMT

Were you using computers in 1993? If yes, read on. If no, go suck on an Alcopop or something.

Silent Xbox 360 on the way

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:52:41 GMT

E3 | Microsoft has unveiled a new look Xbox360 GUI, but this was drowned out by the silence of a solution to the 360's audio woes.

HOW TO: slipstream Vista SP1 into your Vista install DVD

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 15:48:41 GMT

You can't use the old trusty method of slipstreaming service packs into your Windows install CD with Vista. But we've figured out how to do it anyway.

Pirated Windows more impressive than the real thing

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 21:21:54 GMT

The latest version of TinyXP has hit the pirate boards. SP3-integrated and with more tools than you can poke a stick at, it gives XP a new lease on life. Shame it's illegal.

Read Bill Gates' scathing email about "unusable" Windows

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 08:05:47 GMT

The Ex-MS supremo found Windows "unusable". But which version?

Google Android phones delayed, but HTC promises “this year”

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 10:50:40 GMT

Despite delays in the release of Google's Android mobile OS, Taiwanese manufacturer HTC says it is still on track to have its first handsets in the market before Christmas.

Microsoft eats humble pie over XP

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 21:23:12 GMT

Microsoft announces Windows XP support to be extended to 13 years. Vista cries.

NSW Government chooses Gmail over MS Exchange

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 11:02:40 GMT

The NSW Department of Education makes a bold move and chooses Gmail over Exchange for 1.5 million students.

Microsoft to open stylish "MS Store" a la Apple Store

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 08:39:28 GMT

Glass staircase replaced by Glass Ballmer, giving you the opportunity to stamp on Steve's... oh never mind.

Google developers packing on the lard

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:36:23 GMT

IN PICS | Last year, we revealed that Google developers were a lot skinnier than the fatties that waddle round Microsoft conferences. But at this year, we were shocked...

ASUS backs down on anti-Linux pricing

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 11:08:52 GMT

Asus has quietly ditched its ludicrous policy of charging $50 more for the Linux-based Eee PC 901 than the XP one.

Microsoft solves data corruption issues in Windows Home Server

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 15:10:13 GMT

Rejoice ye enthusiasts of Windows Home Server! The long-awaited Power Pack 1 has just been released to public beta, and it fixes the nasty bug related to data corruption.

Windows XP SP3 causing buggy home routers to crash

Sat, 07 Jun 2008 13:14:20 GMT

Been having problems with your broadband router rebooting unexpectedly? Windows XP SP3 could be the cause -- but isn't actually to blame.

How to dual boot Windows XP and Linux (XP installed first) -- the step-by-step guide with screenshots

Wed, 16 May 2007 06:01:48 GMT

How to dual-boot Windows XP and Linux, on a system where you have already installed XP. Easy step-by-step tutorial that doesn't assume prior knowledge of Linux.

Windows 7 to get multi-touch, OS X-style Dock

Thu, 29 May 2008 18:16:37 GMT

Bill Gates reveals new touchscreen UI planned for Windows 7.

Microsoft starts the whispers on Windows 7

Wed, 28 May 2008 01:01:51 GMT

Gates, Ballmer and Sinofksy begin sharing the barest details on Windows 7, now due in January 2010.

Microsoft opens Office to OpenDoc

Fri, 23 May 2008 15:25:44 GMT

Two years after its launch, Office 2007 will finally get native support for the XML-based Open Document Format as well as PDF output.

Ballmer realises Hungarian student wasn't saying 'egg hunt' to him

Thu, 22 May 2008 20:51:53 GMT

Bluescreen | What a week. Microsoft's CEO got egged, Vista gave users a bum steer, and Google, well it just wants to know about your bum.

Worldwide Telescope lets you view the ether from your desk

Fri, 16 May 2008 08:56:42 GMT

If you ever considered getting a telescope to star gaze, Microsoft Research has just come up with a way that lets you view the night sky like never before.

Microsoft admits some PCs won't be offered Vista SP1

Tue, 20 May 2008 21:10:47 GMT

Microsoft has admitted that some users may not get Vista SP1 offered to them through Windows Update. Why? Read on...

Microsoft to re-release "every OS" to market

Thu, 15 May 2008 14:01:32 GMT

Ambitious scheme to further extend Windows OS lifespan. Every Windows OS lifespan, in fact.

Windows-based EeePC cheaper than Linux one

Wed, 07 May 2008 17:18:50 GMT

Is ASUS in bed with Microsoft? The new XP-based EeePC 900 will actually be cheaper than the Linux-based version.

Mac OS X still trails Vista by a long way

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 15:45:14 GMT

The Apple fanboy community is rejoicing at news that sales for Macs have grown 51% in the last quarter, but still nowhere near catching up to Microsoft's dismal failure, Vista.

Is SP3 really the end of the road for XP?

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 12:19:58 GMT

With the final major service pack for Windows XP being released, Microsoft is hoping people will start focusing on Vista, but Dell, Asus and others still see a large market for XP.

HOW TO: get Windows XP running well on the Eee PC

Sun, 13 Apr 2008 22:58:04 GMT

So you know someone who's bought one of the new Eee PCs running Windows XP? Take pity on them and make a few of these changes to make it run better.

Finally, a real Outlook alternative?

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:47:11 GMT

Microsoft's release of protocol documentation for Exchange brings the possibility of a true alternative to Outlook for businesses using Linux and Macs one step closer.

Windows Mobile 6.1 gets new look interface

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 14:20:56 GMT

Microsoft’s updated mobile OS sports a smarter home screen, zoomable IE mini-browser with YouTube support and threaded ‘chat mode’ for SMS.

Microsoft plans all-new Windows 7 UI

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 10:11:32 GMT

Vista's successor will sport a radically revised XML-based interface with elements of Office 2007's ribbon, as Microsoft literally rewrites the rule book on the Windows UI

HOW TO: Sync Outlook with Google Calendar

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 17:59:11 GMT

Have you ever wished that syncing your home calendar to your work calendar and vice-versa was easy? Now you can with free Google Calendar Sync.

Dual-PSUs?

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 16:31:49 GMT

The P190 from Antec is a monster case. Measuring in at 515 x 205 x 593mm, finding a spot to put it might be a challenge.

Small in size yet lots of air

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:24:57 GMT

This is the gamer’s chassis from Antec, and it includes some nifty ideas.

Microsoft's interoperability illusion

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:16:50 GMT

Microsoft is promising a new world of interoperability with its software, with support for industry standards and open file formats. Have these two men turned a new leaf?

Microsoft pulls Vista SP1 prerequisite update: reboot loops, data corruption

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 02:26:47 GMT

Amidst accusations that a prerequisite patch for Vista SP1 has caused machines to fail and data loss, Microsoft is playing it safe and has pulled the package from Windows Update.

Copy files 86% faster with Vista SP1

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 19:35:53 GMT

Is Vista SP1 really the shot in the arm your Vista system needs? We spent hours strapped to our benchmarking system, and uncovered some very interesting data...

Microsoft battles Vista perception issues with $15,000 prize

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 03:11:02 GMT

Are you ready to feel like a dirty marketing pawn for Microsoft?

Microsoft buys maker of Sidekick and Hiptop smartphones

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 21:26:54 GMT

Is Redmond gearing up for a serious assault on the consumer smartphone market? You bet - its acquisition of Danger Inc confirms it.

Vista SP1 available for download now

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 12:46:11 GMT

Officially, the long awaited Vista SP1 won't be available to consumers until March. But here's a little secret: you can download it anyway from Microsoft's own web servers.

HOW TO: Run Windows Update from a CD (sort of!)

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 02:25:49 GMT

Ever stared in horror at the number of updates a brand-new XP installation needs to bring it up to date? What if you had all those updates on a handy CD?

Pirates release Server 2008 and Vista SP1

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 23:13:48 GMT

Arrrrr maties....it be no more than an hour two after ye olde RTM announcement, that Server 2008 hit the scurvy pirate boards, with Vista SP1 not far astern. Avast!

Microsoft to slash price of "Surface" to consumer levels

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 04:22:13 GMT

You watched with envy as Tom Cruise used those large touch screens in Minority Report. Now the technology could be heading for your home faster than you think.

Windows Server 2008 goes gold

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 23:55:36 GMT

It's a busy time for the boys and girls of Redmond, with Windows Server 2008's release to manufacturing (RTM). So, what's inside?

Microsoft replaces Vista kernel in SP1

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 12:20:50 GMT

So what happened to the fabled kernel upgrade which was supposed to be a fundamental feature of Windows Vista SP1? Well, turns out that it is there, with some rather interesting twists...

Microsoft announces Vista SP1 RTM

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 04:37:11 GMT

The long-anticipated Service Pack 1 for Windows Vista has been released to manufacturing (RTM) so we should be seeing it hitting our machines in the not-too-distant future. But will SP1 overcome the negative perceptions which have plagued Vista since its release? Microsoft certainly hope it will.

"Your software must crash": Microsoft

Sat, 02 Feb 2008 06:45:13 GMT

Software can only be certified for Windows Vista by Microsoft if it will crash, according to anti-spyware manufacturer Spybot.

Vista successor, Windows 7 to be released next year?

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 07:00:20 GMT

You won't have to wait as long for the next version of Windows as previously imagined, with Microsoft bringing forward the expected release of the successor to Vista, Windows 7.

Microsoft forces IE7 onto business customers

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 00:22:29 GMT

Been avoiding deploying IE7 in your business environment? Well, if you're a WSUS user, Microsoft is about to force you into compliance.

Microsoft announces Power Pack 1 for Windows Home Server

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 00:20:21 GMT

Microsoft has announced a major update for Windows Home Server - Power Pack 1 - which comes loaded with lots of new features and enhancements.

MACBU INTERVIEW: Office 2008 for Mac fails to deliver full Exchange support

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 02:05:03 GMT

Microsoft's marketing machine has spun up for today's official Macworld Expo launch of Office 2008, but little has been said about Entourage's support for Exchange. Having put the questions direct to the MacBU team, now we know why...

Vista SP1 refresh made public

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 11:16:46 GMT

A refresh build of Vista SP1 beta was released recently to a private testing group, but now it's available to everyone. Read on to find out what's new.

Vista SP1 needs new hardware

Sun, 13 Jan 2008 13:53:16 GMT

Vista Service Pack 1 comes with an important update for gamers - DirectX 10.1. The catch? You need brand new hardware to support it, and NVIDIA enthusiasts are left totally out in the cold.

First Look: Office 2008 for Mac

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 02:20:30 GMT

The biggest software release of '08 is Microsoft Office 2008 for Mac, and it's hitting the streets this month. Read on to find out all you need to know about the new package.

IE8 passes the acid test

Sun, 30 Dec 2007 01:59:11 GMT

Microsoft has recently announced that the latest build of Internet Explorer 8 has passed the Acid2 web standards test. However there are, as always, some ifs, buts and maybes - read on to find out what the future holds for IE8.

Intel admits defeat, loses its joie de Viiv

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 07:16:22 GMT

Intel's lacklustre bid to control the HTPC market has floundered, with Viiv finally falling from grace. We took a buzzsaw to the corpse before it even had time to cool, and let me tell you, it wasn't pretty.

Waiting for Vista

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 05:40:19 GMT

Many businesses wait for a major service pack before deploying a new operating system, but with Vista there's an even more compelling reason to hold off before taking the plunge.

XP SP3 beta available to all, but is it a secret strategy to boost Vista?

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 23:33:22 GMT

All Microsoft wants for Christmas is your download limit. The long-awaited first service pack for Vista -- a whole freakin' gigabyte of it -- is due to arrive early next year, but patch junkies can give themselves an early injection of bug-fixing with a general pre-release of Service Pack 3 for Windows XP.

How to dual boot Vista and XP (with Vista installed first) -- the step-by-step guide with screenshots

Tue, 29 May 2007 05:28:23 GMT

UPDATED | Got a Vista PC and want to install XP so you can dual-boot between them? Here's how to do it, in an easy, step-by-step format.

Inside Windows 7 -- what we know so far

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 06:00:44 GMT

As Vista celebrates its first birthday, the countdown clock slowly ticks away on Windows 7. We join the dots on the very earliest signs of what Microsoft hopes will be Windows' lucky number.

Windows Server 2008 RC1 available for download

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 02:05:41 GMT

if you're interested in the server side of Windows, Server 2008 RC1 is now available for download by the general public.

Microsoft releases Vista SP1 RC

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 12:14:36 GMT

Hanging out for the dot one release of Vista? The release candidate of Vista SP1 will be available for public download within days.

Microsoft moves against software pirates

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 10:55:41 GMT

Updates to Windows Genuine Advantage shipping with Vista SP1 look set to leave software pirates in the lurch. Has Microsoft finally won the war on piracy?

Beat those bluescreen blues: what a Windows bluescreen actually means

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 11:55:57 GMT

The Windows Blue Screen of Death is hated and maligned, but it's really just trying to help. Read on to find out what it's trying to tell you.

What is Microsoft Centro?

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 09:41:31 GMT

Microsoft has announced its new product for midsize businesses -- Windows Essential Business Server. Uninspiring name perhaps, but it's a suite of products guaranteed to make any overworked admin drool.

Just how thick is Microsoft?

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 11:39:27 GMT

Just how thick is Microsoft? Everywhere you go, there are advertisements for how unstable Windows is. They're big. And blue. And deathly.

Windows Mobile gets an interface-lift

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 03:10:05 GMT

After years of championing the consistent look of the Windows Mobile UI, Microsoft is now working with mobile carriers and smartphone makers to craft fresh and funky interfaces.

WINDOWS SLOWDOWN: Microsoft forces install of Windows Desktop Search

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 04:13:05 GMT

Has your PC suddenly started running slowly for no obvious reason? You can thank Microsoft for that.

Microsoft takes a razor to XP

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 06:28:59 GMT

First it was 'MinWin' microkernel inside Windows 7; now Redmond is working on a cut-down, lighterweight version of XP. Vista? Well there's not a lot of talk about that.

OEM - when licensing meets quantum theory

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 03:17:35 GMT

OEM licensing can be a difficult beast, especially when it's time to upgrade. An APC reader enlisted our help to find out just how many hoops he'd have to jump through to get the latest version of Office.

SUPERGUIDE: The Open Source Challenge. How to replace Windows completely with Ubuntu.

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:44:18 GMT

Ashton Mills is going cold turkey and dumping Windows for Linux altogether. Will he sink or swim? Can you really install Linux and open source software in place of Windows, and want for nothing? This is the authoritative how-to guide.

Microsoft agrees: Windows is a "really large bloated operating system"

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 06:03:22 GMT

Yes, they really did say that! The reason? Redmond is finally sending Windows to Jenny Craig, and will build the next generation of Windows around a stripped-back 'microkernel' named MinWin with a 25MB footprint.

Microsoft to allow serial-number free install of XP. PLUS: what's in XP SP 3

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 04:54:21 GMT

After four years in the making, Windows XP Service Pack 3 is almost ready for release. We've taken an in-depth look at it -- and one aspect of it jumps out as being particularly interesting.

Microsoft turns to pirated Windows users to boost IE7 market share

Fri, 05 Oct 2007 02:16:06 GMT

Internet Explorer 7 is now available to all users of Windows. Yeah, yeah, OK, even the pirate ones. It's a bit like DRM-free music. Sorta.

Can IE's architect explain why it's so bloated?

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 00:59:08 GMT

Microsoft's platform architect for Internet Explorer, Chris Wilson, admits Microsoft has done both good and bad things in IE over the last 14 years.

Microsoft releases second-gen Zune: lame or not?

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 07:40:45 GMT

Microsoft has unveiled its second-gen iPod killer, creatively called Zune 2. Lame or not? You be the judge.

Vista: The 'wow' starts ... later

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 04:41:35 GMT

Despite Microsoft's best efforts to promote its Vista operating system, the company is bowing to customer pressure and offering free downgrades to XP (as well as extending XP's retail shelf life.)

Office 2008 for Mac due January 31st

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Microsoft has detailed release plans for the various editions of Office 2008 for Mac, including a nearly-free upgrade for some users.

Is Google 'Presentations' a Powerpoint killer?

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 06:24:29 GMT

Google Docs has just taken the next step toward world domination with its online apps package getting a Powerpoint-style package called Presentations.

Microsoft adopts DivX for latest media players

Sun, 16 Sep 2007 21:54:43 GMT

The software giant is not going to give up until it owns your lounge room -- and it's embracing new formats to do it.

Microsoft launches $59 Office 2007 worldwide

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 04:53:40 GMT

Microsoft has slashed the price it charges students for Office 2007, reducing it to $59 worldwide, following a trial in Australia that saw strong takeup of cut-price Office.

INTERVIEW: Craig Mundie -- Microsoft's technology chief, taking over from Bill Gates

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 15:03:25 GMT

INTERVIEW |Bill Gates is set to leave the building in July '08. His replacement, Craig Mundie, has given this rare interview to APC, talking about his plans for the future of Microsoft.

INTERVIEW: Craig Mundie -- Microsoft's technology chief, taking over from Bill Gates next year (page 2)

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 15:01:16 GMT

INTERVIEW - PAGE 2 |Microsoft's Craig Mundie on what's coming in future versions of Windows.

INTERVIEW: Craig Mundie -- Microsoft's technology chief, taking over from Bill Gates next year (page 3)

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 15:01:12 GMT

INTERVIEW - PAGE 3 |Craig Mundie's thoughts on the rise of desktop Linux in the PC industry.

Microsoft's idea of Web 2.0: revolution or meaningless hype?

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 23:29:47 GMT

What is Web 2.0? Internet revolution or cliched gimmick? Microsoft web architect, Michael Platt, thinks that it's mostly smoke, but there's a fire burning there somewhere...

Microsoft Silverlight - a visual feast

Fri, 31 Aug 2007 04:53:41 GMT

Microsoft's vision for future web interactivity will revolve heavily around Silverlight - a new development platform that's accessible on Macs and PCs alike.

Microsoft announces Vista SP1 Beta

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 11:00:57 GMT

This week Microsoft announced what we already knew - Vista SP1 Beta is imminent, and the improvements are many.

Microsoft: the authentic smell of failure

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 05:45:06 GMT

What is the Microsoft WindowsGenuine Advantage, exactly? Over the past weekend, some owners of legitimate copies of Windows had their copies of Windows invalidated by Microsoft, while users of pirated copies were unaffected.

Tafiti showcases latest Microsoft technologies

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 04:39:01 GMT

If you think Google is too quick and easy to use, the new Microsoft Tafiti search engine (means research in Swahili) is for you.

In-depth: inside Windows XP SP3

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 22:50:28 GMT

Boy those leaks just keep on coming - first Vista SP1 and now XP SP3. Check out our in-depth assessment of the next major update for Windows XP.

LEAKED: Vista SP1 analysed in-depth

Sat, 11 Aug 2007 13:13:14 GMT

EXCLUSIVE |We've gone under the hood of the leaked beta of Vista SP1 to find out exactly what it will do for you. One thing we can say right now:huge performance increase.

IIS 7.0 - the Web Server Of the Future

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 12:59:03 GMT

IIS 7.0 is just around the corner and looks poised to radically redefine the web server space. Does it mean the end of Apache as the enterprise web server of choice? I interviewed two Microsoft IIS product managers and got the low-down on why IIS 7.0 is going to kick Apache into last century.

Microsoft virtualisation: free, as in beer

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 02:41:40 GMT

TECH.ED |Why should you care about Microsoft virtualisation, when VMware has already perfected the software in the space? Well, for a start, the Microsoft stuff is free...!

We've got the lowdown on Microsoft SoftGrid

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 02:14:28 GMT

TECH.ED |If you run a Windows network, you really need to read this: the nitty gritty of SoftGrid. We've spoken to Microsoft Australia's Windows technology expert, John Pritchard.

Microsoft: we let you down with XP

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 13:47:06 GMT

TECH.ED |Microsoft finally admits it. Windows XP was not apice de rsistancewhen it came to security.

Too much security can be overbearing: Microsoft

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 12:03:14 GMT

TECH.ED |Don't overdo security: that's the message from a Microsoft security strategist, who says endless security measures can actually get in the way of getting work done.

Microsoft jacks into the Softgrid

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 07:25:07 GMT

TECH.ED |Look ma, no virtualisation window: Microsoft showed a cool new virtualisation technology for desktop PCs today.

Tech.Ed - scenes from the floor

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 02:52:25 GMT

TECH.ED |Camera in hand, I'm wandering the halls of IT geekdom... yes, there are booth babes. Even at Microsoft conferences.

Microsoft Tech.Ed 2007 Opens

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 01:35:56 GMT

TECH.ED |80s rap, hacked legs and penguins being squashed flat. Microsoft's Australian developer conference, Tech.Ed 2007 on the Gold Coast, is now open for schmoozing.

The walls have ears, the phones have eyes: new Microsoft video phone follows you

Mon, 06 Aug 2007 06:07:57 GMT

No matter where you sit in the room, this new phone from Microsoft will swivel round and follow you.

New user interface for ‘Windows 7'?

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 02:29:05 GMT

Microsoft has named the date for the next version of Windows, and the woman behind the Office 2007 interface is in charge of an all bets are off UI refresh for Windows too.

End of the PC era? Don't make me laugh.

Thu, 12 Jul 2007 09:55:40 GMT

Mac users just don't get it. Microsoft is an innovation powerhouse and its decline is a fantastical pipe dream.

Why the era of the PC is not over

Tue, 10 Jul 2007 04:21:53 GMT

So last week, Danny Gorog arguedwhy the PC is dead. Here's my comeback: why a couple of successful products from Apple don't spell the end for the PC.

How to dual-boot Vista with XP (with XP installed first) - step-by-step guide with screenshots

Tue, 29 May 2007 02:33:21 GMT

Want to install Vista on your PC but don't want to get rid of XP just yet? Here's how to install it so you can dual-boot between them, in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide.

HOW TO: create a bootable XP SP3 CD

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 03:00:19 GMT

With XP SP 3 now released, here's how to slipstream the service pack into your existing install CD. The big benefit? Serial number-free reinstalls of XP.

The Windows we never got: users get to work programming "Longhorn Reloaded"

Tue, 29 May 2007 09:04:02 GMT

Was the beta better? The team behind the radical 'Longhorn Reloaded' OS think so, casting the release version of Vista aside in order to rebuild Longhorn from its original 2004 codebase. Yes, WinFS is in there.

"Vista passed Mac OS X in 15 weeks": Gates

Tue, 15 May 2007 23:48:29 GMT

While everyone's been focused on driver problems and annoying security prompts, Windows Vista's installed base has taken just 15 weeks to race past that of Apple, according to chairman Bill Gates.

Only 15,000 people buy Office 2007 for $75

Wed, 09 May 2007 00:38:17 GMT

A mere 15,000 people have taken up Microsoft Australia's offer to get Office Ultimate 2007 for just $75, possibly disproving the argument that if Microsoft dropped the price of software, people who might otherwise pirate it would buy it.

HOW TO: inject drivers into Microsoft's free OS, Windows PE 2.0

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 10:08:09 GMT

Did you know there's a super-stripped-down version of Windows available for free download from Microsoft? Windows PE 2.0 is great for system recovery and imaging tasks, but it comes with rather a small set of drivers. Here's how to upgrade it with more drivers of your own.

Dell to expand Linux PC range following overwhelming feedback

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 07:19:48 GMT

Dell is planning to expand its range of PCs with Linux pre-installed, in a move that's likely to set the open source community ablaze with excitement whilst potentially putting Microsoft chief Steve Ballmer into an apoplectic rage.

Microsoft fights Gmail in the workplace

Thu, 21 Dec 2006 03:28:00 GMT

Resist the temptation to dump your skimpy work Outlook mailbox for Gmail -- Microsoft is promising multi-gig mailboxes in Exchange 2007.

Lots missing in Vista's Media Center

Wed, 22 Nov 2006 04:58:14 GMT

Vista has gone gold, technically, but I'd describe the Media Centre features as being a particular shade of brown. Here's are the top 5 features you won't be getting.

HOW TO: Install Nero 7 on Vista

Wed, 04 Oct 2006 01:03:12 GMT

With Vista lacking decent optical burning abilities, it's in dire need of a third-party application. Unfortunately, if Nero is your app of choice, it refuses to run. Until now...

MythTV vs Windows Media Centre: is Linux still in with a chance?

Fri, 15 Sep 2006 05:31:24 GMT

When it comes to media center software, can the Linux solutions hold up against Windows XP Media Center and the looming Vista Home Premium with MCE built-in?

Unlock work internet or risk losing staff: Microsoft

Wed, 23 Aug 2006 05:29:16 GMT

TECH.ED 2006 |People don't want to work for employers who limit their internet access at work, a senior Microsoft exec said today at the opening of the software giant's annual developer conference, Tech.Ed 2006.

Windows PE 2.0: a tiny version of Windows for system maintenance

Tue, 22 Aug 2006 04:28:06 GMT

Few people know it, but when you boot off the Vista install DVD, you're booting into a different version of Windows altogether: Windows PE 2.0. Stripped away from the Vista installer, it's a remarkably powerful, compact OS.