APC - Tagged Articles - Microsoft

Windows 8: Which licence to choose?

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 13:50:00 +1000

There are four versions of Windows 8 to choose from. David Braue helps you pick the best one for you.

Master Windows 8 admin tools

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 16:11:39 +1000

Keep your PC ship-shape with Windows 8’s admin tools.

Best apps for Windows Phone, January 2013

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 17:26:12 +1000

Check out the latest and greatest in apps for your Windows Phone with our monthly app roundup.

Make your own Windows home server OS

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 18:01:13 +1000

With news that Windows Home Server is no more, we show you how to spec up any Windows XP, Vista or 7 OS into a cracking home server operating system.

Best Apps for Windows Phone, November 2012

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 17:55:38 +1000

Check out the latest and greatest in apps for your Windows Phone with our monthly app roundup.

Windows store vs App store & Google Play: The fight is on

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 15:43:08 +1000

Microsoft’s Windows Store is the new spectacle-faced kid on the block. But can it match or overtake the success of the Apple and Google incumbents? Ashton Mills goes shopping.

Navigating Windows 8

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 17:38:41 +1000

So you’ve got this new user interface formerly known as ''Metro'' in front of you. How do you use this thing? Here’s our quick guide to surviving 'Metro' and making it work for you

Who will Windows 8 benefit the most?

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 13:06:42 +1000

Everyone is different, but here’s APC’s take on who we think will or won’t benefit from upgrading to Windows 8.

Setting up Windows 8

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 12:15:31 +1000

So you’ve got a new Windows 8 PC or dived into an upgrade purchase. Ashton Mills guides you through setting up Windows 8 and finding your way around the new user interface.

Is Windows 8 for you?

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 11:51:14 +1000

Is it worth your time and money? Ashton Mills asks and answers the hard question.

Windows 8 in-depth: Versions breakdown

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 14:51:09 +1000

Ashton Mills looks at the versioning of Windows 8 -- and how this will have some unintended consequences for media playback.

Want to try Windows 8? Consumer Preview free to download and test-drive today

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 16:00:28 +1000

Lots of Microsoft action overnight, with the Windows 8 Consumer Preview made available to download plus the app-centric Windows Store now open for business.

Windows 8 In Depth: Updating Windows Update

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:00:00 +1000

In our latest sneak peek at what's new in Windows 8, we take a look at how Microsoft is tackling that necessary evil: updating your OS.

Is Microsoft killing off the Windows Start button?

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:25:33 +1000

In the leadup to the release of Windows 8, leaked preview images of Microsoft's next OS uncover a dramatic design departure from more than 15 years of Windows UI history.

Is Apple really the world's biggest-selling PC vendor?

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:07:08 +1000

Market watcher Canalys has determined Apple has overtaken HP as the world's leading PC client vendor - but admits that including tablets in its count is a "controversial" practice.

Windows 8 In-Depth: Inside the new File History features

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +1000

In our continuing look at the technology driving Windows 8, we delve into how the next-gen OS handles File History.

Nokia's first Windows Phone, the Lumia 800, coming to Australia in March

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:08:03 +1000

It's been nearly a year since Nokia's teamup with Microsoft was announced but we're finally going to see the results locally, with the Lumia 800 launching on all networks in March.

Best of CES 2012: our pick of the most exciting gadgets & tech headed your way this year

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:39:24 +1000

We take a look at the most promising and exciting new products and concepts shown off at this year's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

Microsoft set to go 'hands off' with Kinect for Windows launching Feb 1 for US$249

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 18:19:03 +1000

Steve Ballmer's performance at Microsoft's final CES opening keynote this year may have been roundly criticised by the media, but Kinect for PCs stands to make huge waves.

Windows 8 Memory Tricks: Microsoft's all-new Task Manager

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:57:19 +1000

We pull apart Windows 8's Dev Preview bit by bit to reveal what's under the hood of Microsoft's bold next step: here we look at the all-new Task Manager.

Windows 8 Memory Tricks: Hands On with the Developer Preview

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +1000

We pull apart Windows 8 bit by bit to reveal what's under the hood of Microsoft's bold next step.

Explorer's role in Windows 8: hands on with the Developer Preview

Sun, 11 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +1000

With Metro on the scene, Explorer is no longer the default interface for Windows, but it does still remain an integral part when you click on the Desktop tile.

Hands on with Windows 8: Performance in the Developer Preview

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +1000

As with every Windows, performance has gone under the microscope and this time the focus, especially given the mobile targeting of Metro, has been in fast boot and shutdown times.

Take Windows 8 for a spin today

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +1000

Keen to check out Windows 8's new features and don't want to wait? Why not have a play with the Windows 8 Developer Preview with our hands-on guide?

Decoding Microsoft's free security tools

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +1000

After all the flak Windows has received over the years about security, it's no surprise Microsoft invested in improving the Windows image from Vista through to Windows 7.

Is Windows 8 doomed to be "largely irrelevant" on the desktop?

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 16:57:11 +1000

With its touch-friendly focus and new Metro UI, it's clear Windows 8 is Microsoft's play for the tablet market. But what's the appeal for traditional desktop users?

Inside Metro: the future of the Windows UI

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +1000

Metro is Microsoft's name for the new interface that greets you when you first boot Windows 8, a re-imagining of the Windows UI for desktops and all consumer computing devices.

Windows 8 striking back at Apple's dominance in the post-PC landscape

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 06:00:00 +1000

Microsoft's cavalry is on the offensive, with Windows 8 and Ultrabooks on track to challenge Steve Jobs' post-PC legacy.

Microsoft's "Through-Fabric" PocketTouch keeps your hands where we can see them

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 16:36:39 +1000

Putting a whole new spin on the expression "fly by the seat of your pants", PocketTouch enables users to control their touchscreen device through clothing or bag fabric.

Android hardware partners "nervous" over Google/Moto deal, says Microsoft

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:47:05 +1000

Google's scoop of Motorola may well protect Android, but who protects Android handset makers from a supercharged Moto? Microsoft has an answer: hedge your bets on Windows Phone.

The Top 7.5 things we love about Windows Phone 7.5 ("Mango")

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 15:26:10 +1000

With Google and Apple heatedly vying for your attention with their new mobile OS overhauls, why should you consider Microsoft's nascent effort?

The Android Frag Lag: more than half users still stuck on Froyo 2.2

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 17:00:53 +1000

Despite booming growth on smartphones, one huge factor holding Android back is the divided nature of its OS share, with as many as nine Android iterations live in the field.

While we wait for Win 8: Gigabyte S1080 review

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 06:00:00 +1000

Fighting valiantly against its limitations, the S1080 does what it can to make Windows 7 work on a tablet via touch.

Minority Report coming to the Majority: how Microsoft's pushing Kinect for Windows SDK

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 15:56:22 +1000

You can't make any money off it (yet), but Microsoft's seeking to enlist an army of developers to help them take Kinect out of the games room and into the real world.

Microsoft still struggling to kill off Win XP, IE6 and Office 2003

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 06:00:00 +1000

Its older products are so hard to get rid of that Microsoft has assigned a senior executive to hasten their demise. APC spoke to him at Tech.Ed Australia.

Microsoft Tech.Ed 2011 proudly kicks off Australia's biggest annual geekfest

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 06:00:00 +1000

More than 2,500 devs and IT pros congregated on the Gold Coast yesterday for the start of Microsoft's yearly Tech.Ed conference -- and were told in no short order to seize the day.

Best Apps for Windows Phone, August 2011

Sun, 14 Aug 2011 08:00:00 +1000

Check out the latest and greatest in apps for your Windows Phone 7 smartphone with our monthly app roundup.

Mac OS X = iOS? Why Apple might cross the streams as early as next year with A6

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 18:49:58 +1000

The net is abuzz with one analyst's speculation that Apple will commence a merger of its two OS platforms as early as 2012. In the current context, he might just be onto something.

Patently absurd: Google chief lashes out at Android patent mania

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 13:16:57 +1000

In a fiery post on Google's official blog, Senior Vice President David Drummond has let fly at the "bogus patents" sniping at his company's smartphone wunderkind.

iPad on steroids? ASUS Eee Slate EP121 review

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 09:00:00 +1000

Say hello to the iPad's big brother. It looks a little like all the other tablets on the market, but it's actually a full Windows 7 PC in disguise.

Bring it on: The Imagine Cup heads to Australia in 2012

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 00:33:57 +1000

Last night saw the closing of the Imagine Cup 2011, with Ireland's Team Hermes winning the top prize and the hosting baton formally passed to Australia for the 2012 competition.

Windows Phone moving forward: Mango, Nokia and beyond

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 10:24:01 +1000

Will the double-whammy of Mango and Nokia prove a killer combo for Microsoft's fledgling smartphone platform? Aussie developer and Imagine Cup judge Nick Randolph believes so.

Making the case for gaming: how do games help the world?

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 05:12:18 +1000

The theme for Imagine Cup 2011 is imagining a world where technology helps solve the toughest problems, so, um... how does the game design category fit into that... exactly?

Jeffrey Sachs challenges tech students with the “homework assignment” of a lifetime

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 10:01:37 +1000

Congratulating finalists at Microsoft's Imagine Cup, lauded economist Jeffrey Sachs took the opportunity to issue them one final tech challenge: and one that's hardly academic.

Ballmer on Bing's holy grail: “almost like our own little private copy of the Internet”

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 21:58:29 +1000

Welcoming some 400 students to Microsoft's Imagine Cup world finals, Steve Ballmer came clean on the rudimentary nature of today's browsers and hyped Bing's context-driven future.

Imagination realised: Team UCEEG represents Australia on the tech world stage

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 14:23:59 +1000

On the eve of Microsoft's Imagine Cup 2011 worldwide finals in New York, one team from the University of Canberra is readying itself to bat for Australia in the Olympics of tech.

Meet MeeGo: Nokia's N9 is sleek, sexy and streamlined, but is the OS an island?

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 17:20:44 +1000

With a colourful flourish, Nokia has shown off its upcoming N9: the world's first-ever "pure touch" (buttonless) smartphone... but also likely the only MeeGo from Nokia you'll see.

Netbook sales crash: the downside to the tablet upside

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 16:39:05 +1000

There’s been a 40% crash in netbook sales and it's starting to become pretty clear why, as tablets start eating into the netbook's previously healthy market share.

History repeating: is Microsoft making its own tablet?

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 13:30:39 +1000

Rumours online point to Microsoft entering the hardware game (again) with an in-house Microsoft-brand tablet to take on the iPad, Android and BlackBerry competition.

Apple unveils bargain-priced Mac OS X Lion as $31.99 download-only app

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 09:35:39 +1000

In a sign of the times, Apple will be distributing the latest version of its Mac OS X operating system, 10.7 aka Lion, via the Mac App Store as a digital download.

Windows Phone Mango: 500 reasons to switch?

Fri, 27 May 2011 15:48:45 +1000

This week Microsoft demoed some of the key new features (among a claimed 500 tweaks) coming to Windows Phone in its major “Mango” refresh, scheduled to hit locally this spring.

Steve Ballmer's slip of the tongue: "expect to hear a lot about Windows 8"

Tue, 24 May 2011 14:30:51 +1000

Microsoft has up until now specifically avoided naming the next release of Windows, but in a speech to developers in Japan Steve Ballmer let the cat out of the bag.

Search gets friendly: Bing vs Google in the quest for social context

Tue, 17 May 2011 17:36:43 +1000

Overnight Bing announced deeper Facebook integration via new "Like" button tie-ins, and with Google rolling out its own "+1" features, the social search race is heating up.

MeeGone? What Nokia's move to WP7 means for MeeGo

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:56:20 +1000

Nokia's decision to dump MeeGo for Windows Phone 7 doesn't mean the Linux-based mobile OS is dead, or does it?

Speedy Firefox 4 finally out of the cage, but can it catch its prey?

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 17:15:50 +1000

After interminable delays, Firefox 4 has finally been released with a slew of new features, but can the original alternative browser powerhouse catch up with IE9 and Chrome 10?

Windows Phone strikes back: HTC launches HD7 on Telstra

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 14:59:32 +1000

Determined to not concede the number one spot to Apple or Android, a bullish Microsoft is partnering with HTC and Telstra to provide the "ultimate multimedia" smartphone.

Let's get physical: explaining how Kinect for Xbox works

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 15:34:30 +1000

In one gesture-recognised step, Microsoft’s Kinect has virtually made the Wii obsolete. David Braue explains the tech behind Kinect and reveals where enthusiasts are taking it.

Google's new Cloud Connect gently lulls MS Office users cloudwards

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 15:38:42 +1000

Offering a tantalising beanstalk toward cloud-based collaboration, Google's new plug-in for Microsoft Office draws users up, up and away from the desktop.

Windows 7 Service Pack 1 is out today, but do you care?

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:31:49 +1000

There was a time not long ago when a Service Pack release was itself an event (ie. Vista), but Microsoft's casual release of Windows 7 SP1 today shows how much times have changed.

Top 10 MWC moments: Nokia, Microsoft, HTC and all the mobile action from this year's event

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 17:16:46 +1000

Mobile World Congress is over, and in a world that's increasingly mobile-focused the pace of innovation was more frenetic than ever. Here's 10 things to know from this year's show.

Windows Phone 7: early-in developers may well reap the benefits

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 08:00:00 +1000

In part three of our series this week, we take a look at the latest contender: WP7. It's still early days for the new platform, but that could be all the more reason to get in now.

How Windows Phone 7 stacks up: a comprehensive overview

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 14:36:29 +1000

WP7 is Microsoft’s last chance to remain relevant in a world shifting to smartphones. The first OS update is imminent, which is lucky, since version 1.0 has a long way to go.

Security question: are you running the latest version of Microsoft Security Essentials?

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 17:48:45 +1000

Microsoft Security Essentials turned 2.0 last week, but Microsoft has been pretty quiet on the topic, not even issuing a press release. So what's in the new version for users?

Microsoft releases Internet Explorer 9 Beta

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 10:38:54 +1000

A beta version of IE 9 is now available, with some nifty new features like being able to easily add sites to your taskbar.

Microsoft Australia apologises for bikini babes

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 17:09:16 +1000

Microsoft Australia has expressed its sincere regret for its use of gold clad bikini babes at its TechEd conference. PICS INSIDE!

HP dumps Windows Phone 7

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 17:00:00 +1000

HP has abandoned Microsoft’s Windows Phone 7 platform in favour of smartphones based on WebOS, but confirms that a Windows 7 slate is still on the cards.

HP confirms Windows-powered ‘Slate 500’ tablet

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 22:11:30 +1000

First in HP’s new Slate family, the Slate 500 is an 8.9 inch tablet with a stylus, running Windows 7 – and a quick-start Linux OS?

Toshiba Australia: we’ll do Android slates, but not smartphones

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 11:28:04 +1000

Toshiba Australia MD confirms the release of Android and Windows slates starting in October, but says it’s steering clear of the Android smartphone market for now...

Acer releases $449 dual-boot Windows-Android netbook

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 09:43:30 +1000

Acer’s new Aspire One D260 goes on sale this week, with the $449 netbook offering the best of both worlds – it can boot into both Windows 7 and Android 2.1.

PHOTOS: A hands-on tour of Windows Phone 7

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 15:35:00 +1000

Rarely-seen pre-production units of an LG smartphone, running Microsoft's upcoming Windows Phone 7 OS, got a semi-public airing this week. Here's what we saw.

Toshiba unveils no keyboard, twin-display notebook

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:00:00 +1000

The way of the future, or a machine that will fold into the wake of the iPad? You decide.

First Windows 8 snippets "leak" out from Microsoft

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 07:48:23 +1000

A confidential presentation gives us some clues as to what to expect from the next version of Microsoft's desktop operating system. But are they true or false?

Xbox's Kinect motion sensing technology making its way to PCs and TVs

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 07:00:00 +1000

Those who haven't had fun with a Wii yet, thinking them too kiddie, won't have to fork out for a new Xbox as the motion sensing technology will soon be on your desktop or TV

Microsoft unveils free app upgrades for Win 7 users

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 09:00:00 +1000

Microsoft is celebrating selling seven copies a second of Windows 7 by releasing a bunch of free app upgrades.

New Hotmail to hit Oz within months

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 15:11:51 +1000

Australians should have access to Microsoft's overhauled Hotmail Web mail solution within months - but will it be enough to catapult the company ahead of Google and Yahoo!?

Microsoft leads off Windows 7 gaming campaign with Fable 3

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 11:30:00 +1000

Remember using your PC for games? Apparently, those days are here again as Microsoft tries to gee up the Windows 7 gaming market

Microsoft launches new ‘Windows Embedded Handheld’ mini-mobile OS

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +1000

The stripped-down version of Windows Mobile 6.5 and the next-gen Windows Phone 7 OS will be aimed at niche enterprise and mobility devices.

iPad ties with BlackBerry in mobile browsing market share

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:00:00 +1000

The just-launched iPad already equals the BlackBerry in mobile Web browsing, but Android smartphones are making a dent in the iPhone’s previously all-conquering lead.

iPad eats into netbook share – but is it a blip or a boom?

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 19:42:24 +1000

Market tracker DisplaySearch predicts the iPad to have 30% share of the combined netbook/slate market by mid-year, says this could be “the beginning of the end” for the netbook.

New Xbox360 Slim will hit AU on July 1

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 17:25:11 +1000

The newly designed "whisper quiet" XBox360 is set to land in Australia in just two weeks. But there's still no Blu-Ray.

PlayStation Move hits Australia September 16

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 17:04:49 +1000

The much-hyped motion sensing PS3 controller is set to go on sale in a few months for $70, as Sony works to fend off the Wii and Xbox Slim threats.

App developers abandon Windows Mobile for iPhone, Android and BlackBerry

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 17:00:00 +1000

Windows Mobile is officially the last platform that developers want to write for, according to a US report, with more than 50% of code-cutters now building apps for Apple’s iOS.

HP buys fast-boot HyperSpace Linux for $14m

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 17:22:32 +1000

HP continues to plot its place in a post-Windows world with the purchase of a quick-boot Linux OS. Plus: WebOS becomes a ‘Printer OS’ as printers get widgets and email addresses?

Microsoft developer conference big on iPhones, Macs

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:40:00 +1000

Things used to be so much simpler: you were either a PC person or a Mac person. But with Microsoft developers wielding iPhones and presenting with MacBooks, times have changed.

Windows 7 Service Pack 1 goes public beta next month

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 10:18:00 +1000

It might not be packed with new stuff, but next month's public beta is a major step for Windows 7 acceptance in the business arena

Asus reveals Eee Pad and Eee Tablet slates

Mon, 31 May 2010 20:30:03 +1000

A pair of 10 inch and 12 inch Windows-powered tablets take the stage at Taiwan’s Computex 2010 techfest, along with a concept digital notetaker/ereader.

Foxtel comes to Xbox 360, no cable/satellite needed

Thu, 20 May 2010 21:12:41 +1000

Microsoft and Foxtel today revealed that the cable TV platform would be offered as a streaming and video on demand service directly through Microsoft's Xbox 360 console.

Google: Open video good, MS and Apple bad

Thu, 20 May 2010 05:09:37 +1000

I/O 2010 Day 1: WebM goes up against H.264, Wave gets opened and Adobe gets some surprise love as Google's annual developer conference kicks off.

Leaked Windows Phone 7 ROM reveals HTC ‘Mondrian’

Tue, 18 May 2010 12:30:00 +1000

A leaked ROM image for Microsoft’s Windows Phone 7 OS could contain the first glimpse of HTC’s Windows Phone 7 handset, codenamed ‘Mondrian’

Some Linux and Mac users need Office 2010 licence to run Web Apps

Tue, 18 May 2010 08:40:00 +1000

Microsoft has an unexpected ‘Gotcha’ for business customers running Linux or Mac OS – they’ll need to buy an Office licence to legally use Office Web Apps...

Acer and Asus ready to launch Chrome-powered netbooks and slates

Tue, 18 May 2010 06:30:00 +1000

The two Taiwan tigers both have plans to debut new devices running Google’s open-source Chrome OS at next month’s Computex 2010 trade show in Taipei.

Firefox 4 hits beta next month, launches in November

Fri, 14 May 2010 12:00:00 +1000

The fourth-gen browser will be faster, available in 64-bit edition, faster, sport a streamlined UI, faster, better for Windows 7 – oh, and faster.

Microsoft’s new spin on social networking

Fri, 14 May 2010 08:00:00 +1000

Microsoft’s research hothouse FUSE Lab cooks up Spindex – a Web-based app to aggregate Twitter and Facebook updates plus RSS feeds into a single streamlined screen.

Skype puts Windows Phone 7 on hold

Thu, 13 May 2010 22:14:48 +1000

Citing a second-rate “user experience” compared to the iPhone and Android, Skype admits it has no immediate plans to release an app for Windows Phone 7.

Oh dear: Microsoft Twitterer doesn’t know who’s who

Thu, 13 May 2010 17:44:40 +1000

You have to hand it to whoever was running Microsoft Australia's official twitter account today during its big Office launch...

Office 2010 and Web Apps set for June 15th launch

Thu, 13 May 2010 11:45:00 +1000

Consumer editions of Microsoft’s next-gen Office 2010 suite will hit the shelves on June 15th, although Office Web Apps will take a little longer...

Android overtakes iPhone in US smartphone market

Wed, 12 May 2010 09:00:00 +1000

A surge in Android sales has seen Google’s open-source smartphone OS shoot past the iPhone in the US consumer market as Windows Mobile slumps towards single-digit insignificance.

Windows 7 to XP downgraders getting the boot

Tue, 11 May 2010 20:32:22 +1000

Buyers of Windows 7 will soon be unable to do the up/downgrade shuffle to Windows XP as Microsoft changes the license conditions.

‘Product Key Cards’ are Office 2010’s hidden catch

Wed, 05 May 2010 08:00:00 +1000

Microsoft is offering substantial discounts for its disc-free Product Card Keys compared to the boxed retail editions of Office 2010, but there’s a catch for the unwary...

Internet Explorer market share under 60% and still falling

Tue, 04 May 2010 10:07:21 +1000

Microsoft’s once-mighty browser has lost 10% in market share from the beginning of last year as Chrome rockets up the charts.

Windows Live Messenger 2010 gets social, runs on iPhone but not XP

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 14:44:20 +1000

The next version of Microsoft’s instant messaging app, part of ‘Wave 4’ of the Windows Live services, evolves into “a companion for your social networks” but unfriends XP.

Microsoft shows off Office on a Windows 7 Phone

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 11:55:00 +1000

Can Microsoft make a dent in the smartphone market by appealing to the mobile-worker?

Microsoft releases public preview of Windows Home Server 2.0

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 04:00:00 +1000

Now available for download, Microsoft’s second-edition home server OS moves to a 64-bit platform and sports remote media streaming over the Web plus a streamlined UI.

Your next TV: will it run Android or Windows..?

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 11:49:22 +1000

Microsoft releases its stripped-down Windows 7 Embedded edition to run TV sets and set-top boxes, while Samsung talks up ‘Google TVs’ powered by Android. Get ready for the TV OS...

Windows 7 powers Microsoft profits up 35%

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 09:59:00 +1000

As businesses start to upgrade to Windows 7, Microsoft's revenue curve gets steeper as the bucks roll in.

US govt can detect rogue USB keys

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 22:35:00 +1000

The National Security Agency says it now has tech to spot USB keys being used to steal data from PCs.

Microsoft: “No upgrades to Office 2010”

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:11:20 +1000

Microsoft will no longer offer discounted upgrade pricing on Office 2010 to owners of a previous version of the suite.

Aussie prices for Office 2010: $169 - $849

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 13:56:14 +1000

Microsoft releases local pricing for its forthcoming Office 2010 suite, with new ‘no disc’ versions starting from $169.

Microsoft offers free Fix-It on XP, Vista

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 13:55:00 +1000

The self-healing power of Windows 7 is now available for those with older Microsoft operating systems

Office 2010 hits RTM, ready for launch next month

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 08:00:00 +1000

Microsoft signs off the code for its next-gen Office suite, which will introduce online Web Apps in an effort to catch up to Google and co.

Toshiba working on Windows and Android slates

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 09:30:00 +1000

Toshiba’s tablet strategy puts a bet each way, with a low-price 10 inch slate running Android and a premium dual-screen (!) slate for Windows.

Back to ‘boom times’ for the PC?

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 08:00:00 +1000

Global PC shipments jumped by 24% in the first quarter of the year, with 79 million desktops, notebooks and netbooks sold around the world.

Top 10 ways to save time and money online

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 10:25:26 +1000

Secrets to saving time and money using the web -- here's our top 10.

Nokia dials up new ‘social networking’ phones

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 10:00:00 +1000

The trend towards enhanced ‘feature phones’ built around messaging and social networking continues with Nokia’s new C-series handsets.

Microsoft winding down support for Vista

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 10:47:58 +1000

It’s the beginning of the end for Windows Vista, as Microsoft closes down support for the original non-service pack edition of the beleaguered OS.

Microsoft reveals new Kin ‘social networking’ smartphones

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 06:55:33 +1000

The pair of Windows-powered QWERTY phones replaces the Hiptop series for Twittering tweens and Facebook fiends, and will run on Vodafone’s 3G network.

Windows 7 Service Pack 1 leaks - no surprises so far

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 21:35:00 +1000

Screenshots of the first Service Pack for Windows 7 show that, so far, its just an accumulation of patches - which most users should already be on top of.

HP Slate: leaked specs and pricing!

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 19:25:24 +1000

The touchscreen HP Slate is gearing up to go head-to-head with Apple’s iPad, according to the slick video demo and an allegedly leaked PowerPoint slide…

Apple preps new notebooks and iPhone OS 4.0

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 11:32:52 +1000

April will be a busy month for Apple with the unveilling of iPhone OS 4.0 later this week and new MacBook, MacBook Pro and MacBook Air notebooks tipped for the end of the month.

Microsoft to reveal new Hiptop smartphones next week

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 11:09:34 +1000

The next-gen Hiptop will sport a slick UI inspired by Windows Phone 7 and take aim at the twittering tweens, teens and twentysomething social networking set.

Spy shots: Office 2011 for Mac revealed

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:37:58 +1000

Office 2010 for Windows hits RTM this month and the revamped Office 2011 for Mac will follow. Here’s a look at what’s in store.

Oh dear: the sky is falling in at Qantas

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 12:12:48 +1000

An evangelist for Lotus Notes software predicts Qantas' decision to move to Microsoft Exchange and Outlook will see its share price fall. Oh dear.

BigPond Music dumps support for WMA

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:10:16 +1000

Telstra’s online music arm BigPond Music yesterday revealed it would ditch support for the unpopular Windows Media Audio format after April 1.

EXCLUSIVE: Samsung to release ‘slate’ PC

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 16:20:00 +1000

Samsung is working on a slate-based device with desktop docking, which it says will have enough processing muscle to become the “primary device” for many people.

Intel unveils new Atom platform for home servers

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:30:00 +1000

Intel’s newest platform for the Atom aims to make it the chip of choice for home server manufacturers.

Web Apps will be missing from Office 2010 consumer editions at launch

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 23:16:15 +1000

Microsoft confirms that only business customers will get the browser-based online versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote when Office 2010 launches in May.

Microsoft: “Stick with 32-bit for Office 2010”

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:00:00 +1000

Even if you’re running 64-bit Windows 7 most users will have little reason to install the forthcoming Office 2010 suite in 64-bit mode, says Microsoft.

Office 2010 to launch on May 13 for businesses, June for consumers

Sat, 06 Mar 2010 14:12:59 +1000

Microsoft signs off on its next-gen Office suite next month as Office 2010 hits RTM; business customers can grab the suite on May 13th but consumers will have to wait until June.

Windows 7 sells 90 million copies

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 16:14:00 +1000

Microsoft basks in the success of a job well done, but is Windows 7 on USB memory sticks next for the software giant?

Microsoft: “No Windows Phone 7 upgrade for Windows Mobile 6.x devices”

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:30:00 +1000

Microsoft’s tight hardware spec for Windows Phone 7 smartphones means that Windows Mobile 6.x devices – including HTC’s just-launched HD2 – can’t be upgraded.

Windows 7 Release Candidate nears its use-by date

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:40:40 +1000

Still running Windows 7 Release Candidate? From Monday the OS will automatically shut down every two hours, taking any unsaved work with it.

Microsoft: what we learnt from the iPhone, and what Apple can learn from us

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 13:30:00 +1000

Apple’s tight integration of hardware and software pointed the way for Windows Phone 7, admits Microsoft, but it sledges the iPhone’s UI as out-dated.

Microsoft locks out Windows Phone 7 customisations from HTC and Telstra

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 10:08:30 +1000

Microsoft confirms that UI overlays such as HTC’s Sense will be banned from Windows Phone 7 platform, with carrier rebranding also being slapped down.

Microsoft to make its own phone in three versions

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:00:00 +1000

A Microsoft Australia Evangelist, Michael Kordahi is talking up the upcoming Microsoft Phones. Yes, "phones", as in a little community of humping rabbits.

No skin on Windows Phone 7, thanks...

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 10:00:00 +1000

Having been initially impressed by the style of Microsoft's new mobile system, difficult questions are coming thick and fast, such as: why has Microsoft banned skins on WinMo7?

XP apps not happy on Windows 7

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:39:00 +1000

Two-thirds of companies shifting from XP to Windows 7 had issues, a study finds.

Windows 7 phones arriving Christmas 2010

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 16:39:07 +1000

It may be Christmas before Australians will be able to get their hands on a mobile phone with Microsoft’s Windows Phone 7 Series platform installed on it.

Sony Ericsson unveils two more Android Xperia phones

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 16:48:08 +1000

In an increasingly cluttered smartphone market, Google’s open-source mobile OS continues to gather support.

Samsung’s new Bada OS, Wave smartphone and app store due mid-year

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 15:46:06 +1000

Australia will catch the Samsung Wave, powered by the manufacturer’s own Bada OS and accompanied by Samsung’s app store, in the middle of this year.

New Windows update bluescreening PCs

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 08:45:00 +1000

The latest batch of Windows Updates are causing problems for some users resulting in blue-screens and panic.

The iPad's secret sauce: it's the software, stupid

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 17:40:41 +1000

All the people (including me) who felt underwhelmed by the iPad initially might have missed its true potential.

Microsoft praises, follows Apple’s design philosophy in Office for Mac 2011

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 14:03:09 +1000

They may be bitter rivals in the operating system stakes, but Microsoft has openly praised “the Apple design philosophy” in its new release of Office for Mac.

Windows 7 gets tough new anti-piracy checks

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 12:25:00 +1000

The latest raft of Windows 7 patches will bring one that rings home to Microsoft more often to check your copy is legit.

Microsoft Surface gets Dungeons and Dragons

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 09:20:00 +1000

Porn may be out, but another great geek pastime gets the Surface treatment: Dungeons & Dragons.

Windows 8 breaks cover, gets hushed up again by Microsoft

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 08:49:33 +1000

An anonymous Microsoft blogger lets slip some next-next-gen OS tattle, only for the message to pulled by a company still trying to flog Windows 7.

Weird: Windows 7 is really Windows 10

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 17:37:03 +1000

By our count, Windows 7 should actually be Windows 10… did Microsoft avoid it so as not to look like it was trailing OS X?

No porn allowed on $AU21,000 Microsoft Surface

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:09:00 +1000

Microsoft's new coffee table-sized iPod Touch (now available in Australia) promises "touch at a completely new level", but not of the nasty sort, apparently.

Why Gmail is killing Exchange in Australia

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:26:46 +1000

It's a perfect storm: Google's cloud email is reaching reliability and manageability levels that Microsoft, IBM and Novell can't keep up with, say big Aussie organisations.

Microsoft Surface goes on sale in Australia next week

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 12:15:48 +1000

Microsoft will start selling its Surface tabletop multi-touch system in Australia next week after a formal launch. But will Aussies warm to it?

Time to die, but Microsoft can't kill Internet Explorer 6

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 10:01:39 +1000

World governments want you to stop using IE6. Microsoft does too. But the software giant claims its hands are tied -- it's like a drug. Why Microsoft can't stop supporting IE6.

Don't worry, we won't disconnect your internet: IIA

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 10:17:52 +1000

Microsoft has developed a plan of disconnecting people's internet if their PC is bot-infected, but the IIA says it won't support it.

Windows 7 RC users, come in, your time is almost up

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:53:50 +1000

PC users still kicking back with their free copy of Windows 7 (aka the Release Candidate) now have a month left to play until they need to up (or down) grade

The OS that just won't die: retailers struggle to clear Vista

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 14:17:31 +1000

Windows 7 has been available for purchase in Australia since October last year. But has Microsoft’s previous operating system, Windows Vista, passed away yet? Not quite.

Microsoft rakes in demonic profits on Windows 7: $6.66 billion

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:48:00 +1000

Windows 7 battery wobble alarms users

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:35:00 +1000

Google Docs drops support for IE6

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 14:02:20 +1000

Google says that Internet Explorer 6 has reached its use-by date, and as of March 1st will support only version 7.0 or 8.0 of the Microsoft browser on its Google Docs service.

Microsoft's Zune phone appears on the horizon

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 22:35:00 +1000

As Apple moves from phones to tablets, Microsoft is rushing the other way, with news that a Zune phone is definitely on the cards.

On the eve of the Apple tablet, HP offers info on its "Slate"

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +1000

HP offers up a few more tidbits on the Slate unveiled at CES.

Microsoft to declare patent war on iPhone/Android?

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 14:25:00 +1000

A key Linux developer has predicted Microsoft will use its huge patent portfolio to cripple smartphone competitors and boost its woeful Windows Mobile market share.

Internet Explorer patch imminent as Microsoft responds to massive pressure

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 09:36:00 +1000

Hot on the news of a major security flaw in Internet Explorer 6 and 7, Microsoft has finally got its act together as governments and security experts condemn its inaction.

Stop using IE6, IE7 NOW, warns Microsoft

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:46:24 +1000

Microsoft has dropped its softly-softly approach to IE upgrades, warning people to stop using Internet Explorer 6 and 7 immediately due to security risks.

The big China hacking lesson: ditch IE

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 17:03:40 +1000

Browser flaw seen as key to hack attack on Google and others.

Microsoft Office taken offline in XML legal spat

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:49:00 +1000

Microsoft takes down Office for sale from its own US site in lieu of ongoing patent litigation with i4i, only the top whack version still for sale or a beta of Office 2010

Ballmer can't resist another "Developers!" cry

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 18:15:00 +1000

CES 2010: High point of keynote is learning Microsoft CEO can't lay out slides in a hurry.

Microsoft gets in on the Tablet-PC action

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 14:47:00 +1000

CES 2010 | At CES in Las Vegas today, Steve Ballmer is throwing a curveball at the rest of the industry by unveiling HP's new form factor PC.

Microsoft finds new use for screensavers

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 08:41:58 +1000

CES 2010: Forget burn-in, screensavers are the new search technology.

Windows 7 Service Pack 1 soon to break cover?

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 08:16:02 +1000

Windows 7 may barely be settled-in on your hard disk drive but, already, Microsoft coders are beavering away at a major update.

iPhone overtakes Windows Mobile in sales and usage

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 15:12:32 +1000

2009 has been a much better year for Apple than it has for Microsoft, with the iPhone eclipsing Windows Mobile in the US market.

Dell OptiPlex 780 is world's smallest commercial desktop

Sat, 12 Dec 2009 07:00:00 +1000

Dell offers small desktops for workers stuck with no laptop.

Microsoft introduces ‘browser shuffle’ ballot in Windows 7

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:44:50 +1000

Microsoft will revise its ‘browser ballot’ Web browser installation routine for European editions of Windows 7 and present the top five browsers in a random order.

Windows 7 hit by black screen of death

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:46:00 +1000

The last set of Windows patch updates seem to be causing trouble for some users, possibly "millions" according to one company.

Australia gets Windows 7 Family Pack for $249

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:19:18 +1000

The Windows 7 Family Pack, containing three licences for Windows 7 Home Premium, will go on sale in Australia tomorrow for $249.

“Netbooks a necessary evil” for Microsoft and Intel

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:21:23 +1000

Tech analyst firm Canalys says that while netbooks reduced the PC profit margin they’ve proven their worth by transforming the industry – and being the only market segment to grow.

Opera Mobile 10 makes life tougher for Microsoft

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 10:30:00 +1000

With HTC and Samsung pre-installing Opera Mobile as the default browser on their Windows Mobile smartphones, the newest version 10 ups the ante for Internet Explorer Mobile.

Asus releases Atom-powered home server

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +1000

No, it’s not called the EeeServer... but Asus will be happy if the TS Mini home server enjoys even a fraction of the success of its Atom-powered EeeSiblings.

Microsoft targets Windows 8 for 2012

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 16:04:49 +1000

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 13:00:00 +1000

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 07:00:00 +1000

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 06:47:12 +1000

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 08:00:00 +1000

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

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:00:00 +1000

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 17:25:36 +1000

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 16:00:00 +1000

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

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 13:55:00 +1000

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 15:00:00 +1000

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 12:56:43 +1000

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

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 07:00:00 +1000

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 15:18:12 +1000

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

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:00:00 +1000

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 15:46:53 +1000

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 13:58:32 +1000

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 19:54:49 +1000

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 17:37:46 +1000

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 16:40:54 +1000

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 10:00:00 +1000

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

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:00:00 +1000

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

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:00:00 +1000

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 08:00:00 +1000

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 18:47:31 +1000

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 09:49:15 +1000

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 14:34:14 +1000

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 12:00:00 +1000

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 05:18:43 +1000

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 17:22:04 +1000

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 15:11:50 +1000

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 12:25:49 +1000

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 03:08:00 +1000

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 22:45:51 +1000

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 01:08:42 +1000

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

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 07:00:00 +1000

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 10:58:46 +1000

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 23:59:08 +1000

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 16:42:35 +1000

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

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 06:00:00 +1000

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 23:22:47 +1000

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 22:18:41 +1000

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 21:16:17 +1000

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 10:10:25 +1000

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 09:16:43 +1000

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 18:38:06 +1000

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 17:04:40 +1000

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 16:40:20 +1000

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

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 15:25:00 +1000

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 10:48:12 +1000

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, 19 Aug 2009 09:00:00 +1000

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 14:50:15 +1000

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

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 23:33:00 +1000

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

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 23:30:00 +1000

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

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 23:18:00 +1000

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 20:35:00 +1000

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 14:49:59 +1000

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 17:48:56 +1000

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 19:30:00 +1000

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 18:00:00 +1000

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 16:11:15 +1000

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

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:17:42 +1000

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 23:15:00 +1000

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 21:30:00 +1000

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 21:51:45 +1000

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?

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 21:41:00 +1000

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 21:28:00 +1000

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 10:53:08 +1000

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 18:29:31 +1000

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 14:33:31 +1000

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 12:09:39 +1000

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 11:17:28 +1000

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 15:02:37 +1000

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

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 07:00:00 +1000

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

Windows 7 will just work: Microsoft

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 17:43:00 +1000

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 10:38:19 +1000

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?

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 17:55:00 +1000

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 08:46:49 +1000

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 19:51:41 +1000

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 14:17:40 +1000

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

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 10:00:00 +1000

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, 08 Jul 2009 15:35:00 +1000

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 12:45:00 +1000

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 09:25:00 +1000

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 10:40:00 +1000

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 11:40:00 +1000

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 12:20:00 +1000

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 11:25:00 +1000

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 09:33:46 +1000

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 20:04:43 +1000

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

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:20:00 +1000

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 12:30:00 +1000

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 14:05:00 +1000

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 08:40:00 +1000

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 08:30:00 +1000

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 16:20:13 +1000

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 15:29:09 +1000

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

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:40:00 +1000

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 00:33:44 +1000

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 12:20:19 +1000

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 07:13:53 +1000

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 16:28:00 +1000

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

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 22:40:00 +1000

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 15:37:05 +1000

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 12:39:21 +1000

“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 14:06:18 +1000

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 13:10:00 +1000

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 17:47:16 +1000

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 12:33:32 +1000

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

Fri, 29 May 2009 11:00:00 +1000

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 14:40:00 +1000

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 21:32:42 +1000

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 11:00:00 +1000

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 07:30:00 +1000

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 13:00:00 +1000

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

Tue, 26 May 2009 13:00:00 +1000

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

Tue, 26 May 2009 09:00:00 +1000

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 00:10:55 +1000

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?

Mon, 25 May 2009 12:14:00 +1000

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

Mon, 25 May 2009 08:00:00 +1000

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 23:54:18 +1000

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

Thu, 21 May 2009 11:00:00 +1000

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

Wed, 20 May 2009 10:00:00 +1000

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 11:34:10 +1000

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 00:31:26 +1000

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 13:29:39 +1000

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 12:29:07 +1000

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 20:00:00 +1000

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 17:10:43 +1000

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 14:34:19 +1000

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

Google closes the gap on Microsoft Exchange

Fri, 15 May 2009 00:04:25 +1000

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 15:45:42 +1000

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 02:08:49 +1000

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 01:34:06 +1000

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 23:22:38 +1000

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 12:17:52 +1000

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 00:19:03 +1000

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 23:36:10 +1000

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 22:59:42 +1000

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 22:30:19 +1000

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

Tue, 12 May 2009 15:00:00 +1000

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 08:40:00 +1000

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 08:00:00 +1000

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 23:00:00 +1000

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 17:09:01 +1000

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

Wed, 06 May 2009 16:29:00 +1000

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?

Wed, 06 May 2009 11:48:00 +1000

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

Four small but cool features of Windows 7

Wed, 06 May 2009 09:35:14 +1000

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...

Wed, 06 May 2009 08:00:00 +1000

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 07:00:00 +1000

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

Nvidia releases GeForce drivers for Windows 7 RC1

Mon, 04 May 2009 16:00:00 +1000

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

Mon, 04 May 2009 16:00:00 +1000

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 11:45:27 +1000

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 19:04:24 +1000

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 00:56:17 +1000

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 23:25:26 +1000

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 22:34:17 +1000

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 20:42:03 +1000

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 21:05:00 +1000

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 21:00:00 +1000

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

Fri, 01 May 2009 20:29:00 +1000

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 22:00:00 +1000

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 16:32:56 +1000

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

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 10:30:00 +1000

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 16:11:51 +1000

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 15:17:33 +1000

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 11:37:55 +1000

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?

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 17:22:00 +1000

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 14:33:35 +1000

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 13:03:52 +1000

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 21:39:50 +1000

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 14:12:00 +1000

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

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:29:00 +1000

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

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 08:00:00 +1000

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

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 07:35:54 +1000

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

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 22:00:00 +1000

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 17:10:09 +1000

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

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:45:00 +1000

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

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 10:30:00 +1000

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 02:32:53 +1000

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 01:06:48 +1000

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 14:38:23 +1000

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 01:10:34 +1000

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...

Further Windows 7 features revealed

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 19:00:00 +1000

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

Linux may lose Windows file system

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 19:00:00 +1000

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

Microsoft launches Windows 7 developer blog

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 18:00:00 +1000

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 12:00:00 +1000

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 03:23:24 +1000

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 16:00:00 +1000

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 16:00:00 +1000

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

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:00:00 +1000

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

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +1000

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

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 01:00:00 +1000

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 23:00:00 +1000

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

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:00:00 +1000

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

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:08:42 +1000

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 15:37:49 +1000

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 12:00:00 +1000

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 11:40:00 +1000

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 14:50:00 +1000

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 23:02:15 +1000

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 12:00:00 +1000

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 11:00:00 +1000

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 22:00:00 +1000

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 21:00:00 +1000

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 12:50:00 +1000

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 10:00:00 +1000

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

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 13:00:00 +1000

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 13:00:00 +1000

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 12:52:00 +1000

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

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 12:30:00 +1000

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 15:00:00 +1000

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 13:00:00 +1000

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 07:58:17 +1000

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 10:00:00 +1000

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

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:00:00 +1000

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

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 13:00:00 +1000

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 15:03:25 +1000

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 10:30:00 +1000

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 07:00:00 +1000

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 13:00:00 +1000

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 12:42:59 +1000

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 11:00:00 +1000

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

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 10:30:00 +1000

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

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 20:00:00 +1000

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.

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

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 20:00:00 +1000

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.

Microsoft's vision of tech in 10 years time

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 09:30:00 +1000

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, 03 Mar 2009 07:00:00 +1000

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?

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:45:00 +1000

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 11:49:17 +1000

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 00:59:40 +1000

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 16:00:00 +1000

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 13:00:00 +1000

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 18:38:04 +1000

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?

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +1000

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)

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 12:00:00 +1000

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 11:19:34 +1000

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 19:00:00 +1000

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

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 13:00:00 +1000

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)

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 10:00:00 +1000

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?

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:00:00 +1000

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!

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 11:00:00 +1000

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 01:15:50 +1000

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 00:54:47 +1000

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!

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 15:00:00 +1000

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

Thu, 25 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +1000

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 00:12:22 +1000

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