Wednesday, January 31, 2007

Microsoft Origami Experience Pack


Origami Experience Pack contains these three programs for an Ultra-Mobile PC (UMPC) running Windows Vista:

Origami Experience
Access your music, videos, pictures, and favorite programs.

Sudoku
Play this popular game using a touch screen.

Touch Settings
Easily view and interact with the touch screen on a UMPC.

And, don’t forget to download Microsoft Reader, so you can read e-books on your UMPC. It’s available separately for download. See Related Resources on the right side of this page to download Microsoft Reader

System Requirements
  • Supported Operating Systems: Windows Vista
  • Supported Hardware: UMPC
  • 100 MB of available hard disk space
  • One of these language editions of Windows Vista: English, Korean, German, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), French, Italian, Spanish
Download: Microsoft Origami Experience Pack (Freeware, 15.0MB)
News source: Microsoft

Windows Easy Transfer for Windows XP and Windows 2000

This software installs Windows Easy Transfer on a Windows XP or Windows 2000 based PC. This software is already built into Windows Vista, so it is not necessary to install it on a Windows Vista based PC. Windows Easy Transfer enables you to automatically copy your files, photos, music, email, settings, and more to your new Windows Vista based PC. This makes it much easier to setup your new computer with all your personal data and settings. This software provides support for transfering data with Easy Transfer Cables (Windows 2000 not supported) or across a network, external drive, or CD/DVD. As an alternative to downloading, Windows Easy Transfer can be installed from the CD that came with your Easy Transfer Cable, or by following the directions in the Windows Vista version of Windows Easy Transfer on how to copy the program to Windows XP or Windows 2000. Note: Settings will not be transferred if moving from Windows 2000.

System Requirements

  • Supported Operating Systems: Windows XP; Windows XP 64-bit
Windows Easy Transfer supports the following operating systems:
1) Windows 2000 SP4 to Windows Vista (Data Transfers Only)
2) Windows XP SP2 to Windows Vista
3) Windows Vista to Windows Vista

Windows Easy Transfer supports transfers via any one of the following methods:
1) USB Easy Transfer Cable (Windows 2000 is not supported)
2) Network connection
3) Removable media (such as a USB flash drive or external hard disk)
4) CD or DVD

Download: Windows Easy Transfer for Windows XP and Windows 2000 | 7.9 MB ~ 17.5 MB (WGA Required)

Tuesday, January 30, 2007

Windows vista Launched



On Jan. 30 the most significant product launch in Microsoft Corp.’s history culminates in the release to consumers of the Windows Vista™ operating system and Microsoft® Office 2007. These two flagship products will be available in more than 70 countries, in 19 languages (with 99 languages anticipated by the end of the year), and at more than 39,000 retail stores and online. The launch marks the achievement of an unprecedented collaboration between Microsoft and its customers and partners, and ushers in an era in which personal computing is easier, safer and more enjoyable than ever before.
“Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 will transform the way people work and play,” said Bill Gates, chairman of Microsoft. “Personal computers have become a key part of the daily lives of almost a billion people worldwide. Millions of consumers had a hand in helping us design, test and create the most exciting versions of Windows and Office we’ve ever released. Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 squarely address the needs and aspirations of people around the globe.”
Source- Microsoft Presspass

Windows Live Messenger 8.1


Microsoft has released the final version of windows live messenger 8.1 and is available for download now

Download Windows Live Messenger 8.1

Updates from 8.0 include:

  • Yahoo interoperability - now you can chat to your Yahoo Messenger friends from Windows Live Messenger
  • Your display name, status and personalization roam with you to any computer
  • Improved sign-in performance
  • Redesigned contact cards
  • A bonus of 2 free VOIP calls
  • And it runs on Windows Vista!


Overview
  • Call their phones. Call their PCs.

    Call your friends' mobile or landline phones. It's affordable both within the US and internationally. And calling someone's PC is always free.
  • See them on the screen

    Show and tell: Grab a webcam and start a video conversation within minutes.
  • Share stuff

    Set up a Sharing Folder with a friend. Drop in photos and other stuff, as many as your computer can handle. See it even when one of you is offline.
  • New: talk to your Yahoo! friends, too

    With Windows Live Messenger, you can now connect with your Yahoo! Messenger with Voice contacts. Forget needing multiple accounts to talk to your friends. Do it all from Windows Live Messenger. The world's largest IM network has just gotten bigger – and better.

Monday, January 29, 2007

Windows Vista new homepage


Today Microsoft launched a new Windows Vista Homepage.I found this when I was surfing through the Microsoft Website.This new homepage is more symmetrical,clean and proffesionally build though its basic structure is similar to the latest Microsoft homepage.
Link- windows vista homepage
Windows homepage

Saturday, January 27, 2007

Microsoft Feeds Plus

Microsoft Feeds Plus is an Internet Explorer 7 add-on for Windows XP/2003/Vista that makes your feed reading experience easy and efficient. You can read your feeds in a combined view (aggregate feeds) and get pop-up notifications when there are new items to read.

This add on was developed by members of the IE RSS team at Microsoft. Note that Feeds Plus is not an official product and hence is not supported by Microsoft.

Combine feed view

Desktop Alerts

Install Feeds Plus

Microsoft to Celebrate the Worldwide Availability of Windows Vista and the 2007 Microsoft Office System

On Tuesday, Jan. 30, Microsoft Corp. will unveil the Windows Vista™ operating system and the 2007 Microsoft® Office system to consumers worldwide, transforming the way people communicate, create and share content, and access information and entertainment in the new digital age.

To help celebrate the launch of these flagship products, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer will kick off a series of local retail events around the country by visiting a New York City Best Buy store. Ballmer will share his own “wow” moments with Windows Vista and the 2007 Microsoft Office system, the most thoroughly tested software releases in Microsoft’s history.

Microsoft has also partnered with retailers to host events in more than 30 locations across the United States.

Starting at 10 p.m. on Jan. 29, Microsoft has teamed up with retail partners and FOXSports.com to host red-carpet events for sports fans and enthused customers featuring DJs, special offers and pro football player appearances.

On Jan. 30, Microsoft and its retail partners have lined up a day full of events for consumers, with hourly hardware and software giveaways including Xbox 360™ drawings from 4 to 7 p.m. locally. Microsoft experts will also be on hand in stores to demonstrate the latest innovative features in Windows Vista and the 2007 Microsoft Office system.



Source-mspresspass

Friday, January 26, 2007

Microsoft sends out IE8 Feature Survey E-mail

Microsoft sends out IE8 Feature Survey E-mail
IE8 Feature Survey is Now Available to all Tech Beta participants

Microsoft has sent out an e-mail entitled “IE8 Feature Survey is Now Available!” to all Tech Beta participants. The company has emphasized that the e-mail has been sent out to many but that a smaller group will be doing the hands-on testing of the new release. The e-mail states that Microsoft is in the “planning phase” which could mean anything from being at the drawing board or at the point where the software giant is simply interested in adding on features. Microsoft asks for “which customizations and performance scenarios need to be improved upon in IE8.” The 59-question survey hosted at Microsoft's Connect website is curious in everyone’s favorites and RSS usage, going as far as requesting for exported versions. A screenshot of the user’s customized primary browser, not necessarily Internet Explorer, is also welcome.


59-question survey hosted at Microsoft's Connect

Thursday, January 25, 2007

Offer for OneCare (v1.5) Beta service testers

Today I received the mail from Microsoft stating that the Testers are given 60% off on the subscription of Windows Live One Care Subscription.The mail read as follows-

Thank you for participating in the Windows Live OneCare (v1.5) Beta! Your feedback, comments, and bug reports (!) have helped us improve the service and we are now in the final steps of releasing OneCare to consumers world-wide on January 30, 2007.


Beta to Close at End of February 2007

We wanted to give you advance notice that the (v1.5) beta will be coming to a close at the end of February, and that your OneCare beta service will expire by March 2007 (or sooner, depending when you installed the beta). After your service expires, you won’t receive new Virus and spyware definitions or other OneCare updates. To continue your OneCare protection, you will have to uninstall OneCare and then reinstall the released version of the product. We strongly urge you to do so. In fact, we feel so strongly about it that we’d like to extend this special introductory offer to make it easier…


Special, Limited-Time Introductory Offer for Beta Users

To show our appreciation for our beta participants, we are offering you the full, released version of Windows Live OneCare at a price of $19.95 for one year. This offer is over 60% off the full retail price and covers up to 3 Windows XP or Windows Vista PCs. The offer will expire February 12, 2007, so be sure to take advantage of it soon.


To take advantage of this offer:

1) Uninstall Windows Live OneCare beta (by using the standard Add / Remove Programs Control Panel on your computer). Be sure to restart your computer when the uninstallation is complete.

2) When your computer restarts, return to this e-mail and click this link:

Special offer for Beta participants

(You must use the link in this email in order to be eligible for this special introductory pricing.Link removed due to security purposes)

Follow the instructions to redeem your offer and install the fully released version of the service.

So Microsoft is really giving benefits to it's beta testers.

Microsoft Releases Windows Live One Care

Microsoft has announced the availability of Windows Live OneCare, its PC care service, in 16 countries. The service offers unified virus and spyware scanning, more flexible file backup options and support for the Windows Vista operating system.

The service will be available to consumers on Jan. 30, along with the release of Microsoft's much anticipated Windows Vista. All active OneCare subscribers will be automatically upgraded to this latest release with new features and enhancements while they're online. Moreover, Microsoft will also offer its Windows Live OneCare beta customers, a special discount the annual subscription fee (60 percent off), when they sign up at http://onecare.live.com/. The offer is valid from January 23 through February 12, for Windows Live OneCare beta users.

Ryan Hamlin, general manager of the Technology Care and Safety Group at Microsoft said, "This new release marks our continued commitment to evolving and expanding our all-in-one PC care service around the world, both for Windows XP and now Windows Vista customers. In addition to helping guard against viruses, spyware, phishing scams and other security threats, OneCare also handles a variety of essential PC care practices behind the scenes so our customers can have peace of mind that their PC is being taken care of and will be able to spend their valuable time on other things."

Windows Live OneCare offers automated protection, maintenance, performance tuning and support for PCs running either Windows XP Service Pack 2 or the Windows Vista operating system. Windows Live OneCare claims to complete the security picture for Windows Vista adopters by providing real-time anti-virus protection and managing firewall policies to address new and evolving threats. Representatives say the service goes beyond security to help simplify important maintenance tasks such as backing up photos, music and other files to a variety of storage devices and defragmenting the hard drive to help increase the performance of consumers' PCs.

Windows Live OneCare is priced at an annual subscription rate of $49.95 in the US, for up to three PCs. Starting from January 30, the service will also be available at similar pricing and licensing structures in Australia, Austria, Belgium (Dutch and French), Canada (English and French), France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland (French and German), and United Kingdom can download the Windows Live OneCare subscription service at http://onecare.live.com/.

Wednesday, January 24, 2007

Windows Live Mail hits the next milestone

As we were expected, Windows Live Mail was upgraded to M9 (Milestone 9) last night. Some changes include:
Much faster loading and advanced Firefox compatibiity (works fully in Firefox 2)
The Classic Mode will be the default view from Hotmail users - brand new users won’t be taken to the fully AJAX’d page but to the Classic interface for “ease-of-use” purposes.
A new Today page rolls out, including what would be on your Today page in Windows Live Messenger.
Recent Updates now added as a tabbed page on the Today page allowing you to switch to what’s changed (blogs, contacts and newsletters etc.)
Search bar at the top of the page updated and tweaked slightly for the other themes.
New icons added to the right click menus, and generally the right click menus have been added and updated.
In Classic view, the top menu bar with “New, Reply, Forward and Delete” have been added to the bottom of each message for ease-of-use for longer messages.
Check the new interface here at Windows Live Mail .

Tuesday, January 23, 2007

Microsoft Photo Info 1.0

Microsoft Photo Info allows photographers to add, change and delete common "meta data" properties for digital photographs from inside Windows Explorer.

When installed, a new "Photo Info" item appears on the context menu for files selected in Windows Explorer. To use, simply select one or more image files, right-click and choose "Photo Info" to open the Photo Info properties editor. You can edit meta data for files individually, or all together as a batch. Photo Info reads and writes metadata in IPTC and XMP formats (depending on file type). It also provides enhanced "hover tips" and additional sort properties for digital photographs in Windows Explorer.

Microsoft Photo Info runs on 32-bit versions of Windows XP (with Service Pack 2 or later) and the Windows Vista operating systems.

Download: Microsoft Photo Tool 1.0 (free ware)
News source: Microsoft

Monday, January 22, 2007

Consumer Versions of Windows Vista Available Early

The official launch of Windows Vista is planned for January 30. Some online retailers have, however, made the operating system available early. mwave.com states that it has Vista 32-bit Home Basic OEM for $89.90, Vista 32-bit Home Basic OEM 3-pack for $268.90 and Vista 32-bit Business OEM for $139.90, all in stock and ready to ship. Vista Home Premium and Vista Ultimate are currently unavailable. Customers are limited to two copies of Vista Home Basic OEM or Vista Business OEM and they must be purchased with hardware for licensing reasons. You can probably get away with ordering a really cheap piece of hardware and still saving a lot over the retail price of Vista. Overclockers UK has previously also started listing OEM versions of Vista.

Link: mwave.com | Overclockers UK

Download Windows Vista and Office 2007 from Windows Marketplace

The Marketplace Team has blogged about Windows Vista and Office 2007 going up on the Windows Marketplace for purchase and download on January 30th, 2007. You will be able to download the following SKUs from Windows Marketplace:

  • Windows Vista Business
  • Windows Vista Home Basic
  • Windows Vista Home Premium
  • Windows Vista Ultimate
  • Office 2007 Home and Student
  • Office 2007 Pofessional 2007
  • Office 2007 Standard 2007

These will be available at their suggestion retail value. The Windows Vista editions will be available in English only and you will be able to choose 32 bit or 64 bit versions of each edition. You can use the new Digital Locker to download Windows Vista on Windows XP and do the upgrade.

Friday, January 19, 2007

Windows Anytime Upgrade & Family Discount Announced

Nick White, Product Manager at Microsoft working on the Windows Vista launch team and Featured Communities leader has posted up the pricing for the Anytime Upgrade option available from within Windows when you buy a version of Vista lesser than "Ultimate".

On January 30th Windows Anytime Upgrade will allow customers to purchase and download a digital key to upgrade to a more feature-rich edition of Windows Vista. The user will then complete the upgrade process by inserting the Windows Vista DVD that came with their PC or with their retail purchase of Windows Vista. The program will be available in the US, Canada, Europe and Japan.

The pricing is as follows:
  • Home Basic --> Home Premium: $79
  • Home Basic --> Ultimate: $199
  • Home Premium --> Ultimate: $159
  • Business --> Ultimate: $139
Microsoft have also launched the Windows Vista Family Discount, as posted here earlier in the week. This offer applies to the US & Canada only, here's how that works:
  • Buy a retail copy of Windows Vista Ultimate (full or upgrade version)
  • Between 30 January - 30 June, order up to two copies of Windows Vista Home Premium online
  • Pay only $49.99 for each copy of Windows Vista Home Premium
  • Valid in North America (US and Canada)
  • On 30 January, go here for details; we've also a special site for our French-speaking customers.
View: Full Announcement @ Windows Vista Team Blog

Wednesday, January 17, 2007

The Windows Vista Bus Tour Started!

The Windows Vista Bus tour has been started.It will be on the road from January 16th - 24th. The bus would pass through the following cities:
  • Nashville
  • Lexington
  • Cincinnati
  • Columbus
  • Pittsburgh
  • Philadelphia
  • Baltimore
  • Washington, DC
  • Charlotte
  • Savannah
  • Jacksonville
  • Orlando
  • Gainesville
  • Atlanta

The bus will be custom wrapped with the same "energy" design seen on the default wallpaper in Windows Vista. So the bus won't be hard to miss.

The bus can be stopped in the way and visitors can visit the bloggers on the bus and grab some refreshments while talking up Windows Vista.They will be showing off Windows Vista on their laptops.

MSN to launch new mobile beta homepage - MSN to go

With Steve Berkowitz firing on all cylinders to keep the MSN brand rolling, the start of 2007 should see MSN taking back some of the spotlight from Windows Live.

First up is MSN to go, the new MSN Mobile service. Similar to its Windows Live counterpart, MSN to go offers users a homepage for their mobile device, with both Windows Live Mail and Search integration. Where it differs though is that unlike the mobile Live.com, MSN to go does not have all the customisation options such as gadgets and feeds, instead focusing on providing MSN content such as news, sports and movie times.

The new MSN mobile homepage follows the recent launch of the Soapbox mobile page, reinforcing the belief that mobile is one of the areas where Microsoft's online efforts are equal to, if not better than, its rivals. The only concern is that users may become overwhelmed with the number of mobile services now available to them, especially when it comes to mobile messaging.

Check it out and let us know what you think. MSN or Windows Live mobile?

MSN to go: http://beta.mobile.msn.com/ on your mobile device (PC link)
Windows Live mobile: http://mobile.live.com/ on your mobile device (PC Link / Homepage)

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

Windows Media Player 11 for Windows XP Updated

Microsoft have quietly released an update for Windows Media Player 11 for Windows XP. The update requires Windows Genuine Advantage validation and there is no change list available at the time of posting.

Overview
Windows Media Player 11 offers great new ways to store and enjoy all of your digital media. It's easier than ever to access all of your music, video, pictures, and recorded TV on your computer. Play it, view it, organize it, and sync it to a portable device for enjoying on the go, or share with devices around your home - all from one place. Windows Media Player 11 is designed to work with all versions of Windows XP with Service Pack 2, including Windows XP Home Edition N and Windows XP Professional N.

Download: Windows Media Player 11 for Windows XP | 24.6 MB (Validation Required)

Windows Vista, Longhorn Server and IE 7 Beta Test Reboot

Testers who responded to the Microsoft call up to be re-included into the Windows Longhorn Server beta test have been notified that the test has been "restarted" under the old name "Windows Vista, Longhorn Server and IE 7 Beta"

The latest build, Windows Longhorn Server 6001-16406-061208-1900 for X86 and X64 is available for download and testing. As of yet there is still no final designation for the server version but we'd still like to speculate that it will end up as Windows Server 2007 seeing as Microsoft already made it clear when Windows Server 2003 was released that it intended to stay with the "Windows Server" branding.

Windows Longhorn Server didn't receive much attention at the Consumer Electronic Show, it was shadowed by Windows Vista and the Windows Home Server announcement, hopefully this will change when WinHEC hits later this year in LA.

Link: Connect

Windows Mobile Crossbow (WM6) Leaked


Testers of Windows Mobile Codenamed Crossbow (or Windows Mobile 6.0) have leaked at least 2 versions of the pre-release online, along with a good number of screenshots. According to our source betacollector the pre-release is incomplete, missing a few functions but working fine.

No Windows start orb here, that seems to be cropping up on everywhere on Microsoft software now, but then again WM6 is not yet final -who knows if that will be included in the final release.

The leaked version specs: WM6PreRelease.rar (54177kb) Build date 1/12/2006 (15341.4.2.0) Rom 2.00.02.pv / External Rom 2.02 PDAVIET

Theres also a second one WM6CB.rar weighing in at 59608kb for the MDA Pro / Universal or qtec 9000 that one is older than the above mentioned leak.

Microsoft to offer Windows Vista ‘Family Pack’ discount for Ultimate users

Even though the retail launch of Windows Vista just a couple of weeks away, Microsoft is still continuing to fine-tune its licensing and pricing details.

Sources said that Microsoft will announce some time over the next few days that the company will allow Vista Ultimate customers to purchase two additional copies of Vista Home Premium for somewhere between $50 to $99 a piece.

In order to qualify for the so-called "Family Pack" promotion, customers will first need to purchase at retail a copy of Vista Ultimate, which carries an estimated retail price of $399 U.S. The deal will not be offered to those who purchase Ultimate preloaded on a new PC, sources said; it will be for customers buying and/or upgrading via retail channels only.

Sources close to Microsoft were sketchy about some of the particulars. The exact price of the additional copies isn't clear: Some believe it will be $49.95 per copy; others, $99.95. Vista Home Premium's current estimated retail price is $239 per copy.

Microsoft is making multiple versions of Vista available on a single DVD, as part of its Windows Anytime Upgrade marketing plan. As a result, users who want to take advantage of the new promotion will be able to "unlock" the additional licenses from their DVD using a software key after paying for the additional copies by credit card, sources said.

Monday, January 15, 2007

Internet Explorer 8.0



You may get to have a look at the future of the Internet Explorer browser sooner than you might think. Although Microsoft is currently lagging behind Mozilla that has introduced Firefox 3.0 Gran Paradiso since early December 2006, third party sources confirm that the next version of Internet Explorer is already cooking in the Redmond labs.

Internet Explorer 8.0 will be introduced at MIX 07, at the Venitian Hotel in Las Vegas between April 30 and May 2. One of the sessions at MIX 07 is addressed to designers and developers and is entitled: “First Look at the Future of IE.”

And if there is any doubt that the future of Internet Explorer is synonymous with IE 8.0, then here is the description of the session: “Hear what Microsoft's browser investments mean to you, and make sure you get a voice in shaping the next version of Internet Explorer. Hear about what features and layout issues are being worked on, and let us know what causes you the most problems.”

At the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Microsoft has confirmed that the development of Internet Explorer 8.0 has already debuted. Coincidentally, at MIX 06, Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates promised that releases of Internet Explorer will be separated by 9 to 12 months maximum. In this context, Internet Explorer 8.0 should be launched towards the final quarter of 2008.

However, the Microsoft representative at CES 2007 pointed out to a period of 18 to 24 months until Internet Explorer 8.0 hits the market. Additionally, speculations reveal that Microsoft will not release an interim Internet Explorer version 7.x, but will rather concentrate its efforts on the development of IE8.

Another interesting supposition regarding IE 8 states that an alpha edition of Internet Explorer 8 has already been deployed in-house at Microsoft.

Friday, January 12, 2007

Who will be "First In Billion"?


The WOW and Excitement of Windows Vista & the 2007 Office System starts now with the 'FIRST IN BILLION' contest being launched. 20 days to go for the launch of the decade! 504 hrs left before Microsoft delivers to a billion the 'WOW' of Windows Vista and Office 2007. But who will be the '1st'? And now starts the massive hunt. A hunt to identify the first Consumer in India..........someone who needs to get used to being famous!

And also get an HP Pavillion PC with a copy of Windows Vista signed by Bill Gates!

Whats more this consumer gets to receive this award at the glittering launch event in Mumbai that will be telecast on TV to the millions of households across India.

Watch out for the hunt across TV, Internet and over 370 Cafe Coffee Day outlets across India.

Consumers can Participate through SMS(6388) or visit http://firstinbillion.com/

Click the link to refer this to your friends http://www.firstinbillion.com/refer.htm

Windows Vista Named “Best of CES 2007”

Today, the Windows Vista™ operating system has been selected by the editors at CNET (http://www.cnet.com) as a winner of the “Best of CES 2007” award in the computers and hardware category at the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Windows Vista, scheduled to be broadly available on Jan. 30, 2007, was honored for enhancements and innovations that provide users with an experience that is easier, safer, more entertaining and better connected, at home or on the go. “It is a great honor to have Windows Vista declared one of the best products at this year’s CES,” said Mike Sievert, corporate vice president for Windows® Client Marketing at Microsoft Corp. “We are in outstanding company here at the show, and this award is an indication of what customers can expect when they are able to experience Windows Vista for themselves later this month.”

The development of Windows Vista is the result of an unprecedented collaboration between Microsoft and its customers and partners. The product was designed with the help of millions of testers worldwide, including 50 families from seven countries taking part in the Wife with Windows Vista program. The feedback gathered from this testing was invaluable to the product development, and Windows Vista is better because of it. In preparation for the Windows Vista launch, thousands of PC manufacturers and system builders across the globe are preparing to deliver new PCs designed to run the new operating system. By Jan. 30, more than 1.5 million devices will have the Works with Windows Vista logo and more than 2,000 products will be Certified for Windows Vista, helping make Internet and networking connections, home entertainment and business tasks faster, easier and more secure. Many of those products are on display at CES, including two Windows Vista-based PCs — the HP TouchSmart PC IQ770 and the ASUS W5Fe SideShow™ Notebook — that were the other two finalists for the Best of CES award in the computers and hardware category.

News source: Presspass

Who Wants to Win a Trip Into Space?

Do you want a ride into sub-orbital space? You’re going to have to work for it. If you haven’t heard about the Vanishing Point Game, you’ve been living under a rock. Microsoft and AMD have created a collaborative puzzle game to celebrate the consumer release of Windows Vista to the public (Vista has already been released to businesses). Talk about a lot of product buzz in a very unusual marketing scheme.

Expect competition to be fierce, however, as players attempt to decipher online puzzles and solve clues from all over the world. On a weekly basis, twelve new puzzles are posted on the site. An answer for every puzzle can only be solved using information from an online element and a real world element. Physically being present at every location is not necessary as footage of the unusual real world event is always posted. Loki, the mysterious Microsoft Puzzle Master and “host” at these events, is the character to watch out for. Earlier this week, the first real-world event took place at the fountains outside the Bellagio Hotel and Casino.

There is nearly $500,000 in prizes. The first prize gets a ride into sub-orbital space in 2008 courtesy of Rocketplane Limited Inc. – the ticket is estimated to be at a value of $250,000. The Rocketplane XP Vehicle, powered by both turbojet engines and a rocket engine, is a four-seat fighter-sized vehicle fitted with a delta wing and a V-tail. The vehicle is able to reach speeds just over 2,386 miles per hour, and reach altitudes in excess of 330,000 feet, or 100 kilometres. If you win first prize, tell me how it feels to be weightless for three to four minutes.

View: Vanishing Point Game
News source: Microsoft Watch

Thursday, January 11, 2007

Microsoft Security Bulletin Summary for January 2007

Title: Microsoft Security Bulletin Summary for January 2007
Issued: January 09, 2007
Version Number: 1.0
Bulletin: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=80465

Critical Security Bulletins
===========================

MS07-002 - Vulnerabilities in Microsoft Excel Could Allow Remote
Code Execution (927198)

- Affected Software:
- Excel 2000
- Excel 2002
- Excel 2003
- Excel Viewer 2003
- Microsoft Works Suites 2004 and 2005
- Microsoft Office 2004 for Mac
- Microsoft Office v.X for Mac

- Impact: Remote Code Execution
- Version Number: 1.0

MS07-003 - Vulnerabilities in Microsoft Outlook Could Allow Remote
Code Execution (925938)

- Affected Software:
- Outlook 2000
- Outlook 2002
- Outlook 2003

- Impact: Remote Code Execution
- Version Number: 1.0

MS07-004 - Vulnerability in Vector Markup Language Could Allow
Remote Code Execution (929969)

- Affected Software:
- Windows 2000 Service Pack 4
- Windows XP Service Pack 2
- Windows XP Professional x64 Edition
- Windows Server 2003
- Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1
- Windows Server 2003 for Itanium-based Systems
- Windows Server 2003 with SP1 for Itanium-based Systems
- Windows Server 2003 x64 Edition
- Internet Explorer 5.01 Service Pack 4 on Windows 2000 Service
Pack 4
- Internet Explorer 6 Service Pack 1 on Windows 2000 Service
Pack 4
- Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP Service Pack 2
- Internet Explorer 7 on Windows Server 2003 and Windows Server
2003 Service Pack 1
- Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP Professional x64 Edition
- Internet Explorer 7 on Windows Server 2003 for Itanium-based
Systems
- Internet Explorer 7 on Windows Server 2003 x64 Edition

- Impact: Remote Code Execution
- Version Number: 1.0


Important Security Bulletins
============================

MS07-001 - Vulnerability in Microsoft Office 2003 Brazilian
Portuguese Grammar Checker That Could Allow Remote Code
Execution (921585)

- Affected Software:
- Office 2003 Service Pack 2 (Brazilian Portuguese Version)
- Microsoft Office Multilingual User Interface 2003 Service Pack
2
- Microsoft Project Multilingual User Interface 2003 Service Pack
2
- Microsoft Visio Multilingual User Interface 2003 Service Pack 2
- Microsoft Office Proofing Tools 2003 Service Pack 2

- Impact: Remote Code Execution
- Version Number: 1.0

Wednesday, January 10, 2007

Office 2008 for Mac Coming this Year


Microsoft has announced that Office 2008 for Mac will be a universal binary release, meaning it can run on both Macs with Intel chips and on those with PowerPC chips. Just like Office 2007, the release focuses on revamping the user interface and will use the new XML file formats. Microsoft also announced that file converters for old Office for Mac documents will be available two months after the Office 2008 release, a beta version coming this spring. The new suite will not be using the Office 2007 “ribbon” but will be using the “element gallery”. "It's very Mac-like. It's not an incredibly abrupt change for our users," said Microsoft's Sheridan Jones.

Office 2008 for Mac has a few mac-only features. One program is called My Day; it offers users a quick way to view calendar information and unfinished tasks. "It's always there on your desktop; you can always see it," Jones said. As well, Microsoft Word 2008 offers improved page layout options: users can view the look of the final project as they edit. Finally, new templates called ledger sheets, offering built-in banking formulas, are available in Excel 2008.

Apple announce touchscreen iPhone


iPhone combines three products � a revolutionary mobile phone, a widescreen iPod with touch controls, and a breakthrough Internet communications device with desktop-class email, web browsing, maps, and searching � into one small and lightweight handheld device. iPhone also introduces an entirely new user interface based on a large multi-touch display and pioneering new software, letting you control everything with just your fingers. So it ushers in an era of software power and sophistication never before seen in a mobile device, completely redefining what you can do on a mobile phone.

Tuesday, January 9, 2007

Windows Imaging Component RC1

The Windows Imaging Component supports discovery of new and proprietary (e.g., Raw) image formats. Any application that uses WIC can take advantage of new image formats as soon as their CODECs (encoder/decoders) are installed on the computer.

WIC includes updated CODECs for JPEG, TIFF, GIF, PNG, & BMP that are more secure than previously released CODECs for these formats, and also supports a new high-performance image format called Windows Media Photo. Additionally, WIC provides metadata readers and writers for common image metadata formats, and enables applications to preserve their own metadata inside image files so they don't need to create "sidecar files".

Download: Windows Imaging Component RC1
This is BETA software!, please use caution when installing it on your system

Microsoft’s Upgraded Fingerprint Reader for Windows Vista

Today at the 2007 International CES in Las Vegas, Microsoft Corp. announced the availability of the Microsoft® Fingerprint Reader with software updates from DigitalPersona Inc., for Windows Vista™ compatibility, offering users the convenience of replacing their passwords with their fingerprint, and easily managing the import or export of passwords across multiple computers. These updates were designed for the Fingerprint Reader to make the user accounts in Windows Vista more convenient for individuals and families by eliminating the need to remember and type in account passwords when using features such as the new Parental Controls.

“This is an exciting time for PC users with the launch of Windows Vista, and we want to ensure that our products are enhancing the new operating system. We’ve added new features to our mice and keyboards, and the Fingerprint Reader is no exception, with updates to make Windows Vista features more convenient,” said Sean Butterworth, product marketing manager for Microsoft Hardware. “The Hardware team worked closely with DigitalPersona to enable password mobility and administration, which is a huge timesaver and something many customers have requested, especially those who will be making the move to Windows Vista this year.”

“DigitalPersona Password Manager 2.0 is the result of our ongoing collaboration with Microsoft,” said Vance Bjorn, CTO of DigitalPersona. “This update offers the latest fingerprint technology to consumers and utilizes the enhanced features in Windows Vista.”

News source: MS Presspass

Microsoft to showcase remote-controlled USB handsets

Microsoft is expected to showcase a number of new consumer products at the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), including remote-controlled USB handsets and Ultra Mobile PCs (UMPCs), according to sources at related Taiwan-based manufacturers, who also indicated that the launch of the products will benefit Taiwan's OEM companies.

The USB handset, which aims to compete with Skype-enabled handsets, will come with a remote controller that is able to integrate various functions being played by a PC, a TV interface and audio/video devices, the sources noted. As indicated by the sources, Taiwan-based Accton Technology and Winbond Electronics will supply Bluetooth-enabled modules and chipsets, respectively, for the remote-controlled USB handset.

View: The full story
News source: DigiTimes

Windows Vista Ultimate Extras


Windows DreamScene


Your desktop background comes to life with Windows DreamScene™. When you download this Ultimate Extra, you can select a video for your desktop background the same way you select a stationary picture. You can choose one of the high-quality looping videos that we’ve included, or use a video from a company that produces content for DreamScene. You can even use your own video as a background.

If you’re wondering what effect a video background might have on your battery life, don’t worry. Windows DreamScene respects your power settings and pauses the video to conserve battery power.

Some things that you should know before you start using Windows DreamScene:
* Windows DreamScene supports only .mpeg and .wmv video file formats.
* Windows DreamScene video support requires a graphics card that supports Windows Aero™.

For computers that do not support the Windows Aero desktop experience, this Extra still has something to offer: Windows DreamScene adds new positioning options for backgrounds, including stationary pictures.


BitLocker and EFS Enhancements


This Ultimate Extra includes two tools that make it easier to use some of the security features that come with Windows Vista Ultimate:

* Windows® BitLocker™ Drive Preparation Tool - configures your hard drive so that you can use the BitLocker Drive Encryption feature of Windows Vista.
* Secure Online Key Backup - stores a backup copy of your BitLocker recovery password and Encrypting File System (EFS) recovery certificates in your digital locker, a secure Microsoft website.

When you purchase Windows Vista Ultimate, you get all of the features that Windows Vista has to offer for home users and for businesses. Because BitLocker was originally designed for businesses, it can be tricky to use on your own. That’s why we created this Ultimate Extra, which makes it easier for you to set up your computer for BitLocker and then securely back up your recovery information for BitLocker or EFS to your digital locker.
If you haven’t already heard about BitLocker, here is some background information:

Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption provides increased security by encrypting everything on your hard drive: data, programs, and even Windows itself. When you use BitLocker, your system is more difficult to tamper with, and you are better protected if your computer is ever lost or stolen. BitLocker does not replace the need to use good passwords and other security features, but it does make it much harder for anyone else to read the information stored on your hard drive.

If your computer has as a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2 chip, BitLocker can use the chip to perform a system integrity check—a process that verifies your computer system has not been tampered with—before unlocking your drive. If you do not have a TPM 1.2 chip, you can still use the encryption provided by BitLocker, but not the system integrity checking. For information about how to enable BitLocker on your computer without using a TPM 1.2 chip, see the BitLocker Drive Encryption Step-by-Step Guide.



Hold 'Em Poker Game

This Windows Ultimate Extra adds a popular poker game to your Windows Vista™ gaming experience. Hold 'Em sets you against the computer for no-limit poker fun. Hold 'Em may cost you time, but your money is safe because the chips are not real.

Hold 'Em uses Microsoft® DirectX® technology for smooth animated play and rich graphics. Users can change options to play against up to five computer players, set the opponents’ skill level, and customize the look of the card deck and playing table. After you install this Windows Ultimate Extra, Hold 'Em will appear in the Windows Vista Games Explorer.


Vanishing point game


The Microsoft Vanishing point game has been started with lots of prizes but the condition is that it is available only in few countries which is not justified,but the good news for the people living in those countries is that it contains lots of good prizes.Here is the list

Grand Prize
The Rocketplane® XP Vehicle is a four-seat fighter-sized vehicle fitted with a delta wing and a V-tail which provide good flight characteristics both subsonically and supersonically. The vehicle is powered by both turbojet engines and a rocket engine, enabling it to accelerate to speeds just over 3,500 feet per second (2,386 miles per hour) and reach altitudes in excess of 330,000 feet (100 kilometers) providing the sensation of weightlessness for three to four minutes!

This prize package also includes a Windows Vista based AMD powered Dell desktop pc, 24" widescreen monitor, Zune™ digital media player, an Xbox® 360 gaming console, three Games for Windows game titiles, a Microsoft® LifeCam VX-6000, Microsoft Office Ultimate 2007, and $50,000 cash to help defray the cost of taxes.

More Prizes
• 15 loaded AMD based computers with Windows Vista Ultimate, devices and games:
- Windows Vista based AMD powered Dell Inspirion 1501 laptops, a Zune, Xbox 360,
3 Games for Windows game titles, a Microsoft LifeCam VX-6000, and Microsoft
Office Ultimate 2007.
- Windows Vista based AMD powered media computers, a 24" widescreen monitor, a
digital media player, Xbox 360, 3 Games for Windows game titles, a Microsoft
LifeCam VX-6000, and Microsoft Office Ultimate 2007.
- Windows Vista based AMD powered gaming computers, a 30” widescreen monitor,
a Zune, 3 Games for Windows game titles, a Microsoft LifeCam VX-6000, and
Microsoft Office Ultimate 2007.
• Devices (75): a Windows Vista Ultimate, and one of the following: an Xbox 360,
Zune, or iRiver Clix.
• Software (150): Windows Vista Ultimate, or Office Ultimate 2007.
• Games (250): three Games for Windows game titles

The vanishing point game is only available in the following countries,so you should be the citizen of the country to register-
Valid in Australia, Canada (except the Province of Quebec), Germany, Singapore, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Ireland, France, Italy, Spain and the United States and District of Columbia. Void in the Province of Quebec and where prohibited by law.

You can register at-http://vanishingpointgame.com

Sunday, January 7, 2007

NASA World Wind 1.4 RC3

World Wind, an open source 3D interactive world viewer, was created by NASA's Learning Technologies project, and released in mid-2004. It is now developed by NASA staff and open source community developers.World Wind allows any user to zoom from outer space into any place on Earth. World Wind uses satellite imagery and elevation data to allow users to experience Earth terrain in visually rich 3D, just as if they were really there. Virtually visit anyplace in the world. Look across the Andes, into the Grand Canyon, over the Alps or along the African Sahara.
World Wind offers the following built-in features:
* Earth - The planet we live on.
* Moon - Usually the brightest object in the night sky.
* Venus and Mars - Our inner and outer neighbours in solar system - the "morning/evening star" and the "red planet".
* Jupiter - The king of solar system planets.
* SDSS - Nothing less than the universe - the sky with stars and galaxies.
NOTE: World Wind 1.4 requires .NET 2.0 and DirectX December 2006
 

Download: NASA World Wind 1.4 RC3
 Download: NASA World Wind 1.3.5 (stable)
 View: NASA World Wind 1.4 RC3 Fixed Bugs
 Link: World Wind Home Page

Saturday, January 6, 2007

The second Xbox 360 revealed: codename Zephyr

Microsoft released a newer version of Xbox 360 codenamed Zephyr.These updates would include a 120GB HD, a slightly cooler 65nm processor, and HDMI capabilities, finally HDMI with 1080p, it will be wonderful. Now none of these rumors have been confirmed by MS yet, but the guys over at engadget say all of this gossip is coming from a credible source. We hope the "Zephyr" will come in around the same price, but I highly doubt it. With the ps3 prices skyrocketing look for the new 360 to match it in price. I think Microsoft can really feel the Sony guys running for the hills. If this "update" comes out within the next 6-7 months I can really see a lot more market share moving toward MS, and away from Sony.


source-http://www.engadget.com

Microsoft at CES website

Microsoft has started a new website related to the Microsoft at CES with sufficient information to know about the happenings there.

"The 2007 International CES starts Monday and Microsoft will be there introducing new technologies and demonstrating its latest innovations. Microsoft at CES will follow the action with in-the-moment video from the show floor.

CES Keynote, Sunday, 6:30 PST

On Sunday night, join Bill Gates right at microsoftatces.com as he keynotes 2007 CES, demonstrating how the company is delivering a new generation of connected experiences. Bill will be joined by Robbie Bach in announcing several new offerings from Windows Vista, Xbox 360, Microsoft TV and more."

source-microsoftarces.com

Friday, January 5, 2007

Windows Live OneCare (v1.5) is released to manufacturing

Windows Live OneCare includes antivirus, antispyware, two-way firewall and anti-phishing technology for all your security needs. It regularly defragments and cleans your hard disk drive, and also offers backup and restore functions. Development and test work is complete for the next major release of OneCare and will be available, in store and on the web, at the end of January. Those who have already subscribed will automatically receive the newer version. The new release sports support for Windows Vista while improving XP support, many new language platforms, as well as overall performance improvements - none of which could have been possible without beta testers.

Microsoft to release 8 security patches for january

Although the information is subject to change until the day of, on 9 January 2007 Microsoft will Release 8 Security Patches:

  • Three Microsoft Security Bulletins affecting Microsoft Windows with the highest Maximum Severity rating being Critical. (detectable using Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer & Enterprise Scan Tool)
  • One Microsoft Security Bulletins affecting Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Visual Studio with the highest Maximum Severity rating being Important. (detectable using Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer & Enterprise Scan Tool)
  • One Microsoft Security Bulletins affecting Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office with the highest Maximum Severity rating being Important. (detectable using Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer)
  • Three Microsoft Security Bulletins affecting Microsoft Office. The highest Maximum Severity rating for these is Critical. (detectable using Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer)
(All updates may require a restart)
Microsoft will release an updated version of the Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool on Windows Update, Microsoft Update, Windows Server Update Services and the Download Center but not on Software Update Services (SUS). As well, Microsoft will release two NON-SECURITY High-Priority Updates on Microsoft Update (MU) and Windows Server Update Services (WSUS).
Microsoft will host a webcast on Wednesday, January 10, 11:00 AM Pacific Time (US & Canada) to address customer questions on these bulletins.
News source: Bink

Thursday, January 4, 2007

Desktop Optimization Pack Avilable for download at Microsoft Volume Licensing Site

The Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack for Software Assurance (1.32 MB .pdf file) is a dynamic desktop solution available to Software Assurance customers, that employs innovative technologies to help reduce the TCO of the Windows desktop by accelerating OS and application management, and enhancing IT responsiveness and end-user uptime.

Using the solution's virtualization, dynamic streaming and desktop manageability technologies, customers will:

  • Improve PC manageability
    • Streamline and accelerate the entire application management lifecycle from planning and predictable deployment, to using, maintaining and migrating software
    • Further reduce total cost of ownership of the Windows desktop
    • Enhance management of software assets
  • Accelerate and simplify desktop deployments and migrations
    • Reduce end-user downtime
    • Increase IT and business agility
  • Enhance change management process and roll backs
    • Enhance group policy management
    • Reduce downtime
    • Provide end users with on-demand access to applications for which they are assigned

The Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack for Software Assurance is an add-on subscription license available only to customers who have SA coverage on their Windows Desktops that can transform the way you manage your desktops. It will enable you to better control the desktop, accelerate and simplify desktop deployments and management, and create a dynamic infrastructure by turning software into centrally managed services.

Change the way you manage enterprise-wide desktop environments

Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack for Software Assurance facilitates accelerated deployment and manageability of Windows through these innovative technologies-available only to Windows Software Assurance customers

More information and download at- http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/getready/optimizeddesktop.mspx

Nemo surfaces! Windows Live for TV in the wild

Here's a little something to kick off our birthday celebration in style!. Well now the little project has made its debut on Windows Live Ideas (for some reason you must be signed into ideas.live.com with a US Live ID for the link to work).

That's right, Nemo is back with a new look and a new name. They're calling it exactly what you would expect, Windows Live for TV. Live TV is an additional program for Windows Media Center which will provide access to Spaces, Messenger, and Live Call, all wrapped up in a ten foot interface. Here's the feature list from Ideas:

• Browse millions of Spaces in rich 3D graphics with new Gallery views and full keyword search
• Find out what your friends have been doing and saying on Windows Live Spaces
• Have real-time text and voice conversations*
• Call your friends' mobile or landline telephones by signing up with Verizon Web Calling to make affordable domestic and international calls**
• Easily navigate with your mouse, keyboard or a TV remote (remote navigation requires Microsoft Media Center Remote and IR)
• Make free PC-to-PC calls to other Windows Live Messenger users.

*Both parties must have compatible webcams, microphones, and speakers
**Requires voice calling in Windows Live Messenger Client

This is how the team blog, In Orbit, defines the application:

"Windows Live for TV is an early beta 3D browser application that makes it easy to connect to your social network as well as friends and family from within Vista Media Center or IE7.0. You're be able to view the best of Windows Live Spaces and communicate with Friends and Family over Windows Live Messenger 8.1 with voice & text chat as well as make a phone call.

Media Center has brought the PC to heart of the home, adding Windows Live services to Media Center will make it easier to stay in touch with your social network. Our goal in creating Orbit is to bring social networking to a new form factor that is both intuitive and fun to use. We built the application in Windows Presentation Framework (.NET 3.0) and it will run within Vista Media Center or directly in Vista hosted IE7.0 browser."

For those of you out there who are hoping to use it on Windows XP Media Center, I think you are going to be out of luck. WL for TV will require a PC running Windows Vista Home Premium or Ultimate.

It's nice to see that this killer application is getting its chance to shine. You can sign up to test Windows Live for TV here. And so it begins...

Wednesday, January 3, 2007

Technet January 2007

SharePoint

This monthTechNetMagazine devotes an issue to SharePoint and everything that’s new in the latest release. Here we introduce SharePoint Server 2007 and guide you through new features that make building a collaborative site better and easier than ever. An overview article covers enterprise-wide search and document management, and much more. We also bring youarticles on security in SharePoint, fast command-line administration tasks, and building a wiki for your organization using SharePoint. And as usual, we have our roundup of popular columns, including Raymond Chen on Getting out of DLL Hell and The Scripting Guys on sorting in VBScript using the .NET Framework’s DataList.Sort method.


Tuesday, January 2, 2007

BSNL Broadband schemes

BSNL has just updated it's broadband Schemes for the benefits of its customers and has provided it as a new year gifts to its customers.
Take a look at its schemes-

Broadband tariff shall be revised as follows with effect from 1st Jan, 2007 :

A. Home Plans:

Particulars

Tariff in Rs.

Home
250
Home
500
Home
1000
Home
1800
Home
3300

Bandwidth

(wherever technically feasible)

256 Kbps/

Up to

2 Mbps

256 Kbps/

Up to

2 Mbps

384

Kbps/ Up to 2 Mbps

512 Kbps/ Up to

2 Mbps

2 Mbps

Monthly Charges (Rs)

250

500

1000

1800

3300

Annual Payment Option to Customers (Rs)

2500

5000

10000

18000

33000

Download/ Upload Limit (GB)

1.0 GB

2.5 GB

5 GB

10 GB

20 GB

Additional Usage Charges/MB

Beyond free Download/Upload Limit (Rs)

0.90

0.80

0.80

0.70

0.70

Free E-mail IDs/Space (Per E-mail ID)

1/5MB

1 / 5 MB

1 / 5 MB

1 / 5 MB

2 / 5 MB

Security Deposit

NIL

NIL

1 month rental

1 month rental

1 month rental

Night Unlimited (0200- 0800 Hrs)

Not Available

Available

Available

Available

Available

Minimum Hire period

Three months

Three months

One month

One month

One month

B. Business Plans

Particulars

Tariff in Rs.

Business
700

Business
1200

Business
3000

Business
5000

Business
9000

Bandwidth (wherever technically feasible)

256 Kbps/ Up to 2 Mbps

256 Kbps/ Up to 2 Mbps

512Kbps/ Up to 2 Mbps

1 Mbps/ Up to

2 Mbps

2 Mbps

Single /Multi User-(SU/MU)

SU

SU

MU

MU

MU

Monthly Charges (Rs)

700

1200

3000

5000

9000

Annual Payment option to Customers (Rs)

7000

12000

30000

50000

90000

Download/ Upload Limit (GB)

4 GB

8 GB

20 GB

35 GB

75 GB

Additional Usage Charges/MB Beyond free download /upload limit (Rs)

0.80

0.80

0.50

0.50

0.50

Free E-mail IDs/Space (Per E-mail ID)

1/5 MB

1 / 5 MB

2 / 5 MB

2 / 5 MB

4 / 5 MB

Static IP Address

(On request)

Not Available

Not Available

Not Available

One

One

Web hosting space

(On request)

Not Available

Not Available

Not Available

5 MB

5 MB

Domain Name

(On request)

Not Available

Not Available

Not Available

One

One

Security Deposit

1 Month rental

1 months rental

1 month rental

1 month rental

Rs 5000

Minimum Hire period

One month

One month

One month

One month

One month

Notes:

1. The downloading limits will be either up loading or down loading which ever is reached earlier.

2. The data rates for Unlimited Home 900 and 900 Plus shall continue @256 Kbps and no up gradation of bandwidth is proposed for the same.

All other terms and conditions will remain same.

Windows Live Mobile Messenger (G2)

The new Windows Live Messenger Mobile client (codenamed G2) has been in private beta for some time, and can only be installed on Windows Mobile 5 or 6 smart phones and Pocket PCs. The new version is a substantial update to the older Pocket MSN, with the mobile client now closely resembling Windows Live Messenger.

Some of the new features include:

  • Nudges (your mobile device vibrates), and voice clips
  • File transfers
  • Phone book integration with Windows Live Contacts

Check out the screen shots to see more details (taken from mobile-review.com):

Homepage:

http://mobile.live.com/ (No publicly available build yet)

Monday, January 1, 2007

Microsoft to unveil Windows Home Server at CES

Microsoft is definitely going to talk - at long last - about its plans for Windows Home Server (code-named “Quattro”) at the Consumer Electronics Show in January, according to Mary Jo Foley’s ZDNet Blog.
Code-named “Quattro”, the new product was originally to be “a scaled back and customized version of Windows Small Business Server, running on specialized hardware, and it would simplify home networking to the point where everyone could enjoy the benefits of modern network management,” said blogger Rick Hallihan back in 2005.
But now the word on the street is Windows Home Server won’t be Windows-Server-based at all. Given the heavy Vista push expected at CES, coupled with Microsoft’s undoubted plans to put a damper on anything Apple Computer might have to say around home networking at MacWorld Expo, Foley suggests that “Quattro” will now be Vista-based, not Windows Server-based as initially expected.
Home media sharing is one area where much is expected of “Quattro”. “As long as there is some kind of integration with (Windows) Media Center,” I don’t care what it’s based on, said one Windows tester. “I want it to store all your media for your home?. to be able to network multiple Media Centers and PCs and save all your stuff on one back-end home server. That’s what I’ve been dreaming about.”
News Source: ZDNet

How Windows Live Messenger actually works?


Oh it’s really rather simple once you look at it from all the right angles! Here’s a nice little visual representation of the “Messenger Relay” system of which sends and receives all your messages. I’ve basic’d it down as much as I can because it does get tricky in places. Click the thumbnail to view a larger shot.

1. The user starts the session by double clicking a contact.
2. The user’s Windows Live ID credentials are sent across to the Windows Live ID Credentials server for further verification
3. The information is passed through a incoming only firewall to the dispatch server. This is the first point of connection for the message being sent.
4. Depending where the user is in the world, a connection will be made to the local notification server. There are main ones in Singapore, Dublic, Redmond and Reading. This keeps the connection between the two users alive, and keeps things updated such as user status, chat requests and email notifications from Windows Live Mail/Hotmail.
5. The message itself doesn’t go near the notification servers - it is passed onto the switchboard server which is the where all the messages and files are exchanged. The user starting the chat can talk to one user, whilst using another switchboard session to talk to someone else, and another switchboard session for someone else still - without even knowing it. Invitations, file transfers and video/voice chat are also sent through here.
6. The information is then relayed back through an outgoing firewall and checks the user is still online. If the user is offline by the time the message is ready to be received, then it’ll bounce back and be saved on the switchboard session until the user logs back on again. If they are online, they will receive the message.
This is all done in the space of around 2 seconds - most of the time your message will be sent at least twice around the world, in the space of 2 seconds. Not bad eh?
Source: MSblog.org

CrackDown Will Include A Halo3 Beta Key..!


Buying a copy of Crackdown for the Xbox 360 (that’s specially marked), can get you a Halo 3 Multiplayer Beta key. It’s nice to see Microsoft using Halo’s popularity to promote software developed by other companies (Real Time World in this case). For all of you who are looking forward to playing Crackdown,this is some incentive to pickup your copy as soon as the game releases in February 2007.
Here’s a little about the game from the Xbox website:
“Crackdown pushes the action-driving hybrid genre into the next generation with the first ever truly 3-D playground. Enforce justice by any means necessary in Pacific City, a crime-ridden urban center primed to explode and ready for you to explore. Enter an interactive world where anything can be used as a weapon as you clean up the streets the only way you know how. Your way.”
Source: Tv18

Happy New Year

wish u a hapy n prosperous new year
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*********HAPPY NEW YEAR*************