Infamous Norwegian hacker claims Apple wireless encryption crack

The infamous Norwegian hacker known as DVD Jon has apparently hacked the encryption software that Apple uses to broadcast music around a house via its AirPort Express wireless hub. Jon Lech Johansen makes the claim in his So Sue Me blog, and criticises Apple for restricting access to the music capabilities of AirPort Express to its own iTunes software. He has previously praised Real Networks for cracking the digital rights management software that prevents songs from online music stores other than Apple's from playing on an iPod. ...more

Microsoft adds app to Office XP

Microsoft is to release a new software product, Data Analyser, to complement its Office XP suite. Data Analyser is a tool that allows users to present and visualise data, identify trends and review multiple sets of data within one simple interface. It can also display relationships between data, such as customer, region or product, as well as multiple measures, such as gross profit, unit sales or quantity. ...more

Microsoft launches Office Small Business Edition 2003

Following the razzamattaz of the official launch of Office 2003, Microsoft has now introduced the Office Small Business Edition 2003, aimed, unsurprisingly, at small businesses. Alongside the familiar applications of Word, Excel and Outlook Microsoft has introduced Publisher and Powerpoint into this edition for the first time. Redmond has also included a basic CRM system with a product called Business Contact Manager. ...more

Google sites new European data centre

Google is to spend €250 million (?170 million) on a new data centre that will handle search queries for the whole of Europe. The company has selected an 85 hectare site near the Belgian city of Mons and expects to have the facility up-and-running by the end of next year. 'After considerable deliberations, this site was considered the most appropriate because it meets all our requirements,' said Google's Peter Fleischer. ...more

Wireless broadband service is UK first

Bulldog Communications has launched what it claims is the UK's first fully-installed wireless network and Internet access package. The ?399.99 (including VAT) package comprises a broadband connection with a combined ADSL modem, router and wireless access point (base station) and connectivity for up to 15 computers. ...more