Windows 7 Makes Pre-Release Debut
At this week's PDC, Microsoft
showed
off Windows 7 and handed out pre-release code to thousands of curious developers.
We'll learn a lot more as testers put the code through its paces. For now,
we know a few things -- namely, that Microsoft has improved the taskbar and
enhanced its touchscreen abilities. Microsoft is also trying to make it easier
to network machines in the home.
So far, I haven't seen any show-stopping new features. Then again, that's the
last thing it needs; what Window 7 really needs is stability and compatibility.
And a dash of performance wouldn't hurt, either!
Yahoo Develops Developers
While Microsoft is promoting
Azure, its new cloud development platform, rival Yahoo put some more meat
on its development platform bones: the Yahoo
Open Strategy. This platform is responsible for creating the most self-indulgent
acronym ever (Y!OS). Does Yahoo really expect the press to use this monstrosity?
The Yahoo plan is to have developers exploit already-existent Yahoo services
and offer these apps to what is still a substantial user base. Developers can
tap into Yahoo's query language, application services and social features.
Can developers turn Yahoo once again into a contender? What apps would you like
to see? Thoughts welcome at [email protected].
Recessions and Security
I'm not sure if this is self-serving, real or both, but Slavik Markovich, the
CTO of Sentrigo, claims that in tough economic times, your computer defenses
need to
be extra-strong.
That's because layoffs mean more angry ex-workers (or angry new hackers), and
that folks that have jobs might be looking for ways to make a buck or two by
stealing company data, says Markovich. IT workers may even sabotage the network
to show how necessary IT jobs are. Interesting theory.
What do you make of this? Send your malware and keylogger-free e-mails to [email protected].
About the Author
Doug Barney is editor in chief of Redmond magazine and the VP, editorial director of Redmond Media Group.