Apple media software challenges 2 rivals; racing Microsoft and Real Networks on an Internet technology

Article Abstract:

Apple Computer Inc. has introduced a new version of its Quicktime multimedia software. The new version allows users to get video and audio programming over the Internet. Last week Microsoft announced the MS Audio 4.0, its own entry into the field. Microsoft, Apple and Real Networks are competing to set the standard that will ultimately be adopted by the record industry, which is worried about the increasing spread of the use of the MP3 audio standard, which has no inherent copyright protection function and thus poses a piracy threat. Apple also announced that it will offer server software for servers that use its Mac OS X operating system to distribute multimedia over the Internet. This software will support a streaming technology defined as a standard by a leading segment of the industry. Apple is releasing the source code for its server software, which will make it easy for organizations to adapt their own systems. In addition, Apple will try to incorporate a broad array of different 'codecs,' or compression-decompression formats. Both Windows and Macintosh users can download the Quicktime 4 viewer from Apple's Web site for free, and for a fee can get a version that allows them to create and edit digital content.

United States, Product introduction, AAPL, Product enhancement, Multimedia authoring software, Desktop video software, QuickTime (Desktop video software), Apple Inc.

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Eyes for the mouse, wheels for the joystick; new company to create visual maps for navigating the Internet

Article Abstract:

Invisible Worlds, a new Silicon Valley company, plans to develop Internet mapping software. Renowned Internet software developers Carl Malamud and Marshall Rose have co-founded the Redwood City, CA-based firm in hopes of adding a spatial view to cyberspace navigation. A goal is to widen the less-visual market that is currently dominated by portals, search engines and directories, according to Malamud. Invisible Worlds aims to release its Blocks protocol, or visual rules, sometime in 1999. This will enable users to view interactive maps that illustrate a user's position in relation to Internet computers and network connections. Standard Web browsers will allow users to view the maps, but Malamud eventually wants to develop more visually powerful, map-viewing software. The company's first two demonstration maps will consist of financial information as well as music and media.

Management, Planning, Geographic information systems, Company technology development, Company business planning, Geographic information system, Invisible Worlds Inc.

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Novell to offer data-privacy technology for Internet

Article Abstract:

Novell Corp. has developed Digital Me software designed to provide computer users with considerable control over their personal information while accessing the Internet. The growth of electronic commerce, along with the availability of sophisticated consumer profiles have led to conflicting realities on the Web: companies desire accurate and timely marketing data; individuals want to control their cyber-identities. Digital Me allows users to decide how much personal information may be collected by a Web site and Novell is hoping that it becomes the industry standard for privacy software. The new technology was developed by Michael Sheridan, a well-known software developer, who followed Eric E. Schmidt from Sun Microsystems Inc.

Computer networks, Innovations, Safety and security measures, Product Announcement, Abstract, Network security software, Novell Inc., NOVL, Access control (Computers), Computer access control

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