Liberty Alliance
Less than a year after its launch, the Liberty Alliance yesterday released version 1.0 of its network identification system. While still only a set of standards and protocols, a number of vendors did concurrently announce intentions to deliver Liberty-enabled devices and services. Using the "federated" system, online users will be able to identify themselves reliably, and the specifications allow for voluntarily linking accounts and vendors together so that a "single sign-on" will be appropriate for a range of uses. What makes Liberty different? The absence of a central repository of information for a start, and the fact that Sun Microsystems is the big backer behind the project, while Microsoft is notably absent from this venture.
High-definition Windows media
High-definition video and surround sound will be included in the revamped Microsoft media player the company plans to release in September. Announcing the release yesterday, Microsoft said the Windows Media 9 Series, formerly code-named Corona, will be released on 4 September. Although the company is unprepared to divulge a full list of features before the release date, it did say it would be a "dramatically enhanced player". What is known is that the player is likely to include near-instant playback, eliminating the delay usually associated with streaming audio and video, as well as high-definition television-grade picture quality. The new player comes at a time when Microsoft is trying desperately to close the gap with the leader in this market, RealNetworks, which holds a 16.2% market share in comparison with Microsoft`s 14.4%.
Cash phone
In a preview of things to come, Japanese wireless carrier NTT DoCoMo is planning to offer the first service that allows users to withdraw money from ATMs using a cellphone instead of a cash card. The company already has IY Bank on board and says DoCoMo`s 504i series phones will be the first to offer the service. The phones are equipped with a chip onto which account information can be stored. Users will be able to deposit and withdraw cash initially. Analysts say the service will be the first of its kind, but add that it is unclear how user-friendly the system will prove to be.
Imaging phone
In another cellphone fast-forward, Nokia started shipping its first imaging phone this week. The Nokia 7650 incorporates a digital camera, multimedia messaging and a full-colour 176X208 pixel display. The built-in VGA camera makes it possible to take and send images with the phone, or if you just want some holiday snaps, the phone can store the pictures on board. The multimedia messaging system allows users to send SMSs with graphics and images to other compatible handsets. The 7650 is expected to be available in SA in September, once the local networks have approved their use.
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