VOIP, cellphone roaming a step closer

IBM, VeriSign and Airespace have joined forces to promote roaming between cellphone systems and Internet Protocol (IP) networks, reports PC World.

The three companies have formed an alliance aimed at promoting technologies that will enable call switching from cellphones to a voice over IP (VOIP) phone instead.

The report says with the dual-mode cell/WiFi phones that are starting to emerge, a subscriber could carry one phone and simply switch modes when in range of a WiFi network.

Roaming between cell and VOIP networks can save enterprises and consumers money by freeing them from using mobile minutes when they have access to a wired or wireless network in their offices or homes.

Convenience store chain 7-Eleven is to roll-out nearly 12 000 rugged MC3000 handheld computers from Symbol Technologies this year at 5 800 stores in North America as part of a move to keep store workers untethered as they track inventory.

ComputerWorld reports that 7-Eleven replaced older DOS-based Symbol handhelds with the MC3000, which has a bigger colour screen and gives a worker more freedom because data can be transferred on the store`s wireless network. Older models had to be placed in a docking station to transmit data.

The MC3000 is based on the Windows CE operating system.

7-Eleven says the new devices will allow workers in the customer area to place orders for more merchandise on the spot.

Microsoft says it will patch versions of Windows Media Player to prevent users from inadvertently downloading viruses, adware and spyware when opening copy-protected media files.

PC World reports that Microsoft is urging users of Windows Media Player versions 9 and 10 to be cautious when opening Windows Media Audio files downloaded from peer-to-peer file-sharing services until the patch is available within 30 days.

The report says security experts confirm that hackers and distributors of adware are using a loophole in Microsoft`s digital rights management licence acquisition process to display advertising, initiate the download of adware to PCs and distribute viruses.

Wireless technology has taken the lead in home networks in the US, according to a new research report.

CNet reports that the survey by research firm Parks Associates found that 52% of households with a home network were using wireless technology, compared with 50% for Ethernet and about 5% for power line networking via electrical wires. This indicates 7% are using a combination of technologies.

It is the first time WiFi has outpaced Ethernet, which is attributed to growing WiFi support among US broadband providers.