Audio spam the next Net plague?

A research study has revealed that audio spam - or 'spit` - could be the next plague for Internet users.

According to a study by Maryland-based technology company, China Radio International, spit comes into being with the increasing popularity of Internet telephony, which involves making phone calls using the Internet instead of traditional phone lines.

The company says that Internet telephony appeals to spammers because it is based upon Internet protocols, and can easily send a message to thousands of recipients in much the same way as e-mail spam works, reports Xinhuanet.

As a result, China Radio International has filed two patent applications to thwart the spread of spit.

Adobe Systems introduce a new format for digital photos in an attempt to create an industry public standard to make the archiving and editing process compatible across all types of cameras and photo software.

While most digital cameras capture images in the JPEG format, a new higher-quality photo format is gaining in popularity among higher-end and professional camera models, AP reports. Another frustration for photographers is that different digital camera makers use different, proprietary versions of the raw format, industry analysts say.

Because of this, users are forced to use and maintain a number of software programmes in order to handle photos taken by different cameras.

MSN will launch its MSN TV2 Internet and Media player - a broadband and home network-enabled device - at the TECHXNY technology expo, to be held between 5 and 7 October.

In addition to Internet accessibility, the device extends access to digital media (photos, music, and video) beyond the PC and laptop to the television, reports TechWeb.

Users will be able to view slideshows, listen to music or watch movies downloaded from the Internet or via a home network.