Google Desktop 3 Beta released

Google is releasing Google Desktop 3 Beta, including features that make finding and sharing information easier for users in general, reports Geek Zone. With this version, Google has added new ways for users to customise the sidebar, share information with friends and search for content - even remotely.

Users can customise and view any combination of personalised information anywhere on their desktop, and undock panels from the sidebar and place them directly on the desktop.

A new feature, Search Across Computers, is designed for people who regularly use multiple computers. It helps users access information from all of their computers from any location.

Sony will give the PlayStation 3 (PS3) a public appearance at the Taipei Game Show 2006, reports Mtv. A quarter of Sony`s exhibit space at the show will be devoted exclusively to the PS3 from 16 to 20 February.

It hasn`t been disclosed whether Sony is planning to release a playable PS3 or show off game trailers, or if the console will finally appear in a playable form.

Sony`s appearance comes a month before Microsoft launches its Xbox 360 in Taiwan on 16 March.

Apple Computer has introduced a free service that enables colleges and universities to put course lectures and other learning materials online, using Apple`s iTunes software, reports the Financial Times.

The maker of iPod portable players and Macintosh computers has worked with six US universities on the pilot project for more than a year and has recently invited other universities to participate.

iTunes U allows students to download podcasts and vodcasts (audio and visual files) on their computers and iPods so they can listen to and watch the recorded lectures anywhere, any time.

Flaws found in four Sony Ericsson mobile phones, including the K600i and T68i, make them vulnerable to denial-of-service attacks, reports CNet.

The flaw comes from an error in the Bluetooth service, according to the French Security Incident Response Team, or FrSIRT.

The Bluetooth "fails to properly handle malformed L2CAP (Logical Link Control and Adaptation Layer Protocol)", FrSIRT, a France-based security company, said in an advisory posted on its Web site. Danish security firm Secunia reported the same flaw, and both companies have rated the potential security risk as low.