Microsoft `mulls eBay purchase`

The rumour is that Microsoft is in talks with eBay about a possible takeover. The news came just after eBay agreed a wide-ranging partnership deal with Yahoo.

According to The Register, The New York Post quoted "multiple sources" that Microsoft is considering buying eBay and merging it with MSN, though the paper said talks had "cooled somewhat" as execs considered anti-trust issues.

The Post says Microsoft turned to both eBay and Yahoo when talks with AOL failed late last year.

Symantec has repaired a serious problem with versions of its anti-virus software, which protects some of the world`s largest corporations and US government agencies. The flaw lets hackers steal sensitive data, delete files or implant malicious programs, reports USA Today.

Symantec began providing a repairing patch for its software over the weekend, days after researchers disclosed the problem.

The speedy response - many software manufacturers take months to do similar repairs - underscored the seriousness of the threat, which affected the latest corporate versions of Symantec Anti-virus.

Continuing a strategy by the game maker to expand the video gaming market, Nintendo is introducing a new brand to highlight games that are easy to play.

Called Touch Generations, the label would be placed on any game that customers can play with little experience, says BetaNews.

Nintendo made its first indications that it was not satisfied with marketing to the everyday gamer with its next-generation console, the Wii. Both its price, under $250, and its features, such as the innovative controller, are aimed at attracting a broader demographic.

The company Mac fanatics love to hate is expanding its non-Windows product lineup, writes internetnews.com.

Microsoft today announced it plans to release its first Mac-specific keyboard and mouse. The Wireless Desktop for Mac (WDM) is due out later this year for a suggested price of $99.95.

WDM is the first Mac-specific desktop product from Microsoft and the first keyboard from the company not to include the Windows Start button.