Nokia, MS team on search

Nokia will begin offering Microsoft`s Live Search in its N‑Series multimedia phones, as well as phones that use its S-60 software.

eWeek says Microsoft will provide advanced search results for Web search, as well as access to information such as stock quotes, movie times and common facts via Encarta Instant Answers.

Nokia`s Mobile Search application is expected to be available in select markets in the standard sales packages of the Nokia N-Series as well as the Nokia 6630, 6680, and 6681. It is also being offered as a free download for certain Nokia S-60 phones from the company`s Web site.

Sony has announced that it will lower the price of its PlayStation 3 (PS3) in Japan as it competes with cheaper consoles from Microsoft and Nintendo, reports Bloomberg.

The report says Sony is seeking to address concern about the price of the PS3, which comes equipped with a high-definition Blu-ray DVD player and a fast processor called the Cell.

Sony has also announced that it will delay the European release of its PS3 by four months until March and cut its 2006 global shipment target by half to two million because of problems with Sony`s blue diode laser.

Microsoft has confirmed that it is finalising a security update to plug another vulnerability in its Internet Explorer browser that allows attackers to hijack a computer.

Newsfactor says the software flaw, which can be exploited on a computer after users visit certain suspect Russian porn Web sites, targets IE`s Vector markup language used to display graphic information.

Security firm Secunia has given the vulnerability a rating of "extremely critical" and Microsoft has committed to releasing a security update to address this vulnerability by 10 October.

Alcatel has partnered with Nokia to put business-class telephony features on Nokia cellphones to help bridge the gap between fixed and mobile communications, reports E-Commerce Times.

The report says the "Intellisync Call Connect for Alcatel" offering will integrate Nokia`s E-series business-class devices into the Alcatel IP Communication server network to deliver desk phone functionality to mobile users.

The companies say the collaboration will enable employees to keep and manage just one business number that can be controlled from anywhere on the device used to receive calls. Users will be able to tap into call conferencing, call-back and dial-by-name functions.

Roll up laptop screens may be a step closer, according to Cambridge University scientists who have developed metal structures that can change from flat screens into tubes and other shapes.

BBC News says the structures could form the basis for electronic displays that could be rolled up and placed in a bag or pocket. The scientists also believe the material could be used for roll up keyboards and self-erecting temporary shelters.

The metal sheets, made from copper alloys, work without the need for moving parts such as hinges, latches or locks. They "snap" from one shape into another, from a flat sheet to a coil, bent or twisted structure.