Office 2004 for Mac released

While some users have already received their copies of Office 2004 for Mac, the Microsoft Macintosh Business Unit will only officially announce its availability today.

MacCentral reports that the suite contains numerous new features including the removal of the 31-character limit of file names. It also supports input and display of more than 30 languages.

Also new to this version are translucent palettes that allow the user to see documents or the desktop behind the palette when it is not in use. Moving the mouse over the palette brings it back, removing the translucency.

Seiko Epson has developed the world`s largest organic electro-luminescence display that produces clear images while requiring little power, AFP reports.

These displays use organic layers to illuminate themselves and consume less power than liquid crystal displays.

The displays offer high contrasts, wide viewing angles and fast response times.

Sales of video games fell 3% in the US last month, financial analysts said yesterday. However, Reuters reports that sales of the Microsoft Xbox console more than doubled after a price cut.

Sales of the Sony PlayStation 2 console are also expected to increase following the company`s price reduction last week.

Adidas will release a smart running shoe in December that features a built-in computer chip in the arch of the shoe.

The microprocessor drives a tiny screw and cable system. It adjusts the heel cushion depending on the signals sent back by an electric sensor coupled to a magnet.

It is powered by a battery that conserves power by adjusting the shoe while it is in the air during a runner`s stride, avoiding resistance from the ground.

The shoe is expected to retail for under R2 000.