Hollywood types see
peer-to-peer possibilities
While
the entertainment industry is going after users of peer-to-peer file sharing
systems, it might be planning to exploit those same networks.
A panel of experts at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas say that
those against file-sharing are realizing that the networks, which are not
illegal of themselves, are a good way to distribute content. Unsigned
bands often use the networks to circulate their music, and the exposure
can lead to record contracts. The
panel said entertainment companies are just waiting for plans that include
digital rights management and copy-protection standards, so that the
networks will be beneficial to industry moneymakers. One potential model
is paid-for-pass-along where firms get paid each time a file is shared.
FEMA yanks tsunami game in disaster's wake
The
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) seems to be torn over
whether a tsunami game on its web site was a good idea. The agency
said Friday that it has removed the online video game intended to be
an educational tool for children because it might trivialize the
effects of a natural disaster. After making its debut on the
agency’s web site in 1998, the game remained there until it was
removed Dec. 26, right after a devastating tsunami struck Asia. After
educators complained of not having access to the game, FEMA placed it
on the web site once again before yanking it a second time. In the
game several objects, including a car, a starfish and a surfboard,
are scattered after a tsunami strikes and players must put the
objects back to their proper places. A dancing frog appears on the
screen when one wins the game. Those who still want to access the
game can contact FEMA.
Study: China will surpass U.S. web usage
In
less than three years there will be more people logging on to the
internet in China
than in the United States, according to a prediction by Panlogic.
China’s growing fascination with the internet will cause it to
bypass the estimated 137 million U.S. internet users by 2008. Several
things contribute to this trend, such as a preference in China to use
the internet over the telephone. Also, many Chinese people make
internet use a social affair by meeting with friends at internet
cafes. They are particularly interested in the news available on the
net and the commercial messages and exposure to Western lifestyles.
Dow
Jones completes deal for MarketWatch
Publisher Dow Jones
has completed its previously announced acquisition of MarketWatch for
$528 million. Under the new ownership, MarketWatch's web site and TV
operations won’t have a CBS tag on the name but will only be known
as MarketWatch. The company’s radio network will also use the same
name. MarketWatch will be integrated into Dow Jones’ Electronics
Publishing division. Dow Jones publishes The Wall Street Journal,
Barron’s and several other titles.
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