The new service pack 3 for Windows XP edition is now available for download. This SP3 includes all previously released updates for the operating system and a small number of new functionalities, which do not significantly change your experience with the operating system. The XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) is compatible with the Network Access Protection functionality of Windows Server 2008 and includes improvements to black hole router detection (detecting routers that are silently discarding packets), turning it on by default. Another interesting change is in the activation procedure. Now you won’t need to enter your product key while installing Windows XP SP3 as the checking process is a part of Windows Genuine Advantage. Also the performance boost that is highlighted before.
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This is the good news to Windows XP’s users, as the coming Service Pack 3 sees a 10% speed boost on its Windows XP system over the previous Service Pack 2. Well, the Vista SP1 doesn’t seem to have any performance boost though, as reported by downloadsquad. We guess this will be another reason for not switching over from XP to Vista in the near future.

You may not be able to download Windows XP Service Pack 3 yet without resorting to risky registry hacks, but software developers at Devil Mountain Software took a beta of the upcoming service pack for a spin, and they like what they saw.

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Microsoft has released its latest 2-megapixel VX-7000 LifeCam webcam. It is capable to take 7.6-megapixel still pictures, while 2-megapixel for video capture. The slick design makes it fit flush with your comp, it even has a Windows Live Call button on the top of the camera. It features a blogging button that allows you to post your freshly recorded HD footage directly to your Windows Live Spaces blog. There is also a LifeCam dashboard that acts as the primary interface for the camera. The camera also has an integrated unidirectional microphone with acoustic noise cancellation. The lens is glass and provides a 71 degree-wide angle and the camera can auto adjust for low light.
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Microsoft has announced another two new mice for mobile user, Microsoft Bluetooth Notebook Mouse 5000 and the Wireless Notebook Laser Mouse 7000, after the Microsoft Mobile Memory Mouse 8000 with 1GB flash memory. The Bluetooth Mouse 5000 (pictured above) is using 2.4GHz frequency, works seamlessly with Bluetooth enabled computers, of course without a transceiver. The wireless Mouse 7000 (pictured below) is based on Optical Mouse 3000 with 2.4GHz wireless tech, soft-grip for your comfort, magnifier tool and back button. Both of them boast High Definition Laser Technology. These two mice provide “superior wireless technology and sleek, compact designs to keep users working on the go.”
The mouse 7000 will ship from this month while mouse 5000 will be available from next month, each for $50.

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The new Mobile Memory Mouse 8000 from Microsoft is the industry?s first rechargeable mouse designed to prevent USB port shortage. The single transceiver does three-in-one job, e.g. allows you to work wirelessly, save files with 1GB built-in storage, and recharge the mouse without deficiency in performance — through one USB port. There are two kind of 2.4GHz wireless or Bluetooth connectivity options. A switch at the bottom of the mouse lets you change your preference. As its a Microsoft product it supports Vista’s Flip 3D function and features proprietary high definition laser technology, a tilt wheel and two side buttons (Magnifier and Back). It uses magnetic charging system that lets you continue working while the mouse recharges. The charging cord magnetically connects at one end to the underside of the mouse, and the other to the tip of the transceiver. A really nice product for mobile user.
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Microsoft Streets & Trips 2008 with Connected Services combines the #1 best-selling travel and map software* with a sleek and stylish GPS Locator and an MSN® Direct receiver that provides updated traffic and local gas prices as you go ? Internet connection not required!** You can choose the best routes to take and get to where you are going and avoid hassles and unexpected delays. There are three versions available:

1. Streets & Trips 2008 with Connected Services ($180) will be able to provide drivers with gas prices and live traffic information thanks to MSN Direct receiver. This version will also include the GPS antenna. MSN Direct Receiver works without the need for an internet connection can be used either with or without the GPS antenna. Included in the price is one year subscription to MSN Direct.
2. Streets & Trips 2008 with GPS Locator ($100) will come with an external SiRFstar III GPS receiver antenna. Only difference with the above version is the lack of MSN Direct receiver.
3. Streets & Trips 2008 ($40) will just get you the software that you can install on your laptop or handheld device.

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The Olympic 2008’s official sponsor, Lenovo, has decided to install Windows XP on its machine to run the Olympic Games’ vital PC-related tasks. With it, Microsoft Vista has again suffered a major setback. Vista will only be used in internet lounges set up for athletes to use during the games.

Yang Yuanqing, chairman of Lenovo said, “the Olympic Games require mature, stable technologies and it’s not a place to try new technologies because of the size and importance of the event. Everything must work smoothly.”

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Microsoft has released a new version of Windows XP to manufacturing for shipment to OEMs next month.
Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 2c resolves a shortage of product keys caused by the longevity of Windows XP Professional, says the company. In order to allow OEMs to ship XP right up to its end-of-life on January 31, 2009. There are no other features or fixes included in the new version.

System builders must update their images to Windows XP Professional SP2c. End users will not be able to successfully complete installation of Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 2c if they do not have updated images.

via

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