IM Warfare Microsoft sends AOL a message Microsoft is close to launching a new version of its instant messaging service that could link its network with rivals such as Yahoo, according to sources familiar with the plans. The online auction giant opens its marketplace to providers of services such as Web site development, graphics design and language translation. The business services area links to auctions on eBay as well as to listings on Elance. The service is aimed at sites that cannot afford to set up a payment system, and can be used for donations or for downloading content such as music or video. Amazon's new honor system gives the company new power to track customers.
Critics smell a fox near the henhouse.
But No Date Is Given for Deal America Online is considering a public offering of its European business, said AOL International President Michael Lynton. At least one analyst thinks the deal could be bullish news for iVillage. The sites attract a similar audience but have fairly distinct lists of advertisers. The appeals court hearing Redmond's appeal signals that it will scrutinize Judge Jackson's handling of the antitrust case for evidence of bias. On the Dark Side Web sites act as host for extremist plots Extremist groups, including Saudi dissident Osama bin Laden's network, are using popular web sites to post encrypted messages to their agents plotting guerrilla activities, security sources said on Tuesday.