Little-known project developing alternative software to Windows

Article Abstract:

Developers of the Linux operating system, a UNIX-based, free alternative to Microsoft's Windows operating systems, are working on a project called "Wine," short for windows emulator. Heading the project is Alexandre Julliard. Once completed, the emulation software should enable users of the Linux operating system to run Windows programs on their machines, a development that could threaten Microsoft's domination of the software market. Originally a project of programmers working on their own time, Linux development efforts are now being considered by some computer software companies, despite the fact that licensing for Linux is subject to requirements that software and source code be made available for further enhancement to any one who wishes, that rights to software developments cannot be retained by developers for advantage in the marketplace. Corel Corp. has gone a step further and hired a group of programmers to work solely on Wine, in an effort to port the company's software products to the operating system. Microsoft product manager Ed Muth says the effort faces many difficulties, pointing to Sun Microsystems Inc.'s commercially unsuccessful WABI emulator for running Windows programs on it's non-Intel computers. Wine's fans point out that the emulator runs on PC-based architecture, greatly simplifying the problem of running Windows programs.

Computer software industry, Software industry, Microsoft Corp., Operating system, Operating systems (Software), Operating systems, Linux (Operating system), Market share, MSFT, Corel Corp., Public software, Shareware (Software), UNIX, Shareware, COS

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3Com gives Palm wireless accwss to Web surfing

Article Abstract:

3Com today is debuting a new version of its PalmPilot hand-held computer, which will include a wireless feature for users to access portions of the World Wide Web. An expected wireless-communications component would link the popular machine to certain Web sites as well as tailor the information for easy reading on its small display screen. Available Web sites are expected to cover stock information from online-brokerage company E-Trade Group, plus travel and weather information. The new Palm Pilot device will be only slightly larger than 3Com's Palm III. PalmPilot, which analysts say controls 63% of the hand-held computer market, is attempting to fend off Microsoft and other competitors as the industry races to provide full Internet access. Devices currently rely on PCs or telephone modems to download information, and Dataquest says the development represents a key first step in the online transition.

Electronic computers, Product introduction, Handheld computers, Handheld data devices, Computer industry, Computer hardware, Product Announcement, Product enhancement, 3Com Corp., COMS, Hand-held data device, Hand-held terminals, Hardware product enhancement

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