Skype is the leading VOIP-category product worldwide, with more than 31 million registered users growing by more than 160,000 new users per day. Skype has brought out Skype for Windows version 1.2. The new Skype enables remote access to contacts from any Internet-connected PC or other Skype client in the world. In earlier versions of Skype, the contacts list was stored locally. The new central contacts list expands user options and allows users to “Skype” with their existing contacts from multiple locations and platforms. The latest version also allows users to instantly import contacts from other desktop services and applications such as Microsoft Outlook, Outlook Express, MSN Messenger and Opera.
The latest version enhancements make downloading and using Skype even simpler for new users. The “Getting Started Wizard” appears as soon as the client launches and acts as a one-click launch pad to Skype’s frequently-used functions, such as importing contacts, searching Skype’s global user directory, editing personal profiles to make it easier for friends and family to locate users, configuring privacy settings, making test calls and accessing online help. Skype has simultaneously launched a new “Help” section on their website to increase the ability of users to easily find information online and access e-mail-based support.
Additional new benefits in Skype for Windows v1.2 include multiple file transfer, updated sounds and more customizable settings to personalize the Skype experience. Skype continues to provide chat, conference calling for up to five participants and cross-platform communications. Skype for Windows v1.2 is available immediately for download from www.skype.com. Skype for Windows v1.2 enables SkypeIn and Skype Voicemail services — both presently in beta testing. Skype for Windows v1.2 works on any Windows 2000/XP PC with a 400MHz processor and requires a headset, Skype compatible phone or a microphone and speakers.
Encyclopaedia Britannica
for 2005
New and revised articles spanning science and technology, literature and the Middle East are at the center of the just-published Encyclopaedia Britannica for 2005 (www.britannica.com). Among the new articles included are a substantial number in science and medicine, such as SARS, monkeypox, nanotechnology and computer crime. Several notable people receive their own entries for the first time, including novelist and Nobel laureate J.M. Coetzee, cellist Yo-Yo Ma and philosopher John Rawls. Socrates is the subject of a lengthy new treatment that reflects the latest scholarship on the Greek philosopher.
According to Editor Dale Hoiberg, the revisions are part of an effort to keep the Britannica on the cutting edge of knowledge and world developments. “The world is awash in misinformation,” said Hoiberg. “We continue to revise and improve the encyclopedia because people need a place to go for the right answers.”
Sony Seeks the Middle East
Gran Turismo 4 Champion
Sony Gulf FZE has launched the PlayStation 2 Gran Turismo 4 (GT4) Challenge, pitting the top Gran Turismo drivers against each other for a chance to be crowned Middle East champion and win a new Nissan 350Z sports car. The Middle East champion will compete for the World Championship title in Le Mans, France in June 2005.
“Gran Turismo drivers who think they have what it takes to win the Middle East title will have to demonstrate their driving skills when the PlayStation 2 GT4 Challenge visits their city,” said Tim Stokes, Middle East sales and marketing director for Sony Computer Entertainment Europe.
Drivers competing in the GT4 Challenge will have three laps each on the Suzuka East Circuit using the Nissan 350Z Gran Turismo Limited Edition, both found in the Arcade Time Trial Mode of the GT4 game. The fastest lap will be logged and the fastest driver in each city will represent the country of residence in the final challenge to be held in Dubai in May 2005.
The PlayStation 2 GT4 Challenge will be held in the following Saudi locations: Tahlia Mall, Jeddah, April 13-14; Tamimi Mall, Riyadh, April 20-21; Alrashid Mall, Alkhobar, April 27-28. All venues and dates are subject to final confirmation. See www.sony-mea.com/gt4 for more details. Drivers interested in competing can purchase a copy of Gran Turismo 4 and pre-register their participation in the regional heats on www.sony-mea.com/gt4.