Middleware propels IBM results ... vendors, NGOs work on privacy and censorship ... iPhone gross margins top 50 percent

HIGHLIGHTS

News: Microsoft, Google agree to NGO code of conduct
News: IBM profits rise 11 percent on middleware revenue
News: iPhone may pay Apple over 50 percent margins: iSuppli
News: Belgian newspapers go after Yahoo
News: California offers Dunn, former HP execs, plea deals
Podcast: Today's IT news audio update
ITwhirled: No dedicated server closet? Time to improvise


NEWS UPDATES

Microsoft, Google agree to NGO code of conduct
Microsoft Corp., Google Inc., and two other technology companies will develop a code of conduct with a coalition of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to promote freedom of expression and privacy rights, they announced Friday.

IBM profits rise 11 percent on middleware revenue
Thanks to a strong jump in revenue generated by its middleware software brands, IBM Corp. recorded profits of US$3.54 billion for the fourth quarter, a rise of 11.1 percent over the same period in the previous year.

iPhone may pay Apple over 50 percent margins: iSuppli
The Apple Inc. iPhone announced earlier this month should pay off handsomely for the company with over 50 percent gross margins for each version of the music-enabled smart phone, according to market researcher iSuppli Corp.

Belgian newspapers go after Yahoo
Copiepresse, the association representing Belgian newspapers, has already accused Google Inc. and MSN of copyright violations and now it's got Yahoo Inc. in its sights.

California offers Dunn, former HP execs, plea deals
The California attorney general has offered to drop felony charges against the four remaining defendants charged in the Hewlett-Packard Co. spying case if they plead guilty to one misdemeaner each, according to published reports.


PODCAST

Middleware propels IBM results ... vendors, NGOs work on privacy and censorship ... iPhone gross margins top 50 percent
Daily IT News Audio Update


ITWHIRLED

Geek Comic of the Week: Big Time Toons
This newcomer promises to offer "the world's most comprehensive gaming cartoons." With jokes about Lord of the Rings superweapons and aliens distraught at planned video car obsolescence, it's got a good start, anyway.