Article Abstract:
Microsoft's Windows CE operating system is designed for use by handheld computing devices that function in conjunction with a desktop PC. The devices can download information from the PC and store it so that users can carry such data as telephone numbers, schedules and to-do lists with them. Hardware devices that utilize the Windows CE operating system, called HPCs by Microsoft, will be available by mid-Nov 1996. The devices will have a small keyboard and are based on non-Intel processors that enable the system to run for several weeks on standard batteries. The first devices will be available from such manufacturers as HP, NEC, LG Electronics, Casio Computer and Philips Electronics NV. There are 33 software vendors currently developing Windows CE applications, which will be similar to traditional Windows programs. The market for handheld computing devices has been disappointing so far, but HPCs could find acceptance among sales personnel and other mobile employees.
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Article Abstract:
Microsoft is adding special code to its new Windows 95 OS due in Aug 1995 in an effort to convince computer game developers to create applications for the platform instead of for dedicated game systems such as Sega or Nintendo. The move is designed to give game developers a stronger platform on the PC for running their applications. PCs have traditionally been weak game development platforms because the underlying software and hardware technology is not specifically designed for the fast animation needed for games. The technology includes the new DirectDraw programming tools that allow developers to use new acceleration boards. These new boards will boost animation to 70 fps, up from the current 30 fps found on PCs and game players. Another new feature is DirectSound, which makes it easier to integrate sound effects into Windows 95-based games.
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Apple claims top Microsoft executives attempted to bully the computer vendor into withdrawing lawsuits pending against Microsoft and stopping a competing technology-development effort by threatening to withhold important software. Apple allege two threats were personally delivered by Microsoft Chmn and CEO William Gates at a Jan, 1995, meeting with Apple CEO Michael Spindler. Apple alleges Microsoft only agreed to let it have an advanced copy of Microsoft's Windows 95 operating system after US Assistant Attorney General Anne Bingaman, who negotiated Microsoft's controversial antitrust settlement, interceded on Apple's behalf. Apple's allegations are contained in a letter to US District Judge Stanley Sporkin, in which five Apple executives give sworn declarations on the Microsoft matter.
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