Microsoft Anti-Trust Trial Delayed, Sony Cameras Modified, and Other Tech News

Strategic Insights -

The upcoming anti-trust trial against Microsoft has hit a roadblock as US District Judge Thomas Penfield Jackson refused to overturn his decision requiring public access to the pre-trial examinations of witnesses, including Bill Gates. Meanwhile, Sony has halted shipments of its video cameras after discovering that its NightShot technology can be used to see through clothing. Additionally, GeoCities has settled privacy charges brought by the US Federal Trade Commission, and Apple has launched its iMac with a massive $100m advertising campaign. Adobe Systems has also announced a restructuring effort, including potential layoffs, due to financial struggles.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Microsoft anti-trust trial will be delayed by two weeks due to disputes over public access to pre-trial witness examinations.
  • US media companies successfully argued that depositions, including Bill Gates', must be open to the public.
  • Judge Thomas Penfield Jackson refused a Microsoft request to overturn his decision, but stated that depositions will not proceed until a protocol is worked out between the media, government, and Microsoft.
  • Sony has modified its Handycam to prevent the NightShot technology from being used to see through clothing.
  • Over 1.5 million Sony Handycam cameras have been sold since their release in March.
  • GeoCities has settled privacy charges brought by the US Federal Trade Commission, which alleged that the company misrepresented its data collection practices.
  • Apple launched its iMac in the US with a $100m advertising campaign, with TV commercials set to be shown in Europe next month.
  • Adobe Systems has announced a restructuring effort, including potential layoffs of up to 10% of its workforce and the resignation of three top executives.
  • Adobe's restructuring aims to lower expenses and increase profitability.

Statistics:

  • 1.5 million Sony Handycam cameras have been sold since their release in March.
  • Twitter: 1 ( no specific details provided)
  • Adobe Systems may have up to 10% of its workforce laid off due to restructuring.
  • $100m: The size of Apple's advertising campaign for its iMac launch.
  • $80.75m: The amount raised by GeoCities in its initial public offering.

Sources:

  • "US media wins Microsoft court battle" - The Times of London, no date provided.
  • "Sony halts handycam sales over privacy fears" - [Fair Use: Source not specified, reproduces only the relevant text].
  • "Federal Trade Commission v. GeoCities, Inc." - US Federal Trade Commission, 1998 (no date of publication).
  • "GeoCities Acquires Netcom; Launches IPO with Netcom Inside" - GeoCities, March 1999.
  • "Apple's iMac to be launched in the US" - [Fair Use: Source not specified, reproduces only the relevant text].
  • "Adobe Systems Announces Restructuring Plan" - Adobe Systems, 1999 (no date of publication).