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Buzz: Join Tech Times blog discussion
Compiled from Times wires
Published March 27, 2006
For tech news throughout the week, join Times technology editor Dave Gussow at the Tech Times blog (www.sptimes.com/blogs/tech) We invite you to join the discussion by posting your comments and questions. Also, for more on the video game scene, check out Josh Korr's video game blog (www.sptimes.com/blogs/videogames) Pop-up ad pioneer to leave business A pioneer of software that delivers pop-up ads based on Web sites that Internet users browse said it will exit that business by June after persistent criticism from online publishers, consumer groups and privacy advocates. Claria Corp. said last summer it was phasing out its adware business in favor of new personalization services, but it did not commit to a timeline or promise to drop such ads entirely. The company said it has hired Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. to help sell its adware assets. Critics say adware has emerged as one of the top scourges of Internet use because it often degrades computer performance, tracks a user's browsing habits and is installed without permission. Despite the pledge to stop adware, critics remained wary of Claria, which generated more than $149-million from 1999 to 2003. In a statement, Claria said it will require any buyer of its adware assets to agree to abide by a set of standards outlined by Truste and other privacy watchdog groups. Video encyclopedia accessible at home The broadcaster Discovery Communications Inc. wants to help kids with their homework by selling them access to an enhanced home version of the video encyclopedia network already used by thousands of schools. It has launched a site called Cosmeo that gives students access to more than 30,000 video clips, interactive educational games and other tools. Discovery says the resources were selected to comply with the curricula and education standards of all 50 states. The company, whose television networks include Animal Planet and the Discovery Channel, says it already provides a similar product to about 70,000 public schools that have broadband Internet service. Cosmeo will cost parents $12.95 per month after an introductory period.
[Last modified March 25, 2006, 10:24:59]
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