Blog

Michael's Minute

Thoughts on technology, privacy, education, and more.

technologyOct 22, 2026

Open Letter To Nikesh Arora - CEO Palo Alto Networks

Open Letter To Nikesh Arora concerning Palo Alto Networks blocking traffic to MeetingTV and ongoing defamation.

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VideotechnologyAug 18, 2026

Born In The Shadows, The Story of Koi.ai

The shocking story of how an Israeli cybersecurity company that accused an American company of corporate espionage got started. That company was then acquired by Palo Alto Networks, the largest cybersecurity company in the world. #AI #Hallucination #PaloAltoNetworks #PANW #KOI Read the original DarkSpectre Report Here: https://web.archive.org/web/20251231125939/https://www.koi.ai/blog/darkspectre-unmasking-the-threat-actor-behind-7-8-million-infected-browsers

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VideotechnologyAug 5, 2026

Hunting for the X-File Ghost

AI will soon rule the world. It will decide if you paid your taxes, qualify for a mortgage, whether your kid is admitted to university, if someone is eligible for parole, if you've been naughty on social media, etc. EVERYTHING. But what happens if it's WRONG? Here's an unbelievable and ominous situation where a cybersecurity company publishes a report stating an American company was part of a Chinese cybercriminal organization. The story spread around the world. One enormous problem: the software they claim as evidence doesn't exist, but nobody bothered to research it. No news site. No security companies. Nobody. Well, I decided to research it, and here's my results.

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VideotechnologyJul 20, 2026

The Internet's Secret Blacklist - Easy In, No Way Out

AI Murdered My Company, Maybe = Episode 3

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VideotechnologyJul 16, 2026

MeetingTV Is Laundering Data... for the Chinese

Episode 2 of AI Murdered My Company, Maybe Read the DarkSpectre Report Here: https://web.archive.org/web/20251231125939/https://www.koi.ai/blog/darkspectre-unmasking-the-threat-actor-behind-7-8-million-infected-browsers

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VideotechnologyJul 9, 2026

AI Murdered My Company, Maybe - Episode 1 The Day MeetingTV Died

AI Murdered My Company, Maybe - Episode 1 The Day MeetingTV Died #AI #AIhallucination #PaloAltoNetworks #Koi Read the DarkSpectre Report Here: https://web.archive.org/web/20251231125939/https://www.koi.ai/blog/darkspectre-unmasking-the-threat-actor-behind-7-8-million-infected-browsers

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personalJan 15, 2023

Update from MR

Zoomcorder, the Scammies YouTube series, and breaking wild mustangs — what Michael's been up to lately.

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technologyJun 10, 2021

Can't Make A Video Meeting? Don't Miss It — Use Zoomcorder to Send Snoop Dogg Instead

Introducing Zoomcorder — send a video avatar to attend meetings on your behalf, record them, and watch later.

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technologySep 15, 2020

Is the Spotify Deal With Joe Rogan Illegal?

Examining the legal implications of exclusive podcast deals and their impact on the industry.

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opinionJun 12, 2020

Why I'm Not Wearing A Mask

San Diego County ordered everyone to wear face coverings. I do not plan on complying because the scientific research says it does not help and may actually harm people.

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technologyApr 3, 2020

Social Distancing Doesn't Have to Be Lonely - TuneRoom.com Can Help

Introducing TuneRoom — virtual rooms where friends can meet and socialize in real-time with music, chat, and video.

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educationMar 20, 2020

Playing College Basketball Will Make You 6 Inches Taller (Or Why College Attendance Is Worth Close To Zero)

A deep dive into the real value of college education and the correlation vs. causation problem in higher ed statistics.

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privacyAug 12, 2019

How the Government Invisibly Tracks Smartphones

The surveillance techniques used to track your location through your smartphone without your knowledge.

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radioMay 22, 2019

Turn The World of Radio Into A Personal Jukebox

How DAR.fm lets you record and time-shift any radio show to listen on your own schedule.

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educationOct 28, 2014

Students Shouldn't Have To Pay For School Transcripts And Now They Don't In One San Diego Suburb

California public schools are illegally charging fees for transcripts. I was able to get the policy changed at all area schools.

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educationSep 9, 2014

Is Your Kid Paying For Parking To Go To High School? Here's How To Challenge It.

My kid's school charged $40/year to park. I got the policy changed for the entire district. Here's how you can do the same.

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privacyJul 1, 2014

It's Not Just the NSA, Your Local Police Are Probably Spying On You Too

Local police departments are adopting surveillance techniques once reserved for federal agencies — and they're likely spying on you.

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technologyJan 20, 2014

Why I'm Glad Net Neutrality Is Dead

I think it's a positive development that network neutrality is blown up. Fewer government rules equals more freedom and ultimately a more efficient and competitive landscape.

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opinionNov 20, 2013

My Dog Can Get A MRI In 2 Hours, Why Can't I?

People hospitals are inferior to the speed and efficiency of pet hospitals — and government bureaucracy is the reason why.

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radioNov 4, 2013

Introducing The World's First Radio Search Engine

I just launched RadioSearchEngine.com — find any song, artist, or station playing anywhere in the world right now.

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technologyJul 24, 2013

Is the MP3.com Domain Name Worth Millions?

CBS called me about auctioning the MP3.com domain. Here's why I passed on a 7-figure offer — and why domain names aren't shortcuts to success.

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privacyJun 11, 2013

Besides Tracking Your Every Move Online, The Government Is Tracking Where You Travel

Local law enforcement agencies are recording your license plates and building a massive database of where you travel — without a warrant.

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opinionApr 24, 2013

Hey NBA Commish - Replace Boring Jump Ball With a Challenge Ball

A fan-friendly proposal to replace the uneventful jump ball with a skill-based 'challenge ball' that combines basketball skills and game theory.

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radioFeb 12, 2013

Friendship is Magic

Introducing Project Friendship at DAR.fm — making it easy to share radio clips on social media for the first time.

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opinionDec 20, 2012

Crowd Sourcing Protection

Do you trust the crowd or only anointed experts? The data shows over and over that the crowd is wise and can be trusted.

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radioDec 10, 2012

ACTUAL Stats for radio business and they're very revealing!

DAR.fm is now the first radio service to openly publish statistics for every show — and the numbers reveal surprising truths about radio.

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radioNov 20, 2012

Radio Hooks-up With Twitter And UberTalk Is Their Love Child

Real-time Twitter feeds are now available for all major radio shows at UberTalk — the cloud guide to radio.

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opinionNov 5, 2012

The Tax Wolf in Bond Clothing

Come November, $14.4 Billion in bond measures will be on the California ballot. Bonds are loans — they're the most insidious form of taxation.

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opinionOct 8, 2012

Take a ride on the TaxBalloon.com

I created TaxBalloon.com — a web calculator that computes the exact dollar impact each California tax initiative will have on your wallet.

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radioSep 27, 2012

Radio Stations Are Dead - It's All About The Content - Introducing UberTalk

Radio stations are dying. Enter UberTalk — a comprehensive list of programs on the radio, all playable with a single click.

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radioJun 26, 2012

Download AM/FM Radio Shows To Smartphones & Tablets As MP3s Using DAR.fm

DAR.fm now lets you download any AM/FM show as MP3 files directly to your smartphone or tablet — listen anywhere, anytime.

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technologyJun 1, 2012

Zynga is a Ville-ain

Zynga is using trademark bullying to lay claim to nearly all uses of the word 'ville' on the internet — even attacking a one-woman literacy project.

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technologyMay 1, 2012

MP3tunes Files For Bankruptcy Protection

MP3tunes has filed for bankruptcy protection after years of withering legal attacks and a concerted effort by EMI to thwart personal cloud music lockers.

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technologyApr 5, 2012

YouTube Prevails (with a Little Help from MP3tunes & Veoh), But Get Do-over On Other Issues

The appellate court upheld YouTube's DMCA victory on some issues while asking the lower court to re-examine others. MP3tunes' own legal case was cited twice as key precedent.

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personalApr 3, 2012

Skydiving with the US Army

I recently spent an exhilarating yet humbling day with the US Army's Golden Knights parachute team — jumping out of a plane two miles up.

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technologyMar 14, 2012

The MegaConspiracy is a MegaTravesty of Justice

The US government's criminal indictment of Megaupload reads more like a movie script than a factual presentation — and should worry everyone who cares about due process.

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technologyFeb 27, 2012

Screwed FOREVER Artist List (Is Your Favorite Artist On It?)

Congress allowed artists to reclaim their works after 35 years — but record labels have fraudulently declared many songs 'works for hire.' These artists will be screwed forever.

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technologyDec 12, 2011

Why Spotify can never be profitable: The secret demands of record labels

For the first time, the secret financial demands that record labels make of digital music services are being made public — and they doom these companies to perpetual servitude.

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educationDec 6, 2011

The Myth of the Underpaid Teacher

The facts about teacher compensation tell a vastly different story than the 'underpaid teacher' narrative — the average teacher earns more than the average San Diego household.

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technologyNov 17, 2011

More Clouds of Music - Why Use MP3tunes?

Apple, Google and Amazon launched cloud music services this year. Here's how they compare to the pioneering MP3tunes — and why MP3tunes is still the best option for many users.

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technologyOct 25, 2011

EMI Loses Again, Maybe An Unlimited Legal Budget Isn't Such A Good Thing

EMI asked the Judge for a 'do over' in his MP3tunes ruling. He not only refused to reverse his findings, but added more reasoning making an appeal even more difficult.

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technologyOct 12, 2011

Facebook - Learning Tricks From Record Labels

Digital music companies are signing away their futures to Facebook just like musicians sign away their souls to record labels — chasing a one-in-a-million dream.

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radioOct 5, 2011

Will Radio Learn From TV? Maybe Not...

Univision sent DAR.fm a cease and desist letter claiming that recording from their radio stations is copyright infringement. Will radio learn from TV's DVR experience?

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radioSep 20, 2011

The Smart Phone Killed The Car Radio

In 1997 I predicted the PC would replace the home stereo. Today I have the same feeling about the smartphone steamrolling the car radio.

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technologyAug 22, 2011

A 99% Victory in EMI v MP3tunes

A court ruling in EMI v MP3tunes is a major victory for cloud music. The Judge found 'MP3tunes did not promote infringement' and cut EMI's alleged infringements by 99%.

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radioAug 22, 2011

Eavesdrop On The Day the Music DJ Died

On August 24, 2011, 'Denise' debuted on KROV in San Antonio — the first robot DJ to take over a licensed AM/FM station.

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radioAug 17, 2011

Will a MP3.com Strategy Work With Radio Shows on DAR.fm?

Announcing DAR.fm 1.0 — a cloud-based recording service for radio with 16,000+ shows ranked by popularity, applying the same chart formula that made MP3.com successful.

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educationJul 22, 2011

Is College Worth It?? Help?!

A parent writes asking whether her son should drop out with $44,000 in debt to pursue a music career. Michael's response: sometimes real-life education beats college.

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personalJun 29, 2011

Jury Finds Kevin Carmony and Chad Olson Liable for Fraud and Conspiracy

After a 2 week trial, a 12 person jury ruled that Linspire's former CEO and CFO are liable for fraud, conspiracy, and breach of fiduciary duty.

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radioMay 18, 2011

The First Talk Radio Radio - Making Every Talk Radio Show Available On Demand

Grace Digital radios combined with DAR.fm now make every AM/FM talk radio show available on demand — like a Tivo for radio.

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educationMay 12, 2011

Teacher's Union Deception - Propaganda to Get More Money

My kid's school used emergency contact numbers for political robo-calls and distributed deceptive union flyers. Here's what I did about it.

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technologyMay 5, 2011

YouTube Legal Battle With Viacom Ain't Over

Viacom appealed their YouTube defeat, but internal Viacom emails reveal they themselves were secretly uploading content to YouTube while publicly claiming it was piracy.

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technologyMay 5, 2011

Behind The Scenes: Record Label Demands From Amazon

For the first time, the startling limitations major labels want to impose on cloud music services are revealed — demands so onerous they would make any service useless.

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technologyApr 21, 2011

The Sinkhole Which Doesn't Sync - Amazon's Cloud Music

Amazon launched a cloud music service, but compared to MP3tunes it's a sinkhole — your music goes in but can't get out, syncing is poor, and device support is limited.

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technologyMar 29, 2011

Amazon Throws Down With The Major Record Labels

Amazon launched a cloud music service almost daring the labels to protest. The response will influence whether Apple and Google build similar services without paying for licenses.

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technologyMar 24, 2011

Apple You DIDN'T Invent the App Store!

Apple is claiming they invented the app store concept and trying to stop Amazon from using the words 'app store.' They didn't — my company Linspire had Click-N-Run 5 years earlier.

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personalMar 21, 2011

My Trip To SXSW, New Music Technology & New Bands

SXSW asked me to judge their startup competition. Here's what I saw in music tech — plus two standout bands: Shayna Zaid & The Catch and The Kin.

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radioFeb 23, 2011

Introducing DAR.fm - Your Digital AUDIO Recorder

Announcing DAR.fm — an online service that records radio to play back on demand. Like a Tivo for radio, it works on iPhones, Android, internet radios and more.

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technologyFeb 18, 2011

Pandora Turns Down $550 Million To Go Public

Pandora filed their S-1 to go public and turned down a $550M acquisition offer. But music royalties consuming 50% of revenue will prevent them from ever being profitable.

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technologyJan 24, 2011

Sides Line Up For Jan. 28th Showdown Over Music Lockers

On January 28th in New York, the final showdown over the legality of personal music cloud storage takes place in EMI v MP3tunes. Google filed support for MP3tunes.

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opinionJan 20, 2011

Martha Stewart Gets Bamboozled By Detox 'Doc'

Detoxification is modern day snake oil. Watch as Alejandro Junger uses a fake 'precipitator' device to convince Martha Stewart her water is toxic.

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technologyDec 6, 2010

YouTube Battle Over Music Search & Storage

MP3tunes filed opposition to EMI's arguments in their legal battle. EMI itself distributes free MP3s online — videos submitted to court proved our case.

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privacyNov 16, 2010

Prepare To Get Naked With NakedGovernment.org

Introducing NakedGovernment.org — a wiki-style service to make public records requests truly public and hold government institutions accountable.

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technologyNov 9, 2010

Google Buys Gizmo5: A Look Back

About a year ago I sold Gizmo5 to Google. Here's the inside story — from starting the company as SIPphone, to the competition with Skype, to the acquisition.

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personalOct 28, 2010

The World's Smartest Dog

I grew up not knowing my biological father. When I tracked him down in my mid-30s, the first thing he sent me was a video of his dog Zeke — the world's smartest dog.

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educationOct 18, 2010

Waiting for Superman - Misperceptions about American Schools

I participated in a panel after a screening of 'Waiting for Superman.' The teacher's union and school board president were repeating myths about school budgets that are easily debunked.

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educationSep 30, 2010

Protecting Kids - Avoiding the Worst Teachers in LA

The LA Times published value-added analysis of teacher effectiveness. I compiled the list of worst teachers so parents can protect their children from the bottom 20%.

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technologySep 21, 2010

MP3tunes Asks Judge To Allow For 'Youtube Defense'

MP3tunes filed for Summary Judgment in our battle with EMI, arguing that the same DMCA protections that shielded YouTube from Viacom should also protect us.

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technologyAug 19, 2010

When Will Microsoft, Apple and Google Do Music Lockers?

The tech giants have basic storage services but no practical music locker. Here's why dedicated services like MP3tunes will always be ahead.

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technologyAug 10, 2010

I Want The Same Power As Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs can display an iPhone on a projector during demos, but Apple blocks everyone else from doing the same via the App Store. I choose freedom.

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opinionAug 4, 2010

Gates and Buffett Have It Wrong

The Giving Pledge is admirable, but there's a better way to help others. Milton Friedman taught me that economic growth — not charity — is the path to improve people's lives.

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technologyJul 27, 2010

Apple Quietly Enables Online Streaming To iPhones, iPad and iTouch

Buried in an iDisk release note is significant new functionality that lets Apple devices stream music from online storage — in defiance of record label demands.

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technologyJul 8, 2010

iTunes Music On Any TV (Without A Home Server!)

For the first time, anyone can get their iTunes music to their TV without running a home server — using Roku and the MP3tunes cloud service.

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technologyJul 6, 2010

Making Apple And Google Play Nicely Together

MP3tunes' 'Buy Anywhere, Listen Everywhere' initiative lets you buy songs on Android and play them on iPhone, or buy from iTunes and listen on Android — without cables.

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technologyJul 1, 2010

The World's First Internet Boombox

The Logitech Squeezebox Radio plus a new battery accessory pack creates the world's first portable internet boombox — take your music anywhere with wifi.

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technologyJun 23, 2010

Youtube Wins - MP3tunes (and Apple?) Cheer

YouTube prevailed in their billion dollar battle with Viacom. This is great news for all net companies using the DMCA — including MP3tunes in our battle with EMI.

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technologyJun 15, 2010

The Crowd As Our Legal Team

MP3tunes turned to its users to crowd-source legal evidence against EMI, who claimed they never distribute free MP3s online. Users uncovered nearly 1,400 such songs.

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technologyJun 9, 2010

A Billion Taco Vending Machines = Bigger Taco Industry

Every Android phone comes with an Amazon MP3 store built in. Combined with MP3tunes' wireless cloud syncing, every phone becomes a music vending machine.

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personalMay 25, 2010

Sad Saga of Floyd Landis

Cyclist Floyd Landis spent 4 years insisting on his innocence, taking nearly $1 million from fans to fund his defense, then admitted to using a full medicine chest of banned substances.

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technologyMay 20, 2010

I've Got Pandora Envy

50 million people use Pandora and there's much to learn from them. Here's how MP3tunes is improving its service by emulating what makes Pandora great.

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educationMay 13, 2010

Measure Your Education Spending IQ

A 6-question quiz to test your knowledge about actual K-12 government school spending in the US — because most people believe myths rather than facts.

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technologyMay 12, 2010

Death of Lala and the 10 Cent Web Song

Apple shut down Lala, wiping out customers' music collections. MP3tunes is offering ex-Lala customers a music locker for 10 cents — the cost of just one of those web songs.

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technologyApr 7, 2010

Mission Possible - Store The World's Music

MP3tunes is now offering 10GB of free music storage — enough for 2,000 songs — as part of a mission to store every internet user's music collection in the cloud.

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radioMar 15, 2010

The byo.fm Experiment

Introducing byo.fm — build your own personalized radio station with your music, preferred news sources, local traffic and weather, all playable on any device.

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technologyMar 9, 2010

Why Android Will Triumph Over iPhone

Google's Android will quickly overtake Apple's iPhone. We've seen this movie before — Apple's insistence on control will lose the mobile war just like it lost the PC war.

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technologyJan 22, 2010

Will Internet DVR Be Banned In Singapore?

A Singapore court ruled that an internet DVR service was illegal. The history of consumer recording rights — from Betamax to Cablevision — and why this ruling is wrong.

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personalJan 22, 2010

Here's My Mobile Number

After selling Gizmo5 to Google, I'm now sharing my mobile number publicly — made possible by Google Voice's call screening features.

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technologyJan 19, 2010

Apple's Secret Cloud Strategy And Why Lala Is Critical

Published on TechCrunch: Apple's upcoming plans involve using Lala's technology to push every iTunes user's music library to the cloud overnight — no new label licenses required.

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technologyDec 4, 2009

Will Apple Bury Lala's 10 Cent Songs?

Apple acquired Lala and will likely shut it down, burying customers' 10-cent song rentals. This is why ownership is always better than rental for digital media.

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technologyNov 12, 2009

Google Acquires Gizmo5

I'm proud to announce that Google has acquired Gizmo5. Existing users can expect service to continue while we work on making Google Voice and Gizmo5 even better.

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telecomOct 14, 2009

OpenSky 2.0 SIP for Skype

Gizmo5 launched OpenSky, letting any SIP device call Skype and receive Skype calls. Plus eBay announced their own Skype for SIP — great news for open standards in VOIP.

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technologyAug 24, 2009

Cloud Music On Your iPhone, iPod touch and Android Phone

After a 3.5 month wait, Apple approved the Airband MP3tunes app for iPhone. Plus a new Android app. Your entire music library is now just a couple clicks away on mobile.

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technologyAug 4, 2009

What I'm Excited About

Despite the negative positions I've taken on record label royalties, there are many things I'm genuinely excited about in technology: MiFi, VOIP, upcoming legal cases, Meraki, Kindle, and more.

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technologyJul 22, 2009

EMI You Lie

EMI is telling the court they never distribute free promotional MP3s online. We need the community's help to find the thousands of free EMI tracks online and prove them wrong.

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technologyJul 20, 2009

Vote for the Craziest Digital Music Ideas Ever

A look back at the most outlandish ideas in the digital music business: Madison Project, Sony's rootkit, suing to outlaw MP3 players, DRM P2P services, and more.

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technologyJul 8, 2009

Sadly, Pandora Is Still Going Bankrupt

The new webcasting royalty rates announced in 2009 were lower than the old ones, but Pandora will still pay 40%+ of revenues to record labels. Net radio is going to die a slow death.

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technologyJun 29, 2009

Cartoon Network Opens Door For Wave of New Business Opportunities

The Supreme Court's decision not to overturn the Cablevision DVR ruling unlocks a wave of new disruptive businesses: smart recording, personalized channels, music DVRs, and more.

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personalMay 19, 2009

The American Idol Winner Is....

Using Gizmo5 voting data from American Idol fans, we can project the final two contestants' outcomes before the finale is revealed.

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technologyApr 1, 2009

Roach Motel For Your Music (The New DRM Threat)

Lala is a roach motel for your personal music — it goes in but can never come out. The record label-backed service blocks downloads, mobile access, and syncing.

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technologyMar 12, 2009

Obama OKs Network DVR And Hints At Music Locker

Obama's Solicitor General filed papers supporting the Cablevision DVR ruling and mentioned cloud computing and music lockers specifically — a great sign for MP3tunes.

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technologyFeb 10, 2009

Who Is Ryan Sit And Why Is EMI Suing Him?

EMI sued not just Seeqpod but also a random San Diego developer named Ryan Sit who used Seeqpod's API to build a music mashup. This threatens how the entire internet works.

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technologyJan 15, 2009

Music Search Engines Under Attack

Transcript from the MP3tunes court hearing against EMI: 'It's fairly extraordinary that in 2009, the record business is still trying to shut down a search engine.'

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technologyJan 10, 2009

CES 2009 Highlights: Music Everywhere, NextGen TV, 3D

CES 2009 highlights: Clarion's car music internet device, new net radios from Acoustic Research, Hitachi's gesture-controlled TV, Yahoo TV Widgets, Boxee, and 3D printing.

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technologyDec 15, 2008

iPods Are Dying - Tuneroom Powers Next Gen MP3 Players

The iPod is dying off and mobile phones are the next generation MP3 player. Tuneroom is a mobile phone music search engine that makes it easy to wirelessly load songs to your phone.

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technologyDec 8, 2008

EMI Loses Case - I Get To Keep My Minivan

The court dismissed EMI's personal claims against me as CEO of MP3tunes. I get to keep my home, cars, and bank accounts. The case against MP3tunes continues.

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privacyOct 14, 2008

Use Skype - Go Directly To A Chinese Prison

A research firm revealed that eBay and TOM are colluding with the Chinese government to spy on Skype users. What happened to people implicated by their Skype usage?

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technologyOct 14, 2008

How Major Labels Try To Overwhelm Startups

EMI is burying MP3tunes with legal demands for 300 terabytes of data, all company communications, all financial records, and personnel files. Here's the inside view.

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technologySep 4, 2008

Turn Your Mobile Phone Into A MP3 Player

Load2Mobile is a free internet service that stores songs in your personal Music Locker and makes it possible to load them onto your mobile phone without any cables.

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technologySep 4, 2008

MP3tunes Files Counterclaims Against EMI (How You Can Help)

MP3tunes filed counterclaims against EMI, who is suing us for copyright infringement. EMI told the court they never distribute free MP3s — we know that's false. We need your help.

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technologyJul 14, 2008

Xandros Buys Linspire

Xandros is buying Linspire. Xandros has done more than any company to put Linux in front of users with the innovative eee PC. I'm proud of what Linspire tried to accomplish.

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technologyJun 17, 2008

$20 Million Dollar Experiment to See if You'll Rent a Song for 10 Cents

Warner Music Group quietly invested $20 million in Lala to create a service where you can rent major label songs for 10 cents each. But these 'web songs' are rental, not ownership.

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educationMay 6, 2008

College Myths

Five college myths debunked: Colleges are poor. Colleges aren't businesses. You must go to college to get secret info. Name brand colleges justify higher prices. Colleges care most about students.

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technologyApr 2, 2008

Preparing for a life after Pandora with PiMP

Pandora is going to drown from record label royalties. PiMP — PlayMix Player — lets you select an artist or song to create a personal radio station using only songs you already own.

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telecomJan 21, 2008

Fast IM, SMS, and Email on ANY mobile phone/PC in one program - Gizmo5

Gizmo5 now combines instant messaging, SMS, and email into a single interface on mobile phones — the first time all three messaging systems have been unified this way.

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technologyJan 7, 2008

EMI vs Google, AOL, Microsoft (The Entire Internet)

EMI is suing MP3tunes for storing MP3 files, but Google, AOL, and Microsoft all do the same thing — and allow sharing, which MP3tunes doesn't. This is really EMI v The Internet.

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technologyNov 26, 2007

Your Music on the Wii, PS3, Windows Mobile and More!

Announcing the first half of the MP3tunes developer contest winners: your Music Locker can now be accessed from the Wii, PlayStation 3, Windows Mobile, Chumby, and Eclipse.

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educationNov 14, 2007

Letter to College Board Asking For Clarification/Corrections

An open letter to the College Board challenging their 'Education Pays' report, which uses incorrect graduation time assumptions, artificially low interest rates, and overstated income projections.

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telecomOct 25, 2007

Backdoor Dialing - Free Calling to Millions of US Phones

Gizmo5 is launching Backdoor Dialing — calls from the Internet directly to millions of Verizon, Sprint, T-Mobile and MetroPCS phones, bypassing the traditional phone system entirely.

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technologySep 24, 2007

My Business Failure - AnywhereCD

AnywhereCD, my music store that bundled CDs with instant MP3 downloads, is shutting down. Here's what I learned from the experience.

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technologySep 6, 2007

9 Things an iPhone Can't Do

Most reporters are too busy hugging their MacBooks to write a critical piece on the iPhone. Here are 9 things my Nokia e61i can do that Apple's iPhone cannot.

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technologyJun 6, 2007

Why Buy CDs From Amazon When You Can Buy MP3 Albums??

AnywhereCD now sells CDs at Amazon prices but includes instant high-quality MP3 downloads with every purchase. The CD + MP3 bundle at the same price as Amazon CDs alone.

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technologyApr 12, 2007

MP3 is Back!

Announcing AnywhereCD — a new music store selling licensed, DRM-free MP3 albums from popular artists like Madonna, Green Day, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Metallica, and thousands more.

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telecomJan 30, 2007

GizmoCall.com and My Strategy for Zero Cost Calls

GizmoCall.com lets anyone make free phone calls just by typing a URL into their web browser. No download, no signup — just 10 free minutes per day to nearly any phone in the world.

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personalAug 10, 2006

My $100K Offer to Floyd Landis

I offered Tour de France winner Floyd Landis $100,000 to take a lie detector test about his alleged doping. His handlers said they'd consider it but never responded.

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technologyJul 4, 2006

Diet Soda and Your Music Going Flat!

Coke's mycokemusic store is shutting down, and customers will lose all their DRM music purchases. This illustrates why buying DRM music is really just renting.

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educationApr 12, 2006

The Biggest Gamble of Your Life (Is College Worth it?)

REEF's economic analysis shows college is a financial mistake for more than half of American young people. The effective return on college investment is just 2-4% — far below typical investment expectations.

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technologyMar 9, 2006

Bye Bye Microsoft Word, Hello ajaxWrite

Announcing ajaxWrite — a powerful word processor that loads in 6 seconds, reads and writes .doc files, works on Mac/Win/Linux, and is completely free.

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technologyJan 4, 2006

ajaxTunes - The Everywhere Mini Music Player

ajaxTunes is a mini music player that requires no installation, works in all browsers, and lets websites play music for visitors without any software requirements.

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technologyNov 1, 2005

Moving from Geekland to the Mainland with CompareSoft

I surveyed 10 mall shoppers — none knew about Linux, OpenOffice, or GIMP. So I started CompareSoft to market open source software alternatives in retail stores like Best Buy.

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privacySep 14, 2005

Would You Send Your Mom To Jail To Make Money?

Yahoo turned over email logs to the Chinese government, resulting in a journalist's 10-year prison sentence for discussing Tiananmen Square. Where do technology companies draw the moral line?

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opinionJul 7, 2005

8 Observations from Live 8

I stayed home to research Live 8, the global music festival focused on African poverty. 8 observations on what it got right, what it got wrong, and what will actually help Africa.

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personalApr 28, 2005

What's our purpose in life?

My 2nd grader asked me 'What's our purpose in life?' on the way to school. It made me reflect on my own purpose — and announce I'm stepping down as CEO of Linspire to become Chairman.

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technologyMar 22, 2005

I'd Like To Teach The World To Sync, In Perfect Harmony

Introducing BadApple, a free iTunes plugin that lets you sync your music to any USB MP3 player — not just iPods. Your music should play everywhere.

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technologyFeb 1, 2005

10 MUST SEES at the Desktop Summit Feb 9-11th 2005

Preview of the best things to see at the Desktop Linux Summit: OpenOffice 2.0 beta, ease-of-use awards, Mozilla's Lightning, Linspire 5.0, RealNetworks Helix DNA, Chandler, and more.

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technologyJan 5, 2005

Locker Envy

Introducing Lockerenvy.com — compare MP3tunes music lockers by size. Who has the biggest collection? Find out where you rank among thousands of music lovers.

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technologyAug 25, 2004

Ads for Desktop Linux Coming To A TV Near You!

Two new TV ads for desktop Linux computers are now debuting. Sub500 in North America and Elektra in Mexico are bringing Linux computers to mainstream retail.

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technologyJul 27, 2004

Linux Shootout

Announcing the Linux Shootout — a $29.95 bundle of Linspire, Fedora, and Mandrake with a checklist of features to compare. No one Linux product satisfies everyone — choice is a good thing.

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technologyMay 17, 2004

You Own Nothing

Apple has removed the ability to stream music from other networks and has changed iTunes DRM rules multiple times. When someone else controls your software, you don't truly own what you bought.

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technologyApr 13, 2004

The Linux Dilemma

Clay Christensen, author of The Innovator's Dilemma, will keynote the Desktop Linux Summit — his framework for disruptive technologies fits Linux perfectly.

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technologyFeb 17, 2004

BudgetBeamer and Mystery Songs Revealed

Announcing a budget version of the MP3beamer and revealing the mystery songs from last week's contest. MP3beamer now supports Linksys and SMC wireless music units.

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technologyJan 14, 2004

Linux for $12.50 a Week

Lindows.com partners with Elektra's 850 stores in Latin America to bring Linux PCs to Mexico for $12.50/week payments. 25,000 computers already shipped in the pre-launch period.

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technologyJan 7, 2004

The CEO Challenge

The CEO of a $1B company visited our offices with zero Linux knowledge and was 'blown away' by LindowsOS. I challenge ALL CEOs: commit to becoming Microsoft-free by this time next year.

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technologyDec 31, 2003

A year well-spent

2003 year-in-review for Lindows.com: Fry's Electronics, Desktop Linux Summit, Lindows Mobile PC, Walmart.com, The Brick Canada, Bronze Builder program, LindowsOS 4.0, LindowsCD, KooBox, PC Club, MSfreePC, Seagate LindowsHD, LindowsEspañol, and more.

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technologyDec 24, 2003

My Movie of the Year

My nominee for movie of the year is 'Winged Migration' about rockhopper penguins who hop up sheer cliffs. Like the Linux penguin, they succeed through determination. Lindows.com is making LindowsOS free for KDE developers.

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technologyDec 17, 2003

Something for Your Stocking

Microsoft gave me a Christmas present: more trademark lawsuits in multiple countries. As a gift to loyal readers, LindowsOS 4.5 is available for free to all past purchasers.

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technologyDec 10, 2003

Red-eye to Amsterdam

Microsoft launched a widespread campaign against international LindowsOS resellers in the Netherlands and Sweden. I sent an open letter to Steve Ballmer and flew to visit our resellers.

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technologyDec 3, 2003

Wacky International Expansion

Microsoft Netherlands called a Dutch LindowsOS reseller and told them to stop selling Linux computers. I flew to Holland on Thanksgiving weekend to sit alongside the reseller and support them.

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technologyDec 1, 2003

Wife Tested, Mother Approved

User emails and press reviews of LindowsOS 4.0: ExtremeTech gave it 9/10 and reports it 'passed the mom test.' Customers are calling it 'flawless.'

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technologyNov 26, 2003

Nvu and Other Great Software You've Never Heard About

Lindows.com is backing Nvu, a new WYSIWYG HTML editor for Linux to compete with FrontPage. Also: a showcase of great Linux software most people haven't heard of.

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technologyNov 26, 2003

New & Improved Linux - 40% Better

Announcing LindowsOS Laptop Edition with power management support, now available on $899 laptops at PC Club. This challenges Microsoft in the last PC sector where they've faced no competition.

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technologyNov 24, 2003

Microsoft Corp. vs. Lindows.com Inc. - Get out your slingshot!

The jury trial with Microsoft begins December 1, 2003 in Seattle. Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer have been subpoenaed as hostile witnesses. This is the first time Microsoft has sued a company solely for trademark infringement.

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technologyNov 19, 2003

The World's Most Dangerous Virus

Microsoft Office 2003 contains 'MO3' — technology that gives Microsoft the ability to change anything on your computer at any time without your knowledge. It will also force files to be unreadable by non-Microsoft software.

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technologyNov 19, 2003

Digital Museum Burns to the Ground

MP3.com — the world's largest digital music site with 1 million songs from 250,000 artists — has been sold to Cnet, who is not taking possession of the music. It will all be deleted.

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technologyNov 19, 2003

Digital Museum Burns to the Ground

On December 3rd, Vivendi Universal will shut down MP3.com, destroying the largest collection of digital music ever assembled — over 1 million full-length songs from 250,000 artists that exist nowhere else in the world.

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technologyNov 18, 2003

Disagree with Linus

Linus Torvalds says it will take 5-10 years for 'normal users' to see a Linux desktop. I politely disagree — desktop Linux is already in stores today thanks to Lindows and retail partners.

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technologyNov 12, 2003

Michael Jordan Retires, Baseball Survives

Red Hat and SuSE withdrew from the desktop Linux market. The press declared desktop Linux dead. They're wrong: LindowsOS users increased 30% in the last two months alone.

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technologyNov 5, 2003

Save $400 on Your Next Office Suite

Sun's StarOffice 7 is now available with PDF export, Flash presentation creation, XML file format, and macro recording — all for a fraction of Microsoft Office's $500 price.

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technologyOct 29, 2003

Bienvenido a LindowsOS

Announcing LindowsEspañol — LindowsOS 4.0 fully in Spanish. Over 300 million people worldwide now have a choice that was unavailable to them before.

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technologyOct 22, 2003

My Response To Microsoft Re: MSfreePC

Microsoft sent us a 'take down' notice for MSfreePC.com. Here is my response to Mr. Gates, defending consumers' rights to use technology and an online process to secure their settlement claims.

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telecomOct 21, 2003

The Phone Will Never Be The Same

Announcing SIPphone — phones that use SIP technology to make calls over the internet to any other SIPphone with absolutely no per minute or monthly fee.

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technologyOct 15, 2003

Fluoride in the Water

Announcing LindowsHD — Seagate is now selling hard drives pre-loaded with LindowsOS for the exact same price as a blank hard disc. Computer manufacturers get LindowsOS for free.

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technologyOct 8, 2003

An MSfreePC Future

MSfreePC.com lets eligible consumers file a Microsoft antitrust settlement claim to get StarOffice, LindowsOS, LindowsCD, and even possibly a free WebStation computer — all paid for by Microsoft.

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technologyOct 1, 2003

Got Web Work and $169? Get a 'WebStation'

Announcing the Lindows WebStation — a $169 computer with a CD-based design that makes it practically impossible to harm. Plug it in, no setup required, no usernames or passwords.

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technologySep 24, 2003

Tipping Point - PC Club

PC Club is now stocking LindowsOS computers on store shelves in more than 50 stores. This marks the first time a retail chain has committed to desktop Linux. I believe this is the tipping point.

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technologySep 17, 2003

How Friendly is it?

Announcing Lfriendly.com — a directory of Linux-friendly hardware and retail companies with price comparison tools. Spend your dollars on Lfriendly companies to help Linux grow.

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technologySep 17, 2003

The Phone Will Never Be The Same

Announcing Always On-Call — 24/7 live phone support for LindowsOS at a flat annual fee. Also: announcing SIPphone, a new type of Internet phone that makes free calls to other SIPphones with no monthly fees.

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technologySep 10, 2003

Lindows.com Goes Suit and Tie

Announcing the Lindows BusinessStation — a $10/year per machine service that transforms any WebStation into a customized work terminal, public kiosk, or corporate intranet portal.

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technologySep 3, 2003

Wife Tested, Mother Approved

LindowsOS 4.0 earns 9/10 from ExtremeTech, which 'passed the mom test.' CNET, Tux Reports, and customers all rave. One attorney's pregnant wife used it for 15 minutes and is now a 'Linux Geek.'

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technologyAug 28, 2003

The Easiest and Quickest Way Ever to Experience Linux!

Announcing LindowsCD — put the CD in, restart, and you're running LindowsOS with no installation and nothing changed on your hard disk. Try Linux in minutes on any computer, risk-free.

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technologyAug 20, 2003

Japan and Video

Japan has leapfrogged the US in broadband — 100MB at $40/month. LindowsOS 4.0 is launching in Japan. Also: LindowsOS finally plays QuickTime, Windows Media, and DVD video.

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technologyAug 20, 2003

Solutions - Year in Review

A recap of Lindows.com's 2003 innovations: VirusSafe, Lindows Mobile PC, Click-N-Buy, Bronze Builder Program, LindowsOS 4.0, LindowsCD, Lfriendly.com, Lindows WebStation, DVD player, KooBox, and Consultants Program.

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technologyAug 19, 2003

4.0 Where to Get Yours

LindowsOS 4.0 is now available! Current Click-N-Run members get it free. Download it digitally, buy it pre-installed on a certified computer, or purchase the retail package.

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technologyAug 13, 2003

Microsoft Is Right (Until Next Tuesday)

Microsoft is right that Linux has higher maintenance costs. But next Tuesday, when we release LindowsOS 4.0, desktop Linux becomes easier to manage than Windows with 4 one-click capabilities.

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technologyAug 13, 2003

Need to Consult?

Launching the Lindows.com Consultants Program — technically-savvy LindowsOS users can become consultants to help businesses and schools deploy LindowsOS. 300 consultants signed up in 30 countries in one week.

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technologyAug 8, 2003

KooBox - The World's Most Affordable Computer!

KooBox.com starts selling the first COMPLETE Linux computer: computer, flat-panel monitor, cables, keyboard, mouse, speakers AND 1,500+ software programs — all for just $449.

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technologyAug 6, 2003

More Options for LindowsOS 4.0

5 changes coming with LindowsOS 4.0: Click-N-Run drops to $49.95/year, 5 new add-on packages, 15-day free trial of everything, monthly payment plans, and bundle pricing.

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technologyJul 30, 2003

How to Buy Microsoft Windows XP for $50

Microsoft is offering TigerDirect an extraordinary deal: sell Windows XP for just $50 to all past LindowsOS buyers. The only reason Microsoft is offering this treatment is because of their relationship with Lindows.com.

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technologyJul 23, 2003

Gates at my Alma Mater

Bill Gates came to UCSD to speak. I distributed a two-page fact sheet to attendees explaining how every successful Microsoft product was either purchased from another company or a direct copy.

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technologyJul 16, 2003

LindowsOS 4.0 - Better than XP

LindowsOS 4.0 not only catches up with Windows XP but passes it in several key areas: tabbed browsing, spam filtering, all-in-one instant messaging, plug-and-play, and one-click OS upgrades.

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technologyJul 9, 2003

Change is Good

LindowsOS 4.0 will debut a new browser, email, and instant messenger. Also: we're changing our tagline from 'Bringing Choice To The Desktop Computer' to 'The World's Most Affordable Software.'

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technologyJun 11, 2003

Microsoft and Apple Sell Out Music Fans

Microsoft is cozying up to the leading CD copy restriction company. Apple's iTunes wraps music in a digital padlock. Straight ahead is a world where CDs only play in Windows XP computers.

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technologyJun 4, 2003

No More White Box Blues

55% of computers worldwide are sold by small 'white box' companies. Announcing a $100/year program that lets any computer seller get LindowsOS to ship on their machines.

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technologyMay 28, 2003

A Legal Victory: We Got Our Slingshot

Our insurance company (St. Paul Fire and Marine) refused to defend us in the Microsoft lawsuit and sued us instead. We just won summary judgment — they're now required to defend us.

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technologyApr 30, 2003

One Phone? One TV? One Computer???

Just as homes went from one telephone and one TV to multiples of each, the era of the single family computer is ending. LindowsOS computers at $199 make it practical to have multiple computers at home.

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technologyApr 17, 2003

Shortest Distance Between 2 Objects Is A Click

There's now more software for Linux than for Macintosh. Announcing the Lindows.com Developer and Publisher Program — opening Click-N-Run to outside developers for free and commercial software.

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technologyApr 9, 2003

Is Intel's 'Centrino' Techno-Latin for 'No Linux?'

Intel's internal struggle over desktop Linux: engineers want to support it, marketing blocks it. When you see that 'Centrino' sticker on a laptop, you can substitute 'Microsoft Windows XP.'

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technologyMar 26, 2003

3 Questions

I'm in Canada launching LindowsOS in 50+ retail stores. At tech conferences I keep getting asked the same 3 questions: How much can I save? Is there comparable software? Can I work with my existing documents?

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technologyMar 20, 2003

Why Desktop Linux Sucks, Today.

Lindows is uniquely positioned to know desktop Linux's weaknesses. Honest assessment: streaming video support is poor, game selection is limited, and retail availability is scarce due to Microsoft pressure.

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technologyMar 5, 2003

Guest Starring Glen Kowalchuk

A school computer coordinator in Canada gave a LindowsOS vs. Windows live demo at a teachers' conference. Lindows won the race and got a standing ovation, and they asked for an encore.

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technologyFeb 27, 2003

Desktop Linux Summit Awards

Over 500 people gathered at the first Desktop Linux Summit. Award highlights: Sun's StarOffice, LindowsFamily's parental controls demo, VirusSafe for Linux, Epson's Linux-compatible printers.

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technologyFeb 20, 2003

LindowsFamily and $799 Mobile PC

Announcing LindowsFamily — the first Family Computer with built-in web filtering. Plus: the $799 Lindows Mobile PC, just 2.9 lbs. Both unveiled today at the Desktop Linux Summit.

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technologyFeb 14, 2003

Sneak Peak

Preview of what's coming at the Desktop Linux Summit: a totally new PC product for the home, the first-ever Linux laptops, gaming on Linux, and mini PCs. Every exhibitor spot is sold out.

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technologyFeb 5, 2003

Choice is Coming!

Retailers like Walmart and iDOT.com are now showing customers a choice of OS when buying a PC. Also: LindowsOS Membership Edition is now on Walmart store shelves for the first time, and available standalone for just $49.

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technologyJan 29, 2003

Mini-PCs are here - make your first one a Lindows Media Computer

Announcing the Lindows Media Computer — a full-featured PC and DVD/CD player in a shoebox-sized case for under $350. Instant-on means it works like a consumer electronics device, not a computer to manage.

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technologyJan 22, 2003

Duck...

Microsoft is labeling Michael's Minute emails as 'spam' to MSN.com subscribers, filing them into Junk folders. Also: announcing LindowsOS MP3.com Edition with 12 free Greatest Hits albums pre-loaded.

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technologyJan 17, 2003

Choice is Coming!

Lindows is now available at Walmart and Fry's Electronics. Several online retailers are now showing Linux as an OS choice alongside Windows, so consumers can make informed decisions.

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technologyJan 15, 2003

You Don't Need an Education to Know Value

Announcing a $500/year educational site license covering an unlimited number of computers at any school. LindowsOS + office suite for less than the cost of one Microsoft Office license.

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technologyJan 8, 2003

Get A Discount On Microsoft Windows XP When You Buy LindowsOS

Microsoft sales reps are instructed to offer 50%+ discounts on Windows XP to businesses that have LindowsOS computers, in order to stop them from buying more Linux. Use LindowsOS as leverage to negotiate better prices.

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technologyJan 1, 2003

What's in store for 2003

5 predictions for 2003: Desktop Linux Summit will be the watershed moment, Linux is now point-and-click easy, analysts will stop saying 'no software for Linux', consumers will start saving billions, and Linux will appear on local store shelves.

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technologyDec 26, 2002

Call me a Sissy All You Want!

LindowsOS has been called a 'Sissy Distro' by hardcore Linux users for being too easy. PC Magazine's response: 'Do they cut down a cedar tree and mine anthracite when they need a pencil?'

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technologyDec 19, 2002

Last Minute Gift Ideas from Lindows.com

Holiday gift ideas: LindowsOS 3.0 for $129, a $199 LindowsOS PC from Walmart, or a $99 Click-N-Run membership. LindowsOS computers are selling out this season!

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technologyDec 7, 2002

Critical Milestone For Choice On The Desktop

Announcing LindowsOS 3.0 — available preinstalled on PCs from Walmart and TigerDirect. LindowsOS computers are the BEST SELLING computer in TigerDirect's entire inventory.

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technologyDec 4, 2002

LindowsOS 3.0 - Just How Good Is It?

User testimonials for LindowsOS 3.0: One senior software engineer called it 'staggeringly fast' and said 'you've got a winner.' Another skeptic who called it an advertising gimmick installed it and immediately apologized.

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technologyDec 3, 2002

LindowsOS 3.0 - Just How Good Is It?

User testimonial emails about LindowsOS 3.0: a senior software engineer calls it 'staggeringly fast'; a skeptic who gave it a chance calls it 'Linux ready for the masses.'

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technologyNov 20, 2002

Tablet PCs & LindowsOS

We're working on a LindowsOS tablet PC near $500. My 4 predictions: tablets must be under $500, they won't replace desktops, handwriting recognition won't be practical, and people prefer keyboards.

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technologyNov 11, 2002

Accomplishing What The Courts Cannot

The Microsoft antitrust ruling disappointed many. But regardless of the legal outcome, customers are tired of overpaying. LindowsOS delivers a complete solution for $99 vs. $2,000+ for Microsoft.

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technologyNov 7, 2002

Predictions

My 5 predictions for 2003: PCs will cost $0, Microsoft releases XPLite at half the price, Desktop Linux hits 10%, the Windows Wars return, and no all-in-one personal computers.

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technologyNov 4, 2002

Sun, Work, Fun

LindowsOS Version 3.0 is coming in a few weeks. The Desktop Linux Summit in San Diego in February 2003 is shaping up to be phenomenal. Also: Doom is now in the Click-N-Run Warehouse!

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technologyOct 30, 2002

Why 35 Million AOL Users Should Buy A LindowsOS Computer

Announcing AOL's Netscape software as the default Net suite on LindowsOS 2.0. AOL users can now access their AOL email, buddy list, and chat rooms through Netscape on a $199 LindowsOS computer.

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technologyOct 23, 2002

Open Letter to Steve Ballmer

Microsoft's CEO criticized Lindows.com's $199 PC. I challenge him point by point: the price difference between LindowsOS and Windows is $700+, not $25, and Microsoft uses MDF kickbacks to bully retailers.

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technologyOct 16, 2002

Legal Update & LindowsOS 2.0 Press Reviews

We filed new court papers in the Microsoft trademark battle. LindowsOS 2.0 receives favorable reviews from ExtremeTech, PC Magazine, eWeek, and OSNews.

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technologyOct 9, 2002

LindowsOS 2.0 Feedback

User testimonials and press reviews for LindowsOS 2.0: Insiders say 'WOW!' and 'FLAWLESSLY on two different machines.' MSNBC and Chicago Tribune give positive reviews.

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technologyOct 1, 2002

Choice Just Got Better...LindowsOS 2.0 Now Available

Announcing LindowsOS 2.0 with a new graphical interface, printing support for 800+ printers, improved laptop support, better networking for Microsoft Windows file servers, tabbed browsing, and pop-up blocking.

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technologySep 26, 2002

Why 35 Million AOL Users Should Buy A LindowsOS Computer

LindowsOS 2.0 now includes Netscape as the default browser, making it the ultimate 'AOL Computer.' AOL users get Linux power, stability and affordability while still accessing all their familiar AOL services.

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technologySep 18, 2002

Breaking the Monopoly of the Mind

When elephants are young they're chained to a post. When grown, a light rope holds them because they think they can't break free. Microsoft has done the same thing to computer users.

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technologySep 2, 2002

Gold On The Moon

Linux is like gold on the moon — tremendous value if you can figure out how to get there. LinuxWorld is still teaching people to build rocket ships. Lindows.com is bringing the gold to earth.

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technologyAug 28, 2002

The $199 PC, Microsoft Corp. v. Lindows.com Update

We're announcing a $199 LindowsOS computer coming to Walmart. Also: a trial is scheduled for April 2003 to decide whether Microsoft has a valid trademark for the word 'windows.'

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technologyAug 28, 2002

The $199 PC, Microsoft Corp. v. Lindows.com Update

We're announcing a $199 LindowsOS computer coming to Walmart. Also: a trial is scheduled for April 2003 to decide whether Microsoft has a valid trademark for the word 'windows.'

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technologyAug 19, 2002

License and Registration Please

The BSA (Business Software Alliance) sent me a threatening form letter about alleged unlicensed software. No other industry treats their customers as criminals by default. My solution: LindowsOS with $99 flat fee for 1,000+ programs.

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technologyAug 19, 2002

License and Registration Please

The Business Software Alliance sent me a form letter threatening 'hundreds of thousands of dollars in penalties' for alleged unlicensed software. The BSA treats all customers as criminals by default.

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technologyJul 30, 2002

It All Began With One Lone Server

I chose Linux for MP3.com 4 years ago purely based on cost. I soon learned I'd employed the most stable technology available. The same phenomenon will take place on the desktop.

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technologyJul 30, 2002

It All Began With One Lone Server

I chose Linux for MP3.com 4 years ago purely based on cost. I soon learned I'd employed the most stable technology available. The same phenomenon will take place on the desktop.

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technologyJul 16, 2002

StarOffice - So is it really Microsoft Office Compatible?

Sun's StarOffice is now in the Click-N-Run Warehouse. Send us your Word, Excel, or PowerPoint documents and we'll open them in StarOffice on LindowsOS and email them back.

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technologyJul 16, 2002

StarOffice - So is it really Microsoft Office Compatible?

Sun's StarOffice is now in the Click-N-Run Warehouse. Send us your Word, Excel, or PowerPoint documents and we'll open them in StarOffice on LindowsOS and email them back.

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technologyJul 11, 2002

Tapping the Energy that Seeks Change

Announcing the Clicky Awards — $50,000 in prize money for the best Linux desktop software. The same creative minds that sought change in music delivery are now seeking change on the desktop.

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technologyJul 2, 2002

Do the Math...Dispel the Myths

A reporter thought he couldn't use LindowsOS to write a story because his office used Word .doc files. I showed him otherwise in under a minute. Plus: the real math on Linux vs Windows pricing.

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technologyJul 2, 2002

Do the Math...Dispel the Myths

A reporter thought Linux was only for servers. I showed him OpenOffice saving a file in .doc format in under 5 minutes. Linux is ready for the desktop and consumers can save over $800 with a complete LindowsOS system.

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technologyJun 26, 2002

Lindows.com Report Card

Grading Lindows.com's first 9 months: Operating System (B) — available at Walmart, Insiders get 80% install success. Software (A-) — 1,000+ programs, fantastic consumer experience. Windows Compatibility (B). Communication (B+). Overall: B+.

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technologyJun 17, 2002

Wal-Mart, Warehouse, $299, Wow

Today we announced the first place in the world where you can buy a LindowsOS computer: Walmart.com. Computers range from $299-$599 with Click-N-Run giving access to 1,000+ programs for $99.

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technologyJun 12, 2002

Revolutionizing Refrigerators – Star Trek Style

The Click-N-Run Warehouse is like a refrigerator that comes pre-stocked with all the food you could want. Most computers today are sold empty — LindowsOS changes that.

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technologyJun 4, 2002

The Broadband OS - LindowsOS SPX

A 16-year-old installed LindowsOS SPX in 5 minutes with zero guidance. SPX is the first 'Broadband OS' — designed for a world where net connectivity is bountiful and cheap.

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technologyMay 29, 2002

Inside the Insider's Program

An update on what Lindows.com has in store: LindowsOS SPX is coming in early June with better browser support, improved GUI, enhanced Windows compatibility, and dozens of new Click-N-Run apps.

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technologyMay 29, 2002

Inside the Insider's Program

Preview of LindowsOS SPX coming in early June with improved browser support, improved graphical interface, enhanced compatibility with Windows apps, and dozens of new Click-N-Run Warehouse applications.

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technologyMay 7, 2002

Better Than a Pair of Old Gym Shoes

5 benefits of LindowsOS vs. Windows: permanent digital access to software you purchase, complete digital download, more stability with fewer crashes, one-click software installation, and friendlier per-user licensing.

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technologyMay 7, 2002

Better Than a Pair of Old Gym Shoes

I switched from Windows 2000 to LindowsOS at New Year's. Five advantages I've discovered: permanent software access, digital download, greater stability, easier installation, and friendlier licensing.

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technologyApr 30, 2002

Is the Insider Program Right for You?

Five types of Lindows.com Insiders: Tech Wizard, Choice Advocate, Value Seeker, Penguin (wanting to try Linux), and ABM (Anything But Microsoft). Enthusiastic community feedback from around the globe.

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technologyApr 23, 2002

A Million Windows?

Microsoft is in court claiming that having multiple versions of an OS is technically impossible. Ironically, our small company is doing exactly that. Lindows.com envisions 'homework windows,' 'teenager windows,' 'preschool windows' — a million versions.

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technologyApr 23, 2002

Is the Insider Program Right for You?

Five types of Lindows.com Insiders: Tech Wizards, Choice Advocates, Value Seekers, Penguins (Linux curious), and ABM (Anything But Microsoft). Which type are you?

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technologyApr 23, 2002

A Million Windows?

Our goal is to allow people to customize their OS to suit their needs and pocketbook — a homework windows, a teenager windows, a preschool windows. A world with a million versions of windows.

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technologyApr 18, 2002

What is Click-N-Run?

FAQ explaining Click-N-Run: a feature that puts a warehouse of software all in one place, and a single mouse click downloads, installs, and configures any software title — for free or for a small fee.

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technologyApr 18, 2002

What is Click-N-Run?

Introducing Click-N-Run — a warehouse of software for LindowsOS that downloads and installs programs with a single mouse click. An early vision of the app store.

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technologyApr 8, 2002

LindowsOS Sneak Preview 2 - Now Playing

LindowsOS Sneak Preview 2 is now available to Insiders, featuring Click-N-Run for one-click software installation, and the ability to view and print Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files without buying extra software.

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technologyApr 8, 2002

LindowsOS Sneak Preview 2 - Now Playing

Announcing LindowsOS Sneak Preview 2 with Click-N-Run — a new feature that lets you browse a warehouse of software titles and install any with a single mouse click. No more multi-step installations.

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technologyApr 3, 2002

The Desk Theory

The tipping point will be when a personal computer is cheaper than the desk it sits on. PCs are becoming commodities, and the next wave will be multiple computers per household dedicated to specific tasks.

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technologyApr 3, 2002

The Desk Theory

The tipping point will be when a personal computer is cheaper than the desk it sits on. Microsoft's artificially high prices are the one obstacle preventing this trend from truly exploding.

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technologyMar 18, 2002

Microsoft Loses Courtroom Battle Over Windows Trademark

VICTORY: The judge ruled in our favor, denying Microsoft's attempt to prevent us from using our name. The judge wrote: 'Lindows.com has presented sufficient evidence to rebut the presumption of validity of the Windows mark.'

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technologyMar 18, 2002

Microsoft Loses Courtroom Battle Over Windows Trademark

The judge denied Microsoft's attempt to prevent us from using 'Lindows.com' and 'LindowsOS.' The judge wrote: 'Lindows.com has presented sufficient evidence to rebut the presumption of validity of the Windows mark.'

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technologyMar 12, 2002

Hard at work ... Sneak Preview 2

Our 30 employees are hard at work readying LindowsOS Sneak Preview 2, with OpenOffice support for Word/Excel/PowerPoint files, performance improvements, and more software in Click-N-Run.

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technologyMar 12, 2002

Hard at work ... Sneak Preview 2

Our 30 employees are hard at work readying Sneak Preview 2. Key improvements: one-click viewing of all Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint and Word documents; better performance and compatibility.

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technologyFeb 14, 2002

Legal Update - Microsoft Trademark Battle

We submitted our legal papers in opposition to Microsoft's request to block us from using 'Lindows.com' and 'LindowsOS.' Our survey of 14,000 people found not a single person confused.

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technologyFeb 14, 2002

Legal Update

Detailed update on Microsoft's lawsuit: Microsoft's 'windows' trademark was rejected twice by the USPTO as generic, and a survey of 14,000 buyers found NOT A SINGLE person was confused between LindowsOS and Windows XP.

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technologyFeb 4, 2002

Our Sneak Preview is no longer vaporware

LindowsOS was labeled 'vaporware' — all of that changed last week with the release of our Sneak Preview to Insiders. A grandma installed it successfully. This is real.

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technologyFeb 4, 2002

Our Sneak Preview is no longer vaporware

LindowsOS Sneak Preview is now available to Insiders. Key features: easy installation alongside Windows 98, migration of important data, and ability to run Windows-based business programs.

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technologyJan 14, 2002

Help Us With Our Defense Against the Microsoft Lawsuit

Microsoft claims our use of LindowsOS will cause confusion with Windows XP. We need your help: submit examples of products named 'Windows Something' or 'Something Windows' to help our legal case.

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technologyJan 14, 2002

Help US With Our Defense Against the Microsoft Lawsuit

Microsoft is suing us over our name. We were compelled to disclose your email addresses to Microsoft during discovery. Here's how you can help our defense.

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technologyDec 31, 2001

Lindows.com 2001 Wrap-up

Microsoft filed a lawsuit against us claiming people would confuse LindowsOS with Windows XP. We're committed to our goal and won't allow this issue to derail us.

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technologyDec 31, 2001

Lindows.com 2001 Wrap-up

Microsoft filed a lawsuit claiming people would confuse LindowsOS with Windows XP. We won't let this derail us. Launching the Insider program for those who want to get more involved.

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technologyDec 12, 2001

Why Lindows.com?

The very first Michael's Minute — December 2001. Why am I starting Lindows.com? Because the world needs choice. There is only one company producing computer operating software, and consumers are paying the price.

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technologyDec 12, 2001

Why Lindows.com?

The world needs choice in computer operating systems. LindowsOS will be affordable, easy-to-use, and run Windows software on Linux — giving consumers the best of both worlds.

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