Industry News

Waitrose to launch social site for shoppers
Supermarket chain Waitrose is planning to take advantage of the Facebook and MySpace craze by launching its own social networking site, according to the Times.

Facebook sparks iLike user boom
The rapidly growing popularity of social networking site Facebook has sparked a boom in the user uptake of one its new applications, Reuters reports.

Yahoo! launches new customisable ad tool
Yahoo! have announced the launch of Yahoo SmartAds, a new display advertising product which allows online marketers to offer customised ads to web surfers based on age, gender, location and online activities.

Consumer group protests over Google DoubleClick deal
Search engine giant Google's recent spending spree may have run into trouble, after reports suggested there was consumer resistance to its planned acquisition of online advertiser DoubleClick.

Google acquires GrandCentral
Google announces the addition of voice communications services through its acquisition of GrandCentral Communications.

EU launches YouTube channel
The European Commission is the latest government body to take advantage of the immense popularity of the online video sharing medium, by launching its own YouTube channel.

Environmental start-up launches eco-networking
MakeMeSustainable, a start-up company that focuses on bringing about environmental change through action, has launched its own website to help individuals and businesses to manage energy consumption and reduce their carbon footprint.

IBM OmniFind Yahoo! Edition adds new features
Six months after its initial launch, the free IBM OmniFind Yahoo! Enterprise Edition has been downloaded by more than 21,000 companies. Now, IBM has found partners that offer enhanced features and extended capabilities.

Google still unsatisfied with Windows Vista Search ruling
Google have asked to be considered for a direct role in its anti-trust dispute with Microsoft over Windows Vista's primary search function.

Study links social networking to online shopping
Analysts have often speculated on the impact of social networking on E-commerce - but a recent study from Canada seems to have found a distinct correlation between the two.