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Dual-Core CPU Sent to Manufacturers

Intel Corp. has begun volume shipments of its first dual-core processor, the Pentium Extreme Edition 840, to hardware makers ahead of an official launch. Intel and Advanced Micro Devices Inc. are both close to launching dual-core processors based on the x86 instruction set. AMD is likely to be first; it plans to launch dual-core Opteron processors on April 21.

Microsoft Checks On New Office Flaw

Microsoft Corp. is investigating an unpatched flaw in its Office software suite that could allow hackers to remotely access users' systems. The vulnerability was detailed last week in an advisory labeled "highly critical" from IT security firm Secunia. It isn't one of the eight vulnerabilities that Microsoft disclosed as part of this month's security bulletin.

Apple Q2 Revenue Rises by 70%

Apple Computer Inc. beat analysts' expectations, reporting dramatically higher second-quarter earnings and a 70% increase in revenue. The performance could be attributed to significant increases in Macintosh computer and iPod shipments.

APPLE BY THE NUMBERS REVENUE PROFIT Q1 ’05 $3.2B $290M Q1 ’04 $1.9B $46M

Acer to Unveil Pentium D Desktop

Acer Inc. has disclosed plans to announce a desktop PC based on Intel's dual-core Pentium D processor in late May. Acer's new Aspire PC was mentioned by Abhi Talwalkar, general manager of Intel's Digital Enterprise Group, during the Intel Developer Forum in Taipei. Acer plans to announce the PC at the Computex show in Taipei, which starts May 31.

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