IN THE PAPERS
In The Papers 6 October
06-10-2009
by Sylvia Leatham
Microsoft is optimistic about economy | UK Times unveils new fees model
The Irish Times reports that Samsung Electronics' stronger-than-expected quarterly earnings forecast failed to wow investors, who are worried a fast-recovering Korean won and competition are already starting to cut into profits. Samsung forecast third-quarter consolidated earnings to come in at median SKW4.1 trillion (STG2.19 billion), higher than market estimates and up sharply from SKW2.42 trillion in the second quarter. Although Samsung made a spectacular turnaround this year, analysts reckon the best might be over, saying that the company's fourth-quarter results could signal a slowdown linked to increased spending and heightened competition from the likes of Sony and LG Electronics.
The paper also says that ten Irish ocean energy companies have been granted development funding by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), as reported by ENN.
The Irish Independent says that greyhound dogs transformed into live medical devices, breath-smelling bees and machines able to read emotions are among the emerging technologies that will go on display this week at Dublin's Science Gallery. The "What If..." exhibit will feature thought-provoking projects from 20 industrial designers from around the world, including works such as using live dogs as life support systems for humans and whether we could redesign human teeth to encourage vegetarianism.
The paper also notes that O2 Ireland has appointed Alan Brown as its business sales director. He joins O2 after holding various senior positions in Eircom.
The Wall Street Journal reports that Microsoft International president Jean-Philippe Courtois has said the economic slump has bottomed out and optimism is returning, but it will take some time for business to return to more normal levels. Courtois expects Windows 7 to reach a higher penetration than Microsoft's previous products, such as Windows Vista. "CIOs have had their budgets cut in the last year, typically between 10 percent to 15 percent. But you'll begin to see more projects happening now in the next 12 months," he said, adding that Windows 7 is expected to be a key demand driver.
According to the Financial Times, News International has unveiled a new model for The Times and The Sunday Times newspapers with the launch of a membership scheme that gives readers access to exclusive events and special offers in return for a STG50 annual fee. The initiative, called Times +, is a strategic shift for News International, which is seeking new ways to charge its readers amid weak advertising markets and declines in print circulation. The move will be seen as a precursor to the company's stated intent to charge for online content.
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Caped Koala Studios has built a virtual world for kids, combining education and social networking 