BT runs second round of tests on Phorm – this time it’s opt in!

BT Phorm

BT’s controversial new internet advertising software, Phorm, is about to undergo further tests.

The software monitors what users do while online; the websites they visit, what queries you make on search engines, how long you spend on certain websites.

All this information will allow the software to display advertisements tailored to your interests.

Unlike the first trial which sparked a wave of controversy, the new trial will require users to opt-in. It will likely run for around 4 weeks.

There has been no word yet as to whether the full system will give users the choice to opt out.

Smart Homes becoming more affordable

Don’t get me wrong, Smart Homes are still expensive, but they are becoming less exclusive as they used to be. More and more ‘normal’ people are turning their dreams of a Smart Home into a reality.

In a Smart Home, every room is controlled by a panel. Each room in the house will have one in, and this allows you to control all of the devices that are connected to these ‘magic boxes’. The remotely controlled panels, can cost upwards of £1,000 each.

Other benefits to a Smart Home include lighting software that can even predict where you might go next. The software will turn the lights on using the motion sensors in the ceiling.

You can opt for a wireless Smart Home, but according to industry watchdogs, the technology is a couple of years away from being completely reliable & able to function everything needed in the Smart Home.

Smart Homes also offer unparallelled security.

Expect the costs to keep on falling as the technology behind it keeps on getting cheaper. And whatever the cost, a safe secure home that you are in full control of is surely priceless!!!

Find out more about Smart Homes here

Microsoft to buy $40Billion of shares back

Anyone read about this today? Apparantly it is the biggest buy back plan in history! The idea is that it will bump up the share price, which has fallen by almost 30% this year.

Hewlett-Packard have also announced plans to buy back $8bn and Nike plan to buy back $5bn of their shares.

Microsoft’s shares have fallen this year, partly because of the failed Yahoo takeover bid. They will be hoping that this plan will restore the share price to it’s former glory.

It is good news for shareholders who will see their stock in Microsoft rise sharply. It is also a clever move from Microsoft, as they will be buying back these shares at attractive prices, due to the current economic situation.