Facebook splashes out on social networking upstart FriendFeed

Facebook has acquired fellow Silicon Valley startup FriendFeed, in the clearest sign yet that it plans to extend its lead over rivals such as MySpace and Twitter. The world's largest social networking company said it was acquiring its Californian neighbour for an undisclosed sum - believed to be in the tens of millions of dollars - in an attempt to hire "the best engineers".

Guardian Article

Google gets caffeine injection as search speeds up

In face of increasing competition, search engine giant unveils 'secret project' that it says will make online queries faster and more successful. The upgrade, which insiders have dubbed "caffeine", was announced on Monday after the company opened up access to web developers. It is intended to replace the technology giant's main search engine after tests have been completed.

Guardian Article

Downloading dips among young fans

There has been a slight drop - from 63% last year to 61% this year - in the number of young people illegally downloading music, a survey suggests. The UK Music-commissioned study, now in its second year, also found that 85% of those who downloaded illegally would pay for an unlimited download service.

BBC Article

British military encouraged to use social media

British troops are being encouraged to use social media to talk within limits about what they do, at a time when many professional organisations are becoming increasingly guarded about employees' use of social networks.

ZDNet Article

Online Treatment May Help Insomniacs

You can do almost anything on the Internet these days. What about getting a good night's sleep? It might be possible, some researchers say. Web-based programs to treat insomnia are proliferating, and two small but rigorous studies suggest that online applications based on cognitive behavioral therapy can be effective.

New York Times Article

First Wi-Fi pacemaker in U.S. gives patient freedom

After relying on a pacemaker for 20 years, Carol Kasyjanski has become the first American recipient of a wireless pacemaker that allows her doctor to monitor her health from afar -- over the Internet.

Reuters Article

'The Twitter Opera': new Royal Opera House production in 'tweets'

The Royal Opera House is producing an opera composed entirely of "tweets" from mini-blogging website Twitter in an attempt to make opera accessible to the masses. "The Twitter Opera" will join 140-character Twitter messages into a libretto set to familiar opera tunes and new music by composer Helen Porter. The two singers, an experienced baritone and a soprano both in their mid 30s, will be announced next week.

Telegraph Article