Microsoft has pulled the AutoRun feature for USB sticks from Windows 7 as a security measure. It’s a response to a tactic for spreading viruses which proved particularly successful for the Conficker virus.

Windows 7 may be dominating the Microsoft-concerned headlines at the moment, but it shouldn’t be forgotten that Windows Vista users still need supporting, especially after they stayed loyal to the company when the operating system was being lambasted from every corner. Good news then that Vista SP2 is almost ready for public consumption. Almost, but not quite.

Microsoft has officially challenged a European Union ruling that its bundling of Internet Explorer violates competition laws in the region. The case will now go to a formal hearing.

To suggest the iPhone has been a success would be a major understatement. Millions have one of the Apple devices, and those who don’t invariably want one. Yes, even those of us who hate Apple. Which is why there is a new iPhone-killer unveiled every week – none of which have so far lived up to their promise. Can Microsoft change that with its ‘Pink’ iPhone rival?

Microsoft has released the second major update to the 2007 edition of the Office suite. It includes performance tweaks and support for Adobe PDF.

Microsoft’s new search service, known as Kumo, looks set to get a public unveiling on June 2. It could eventually replace the struggling Windows Live search engine.

Microsoft, like every other company large or small, has suffered at the hands of the recession. After posting poor financial results for the last quarter, it is still eager to cut costs. But where? How about canceling the annual company picnic? Yogi Bear will be pleased.

We’re still all eagerly awaiting the release of Windows 7, yet Microsoft is officially already working on Windows 8. Two recent job postings indicate the next operating system will be much-improved in many areas and due for release in 2012. Are you excited yet?

Software producers will be able to test their applications on Windows 7 from next month. But the world of leaks is a step ahead: what appears to be a practically finished version of the system is already doing the rounds.

Microsoft is a technology giant. One of those companies that everyone knows about, and whose products most people have used at some time or another. Unfortunately that all means zero when we’re in the middle of a recession and both PC and Windows sales are down.

Microsoft has announced plans to invest $300 million in the Russian economy. But the firm is giving a cautious impression on other spending plans.

Microsoft has trademarked the term ‘Swivel’ for a mobile phone operating system. It’s also trying to trademark ‘Sift’, though that application appears to be on hold.

The last few weeks have been something of a treat for those of us in the Microsoft/Windows/PC (delete as appropriate) camp. The ‘Laptop Hunters’ ad campaign has seen Microsoft finally come out fighting and telling the truth on Apple Macs – they’re too expensive, overrated, and more about brand and styling than any real value. It’s now time for Apple to answer back – by being smug, arrogant, and condescending as usual.

Microsoft has released more details about the security measures it is adding in Windows 7. The focus is on finding a balance between security and ease of use for businesses which have workers computing on the move.

Microsoft appears to be pushing the starter edition of Windows 7 as its main option for netbook manufacturers. That’s put the spotlight on the edition’s limit of three simultaneous applications.