Microsoft issues 3-week deadline to Yahoo...

Microsoft on Saturday applied pressure to Yahoo by submitting a letter directly to the search engine firm's board of directors, setting a deadline for the company to accept Microsoft's $31 per share takeover offer. Citing deteriorating economic conditions, the Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft refused to increase its bid and gave Yahoo a total of three weeks to accept the $44.6 billion bid as originally made in late January before it would be "compelled" to bypass the board and bring a lower-priced offer directly to Yahoo's shareholders. This will include launching a proxy battle by stepping up pressure to elect a more takeover-friendly board of directors at Yahoo, Microsoft said.

Mossberg: 3G iPhone within 60 days...

The heavily anticipated 3G-capable iPhone will be available within the next 60 days, Wall Street Journal columnist Walt Mossberg revealed at a Beet.TV executive conference in Washington, DC. The veteran writer made the comment while discussing the limits of cellular broadband in the US, noting that third-generation access in the country is still slow compared to other areas of the world. Mossberg doesn't offer supporting evidence in the speech but is known to regularly have exclusive access to advance details, having received a review iPhone weeks ahead of its June 2007 debut.

Toon Boom Studio Express 4 adds over 30 new features...

Montreal-based Toon Boom Animation today unveiled Toon Boom Studio Express 4, a major update to its "light" animation software suite that introduces many new features and a revamped user interface. Toon Boom says that the interface is more user friendly, with docking interface items. A new calligraphic brush style was added to give animations a unique look. Toon Boom Studio Express 4 is available directly for a special of $100, $50 off its normal price.

MacWireless antennas for Time Capsule...

MacWireless recently unveiled several new antennas and boosters for Apple's Time Capsule, offering users increased range control in a variety of forms. The antennas are available in a number of types: omni-directional, uni-directional, 90-degree corner, ceiling mounted, whip, and MIMO. The antennas are passive focusing systems since they do not use power to operate, and are available from MacWireless, ranging from $6 to $60, depending on the style of antenna.