We realize that Google's new social-networking service, Buzz, isn't downloadable software, but admit it: it's on your mind. Never fear, we'll throw out some notable application updates of the week in this newsletter, but not before taking a moment to address the Google-sized pachyderm in the room.
Buzz is essentially Google's answer to Twitter, Facebook, and FourSquare, a quasi-ubiquitous social-networking service with ties to Google's e-mail, map, search, and chat features. Moreover, Buzz is accessible as Web-based software through the desktop and from certain mobile phones (low-down here). On some smartphones, Buzz is also integrated into a native Google Maps app. We have some healthy privacy concerns amid the usual back-and-forth over features, including a disabling process that's more involved than it should be. But we want to know what you think: do you love it, or hate it?
Don't worry, Buzz isn't all that's making headlines these days. Opera Software released an update to its 10.5 beta browser, which includes a built-in video plug-in so you can watch videos directly from the browser. However, CNET reporter Stephen Shankland found Opera's speed claims lacking, due to persistent lagging.
Free Microsoft Office alternative OpenOffice.org also updated, shortening its boot time and gaining some greater compatibility, and Ad-Aware's malware-zinging freeware hauled in some major new features, including rootkit detecting and a malware-scanner for your e-mail.
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