F.C.C. Backs Consumers in Unlocking of Cellphones

WASHINGTON — For a decade consumers have been able to keep their cellphone numbers even if they switched their wireless carriers. On Monday, the Obama administration and the Federal Communications Commission said consumers should also be able to switch carriers and keep their actual phones.
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For consumers, being able to take their iPhone or any other type of handset with them when they switch carriers could make it easier to take advantage of lower rates once an initial contract is fulfilled. That might mean more price competition and more choices for cellphone customers.

Windows Live Converts Into New Social Networking Hub

Microsoft Corp is making plans to turn its Windows Live online services into a social networking hub. The new social network will merge other existing Microsoft applications which include Hotmail, Live Messenger, Spaces and photos.

The new migrated social networking platform is Microsoft's latest strategy to compete with other online community sites such as MySpace and News Corp's MySpace. The new Windows Live will feature a main profile page for users to add friends and identify them with photos.

Windows Live will also include more than 50 outside Web services including Yahoo Inc's Flickr photo site. Microsoft hopes to simplify new user accounts by using one login for e-mail and instant messaging.